Tag: video

Warning About Hitting Unsubscribe on Unwanted Emails

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Many people try to clean up their inboxes by clicking “unsubscribe” on spam emails. But according to experts, doing this can sometimes be dangerous. Some scammers hide harmful links in unsubscribe buttons to trick users into clicking. This can lead to malware or show hackers that you’re likely to click suspicious links. Experts suggest using safer methods like filtering or blocking senders instead.

Let’s watch the video to learn more about how unsubscribing from emails might not always be safe.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “the bane of one’s existence” mean? “It’s the bane of our email existence.” Use it in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms.
  2. What does “to tip off someone” mean? “By trying to unsubscribe, users could be tipping off scammers that they’re likely to click a link…” Give a synonym. Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “to put a target on one’s back” mean? “By trying to unsubscribe, users could be tipping off scammers that they’re likely to click a link, putting a target on their back for installing malware and more.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on the risks of clicking “unsubscribe” in spam emails? Have you ever done this?
  2. Based on the video, why do scammers include fake “unsubscribe” links in their emails, and what should we be careful of when we see these kinds of links?
  3. Have you or someone you know ever clicked on a suspicious link or been targeted by a phishing email? What happened?
  4. What steps do you usually take to protect your email inbox from spam or scams?
  5. Do you think email services are doing enough to filter out dangerous messages? Why or why not?
  6. Share your thoughts on this: “Clicking unsubscribe might seem harmless, but it could be opening the door to more attacks.”
  7. Why is media literacy important in today’s digital world, especially when it comes to online scams? What personal steps do you take to help educate your family, friends, or colleagues in spreading awareness and staying safe online?

The Pygmalion Effect

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Have you noticed that students with higher expectations placed upon them tend to rise higher in the school ranks? You’d think, those we expect to succeed must be smarter, more talented, and more skilled than the rest, right? But what if those people were just as average as everyone else? Would they still rise in the ranks?

The Pygmalion effect is a psychological phenomenon whereby higher expectations lead to higher performance.

To find out more about the power of expectations, watch the video below.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “reinforce”. “The beliefs about themselves cause the other’s actions towards us which again reinforce our beliefs in that person.” Use this term in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “in return” mean? ” “Chris feels you appreciate him and he appreciates you in return.” Use this phrase in a sentence and give a synonym.
  3. What does “made-up” mean? “At the beginning of the school year, a group of elementary school teachers were told that some of their new pupils had extraordinary talent and potential. This information was completely made-up, was given about random average students in each class.” Use this expression to make your own sentence and give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think the Pygmalion effect is a positive or negative phenomenon? Share your thoughts.
  2. How do expectations shape our experiences and how can we manage them more effectively?
  3. How do you communicate your expectations to others in your workplace? How about to the people in your life?
  4. Talk about a time when your expectations were met.
  5. How about a situation when someone did not meet your expectations? How did you deal with it?

Solving the World’s Plastic Problem

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time, affecting oceans, wildlife, and human health.

With global plastic production continuing to rise, finding effective solutions has become urgent. This topic explores practical strategies—from reducing single-use plastics to advancing recycling technologies—that can help tackle the world’s plastic problem and build a more sustainable future.

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


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is the meaning of “outweigh“? “In fact, the amount of plastic on our planet outweighs all the land and sea creatures currently alive.” Use the word in a sentence and give a synonym.
  2. What does the idiom “to grow at scale” mean? “Plastic became very popular with the military during the Second World War, but it only grew at scale commercially in the 1960s.” Make one sentence using the phrase. Give a similar expression.
  3. What is “circular approach“? “One way to address these problems is to take a circular approach to plastic, designing it to stay in use for as long as possible..” Use the term in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you believe banning single-use plastics is an effective solution to the plastic problem? Why or why not?
  2. Should governments and individuals be more responsible for reducing plastic waste? Share your insight.
  3. What are the biggest challenges in reducing global plastic consumption, and how can they be overcome?
  4. How can businesses and industries be encouraged to use less plastic in packaging and production?
  5. What role should education and public awareness play in solving the world’s plastic problem?

Dubai Chocolate Won Over American Businesses

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The Dubai Chocolate craze began as a local treat from Fix Dessert Chocolatier in 2022 and quickly gained international fame, thanks to its rich pistachio-filled flavor and viral exposure on TikTok and Instagram.

Its limited availability only fueled demand, turning it into a status symbol. Major brands like Trader Joe’s, Costco, and Crumbl soon launched their own versions, showing how a regional dessert can influence global food trends and retail strategies.

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


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “homegrown” mean? “We’re a small homegrown brand. We had just enough chocolate just to serve the community.” Use the word in a sentence and give a synonym.
  2. What does “to shoot at the gut“? “We’re kind of shooting at the gut here and hoping that this works.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  3. What is “price point“? “The price point of the Kataifi and shipping that from another country to the US and with it being so nationally recognized and utilized right now, it was hard to source because we have so many stores across the nation.” Make a sentence using the term.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your thoughts on the global popularity of this product.
  2. Do you think social media has too much influence over what becomes popular in the food industry? Share your thoughts.
  3. Should major retailers create their own versions of viral products like Dubai Chocolate, or is that unfair to the original creators? What is your opinion?
  4. Would you buy a product just because it went viral online, even if it’s expensive or hard to find? Why or why not?
  5. What factors do you think contributed most to the global success of Dubai Chocolate—its flavor, its origin, or its social media presence?
  6. Talk about a global food trend that has become famous in your country and a local dish from your nation that won over the world.

Tech CEO’s Warning: AI to Wipe Out Millions of Jobs

B2 – Upper Intermediate

A tech CEO warns that AI could replace millions of jobs, especially entry-level office work in law, marketing, tech, and finance. Some companies are already cutting jobs as they prepare for the AI era.

Experts say young workers with less experience are most at risk. To protect their careers, people should focus on human skills like teamwork and learn how to work with AI tools.

Let’s watch the video to learn more about how AI is about to wipe out millions of jobs.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “early career knowledge job” mean? “These new generative AI technologies pose a real risk to early career knowledge jobs.” Use this term in a sentence.
  2. What does “to get up to speed with someone/something” mean? “Anthropic CEO is pushing lawmakers to get up to speed on AI and to urgently look at ways to regulate this technology.” Give a similar expression and use this phrase in a sentence.
  3. What does it mean “to double down on something”? “Experts say to double down on what AI struggles with — making human connections and doing things in person.” Give a similar expression and use this phrasal verb in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your reaction to the warning that AI could wipe out millions of jobs in the next five years? How do you feel about this possibility?
  2. Do you agree with the advice to “double down on what AI struggles with,” like human connections and in-person work? Can you give examples?
  3. Share your thoughts on this statement: “If you can do your job locked in a closet with a computer, those are the things that are more worrying for AI. Things that have to be in person and really with people tend to be safer.” What jobs do you think fit this description?
  4. What skills do you think workers should develop to protect their careers from AI disruption?
  5. How do you feel about companies restructuring and downsizing due to AI advancements? Is it inevitable or avoidable? Explain.
  6. Do you believe that working alongside AI, rather than competing with it, is a realistic and effective career strategy? Why or why not?

The Pros and Cons of Digital Parenting

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Digital parenting involves using technology to monitor, guide, and support children’s online activities. While it offers benefits like increased safety and better communication, it also raises concerns about privacy, trust, and overdependence on digital tools. Understanding the pros and cons can help parents find the right balance in today’s connected world.

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


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to keep an eye on someone” mean? “Research suggests at least 40% of parents in the UK use a GPS tracking app to keep an eye on their kids.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “to have a way around” mean? “If he ever puts a guideline and he says, “Oh, don’t go on this website, or if it’s like Instagram and I want to go on Instagram, there will always be a way around.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  3. What does “circumvent” mean? “Tech-savvy teens sometimes try to circumvent parental control settings to access restricted apps or websites.” Make a sentence using the word. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the main benefits of digital parenting for both children and parents?
  2. How can digital parenting affect the trust between parents and children?
  3. In what ways can digital parenting prepare children for responsible technology use?
  4. What are the potential downsides or risks of relying too heavily on digital tools to parent?
  5. How can parents balance supervision and independence when it comes to screen time and online activity?
  6. Should schools play a role in teaching digital responsibility, or is that solely the parents’ job?

Ergonomics Expert Explains How to Set Up Your Desk

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Setting up your workspace correctly can make a huge difference in your comfort, productivity, and long-term health. In this video,, an ergonomics expert walks you through the key principles of desk setup—from chair height and monitor placement to keyboard positioning—so you can work smarter, avoid strain, and feel better throughout the day.

Watch the video and be able to answer the discussion questions below.


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “ergonomic” mean? “To set up your work desk properly, start by selecting an ergonomic chair that supports your posture and reduces strain during long hours of sitting.” Use the word in a sentence.
  2. What does the word “strain” mean in this sentence: “Position your monitor at eye level and keep your keyboard within easy reach to reduce strain on your neck and shoulders.“? Make a sentence using the word.
  3. What does the word “slouch” mean? “To maintain good posture at your work desk, adjust your chair and monitor height so you don’t have to slouch while working.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think investing in ergonomic furniture is worth the cost? Why or why not?
  2. In your opinion, which part of the desk setup has the biggest impact on comfort—chair, monitor, or keyboard?
  3. How important do you think proper desk ergonomics are for remote workers compared to office workers?
  4. How can poor desk ergonomics affect a person’s health and productivity over time?
  5. What are some simple, affordable changes people can make to improve their desk setup?

Public Schools Are Going Broke

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Public schools across the U.S. are facing a major funding crisis—driven by declining student enrollment and the end of pandemic-era ESSER funds. Districts that used temporary relief money to hire staff are now scrambling to make painful cuts, putting thousands of education jobs at risk. Critics say poor planning and long-standing financial mismanagement are making things worse, leaving students and communities caught in the fallout.

Watch the video to learn how this “fiscal cliff” could reshape public education and what it means for the future of schools, teachers, and families.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Explain the term “fiscal cliff“. “But since the pandemic, many schools added staff and are now experiencing what experts call a ‘fiscal cliff‘.” Use this term in a sentence.
  2. Define the idiom “slash and burn approach”. “
    Pasadena decided to take the slash and burn approach. It’s obviously having devastating impact on the morale of our schools.”     Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym or a similar expression.
  3. What does “to move the needle” mean? “You need to pause every once in a while. Evaluate all these things that you’re spending money on and determine which one’s moving the needle in the right direction for kids.” Give a synonym and use this idiom in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the main reasons public school enrollment has been declining in the U.S. over the past few years?
  2. How might declining enrollment and the end of federal pandemic funds affect teachers, students, and local communities?
  3. Could these budget cuts and staff layoffs lead to long-term changes in how public education operates? Explain.
  4. Can you describe the current status of the education system in your country? How does it compare to the situation described in the video?
  5. If you were in charge of a school district facing budget cuts, what would you prioritize—staff, programs, or services? Explain your choice.
  6. What could be the future of education, the economy, and the workforce if these trends of declining enrollment and budget cuts continue?

The Profit in Nonprofits

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Nonprofit organizations help many people by offering food, education, and support. They are started by people in local communities to improve lives. Sometimes, nonprofits help when governments do not. They provide important services like food banks, free legal help, and care for children with special needs.

Watch the full video:

Vocabulary Discussions

  1. What does “to give back to” mean? “I was able to start a non-profit and give back to my community.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “to stand up for” mean? “I get to stand up for issues and speak out on things that interest us the most.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “to come together” mean? “People in your community that you don’t even know but who have come together in a non-profit to do good.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions

1. What are some ways nonprofits help people in local communities?

2. Why might nonprofits be needed when governments can’t help?

3. What feelings do you think the speaker had while waiting in line for free cheese?

4. How can helping others through nonprofits change the life of a community?

5. After reading this blog, why do you think the speaker says “there is profit in nonprofits”?

International Organizations: Governmental and NGOs

B2 – Upper Intermediate

International organizations help countries work together to solve global problems. Some are created by governments to promote peace, trade, or public health. Others are started by private citizens and focus on things like human rights or disaster relief. These groups play an important role in making the world more stable, fair, and safe.

To learn more about how these organizations work and the history behind the symbol of the Red Cross, watch the full video:

Vocabulary Questions

  1. What does “at the cost of someone/something” mean? “Their end goal is free trade between each and have received criticism for being single-minded and not worried about the environment at the cost of trade.” Use it in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  2. What does “veto power” mean? “These five countries have the veto power over the other ten members who change every two years.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “to have someone’s voice heard” mean? “This does not mean you have to always agree with the decisions being made, but you do get to have your country’s voice heard.” Use it in a sentence. Give a similar expression.

Discussion Questions

  1. What are some jobs international organizations do?
  2. Why do you think countries create organizations together?
  3. Do you think it’s better for organizations to be run by governments or private citizens? Why?
  4. Have you heard of any international organizations before? What do they do?
  5. If you could join an international organization, which one would you choose and why?