Category: Class

WHO Declares Ebola Outbreak in Congo and Uganda a Global Health Emergency

The World Health Organization announced that the outbreak of Ebola disease caused by the Bundibugyo virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

Read the article to know why the declaration aims to strengthen international coordination and response to contain the disease.

https://www.who.int/news/item/17-05-2026-epidemic-of-ebola-disease-in-the-democratic-republic-of-the-congo-and-uganda-determined-a-public-health-emergency-of-international-concern?

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “vigorous” mean? “The Director-General of WHO expresses his gratitude to the leadership of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda for their commitment to take necessary and vigorous actions to bring the event under control” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “scale up” mean? “The event requires international coordination and cooperation to understand the extent of the outbreak, to coordinate surveillance, prevention and response efforts, to scale up and strengthen operations and ensure ability to implement control measures.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “convening” mean? “The Director-General of WHO, under the provisions of the IHR, will be convening an Emergency Committee, as soon as possible to advise, inter alia, on the proposed temporary recommendation for States Parties to respond to the event.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you know about Ebola and how it spreads?
  2. Why do you think the World Health Organization declared the outbreak a global health emergency?
  3. How can countries work together to prevent the spread of infectious diseases?
  4. Do you think people should be concerned about outbreaks happening in other countries? Why or why not?
  5. What lessons have we learned from past health emergencies, such as COVID-19, that could help manage Ebola outbreaks?

New Data Confirms Dengue Vaccine Safety for Older and High-Risk Travelers

Researchers analyzed data from 1,028 vaccinated individuals and found that the dengue vaccine TAK-003 showed good safety and tolerability, including among older adults and people with chronic illnesses.

Read the article to know why the findings support wider use of the vaccine to help prevent dengue infections in vulnerable populations.

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260604/New-data-confirms-dengue-vaccine-safety-for-older-and-chronic-risk-travelers.aspx?

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “endemic” mean? “However, data on its safety in people who do not live in endemic areas remains limited, particularly among certain groups such as older adults, people with pre-existing medical conditions, and those receiving additional vaccines.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “adverse” mean? “After each dose, participants were followed up to record any adverse effects.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “malaise” mean? “The most common symptoms were pain at the injection site, headache, fatigue and general malaise.“ Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you ever received a vaccine before traveling to another country?
  2. Why do you think it is important for older adults and people with chronic illnesses to be protected against dengue?
  3. Would you feel more confident traveling to a tropical country if a dengue vaccine was available? Why or why not?
  4. What are some ways travelers can protect themselves from mosquito-borne diseases besides vaccination?
  5. Do you think governments should recommend dengue vaccines to high-risk travelers? Why?

Career Development

B2 — Upper Intermediate 

Career development is the process of improving skills, gaining experience, and setting goals to achieve professional success. It helps individuals grow in their chosen field, adapt to new opportunities, and reach their long-term career objectives. Continuous learning and self-improvement are important parts of career development.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about career development.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/office-english/260511

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is the meaning of “to sound somebody out”? ”What you want to do is to sound your manager out  and see how they feel about your ideas.” Use the expression in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “insider knowledge” mean? “They can help you prepare. They’ve probably been through the process of being promoted if they’re your manager. So, they might have a bit of ‘insider knowledge‘ on those kinds of things.” Use the term in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What does “to check in with someone” mean? “You might want to send fairly regular emails such as ‘Just wanted to check in with you. Wonder if you had any opportunities coming up.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. What does career development mean to you, and why do you think it is important?
  2. What challenges do people commonly face in their career development and how can they possibly overcome them?
  3. Talk about some career goals that you have set for yourself and how have you been able to achieve them over the years?
  4. In your personal experience, how important is networking in one’s career growth? 
  5. How can managers or mentors influence career success?
  6. How can a person know when it is time to change careers?

Prenuptial Agreements

B2 – Upper Intermediate

A prenuptial agreement, also commonly called a “prenup”, is a legal contract signed before marriage that explains how assets and debts will be divided if the couple divorces. It helps protect financial interests, prevent disputes, and promote clear communication between partners. Many people view it as a practical tool for financial planning and security.

To learn more about the topic, watch the video below.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to set forth” mean?“It sets forth the rights of each party to the property of the other in the event of divorce or death.”  Use this idiom in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  2. What does “alimony” mean? “It can also impact support rights and obligations such as alimony upon divorce.” Use this term in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  3. What does “enforceable” mean? “It is more likely that a court will consider a prenuptial agreement enforceable if each party is represented by counsel.” Use this word in a sentence. Give a similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of prenuptial agreements in the event of a divorce?
  2. Should prenuptial agreements be encouraged for all couples or only for those with significant assets?
  3. Does discussing a prenuptial agreement before marriage imply a lack of commitment to the relationship? Share your thoughts.
  4. “Prenuptial agreements protect individuals and reduce conflict during divorce.” Do you agree or disagree?
  5. How do cultural and societal views influence people’s opinions about prenuptial agreements?

Finland Marimekko Designs

B1 — Intermediate 

Marimekko is a famous Finnish design company. It is known for its bright colors and bold patterns. The company was founded after World War II. Its designs are inspired by nature. 

The brand became popular around the world when Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis wore one of its dresses. Today, Marimekko is an important part of Finnish culture, and many Finnish homes have at least one Marimekko item.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about Marimekko.

https://newsinlevels.com/products/big-protests-in-bolivia-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is the meaning of “a core part of something”? ”Today, the brand is a core part of Finnish identity, and almost every Finnish home owns at least one Marimekko item.” Use the expression in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “an everyday woman” mean here, “The name Marimekko means Mary’s dress, and represents an everyday woman.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What does “side” mean here, “This allows naturally quiet people to express their colorful side through their clothes.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your opinion about Marimekko’s designs.
  2. Would you be interested to buy something from Marimekko? Why or why not?
  3. Talk about a brand that is a core part of your country’s identity, and almost every citizen  owns at least one item from it.
  4. How did that brand become so famous and important in your country?
  5. How can a struggling business recover and become successful?

Big Protests in Bolivia

B1 — Intermediate 

Bolivia has major anti-government protests and road blockades. About 60 roadblocks are causing shortages of food, fuel, and medicine across the country. 

Protesters want President Rodrigo Paz to resign or hold new elections. The political problems began after economic problems and unpopular government decisions. The President is now considering a state of emergency to end the blockades.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about the protests in Bolivia.

https://newsinlevels.com/products/big-protests-in-bolivia-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is a “blockade”? ”Nearly a month of anti-government protests and road blockades have pushed Bolivia to a breaking point, according to the President.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “to push someone/something to a breaking point” mean? “Nearly a month of anti-government protests and road blockades have pushed Bolivia to a breaking point, according to the President.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What does “subsidy” mean? “President Rodrigo Paz was elected last October during a difficult economic crisis, but he later angered low-paid and rural Bolivians by stopping fuel subsidies and joining right-wing parties.” Use the term in a sentence. Give a synonym. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your opinion about the protests and blockades in Bolivia.
  2. What are some things that anger the citizens of your country nowadays?
  3. What is your opinion about President Rodrigo Paz’s solution to consider a state of emergency in Bolivia?
  4. What could happen if these protests continue for a long time?
  5. How would your daily life change if roads in your area were blocked?

Chatbot Therapy

B1 — Intermediate 

More people are using AI chatbots like ChatGPT and DeepSeek for emotional support. AI can give helpful and personalized responses, especially for people who cannot afford therapy.

However, AI does not truly understand emotions like human therapists do. Even so, it can provide support to people who might not have other options.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about chatbot therapy.

https://newsinlevels.com/products/chatbot-therapy-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “companionship” mean? “These tools provide emotional support and a sense of companionship, particularly for people in remote areas or those who cannot afford traditional therapy.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  2. What does “mental well-being” mean? “Experts like Ronnie Das say AI can now copy human emotions and provide helpful responses for mental well-being.” Use the term in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What is the meaning of “remote area”? ”These tools provide emotional support and a sense of companionship, particularly for people in remote areas or those who cannot afford traditional therapy.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think about using AI chatbots as personal therapists?
  2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using chatbots for therapy?
  3. What is your opinion on this, “AI doesn’t truly understand emotions or care about people like human therapists do.”?
  4. What is your opinion on this, “AI’s role in mental health will continue to grow.”?
  5. If you felt sad or had a problem, would you rather talk to a person or an AI chatbot? Why?

Ferrari Shares Slump After Unveiling First Fully Electric Car

B2 — Upper Intermediate 

Luxury sports car manufacturer Ferrari has launched its first fully electric vehicle, the Luce, priced at $640,000 (£474,320). 

In their efforts to take on Chinese EVs, they have been faced with serious backlash. Luce was highly criticized because some think that it betrays the brand’s legacy.

Consequently, shares of the company declined by over 8% on the Milan market and more than 5% on the New York market.

Read this article about Luce, Ferrari’s first ever electric car.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwy22rddy5no

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is the meaning if something is “made in-house”? ”The firm said that all of the components are made in-house, so that the car can be repaired by the company well into the future, protecting the Luce’s resale value.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “a masterclass in something” mean? “Responses on social media to the launch ranged from describing it as “straight to the junkyard trash” to an “absolute masterclass in design”.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What does “to scale back on something” mean? “Supercar rivals like Lamborghini and Porsche have scaled back on their EV plans due to poor demand and intense competition from Chinese brands.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why do you think about Ferrari’s electric car Luce? What are its promises and pitfalls?
  2. What is your opinion on Lamborghini and Porsche scaling back on their EV plans due to poor demand and intense competition from Chinese brands.
  3. What are some major obstacles of companies like Ferrari facing in shifting to EVs?
  4. Ferrari’s chief design officer Flavio Manzoni believes that critics are part of the innovation process. What is your insight on this?
  5. Do you think that the concept of an electric Ferrari with a new design is “polarising”? Will people eventually come to appreciate it? Share your views.
  6. What are your insights on this, “Yet Ferrari’s shares have dropped by more than 30% over the past year, mirroring a wider slump across luxury brands as inflation around the world has shaken demand for high-end goods.”?

Indonesia Stops a Documentary Film about Papua Forests

B1 — Intermediate 

The Papua region in Indonesia has the world’s third-largest tropical rainforest and rich biodiversity. However, large government projects are causing serious environmental and human rights problems.

The new film Pesta Babi (Pig Feast) shows how the government exploits the land and people from local communities in Papua. This is why the Indonesian authorities are trying to prevent people from seeing the film.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about the controversial documentary film from Indonesia.

https://newsinlevels.com/products/indonesia-stops-a-movie-about-papua-forests-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is the meaning of “sacred”? ”However, these forests are the home of Indigenous Papuans who depend on them for survival, and their sacred sites are located there.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “screening” mean here, “The military stopped screenings at universities because they said the topic was too sensitive and could cause trouble.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What does “sold-out” mean? “The government’s attempts to ban the documentary have generated massive publicity, which has led to sold-out screenings across the country.” Use the expression in a sentence. Give a synonym. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why is the Indonesian government trying to stop the showing of this documentary film? What is your opinion about that?
  2. What is your opinion about the makers of this film getting serious threats and the police watching them?
  3. If there was a similar documentary in your country, would you like to see it even if your government prohibits it?
  4. Talk about a very controversial issue in your country that you think the government tried to prevent people from knowing about.
  5. What are some of the most politically sensitive topics in your country or in the world right now? 

Swatch Royal Pop Watch

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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. 
  3. 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:

  1. 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?
  2. Would you wait in line for a product you really wanted? Why or why not?
  3. Do you think the chaos at the stores could have been prevented? How?
  4. Is it important for companies to limit the number of products people can buy? Explain your opinion.
  5. What is your opinion about luxury brands making cheaper products?