Category: Class

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 “stay under the radar” mean? “These subtle cues help us connect with the people who get it while staying under the radar for everyone else.” 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.

Discussion 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.”?

Japanese Encephalitis Back in Monto

B2 – Upper Intermediate

A mosquito surveillance program in North Burnett, Queensland, has confirmed the presence of the Japanese encephalitis virus in Monto. Vaccination sessions are scheduled to begin on February 19, 2025, at the Monto Family Practice.

Read the article to know how the Wide Bay Public Health Unit urges residents to take preventive measures against mosquito bites.

https://burnetttoday.com.au/south/2025/02/13/japanese-encephalitis-back-in-monto/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the word “trace” mean in this sentence, The North Burnett region had already grappled with Japanese encephalitis back in 2022, when Wide Bay Health mosquito detection programs found traces of the virus near Mundubbera, Monto and Mulgildie.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “to grapple with something” mean? “The North Burnett region had already grappled with Japanese encephalitis back in 2022, when Wide Bay Health mosquito detection programs found traces of the virus near Mundubbera, Monto and Mulgildie.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “rife” mean? “Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Heidi Carroll said today’s announcement served as another wake-up call to people living in areas rife with mosquitos.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘rife’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you ever had to take extra precautions against mosquito-borne diseases, like using repellents or wearing protective clothing? Why was that?
  2. How do you feel about the government’s response to mosquito-borne viruses? Do you think more should be done? Elaborate.
  3. Would you consider getting vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis if it were available in your area? Why or why not?
  4. Have you ever experienced or heard of similar outbreaks in your city/country? How were they handled?

DeepSeek

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Companies in the tech sector are investing billions of dollars to stay ahead of the AI revolution. Nevertheless, a Chinese startup company that was established with relatively little funding appears to have stunned the market by being competent and even outperforming ChatGPT.

To learn more about Deep Seek, watch the video below.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to spin out of a hedge fund” mean? “DeepSeek is a Chinese AI startup that was formed in 2023 and spun out of a hedge fund.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “sidestep” mean? “Just don’t ask it about Chinese politics. It’s reasoning is align with that of Beijing’s sensors, meaning, some questions are politely sidestepped.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘sidestep’ in your own sentence.
  3. What is the meaning of “over the edge“? “ DeepSeek can be used uncensored on it’s platform but what really sent investors over the edge is that DeepSeek was able to build this model and train it at just a fraction of the cost.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘over the edge’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you heard anything about DeepSeek? What is your initial reaction to the Chinese startup AI company?
  2. How do you think DeepSeek questions the narrative of US tech giants supremacy, who have claimed supremacy in the AI race?
  3. Why was DeepSeek better than other popular models, such as open AIS, and other benchmarks?
  4. What made it possible to create such a proficient app with just a fraction of funding compared to other competitors with billions or even predicted trillions of dollars in funding?
  5. What are your thoughts on this statement: “I think that the US has spent a long time underestimating China. China’s tech sector is actually very capable of innovating and creating these very powerful and very advanced products, and I think that Silicon Valley’s presumed lead that they have over China, I don’t think they should take that for granted.“

Resume Trends Will Help You Land An Interview

B2 – Upper Intermediate

If your resume aligns with current hiring trends, you’re more likely to land interviews. If not, recruiters may overlook it. Experts say three key areas can make your resume more competitive: transformation, artificial intelligence, and availability for on-site work.

Check out the article below for some resume trends to help you get that job interview in the bag.

https://www.fastcompany.com/91270889/3-resume-trends-that-will-help-you-land-an-interview

Vocabulary Questions

  1. What does “to weave something into” mean in the sentence, “Finally, weave transformation skills into your résumé’s narrative.”? Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “to hit the ground running” mean in the sentence, “Use your resume to show that you’re ready and willing to hit the ground running.”? Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “to boil down to something” mean in the sentence, “Regardless of your level, you can prove you’re future-ready by talking about what you’ve done with AI. If you can, boil your achievement down to tangible, measurable impacts.“? Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What’s one way you could update your resume to reflect current hiring trends?
  2. How do you think AI experience can help job seekers stand out?
  3. Would you be open to working on-site more often if it increased job opportunities? Why or why not?
  4. The article suggests highlighting transformation efforts on your resume. Have you ever contributed to a big change at work?
  5. What’s one skill or experience you’d like to add to your resume this year?

Energy Management

B2 – Upper Intermediate

We all want to be productive, but plenty of things can slow us down, leave tasks unfinished, or keep us from getting started. Time management gets a lot of attention, but experts say energy management matters more.

Check out the article below for more insights on energy management.

https://www.fastcompany.com/91123763/dont-focus-on-time-management-try-energy-management-instead

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “eschew” mean in the sentence, “I’ve never thought of myself as someone with great time management skills, mostly because I tend to eschew rigid productivity systems, believing (erroneously or not) that they cramp creativity. ”? Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘eschew’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does “to blow the doors open” mean? “Enneagram teacher Russ Hudson said something recently that blew the doors open for me on this concept.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘to blow the doors open’ in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to tip the scales” mean in the sentence, “What do we do if we’ve tipped the scales into those negative energy-draining emotions?’’ Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘tip the scales’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your thoughts on the “hustle culture”.
  2. Give your insights on this statement, “The time something takes is secondary to energy.“.
  3. Do you think managing your energy is more important than managing your time? Why or why not?
  4. What kinds of tasks give you energy, and what kinds make you feel tired or drained?
  5. The article says frustration can be addictive. Have you ever felt stuck in frustration? How did it affect your day?
  6. How do you decide which activities to focus on? Do you think choosing tasks based on energy (not just time) would help?
  7. How can we avoid feeling burned out while still getting things done?

The Health Benefits of Business Travel

B2 – Upper Intermediate

As remote work and virtual meetings become the norm, digital platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams have become indispensable. Yet, face-to-face interactions in business still hold immense value. Traveling for work fosters stronger relationshipIn what ways can exposure to new cultures during business trips enhance personal growth?s, enhances communication, and aids in closing deals. Beyond professional gains, business travel contributes to overall well-being by offering opportunities for personal engagement and exposure to new cultures, promoting both mental and physical health.

Read this article to learn the benefits of business travel.

https://www.gdg.travel/en-us/blog/the-health-benefits-of-business-travel/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Define “compelling case“. “However, as efficient and convenient as these technologies are, there’s a compelling case for embracing the timeless value of face-to-face interactions—particularly in the context of business travel.” Make a sentence with this.
  2. What is a “competitive edge“? “The ability to engage directly with clients, partners, and teams in their own environment often leads to more innovative solutions and a competitive edge in the marketplace.” Use this in a sentence.
  3. What does “cultural nuance” mean? “Immersing oneself in a different business environment provides insights into cultural nuances, customer behaviours, and industry trends that are crucial for making informed, strategic decisions.” Make a sentence with this.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are some specific examples of how business travel has helped you build stronger professional relationships?
  2. How does exposure to different cultures during business travel impact your perspective on work or personal life?
  3. In your opinion, how important is it for companies to continue investing in business travel as a way to maintain employee well-being and team collaboration?
  4. Can you think of any challenges that business travelers face in maintaining well-being while on the road?
  5. What types of business travel experiences have been the most beneficial for your personal and professional growth?

Technology Is Changing The Travel Industry


B2 – Upper Intermediate

Technology is rapidly transforming the travel industry, reshaping how we plan and experience travel. Today, digital technologies give travelers more control, making services like meal ordering and taxi booking via smartphone convenient. Innovations such as online platforms and AI have made travel more accessible and streamlined for a wider audience.

Read this article to learn how technology is changing the travel industry.

https://techcrayon.com/2024/10/16/how-technology-is-changing-the-travel-industry/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to be at the heart of something” mean? “How technology is changing the travel industry is a question that has been at the heart of transformative change reshaping the travel industry over recent years.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  2. What does “at large” mean in this context, “Technology is touching every part of travel, from planning trips to improving the experience at large.” Use this phrase in a sentence in the same context. Give another meaning of “at large”.
  3. What is the meaning of “to put the power back into one’s hands“? “This move has put planning and organizing power back into the hands of travellers, who can now custom-make their plans.” Make a sentence with this expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What role does AI play in personalizing the travel experience for users?
  2. What challenges might travelers face as technology becomes more integrated into the travel industry?
  3. How has the increasing reliance on technology affected the traditional roles of travel agents or agencies?
  4. How has technology benefited you in terms of traveling?
  5. What are your thoughts on this statement, “These technologies are likely to improve even more as time goes on, making travel a lot easier and giving us all the opportunity to discover new frontiers.“?

The Rise of Non-Alcoholic Beer

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The increasing demand for non-alcoholic beer is driven by a focus on health and mindful drinking. With advancements in brewing, both major and craft breweries now offer better-tasting options, making it a popular choice for social settings. As wellness trends continue to shape the market, non-alcoholic beer is redefining the way people approach beer consumption.

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


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “to get the ball rolling” mean? “We like to think that Athletic [Brewing Company] really got the ball rolling in this space. Non-alcoholic craft beer has been the fastest growing category in beer for four plus years now.” Use the expression in a sentence.
  2. What does “zebra striping” mean? “So the trend of “zebra striping” where people drink alcohol, non-alcohol, alcohol, non-alcohol throughout the night to pace out their session, moderate their ABV intake has become increasingly common.” Use the term in a sentence.
  3. What does “to find one’s footing” mean? “Non-alcoholic beer is still finding its footing in the US.” Use the idiom in a sentence.


Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think non-alcoholic beer can ever fully replace traditional beer in social settings? Why or why not?
  2. Is the rise of non-alcoholic beer a passing trend, or do you believe it represents a long-term shift in consumer habits? Explain.
  3. Do you think non-alcoholic beer should be marketed differently than regular beer? If so, how?
  4. What factors do you think have contributed the most to the growing popularity of non-alcoholic beer?
  5. Would you be interested in having non-alcoholic beer? Why or why not?
  6. Have you ever done “zebra striping” at an occasion? Why did you do it? If not yet, why haven’t you done it?
  7. “You don’t always have to have alcohol to have fun.” Do you agree or disagree?

AI Brad Pitt Dupes French Woman

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

One of the uses of technology that has emerged is for meeting someone new or potentially, finding love online.

Unfortunately, many fall victim to love scams that have become so prevalent all over the internet, leaving their victims to hang out dry.

A French woman was conned by people who purported as Brad Pitt and other individuals that were supposedly connected to the Hollywood actor. 

By the end of it, she was conned out of €830,000 which left her not only so heartbroken, but also broke.

Read the article about Anne who was duped by scammers using deepfakes and AI Brad Pitt.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ckgnz8rw1xgo

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is does “come forward” mean? ”She has since told a popular French YouTube show that she was not “crazy or a moron”: “I just got played, I admit it, and that’s why I came forward, because I am not the only one.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  2. What does “come to light” mean? “Hundreds of social media users mocked Anne, who the programme said had lost her life’s savings and tried to take her own life three times since the scam came to light.” Use this expression in a sentence.
  3. What does the idiom “set off alarm bells” mean? “Somebody purporting to be Pitt got in touch the next day, which set off alarm bells for Anne.” Use this expression in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your reaction and opinion about what happened to Anne?
  2. What are your thoughts on this statement, “Life today is paved with cybertraps… and AI progress will only worsen this scenario.”
  3. What are ways to tell that something/a correspondence with somebody on the internet is a scam?
  4. Do you know a similar story about someone who got duped online? Tell that story.