Tag: video

Las Vegas Casinos

B1 – Intermediate

For some, gambling is a way to entertain themselves but for others, it becomes a part of their routine. There are certain things you can remember in order to gamble wisely.

Watch this video on some tips when you go to a casino to gamble.

Las Vegas Casinos

Discussion Questions:

  1. According to Randall, what are the things you should remember when you gamble? Do you agree or disagree with his tips?
  2. What do you think of gambling?
  3. Is gambling a part of culture in your country? What are the most common forms of gambling in your country? Is there an area in your country famous for gambling?
  4. Do you believe in ‘beginner’s luck’?
  5. What does the expression ‘the house always wins’ mean? Do you think this is true or not?

Can 100% Renewable Energy Power the World?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Have you ever heard of an energy that is generated from sources that naturally replenish themselves and last for a human lifetime? This is what we call renewable energy. The sun, wind, and water are the great examples of sources for this generating energy because we couldn’t possibly use them up over time. 

However, the world is still dependent on fossil fuels which according to experts, are limited sources of energy. The big question still stands on how and when we will be able to fully utilize these alternative energy when these sources are forever ubiquitous for our consumption.

Watch the video to learn more about renewable energy.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is renewable energy and how does it work? How efficient is renewable energy?
  2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using renewable energy?
  3. Is renewable energy good for our environment?
  4. Will it secure a better future for humanity?
  5. Why do we need to keep finding alternative sources of energy?

The Dunning-Kruger Effect

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Do you have an underperforming colleague but has absolutely no clue about it and instead prides himself on his terrible performance at work? This is the Dunning-Kruger Effect.

Let’s watch the video and know more about it.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is the Dunning-Kruger effect?
  2. Do you know people who are exceptionally competent? Are they aware of it?
  3. On the other hand, do you know people who are incompetent but think they’re amazing? What is it like working with them?
  4. Do you have the ability to recognize your errors? What do you do when you have been made aware of them?
  5. What are the tips to have an accurate assessment of yourself that were mentioned in the video?

Four Steps to Ending Extreme Poverty

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Being poor means more than a lack of income. If you are in extreme poverty, you are being stripped of your purpose. Imagining a better life for you and your family seems unfeasible.

Learn the four steps on how to get out of poverty in this video.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What does it mean to be ultra-poor?
  2. What are the 4 ways to end extreme poverty according to the video?
  3. What does “Optimism triumph over despair” mean?
  4. Give some tips on how to manage personal finances.
  5. What are the plans that you have to earn/save more money 3-5 years from now?

Can Exes Be Friends?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Are you familiar with “Can we still be friends?”, a very iconic song by Todd Rundgren from 1978. Until now, it has been a question on everyone’s mind whether ex lovers can remain friends. Some might say that it is possible if you are both matured enough but for others, it is only a complicated relationship that shouldn’t be considered.

Let’s watch the video below to learn more.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the usual reasons why lovers break up?
  2. Do you think that exes can really be friends? Why or why not?
  3. Is it healthy to be friends with your ex? Explain your side.
  4. What would be the complications if ever?
  5. Cite any benefits of being friends with your ex.
  6. Are you friends with any of your ex/exes? Why or why not?

What Causes Panic Attacks and How Can You Prevent Them?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Learning about panic attacks could be uncomfortable but recognizing what’s causing them is the only way to prevent them. Have you seen someone experienced lightheadedness, numbness, or hyperventilation? Those are only a few things you can feel when having panic attacks.

Find out more about what causes it and how it can be prevented from the video below.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What can trigger panic attacks?
  2. What are the two main treatments for panic disorder?
  3. What does “Fear can’t hurt you, but holding on to it will escalate panic” mean?
  4. Have you ever had / seen someone have panic attacks before? Talk about your experience.
  5. Why do you think it is important to know more about this topic?
  6. What is the best thing to do when things get a little too scary?

Why Do Memes Matter?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Have you ever heard of memes? It has been considered as the language of the internet. Merriam-Webster defines meme as an amusing or interesting item (such as a captioned picture or video) or genre of items that is spread widely online especially through social media thought to bring light to this trying time. However, internet memes do not only exist to entertain us with the use of the images, but it also could be used to mock or far worst, be the source of disinformation.

Watch the video below and learn more about memes.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do memes amuse you or the contrary? Explain your stand.

2.  How often do you see memes on the internet or your social media accounts? Do they help you feel better and make our world less scary or do they too often cross the line?

3. How do we know if a meme crossed the line?

4. Do you appreciate meme culture? Why or why not?

5.  Does meme culture connect you to a larger internet community?

6.  What are the advantages and possible dangers of this format?

The Salem Witch Trials

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In the early months of 1692, Reverend Samuel Parris’ daughter and niece became ill. Despite the help of the village doctor, their conditions did not improve. He then diagnosed the two children of bewitchment. What happened next was a result of paranoia about the supernatural, misdirected religious fervor, and a broken justice system that valued repentance over the truth.

Watch the video to find out more about the witch trials in Salem, Massachusetts.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How did the justice system work in the Salem witch trial?
  2. What is a false confession?
  3. Have you heard of cases wherein innocent people where convicted of a crime they did not commit?
  4. In our present society where the children are generally considered to be credible witnesses, do you think the same mistake might be committed again?
  5. What are your thoughts when the justice system values repentance over the truth?

When Should I Tip?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Tipping is important social custom in some countries but can be super confusing too. When and how much to tip depends on a number of factors, including the situation, service, or even the location. Tipping is not about generosity. Tipping used to be about gratitude for good service but as the minimum wage never increased, workers have to resort to depending on it to have a bit more on top of their basic pay.

Watch this video to learn more about tipping.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Is tipping a part of your culture?
  2. What is tipping for you? What part of tipping confuses you?
  3. Is it necessary to tip?
  4. When and how much do you usually tip?
  5. Why do you think tipping became a part of some countries’ norm?

Is Renting a Good Idea?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Although owning a home is a basic life goal of most people, renting has become a choice for a lot of people nowadays. Renting a home can be an ideal option for those wanting extra flexibility and less responsibility. For some people, renting might make more sense for their financial circumstances. But is it really better to rent?

Watch the video below to see the two sides to renting.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Are you renting? / Have you ever rented a house/flat?
  2. What are your thoughts about renting versus owning/buying?
  3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of renting?
  4. Is it more common for people in your country to rent or buy a house? Why do you think that is?
  5. Talk about your experience renting.