Tag: Text

Quiet Cutting

B2 – Upper Intermediate

When companies cut costs, layoffs often come to mind. But a new trend called “quiet cutting” is changing the game — employees aren’t losing their jobs, but they are being reassigned to different roles they didn’t sign up for. This subtle shift is becoming more common, especially in the tech industry, leaving many workers uncertain about their futures.

Read this article to learn more about quiet cutting.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/is-your-job-quiet-cutting-you-heres-what-you-need-to-watch-out-for-goog_l_683886b5e4b06202aa916fe1

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Define “ebb and flow“. “…these kind of reassignments can happen for roles that have transferable skills like recruiters, sales or support that also have natural ebbs and flows in their work streams.” Make a sentence with this phrase. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  2. What does “put out feelers” mean? “I would probably start exploring options and putting out feelers just in case.” Use this in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  3. What is the meaning of “retaliatory“? “But employees still have rights, especially if you believe the reassignment is retaliatory.” Make a sentence and give two synonyms of this word.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How is “quiet cutting” different from a traditional layoff, and why might companies prefer it?
  2. Do you think “quiet cutting” is a form of job security or a disguised punishment? Explain your insights.
  3. If you were reassigned to a role you didn’t want, how would you respond?
  4. What factors would influence your decision to stay or leave if you were to be reassigned?
  5. Can quiet cutting be an opportunity for growth, or is it more likely to cause frustration and disengagement? Why?
  6. What’s your opinion on this, “I would probably view this as a sign of potential trouble while also appreciating the opportunity to remain employed.”?

Dry Begging

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Not all requests in relationships sound like “Can you help me with this?” Sometimes, they slip out as offhand comments, exaggerated sighs, or quiet complaints. This subtle, often unconscious way of asking for support is known as dry begging — and many of us do it without even realizing.

Read on to understand what dry begging really is.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/what-is-dry-begging_l_6840a185e4b02322acee0907

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to hint at something” means? “If you feel lonely, consider how to ask your partner to spend more time with you instead of hinting at it.” Use this in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “meant for the long haul” mean? “While it can feel easier than directly asking for what you want, dry begging really isn’t meant for the long haul.” Make a sentence with this idiom. Give a synonym.
  3. What’s the meaning of “the benefit of the doubt”? “It’s not always manipulative — it certainly can be — but I like to give people the benefit of the doubt.” Use this in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why do you think people rely on indirect communication like dry begging, even when it often leads to misunderstandings?
  2. What are the risks and benefits of expressing needs indirectly versus directly? Can indirect communication ever be effective?
  3. How would you handle it if you noticed a friend or partner was dry begging for your attention or help?
  4. What’s your opinion on this statement: “You can’t fix a behavior if you don’t know it exists.”?

Infant to Receive Personalized Gene Therapy Treatment

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Researchers at the National Institutes of Health have made a significant breakthrough by successfully treating an infant suffering from a rare genetic disorder that was once deemed untreatable, using a customized gene therapy. This cutting-edge treatment specifically addresses the faulty gene responsible for the illness, providing new hope where conventional therapies have not succeeded. The procedure involves using an engineered virus to deliver healthy copies of the gene directly into the patient’s cells. Prior to testing in humans, thorough laboratory and animal studies confirmed the treatment’s safety and potential benefits. This achievement represents a major advancement in the fight against rare genetic diseases through personalized medical interventions. Additionally, it highlights the crucial role that rare disease databases play in facilitating the development of individualized therapies.

Read the article to know more about personalize gene therapy treatment.

https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/infant-rare-incurable-disease-first-successfully-receive-personalized-gene-therapy-treatment

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “monogenic disease” mean? “This therapy targets the underlying cause of the infant’s monogenic disease, which is traditionally considered incurable.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “viral vector” mean? “If the treatment uses a viral vector to introduce corrected genetic material into the patient’s cells.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “immunogenicity” mean? “Researchers carefully monitored the patient for any signs of immunogenicity, which could affect treatment success.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How might gene therapy change the future of medicine?
  2. Do you think gene therapy could eventually eliminate some genetic diseases entirely? Why or why not?
  3. Would you consider gene therapy if it was available to treat a genetic condition you or someone you know had? Why or why not?
  4. How might personalized medicine affect healthcare costs and accessibility?
  5. What ethical concerns could arise from personalized genetic treatments?

Breadcrumbing at Work

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In today’s fast-paced professional world, breadcrumbing isn’t just a strategy—it’s often used as a way to cope or stay afloat. Whether we mean to or not, most of us have played a part in breadcrumbing—whether as a boss, a colleague, or a job candidate. It’s become a common part of workplace behavior, often without us even noticing.
So what is breadcrumbing, really—and is it possible you’re engaging in it without knowing?

Read the article about breadcrumbing at work.

Breadcrumbing at work – why everyone is doing it (yes, even you)!

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to follow through on one’s own words” mean? “The same applies to breadcrumbing at work, where a company, employee, or job seeker will give just enough time, attention, or talk to suggest they are totally interested and committed but they never actually follow through on their words.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “buzzword” mean? “So, is breadcrumbing even a thing or just a buzzword doing the rounds?” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “to keep someone/something warm” mean? “For example, as a recruiter there are many occasions where clients ask me to ‘keep a candidate warm’ after an interview because they cannot make an immediate decision.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How is breadcrumbing different from normal delays or bureaucracy at work?
  2. Do you think breadcrumbing is more common in certain industries or roles?
  3. Have you ever experienced breadcrumbing at work or during a job search?
  4. Do you think breadcrumbing is a form of workplace manipulation? Why or why not?

America First Could End the Age of Arbitrage

B2 – Upper Intermediate

President Donald Trump’s renewed “America First” agenda in 2025 is disrupting decades of globalization by targeting international tax and regulatory strategies. Proposals include imposing a 25% tariff on Apple if it doesn’t manufacture iPhones domestically and a 50% levy on imported steel and aluminum. These measures aim to dismantle complex international systems of tax, regulatory, and financial arbitrage that U.S. multinationals have long utilized to reduce domestic tax liabilities. For instance, pharmaceutical companies often report minimal profits in the U.S. while declaring substantial gains abroad, and insurers shift liabilities to jurisdictions like Bermuda for lighter regulations.

Read the article to know more about the proposed provision to tax foreign investors in U.S. assets could further affect global capital flows, potentially destabilizing international finance. While these policies seek to reinforce domestic equity, they risk undermining the foundational pillars of the global economic and financial system.

https://www.reuters.com/breakingviews/why-america-first-could-end-age-arbitrage-2025-06-06/?

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “ceding reserve” mean? ” The industrial-scale transfer of life insurance policies by U.S. insurers to offshore jurisdictions – a process known as “ceding reserves” – provides a timely example.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “golden goose” mean? “They can also short tax havens and lightly regulated jurisdictions in the anticipation that the golden geese will be flying home.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “shadow bank” mean? “This is the edifice of international finance underpinned by the U.S. dollar. In a recent lecture, Hyun Song Shin of the Bank for International Settlements explained how, before 2008, liquidity in international markets was supplied by so-called shadow banks issuing private credit instruments.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think prioritizing domestic production through tariffs is beneficial for a country’s economy in the long run or does it do more harm than good?
  2. How do you feel about taxing foreign investors in U.S. assets? Could that strengthen or weaken the U.S. economy?
  3. If you were running a global company, how would you respond to policies that limit tax and regulatory advantages abroad?
  4. Do you think the rest of the world will follow suit with their own “first” policies, or will they push back against this kind of economic nationalism?
  5. Is it fair for multinational corporations to shift profits and liabilities to lower-tax countries, or should they be taxed more strictly where they operate?

Trump-Musk Feud Slams Stocks

B2 – Upper Intermediate

On June 5, 2025, global financial markets reacted sharply to a public dispute between U.S. President Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Trump’s threat to cut off government contracts with Musk-owned companies led to a 14% drop in Tesla’s shares, dragging down Wall Street indices. This incident overshadowed positive developments, such as a phone call between Trump and Chinese Premier Xi Jinping aimed at easing trade tensions.

Read the article to know why despite some recovery in stock prices since April, investor sentiment remains fragile amid ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainties.

https://www.investopedia.com/tesla-stock-sinks-as-trump-musk-relationship-falls-apart-in-public-spat-11748777

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to get one’s teeth into something” mean? “There was plenty of meaty news for investors to get their teeth into on Thursday – U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese Premier Xi Jinping’s long-awaited phone call, a rate cut and guidance from the European Central Bank, and more soft U.S. labor market data. “ Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “headwind” mean? “The headwinds haven’t gone away, but the ‘hopium’ rally could still have room to run. More on that below, but first, a roundup of the main market moves.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “thin gruel” mean? “The more optimistic take, which investors initially adopted, is that the talks were constructive and cordial, evidenced by the tone of Trump’s social media post and the fact that the two invited each other to visit. But that’s pretty thin gruel, and it wasn’t enough to support Wall Street’s initial gains.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think political figures should be more cautious when publicly criticizing business leaders, considering how it affects the stock market?
  2. How much influence do you believe Elon Musk has over investor confidence compared to political leaders like Trump?
  3. If you were an investor, would a public feud like this make you sell, hold, or buy more shares of a company like Tesla? Why?
  4. Do you think the market overreacts to high-profile drama, or is it justified given the financial risks involved?
  5. How should companies like Tesla respond when political leaders threaten their government contracts publicly?

Revenge Saving

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In a shift from the post-pandemic “revenge spending,” Americans are now prioritizing savings, a trend termed “revenge saving.” The U.S. personal savings rate rose to 4.9% in April 2025, up from 4.1% in January. This change is driven by economic uncertainties, including volatile tariff policies and inflation concerns. High-income households are cutting back on nonessential spending, focusing instead on building emergency funds.

Read the article to know why experts recommend automating savings and creating specific fund categories to enhance financial planning.

https://www.investopedia.com/many-people-are-revenge-saving-should-you-11749777

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to feel the pinch” mean? “Even households earning more than $200,000 annually are feeling the pinch, reducing non-essential purchases and travel budgets from 2024.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. Explain the meaning of “backing” in this sentence, “A May 2025 Santander survey found that only 35% of American adults understood that high-yield savings accounts are less risky than investment accounts, which don’t come with Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation backing.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “to put money away” mean? “Higher yields for savings accounts could be drawing Americans to put more money away, but seven in 10 told Santander they didn’t know about them.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you ever shifted your habits from spending to saving due to uncertainty like during the pandemic or inflation spikes?
  2. What do you think motivates people more to save: fear of the future or a specific financial goal?
  3. Do you believe “revenge saving” is sustainable long-term, or is it just another temporary financial trend?
  4. What are your thoughts on employer-sponsored emergency savings accounts?
  5. In your opinion, is automating savings a smart strategy, or do people need more flexibility with their finances right now?
  6. How do you personally balance treating yourself vs. preparing for economic uncertainty in your financial routine?
  7. Share your thoughts on this, “Even high earners are cutting back on travel and non-essential purchases to boost their cash reserves—a clear sign that economic anxiety has replaced post-pandemic FOMO as the driving force behind financial decisions.“

Airline Fees Turned Baggage into Billions

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

Back in the days, check-in luggage, seat selection, and meals were free on commercial flights. That was until the UK low-cost carrier FlyBe started charging for check-in baggage. Then, the other airlines started doing the same thing.

Fast forward to today, Air Canada and Southwest added to the list of airlines that charge passengers for check-in luggage. 

From extra fees including checked baggage, seat selection, wifi and lounge access, upgrades, and food and drink alone, airlines are expected to generate $145 billion this year. This constitutes to 14% of the sector’s total revenues.

Read the article about how airlines are now making billions from charging passengers for check-in luggage and other ancillary fees.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0qg3ylx2g9o

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “grey area” mean? “However, what determines “reasonable requirements” continues to be a grey area in need of an official ruling.” Use this expression in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  2. What does “ancillary” mean? “With Air Canada and Southwest the latest airlines to charge passengers for check-in luggage, the ballooning cost of such ancillary fees is provoking anger among politicians and consumer groups.” Use this word in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms.
  3. What does “to follow suit” mean? “Other budget carriers then quickly followed suit, with the so-called flag carriers or established airlines then also doing so, at least on shorter flights.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your reaction to and opinion to airlines charging passengers for check-in luggage? Also, share your opinion on airlines making billions from check-in baggage and other extra fees.
  2. Are junk fees from airlines also very common in your country? Talk about it.
  3. Share your thoughts on how the rise of the budget airlines contributed to the ballooning of junk fees from airlines.
  4. Do you think checked bags, seat selection, and meals should be for free on commercial flights? Explain.
  5. Share your opinion on the huge boom in the sales of carry-on luggage as a result of passengers’ refusal to pay for check-in bags. 

Watch Out for Summer Events Ticket Traps

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

A warming is being given to festival and concert enthusiasts. As they are usually so desperate to get their hands on much coveted tickets, they fall victims to ticket scams.

Read the article about summer events ticket traps and how to protect yourself from said scams.

https://www.lbc.co.uk/business/9a55a872f7214270a5976562e42541bb

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “coveted” mean? “Music fans desperate to get their hands on coveted tickets could be susceptible to scams.” Use this word in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms.
  2. What does “to get one’s hand on something” mean? “With many events taking place over the summer, fans desperate to get their hands on coveted tickets to see their favourite bands perform live could be susceptible to scams.“ Use this idiom in a sentence. Give 2 similar expressions.
  3. What does “to put right” mean? “Credit reference agencies can help to put right any damage done to reports.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your reaction to and opinion to this news?
  2. Have you ever been scammed buying tickets online? What happened? Or talk about your experience booking tickets online in general. 
  3. What can be done to avoid falling victims to ticket traps?
  4. Do you agree or disagree with this, “If a seller is offering you a bargain price for a ticket to a popular event, this could be a red flag.”? Why?
  5. Talk about your experience attending summer events. 

Young and Black Workers at Risk of Workplace Surveillance

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

Among all employees, those young workers that are new to the workforce and black staff are at most risk to be subjected to surveillance at work.

It is urgent to have legal reforms so workers are able to decide on how they are tracked by their companies.

Read the article about workplace surveillance and algorithmic discrimination.

https://www.lbc.co.uk/tech/16c4429688b9400da8666cc60a9c3f6e

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is a “chilling effect”? “If surveillance has a chilling effect on people’s willingness to express themselves in the workplace, that may also decrease their satisfaction at work.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “bake into” mean? “Increasing levels of surveillance of certain workers could “deepen the inequalities already baked into the labour market”, said Mr Evans, noting that black workers are more likely to be in jobs with a higher risk of “intrusive surveillance”.“ Use this phrasal verb in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “discrimination by algorithms” mean? “This includes safeguarding against invasion of privacy and discrimination by algorithms.” Use this term in a sentence. Give a similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your reaction to and opinion about this, “Young people new to the labour market and black employees are among the most likely to be subject to surveillance in the workplace.”?
  2. Do you think surveillance in the workplace is fair and necessary? Share your insights.
  3. What are ways your company monitors you and your work?
  4. Do you think employers/companies should disclose to their employees what data are being collected? Share your opinion.
  5. Share your thoughts on this, “If surveillance has a chilling effect on people’s willingness to express themselves in the workplace, that may also decrease their satisfaction at work.”
  6. Share some things you know about discrimination by algorithms. What are your thoughts on it?