Tag: First Certificate FCE

The End of the Spanish Siesta

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Siesta. It can’t get more Spanish than that. If sushi is to Japan, then siesta is to Spain. Although part of the Spanish culture, a radical proposal to end the practice has been raised.

Read the article to know more about schedule change.

http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-35995972

Discussion Questions:

  1. Is taking a siesta necessary in the workplace?
  2. How do you feel about the proposal in the article?
  3. What is your opinion on lessening the working hours for Spanish workers?
  4. How would you describe an ideal working schedule?

Your New Favourite Bookshop

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Events such as literary talks, philosophical gatherings and open mic storytelling… How do these sound to you?

When you visit Libreria, you would surely be brought back to a time when you used to love reading paper books. But for some gadget-dependent individuals, there might be a problem when you come to this library. You are not allowed to use your mobile phone or tablet. And if you were caught doing so, you will be requested to stop.

Read more about Liberia, a bookshop where customers are banned from using mobile phones and tablets inside the shop.

http://www.bbc.com/culture/story/20160324-could-this-be-your-new-favourite-bookshop

Discussion Questions:

1. What can you say about Libreria?
2. Do you enjoy going to libraries? Why or why not?
3. Are there places in your city/country where you can go for digital detox?
4. Where do you like to go when you want to unplug from the hustle and bustle of your modern life?

Is Social Media a Distraction?

B2 – Upper intermediate

There is no doubt that a lot of us have become dependent on social media to get updated with current events and the latest trends from every corner of the world. But is social media doing us more harm than good?

Listen to the podcast then be ready to answer discussion questions.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english/ep-160331

Discussion Questions:

1. How do you feel about the “rule of three” mentioned in the audio file?
2. Do you and your friends or family have a similar rule?
3. Do you think social media is doing us more harm than good?

Brain-Dead Man Dies after Drug Trial

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In France, an experimental drug intended to treat mood, anxiety, and movement disorders went shockingly wrong, resulting in the death of one participant and hospitalization of others. Biotrial says correct procedures were followed at every stage of the trial. So what went wrong?

Read the article below to get more information then express your thoughts.

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-35337671

Discussion Questions:

  1. What’s your take on this issue?
  2. When a clinical trial goes wrong, who do you think is to blame? And why?
  3. Would you be willing to be participate in a drug trial? Why or why not?
  4. Should scientists stick to animal testing? Why or why not?
  5. In your opinion, has drug trial safety improved over the years? Explain.

The Unstoppable Growth of Themed Cruises

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Over the past decade, traveling on ​large ​ships for ​pleasure has become increasingly appealing to larger number of vacationists and younger generation holidaymakers. Themed cruises are now very popular catering not only to the traditional customers of this kind of holiday but also to people who are interested in varied subjects.

Read on this article about the growth of themed cruises.

http://www.bbc.com/news/business-35924022

Discussion Questions: 

  1. Have you ever been on a cruise? Tell us about this holiday.
  2. Talk about the popularity of cruises among holidaymakers in your country.
  3. If you were to go on a themed cruise, what would it be?
  4. What are other popular holiday ideas common in your country?

Child Labour

B2 – Upper intermediate

Child labour is nothing new. It’s been happening since the 18th century. Over the years, do you think that this social problem has been solved or has it evolved to something worse? Read the article below and express your thoughts about it.

http://www.english-online.at/society/child-labour/working-children-around-the-world.htm

Discussion Questions:

1. Does child labour exist in your country?
2. What are steps the government can take to stop child labour?
3. When is it okay for a child to work?
4. Have you experienced working when you were younger?

Future Work Space

B2 – Upper intermediate

The future is now. It seems that the gadgets we use today were just dreams of the past. How far would you go to have a futuristic work environment?

Click on the link below and be ready to discuss the video.

https://news.microsoft.com/life/the-workspace-of-the-future/

Discussion Questions:

1. Describe this future work space.
2. What are your opinions on the emerging technologies that some companies are using or would like to use? Do you agree with all of them?
3. How would you describe your office?
4. What other new technologies would you think are very useful for everyday work?

Is Coral Bleaching Getting Worse?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

One of the most beautiful organisms ever found are corals. These are even one of the most productive resources in the world.  They are food producers and they support life on the planet. However, they are now in danger.

Watch the short video below then answer some questions.

https://www.bbc.com/news/av/science-environment-35917760

Discussion Questions:

1. What is coral bleaching and what causes it?
2. How important are corals to marine life?
3. Are there any organizations in your country dedicated to help preserve aquatic life?
4. Have you experienced seeing coral in their natural habitat?

Coffee Can Help You Live Longer

B2 – Upper Intermediate

A cup of coffee has always been a part of a lot people’s morning routine. It could definitely awake our senses and boost our energy. Now, coffee drinkers have more reasons to drink that fresh cup.

Read the article on how coffee can help you live longer.

http://www.breakingnewsenglish.com/1511/151119-coffee.html

Discussion Questions:

  1. Are you a coffee drinker? How many cups do you drink each day?
  2. How healthy do you think coffee is?
  3. Why might coffee reduce the incidence of suicides?
  4. How do you feel about certain coffee shops like Starbucks?

Corporate Team Building

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Team building activities are a great way to foster and encourage teamwork. With activities designed specifically to address workplace issues, corporate team buildings can prove to be beneficial.

Listen to the podcast below and try to express your thoughts about corporate team building.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english/ep-160310

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think about corporate team building activities?
  2. What is your idea of an effective corporate team building?
  3. Talk about a memorable team building event you’ve ever had.
  4. How is group unity/teamwork encouraged in your company?
  5. Mary Kay Ash said, “People are definitely a company’s greatest asset.“. Share your thoughts on this.