Tag: Text

China’s Curious Cult of the Mango

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C1 – Advanced

Who knew that mangoes can be sacred?

Click on the title below to read about how mangoes were viewed in China. Read the article part by part and take note of new vocabulary words and expressions.

China’s curious cult of the mango

Discuss:

1. Explain the past that China had with the mango fruit. How Significant was it?
2. In the article, what were some of the ancient insights that showed a part of the Chinese culture?
3. Share some of the unique traditions that your country has that has been long part of history.

How Diversity Has Changed America

B2 – Upper intermediate

Diversity in America is nothing new. With thousands of migrants and immigrants flocking the United States for a number of reasons.

Read the article below to know some facts about some of the more diversified states in the US.

How Diversity Has Changed America

Discuss:

1. How diverse is the population in Spain?
2. Which cities are more diverse?
3. How does immigration affect the locals?
4. What do you think is the difference between a migrant and an immigrant?

Offer Words of Encouragement

C1 – Advanced

How would you define encouragement? And how different is it from motivation?

Watch the video below then read the article to know more about how encouragement changes a person’s life.

How and Why to Offer Words of Encouragement

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Discuss:

1. Based on the article and video, how would you explain the difference between encouragement and motivation?
2. What makes encouraging so important to people?
3. How do you encourage people at work or in your family?
4. Do you enjoy challenges or do you usually shy away from them?

Euro Politicians Told to Stop Speaking English

B2 – Upper intermediate

There are 24 official languages spoken at the European Parliament. The European Parliament’s Secretary General has asked Euro politicians to speak more slowly and to use to their native language instead of English. What are your thoughts on the Secretary General’s request?

Euro politicians told to stop speaking English

Discuss:

1. What do you think about the article?
2. What do you think is the difference between an interpreter and a translator?
3. How do you feel about using English in political meetings such as the European Parliament?
4. If you could speak another language fluently, what would it be?

A Great Place to Live, A Terrible Place to Work?

C1 – Advanced

Working longer days compared to neighboring European counterparts isn’t exactly the best way to boost productivity and reduce work-related stress among Spanish workers.

Discover why Spain is the best place to live in, but the contrary as a place to work.

Spain – A great place to live, a terrible place to work?

Discuss:

1. Do you agree or disagree that Spain is a great place to live but a terrible place to work or invest in?
2. What are your thoughts on Spain’s image of the land of the siesta?
3. How can work practices be improved in your country?

Potato Farmer Swapped Bankruptcy for Making Millions

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The story of William Chase is just one of many talking about the struggles and triumphs of doing what you love and turning it into a business. If you’re as lucky as him, you might even end up making millions.

Read the article about the potato farmer who went from being bankrupt to a millionaire. Be ready to answer the questions that follow.

http://www.bbc.com/news/business-35491792

Discussion Questions:

1. In your own words, tell the story of William Chase.
2. What were some of the challenges that he encountered? What were his frustrations?
3. How would you describe the agricultural industry in your country?
4. Are your local farmers supported by the government?
5. If you had the opportunity to have a business, what would you put up?

Zika Virus Could Affect 4 Million People

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Zika virus is spread to people through mosquito bites. In May 2015, the Pan American Health Organization issued an alert regarding the first confirmed Zika virus infection in Brazil.

Read the article below and discuss your current knowledge and opinions about this health issue.

http://www.breakingnewsenglish.com/1602/160202-zika-virus.html

Discussion Questions:

1. What do you know about the Zika virus?
2. How worried are you about the Zika virus?
3. Will there be a vaccine for all viruses one day?
4. If there are no diseases, will there be an overpopulation problem?
5. Why would it be a problem to find a vaccine for the Zika virus?

The Social Pressure of Sexting for Teenagers

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Texting is a great way to stay in touch with friends. But, teenagers have actually reached a new high when it comes to sending more than just a message.

What is sexting and how dangerous is it for teenagers? Read this article and express your thoughts.

The Social Pressure To Do Sexting As A Teenager

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on the rising problem with sexting among teenagers?
  2. What are the dangers of using the technology without restriction on teenagers?
  3. What are some things we can teach our children about e-safety?
  4. How do you protect yourself when you’re using technology?

Women Do Not Get Enough Sleep

B2 – Upper Intermediate

It is a known fact that sleep is important to everyone. The article below shows how women are dangerously more susceptible to sleeplessness.

Read the article to get the facts on sleep deprivation among women.

http://www.breakingnewsenglish.com/1601/160130-sleep-deprivation.html

Discussion Questions:

  1. What might be reasons women do not sleep enough?
  2. What are your thoughts on the results of this report?
  3. How important is sleep to you?
  4. How are you like when you did not get enough sleep?
  5. Would you change your sleeping habits after reading this article?
  6. Talk about a time when you suffered from sleeplessness and how did you deal with it?
  7. Would you consider going to a sleep doctor if you ever suffered from sleeplessness over a period of time? Explain.

Fraud Case Batters Image of Monarchy

C1 – Advanced

In 2014, allegations against Spain’s Princess Cristina held serious implications for the reputation and future of the monarchy.

Watch the video then read the article. Be prepared to express your thoughts and share some updates.

Spanish fraud case batters image of monarchy

Discuss:

1. Do you think these cases will have real implications for the future of the royal family in Spain?
2. How should the justice system treat the monarchy in cases as such?
3. Do you think Spain is better off without the monarchy?