phone english blogB1 – Intermediate
Homelessness is when a person does not have a permanent home or a place to live in. It’s very difficult for homeless people to find a secure and safe place to stay in. There are several reasons why and how people end up homeless.
Answer the questions in this activity then express your thoughts about it.
B2 – Upper intermediate
A new study suggests that watching sad movies alleviates pain and may boost social bonds among audience members due to good chemicals produced by the brain.
Read the article below to find out more. Be ready to express your preferences.
Discuss:
1. What do you think of sad movies? What’s the saddest movie you have ever seen?
2. How much tolerance do you have for pain?
3. What do you do to get a natural high?
4. What kind of movies do you like?
C1 – Advanced
Good food does wonders. The past decade has been all about healthy and organic ingredients to combat diseases naturally and to live a fuller life.
The article below shows cuisines that can help you reach past your prime. Read the article, watch the video and view the photos that showcase delectable dishes.
Discuss:
1. What did the article say about processed and unprocessed food?
2. What are some of the healthy ingredients that the featured countries use in their daily food intake?
3. Which of the cuisines featured have you tried?
4. Would you say that you have a healthy diet?
B2 – Upper intermediate
This video is very good practice for your listening skills, for increasing your food vocabulary and describing processes.
Watch the video below then be ready to answer some comprehension questions. Take note of new vocabulary terms that you would like to discuss.
Discuss:
1. In your own words re-tell the process of how to prepare and make donuts.
2. Why do a lot of people like to eat donuts?
3. How do you feel about donuts? Do you enjoy them or do you try to stay away from them?
4. What are some food recipes that you have tried in the past?
B2 – Upper intermediate
Taking care of pets has a number of advantages. It teaches us responsibility, it allows us to be connected emotionally and even helps us to de-stress.
Click the link below to watch how a family has taken pet care to a whole new level.
Discuss:
1. What is your initial reaction after watching the video?
2. What do you think are the dangers of keeping wild animals as pets?
3. Does your country have specific rules when it comes to owning pets?
4. Have you experienced taking care of pets?
B1 – Intermediate
People will do anything not to be caught by the police. Crime nowadays are becoming more and more aggressive.
Read the article below then play the audio clip to practice your listening skills. Be ready to answer some discussion questions.
Discuss:
1. Have you heard of a similar news happening in Europe?
2. In your country, are there people who try to sell passports and documents illegally?
3. Is drug trafficking a problem in your country/city?
4. How would you describe the police force of your country?
B2 – Upper intermediate
At the end of a long week or even a hectic month at the office, we all long for that time when we can just sit back and relax. Resting is important to everyone.
Read the article below to know some facts about the kind of rest that we need. You may read the article in parts. Take note of new vocabulary words.
Discuss:
1. What did the article say about getting the best kind of rest?
2. What recreational activities do you enjoy doing?
3. How do you make sure that you get enough rest?
4. Have you experienced going on a short holiday alone?
B2 Upper Intermediate
Commuters were faced with heavy traffic congestion as Madrid celebrates its yearly car-free day or “Día sin Coches”.
Read the article below to see how some reacted to this event.
http://elpais.com/elpais/2016/09/22/inenglish/1474544921_591930.html
Discussion Questions:
1. What can you say about the Car-Free Day?
2. What do you think about the traffic situation in your city?
3. What do you think are other alternatives to private transport?
B2 – Upper intermediate
Idioms are a very fun way to express certain situations. They put more color to your sentences and are a great way to increase your vocabulary.
The topics below include dialogues which can help you practice your pronunciation and intonation. It also has a list of other idioms which you can add to their vocabulary bank. Feel free to answer the activities after the dialogues.
B2 – Upper Intermediate
Life can sometimes really get the best of each and every one of us. Try to be an old head on young shoulders and outsmart life.
Read this article and learn a thing or two from people who have definitely been there and done that.
https://themindcircle.com/20-absolutely-vital-pieces-of-advice-from-people-over-60/
Discussion Questions:
1. Which pieces of advice do you agree/disagree with?
2. What is the most important advice you have received from your parents, grandparents, or someone you consider wise?
3. What piece of advice would you tell your 12-year-old self?