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The Ultimate Productivity Hack Is Saying No

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The concept that “The Ultimate Productivity Hack is Saying No” emphasizes the strategic importance of setting boundaries and selectively choosing commitments. It underscores the idea that saying no to non-essential tasks, projects, or requests allows individuals to prioritize their time and energy on tasks aligned with their goals. This productivity hack encourages a mindful and intentional approach to workload management, enabling individuals to focus on tasks that truly contribute to their success and well-being.

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

The Ultimate Productivity Hack is Saying No

Vocabulary Questions: 

  1. What does the phrasal verb “to fall back on” in the sentence, “And it is true: turning down opportunities is easier when you can fall back on the safety net provided by power, money, and authority”. Use it in a sentence. 
  2. What does “to strain the relationship” mean in the sentence, “The thought of straining the relationship outweighs the commitment of our time and energy”? Use it in a sentence. 
  3. What does the phrase “balance to strike” mean in the sentence, “There is an important balance to strike here”? Use it in your own words. 

Discussion questions: 

  1. How often do you find yourself saying “yes” to tasks or commitments without considering their necessity?
  2. What strategies could help you become more mindful about your commitments?
  3. The article discusses the challenge of saying “no” to people we like or want to support. How can one strike a balance between being empathetic and maintaining productivity in personal and professional relationships?
  4. How do you currently prioritize and protect your time, and what improvements could you make in this regard?
  5. How can individuals navigate these social expectations without overcommitting? Share personal experiences if applicable.
  6. How did you navigate and prioritize tasks to regain control of your time?

Sustainable Travel

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Sustainable tourism discusses various ways travelers can minimize their environmental impact, importance in preserving the environment, and supporting local communities while exploring the growing trend of eco-tourism.

Read the article to know more about choosing eco-friendly accommodations, supporting local businesses, and participating in responsible wildlife experiences. The article also highlights destinations that are leading the way in sustainable tourism practices.

https://www.graygroupintl.com/blog/sustainable-travel#:~:text=Sustainable%20tourism%20encompasses%20preserving%20the,on%20the%20places%20we%20visit.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to lie at the heart of something” mean? “At the heart of sustainable travel lies the principles of sustainable tourism.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘to lie at the heart of something’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does “carbon footprint” mean? “By opting for sustainable transportation options, such as walking, cycling, or using public transportation, we can reduce our carbon footprint and minimize air pollution.” Use ‘carbon footprint’ in a sentence.
  3. What does “carbon offset” mean? “Additionally, offsetting the carbon emissions of our flights by investing in carbon offset projects can help to neutralize our travel-related carbon footprint.” Use ‘carbon offset’ in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How has the rise of sustainable tourism impacted traditional travel destinations, and what measures are being taken to ensure local communities benefit from this shift?
  2. In what ways do businesses and governments collaborate to promote sustainable tourism practices, and what challenges do they face in implementing these initiatives effectively?
  3. Can you discuss some innovative approaches or technologies being utilized to minimize the environmental footprint of tourism while still providing enriching experiences for travelers?

Airline to Weigh Luggage and Passengers

B1 – Intermediate 

When we travel by plane, we have to be mindful about how much our luggage weighs.

Airlines set strict weight limits on our baggage allowance to ensure their planes do not go beyond the maximum weight so that they take off and land safely.

Read the article about Finland’s national airline’s plans to weigh their passengers on their flights. Be ready to answer the questions that follow.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2403/240304-weighing-airline-passengers-4.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “exceed” mean, “Airplanes should not exceed the maximum weight for safe take-offs and landings.”? Give 1-2 synonyms or similar expressions and use “exceed” in your own sentence.
  2. What does “to step on scales” mean, “Volunteers are stepping on scales at Helsinki Airport’s departure gates.”? Give 1-2 synonyms or similar expressions and use “to step on scales” in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to have peace of mind” mean, “It said travellers could have “peace of mind” about their personal information.“? Give 1-2 synonyms or similar expressions and use “peace of mind” in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your opinion on weighing passengers on flight? 
  2. What are the pros and cons of weighing airline passengers?
  3. Would you agree to be weighed in at the airport? Why or why not?
  4. Share your views on this statement, “Weight is a personal topic.”.
  5. What are other ways safety standards on flights can be met?

Cold Weather Exercise

B1 – Intermediate 

It is a fact that exercising or working out helps in staying healthy and losing weight. However, this may be hard to do when it is too chilly or freezing outside.

However, experts share the benefits of cold-weather workouts.

Read the article and find out why cold weather exercise is better for us. Be ready to answer the questions that follow.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2402/240229-cold-weather-exercise.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “metabolism” mean, “In the cold, our metabolism slows down, so we can preserve fat and keep warm.”? Use this word in a sentence.
  2. What does “endurance” mean, “This can help to boost your endurance over time.”? Give 1-2 synonyms or similar expressions and use “endurance” in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to lose weight” mean, ”Physical activity in cold temperatures can boost our metabolism, which helps us lose weight.”? Give 1-2 synonyms or similar expressions and use “to lose weight” in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the pros and cons of cold-weather workouts?
  2. What is your opinion on this, “Going for a jog or even a swim when it’s chilly or freezing outside has extra benefits for our physical and mental health.”?
  3. Does this article change your opinion about working out in cold weather? Explain.
  4. Do you enjoy exercising during cold weather? Why or why not?
  5. Does the weather affect your motivation to practice sports or exercise? Why or why not? What do you do when you do not want to exercise when it is very cold?
  6. What are ways to fight against Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.)?

European Armies Struggling to Recruit Soldiers

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In almost every country in the world, an armed forces is a crucial part of its system. Nations maintain an armed forces to secure exclusive rights and ownership of its territory. Recently, most European countries are scrambling to strengthen its military forces especially when the Ukraine war broke out. Unfortunately, the process of recruitment proved to be much harder than it used to be.

Let’s read the article and know more about the army recruitment crisis in European countries.

https://www.euronews.com/2024/02/16/why-are-european-armies-struggling-to-recruit-soldiers

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to be spared from something” mean? “The problem is one that all European countries share – including France, Italy, Spain,” Vincenzo Bove, professor of political science at Warwick University in UK, told Euronews. “I don’t think there’s one country that’s spared from it.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘to be spared from something’ in your own sentence.
  2. What is the meaning of “society at large” in this context? “According to Bove, the ideological distance between society at large and military forces has gotten wider in recent years.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘society at large’ in your own sentence.
  3. Define the word “conscription“. “While there’s no clear explanation for why this gap is getting wider, Bove said this might be related to the end of conscription…” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the reasons for European countries military recruitment crisis?
  2. Is a military career an appealing option for young civilians in your country? Why or why not?
  3. In your opinion, how can these countries boost recruitment?
  4. Do you agree or disagree that, “Immigration could be the answer.”? Elaborate on your stance.
  5. Share your thoughts on this statement, “Young civilians are overwhelmingly against wars, against increasing spending on the military and against military operations abroad; they are also more individualistic and less patriotic than those serving in the military forces.”
  6. Share your views on this, “What a smaller pool of applicants might mean for European armies now is that the quality of recruits accepted might not be up to the same strict standards armed forces have imposed for decades – which could in turn allow for dodgy individuals like neo-Nazi sympathisers to slip in.“.

Secrets for a Longer Life

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Unlocking the secrets to aging well doesn’t necessarily involve high-tech treatments like hyperbaric chambers or infrared light. Instead, evidence points to some key factors that contribute to longevity and overall well-being.

Read the article to know the secrets to a longer life. Be ready to answer the questions that follow.

https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/ss/slideshow-longer-life-secrets

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to think things through” mean in the sentence, “An 80-year study found people who are conscientious — meaning they pay attention to detail, think things through, and try to do what’s right — live longer.“? Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘to think things through’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does “to rub off on someone” mean in the sentence, “Your friends’ habits rub off on you, so look for buddies with healthy lifestyles.”? Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘to rub off on someone’ in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to whittle one’s middle” mean in the sentence, “Eat more fiber and exercise regularly to whittle your middle.”? Use this idiom in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What steps do you currently take to prioritize your health and well-being as you age? Please share.
  2. How do you incorporate factors such as diet, exercise, and stress management into your daily routine to promote longevity?
  3. Can you share any personal experiences or insights into how maintaining social connections has impacted your overall health and longevity?
  4. Are there any specific longevity practices or rituals from other cultures that you find intriguing or incorporate into your own routine?
  5. How do you stay informed about the latest research and recommendations regarding aging and longevity?

Cannabis Set to be Made Legal in Spain for Medical Purposes

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Cannabis has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Chinese. The plant contains compounds known as cannabinoids, which have been found to have various therapeutic effects on the body.

Despite its potential benefits, cannabis remains a controversial topic due to its legal status in many countries. However, as more research is conducted and laws are reformed, it is becoming increasingly accepted as a legitimate form of medicine.

See why some Spaniards are unhappy with the law regarding the legalization of cannabis for medical purposes by reading the article.

https://www.theolivepress.es/spain-news/2024/02/14/cannabis-is-set-to-be-made-legal

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “on track to something” mean? “Spain is on track to legalise cannabis for medicinal purposes, it emerged today.” Construct your own sentence using this phrase.
  2. What does “scientific evidence” mean? “The ministry said its law, hoped to be passed within the next year, is a “rigorous measure based on the best scientific evidence available.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. Define “bone of contention”. “Another bone of contention is that the products will only be available at hospital pharmacies, and not those found on almost every corner of Spain – making them that much more inaccessible.” Construct your own sentence using this phrase.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why does the legalization of cannabis for medicinal purposes still cause controversy?
  2. “The regulation does not include marijuana buds and self-cultivation, two of the main demands of suffering patients.” What are your thoughts on this subject?
  3. Share your own opinion on this, “The products will only be available at hospital pharmacies, and not those found on almost every corner of Spain – making them that much more inaccessible.“
  4. Do you support making marijuana legal for certain uses? Why or why not?
  5. What is the difference between decriminalization, legalization of medical cannabis?

After 60, Alone, Happy

B2 – Upper Intermediate

People’s viewpoints on romantic love typically shift as they age, leading some aged individuals to choose a life free of being in search of such attachments.

For these people, abandoning their quest for affection is not a sign of withdrawal, but rather an intentional choice based on an overwhelming feeling of confidence and contentment with their independence. They find satisfaction in their freedom and autonomy, liberated of the social demands and pressures that surround romantic relationships.

Visit the link for additional information.

https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2022/may/16/a-new-start-after-60-alone-for-the-first-time-in-my-life-i-learned-how-to-be-happy

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “a feel good story” mean in the sentence, “And it’s a feel good story that shatters all of our stereotypes.”? Use this in your own sentence.
  2. What does “in the greater world” mean in the sentence, “Rather than feeling lonely, she has realized that “there is so much connection available in the greater world,” said Ms. McCollough, who lives in Ludlow, Mass.”? Use this in your own sentence.
  3. What does “a pang of loneliness” mean in the sentence, “Occasionally, she feels a pang of loneliness, coming home to her silent house after a family get-together.”? Use this in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How has your perspective on romantic relationships shifted as you’ve gotten older? Tell me more.
  2. What are some of the benefits you’ve experienced from being single and focusing on yourself? Please share.
  3. How do you maintain a sense of fulfillment and happiness while being unattached romantically?
  4. Have you faced any societal pressures or judgments regarding your decision to prioritize your own happiness over finding a partner? Please share.
  5. What advice would you give to others who may be considering giving up the search for romantic love in favor of self-assurance and satisfaction?

Cyberattack on Major Barcelona Hospital

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Cyberattacks have become a prevalent threat in today’s digital age. These malicious acts target individuals, organizations, and even governments, causing significant damage and disruption. From data breaches to ransomware attacks, cyber criminals are constantly evolving their tactics to exploit vulnerabilities in technology systems.

One of the most concerning aspects of cyber attacks is the potential for widespread impact. A single attack can compromise sensitive information, disrupt critical infrastructure, and lead to financial losses.

Check out the article to find out how a cyberattack affects a hospital.

https://health.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/hospitals/cyberattack-hits-major-hospital-in-spanish-city-of-barcelona/98476266

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “cripple” mean?  “A ransomware cyberattack on one of Barcelona’s main hospitals has crippled the centre’s computer system and forced the cancellation of 150 non-urgent operations and up to 3,000 patient checkups.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘cripple’ in your own sentence.
  2. What is the meaning of “contingency plan”?  “He said the hospital’s contingency plan would allow them to function for several days, but he hoped the system would be fixed sooner.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘contingency plan’ in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to cut off access” mean? “Spanish state news agency EFE said the attack cut off access to patients records.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘to cut off access’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your reaction/thoughts on this news?
  2. Have you heard any news regarding cyberattacks, or has your company ever been a victim of one? Tell me the story.
  3. What do you think could be stolen from you by a cybercriminal?
  4. How important is cybersecurity? Do you believe that you are secured online? Share.
  5. What question would you like to ask a hacker?

Artificial Intelligence to Predict Extreme Weather

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Severe weather events have been occurring everywhere in the world. The majority may claim that it is due to the impending climate change.

Generally speaking, the forecast isn’t very accurate. Since artificial intelligence has made significant progress, perhaps the future of weather forecasting will be more apparent.

To learn more about AI helping us to predict extreme weather watch the video below.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is the meaning of “at a time“? “The AI revolution has reached meteorology, and it’s at a time when we are responding to extreme weather more than ever.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘at a time’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does the word “tweak” mean? “They tweak the initial data and produce up to 50 forecasts.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘tweak’ in your own sentence.
  3. Do you know what “to keep an eye” means? “We got to kind of keep an eye to the sky.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘to keep an eye’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think AI would make a significant contribution to weather forecasting? Explain.
  2. Are you checking the weather forecast every day? Why do you do so?
  3. In what ways will AI impact weather forecasting significantly?
  4. Will we be more able to withstand harsh weather events as a result of this meteorological revolution? Justify your stance.