Tag: First Certificate FCE

Extreme Heat Pushing Global Food Systems to the Brink

B2 – Upper Intermediate

UN agencies warn that rising global temperatures are damaging crops and food systems, putting over a billion people at risk. This can lead to malnutrition and health crises as food supply becomes unstable.

Read the article to know why extreme heat is pushing global agrifood systems to the brink.

https://news.un.org/en/story/2026/04/1167352

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to push something to the brink” mean? “Extreme heat is pushing global food and farming systems to the brink, threatening the livelihoods of over a billion people as rising temperatures and more frequent heat waves redefine how food is produced worldwide.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “risk multiplier” mean? “Extreme heat is “a major risk multiplier,” said FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu, “exerting mounting pressure on crops, livestock, fisheries and forests, and on the communities and economies that depend upon them.”” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “to put someone/something under strain” mean? “In oceans, rising temperatures are lowering oxygen levels, putting fish under strain – with 91 per cent of the global ocean experiencing at least one marine heatwave in 2024.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How does extreme heat affect food production and supply?
  2. What health problems can be caused by rising temperatures?
  3. Which countries or communities do you think are most vulnerable to extreme heat? Why?
  4. How might climate change impact food prices and availability in the future?
  5. What actions can governments and individuals take to reduce the effects of extreme heat?

Microplastics in the Brain

B2 – Upper Intermediate

A joint statement by the EPA and HHS gave incorrect figures about how many microplastics are found in the brain and did not clearly explain how they plan to regulate the issue.

Meanwhile, a study in Nature Health reported that microplastics were present in almost all of the 191 human brain samples it examined.

Read the article to know why microplastics have become embedded in our modern lives.

https://healthpolicy-watch.news/microplastics-in-the-brain/

Microplastics: Brain Study Confirms Health Risks, Challenges Kennedy’s Claims

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “turning point” mean? “US Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr hailed a federal proposal by the EPA to track microplastics contamination in drinking water earlier this month as “a turning point” in the effort to confront microplastics that have “become embedded in modern life.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “engulf” mean? “The threat of micro- and nanoplastics contamination in the brain tissue raises significant concern as they can penetrate the blood-brain barrier, where they are subsequently engulfed by the brain’s immune cells, known as microglia” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “stringent” mean? “They stressed that this direct exposure pathway demands global attention and the urgent establishment of stringent quality-control standards within the healthcare industry..” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What was your reaction when you learned that microplastics can be found in the human brain?
  2. How do you think microplastics enter the human body and reach the brain?
  3. What possible health effects do you think microplastics could have on humans?
  4. Do you think governments and companies are doing enough to reduce plastic pollution? Why or why not?
  5. What simple changes can individuals make in their daily lives to reduce exposure to microplastics?

Countries Names in Different Languages

B2 – Upper Intermediate

People often wonder why countries have different names in different languages. These names are more than just words; they carry stories of history, culture, and identity. They also show how languages reflect the way people see the world around them.

Let’s read the article to discover how languages shape the way we refer to countries and why these differences make our world more diverse and fascinating.

Why Do Countries Have Different Names in Different Languages
  1. What does the phrase “view something through unique lenses“? “This linguistic diversity unites us, showing how all genders and cultures view the same world through unique lenses.” Use it in your own sentence.
  2. What is the meaning of the phrase “to derive from“? “For example, in French, Germany is “Allemagne,” derived from the Alamanni tribe, reflecting Roman-era encounters. ” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “a nod to something” mean? “Meanwhile, Arabic calls India “Al-Hind,” referencing the Indus River, a nod to historical trade routes across over 20 countries.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why do you think languages develop different names for the same country?
  2. How might history or culture influence how a country is named in another language?
  3. What does a country’s name tell us about the people who use it?
  4. How do you feel when you hear your country being called by a different name in another language?
  5. In what ways do these differences in names show the diversity of human perspectives?

The Truth Behind Unlimited PTO

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Unlimited Paid Time Off (PTO) is often promoted as a modern workplace benefit that gives employees freedom and flexibility to take leave whenever they need it. At first glance, it sounds like an ideal system that supports work-life balance and employee well-being, removing the limits of traditional vacation policies.

However, discussions around unlimited PTO also reveal a more complex reality behind the policy. While it appears generous on paper, some employees may feel unsure about how much time off is actually acceptable to take, especially in workplaces where productivity expectations remain high. This raises questions about whether unlimited PTO truly benefits workers or if it creates new pressures in disguise.

Watch the video on the truth about unlimited PTO.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “accrual” mean? “At first glance, it sounds like a dream. Take time off whenever you want — no accruals, no tracking, no caps.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “baseline” mean? “Unlimited PTO has no baseline.” Construct a sentence featuring this phrase. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “performative” mean? “If the answers are “no”, unlimited PTO becomes performative.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think are the main advantages and disadvantages of unlimited paid time off (PTO) policies?
  2. Do you think employees actually take more or less time off under unlimited PTO systems? Why?
  3. How might unlimited PTO affect workplace fairness and team workload?
  4. What challenges could managers face when implementing an unlimited PTO policy?
  5. Do you think unlimited PTO improves employee well-being, or does it create pressure to work more?

The Always On Work Culture

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In many modern workplaces, managers often say they value results, efficiency, and work-life balance. However, in practice, employees who appear constantly available—replying to emails late at night, attending meetings after hours, and staying “always on”—are still more likely to be rewarded and promoted. This creates a workplace culture in which visibility and responsiveness are sometimes valued more than actual performance outcomes.

This “always-on” expectation can blur the line between productivity and presence. Instead of focusing purely on results, employees may feel pressured to appear busy and constantly connected to work. Over time, this can shape how performance is judged, influencing career growth, workplace behavior, and even employee well-being.

Read the article about the always-on work trap.

https://theconversation.com/how-an-always-on-work-culture-can-create-a-vicious-cycle-that-damages-workers-and-employers-232281

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “public outcry” mean? “It is not surprising that there was a public outcry around a culture that discourages a work-life balance.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “in the flow” mean? “Employees who felt supported by their partner (at home) and colleagues (at work) felt energised and “in the flow”, and they contributed to company success by showing creativity and innovation.” Construct a sentence featuring this phrase. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “breadwinner” mean? “There is an emphasis on long working hours with men predominantly the breadwinners.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Is an “always-on” work culture also present in your country? Talk about it.
  2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of being constantly connected to work?
  3. How can employees set boundaries between work and personal life?
  4. What kind of workplace culture do you prefer, and why?
  5. How can companies encourage productivity without promoting burnout?
  6. What role should government or labor laws play in regulating work-life balance?

Understanding the Gig Economy

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The gig economy refers to a labor market where short-term, flexible, or freelance jobs are more common than permanent, full-time positions. Workers in this system, often called gig workers, take on temporary tasks or projects through digital platforms or direct contracts instead of traditional employment arrangements.

This type of work has grown rapidly due to technology, changing work preferences, and demand for flexible staffing. While it offers opportunities such as independence and flexible schedules, it also raises concerns about job security, income stability, and worker benefits.

Read the article to understand the gig economy more.

https://www.investopedia.com/terms/g/gig-economy.asp

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “gig worker” mean? “In 2023, nearly 64 million Americans, 38% of the U.S. workforce, were gig workers.” Use it in a sentence. Give at least 2 synonyms.
  2. What does “bottom-dollar scam” mean? “Workers also need to be wary of online bottom-dollar scams.” Construct a sentence featuring this word. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “free market system” mean in this sentence? “In this free market system, temporary positions are common and work is characterized by the prevalence of small contracts known as ‘gigs.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you ever done gig work or freelance work? What was it like?
  2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of gig work for employees and employers?
  3. Is the gig economy a good or bad development for society? Shre your insights.
  4. Would you prefer a full-time job or several gig works? Explain your choice.
  5. Do you think governments should regulate gig economy platforms more strictly? Why or why not?
  6. In the future, do you think gig work will become more common than traditional employment?

How Workplace Surveillance Impacts Job Performance

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Workplace surveillance is becoming more common as companies use digital tools to monitor employee activity and productivity. While these systems are intended to improve efficiency and accountability, they also raise concerns about their impact on employees’ well-being and performance.

Although monitoring can provide useful data, excessive surveillance may lead to stress, reduced job satisfaction, and lower motivation. Instead of boosting performance, it can sometimes cause employees to focus on appearing productive rather than doing meaningful work.

Read the article about how workplace surveillance impacts job performance.

https://worldatwork.org/publications/workspan-daily/how-workplace-surveillance-impacts-job-performance

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “oversight” mean in this sentence? “Employees facing the constant scrutiny of workplace surveillance are fed up with all the oversight.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “talent loss” mean? “Excessive monitoring can lead to feelings of micromanagement, decreased morale and lower job satisfaction, ultimately resulting in reduced productivity and potential talent loss.” Construct a sentence featuring this phrase. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “intrusive tactic” mean in this sentence? “Royal suggested instead of intrusive tactics like excessive productivity reporting, employers should focus on fostering ongoing, open conversations about expectations and performance goals.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you ever experienced being monitored at work? How did it feel?
  2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of workplace monitoring?
  3. Do you think younger workers and older workers feel differently about surveillance?
  4. What alternative methods can managers use to evaluate performance?
  5. How can companies balance productivity tracking with employee privacy and trust?

Understanding the Gender Pay Gap

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The gender pay gap remains a widely discussed issue in modern societies, highlighting differences in earnings between men and women across various industries and roles. Despite long-standing principles of equal pay, disparities still exist, reflecting broader patterns of inequality in the workplace and beyond.

Understanding this issue requires looking beyond simple wage comparisons and examining the social, economic, and structural factors that influence employment opportunities and career progression. By exploring its causes and impacts, discussions about the gender pay gap can help promote fairer policies and more inclusive work environments.

Read the article to know the definition, facts and causes of gender pay gap.

https://www.europarl.europa.eu/topics/en/article/20200109STO69925/understanding-the-gender-pay-gap-definition-facts-and-causes

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “marginal” mean in this sentence? “The gender pay gap stubbornly persists, with only marginal improvements being achieved in recent years.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “gross hourly earning” mean? “The gender pay gap is the difference in average gross hourly earnings between women and men.” Construct a sentence featuring this phrase. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “over-representation” mean? “About a quarter of the total gender pay gap can be explained by an over-representation of women in relatively low-paying sectors, such as care, health or education.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think the gender pay gap exists in your country? Why or why not?
  2. How do career choices affect the gender pay gap?
  3. Do you think taking career breaks impacts a person’s salary? How?
  4. Should companies be required to disclose employees’ salaries? Why or why not?
  5. What changes would you suggest to reduce the gender pay gap?

Signs Your Friendship Is Over

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Friendships can change over time, and not all of them are meant to last forever. Sometimes, small problems such as poor communication, a lack of trust, or unequal effort can slowly weaken a friendship. Recognizing these signs early can help people better understand their relationships and decide whether to work on them or let them go.

Read this article to learn more about it.

10 Signs Your Friendship Is Over

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “something has run its course” mean? “Nevertheless, there are some telltale and some not-so-obvious signs that your friendship has run its course.” Make a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “to talk behind one’s back” mean? ” If you get the sense that someone is doing a lot of talking behind your back, address it.” Use this in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “patch things up” mean? “There is no right way to end a friendship; unless you wish to remain friends or patch things up, a text message should do.” Make a sentence with this. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think friendships are supposed to last forever? Why or why not?
  2. Have you ever had a friend who always made conversations about themselves? How did it feel?
  3. What are common reasons communication becomes strained between friends?
  4. When should someone try to fix a friendship, and when should they let it go?
  5. In your opinion, what makes a friendship healthy and long-lasting?

Snap Inc Blames AI as It Lays Off 1,000 Workers

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Snap, the parent company of Snapchat, plans to cut about 1,000 jobs as it tries to reduce costs and improve efficiency. The move follows pressure from an activist investor and reflects the company’s growing reliance on artificial intelligence, which it says is helping smaller teams work faster and handle more tasks.

Read this article to learn more about it.

https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2026/apr/15/snap-inc-blames-ai-worker-layoffs

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is an “activist investor“? “Cuts by Snapchat’s parent company come in response to a declining stock price and pressure from an activist investor.” Make a sentence with this. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “mass layoff” mean? “Snap, which owns the photo- and video-sharing app Snapchat, joins a host of other tech companies that have carried out mass layoffs amid the AI boom.” Use this in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. Define “murky” “Although Spiegel’s memo stated that the company had already seen productivity benefits from AI, many experts and workers believe that the reality of receiving gains from implementing AI is murkier.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why do you think companies like Snap are cutting jobs while investing more in AI?
  2. Do you think AI is truly replacing human work, or are companies using it as a reason to reduce costs? Share your insights.
  3. What are the possible benefits of running a company with smaller, AI-assisted teams?
  4. Do you think tech companies are moving too quickly toward AI-driven workplaces? Explain.
  5. If your company said that AI could now do part of your job, how would you respond?