Tag: B2 – Upper intermediate

Spain Backing Green Hydrogen

B2 — Upper Intermediate 

Spain is making significant investments in green hydrogen as part of its transition to clean energy and its goal of reducing carbon emissions. The country is developing large-scale hydrogen projects that use renewable electricity, particularly from solar and wind power, to produce hydrogen without directly emitting carbon dioxide.

These investments are expected to support industries such as steel, chemicals, transportation, and shipping while also creating jobs and attracting international investment.

Spain’s strong renewable-energy resources and its connections to European energy markets have made it an important potential hub for green hydrogen in Europe.

Read the article and find out more about Spain’s bet on green hydrogen.

https://www.euronews.com/2026/09/25/a-national-project-what-green-hydrogen-is-and-why-spain-is-backing-it

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is “grey hydrogen“? Compare it to “green hydrogen”. “Green hydrogen is competitive with grey hydrogen today, partly because the price of gas is very high.” Use this term in a sentence.
  2. What does “value chain” mean? “The goal is therefore to develop a value chain around hydrogen, from the equipment needed to produce it to the infrastructure required to store and transport it.” Use the term in a sentence.
  3. What does “brick and mortar” mean here: “The construction of Onuba shows that some of Spain’s major projects are starting to move from announcements to bricks and mortar.”? Use the term in a sentence. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why is Spain investing heavily in green hydrogen? What is your opinion on this?
  2. What are the main advantages of investing in green hydrogen? 
  3. What challenges might countries face when developing green hydrogen projects?
  4. How might green hydrogen contribute to Europe’s transition to renewable energy?
  5. Do you think green hydrogen will become more affordable as technology improves? Why or why not?
  6. Share your thoughts on this, “The geopolitical crises of recent years have once again exposed how vulnerable Europe is when it depends on oil and gas from other countries.”

Are We Done with the CV Gap Taboo?

B2 — Upper Intermediate 

What was once seen as a career setback is now becoming a more accepted aspect of professional life. Career breaks and periods between jobs, once considered undesirable, are becoming increasingly normal in today’s workplace.

In the past, changing jobs frequently or taking a break from work was often viewed negatively by employers. Today, however, many people take career breaks, change industries, or leave jobs to pursue further education, personal interests, or better opportunities. As the workplace continues to evolve, employment discontinuity is increasingly seen as part of a modern career path rather than a sign of instability.

Read the article and find out how employment discontinuity is no longer a career taboo.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/worklife/article/20230127-are-we-done-with-the-cv-gap-taboo

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does it mean “to take stock“? “In some instances, these CV gaps are being rebranded as ‘career breaks’ – a time where a worker takes stock, re-charges and returns to the workplace anew.” Use this idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  2. What does “to be met with open curiosity” mean? “Missing time in a CV is now generally met with open curiosity rather than an assumption of a person’s poor performance or reliability.” Use the expression in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “dearth” mean? “Additionally, even though layoffs are proliferating in some sectors, many companies are still in a hiring crisis. This may mean that in some situations, CV gaps may not even matter. “There’s a dearth of talent across sectors.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why has continuous employment traditionally been valued by employers?
  2. Is it better to have continuous employment or take career breaks? Support your stance.
  3. How is a CV gap viewed in your country now? How is different from before? What do you think lead to this shift in mentality about career breaks?
  4. Should employers judge candidates based on CV gaps? Talk about your opinion on this. Should employers focus more on skills than employment history?
  5. Have you ever taken a break from work or study? Share about that time.

Why Gen Z Is Obsessed with Hyrox

B2 — UpperIntermediate 

Gen Z is becoming obsessed with HYROX because it combines fitness, competition, and social media culture. The workout includes running and functional exercises, making it challenging but accessible to people with different fitness levels. Many Gen Z participants also enjoy sharing their training, progress, and race experiences online, which helps create a strong fitness community. Its competitive yet social atmosphere makes HYROX more than just a workout—it has become a lifestyle and a way for young people to challenge themselves and connect with others.

Read the article and find out why Gen Z is obsessed with Hyrox.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj0nmj72v8ro

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does it mean when something is “a stretch“ mean? “Travelling abroad plus the costs involved to run around a bit and get out of breath is a stretch for me.” Use this expression in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  2. What does “to catch the bug” mean? “Jorell Hill, who has competed in 10 races so far, says he has “definitely caught the bug“.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “bespoke” mean? “Mara-cations” (marathon vacations) and Hyrox holidays are now so popular that some travel companies are offering bespoke trips abroad for competitions.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your opinion on this: “Hyrox has created this addiction for people who do it because they never really do one race. When they do their first race they then sign up for another one and because the course is the same it creates this level of competition with yourself.”?
  2. “Hyrox boss says event is not a fad, believes it will survive where others failed.” Do you agree or disagree? Explain.
  3. What do you think about spending every holiday revolving around Hyrox or incorporating events into holidays? 
  4. What can you say about spending £2,000 traveling to another place for the Hyrox World Championships? What sport are you willing/have spent thousands of euros for? 
  5. Share your thoughts on personal trainer and owner of parkfit Fran Sirl,’s opinion: “Exercise doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated.”
  6. What do you think about this, “For people in their 20s and 30s, exercise is non-negotiable and part of their identity.”?

Doomjobbing: Modern Job Hunt a Vicious Loop

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Have you ever opened a job website just to “look around” and suddenly spent an hour scrolling through job openings? You see interesting positions, imagine yourself doing something new, and think about applying—but somehow, you never click the apply button. This habit now has a name: doomjobbing.

Doomjobbing is more than simply looking for a new job. It can happen when people feel frustrated, anxious, or uncertain about their careers and the job market. With AI changing the way companies hire and increasing competition among applicants, finding a job can feel overwhelming.

The article explores why people keep scrolling through job ads even when they don’t actually apply—and what this behavior says about the modern hiring process.

https://www.theguardian.com/money/2026/apr/27/doomjobbing-how-modern-job-hunt-became-vicious-loop-scrolling

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to sink into a rabbit hole” mean? “It’s where you find yourself sinking into a rabbit hole of short-form content designed to reinforce your worst perceptions of the world.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  2. What does “cookie-cutter application” mean? “Most experts agree that the best thing to do is to stop blitzing arbitrary jobs with cookie-cutter applications and instead drill down on a handful of roles that you really want.” Construct a sentence using this term. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  3. What does “to be sucked into a pit of despair” mean? “Set a time limit to stop yourself being sucked into a pit of despair.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How can doomjobbing affect a person’s mental well-being and motivation?
  2. How might doomjobbing affect a person’s career development in the long term?
  3. Why do you think people keep looking at job advertisements even when they are not planning to change jobs?
  4. How has technology changed the way people look for jobs?
  5. What makes a job advertisement stand out to you?

Helicopter Parenting

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Parenting plays a significant role in shaping a child’s development, confidence, and independence. While parents naturally want to protect their children from harm and ensure their success, excessive involvement can sometimes prevent children from learning how to handle challenges and make decisions on their own.

One parenting style that highlights this concern is helicopter parenting, which involves being overly protective and closely monitoring a child’s activities and decisions. Understanding its causes, effects, and potential drawbacks can help parents find a healthy balance between providing guidance and allowing their children the freedom to grow and develop essential life skills.

Read on to better understand helicopter parenting.

https://www.parents.com/parenting/better-parenting/what-is-helicopter-parenting

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Differentiate “helicopter parenting“, “lawnmower parenting,” “cosseting parenting,” and “bulldoze parenting“. “The term “helicopter parent” was first used in Dr. Haim Ginott’s 1969 book Between Parent and Teenager. A teen featured in the book reported that his mother watched over him like a helicopter. Similar terms include “lawnmower parenting,” “cosseting parenting,” or “bulldoze parenting.” Use each term in a sentence.
  2. What does “to shadow someone” mean? “In toddlerhood, a helicopter parent might constantly shadow the child, always playing with and directing his behavior, allowing him zero alone time.” Use this idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “botched” mean? “Parents might fear their child’s rejection from the sports team or a botched job interview—especially if they feel they could’ve done more to help.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your thoughts about helicopter parenting.
  2. Where should parents draw the line between protecting their children and giving them independence?
  3. Do you think parents today are more protective than parents in the past? Why or why not?
  4. Do you think helicopter parenting is common in your country? Talk about it.
  5. Do you think there is such a thing as loving a child too much? Share your insights regarding this.

Who Does the Housework?

B2 — Upper Intermediate 

Household chores are a necessary evil. Though they can sometimes be boring or unpleasant, they need to be done. Doing household chores is an important part of daily life. We clean our rooms, wash dishes, do laundry, and take out the trash. Chores keep our homes clean and comfortable. 

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about the division of labour when it comes to household chores.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_2026/ep-260813

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to pull one’s weight“ mean? ”Anamarija also thinks women appreciate it when their husbands pull their weight.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  2. What does “to take a breather” mean? “Mothers have more space for their careers, or hobbies, or just simply totake a breather when dads and sons take some of the pressure off mums.” Use the expression in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “fair share” mean? “Do you do your fair share of household chores?” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. In the UK, the most hated chore is cleaning the windows. What do you think will be the people’s answer to the same question in your country? Why do you think many people hate this chore?
  2. What are your thoughts on this: “Women in wealthy countries also spend much more time on unpaid care work than men.”?
  3. Which chore do you like doing the least? Why?
  4. What happens when one person does most of the chores?
  5. How can family members share the housework more fairly?

Making Cities Feel Quieter

B2 — Upper Intermediate 

Some people enjoy the peace of the countryside, while others prefer the noise of city. 

However, studies show that too much noise can increase stress and anxiety.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about making the cities feel quieter.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_2026/ep-260521

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to dress loud“ mean? “Indians talk loud, celebrate loud and dress loud.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  2. What does “soundscape” mean? “Similar soundscapes are now helping city dwellers relax in other cities too, including Tokyo and Barcelona.” Use the term in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “counterintuitive” mean? “So, the art installation was really to make this park a little quieter by adding some quiet noises. So, it’s counterintuitive, but you can make a park less noisy by adding some calmer sounds.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on this: “Too much noise can increase stress and anxiety.”?
  2. Should the noise be limited in cities? Share your thoughts.
  3. What can be done to tackle the noise pollution problem in cities?
  4. How do sounds/noises around you affect you?
  5. Do you prefer a quiet town or a busy city? Why?

Canada Flight Cancelled After Child Refuses to Wear Seat Belt

B2 — Upper Intermediate 

A flight in Canada was cancelled after a child refused to wear a seat belt. The situation caused a delay and affected all the passengers on the plane.

This story shows how important it is to follow safety rules on flights. Passengers, especially children, should listen to the crew to help keep everyone safe.

It has also raised new questions about safety rules and children’s behavior while flying.

Read the article about the cancellation of a flight in Canada after a child refused to wear a seat belt.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj6307x3wdgo

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “reignite” mean? “The cancellation of a flight in Canada after a child refused to wear a seat belt has reignited a debate about the etiquette and safety procedures relating to children travelling on planes.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “to split opinion” mean? ”The incident has split opinion about how children should be treated in such situations and how airlines should respond.” Use the expression in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What does “to be beyond the pale” mean? “We’ve all been those parents,” he said. “But this is beyond the pale.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think the flight was right to be cancelled? Why or why not?
  2. Who should be responsible when a child refuses to follow safety rules—the child, the parents, or the airline?
  3. What should parents do if their child refuses to wear a seat belt on a plane?
  4. Should airlines have stricter rules for children traveling by plane? Share your thoughts.
  5. Have you ever experienced a difficult situation while traveling? What happened?

EU Commends Spain’s Swift Response to Ceuta Migrant Crisis

B2 — Upper Intermediate 

About 72,000 migrants entered the Spanish territory in North Africa. Unfortunately, at least 75 people died on the Spanish side of the border, while Morocco reported 11 deaths.

Many European member states have expressed their concern over the Ceuta migrant crisis in Spain.

Since then, Spain has responded to the large number of migrants arriving in Ceuta by placing a 500-meter floating barrier near the Tarajal breakwater.

It also worked with Morocco to return thousands of migrants, provided emergency aid, and approved €25 million to help unaccompanied children.

Read the article about Spain’s response to the Ceuta migrant crisis.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c80n3j55g0do

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to stand in solidarity with someone” mean? ”Irish Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan, who chaired Tuesday’s meeting, said the EU stood in solidarity with Spain and that migration required “a united European response”.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “to draw tension“ mean? ”The meeting had been expected to draw some tension, following earlier criticism of Spain from some EU nations.” Use the expression in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What does “exclave” mean? ”The crossings came after Spain’s Supreme Court ruled that migrants stopped at sea while trying to reach Ceuta or Melilla, another Spanish exclave, cannot be summarily returned to Morocco.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on how Spain dealt with the Ceuta crisis?
  2. “It is thought that the influx was fuelled by criminal networks and social media disinformation.” What is your view on this?
  3. Share your opinion on the other European nations expressing their concerns over the Ceuta migrant crisis.
  4. What is your opinion on Italy suspending its Schengen zone agreement with Spain on free movement in response to the Ceuta crisis?
  5. Share your views on this, “Finland and Denmark backed Italy’s move, while Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš urged a temporary suspension of Spain’s Schengen membership.”
  6. How can countries work together to solve migration problems? 

Rude Emails

B2 — Upper Intermediate 

Sometimes, people write emails in a hurry and forget to use polite language. A short reply or an unclear message can easily be misunderstood and hurt someone’s feelings. 

On the other hand, a kind greeting, clear explanation, and respectful tone can make communication much more pleasant. 

Taking a few extra minutes to review an email before sending it can help avoid misunderstandings and maintain good relationships.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about rude emails.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_2026/ep-260702

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to belittle someone“ mean? ”The fight response can make us belittle someone.” Use the expression in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  2. What does “to get something off one’s plate” mean? ”Then the flight response is when people try to protect themselves by withdrawing or avoiding. They won’t reply, or if they do reply, maybe they don’t answer all of the points in the email. They’re just trying to get it off their plate.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “to put someone in their place” mean? ”Emails that are hostile in tone and language, or even cc’ing senior personnel in on the message in order to elevate an issue and put someone in their place.” Use the term in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you ever received an email that you thought was rude? What happened? What should you do if you receive a rude email?
  2. Why do you think some people write rude emails?
  3. How can people write professional and respectful emails?
  4. How does the tone of an email affect the reader?
  5. Why is it important to proofread an email before sending it?
  6. Do you think emails are more likely to cause misunderstandings than face-to-face conversations? Why?