Tag: video

IQ Is Not the Same as Intelligence

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Intelligence is a complex quality involving different abilities like thinking, problem-solving, emotions, and creativity. IQ tests, which measure some cognitive skills such as reasoning and math, only give a partial picture of how smart someone is. They don’t capture everything about a person’s intelligence because they focus on specific areas and use standard questions and scoring.

Watch the video to know more about it and be able to answer the questions that follow.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “remedial help” mean? “Alfred Binet was asked by the government to develop a test that could determine whether people needed remedial help with their education.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  2. What does the word “innate” mean? “American Psychologists decide that I.Q. is innate, that you were born with it, and there’s nothing you can do to change it.” Give one (1) synonym or similar expression and use ‘innate’ in your own sentence.
  3. What does “multifaceted” mean? “Intelligence is a multifaceted thing and multifaceted things can’t really be measured in terms of a single number.” Give one (1) synonym or similar expression and use ‘multifaceted’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you believe that IQ tests accurately reflect someone’s overall intelligence? Why or why not?
  2. In your opinion, what other factors besides cognitive abilities should be considered when defining intelligence?
  3. How important is it for society to recognize and value different forms of intelligence beyond what is typically measured by IQ tests?
  4. In what ways can emotional intelligence and creativity be important aspects of intelligence that are not fully captured by traditional IQ tests?

7-Eleven Reinventing Its Food Business to Be More Japanese

B2 – Upper Intermediate

7-Eleven, a global convenience store giant, is undergoing a significant transformation by reinventing its $17 billion food business to align more closely with its Japanese origins. This strategic shift aims to enhance the brand’s culinary offerings and customer experience by incorporating the successful and distinctive elements of its Japanese operations.

Watch the video to learn more about it and be able to answer the questions that follow.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “double down” mean? “But now, as cigarette sales continue to decline and many expect gas sales to slow, many are racing to find other sources of revenue and doubling down on food.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘double down’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does “major undertaking” mean? “Shifting a business this massive is a major undertaking.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘major undertaking’ in your own sentence.
  3. What does the term “wide array” mean? “7-Eleven Japan is known for its wide array of meal options.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your thoughts on the “tanpin kari” business model.
  2. What specific elements of Japanese 7-Eleven stores could be most successfully integrated into other international markets, and why?
  3. Do you think the introduction of Japanese-inspired food will significantly improve 7-Eleven’s appeal and sales in your local area? Why or why not?
  4. In your opinion, what other international food practices could 7-Eleven adopt to further enhance its food business?
  5. Do you believe that the higher cost of sourcing better ingredients for Japanese-inspired food will be justified by increased customer satisfaction and sales? Why or why not?

South Koreans Flock to Blue-Collar Jobs

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In recent years, South Korea has witnessed a notable shift in employment trends, with a growing number of young people opting for blue-collar jobs.

This trend challenges traditional views that prioritize white-collar careers as the path to success. Factors such as economic instability, high youth unemployment, and the rising cost of higher education are driving this change. Additionally, blue-collar jobs often offer stable employment, decent wages, and opportunities for skill development.

Watch the video to know the reasons behind this emerging trend and its implications for South Korean society and the economy.

https://www.bilibili.com/video/BV11i421v75o/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What doe s the phrase “to be in full swing” mean? “More renovations are in full swing at this apartment.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the expression “has seen better days” mean? “Those taking the civil servant exams would normally flock to these food stalls for a cheap bite but with fewer people taking the test, the street has seen better days.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “to pay off” mean? “Even though it is exhausting, the work is paying off as his current income is double his former salary.” Make a sentence using the expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on this work trend?
  2. What economic conditions in South Korea might be contributing to the rise in young people seeking blue-collar jobs? How do these conditions compare your country?
  3. How has the saturation of certain job markets, such as those requiring higher education, affected the trend of young people moving towards blue-collar jobs?
  4. How are technological advancements in blue-collar industries making these jobs more attractive to the younger generation?
  5. How do the work-life balance and job security of blue-collar jobs compare to white-collar jobs in South Korea? How about in your country?
  6. How might these factors influence career choices?

Tidal Kites Harness Ocean Energy

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

The quest for sustainable renewable energy sources continues. The remote Faroe Islands in the North Atlantic had to find an alternative energy source. Marine energy firm Minesto’s “Dragons” utilize the powerful currents from the seas surrounding the whole archipelago to harness energy. 

Watch the video and discover how tidal kites work. 

https://www.bbc.com/reel/video/p0j6gphs/tidal-kites-new-technology-harnessing-ocean-energy

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “untapped” mean? “Ocean energy is still largely untapped. So what are the barriers that have prevented it from taking off?” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use this word in your own sentence.
  2. What does “to unlock the potential” mean? “If we can unlock the potential, it can really dramatically change the energy mix in the islands. Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use this idiom in your own sentence.
  3. What does “a leap forward” mean? “Now, this Dragon has begun to fly and it’s sending energy to the grid. It’s just one machine, but potentially a big leap forward for harnessing energy from our seas.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use this expression in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your insights on “the Dragons”?
  2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of tidal turbines and tidal power?
  3. What are some of the biggest renewable energy sources used in your country? Why might that be?
  4. Do you think tidal energy could be beneficial in your country? Explain.

Boomerang CEOs

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

Several chief executive officers or CEOs of some of the biggest companies have stepped down from their position. In some cases, they come back or get reinstated after a while.

Is this move advantageous for the company that they work for though? Could it really be that ‘second time’s the charm’ for these CEOs?

Watch the video and find out more about the boomerang CEOs.

https://www.bbc.com/reel/video/p0h9q7kj/boomerang-ceos-do-they-ever-succeed-

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “boomerang CEO” mean? “We looked at over 6,000 CEO succession or turnovers. There are less than 200 of them that were boomerang CEOs.” Use this term in a sentence.
  2. What does “product line” mean? “Steve Jobs innovated. He came out with all these new products and recreated the company with new product lines.” Use this term in a sentence
  3. What does “to bring the magic back” mean? “When Howard Schultz came back that first time, he brought some of that magic back.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use this idiom in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is the general trend among boomerang CEOs when they come back?
  2. What is your opinion about the boomerang CEO trend?
  3. What can boomerang CEOs do in order to ensure success upon their comeback?
  4. Talk about a boomerang CEO from your country. Why did they have to step down before and what are some of the things they did upon returning to their position? Was it a good thing for the company in the end? Elaborate.
  5. Share your thoughts on this, “Founders just have this huge attachment that other people do not to the companies that they started and created. And so there is this protectiveness.”.
  6. Share your insights on the ‘founder CEO’s shelf life’ and that “For most people, there’s going to be a time where it outgrows your skill set in terms of your ability to manage it. Be willing to let go of your ‘baby’ and to step down when the time is right.”

Why Does Japan Work So Hard?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Japanese workers are known for their strong work ethics and dedication to their jobs, often working long hours and rarely taking vacations. This cultural phenomenon can be attributed to a variety of factors that have shaped the country’s labor practices and attitudes towards work.

Japan’s strong work ethics can be attributed to a combination of cultural values, societal expectations, and economic pressures. While this dedication has led to impressive economic growth and technological advancements, it has also raised concerns about work-life balance and employee well-being.

As Japan continues to navigate through these challenges, it will be important for both individuals and policymakers to find ways to promote healthier attitudes towards work while still maintaining the country’s reputation for diligence and work excellence.

wLearn more about why Japanese work so hard by watching the video.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to curb the number” mean? “Japan’s government has considered several initiatives to curb the number of hours spent at the office, including making it mandatory to take at least five vacation days a year and requiring a rest period between the end of one day and the start of another.” Use this term in a sentence.
  2. What does the noun “to put in the hours” mean? “In order to maintain its massive size, Japan needs to put in the hours.” Use this term in a sentence.
  3. What does “to fill in the gap” mean? “So without more immigrants, it’s looking to robotics to fill in the gap.” Use this term in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why does Japan work so hard?
  2. What are Japan’s work culture problems and what are their solutions to these problems?
  3. Share your thoughts on the culture of overworking.
  4. How does the work culture in your country compare to Japan?
  5. Cite some examples of work culture issues in your country.

Finland’s Startup Makes Food Out of Thin Air

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Finland’s wizards have been making waves in the culinary world with their innovative technique of creating food out of thin air. This groundbreaking approach involves utilizing a process known as air-based protein production to generate nutrient-rich edibles without the need for traditional agricultural methods. By harnessing the power of microbes, these wizards are able to transform carbon dioxide and water into proteins that can be used as ingredients in a variety of dishes.

As this technology continues to evolve, it has the potential to revolutionize the way we think about food production and consumption. By pushing boundaries and challenging conventional norms, Finland’s wizards are paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient future in which hunger may become a thing of the past.

Learn more about this innovation by watching the video.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “ploughing” mean? “But instead of ploughing, fertilizing, and harvesting, the flower stems from dried liquid made in a miniature bioreactor inside a laboratory.” Use this term in a sentence.
  2. What does “to suck (something) in” mean? “The process requires significantly fewer resources than meat or milk and the use of direct air capture to suck in CO2 from the atmosphere is good news for the environment.” Use this term in a sentence.
  3. What does “introduce” mean here, “The company hopes to introduce their product to the market in early 2023.” Use this term in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Explain the process of producing food out of thin air.
  2. What are your thoughts on this technology?
  3. If this kind of innovation continues, what do you think the future of food production will look like?
  4. Have you ever tried a lab-grown food? How does it taste like? If not yet, would be interested to try it?
  5. Share your thoughts on this statement, “Our gift to the society is disconnection from agriculture. We don’t use any agricultural raw materials even. Therefore, we can let agricultural land to be freed from agriculture and basically let forest grow back.“.

Japan Keeps Its Elderly Employed

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Japan’s labor shortage caused by its aging population and declining birth rates has become a pressing issue. To address this challenge, many seniors are stepping into new roles within the workforce. This trend not only helps mitigate the labor gap, but also allows older adults to stay active and engaged in society. The involvement of seniors in various sectors is reshaping Japan’s labor landscape and prompting discussions on the potential benefits and challenges of an aging workforce.

Read this article and also watch the video on how elderly workers help Japanese companies make up for labour shortages.

https://www.dw.com/en/how-japan-keeps-its-elderly-employed-and-active/a-59516633

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “sprightly” mean? “A sprightly and energetic 68-year-old, Atsuko Kasa says she has absolutely no intention of slowing down.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘sprightly’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does the word “silver” mean here, ““However, elderly people today are so much more healthy and energetic than back then, and they simply do not consider themselves to be ‘silver‘.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘silver’ in the same context in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to forgo” mean? “Kasa, who used to work in the accounting department of a cosmetics company, is one of the legions of elderly Japanese citizens who have opted to forgo the traditional retirement hobbies of gardening, get-togethers with friends and looking after the grandchildren.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘to forgo’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on “gig work” for pensioners?
  2. What are the main factors contributing to Japan’s labor shortage?
  3. Do you think the integration of seniors into the workforce is a viable long-term solution to Japan’s labor shortage? Why or why not?
  4. How might the presence of seniors in the workforce influence workplace dynamics and intergenerational relationships?
  5. Do you believe there is an age limit beyond which individuals should not be expected to work? Why or why not?
  6. How can society balance the need for seniors in the workforce with the need to provide opportunities for younger workers?

Is MSG Bad for You

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Monosodium glutamate, commonly known as MSG, is a flavor enhancer often used in Asian cuisine, processed foods, and soups. It has been a topic of controversy for decades, with some claiming it causes adverse health effects, while scientific research largely indicates it is safe for consumption.

Watch the video to learn more about MSG and be able to answer the questions below.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the word “hunch” mean? “Kwok’s connection between his headache and his common seasoning in American Chinese seasoning was just a hunch.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘hunch’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does “staple” mean? “By 1930’s, MSG was a kitchen staple across most of Asia.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘staple’ in your own sentence.
  3. What does the word “binge” mean? “It is possible that binging MSG produces headaches, chest pains and heart palpitation for some people.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘binge’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think MSG should be avoided to maintain a healthy diet? Why or why not?
  2. Have you ever experienced adverse effects after consuming MSG? How did it influence your view on it?
  3. Do you believe the negative reputation of MSG is justified? Why do you think it persists despite scientific evidence?
  4. Should restaurants and food manufacturers be required to disclose the use of MSG on their labels and menus? Share your thoughts.
  5. Would you choose a product labeled as “MSG-free” over one that contains MSG? Why or why not?

Origins of the Word “Lesbian” 

B2 – Upper Intermediate

“Etymology” is derived from the Greek word etumos which means “true”. It is the study of the origin of words and how its meaning has changed over time. There are so many fascinating histories of words. One of them is the word “lesbian”.

In ancient Greece, Sappho was a revered singer and erotic poets. She often wrote songs about love, passion, and longing. Coincidentally, Sappho was from Lesbos and people from there were called “Lesbian”.

Watch the video and know more about the surprising origins of the word “lesbian”.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the verb “enrapture” mean? “More than 2,500 years ago, one of ancient Greece’s most celebrated pop stars and erotic poets enraptured listeners.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘enrapture’ in your own sentence.
  2. Define the word “licentiousness“. “One 2nd century Christian leader called Sappho ‘a whore who sang about her own licentiousness.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘licentiousness’ in your own sentence.
  3. What does the idiom “to reach across time” mean? “Sappho’s words reach across time and resonate today.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘to reach across time’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your thoughts on Sappho’s story.
  2. Share your opinion about how only fragments of Sappho’s works survived.
  3. What were the gender and social inequalities in ancient Greece? And how does this compare to modern times?
  4. Talk about a famous person from your country and their works that have endured the test of time.
  5. Talk about an etymology of a word or phrase that you find rather interesting and explain why you thought this was amusing.