Category: Class

Reopening Alcatraz Prison

B1 – Intermediate 

Alcatraz is perhaps one of the most famous prison in the world. It is located in the middle of San Francisco Bay. In 1934, it became a high-security federal penitentiary for holding the most dangerous prisoners in America.

President Trump is thinking about reopening Alcatraz.

Read the article about the possible reopening of Alcatraz as a prison and be ready to answer the questions that follow.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2505/250508-alcatraz-prison-2.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Define “public safety threat”. “He said it could be “an option for significant public safety threats.“ Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  2. What does “to be plagued by something” mean here, “America has been plagued by vicious, violent, and repeat criminal offenders.”? Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  3. What does “to tear something up” mean? “It’s not realistic to think you can repair it. You’d have to tear it up and start over.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What comes to your mind when you hear “Alcatraz”?
  2. Do you agree with the idea of reopening Alcatraz? Share your opinion.
  3. Share your thoughts on this, “Alcatraz was a symbol of law and order.”.
  4. Would your consider visiting Alcatraz as a tourist attraction? Why or why not?
  5. Are there maximum security prisons in your country? What are they like?
  6. Why are maximum security prisons necessary? 
  7. How can vicious, violent, and repeat criminal offenses be reduced?

Chinese Dam Slows Down Earth’s Rotation

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The construction of the Three Gorges Dam in China has brought significant attention to the effects of large-scale engineering projects on the Earth’s natural systems. One of the remarkable findings associated with this dam is its potential impact on the Earth’s rotation. Although the idea may seem far-fetched at first, scientific studies indicate that massive reservoirs can influence the global distribution of mass and, consequently, the rotation speed of the Earth. 

In conclusion, these dams serve as an example of how human actions can have broader environmental effects than previously anticipated. While the immediate goal of the dam was to generate electricity and control flooding, the dam also illustrates the complex relationship between human engineering and the Earth’s systems. As we move forward, it is essential to consider these interactions when planning and executing large-scale projects. Understanding these dynamics can help in making better decisions that align with environmental sustainability and Earth’s natural rhythms. 

Watch the video to learn more about how the Three Gorges Dam slows the Earth’s rotation.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is a “reservoir”? “When the dam slows or stops the flow of water to fill up its reservoir, it holds 10 trillion gallons of water which weigh a total of 83.4 trillion pounds.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “to put something in perspective” mean? “To put it in perspective, this dam could power the entirety of New Zealand and Ireland and Iceland and Costa Rica and the Bahamas and Rwanda combined.”  Use it in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  3. What does “miniscule” mean? “Every single movement of mass up or down, in fact, has some miniscule effect on how fast Earth rotates.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.


Discussion Questions:

  1. How does a dam slow down the Earth’s rotation?
  2. What is your reaction to this?
  3. Do you think it’s a problem if human activities can slightly change how the Earth spins? Why? 
  4. Should countries consider global effects when planning large infrastructure projects? Why? 
  5. The report states that there are many reasons for the slowing of Earth’s rotation, both natural and man-made. Are you concerned? Why or why not?

Americans Panic Once Their Phone Battery Hits 38%

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Imagine you’re out and about, scrolling through your phone, when suddenly you notice your battery percentage dipping dangerously low. You might get anxious looking for the nearest charger. This phenomenon highlights our deep reliance on smartphones, not just for communication, but for navigation, entertainment, and even a sense of security.

Let’s read the article and know more about the psychology behind battery anxiety.

https://nypost.com/2025/04/10/lifestyle/most-americans-begin-to-panic-once-their-phone-battery-hits-this-number

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the verb “pinpoint” mean? “The survey of 2,000 Americans pinpointed precisely what level of remaining phone battery people reach before they start to worry or seek out a way to get charged. “Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  2. Define the phrasal verb “creep in“. “Results showed anxiousness creeps in relatively early, with well over a third of battery life left (38%) revealed as the average level before worry sets in.” Use it in your own sentence.
  3. What is the meaning of the phrase “other end of the spectrum“? “At the other end of the spectrum, a quarter of Americans (24%) start to worry about their phone’s battery life before it’s even dropped to half full.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do the results of this survey suggest to you?
  2. At what battery percentage do you start feeling anxious, and how do you handle it?
  3. Has your phone ever died at a moment when you desperately needed it? What was the situation, and how did you handle it?
  4. How long do you think you could manage without using your phone? What would be the hardest part about going without your phone, and how would you adapt?

Gen Z’s Are Ditching College Degrees for Blue-Collar Careers

B2 – Upper Intermediate

US college enrollment is declining as more Gen Z students are choosing trade schools and blue-collar careers over traditional four-year universities. With college costs rising over 100% in the past 20 years and job security in degree-required fields becoming less reliable, many young people are turning to skilled trades like welding, construction, and landscaping, which offer quicker entry into the workforce and solid earning potential.

Stories like Morgan Bradbury’s welding career and Chase Gallagher’s landscaping business show how hands-on careers can lead to financial success without a college degree. This shift reflects a changing view of success, as more young workers respond to market demands and rising costs with practical, skill-based career choices.

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

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “blue-collar career” mean? “Morgan isn’t alone among her peers in choosing a blue-collar career over college.” Give two (2) synonyms and use this idiom in a sentence.
  2. What does “tout” mean? “Since the last half of the 20th century, a college degree has been touted as a must-have for a stable and successful career.” Give two (2) synonyms and use this term in a sentence.
  3. What does “for the long haul” mean? “Morgan Bradbury says she plans to stick with welding for the long haul but also wants to pass along her skills to others.” Give two (2) synonyms and use this idiom in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What factors do you think have contributed most to Gen Z’s shift away from traditional four-year colleges, and do you think this trend will continue? Why or why not?
  2. How might the rise in skilled trade jobs impact the perception of success and social status in American society over the next decade?
  3. With the increasing cost of college and the availability of good-paying jobs without a degree, should high schools place less emphasis on college preparation and more on trade skills? What are the risks and benefits of doing so?
  4. Morgan and Chase both found success outside of the traditional college route. What qualities or mindsets do you think contributed to their achievements, and how can schools better support students with different career goals?
  5. How might current U.S. tariffs on imported goods (such as steel, aluminum, or foreign machinery) affect the demand for skilled trades like welding, manufacturing, and construction? Could tariffs help or hurt the blue-collar workforce?
  6. In what ways could trade policies and tariffs influence the future career decisions of Gen Z workers, especially those considering careers in industries affected by international supply chains?

Getting Ripped Off by Hidden Inflation

B2 – Upper Intermediate

We all know prices are rising—but what if the true cost of living is climbing even faster than it appears? Hidden inflation is quietly draining our wallets, not just through sticker shock but through shrinking product sizes, sneaky fees, and downgraded quality. Companies are finding clever ways to give you less for more, without officially raising prices.

Watch the video to uncover the tactics behind hidden inflation—and how it’s reshaping our everyday spending without us even noticing.


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “rip-off” mean? Hidden inflation is the ultimate rip-off—you’re paying more for less, and most people don’t even realize it’s happening. Make a sentence using this phrase.
  2. What does the word “recoup” mean? “Companies shrink product sizes but keep prices the same to quietly recoup rising costs—leaving consumers ripped off by hidden inflation.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does the phrase “rake in” mean?” While consumers struggle with shrinking product sizes and rising prices, big corporations continue to rake in record profits.” Use it in a sentence.


Discussion Questions:

  1. What are some common examples of hidden inflation that people encounter in everyday life?
  2. How do companies justify practices like shrinkflation or added fees without losing consumer trust?
  3. Should governments or consumer protection agencies do more to regulate or expose hidden inflation tactics? Why or why not?
  4. Do you think hidden inflation is more harmful than traditional price increases? Why or why not?
  5. Would you rather see a clear price increase or experience subtle cost-cutting measures like smaller portions or lower quality?
  6. Is it the consumer’s responsibility to stay informed, or should companies be more transparent about changes?

The “Buy Now, Pay Later” Trap

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Have you ever been duped by a layaway service that charged you for your purchases using “buy now, pay later” shopping platforms? The current global boom has become a trend, particularly with regards to online purchases that appear so promising and may seem to be the ideal way to allay our guilt from spending too much.

Watch the video below to learn more about the “buy now, pay later” trap.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Define “down the road”. “I can just sign up for these payments and then worry about paying it sometime down the road.” Use this term in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “in a vacuum” mean? ” “But this explosion wasn’t just happening in a vacuum.” Use this phrase in a sentence and give a synonym.
  3. Expound on the term “last hurdle”? “You see, brands have mastered psychological manipulation through their website, but specifically on the last hurdle, which is the checkout page.” Use this idiom to make your own sentence and give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you availed of a “Buy now, pay later” scheme, and how does it make you feel after purchasing something online and not having to pay immediately?
  2. Do you think that we failed to recognize the financial trap of “buy now, pay later”? Explain.
  3. Explain the differences between a “buy now, pay later” plan and a credit card payment scheme.
  4. In your opinion, how can we stay out of any financial pitfalls that result in mounting debts?
  5. What are the most important financial education lessons you can impart to us, and how did you come to know them?

Koreans Cut Spending on Eating Out and at Home

B2 – Upper Intermediate

South Korea is witnessing an unprecedented trend as consumers sharply reduce spending both on dining out and at home. Driven by rising living costs, economic uncertainty, and changing lifestyle habits, this shift marks a significant change in the country’s consumption patterns and raises concerns about broader impacts on the food and restaurant industries.

Watch this video and more about how Koreans are cutting corners.


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “frugal” mean? “Amid rising living costs, many Koreans have adopted a more frugal lifestyle, cutting back on both dining out and home food expenses.” Use the word in your sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does the word “sluggish” mean? “The sluggish economy has further pushed many Koreans to embrace a frugal lifestyle, reducing spending on both dining out and meals at home.” Make a sentence using the word.” Give a synonym.
  3. What does “at play” mean? “There’s a wider issue at play too with the sluggish economy creating job uncertainty and financial challenges causing people to spend less.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym.


Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the main factors causing Koreans to cut back on both dining out and home meals?
  2. How might this shift affect small restaurants, grocery stores, and food producers?
  3. Could this trend lead to long-term changes in Korean eating habits and culture? Explain.
  4. Do you think cutting back on food spending is a wise way to handle financial pressure? Share your opinion.
  5. Would you personally reduce eating out and cooking at home if prices kept rising? Explain.

Airlines Betting Billions on First-Class Flights

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Airlines around the world are investing billions of dollars to expand and upgrade their first-class cabins, signaling a shift in strategy as they cater to growing demand for premium travel experiences. This trend reflects changing passenger expectations, the rise of luxury tourism, and increased profitability in the high-end travel segment. As competition intensifies, carriers are betting that enhanced comfort, privacy, and exclusivity will win over affluent travelers and boost long-term revenue.

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


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “to bet on someone or something” mean? “Airlines are betting on the idea that growing demand for comfort and exclusivity will make first-class cabins a major source of future profits.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does the word “tailwind” mean in this sentence, “The airline industry is experiencing tailwinds from increased demand for luxury travel.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  3. What is the meaning of “overhead cost“? “The global aviation industry has about $900 billion in annual expenses, largely fuel, labor, equipment and various overhead costs.” Make a sentence using the word.


Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think investing in first-class cabins is the best way for airlines to increase profits? Explain.
  2. Would you personally pay more for a first-class experience if given the option? Why or why not?
  3. Is it fair for airlines to focus more on luxury travel rather than improving economy class? Share your thoughts.
  4. Do you believe the rise in first-class spending reflects growing inequality in air travel? What is your opinion?
  5. What factors are driving airlines to invest more in first-class rather than economy or business class?

Digital Detox Retreats

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Digital detox retreats are growing in popularity as more people seek to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature and themselves. From minimalist off-grid cabins to luxury resorts, these getaways offer tech-free environments that promote relaxation, better sleep, and mindfulness in a world overwhelmed by digital noise.

Read the article to know more about the rise of digital detox retreats.

https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20250507-the-unstoppable-rise-of-digital-detox-retreats

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to put something away” mean? “It’s not just a White Lotus thing: A growing number of resorts and retreats are asking their guests to put their digital devices away during their stay.” Make a sentence with this phrase. Give a synonym.
  2. Define “tech-lite“. “Echoing this interest, global luxury home-rental platform Plum Guide has seen a 17% rise in searches for unplugged, tech-lite properties.” Create your own sentence using this expression. Give a synonym.
  3. What’s the meaning of “to whisk away“? “In Mexico, the luxury Grand Velas Resorts has launched a Digital Detox Program that would not be out of place on The White Lotus, complete with a “Detox Concierge” to whisk away all electronic devices on arrival. “ Use this in a sentence and give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think digital detox retreats are necessary in today’s tech-driven world? Why or why not?
  2. In your opinion, can being unplugged for a while really improve a person’s mental health?
  3. Would you recommend an offline travel to someone who feels overwhelmed or burned out? Why?
  4. Would you personally find it difficult to give up your devices for several days? Why?
  5. Do you believe people rely too much on technology? What are the consequences of this?

The EU Commission’s Survival Kits

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The European Commission has introduced a “resilience kit” to help citizens prepare for emergencies such as natural disasters, cyberattacks, or conflicts by being self-sufficient for 72 hours. The kit includes essentials like food, water, medicine, and important documents. While some see this as a sensible move toward preparedness, far-right critics have labeled it as fearmongering and “war hysteria.” However, many European countries—especially those near Russia—have already adopted similar initiatives, reflecting a growing emphasis on civil protection. Supporters argue that being prepared does not create panic but instead empowers people to respond confidently to crises.

Read the article to learn why the EU’s survival kits are stirring debate and be prepared to answer the questions below.

https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/04/02/the-eu-commissions-survival-kits-fearmongering-or-necessary-preparedness

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “fear mongering” mean? “Are the EU Commission’s survival kits fearmongering or necessary preparedness?” Use this term in a sentence and give a synonym or similar expression.
  2. What does “to keep something at hand” mean? “The Minister of the Interior and the emergency services advised on how to prepare an emergency bag and keep it at hand.” Use this term in a sentence and give a synonym.
  3. What does “worst-case scenario” mean? “In Spain, First Vice-President and Minister of Finance María Jesús Montero said that she works for peace while saying it is “logical” to prepare for the worst-case scenario.” Use this term in a sentence and give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on this emergency-preparedness kit?
  2. Have you ever experienced a situation where you wished you had been more prepared? Share this story.
  3. What would you include in your own resilience kit, and why?
  4. Does this news promote practical preparedness, or does it lean more toward fear mongering? Explain your answer.
  5. How did the recent power outage in Spain and Portugal highlight the need for better emergency preparedness among households?
  6. How can schools or local communities contribute to building a culture of preparedness without causing unnecessary alarm?