Category: Class

Patients with Heart Failure May Benefit from Weight Loss Drug

B2 – Upper Intermediate

A recent clinical trial found that a popular weight-loss drug significantly reduces the risk of early death in patients with heart failure. This adds to the drug’s potential benefits beyond weight loss, such as improved cardiovascular outcomes​.

Read the article to know the other benefits of semaglutide.

https://www.ajmc.com/view/patients-with-heart-failure-may-benefit-from-weight-loss-drug

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “ejection fraction” mean? “Focusing on the 4286 patients with heart failure at enrollment, 53% had heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), 31.4% had heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), and 15.5% had unspecified heart failure.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “baseline characteristics” mean? “While baseline characteristics were similar between patients with and without heart failure, those with heart failure had a higher incidence of clinical events.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “composite” mean here, “We showed, for the first time to our knowledge, that patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, overweight or obesity, and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (who had a greatest absolute risk) had significant reductions in MACE with semaglutide, and the treatment effect on the heart failure composite was observed to be similar to that seen in the population with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Did you know that a weight-loss drug could reduce the risk of early death in heart failure patients? How do you think this could change treatment approaches?
  2. What might be the benefits of using medications for dual purposes, like weight loss and cardiovascular health?
  3. Why do you think weight management plays such an important role in heart health?
  4. Do you think medications like this could become a standard part of heart failure treatment in the future? Why or why not?

Understanding Overtourism

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Over-tourism is a growing concern, affecting both local communities and the environment. While tourism brings economic benefits, overcrowding leads to problems like environmental degradation, rising living costs, and strained infrastructure. As destinations struggle to manage the increasing flow of visitors, finding sustainable solutions has become more urgent than ever.

Read this article to learn more about the impacts of overtourism.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/understanding-over-tourism-causes-consequences-pum1f/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “tourist cap” mean in this context? “This can be done through measures such as tourist caps, timed entry systems for popular sites, and differential pricing during peak seasons.” Make a sentence with this.
  2. Define “off the beaten path“. “Marketing efforts can focus on off-the-beaten-path locations, seasonal activities, and cultural experiences that draw tourists away from overcrowded hotspots.” Use this phrase in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  3. What is “equitable tourism“? “Through collaborative efforts, it is possible to create a more sustainable and equitable tourism industry that enriches both travelers and host communities alike.” Make a sentence with this phrase.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How does over-tourism affect the cost of living for local residents?
  2. What role can travelers play in reducing the negative impacts of over-tourism?
  3. In your opinion, what makes a destination “over-touristed,” and how can we identify when a location reaches this point?
  4. How do you think digital platforms like Airbnb contribute to the rise of over-tourism in certain cities?
  5. What are some examples of destinations that have successfully addressed the issue of over-tourism? What strategies did they use?

Most Unusual Festivals

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Across the globe, people celebrate unique festivals that showcase fascinating traditions. For example, in England, participants roll cheese down a steep hill. Meanwhile, in Thailand, monkeys are honored with grand feasts. These events highlight the creativity and diversity of different cultures. Moreover, they invite everyone to enjoy extraordinary and unforgettable experiences.

Read this article to learn about the 13 most unusual festivals in the world.

https://theculturetrip.com/europe/united-kingdom/articles/the-13-most-unusual-festivals-in-the-world

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “decommodification” mean? “Some of the group’s values include ‘radical’ inclusion, self-reliance, self-expression, community cooperation, decommodification and more.” Use this word in a sentence.
  2. Define “drive something up“. ” The festival first occurred in 1989, run by a local businessman who thought of this unique way to drive up tourism in Lopburi.” Make a sentence and give two synonyms.
  3. What is a “peat bog“? “Armed with a snorkel and flippers, participants must complete two consecutive lengths in a 60-yard trench of water cut through a peat bog, relying only on their flippers to push them through.” Make a sentence with this.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What makes a festival “unusual” in your opinion?
  2. Why do you think people celebrate festivals in such creative or unconventional ways?
  3. Do you think unusual festivals help promote tourism? Why or why not?
  4. If you could attend only one unusual festival, which one would you choose and why?
  5. If you could create your own unusual festival, what would it involve?

America’s Biggest Brands Are Failing to Keep Up in China

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Despite their global reputation, many of America’s biggest brands are struggling to maintain a competitive edge in China. Shifting consumer preferences, the rise of local competitors, and increasing regulatory challenges are making it harder for these brands to thrive. Chinese consumers are favoring domestic products that better align with their tastes, values, and budgets. This evolving market landscape highlights the challenges of adapting to a rapidly changing and highly competitive environment.

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

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “squeeze out” mean in this sentence, “Tastien” is just one example of a Chinese brand squeezing out U.S. rivals.“? Use the phrase in a sentence.
  2. What does “to make inroads” mean? “Younger Chinese consumers are increasingly gravitating towards brands that incorporate elements of traditional Chinese culture and style and it has allowed brands like Anta to make inroads in a market that long has been dominated by Nike and other Western brands.” Use the phrase in a sentence.
  3. What does the phrase “an untapped gold mine” mean? “The country’s more than 1 billion shoppers were once seen as an untapped gold mine for Western brands.” Use the phrase in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why do you think some American brands struggle to connect with Chinese consumers, despite their global popularity?
  2. Do you believe American companies should prioritize adapting their products to local tastes, even if it means changing their identity?
  3. What strategies can American brands adopt to compete effectively with Chinese companies in their home market?
  4. How does the rise of national pride and preference for local brands influence consumer behavior in China?

Inflation Impacts Americans’ Social Lives

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Inflation doesn’t just impact money—it changes how people spend time together. As prices for things like food, transportation, and entertainment rise, many are cutting back on eating out, going to events, or hosting get-togethers. Budgets now play a bigger role in planning social activities, with more people choosing cheaper or free options. This shows how financial challenges can also affect relationships and how communities connect.

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

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does ” disposable income” mean? “Gen X and Millennials are struggling with having disposable income.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the idiom, “to keep up with the Joneses‘ mean? “It’s a whole new ‘keeping up with the Joneses‘. I can’t have friends because it doesn’t live up to an Instagram ideal.” Make one sentence using the word.
  3. What does “to live up to” mean in this sentence, “I can’t have friends because it doesn’t live up to Instagram ideal.“? Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think inflation has had a noticeable effect on your social life or the social lives of people you know?
  2. In your opinion, is it possible to maintain a vibrant social life despite financial challenges?
  3. How do rising costs of entertainment and dining out influence the way communities interact and socialize?
  4. What alternative ways of socializing might emerge or grow in popularity during periods of economic hardship?

The Swedish Gummies Candy Craze 

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The Swedish gummies craze is sweeping the internet, capturing the hearts (and taste buds) of candy lovers around the world. Known for their unique flavors, high-quality ingredients, and fun, minimalist packaging, Swedish gummies offer a refreshing twist on classic gummy candy.

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

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the word “palette” in this sentence? “There are plenty of other treats more suited to my American palette.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘palette’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does the phrase “a gap in the market” mean? “Swedish candy was going viral and to me, what that signal is that there was a gap in the market of people who wanted to try new sweets, new textures.” Use the expression in a sentence,
  3. What does the phrase “hail from” mean? “The Bon Bon co-founder hails from Sweden where he says kids are only allowed to have sweets once a week.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘hail from’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on the Swedish gummies craze?
  2. What do you think sets Swedish gummies apart from traditional gummies from other countries?
  3. Do you believe that the emphasis on natural flavors and less sugar makes Swedish gummies more appealing?
  4. How important is unique packaging and branding to you when choosing candies like Swedish gummies?
  5. Why do you think Swedish gummies have become so popular on social media platforms?
  6. In what ways might the rise of “healthier” candies like Swedish gummies impact the candy industry overall?

Finding Mushrooms in Catalonia

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Mushroom hunting is a popular activity in Spain, especially during the autumn months when the weather is cooler and the mushrooms are in season. This cultural tradition has been passed down through generation, with families and friends heading out into the forest in search of these delicious fungi.

It is a time-honored tradition that allows individuals to connect with the natural world and appreciate the beauty and diversity of the mushroom kingdom. So if you ever find yourself in Spain during mushroom season, be sure to join in on the fun and hunt for some delicious fungi.

Read the article and learn what you need to know about mushroom hunting.

https://www.senia.es/en/blog/beach-or-mountain/mushroom-hunting-catalonia

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “wear and tear” mean? “Mushroom pocket guides are usually small in size so that they can be carried with you when you are looking for mushrooms. There are also those that are well packed to prevent wear and tear.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the idiom “to dive deep into something” mean? “On the other hand, if you like books more than technology, there are several pocket guides with all kinds of information, with more detailed drawings to dive deeper into the world of mushrooms.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does the word “encroachment” mean? “Finally, we don’t want to forget that the forest belongs to everyone and that our passage should not affect encroachment.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on the mushroom culture in Catalonia/Spain?
  2. What’s the mushroom hunting culture like now in your city?
  3. Have you ever been mushroom hunting before? Share your experience.
  4. What other cultural activities would you like to preserve and why? Also, why do you think it is important to pass it down to the next generations?

Misinformation on Social Media Leads to Ineffective Voting Decisions

B2 – Upper Intermediate

A new study shows that social media might cause people to make wrong voting decisions, especially when misinformation spreads. When social media posts are fact-checked, people make better decisions. But if there’s misinformation, people might vote less accurately and make choices that don’t reflect the true facts.

This article explains how social media affects voting. To read the full article, follow the link below.

https://www.psypost.org/misinformation-on-social-media-leads-to-ineffective-voting-decisions-study-suggests/

Vocabulary Questions

1. What does “group payoff” mean in the sentence? “Misinformation reduced the overall quality of decision-making, resulting in poorer voting outcomes and lower group payoffs.” Use it in a sentence.

2. What does “partisan view” mean? “People tend to engage more with information that aligns with their existing beliefs, which can reinforce partisan views and further entrench misinformation.” Use it in a sentence.

3. What does “political bias” mean? “Additionally, each participant had a unique partisan preference, which created a personal bias toward one of the outcomes, simulating real-world political biases.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How might misinformation on social media cause people to make wrong choices?
  2. How can fact-checking improve voting decisions on social media?
  3. What are some challenges of moderating social media to reduce misinformation?
  4. How do you feel when you see conflicting information on social media?
  5. What are some ways to help people make better decisions when using social media?

Third World Is an Offensive Term

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The term “Third-World country” was first used in the 1950s as a way to group countries. The capitalist, economically developed countries like the US were classified as “First World”. The communist states led by the Soviet Union were in the “Second World” country group. The remaining countries were included in the “Third World” category.

However, in more recent times, the term “Third World” has been deemed by some as offensive.

Let’s read the article and know more why this term has become outdated and insulting.

https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2021/01/08/954820328/memo-to-people-of-earth-third-world-is-an-offensive-term

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “strike as” mean? “When she heard the label growing up, she says it struck her as making “this assumption about people outside of the ‘First World’ — that they lived really different lives, the assumption they were poor, they should be happy to eat every day.” Use it in your own sentence.
  2. What is the meaning of the idiom “in some respects“? “And when you think about it, “developing countries” are quite developed in some respects. In countries where government safety nets are practically nonexistent, people step forward to help out.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  3. What does “to loom large” mean? “That’s the ‘Fourth World’, Farmer says, referring to parts of the United States and other wealthy nations where health and economic problems loom large.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you agree that the term “Third World” is old-fashioned and insulting? Why or why not?
  2. What is your opinion on the alternative terms to “Third World” mentioned in the article? Which one/s do you think is the best term to use to refer to such countries and why?
  3. Share your insights on this statement, “There is no ‘Third World.’ There were the oppressed and the oppressors.“
  4. State your thoughts, “D’Silva once heard the late Hans Rosling talk about countries that aren’t yet in the upper-income category. He said, “They’re the rest of the world.” And, she says, why not just call them by their names?“

Debt Snowball vs. Debt Avalanche Method

B2 – Upper Intermediate

To tackle debt efficiently, two popular approaches are the debt snowball and debt avalanche methods. Ultimately, the choice depends on your financial goals and personality. If you’re motivated by quick successes, the snowball method could keep you on track. If minimizing interest and reducing total repayment time is your priority, the avalanche method may be a better fit.

Read the article to know more about the difference between these two methods.

https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/avalanche-vs-snowball-which-repayment-strategy-is-best/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “variable interest rate” mean? “For example, if you used a cosigner for a student loan or have a loan with a variable interest rate that’s likely to rise, you may want to pay off that loan first regardless of the balance.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “debt consolidation loan” mean? “Debt consolidation loans also offer a fixed repayment term.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “minimum payment trap” mean? “A debt consolidation loan can help you avoid getting stuck in a minimum payment trap.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Explain the difference between debt snowball and debt avalanche method.
  2. Give one advantage and disadvantage for both debt payoff methods.
  3. Which between the two do you think is a better strategy in paying debts off and why?
  4. Share your own approach/es in getting rid of debts.