Tag: B2 – Upper intermediate

College Grads Struggle to Find Jobs

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Earning a college degree has long been viewed as a reliable pathway to a stable career and financial security. However, in recent years, many U.S. college graduates are finding that the job market is anything but guaranteed.

A significant number struggle to land full-time positions, face a high degree of underemployment, or end up in jobs unrelated to their fields of study. This challenging reality raises urgent questions about the value of higher education, the readiness of graduates, and the alignment between academic programs and the evolving demands of employers.

Watch the video and be able to answer the questions below.


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “stand out” mean? “Jaimee del Piano thought her credentials would stand out.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “turbulent” mean in this sentence, “Graduates are entering a turbulent economy with more competition for entry-level positions.” Use the word in your own sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What is “grit“? “Many successful people achieve their goals not just through talent, but through grit and persistence.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think a college degree still guarantees a good job in today’s economy? Explain.
  2. Should universities focus more on teaching practical job skills rather than theory? Elaborate.
  3. How can the education system and employers work together to better prepare students for the job market?
  4. What are the main reasons many U.S. college graduates struggle to find stable employment after graduation?
  5. Do fresh graduates in your country share the same struggles? Talk about the situation.

Emotional Intelligence

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Emotional intelligence, often called EQ, is the ability to understand, manage, and express emotions effectively. It also involves recognizing and responding to the emotions of others. People with strong emotional intelligence can handle stress, communicate well, and build healthy relationships. In today’s world, EQ is just as important as IQ because it helps individuals succeed both personally and professionally.

Watch the video to know more and be able to answer the questions below.


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the word “discern” mean? “A person with high emotional intelligence can easily discern how others feel, even when they don’t say anything.” Use the word in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms.
  2. What does the phrase “to align the heart with the head” mean? “Using Emotions is the ability to align our hearts with our heads.” Make one sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “correlate” mean? “Stress levels often correlate with how well a person manages their emotions.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think emotional intelligence is more important than academic intelligence in achieving success? Share your thoughts.
  2. Can emotional intelligence be learned, or is it something people are born with? What is your opinion?
  3. How can emotional intelligence help improve relationships at school or in the workplace?
  4. In what ways does emotional intelligence influence a person’s ability to handle stress and conflict?
  5. Peter Salovey concluded that “People in good moods are better at inductive reasoning and creative problem-solving.”. Why do you think this is?
  6. What are ways we can improve our EI? How do you try to improve yours?

The 4 Stages of Adaptation to Culture Shock

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Adapting to a new culture can be both exciting and challenging. When people move to a different country or environment, they often go through what’s known as culture shock—a process of adjusting to unfamiliar customs, values, and lifestyles. This experience typically unfolds in four stages of adaptation: the honeymoon, frustration, adjustment, and adaptation stages.

Understanding these stages helps individuals navigate cultural differences more smoothly and develop a deeper appreciation for their new surroundings.

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


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Explain what “honeymoon stage” means. “In the honeymoon stage, everything is beautiful. The people are friendly, the culture rich, and the way of local life fascinating.” Use the phrase in your own sentence.
  2. What does “reverse culture shock” mean? “Those who have adapted to a new society may face a surprise when they eventually return home. After another honeymoon, they often enter a reverse culture shock.” Use the term in a sentence.
  3. What does the phrase “set in” mean? “After the excitement of moving to a new country faded, homesickness and loneliness began to set in as part of culture shock.” Make one sentence.


Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think experiencing culture shock is a necessary part of truly understanding another culture? Share your thoughts.
  2. In your opinion, which stage of adaptation (honeymoon, frustration, adjustment, adaptation) best shows a person’s resilience?
  3. Do you believe some people adapt to new cultures faster because of personality, or is it more about preparation and experience?
  4. How might the honeymoon stage affect someone’s first impressions of a country, and how do those impressions change later?
  5. Share your own experience going through the different stages of adaptation to culture shock.

Planetary Health Diet Could Save Millions of Lives

B2 – Upper Intermediate

This article discusses a 2025 update from the EAT-Lancet Commission, reporting that adopting a more plant-based, flexitarian diet could prevent up to 15 million premature deaths per year worldwide. The diet emphasizes whole grains, legumes, vegetables, fruits, nuts, with limited animal products.

Read the article to know why the report also highlights that nearly half of the global population currently cannot afford a healthy diet so structural changes are needed to make this more accessible.

https://www.foodandwine.com/planetary-health-diet-eat-lancet-report-2025-11826819?

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “premature death” mean? “The 2025 EAT-Lancet Commission reports that adopting a more flexitarian diet could prevent up to 15 million premature deaths annually and save trillions in healthcare expenses.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “a sweeping study” mean? “In early October, The Lancet published the updated EAT-Lancet Commission, a report that builds on the highly popular 2019 EAT–Lancet Commission, a sweeping study that brought together scientists, nutrition experts, and environmental researchers from more than 30 countries in what they describe as the “most comprehensive global scientific evaluation of food systems to date.” ” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “prescriptive diet” mean? “And it’s really a diet that any culture, anywhere, can adapt to their tastes and local flavors. The Planetary Health Diet isn’t a restrictive or prescriptive diet.“ Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think about the idea of a mostly plant-based diet to improve global health?
  2. Would you be willing to eat less meat if it meant living a longer and healthier life?
  3. What plant-based foods do you enjoy the most?
  4. Do you think this kind of diet is affordable and realistic in your country?
  5. How can governments or communities make healthy diets easier for people to follow?

The Gen Z Uprising in Asia Shows Social Media is a Double-Edged Sword

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Young people across Nepal are taking to the streets to protest the government’s recent social media ban, which restricts access to popular platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The move has sparked widespread anger among Gen Z, who argue that social media is not only a source of entertainment, but also a vital tool for education, communication, and self-expression.

Read this article to find out more about the protests.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn4ljv39em7o

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “fervour of change” mean? “This was part of a fervour for change that has swept across Asia in recent months.” Use this in a sentence.
  2. Define “spiral into something“. “Governments in the region say there is a risk of the protests spiralling into unacceptable violence.” Make a sentence with this phrase.
  3. What is a “nepo kid“? “To many demonstrators, “nepo kids” symbolise deeper corruption.” Use this in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why do you think Gen Z in Nepal is especially upset about the social media ban?
  2. How should governments balance concerns (e.g. misinformation, security) with freedom online?
  3. How might the ban affect marginalized groups or those who rely heavily on social media for work or education?
  4. Do you think the protests will be effective in changing the government’s decision? Why or why not?
  5. In what ways do social media platforms serve more than just entertainment for young people?

Zara Ads Banned for Unhealthily Thin Models

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Fashion giant Zara is facing backlash after several of its advertisements were banned for featuring models described as “unhealthily thin.” The decision, made by advertising regulators, has reignited debates about body image and the fashion industry’s responsibility to promote healthy beauty standards.

Read this article to learn more about the controversy and its impact on fashion advertising.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp941z3nnnxo

Discussion Questions:

  1. What does “gaunt” mean? “The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) said shadows and a slick back bun hairstyle made one model appear “gaunt” while the pose and low cut design of a shirt in another image showed the model’s “protruding” collarbones.” Give 2 synonyms and make a sentence with this word.
  2. What is a “focal feature“? “The other banned advert was for a shirt and the model was said to be in a position that made “protruding” collarbones a “focal feature” of the advert.” Use this in a sentence.
  3. Define “carousel of images“. “The two banned adverts previously appeared on the retailer’s app and website in a carousel of images showing clothes on and off models.” Make a sentence with this phrase.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your opinion about these bans on some brands’ adverts with seemingly “unhealthily thin models”.
  2. What impact might these bans on these brands’ adverts have on their business and their image?
  3. How can advertising influence people’s ideas about beauty and body image?
  4. What impact can unrealistic body images have on young people?
  5. Have you ever seen an advertisement that made you feel uncomfortable or unrealistic? Why?
  6. What changes would you like to see in fashion advertising in the future?
  7. Do you think fashion brands should be responsible for promoting healthy body standards? Why or why not?

The Psychology of Sharing Meals

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Eating together is one of the oldest human traditions and it’s about more than just food. Whether it’s a quiet dinner with family, a fun meal with friends, or lunch with coworkers, sharing meals helps us feel connected. Studies have also shows that eating with others builds trust, friendship, and emotional support.

Let’s read the article and learn how eating together can help us feel closer, build friendships, and feel part of a group in everyday life and different cultures.

https://www.cuculi.com/post/the-psychology-of-sharing-meals-more-than-just-eating-together

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the idiom “to break bread together” mean? “Breaking bread together is an age-old ritual, transcending mere sustenance to become a cornerstone of human interaction.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  2. What is the meaning of the phrase “deeply embedded” mean? “There’s a profound psychology behind shared meals, deeply embedded in our social fabric.“. Use it in your own sentence.
  3. Define the idiom “to open up“. “It’s a time when people are more likely to open up, share stories, and discuss ideas.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What does communal dining do for you?
  2. How do shared meals help people feel seen, heard, or supported?
  3. What emotions do you associate with family meals or celebrations?
  4. What are some mealtime traditions in your culture that show care or respect?
  5. How do different cultures use food to build relationships or show hospitality?

Stereotypes: The Truth Behind Cultural Clichés

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Cultural clichés, or stereotypes, are simplified ideas people hold about certain groups or nationalities. They often come from bits of truth but are exaggerated or generalized over time. While some clichés may seem harmless or even flattering, many can lead to misunderstanding and unfair judgment. Exploring the truth behind cultural clichés helps us see people as individuals, appreciate real cultural diversity, and move beyond shallow assumptions.

Watch the short video and be able to answer the questions below:


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is the difference between “explicit stereotype” and “implicit stereotype“? Cite an example situation for each type.
  2. What does the phrase “to cloud one’s judgement” mean? “Believing in stereotypes can cloud one’s judgment, causing people to misjudge others before getting to know them personally.” Make your own sentence.
  3. What does the phrase “unbiased standpoint” mean? “Armed with this self-awareness, you try to interact with each French individual from a seemingly unbiased standpoint.” Make a sentence using the term.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think stereotypes are sometimes based on a small truth, or are they mostly unfair generalizations?
  2. In your opinion, is it possible to completely get rid of cultural clichés in today’s society?
  3. Do you believe media plays the biggest role in spreading stereotypes, or do they come more from personal experiences?
  4. What are some common stereotypes about your culture, and how accurate or inaccurate do you think they are?
  5. How can education and cross-cultural experiences help break down harmful stereotypes?
  6. What stereotypes are associated with people from your country? Do you find these stereotypes to be all true?

Why Gen Z Are Turning Down Promotions

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Many Gen Z workers are changing how they think about success at work and some are saying no to promotions. Rather than always aiming for bigger job titles or more duties, they’re choosing to focus on their mental health, free time, and doing work that feels meaningful.

Let’s read the article and learn more about why and how this generation is redefining success.

https://www.newsweek.com/gen-z-work-promotions-2034241

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Explain the meaning of the phrase “a defining part of something“. “Emma sees her job strictly as a source of income rather than a defining part of her identity.” Use it in your own sentence.
  2. Define the verb “forgo“. “For 25-year-old Emma*, the decision to forgo promotions is a deliberate and deeply personal one.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  3. What is the meaning of “expendable“? “Emma’s concerns echo a wider sentiment among Gen Z workers who feel little loyalty toward employers who, in their view, see them as expendable.” Use it in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why do you think Gen Z might value flexibility more than status?
  2. How is Gen Z’s view of work different from older generations?
  3. What does “success” mean to you in a job?
  4. Would you accept a promotion if it meant more stress or less free time? Why or why not?
  5. Can you think of a time when someone chose peace of mind over a higher position?

Indian Court Tells Doctors to Fix Their Handwriting

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Messy handwriting by doctors has caused worry and public discussion recently. When prescriptions or medical notes are hard to read, it can lead to serious problems like giving the wrong medicine, making mistakes in diagnosis, or slowing down treatment.

Let’s read the article to understand how Punjab and Haryana High Court responded to this issue.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn0r88nrx70o

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “scrawl” mean? “The BBC has seen a copy of the judgement which includes the report and a two-page prescription which shows the doctor’s unreadable scrawl.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  2. What is the meaning of the phrase “roll out“? “Health authorities in the UK have admitted that “drug errors caused appalling levels of harm and deaths and added that roll out of electronic prescribing systems across more hospitals could reduce errors by 50%.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  3. What does “to bear fruit” mean in this context, “His campaign, seeking a complete ban on handwritten prescriptions, bore fruit when in 2016, the Medical Council of India ordered that “every physician should prescribe drugs with generic names legibly and preferably in capital letters”.? Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your insights of the court’s decision telling doctors to write legibly? Do you think the same should be done in your country?
  2. Share your thoughts on this: “Legible medical prescription is a fundamental right as it can make a difference between life and death.“
  3. How important is clarity in medical prescriptions?
  4. What do you think about including handwriting lessons in the medical school curriculum and set a two-year timeline for rolling out digitised prescriptions?
  5. Are the doctors in your country also notorious for bad handwriting? Talk about it.
  6. Have you ever had any issues because of the doctor’s illegible handwriting on any of your prescriptions? Share about this instance.