B2 – Upper Intermediate
Working for approximately 260 days a year without going on vacation once a year could lead to burnout. Hence, taking days or weeks off work to relax is definitely a must for employees. However, not everyone has the privilege to go on vacation.
Read this article to learn about the no-vacation nation.
https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20141106-the-no-vacation-nation
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does the expression “to run thin” mean? “I can definitely feel it when I need a vacation because my patience and tolerance for our guests runs thin,” said the career bartender.” Use this word in a sentence.
- What is the meaning of “buck” here, “”While some companies in the US do buck the no-vacation nation trend, offering more generous time off to employees, or even requiring staff to take days off, congressmen are among the few Americans granted a number of days off on par with virtually every other advanced economy.”? Use it in a sentence.
- What does “to take (on) the mantle” mean? “Every now and then, a legislator in the US will champion the cause of guaranteed paid time off. Florida Congressman Alan Grayson has taken that mantle several times.” Use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What do you think of this certain work culture?
- Why are some workers becoming vacation-phobic?
- Do you agree that American workers should have as much vacation time as Europeans? Express your thoughts.
- How much vacation do you have each year from work? Do you think it’s a fair amount?
- What would you do if your boss asked you to take more (or less) vacation time?