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Cheese Gives Us Nightmares

B1 – Intermediate 

Did you know that almost 85% of adults have a nightmare at least once every year. In addition, about 5% experiences having a bad dream quite often.

Do you ever wonder what causes us to dream about bad or scary things?

What if I tell you that cheese can be a reason for night terrors to visit you in your sleep? 

Read the article about how dairy products such as cheese could give people nightmares.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2507/250707-cheese-nightmares.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “severe” mean? “Research published in the journal “Frontiers in Psychology” found that people with a severe lactose intolerance were more prone to bad dreams and insomnia.” Use this word in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms/similar expressions.
  2. What does “to account for something” mean? “If you have gastrointestinal issues, that could account for a lot of what’s happening in terms of sleep disturbances that could be associated with different dreams.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms/similar expressions.
  3. What does “disorder” mean in this context, “One large survey found that 30-40 percent of individuals will have a clinically significant sleep disorder in their lifetime.” Use this word in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms/similar expressions.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What was your reaction to this, “Cheese and other dairy products could disturb  sleep.”?
  2. Would this finding change the way you consume dairy, specifically cheese? Why or why not?
  3. What do you think about the fact that the food we eat affect our dreams? Elaborate.
  4. What usually cause sleep disturbances for you?
  5. What is the worst/scariest nightmare you’ve ever had? Talk about it.
  6. Talk about a nightmare you’ve had recently.

Things You Need to Make It Through a Power Cut

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

On April 28, 2025, a massive power outage hit Spain and Portugal which resulted to disruption across said countries.

No one thought this could happen and so, no one was prepared enough for it. When there is no electricity and nothing works, how do we overcome?

Having experienced one of the worst power interruptions in history, people realized what things do they need in case of a power cut.

Read the article about some things we need to make it through a power cut.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwy6d0987r0o

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to piece something together” mean? “The complete loss of communication was the most confusing and concerning thing… we were only left to speculate as to the cause and piece together news from people in the neighbourhood.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms/similar expressions.
  2. What does “to get through something” mean in this context, “The power is out and nothing is working. How am I supposed to get through the day?” Use this expression in a sentence. Give another meaning of “get through”.
  3. What does “to go off” mean in this context, “We bought a lot of food that wasn’t going to go off, like tuna in cans, just in case.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give another meaning of “go off”.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you agree with the five things you need to make it through a blackout mentioned in the article? Which ones do you think are the most important and which one the least? What items would you add to this list and why?
  2. What helped you get on with your day during the massive blackout in your country?
  3. How did not having access to the internet make you feel?
  4. Is it necessary to have an emergency kit? Why or why not? Do you have one at home and why? 
  5. Share your thoughts on this statement, “This thing that happened was important to make us be more aware and be more conscious about our habits.”
  6. Do you agree or disagree, “Cash is king.”? Explain.

Venice Divided Over Bezos Wedding

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

The extravagant 3-day wedding party of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and journalist Lauren Sanchez in Venice had just come its conclusion.

While what was dubbed as “the wedding of the year” was thought to bring glitz and glamour and the much-needed high-quality tourism to the delicate city on the water, some citizens feel that billionaires come to Venice and turn the city into their “amusement park”.

So, as the wedding festivities took place, Venetians took to the streets to protest against issues such as over-tourism, climate change, and capitalism.

Read the article about Jeff Bezos’ lavish wedding in Venice and what the Venetians make of it.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5ylk5nznkyo

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “a drop in the lagoon [ originally ocean ]” mean? “As for the 30 million euros the wedding might net the city in other ways – activists call that “a drop in the lagoon” for one of the richest men on earth.” Use this idiom in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms/similar expressions.
  2. What does “what to make of someone/something” mean? “Spotted heading into Harry’s Bar for lunch on Saturday, Bezos blew kisses towards the cameras when a local journalist asked what he made of the protests.” Use this expression in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms/similar expressions.
  3. What does “to bring something to a halt” mean? “It seems, however, that talk of this wedding bringing the city to a halt was overblown.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms/similar expressions.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on the Venetians protesting Bezos’ wedding?
  2. What do you think about rich people choosing a specific city to hold big events such as their weddings? What impact do you think it has on the city?
  3. How would you feel about your city being chosen as a venue for a very important event? What could this event bring to your town?
  4. Share your insights on this, “The fears of Venice becoming a tourist playground, forcing locals out of town, are no exaggeration.”
  5. According to one resident of Venice, “I think there should be more people like Bezos here. Right now, we get trash tourism and Venice doesn’t deserve that.” What do you think about her statement?

The Silent Agony of Getting Your Food First

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Getting your food first might feel lucky, but it can also be awkward. You’re hungry, but unsure if it’s rude to start eating before everyone else. It’s a small moment that shows how even meals come with their own quiet rules.

Let’s read the article to learn more about why this simple dining moment can feel so uncomfortable when you’re the first to be served.

https://scienceblog.com/the-silent-agony-of-getting-your-food-first

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to show restraint” mean? “… even when those same people wouldn’t expect their dining companions to show such restraint.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. Explain the phrase “in the company of others“. “The decision of when to start eating food in the company of others is a very common dilemma.” Use it in your own sentence.
  3. Define the phrase “twinge of guilt“. “When you’re the one with hot food cooling on your plate, you can feel every twinge of guilt, every moment of social awkwardness, and every benefit of appearing considerate.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What’s your take on the study’s conclusions?
  2. What’s the customary practice in your country when it comes to starting a meal? Do people wait until all are served?
  3. How do you react when others start eating before your food has been served?
  4. Which table etiquette rules are most valued where you’re from?
  5. What distinct dining customs have stood out to you during your travels?

The Infected Blood Scandal

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

From the late 1970s until 1985, patients with hemophilia were treated with contaminated blood products that were provided by the NHS in the UK.

The said patients later contracted hepatitis C and HIV. Over 3,000 of those patients have died.

The treatment for the patients who were mostly haemophiliacs used pharmaceutical products called Factor 8 and Factor 9 concentrates. They were imported from the US. 

The UK government has launched an official investigation of this grave public health issue hoping to help the patients and their families.

Read the article about the contaminated hemophilia blood products scandal.

https://www.bbc.com/news/health-48596605

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “arms-length body” mean? “It set up an independent arms-length body called the Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA) to administer payments.“ Use this term in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  2. What does “interim payment” mean? “In October 2024, the government said more relatives of those who died could also apply for £100,000 interim payments if the money had not already been claimed.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  3. What does “on one’s side” mean? “People infected and affected do not have time on their side.” Use this idiom in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms or similar expressions.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your insights about the contaminated hemophilia blood products scandal.
  2. Do you agree that the families of victims should receive a payout as a form of settlement? What is your opinion?
  3. Talk about another serious public health problem that you know of. 

Doctors Angry Over Secret Filming by Patients

B1 – Intermediate 

There have been an increase in patients who secretly film their consultations with their doctors and then, they post those videos on their social media.

The Society of Radiographers (SoR) in the UK wants patients recording videos in hospitals and clinics to be banned.

Read the article about doctors’ dismay over patients filming them on their mobile phones.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2506/250619-secret-filming.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “breach” mean? “As healthcare professionals, we need to think: Does that recording breach the confidentiality of other patients?” Use this word in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  2. What does “union worker” mean? “They do not want to have videos of them uploaded on social media. Ashley d’Aquino, a therapeutic radiographer and union worker, spoke about this problem.“ Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  3. What does “privacy concern” mean? “Dean Rogers, director of industrial strategy, said this was a problem that affected many health workers. He said there could also be privacy concerns for other people.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think that video recording in hospitals and clinics should be prohibited? Why or why not?
  2. What might be the reasons people secretly film their visits and talks with their doctors? 
  3. Do you think it is necessary to secretly take a video of your doctor’s visit? Why or why not?
  4. Is recording in hospitals and clinics a breach of the confidentiality of the hospital workers and the other patients? Explain your insights.
  5. What is the rule about filming doctor’s appointment in your country? Do you agree with it or not? Why?

Grow a Garden Game Breaks Record

B1 – Intermediate 

Grow a Garden is a horticultural-themed game. On June 14, 2025, the game broke the record for having the most number of users who were simultaneously online at the same time. This is more than the 14.3 million that the famous game Fortnite has set previously.

Read the article about how Grow a Garden broke the record for concurrent users.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2506/250623-grow-a-garden.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to break the record for something” mean? “An online gardening game has broken the record for the most users being online at the same time.” Use this idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  2. What does “to be fueled by someone/something” mean? “The game’s owners said its success is fueled by vibrant social interactions.“ Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  3. What does “to unlock something” mean? “They can also unlock rare seeds, exotic crops, and underwater gardens and magical forests.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear the word “garden”?
  2. Share your reaction and opinion about this news.
  3. What do you think about this game? Would you be interested in trying to play it? Why or why not?
  4. Experts believe Grow a Garden may not lead to a love of gardening. What is your opinion about this?
  5. Have you ever played any simulation game like “Grow a Garden”? Talk about how to play that game and why you liked it.

Attacks on Iran Could Affect Oil Prices and Energy Bills

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Oil prices have recently gone up after reports of an attack on Iran. The explosions were heard in the city of Isfahan, and some countries believe that Israel was responsible. Although there was no serious damage, the news caused fear that conflict in the Middle East might grow.

When there is tension in this region, it often affects energy prices around the world. This is because many important oil-producing countries are located there. After the news, the price of oil and gas increased quickly in different parts of the world, including Europe.

Read this article to learn why this attack matters, how it affected energy prices, and what could happen next.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cg5vr2rvzg4o

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “price cap” mean? “The energy regulator, Ofgem, has already announced the energy price cap for July until September.” Make a sentence with this phrase. Give a synonym.
  2. What is “household bill“? “Craig Lowrey, principal consultant at Cornwall Insights, says household bills are safe from any volatility for now. But if this conflict continues past September, household bills could rise.” Make a sentence with this. Give a similar expression.
  3. What does “financial buffer” mean? “”Many rely heavily on Middle Eastern oil and gas imports and lack the financial buffers to absorb sudden price spikes.”” Use this in a sentence. Give a similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think it’s fair that people in peaceful countries pay more when this happens? Explain your thoughts.
  2. How could rising oil prices affect your country or your personal life?
  3. How does war or conflict in one place affect the whole world today?
  4. Do you think oil prices should be controlled by the government? Why or why not?
  5. Do you think news reports make people too afraid during international conflicts? Why or why not?

Nagoya Standstill Teams Prevent People From Walking on Escalators

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Every year, many people in Nagoya are injured on escalators—often because of walking or rushing. Despite the presence of signs and announcements, many commuters still move while riding, creating safety risks in crowded stations. To tackle this, the city introduced a new approach: the “Stop and Stand Squad.”

Let’s read the article and know more about this initiative.

https://www.tokyoweekender.com/japan-life/news-and-opinion/nagoya-standstill-teams-prevent-walking-on-escalators

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to follow suit” mean? “Nagoya then followed suit two years later. Though it is non-binding and there are no penalties for defying the rules, the ordinance in Nagoya appears to have had a significant impact on how people ride escalators.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What is the meaning of the phrase “to be met with“? “The initiative has been met with a mixed reaction on social media. “Let’s do it in Tokyo too,” posted one X user.” Use it in your own sentence.
  3. Define “nuisance“. “Disagreeing, a fellow X user described Nagoya’s standstill teams as “nothing but a nuisance,” adding, “Just like on the highway, the left side is for people who are not in a hurry and the right side is for people who are.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How do you feel about Nagoya’s initiative to promote escalator safety with the Standstill team?
  2. Why does standing on an escalator sometimes make the flow of people faster?
  3. On escalators, do you ride passively or hustle your way up? Why?
  4. Are people in your city more likely to stay put or keep moving on escalators?
  5. What factors usually make your commute feel rushed or relaxed?

Poor Chewing Linked to Higher Childhood Obesity Risk

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Scientists are now looking at how kids eat, not just what they eat. New research shows that when children eat too fast or don’t chew their food well, they may be more likely to become overweight. This means good chewing habits could be important for staying healthy.

Let’s take a closer look at the article to learn more about the link between chewing and childhood obesity.

Poor Chewing Linked To Higher Childhood Obesity Risk

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to stuff oneself” mean? “Those who frequently stuffed themselves while eating were 1.29 times more likely to be obese.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. Explain the phrase “more likely to be“. “Children with poor chewing skills were 1.5 times more likely to be obese compared to peers with better chewing ability.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  3. What is the meaning of the phrase “to address something“? “Addressing these behaviors early could support healthier growth and reduce obesity-related health risks.“. Use it in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What’s your take on the study’s conclusions?
  2. Does it seem unusual that something like chewing strength might influence childhood obesity? Why or why not?
  3. How long do you usually chew your food before swallowing? Why is that so?
  4. What are some healthy eating habits we can teach children?
  5. What kinds of table manners did your parents expect you to follow when you were a child?