Flossing Could Reduce the Risk of Stroke

B1 – Intermediate 

Oral health problems like tooth decay and gum diseases affect more than three billion people in the world.

Taking care of your teeth and gums is important not only for your oral health, but apparently, also for your brain. 

According to a new study, flossing is the oral hygiene behavior that could help reduce the risk of suffering from a stroke. This is because when we floss, the possibility of having oral infections that could cause a stroke is also decreased.

Read the article about how flossing your teeth can reduce the risk of stroke.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2502/250206-flossing-oral-hygiene.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “burst” mean? “It happens when blood cannot get to the brain, or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘burst’ in your own sentence.
  2. Define “oral hygiene”. “We aimed to determine which oral hygiene behavior – dental flossing, brushing or regular dentist visits – has the greatest impact on stroke prevention.” Use the phrase in a sentence.
  3. What does “to look into something” mean? “Dr. Sen and his team of researchers looked into the effects of flossing on our health.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use this phrasal verb in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your reaction to the results of this study?
  2. Why do you think some people do not or cannot have proper oral hygiene?
  3. Share your thoughts on this, “Many people have said that dental care is costly.”.
  4. Are you surprised at all by this, “Oral diseases, such as tooth decay and gum disease, affect around 3.5 billion people.”? Why or why not?
  5. Is dental care affordable and accessible in your country? Talk about it.
  6. Do you have any memorable experience at the dentist’s office? Share that story.

AI Grandma Fights Back Against Scammers


B2 – Upper Intermediate

Different forms of AI scams are on the rise and it isn’t easy to identify them. Many people fall victim to these scams but majority of their victims are old people. These older adults are the usual targets of AI-driven scams because of their trusting nature and their unfamiliarity with technology. However, there’s a particular old person who is willing to take these scam calls.

Let’s read the article and know more about Daisy. Also watch the video about it.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/ai-grandma-daisy-uk-anti-fraud-scammers-virgin-media-o2

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to turn the table on someone” mean? “The newest member of our fraud-prevention team, Daisy, is turning the tables on scammers – outsmarting and outmaneuvering them at their own cruel game simply by keeping them on the line.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What is a “mugs list“? “The company told CBS they worked with known scam artists to train Daisy and used a tactic called number seeding to get Daisy’s phone number added to a list of online ‘mugs lists‘.” Use it in your own sentence.
  3. What does “out of the blue” mean? “In terms of tips and tricks, whether you’re shopping online, reviewing your emails, or receiving an out-of-the-blue phone call, it’s important to always remain vigilant.” Give 2 synonyms. Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on Virgin Media O2’s AI grandmother?
  2. What is scambaiting? Give other examples.
  3. What other forms of online scams have you heard of or personally experienced?
  4. Do you know anyone who has been scammed? What happened?
  5. Share your thoughts on this, “Fraud is at epidemic levels, with organized gangs of fraudsters operating professional call centers which relentlessly target Brits every second of every day.“.

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.“?