Tag: B2 – Upper intermediate

The 5 A.M. Productivity Trend

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Because of a growing trend on social media sites like TikTok, the early morning hours have taken center stage in the world of modern productivity. Many people display their “5-to-9s” with pride before starting their typical 9 to 5 workday. However, as enticing as this early morning routine may seem, it’s important to recognize that it isn’t a one-size-fits-all routine. In fact, there are specific groups for whom this regimen might not be the best fit.

Click on the link provided to know more about the sunrise productivity crowd.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/5-am-productivity-trend_l_652575d8e4b09f4b8d4203e9

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to carve out something” mean in the sentence, “Beginning the day with personal interests sounds healthy, but carving out extra time is not easy, especially for those who have young kids or work long hours.”? Use this in your own sentence.
  2. What does “bad rap” mean in the sentence, “The pathway to world-class is hard. I think suffering’s got a bad rap.”? Use this in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to tack on something” mean, “Bill Clinton and John F. Kennedy liked to tack on extra sleep during their presidencies with naps.”? Use this in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Tell me about the 5 A.M. productivity trend and why has it gained popularity, particularly on platforms like TikTok.
  2. How do individuals typically structure their mornings during the 5 A.M. productivity trend, and what are the perceived benefits?
  3. Can you explain some potential drawbacks or concerns associated with following the 5 A.M. productivity trend?
  4. Have you entertained the thought of becoming a part of this trend? Tell me more.
  5. What time do you wake up and what is your pre-work/shift routine?
  6. Discuss some tips or guidelines for individuals who want to experiment with early rising, while still prioritizing their overall health and well-being.

Google Your Health Symptoms Effectively

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In the age of information, turning to the internet for health-related queries has become second nature. However, distinguishing credible medical information from the misleading or anxiety-inducing can be a daunting task.

How do we discern reliable healthcare data from the misleading, and prevent ourselves from succumbing to unnecessary anxiety?

Click on the link provided to empower you with the skills needed to navigate the vast sea of health facts online, while maintaining your peace of mind.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-google-health-symptoms-goog_l_651480ade4b07c60b51571b5

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “go awry” mean, “Surveys suggest about 90% of patients Google their symptoms before they talk to their doctor. But it can, of course, quickly go awry.”? Use this in your own sentence.
  2. What does “brush up on something” mean, “Brush up on some study basics.”? Use this in your own sentence.
  3. What does “due diligence” mean, “It can also be useful to look for media coverage of a study, because in an ideal world, health reporters and editors are doing their due diligence when deciding what to cover.”? Use this in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the key guidelines for effectively Googling health symptoms? Provide me with information about them.
  2. How can individuals ensure that they are not unnecessarily alarming themselves when conducting online health research?
  3. Can you explain the importance of seeking information from reputable sources when Googling health symptoms?
  4. Do you resort to using Google to investigate your symptoms? Please share.
  5. What are some effective ways to stop oneself from becoming overly anxious while exploring health information on the internet? Tell me more.

A World Without Antibiotics

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Antibiotics are like superheroes in the world of medicine. They are tiny but mighty, and they play a crucial role in helping our bodies combat infections and illnesses. These remarkable substances, although small in size, wield immense power. They are the front-line defenders that our immune system relies on to conquer invading germs and restore our health.

Let’s read the article below to know more about it.

https://www.english-online.at/news-articles/health-medicine/world-without-antibiotics.htm

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “run out” mean? “In some areas, especially Third World countries and densely populated areas in India, Pakistan or Bangladesh doctors have already run out of antibiotics.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “densely populated” mean? “In some areas, especially Third World countries and densely populated areas in India, Pakistan or Bangladesh doctors have already run out of antibiotics.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “call for action” mean? “Health experts call for increased action to fight off diseases.”  Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the potential consequences of a world without antibiotics? Explain.
  2. Can you think of any alternative solutions or treatments that might be used if antibiotics become less effective?
  3. How might the loss of effective antibiotics affect the treatment of infectious diseases in developing countries?
  4. How do you think healthcare professionals can effectively communicate the importance of responsible antibiotic use to patients?
  5. Are there any natural or alternative remedies that can be used to help treat common infections in place of antibiotics?

Love Languages at Work

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The idea of “Love Languages” has become well-known in the context of personal relationships because of its profound influence on understanding and expressing love. However, these languages’ impact doesn’t end at the threshold of our homes.

Surprisingly, they are just as important in the larger picture of our professional lives. Knowing and understanding your individual “Love Language” at work can be an empowering discovery that greatly enhances your interpersonal interactions, productivity, and level of job satisfaction.

Click on a provided link to learn more about ‘Love Languages’ in the workplace and understand how it can be a powerful tool for building stronger relationships with colleagues, superiors, and subordinates.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/love-languages-exist-at-work-heres-how-to-figure-out-yours_l_651eec6be4b09ff8b7dad12f

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “missing the mark” mean in the sentence, “If a leader or colleague only uses words for showing appreciation, they’re likely missing the mark for over half of their team members.”? Use this expression in your own sentence.
  2. What does “to be big into something” mean in the sentence, “If they’re big into pickleball, get a group fund going for a highly-rated paddle they’d otherwise probably pass up because of the price tag.”? Use this expression in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to take an action item off someone’s plate” mean in the sentence, “What can I do to help this person or take an action item off their plate?”? Use this in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the languages of appreciation in the workplace?
  2. How can identifying your workplace ‘Love Language’ enhance your relationships with colleagues and superiors?
  3. How might a better understanding of ‘Love Languages’ contribute to increased job satisfaction and overall well-being in a professional environment? Please share.
  4. In what ways does acknowledging and valuing employees’ efforts impact overall productivity and morale? Tell me more.
  5. In your experience, what are some of the most effective ways to express gratitude in the workplace? Please share.

Advice from People in Blue Zones to Live Longer

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Have you ever wondered why certain people have such remarkable health and longevity? For years, scientists, researchers, and health enthusiasts have pondered the question. In a world with varying life expectancies, ‘Blue Zones’ stand out as regions where people not only live longer but also enjoy vibrant lives well into their hundreds.

Read this article to learn some advice from people in ‘Blue Zones’ on how to live longer.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/blue-zones-longer-life-tips_l_651af7dfe4b00421f662db6a

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “mindful eating” mean? “According to Wood, in the Okinawan Blue Zone, they adhere to a form of mindful eating known as hara hachi bu.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  2. Define “encompass”. “The little things all add up to create a life that encompasses more movement.” Use this in a sentence.
  3. What does “to be in tune with someone/something” mean? “Becoming more in tune with your body’s food needs has become buzzy outside of Blue Zone culture, too — you’re probably familiar with newer terms like intuitive eating and mindful eating.” Make a sentence with this idiom.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How do you perceive ‘Blue Zones’ and the lifestyles of the people living in them?
  2. Talk about your dietary preferences. Also, share your thoughts on ‘mindful eating’.
  3. Share your thoughts on this, “These social relationships have a positive influence on your health.“.
  4. How do you prioritize physical activity and movement in your daily life? Are there any particular activities you enjoy?
  5. What factors do you think contribute to a longer, healthier life based on your experiences and knowledge?

Dating Has Changed Through History

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In the modern era of dating, arranged marriage and old-fashioned courtships are considered outdated. People now resort to dating apps for finding the right person for them. No doubt, dating now differs from what it used to be in the past.

Read the article to know how dating has changed throughout history.

https://www.thelist.com/162252/how-dating-has-changed-through-history/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is the meaning of the idiom “to take the guesswork out of something”? “Sure, people still meet in bars, through friends, or even at work, but dating apps have taken a lot of the guesswork out of modern dating.” Use this expression in a sentence.
  2. What does the phrase “equal playing field” mean? “In today’s world of dating, it’s an equal playing field, for the most part.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does the word “fraught” mean? “The famed author was known for being able to perfectly capture how it felt to be in love, even in a time when relationships were fraught with drama and the pressures of social class.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think dating now is different from what it used to be in the past? Share your thoughts.
  2. Why do you think dating apps have become so popular nowadays?
  3. Do you think men and women have different views on where to meet a prospective partner? Explain.
  4. Share your views on this statement, “Choosing a partner on a dating app is the same as choosing a fridge in a shop — there’s nothing romantic about it.”.
  5. What are other ways to meet a potential partner?
  6. What is your idea of an ideal date?
  7. What was the most memorable date for you and why?

Autumn Heat in Europe

B2 – Upper Intermediate

As the calendar flips to autumn, Europe has been wrapped by a surprising and unthinkable phenomenon. Temperatures remain unusually warm, breaking records across the continent. From the sun-soaked vineyards of France to the packed streets of Germany the persistent heatwaves challenge the normal image of a European September. This unwavering autumn heatwave serves as an urgent warning that our world’s climate continues to evolve in unpredictable ways, necessitating a vigilant eye on the changes that shape our planet.

Click on the link to learn more about the extraordinary weather patterns that has caused this unforeseen extension of summer and the possible effects it may have on both the environment and the population.

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/oct/01/autumn-heat-continues-in-europe-after-record-breaking-september

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “a great many” mean, “”A great many” monthly records had been broken across the country during an “exceptional” month, Météo-France said, with the temperature average higher than in July and August, and heatwave alerts issued in September for the first time.”? Give 2 synonyms and use ‘a great many’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does “pre-industrial levels” mean in the sentence, “Scientists say climate change driven by human activity is pushing global temperatures higher, with the world at around 1.2C of warming above pre-industrial levels.”? Use this in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to be modelled by something” mean in the sentence, “We’re seeing them in spring and September, even October, as modelled by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPPC).”? Use this in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What role does climate change play in the occurrence of this record-breaking September heatwave? Give me more insights.
  2. How has this long autumn heatwave affected you and/or your country?
  3. What possible effects could this extended heatwave have on the agriculture and natural ecosystems in the affected areas?
  4. How are European authorities and organizations addressing the potential impacts of this extended heatwave on public health and safety?
  5. Share your thoughts on this statement, “Scientists say climate change driven by human activity is pushing global temperatures higher.“.

Employee Resource Groups

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In the fast-paced setting of modern corporate culture, the worth of professional experience can be overshadowed by a greater emphasis on youth and innovation. A quiet revolution, however, is taking place in a few select companies across the United States, where a fresh point of view is becoming apparent. These progressive business organizations are cognizant of the wealth of knowledge, skill, and perspective that middle-aged and senior employees can contribute to the company. They have made a brave move by creating committed Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) intended particularly for this group in an environment where such appreciation can be hard to find.

Click on the link to learn more about how these groups are not only remarkable, but also a prime example of the significant impact that inclusivity and valuing diversity of age can have on a company’s success and advancement.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/age-erg-employee-resource_l_65144e33e4b0fa72d69d630f

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “entrenched” mean, “Ageist stereotypes are deeply entrenched in society: Older age still gets automatically associated with physical and cognitive decline at work.”? Use this in your own sentence.
  2. What does “umbrella company” mean in the sentence, “Since then, Sages has grown into a business resource group within the umbrella company of Publicis Groupe; it has over 300 members.”? Use this in your own sentence.
  3. What does “sandwich generation” mean in the sentence, “Tom Hamrick, the group’s president, said what separates his ERG from others at the company is that members are part of the “sandwich generation”.”? Use this in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What motivated these companies to establish dedicated Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) for middle-aged and senior employees?
  2. How do these ERGs differ from more traditional diversity and inclusion initiatives within these companies?
  3. Can you provide examples of specific programs or activities that these ERGs organize to support midlife and senior employees? Please share.
  4. What benefits have these companies observed as a result of creating spaces that value the contributions of older employees? Expand on that.
  5. What challenges, if any, have these companies encountered in establishing and maintaining these specialized ERGs? Tell me more.
  6. Share your thoughts on this, “Being older at work is still seen as something to hide.”..

Emotional Support Alligator Barred from Entering a Stadium

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Anxiety, depression, and many more mental health issues have become all too common problems for most people who live a fast paced life. While medication and therapy sessions could be enough for some, others need more support and for this, they turn to emotional support animals.

Let’s read the article and know more about emotional support animals and the challenges their owners face.

https://edition.cnn.com/2023/09/29/sport/wally-alligator-emotional-support-barred-philadelphia-phillies-spt-intl/index.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the verb “blossom” mean in this context? “Wally is Henney’s emotional support animal and has blossomed into an internet sensation, amassing a large social media following, due to his relaxed nature and willingness to engage with all.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. Define the word “harness“. “Wally can be seen sharing hugs at schools, police stations and hospitals with Henney leading him around by his harness.” Use it in your own sentence and give two synonyms.
  3. What is the meaning of the word “overabundance“? “There was an overabundance of gators in that area.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is the difference between emotional support animals and service animals?
  2. What is your stand on undomesticated emotional support animals? Should they be allowed in public places?
  3. What is the process of certifying or registering emotional support animals in your country?
  4. If you were to get an emotional support animal, what would it be and why?

The Benefits of Doing Nothing

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In our bustling society, the notion of “doing nothing” may appear unconventional, or to some extent, unacceptable. However, these moments of idleness, free from work and responsibilities, can indeed be beneficial. Embracing the art of doing nothing offers an effective means to relieve the pressures and stresses of the modern world.

Listen to the audio to learn the benefits of doing nothing.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_2023/ep-230615

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “necessity is the mother of invention” mean? “Boredom is the mother of invention, an idea based on the famous proverb, necessity is the mother of invention.” Make a sentence with this proverb.
  2. Define “lounge about”. “Of course, some animals have a reputation for lounging about – lions, for example, can sleep up to twenty hours a day!” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  3. What does “as busy as a bee” mean? It may not look it, Neil, but I’m actually as busy as a bee!” Use this expression in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why is it important to find moments of idleness in our busy lives?
  2. What are some potential health benefits associated with taking breaks and doing nothing?
  3. What are the societal pressures that make it challenging for people to prioritize downtime?
  4. Have you personally experienced the positive effects of taking moments to do nothing in your life? If so, how has it benefited you?
  5. What are some of your favorite activities or practices that you consider as “doing nothing” and find relaxing or rejuvenating?