Tag: Social Issues

Bricklayer Shortage Worsens UK Housebuilding Crisis

B1- Intermediate 

The housing crisis in the UK is getting worse. One factor that is contributing to it is a shortage of bricklayers. 

Read this lesson about how the shortage of bricklayers is making the UK housing crisis even worse.

Be ready to answer the questions that follow.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2503/250303-bricklayer-shortage-4.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Explain the term “housing ladder”. “Britain needs more homes so young people can get on the housing ladder.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  2. What does “rough sleeping” mean? “Rising rent and unaffordable housing have increased rough sleeping.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  3. What does “to pull every lever” mean specifically in this context, “It said it was doing its best to build 300,000 new homes. It added: ‘We will pull every lever to deliver on our commitment.’?” Make a sentence using this idiom in the same context. Give another meaning of ‘pull a lever’.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the effects of the shortage of bricklayers in the UK?
  2. Is there a similar problem in your country with lack of construction workers? How is it affecting the housing industry of your country?
  3. What is your opinion on this, “The UK blamed the lack of workers on ‘years of underinvestment in skills’.”? Compare it with your country. Do you think the government invests enough in the citizens’ skills training?
  4. What kind of problems does the housing industry have in your country these days? Talk about some of them as detailed as you can.
  5. Is it also difficult for young people in your country to get on the housing ladder? Why is this?

The Hidden Cost of Korea’s Beauty Industry

B2 – Upper Intermediate

South Korea is regarded as the global center for cosmetics, providing the state-of-the-art procedures that have kept them at the forefront of the beauty industry. And they continue to prosper and expand over the years as they successfully promote their medical sector to foreigners who are prepared to pay for their promising services.

See the video below to learn more about the dark side of Korea’s beauty business success.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Explain “biggest draw“. “The biggest draw was people were very satisfied with their results.”  Create a sentence using this term.
  2. What does “to put someone/something at the top of the game” mean? “These cutting-edge treatments are putting South Korea at the top of the beauty game.” Use this idiom to make your own sentence.
  3. What is the meaning of “to turn back the clock“? “From non-invasive lifting ultrasound, to skin boosting injections using DNA from salmon, she’s hoping to turn back the clock on her appearance.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘turn back the clock’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What effects does medical tourism have on the nation’s healthcare system, as discussed in the video? And by being the cosmetic capital of the world, secure better healthcare?
  2. How did Korea manage to succeed in the beauty game?
  3. What are your thoughts on chasing beauty through state-of-the-art aesthetic procedures? Will you patronize it given the chance? Why or why not?
  4. Share your thoughts on how South Korean government promotes medical tourism? Does your government promote it to boost the economy? Why or why not?

Greenland’s Leader Ready to Talk to Trump

B2 – Upper Intermediate

US President Donald Trump recently proposed the idea that the U.S. should buy the Arctic island of Greenland due to its strategic importance to the U.S. and NATO. Greenland politicians however, did not like this proposal as the island has been part of Denmark for many centuries.

Let’s read the article and know more about the national security and territorial issue between Greenland and the USA.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwyp4p1x10no

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “the master of one’s own house” mean? “Egede emphasized Greenland’s aspirations, saying: “We have a desire for independence, a desire to be the master of our own house.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. Explain the meaning of the phrase “to gain momentum“. “An independence movement has gained momentum in recent years, which Egede discussed in his new year speech.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What is the meaning of the phrase “cut ties“? “Egede emphasized Greenland’s aspirations, saying: We have a desire for independence, a desire to be the master of our own house … This is something everyone should respect. But that doesn’t mean we are cutting all ties, all cooperation and all relations with Denmark. Use it in in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your opinion on this news?
  2. Should Europeans be alarmed by Trump’s comments regarding Greenland? Why or why not?
  3. What do you think are the chances of Greenland being completely independent from Denmark?
  4. Share your thoughts on the U.S. maintaining a military base in the northern part of the strategically important territory in Denmark.

Gen-Z Women’s Views on the Tradwife Phenomenon

B2 – Upper Intermediate

A “tradwife,” or traditional wife, embraces traditional gender roles, focusing on homemaking, child-rearing, and supporting a spouse. Rooted in mid-20th century ideals, this lifestyle sparks debate about gender equality and modern feminism. While critics see it as outdated, supporters view it as a personal choice reflecting traditional values. Interestingly, some Gen Z women are revisiting the tradwife concept, seeing it as a way to prioritize family and personal fulfillment over career ambitions, further fueling discussions on women’s evolving roles.

Read this article about the tradwife phenomenon.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/family-and-relationships/marriage/gen-z-women-are-sharing-their-views-on-the-viral-tradwife-phenomenon-and-it-s-so-so-fascinating/ar-BB1rnnQ0

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “wide-ranging” mean? “Their points of view on the “tradwife” phenomenon were wide-ranging”. Make your own sentence.
  2. What does “exaggerated” mean in this context, ”I believe that their way of life is greatly exaggerated when they put it on social media.”? Give at least 2 synonyms of this word and make a sentence for each.
  3. What does “disingenuous” mean? “Not only is it sending harmful and misogynistic messages about gender roles to young girls, but it’s disingenuous.” Give two (2) synonyms of this word.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What does the term “tradwife” mean to you, and how do you define it?
  2. Share your own opinion about the tradwife trend.
  3. Talk about some good and bad about being a tradwife.
  4. Why do you think some women choose the tradwife lifestyle today?
  5. How does the tradwife lifestyle differ from traditional gender roles in history?
  6. Do you think social media has influenced the resurgence of the tradwife concept? Elaborate on your opinion.

Hurdles for Women’s Equality

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Although women’s rights have advanced over the years, ongoing progress is far from certain. With increasing conflicts and growing authoritarianism, women continue to confront numerous challenges in areas such as education, employment, healthcare, legal rights, and violence. Addressing these issues is essential for the global effort to achieve gender equality, strengthen human rights protections, and ensure safety for everyone. In this article, we will examine 11 of the most pressing issues facing women and girls today.

https://www.unwomen.org/en/news-stories/feature-story/2023/09/the-11-biggest-hurdles-for-womens-equality-by-2030

Vocabulary Questions:

1. What does the adjective “staggering” mean? “This represents a staggering 8 percent of the global female population surviving on less than USD 2.15 a day.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘staggering’ in your own sentence.
2. What does “unpaid care” mean? “On the current trajectory, the gap between the time spent by women and men on unpaid care will narrow slightly, but by 2050, women globally will still be spending 9.5 per cent more time (2.3 more hours per day) on unpaid care work than men.” Use the term in a sentence.
3. What does the phrase “attitudinal shift” mean? “The prevalence of child marriage highlights the need for attitudinal shifts and the promotion of legal frameworks that safeguard women and girls’ rights.” Make a sentence using the phrase.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your insights on the info presented in this article.
  2. In your view, do you believe men and women are treated equally and fairly in your country? Elaborate on your stand.
  3. What have feminist movements achieved in your country so far?
  4. Do you think feminist movements are still needed in this century? Share your thoughts.
  5. In your opinion, what are some of the biggest worldwide problems women are facing at present? Give specific examples.

Put the Phone Away or Pay

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Distracted driving occurs when a driver’s focus shifts away from driving due to other activities. The risk of a collision increases when a driver takes their eyes off the road, even for just a moment.

Distractions can impair performance and lower a driver’s awareness, causing them to react more slowly to important events on the road or even miss them completely.

Read the article and also watch the public service announcement video on distracted driving.

https://www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/distracted-driving

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is the meaning of the idiom “to take something by storm” in this context, “For the past decade, distracted driving has taken U.S. roadways by storm, endangering not only the distracted drivers, but their passengers, pedestrians and others using the road.”? Use this expression in a sentence.
  2. Define “fender bender”. “It’s not long until they become the “fender bender” or the “got-a-ticketer”, the “veering off the road”, the “driver who kills someone”.” Use this phrase in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to veer off” mean? ““It’s not long until they become the “fender bender” or the “got-a-ticketer”, the “veering off the road”, the “driver who kills someone”.” Use this phrase in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Personally, what is your opinion about distracted driving?
  2. What do you do when you see someone behind the wheel seem to not to have their eyes on the road?
  3. What are ways to remain focused while driving?
  4. Are there many traffic accidents due to distracted driving in your country? Why do you think this is the case?
  5. Is imposing fines a sufficient penalty for distracted driving? Share your opinion.
  6. In addition to fines, what other measures can be used to punish distracted drivers?

China Ends Foreign Adoptions

B1 – Intermediate

In the past, a large number of children were placed with families in other countries, particularly in the United States, where approximately 82,000 children were adopted. However, China has recently announced that children should no longer be sent abroad for adoption and should instead stay within the country.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about prohibiting international adoptions.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/china-ends-foreign-adoptions-level-3/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is the meaning of “to align with something”? “This change aligns with international agreements and only allows the adoption of stepchildren or close relatives.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  2. What does the idiom “to be open to something” mean? “Social attitudes are changing, and many families are now more open to adoption, especially if having biological children is difficult.” Use this phrase in your own sentence.
  3. What does “sentiment” mean here, “There is a growing sentiment that Chinese children should remain in their home country due to cultural differences.” Use this word in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think of China’s decision to end foreign adoptions?
  2. Is adopting children from other countries common in your country? Why or why not?
  3. What do you think about the adoption system for foreign children in your country?
  4. Should the adoption process of foreign children be more or less difficult than it is now?
  5. Should people be able to decide what type of children they want to adopt? For example: boy or girl, hair color, age, ethnicity etc. Explain your opinion.

New Law Against Trafficking in Spain

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Spain recently introduced a new law aimed at combating human trafficking in the country. This law toughens penalties for those who participate in human trafficking for various purposes, such as forced labor or sexual exploitation. The government hopes this new legislation will help protect vulnerable people and punish those who exploit them.

Read the article and share your thoughts about it.

https://migrant-integration.ec.europa.eu/news/spain-new-law-trafficking_en

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is a “third-country national or TCN”? “Third-country nationals (TCNs) in Spain are disproportionately affected by crimes related to human trafficking and exploitation: traffickers take advantage of the country’s proximity with Northern Africa, its cultural connection with Latin America, and migrants’ vulnerability.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “organic law” mean? “The Spanish government announced its decision to transform the draft of the Integral Organic Law against Trafficking and Exploitation of Human Beings, promoted during the previous term, into law.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “prerogative” mean? “The key aspects of the law relate to specific prerogatives that will be granted to the victims without the need for them to file a complaint, including the rights to receive the Minimum Vital Income (MVI), to be considered priority group to access public housing, to receive legal assistance throughout the process, to receive compensation from confiscated property, and to obtain a temporary certificate of residence and work.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How big is the problem with human trafficking in your country? What are some problems caused by this illegal activity in your country?
  2. What is the new law about? What are your thoughts on some of its prerogatives?
  3. What steps can countries take to strengthen laws against human trafficking? Do you have any suggestions?
  4. How can awareness about human trafficking be raised?
  5. Talk about the things you know about the VioGén system.

Mother of Georgia Shooting Suspect Called School to Warn of Emergency

The question of a mother’s liability for her son’s actions, particularly in cases involving serious crimes such as murder, raises complex legal and ethical considerations. In instances where a mother suspects that her child may be involved in violent behavior, the extent to which she can be held legally accountable for their actions becomes a subject of intense debate.

This article examines the implications of maternal liability in cases where there is prior suspicion of potential wrongdoing by a child, focusing on the intersection of legal duty and parental responsibility.

Read the article and share your thought about this issue.

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/sep/08/georgia-school-shooting-suspect-mother

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to seek bail” mean? “Their attorneys declined to immediately seek bail during their first court appearance on Friday.” Give a similar expression and use this phrase in a sentence.
  2. What does “taunting” mean? “The Georgia teenager had struggled with his parents’ separation and taunting by classmates, his father told a sheriff’s investigator last year when asked whether his son posted an online threat.” Give 2 synonyms and use this word in a sentence.
  3. What does “disproportionate rate” mean? “Their killings renewed the American public debate about safe storage laws for guns while also prompting parents to ponder how to talk to their children about trauma and school shootings, which occur in the US at a disproportionate rate.” Use the phrase in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Which detail/s in this news caught your interest? Talk about it/them.
  2. Do you think a parent is responsible for their child’s criminal behavior? Explain your opinion on this.
  3. What might be done to prevent this kind of horrible incidents from happening again in the future?
  4. What problems do you see among teenagers and their behaviors in your country these days?
  5. Give an example of a sensational case involving a teenager or teenagers in your country.

Florida’s Free Prison Labor

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In the Sunshine State, Florida, the issue of prison labor raises significant ethical and economic questions, as a majority of incarcerated individuals are compelled to work without compensation. This practice, deeply ingrained in the state’s penal system, sparks debate over labor rights, rehabilitation, and the broader implications for justice and society.

Learn more about this issue by reading this article.

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/jun/21/florida-unpaid-prison-labor

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to turn a blind eye” mean? ““Is it shocking that Florida is seeming to turn a blind eye to prison slavery? No, not at all,” said Bianca Tylek.” Make a sentence with this.
  2. Define “in the wake of something”. “No criminal charges were filed against the officers involved and no reforms were enacted in the wake of the incident.” Use this in a sentence.
  3. What does “unabated” mean? “Kimber Tough, an organizer with Florida Prisoner Solidarity based in Gainesville, Florida, helped with efforts to get Alachua county, Florida, in 2019 and the University of Florida in 2020 to stop using prison labor, which included numerous protests and advocacy efforts. But across the state, the practice still continues unabated.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘unabated’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How do you personally feel about the practice of unpaid labor by incarcerated individuals in Florida’s prisons?
  2. In your opinion, should inmates be properly compensated for their labor while incarcerated? Why or why not?
  3. How can individuals and communities advocate for changes in the treatment and compensation of incarcerated workers in Florida?
  4. State your insights on this statement, “Florida charges prisoners debt, with prisoners levied $50 a day for their incarceration, which can often leave people trapped in debt once they are released.“.
  5. Talk about the prison labor system in your country.