Category: Class

Why Walking Backwards Can be Good For Your Health and Brain

Walking is by far the most accessible and simplest form of exercise. People who don’t like indoor workouts prefer to just take a walk as their form of exercise. But what if you can spice this up by walking backwards? Walking backward, also known as retro walking, is the latest social media workout obsession. There are a lot of claims as to the benefits of this unusual form of workout.

Let’s read the article to find out the benefits of retro-walking.

https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20231110-why-walking-backwards-can-be-good-for-your-health-and-brain

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “embark on” mean? “A 50-year-old cigar-shop owner called Patrick Harmon embarked on a curious challenge in the summer of 1915 – he planned to walk backwards from San Francisco to New York City.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the word “cohort” mean? “And in another study led by Dufek, a cohort of five athletes self-reported a reduction in lower back pain after periods of backwards walking.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  3. What is the meaning of an “incongruous task“? “It found that participants stepping backwards had the fastest reaction times, perhaps because their brains were already used to performing an incongruous task.” Use it in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on the benefits of retro-walking?
  2. Would you feel comfortable walking backward in public? Why or why not?
  3. Do you like going for walks? Do you prefer walking alone or with others?
  4. Are there any new forms of exercise you’ve recently tried?
  5. What is most challenging type of workout for you? Why?

Fake Videos about Santorini Volcanic Eruption

B1 – Intermediate 

Santorini in Greece is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. 

Some fake videos has become viral on social media showing a volcanic eruption. But they were later on identified as AI-made.

In another video, it shows an island with what appears to be smoke. This one was not actually AI-made, but it is actually from an eruption in New Zealand in 2019. They only put the wrong caption for it.

Some believe Turkey is responsible for this misinformation so the fake news could negatively affect the tourism in Santorini.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about Santorini being targeted by fake viral videos on social media.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/fake-videos-about-santorini-eruption-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “mislead” mean? “They have gained thousands of views on TikTok and X, misleading many people.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ’mislead’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does “distort” mean? “Another video of people running in fear has distorted figures, proving it was AI-made.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ’distort’ in your own sentence.
  3. What does “in place” mean? “A state of emergency is in place until March, and thousands have left the island.” Use this phrase in a sentence and give 2 synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your reaction to this news?
  2. How could these fake videos and misinformation affect Santorini, especially their tourism?
  3. What is your opinion about this, “Rumors claim Turkey is behind the misinformation. Allegedly Turkey wants to hurt Santorini’s tourism, but there is no evidence.”?
  4. How serious is the problem with misinformation? Talk about it.
  5. Give other examples of misinformation on social media or the internet that have affected any city in your country or your country itself. And how was that situation handled by the government?
  6. How can we protect ourselves from misinformation?

Spain Introduces Three-Year Tourist Ban

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Tourism ban is a topic that has gained traction in recent years, particularly due to the rapid changes in environmental conditions, cultural impacts, and the effects of global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. While tourism is essential for many economies around the world, there are strong arguments for placing restrictions or even banning certain forms of tourism to protect local communities and the environment. 

By recognizing the importance of preserving local integrity and ecosystems, societies can work toward creating a more sustainable tourist landscape that benefits everyone involved. The challenge lies in finding the balance between enjoying travel and protecting the places that make it special. 

Watch the video to see how Spain is dealing with tourist overcrowding.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to sit out” mean here, “Don’t think Barcelona is sitting this one out.”? Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does  “to come with a price” mean? “Well, it turns out that those Instagram photos with endless sunshine and vibrant street scenes come with a price.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does the word “grumble ” mean? “Spaniards are starting to grumble about their once Charming neighborhoods being taken over by tourists and who can really blame them.” Use it in a sentence and give 2 synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How does overtourism affect a city/country? Talk about the benefits and drawbacks.
  2. What could be the social and economic consequences of a ban on tourism in popular destinations?
  3. What are your thoughts on “Local only.” areas?
  4. How might a tourism ban affect local culture and heritage in places that heavily depend on tourism?
  5. What alternatives to tourism might local communities explore if tourism were banned or significantly restricted?
  6. Is overtourism really a problem for a city/country? Why or why not?

Spanish Locals Fed Up with Overtourism Block Zebra Crossings 

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Overtourism is a term used to describe the negative impact of increased tourist numbers on popular destinations. This phenomenon has gained attention in recent years as many cities and natural sites struggle to cope with the overwhelming influx of visitors. While tourism can foster economic growth and promote cultural exchange, the excessive crowds can lead to significant challenges for both the environment and local communities. 

The negative effects on natural environments, local communities, and urban infrastructure emphasize the need for sustainable practices in the travel industry. By making conscious efforts to manage visitor numbers and promote responsible tourism, we can preserve the beauty and integrity of our beloved destinations for future generations. 

Read the article and learn how a community reacted to this problem.

Spanish Fed Up with Overtourism Are Blocking Zebra Crossings

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the noun “grievance” mean? “Spain has seen many overtourism protests this year, but one small village has been making its grievances known in a very unusual way. “ Use it in a sentence and give 2 synonyms.
  2. What does “to take it upon oneself” mean? “In the Galician village of O Hío in northwest Spain, locals took it upon themselves to protest against the volume of tourists by blocking zebra crossings.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does  “traffic gridlock” mean? “Walking up and down them for a total of 37 minutes, they caused total traffic gridlock – worsening the exact problem they hoped to highlight.” Use it in a sentence and give 2 synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your reaction the locals’ protest?
  2. Does your city have the same problem? Talk about it.
  3. What are some popular destinations in your city you think are suffering from overtourism? And what measures have been taken in order to have everything under control.
  4. What do you think is the best solution to this problem?
  5. How do you think it is like living in an overly touristic place?
  6. Share your thoughts on this, “Authorities should find a mutually beneficial solution so that residents and visitors can co-exist happily.“

Man Swallowed by Humpback Whale

B1 – Intermediate 

Adrian Simancas enjoys rafting. One day, as he was kayaking through the sea in Chile, a huge humpback whale appeared from under the water and swallowed him. But, thankfully, only for a short moment.

He was very lucky to escape this very dangerous situation.

Read the article about a man who was swallowed by a humpback whale.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2502/250217-humpback-whale.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “engulf” mean? “The humpback whale engulfed Mr. Simancas in its mouth.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ’engulf’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does the phrase “no sooner — than” mean? “No sooner had the humpback gulped up Simancas than it spat him back out into the ocean.” Make a sentence using this structure.
  3. What does “fleeting moment” mean? “For a few fleeting moments, Adrian’s fate was in the jaws of the 40-ton [mammal].” Use this phrase in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your reaction to this news?
  2. If this happened to you, what would you do and/or think of?
  3. Have ever had an unfortunate/strange encounter/experience with an animal? Talk about it.
  4. Share your opinion on this, “Adrian said his close encounter with the whale would not stop him from future rafting trips.”.
  5. Talk about a situation where, for a few fleeting moments, your fate was in the hands of someone/something else.

Mexico Opposes Renaming of the Gulf of Mexico

B1 – Intermediate 

US President Donald Trump ordered the Gulf of Mexico to be renamed as the Gulf of America.

This is perhaps a part of his office’ effort to “reclaim America’s rightful place as the greatest, most powerful, most respected nation on Earth”.

However, Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo strongly opposes this name change.

Read the article about America implementing some name restorations.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2502/250203-gulf-of-mexico.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “surround” mean? “US President Trump wants the body of water, which is surrounded by the USA, Mexico, and Cuba, to be renamed the Gulf of America.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ’surround’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does the phrase “shortly after” mean? “Shortly after his inauguration on the 20th of January, President Trump said: ‘America will reclaim its rightful place as the greatest, most powerful, most respected nation on Earth, inspiring the awe and admiration of the entire world.‘” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ’shortly after’ in your own sentence.
  3. What does “point out” mean? “President Sheinbaum pointed out that the name “Gulf of Mexico” has existed for over four centuries.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use this phrasal verb in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. In your opinion, is it ok to rename the Gulf of Mexico? Elaborate.
  2. Is renaming a place good or bad? Explain.
  3. What impacts might renaming a city, town, or country have on the place itself? How about the people?
  4. Has any place in your country ever been renamed? How did it affect the place?
  5. Mexico’s President Sheinbaum joked that “If there were to be name changes, the United States should be called “Mexican America,” as on a map from 1607.” What is your opinion on what she said?

Flossing Could Reduce the Risk of Stroke

B1 – Intermediate 

Oral health problems like tooth decay and gum diseases affect more than three billion people in the world.

Taking care of your teeth and gums is important not only for your oral health, but apparently, also for your brain. 

According to a new study, flossing is the oral hygiene behavior that could help reduce the risk of suffering from a stroke. This is because when we floss, the possibility of having oral infections that could cause a stroke is also decreased.

Read the article about how flossing your teeth can reduce the risk of stroke.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2502/250206-flossing-oral-hygiene.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “burst” mean? “It happens when blood cannot get to the brain, or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘burst’ in your own sentence.
  2. Define “oral hygiene”. “We aimed to determine which oral hygiene behavior – dental flossing, brushing or regular dentist visits – has the greatest impact on stroke prevention.” Use the phrase in a sentence.
  3. What does “to look into something” mean? “Dr. Sen and his team of researchers looked into the effects of flossing on our health.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use this phrasal verb in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your reaction to the results of this study?
  2. Why do you think some people do not or cannot have proper oral hygiene?
  3. Share your thoughts on this, “Many people have said that dental care is costly.”.
  4. Are you surprised at all by this, “Oral diseases, such as tooth decay and gum disease, affect around 3.5 billion people.”? Why or why not?
  5. Is dental care affordable and accessible in your country? Talk about it.
  6. Do you have any memorable experience at the dentist’s office? Share that story.

AI Grandma Fights Back Against Scammers


B2 – Upper Intermediate

Different forms of AI scams are on the rise and it isn’t easy to identify them. Many people fall victim to these scams but majority of their victims are old people. These older adults are the usual targets of AI-driven scams because of their trusting nature and their unfamiliarity with technology. However, there’s a particular old person who is willing to take these scam calls.

Let’s read the article and know more about Daisy. Also watch the video about it.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/ai-grandma-daisy-uk-anti-fraud-scammers-virgin-media-o2

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to turn the table on someone” mean? “The newest member of our fraud-prevention team, Daisy, is turning the tables on scammers – outsmarting and outmaneuvering them at their own cruel game simply by keeping them on the line.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What is a “mugs list“? “The company told CBS they worked with known scam artists to train Daisy and used a tactic called number seeding to get Daisy’s phone number added to a list of online ‘mugs lists‘.” Use it in your own sentence.
  3. What does “out of the blue” mean? “In terms of tips and tricks, whether you’re shopping online, reviewing your emails, or receiving an out-of-the-blue phone call, it’s important to always remain vigilant.” Give 2 synonyms. Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on Virgin Media O2’s AI grandmother?
  2. What is scambaiting? Give other examples.
  3. What other forms of online scams have you heard of or personally experienced?
  4. Do you know anyone who has been scammed? What happened?
  5. Share your thoughts on this, “Fraud is at epidemic levels, with organized gangs of fraudsters operating professional call centers which relentlessly target Brits every second of every day.“.

Quiet Luxury: A Marketing Psychology Trick

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Quiet luxury, a growing trend in the fashion and lifestyle industries, emphasizes understated elegance over flashy branding. Rather than relying on visible logos or extravagant designs, it appeals to consumers who value exclusivity, craftsmanship, and subtle sophistication. This marketing strategy taps into psychology, creating a sense of prestige through minimalism and discretion. By targeting those who seek status without overt display, brands successfully position quiet luxury as a symbol of refined taste and timeless wealth.

Watch the video to learn more and be able to answer the following questions.


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “over-the-top” mean? “Luxury fashion is often loud, with monograms, logos, and over-the-top designs, like Gucci belts and Louis Vuitton handbags that everyone can spot miles away.” Give 2 synonyms. Make a sentence using the expression.
  2. What does the phrase “from the row” mean? “It’s like wearing a $3000 sweater from the row.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does the expression, “take something to a new level” mean? “Everything from the way we dress sends messages to others but quiet luxury takes it to a new level.” Use it in a sentence.


Discussion Questions:

  1. How does quiet luxury differ from traditional luxury branding, and what psychological factors contribute to its appeal?
  2. In what ways does quiet luxury influence consumer behavior and perceptions of status?
  3. Do you believe quiet luxury is a genuine expression of sophistication, or is it just another marketing strategy to target wealthy consumers? Why?
  4. Is quiet luxury more sustainable compared to traditional luxury brands, or is it simply a rebranding of consumerism? Elaborate.
  5. Do you think the appeal of quiet luxury will continue to grow, or will it eventually be replaced by more conspicuous trends? Expand.

Trump Administration Providing PrEP Abroad, But Not for LGBTQ+ People

B2 – Upper Intermediate

A recent policy change by the Trump administration restricts the distribution of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), an HIV prevention drug, by the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). The new policy limits PrEP availability to pregnant and breastfeeding women, excluding LGBTQ+ populations who are at high risk of HIV infection. This decision has led to increased risk and new HIV infections worldwide, as well as the shutdown of various HIV prevention programs.

Read the article to know more about this recent policy change.

https://www.them.us/story/trump-administration-hiv-prep-lgbtq-people

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “ostensibly” mean? “That [emergency humanitarian] waiver ostensibly meant that pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP — the antiretroviral drug that prevents the transmission of HIV — would be distributed through PEPFAR.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘ostensibly’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does “furlough” mean? “The administration is already brought by a group of USAID employees last week, which led a federal judge to issue an injunction against the furloughing of USAID workers on February 7.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What is a “emergency humanitarian waiver”? “Shortly after President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered a 90-day freeze on foreign aid in January, Rubio issued an additional “emergency humanitarian waiver” on February 6 which appeared to allow HIV medications to be distributed abroad during that time.” Use it in a sentence.

nDiscussion Questions:

  1. How do you feel about the decision to limit PrEP access to certain groups? Do you think it’s fair?
  2. What impact do you think this policy change could have on global HIV prevention efforts?
  3. Should governments be responsible for ensuring equal healthcare access for all, regardless of sexual orientation? Why or why not?
  4. How do you think affected communities can respond to policies that exclude them from essential healthcare services?
  5. What are your thoughts on this statement, “This decision appears to be less about public health and more about an ideological agenda that seeks to police morality rather than protect lives.”?