B1 – Intermediate
Psilocybin is a substance taken from a species of mushroom. It is informally known as ‘magic mushroom’. In many places, it is illegal. However, medical researchers are looking at it as possible treatment for some conditions such as addiction and depression.
Read the article and listen to the audio to learn more about psilocybin.
https://eslnewsstories.com/articles/2022-09-01-promising-research-on-psilocybin/
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does the phrase ”cut back” mean, ”New research on psilocybin shows that it can help heavy drinkers cut back on alcohol.”? Give at least 1 synonym and use this word in your own sentence.
- What does “otherworldly” mean, “The participants who received psilocybin reported having otherworldly experiences and in most cases were able to guess that they got the real psilocybin.” Use this word in your own sentence.
- What does “psychedelic” mean, “Although taking psilocybin is illegal in most places, medical researchers are currently interested in it and other psychedelic drugs for the treatment of addiction and depression.” Use this word in your own sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What are your thoughts on psilocybin as a possible treatment for some conditions?
- What are the benefits and risks of psilocybin?
- Should this type of treatment be legal? Explain your opinion.
- Should scientists continue to study psilocybin and other psychedelic drugs? Why or why not?
- If your doctor recommends this kind of treatment, would you do it?