Tag: B2 – Upper intermediate

The “Second Screening” Trap

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Due to unimpeded access to information and technological advancement, the way people consume content have evolved drastically. They are used to possessing and using multiple devices at the same time. Such a phenomena has been recently coined as “second screening”.

Let’s read the article and know more about “second screening”.

https://www.insidehook.com/wellness/second-screening-2

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Define the word “showrunner“. “So many showrunners [have been] given notes by the streaming channels: ‘This isn’t second screen enough.’ And what they mean is, the viewer is expected to be on their phone, sort of half doing something else, while your crime drama, or whatever, is playing.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What is the meaning of “co-opt” here, “While second screening is an obvious pop culture issue, we argue that it’s a prevalent wellness one, too, with implications on our collective mental health, co-opting our capacities for relaxation and focus.”? Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  3. What does the phrase “mind-numbing scourge” mean? “It wasn’t too long ago — a few decades, at most — that television was still considered the primary, mind-numbing scourge of the masses.” Use it in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is second screening and have you heard of it before? Share your thoughts on it.
  2. Do you often use your phone while watching TV? Why do you do so?
  3. Do you prefer watching shows that require your full attention or those that are easy to follow? Why?
  4. Do you believe the attention spans of viewers these days are compromised? Share your point of view about this matter.
  5. What are your thoughts on this, “Second-screening is an autonomic, submissive, physically-submersive doomscroll; most of us probably don’t even realize we’re doing it.“?

Big Tech Jobs Have Lost Their Glamour

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

For some time, holding a much coveted a job in Big Tech companies was the envy of everyone. The industry was once even dubbed as “the pinnacle of employment” being renowned for their model work cultures.

Cut to 2025, with increasing layoffs and cutbacks, employees who once strived to land a job in these tech giants do not bear the same enthusiasm as before.

Read this article about how working for Big Tech is losing its once shining star with layoffs and perk cuts here and there.

https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20240207-big-tech-layoffs-perks-cuts

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to test one’s mettle” mean? “Initially, the move went well. Michael says he got to work on high-impact features, testing his mettle against senior developers.” Use this idiom in a sentence.
  2. What does the phrase “to come out strong out the gate” mean? “After coming too strong out the gate in 2021, tech companies had to suddenly pull back their recruitment.” Use this expression in a sentence.
  3. What is does “the place to be” mean? “I was wowed by the office – it made it feel as though tech was the place to be. It was its fast-paced and innovative nature that stood out most to me: as though I could be part of something new.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use this phrase in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is causing tech slowdown and industry-wide layoffs?
  2. What is your opinion about the decline of Big Tech jobs glamour? Do people have the same sentiments in your country? Explain.
  3. Share your thoughts on how “employees who once clamoured to work for Big Tech companies are changing their tunes as layoffs proliferate and perks are cut”.
  4. If you worked in this industry, what do you think your next move would be and why?
  5. How has the growth of the tech industry in your country been affected by the pandemic? And how is it doing at the moment? 
  6. Share your point of view on this statement, “The glory days [of jobs in the tech sector] will be back: a couple of years post-economic downturn and it’ll be back to 2021.”.

LinkedIn Accused of Using Private Messages to Train AI

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

The world’s largest professional social networking platform, LinkedIn, faces a lawsuit filed by their premium users alleging the social network website to be sharing said premium subscribers’ private messages and personal data with other third-party companies in order to train artificial intelligence (AI).

Read more about how LinkedIn allegedly shares users’ private messages and personal data with third parties to train AI.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdxevpzy3yko

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Explain the “Stored Communications Act”. “It seeks $1,000 (£812) per user for alleged violations of the US federal Stored Communications Act as well as an unspecified amount for breach of contract and California’s unfair competition law.“ Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “false claim” mean? “A LinkedIn spokesperson told BBC News that “these are false claims with no merit”.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  3. What does “to cover one’s tracks” mean? “LinkedIn’s actions indicate a pattern of attempting to cover its tracks,” the lawsuit said.” Use this idiom in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your thoughts on this news.
  2. What is your opinion on platforms/apps enabling user data sharing for AI purposes?
  3. Share your point of view on this, “Lawsuit accuses LinkedIn of trying to conceal its actions but the firm says the claims are false.”.
  4. Do you believe that this lawsuit will stand up in court? Explain your viewpoint.

French Town Inherits $10.2mn from Unknown Benefactor


B2 – Upper Intermediate

Imagine receiving a generous amount of money from a total stranger. How would that make you feel? This is exactly what happened to the small town of Thiberville as it becomes the unexpected beneficiary of an astounding amount of inheritance from a Parisian meteorologist who never once set foot in the town.

Let’s read the article and know more about the circumstances around this generous inheritance.

https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/world/small-french-town-in-normandy-inherits-102mn-from-unknown-benefactor/ar-BB1rjUpg

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “to leave someone in disbelief” mean? “The unexpected inheritance amounts to five times the town’s annual budget, leaving officials and residents in disbelief.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the word “windfall” mean in this context? “Mayor Guy Paris described the windfall as“exceptional” and shared that the town would manage the money carefully.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  3. What does it mean to “to set foot in some place“? “The quiet town of Thiberville in Normandy, France, was left stunned when it inherited an astonishing fortune of $10.2 million from a man who had never set foot in the town.” Use it in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think of Roger Thiberville leaving $10 million to a town?
  2. What would you consider doing with your money if you didn’t have anyone to leave it to?
  3. What would you do if you unexpectedly inherited a huge amount of money?
  4. Who are some of the most generous people you’ve met? What makes them generous?
  5. What do you know about the laws on inheritance tax in your country?

Financially Smart Ways to Start the New Year


B2 – Upper Intermediate

As we step into 2025, it’s time to reassess and strengthen your financial strategies. Here are six actionable tips to help you navigate 2025 with greater financial confidence and security.

Read the article to know more about the steps to help you achieve financial wellness this year.

https://www.morganstanley.com/articles/financial-planning-new-year-financial-resolutions

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “liquid account” mean? A general rule of thumb for an emergency fund is saving three to six months’ worth of living expenses in a safe, liquid account.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “asset consolidation” mean? “Think about revisiting your asset allocation, or how your investments are split within your portfolio amongst equities, fixed income and cash.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “market volatility” mean? “If recent market volatility has caused your portfolio investments to stray away from your target allocation, it may be time to rebalance.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are some areas in your current budget where you feel you could cut back or reallocate funds to improve your financial health this year?
  2. Do you already have an emergency fund in place, or is building one a priority for you in 2025? How do you plan to achieve this goal?
  3. Have you revisited your investment portfolio recently? What factors do you consider when deciding how to diversify or adjust your investments?
  4. What are your top financial goals for 2025, and how do you plan to stay motivated to achieve them?

The Hidden Cost of Korea’s Beauty Industry

B2 – Upper Intermediate

South Korea is regarded as the global center for cosmetics, providing the state-of-the-art procedures that have kept them at the forefront of the beauty industry. And they continue to prosper and expand over the years as they successfully promote their medical sector to foreigners who are prepared to pay for their promising services.

See the video below to learn more about the dark side of Korea’s beauty business success.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Explain “biggest draw“. “The biggest draw was people were very satisfied with their results.”  Create a sentence using this term.
  2. What does “to put someone/something at the top of the game” mean? “These cutting-edge treatments are putting South Korea at the top of the beauty game.” Use this idiom to make your own sentence.
  3. What is the meaning of “to turn back the clock“? “From non-invasive lifting ultrasound, to skin boosting injections using DNA from salmon, she’s hoping to turn back the clock on her appearance.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘turn back the clock’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What effects does medical tourism have on the nation’s healthcare system, as discussed in the video? And by being the cosmetic capital of the world, secure better healthcare?
  2. How did Korea manage to succeed in the beauty game?
  3. What are your thoughts on chasing beauty through state-of-the-art aesthetic procedures? Will you patronize it given the chance? Why or why not?
  4. Share your thoughts on how South Korean government promotes medical tourism? Does your government promote it to boost the economy? Why or why not?

The Secret to Denmark’s Happy Work-Life Balance

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Denmark is often considered as one of the happiest countries, and a big part of this is its impressive work-life balance. The Danish culture puts a strong focus on personal time and family life, offering a work environment that values flexibility and efficiency. This approach has helped the country maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle, allowing its residents to enjoy both their professional and personal lives without compromising one for the other.

Read this article to learn about the secret to Denmark’s happy work-life balance.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c20g7705re3o

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “shining example” mean? “Meik Wiking, author of the book The Art of Danish Living, has long regarded his home country as a shining example of what other countries should aspire to mimic with their workplace policies.” Make a sentence with this phrase.
  2. Define “to take ownership of something”. “He adds that when staff take ownership of their own space it can help them feel empowered and appreciated, which goes a long way to contributing to a healthy sentiment about their workplace.” Create a sentence with this.
  3. What does “aghast” mean? “Mr. Rouchmann adds that the element of trust is so ingrained in Danish culture, visitors to Denmark are often aghast at how far it can go.” Use this word in a sentence and give two synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is and what are your thoughts on the “three-metre rule”?
  2. Share your thoughts on this, “More companies are recognising that well-rested and balanced employees bring fresh ideas, better problem-solving skills, and greater engagement.“.
  3. How does the concept of work-life balance in Denmark differ from your country or culture?
  4. Do you believe that a flexible work culture could be successful in all countries? Why or why not?
  5. What role do government policies play in creating a positive work-life balance for citizens?
  6. In what ways can individuals achieve a healthier work-life balance, even if their country or company doesn’t support it as much as Denmark does?

Greenland’s Leader Ready to Talk to Trump

B2 – Upper Intermediate

US President Donald Trump recently proposed the idea that the U.S. should buy the Arctic island of Greenland due to its strategic importance to the U.S. and NATO. Greenland politicians however, did not like this proposal as the island has been part of Denmark for many centuries.

Let’s read the article and know more about the national security and territorial issue between Greenland and the USA.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwyp4p1x10no

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “the master of one’s own house” mean? “Egede emphasized Greenland’s aspirations, saying: “We have a desire for independence, a desire to be the master of our own house.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. Explain the meaning of the phrase “to gain momentum“. “An independence movement has gained momentum in recent years, which Egede discussed in his new year speech.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What is the meaning of the phrase “cut ties“? “Egede emphasized Greenland’s aspirations, saying: We have a desire for independence, a desire to be the master of our own house … This is something everyone should respect. But that doesn’t mean we are cutting all ties, all cooperation and all relations with Denmark. Use it in in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your opinion on this news?
  2. Should Europeans be alarmed by Trump’s comments regarding Greenland? Why or why not?
  3. What do you think are the chances of Greenland being completely independent from Denmark?
  4. Share your thoughts on the U.S. maintaining a military base in the northern part of the strategically important territory in Denmark.

Gen-Z Women’s Views on the Tradwife Phenomenon

B2 – Upper Intermediate

A “tradwife,” or traditional wife, embraces traditional gender roles, focusing on homemaking, child-rearing, and supporting a spouse. Rooted in mid-20th century ideals, this lifestyle sparks debate about gender equality and modern feminism. While critics see it as outdated, supporters view it as a personal choice reflecting traditional values. Interestingly, some Gen Z women are revisiting the tradwife concept, seeing it as a way to prioritize family and personal fulfillment over career ambitions, further fueling discussions on women’s evolving roles.

Read this article about the tradwife phenomenon.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/family-and-relationships/marriage/gen-z-women-are-sharing-their-views-on-the-viral-tradwife-phenomenon-and-it-s-so-so-fascinating/ar-BB1rnnQ0

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “wide-ranging” mean? “Their points of view on the “tradwife” phenomenon were wide-ranging”. Make your own sentence.
  2. What does “exaggerated” mean in this context, ”I believe that their way of life is greatly exaggerated when they put it on social media.”? Give at least 2 synonyms of this word and make a sentence for each.
  3. What does “disingenuous” mean? “Not only is it sending harmful and misogynistic messages about gender roles to young girls, but it’s disingenuous.” Give two (2) synonyms of this word.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What does the term “tradwife” mean to you, and how do you define it?
  2. Share your own opinion about the tradwife trend.
  3. Talk about some good and bad about being a tradwife.
  4. Why do you think some women choose the tradwife lifestyle today?
  5. How does the tradwife lifestyle differ from traditional gender roles in history?
  6. Do you think social media has influenced the resurgence of the tradwife concept? Elaborate on your opinion.

Japanese Store Deploys Remote Convenience Store Clerks

B2 – Upper Intermediate

24-hour convenience stores, as the word suggests, provide convenience to its customers by its round-the-clock availability. Along with its full-scale operation, comes the need for more manpower. In a country that suffers from labor shortage like Japan, convenience stores are getting more creative in order to fill these positions.

Read the article and find out what Lawson Japan is doing to address this issue.

https://www.techspot.com/news/106169-japanese-store-deploys-remote-workers-convenience-store-clerks.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “labor pool” mean? “The goal is to boost productivity by tapping into underutilized labor pools in areas with significant time differences from Japan.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “around the clock” mean? “While this approach might feel a bit impersonal, the avatar system could help ensure these essential stores remain operational and accessible around the clock.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  3. What does “to address something head-on” mean? “Lawson’s innovative solution aims to address this challenge head-on.” Use it in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think of Lawson hiring remote workers?
  2. What are the advantages to this?
  3. What might be problems with hiring remote convenience store clerks?
  4. What industries suffer from labor shortages in your country? In your opinion, why are these industries affected by this?
  5. What do you think can be done in order to address labor shortage in a country?