Tag: First Certificate FCE

Emoji Impacts Relationship Outcomes

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Emojis aren’t just cute, they help couples feel closer. This is according to a new study that shows using emojis in messages can make romantic partners feel more connected and understood, even when they’re far apart.

Let’s review the findings to gain deeper insight into how emojis influence emotional connection.

https://phys.org/news/2025-07-emoji-impact-relationship-outcomes-reveals.html#:~:text=The%20use%20of%20emojis%20in%20text%20messaging%20improves,from%20the%20University%20of%20Texas%20at%20Austin,%20U.S.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “closeness” mean in this context, “The use of emojis in text messaging improves perceived responsiveness and thereby enhances closeness and relationship satisfaction.“? Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  2. What does “to move beyond something” mean? “Despite these caveats, the experimental design of this research helps to isolate the effects of emoji use on friendship dynamics, moving beyond the correlational approaches that dominate much of the existing literature.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  3. What does the verb “enrich” mean? “Defined as digital representations of emotions and ideas, emojis enrich text-based communication by conveying emotional nuance and increasing expressiveness.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What’s your take on what the research reveals?
  2. Are you an emoji fan when you’re texting? Which ones do you reach for most?
  3. Do you think emojis bring extra meaning to messages? Why or why not?
  4. Are there certain emojis you avoid using—or can’t stand seeing?
  5. What’s your go-to method for keeping up with friends or family, and why?

Chesterton’s Fence Theory

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Chesterton’s Fence is a principle of not destroying things without fully understanding the purpose of their existence. It is a principle that reminds us to think before we destroy or reform a tradition, law, or rule. If we were to remove such things without pondering their purpose, we might face some unintended consequences.

But where does this principle apply in other aspects of the world we live in.

To find out more about Chesterton’s defense of conservation, watch the video below.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “axe” mean here, “As a result, the firm makes pennies on the nuts, but spends thousands hiring new engineers, all because the reformer didn’t understand the purpose of the policy he axed.” Use this word to make your own sentence and give a synonym.
  2. Define “rule of thumb”. “Chesterton’s Fence is a simple rule of thumb that suggests that you should never destroy a fence, change a rule, or do away with a tradition until you understand why it’s there in the first place.” Use this term in a sentence and give a synonym.
  3. What does “to drop dead” mean? ” “And so millions of people hit noisy pots and pans to prevent sparrows from resting, with the goal of causing them to drop dead from exhaustion.” Use this idiom in a sentence and give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your thoughts on this statement, “If a fence exists, there is likely a reason for it.“
  2. Do you believe that the Chesterton’s Fence theory is a good principle to live by? Why or why not?
  3. What lessons can we learn from those who do not follow the principle?
  4. How can Chesterton’s Fence can be applied to everyday life, government, and business?
  5. Talk about a situation where someone ignored the idea of the Chesterton’s Fence and its unintended consequences.

Things You Need to Make It Through a Power Cut

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

On April 28, 2025, a massive power outage hit Spain and Portugal which resulted to disruption across said countries.

No one thought this could happen and so, no one was prepared enough for it. When there is no electricity and nothing works, how do we overcome?

Having experienced one of the worst power interruptions in history, people realized what things do they need in case of a power cut.

Read the article about some things we need to make it through a power cut.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwy6d0987r0o

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to piece something together” mean? “The complete loss of communication was the most confusing and concerning thing… we were only left to speculate as to the cause and piece together news from people in the neighbourhood.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms/similar expressions.
  2. What does “to get through something” mean in this context, “The power is out and nothing is working. How am I supposed to get through the day?” Use this expression in a sentence. Give another meaning of “get through”.
  3. What does “to go off” mean in this context, “We bought a lot of food that wasn’t going to go off, like tuna in cans, just in case.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give another meaning of “go off”.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you agree with the five things you need to make it through a blackout mentioned in the article? Which ones do you think are the most important and which one the least? What items would you add to this list and why?
  2. What helped you get on with your day during the massive blackout in your country?
  3. How did not having access to the internet make you feel?
  4. Is it necessary to have an emergency kit? Why or why not? Do you have one at home and why? 
  5. Share your thoughts on this statement, “This thing that happened was important to make us be more aware and be more conscious about our habits.”
  6. Do you agree or disagree, “Cash is king.”? Explain.

Venice Divided Over Bezos Wedding

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

The extravagant 3-day wedding party of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and journalist Lauren Sanchez in Venice had just come its conclusion.

While what was dubbed as “the wedding of the year” was thought to bring glitz and glamour and the much-needed high-quality tourism to the delicate city on the water, some citizens feel that billionaires come to Venice and turn the city into their “amusement park”.

So, as the wedding festivities took place, Venetians took to the streets to protest against issues such as over-tourism, climate change, and capitalism.

Read the article about Jeff Bezos’ lavish wedding in Venice and what the Venetians make of it.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5ylk5nznkyo

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “a drop in the lagoon [ originally ocean ]” mean? “As for the 30 million euros the wedding might net the city in other ways – activists call that “a drop in the lagoon” for one of the richest men on earth.” Use this idiom in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms/similar expressions.
  2. What does “what to make of someone/something” mean? “Spotted heading into Harry’s Bar for lunch on Saturday, Bezos blew kisses towards the cameras when a local journalist asked what he made of the protests.” Use this expression in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms/similar expressions.
  3. What does “to bring something to a halt” mean? “It seems, however, that talk of this wedding bringing the city to a halt was overblown.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms/similar expressions.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on the Venetians protesting Bezos’ wedding?
  2. What do you think about rich people choosing a specific city to hold big events such as their weddings? What impact do you think it has on the city?
  3. How would you feel about your city being chosen as a venue for a very important event? What could this event bring to your town?
  4. Share your insights on this, “The fears of Venice becoming a tourist playground, forcing locals out of town, are no exaggeration.”
  5. According to one resident of Venice, “I think there should be more people like Bezos here. Right now, we get trash tourism and Venice doesn’t deserve that.” What do you think about her statement?

The Silent Agony of Getting Your Food First

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Getting your food first might feel lucky, but it can also be awkward. You’re hungry, but unsure if it’s rude to start eating before everyone else. It’s a small moment that shows how even meals come with their own quiet rules.

Let’s read the article to learn more about why this simple dining moment can feel so uncomfortable when you’re the first to be served.

https://scienceblog.com/the-silent-agony-of-getting-your-food-first

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to show restraint” mean? “… even when those same people wouldn’t expect their dining companions to show such restraint.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. Explain the phrase “in the company of others“. “The decision of when to start eating food in the company of others is a very common dilemma.” Use it in your own sentence.
  3. Define the phrase “twinge of guilt“. “When you’re the one with hot food cooling on your plate, you can feel every twinge of guilt, every moment of social awkwardness, and every benefit of appearing considerate.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What’s your take on the study’s conclusions?
  2. What’s the customary practice in your country when it comes to starting a meal? Do people wait until all are served?
  3. How do you react when others start eating before your food has been served?
  4. Which table etiquette rules are most valued where you’re from?
  5. What distinct dining customs have stood out to you during your travels?

How Important Is Politeness?

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

From a very young age, we are taught that being polite is good manner. 

We teach children to be polite because it’s the rule of the society. This is so they do not come across as rude or ill-mannered.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about the importance of politeness.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_2025/ep-250605

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “well disposed to someone” mean? “You don’t see him as insulting you, and you’re actually quite kindly disposed to that person.“ Use this phrase in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms/similar expressions.
  2. What does “mind one’s Ps and Qs” mean? “When her daughter didn’t say hello to an adult, Louise told her daughter to mind her Ps and Qs.” Use this idiom in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms/similar expressions.
  3. What does “embarrassed” mean? “So, imagine how embarrassed she felt when her two-year-old daughter repeatedly ignored the cook at her nursery school and refused to say hello.” Use this word in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms/similar expressions.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your definition of being polite and how important is politeness to you? 
  2. Share your thoughts on this, “Politeness is subjective.” Elaborate and cite examples.
  3. Are people from your country perceived to be very polite? Share something about this.
  4. What are some of the first things parents teach children in your country on how to be polite?
  5. Talk about a time someone did not show politeness towards you.

The Infected Blood Scandal

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

From the late 1970s until 1985, patients with hemophilia were treated with contaminated blood products that were provided by the NHS in the UK.

The said patients later contracted hepatitis C and HIV. Over 3,000 of those patients have died.

The treatment for the patients who were mostly haemophiliacs used pharmaceutical products called Factor 8 and Factor 9 concentrates. They were imported from the US. 

The UK government has launched an official investigation of this grave public health issue hoping to help the patients and their families.

Read the article about the contaminated hemophilia blood products scandal.

https://www.bbc.com/news/health-48596605

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “arms-length body” mean? “It set up an independent arms-length body called the Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA) to administer payments.“ Use this term in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  2. What does “interim payment” mean? “In October 2024, the government said more relatives of those who died could also apply for £100,000 interim payments if the money had not already been claimed.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  3. What does “on one’s side” mean? “People infected and affected do not have time on their side.” Use this idiom in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms or similar expressions.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your insights about the contaminated hemophilia blood products scandal.
  2. Do you agree that the families of victims should receive a payout as a form of settlement? What is your opinion?
  3. Talk about another serious public health problem that you know of. 

Attacks on Iran Could Affect Oil Prices and Energy Bills

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Oil prices have recently gone up after reports of an attack on Iran. The explosions were heard in the city of Isfahan, and some countries believe that Israel was responsible. Although there was no serious damage, the news caused fear that conflict in the Middle East might grow.

When there is tension in this region, it often affects energy prices around the world. This is because many important oil-producing countries are located there. After the news, the price of oil and gas increased quickly in different parts of the world, including Europe.

Read this article to learn why this attack matters, how it affected energy prices, and what could happen next.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cg5vr2rvzg4o

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “price cap” mean? “The energy regulator, Ofgem, has already announced the energy price cap for July until September.” Make a sentence with this phrase. Give a synonym.
  2. What is “household bill“? “Craig Lowrey, principal consultant at Cornwall Insights, says household bills are safe from any volatility for now. But if this conflict continues past September, household bills could rise.” Make a sentence with this. Give a similar expression.
  3. What does “financial buffer” mean? “”Many rely heavily on Middle Eastern oil and gas imports and lack the financial buffers to absorb sudden price spikes.”” Use this in a sentence. Give a similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think it’s fair that people in peaceful countries pay more when this happens? Explain your thoughts.
  2. How could rising oil prices affect your country or your personal life?
  3. How does war or conflict in one place affect the whole world today?
  4. Do you think oil prices should be controlled by the government? Why or why not?
  5. Do you think news reports make people too afraid during international conflicts? Why or why not?

Pop Mart Turned Collectible Dolls into an Empire

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Pop Mart, a Chinese collectibles company, has surged in popularity by turning mystery into a business model. Its blind box toys—where buyers don’t know what figure they’ll get—drive most of its revenue and have sparked a global craze. Exclusive collaborations with artists like Kasing Lung (creator of Labubu) have helped the brand expand rapidly, with overseas sales tripling in 2024 and plans to nearly double its U.S. store count by 2025.

The model’s surprise-and-collect appeal draws comparisons to gambling, prompting new regulations in Asia. In response, Pop Mart is diversifying into plush toys, accessories, and digital content to sustain growth.

Watch the video to learn how Pop Mart blends art, scarcity, and retail strategy to build a booming global collectibles empire.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “splurge” mean? “When you decide to splurge on a Pop Mart blind box, which could cost around 20 to $30, you don’t go in totally blind.” Give two (2) synonyms and use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the phrasal verb “lean into” mean? “Pop Mart didn’t invent blind box packaging. But it is successfully leaning into what customers like about it.” Give a similar expression and use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “to double one’s footprint” mean? “The company plans to open more than 20 stores in the US by the end of 2025, nearly doubling its footprint in the country.” Give a similar expression and use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you ever bought something just for the surprise or emotional thrill, like a blind box or loot crate? What drew you to it?
  2. Why do you think people are so willing to spend money on collectibles they don’t necessarily need?
  3. Do you think the appeal of mystery in products like blind boxes enhances the experience—or encourages impulsive spending?
  4. How do you feel about the comparison between blind box shopping and gambling? Where would you draw the ethical line?
  5. Do you think this kind of trend-driven consumerism can last, or will people eventually lose interest as the novelty fades?
  6. How would you personally balance collecting for fun versus spending wisely in today’s economic climate?

The Battle to Own 7-Eleven in Japan

B2 – Upper Intermediate

7‑Eleven in Japan is different from a typical convenience store. It serves fresh, high-quality meals like bento boxes, fruit smoothies, and onigiris. It also offers services like package delivery and banking, thanks to an advanced supply chain system. Other countries haven’t managed to copy this model, which is why 7‑Eleven remains especially popular in Japan.

To learn more about what makes 7‑Eleven in Japan unique, and why a big takeover bid from Circle K’s parent company matters, watch the full video.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to struggle to replicate” mean? “Unlike in the US … 7‑Eleven perfected its model in Japan, it struggled to replicate it overseas.” Use it in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  2. What does “to make a bid to do something” mean? “Circle K operator Couche‑Tard making a bid to take over rival and 7‑Eleven owner Seven & I (Holdings).” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “revamp” mean? “In the US, 7-11 has been revamping their stores, introducing new products, improving the food quality, as well as improving the supply chain.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What makes 7‑Eleven in Japan different from convenience stores in your country?
  2. Why do you think 7‑Eleven’s model worked so well in Japan?
  3. How does a good supply chain help stores offer fresh food every day?
  4. What do you think will happen if Couche-Tard successfully buys 7‑Eleven’s parent company Seven & I?
  5. Would you return to a store if it offered fresh meals and services like package delivery? Why or why not?