B1 — Intermediate
Swatch and Audemars Piguet made a new watch collection. The watches are much cheaper than usual. Many people wanted to buy them. A lot of people gathered outside stores. Some stores had problems because of the crowds. Swatch said the watches are not limited and will still be available later.
Listen to this audio and read the transcript about Swatch’s Royal Pop watches.
https://newsinlevels.com/products/royal-pop-watch-level-3
Vocabulary Questions:
- What is the meaning of “frenzy”? ”The Swiss watchmaker Swatch has experienced global frenzy after the launch of its new Royal Pop collection.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.
- What does “to break out” mean here, “In Paris, local police had to use tear gas to control the crowds, and physical fights broke out in Milan as soon as the doors opened.” Use the expression in a sentence. Give a synonym.
- What does “to outpace” mean? “Because demand outpaced the supply, chaos started in many locations.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.
Discussion Questions:
- Why do you think so many people wanted to buy these watches? Would you buy one of these watches if you had the chance? Why or why not?
- Would you wait in line for a product you really wanted? Why or why not?
- Do you think the chaos at the stores could have been prevented? How?
- Is it important for companies to limit the number of products people can buy? Explain your opinion.
- What is your opinion about luxury brands making cheaper products?