Tag: Reading

Google Your Health Symptoms Effectively

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In the age of information, turning to the internet for health-related queries has become second nature. However, distinguishing credible medical information from the misleading or anxiety-inducing can be a daunting task.

How do we discern reliable healthcare data from the misleading, and prevent ourselves from succumbing to unnecessary anxiety?

Click on the link provided to empower you with the skills needed to navigate the vast sea of health facts online, while maintaining your peace of mind.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-google-health-symptoms-goog_l_651480ade4b07c60b51571b5

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “go awry” mean, “Surveys suggest about 90% of patients Google their symptoms before they talk to their doctor. But it can, of course, quickly go awry.”? Use this in your own sentence.
  2. What does “brush up on something” mean, “Brush up on some study basics.”? Use this in your own sentence.
  3. What does “due diligence” mean, “It can also be useful to look for media coverage of a study, because in an ideal world, health reporters and editors are doing their due diligence when deciding what to cover.”? Use this in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the key guidelines for effectively Googling health symptoms? Provide me with information about them.
  2. How can individuals ensure that they are not unnecessarily alarming themselves when conducting online health research?
  3. Can you explain the importance of seeking information from reputable sources when Googling health symptoms?
  4. Do you resort to using Google to investigate your symptoms? Please share.
  5. What are some effective ways to stop oneself from becoming overly anxious while exploring health information on the internet? Tell me more.

China’s Inventions Changed the World

B1 – Intermediate

China, a land steeped in history and culture, has given the world some truly incredible inventions. These inventions have not only shaped China’s own society, but have also had a profound impact on the rest of the world.

Let’s read the article below to know more about Chinese inventions that changed the world.

https://www.english-online.at/news-articles/history/chinese-inventions-during-song-dynasty.htm

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “course of history” mean? “Chinese inventions have changed the world during the course of history.” Give a synonym and use “course of history” in a sentence.
  2. What does “date back” mean? “Most of them date back to the Song Dynasty, which ruled the Asian empire between 960 and 1280 A.D.” Give a synonym and use “date back” in a sentence.
  3. What does “at the height of” mean? “It was during this era that drinking tea was at the height of its popularity.” Give a synonym and use “at the height of” in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How do you think China’s early inventions compare to modern technological innovations in terms of their impact on the world?
  2. How have these Chinese inventions influenced the fields of science and technology on a global scale?
  3. Can you think of any other inventions or discoveries from different cultures that had a similar impact on the world as these Chinese inventions?

A World Without Antibiotics

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Antibiotics are like superheroes in the world of medicine. They are tiny but mighty, and they play a crucial role in helping our bodies combat infections and illnesses. These remarkable substances, although small in size, wield immense power. They are the front-line defenders that our immune system relies on to conquer invading germs and restore our health.

Let’s read the article below to know more about it.

https://www.english-online.at/news-articles/health-medicine/world-without-antibiotics.htm

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “run out” mean? “In some areas, especially Third World countries and densely populated areas in India, Pakistan or Bangladesh doctors have already run out of antibiotics.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “densely populated” mean? “In some areas, especially Third World countries and densely populated areas in India, Pakistan or Bangladesh doctors have already run out of antibiotics.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “call for action” mean? “Health experts call for increased action to fight off diseases.”  Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the potential consequences of a world without antibiotics? Explain.
  2. Can you think of any alternative solutions or treatments that might be used if antibiotics become less effective?
  3. How might the loss of effective antibiotics affect the treatment of infectious diseases in developing countries?
  4. How do you think healthcare professionals can effectively communicate the importance of responsible antibiotic use to patients?
  5. Are there any natural or alternative remedies that can be used to help treat common infections in place of antibiotics?

Regular Exercise Improves Memory

B1 – Intermediate

Exercise is a simple but powerful way to keep your body and mind healthy. Whether you’re a beginner or an exercise pro, it can make a huge difference in how you feel every day.

In this article, we’ll explore why exercise is important and how it can help you stay fit and happy.

https://www.english-online.at/news-articles/health-medicine/regular-exercise-can-improve-your-memory.htm

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “mild form” mean? “More than 6% of all people around the world have a mild form of cognitive impairment.” Give a synonym and use ‘mild form’ in a sentence.
  2. What does “cognitive impairment” mean? “More than 6% of all people around the world have a mild form of cognitive impairment.” Give a synonym and use ‘impairment’ in a sentence.
  3. What does “to cope with” mean” “Unlike people with dementia, those with mild cognitive impairment can cope with their regular routine, like getting dressed or preparing meals.” Give a synonym and use ‘impairment’ in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How does exercise impact the brain and why is this important for memory enhancement?
  2. How can people incorporate exercise into their daily routines to improve memory?
  3. What are some examples of simple memory-boosting exercises that anyone can do?
  4. Are there any potential barriers or challenges people might face when trying to exercise for memory improvement? How can these be overcome?
  5. How do you think society as a whole can encourage more people to prioritize regular exercise for memory improvement and overall health?

Women Are Better at Dealing with Money than Men

B1 – Intermediate

With the rising cost of almost everything, money management has become extremely important. It isn’t only about what you spend on, but also how much you save and what you invest in. Not everyone has the same approach when it comes to handling finances. However, some studies conclude that women tend to be more cautious when it comes to money matters.

Let’s read the article and know more why and how women are better when it comes to financial management.

https://www.english-online.at/economy/women-money/women-are-better-with-money.htm

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Define what it means to be “financially independent“. “They work harder to become financially independent and they are not as likely to get into debt as men.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the phrasal verb “to lead to something” mean? “Although 40% of women said they used credit cards most of them thought that having more than one credit card could lead to financial problems.” Use it in your own sentence.
  3. What does the phrase “to be responsible for doing something” mean? “However almost half thought that a man should be responsible for paying the mortgage or house payments.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. According to the article, why are women better at dealing with money than men?
  2. Are you good at handling your finances? What personal rules do you follow when making financial decisions?
  3. How can a person become financially independent?
  4. Share you opinion on this, “Women who share their money with their husband often suffer more when a relationship ends.“.
  5. What is your opinion on this, “A man should be responsible for paying the mortgage or house payments.“?

Store Staff Get Body Cameras for Protection

B1 – Intermediate

A new security measure has been rolled out for Tesco workers in the UK following the rise in violent attacks on its staff recently. The company has invested tens of millions of pounds in four years on different security measures such as door access systems, protection screens etc.

Let’s read the article and know more about this new protective measure Tesco has for its staff.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2309/230907-supermarket-workers.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is the meaning of the verb “punch“? “More and more staff are being punched or threatened with knives by angry people.” Use it in your own sentence.
  2. Define the word “assault“.”A spokesperson said the number of physical assaults on its workers has risen by a third in a year.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  3. What does the word “scourge” mean in this context? “Crime is a scourge on society, and an insult to shoppers and [shop] workers.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why are Tesco workers offered to wear body cameras?
  2. According to the article, why are supermarket staff being attacked in the UK?
  3. What security measures do supermarkets in your country have for its workers?
  4. What do you think of body cameras as a means to protect supermarket employees from possible attacks?
  5. Share your thoughts on this, “Attacks on supermarket staff are a sign that Britain is “broken”.“.
  6. What are some safety and security measures at your job?

Love Languages at Work

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The idea of “Love Languages” has become well-known in the context of personal relationships because of its profound influence on understanding and expressing love. However, these languages’ impact doesn’t end at the threshold of our homes.

Surprisingly, they are just as important in the larger picture of our professional lives. Knowing and understanding your individual “Love Language” at work can be an empowering discovery that greatly enhances your interpersonal interactions, productivity, and level of job satisfaction.

Click on a provided link to learn more about ‘Love Languages’ in the workplace and understand how it can be a powerful tool for building stronger relationships with colleagues, superiors, and subordinates.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/love-languages-exist-at-work-heres-how-to-figure-out-yours_l_651eec6be4b09ff8b7dad12f

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “missing the mark” mean in the sentence, “If a leader or colleague only uses words for showing appreciation, they’re likely missing the mark for over half of their team members.”? Use this expression in your own sentence.
  2. What does “to be big into something” mean in the sentence, “If they’re big into pickleball, get a group fund going for a highly-rated paddle they’d otherwise probably pass up because of the price tag.”? Use this expression in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to take an action item off someone’s plate” mean in the sentence, “What can I do to help this person or take an action item off their plate?”? Use this in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the languages of appreciation in the workplace?
  2. How can identifying your workplace ‘Love Language’ enhance your relationships with colleagues and superiors?
  3. How might a better understanding of ‘Love Languages’ contribute to increased job satisfaction and overall well-being in a professional environment? Please share.
  4. In what ways does acknowledging and valuing employees’ efforts impact overall productivity and morale? Tell me more.
  5. In your experience, what are some of the most effective ways to express gratitude in the workplace? Please share.

Advice from People in Blue Zones to Live Longer

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Have you ever wondered why certain people have such remarkable health and longevity? For years, scientists, researchers, and health enthusiasts have pondered the question. In a world with varying life expectancies, ‘Blue Zones’ stand out as regions where people not only live longer but also enjoy vibrant lives well into their hundreds.

Read this article to learn some advice from people in ‘Blue Zones’ on how to live longer.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/blue-zones-longer-life-tips_l_651af7dfe4b00421f662db6a

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “mindful eating” mean? “According to Wood, in the Okinawan Blue Zone, they adhere to a form of mindful eating known as hara hachi bu.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  2. Define “encompass”. “The little things all add up to create a life that encompasses more movement.” Use this in a sentence.
  3. What does “to be in tune with someone/something” mean? “Becoming more in tune with your body’s food needs has become buzzy outside of Blue Zone culture, too — you’re probably familiar with newer terms like intuitive eating and mindful eating.” Make a sentence with this idiom.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How do you perceive ‘Blue Zones’ and the lifestyles of the people living in them?
  2. Talk about your dietary preferences. Also, share your thoughts on ‘mindful eating’.
  3. Share your thoughts on this, “These social relationships have a positive influence on your health.“.
  4. How do you prioritize physical activity and movement in your daily life? Are there any particular activities you enjoy?
  5. What factors do you think contribute to a longer, healthier life based on your experiences and knowledge?

Dating Has Changed Through History

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In the modern era of dating, arranged marriage and old-fashioned courtships are considered outdated. People now resort to dating apps for finding the right person for them. No doubt, dating now differs from what it used to be in the past.

Read the article to know how dating has changed throughout history.

https://www.thelist.com/162252/how-dating-has-changed-through-history/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is the meaning of the idiom “to take the guesswork out of something”? “Sure, people still meet in bars, through friends, or even at work, but dating apps have taken a lot of the guesswork out of modern dating.” Use this expression in a sentence.
  2. What does the phrase “equal playing field” mean? “In today’s world of dating, it’s an equal playing field, for the most part.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does the word “fraught” mean? “The famed author was known for being able to perfectly capture how it felt to be in love, even in a time when relationships were fraught with drama and the pressures of social class.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think dating now is different from what it used to be in the past? Share your thoughts.
  2. Why do you think dating apps have become so popular nowadays?
  3. Do you think men and women have different views on where to meet a prospective partner? Explain.
  4. Share your views on this statement, “Choosing a partner on a dating app is the same as choosing a fridge in a shop — there’s nothing romantic about it.”.
  5. What are other ways to meet a potential partner?
  6. What is your idea of an ideal date?
  7. What was the most memorable date for you and why?

Autumn Heat in Europe

B2 – Upper Intermediate

As the calendar flips to autumn, Europe has been wrapped by a surprising and unthinkable phenomenon. Temperatures remain unusually warm, breaking records across the continent. From the sun-soaked vineyards of France to the packed streets of Germany the persistent heatwaves challenge the normal image of a European September. This unwavering autumn heatwave serves as an urgent warning that our world’s climate continues to evolve in unpredictable ways, necessitating a vigilant eye on the changes that shape our planet.

Click on the link to learn more about the extraordinary weather patterns that has caused this unforeseen extension of summer and the possible effects it may have on both the environment and the population.

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/oct/01/autumn-heat-continues-in-europe-after-record-breaking-september

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “a great many” mean, “”A great many” monthly records had been broken across the country during an “exceptional” month, Météo-France said, with the temperature average higher than in July and August, and heatwave alerts issued in September for the first time.”? Give 2 synonyms and use ‘a great many’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does “pre-industrial levels” mean in the sentence, “Scientists say climate change driven by human activity is pushing global temperatures higher, with the world at around 1.2C of warming above pre-industrial levels.”? Use this in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to be modelled by something” mean in the sentence, “We’re seeing them in spring and September, even October, as modelled by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPPC).”? Use this in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What role does climate change play in the occurrence of this record-breaking September heatwave? Give me more insights.
  2. How has this long autumn heatwave affected you and/or your country?
  3. What possible effects could this extended heatwave have on the agriculture and natural ecosystems in the affected areas?
  4. How are European authorities and organizations addressing the potential impacts of this extended heatwave on public health and safety?
  5. Share your thoughts on this statement, “Scientists say climate change driven by human activity is pushing global temperatures higher.“.