Tag: Reading

Disney Cuts Hundreds of Jobs

B1 – Intermediate 

Disney is a company that is very famous all over the world. Aside from the theme parks in different countries, they also own other companies including Pixar, Marvel Studios, ESPN, National Geographic, and ABC News. 

The Walt Disney Company needs to fire hundreds of their employees worldwide. Disney’s is cutting jobs in order to reduce their costs by $7.5 billion annually.

They have already laid off more than 8,000 workers since 2023.

Read the article about Disney’s job cuts.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2506/250605-disney-job-cuts.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to cut jobs” mean? “The Walt Disney Company is cutting hundreds of jobs.” Use this expression in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms.
  2. What does “at a rapid pace” mean? “As our industry transforms at a rapid pace, we continue to evaluate ways to efficiently manage our businesses, while fuelling the…creativity and innovation that consumers value  and expect from Disney.“ Use this phrase in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms.
  3. What does “household name” mean? “ It owns the animation companies Pixar and Marvel Studios, as well as household names like ESPN, National Geographic, and ABC News.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear “Disney”?
  2. Share your reaction and opinion about this news.
  3. What do you think is the indication of Disney doing a lot of job cuts?
  4. The CEO of Disney, Bob Iger, said the cuts would keep the company healthy. What is your opinion on this?
  5. Have you ever experienced job cuts in the companies that you’ve worked for? Share something about that situation.

Global Birth Rate Crisis

B1 – Intermediate 

The world is home to more than 8 billion people. In the past, the United Nations estimated that by the year 2100, the population is going to be 10.8 billion.

In contrary to that, a recent report released by the The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) says the world has a problem because the birth rates are shrinking. The world’s population is falling due to different reasons.

Read the article about the UN’s report on the world’s birth rate crisis.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2506/250612-global-birth-rates-crisis.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “falling birth rate” mean? “Falling birth rates and increased longevity are creating many problems.” Use this expression in a sentence.  Give a synonym or similar expression.
  2. What does “to struggle with something” mean? “Many countries are [struggling] with ageing and shrinking populations, labour shortages, and rising healthcare and pension costs.” Use this phrase in a sentence. 
  3. What does “family-friendly policy” mean? “The UN said one solution to the crisis is to create “family-friendly policies, such as affordable childcare and paid leave for all carers.” Use this phrase in a sentence. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your opinion on this news.
  2. What are the reasons for the falling birth rates across the world and what are its consequences?
  3. Do you have the same problem in your country? Do you have family-friendly policies? Talk about it.
  4. What is your opinion on giving all carers a pay?
  5. Many couples want children, but they cannot afford them. Share your insights on this.

Dry Begging

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Not all requests in relationships sound like “Can you help me with this?” Sometimes, they slip out as offhand comments, exaggerated sighs, or quiet complaints. This subtle, often unconscious way of asking for support is known as dry begging — and many of us do it without even realizing.

Read on to understand what dry begging really is.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/what-is-dry-begging_l_6840a185e4b02322acee0907

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to hint at something” means? “If you feel lonely, consider how to ask your partner to spend more time with you instead of hinting at it.” Use this in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “meant for the long haul” mean? “While it can feel easier than directly asking for what you want, dry begging really isn’t meant for the long haul.” Make a sentence with this idiom. Give a synonym.
  3. What’s the meaning of “the benefit of the doubt”? “It’s not always manipulative — it certainly can be — but I like to give people the benefit of the doubt.” Use this in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why do you think people rely on indirect communication like dry begging, even when it often leads to misunderstandings?
  2. What are the risks and benefits of expressing needs indirectly versus directly? Can indirect communication ever be effective?
  3. How would you handle it if you noticed a friend or partner was dry begging for your attention or help?
  4. What’s your opinion on this statement: “You can’t fix a behavior if you don’t know it exists.”?

Infant to Receive Personalized Gene Therapy Treatment

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Researchers at the National Institutes of Health have made a significant breakthrough by successfully treating an infant suffering from a rare genetic disorder that was once deemed untreatable, using a customized gene therapy. This cutting-edge treatment specifically addresses the faulty gene responsible for the illness, providing new hope where conventional therapies have not succeeded. The procedure involves using an engineered virus to deliver healthy copies of the gene directly into the patient’s cells. Prior to testing in humans, thorough laboratory and animal studies confirmed the treatment’s safety and potential benefits. This achievement represents a major advancement in the fight against rare genetic diseases through personalized medical interventions. Additionally, it highlights the crucial role that rare disease databases play in facilitating the development of individualized therapies.

Read the article to know more about personalize gene therapy treatment.

https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/infant-rare-incurable-disease-first-successfully-receive-personalized-gene-therapy-treatment

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “monogenic disease” mean? “This therapy targets the underlying cause of the infant’s monogenic disease, which is traditionally considered incurable.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “viral vector” mean? “If the treatment uses a viral vector to introduce corrected genetic material into the patient’s cells.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “immunogenicity” mean? “Researchers carefully monitored the patient for any signs of immunogenicity, which could affect treatment success.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How might gene therapy change the future of medicine?
  2. Do you think gene therapy could eventually eliminate some genetic diseases entirely? Why or why not?
  3. Would you consider gene therapy if it was available to treat a genetic condition you or someone you know had? Why or why not?
  4. How might personalized medicine affect healthcare costs and accessibility?
  5. What ethical concerns could arise from personalized genetic treatments?

Breadcrumbing at Work

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In today’s fast-paced professional world, breadcrumbing isn’t just a strategy—it’s often used as a way to cope or stay afloat. Whether we mean to or not, most of us have played a part in breadcrumbing—whether as a boss, a colleague, or a job candidate. It’s become a common part of workplace behavior, often without us even noticing.
So what is breadcrumbing, really—and is it possible you’re engaging in it without knowing?

Read the article about breadcrumbing at work.

Breadcrumbing at work – why everyone is doing it (yes, even you)!

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to follow through on one’s own words” mean? “The same applies to breadcrumbing at work, where a company, employee, or job seeker will give just enough time, attention, or talk to suggest they are totally interested and committed but they never actually follow through on their words.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “buzzword” mean? “So, is breadcrumbing even a thing or just a buzzword doing the rounds?” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “to keep someone/something warm” mean? “For example, as a recruiter there are many occasions where clients ask me to ‘keep a candidate warm’ after an interview because they cannot make an immediate decision.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How is breadcrumbing different from normal delays or bureaucracy at work?
  2. Do you think breadcrumbing is more common in certain industries or roles?
  3. Have you ever experienced breadcrumbing at work or during a job search?
  4. Do you think breadcrumbing is a form of workplace manipulation? Why or why not?

America First Could End the Age of Arbitrage

B2 – Upper Intermediate

President Donald Trump’s renewed “America First” agenda in 2025 is disrupting decades of globalization by targeting international tax and regulatory strategies. Proposals include imposing a 25% tariff on Apple if it doesn’t manufacture iPhones domestically and a 50% levy on imported steel and aluminum. These measures aim to dismantle complex international systems of tax, regulatory, and financial arbitrage that U.S. multinationals have long utilized to reduce domestic tax liabilities. For instance, pharmaceutical companies often report minimal profits in the U.S. while declaring substantial gains abroad, and insurers shift liabilities to jurisdictions like Bermuda for lighter regulations.

Read the article to know more about the proposed provision to tax foreign investors in U.S. assets could further affect global capital flows, potentially destabilizing international finance. While these policies seek to reinforce domestic equity, they risk undermining the foundational pillars of the global economic and financial system.

https://www.reuters.com/breakingviews/why-america-first-could-end-age-arbitrage-2025-06-06/?

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “ceding reserve” mean? ” The industrial-scale transfer of life insurance policies by U.S. insurers to offshore jurisdictions – a process known as “ceding reserves” – provides a timely example.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “golden goose” mean? “They can also short tax havens and lightly regulated jurisdictions in the anticipation that the golden geese will be flying home.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “shadow bank” mean? “This is the edifice of international finance underpinned by the U.S. dollar. In a recent lecture, Hyun Song Shin of the Bank for International Settlements explained how, before 2008, liquidity in international markets was supplied by so-called shadow banks issuing private credit instruments.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think prioritizing domestic production through tariffs is beneficial for a country’s economy in the long run or does it do more harm than good?
  2. How do you feel about taxing foreign investors in U.S. assets? Could that strengthen or weaken the U.S. economy?
  3. If you were running a global company, how would you respond to policies that limit tax and regulatory advantages abroad?
  4. Do you think the rest of the world will follow suit with their own “first” policies, or will they push back against this kind of economic nationalism?
  5. Is it fair for multinational corporations to shift profits and liabilities to lower-tax countries, or should they be taxed more strictly where they operate?

Trump-Musk Feud Slams Stocks

B2 – Upper Intermediate

On June 5, 2025, global financial markets reacted sharply to a public dispute between U.S. President Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Trump’s threat to cut off government contracts with Musk-owned companies led to a 14% drop in Tesla’s shares, dragging down Wall Street indices. This incident overshadowed positive developments, such as a phone call between Trump and Chinese Premier Xi Jinping aimed at easing trade tensions.

Read the article to know why despite some recovery in stock prices since April, investor sentiment remains fragile amid ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainties.

https://www.investopedia.com/tesla-stock-sinks-as-trump-musk-relationship-falls-apart-in-public-spat-11748777

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to get one’s teeth into something” mean? “There was plenty of meaty news for investors to get their teeth into on Thursday – U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese Premier Xi Jinping’s long-awaited phone call, a rate cut and guidance from the European Central Bank, and more soft U.S. labor market data. “ Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “headwind” mean? “The headwinds haven’t gone away, but the ‘hopium’ rally could still have room to run. More on that below, but first, a roundup of the main market moves.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “thin gruel” mean? “The more optimistic take, which investors initially adopted, is that the talks were constructive and cordial, evidenced by the tone of Trump’s social media post and the fact that the two invited each other to visit. But that’s pretty thin gruel, and it wasn’t enough to support Wall Street’s initial gains.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think political figures should be more cautious when publicly criticizing business leaders, considering how it affects the stock market?
  2. How much influence do you believe Elon Musk has over investor confidence compared to political leaders like Trump?
  3. If you were an investor, would a public feud like this make you sell, hold, or buy more shares of a company like Tesla? Why?
  4. Do you think the market overreacts to high-profile drama, or is it justified given the financial risks involved?
  5. How should companies like Tesla respond when political leaders threaten their government contracts publicly?

Revenge Saving

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In a shift from the post-pandemic “revenge spending,” Americans are now prioritizing savings, a trend termed “revenge saving.” The U.S. personal savings rate rose to 4.9% in April 2025, up from 4.1% in January. This change is driven by economic uncertainties, including volatile tariff policies and inflation concerns. High-income households are cutting back on nonessential spending, focusing instead on building emergency funds.

Read the article to know why experts recommend automating savings and creating specific fund categories to enhance financial planning.

https://www.marketwatch.com/story/americans-are-revenge-saving-after-years-of-splurging-savings-are-a-great-way-to-have-some-certainty-f676a037?

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrasal verb “shake something up” mean? “After years of “revenge spending” in the wake of the pandemic, Americans have a new No. 1 financial priority in 2025 as the Trump administration’s ever-changing tariff policy unsettles the U.S. economic outlook, increases retail prices and shakes up the stock market.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “buckle down” mean? “New data indicate that Americans are buckling down when it comes to their finances. The personal savings rate, or the percentage of people’s disposable income that they save, increased to 4.9% in April from 4.1% in January, according to a report released Friday by the Bureau of Economic Analysis.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “sinking fund” mean? “Savers can also create “sinking funds,” or dedicated subaccounts, to better keep track of specific savings goals, whether it’s for an emergency, a vacation or a car.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you ever shifted your habits from spending to saving due to uncertainty like during the pandemic or inflation spikes?
  2. What do you think motivates people more to save: fear of the future or a specific financial goal?
  3. Do you believe “revenge saving” is sustainable long-term, or is it just another temporary financial trend?
  4. What are your thoughts on employer-sponsored emergency savings accounts?
  5. In your opinion, is automating savings a smart strategy, or do people need more flexibility with their finances right now?
  6. How do you personally balance treating yourself vs. preparing for economic uncertainty in your financial routine?

Airline Fees Turned Baggage into Billions

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

Back in the days, check-in luggage, seat selection, and meals were free on commercial flights. That was until the UK low-cost carrier FlyBe started charging for check-in baggage. Then, the other airlines started doing the same thing.

Fast forward to today, Air Canada and Southwest added to the list of airlines that charge passengers for check-in luggage. 

From extra fees including checked baggage, seat selection, wifi and lounge access, upgrades, and food and drink alone, airlines are expected to generate $145 billion this year. This constitutes to 14% of the sector’s total revenues.

Read the article about how airlines are now making billions from charging passengers for check-in luggage and other ancillary fees.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0qg3ylx2g9o

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “grey area” mean? “However, what determines “reasonable requirements” continues to be a grey area in need of an official ruling.” Use this expression in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  2. What does “ancillary” mean? “With Air Canada and Southwest the latest airlines to charge passengers for check-in luggage, the ballooning cost of such ancillary fees is provoking anger among politicians and consumer groups.” Use this word in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms.
  3. What does “to follow suit” mean? “Other budget carriers then quickly followed suit, with the so-called flag carriers or established airlines then also doing so, at least on shorter flights.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your reaction to and opinion to airlines charging passengers for check-in luggage? Also, share your opinion on airlines making billions from check-in baggage and other extra fees.
  2. Are junk fees from airlines also very common in your country? Talk about it.
  3. Share your thoughts on how the rise of the budget airlines contributed to the ballooning of junk fees from airlines.
  4. Do you think checked bags, seat selection, and meals should be for free on commercial flights? Explain.
  5. Share your opinion on the huge boom in the sales of carry-on luggage as a result of passengers’ refusal to pay for check-in bags. 

Watch Out for Summer Events Ticket Traps

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

A warming is being given to festival and concert enthusiasts. As they are usually so desperate to get their hands on much coveted tickets, they fall victims to ticket scams.

Read the article about summer events ticket traps and how to protect yourself from said scams.

https://www.lbc.co.uk/business/9a55a872f7214270a5976562e42541bb

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “coveted” mean? “Music fans desperate to get their hands on coveted tickets could be susceptible to scams.” Use this word in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms.
  2. What does “to get one’s hand on something” mean? “With many events taking place over the summer, fans desperate to get their hands on coveted tickets to see their favourite bands perform live could be susceptible to scams.“ Use this idiom in a sentence. Give 2 similar expressions.
  3. What does “to put right” mean? “Credit reference agencies can help to put right any damage done to reports.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your reaction to and opinion to this news?
  2. Have you ever been scammed buying tickets online? What happened? Or talk about your experience booking tickets online in general. 
  3. What can be done to avoid falling victims to ticket traps?
  4. Do you agree or disagree with this, “If a seller is offering you a bargain price for a ticket to a popular event, this could be a red flag.”? Why?
  5. Talk about your experience attending summer events.