Category: Class

Had Better

Form

Had better is used when referring to the present or the future. It is used to give strong advice, recommendations, or warnings, with implications of negative consequences if the advice is not followed.

The verb form is always had. It is never have better nor has better. In informal contexts, the contracted form is ’d better. Had better or ‘d better is then followed by a bare infinitive or the infinitive without to before it.

Example:

It’s very cloudy. We’d better go home now before it starts raining heavily.

Incorrect:We’d better to go home.

More formal example:

The government had better concentrate on coming up with measures to address some of the country’s most pressing environmental issues.

Had better can be considered a strong expression. It is used if there is an assumption that there will be negative outcomes if someone does not do what is desired or suggested.

Example:

He’d better propose to her or she’ll break up with him.

In spoken English, sometimes, had best is used instead of had better, especially in informal settings. Using had best sounds slightly less intense and less direct.

Example: 

You‘d best call her. There’s so much traffic today.

Negative Form

To express had better in the negative form, we say had better not. The contracted form is ’d better not.

Examples:

You’d better not bully her online or she will file a complaint to the police.

We’d better not tell Julie she didn’t get into her dream university. This will break her heart.

Question Form

To express had better in question form, the subject and had are inverted.

Examples:

Had she better finish this task first before moving on to another?

Had they better give their new neighbors a present?

Had better in negative questions form is more common than affirmative questions.

Examples: 

Hadn’t you better turn all the lights off when you leave for your vacation?

Hadn’t we better hold the party indoors in case it rains that day?

Had better or be better, be best?

Had better is used when giving advice in a specific situation. The phrase be better or be best + to-infinitive is used for more general suggestions.

Examples:

It’s always better to take the subway than to get stuck in traffic.

They think it would be best to hire a contractor rather than to do it themselves.

Had better or would rather, would prefer?

Had better is not used when talking about preferences. Would rather or would prefer is used in this case.

Had better vs Would rather

I’d better order spaghetti. I’m allergic to seafood.It is a good idea, better, or advisable to order spaghetti.
I’d rather order spaghetti. I don’t like pizza.I prefer to order spaghetti.

Common Errors with had better

Had better is used when giving specific advice. It is not used when talking about obligations or requirements. In this case, use have to, have got to or must.

Example:

You have to (or must) renew your passport every ten years to be able use it for traveling abroad.

Incorrect: You’d better renew your passport every ten years to be able use it for traveling abroad.

Had better is not used in making ordinary suggestions or recommendations.

Example:

Thailand is a great country to visit. I’d recommend you visit the Northern regions to have the opportunity to unwind in hot springs or scenic villages with rice fields. 

Incorrect: You’d better visit the Northern regions to have the opportunity to unwind in hot springs or scenic villages with rice fields.

WHO Warns Antibiotic Resistance Is a Global Threat

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The WHO warns that roughly one in six laboratory confirmed bacterial infections globally are now resistant to antibiotic treatments. From data collected between 2016 and 2023 across more than 100 countries, around 40 % of samples showed antibiotic resistance. It signals that investments in new antibiotics, better diagnostics and stronger stewardship of existing ones are becoming ever more critical.

Read the article to know why antibiotic resistance threatens to make common infections difficult or impossible to treat.

https://www.bbc.com/news/health-27204988

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Explain what the term “post-antibiotic era” means. “Without urgent, coordinated action by many stakeholders, the world is headed for a post-antibiotic era.” Use the term in a sentence.
  2. What does “last-resort drug” mean? “One of them – carbapenem – is a so-called “last-resort” drug used to treat people with life-threatening infections such as pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and infections in newborns, caused by the bacteria K.pneumoniae.” Use the term in a sentence.
  3. What does “wake-up call” mean here, “Ultimately, WHO’s report should be a wake-up call to governments to introduce incentives for industry to develop new, affordable antibiotics that do not rely patents and high prices and are adapted to the needs of developing countries.” Use the phrase in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you ever heard of antibiotic resistance before? What do you think it means?
  2. Why do you think some countries are experiencing higher levels of resistance than others?
  3. Do you think people are aware of the proper way to use antibiotics? Why or why not?
  4. How do you feel knowing that common infections may become harder to treat in the future?
  5. What steps do you think individuals or governments can take to help solve this problem?

Digital Price Tags Are Changing Food Shopping

B2 – Upper Intermediate

As the world continues developing in this day and age, digital devices and tools become more and more common. Recently, electronic shelf labels have begun spreading more rapidly in North American grocery stores, increasing consumers’ concerns about dynamic pricing.

If companies can change the price of their products easily with digital price tags, will prices of products become higher for certain individuals, or will it be used to lower the prices of products near expiry?

To learn more, watch the video below.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “dynamic pricing” mean? “Some lawmakers fear that electronic shelf labels (ESLs) will lead to dynamic pricing that could hurt consumers.” Use this term in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  2. What does “year over year growth” mean? “It’s definitely an industry that is looking at significant double digit year over year growth for the foreseeable future.”  Use this term in a sentence.
  3. What is “a devil’s advocate”? “There’s definitely a strong devil’s advocate argument to be made that having some sort of surge pricing in those kind of contexts would actually be useful because it discourages hoarding.” Use this idiom in a sentence and give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the promises and pitfalls of electronic shelf labels? Do you believe that electronic shelf labels and digital price tags will influence companies to use dynamic pricing?
  2. How is dynamic pricing good and bad? You may cite examples.
  3. Do you think consumers are more likely to benefit or suffer from ESLs? Share your insights.
  4. In your opinion, should more big companies be switching to electronic shelf labels? Why or why not?

Lower Rates Supposed to Bring Homebuyers Back

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The housing market plays a vital role in the economy, influencing everything from household wealth to consumer confidence. In recent years, it has faced dramatic shifts driven by rising mortgage rates, limited housing supply, and affordability challenges. While many hoped that lower interest rates would spark renewed activity and ease pressure on homebuyers, that rebound has yet to arrive. Despite the decline in rates, high property prices and economic uncertainty continue to hold buyers back.

This article takes a closer look at the forces shaping today’s housing landscape — and what might come next. Keep reading to gain a clearer picture of where the market is headed and what it could mean for future homeowners.

https://www.aol.com/articles/lower-rates-were-supposed-bring-113001462.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to come/pull off the sidelines” mean? “The narrative: Mortgage rates at 11-month lows and hype around the Federal Reserve’s interest rate cutting plans would finally convince buyers to come off the sidelines.” Make your own sentence using the idiom. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “year-to-date low” mean? “Mortgage rates averaged 6.27% this week through Wednesday, near year-to-date lows, and down from the 6.6%-6.7% range they were stuck in most of this spring.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. Define “stalemate“. “Today’s market suggests an ongoing stalemate between buyers and sellers.” Give a synonym of this word and use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How do high home prices continue to affect potential buyers?
  2. What role does affordability play in the current housing situation?
  3. Do you think lowering interest rates alone can solve the housing affordability problem? Why or why not?
  4. In your country, what other factors besides mortgage rates might be discouraging buyers?
  5. How might current trends in the housing market affect younger generations trying to buy their first home?

College Grads Struggle to Find Jobs

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Earning a college degree has long been viewed as a reliable pathway to a stable career and financial security. However, in recent years, many U.S. college graduates are finding that the job market is anything but guaranteed.

A significant number struggle to land full-time positions, face a high degree of underemployment, or end up in jobs unrelated to their fields of study. This challenging reality raises urgent questions about the value of higher education, the readiness of graduates, and the alignment between academic programs and the evolving demands of employers.

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


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “stand out” mean? “Jaimee del Piano thought her credentials would stand out.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “turbulent” mean in this sentence, “Graduates are entering a turbulent economy with more competition for entry-level positions.” Use the word in your own sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What is “grit“? “Many successful people achieve their goals not just through talent, but through grit and persistence.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think a college degree still guarantees a good job in today’s economy? Explain.
  2. Should universities focus more on teaching practical job skills rather than theory? Elaborate.
  3. How can the education system and employers work together to better prepare students for the job market?
  4. What are the main reasons many U.S. college graduates struggle to find stable employment after graduation?
  5. Do fresh graduates in your country share the same struggles? Talk about the situation.

Emotional Intelligence

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Emotional intelligence, often called EQ, is the ability to understand, manage, and express emotions effectively. It also involves recognizing and responding to the emotions of others. People with strong emotional intelligence can handle stress, communicate well, and build healthy relationships. In today’s world, EQ is just as important as IQ because it helps individuals succeed both personally and professionally.

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


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the word “discern” mean? “A person with high emotional intelligence can easily discern how others feel, even when they don’t say anything.” Use the word in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms.
  2. What does the phrase “to align the heart with the head” mean? “Using Emotions is the ability to align our hearts with our heads.” Make one sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “correlate” mean? “Stress levels often correlate with how well a person manages their emotions.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think emotional intelligence is more important than academic intelligence in achieving success? Share your thoughts.
  2. Can emotional intelligence be learned, or is it something people are born with? What is your opinion?
  3. How can emotional intelligence help improve relationships at school or in the workplace?
  4. In what ways does emotional intelligence influence a person’s ability to handle stress and conflict?
  5. Peter Salovey concluded that “People in good moods are better at inductive reasoning and creative problem-solving.”. Why do you think this is?
  6. What are ways we can improve our EI? How do you try to improve yours?

The 4 Stages of Adaptation to Culture Shock

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Adapting to a new culture can be both exciting and challenging. When people move to a different country or environment, they often go through what’s known as culture shock—a process of adjusting to unfamiliar customs, values, and lifestyles. This experience typically unfolds in four stages of adaptation: the honeymoon, frustration, adjustment, and adaptation stages.

Understanding these stages helps individuals navigate cultural differences more smoothly and develop a deeper appreciation for their new surroundings.

Watch the video and be able to answer the questions that follow.


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Explain what “honeymoon stage” means. “In the honeymoon stage, everything is beautiful. The people are friendly, the culture rich, and the way of local life fascinating.” Use the phrase in your own sentence.
  2. What does “reverse culture shock” mean? “Those who have adapted to a new society may face a surprise when they eventually return home. After another honeymoon, they often enter a reverse culture shock.” Use the term in a sentence.
  3. What does the phrase “set in” mean? “After the excitement of moving to a new country faded, homesickness and loneliness began to set in as part of culture shock.” Make one sentence.


Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think experiencing culture shock is a necessary part of truly understanding another culture? Share your thoughts.
  2. In your opinion, which stage of adaptation (honeymoon, frustration, adjustment, adaptation) best shows a person’s resilience?
  3. Do you believe some people adapt to new cultures faster because of personality, or is it more about preparation and experience?
  4. How might the honeymoon stage affect someone’s first impressions of a country, and how do those impressions change later?
  5. Share your own experience going through the different stages of adaptation to culture shock.

Verbal Nouns

A verbal noun is derived from a verb, but serves purely as a noun in a sentence. An adjective can be used to modify it or it can be made into plural form. To compare it to a gerund, it cannot be modified by an adverb nor take an object.

Here are the main differences between a gerund and a verbal noun:

FeatureGerundVerbal Noun
Word endingAlways ends in “-ing”Ends in “-ing,” “-ation,” “-al,” etc., or be the same as the verb
Verb-like propertiesMaintains verb-like propertiesNo verb-like properties
ModificationUses adverb as modifierUses adjective as modifier
ObjectTakes a direct objectCannot take a direct object
PluralizationCannot be pluralizedCan be pluralized

Example Sentences: Gerund vs Verbal Noun

InfinitiveGerundVerbal Noun
translatetranslation

Translating the code was not easy to do.		translation

The students were reading a translation of English texts into Spanish.
departdeparting

Departing from traditions, the couple decided to elope.		departure

Be here for the departure of your grandparents tomorrow.
arrivearriving

Arriving early is probably a good idea to avoid traffic going to the office.		arrival

We are witnessing the arrival of companion robots in our societies.
useusing

Using his charm landed him a job at the top modeling agency.		use

What’s the use of all your hard work if you are not going to finish your university degree?
guideguiding

Guiding her children was her purpose in life.		guidance

They need the guidance of their village elders to come up with a decision.
preparepreparing

Eagerly preparing for the party, she made a long list of things to do.		preparation

All of this is for the preparation of their wedding. 
buildbuilding

Her company is interested in building a new business.		building

His parents’ money will fund the building of his future.

Planetary Health Diet Could Save Millions of Lives

B2 – Upper Intermediate

This article discusses a 2025 update from the EAT-Lancet Commission, reporting that adopting a more plant-based, flexitarian diet could prevent up to 15 million premature deaths per year worldwide. The diet emphasizes whole grains, legumes, vegetables, fruits, nuts, with limited animal products.

Read the article to know why the report also highlights that nearly half of the global population currently cannot afford a healthy diet so structural changes are needed to make this more accessible.

https://www.foodandwine.com/planetary-health-diet-eat-lancet-report-2025-11826819?

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “premature death” mean? “The 2025 EAT-Lancet Commission reports that adopting a more flexitarian diet could prevent up to 15 million premature deaths annually and save trillions in healthcare expenses.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “a sweeping study” mean? “In early October, The Lancet published the updated EAT-Lancet Commission, a report that builds on the highly popular 2019 EAT–Lancet Commission, a sweeping study that brought together scientists, nutrition experts, and environmental researchers from more than 30 countries in what they describe as the “most comprehensive global scientific evaluation of food systems to date.” ” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “prescriptive diet” mean? “And it’s really a diet that any culture, anywhere, can adapt to their tastes and local flavors. The Planetary Health Diet isn’t a restrictive or prescriptive diet.“ Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think about the idea of a mostly plant-based diet to improve global health?
  2. Would you be willing to eat less meat if it meant living a longer and healthier life?
  3. What plant-based foods do you enjoy the most?
  4. Do you think this kind of diet is affordable and realistic in your country?
  5. How can governments or communities make healthy diets easier for people to follow?

The Gen Z Uprising in Asia Shows Social Media is a Double-Edged Sword

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Young people across Nepal are taking to the streets to protest the government’s recent social media ban, which restricts access to popular platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The move has sparked widespread anger among Gen Z, who argue that social media is not only a source of entertainment, but also a vital tool for education, communication, and self-expression.

Read this article to find out more about the protests.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn4ljv39em7o

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “fervour of change” mean? “This was part of a fervour for change that has swept across Asia in recent months.” Use this in a sentence.
  2. Define “spiral into something“. “Governments in the region say there is a risk of the protests spiralling into unacceptable violence.” Make a sentence with this phrase.
  3. What is a “nepo kid“? “To many demonstrators, “nepo kids” symbolise deeper corruption.” Use this in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why do you think Gen Z in Nepal is especially upset about the social media ban?
  2. How should governments balance concerns (e.g. misinformation, security) with freedom online?
  3. How might the ban affect marginalized groups or those who rely heavily on social media for work or education?
  4. Do you think the protests will be effective in changing the government’s decision? Why or why not?
  5. In what ways do social media platforms serve more than just entertainment for young people?