Tag: video

How Do We Cope With Quarantine or Isolation?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The Covid-19 pandemic has put almost the entire world into quarantine, which means not being able to live our normal ways, the way we all were used to before the outbreak. For most of us, this has been a new concept that we have to get used to at this moment. Quarantine or self-isolation is strictly advised by many experts in order to contain the invisible enemy that we are battling at present time. However, are we all prepared for this emotional battle of not being able to socialize for a month or more?

Some people are prepared and had undergone trainings in order to deal with it.

Watch the video below as experts and well-trained people speak about isolation. Let’s discuss what you think and feel about being quarantined or self-isolated.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Were you prepared for quarantine or self-isolation?
  2. How are you coping so far?
  3. What have you learned from the experts who were prepared for isolation?
  4. What are the activities that you do while in isolation?
  5. How long will you be able to withstand isolation?
  6. Is there a vital lesson learned from this pandemic and isolation?

Mobile Phones Have Killed Photography

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Photography was meant to capture the moments from the real world. Did mobile phones kill photography or have they made it easier for everyone to take photographs?

Watch the short clip below:

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you agree or disagree that mobiles have killed photography?
  2. Do you enjoy taking photographs? Give examples of things you like photographing.
  3. What kind of tools do you use for taking pictures? Which is the best for photography? Do you use editing apps/software?
  4. What is your opinion on filters and editing apps?
  5. Do you agree or disagree with some of Wim Wenders statements: “everyone’s a photographer”, “selfies are not photography”, and “the less you have, the more creative you become”?

Aromatherapy: Uses, Facts and Health Benefits

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Aromatherapy or essential oil therapy refers to a range of traditional or alternative therapy that uses essential oils and other aromatic plant compounds. It has been used for thousands of years, with the aim of improving a person’s health or mood. Aromatherapy applications include massage, topical applications, and inhalation.

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

Discussion Questions:

  1. What springs to your mind when you hear the word “aromatherapy”?
  2. What do you know about “aromatherapy”?
  3. Do you think it is a good form of treatment? Why/Why not?
  4. Would you like to try it to treat your illness?
  5. How does your society view this traditional treatment?

Keep Someone at Arm’s Length

B1 – Intermediate

It is good to keep a healthy relationship. It helps us become better people. However, there are some relationships that are too toxic that they would bring more harm than good. Do you opt to stay or do you keep them at arms’s length?

Watch the video and learn what the expression “keep someone at arm’s length” means.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you been in any form of unhealthy relationship? If yes, how long did it last? Is it still ongoing?
  2. Have you had to cut ties with people that you feel are not contributing to your wellbeing?
  3. Is it difficult to end a toxic relationship?

The Real Reason Conspiracy Theories Work

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Conspiracy theories are defined by Merriam-Webster dictionary as a theory that explains an event or set of circumstances by usually powerful conspirators in which existed for about a hundred of years and it continues to flourish until the present time and with the power of the internet, it has quickly accelerated and grown its power. However, is it social media sites’ responsibility to make sure that the videos they promote more likely meet the standard of truth? Or is it our sole responsibility as viewers to verify the accuracy of a certain claim?

Watch the video below that explains why humans fall for conspiracy theories.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you believe that conspiracy theories are dangerous?
  2. Have you seen any conspiracy theories featured on TV or YouTube?
  3. How do you know if the video is factual or fabricated?
  4. Why do you think it is becoming popular on social media?
  5. Do you think conspiracy theories are just interesting and fun or do you think it could present serious consequences?
  6. Talk about a conspiracy theory that you believe in.

Does It Make Sense to Pay People to Have Kids?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Most European countries are struggling with population slowdown. Several countries are trying to provide financial inducements to deal with this problem and prevent imminent consequences in the future – but just how effective are these measures?

Read this article and watch the video to see all compelling points around this incentive.

https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20191017-does-it-make-sense-to-pay-people-to-have-kids

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on the ‘baby bonus’?
  2. What do you think are the strong and weak points of this measure?
  3. Do you think this kind of bonus would soon be implemented in your country too? Why or why not? What are other good family policies do you have in your country?
  4. Do you agree or disagree that people’s attitudes to having children at all have changed over time? Cite situations to support your stand.
  5. What are other means to reverse shrinking population?

Is It Good to Disagree?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

We often find ourselves in disagreement with others. It’s inevitable to have it with your friends, family, colleagues, or even strangers. Experiencing this could give you a headache especially if it ends badly. However, disagreements are not always bad. Sometimes it’s necessary and surprisingly healthy.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english/ep-200206

Discussion Questions:

  1. Dalai Lama said “Disagreement is something normal”. Do you agree or disagree?
  2. How is disagreeing a bad thing and a good thing?
  3. What are the usual things that you disagree with with other people?
  4. How would you explain the phrase “agree to disagree”?
  5. Do you think that people should always compromise? Why?
  6. How can disputes be settled amicably?

Jantelagen: Why Swedes Won’t Talk about Wealth

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In a lot of countries around the world, wealth and everything that comes with it are shiny badges that show everyone that you have made it. However, in Sweden, there’s a cultural code known as jantelagen that prevents people from flaunting their wealth, success, and everything else most people would commonly brag about. 

Read the article and also watch the video to know more about jantelagen and be ready to express your thoughts on this.

https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20191008-jantelagen-why-swedes-wont-talk-about-wealth

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on jantelagen? Do you think it should be kept or should it disappear? 
  2. Is this principle upheld in your country? How would you compare Spain and Sweden when it comes to this subject?
  3. Is high income a badge of success in your country? In general, do people feel comfortable or even proud about talking about their salaries or material possessions? 
  4. What are things that people often brag about in your country?
  5. Who is the most humble and the most ostentatious person you know?

Little Secrets to Getting Rich

B2 – Upper Intermediate

There is a difference between having money and being wealthy. If you want to be wealthy, it’s time to look for ways on how to do so.

Watch the video and find out some secrets to becoming wealthy.

Discussion Questions:

1. What are the five secrets to getting rich?
2. Are you doing any of the tips mentioned in the video?
3. Do you want to be rich? Why/why not? If yes, what are you doing in order to achieve it?
4. Who’s the richest person you know and how did this person become wealthy?
5. What are the good and bad things about being very wealthy?

Spain Economy Is Booming

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Spain’s economy is performing strongly, continuing its impressive growth after its gross domestic product expanded by 3.2% in 2024. In 2025, the country has maintained a faster growth rate than the rest of the eurozone.

This economic success has been fueled by a combination of factors, including a thriving tourism sector, funding from the European Union, immigration, foreign investment, robust consumer spending, and relatively low energy costs.

Despite these positive trends, the benefits have not been shared equally by everyone. Issues such as high youth unemployment, political divisions, and pressure on the housing market raise concerns about whether Spain can sustain its current pace of growth in the long term.

Watch the video about the booming economy of Spain.

 Discussion Questions:

  1. What lessons can other countries learn from Spain’s recent economic performance?
  2. What are some economic challenges in your country? Explain.
  3. If you were a government adviser, what would be your top priority for maintaining economic growth while helping struggling groups?
  4. How can different countries address issues such as unemployment and housing affordability?
  5. Which is more important: strong economic growth or a more equal distribution of wealth?