Tag: audio

The Shoe Business Is Changing

B1 –  Intermediate 

The shoe market is changing quickly. Big brands now have strong competitors.

Nike is still the biggest. But it has problems. It focused too much on online sales. It did not make enough new products. Because of this, they lost some customers who looked for other brands.

All shoe brands have a new problem. High tariffs on shoes made from Vietnam could make the prices of sneakers much higher.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about how the shoe business is changing.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/the-shoe-business-is-changing-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “rival” mean? “The footwear market is changing fast as big brands like Nike and Crocs face new rivals.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  2. What does “to make a comeback” mean? “Meanwhile, Crocs has made a huge comeback.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What does “clever marketing” mean? “People used to think Crocs were ugly, but clever marketing and colorful charms called Jibbitz made them cool for young people.” Use the term in a sentence. Give a synonym. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. According to the article, why are Nike and Crocs struggling?
  2. How can they recover from these problems?
  3. Share your opinion on this, “Nike made a mistake by focusing too much on selling online and not enough on making new, exciting products.“
  4. Share your thoughts on this, “All these brands face a new problem: high tariffs on shoes made in Vietnam, which could make sneakers much more expensive for everyone.”
  5. Give an example of a product or brand that you think uses clever marketing.
  6. What are some of the most important footwear brands in your country? Why are they very popular?

The Eden Project

B1 –  Intermediate 

The Eden Project in Cornwall, UK is 25 years old. It was built in an old clay pit. Now it has big domes with a rainforest inside.

Many people visit to learn about nature. The site uses energy from underground to keep plants warm.

Now, it has money problems. Fewer people visit after the pandemic. The project lost money and had to cut jobs. Its future is uncertain.

But the founder is still hopeful. The site offers new activities to bring in visitors. It wants to stay open for the future.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about the problems that the Eden Project is facing.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/the-eden-project-is-having-problems-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “world-class attraction” mean? “This famous destination transformed an old clay pit into a world-class attraction with domes that house a giant indoor rainforest.” Use the term in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  2. What is “geothermal energy”? “The site even uses geothermal energy from deep underground to keep the tropical plants warm and healthy. ” Use the term in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What does “to put something in jeopardy” mean? “Because of these problems, the organization had to cut many staff positions to save money. This situation puts the future of the famous greenhouses in jeopardy.” Use the expression in a sentence. Give a synonym. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why is the Eden Project so popular place for visitors, especially school children?
  2. Talk about a similar place in your city or country.
  3. What are the effects of the pandemic on the Eden Project?
  4. Do you think adding attractions like a zip wire is a good way to bring more visitors? Why or why not?
  5. How can we protect important places like the Eden Project?

New Rules for Bikers in Japan

B1 –  Intermediate 

Japan is now punishing bikers who don’t drive properly. This is because accidents have increased. Many accidents involved pedestrians.

A new law will let police give fines. Riders can be fined for using a phone, not stopping at red lights, or riding with earbuds or an umbrella. The highest fine is about $75.

Last year, there were over 67,000 bicycle accidents. Many happened because riders didn’t follow the rules. Some people were badly hurt.

The law is for people aged 16 and older. Small first mistakes may only get a warning.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about the new rules for bikers in Japan.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/new-rules-for-bikers-in-japan-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “recklessly” mean? “Japanese police are starting to punish people who ride bicycles recklessly, following a record number of accidents that involved pedestrians.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  2. What does “a record number of something” mean? “Japanese police are starting to punish people who ride bicycles recklessly, following a record number of accidents that involved pedestrians.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What does “fine” mean here: “It allows officers to issue tickets and fines for breaking rules.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your opinion about these new rules for bikers in Japan?
  2. “The highest fine is about $75.” What is your opinion on this amount?
  3. What is your reaction to this, “Last year, there were more than 67,000 bicycle accidents in Japan.”?
  4. How can bike accidents be prevented?
  5. Talk about some rules for bikers in your country.
  6. Is your city suitable for biking? Talk about it.

OpenAI Deal with Pentagon

B1 –  Intermediate 

After the AI company Anthropic refused to give the Pentagon full access to its AI system, the US government decided to end its agreement with the company.

Right away, OpenAI struck a deal with the Pentagon, with promises of better security measures. 

Listen to the audio and read the transcript about the cooperation between OpenAI and Pentagon.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/openai-changes-the-deal-with-the-pentagon-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “measure” mean here, “In response, CEO Sam Altman said the company would make changes and add more safety measures.”? Use the term in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  2. What does “misuse” mean? “Many people worry about risks and the possible misuse of powerful technology.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What does “administration” mean here, “Anthropic didn’t want to give the Pentagon full access to its AI system. Because of this disagreement, the Trump administration ended its cooperation with the company.”? Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your opinion about OpenAI striking a deal with the Pentagon immediately after Anthropic. Do you think they “acted too quickly and tried to take advantage of the situation”?
  2. Do you think that OpenAI could really make changes and add more safety measures when it comes to the government using their AI system? Share your opinion.
  3. Share your opinion about the growing use of AI in wars. 
  4. What could be some risks and the possible misuse associated with AI technology?

Europe Without Visa and Mastercard

B1 –  Intermediate 

A big part of Europe’s payment system depends on Visa and Mastercard which are both American companies.

European leaders think it is risky that Europe depends on foreign companies for an essential part of its economy. It is now Europe’s objective to build its own payment system.

Listen to the audio and read the transcript about Europe’s dependence on American companies for their payment system.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/can-europe-be-without-visa-and-mastercard-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is a “digital wallet”? “One new solution is Wero, a digital wallet created by European banks and payment companies.” Use the term in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  2. What does “middleman” mean here, “It uses instant bank transfer to remove the middleman, reduce fees, and keep data inside Europe.”? Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What does “political pressure” mean? “The European Central Bank warns that strong reliance on a foreign system can lead to political pressure or a sudden problem.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. Discuss the reasons Europe wants their own payment system.
  2. What do you think about Europe’s payment system being dependent on foreign system? What problems can originate from this?
  3. What is your opinion about Europe building its own independent payment system? Talk about its advantages and disadvantages.
  4. Share your thoughts on this, “EU leaders say the payment system is key infrastructure, and infrastructure gives power.”

The EU Wants Better Gun Control

B1 –  Intermediate 

Recently, illegal gun trafficking has increased across Europe. The EU wants better gun control measures to address this problem. It is also necessary to make the laws related to firearms stricter.

Listen to the audio and read the transcript about the European Commission’s new proposals to reduce illegal gun trafficking and close legal loopholes.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/the-eu-wants-better-gun-control-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is “trafficking”? “Possessing illegal firearms or key components could bring up to five years, while trafficking or manufacturing illegal weapons could lead to eight years behind bars.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  2. What is a “loophole”? “The European Commission has proposed new EU-wide prison sentences for firearms offences to reduce illegal gun trafficking and close legal loopholes between member states.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What does “behind bars” mean? “Possessing illegal firearms or key components could bring up to five years, while trafficking or manufacturing illegal weapons could lead to eight years behind bars.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. Explain the European Commission’s new gun control proposals.
  2. What do you think of these measures?
  3. Do you think stricter gun control is necessary in your country? Why or why not?
  4. According to the Commission, around 620,000 firearms are lost or stolen in the EU, which contributes to organised crime, terrorism, and about 1,300 deaths each year. Share your reaction and opinion to this.
  5. Share your thoughts on how new technologies like 3D printing and weapons flowing from war zones increase the risks in Europe.

Weather Changes Where Wine Grows

B1 –  Intermediate 

Stable weather is very important in the production of wine. However, climate change makes it more difficult for wine producers to have the conditions necessary for their vineyards.

Listen to the audio and read the transcript about how the weather is changing the global wine map.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/weather-changes-where-wine-grows-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is a “vineyard”? “In Chile, long droughts, higher temperatures, and unpredictable weather create serious problems for vineyards.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  2. What does “to ripen” mean? “Wine quality has improved because grapes now ripen more easily.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What is a “pest”? “Rising soil temperatures, new pests, and extreme weather events could create future risks for these regions as well.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. In your own words, explain how the weather is affecting wine production.
  2. What do you think will happen if this problem continues to exist?
  3. Is there a similar problem in your country? What are the solutions to this issue?
  4. Share your opinion, “Across the world, climate change is slowly changing the global wine map. Some regions gain new opportunities, while others face problems.” 
  5. Talk about other industries being affected by climate change in your country. How is it being affected?

Is it OK to Disagree?

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

Not all the time we see each other eye to eye. Each and everyone of us has our own opinions and beliefs. It is virtually impossible for everyone to have the exact same thoughts about something.

The important thing is to be accepting and tolerant of this difference in viewpoints.

Listen to the audio and read the transcript and be ready to ponder whether it is OK to disagree.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_2026/ep-260101

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to take the heat out of the environment” mean here, “Generally, people make better decisions and are more engaging and more open when they’re happier, but much of the time it will be just a case of calming down to try and take some of the heat out of the environment.” Use the expression in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  2. What is does “silver bullet” mean? “Political scientists think the silver bullet is to get offline and meet people.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What does “divided” mean here, “By meeting people who have different opinions and beliefs to you, the more you’ll realise they’re not that different to you at all. And that could make you more accepting and lead to a society that is less divided.” Use the word in this context in a sentence. Give a synonym. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. Is it OK to disagree? Share your opinion. 
  2. What are the pros and cons of disagreements?
  3. Share your perspective on this, “We are becoming a more divided society.”
  4. Share your thoughts on this, “We might like to believe that we’re accepting and tolerant of others’ beliefs, but for many people it can be difficult to communicate with people who have very different opinions to our own.”
  5. Talk about your own experience disagreeing with others. How did you handle that situation?

Scared of Speaking English

B1 – Intermediate 

Learning a foreign language is not easy. Conversing in a language other than one’s mother tongue could make someone feel intimidated and nervous. Sometimes, it could even make a person frustrated.

However, there are ways on how to be more self-confident when you need to speak in a different language.

Listen to the audio and read the transcript about how to deal with speaking anxiety.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_2026/260122

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to relate to” mean? “I’m sure that’s a situation lots of people can relate to.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  2. What is a “new joiner”? “So when I first joined the BBC, the Learning English team made an assessment of my English level, which they used to do for all new joiners to see if they need any help or courses.” Use the term in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What does “to stress” mean here, “I couldn’t really understand what the barista was saying, and I felt pretty nervous to order coffee and was trying to stress every single word, hoping that my grammar is correct and I am pronouncing the words right.” Use the verb in this context in a sentence. Give a synonym. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why is speaking in a foreign language so stressful?
  2. How did having to speak in another language make you feel at first? How about over time?
  3. Share your opinion, “Mistakes are normal. Mistakes can be a good thing. They can help us learn.”
  4. What are some ways to fight anxiety when speaking a foreign language? In your case, which one is the most effective and why?
  5. Talk about your own experience where you got a little nervous about speaking in another language.

Organic Caviar

B1 – Intermediate 

Caviar is considered a high-value luxury when it comes to gastronomy. 

There is a farm of sturgeon fish in Riofrío, Spain that makes the first organic caviar in the world. 

Listen to the audio and read the transcript about organic caviar from Spain.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/organic-caviar-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “organic” mean? “A sturgeon farm in Riofrío, southern Spain, produces what it calls the world’s first organic caviar.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  2. What is an “additive”? “The product contains only sturgeon eggs and salt, with no additives, and is made entirely in the European Union.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  3. What does “sustainably sourced” mean? “The fish are raised in natural spring water and are fed organic vegetables and sustainably sourced fishmeal.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is so special about the caviar made in Riofrío, Spain?
  2. Are you interested in trying the organic caviar from Riofrío? Have you tried caviar? What do you think about it? 
  3. What is your opinion about more restaurants in Spain putting caviar in their menus?
  4. What are your thoughts about caviar becoming more affordable?
  5. Do you prefer food with organic certification? Why or why not?