Tag: education

Public Schools Are Going Broke

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Public schools across the U.S. are facing a major funding crisis—driven by declining student enrollment and the end of pandemic-era ESSER funds. Districts that used temporary relief money to hire staff are now scrambling to make painful cuts, putting thousands of education jobs at risk. Critics say poor planning and long-standing financial mismanagement are making things worse, leaving students and communities caught in the fallout.

Watch the video to learn how this “fiscal cliff” could reshape public education and what it means for the future of schools, teachers, and families.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Explain the term “fiscal cliff“. “But since the pandemic, many schools added staff and are now experiencing what experts call a ‘fiscal cliff‘.” Use this term in a sentence.
  2. Define the idiom “slash and burn approach”. “
    Pasadena decided to take the slash and burn approach. It’s obviously having devastating impact on the morale of our schools.”     Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym or a similar expression.
  3. What does “to move the needle” mean? “You need to pause every once in a while. Evaluate all these things that you’re spending money on and determine which one’s moving the needle in the right direction for kids.” Give a synonym and use this idiom in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the main reasons public school enrollment has been declining in the U.S. over the past few years?
  2. How might declining enrollment and the end of federal pandemic funds affect teachers, students, and local communities?
  3. Could these budget cuts and staff layoffs lead to long-term changes in how public education operates? Explain.
  4. Can you describe the current status of the education system in your country? How does it compare to the situation described in the video?
  5. If you were in charge of a school district facing budget cuts, what would you prioritize—staff, programs, or services? Explain your choice.
  6. What could be the future of education, the economy, and the workforce if these trends of declining enrollment and budget cuts continue?

China Advances AI Curriculum

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In recent years, China’s education system has undergone significant changes, particularly with the introduction of a new curriculum emphasizing the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). This development is part of the country’s broader initiative to prepare students for a future increasingly influenced by technology. 

The new curriculum aims to equip students with essential knowledge and skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. 

Learn more about it by reading this short article.

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-05-13/China-advances-AI-curriculum-to-cover-full-basic-education-1DkKRrHzd9C/p.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “tiered education” mean? “China will establish a tiered artificial intelligence (AI) education system spanning primary, junior high, and senior high schools to guide students from foundational cognitive awareness to practical technological innovation, according to policy documents unveiled Monday.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “interdisciplinary systems thinking” mean? “Progressing to senior secondary education, the focus shifts toward applied innovation. Students will use accumulated AI knowledge to design and refine AI algorithm models, while cultivating interdisciplinary systems thinking.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “oversee” mean? “Teachers can empower generative AI tools to construct interactive teaching and create immersive learning experiences, said an official overseeing basic education.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think of China’s new education curriculum?
  2. How might early AI education influence China’s position in the global tech landscape by 2030?
  3. Should other countries adopt similar AI education mandates to remain competitive? Why or why not?
  4. Can a standardized AI curriculum foster genuine innovation among students?
  5. Is introducing AI concepts to elementary students beneficial, or could it be overwhelming?

Inmates Learn to Code

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In an effort to break the cycle of incarceration, prisons are introducing coding programs to equip inmates with valuable tech skills. These initiatives aim to provide a second chance by preparing them for in-demand jobs in the tech industry. However, despite gaining technical expertise, many former inmates struggle to secure employment due to the stigma of a criminal record.

Read this article to learn about this coding program in prison.

https://edition.cnn.com/2024/12/28/business/inmates-coding-jobs/index.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to jump through the hoops” mean? “For Gaetz, and her students, jumping through the hoops is worth it.” Make a sentence with this.
  2. Define “to get hung up on something“. “Then he could hire whomever he wanted based on what they bring to the job today and not get hung up on anyone’s past.” Use this in a sentence.
  3. What is a “stumbling block“? “This lack of connection, activists say, is one of the stumbling blocks to reform.” Make a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your thoughts on this program.
  2. How can coding help former inmates reintegrate into society?
  3. What can be done to reduce the stigma of hiring former inmates?
  4. Should more prisons implement similar coding programs? Why or why not?
  5. What are the biggest barriers that formerly incarcerated coders face when job hunting?

Students Using AI to Learn English

B1 – Intermediate

English is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, serving as a global means of communication in business, education, and daily life. Learning English opens doors to better career opportunities, cultural exchange, and access to a vast amount of knowledge. However, mastering English can be challenging, requiring practice in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

With advancements in technology, artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed the way people learn English. AI-powered tools, such as language learning apps, chatbots, and virtual tutors, provide personalized learning experiences, real-time feedback, and interactive exercises. These innovations make learning more accessible, efficient, and engaging, helping learners improve their English skills at their own pace.

Can relying on AI for learning English truly improve language skills, or might it limit real-world communication and critical thinking?

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2412/241223-learning-english-ai.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What are some alternative expressions for “face-to-face“? “The researchers said more young people used AI than took face-to-face lessons. ” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘face-to-face‘ in your own sentence.
  2. What does the phrase “in the midst of something” mean? “We’re in the midst of an AI revolution.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘in the midst of something‘ in your own sentence.
  3. What is the meaning of the word “impact” in this sentence? “Technology has long had an impact on language learning.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘impact‘ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you ever used AI for learning English? If so, how was your experience?
  2. Do you think AI can replace human teachers in English learning? Why or why not?
  3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using AI for language learning?
  4. In the future, how do you see AI changing the way people learn English?
  5. What is your most and least preferred way of learning English? Explain why.

The School that Puts the Kids in Charge

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In this unique school in Thailand, teachers take a back seat. Students are given the responsibilities instead. From managing finances to volunteering, children are tasked to do things that adults are supposed to do in regular school environment.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about this out-of-the-box approach to rural Thai education.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_2024/ep-240711

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is the meaning of the idiom “call the shots“? “In this programme we’ll be hearing about the Bamboo School, a unique school where the children call the shots – they have the power to make the decisions.” Give one synonym or similar expression and use ‘call the shots’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does the phrase “real world experience” mean? “My old school wasn’t like this. It was just classes and then home. Here, I get to try so many things, gain real world experience, and work on my leadership skills with my friends.” Give one synonym or similar expression and use ‘real world experience’ in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to do something in return” mean? “Yes, we just heard that kids go to the Bamboo School for free but do something in return.” Give one synonym or similar expression and use ‘to do something in return’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the young students’ responsibilities in Bamboo School in Thailand?
  2. What do you think of a school where it’s the children who call the shots?
  3. What advantages do this school management system have on its young pupils? What are the disadvantages?
  4. What impact/effects could giving school children this kind/amount of trust have on them?
  5. Aside from this, how do you think children can gain real world experience?
  6. Do you think young kids should do community service? Share your insights.

Ukraine’s First Underground School

B1 – Intermediate 

To make sure the students are safe from attacks by Russia, the first underground school in Kharkiv, Ukraine has been opened.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about Ukraine’s first underground school.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/ukraines-first-underground-school-level-3/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “underground” mean? “A new school in Kharkiv, Ukraine is underground to keep children safe from Russian attacks.”  Make your own sentence with this word.
  2. What is a “bunker”? “Many students started classes this week in the bunker that is 6 meters below the ground.” Make your own sentence with this word.
  3. What does “bright” mean in this context, “The entrance is a small white concrete box and the classrooms are bright, but have no windows.”? Make your own sentence with this word.

Discussion Questions:

  1. In your own words, talk about the new school in Kharkiv. State as much details as possible.
  2. What is your opinion about this kind of underground school?
  3. What positive and negative effects of going to underground school could have on children?
  4. Do you think this underground school could really keep students safe in case of an attack? State your opinion.
  5. Do you think this school can really help children live normal lives? Explain.
  6. How might children’s education be affected by the war?

Boys Do Bad at School in the Persian Gulf

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Globally, girls are more likely to get no education at all than boys. In some countries, girls are seen as second class citizens and their main role is to get married and bear children. In the Persian Gulf, it is the other way around.

Let’s read the article and find out why boys in the Persian Gulf are not doing so well academically.

https://www.english-online.at/news-articles/education/boys-do-bad-at-schools-in-persian-gulf.htm

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Define the verb “rely on someone/something“. “They rely on them to do everything they would otherwise have to do themselves.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  2. What does “push” mean in this context? “The rest go to private schools where teachers are not only better but more interested in pushing children towards a higher education.” Use it in your own sentence and give two synonyms..
  3. What is the meaning of the expression “to pour something into“? “Authorities are convinced that just pouring money into the school system won’t achieve the desired results.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. According to the article, what are the reasons boys are not doing well at school in the Persian Gulf?
  2. Share your opinion on this statement, “In an oil-rich region such as the Persian Gulf, families are so wealthy that their children do not need to study hard.“.
  3. How do private and public school differ in this region?
  4. What could be the outcome if this trend continues?
  5. In your opinion, what measures or changes could help resolve this problem?

Dropout Factories

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Some schools are infamous for their high rate of dropouts. There are many reasons as to why students prefer to quit their studies. 

The question remains though, does this issue have any impact on communities?

Read the article about dropout factories and be ready to answer the questions that follow.

http://headsupenglish.com/index.php/advanced-english-students/advanced-mini-lessons/165-dropout-factories

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is a ”derogatory”? “A dropout factory serves as a derogatory label applied to any high school where 40% or more of the students quit before their final year.” Use this word in a sentence.
  2. What does “churn out” mean? “Like a factory that churns out a product, sadly a dropout factory churns out students who fail to graduate.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  3. What does “impoverished” mean, “These schools tend to be in urban and/or impoverished areas.” Give 2 synonyms and use ‘impoverished’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What might be some reasons students dropout from school?
  2. Do you think a drop-out still has a chance to succeed in life? Explain your opinion.
  3. How can high number of students dropping out affect the society/a community?
  4. Did you ever consider quitting your studies? If yes, when was it and why? If not, what is the reason you finished your studies?
  5. What could be done to lower the number of students dropping out?

Activists Challenge Harvard’s Legacy Admissions

B2 – Upper Intermediate

One of the most stressful stage in a young student’s life is trying to get into their dream university. In the recent years, many universities in the US have made this test optional for their applicants. But that doesn’t mean the process has become easier and faster, especially in elite universities. One factor that they allegedly highly consider is the tie the applicant has with its alum.

Let’s listen to the audio and read the transcript to know more about this seemingly discriminating practice in Ivy League universities in the US.

https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/activists-challenge-harvard-s-legacy-admissions/7168000.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Define “legacy admission“. “A civil rights group is taking legal action against legacy admissions at Harvard University.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “bearing” mean here, “Your family’s last name and the size of your bank account are not a measure of merit, and should have no bearing on the college admissions process.”? Use bearing’ in your own sentence and give two synonyms.
  3. What is the meaning of the phrase “to give a lift to someone“? “They note that the Supreme Court’s ruling says colleges must ignore the race of applicants but schools can still give a lift to the children of alumni and donors.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your opinion on legacy admission at Harvard? Do you think the practice discriminates against students of color? Explain your stand.
  2. Why are opponents of this practice against it? Give their reasons.
  3. Is private donation to public universities allowed in your country? If yes, Do you think it should be forbidden?
  4. What are the college admission policies in your country?
  5. Share your thoughts on this, “Your family’s last name and the size of your bank account are not a measure of merit, and should have no bearing on the college admissions process.“.

Government Bans Phones in Schools

B1 – Intermediate

At present, mobile phones have clearly become a very important device for everyone. However, is it something that should be allowed to be used by students in schools?

The Dutch government plans to prohibit gadgets in the classrooms by 2024.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about the Dutch government’s plan to prohibit mobile phones in schools.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/dutch-government-bans-phones-in-schools-level-2/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to do something in one’s way” mean, “Schools have the flexibility to implement the ban in their way.”? Use this phrase in your own sentence.
  2. What does “outcome” mean,  “If the desired outcomes are not achieved by the summer of 2024, legal rules will be enforced.”? Give 2 synonyms and use “outcome” in your own sentence.
  3. What does ”enforce” mean, “If the desired outcomes are not achieved by the summer of 2024, legal rules will be enforced.”? Give 2 synonyms and use “enforce” in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your opinion on this prohibition?
  2. Do you agree or disagree that gadgets aren’t suitable for classrooms? Explain.
  3. What are the pros and cons of letting students use devices in the classroom?
  4. How would people react if this ban was implemented in your country?
  5. Talk about an issue in education that you think the government should focus on.