Tag: People and Human Interest

What is Success?

B1 – Intermediate 

Perhaps, each person has his or her own definition of success. For some, it is about being always on top, while for others, it just means to have family and friends and a job.

What is Success? – Interview

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to live paycheck to paycheck” mean, “Success is also the ability that you’re not living paycheck to paycheck.” Use this idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “rainy day” mean here, “You know, you can also save up money for a rainy day.” Use this term in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “well taken care of” mean? “ One of the big things for me, though, is having enough money to support my family. Uh, so I have a child. So making sure that he is well taken care of. ” Use this phase in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. For you, what is success?
  2. What is your biggest success so far?
  3. Talk about a moment when you were on the brink of success, but failed.
  4. What must a person do when they fail?
  5. We can have successes every day, especially at work or in our hobbies. What are your successes for today at work and in your hobbies? How do you feel about it?

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.

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.

Music Festivals Are Becoming Less Popular

B1 – Intermediate 

Very famous music festivals like Coachella, Burning Man, and Lollapalooza have seen some decrease in ticket sales. Live events such as these seems to be getting less interest from its fans.

All-inclusive festival deals can be for several hundred dollars or even up to 1000 dollars.

However, with the increasing costs of travel and the tickets, people would rather spend that amount on other activities.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about the music festivals becoming less popular.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/music-festivals-are-becoming-less-popular-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “lodging” mean? “Festivals can cost several hundred dollars or even up to 1000 dollars for a full experience, including transportation and lodging.” Use this word in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  2. What does “stream” mean? “Many prefer to stream concerts or join virtual festivals on gaming platforms like Fortnite and Roblox.” Use this word in a sentence. 
  3. What does “take place” mean? “In 2024, over 1,100 festivals took place in the US, but around 40 were canceled.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the reasons music festivals are becoming less interesting for fans?
  2. What are your thoughts on music festivals becoming less popular?
  3. Share your opinion on this, “Some fans now prefer to spend that money on other things than a music festival.”
  4. Is the same thing happening in your country? Why do you think this is?
  5. Talk about a time you went to a music festival.

Grow a Garden Game Breaks Record

B1 – Intermediate 

Grow a Garden is a horticultural-themed game. On June 14, 2025, the game broke the record for having the most number of users who were simultaneously online at the same time. This is more than the 14.3 million that the famous game Fortnite has set previously.

Read the article about how Grow a Garden broke the record for concurrent users.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2506/250623-grow-a-garden.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to break the record for something” mean? “An online gardening game has broken the record for the most users being online at the same time.” Use this idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  2. What does “to be fueled by someone/something” mean? “The game’s owners said its success is fueled by vibrant social interactions.“ Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  3. What does “to unlock something” mean? “They can also unlock rare seeds, exotic crops, and underwater gardens and magical forests.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear the word “garden”?
  2. Share your reaction and opinion about this news.
  3. What do you think about this game? Would you be interested in trying to play it? Why or why not?
  4. Experts believe Grow a Garden may not lead to a love of gardening. What is your opinion about this?
  5. Have you ever played any simulation game like “Grow a Garden”? Talk about how to play that game and why you liked it.

The Weirdest Dictator in History

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Turkmenistan is a country in Central Asia with huge natural gas wealth, but its former leader, Saparmurat Niyazov, ruled in ways that shocked the world. Known as Turkmenbashi, he filled the country with golden statues of himself, renamed months after his book, and banned things like ballet, gold teeth, and even dogs in the capital city.

His rule wasn’t just strange, it affected people’s lives. Hospitals and libraries were shut down outside the capital, and people were expected to read his book Ruhnama to pass driving tests. This video explores how someone can use total power not just to lead, but to shape a country around their personality.

To learn more about Turkmenbashi, watch the full video.

Vocabulary Questions

  1. What does “to hold someone back” mean in the sentence, “Yet, this adversity didn’t hold him back.“? Use it in a sentence. Give a synonymous phrase.
  2. What does “to descend into chaos” mean? “The nation descended into chaos.” Use it in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  3. What does “to come to an abrupt end” mean? “His reign came to an abrupt end.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions

  1. What are your thoughts on some unusual things that Turkmenbashi did while in power?
  2. Do you think having too much power can be dangerous for leaders? Why or why not?
  3. What might life be like for people living in a country with many banned activities?
  4. Can you think of other historical figures who used their power in strange or extreme ways? Talk about them.

People in Denmark Trust Each Other

B1 – Intermediate 

Trust and responsibility are some of the most important foundations in Denmark’s society.

A free kayak, a human library, and a bakery without a cashier are a few examples of just how much the Danes trust each other a lot.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about how much they trust one another in Denmark.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/people-in-denmark-trust-each-other-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “the catch is” mean here, “For example, you can rent a kayak for free with GreenKayak, but the catch is that you must collect trash while paddling through the canals.” Use this idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “to play a key role” mean? “In Denmark, trust plays a key role in society, especially in Copenhagen.“ Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  3. What does “to rely on someone/something” mean? “The system relies on people returning the kayaks without damage, which shows how trust works in Denmark.” Use this expression in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why is it important to have trust for one another in a community/society?
  2. Do have trust in humanity? Why or why not?
  3. If the initiatives mentioned in the audio were done in your country, do you think most people will be honest enough? Explain.
  4. How much do you think people in your country trust each other?Give examples on how people in your city or country show trust for each other.
  5. What are some ways that people can build trust with each other?
  6. How important is trust in your job? Speak about how you and your colleagues show that you trust each other.

The First Lawyer with Down Syndrome

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Ana Victoria Espino is a remarkable individual who is making history as the first lawyer with Down Syndrome. Her journey is not just a personal achievement but also a significant step forward for the representation of individuals with disabilities in professional fields. 

In recent years, awareness and acceptance of people with disabilities have increased, but there is still much work to be done. Ana Victoria’s accomplishments highlight the possibilities that lie ahead when barriers are broken down. 

Read the article and hear a little story about her journey.

https://www.latintimes.com/meet-ana-victoria-espino-latina-making-history-first-lawyer-down-syndrome-556529


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is a “shadow professor”? “However, her determination, coupled with the invaluable support of a dedicated shadow professor, helped her navigate the rigorous demands of her legal studies.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “to break down barriers” mean? “For Espino and her parents, her journey through university was not just about earning a degree; it was about breaking down barriers and setting a precedent for others with similar conditions.” Use it in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  3. What does “coupled with” mean?”However, her determination, coupled with the invaluable support of a dedicated shadow professor, helped her navigate the rigorous demands of her legal studies.” Use it in a sentence.


Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your thoughts on Ana Victoria’s achievements.
  2. What inspired Ana Victoria to pursue a law degree, and how did she overcome the challenges she faced during her studies?
  3. How does Ana Victoria’s achievement challenge societal perceptions of individuals with Down Syndrome or people with disabilities in general?
  4. What lessons can educational institutions learn from Ana Victoria’s experience to better support students with disabilities?
  5. How prepared do you think the education system in your country is for students with specific needs? Talk about it.