Tag: First Certificate FCE

New Year’s Resolutions Therapists Make

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Ever aspired to experience the delight that comes with accomplishing something?

As the start of the year opens up like a new chapter in a book of infinite possibilities, New Year’s resolutions are a subject that often triggers lively conversations.

The majority of individuals hold the view that resolutions are basically targets that are of little significance to fulfill, but have you taken note of the people who sincerely persist them? They seemed more upbeat and enthusiastic about life, especially to themselves. However, in a world that is frequently marked by complexity, the beneficial transformation along with individual growth that resolutions promise are nearly impossible to achieve.

This article breaks down the process of creating simple, yet extremely effective New Year’s resolutions. Click on the link to learn more about the four New Year’s resolutions therapists make every year.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/therapists-new-years-resolutions_l_6580d97de4b0e142c0bee637

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “add all of those pieces together” mean in the sentences, “When you add all of those pieces together, a lot of times the resolution ends up being such a contentious point in that individual’s life.”? Use this in your own sentence.
  2. What does “carve out” mean in the sentence, “I think the best way that I would look at a resolution is what do I want to carve out for myself that I would love to see happen or even commence within the new year.”? Use this in your own sentence.
  3. What does “fill your cup” mean in the sentence, “It’s really looking at filling your cup first and making sure you’re full so that you can then be able to help and be of service to others.”? Use this in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Tell me about your views on the concept of New Year’s resolutions.
  2. What specific goals or resolutions do you plan to set for the upcoming year? Please share.
  3. How do you approach the process of creating feasible New Year’s resolutions? Tell me more.
  4. Have you reflected on your past resolutions and their outcomes? What did you learn?
  5. How do you plan to integrate self-care into your routine as part of your New Year’s resolutions?

Protect Your Home When Going On Holidays

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Most people are excited when they are about to embark on a long-awaited holiday trip. They tend to have a list of things they need for this journey. This list is not limited to the things you need to bring or the travel itinerary. Sometimes, it includes the things you need to do for the things you have to leave behind.

Let’s read the article and know more tips on how to keep your home safe while you are enjoying your holiday elsewhere.

https://www.english-online.at/news-articles/living/how-to-protect-your-home-when-you-go-on-holidays.htm

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “keep in mind” mean? “Here are some things that you should keep in mind when you go on a holiday.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  2. Define the word “burglar“. “Have motion sensitive lights outside your house that keep burglars away when you are not at home.” Use it in your own sentence.
  3. What is the meaning of the adjective “portable“? “Some standard systems can be controlled via your smartphone or portable computer.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How do you try to protect your home when you are away on holiday?
  2. Among the tips mentioned in the article, which ones do you find the most and least helpful? Why?
  3. Have you heard of cases where people’s homes were broken into while they were on holiday? What happened?
  4. What are some fears you have while you are away on holidays? Why?

Anesthesia Is Causing More Deaths

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The administration of anesthesia makes the surgery emotionally and physically comfortable for the patient. It works as a pain blocker, anxiety reliever, and some types of anesthesia can put the patient in a state of unconsciousness. These are the benefits of using anesthesia during a surgery. However, there are cases where it could actually lead to death.

Let’s read the article and know more about the increasing number of anesthesia-related deaths.

https://www.english-online.at/news-articles/health-medicine/anaesthesia-causing-more-deaths.htm

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the verb “undergo” mean? “The reason for this is that, because of modern medicine, more and more older patients undergo operations.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  2. Define the word “means“. “ Ancient  civilizations gave patients plants like  poppy  or alcohol to stop pain. In the 1800s  laughing gas  was discovered   as a  means  of anaesthesia.” Use it in your own sentence.
  3. What does the word “arise” mean? “When  complications due to  anaesthesia  arise , the whole operating team must react quickly to get the situation under control.” Give two (2) synonyms and use ‘arise’ in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why are there more deaths caused by anesthesia?
  2. How does the administration of anesthesia take place before the operation?
  3. According to the article, what were the other forms of anesthesia in the past? Cite some of them.
  4. Name any side effects and risks associated with the administration of anesthesia that you know of.
  5. What concerns you most about anesthesia?

The Most Common COVID Symptoms This Holiday Season

B2 – Upper Intermediate

A new worry as the holiday season approaches is the JN.1 variant, a unique strain of COVID-19 that is spreading throughout the US. This article explores the most widespread symptoms that physicians are seeing in this dynamic environment right now.

Since JN.1 has surfaced, it is mandatory that we stay mindful of the unique traits of this variant to fully understand what makes it rare. Read the article to check out the symptoms linked to this novel strain and acquire important knowledge for managing the COVID-19 pandemic’s ongoing difficulties over the holiday season.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/covid-symptoms-doctors-winter_l_6582f87ae4b085747d67e8c9

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “uptick” mean in the sentence, “Behind this uptick is a new strain called JN.1, which accounted for 21.4% of cases in the United States as of Dec. 9, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.”? Use this in your own sentence.
  2. What does “at the global level” mean in the sentence, “The World Health Organization has named JN.1 a “variant of interest,” but also noted that “the additional public health risk posed by JN.1 is currently evaluated as low at the global level.” ”? Use this in your own sentence.
  3. What does “red flag” mean in the sentence, “So what are the main red flags to watch for this winter? ”? Use this in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the most common symptoms that doctors are observing with the emergence of the JN.1 variant? Please tell me about them.
  2. How does the JN.1 variant differ from previous strains of COVID-19, and why is it important to be aware of these distinctions? Please elaborate.
  3. How can individuals stay informed about the unique traits of the JN.1 variant to better understand its impact on public health?
  4. What measures does the article suggest for managing and mitigating the potential risks associated with the JN.1 variant?
  5. Is there any information in the article about the origins or characteristics of the JN.1 variant that may be influencing its spread during the holiday season? Please share.

Confidence Dumping

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Ever catch yourself over-enthusiastically sharing your achievements or being nudged about boasting? If the desire for acknowledgment and external validation feels familiar, you might be engaging in “confidence dumping,” as labeled by TikTok creator Connor DeWolfe. Recognizing this behavior is the first step and there’s no need for shame.

Read this article to learn more about “confidence dumping”.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/what-is-confidence-dumping_l_653a5e99e4b0c855610460a1

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “cut someone some slack” mean? “It’s important to cut folks some slack and assume the best intentions.” Make a sentence with this idiom.
  2. Define “along the lines of something”. “Along the lines of the latter, put a rock, penny or something else you want to collect in a jar.” Use this in a sentence.
  3. What is the meaning of “counterintuitive”? “It might seem counterintuitive, but people with ADHD engage in this behavior when they are in a supportive environment with others where they feel they can be vulnerable and will not be judged.” Give two synonyms and make a sentence with “counterintuitive”.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on “confidence dumping”?
  2. Have you ever noticed instances when you or someone you know engage in “confidence dumping”? How does it make you feel?
  3. What are the potential negative impacts of being on the receiving end of “confidence dumping,” both personally and professionally?
  4. How does “confidence dumping” impact team dynamics, and what strategies can address it in a workplace?
  5. Can you think of a more positive and helpful way of conveying your accomplishments without resorting to confidence dumping?
  6. What are effective ways to feel validated or affirmed?

Cars Lose Their Value So Fast

B2 – Upper Intermediate

One of our largest lifetime investments may be a car. But unlike other investments like a house, a car’s value depreciates quite rapidly.

In what way and why?

Watch the video below to help you find out the answers to these questions.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to be underwater on a loan” mean? “A car owner is underwater on a loan if their loan is larger than what their car is worth.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and make your own sentence using the term ‘underwater on a loan’.
  2. How about the word “abate“? “A lot of those trends have abated since, but those odd times led to lasting changes in the post-pandemic world.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and make your own sentence using the term ‘abate’.
  3. Do you know what “rein in” means? “The Federal Reserve has raised interest rates in order to rein in inflation and that has made borrowing more expensive.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and make your own sentence using the term ‘rein in’.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the 3 main reasons mentioned in the video that causes car depreciation?
  2. Do you agree to these reasons why cars lose their value? Why or why not?
  3. Could you consider cars as investment? Why or why not?
  4. Which do you consider is the better choice between a new car or a used one? State your stance.
  5. What are different factors a buyer should consider before buying a car?

Energy Vampire Co-Worker

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Do you ever feel emotionally fatigued or drained after engaging with a certain coworker? You may be dealing with an “energy vampire,” a person who drains your energy and leaves you feeling empty. These energy-sapping colleagues can be tough to interact with.

Read the article to the signs your co-worker is an ‘energy vampire’ and how to set boundaries when one has to deal with them.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/energy-vampire-work-office_l_65679997e4b07b937ff3672c

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “lopsided” mean? “If it’s always lopsided in your favor, that could be a potential sign that you’re draining your co-workers.” Give two synonyms and make a sentence with “lopsided”.
  2. Explain the expression “to feed off of someone/something“. “Robinson looks like an ordinary human, but he is a superpowered vampire who feeds off of bothering and boring his colleagues.” Make a sentence using this idiom.
  3. What does “speed bump” mean here, “Thinking of them that way may help you see they are a person, just like you, but who had some speed bumps and poor guidance that resulted in this unfortunate interpersonal style,” so “knowing this may give you some more patience and compassion when interacting with them.”? Give two synonyms and make a sentence using ‘speed bump’.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are some common behaviors or traits exhibited by “energy vampire” co-workers that can drain your emotional energy in the workplace?
  2. Have you noticed a colleague who seems to drain the energy from the room? How is it like dealing with this person?
  3. What are ways for you to deal with these energy-draining colleagues in your daily work life?
  4. How do you keep your energy levels up at work?
  5. What can one do if their energy vampire boss is not listening to them or their requests?

Introverts Can Become Master Networkers

B2 – Upper Intermediate

A professional network can offer you many things, but perhaps the most talked about, is career growth. Research shows that people with stronger networks end up with higher salaries and more promotions. It makes sense. The more connected you are to people at different job levels, both inside and outside of your organization, the more likely you are to know about new opportunities when they arise.

If you’re feeling confused, anxious, or unsure about what networking really is, why it matters, and how to get started, here are some pieces of advice.

https://www.cnbc.com/2022/09/29/expert-networking-tips-for-introverts-from-coach-jevonya-allen.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to be cut out for something” mean? “There’s nothing wrong with having an introverted personality — and it certainly doesn’t mean you’re less cut out for a successful career.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “strong suit” mean? “While networking might not be your strong suit, Allen says it’s a skill you can pick up in a few small steps.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “to put forth” mean? “Consider avoiding events right after work, when you might be too tired to put forth your best effort.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think about the tips from the article?
  2. How easy is it for you to do networking at business events? 
  3. When you go to business gatherings, who do you want to meet and why?
  4. Which conversation at a business event was the most memorable for you? What did you learn from that encounter?
  5. How different do you think your conversations/networking with people/colleagues/peers from other countries would be and why is that?

Human-Centered Design

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Human-centered design is a way of solving problems, and it’s getting a lot of attention. This video shows you what human-centered design is all about and why it’s making waves. It explains how focusing on people can make a big difference in different areas or industries.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the idiom “on the fly” mean in the sentence, “The inspiration phase is about learning on the fly, opening yourself up to creative possibilities, and trusting that as long as you remain grounded in the desires of people you’re designing for, your ideas will evolve into the right solution.”? Give two synonyms and use this phrase in a sentence.
  2. What does the phrase “shore up” mean in the sentence, “During the implementation phrase, you’ll build partnerships, shore up your business model, and get your idea out into the world.”?  Give two synonyms and use this phrase in a sentence.
  3. What does the expression “to get one’s idea/s out into the world” mean in the sentence. “During the implementation phrase, you’ll build partnerships, shore up your business model, and get your idea out into the world.”?  Give two synonyms and use this phrase in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What makes human-centered design effective?
  2. How does human-centered design uniquely benefit users?
  3. Share successful examples of human-centered design applications.
  4. Has your company adopted human-centered design in its projects? Cite examples on how.
  5. Do you think this method can work for personal projects? Why or why not?

A Japanese Method to Relax

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Life moves pretty fast. If you need a quick breather, these Japanese relaxation techniques could be your new go-to. The video spills the beans on a five-minute calming session that could be a game-changer.

Check out the full video and get ready to relax in no time.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “take a toll” mean in the sentence “Excessive stress can take a toll on your life.”? Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the word “decisive” mean in the sentence “The ring finger is responsible for making you more decisive.”?  Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does the idiom “hustle and bustle” mean in the sentence “Get peace of mind in the middle of hustle and bustle.”?  Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What’s the Japanese relaxation hack all about?
  2. What are the benefits of a quick relaxation routine that make it worth exploring?
  3. Have you ever tried a similar relaxation method? Share your experiences.
  4. What are your struggles in finding time for relaxation?
  5. In what other situations could a quick relaxation trick come in handy?