Tag: Text

LinkedIn Accused of Using Private Messages to Train AI

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

The world’s largest professional social networking platform, LinkedIn, faces a lawsuit filed by their premium users alleging the social network website to be sharing said premium subscribers’ private messages and personal data with other third-party companies in order to train artificial intelligence (AI).

Read more about how LinkedIn allegedly shares users’ private messages and personal data with third parties to train AI.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdxevpzy3yko

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Explain the “Stored Communications Act”. “It seeks $1,000 (£812) per user for alleged violations of the US federal Stored Communications Act as well as an unspecified amount for breach of contract and California’s unfair competition law.“ Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “false claim” mean? “A LinkedIn spokesperson told BBC News that “these are false claims with no merit”.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  3. What does “to cover one’s tracks” mean? “LinkedIn’s actions indicate a pattern of attempting to cover its tracks,” the lawsuit said.” Use this idiom in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your thoughts on this news.
  2. What is your opinion on platforms/apps enabling user data sharing for AI purposes?
  3. Share your point of view on this, “Lawsuit accuses LinkedIn of trying to conceal its actions but the firm says the claims are false.”.
  4. Do you believe that this lawsuit will stand up in court? Explain your viewpoint.

French Town Inherits $10.2mn from Unknown Benefactor


B2 – Upper Intermediate

Imagine receiving a generous amount of money from a total stranger. How would that make you feel? This is exactly what happened to the small town of Thiberville as it becomes the unexpected beneficiary of an astounding amount of inheritance from a Parisian meteorologist who never once set foot in the town.

Let’s read the article and know more about the circumstances around this generous inheritance.

https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/world/small-french-town-in-normandy-inherits-102mn-from-unknown-benefactor/ar-BB1rjUpg

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “to leave someone in disbelief” mean? “The unexpected inheritance amounts to five times the town’s annual budget, leaving officials and residents in disbelief.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the word “windfall” mean in this context? “Mayor Guy Paris described the windfall as“exceptional” and shared that the town would manage the money carefully.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  3. What does it mean to “to set foot in some place“? “The quiet town of Thiberville in Normandy, France, was left stunned when it inherited an astonishing fortune of $10.2 million from a man who had never set foot in the town.” Use it in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think of Roger Thiberville leaving $10 million to a town?
  2. What would you consider doing with your money if you didn’t have anyone to leave it to?
  3. What would you do if you unexpectedly inherited a huge amount of money?
  4. Who are some of the most generous people you’ve met? What makes them generous?
  5. What do you know about the laws on inheritance tax in your country?

Los Angeles Wildfires Lead to Sky-High Rents  

B1 – Intermediate 

There have been more than 15,000 structures destroyed and hundreds of thousands of people affected by the wildfires in Los Angeles recently.

Those residents that lost their homes need to find a place to live in after this devastating incident. 

Unfortunately, some landlords seem to be taking advantage of this situation to increase their profits by raising the rents.

Read more about the high rents in Los Angeles after the wildfires.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2501/250116-los-angeles-fires-2.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “price gouging” mean? “The California governor introduced a price gouging law on January the 7th.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  2. What does “upmarket” mean? “Actress Paris Hilton lost her house in upmarket Malibu.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘upmarket’ in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to break/shatter one’s heart into pieces” mean? “Actress Paris Hilton lost her house in upmarket Malibu. She wrote on social media: It feels like my heart has shattered into a million pieces.” Use this idiom in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your opinion about some landlords increasing the rents by thousands of dollars in the middle of the wildfires in LA?
  2. Is price gouging ever justifiable or fair? Explain your thoughts.
  3. Talk about another incident of price gouging that you know of.
  4. “Many people are blaming climate change for the fires. Little rain left Los Angeles very dry. The risk of wildfires is high.” Share your opinion about this statement. 
  5. Has your country ever been affected by wildfires? Talk about this instance.

Financially Smart Ways to Start the New Year


B2 – Upper Intermediate

As we step into 2025, it’s time to reassess and strengthen your financial strategies. Here are six actionable tips to help you navigate 2025 with greater financial confidence and security.

Read the article to know more about the steps to help you achieve financial wellness this year.

https://www.morganstanley.com/articles/financial-planning-new-year-financial-resolutions

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “liquid account” mean? A general rule of thumb for an emergency fund is saving three to six months’ worth of living expenses in a safe, liquid account.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “asset consolidation” mean? “Think about revisiting your asset allocation, or how your investments are split within your portfolio amongst equities, fixed income and cash.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “market volatility” mean? “If recent market volatility has caused your portfolio investments to stray away from your target allocation, it may be time to rebalance.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are some areas in your current budget where you feel you could cut back or reallocate funds to improve your financial health this year?
  2. Do you already have an emergency fund in place, or is building one a priority for you in 2025? How do you plan to achieve this goal?
  3. Have you revisited your investment portfolio recently? What factors do you consider when deciding how to diversify or adjust your investments?
  4. What are your top financial goals for 2025, and how do you plan to stay motivated to achieve them?

The Secret to Denmark’s Happy Work-Life Balance

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Denmark is often considered as one of the happiest countries, and a big part of this is its impressive work-life balance. The Danish culture puts a strong focus on personal time and family life, offering a work environment that values flexibility and efficiency. This approach has helped the country maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle, allowing its residents to enjoy both their professional and personal lives without compromising one for the other.

Read this article to learn about the secret to Denmark’s happy work-life balance.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c20g7705re3o

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “shining example” mean? “Meik Wiking, author of the book The Art of Danish Living, has long regarded his home country as a shining example of what other countries should aspire to mimic with their workplace policies.” Make a sentence with this phrase.
  2. Define “to take ownership of something”. “He adds that when staff take ownership of their own space it can help them feel empowered and appreciated, which goes a long way to contributing to a healthy sentiment about their workplace.” Create a sentence with this.
  3. What does “aghast” mean? “Mr. Rouchmann adds that the element of trust is so ingrained in Danish culture, visitors to Denmark are often aghast at how far it can go.” Use this word in a sentence and give two synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is and what are your thoughts on the “three-metre rule”?
  2. Share your thoughts on this, “More companies are recognising that well-rested and balanced employees bring fresh ideas, better problem-solving skills, and greater engagement.“.
  3. How does the concept of work-life balance in Denmark differ from your country or culture?
  4. Do you believe that a flexible work culture could be successful in all countries? Why or why not?
  5. What role do government policies play in creating a positive work-life balance for citizens?
  6. In what ways can individuals achieve a healthier work-life balance, even if their country or company doesn’t support it as much as Denmark does?

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.

Japanese Store Deploys Remote Convenience Store Clerks

B2 – Upper Intermediate

24-hour convenience stores, as the word suggests, provide convenience to its customers by its round-the-clock availability. Along with its full-scale operation, comes the need for more manpower. In a country that suffers from labor shortage like Japan, convenience stores are getting more creative in order to fill these positions.

Read the article and find out what Lawson Japan is doing to address this issue.

https://www.techspot.com/news/106169-japanese-store-deploys-remote-workers-convenience-store-clerks.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “labor pool” mean? “The goal is to boost productivity by tapping into underutilized labor pools in areas with significant time differences from Japan.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “around the clock” mean? “While this approach might feel a bit impersonal, the avatar system could help ensure these essential stores remain operational and accessible around the clock.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  3. What does “to address something head-on” mean? “Lawson’s innovative solution aims to address this challenge head-on.” Use it in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think of Lawson hiring remote workers?
  2. What are the advantages to this?
  3. What might be problems with hiring remote convenience store clerks?
  4. What industries suffer from labor shortages in your country? In your opinion, why are these industries affected by this?
  5. What do you think can be done in order to address labor shortage in a country?

Barcelona Impose Strict Crackdown on E-Scooter Users

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Barcelona has mostly flat paths and numerous bicycle lanes. It is no wonder that different forms of single-person vehicles are emerging in this city. The most popular one is the e-scooter, locally known as “patinete”. However, these e-scooters and other VMP’s have increasingly become a problem in the city recently.

Let’s read the article and know more about problems brought about by VMP’s and the new traffic laws imposed on them.

https://euroweeklynews.com/2025/01/05/500-euro-fine-barcelona-impose-strict-crackdown-on-e-scooter-users/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Define the word “nippy“. “Electric scooters now dominate the daily commute, with nearly 45,000 journeys every single day taking place on the nippy vehicles.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  2. What does the phrase “to flood something” in this context? “Barcelona is a vibrant, blossoming city that continues to flood the Spanish landscape with culture and historical significance, attracting hundreds of thousands of tourists per year.” Use it in your own sentence.
  3. What does the phrase “tear through” mean? “Criminals would tear through the city at speeds of up to 25 mph and target innocent pedestrians, aiming to capture their mobile phones and make a quick getaway.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on the new e-scooter rules in Barcelona?
  2. Do you use an e-scooter? Would you consider buying one? Why or why not?
  3. What personal mobility vehicles are common where you live? What kinds of problems do they cause?
  4. How pedestrian-friendly your town or city is? Talk more about it.

Meta Ends its Fact-Checking Program

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In today’s digital world, misinformation seems to be everywhere.
Due to the anonymity social media platforms provide, the reach and speed of misinformation creates a ground for the proliferation of false narratives. This is why Meta launched its independent, third-party fact-checking program in 2016. Less than a decade later, Meta is ditching fact-checkers in the US.

Let’s read the article and know more about these changes in the Meta platform. You may also watch the video.

https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/social-media/meta-ends-fact-checking-program-community-notes-x-rcna186468

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “hot-button issue” mean? “Beyond the end of the fact-checking program, Zuckerberg said, the company will eliminate some content policies around immigration, gender and other hot-button issues and refocus its automated moderation systems on what he called “high severity violations,” relying on users to report other violations.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What is “legacy media“? “Zuckerberg pointed to the election as a major influence on the company’s decision and criticized “governments and legacy media” for, he alleged, pushing “to censor more and more.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does the phrase “to get back to one’s roots” mean? “We’re going to get back to our roots and focus on reducing mistakes, simplifying our policies and restoring free expression on our platforms,” Zuckerberg said in a video. Use it in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your opinion on Meta’s decision to end third-party fact-checking?
  2. What do you think are the impacts this decision will have on Facebook in the long run?
  3. Share your thoughts on a community-driven fact-checking system.
  4. In your opinion, should social media companies be responsible for fact-checking information on their platforms? Explain your stance.
  5. What can one do when they come across misinformation or fake news on social media?