Tag: B2 – Upper intermediate

Lab-Grown Steak

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Whether we like it or not, most of us are carnivorous. Are we not? Most of the time, we visit restaurants to order our preferred rare, medium, or well-done steak. Can you imagine living a life without meat on our tables? Probably not, right? No worries. That’s so normal for most of us meat lovers.

According to experts, the global beef industry has been broken. Hence, the attempt to produce meat in laboratories. Although this sounds wonderful, it still might have a rather strange ring to it.

Please watch the video below to learn more about lab-grown meat.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to make room for someone/something” mean? ” “On average, tropical rainforests the size of El Salvador are cleared every year to make room for cattle.” Use this idiom in your own sentence.
  2. Explain what ” to hop/jump on the bandwagon” means? “It’s like everyone wants to hop on to that bandwagon.” Kindly make your sentence.
  3. How about “pour in“? “It wasn’t until 2020 that funding for lab-grown food really started to pour in. ” Give a similar expression and make your own sentence using the phrase “pour in”.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you believe that this could resolve the current problems, particularly in the broken supply chain? Elaborate on your opinion.
  2. What are your thoughts on lab-grown meat? Would you be so interested in giving it a try? Why/why not?
  3. In general, what are your thoughts on other meat/beef alternatives?
  4. Share reaction to this statement, “Beef is one of the most damaging foods for the planet.“.
  5. Do you enjoy eating meat? How much meat do you consume per week and why is that?

Crowds

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Every individual’s reaction to being in a sea of people differs. When people get together in a crowd, some good and some bad come out of it.

Listen to this podcast and read the transcript about the role of crowds in modern life.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_2023/ep-230323

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “mob mentality” mean? “But according to John, the idea of mob mentality, that people in crowds are irrational and prone to destructive behaviour, just isn’t backed up by research.”? Use this phrase in a sentence.
  2. What does “flip side” mean? “The flip side of that is when you don’t feel as much part of the group, and you’re not having a positive experience.” Give 1-2 synonym/s of ‘flip side’ and use the phrase in your own sentence.
  3. What does “gullible” mean? “When people get together in a crowd, they regress psychologically, their thinking is more primitive, they become more gullible, and that’s also associated with the supposed tendency towards violence as well.” Use this word in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How do you feel about crowds?
  2. What might be the good and bad things about crowds?
  3. What are your thoughts on this statement, “When people get together in a crowd, they regress psychologically.”?
  4. Cite an incident/s where you’ve witnessed “mob mentality”.
  5. What is your opinion on this, “In today’s world, crowds are important because of the feeling of power they give us.”?
  6. Talk about a time when you were amidst a huge crowd. How was this experience for you?

Addicted to War

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The body’s fight or flight response has a number of components. One of which is the hormone called adrenaline. Adrenaline is released when the body perceives danger and the initial response is to flee.

Not surprisingly, there are people who find this sensation pleasurable and instead of fleeing they prefer to stay in this dangerous situation.

Let’s listen to the podcast and find out more about one profession where adrenaline rush is manifested.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_2023/ep-230511

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Define the phrase “call it a day“. “You might expect Fergal to call it a day at this point, but that’s not how addiction works.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the expression “to find one’s self doing something” mean? “Despite the danger, Fergal found himself going back again and again to report from war zones.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “erosion” mean here, “I reach a point where I can’t carry that anymore, and it’s not dramatic, it’s a slow, steady erosion…” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think of a war correspondent’s job?
  2. What self-destructive behaviors could people suffering from PTSD have?
  3. Why do you think some people have adrenaline addiction?
  4. What is one thing/are some things that you found yourself doing again and again? Why do you think you had the need to do it/them?
  5. If one of your family or friends is like Fergal Keane, would you support or discourage them? Explain.

People Switch Careers to Teaching

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The role of an educator is instrumental in sculpting the minds of the youth, fueling the ambitions of future leaders, and leaving an enduring imprint on the very essence of society.

Many individuals, driven by a genuine passion for a subject and a desire to work with children, choose to switch careers to become teachers. 

Unlock the insights behind this career transition and discover the remarkable impact it can have on both teachers and their students by clicking on the link.

https://theconversation.com/working-with-kids-being-passionate-about-a-subject-making-a-difference-what-makes-people-switch-careers-to-teaching-205999

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “mid-career” mean, “A 2022 survey by the federal government’s Behavioural Economics Team found one in three mid-career individuals was open to the idea of teaching.”? Use this word in your own sentence.
  2. What does “make the switch” mean in the sentence, “Many had thought about becoming a teacher for a long time, calling it a longstanding interest or “someday” career. This desire often predated their first career choice, but life circumstances played a big role in choosing when to make the switch.”? Use this phrase in your own sentence.
  3. What does “longstanding interest” mean in the sentence, “Many had thought about becoming a teacher for a long time, calling it a longstanding interest or “someday” career. This desire often predated their first career choice, but life circumstances played a big role in choosing when to make the switch.”? Use this phrase in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. In what ways can teaching provide an avenue for individuals to make a difference in the lives of children and society as a whole?
  2. Do you hold the belief that teaching is an esteemed and honorable occupation?
  3. Is teaching considered a popular and commonly chosen profession in your country? Why or why not?
  4. Share any personal stories or examples of individuals who switched careers to teaching and successfully made a difference in the lives of their students.
  5. Talk about your ideal vocation that you dream of attaining.
  6. What field or area of study has held your fascination over an extended period of time? Please share.

The Daily Habit that Is Making You Tired

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Fatigue and exhaustion are all too typical in today’s hectic society. Regardless of getting an apparent sufficient amount of sleep, many people wake up tired and drained. While many factors play a role to this tendency, doctors are highlighting a daily habit that often goes unnoticed, but can have an immense effect on our energy levels.

The link provided will offer an in-depth understanding of the habit doctors assert is secretively responsible for causing fatigue and explore the potential consequences it entails.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/daily-habit-making-you-tired_l_6442e319e4b039ec4e7ead02

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “sap” mean in the sentence, “Here are the biggest ways you might be sapping your energy — and what to do instead.”? Use this word in your own sentence.
  2. What does “nix” mean, “Experts agree there’s a seemingly harmless behavior you should nix.”? Give 2 synonyms for this word and use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “mess with” mean in the sentence, “Big, late-night meals mess with our body’s natural circadian rhythm. That makes it harder to get quality rest.”? Use this phrase in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are some common habits that doctors believe are draining our energy levels?
  2. Does this article change your mind about your meal habits? Why/why not? Explain.
  3. What are your thoughts on this statement, “Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, and supper like a pauper.”?
  4. Are there specific dietary habits that can contribute to low energy levels? Tell me more.
  5. What are some alternatives or healthier habits that can boost energy levels?
  6. Can adopting these energy-boosting habits have long-term benefits for overall health and well-being? In what ways?

Rekindle Lost Passion

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Knowing what your passion is a great thing. Most people go on about their lives trying to find it.

However, finding out what it is and keeping the fire burning for it is not the be-all and end-all. Losing your interest in what you are passionate about and trying to rekindle that lost fervor is another thing.

Read the article to learn the five ways that can help reignite your fire.

https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20230113-the-mindset-to-re-kindle-lost-passion

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “fan the flames” mean, “What strategies do they use to fan the flames of their zeal for work?“? Use this phrase in a sentence.
  2. What does “in a rut” mean, “If you still feel like you are in a rut, you might simply be asking too much from your career.“? Make a sentence with this phrase.
  3. Define “self-consequating“. “Two of the most useful techniques are “proximal goal setting” and “self-consequating”.” Use this in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you agree with the techniques mentioned in the article?
  2. What are some common reasons why people lose their passion for their work or hobbies?
  3. Have you ever experienced a loss of passion or enthusiasm in your life? If so, how did it manifest and how did you handle it?
  4. How important is it to have a supportive network or community when trying to rekindle lost passion?
  5. Are there any specific strategies or techniques mentioned in the article that resonate with you and that you would consider implementing to reignite your passion?

Restrict Kids’ Youtube Settings

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Imagine that your child has started spending less time with you. He doesn’t share what’s going on in his life, where he’s been, or who his friends are.

This scenario has become all too familiar to some parents. Sadly, they’ve lost their kids to gadgets or technology.

Read the article to know how you can block inappropriate contents and not let social media interfere with your relationship with your loved ones.

https://abcnews.go.com/Lifestyle/parental-control-guide-restrict-kids-youtube-settings/story?id=52135658

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “safeguard‘ mean? “An outline for parents to set up controls to add safeguards for kids.” Use this word in a sentence.
  2. What does “to spark outrage” mean? “Paul, a 22-year-old comedic actor with 15 million subscribers on YouTube, sparked outrage after posting a video which appeared to show the lifeless body of a person who committed suicide.” Use phrase word in a sentence.
  3. What does “to slip through the cracks” mean? “It can difficult for YouTube’s filter or algorithm to stop videos like Paul’s from slipping through the cracks due to the sheer volume of content that gets uploaded to YouTube daily.” Use this word in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Imagine an app you would like to use to keep track of some activity. What kind of app would it be exactly? Do you think such an app may already exist?
  2. Share your personal stand on allowing children to use the Internet without controlling them.
  3. What are some others way to ensure children’s safety when they go online?
  4. Do you know any family that control their kids too much? What do they do?
  5. How do you feel when if you can’t reach your loved ones by phone? Share your experience when you can’t contact a friend or family.

Surviving Family Holidays

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Family holidays — a period of sweet relaxation, mouthwatering meals and lovely family evenings or perhaps, enjoyable “me time” full of memorable moments. Do family holidays remind you of a comedy film or a drama?

Read the article to know about why family holidays can sometimes be even a horror film for the whole family and how to survive them. 

10 Tips for Surviving Family Holidays
https://www.thehealthjournals.com/10-tips-surviving-family-holidays/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “alleviate” mean? “Creating a plan alleviates stress if your family is indecisive or time is limited” Use this word in a sentence.
  2. What does “err on the side of” mean? “Err on the side of sharing pertinent information, even if it feels like over-communicating. ” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  3. What does “cognizant” mean? ” Be cognizant of differing bedtimes. Leave a thank you note or flowers.” Use this word in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What can you do if your relatives become too annoying?
  2. Why do you think it’s difficult for some people to survive family gatherings?
  3. Have you ever faced difficult situations during family gatherings? Share your experience.
  4. Do you ever try to avoid some topics when you talk to people you don’t know well? If so, what are they?
  5. What habits of others can drive you crazy?
  6. Why would someone feel guilty during a family celebration?

Your Productivity Needs More Breaks

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In the fast-paced and demanding world of work, it’s easy to get caught up in a constant cycle of tasks and responsibilities. However, amidst the hustle and bustle, one crucial element often gets overlooked – breaks.

Taking regular breaks throughout the workday is not a luxury, but rather a necessity for maintaining productivity, focus, and overall well-being.

Read the article to know more about how taking regular breaks during the workday help improve performance, concentration, and overall, one’s mood. Be ready to answer the questions that follow.

https://lifehacker.com/your-productivity-needs-more-breaks-1850400649

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Define “decompress” as used in the article. “After a long day of work, I like to decompress by taking a relaxing bath.” Use the word in a sentence.
  2. What does the phrase “stick to something” mean? “Despite facing challenges, she stuck to it and eventually achieved her fitness goals.” Use the phrase in a sentence.
  3. Explain the meaning of the expression “build the habit” as mentioned in the article. “By consistently practicing piano every day, she was able to build the habit of regular practice.” Use the expression in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. According to the article, what is the prevailing belief about uninterrupted work and productivity?
  2. What are some of the negative consequences of not taking regular breaks at work?
  3. Do you agree with the article’s assertion that taking breaks can improve productivity? Why or why not?
  4. How do you personally prioritize and incorporate breaks into your work routine? What benefits have you experienced?
  5. Are there any challenges or barriers you face when trying to take breaks at work? How do you overcome them?

Nepal Bans Solo Mountain Climbers

B2 – Upper Intermediate

People take up the hobby of mountain climbing for a lot of reasons. Some do it for the thrill and sense of adventure, while others want to set new records or break the older ones. Regardless of the reason, safety should be the main priority in this activity.

Let’s read the article and find out about this law in Nepal to minimize the risks for mountaineers.

https://www.english-online.at/news-articles/travel/nepal-bans-solo-mountain-climbers.htm

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is the meaning of the word “amputee“?” The new law also prohibits blind and double amputee climbers from trying to reach the top peaks.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the word “acute” mean? “Although mountaineers die for a number of reasons, almost every fifth death is caused by acute mountain sickness.” Give two synonyms and use it in your own sentence.
  3. What does the word “peak” mean in this context? “Nepal has banned solo mountaineers from climbing Mount Everest and other peaks.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why is the Nepalese government imposing stricter rules on mountaineers?
  2. How does this new law benefit the locals and the mountaineers alike?
  3. Do you agree with this law? Why or why not?
  4. What is your opinion on the prohibition of physically handicapped people from climbing the Mount Everest?