Tag: video

Tire Companies Love Electric Vehicles (EVs)

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The tire business is characterized by slow change and growth and low margins. Fortunately, electric vehicles (EVs) might be a gamechanger for the tire industry in the future.

Tire companies are looking forward to earning 50% more. They are also expecting more EV users to change their tires 20% more often.

Watch the entire video below about why tire companies love EVs.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Define the phrase “regenerative braking”. “EVs, however, deliver about two thirds of their energy to the wheels, more if there are energy recovery technologies like regenerative braking.”? Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the term “differentiated product” mean in the sentence “One of the main ways that tire companies compete with each other is by creating a differentiated product.”? Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does the phrase “compound annual rate” mean? “Analytics form AlixPartners says the total market for EV tires is expected to grow at a 33% compound annual rate through 2031.”? Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is the video all about?
  2. How do tire manufacturers view tires as commodities in the market?
  3. From a business perspective, should tire companies consider deliberately reducing the lifespan of tires to increase profitability?
  4. How do electric vehicles (EVs) impact the tire industry?
  5. As tire companies benefit from electric vehicles, which other industries do you think might be affected by this trend?

Japanese Cherry Blossoms May Disappear

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In the peaceful scenery of Japan, every year, the blossoming of cherry trees marks the start of spring, enchanting many with their short-lived beauty. Yet, there is a serious danger lurking beneath their fragile petals: the possibility that these famous trees may vanish by the end of the century. With climate change on the rise, causing changes in ecosystems and upsetting delicate harmony, the future of Japanese cherry blossoms, also called “sakura,” is uncertain.

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

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the word “boon“, mean? “While it may be a boon for snap-happy tourists, the early spring foreshadows a darker reality.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘boon’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does the word “snap-happy” mean? “While it may be a boon for snap-happy tourists, the early spring foreshadows a darker reality.” Use this word in your own sentence.
  3. What does the word “foreshadow” mean? “While it may be a boon for snap-happy tourists, the early spring foreshadows a darker reality.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘foreshadow’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How do you feel about the potential disappearance of Japanese cherry blossoms by 2100? What impact do you think it would have on Japanese culture and identity?
  2. What do you believe are the main factors contributing to the decline of Japanese cherry blossoms, and how do you think this issue should be addressed?
  3. In your opinion, what role should governments, communities, and individuals play in preserving iconic natural landmarks like Japanese cherry blossoms?
  4. How might the loss of cherry blossoms impact tourism and the economy in Japan and other regions where they are cherished?

Quiet Quitting the Next Phase of the Great Resignation

B2 – Upper Intermediate

After the big changes in the job market caused by the Great Resignation, there’s a new thing called ‘Quiet Quitting’ that’s changing how people leave their jobs. Instead of making a big fuss, more and more workers are leaving quietly. This shows that people are thinking more about what really matters to them in their careers.

Watch the video and know why people are leaving quietly and what it means for how people think about work nowadays.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “quiet quitting” mean? “Quiet quitting is a trend that has been dominating social media especially TikTok.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “to go above and beyond” mean? “Quiet quitting is referring to a situation where employees are making a choice to not necessarily go above and beyond what they’re being asked to do.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does ” to stay under the radar” mean? “They are not giving their all anymore, they just stay under the radar.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think quiet quitting is a legitimate response to dissatisfaction with work or is it an irresponsible way of handling professional relationships? Why?
  2. In your opinion, what factors contribute to the increasing prevalence of quiet quitting in the context of the Great Resignation?
  3. What are some potential consequences of engaging in quiet quitting for both the individual and the organization they are leaving?
  4. What strategies can organizations employ to prevent or address the phenomenon of quiet quitting among their employees?

How Long Should You Stay at Your Job?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

You are free to choose how you want to proceed with your career path at any given circumstance. Same way, when it comes how long you decide to stay at a job.

Usually, we stay because our contracts require us to. On the other hand, there are times when we make an effort to assess how our roles within the organization are advancing our careers and not impeding them.

For additional information on how long do we need to stay at our jobs, watch the video below.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “at one’s whim” mean? “I think companies do expect an unrealistic level of loyalty, but, unfortunately where at their whim a lot of times, right?“ Use this expression in your own sentence.
  2. What is the meaning of “management pipeline“? “Companies with strong learning culture see higher rates of retention, more internal mobility, and a healthier management pipeline.” Use it in your own sentence.
  3. What does “goldilocks dynamic” mean? “But there’s also a goldilocks dynamic to this. Sometimes, companies don’t mind turnover.” Construct a sentence with this term.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are reasons listed in the video as to the reasons workers quit their jobs? Based on your personal experience, which ones can you relate to?
  2. What is your opinion on this, “Job switchers increase their salary more quickly than those who stay put.“?
  3. In your opinion, how long should people stay at their jobs?
  4. What do you think about job hopping? Is this a smart move? Why or why not?
  5. On the other hand, share your thoughts on staying at the same job or profession for the rest of your work life.
  6. Discuss your thoughts on this advice, “Don’t focus on money. Focus on skills. And if you are comfortable in the skills that you are acquiring, then you are ready to move on to the next level.“.

Soda Wars as Subway Switches to Pepsi over Coke

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In the constantly changing world of what consumers like and the partnerships between brands, the competition among big soda companies has always been exciting to watch. But lately, things have gotten even more intense because Subway, the famous sandwich chain, has decided to switch from serving Coca-Cola to Pepsi.

Watch the video and take a closer look at this cola clash and how it might affect the soda business.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the expression “to tug at the heartstrings” mean? “Pepsi tapping into star power. While Coca-cola tugs on [sic] heartstrings.” Use the idiom in a sentence.
  2. What does the phrase “to bubble up” mean in this sentence? “The battle between Coca-Cola and Pepsi has been bubbling up for two decades.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does the phrase “to ramp up” mean? “The clash of colas ramping up as they try to prevent business from going flat.” Give one sentence using this expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. In your opinion, which soda brand—Coca-Cola or Pepsi—holds greater influence over consumer preferences and brand loyalty in today’s market? Why do you think so?
  2. Do you believe Subway’s decision to switch to Pepsi will have a significant impact on its customer base and overall sales? Why or why not?
  3. As a consumer, would Subway’s choice of soda supplier influence your decision to visit their restaurants? Why or why not?
  4. Do you think Subway’s switch from Coke to Pepsi will spark similar changes in other fast-food chains’ beverage partnerships? Why or why not?

Protecting Your Personal Financial Data

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In today’s digital age, protecting your financial data is more important than ever. With the rise of cybercrime and identity theft, it is crucial to take steps to safeguard your sensitive information.

Data breaches have become all too common in recent years, highlighting the need for stronger data protection measures. It is essential for individuals and businesses alike to prioritize the security of their data to prevent potential harm or exploitation. By taking proactive steps to protect our data, we can help ensure a safer and more secure digital environment for all.

Watch this brief video to find out how to strengthen your data protection measures.

https://www.msn.com/en-ph/video/news/how-to-protect-your-personal-financial-data/vi-BB1k7feP?ocid=socialshare&t=7

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “encryption” mean?  “If you have smart appliances change the password frequently and use encryption to connect it to the web/” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the phrase “federal regulation” mean? “Currently, there are no federal regulations protecting your data, so it is up to you to do all the safeguarding.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “safeguard” mean? “Currently, there are no federal regulations protecting your data, so it is up to you to do all the safeguarding.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why is it essential to protect our data?
  2. How do you choose the password that you use in your accounts?
  3. Have you ever had a data security issue, or do you know someone who has?  Share a narrative.
  4. What data security advice was shared in the video?
  5. What other tips do you know to ensure data security?

Mindfulness at Work

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Mindfulness at work involves bringing its practice into the professional setting to enhance focus, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. It encourages present-moment awareness, stress reduction techniques, and better emotional regulation, ultimately fostering a positive work culture and improving individual and organizational performance.

Watch the video about some tips on how to practice mindfulness at work.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the word “disarm” mean in the sentence, “It’s going to disarm some issues that may be popping up because people know that you’re taking the time to figure out what they’re saying”? Think of a synonym and use this word in your own words.
  2. What does the expression “on the right note” mean in the phrase, “to get you started off on the right note“? Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does the expression “run high with something” mean in the sentence, “It takes any stress levels that you have which you’re usually running pretty high with and allows you to bring it down.” Use the expression in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How do you incorporate mindfulness into your daily work routine?
  2. How do you think mindfulness contributes to overall workplace well-being and employee satisfaction?
  3. How do you handle distractions or stressors at work while trying to maintain a mindful mindset?
  4. What advice would you give to someone who wants to start practicing mindfulness at work but doesn’t know where to begin?
  5. Share any mindfulness techniques or practices that have helped you stay focused and productive at work.

What Is Fintech? 

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In the past few years, the blending of money matters with technology has created a new and exciting field called fintech.

Fintech is changing how we do banking and manage money by using new technologies to come up with fresh ideas and challenge old ways of doing things in banks and other financial institutions. It’s brought us things like banking apps on our phones, places to trade digital money, ways to lend money directly to others online, and automated investment advice. Fintech is making financial services easier to use and available to more people, both individuals and businesses, than ever before.

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

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “disrupt” mean in this context, “Here at a major fintech conference in Amsterdam, hundreds of companies are trying to disrupt the banking and finance industries by changing the way we pay and borrow money.” Make a sentence using the word.
  2. What does the expression, “to go big on something” mean? “Some of the world’s biggest companies from Apple to Alibaba are going big on it, too.” Use the expression in a sentence.
  3. What does ” to default on a loan” mean? “Compared to traditional banks, these services might not be required to set aside as much money in case customers default on their loans.” Use the phrase in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How has fintech changed the way we interact with and manage our finances on a day-to-day basis?
  2. What do you think are the most significant benefits of fintech for consumers and businesses?
  3. Do you believe that traditional financial institutions will be able to keep up with the pace of innovation brought by fintech companies? Share some insights.
  4. In your opinion, what are the potential risks or drawbacks associated with relying heavily on fintech for managing personal or business finances?
  5. Do you think fintech has the potential to bridge the gap in financial inclusion and provide services to underserved populations? Why or why not?

Financial Literacy Education

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Financial literacy is defined by Investopedia as the ability to understand and use various financial skills, including personal financial management, budgeting, and investing. This form of literacy is not highlighted in many societies around the globe, or maybe because of its diminished importance, many of us are not as concerned about it.

We frequently hear people lamenting the lack of financial education they receive, or more precisely, the lack of instruction or exposure to budgeting techniques, which they believe has contributed to the financial instability that the majority of Americans currently experience—or perhaps that of the global populace as a whole.

To find out more about why financial literacy instruction in the US is so bad, watch the video.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is the meaning of “driving force“? “And that lack of literacy is one driving force behind the financial instability a lot of American face.”Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘driving force’ in your own sentence.
  2. Do you know what “to take a crack at something” means? “Your history teacher might have taken a crack at teaching you about credit card debt.” Construct your own sentence using this phrase.
  3. What is the meaning of “trickle up”?“Financial education has a trickle up effect on students’ families and even the classes’ teachers.” Use it in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is financial literacy and how important is it in the society?
  2. Should financial literacy be taught at schools? Share your thoughts.
  3. Do you believe that having financial literacy would make people’s lives better? Elaborate on your response.
  4. What is a suitable age to start learning financial management? And why?

How Crocs Became a Fashion Statement

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In the last few years, a unique type of shoes called Crocs has become really popular in fashion. At first, Crocs were known for being really comfortable and practical. But now, they’re seen as a symbol of being stylish and expressing your own personality.

Watch the video to know more about how Crocs went from just being comfortable shoes to being a big fashion trend.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the idiom “to make a name for (oneself)” mean? “How did Crocs make a name for itself during the pandemic?” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘to make a name for oneself’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does the phrase “on one’s feet” mean? “When Crocs was first released, they were intended for a consumer that was looking at them as a functional thing, so probably gardeners, people that were on boats, people that work all day on their feet, people that worked on a line at a kitchen.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘on one’s feet’ in your own sentence.
  3. What does the word “simmer” mean in this sentence? “Though the initial craze had simmered, the brand still managed to hang on to a relatively large customer base.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘simmer’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think about Crocs?
  2. How has the marketing strategy of Crocs contributed to their transformation from practical shoes to a fashion statement?
  3. What do you think has been the biggest factor contributing to Crocs’ success?
  4. Do you believe that Crocs are a passing trend in fashion, or do you think they will remain popular for years to come? Share your insights.
  5. Do you think the comfort of Crocs outweighs their unconventional appearance when it comes to making a fashion statement? Share your opinion.