Category: Homework

Boomerang CEOs

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

Several chief executive officers or CEOs of some of the biggest companies have stepped down from their position. In some cases, they come back or get reinstated after a while.

Is this move advantageous for the company that they work for though? Could it really be that ‘second time’s the charm’ for these CEOs?

Watch the video and find out more about the boomerang CEOs.

https://www.bbc.com/reel/video/p0h9q7kj/boomerang-ceos-do-they-ever-succeed-

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “boomerang CEO” mean? “We looked at over 6,000 CEO succession or turnovers. There are less than 200 of them that were boomerang CEOs.” Use this term in a sentence.
  2. What does “product line” mean? “Steve Jobs innovated. He came out with all these new products and recreated the company with new product lines.” Use this term in a sentence
  3. What does “to bring the magic back” mean? “When Howard Schultz came back that first time, he brought some of that magic back.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use this idiom in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is the general trend among boomerang CEOs when they come back?
  2. What is your opinion about the boomerang CEO trend?
  3. What can boomerang CEOs do in order to ensure success upon their comeback?
  4. Talk about a boomerang CEO from your country. Why did they have to step down before and what are some of the things they did upon returning to their position? Was it a good thing for the company in the end? Elaborate.
  5. Share your thoughts on this, “Founders just have this huge attachment that other people do not to the companies that they started and created. And so there is this protectiveness.”.
  6. Share your insights on the ‘founder CEO’s shelf life’ and that “For most people, there’s going to be a time where it outgrows your skill set in terms of your ability to manage it. Be willing to let go of your ‘baby’ and to step down when the time is right.”

Our Love of Pets

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

To truly know someone, it really all boils down to: Are they a dog or a cat person?

We now live in a world were pets are kept inside the house and treated ever so kindly, almost like a family member, in some cases.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about why we keep and love our pets.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_2024/ep-240104

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “disposable income” mean? “First of all, on a very practical level, living standards are gradually increasing across that period, and it becomes more possible to keep pets if you have more disposable income.” Use this term in a sentence.
  2. What does “to fit the bill” mean? “In the Victorian era, dogs were very much the top pet, and you can see that the values that were often associated with dogs, so loyalty, trustfulness and, steadfastness… all of these qualities were also celebrated by the Victorians of key parts of the Victorian manly character, so dogs really fitted the bill.” Use this idiom in a sentence.
  3. What does “the idea someone has of themselves ” mean? “It was also the Victorians who first described Britain as a nation of dog lovers, a phrase they used to reflect the idea they had of themselves.” Use this expression in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. The British are well-known to be animal lovers. Do you think it is the same for the people in your country? Why or why not?
  2. What are the benefits and drawbacks of keeping a pet?
  3. Do you think attitudes to pets were based on economics? Explain.
  4. Share your opinion on this statement, “Your personality is reflected in your pet.”.
  5. What are your thoughts on creating social media accounts for pets/on pets being on socmed?

Everyone Loves the Underdog

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

We have heard of countless stories about how those people or teams who are in situations where they seem least likely to succeed or win actually end up winning in the end.

In sports, there are many stories of teams that were not expected to win, but have done better than predicted.

What is it about being an underdog that helps an individual or a team do better than expected?

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about how being the underdog can actually help one achieve success.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_2024/ep-240328

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “underdog and top dog” mean? “Of course it’s not just the underdog playing, there are also top dogs, the most successful or powerful person or team.” Use these two terms in different sentences.
  2. What does “to look down one’s nose at (someone)” mean? “But some of these elite Premier League clubs will look down their nose at us and just think we shouldn’t be there, and we are there on merit and we’ve just gotta prove it this season.” Use this expression in a sentence.
  3. What does “choking” mean in this context, “No one expects underdogs to win and this gives them freedom to relax and play naturally. Top dogs, on the other hand, experience a lot of expectation, and this sometimes leads to choking.”? Use this word in this context in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How does being an underdog help a person succeed or a team win?
  2. Do you tend to root for the underdogs too? Why or why not?
  3. Talk about a time you were or someone you know was an underdog.
  4. How can one overcome “choking”? How do you overcome it?
  5. What things cause someone to underperform?

Why Does Japan Work So Hard?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Japanese workers are known for their strong work ethics and dedication to their jobs, often working long hours and rarely taking vacations. This cultural phenomenon can be attributed to a variety of factors that have shaped the country’s labor practices and attitudes towards work.

Japan’s strong work ethics can be attributed to a combination of cultural values, societal expectations, and economic pressures. While this dedication has led to impressive economic growth and technological advancements, it has also raised concerns about work-life balance and employee well-being.

As Japan continues to navigate through these challenges, it will be important for both individuals and policymakers to find ways to promote healthier attitudes towards work while still maintaining the country’s reputation for diligence and work excellence.

wLearn more about why Japanese work so hard by watching the video.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to curb the number” mean? “Japan’s government has considered several initiatives to curb the number of hours spent at the office, including making it mandatory to take at least five vacation days a year and requiring a rest period between the end of one day and the start of another.” Use this term in a sentence.
  2. What does the noun “to put in the hours” mean? “In order to maintain its massive size, Japan needs to put in the hours.” Use this term in a sentence.
  3. What does “to fill in the gap” mean? “So without more immigrants, it’s looking to robotics to fill in the gap.” Use this term in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why does Japan work so hard?
  2. What are Japan’s work culture problems and what are their solutions to these problems?
  3. Share your thoughts on the culture of overworking.
  4. How does the work culture in your country compare to Japan?
  5. Cite some examples of work culture issues in your country.

Finland’s Startup Makes Food Out of Thin Air

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Finland’s wizards have been making waves in the culinary world with their innovative technique of creating food out of thin air. This groundbreaking approach involves utilizing a process known as air-based protein production to generate nutrient-rich edibles without the need for traditional agricultural methods. By harnessing the power of microbes, these wizards are able to transform carbon dioxide and water into proteins that can be used as ingredients in a variety of dishes.

As this technology continues to evolve, it has the potential to revolutionize the way we think about food production and consumption. By pushing boundaries and challenging conventional norms, Finland’s wizards are paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient future in which hunger may become a thing of the past.

Learn more about this innovation by watching the video.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “ploughing” mean? “But instead of ploughing, fertilizing, and harvesting, the flower stems from dried liquid made in a miniature bioreactor inside a laboratory.” Use this term in a sentence.
  2. What does “to suck (something) in” mean? “The process requires significantly fewer resources than meat or milk and the use of direct air capture to suck in CO2 from the atmosphere is good news for the environment.” Use this term in a sentence.
  3. What does “introduce” mean here, “The company hopes to introduce their product to the market in early 2023.” Use this term in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Explain the process of producing food out of thin air.
  2. What are your thoughts on this technology?
  3. If this kind of innovation continues, what do you think the future of food production will look like?
  4. Have you ever tried a lab-grown food? How does it taste like? If not yet, would be interested to try it?
  5. Share your thoughts on this statement, “Our gift to the society is disconnection from agriculture. We don’t use any agricultural raw materials even. Therefore, we can let agricultural land to be freed from agriculture and basically let forest grow back.“.

Japan Keeps Its Elderly Employed

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Japan’s labor shortage caused by its aging population and declining birth rates has become a pressing issue. To address this challenge, many seniors are stepping into new roles within the workforce. This trend not only helps mitigate the labor gap, but also allows older adults to stay active and engaged in society. The involvement of seniors in various sectors is reshaping Japan’s labor landscape and prompting discussions on the potential benefits and challenges of an aging workforce.

Read this article and also watch the video on how elderly workers help Japanese companies make up for labour shortages.

https://www.dw.com/en/how-japan-keeps-its-elderly-employed-and-active/a-59516633

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “sprightly” mean? “A sprightly and energetic 68-year-old, Atsuko Kasa says she has absolutely no intention of slowing down.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘sprightly’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does the word “silver” mean here, ““However, elderly people today are so much more healthy and energetic than back then, and they simply do not consider themselves to be ‘silver‘.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘silver’ in the same context in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to forgo” mean? “Kasa, who used to work in the accounting department of a cosmetics company, is one of the legions of elderly Japanese citizens who have opted to forgo the traditional retirement hobbies of gardening, get-togethers with friends and looking after the grandchildren.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘to forgo’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on “gig work” for pensioners?
  2. What are the main factors contributing to Japan’s labor shortage?
  3. Do you think the integration of seniors into the workforce is a viable long-term solution to Japan’s labor shortage? Why or why not?
  4. How might the presence of seniors in the workforce influence workplace dynamics and intergenerational relationships?
  5. Do you believe there is an age limit beyond which individuals should not be expected to work? Why or why not?
  6. How can society balance the need for seniors in the workforce with the need to provide opportunities for younger workers?

Is MSG Bad for You

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Monosodium glutamate, commonly known as MSG, is a flavor enhancer often used in Asian cuisine, processed foods, and soups. It has been a topic of controversy for decades, with some claiming it causes adverse health effects, while scientific research largely indicates it is safe for consumption.

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

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the word “hunch” mean? “Kwok’s connection between his headache and his common seasoning in American Chinese seasoning was just a hunch.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘hunch’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does “staple” mean? “By 1930’s, MSG was a kitchen staple across most of Asia.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘staple’ in your own sentence.
  3. What does the word “binge” mean? “It is possible that binging MSG produces headaches, chest pains and heart palpitation for some people.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘binge’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think MSG should be avoided to maintain a healthy diet? Why or why not?
  2. Have you ever experienced adverse effects after consuming MSG? How did it influence your view on it?
  3. Do you believe the negative reputation of MSG is justified? Why do you think it persists despite scientific evidence?
  4. Should restaurants and food manufacturers be required to disclose the use of MSG on their labels and menus? Share your thoughts.
  5. Would you choose a product labeled as “MSG-free” over one that contains MSG? Why or why not?

Cocoa Farmers Grow Rubber Trees

B1 – Intermediate 

One of the biggest cocoa producer in the world is Ivory Coast. However, many farmers do not want to grow cocoa anymore. Instead, they are planting more rubber trees.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about Ivory Coast shifting from cocoa to rubber cultivation.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/cocoa-farmers-grow-rubber-level-3/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “shift” mean? “Ivory Coast, the world’s largest cocoa producer, is seeing a shift among farmers toward rubber cultivation.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘shift’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does “labor-intensive” mean? “Farmers find rubber farming cheaper and less labor-intensive.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘labor-‘intensive’ in your own sentence.
  3. What does “drive” mean in this context? “Climate change and high production costs are driving this change.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘drive” in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on the world’s largest cocoa producer shifting to rubber cultivation?
  2. What are the reasons farmers are do not want to grow cocoa anymore?
  3. What effects will this have on the cocoa industry?
  4. What can the government do to help cocoa farmers?
  5. What crops are most commonly cultivated in your country? Which ones are gaining more popularity among farmers in the recent years and why?

Reasons You Wake Up Tired

B2 – Upper Intermediate

We often find ourselves sacrificing sleep in order to complete assignments, study for exams, work, or participate in social activities. The prevailing belief is that the less hours of sleep we get, the more energetic we will feel. However, recent research has shown that this may not necessarily be the case.

Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining our energy levels and overall well-being. It is during sleep that our bodies repair and regenerate, allowing us to wake up feeling refreshed and revitalized. Inadequate sleep can lead to feelings of fatigue, decreased cognitive function, and a weakened immune system.

Read the article and learn why sometimes we feel more tired after getting a really good night’s sleep.

https://edition.cnn.com/2022/08/10/health/waking-up-tired-reasons-solutions-wellness/index.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is “sleep inertia”? “This discrepancy is often due to a heightened state of sleep inertia, a circadian process that modulates memory, mood, reaction time and alertness upon waking.” Use this term in a sentence.
  2. What does the idiom “to toss and turn” mean? “Maybe your bed partner has a sleep disorder and snores or tosses and turns.” Use this idiom in your own sentence.
  3. What does “shift-based” mean? “Sometimes our schedules differ on weekdays versus weekends. Schedules can also fluctuate for people with shift-based jobs.” Use this adjective in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What have you learned from the article?
  2. Are you the type of person who can function with very little sleep? Why or why not?
  3. Do you think you regularly get enough sleep? If not, how can you maintain good performance throughout the day?
  4. Dr. Kashani said that “The most important sleep habit is to sleep. To sleep as much to sleep as much as your body needs and when your body needs it.” Do you agree? Elaborate on your answer.
  5. Would you consider seeing a sleep specialist or going to a sleep clinic should the need arise? Explain.
  6. What’s your sleep environment and routine like?
  7. Have you ever had any sleep problems? What did you do to fix it?

Origins of the Word “Lesbian” 

B2 – Upper Intermediate

“Etymology” is derived from the Greek word etumos which means “true”. It is the study of the origin of words and how its meaning has changed over time. There are so many fascinating histories of words. One of them is the word “lesbian”.

In ancient Greece, Sappho was a revered singer and erotic poets. She often wrote songs about love, passion, and longing. Coincidentally, Sappho was from Lesbos and people from there were called “Lesbian”.

Watch the video and know more about the surprising origins of the word “lesbian”.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the verb “enrapture” mean? “More than 2,500 years ago, one of ancient Greece’s most celebrated pop stars and erotic poets enraptured listeners.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘enrapture’ in your own sentence.
  2. Define the word “licentiousness“. “One 2nd century Christian leader called Sappho ‘a whore who sang about her own licentiousness.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘licentiousness’ in your own sentence.
  3. What does the idiom “to reach across time” mean? “Sappho’s words reach across time and resonate today.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘to reach across time’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your thoughts on Sappho’s story.
  2. Share your opinion about how only fragments of Sappho’s works survived.
  3. What were the gender and social inequalities in ancient Greece? And how does this compare to modern times?
  4. Talk about a famous person from your country and their works that have endured the test of time.
  5. Talk about an etymology of a word or phrase that you find rather interesting and explain why you thought this was amusing.