B1 – Intermediate
Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant that offers euphoria, great sense of confidence, improved mental focus etc. There are different ways to use them. Snorting cocaine is the most common method. Aside from the other well-known harmful effects of cocaine use, losing one’s nose completely could be a consequence of frequent and long-term cocaine snorting.
Listen to this audio and read the transcript about the nose surgery cocaine snorters may possibly have to undergo.
https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/nose-surgery-for-cocaine-users-level-3/
Vocabulary Questions:
- Define the word “perforation“. “Cocaine narrows blood vessels in the nose which leads to tissue damage and perforations.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
- What is the meaning of the word “surge“? “Despite a surge in cocaine use in Belgium over the past five years, the number of operations remains limited.” Use it in your own sentence.
- What does the verb “undergo” mean? “The reason is that many patients struggle to undergo surgery due to the need to abstain from cocaine for at least six months for proper healing.” Use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What do you think of this surgery?
- How does cocaine snorting lead to irreversible nasal damage?
- Aside from nasal damage, what are other long-term effects of cocaine use?
- Why do you think long-term cocaine users avoid or refuse to have this nose reconstructive surgery?
- Share your thoughts on this statement, “These patients are typically in their forties and with privileged socio-economic backgroundd.”