Tag: Reading

US Officially Leaves World Health Organization

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The United States has officially withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), ending almost 80 years of membership. Health experts warn this decision could weaken global disease surveillance and pandemic preparedness, disrupt funding, and reduce U.S. influence in critical health data sharing with potential global impacts on vaccine coordination and future outbreak responses.

Read the article to know more about this major international health policy shift.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn9zznx8qdno

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “arrear” mean? “Although WHO lawyers suggest the US is obliged to pay the arrears – estimated at $260m (£193m) – Washington said it saw no reason to do so.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “pathogen sharing” mean? “The US department said it would have bilateral relations with other countries to ensure disease surveillance and pathogen sharing, but were unable to provide information about which specific countries they had such links with so far.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “governing body” mean? “It told the BBC that its secretariat will act according to the advice from the governing bodies.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think could be the biggest global impact when a powerful country changes its health policy?
  2. How might this decision affect poorer countries or those with weaker healthcare systems?
  3. How could this policy shift affect future pandemics or global disease control?
  4. Do you think international organizations like the WHO are still important today? Why or why not?
  5. Should health policies be decided nationally or globally? Explain your opinion.

Revenge Bedtime Procrastination

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Many people choose to stay up late even when they know it will leave them tired the next day. This habit often reflects a desire to reclaim personal time or control after a busy schedule, highlighting the tension between daily demands, rest, and self‑care.

Let’s read the article and explore how this behavior affects our health, productivity, and daily routines.

https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/revenge-bedtime-procrastination

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Explain the concept “revenge bedtime procrastination“. “After a jam-packed day, do you stay up late for some “me” time rather than go to bed a reasonable hour? If you’re in the habit of doing that, it could be a sign of revenge bedtime procrastination.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the idiom “to raise one’s odds ” mean? “A long-term lack of sleep might also raise your odds of dying early from any cause.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What is the meaning of the phrase “at the expense of”? “Also known as sleep procrastination, it means you get “revenge” for your busy daytime schedule by fitting in leisure time at the expense of shut-eye.” Use it in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why do you think some people deliberately stay up late even when they know they’ll be tired the next day?
  2. How might modern lifestyles and technology contribute to revenge bedtime procrastination?
  3. In what ways can delaying sleep affect someone’s work, relationships, or overall well‑being?
  4. Do you see revenge bedtime procrastination as an act of control, rebellion, or simply poor time management?
  5. What strategies could individuals use to resist the urge to stay up late for “me time”?

ChatGPT to Carry Adverts

B2 – Upper Intermediate

AI tools are becoming central to daily life, and companies are exploring new ways to keep them accessible and sustainable. One approach is adding advertising, which raises important questions about user experience, business models, and the future of digital interaction.

Let’s read the article together to explore this new approach in AI services.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgjn012k3do

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “subscription tier” mean? “In addition to the new Go subscription tier, it already has Plus and Pro tiers, which cost $20 and $200 respectively per month in the US.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. Define the phrase “last resort“. “OpenAI isn’t the only AI firm considering this business model, despite boss Sam Altman once saying he hated ads and describing them as “a last resort“.” Use it in your own sentence.
  3. What is the meaning of the phrase “synthetic media“. “Henry Ajder, an expert in AI, Deepfakes and synthetic media, said OpenAI’s decision to explore ad revenue was not a surprise.” Use it in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How do you feel about advertisements appearing in ChatGPT?
  2. Share your insights on this, “AI sector has been over-valued by keen investors and hype, and has yet to actually demonstrate much in the way of profit.“
  3. What is your opinion on this, “OpenAI says they [the ads] will not influence ChatGPT’s responses and the firm will not share data about conversations with advertisers.“?
  4. Are you currently using ChatGPT, and if so, what subscription tier do you have?
  5. If given the option, would you consider paying extra to use ChatGPT without ads? Why or why not?
  6. In your opinion, will other tech companies adopt a similar approach to ads in AI tools?

Risk-Taking in Young Chimpanzees and Teens Is Similar

B1 – Intermediate 

Teenagers want to try new and risky things. They think they have the freedom to do so because their parents or carers do not supervise them or tell them what to do as much as when they were little.

A research looks at the reason children and young chimpanzees take more risks.

Read the article about a research on how young chimpanzees’ thrill-seeking behavior is similar to that of human children.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2601/260115-risky-behaviour.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “supervise” mean? “She believes it is because they are at an age when parents supervise them less.” Use the word in a sentence and give a synonym.
  2. What does “old-fashioned” mean? “The website ScienceAlert said that “some anthropologists argue for increasing children’s access to thrill-seeking play, including the old-fashioned monkey bars, as a way to help them develop motor skills and skeletal strength”.” Use the word in a sentence and give a synonym.
  3. What does “thrill-seeking” mean? “The website ScienceAlert said that “some anthropologists argue for increasing children’s access to thrill-seeking play, including the old-fashioned monkey bars, as a way to help them develop motor skills and skeletal strength”.” Use the word in a sentence and give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What comes to your mind when you hear the word “risk”?
  2. In your own words, explain why teenagers like taking risks.
  3. Do you agree or disagree that “Teenagers are well known for doing crazy things.”? Explain.
  4. Did you also have a risky behavior as a teenager? Talk about some crazy or risky things you did at that age.
  5. How can teenagers’ risky behavior be controlled?

Trump Pushing Ahead to Acquire Greenland

B1 – Intermediate 

Greenland is important for the USA’s Golden Dome missile defense system. This is why President Donald Trump continues to make efforts so the US can acquire Greenland.

People from Greenland are against Trump’s plans.

Read the article about Trump’s efforts to acquire Greenland.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2601/260119-greenland-5.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to go along with” mean? “He has announced 10 per cent tariffs on several European countries if they do not “go along with Greenland”.” Use the phrase in a sentence and give a synonym.
  2. What does “levy” mean? “The tariffs will start next month. The levy could increase to 25 per cent in June.” Use the word in a sentence and give a synonym.
  3. What does “at stake” mean? “He stressed that “the national security of the United States and the world at large is at stake.” Use the idiom in a sentence and give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why has acquiring Greenland been a high priority for President Trump?
  2. What are your thoughts about Trump’s desire to acquire Greenland?
  3. What is your opinion on this, “Applying tariffs on allies for pursuing the collective security of NATO is completely wrong.”
  4. What is your opinion about Trump’s statement, “The national security of the United States and the world at large is at stake. In order to protect global peace and security, strong measures be taken so that this potentially perilous situation ends quickly.”
  5. How do people from Greenland feel about US trying to acquire their country?

Trevi Fountain Fee for Tourists

B1 – Intermediate

Rome has a new rule for people who want to see one of its most famous sights — the Trevi Fountain.

Tourists will need to pay a small amount to be near the Trevi Fountain because there have been way too many visitors who cause problems in the area.

The city hopes this change will help protect the beautiful fountain and make the experience nicer for everyone. Residents of Rome do not have to pay this fee.

Read the full article here to learn more about this decision and how it will work:

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2512/251222-trevi-fountain-fee.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “burgeoning” mean in this sentence? “One reason for the new measure is to address the burgeoning numbers of sightseers who are flocking to the sight.” Use it in a sentence and give a synonym or a similar expression.
  2. What does the word “ambiance” mean? “Large crowds and people vying for selfies have diminished the ambiance of the historic fountain.” Use it in a sentence and give a synonym or a similar expression.
  3. What does the phrase “fundamental right” mean? “The mayor said: ‘We believe that culture is a fundamental right of citizenship.” Use it in a sentence and give a synonym or a similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you agree with the idea of paying to see a famous landmark? Why or why not?
  2. How do fees at tourist attractions influence people’s behavior?
  3. Can limiting access to landmarks improve their preservation?
  4. How does “overtourism” affect a city’s culture and daily life?
  5. Share your opinion on this, “Culture is a fundamental right“.

Food Improve Moods

B1 – Intermediate

Many people do not think about the fact that what they eat can affect how they feel.

Recent research shows that some foods might make our mood worse, while other foods could help support good mental health.

Experts have found a connection between diets with too much ultra-processed foods and a higher tendency to feel depressed or anxious.

They suggest choosing whole, natural foods to support a more positive state of mind.

Read the full article from the link below to learn more about how food can influence your emotions.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2512/251229-mood-food.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “corroborate” mean in this sentence? “Related research from Professor Felice Jacka at Deakin University in Australia corroborated Ms Kirkpatrick’s findings.” Use it in a sentence and give a synonym or a similar expression. 
  2. What does the word “probiotic” mean? “Dr. Jacka said fermented, probiotic foods may influence brain-related biology and lead to more positive moods and enhanced learning.” Use it in a sentence and give a synonym or a similar expression. 
  3. What does “fermented” mean? “Ms Kirkpatrick also advised people to increase their intake of high-fibre and fermented foods.” Use it in a sentence and give a synonym or a similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Some researchers claim that diet can significantly influence mental health. Do you agree or disagree?
  2. How easy is it to eat less processed food in your country?
  3. Does the food you eat affect your mood or mental state? Why or why not? Give example situations.
  4. Can a healthy diet replace other ways to improve mood, like exercise or therapy? Share your opinion.
  5. How important is proper diet for you? Why?

Rise in Household Waste over Holiday Period

B1 – Intermediate

The holiday season is a time when people celebrate with family and friends. Many people buy gifts, prepare special food, and decorate their homes. Because of this, there are more trash during the holidays. A lot of waste comes from food packaging, gift wrapping, and unused items. This situation can have a negative effect on the environment if people are not careful. Learning how to reduce, reuse, and recycle can help protect the planet amidst holiday celebrations.

Read the full article to learn more about how holiday waste affects the environment and what simple actions people can take to reduce it.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2601/260101-holiday-waste.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “get-together” mean? “There are many holidays around the end of the year. These involve parties, family get-togethers, and the giving of gifts.”
    Use it in a sentence and give a synonym or a similar expression. 
  2. What does “household waste” mean? “The USA’s Environmental Protection Agency estimates that household waste increases by 25 per cent over the holiday period.” Use it in a sentence and give a synonym or a similar expression. 
  3. What does “experience over stuff” mean? “She said one idea was to buy ‘experiences over stuff’.” Use it in a sentence and give a synonym or a similar expression. 

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you noticed the same problem with garbage in your country during the holidays?
  2. Did you and your family create a lot of waste last holiday season?
  3. How do you avoid producing waste during celebrations?
  4. What are the recycling rules like in your city? Are they easy to follow?

Sweden Wants Travellers to Embrace Boredom

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Travel often feels like a race to see and do everything. But a new approach invites us to slow down, embrace quiet moments, and find meaning in stillness. Sweden is encouraging travelers to follow this path, valuing rest over rush and discovering the beauty of simply being.

Read on to learn more about this new travel campaign in Sweden.

https://www.euronews.com/travel/2025/11/26/dark-skies-and-empty-itineraries-why-sweden-wants-travellers-to-embrace-boredom

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “to beckon” mean? “In Sörmland, cabins next to forest trails beckon travellers with blissful solitude.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “stillness” mean? “Lighting a fire, going for a walk, stargazing, and watching the Northern Lights: the campaign frames these moments of stillness as the appeal rather than the absence of activity.” Use it in your own sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “a sweeping change” mean? “In an era defined by the ceaseless cycle of news and entertainment, slow travel represents a sweeping change in what many travellers seek from their trips.” Use it in a sentence and give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How does the new Visit Sweden campaign inspire travelers to rethink their approach to travel?
  2. In what ways does Visit Sweden present the country as an ideal place to experience boredom?
  3. What types of experiences or activities does the campaign highlight for visitors seeking a slower pace?
  4. Have you ever experienced Sweden? How would you feel about slowing down and embracing boredom there?
  5. In what ways might experiencing boredom benefit us?

Spain’s First Quantum Computers

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Telefonica (TEF) has teamed up with IQM and CESGA to bring Spain its first quantum computers, including a 54‑qubit system for advanced research and a 5‑qubit system for education and training. This marks a major step for Spain in joining the global quantum computing landscape.

The partnership aims to provide researchers and industry with access to hybrid quantum‑classical computing, accelerating innovation in science, technology, and AI. It also positions Spain as a growing hub for quantum technology development in Europe.

Read the article to know more.

https://www.tradingview.com/news/zacks:e2a292356094b:0-tef-ties-up-with-iqm-cesga-to-deploy-spain-s-first-quantum-computers

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to underscore” mean? “Telefonica’s involvement underscores the growing importance of quantum computing beyond academia.” Give a synonym. Use ‘underscore’ in a sentence.
  2. What is “free cash flow (FCF)”? “Financial goals include 1.5–2.5% revenue and EBITDA CAGR through 2028, accelerating to 2.5–3.5% from 2028–2030, alongside stronger, de-risked free cash flow and continued investment-grade strength.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What is “dividend”? “The company has confirmed a dividend of €0.30 per share for 2025, set a dividend of €0.15 per share for 2026, and plans to allocate 40–60% of free cash flow to dividends for 2027–2028.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your thoughts and reaction to this, “Scheduled for delivery by June 2026, the deployment positions CESGA among Europe’s most advanced high-performance computing (HPC) centres and significantly strengthens Spain’s role in next-generation computing technologies.“
  2. How do you think quantum computing could change the way companies like Telefónica operate in the next 5–10 years, and do you think Europe can become a global leader in this technology?
  3. Why is it important for Europe to achieve technological autonomy in telecom and computing?
  4. How might combining quantum computing with AI and high-performance computing change research or everyday life?
  5. “IQM Spark system for education” Should schools and universities focus on teaching emerging technologies like quantum computing?