Tag: Reading

IRS Tax Refund Scam

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Unfortunately, in the digital age, where technology pervades every aspect of our lives, scams and frauds have grown in sophistication.

The IRS tax refund scam is one such dangerous scheme that exploits taxpayers’ vulnerabilities. As tax season approaches, people must remain vigilant in distinguishing between reliable correspondence from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and savvy scammers attempting to steal sensitive information.

To avoid falling victim to these scams, it is crucial to be aware of certain red flags. Visit the link for additional information.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/tax-refund-scam-irs_l_65bbe017e4b05c8779f84c11

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “underway” mean in the sentence, “Tax season is underway, and unfortunately, so are the scams.”? Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘underway’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does “stakeholder liason” mean, “If you your tax data may have been compromised because you got fooled, you can report client data theft to your local stakeholder liaison.”? Use this in your own sentence.
  3. What does “red flag” mean in the sentence, “The biggest red flag of a suspicious IRS scam is in how the message got delivered to you.”? Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘red flag’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is the biggest red flag mentioned in the article that indicates a suspicious IRS scam?
  2. What are your thoughts on many organizations or government offices like the IRS communicating via nontraditional ways such as email, text, or social media?
  3. Have you ever encountered a tax refund scam, or do you know someone who has fallen victim to such fraudulent schemes? Please share.
  4. What precautions can one take to verify the legitimacy of communications claiming to be from the tax ministry during tax season?
  5. The article suggests creating an online account with the IRS for up-to-date information on taxes. Do you currently have such an account, and how do you feel about using online platforms for tax-related matters? Tell me more.
  6. Do you think the use of technology and social media has made people more susceptible to falling for IRS scams? Why or why not?

Micro-Acts of Joy

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In the pressures of everyday life, it’s easy to lose sight of the seemingly insignificant pleasures that surround us. But the key to joyfulness may be less difficult than you think.

It’s often the small things that make the biggest impact. From savoring a warm cup of coffee to taking a moment of solitude to reflect, or even just simply making a mindful choice to treat others with kindness and respect. These little things have the potential to unleash immense joy.

Click the link to learn how paying attention to these fleeting moments can transform our lives, making each day more wonderful and fulfilling.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/expert-backed-micro-acts-joy-happier_l_65b183bfe4b04d89950fbc46

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “zest for life” mean in the sentence, “During the cold days of winter and through the tough realities that many of us face on a daily basis, it’s hard to feel a zest for life.”? Use this in your own sentence.
  2. What does “bang for your buck” mean in the sentence, ““That is going to give you the biggest bang for your buck in terms of the investment of time and effort that you’re putting into it,” Bono said.””? Use this in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to get/be trapped in a cycle” mean in the sentence, “Otherwise, it’s easy to get trapped in the cycle of bad news.”? Use this in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Can you recall a recent experience of awe or wonder, such as being in nature or witnessing something creatively inspiring? Please share.
  2. In what ways do you practice gratitude, and how does it influence your perspective on life? Tell me more.
  3. Can you think of a recent situation where choosing kindness made a positive difference, either for you or someone else? Please share.
  4. How do you balance your attention between negative news and positive aspects of life to avoid getting trapped in a cycle of negativity bias?
  5. Reflecting on the article, what micro-acts of joy resonate with you, and how might you incorporate them into your daily life?

What Happens to Your Brain After You Turn 50

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Have you ever wondered what happens to your brain after reaching the big 5-0? Well, we have the inside scoop from medical professionals who explain what happens to your mental system once you reach your 50s.

Prepare for an easily understood process as we reveal the science underlying the transformations that the human brain undergoes as you go into the latter part of your life.

Visit the link to learn more about the natural shifts that accompany aging and uncover effective measures to proactively manage them.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/what-happens-brain-turn-50_l_65b135f6e4b0f55c6e31d156

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “slip one’s mind” mean in the sentence, “No matter our age, most of us are guilty of saying, “I must be getting old,” when we can’t quite find the words to describe something or an important item on our to-do lists slips our minds.”? Give 2 synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘slip one’s mind’ in a sentence.
  2. What does “narrow down” mean in the sentence, “It doesn’t mean you have Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia, but a specialist can help to narrow down the cause and any potential treatments or lifestyle changes that may be helpful,” he said.”? Give 2 synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘narrow down’ in a sentence.
  3. What does “down the road” mean in the sentence, “But as both Wint and Bredesen emphasized, lifestyle can make a huge difference in the rate at which your brain health declines, and whether you develop dementia down the road.”? Give 2 synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘down the road’ in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How does the article describe brain shrinkage in your 50s, and what impact does it have on accessing accumulated knowledge?
  2. How would you describe your current level of physical activity, and do you engage in regular, moderate aerobic exercise as suggested by doctors for brain health? Please share.
  3. In terms of social connections, how rich and meaningful is your in-person social network, and how do you believe it contributes to your overall well-being and brain health? Tell me more.
  4. Are there specific lifestyle changes you’ve made or are considering making based on the recommendations from doctors to support your brain health as you age? Please share.
  5. Looking ahead, what long-term strategies do you envision incorporating into your lifestyle to promote brain health throughout the aging process?

The World’s First Trillionaire

B1 – Intermediate 

According to Oxfam, an anti-poverty charitable organization, in about 10 years, the world will see its first trillionaire.

The Oxfam report revealed that the fortune of five of the world’s wealthiest has increased by more than 100% since 2020. Moreover, the top five billionaires also doubled their wealth. 

But there is a sharp contrast with the situation of almost five billion people who have become even poorer in the past couple of years.

Read the article about the growing wealth inequality. Be ready to answer the questions that follow.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2401/240118-trillionaire-2.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Define “wealth gap”. “Oxfam said the wealth gap between the rich and poor is growing.” Give 1-2 synonyms or similar expressions and use “wealth gap” in your own sentence.
  2. What does “to supercharge” mean, “The gap “supercharged” after the coronavirus pandemic.”? Give 1-2 synonyms or similar expressions and use “supercharge” in your own sentence.
  3. What does ”milestone” mean, ”The AP news agency said someone with a trillion-dollar milestone would “have the same value as oil-rich Saudi Arabia”.”? Give 1-2 synonyms or similar expressions and use “milestone” in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your opinion on this, “In the next ten years, the world will have its first trillionaire.”?
  2. Share your thoughts on this, “Almost five billion people have become poorer.”.
  3. How can the wealth gap between the rich and poor be reduced?
  4. Why do you think ‘The world will see a “decade of division”’’?
  5. Is there a huge wealth gap between the rich and the poor in your country? Talk about some circumstances where it is evident.

Signs of Burnout from a Job You Love

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Passion is one of the factors people consider when looking for a job. It’s a wonderful thing when your profession matches with your passion. Unfortunately, in certain cases, you will still experience burnout while doing what you enjoy the most.

Read this article to learn about the signs of burnout from a job you love.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/burnout-signs-symptoms_l_5cf143efe4b0e8085e390737

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “phone something in” mean in this context? “You now finish the day without a sense of accomplishment and find yourself “phoning in” deadlines.” Make a sentence with this phrase.
  2. Define “throw yourself into something”. “Throw yourself into something else where you can feel a sense of progress and mastery and momentum because you’re not having that met at your job.” Use this in a sentence.
  3. What is the meaning of “slippery slope“? “This is not just like, ‘Oh, work kind of sucks right now.’ It’s ‘I’m in danger of going down a slippery slope if I don’t take care of this.’” Give two similar expressions and make a sentence with this phrase.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you ever had a job that was aligned with your passion? Talk about it.
  2. Are there instances when you feel emotionally drained even if you enjoy doing your job? Kindly share about it.
  3. What challenges might someone have when doing the job they love?
  4. Do you find it challenging to recharge even during the weekends or time off? Share about this.
  5. How can a person suffering from burnout recover from it?

Introduction to Workplace Discrimination

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Instances of bias and unfairness include looking down on individuals, which reflects a judgmental attitude of superiority. Discrimination may also box in people, restricting them to predefined roles, or cutting off opportunities for certain groups. Exclusion is evident when individuals are shut out or deliberately kept from participating, as in cases of religious discrimination. Unfair criticism and disrespect can hold back individuals from reaching their potential, while systemic discrimination may “push out” marginalized communities from economic opportunities. 

Efforts to combat discrimination involve promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion. Legal frameworks, education, awareness campaigns, and social activism play crucial roles in addressing and preventing discrimination. The goal is to create societies where all individuals have equal rights, opportunities, and dignity, regardless of their inherent characteristics.

Key forms of discrimination include:

  • Racial Discrimination: Unfair treatment based on race or ethnicity. This can lead to prejudice, stereotypes, and unequal access to opportunities.
  • Gender Discrimination: Discrimination based on gender, affecting both men and women. It can manifest in unequal pay, limited career opportunities, or social expectations.
  • Age Discrimination: Unfair treatment based on a person’s age. This is often seen in employment decisions, with older or younger individuals facing discrimination.
  • Religious Discrimination: Discrimination based on a person’s religious beliefs or practices. This can lead to exclusion, bias, or even persecution.
  • Sexual Orientation Discrimination: Unfair treatment based on an individual’s sexual orientation, such as being gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender. This can result in social stigma, harassment, or denial of rights.
  • Disability Discrimination: Discrimination against individuals with disabilities. This can involve barriers to accessibility, unequal opportunities, or negative stereotypes.
  • Social Class Discrimination: Unfair treatment based on social and economic status. This can result in limited access to education, employment, and healthcare for individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

Read this article about discrimination, its definition, forms, and where to get help if you are victim of unlawful workplace discrimination.

Be ready to discuss and answer the questions that follow.

https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/introduction-discrimination

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the idiom “to take action” mean in the sentence, “If your employer treats you less favourably for an unlawful reason, you may be able to take action.”? Use the phrase in your own words.
  2. What does “dismiss” mean in the sentence, “There are also laws which forbid workers from being dismissed or treated less favourably than other workers because they do.“? Give 2 synonyms or similar expressions and use “dismiss” in a sentence.
  3. What does the expression “to treat someone less favorably” mean in the sentence, “Direct discrimination happens when an employer treats an employee less favourably than someone else because of one of the above reasons.”? Give 2 synonyms and use ‘to treat someone less favorably’ in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How common is discrimination in the workplace in your society? Why do you think this is the case?
  2. What forms of discriminatory behavior in the workplace have you noticed?
  3. Are the differences between people a reason to celebrate or a source of problems? Elaborate on your insights.
  4. Have you been ever suffered any form of discrimination? What made you feel this way?

Mood-Boosting Food

B2 – Upper Intermediate

It goes without saying that food can really affect our body. Experts say that reducing unhealthy food intake and eating healthy food can positively impact your mental health. Hence, it’s really important to be mindful of the food you eat during meals.

Read this article to learn about the five mood-boosting food.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/mood-boosting-foods_l_64b81bfce4b09a3b489080a3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “precursor” mean? “Tryptophan is an amino acid precursor to serotonin,” Behairy explained, “so look for foods like turkey, chicken, eggs, dairy, nuts and seeds.” Make a sentence with this word.
  2. Define “intersperse“. “I think that implementing small, lasting changes will help you go a long way, much further than sporadic days of ‘clean eating interspersed with ‘binges,’ Naidoo said.” Make a sentence using this word and give two synonyms.
  3. What is the meaning of “catch up” in this context? “And even if your mood hasn’t caught up yet, do know that your gut notices and appreciates what you’re doing right away.” Make a sentence using this phrase and give two synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you ever tried including mood-boosting foods into your diet? If so, did you notice any improvements in your mood?
  2. Which of the five mood-boosting foods suggested in the article have you already incorporated into your daily meals?
  3. How do you usually manage your mood or emotional well-being with your food or lifestyle choices?
  4. Do you feel there is a significant connection between the foods you eat and your overall emotional state? Talk about it.
  5. Are there any seasons or times of year when you find it more difficult to keep your spirits up and do you change your diet accordingly? Share about this.

Intuitive Eating

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Shifting from strict diets to intuitive eating means being kind to ourselves and tuning in to what our bodies want. It’s about enjoying food, moving a bit, and recognizing our differences. Yet, it’s tough because society insists we should look a certain way.

The person in the article tried intuitive eating for ten days and discovered a lot, such as enjoying favorite foods without feeling bad. It’s a journey to feeling good about ourselves and realizing it’s okay not to follow strict diets.

This topic prompts us to ponder our food habits and how societal ideas shape our self-perception. It’s about understanding ourselves and finding what genuinely makes us feel healthy and happy.

https://www.healthline.com/health/my-first-week-of-intuitive-eating#Everything-I-learned-during-10-days-of-intuitive-eating

Vocabulary Questions

  1. What does the word “off-limit” mean in the sentence, “Throughout the entire 10 days of eating intuitively, I was a little fixated on certain foods that used to be off-limits and it was honestly really fun to follow those cravings without guilt.”? Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the phrase “jack up” mean in the sentence, “By day two, one thing became very clear — years of restricting followed by overindulgence and overeating has completely jacked up my hunger signals.”? Give 2 synonyms and use the phrase ‘jack up’ in a sentence.
  3. What does the term “hamster wheel” mean in the sentence, “Freedom from the hamster wheel of dieting is worth it to me.”? Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions

  1. Have you ever tried eating just when you feel hungry and stopping when you’re full? How did it go for you?
  2. Do you think it’s hard to eat intuitively because of what people say about how we should look? Why or why not?
  3. What good things can happen if someone listens to their body and eats what feels right instead of following strict diets?
  4. How do our thoughts about eating affect our choices?
  5. Do you think more people will like the idea of intuitive eating if they find out it’s good for their health? Explain.

Relationship Marketing

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In relationship marketing, businesses aim to build long-term relationships with customers. Rather than rushing to sell things, they focus on building solid connections. They work with the marketing team, using tools like databases to understand what customers enjoy.

Trust is important in the process. If customers don’t trust the company, things get tricky. So, relationship marketing is like playing the long game, collaborating, and using smart tools to keep everyone smiling.

Check out the article below to know about relationship marketing.

https://englisharticles.info/relationship-marketing/

Vocabulary Questions

  1. What does the term “message differentiation” mean in the sentence, “And rather than just selling, the sales department works with marketing to use techniques like database marketing, message differentiation to different target markets, and tracking of promotional effects to improve the relationship.”? Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the word “flagging” mean in the sentence, “AT&T builds databases of customers with similar profiles, flagging those with the most potential for up-selling.“? Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does the phrase “converted leads” mean in the sentence “The number of qualified and converted leads generated from a medium will be less important.”? Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions

  1. Have you ever experienced a situation where a business went the extra mile to make you feel valued as a long-term customer? Talk about it.
  2. In your understanding, how are leads generated to sustain long-term connections with customers?
  3. What benefits do businesses derive from adopting a relationship marketing approach?
  4. What do you think businesses might lose if they ignore relationship marketing?
  5. How do you think relationship marketing will change in the future?

The Growing Impact of Social Media on Video

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Social media’s growing impact on video is marked by the dominance of short-form content, live engagement, user-generated creativity, and influencer influence, shaping a dynamic landscape with monetization opportunities and challenges in content moderation.

Read the article below and be ready to answer the questions that follow.

https://www.thetilt.com/content/social-media-on-video

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “hard-hitting” mean, “It has to be short, shorter the better and hard-hitting,” says Hawley, stressing that the video also needs to be “easily shareable”.? Use adjective in your own sentence.
  2. What does the word “gateway” mean, “What you may not have noticed is the way that the increasing popularity of social networks as a gateway to the wider web has changed online video and the way we consume it.“? Use this word in your own sentence.
  3. What does “rule of thumb” mean,  So I think the rule of thumb now is-be as long as you need to be but don’t be any longer.”? Use this phrase in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How has social media changed the way people consume video content in recent years?
  2. How do you think the rise of social video has influenced traditional online video platforms like YouTube?
  3. What challenges and opportunities do brands face in utilizing new platforms like Tiktok and Instagram Video for creative campaigns?
  4. In your opinion, what makes a social media video campaign successful? Can you provide examples of effective campaigns?
  5. In what ways has social media democratized content creation and video sharing?