B1 – Intermediate
People have done marvelous things in order to be able to live longer. But it is still a fact that women have a longer life expectancy that men.
Read the article below and be ready to answer the questions that follow.
Women live longer than men. It’s true in most countries, and has been a known fact since the 18th century. Studies to discover the possible reasons have been done, and there are many possible explanations. Some reasons include work habits, stress, diet, and bad genes. But a new idea suggests something different. Men have shorter life spans because attracting a partner takes a lot of energy, which reduces the number of years a man lives.
Daniel Kruger at the University of Michigan suggests that many animals advertise their suitability to females. For example, some animals butt heads. Other animals have beautiful feathers. Human males compete for money, property, and social status. If a man has money and social status, they show their ability to provide food, clothes, education, and so on for a future family.
But what about men with less money or power?
Another study explained that young, single men often take risks. They are also more aggressive and hold back their emotions. These actions have the same effect as money and social status.
Both studies conclude that women carefully select a partner, because of the survival and success of their children. All of the energy which is used to impress women means shorter life spans for men.
Source: headsupenglish.com
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “suitability” mean? “Daniel Kruger at the University of Michigan suggests that many animals advertise their suitability to females.” Use this word in a sentence.
- What does “hold back” mean? “They are also more aggressive and hold back their emotions.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
- What does “take a lot of something” mean? “Men have shorter life spans because attracting a partner takes a lot of energy, which reduces the number of years a man lives.” Use this expression in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- Do you agree with the article’s findings? Why/not?
- Were you surprised by the article’s findings? Why/not?
- The lifespan of women has been decreasing recently. Why do you think so?
- Is it possible to limit the risks young men take? Why do / don’t you think so?
- Why do you think young men take so many risks?
