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⚖️ 🧠 Lesson Plan: Is Human Connection the New Job Security?

Profile: Advanced student (Lawyer)

Level: B2–C1

Time: 60–75 minutes

Focus: Legal reasoning, argumentation, persuasion, advanced vocabulary

Theme: AI, Professional Value & Human Judgment

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🎯 Objectives

By the end of the lesson, the student will:

• Construct and defend nuanced arguments about AI and employment

• Use legal-style reasoning (claims, evidence, counterarguments)

• Apply advanced vocabulary in a professional/legal context

• Deliver a persuasive mini-argument (oral + written)

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🔥 1. Warm-up (5–10 min)

Push for precision and justification:

• Which legal tasks could AI realistically replace today?

• Which aspects of legal work require human judgment?

• Would you trust an AI judge? Why or why not?

👉 Challenge:

“If AI becomes more accurate than humans, should we still prefer human decisions?”

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📖 2. Framing the Issue (5 min)

Present it as a legal and ethical dilemma:

“As AI systems become capable of drafting contracts, predicting case outcomes, and even mediating disputes, the legal profession faces a key question: Is human interaction still essential, or merely a tradition we’re reluctant to abandon?”

Introduce the key concept:

• “Human comparative advantage” → the uniquely human skills that remain difficult to automate (judgment, ethics, empathy, persuasion)

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💬 3. Advanced Vocabulary (Legal & Analytical)

Encourage active use + precision:

⚖️ Core Terms

• Discretion – the ability to make judgments in complex situations

“Judicial discretion cannot be fully codified.”

• Liability – legal responsibility

“Who bears liability if an AI makes a flawed legal recommendation?”

• Due process – fair legal procedures

“Can AI ensure due process without human oversight?”

• Bias (algorithmic bias)

“AI may replicate systemic bias present in data.”

• Accountability

“AI creates a gap in accountability.”

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🧠 Conceptual Language

• Automation of cognition

• Dehumanization of services

• Augmentation vs replacement

• Decision-making authority

• Ethical trade-offs

• Trust vs efficiency dilemma

👉 Quick practice:

Ask the student to create 1 sentence per term related to law

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⚡ 4. Deep Discussion & Legal Analysis (25–30 min)

Push for structured arguments (like a case):

🔹 Core Questions

1. Should AI be allowed to make legal decisions independently?

2. Is efficiency more important than human judgment in law?

3. Can empathy influence justice—or does it distort it?

4. Will AI reduce or reinforce inequality in legal systems?

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💣 Debate Scenarios (Law-Focused)

Scenario 1:

An AI system predicts criminal sentencing with 95% accuracy.

• Should judges follow it?

• If they don’t, are they acting irrationally?

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Scenario 2:

A law firm replaces junior lawyers with AI tools.

• Is this innovation or exploitation?

• What happens to professional development?

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Scenario 3:

An AI mediator resolves disputes faster and more cheaply than humans.

• Should courts require its use?

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👉 Push constantly:

• “What’s your legal basis?”

• “What would be the counterargument?”

• “What are the unintended consequences?”

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🧩 5. Mini-Debate (Highly Recommended) (10–15 min)

Motion:

“Human judgment in law is overrated and should be minimized.”

• Student = Defense or Opposition

• You = Opponent

Structure:

• Opening argument (1–2 min)

• Rebuttal

• Final statement

⸻

✍️ 6. Writing Task (Advanced & Provocative) (10–15 min)

Task:

Write a legal-style opinion paragraph (150–200 words):

“In an AI-driven legal system, what role—if any—should human judgment still play?”

-> Imagine a situation where AI starts/begins to drive legal system , by far, one of the most terrified ideas Is undeniable, AI are a reality, but as a operational technology, so as a machine, and as a resource.

We know AI has the capability to learn, understand how things are and repeat, is always about standards. However, AI will never be able to feel, even to understand a human and all the complexity of how is being a human being and the society as well. Moreover, when we talk about a legal system, is about human life being judged.

With this in mind, is impossible to rely on a decision in a machine and it will not understand the complexity of being a human.

In this case, even in a AI-driven legal system, the role of AI has to be operational, only, but guided by a human judge, and confronted by humans lawyers.

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Is human connection the new job security?

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Katty Kay speaks to Jane Wurwand about her theory about what jobs are best protected from AI replacement.

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🔹 1. Strong Opening (Hook him immediately)

Start with a statement instead of a question:

“There’s a growing idea that platforms like OnlyFans are not just about adult content anymore—but about simulated relationships. Do you think that changes the ethical or legal implications?”

Then follow with:

“From a legal perspective, do you see any risks in this kind of interaction?”

🔹 2. Define the Concept Together

Help him articulate the topic:

“What do you think is meant by the ‘direct message era’ of adult content?”

“How is this different from traditional 🤬?”

👉 Push him to notice:

Personalization

Emotional involvement

Illusion of intimacy

🔹 3. Bring in Loneliness (Core Theme)

Transition naturally:

“Why do you think loneliness might drive people toward platforms like this?”

“Do you think these interactions reduce loneliness—or actually deepen it?”

Follow-up:

“Could this create emotional dependency?”

🔹 4. Legal Angle (This is where he’ll shine)

Now you elevate the discussion:

“Do you think there should be legal boundaries around this kind of interaction?”

“At what point could this become manipulation or exploitation?”

More advanced:

“If a user believes they have a ‘real relationship’ with a content creator, could there be legal consequences?”

“Do you think informed consent applies differently in these cases?”

🔹 5. Ethical Debate

Push beyond law:

“Is it ethical to monetize emotional attention and intimacy?”

“Do you think this is closer to entertainment, or to a form of emotional labor?”

Challenge him:

“Who holds more responsibility—the platform, the creator, or the user?”

🔹 6. Gender & Power Dynamics

Make it more complex:

“Do you think men are more vulnerable to this kind of platform? Why?”

“How do power dynamics play out between creator and subscriber?”

🔹 7. Future-Oriented Question (Strong Closing)

End with a forward-thinking angle:

“Do you think this ‘direct message intimacy’ will grow with AI and technology?”

“Should governments intervene, or is this purely a personal choice issue?”

🔹 Key Vocabulary to Feed Him (if needed)

Emotional dependency

Parasocial relationship

Exploitation vs. empowerment

Consent & manipulation

Digital intimacy

Regulation / liability

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OnlyFans, loneliness, and rise of explicit direct messages

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Katty Kay speaks to writer and podcaster Ed Elson about the adult content industry’s pivot to direct messaging.

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Misogyny and Violence Against Women

1. Warm-up (5–7 minutes)

Start with broad questions to activate his ideas.

Questions

What does misogyny mean to you?

Do you think misogyny has decreased or increased in recent years?

Is misogyny mostly a cultural problem, a legal problem, or a social problem?

Do you think younger generations are more aware of gender violence?

Follow-up prompt

“Many people believe misogyny is becoming more visible because of social media. Do you agree?”

2. Key Vocabulary (Useful for a Legal Discussion)

Ask him to explain or use these in sentences.

Core concepts

Misogyny – hatred or prejudice against women

Gender-based violence – violence directed at someone because of their gender

Sexual assault – sexual activity without consent

Consent – clear agreement to participate

Victim-blaming – blaming the victim instead of the perpetrator

Patriarchal structures – systems where men hold power

Toxic masculinity – cultural expectations of male dominance or aggression

Systemic sexism – discrimination embedded in institutions

Legal vocabulary (good for a lawyer)

prosecution

criminal liability

aggravating circumstances

impunity

judicial precedent

legal framework

Quick practice

Ask:

“Do you think the legal framework in Brazil adequately addresses gender-based violence?”

3. Reading Input (Short Discussion Text)

You can read this with him and then discuss.

Short Article

Misogyny continues to influence societies around the world, often appearing in subtle forms such as stereotypes, discrimination, and online harassment. However, in some cases it escalates into extreme violence, including sexual assault and femicide.

In recent years, social movements and digital activism have brought more visibility to gender-based violence. Many young people are now discussing consent, equality, and toxic masculinity more openly than previous generations.

Despite this progress, critics argue that legal systems still struggle to respond effectively. Victims often face stigma, victim-blaming, and long judicial processes. As a result, many activists argue that legal reforms must be accompanied by education and cultural change.

4. Critical Thinking Questions (Main Discussion)

These questions will push an advanced-level conversation.

Society

Why does misogyny still exist in modern societies?

Do you think misogyny is learned through culture, family, or media?

Law

Do legal punishments effectively prevent gender-based violence?

What role should the legal system play in changing social behavior?

Social Media

Has social media helped fight misogyny or made it worse?

Do online communities sometimes normalize violence against women?

Generational Change

Are younger men more aware of gender equality than previous generations?

How can education help reduce misogyny?

Ethical Reflection

Can laws alone change misogynistic attitudes?

What responsibility do men have in fighting misogyny?

5. Debate Activity (Great for Lawyers)

Give him a provocative statement and ask him to defend or challenge it.

Statement

“Misogyny is not just a criminal issue—it is primarily a cultural problem.”

Follow-up:

What kind of public policies could address this problem?

Should schools teach gender education?

6. Real-World Perspective (Important Question)

Since he is a lawyer, ask:

Have you ever seen cases related to gender violence in your legal experience?

What challenges do victims face when seeking justice?

What reforms could improve the legal system?

7. Advanced Language Focus

You can introduce some complex expressions.

Useful phrases

“From a legal standpoint…”

“There is a growing body of evidence that…”

“One could argue that…”

“This raises an ethical dilemma…”

“The root of the issue lies in…”

Practice:

Ask him to summarize his opinion using at least two expressions.

8. Final Reflection Question

End the class with a powerful question:

“What concrete actions can societies take today to reduce misogyny and protect future generations of women?”

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Violence against women and girls strategy: Boys to be sent on courses to tackle misogyny in schools

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The measure is part of the government’s strategy to tackle violence against women and girls in England.

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🌍 The World at a Turning Point: Economy, Power and Uncertainty (2026)

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🌍 The World at a Turning Point: Economy, Power and Uncertainty (2026)

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🌍 The World at a Turning Point: Economy, Power and Uncertainty (2026)

The world in 2026 feels structurally different from the world before 2020. The pandemic did not create new problems — it accelerated existing ones. Today, governments, corporations, and institutions are navigating a period of economic slowdown, geopolitical fragmentation, technological disruption, and social tension.

Slower Growth, Higher Pressure

After decades of globalization-driven expansion, global economic growth has slowed. Inflation shocks, rising interest rates, supply chain restructuring, and mounting public debt have limited governments’ ability to stimulate their economies. Many countries now face a difficult balancing act: controlling inflation while avoiding recession.

At the same time, inequality — both within and between countries — remains a central issue. While financial markets have shown resilience, many middle- and lower-income populations experience stagnating wages and reduced purchasing power. This creates political pressure and fuels social dissatisfaction.

The Transformation of Capitalism

Capitalism itself is under debate. The traditional shareholder-centered model — focused primarily on profit maximization — is increasingly questioned. Concepts such as stakeholder capitalism, ESG regulation, and sustainable investment have entered mainstream discourse. Corporations are expected not only to generate returns but also to demonstrate social and environmental responsibility.

However, critics argue that these changes are more rhetorical than structural. The core system of global capital flows, financial speculation, and corporate concentration remains largely intact. The question is not whether capitalism is ending, but whether it is evolving — and who controls that evolution.

Multipolarity and Geopolitical Tension

The international order is shifting from a predominantly Western-led system toward a more multipolar configuration. The United States, China, the European Union, and emerging powers compete economically and strategically. Trade relations are increasingly shaped by national security concerns rather than pure efficiency.

This realignment affects global supply chains, energy markets, and international law. Sanctions, regional trade blocs, and strategic alliances are redefining economic cooperation. The era of “hyper-globalization” appears to be giving way to selective interdependence.

Technology and Labor

Artificial intelligence and automation are transforming labor markets at an unprecedented speed. While productivity gains are expected, there is widespread uncertainty about job displacement, regulation, and digital sovereignty. The legal frameworks governing data, intellectual property, and AI ethics are still developing, creating tension between innovation and control.

For professionals — including lawyers — this means adapting to a world where economic and regulatory systems are continuously renegotiated.

Climate and Structural Change

Climate change is no longer a distant environmental issue; it is an economic variable. Energy transitions, green industrial policies, and carbon regulations are reshaping investment flows. Countries that adapt quickly may gain competitive advantages, while others risk structural decline.

The challenge is that long-term sustainability goals often conflict with short-term political cycles.

What Can We Expect?

The defining characteristic of this moment is uncertainty. We are not witnessing the collapse of the global system, but its transformation. Growth will likely remain moderate. Geopolitical tensions may persist. Economic models will continue to evolve under social and environmental pressure.

The key question is not whether change is coming — it is how institutions, markets, and legal systems will respond.

The next decade will not be about stability. It will be about adaptation.

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📄 Article for Discussion:

United Nations releases 2026 report on the global economy

The United Nations’ World Economic Situation and Prospects 2026 (WESP 2026) report provides a comprehensive overview of global economic conditions and trends, with key themes that are extremely relevant to a discussion among advanced learners — especially in law or policy:

Slower Global Growth: The report highlights that the world economy faces a prolonged period of slower growth compared to pre-pandemic years. Despite some resilience, the pace of expansion is insufficient to deliver broad improvements in living standards or reduce inequalities.

Limited Fiscal Space and Multilateral Cooperation: Many governments have less fiscal capacity to stimulate their economies, and cooperation — particularly in areas like trade, debt relief, and climate finance — is weakening at a time when coordinated action is most needed.

Uneven Regional Performance: Different regions show varying degrees of recovery. Advanced economies and emerging markets are recuperating unevenly, and developing countries continue to face structural barriers to long-term growth, such as debt burdens, productivity challenges, and climate-related costs.

Future Challenges and Opportunities: Issues such as digital transformation, climate adaptation, demographic shifts, and integration within global value chains are identified as key determinants of future economic pathways. These align with broader academic and policy debates about the future of capitalism and global economic structures.

🧠 Key Discussion

📌 1. The Fragile Recovery and Structural Change

Why is global growth slower than before, despite macroeconomic stabilization?

How might structural factors like inequality and debt shape future policy choices?

What legal and institutional reforms are emerging economies pushing within international forums?

📌 2. Capitalism: Shifts and Models

You can link economic trends with these broader debates:

Stakeholder capitalism vs. shareholder capitalism — the idea that companies may focus more on societal outcomes rather than solely profits.

Post-capitalist futures — discussions around how digital transformation and new forms of value might reshape economic structures.

Global multipolarity and economic power balances — the transition of economic weight toward Asia and emerging markets.

📌 3. Climate, Inequality, and Economic Justice

Themes of sustainability and justice are increasingly central:

Calls from global policymakers to rethink growth models that overly depend on consumption and inequality.

Reports arguing the traditional GDP-driven economic model fails to address ecological limits.

📌 4. Geopolitics and Economic Order

The changing dynamics between major powers — particularly the US and China — will be important to discuss:

How geopolitical competition influences economic integration, trade, and legal frameworks for international investment.

Whether existing institutions (WTO, IMF, multilateral trade agreements) are adapting or fragmenting.

📘 Suggested Questions to Guide the Discussion

1. What does slower global growth mean for legal and economic policy frameworks?

2. How do different models of capitalism (stakeholder vs. shareholder, digital capitalism) respond to today’s global challenges?

3. What legal tools exist or could be developed to address inequality and ecological sustainability within global economic governance?

4. How might shifts in global economic power affect international law, trade agreements, and dispute resolution?

5. What role should international organizations play in shaping economic futures — and what legal reforms might be necessary?

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⚖️ Advanced Lesson Plan: Gig Economy, Delivery Platforms, and Financial-Legal Transformation

🎯 Lesson

By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to:

delivery platforms from a legal, financial, and technological perspective

Evaluate investment risks and opportunities

Discuss labor classification and regulatory implications

Assess how AI, automation, and fintech are transforming delivery companies

Formulate arguments using advanced legal and financial

🔥 PART 1: Warm-Up Discussion (10 minutes)

Ask:

1. Are delivery platforms like Uber Eats, iFood, or Zomato technology companies or logistics companies?

2. Why are investors interested in delivery platforms?

3. Do you think delivery platforms are profitable long term?

4. Should delivery drivers be employees or independent contractors?

Follow-up (finance-focused):

5. Would you invest in a delivery platform? Why or why not?

📖 PART 2: Advanced Reading Article

From Delivery Services to Financial and Technology Platforms

Delivery platforms have evolved into complex digital ecosystems driven by artificial intelligence, financial integration, and automation. In countries like India, millions of workers rely on apps such as Swiggy and Zomato for income. These platforms use algorithmic systems to assign tasks, monitor worker performance, and optimize delivery routes.

This algorithmic management allows companies to operate efficiently without traditional human supervision. However, it also raises legal concerns. If software controls workers’ schedules, performance, and income, the platform may function as an employer rather than an intermediary.

From a financial perspective, delivery platforms are expanding beyond logistics. Many now offer financial services such as digital wallets, loans, and insurance to workers. This model, known as embedded finance, creates new revenue streams and increases platform valuation.

Automation represents another major shift. Companies are investing in drones, robots, and AI-powered logistics systems to reduce labor costs and increase efficiency. These technologies require significant capital investment but may generate higher long-term profitability.

However, regulatory risk remains a key concern. Governments worldwide are considering laws that may require platforms to classify workers as employees. Such changes could increase operational costs and reduce profit margins.

As a result, delivery platforms are no longer just logistics providers—they are becoming financial, technological, and data-driven institutions.

📚 PART 3: Key Vocabulary (Legal and Financial)

Algorithmic management

Control of workers using software and algorithms

Independent contractor

Worker who is not legally employed by the company

Labor classification

Legal definition of worker status

Embedded finance

Financial services integrated into platforms

Regulatory risk

Risk of legal or regulatory changes affecting business

Capital expenditure

Money invested in infrastructure or technology

Liability

Legal responsibility

Profit margin

Difference between revenue and cost

Scalability

Ability to grow efficiently

📺 PART 4: Video Activity (Based on your BBC video)

Student watches the video.

Ask the student to identify:

Worker complaints

Company response

Government role

Financial implications

⚖️ PART 5: Legal Analysis Discussion (Core section)

Ask:

1. If an algorithm controls workers, is the platform legally an employer?

2. Should gig workers receive labor protections?

3. Who is liable if a delivery driver has an accident during an algorithm-assigned delivery?

4. Should governments regulate platform algorithms?

5. Can platforms avoid responsibility by classifying workers as contractors?

Follow-up (advanced):

6. Is algorithmic control equivalent to legal control?

📈 PART 6: Financial and Investment Analysis

Scenario:

You are advising an investment fund considering investing in a delivery platform.

Ask:

1. What makes delivery platforms attractive to investors?

2. What are the biggest financial risks?

3. How does automation affect profitability?

4. How could regulation affect valuation?

5. Are delivery platforms sustainable long term?

🤖 PART 7: Technology Impact Discussion

Discuss each technology:

Artificial Intelligence

AI improves efficiency, reduces costs, and increases scalability. However, it may increase legal exposure if courts interpret algorithmic control as employer control.

Automation (robots and drones)

Automation reduces labor costs but requires large capital investment. It may increase profitability long term.

Embedded finance

Platforms offering loans and financial services increase revenue and valuation but may face financial regulation.

Data collection

Platforms collect valuable data, which can be monetized but also creates privacy and regulatory risks.

⚖️ PART 8: Legal-Financial Case Study

Scenario:

A delivery platform is being sued by drivers who want employee status.

Student must analyze:

Legal perspective:

Worker classification

Liability

Labor law implications

Financial perspective:

Impact on costs

Impact on profitability

Impact on investors

🧠 PART 9: Advanced Debate

Motion:

“Delivery platforms are technology companies, not employers.”

Student argues:

FOR

AGAINST

Encourage use of legal and financial arguments.

✍️ PART 10: Writing Task (Homework or in class)

Write 300–400 words:

“Should delivery platforms be regulated as employers or technology platforms?”

Student must include:

Legal argument

Financial argument

Personal conclusion

🎯 PART 11: Professional Role-Play (Highly recommended)

Student role:

Legal advisor for an investment firm

Task:

Advise whether to invest in a delivery platform.

Must discuss:

Legal risk

Regulatory risk

Profit potential

Long-term outlook

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Why gig workers are protesting around the world - What in the World podcast, BBC World Service

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Smart Devices, Public Spaces, and the Future of Digital Trust

In recent years, wearable technology has evolved rapidly. Devices such as the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses, developed by Meta Platforms, allow users to record videos, take photos, and even livestream directly from their glasses.

While these devices are marketed as innovative tools for content creation and connectivity, they have also raised serious concerns about privacy, consent, and digital surveillance.

Unlike smartphones, which are visible when recording, smart glasses can film discreetly. Many critics argue that this creates ethical problems, especially in public spaces where people may not realize they are being recorded. Women, in particular, have expressed concerns about harassment and non-consensual filming.

But the issue goes beyond public discomfort.

These devices are part of a broader technological shift toward constant data collection. Facial recognition systems, biometric authentication, and AI-powered analytics are increasingly integrated into financial services, banking apps, and investment platforms.

In the financial sector, technology plays a crucial role in:

Verifying client identity (KYC – Know Your Customer)

Detecting fraud and unusual transactions

Preventing identity theft

Monitoring cybersecurity threats

Biometric verification — such as face scans or voice recognition — is often considered safer than passwords. However, it also raises new risks:

What happens if biometric data is hacked?

Who owns facial data collected in public spaces?

Can recorded images be used for identity fraud?

For financial professionals and investors, the challenge is balancing innovation, security, and ethical responsibility.

As wearable devices become more powerful and AI systems more sophisticated, societies must decide:

How much surveillance is acceptable?

Who regulates these technologies?

Are current privacy laws strong enough?

The future of finance may depend not only on capital and markets — but on digital trust.

💬 Discussion Questions (Advanced Level)

Key words and phrases

covertly
in a secet, hidden way

The secret service covertly recorded government conversations.

hit on (someone)
start speaking with someone and show them that you are romantically interested in them

She asked for my phone number, so I asked her if she was hitting on me.

troll
leave offensive or annoying comments on the internet to upset someone

The athlete was trolled online after losing in the final.

Ethics & Society

1. Should recording in public spaces require explicit consent?

2. Do you think wearable cameras disproportionately affect women? Why?

3. Is privacy becoming a luxury?

Finance & Technology

4. How does the financial sector verify identity today?

5. Is biometric authentication safer than passwords?

6. What risks do financial institutions face if biometric data is leaked?

7. Would you invest in companies that produce surveillance technology?

Critical Thinking

8. Who should regulate wearable tech — governments or private companies?

9. Can innovation move “too fast” for legislation?

10. How do you see this technology affecting financial markets in the next 10 years?

🧠 Vocabulary Upgrade (More Advanced Than Basic)

1️⃣ Data breach

An incident in which confidential, sensitive, or protected information is accessed, disclosed, or stolen without authorization.
👉 Example: A company leaking customers’ credit card details after a cyberattack.

2️⃣ Surveillance capitalism

An economic system in which companies collect, analyze, and monetize users’ personal data—often without fully transparent consent—to predict and influence behavior.
👉 Example: Social media platforms tracking your activity to sell targeted ads.

3️⃣ Informed consent

Permission granted by a person who fully understands the risks, implications, and purpose of a particular action, data collection, or agreement.
👉 Example: Agreeing to share your biometric data after reading a clear explanation of how it will be used.

4️⃣ Digital footprint

The trail of data an individual leaves behind when using the internet, including posts, searches, clicks, and online purchases.
👉 Example: Your Instagram posts, Google searches, and online subscriptions.

5️⃣ Biometric authentication

A security process that verifies a person’s identity using unique biological characteristics such as fingerprints, facial recognition, or voice patterns.
👉 Example: Unlocking your phone with Face ID.

6️⃣ Regulatory framework

A structured set of laws, rules, and guidelines established by authorities to govern activities within a specific industry or area.
👉 Example: Data protection laws that regulate how companies handle personal information.

7️⃣ Risk exposure

The degree to which an individual or organization is vulnerable to potential losses, harm, or legal consequences.
👉 Example: A company storing unencrypted customer data has high risk exposure.

8️⃣ Liability

Legal responsibility for one’s actions or omissions, especially when they cause harm or loss.
👉 Example: A tech company being held liable for failing to protect user data.

9️⃣ Encryption

The process of converting data into a coded format to prevent unauthorized access. Only authorized parties can decode it.
👉 Example: End-to-end encryption in messaging apps.

🔟 Due diligence

A careful and thorough investigation or assessment conducted before making a decision, especially in business or legal contexts.
👉 Example: A company reviewing a partner’s cybersecurity practices before signing a contract.

🔗 How You Can Connect It to your Job

You could ask :

How do your clients verify their identity?

Do they use two-factor authentication?

What are the biggest cybersecurity risks in your field?

Have investors shown interest in AI surveillance companies?

Would stricter regulation affect financial markets?

Choose one of the options to answer

💰 Option 1 (Risk & Profitability)

“How do data breaches and cybersecurity risks affect a company’s financial stability and investor confidence?”

📊 Option 2 (Regulation & Cost)

“To what extent should companies prioritize compliance and data protection, even when it reduces short-term profits?”

⚖️ Option 3 (Liability & Financial Impact)

“Who ultimately bears the financial cost of a data breach — the company, investors, or consumers?”

🌍 Option 4 (Surveillance Capitalism Angle)

“Is monetizing user data a sustainable business model, or does it create long-term financial and reputational risk?”

🔎 Strong, discussion-friendly choice:

“In today’s digital economy, is cybersecurity a financial investment or simply an operational expense?”

Risk exposure

Shareholder value

Due diligence

Regulatory framework

Long-term vs short-term strategy

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BBC Learning English - Learning English from the News / Women secretly filmed with new tech

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The videos of women on nights out are posted online to make money.

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⭐ Follow-Up Class Plan – Interview & Case Study Simulation (Adyen Style)

🎯 Main Objectives

Improve structured speaking in professional contexts

Practice explaining financial/analytical reasoning clearly

Strengthen confidence in interviews and presentations

Develop advanced business & fintech vocabulary

Simulate real interview pressure and follow-up questioning

⏱ Suggested Class Duration: 60–75 minutes

🔹 PART 1 – Warm-Up: Professional Reflection (10 min)

Discussion Questions

Ask your student to answer naturally and expand ideas:

1. How do you usually prepare for important interviews?

2. What do you think companies like Adyen value most in candidates?

3. What is your biggest professional strength?

4. What is one professional weakness you are currently improving?

👉 Follow-up prompts:

Can you give me an example?

What results did that bring?

How did you measure success?

🔹 PART 2 – Experience & Expertise Simulation (Interview Practice) (15 min)

🎤 Interview Role Play

You act as recruiter.

Questions Based on Adyen Style

(Encourage structured answers – Situation → Action → Result)

1. Tell me about your experience working with financial or operational processes.

2. Describe a time when you had to prioritize multiple urgent tasks.

3. Tell me about a situation where you worked with different teams.

4. Have you ever had to explain complex financial or technical information to someone non-technical?

👉 After each answer:

Ask the student to reformulate with stronger vocabulary

Correct naturalness and clarity

🔹 PART 3 – Case Study Simulation (Main Section) (25 min)

📊 Scenario Summary

(You can paraphrase this to your student)

“You start your day and receive two urgent requests:

• A merchant wants a detailed explanation of payment advancement calculations

• A regulatory agency requests investigation about inconsistencies in financial reporting”

TASK A – Prioritization (Critical Thinking)

Ask student:

👉 What would you prioritize and why?

Encourage use of:

Risk assessment

Compliance importance

Business impact

Stakeholder management

Target Vocabulary

Regulatory compliance

Operational risk

Stakeholder expectations

Business continuity

Time-sensitive request

TASK B – Early Concerns Analysis

👉 Ask:

“What would worry you most in this situation?”

Encourage discussion about:

Legal consequences

Reputation risks

Data accuracy

Time management

Cross-team communication

TASK C – Technical Explanation Practice

👉 Ask student to explain:

“What is the difference between Simple Discount and Net Present Value?”

Goal is NOT math perfection — it is clarity of explanation.

Encourage:

Use simple language

Use examples

Use comparison structures

Example prompt:

“Imagine you are explaining this to a client with limited financial knowledge.”

🔹 PART 4 – Presentation Simulation (10–15 min)

Ask student to give a mini presentation (3–5 minutes)

Topic:

“How I would handle the Adyen case scenario professionally”

Encourage structure:

1. Understanding the situation

2. Prioritization strategy

3. Communication approach

4. Risk management

5. Expected results

🔹 PART 5 – Feedback & Language Upgrade (10 min)

Focus Areas:

✔ Clarity

✔ Professional tone

✔ Fluency

✔ Logical structure

✔ Advanced vocabulary

💬 Advanced Expressions to Encourage

Structuring Ideas

“From a risk-management perspective…”

“The main priority would be…”

“A key factor to consider is…”

Professional Opinion

“In my professional experience…”

“Based on the data available…”

“A strategic approach would involve…”

Explaining Complexity

“In simple terms…”

“This means that…”

“To illustrate this…”

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🧩 PART 1 — FULL SCRIPTED MOCK INTERVIEW

(You = interviewer | Student = candidate)

🔹 Opening – Icebreaker

Interviewer

“Thanks for joining today. Before we dive in, could you briefly introduce yourself and summarize your professional background?”

Candidate – Model Answer

“I have a solid background in financial operations and analytical roles, where I’ve worked closely with data accuracy, operational efficiency, and cross-team collaboration. Over the years, I’ve developed strong experience in prioritizing complex requests, communicating with different stakeholders, and ensuring compliance while keeping business objectives in mind.”

👉 Teacher focus: clarity, pacing, confidence

🔹 Experience & Expertise

Interviewer

“Can you describe your experience working with financial processes or operational tasks?”

Candidate – Model Answer

“In my previous roles, I was responsible for analyzing financial data, supporting operational decisions, and ensuring that processes aligned with internal controls and external requirements. This often involved handling large volumes of information, identifying inconsistencies, and collaborating with teams such as finance, product, and compliance.”

Follow-up Question

“What would you say is your strongest technical skill?”

Candidate – Model Answer

“My strongest technical skill is analytical problem-solving. I’m comfortable breaking down complex financial scenarios, identifying key variables, and translating technical details into clear insights that support decision-making.”

🔹 Prioritization Under Pressure

Interviewer

“Tell me about a time when you had to manage multiple urgent requests at the same time.”

Candidate – Model Answer

“I once handled multiple high-priority requests simultaneously, each with different stakeholders involved. I assessed the urgency, risk, and potential impact of each task, then communicated transparently with stakeholders about timelines. This allowed me to prioritize effectively while maintaining trust and delivering accurate results.”

👉 Prompt student:

“How did you decide what was urgent vs important?”

🔹 Case Study – Adyen Scenario

Situation Recap (You read this)

“You receive two requests early in the morning: one from a merchant requesting a detailed explanation of an advancement calculation, and another from a regulatory agency questioning inconsistencies in financial reporting.”

Question 1 – Prioritization

Interviewer

“What would you prioritize first, and why?”

Candidate – Model Answer

“I would prioritize the request from the regulatory agency. Regulatory matters involve compliance risk and potential legal consequences, which can have a significant impact on the business. While the merchant request is important, it can be managed through clear communication and expectation setting.”

Question 2 – Early Concerns

Interviewer

“What would be your main concerns in this situation?”

Candidate – Model Answer

“My main concerns would be data accuracy, compliance risk, and ensuring alignment between internal reports and regulatory expectations. I’d also be concerned about managing stakeholder communication to avoid misunderstandings or delays.”

Question 3 – Technical Explanation

Interviewer

“How would you explain the difference between simple discounting and Net Present Value to a client?”

Candidate – Model Answer

“In simple terms, simple discounting reduces a future amount by applying a fixed discount over time, without considering the time value of money in depth. Net Present Value, on the other hand, calculates today’s value of future cash flows by considering time, risk, and opportunity cost, giving a more accurate picture of the true value.”

🔹 Closing Question

Interviewer

“Why do you think you’d be a good fit for a company like Adyen?”

Candidate – Model Answer

“I believe I’m a good fit because I combine analytical thinking with strong communication skills. I’m comfortable working in complex environments, collaborating across teams, and balancing compliance requirements with business goals

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🧩 PART 2 — POWERPOINT / PADLET SLIDE CONTENT

(Each section = one slide)

🟢 SLIDE 1 — Title

Preparing for a Financial & Operational Interview

Case Study & Professional Communication Practice

🟢 SLIDE 2 — Interview Focus Areas

Professional experience & expertise

Structured thinking

Clear communication

Financial & operational reasoning

Prioritization under pressure

🟢 SLIDE 3 — Talking About Experience

Key Tips

Be concise but specific

Use real examples

Highlight impact and results

Show cross-team collaboration

Useful Phrases

“In my previous role…”

“I was responsible for…”

“This resulted in…”

🟢 SLIDE 4 — Prioritization Strategy

How to Prioritize Tasks

Assess urgency

Evaluate risk

Consider business impact

Communicate clearly

Keywords

Compliance

Risk management

Stakeholders

Operational impact

🟢 SLIDE 5 — Case Study: Adyen Scenario

Situation

Merchant request (detailed calculation)

Regulatory request (data inconsistencies)

Main Question

What should be prioritized and why?

🟢 SLIDE 6 — Risk & Concerns

Key Concerns

Regulatory compliance

Data accuracy

Legal and reputational risk

Time management

🟢 SLIDE 7 — Explaining Complex Concepts

Best Practices

Use simple language

Avoid jargon

Give examples

Check understanding

Example

“In simple terms…”

“This means that…”

🟢 SLIDE 8 — Presentation Structure

How to Structure Your Answer

1. Context

2. Action

3. Reasoning

4. Outcome

🟢 SLIDE 9 — Strong Professional Language

Advanced Expressions

“From a strategic perspective…”

“A key consideration is…”

“Based on my experience…”

🟢 SLIDE 10 — Final Message

Key Takeaway

Confidence comes from clarity, structure, and preparation.

⭐ OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS (I can build next)

A grading rubric for interview performance

A second mock interview with harder questions

A fintech vocabulary Padlet board

A 30-second answer challenge

A role-play where the student becomes the interviewer

Just tell me what you want next — this is already interview-ready

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🚀 Advanced Class: Startups, Payments & Fast Growth

From Sales Mechanisms to Market Expansion

🎯 Class objectives

By the end of the class, the student will be able to:

Analyze why some startups grow very fast 📈

Connect payment systems and sales strategies to user behavior

Express a critical perspective on fintech and app-based payments

Reuse advanced vocabulary related to business, sales, and investment

1️⃣ Warm-up: Linking to the previous class 🔁 (5–8 min)

Start by activating prior knowledge.

Guiding questions:

Last class, we talked about payment systems and sales mechanisms. Why do companies care so much about how people pay?

Do payment apps make people spend more? Why or why not?

What kind of companies benefit the most from this system?

🧠 Aim:

Make him naturally say things like:

frictionless payments

user engagement

subscription models

consumer behavior

2️⃣ Introducing the topic: Startups & fast growth 🌱

Key concept (teacher-led explanation):

Startups often grow fast not only because of innovation, but because they understand how people behave, how they pay, and how to reduce friction.

Useful framing sentence (model):

Fast-growing startups usually combine technology, simple payment systems, and strong user engagement.

3️⃣ Case study focus: NuBank (Brazil) 💜

Use NuBank as a local + global example.

Background (short & factual):

Started as a digital bank

Focused on:

No physical branches

App-based payments 📱

Fewer fees

Simple user experience

Discussion questions:

Why did NuBank grow so fast compared to traditional banks?

How did its payment system change people’s relationship with money?

Do you think simplicity is more important than tradition today?

🧠 Push him to use:

accessibility

trust

scalability

financial inclusion

4️⃣ Expanding the lens: Other fast-growing startups 🌍

You don’t need deep data — focus on patterns.

Examples (you can choose 1–2):

Stripe → simplified online payments for businesses

Revolut → digital banking + international payments

PayPal → early trust in digital transactions

Connecting question:

What do these companies have in common with NuBank?

Expected language:

They reduce barriers…

They focus on user experience…

They changed how people pay and interact with money…

5️⃣ Critical thinking moment ⚖️

Now move from description → evaluation.

Debate-style questions:

Are these companies really helping consumers, or just encouraging more spending?

Do easy payments reduce people’s awareness of money?

Is fast growth always sustainable?

✨ Encourage expressions like:

On the one hand… on the other hand…

This can lead to…

A possible downside is…

6️⃣ Vocabulary focus: High-impact business language 💼

Useful expressions to reuse:

payment ecosystem

consumer engagement

scalable business model

frictionless experience

rapid expansion

long-term sustainability

market disruption

📌 Mini-task:

Choose 3 expressions and explain how they apply to NuBank or another startup.

7️⃣ Production task (main output) ✍️

Writing assignment (follow-up):

Prompt:

In your opinion, why are startups like NuBank growing so fast?

Discuss how payment systems and sales strategies influence consumer behavior, and whether this growth is positive in the long term.

Guidelines:

180–250 words

Use at least 5 expressions from class

Include one advantage and one risk

8️⃣ Assessment link (rubric-friendly) ✅

You can evaluate:

✔️ Reuse of target vocabulary

✔️ Clarity of arguments

✔️ Critical perspective (not just description)

✔️ Coherence & structure

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Temie Giwa-Tubosun: The funding gap in start-up investing

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“It is time to close the funding gap for Black female-led start-ups the world over,” says entrepreneur Temie Giwa-Tubosun, whose company LifeBank delivers life-saving medical supplies to remote areas in Africa. Today, LifeBank operates successfully across the continent, but Giwa-Tubosun knows that barriers to funding prevent many other brilliant business ideas from blossoming. She highlights examples of impactful women-led ventures around the world -- and challenges investors to help more of them thrive.

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🎓 Class: Payments, Fintech & the Global Payments Market

Level: Advanced

Focus: Interview preparation | Business & technology

Context: Fintech / Payments / Adyen

🔹 Why This Topic Matters

Payments are not just about money moving from A to B.

They are a strategic part of global businesses, affecting:

revenue

customer experience

scalability

risk and compliance

This class will help you explain complex ideas clearly, which is essential for interviews and senior-level discussions.

🔹 How Payments Work (Big Picture)

When you pay with a card, several actors are involved:

Customer – makes the payment

Merchant – receives the payment

Payment gateway – connects systems

Acquirer – processes the payment for the merchant

Issuer – the customer’s bank

Card network – Visa, Mastercard, etc.

💡 Key idea:

A single payment involves multiple parties working together in milliseconds.

🔹 Why Payments Are Complex

Payments systems must be:

fast

reliable

secure

compliant with regulations

scalable globally

Even small failures can lead to lost revenue and customer trust.

🔹 The Payments Market (Business Perspective)

Payment companies make money mainly through:

transaction fees

cross-border and FX services

value-added products (fraud prevention, analytics)

There are different approaches:

Modular platforms → flexibility

End-to-end platforms → control and reliability

Different businesses choose different models depending on their needs.

🔹 Focus Company: Adyen

What Adyen does:

Adyen is a global payments platform that offers end-to-end payment solutions for large international companies.

Key strengths:

single global platform

online, in-store, and mobile payments

strong fraud prevention

high reliability and scalability

💡 Why companies choose Adyen:

It simplifies global expansion and provides consistent payment performance worldwide.

🔹 Adyen vs Other Payment Providers

Adyen → enterprise focus, global scale, end-to-end

Stripe → developer-friendly, modular, fast integration

PayPal/Braintree → strong brand, consumer trust

There is no “best” provider — only best fit.

🔹 Key Trends in Payments

AI and machine learning in fraud detection

real-time payments

embedded finance

invisible payments (one-click, background payments)

📈 Future insight:

Payments will become less visible to consumers, but more strategic for businesses.

🔹 Interview Practice Questions

Prepare clear, structured answers to:

1. How does a payment work, in simple terms?

2. Why are payments strategically important for global companies?

3. What makes the payments industry complex?

4. Why might a company choose Adyen over competitors?

5. What trends will shape the future of payments?

🎯 Tip:

Always connect technology → business impact

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🧠 Interview Performance Rubric

Use this during mock interviews

Focus: Payments / Fintech / Adyen

🔹 1. Content Knowledge (0–12)

Understanding of payment flow

Knowledge of Adyen / market

Correct use of concepts

Score: ___ / 12

Notes:

🔹 2. Structure & Clarity (0–12)

Clear opening sentence

Logical progression

Ability to simplify

Score: ___ / 12

Notes:

🔹 3. Business Thinking (0–12)

Mentions business impact

Understands trade-offs

Strategic reasoning

Score: ___ / 12

Notes:

🔹 4. Language & Communication (0–12)

Fluency

Accuracy

Confidence / tone

Score: ___ / 12

Notes:

🔹 5. Interview Skills (0–12)

Handling pressure

Responding to follow-ups

Self-awareness

Score: ___ / 12

Notes:

🔹 Final Score

Total: ___ / 60

Readiness Level:

0–20 → Not ready

21–35 → Developing

36–48 → Interview ready

49–60 → Strong candidate

🔹 Action Plan

Strengths:

Priorities:

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Driverless taxis set to launch in UK as soon as September

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Waymo has laid out plans for a robotaxi service in London with a pilot scheme due to begin in April.

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🧠 Advanced Speaking & Critical Thinking Class

Topic: Driverless Cars, Public Risk & Modern Urban Policy

Level: Advanced
Main skill: Speaking (argumentation & critical thinking)
Secondary skills: Reading, listening, vocabulary
Time: 60–75 minutes

1️⃣ Warm-up: Framing the dilemma (8–10 min)

👉 Start big and abstract, not with the article yet.

Ask:

🚗 Would you feel safe in a driverless taxi? Why or why not?

⚡ What happens when technology fails? Who is responsible?

🏙️ Should cities depend on automated systems for transport?

Push deeper:

Is human error worse than system failure?

Which is more dangerous: one human mistake or one massive system collapse?

2️⃣ Key vocabulary for engagement (pre-debate) (10–12 min)

Teach functional, debate-ready vocabulary — not just definitions.

🔑 Core vocabulary (with speaking prompts)

Infrastructure

👉 How dependent are modern cities on infrastructure?

Power outage / blackout

👉 Should critical transport systems stop completely during a blackout?

System failure

👉 Is system failure inevitable in advanced technology?

Autonomous / driverless

👉 Should autonomous vehicles replace human drivers entirely?

Liability

👉 Who should have liability when a robotaxi causes disruption or harm?

Public safety

👉 Is public safety stronger or weaker with autonomous vehicles?

Risk assessment

👉 How should cities assess technological risks before adoption?

Urban congestion

👉 Did the robotaxis reduce or worsen urban congestion during the outage?

Fail-safe mechanisms

👉 Should fail-safe mechanisms override efficiency?

Regulation

👉 Is regulation keeping up with technological innovation?

🔥 Opinion & argument language (very important)

Give him ready-made structures to sound confident:

From my perspective…

One major concern is…

On the other hand…

This raises the question of…

The long-term implications are…

We need to distinguish between…

I partially agree, however…

👉 Encourage him to interrupt politely:

May I challenge that point?

I see your argument, but…

3️⃣ Article comprehension → critical lens (10 min)

Now introduce the article + video.

Guiding questions (not factual only):

⚡ Why did the Waymo cars stop completely instead of adapting?

🚦 Did the cars follow rules — or common sense?

🧠 Is caution always a good thing in autonomous systems?

Push critical thinking:

Did the technology fail — or did the environment fail the technology?

Would a human driver behave differently?

4️⃣ Core debate: Responsibility & consequences (20–25 min)

🎙️ Debate format (1-on-1)

Position A – Pro autonomous vehicles

They reduce human error

They follow rules strictly

They improve safety long-term

Position B – Critical of autonomous vehicles

Over-reliance on technology

Poor adaptability in crisis

Risk to public infrastructure

Let him choose a side first, then switch sides halfway (advanced skill!).

🔥 High-level debate questions

🧩 Is following rules always safer than adapting to chaos?

⚖️ Should Waymo be taxed or fined for public disruption?

🏛️ Should cities allow autonomous fleets without human override?

💰 Should companies pay “technology risk taxes”?

🌍 Is society being used as a testing ground for innovation?

Encourage:

Examples

Comparisons with aviation, trains, AI in medicine

5️⃣ Extension: Modern taxes & policy thinking (10–12 min)

Now connect to modern taxation & governance.

Discussion prompts:

💸 Should autonomous vehicle companies pay higher city taxes?

🏙️ Should cities charge for congestion caused by automation?

🤖 Should AI systems require an “emergency human takeover” fee or permit?

Advanced framing:

Is innovation slowed by regulation — or protected by it?

Who benefits most from autonomous vehicles: citizens or corporations?

6️⃣ Reflection & synthesis (5 min)

End with meta-thinking:

Ask him to complete:

🧠 My opinion changed because…

⚖️ The strongest argument on the other side is…

🔮 In 10 years, I think cities will…

Optional:

Do you trust systems more than people? Why?

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Waymo robotaxis stop in the streets during San Francisco power outage

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Waymo initially paused all service in the Bay Area after the widespread outage started, but has now resumed operations.

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🎯 CLASS THEME

“Sports Betting Is Everywhere. Is That Dangerous?”

Based on: Katty Kay interviews Michael Lewis on phone-based sports betting

🧠 Learning Objectives

Students will:

Analyze risks vs benefits of sports betting

Question normalization and regulation

Practice deep critical thinking

Use hedging, contrast, and persuasion

Defend opinions with ethical and social reasoning

🔥 WARM-UP (10 minutes)

Visual + provocation

Write on the board:

“Sports betting is just entertainment.”

Ask students to position themselves:

✅ Agree

❌ Disagree

⚖️ Not sure / It depends

Guiding questions:

Why do you think sports betting has grown so fast?

Is betting part of sports culture — or something new?

Is it different from casinos or lotteries? Why?

👉 Don’t correct. Let them expose assumptions.

🎥 VIDEO TASK (Katty Kay & Michael Lewis)

Before watching – Prediction

Ask:

What risks do you think Michael Lewis will mention?

Who do you think is most affected by phone-based betting?

While watching – Focus questions

Students answer while watching:

1. Why does Michael Lewis believe people aren’t paying enough attention?

2. What makes phone-based betting more dangerous than traditional betting?

3. Who benefits the most from this system?

4. Who carries the biggest risk?

After watching – Initial reaction

Ask:

Did anything surprise you?

Did the video change your opinion? Why or why not?

🧩 KEY IDEAS TO EXPLORE (Teacher-guided)

Put these concepts on the board and unpack them together:

Accessibility (24/7 betting, one click away)

Addiction & impulsive behavior

Young audiences

Normalization through sports sponsorship

Power imbalance (platforms vs users)

Athletes & integrity of sports

⚖️ MAIN DEBATE (30–40 minutes)

Debate Motion:

“Sports betting does more harm than good to society.”

🧠 Divide students into 3 groups:

Group A —

PRO Sports Betting

They argue:

Personal freedom and choice

Economic benefits (taxes, jobs, sponsorships)

Fans feel more engaged

Athletes and clubs benefit financially

Group B —

ANTI Sports Betting

They argue:

Addiction and mental health risks

Targeting vulnerable people

Corruption and match-fixing

Sports lose their cultural value

Group C —

MODERATORS / CRITICAL OBSERVERS

They:

Identify weak arguments

Ask uncomfortable questions

Look for contradictions

Decide which side is more convincing

🗣️ LANGUAGE SUPPORT (VERY IMPORTANT)

Hedging & Nuance

Give them this toolkit:

It could be argued that…

One potential risk is…

While I understand this point, I still believe…

From an ethical perspective…

In the long term…

This raises the question of…

💣 DEEP CRITICAL QUESTIONS (Use to push them)

Use these when discussion slows down:

Should sports betting be treated like cigarettes or alcohol?

Is it ethical to advertise betting during live sports?

Are athletes responsible for promoting betting platforms?

Should governments profit from something that causes addiction?

Is betting changing how we watch sports?

Is “fun” a strong enough justification for social harm?

🔄 ROLE REVERSAL (Advanced & powerful)

Halfway through, tell students:

👉 Switch sides. Defend the opposite position.

This forces:

Empathy

Intellectual flexibility

Deeper reasoning

🧠 FINAL REFLECTION (10 minutes)

Written or spoken:

Has sports betting crossed a line? If yes, where should the limit be?

OR

Should sports exist mainly for enjoyment, or is monetization inevitable?

Encourage:

No “right answer”

Balanced conclusions

Personal but reasoned opinions

🧠 OPTIONAL EXTENSION (Homework / Next class)

Research how sports betting is regulated in different countries

Compare sports betting to social media algorithms

Watch another short clip and write a response or rebuttal

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Sports betting is now everywhere. Is that dangerous?

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Katty Kay speaks with author Michael Lewis about the rise of phone-based sports betting.

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1. Lead-in

Warm-up questions

When people want to lose weight, what options do they usually consider?

--> There are currently many ways to lose weight. Lose weight is about simple math: burn calories more than you consume. Nowadays, besides conventional dieting and exercising, people consider using weight-loss drugs. Furthermore, some people are open to undergoing surgery.

Why do you think weight-loss drugs have become so popular in recent years?

--> After the pandemic, people started to see more importance on health and aesthetics. With this in mind, people found the solution to make things easy and get the goal faster.

Do you see obesity more as a personal responsibility or a public health issue? Why?

--> Both. It is impossible to say nowadays, based on the data, that obesity is not a public issue. Perhaps fighting obesity and being careful are always about self-care.

👉

2. Guided Reading & Clarification (5–7 minutes)

People typically start to lose weight within a few weeks of using weight-loss injections.

A major trial suggested that Mounjaro was more effective than Wegovy, with a 20% weight reduction after 72 weeks, compared to 14% for Wegovy.

However, research published in the British Medical Journal indicates that when people stop taking these drugs, most regain the weight quickly, as normal food cravings return.

The study found that people regained weight four times faster than those who stopped traditional diet and exercise programmes.

As a result, the NHS has been urged to offer ongoing support, check-ups, and lifestyle guidance to prevent rebound weight gain.

Quick check

What is the main benefit of these drugs?

--> The injections work as appetite suppressants, helping people not only manage diabetes but also lose weight quickly.

What is the main problem after people stop using them?

--> According to the research published in the British Medical Journal, after the treatment people regained weight very faster.

3. Critical Thinking Discussion (Core Part – 15–20 minutes)

A. Evaluating Evidence

Ask the student to respond using reasoned arguments:

1. The trial was funded by the drug manufacturer.

How might this affect the results or how they are presented?

--> Obviously, the drug manufacturer has an economic interest in the results of this trial. To promote the drug, it is important to convince people through data, which may include biased presentation or manipulation of study results.

Should this automatically make us distrust the study?

--> No, is important to pay attention to the study, but never trust without critical thinking.

2. The BMJ research shows rapid weight regain.

Does this mean the drugs don’t work?

--> No. This mean the drug is not the only solution to garantee the result and a healthy life.

Or does it suggest they work only under certain conditions?

--> Yes. Change lifestyle, start to do some exercise and develop food education is indispensable to perform maintenance.

B. Ethical & Social Questions

Push deeper thinking:

Should public healthcare systems like the NHS pay for weight-loss injections?

--> Yes. As I already argued, obesity is a public health issue. Even with consequences, weight-loss injections are very effective at promoting faster weight reduction and can be powerfull tool to improve qualify of life for people with obesity.

Is it fair to restrict these drugs only to people with obesity-related health risks?

--> Yes. These drugs are not a solution to become more aesthetic. According to the article, there is evidence relating weight-loss injections with pancreatic issues. In this case, Govern just have to offer this drugs only to people with obesity-related health risks.

Could these drugs increase social pressure to be thin?

--> Yes. More than ever, people are under pressure to be thin. Now, with Mounjaro and Wegovy, we are watching a scenario where people will jugde who are fat: or you are unruly, or you don't have money enough.

👉 Encourage contrast structures:

“On the one hand…, on the other hand…”

“While it’s true that…, it’s also important to consider…”

C. Long-Term Impact

Do these drugs treat the cause of obesity or just the symptoms?

--> On the one hand this drugs can make people lose weight fast, on the other hand people do not learn how to eat healthy, rebound faster.

What happens if people rely on medication instead of changing habits?

While it’s true that people will have a resource to appeal, it's also important to consider that people don't know the consequence os abusing of this drugs in a long term.

Could long-term use create dependency—psychological or physical?

--> In a psychological way, i truly believe that some people are already dependent. However, i don't believe in a physical dependence because body will suffer with this abuse.

4. Vocabulary Expansion (Active Use)

Key Vocabulary (with nuance)

Ask the student to use each word in a sentence related to the topic:

rebound (weight gain) – weight that returns after being lost

cravings – strong, often emotional desire for food

lifestyle intervention – long-term changes in habits and behavior

short-term solution / long-term sustainability

medicalisation (of weight loss) – turning a social issue into a medical one

cost-effective – worth the money spent

health risk vs. aesthetic goal

Challenge

Which of these words has a negative connotation? Which sounds more neutral or scientific?

1° cravings

2° medicalisation

5. Discussion Task (Higher-Level Speaking)

Scenario

You are advising a public health committee.

Choose one position and defend it:

A) Weight-loss injections should be widely available with medical supervision

B) They should only be a last resort after lifestyle changes fail

The student must:

Give two arguments

Acknowledge one counterargument

Conclude with a balanced opinion

6. Reflection Question (Wrap-up)

End with a reflective question:

If people regain weight quickly after stopping the drugs, what does that tell us about how humans relate to food, habits, and control?

Optional Extension (Homework or next class)

Watch or read a short news piece on obesity drugs and summarise the tone: optimistic, cautious, or critical.

Prepare 3 discussion questions for the next class

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Weight-loss injections: How do drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro work?

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Wegovy and Mounjaro are available to certain patients on the NHS, and can also be bought privately.

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CRITICAL THINKING

Topic: Should powerful nations be able to take control of strategic territories?

“One way or another, we’re going to have Greenland.”

These words, spoken by former US President Donald Trump, reignited an international debate about power, sovereignty, and global security.

Greenland, the world’s largest island, lies between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans and is officially part of the Kingdom of Denmark. Although it has its own parliament and controls many domestic affairs, Denmark remains responsible for Greenland’s foreign policy, defence, and national security. For decades, many Greenlanders have expressed interest in eventual independence, arguing that political self-determination is a fundamental right.

However, Greenland’s strategic importance has increased significantly in recent years. As Arctic ice melts due to climate change, new shipping routes and access to natural resources have become possible. This has transformed the Arctic into a geopolitical hotspot, sometimes described as a new “Great Game,” where global powers compete for influence, control, and security.

The United States already operates a military base in Greenland and has long viewed the island as vital to its defence strategy. Trump justified his comments by expressing concerns that rival powers such as Russia or China could expand their influence in the region. Denmark, however, has firmly rejected these claims, dismissing them as exaggerated and politically motivated.

Trump’s remarks triggered strong backlash across Europe. Several European leaders accused the US of undermining international law and disrespecting national sovereignty. In response, Trump threatened to impose economic retaliation in the form of tariffs on European imports — a move that many analysts described as a diplomatic escalation rather than a constructive solution.

At the heart of this controversy lies a complex question: should strategic interests ever override the right of a territory to decide its own future? While some argue that global security requires decisive action by powerful nations, others warn that such thinking echoes colonial attitudes and could destabilize international relations.

HIGH-VALUE VOCABULARY & EXPRESSIONS

I think...

Geopolitics & Power

strategic territory – an area important for military or political reasons

sphere of influence – a region dominated by a powerful country

geopolitical leverage – advantage gained through geography or power

military footprint – the presence of armed forces in a region

Politics & Ethics

sovereignty – a nation’s right to govern itself

self-determination – the right of people to choose their political status

colonial mindset – attitudes that justify control over other territories

international law – rules governing relations between states

Conflict & Diplomacy

economic retaliation – responding to criticism with economic punishment

diplomatic fallout – negative consequences for international relations

political posturing – statements made mainly to appear strong

escalate tensions – make a conflict more serious

Opinion & Argumentation Language

It could be argued that…

Critics point out that…

Supporters claim that…

This raises ethical concerns about…

A counterargument worth considering is…

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS (CRITICAL THINKING)

1. Should strategic and military concerns justify control over another territory?

2. To what extent should Greenland’s desire for independence influence international decisions?

3. Is Trump’s argument about security realistic or exaggerated?

4. Does threatening tariffs strengthen or weaken diplomatic relationships?

5. Are modern geopolitical conflicts a continuation of colonial thinking?

WRITING TASK – ARGUMENTATIVE PIECE

Task:

Write 180–220 words answering the following question:

Should powerful nations be allowed to take control of strategically important territories in the name of global security?

Requirements:

Present one clear position

Include at least one counterargument

Use hedging language (e.g. may, might, arguably, appears to)

Use at least 5 words or expressions from the vocabulary list

Conclude with a balanced or critical reflection

--> In my opinion, nations never could take control of any independent territory. Perheapes sometime some country may need to use something from other country, including space, diplomatic rules and international law was invented to make coutrys discuss. In the case of the text, we are infront of a diplomatic fallout, because of political posturing of a Govern that are putting it interesting against everything. In consequence of the persistence of this behavior we ar watching a scenario of escalate tensions.

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(Photo by Getty Images)

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

The story

One way or another, we're going to have Greenland' - those are the words of Donald Trump who has said that the US will take control of Greenland.

Greenland is a large island in between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans, which is ruled by Denmark. Many people in Greenland feel that the territory should become independent. At the moment it has its own government, but Denmark controls its foreign, defence and security policy.

The territory's strategic position in the Arctic has led to previous attempts by the US to purchase it. The US military currently has a base on the island, and President Trump has stated concerns that the territory could be taken over by Russia or China. These fears have been dismissed by Denmark.

These latest comments by President Trump have led to criticism from many European countries who have said that will support Denmark's attempt to keep the territory as part of the Kingdom of Denmark. President Trump has responded to these criticisms by threatening to impose taxes on imports, otherwise known as tariffs, on a number of European countries who are allies of the US.

News headlines

Greenland is ground zero for Arctic 'Great Game'
Financial Times

Why Trump's split with Europe over Greenland is a double-edged sword for Russia
CNN

Greenland PM issues defiant rebuke over Trump's tariff threats: 'We will not be pressured'
CNBC
Key words and phrases
ground zero
the location where something important starts happening

This street is ground zero for the city's latest crime wave. It all started here.

double-edged sword
something that has both positive and negative consequences

Having a pool is a double-edged sword. It's great fun to swim in, but you have to clean it every day.

rebuke
a strong criticism

The manager rebuked her staff after their behaviour at the party.

Next

Do you ever find speaking scary? Try our new Beating Speaking Anxiety course

Try The Listening Room to practise your listening skills with BBC news reports.

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BBC Learning English - Learning English from the News / Greenland: Trump clashes with allies

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President Trump has clashed with allies after they opposed US control of Greenland

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Opening line:

“Critical thinking isn’t about being right — it’s about being aware. And that’s something you clearly already have.”

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1️⃣ Warm-up: Framing the World (10 minutes)

Ask the student to respond freely:

How would you describe the current global climate — politically, socially, and economically?

Do you think the world is becoming more stable or more fragmented? Why?

Which global issue do you think will most strongly define the next decade?

👉 Encourage justification, not just opinions.

2️⃣ Key Language for Advanced Perspectives (Pre-teach)

🔹 Hedging & Nuance

It could be argued that…

There is a growing concern that…

While some believe…, others contend that…

This may lead to unintended consequences.

The long-term implications remain uncertain.

🔹 Power & Influence Vocabulary

geopolitical influence

economic leverage

regime change

global governance

strategic intervention

sovereignty

multipolar world

3️⃣ Reading Text (Critical Input)

📖 Reading:

A World in Transition

As 2026 unfolds, the world finds itself navigating a period of profound transformation. Political power is increasingly contested, climate-related events are reshaping economies, and technological advances are redefining how societies function.

In the political sphere, tensions surrounding authoritarian governments and international intervention continue to spark debate. The possibility of foreign powers exerting direct influence over national leadership raises ethical questions about sovereignty, democracy, and global responsibility. While some argue that intervention can restore stability or protect human rights, others warn that such actions often escalate conflict and undermine international law.

At the same time, climate change has moved from a distant threat to an immediate reality. Extreme weather events, food insecurity, and climate migration are no longer projections but lived experiences for millions. Governments face increasing pressure to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility, often with conflicting priorities.

Technology adds yet another layer of complexity. Artificial intelligence, digital surveillance, and automation promise efficiency and innovation, but they also raise concerns about privacy, employment, and social inequality. The challenge for the global community lies in managing these forces ethically while ensuring that technological progress benefits society as a whole.

4️⃣ Reading Comprehension & Analysis (10 minutes)

Ask open-ended questions:

1. What are the main global forces described in the text?

2. What ethical dilemmas are mentioned regarding political intervention?

3. How is climate change presented — as a future risk or a present crisis?

4. What tension exists between technological progress and social impact?

5️⃣ Core Discussion Topics (Main Class)

🟥 Topic 1: U.S. Intervention & Venezuela

Prompt:

If the U.S. were to take direct action against Venezuela’s president, would this be justified?

Guiding Questions:

Where is the line between intervention and interference?

Can foreign involvement ever truly promote democracy?

What precedent does this set for global politics?

How might this affect Latin America’s political autonomy?

👉 Encourage balanced viewpoints, even opposing ones.

🟩 Topic 2: Climate Change as a Global Disruptor

Prompt:

Is climate change more of a political failure or an economic challenge?

Guiding Questions:

Should developing nations be held to the same environmental standards as developed ones?

Will climate migration redefine borders and citizenship?

Can global cooperation realistically solve a problem driven by national interests?

🟦 Topic 3: Technology, Power & Control

Prompt:

Is technology empowering individuals or concentrating power?

Guiding Questions:

Does AI reduce inequality or reinforce it?

How much surveillance is acceptable in the name of security?

Will automation create new jobs or permanent unemployment?

6️⃣ Perspective Challenge (Advanced Speaking Task)

🎯 Role-switching exercise

Ask the student to argue different perspectives:

A U.S. policy advisor

A Venezuelan citizen

A climate activist

A tech CEO

A worker affected by automation

👉 This pushes lexical range, empathy, and complexity of thought.

7️⃣ Language Focus: Argumentation Tools (5–10 minutes)

Highlight during correction:

Use of conditionals:
If governments fail to act…, the consequences could be irreversible.

Use of modals for speculation:
This might lead to increased instability.

Use of contrast markers:
Nevertheless, on the other hand, despite this…

8️⃣ Final Reflection (Wrap-up)

Ask:

Which issue do you believe will have the greatest long-term impact?

Do you feel optimistic or pessimistic about the world in 2026? Why?

9️⃣ Optional Homework (Advanced Writing)

✍️ Opinion Essay (250–300 words):

“Which global force will most shape the world by 2030: political power shifts, climate change, or technology?”

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ADVANCED CLASS: The Cost of Australia’s Social Media Ban

1. Warm-up — High-Level Discussion Questions

Open with questions that require critical thinking, not simple opinions:

To what extent should governments intervene in the digital lives of citizens?

Is protecting young people a valid justification for limiting access to online platforms, or is it a slippery slope toward broader censorship?

Can a democracy impose digital restrictions without compromising its core values?

How much responsibility should tech companies bear for the content on their platforms?

Do you think restricting social media could unintentionally increase young people’s desire to use it?

These questions should stimulate a high-level debate and prepare the student for the topic.

2.

Self-Vocabulary Reading for Elicitation

When governments try to control online platforms, they usually introduce new legislation. This legislation can limit what people can post or access.

Sometimes these limits are seen as censorship, because they restrict information or silence certain voices.

When people strongly disagree with these decisions, there is often a loud public outcry, with citizens protesting or criticizing the government.

One argument against social media bans is our high level of digital dependency — many people rely on online tools for work, communication, and even basic daily tasks.

If a ban suddenly affects businesses, it can create serious economic fallout, especially for small companies that depend on social media to attract customers.

Many teenagers might try to avoid the ban through circumvention, using tools like VPNs to access restricted platforms.

Because of this, governments must think carefully about enforcement, meaning how they will actually make people follow the rules.

Critics worry that bans may threaten civil liberties, such as freedom of expression and the right to privacy.

Supporters of the ban say it is necessary to stop the spread of disinformation, which is false information created to mislead people.

Others argue that the policy focuses on youth protection, trying to keep young people safe from harmful content online.

However, controversial decisions often lead to policy backlash, where the public or political groups push strongly against the new rules.

And throughout this debate, it’s important to remember that many stakeholders are involved — parents, children, teachers, businesses, and technology companies — all affected in different ways.

3. Reading Text (≈350–380 words)

“The Cost of Australia’s Social Media Ban”

Australia is currently debating whether to introduce a nationwide ban on social media for users under sixteen. The proposal has sparked a fierce national conversation, with strong voices on both sides. Supporters argue that strict intervention is necessary to curb cyberbullying, exposure to harmful content, and the viral spread of disinformation. According to them, this legislation is a long-overdue attempt to protect the mental health of young people.

Critics see things differently. They argue that the measure represents a dangerous form of censorship and an unnecessary intrusion into the private lives of citizens. Many fear that once the government begins limiting online access, future restrictions will become easier to justify — especially during moments of political tension. In a country that values civil liberties, such concerns cannot be dismissed lightly.

Economists and business owners also warn of serious economic consequences. In Australia, as in most parts of the world, young people play a significant role in driving online trends, promoting local businesses, and generating digital content. Small businesses, including family-run cafés, hotels, and tourism operators, rely heavily on online visibility. A sudden reduction in younger audiences could result in a drop in engagement, weaker marketing campaigns, and reduced revenue. For young entrepreneurs, the fallout could be even more damaging.

There is also the issue of enforceability. Digital experts point out that teenagers are often more technologically savvy than adults, which means many could easily bypass restrictions using VPNs or fake age-verification methods. This raises a key question: if the ban cannot be effectively enforced, is it worth introducing?

Despite the controversy, the debate has forced Australians to confront a deeper dilemma: how can a nation balance safety with freedom in a digital world? Some argue that instead of banning platforms, the government should invest in digital education, parental support, and stronger accountability for tech companies.

Whether the ban moves forward or not, Australia’s debate may serve as a blueprint for future discussions around the world.

4. Comprehension Questions

What arguments do supporters offer for the ban?

How do critics connect the proposal to censorship?

What economic risks are mentioned in the text?

Why do experts question the feasibility of the ban?

What alternative solutions are suggested?

5. Grammar Focus — Speculation and Hedging

Advanced speakers often soften their claims. Practice using expressions such as:

It could be argued that…

There is a possibility that…

The ban may result in…

It remains to be seen whether…

Some observers suspect that…

Ask your student to create speculative statements about:

public reaction

long-term consequences for youth

how other countries might respond

the financial impact on small businesses

possible political motivations behind the ban

6. Advanced Debate Task

Debate statement:
“Australia is justified in imposing a social media ban for minors.”

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Meta starts blocking teens in Australia under social media ban

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Australia’s world-first ban requires 10 major online platforms to block users aged 16.

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🌍 Lesson Plan: COP30 — Does Global Climate Action Still Work?

Objectives

Analyze the effectiveness of international climate summits.

Develop critical thinking and persuasive writing skills.

Expand vocabulary related to diplomacy and environmental policy.

1. Warm-Up Discussion (10–15 minutes)

Start with an open question:

Do you think international meetings like COP30 can truly change the world, or are they mostly symbolic events?

Encourage the student to reflect on why countries attend these meetings.

Ask follow-up questions:

What motivates leaders to participate in such events?

How much influence do ordinary citizens have compared to politicians?

Should developing countries follow the same environmental standards as richer ones?

Useful expressions:

“I find it hard to believe that…” / “It might sound idealistic, but…” / “In theory yes, but in practice…” / “Let’s face it…”

2. Main Reading (15–20 minutes)

COP30 begins in Belém, Brazil

Two weeks of international climate talks began this week in Belém, Brazil. COP, the Conference of the Parties, is an annual gathering of politicians and negotiators from around the world to discuss climate change and make agreements to help deal with the problem.

This year, several world leaders—including Donald Trump—decided not to attend. Some experts believe that without strong political leadership, these talks may lack impact. Others argue that even if global agreements are imperfect, they still keep the conversation going and pressure governments to act.

In his opening speech, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva warned about the dangers of fake news and climate deniers, people who argue that human-caused climate change is not real.

Key vocabulary:

major player – an important person or organization in a situation

muted – not enthusiastic or excited

point – purpose or meaning

climate denier – someone who denies that climate change is caused by humans

Comprehension questions:

1. What is the main goal of COP meetings?

2. Why might some people think COP30 will not achieve much?

3. What warning did Lula give?

4. What does “muted” suggest about the public or media reaction?

3. Extension Reading (20–25 minutes)

The Critics’ View

Over the years, COP conferences have been criticized for producing more speeches than solutions. Environmental activists accuse leaders of making empty promises and taking symbolic photos while avoiding difficult decisions about fossil fuels and deforestation.

Critics also point out that many countries sign ambitious climate pledges but fail to meet them. At previous COPs, some of the biggest polluters promised to cut emissions drastically, yet global emissions have continued to rise.

Others question the carbon footprint of the event itself—thousands of participants fly in from across the world, generating significant emissions just to talk about reducing them.

Despite this, some experts defend COP conferences, saying that progress is slow but real. Agreements like the Paris Accord wouldn’t exist without these global gatherings. “The alternative is no dialogue at all,” said one UN advisor. “And without dialogue, there’s no chance of cooperation.”

Still, as the planet continues to warm, more people are asking a difficult question: How many more conferences will it take before leaders actually act?

Questions for reflection:

1. What are the main criticisms mentioned in the text?

2. What evidence do critics use to support their arguments?

3. How do supporters of COP respond to these criticisms?

4. In your opinion, are climate summits more about image or impact?

5. What do you think “the alternative is no dialogue at all” means? Do you agree? Why or why not?

Optional question:

If you were a journalist covering COP30, what headline would you write to summarize the event?

Encourage the use of expressions such as:

“Let’s be realistic…” / “That’s an oversimplification…” / “The cost of inaction is higher than the cost of discussion.”

5. Writing Task (20–25 minutes)

Ask the student to write a short opinion article (around 200 words) titled: HOMEWORK

COP30: A Necessary Conversation or a Global Illusion?

Guidelines:

Begin with a clear introduction stating your opinion.

Include one argument for and one against climate summits.

Use at least three of the following expressions: major player, muted, point, fake news, climate denier, empty promises.

End with a reflection or a suggestion for real change.

Model frame (optional):

Every year, world leaders meet to discuss the planet’s future, but many people question whether these conferences make any real difference. While COP30 brings attention to global warming, critics argue that…

In my view, the point of these meetings is…

However, without strong leadership, they risk becoming…

Ultimately, I believe that…

6. Reflection and Wrap-Up (10 minutes)

Conclude with reflection questions:

What new ideas or perspectives did you hear during the class?

Did your opinion change after reading or discussing the articles?

What small actions do you think are more effective than waiting for governments?

Optional Homework

Watch a TED Talk such as “The reality of climate change: It’s time to act” by Greta Thunberg or Christiana Figueres.

Then write a short reflection (100 words): What would make a climate conference truly effective?

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(Photo by Dado Galdeiri/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

The story

Two weeks of international climate talks began this week in Belém in Brazil. COP is an annual gathering of politicians and negotiators from around the world to discuss climate change and make agreements to help deal with the problem.

Some important people have decided not to attend, such as US President Donald Trump. Some experts think that because some powerful leaders aren't attending the talks, they won't make any progress, although others believe the negotiations are still very important for fighting climate change.

In a speech on the first day of the talks, Brazilian president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva warned about the dangers of fake news and climate deniers, people who incorrectly argue that human-caused climate change is not real.

News headlines

Who are the major players at Cop30 and what do they want?
The Guardian

COP30: Trump and many leaders are skipping it, so does the summit still have a point?
BBC News

Muted global business turnout at COP30 reflects subdued mood
The Financial Times
Key words and phrases
major player
important person or organisation within a particular situation

They mayor hopes to become a major player in negotiations about a new railway.

point
purpose or meaning

I don't see the point in ironing my clothes - they'll only get creased again.

muted
not very enthusiastic or excited

The CEO's new ideas received a muted response from staff at the company meeting.

Next

Find all our news programmes.

Learn more about the environment in English with this topic page.

Practise your reading skills with The Reading Room.

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BBC Learning English - Learning English from the News / COP30: Are climate talks effective at fighting climate change?

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International leaders gather for COP30 climate talks, but some important people are not attending.

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🌍 Lesson Plan:

Ethics and Modern Society – How Supply Chain Transparency Can Help the Planet

Level: Upper-Intermediate (B2)

Length: 70–90 minutes

Skills: Listening, speaking, reading, vocabulary, critical thinking

Source: TED Talk – Markus Mutz: How Supply Chain Transparency Can Help the Planet

🎥 Link to video

1. Warm-Up (10–15 minutes)

Begin by asking students a few reflective questions:

• What does the word “ethical” mean to you when it comes to business?

consumption is a reality.

• Should companies be held responsible for what happens in their factories overseas?

Encourage students to share examples of products or brands they associate with ethical or unethical behaviour.

Optional visual prompt: show tags that read Made in China or Made in Bangladesh and ask what ideas or emotions they associate with them.

2. Key Vocabulary (10 minutes)

Introduce key expressions orally and with short examples.

Supply chain means the entire system involved in producing and delivering a product, from raw materials to the customer.

Transparency refers to openness and honesty, especially when companies share information about how their products are made.

Trace means to follow or track the path of something from its origin to its destination.

Verify means to check or confirm that something is true or accurate.

Sustainability is the practice of using resources responsibly so that future generations are not harmed.

Accountability means taking responsibility for one’s actions and accepting the consequences.

Exploitation is the unfair use of people or resources for profit.

Ethical consumption is the act of buying products that are made in a fair, responsible and environmentally friendly way.

Carbon footprint refers to the total amount of carbon dioxide emissions produced by a person, company, or activity.

Greenwashing means pretending to be environmentally friendly in order to improve public image without real action.

Ask students to make one sentence of their own with two of these words.

3. Listening: The TED Talk (20–25 minutes)

Before watching, ask:

“What do you think the phrase supply chain transparency means?”

“Why might it help protect the planet?”

While watching, tell students to focus on these questions:

1. What main problem does Markus Mutz describe about modern supply chains?

2. What kind of technology does he propose to make them more transparent?

3. What are the benefits of transparency for companies and for the planet?

4. Which examples does he give to illustrate ethical or transparent practices?

After viewing, students compare their notes in pairs and then discuss as a class.

4. Reading Extension (10 minutes)

Read the following short passage aloud or give it in print:

Transparency in supply chains allows consumers to make informed decisions. By knowing how products are made, we can choose companies that respect people and the planet. However, achieving full transparency is difficult because many companies hide unethical practices or lack reliable data. New technologies such as blockchain can help trace products from the factory to the store. The future of ethical business depends on our collective demand for truth and accountability.

Discuss briefly:

• What is the main idea of the text?

• Why is transparency still difficult to achieve?

• How might technology solve some of these problems?

5. Speaking and Debate (25 minutes)

Mini-debate activity:

Divide students into small groups. Each group chooses one statement and discusses whether they agree or disagree.

Ethical products are only for rich people.

Transparency should be mandatory for all companies.

Consumers have the real power to change the world.

Companies care more about profit than ethics.

Encourage use of the new vocabulary while explaining opinions.

Role-play extension:

Students imagine they work for a company accused of using an unethical factory.

Roles include: the CEO (concerned about profit), the Ethics Manager (focused on transparency), the PR Officer (worried about reputation), and a Journalist (asking hard questions).

Groups must decide what the company should do next.

6. Wrap-Up and Reflection (10 minutes)

Finish with open discussion:

• What surprised you in Markus Mutz’s talk?

• Do you think consumers can really make companies more ethical?

• What steps could you personally take to become a more ethical consumer?

7. Homework / Writing Task

Ask students to write a short opinion paragraph (150–200 words) answering the question:

“Is transparency the key to a more ethical world?”

They should include at least five of the new words from the lesson and give personal or real-world examples

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Markus Mutz: How supply chain transparency can help the planet

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Given the option, few would choose to buy products that harm the earth -- yet it's nearly impossible to know how most consumer goods are made or where they're sourced from. That's about to change, says supply chain innovator Markus Mutz.

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BBC Learning English - Learning English from the News / Hostages released in Gaza ceasefire agreement

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Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees were exchanged on Monday as a ceasefire deal is agreed to end the war in Gaza

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After the War: Gaza at a Crossroads

After years of intense conflict, the war in Gaza has finally come to an end. The ceasefire, brokered through a combination of international pressure and internal exhaustion, has brought a fragile sense of calm to a region marked by deep wounds. While the sound of airstrikes has ceased and borders are slowly reopening, the real challenge is only beginning: rebuilding lives, institutions, and trust.

One of the immediate consequences is a massive humanitarian crisis. Hospitals and schools lie in ruins, access to clean water and electricity remains limited, and thousands of families are displaced. International organizations have promised billions in aid, but experience shows that reconstruction in war-torn areas is often slow and complicated. Corruption, political divisions, and logistical barriers can delay the delivery of essential resources, leaving civilians in prolonged uncertainty.

Another key consequence is the shifting balance of power. The end of the war has forced various political actors—both local and international—to rethink their strategies. Regional powers are competing to influence the post-war order, while local leaders must address internal divisions that have deepened during the conflict. Whether Gaza will move toward unity and stability, or fall into new cycles of political struggle, remains uncertain.

The psychological and social consequences are equally profound. An entire generation has grown up amid violence and displacement. For many, trauma, mistrust, and grief shape daily life. Reconciliation and social healing will be essential, but they cannot happen overnight. Without real opportunities, young people may lose hope in peaceful solutions, creating a dangerous environment for future instability.

Finally, the global community faces a test of political will. Will promises of aid and diplomatic support be followed by concrete, sustained action? Or will international attention gradually fade, leaving the region to navigate its future largely alone? The answer to this question may determine whether Gaza’s post-war period becomes a story of recovery—or a prelude to further conflict.

🧠 Vocabulary Focus

Ceasefire – an agreement to stop fighting temporarily or permanently.

Humanitarian crisis – a situation in which basic human needs are not being met due to conflict or disaster.

Displaced – forced to leave one’s home due to war, disaster, or persecution.

Reconstruction – the process of rebuilding structures, institutions, or societies after destruction.

Political divisions – deep disagreements or conflicts between political groups.

Trauma – emotional shock and long-lasting distress caused by a disturbing experience.

Reconciliation – the act of restoring friendly relations between groups in conflict.

Post-war order – the political and social structure established after a war.

Political will – the determination of political actors to act decisively on an issue.

Precarious – not secure; likely to fall apart or collapse.

✍️ Writing Task – Opinion Essay

Topic:

“Ending a war is not the same as achieving peace.”

Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Use examples from the reading passage and your own reasoning.

Instructions:

Write 150–200 words.

Use linking words (for example: firstly, however, on the other hand, therefore, as a result).

Include at least 5 vocabulary words from the list above.

Structure your text with an introduction, body, and conclusion.

--> When a war ends, we always will see a country being defeated. While these countries lost, it means this country needs help, needs strength and support. The ceasefire doesn´t mean after all achieves peace. In case of Palestine, we have a complete chaos scenario, with humanitarian crisis, displaced people, and a psicological and physical trauma that affect all the rest of popullation. Beyond that, the post-war order are the main thing to control how can the country achieve a peacefull scenario.

Everything in a post-war is precarious and a country to be rebuild needs support from other countries and a present political will, working together to create oportunities to young people and putting away the idea of revenge.

💬 Speaking Extension – Debate Activity

Debate motion:

“The international community should take the lead in rebuilding Gaza after the war.”

Team A (Pro): Argue that international intervention is necessary to ensure effective reconstruction, transparency, and peace.

Team B (Against): Argue that local leaders and communities should lead the process to maintain sovereignty and build sustainable solutions.

Debate tips:

Use arguments and examples from the reading.

Speak clearly and formally (“I strongly believe…”, “One key argument is that…”).

Respond to the opposing team’s points respectfully.

📝 Optional Extension (Homework)

Research a real example of post-war reconstruction (such as Bosnia, Rwanda, post-WWII Europe, or Ukraine) and compare it to Gaza’s situation.

Prepare a short 3–5 minute presentation

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☀️

Solar Energy

Solar energy is generated by turning sunlight into electricity. Solar panels contain special materials that absorb sunlight and release electrons. This process creates direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter then converts it into alternating current (AC), which is the type of electricity we use at home.

The energy can power the building directly, be stored in batteries, or be sent to the electrical grid, so that other homes and businesses can use it. Even on cloudy days, solar panels can keep producing energy.

💨

Wind Energy

Wind energy is produced by wind turbines, which use the movement of air to generate electricity. When the wind blows, it turns the rotor, the large set of blades at the top of the turbine. The rotor is connected to a shaft, and when the rotor spins, it turns the shaft as well.

The shaft powers a generator, which transforms this mechanical movement into electricity. The electricity is then transmitted to the grid, where it’s distributed for general use.

🌍

Why It Matters

Both solar and wind energy are clean, renewable sources. They don’t rely on burning fossil fuels, and they help reduce greenhouse gas emissions while providing sustainable electricity.

✏️ Vocabulary Practice — Wind and Solar Energy

A. Fill in the blanks with the correct word:

(grid – shaft – rotor)

1. The blades of a wind turbine are attached to the __________, which spins when the wind blows.

2. The __________ connects the rotor to the generator and transfers mechanical energy.

3. Electricity produced by solar panels and wind turbines can be sent to the electrical __________ for distribution.

⸻

B. Match the words to their meanings:

1. Grid

2. Rotor

3. Shaft

a. A central system that distributes electricity to homes and businesses.

b. The rotating part of a wind turbine that captures wind energy.

c. The long mechanical rod that connects the rotor to the generator.

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🌍

Advanced English Lesson — Renewable Energy Surpasses Coal

Level: Advanced

Topic: Renewable energy and global energy trends

Skills: Reading, vocabulary, speaking, writing

Time: 60–90 minutes

1. 🗣 Warm-Up Discussion (10 minutes)

Begin by asking your student the following questions to activate background knowledge and encourage critical thinking:

What are the main sources of energy in your country?

Do you think renewable energy can fully replace fossil fuels? Why or why not?

How does the growth of renewable energy affect global politics and economies?

What do you think are the biggest challenges to switching to clean energy?

Encourage the use of advanced connectors such as nevertheless, whereas, in contrast, and consequently.

2. 📖 Extended Reading Text (15–20 minutes)

Solar and Wind Power Surpass Coal: A Historic Energy Shift

In a landmark moment for the global energy transition, renewable energy has overtaken coal as the primary source of electricity generation for the first time in history. A new international report reveals that more electricity was produced from wind and solar energy in the first half of this year than from coal-fired power plants. This shift represents a crucial step in the worldwide effort to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.

Global electricity demand has continued to rise, driven by economic growth, industrial activity, and population increases. Remarkably, 100% of this growth has been covered by renewable energy sources, demonstrating the accelerating pace of the clean energy transition. Solar and wind, in particular, have experienced unprecedented expansion, with China and India responsible for a significant share of the new capacity. Both nations have invested heavily in renewable infrastructure, positioning themselves as leaders in the green energy race.

Interestingly, Europe and the United States, despite their ambitious climate targets, recorded increases in coal and gas power generation. Experts suggest that geopolitical tensions, energy security concerns, and the slow rollout of clean infrastructure have contributed to this temporary rise in fossil fuel use. Nonetheless, the long-term trend remains clear: renewables are becoming more affordable, efficient, and widespread.

According to the report, renewable energy generation could double by the end of the decade, thanks to technological innovations, policy incentives, and growing public support. However, experts warn that achieving net-zero emissions will still require massive investments in energy storage, transmission networks, and regulatory reforms. Without these, even a rapid expansion of clean energy might not be sufficient to fully replace fossil fuels.

This milestone is both a cause for celebration and a reminder of the work that remains. The transition to a sustainable energy future is underway — but its success depends on global cooperation, political will, and continued innovation.

3. 🧠 Comprehension and Vocabulary Work (15 minutes)

A. True or False

1. Renewable energy has produced less electricity than coal this year.

2. China and India are major contributors to renewable energy growth.

3. The US and Europe have completely stopped using coal.

4. All the new global electricity demand has been met by renewables.

B. Vocabulary Meanings

Work through these key words and definitions with your student:

Surpass – to be more than or better than something.

Primary source – the main origin of something.

Demand – the need or desire for goods or services.

Capacity – the amount of something a system can produce or hold.

Milestone – an important event in history or progress.

Ask the student to give their own examples for each word to ensure active use.

C. Vocabulary in Use

Have the student create sentences using the following expressions:

“surpass expectations”

“primary source of energy”

“growing demand for”

“expand capacity”

“historic milestone”

Encourage them to use complex sentence structures or connect these phrases to real-world examples.

4. 💬 Speaking Task — Discussion (15–20 minutes)

Open a deeper discussion using these questions:

Why do you think China and India are leading in renewable energy growth?

-> I think China and India are leading in renewable energy growth because they both understand this will be the future. Moreover, that protagonism can improve in their position as one of the most powerfull countrys.

What factors might explain Europe and the US increasing their use of coal recently?

--> Europe and the US have differents motivations to keep incresing their use of coal. Firstly, Europe suffers from a geographical condition that makes it difficult. On the other hand, US keep insisting in this because the priority of the country is keep producing the most they can don't matter what costs.

What are the social and economic consequences of a global shift to renewable energy?

--> A global shift to renewable energy would create new economic opportunities, such as jobs in clean technologies and reduced dependence on fossil fuels. Socially, it would improve public health and environmental quality, but requires fair policies to ensure a just transition.

Do you believe renewable energy can fully meet the world’s electricity demand by 2030? Defend your position.

--> Unfortunately, no. Global electricity demand increases every day, especially with AI becoming a part of people’s daily lives. Furthermore, some countrys need more time to be able to this transition due to geografic aspects.

What technological or political changes are still needed to accelerate this transition?

--> Maybe the main thing is a realistic commitment from all countries to work together on technological improvements that can accelerate this transition, instead of using it as a way to develop more than others. This might make things change for real.

Encourage the use of advanced grammar, such as conditionals, modal verbs, and passive voice.

For example:

“If governments invested more in solar technology, the transition would accelerate.”

“This might represent a turning point for global energy policy.”

“Renewable energy is being adopted at unprecedented rates.”

5. ✍️ Writing Task (Homework or In-Class – 15 minutes)

Essay Prompt:

“Renewable energy is no longer an alternative — it is becoming the norm.”

Discuss the opportunities and challenges this shift presents for governments, businesses, and individuals. Support your arguments with examples.

Requirements:

200–250 words

Formal register

Clear structure (introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion)

Use at least five of the vocabulary words from the lesson

--> The global transition toward renewable energy is no longer a distant goal but an urgent necessity. As environmental concerns intensify and fossil fuels become increasingly unsustainable, governments, businesses, and individuals face both opportunities and challenges in adapting to this new reality.

For governments, this shift represents a chance to make sustainable development and reduce the use of coal. Invest in research can stimulate innovation, create green jobs, and strengthen energy security. However, the transition also demands massive financial resources and coordinated public policies, which remain difficult for developing nations to sustain without international commitment.

Many industries are already integrating renewable technologies to reduce costs and emissions. Beyond that, consumers are paying more attention to environmental issues, which is changing the market and forcing companies to adapt quickly.

In conclusion, the rise of renewable energy presents a historic opportunity for global collaboration.

6. 🌱 Optional Extension

Watch a short BBC Learning English or Guardian video on renewable energy milestones and discuss key points afterward.

Research and prepare a short oral report (2–3 minutes) about your country’s renewable energy goals, policies, or challenges

Answers: 1–False, 2–True, 3–False, 4–True)

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BBC Learning English - Learning English from the News / Solar and wind beat coal for first time

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More electricity has been generated through wind and solar power than from coal power plants for the first time ever

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Dan
Hi guys, Dan for BBC Learning English here. This time we're going to talk about five ways to talk about the future without using future tenses. Are you ready? Let's go...

1. So, we can use be + the full infinitive to talk about events in the future. This is kind of formal and commonly happens in newspapers and in the media. Oh! I've just heard that the Queen is to open a new museum tomorrow. You see? Now, we only use this for events which are under human control, so don't say "The weather is to rain tomorrow." You don't have that power and I choose not to use it.

If you want to talk about the very near future we can add the word about - so, 'I'm about to go to the shops. Do you want anything?' Got it? Number one done.

2. Number two. We can use be due to + the full infinitive to talk about events that are scheduled to happen in the future. So, for example: 'My plane is due to land at around 5:30 so I'll probably be home about 9:30.' Got it? Number two done.

3. Number three. We can talk about our confidence of an event happening in the future using the verb be + sure to or bound to. For example, 'Now that England are out of the football, Germany are bound to win.' Or, 'It's sure to rain tomorrow.' Number three done.

4. Number four. For events that are going to happen very soon we use expressions such as, on the verge of and on the brink of. These are followed by ing verbs or nouns. for example, 'Scientists are on the verge of discovering a cure for cancer.' Or 'people in the city are on the brink of starvation because of a lack of food.'

5. Finally, many verbs are used in the present tense but actually have a future meaning. These are verbs like hope, plan, aim, intend, want and propose. They're always followed by the infinitive. That's number five. Did you get it? Great. See you next time guys. Bye!

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BBC Learning English - Course: Towards Advanced / Unit 2 / Session 1 / Activity 1

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Dan Hi guys, Dan for BBC Learning English here. This time we're going to talk about five ways to talk about the future without using future tenses. Are you ready? Let's go... 1. So, we can use be + the full infinitive to talk about events in the future.

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📰 Class Plan: Trump, Tylenol, and Autism – Fact or Fear?

🎯 Objectives

Improve reading comprehension with a longer news-style text.

Learn and use vocabulary connected to science, health, and misinformation.

Practice critical thinking and discussion about health claims in politics and media.

1. Warm-up (5 min)

Questions to spark ideas:

Should politicians give medical advice? Why or why not?

Who do you usually trust more: a doctor or a politician?

2. Extended Reading (10–12 min)

📖 Reading Text

Recently, former US President Donald Trump suggested that there may be a link between the common painkiller Tylenol (also called paracetamol) and autism in children. He mentioned that pregnant women who use the drug could increase the risk of their babies developing autism.

However, medical experts strongly disagree. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG) said Trump’s comments were “unsettling” and not supported by “reliable data.” Scientists in the UK also criticized his remarks, injecting what they called “a large dose of scepticism.”

Health professionals worry that such statements can create fear and confusion among pregnant women. Tylenol is one of the most widely used medicines in the world for reducing pain and fever. Most scientific studies so far show no clear evidence that it causes autism.

Doctors argue that when politicians make unscientific claims, the public may stop trusting medical advice. In fact, misinformation about medicine has been linked to dangerous consequences in the past — for example, people refusing vaccines because of false information.

This is not the first time Donald Trump has made controversial health claims. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he suggested that disinfectant injections could be a possible treatment — an idea that doctors immediately debunked as false and dangerous.

The current debate shows how important it is for the public to check the reliability of information. While politicians have influence, experts warn that scientific evidence, not personal opinion, should guide public health decisions.

3. Vocabulary Focus (8 min)

Key words from the article:

push back = to resist or disagree strongly

dose = an amount of something (medicine, or metaphorical)

debunk = to prove something false

👉 Practice: Make your own sentences.

Scientists pushed back on…

I need a daily dose of…

Experts debunked the idea that…

4. Comprehension Questions (5–7 min)

1. What claim did Trump make about Tylenol and autism?

--> After a woman has gave birth to a child diagnosed with autism, Trump start to support there are risks in the use of Tylenol.

1. How did medical experts react?

--> With this unexpected affirmation from Trump, quickly medical experts push back the ideia of Tylenol bringing risk to society.

1. Why can Trump’s comments be dangerous for pregnant women?

--> Tylenol is a paracetamol, its a drug used against headache and fever, so a very important medicine to relieve the body temperature, recommended by doctors, include to pregnant women. With tihis comment, Trump can convince a lot of women to avoid the use of paracetamol and its effect.

1. What other controversial health suggestion did he make in the past?

--> Tumps, in Covid-19, support the idea of use desinfectant vaccines.

1. According to the text, what should guide public health decisions?

--> Obviously, doctors and experts are the most prepared persons to prescribe the correct medicine in face of a disease.

5. Discussion (15 min)

Small debate / conversation prompts:

Should politicians be punished if they spread false medical information?

--> In case of a politician start to deffend false clinical information, convincing people to follow wrong ideias, and the court debanking the information, all the laws have to be applied.

Why do you think some people believe politicians more than doctors?

--> Politicians in society, even more the President, have the most important position that brings in the pocket a very powerful capacity of changing ideias and convincing people about the reliability (noun) of medicine (rely on - verb; reliable - adjective).

How can society protect people from misinformation about health?

--> Firstly, the Govern can provide a website where people can check and search only health information who are scientifically verified. In a different tune, Doctors and especialits can promove a ONG to develop an app to provide free information and have a chat bot to answear about health.

Can you think of other cases when misinformation about medicine caused harm?

Who do you think should be responsible for correcting false claims in the media?

6. Wrap-Up (5 min)

Review vocabulary (push back, dose, debunk).

Emphasize the difference between opinion vs. evidence.

Student shares one final thought: “I believe…” about the role of politicians in health communication.

✅ Homework idea: Write a short opinion article (150–200 words):
"Should politicians talk about medicine and health? Why or why not?"

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BBC Learning English - Learning English from the News / Trump’s unproven autism claim

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President Trump makes unproven link between autism and the pain relief drug Tylenol – scientists react.

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Beyond the Beach Read: The Rise of Bookish Travel

Forget the typical beach paperback. Today, more and more travellers are joining reading retreats – holidays that mix books, place, and community. Instead of lying by the pool, people are gathering in cafés, libraries, or even historic sites to read and discuss literature.

At I’Brindellone, a trattoria in Florence, a group of twelve men and women sit around a long wooden table. They are not tourists enjoying pasta or wine; they are discussing Still Life, a novel by Sarah Winman. On the walls hang photographs of the River Arno’s devastating flood of 1966. Winman once ate here, saw the same photos, and was inspired to write part of her story. Now, for these visitors, food is only secondary. They are on a Books in Places retreat – a new kind of holiday that combines literature and travel.

What Are Reading Retreats?

A reading retreat is part vacation, part book club, and part cultural immersion. Travellers follow a simple idea: reading books in the places where they are set. This transforms literature into a living experience.

Lyn Margerison, one participant, explains:

“I first saw Books in Places in a Facebook ad. It showed one of my favourite novels with a glass of wine, against a piazza in Florence. The caption asked: Do you enjoy reading books in the places where they are set? I was hooked immediately.”

Since then, Margerison has travelled from Dorset to Florence, Budapest, and beyond. “For me, these trips are the perfect combination of books and travel. I always return home with more enthusiasm for reading and a much longer to-be-read list.”

A Booming Trend

Books in Places was created by Paul Wright in 2023. At first, it was just a way for his book club in the UK to enjoy stories together. Now, he organises weekends across Britain and longer trips to Portugal, Crete, Egypt, Italy, and more.

According to a 2025 survey by travel search engine KAYAK, nearly half of UK travellers now choose destinations based on how suitable they are for reading or learning. The number rises to 60% among Millennials. In fact, 89% of holidaymakers today see travel as a chance to “invest in themselves” rather than simply relax.

The numbers show the same trend. Future Market Insights, a research company, reported that literary tourism was worth $2.4 billion last year, and is expected to reach $3.3 billion by 2034. Wright himself noticed the growth:

“I started with two trips in 2023. Last year I had seven, some half-full. This year I offered 25, and many filled within 24 hours.”

Why Location Matters

For Wright and his travellers, setting is everything. “Walking the same streets, tasting the same food, or feeling the same light as the characters makes the book come alive,” he says.

On his retreats, readers may step into To Kill a Mockingbird in Monroeville, Alabama; explore Jamaica, where Ian Fleming wrote Dr No; or wander through the ruins of Spinalonga in Crete, the island that inspired Victoria Hislop’s The Island.

Margerison agrees: “Passages you once skimmed suddenly leap into focus. It feels like living inside the story for a few days.”

Five Literary Destinations for Booklovers

Paju Book City, South Korea – A cultural complex with hundreds of publishers, book cafés, and the Forest of Wisdom, a library with thousands of donated books.

Reykjavík, Iceland – A UNESCO City of Literature, famous for its literary festivals.

Buenos Aires, Argentina – Home to El Ateneo Grand Splendid, a grand bookstore in a former theatre.

Tokyo, Japan – Stay overnight among shelves at Book and Bed, a hybrid hostel and bookshop.

Dublin, Ireland – Join the annual Bloomsday Festival, where James Joyce’s Ulysses is celebrated on the city’s streets.

Women-Only Spaces

Other companies are tailoring literary travel to different audiences. In the UK, Megan Christopher founded Ladies Who Lit, a company running retreats exclusively for women and non-binary travellers. “The book community is largely women,” she explains, “so we wanted to extend that safe, welcoming space into travel as well.”

More Than Just Travel

Bookish travel is not only about books – it’s about building community and personal growth. Shared reading experiences turn quiet, private moments into collective discoveries. For many, these retreats create friendships, deeper connections with culture, and a sense of living inside literature.

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Beyond the beach read: The new wave of bookish travel

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From Tuscan villas to Cornish coastlines, book lovers are swapping beach reads for immersive retreats that bring stories to life.

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🔹 The word

bookish

Here, -ish doesn’t mean “a little like” or “around” — it’s an adjective that already exists in English.

bookish = someone who likes books, reading, or studying a lot.

He’s a bookish teenager who spends weekends in the library.

She has a bookish charm.

So, bookish ≠ book + ish casually.

It’s an established word in the dictionary.

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📘 Lesson Plan: The Rise of Literary Travel

Level: Upper Intermediate (B2)

Length: ~60–75 minutes

Skills: Reading, vocabulary, discussion, speaking, writing

1. Warm-up (5–7 min)

Discussion questions:

Do you usually read while travelling? Why or why not?

What kind of books do you take on holiday?

Would you prefer to relax with a book on the beach or join a book club abroad?

2. Pre-Reading Vocabulary (10 min)

Teach / check these words and phrases from the text:

paperback – a soft-cover book

thriller – an exciting, suspenseful story

trend – something becoming popular

cultural immersion – experiencing a culture deeply, not just as a tourist

appeal – the attraction or charm of something

book club – a group of people who meet to read and discuss books

👉 Quick activity: Match the words with their definitions (or use them in short example sentences).

3. Reading Task (15–20 min)

Text: Part 1 – The Rise of Literary Travel (≈390 words)

a) Gist Task (first read)

Question: What is the main idea of this article?
a new tendendy is on hype for millenials who are bookish. Sort of clubs and retreats a mix of books and travels are getting an appeal for people who want to be at the place in which a book was set.

b) Detailed Task (second read)

Comprehension questions:

1. How was reading usually connected with holidays in the past?

Maybe more in a relaxing time and people travel for enjoy the place not reading book.

2. What makes “bookish travel” different from just reading a book on holiday?

i´t more than an experience as a bookish travel, it is about living and feeling the characters performs.

3. What example does the text give about Florence?

people don´t go only for food because this is secondary, they do it because they are talking about the setting of the book.

4. According to Paul Wright, why is location important when reading a story?

because people want to be part of the setting in the story, projecting their imagination and feeling the sense of the book.

5. Why are reading retreats not only for “serious” readers?

gathering - reunions- meetings -

i wish i can gather with some friends about the series i am watching now.

gathering with other bookish is kind of interesting.

4. Speaking Practice (10–12 min)

Discussion / Pair work (or teacher–student dialogue):

Would you enjoy a bookish holiday? Why or why not?

Which book would you most like to read in the place where it is set?

Do you think this kind of holiday will become more popular in your country?

5. Language Focus (10 min)

Work with useful expressions from the text:

a new kind of travel has emerged

a perfect balance

not only … but also …

part vacation, part book club

👉 Mini exercise: Ask the student to create 2 new sentences using these structures (e.g., This course is not only interesting but also very practical).

6. Writing Task (Homework or in class – 10 min)

Prompt: Write a short blog post (150–200 words) about your ideal “bookish trip”. Where would you go? Which book would you read there? How would the location change your reading experience?

-> If I could take a bookish trip, I would travel to Key West, Florida, the place where Ernest Hemingway lived and wrote many of his famous works. My book of choice would be The Old Man and the Sea. Reading this story in Key West would feel very special, because the island’s atmosphere still carries the spirit of Hemingway’s life.

Key West is surrounded by the same ocean that inspired the novel. Sitting near the sea, I would be able to imagine the same fisher present in the book. The sound of the waves and the salty air would make every page more vivid.

Visit Hemingway’s house again, with its beautiful garden and the famous cats, would also give me a deeper connection to the author himself.

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Student Worksheet: AI and the Future of Our Health

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Student Worksheet: AI and the Future of Our Health

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Part 1 – Comprehension (Understanding the Text)

A. True or False? Correct if False

1. Delphi-2M can tell the exact date of a person’s future heart attack.

2. The model is based on hospital admissions, GP visits, and lifestyle habits.

3. The system was first trained on people between 40 and 70 years old.

4. The model is already being used by hospitals around the world.

5. Preventive medicine is only about giving medicine.

B. Short Answer Questions

1. How is AI compared to a weather forecast in the text?

2. Which diseases does Delphi-2M predict most successfully?

3. What is one way hospitals could use the predictions?

4. Why might patients feel anxious about these forecasts?

5. What ethical concerns are connected to predictive modelling?

⸻

Part 2 – Vocabulary Work

A. Match the words with the definitions

1. High-risk patients

2. Preventive medicine

3. Disease progression

4. Lifestyle advice

5. Healthcare demand

6. Bias

7. Predictive modelling

a. The use of statistics or AI to estimate future events.

b. Medical strategies designed to stop illnesses before they appear.

c. Recommendations about habits such as diet, smoking, or alcohol.

d. People who have a greater chance of developing a disease.

e. The typical stages of how an illness develops over time.

f. Unequal or unfair results caused by limited or distorted data.

g. The number of patients and resources needed in a health system.

B. Personalization Task

Use at least 4 of the words above to talk about your own country or personal experience.

Example: “In my country, preventive medicine focuses on vaccination programmes, but there is still bias in healthcare when it comes to rural populations.”

⸻

Part 3 – Speaking: Giving Details

A. Retelling with Details

Choose one section of the text (How it works / Benefits / Challenges / Bigger picture). Retell it in your own words, but:

• Add examples from real life.

• Compare with your own country or culture.

• Give at least one personal opinion.

B. Mini Debate

• Do you agree that predictive AI could reduce healthcare costs? Why or why not?

• Should individuals be forced to change their habits if AI predicts a high risk?

• Which is more important: individual freedom or public health?

⸻

Part 4 – Big Debate

Motion: “Governments should use AI forecasts to decide health policies and lifestyle guidelines for citizens.”

• First, argue FOR (focus on public health, prevention, cost savings).

• Then argue AGAINST (focus on privacy, freedom, possible misuse).

• End with your personal conclusion.

⸻

Part 5 – Reflection

• Which new words are most useful for you?

-> Preventive medicine; Disease progression; Lifestyle advice; Healthcare demand; Predictive modelling

• Do you personally feel more hopeful or more worried about AI in healthcare? Why?

-> I feel more hopeful: although new technologies may raise fear at first, they consistently add value to healthcare

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Imagine a world where your doctor can tell you—not the exact date you will get sick—but the probability that you will face a disease in the next 10 years. This is the promise of new artificial intelligence models that aim to forecast health in the same way meteorologists predict the weather. Instead of announcing, “It will rain tomorrow,” the AI might say, “You have a 30% chance of developing heart disease in the next decade.”

How does it work?

The system, known as Delphi-2M, is trained to look for patterns in medical records. It uses information from hospital admissions, GP visits, prescriptions, and even lifestyle habits such as smoking, diet, and alcohol consumption. With this data, the AI can identify high-risk patients and estimate the probability of developing over 1,000 different conditions. Some of the diseases it predicts most successfully include type 2 diabetes, sepsis, and heart attacks—problems with a clear disease progression.

Why is this important?

Doctors already use certain tools in preventive medicine. For example, people at risk of a heart attack are often given cholesterol-lowering drugs, and patients with a family history of certain cancers are invited to more frequent check-ups. What makes Delphi-2M special is its scale: it can forecast health problems not just for one patient but for entire populations. Hospitals could estimate healthcare demand, predicting how many heart attacks or liver diseases might happen in a city like Norwich in 2030. This would help governments allocate money, doctors, and equipment more efficiently.

Benefits and opportunities

If used correctly, this technology could revolutionize medicine. Doctors might provide more targeted lifestyle advice: for example, recommending that someone at risk of liver disease reduce alcohol intake, or advising a patient with a family history of diabetes to change their diet earlier in life. It could also support screening programmes, detect diseases earlier, and give patients more control over their own health decisions.

Challenges and risks

However, there are significant concerns. The model was originally trained with the UK Biobank, which includes mostly people between the ages of 40 and 70. This creates a problem of bias—the results may not apply accurately to younger generations or to people from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. There are also questions of privacy: should governments or insurance companies have access to such predictions? Could predictive modelling be misused to deny someone a job, a loan, or medical insurance?

Critics also argue that this technology may make people more anxious. Being told you have a 20% chance of Alzheimer’s disease could motivate someone to change their habits—or it could create unnecessary fear, especially if the prediction is uncertain.

The bigger picture

Supporters believe this is the beginning of a new era in healthcare. They argue that AI will allow us to move from a system that mostly reacts to disease to one that prevents it before it even develops. They see it as a tool to make medicine more personalized and more efficient. Opponents, however, worry about the ethical consequences: unequal access, loss of privacy, and the danger of reducing human health to just numbers and percentages.

What is clear is that AI in healthcare is here to stay. The question is not whether it will be used, but how. Will it become a tool that empowers patients and doctors—or one that increases control, anxiety, and inequality?

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AI and the Future of Our Health

(90 minutes, Advanced level)

1. Warm-up (10 min)

Prompt: “Do you think AI should be allowed to predict your health? Why or why not?”

Encourage detailed answers → ask “why?”, “can you give an example?”, “what about in your country?”

Objective: activate prior knowledge + introduce theme.

2. Reading & Comprehension (20 min)

Material: Expanded reading text (AI and the Future of Our Health).

Task: Student reads silently or aloud.

Follow-up: Use Worksheet Part 1

True/False (quick check for understanding)

Short answer questions (practice giving detailed answers, not just “yes/no”).

Objective: practice extracting key ideas + detail-rich answers.

3. Vocabulary Focus (20 min)

Material: Worksheet Part 2

Step 1: Matching activity – student links terms (e.g., bias, disease progression, healthcare demand) with definitions.

Step 2: Personalization – student uses 4+ words to describe healthcare or health policies in their own country.

Teacher prompts: “Can you give me one more detail?” / “Can you compare with another country?”

Objective: reinforce academic/medical vocabulary + personalize to real life.

4. Retelling & Detail Expansion (15 min)

Material: Worksheet Part 3A

Student chooses a section of the text (How it works / Benefits / Challenges / Bigger picture).

Task: Retell in their own words, adding examples, comparisons, and opinions.

Teacher pushes for elaboration: “What does this mean in practice?” / “Can you illustrate with a case you’ve heard of?”

Objective: develop ability to explain complex ideas with detail.

5. Debate Practice (20 min)

Material: Worksheet Part 3B + Part 4

Mini debate questions (freedom vs public health, anxiety vs prevention, etc.).

Main debate motion: “Governments should use AI forecasts to decide health policies and lifestyle guidelines for citizens.”

Round 1: Student argues FOR.

Round 2: Student argues AGAINST.

Round 3: Student gives personal conclusion.

Teacher role: challenge with counter-arguments, encourage precision.

Objective: practice persuasive communication + argumentation with detail.

6. Wrap-up & Reflection (5 min)

Material: Worksheet Part 5

Questions:

“Which new words are most useful for you?”

To spot - patterns - clinical use - potential bias - likelyhood - ramdon - a stroke .

“Do you feel more hopeful or worried about AI in healthcare?”

--> AI became do be a important and indispensable weapon to improve in people's lives. Every tecnology, at the begining, seems as a problem and this makes people starts to get afraid of changing. But, talking about the future, it is already impossible to be see the advance of AI disconnected with healthcare. The IA can process a lot of information in seconds, and help more than a thousand of people, so, why do not use technology to get the fastest answear and to save lives? With ethical and maturity as the most important stacks, the AI can be the difference of a long life or an invision for a diagnostic.

Objective: consolidate vocabulary + self-reflection in English.

🔑 Why this works

Expanded reading = richer vocabulary + clearer sections.

Worksheet = structure (comprehension → vocab → detail → debate).

Student practices explaining, detailing, and debating, not just reading.

Atmosphere of active communication: teacher challenges, student defends.

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AI can forecast your future health – just like the weather

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An artificial intelligence model can predict the risk of more than 1,000 diseases, a team of scientists say.

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🌍 Class Plan: The Cost of Studying Abroad – Privilege, Pressure, and Politics

1. Warm-Up (5–7 min)

Quick recap of last class: “Last time, we talked about the benefits of travel. But what happens when travel is not leisure, but a life-changing commitment—like moving abroad to study?”

Prompt:

What do you think are the biggest challenges of studying abroad?

Is it more of an opportunity, a sacrifice, or both?

2. Vocabulary & Expression Elicitation (10 min)

Give key words/phrases from the article & testimonies:

to be left in limbo

to revoke / revocation

nonimmigrant visa status

an attack on free speech

to be forced to transfer

climate of fear

bargaining chips

→metaphor for something valuable you can use to gain advantage in a negotiation, even if you don’t truly want to give it away.

3. Input: Student Voices (10 min)

👨‍🎓 Miguel (Spain, PhD)

There’s not a day I don’t appreciate being here. But now I might have to leave everything behind. Years of research, my dream project… all gone in a political fight. We’re scared and confused.

👨‍🎓 Karl (Austria, sophomore)

I was on vacation when I read the news. I started sweating. Will I even be able to go back to the U.S.? I’ve had the best two years of my life at Harvard — friends, community — and now it feels like it’s collapsing.

👨‍🎓 Abdullah (Pakistan, student body president)

I didn’t come here to sit quietly. I came because I believed in freedom of thought and fearless speech. But now it feels like my voice is being punished.

👨‍🎓 Leo (Sweden, senior)

This is bigger than visas. The government is using immigration as a weapon to silence activism. It’s chilling — students are afraid to protest.

👩‍🎓 Jada (U.S., senior)

I’m American, but I see how this climate of fear affects my friends. It undermines free speech for all of us. Yet activism isn’t dying. If anything, it’s getting louder.

👩‍🎓 Fatima (Morocco, Master’s)

My family sacrificed everything for me to be here. Now I live with constant anxiety: if I leave the U.S., I might not get back in. Am I really safe here?

Step 3 – Debate Prompts

1. Which of these voices feels most powerful or moving to you? Why?

2. Do you think these students’ fears are exaggerated, or justified?

3. Is it fair that international students are caught in political battles?

4. Should elite universities resist government pressure even if it risks students’ futures?

5. Are international students being treated as contributors to knowledge or as bargaining chips?

4. Discussion Round 1 – Personal Reaction (10 min)

Prompts:

Do you sympathize more with Miguel’s fear of losing his visa or with Karl’s grief over community and friendships? Why?

Is Abdullah right to frame this as a fight for freedom of expression?

Would you personally risk staying in a country that threatens to expel you?

5. Grammar / Language Focus (10 min)

Since your student is advanced, focus on expressing hypothetical consequences (conditionals + modal verbs). Example:

If Harvard loses the lawsuit, thousands of students will/might/could…come back to their countries.

If Miguel had stayed in Spain, he wouldn’t be facing this dilemma.

I f Miguel hadn´t entered to the usa, he would have faced this problem.

if you and Vitor hadn´t been so close now, he wouldn´t have called me today.

if my mother would have decided to study english earlier, maybe she had never gone to the usa at her age.

if i had said in the past maybe i would have been now in londrina.

6 HOMEWORK

Should elite universities protect foreign students even if it means clashing with government policy?

Are international students a privilege or a necessity for these institutions?

Can governments legitimately use immigration law to push political agendas?

Encourage “academic debating language”:

On the one hand… / However… / What I find questionable is… / I would argue that…

7. Wrap-Up Reflection (5 min)

Student shares: “If you were Miguel/Karl/Abdullah, what would your next step be?”

Final question: “Does this controversy change your view of studying abroad at elite universities? Why or why not?”

Optional Extension / Homework

Short writing task: Write a letter to a government official or university president from the perspective of one of the students.

Or: Watch/read news coverage of Harvard vs. Trump lawsuit and prepare a 2-min oral summary for next class.

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Harvard’s International Students Left In Limbo

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Trump’s attempt to revoke Harvard’s ability to enroll international students has prompted major concern.

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Traveling is much more than seeing new places or taking beautiful pictures. Research shows that it has powerful effects on our mental health, creativity, and social life.

A recent poll in the United States revealed that people reported a 67% improvement in mental health after going on a trip. Those who traveled more frequently — both for short local trips and international journeys — showed better emotional balance and overall happiness.

Traveling also makes us more social and open to new friendships. Have you ever noticed how easy it is to meet people on vacation? Scientists say that when we are relaxed and in a positive mood, we are more open to connecting with strangers. Some friendships, and even relationships, begin this way.

Another major benefit is self-discovery. Solo travelers often say that traveling alone helps them build confidence, reduce stress, and practice mindfulness. Exploring a new city by yourself pushes you out of your comfort zone and helps you discover what you are truly capable of.

Finally, traveling can boost creativity and inspiration. When you experience new cultures, try different foods, and see unfamiliar landscapes, your brain makes new connections. Many artists, writers, and entrepreneurs find their best ideas while abroad.

So, traveling is not just about escaping routine — it can actually make you healthier, happier, and more creative. ✈️

⸻

✨ Key Vocabulary

• mental health – emotional and psychological well-being

• emotional balance – a state of stability in your feelings

• mindfulness – focusing on the present moment calmly and without judgment

• comfort zone – a situation where you feel safe and not challenged

• self-discovery – learning more about your own character and abilities

• boost creativity – increase the ability to think of new ideas

⸻

💬 Discussion Questions

1. What benefits of traveling have you personally experienced?

2. Do you agree that travel improves mental health? Why or why not?

3. Have you ever made a friend while traveling? How did it happen?

4. Do you think traveling alone is better for self-discovery, or do you prefer going with others?

5. If money and time were not a problem, where would you go right now to recharge your energy

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The Art of Last-Minute Travel

1. Warm-up Chat (5–7 min)

“When was the last time you traveled? Was it planned in advance or spontaneous?”

“If you had to pack your bag and leave tomorrow, where would you go?”

“Do you think spontaneous trips are exciting or stressful?”

2. Reading Input (10 min)

Provide your student with the short adapted excerpt (from the text you shared):

🔹 “77% of Gen Z and millennials booked last-minute trips in 2024. Many deals on flights and hotels appear just two to three days before check-in. Gen Z, often called the ‘loneliest generation,’ is also the most tech-savvy. They decide on a Monday to fly to Madrid, and by Thursday they’re already there — without spending too much. About 40% of these last-minute bookings are solo trips.”

👉 Ask them to:

Identify key facts.

Summarize the main idea in 2 sentences.

React: “Does this surprise you? Why/why not?”

3. Discussion: Gen Z Travel Trends (15–20 min)

Guide a chatty conversation with prompts:

1. Flexibility & spontaneity

“Would you feel comfortable booking a trip just a day or two before leaving?”

“What’s the biggest advantage of last-minute travel? The biggest risk?”

3. Solo travel

“The article says 40% of last-minute trips are solo. Have you ever traveled alone? Would you?”

5. Budget hacks

“What do you think of ‘townsizing’—skipping the big city for a smaller town to save money?”

“Would you trade San Francisco for San Jose if it cut your budget in half?”

7. Tech tools

“Do you use Google Flights, Hopper, or Skyscanner? How do you usually book your trips?”

“How much do you trust social media advice on food and places?”

4. Language in Use (10 min)

Focus on useful vocabulary & expressions from the text.

spontaneous (unplanned, sudden)

flexibility (being adaptable)

last-minute deals (discounts close to the travel date)

solo trip (traveling alone)

to slash prices (reduce prices drastically)

budget-friendly (cheap/affordable)

predawn flight (very early flight)

👉 Activity: Ask the student to make 3 new sentences using these expressions about their own travel habits.

5. Role-play (10 min)

Scenario: Your student wants to book a last-minute trip.

You play the travel agent (or app, like Hopper/Skyscanner).

They must negotiate: ask for cheaper options, flexible dates, or nearby cities.

Push them to use target vocabulary: “budget-friendly,” “last-minute,” “flexibility,” etc.

6. Wrap-up Reflection (5 min)

“If you had to book a last-minute trip this month, where would you go?”

“Do you think this trend will grow in the future, or is it just hype?”

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Gen Z Reveals How They Turn Last-Minute Travel Whims Into Budget-Friendly Wins

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Gen Z has turned last-minute travel into an art. Learn some of their tips and tricks, and how and when to best use them.

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🌍 Lesson Plan: Violence Against Women – A Social Crisis

Level: Advanced

Time: ~75 minutes (can be adjusted)

Skills: Reading comprehension, vocabulary building, critical discussion, debate

1. Warm-up (10 min)

Goal: Activate prior knowledge & set the context

Ask:

“What do you know about violence against women in Brazil or worldwide?”

“Why do you think this is still such a serious issue today?”

Show some quick facts:

In Brazil, over 275,000 cases of violence against women were reported in 2023, 60% at home.

Introduce the concept of femicide briefly.

2. Reading Activity (15 min)

Goal: Understand the article & identify main ideas

Provide the article: “Violence Against Women: A Social Crisis That Cannot Be Ignored” (from previous answer).

Student reads silently (or aloud in parts if you want pronunciation practice).

Quick comprehension check:

What happened in the recent case mentioned?

What statistics are given about Brazil?

What cultural issues are linked to the problem?

What big question does the article end with?

3. Vocabulary Work (15 min)

jelous - jelousy - revealing - monitoring - lasting scars- root -

Goal: Strengthen advanced vocabulary on social issues

Hand out the glossary (femicide, misogyny, restraining order, root causes, etc.).

Matching activity: Student matches terms to definitions.

Sentence building: Student creates 2–3 sentences using key words. Example:

“Femicide is a devastating consequence of gender inequality.”

“Protective measures like restraining orders can save lives.”

4. Critical Discussion (15 min)

Goal: Encourage analysis and personal opinions

Use the discussion questions from the article:

1. Why do you think violence against women continues despite new laws?

2. Is this problem more legal, cultural, or educational? Why?

3. How does the connection between misogyny and homophobia make the issue worse?

4. What role should men play in preventing violence against women?

5. What is the most effective way to change society’s mindset?

👉 Teacher note: Encourage the student to use new vocabulary naturally during discussion.

5. Debate Activity (15–20 min)

Goal: Practice structured argument & critical language

Setup:

Give the student debate prompts. They must argue for one side (you can argue the other side if it’s 1:1). Encourage the use of vocabulary words.

Prompts:

“Harsher punishments are the best solution to stop femicide.” (Agree / Disagree)

“The root causes of violence are cultural, not legal.”

“Awareness campaigns are more effective than new laws.”

“Men should be held more responsible for educating other men about toxic attitudes.”

👉 During debate, correct structure, highlight advanced connectors: however, nevertheless, in contrast, on the other hand, moreover.

6. Wrap-up & Reflection (5 min)

Ask the student to reflect:

“What is one thing you learned today?”

“Which vocabulary words will you try to use in daily discussions?”

Optional short writing homework:

Write a 200-word opinion essay on: “What concrete steps should Brazil (or your country) take to reduce violence against women?”

--> Brazil Government has to go in to the root of the problem to combat violence against women. Misoginy is a cultural problem in Brazil, and, because of this, like every cultural problem, it has to be faced with concrete steps in education. Moreover, like any social issue, it is talking about the theme how we can open space to debate and naturally shape this discussion as an idea in society for the future.

Materials Recap

Article: Violence Against Women: A Social Crisis That Cannot Be Ignored

Glossary: Femicide, misogyny, restraining order, etc.

Discussion questions (5 provided)

Debate prompts (4 provided)

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Violence Against Women: A Social Crisis That Cannot Be Ignored

In recent months, Brazil has been shaken by another case of brutal violence against a woman. A 27-year-old doctor was severely beaten by her boyfriend during what should have been a moment of celebration. She suffered multiple facial fractures, underwent several surgeries, and is now recovering with lasting physical and emotional scars. The case is being treated as attempted femicide, a crime motivated by gender.

Unfortunately, this story is not an isolated event. According to national data, more than 275,000 cases of violence against women were reported in Brazil in 2023, an increase compared to the previous year. Around 60% of these incidents occurred inside the home, revealing how unsafe many women still are in their own private spaces.

Brazilian law recognizes femicide as a specific crime, and protective measures such as restraining orders and electronic monitoring of aggressors have been introduced. Yet, despite these legal advances, the numbers remain alarmingly high. The persistence of this problem suggests that the roots of violence against women go beyond the legal system. They are deeply connected to cultural attitudes, gender inequality, and toxic ideas about power and control.

The recent case also revealed another layer of discrimination. Reports suggest that the aggressor’s jealousy was triggered by the presence of a gay man at the party. This points to the intersection of misogyny and homophobia—two forms of prejudice that continue to harm vulnerable groups in society.

The consequences of such violence are devastating: victims face long recoveries, financial costs, and emotional trauma. Communities lose professionals, mothers, sisters, and daughters who could otherwise contribute positively to society. In short, violence against women is not a “private matter.” It is a public health crisis and a human rights issue.

The question remains: Why, despite new laws and increased awareness campaigns, does violence against women persist at such high rates? And more importantly, what concrete steps can individuals, communities, and governments take to ensure that women are safe in every space—public and private?

Discussion Questions for Students

1. Why do you think violence against women continues despite new laws and policies?

2. Do you believe this issue is primarily legal, cultural, or educational? Why?

3. How does the connection between misogyny and other forms of prejudice (such as homophobia) make the problem worse?

4. What role should men play in preventing violence against women?

5. In your opinion, what is the most effective way to change society’s mindset about gender equality?

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Glossary: Violence Against Women

Legal & Social Terms

Femicide (noun) – the killing of a woman or girl because of her gender.

Restraining order (noun) – a legal order that prevents someone from contacting or approaching another person.

Protective measures (noun) – actions authorized by law to keep victims safe (e.g., monitoring aggressors).

Attempted femicide (noun) – when someone tries to kill a woman due to her gender but does not succeed.

Aggressor / perpetrator (noun) – the person who commits violence or an attack.

Cultural & Critical Vocabulary

Gender inequality (noun) – unfair differences in treatment, rights, or opportunities between men and women.

Misogyny (noun) – hatred, prejudice, or contempt against women.

Homophobia (noun) – fear, hatred, or prejudice against people who are gay.

Toxic attitudes (noun) – harmful ideas or behaviors, often linked to power, control, or prejudice.

Cultural attitudes (noun) – the shared beliefs and values in a society that shape behavior.

Describing the Problem

Devastating consequences (phrase) – very serious negative results or effects.

Emotional trauma (noun) – deep psychological pain caused by violence or abuse.

Lasting scars (phrase) – permanent physical or emotional effects of a violent event.

Public health crisis (phrase) – a situation that affects the safety and well-being of a large number of people.

Human rights issue (phrase) – a problem that involves basic rights and freedoms that every person should have.

Vocabulary for Discussion

Root causes (phrase) – the deeper reasons why a problem exists.

Legal system (noun) – the structure of laws, courts, and law enforcement in a country.

Awareness campaigns (noun) – organized efforts to inform people about a social issue.

Intersection (noun) – the point where two issues connect (e.g., misogyny and homophobia).

Concrete steps (phrase) – practical and specific actions to solve a problem.

👉 Teaching tip:

Ask your student to use these words in sentences related to the article.

For example: “Femicide is a serious human rights issue in Brazil.”

Or: “We need to address the root causes of violence, not only punish aggressors.”

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🌐 Class Plan – Online Safety, VPNs & Children’s Exposure to 🤬

🎯 Objectives

Students will expand vocabulary related to technology, online safety, and social issues.

Students will discuss real-life issues based on a current documentary (Felca) and BBC article.

Students will practice modals in the past (should have, could have, might have, must have, would have).

1️⃣ Warm-up (5–7 min)

Ask:

Do you use a VPN? For what reasons?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of VPNs?

Do you think children should be protected from certain online content? Why or why not?

Link: Felca recently released a documentary on this topic — what do you know about it?

2️⃣ Vocabulary Work (10 min)

Key Words from the Article

VPN (Virtual Private Network) – tool to hide your location online.

Loophole – a way to avoid or escape a law or rule.

Age verification – system to check someone’s age.

Circumvent – to find a way around rules or restrictions.

Algorithm – computer process that recommends content online.

Depictions – representations or images.

Exposure – the state of being made to experience or see something.

Safeguards – protections or safety measures.

👉 Activity: Matching exercise (definition ↔ vocabulary word).

👉 Then ask students to create one original sentence with each word.

3️⃣ Grammar Focus – Modals in the Past (15 min)

Review examples:

Should have + past participle → expresses regret or advice about the past.

The government should have acted earlier to protect children.

i think the british minister should have tackled the problem with more severe in the actual scandal.

Could have + past participle → possibility in the past.

Children could have avoided exposure with stricter safeguards.

parents could have been more alertc controling children´s access.

Might have / May have + past participle → uncertainty about the past.

He might have used a VPN to bypass the system.

I might have used some platforms when people were sleeping.

Must have + past participle → strong certainty.

They must have seen harmful content at a very young age.

she must have felt secure because he seemed to be the father for many other children.

Would have + past participle → hypothetical situation in the past.

Without VPNs, children would have been blocked from those sites.

without Felca´s video, Hytalo Santos wouldn´t have been stopped to produce ilegal content for pedofolhies.

👉 Practice:

Give students sentences from the article and ask them to rewrite using modals in the past.
Example:

Original: Josh was addicted by 14.

Student: He might have started watching 🤬 too young.

4️⃣ Discussion (15 min)

Use the article + Felca’s documentary to guide discussion:

Do you agree with Dame Rachel that VPNs should have age verification?

What could the government have done differently in the past to avoid this situation?

How might the algorithms have contributed to children’s exposure?

What should parents have done when children first had access to the internet?

After watching Felca’s documentary, what new perspectives did you gain?

👉 Encourage use of modals in the past in all answers.

5️⃣ Writing Task (Homework or last 10 min)

Prompt:

“Imagine you are a government advisor. Write a short report (150–200 words) using at least five modals in the past explaining what the Brazil government should have done, could have done, and must have done to better protect children online.”

—> The Brazilian government should have acted earlier to address the growing issue of children accessing inappropriate content online. Despite existing laws, children have been able to circumvent safeguards by using VPNs, which highlights weaknesses in current digital regulations. Authorities could have implemented stricter age verification systems, making it harder for minors to access 🤬. In addition, tech companies should have been required to adjust their algorithms to reduce exposure to explicit material.

The government must have underestimated the speed at which young users adapt to loopholes. More investment could have been allocated to educating parents and schools about online risks.

In conclusion, the government should have done more to create rules, enforce them, and teach people about online safety.

✅ This way, your student will:

Learn new academic and social issue vocabulary.

Practice discussion skills on a sensitive but relevant topic.

Apply grammar (modals in the past) naturally in both speaking and writing.

Connect the BBC article with Felca’s documentary for cultural and real-world relevance

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Stop children using VPNs to watch porn, ministers told

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The children’s commissioner for England tells the BBC virtual private networks are a “loophole that needs closing.

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🌍 Advanced English Class: Cultural Intelligence & Career Growth

must have - assumption

can have =possibility

may have / might have = remotely

could have= hipothesis

should have = a duty/ a suggestion

🎯 Objectives:

Explore how cultural intelligence (CQ) impacts global career development

Practice cleft sentences and modals for speculation/deduction

Expand vocabulary for international workplace communication

Discuss real-world applications of CQ and career skills

🔤 PART 1 – VOCABULARY WARM-UP (10 min)

🔹 Vocabulary from the article:

1. Cultural intelligence (CQ) – the ability to relate and work effectively across cultures

2. Global workplace – an environment where people from different cultures interact

3. Leadership agility – the ability to adapt quickly to new or changing situations

4. Unconscious bias – automatic and unintentional judgments based on stereotypes

5. Cross-cultural competence – a mix of knowledge, skills, and awareness for working across cultures

6. Competitive edge – an advantage that makes someone more likely to succeed

📝 Task:

Match the words to their definitions. Then, create an example sentence using at least 2 expressions in a career-related context.

⚙️ PART 2 – GRAMMAR FOCUS (20 min)

🎯 A.

Cleft Sentences for Emphasis

✅ Use to highlight the most important info:

What gave her a competitive edge was her cultural intelligence.

It was during her time in Tokyo that she developed her leadership agility.

💡 Task: Transform and personalize

Original:

1. She got promoted because of her experience working in diverse teams.

2. The Singapore project helped him become a more empathetic leader.

3. Exposure to new cultures developed my confidence.

4. A colleague’s feedback opened my eyes to unconscious bias.

Now rewrite each using cleft sentence structure.

🎯 B.

Modals for Speculation & Deduction

Use to speculate about cause, effect, or hidden details:

She must have had strong intercultural skills to lead that team.

They might have underestimated the impact of cultural misunderstandings.

He can’t have succeeded without adapting his communication style.

🧩 Task: Complete the sentences

1. The team adapted fast in a new market. They _must have__ had prior experience working abroad.

2. She handled the conflict so calmly. She _must have__ developed great emotional intelligence.

3. They made a major mistake in that presentation. They _should have_____ prepared properly.

4. He connected well with everyone. He _must have_____ spent time understanding the culture first.

📘 PART 3 – TEXT INPUT (15 min)

🔗 Article Summary:

“Why Cultural Intelligence Is a Game-Changer for Your Career”

Read it here

👁 While reading, underline:

2 ideas you agree with

1. i agree with the main idea og CQ basically when you think of big markets, i agree with the preparation for the vast oportunities and better professionalism.

2 vocabulary items you’d like to reuse

foster - thrive - provide - biases -regret

1 line you could expand into a cleft sentence

when started at work, i could have had more motivation to use all my tools and skills to put them on the table and learn fastly.

i have a foster family.

📢 Reflect & Discuss:

Which part of the article feels most relevant to your work or goals?

How can developing CQ give professionals a competitive edge?

What habits or skills help build CQ in real life?

💬 PART 4 – DISCUSSION TASKS (15–20 min)

Pick and explore 2–3 questions:

1. What cultural experience has shaped your career the most?
→ Try using a cleft sentence in your answer.

2. Have you ever experienced or witnessed unconscious bias at work?
→ What might have been done differently?

3. Which skills do you believe are truly transferable in a global career?

4. If you were leading a team in another country, what would you do to build cultural understanding?
→ Use modals to speculate.

🏁 PART 5 – WRAP-UP (5 min)

Quick Recap:

One new vocabulary item you’ll try to use this week?

A cultural lesson from today’s class that stuck with you?

How would you finish this sentence:

“What really shapes a global leader is…”

✍️ Optional Homework

how can you imagine a scenario where people use and function the use of cultural intelligence to conquer objectives, focus on how you and the team would manage.

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Boost Your Career With Cultural Intelligence Skills

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Learn how cultural intelligence drives professional advancement to thrive in global workplaces, diverse teams and cross-cultural interactions.

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🧭

Lesson Plan: Leadership, Legacy & Influence

Level: Advanced

Duration: 60 minutes

Skills: Speaking, Vocabulary, Critical Thinking, Writing

🎯

Main Theme:

“Leadership, Legacy, and Purpose — Lessons from Arnold Schwarzenegger”

Based on your experience at the lecture, the focus is on analyzing ideas from the talk:

Sustainability

Reinvention

Discipline

Influence through personal branding

🔗

Linked Topic:

“Personal Branding and Global Influence”

The class connects Schwarzenegger’s journey to broader questions about how public figures use their platforms and build lasting influence.

🔹 1. Warm-up (5–7 minutes)

Start with questions to activate reflection:

What stood out to you most from Schwarzenegger’s lecture?

so, to be honest from obstacles are kind of the discipline that i followed during the pandemic and this made me stood out to what really matters in life.

Did anything surprise or challenge you?

i think the challenge was to be near/close to him, he seems to have a person with lot of personal wounds/ experiences and now he knows how to manage things and take it easy, that susprised me and made me think in ways of living your life.

How would you describe his message in one word? Why?

disciple - his life was structured to be discipline as a value and he conquered everything in his life.

Encourage personal insights and reactions.

very tanned - regular ans loose clothing- escalation-

🔹 2. Key Vocabulary (10 minutes)

Introduce the following words and phrases. For each, ask your student to define, then give an example related to Schwarzenegger or another public figure:

Resilience – the ability to overcome challenges

Long-term vision – planning for future outcomes

Reinventing yourself – changing your identity, career, or public image

Impact vs. influence – having a large effect vs. shaping opinions or behavior

Sustainable change – change that lasts and benefits the future

Environmental responsibility – the duty to protect the planet

Public perception – how the public views someone

Personal brand – the image or identity someone presents to the world

You can review pronunciation, collocations, or word families if relevant.

🔹 3. Discussion (15–20 minutes)

Ask open-ended questions that require depth and personal opinion:

1. What leadership qualities does Schwarzenegger embody? narrow minded

2. How has his personal brand changed over time? What remained the same?

3. Should celebrities use their influence to speak out on global issues? Why or why not?

4. Can someone reinvent themselves multiple times and still be authentic?

5. Is having a personal brand necessary for modern leadership? Why?

Encourage the student to support opinions with real-world examples (e.g., Greta Thunberg, Elon Musk, Malala).

🔹 4. Writing Task (15 minutes or Homework)

Prompt:

“Do public figures have a responsibility to use their influence for the greater good?”

Ask your student to write a short opinion paragraph (150–200 words) including:

Clear argument

At least three linking devices (e.g., however, therefore, as a result, in contrast)

One or more vocabulary items from the lesson

--> Yes. It is a fact that public figures have the power of influence in the social opinion and choices. Considering this, a simple recomendation of a public person can make a big difference in many ways, what demmands social responsability. However, off corse public figures uses their opinion as a way to make money, and that’s understandable. Therefore, it becomes even more important that they are aware of the impact their words and actions may have. Promoting harmful products, spreading misinformation, or encouraging unhealthy habits can affect millions of people. In contrast, when they use their platform to support social causes, raise awareness, or educate others, the benefits are significant to the entire society.

You can review their writing in the next class and provide feedback on structure, clarity, and tone.

🔹 5. Optional Extension (Next Class Idea)

Compare Influential Figures:

Bring a short article or video excerpt from another global figure (e.g., Malala, Obama, Emma Watson). Discuss:

How do they communicate purpose?

Who has greater long-term impact: activists, politicians, or celebrities?

What can we learn from their leadership styles

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✍️ Lesson Plan: Health Is Our Greatest Wealth – Written Discourse

🎯 Objective

You will write a reflective and analytical text based on the TEDx Talk and classroom discussion, using advanced vocabulary, structured writing, and personal insights.

🧠 Vocabulary Focus (with definitions)

1. Wealth – something valuable or important; not just about money, but anything that improves quality of life.

2. Wellness – the state of being healthy in body and mind, especially as a result of lifestyle choices.

3. Longevity – living a long life; often used when talking about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

4. Luxury – something desirable but not always accessible; in this context, health is seen as a luxury when not everyone can maintain it.

5. Outcome – the result of a process or decision; in health, it refers to how our choices affect our well-being.

6. Opportunity – a chance to do something; here, having the ability to make healthy choices.

7. Habit – a regular behavior or routine, often done without thinking; habits shape our health over time.

8. Lifestyle – the way a person lives, including daily choices related to food, activity, rest, and stress.

🧩 Writing Task Instructions

Write a short essay or structured reflection (200–300 words) using the following prompts as a template. This helps you stay organized and work through ideas logically.

🧱 Writing Template (5 short paragraphs)

1. Introduction
Briefly introduce the main idea of the TED Talk. Summarize the speaker’s key message in your own words.
→ Example: The speaker, Craig Metcalf, explains how health is not just about medicine but about our daily choices. He believes that our wellness is our greatest wealth.

--> At the video, we can see Craig Metcalf showing how important is do the right choices day by day to be health. He deffends the ideia of wellness as the new luxury.

2. Personal Connection
Reflect on your own life. How does this message connect to your experience? Do you agree with the idea that health is a luxury or privilege?
→ Example: I’ve noticed that when I sleep well and eat healthy, I feel more productive and focused. I agree that wellness often feels like a luxury because it takes time, money, and effort to maintain.

--> Since i changed my lifestyle and start to became more healthy, everything gets better. Change my relationship with food, drink more water and practice some activity turned me a person who sleep better, who has more focus at work, who live happier and have more social energy. I agree, more than ever, with the idea health became a luxury when the point of view is to get access to the market behind the popularity of this lifestyle. On the other hand, with all of this popularity, healthy information never was so near, and according to the video, change some habits do right choices seems realistic for almost everybody.

3. Example from the Talk
Choose one point, example, or story from the TEDx talk that stood out to you. Explain what it shows and why it’s important.
→ Example: Metcalf gives the example of small habits like walking more or drinking water. These are simple, yet many people ignore them. This made me think about how powerful our routines really are.

--> Metcalf talks about eat better, start to drink water and walk as good habits and i started to do all of this things. But, perhaps start to do this thing seems simple, turn this actions as a habit are not easy and demands a lot of discipline and some kind if motivation at the begenning. At the pandemics i started to walk as a way to run away from the reality. With discipline and constancy, walks stars to be easy and born the necessity to do more so, at this moment i liked to go walk or run. So, the main thing at this point for me was challenge myself getting more far, until one day a prepare to run a entire marathon. But, the thing is, firstly was difficult to accept and like the process of suffer and run aggainst our brains comands.

4. Analysis and Opinion
Discuss why treating health as wealth is an important idea. What are the dangers of ignoring this? How should society think about health?
→ Example: If we don’t see health as a priority, we end up paying more in the long term—with poor outcomes, low energy, and expensive treatments. Wellness should be treated as a foundation, not an extra.

--> The only thing we can garantee in our lives is everybody, wil get older everyday. Thinking about that, the society are living more and getting older, so if we don't see health as a necessity to invest, we are going to face several consequences. At this fact, society needs to firstly think more about be healthy as a necessity and, after that, each one needs to ask themselfs how much live with more dignity is important.

5. Conclusion
Summarize your message. What is one change or habit you believe is essential for a healthy life?
→ Example: To me, health means having the opportunity to enjoy life. One small change that works for me is preparing my meals in advance so I can eat better during the week.

--> To me, health is basic. That sentence could sounds as a cliche, but our body are realy our temple, so if we don't take care, naturally it is going to fall apart.

📌 Follow-Up Activity (Optional)

Ask your student to revise their text after receiving feedback and highlight where they’ve improved vocabulary, clarity, and structure.

📝 Teacher Feedback Tips

Is the structure clear and logical?

Are key vocabulary words used correctly and naturally?

Are the ideas original and reflective?

Is the tone academic but personal?

Are grammar and sentence variety strong?

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🧠

Lesson Plan: Health Is Our Greatest Wealth

Level: Advanced

Duration: 60–75 minutes

Skills: Listening, Vocabulary, Speaking, Writing

Theme: The value of health as a personal and societal asset

🔥 Warm-up (10 min)

wealth - wealthy adj

health - healthy adj.

wellness - in good health

Ask your student(s):

1. What does the phrase “health is wealth” mean to you?

it´s very important to be healthy than being rich and this could the new normal after the pandemic we reflected a lot on our wellness.

2. How can someone’s economic status affect their health?

finances can affect your nutrition because of how much you can spend for basic needs like food.

3. Think of a country or situation where poor health systems had serious consequences. What happened?

the problem causes the health system to collapse in countries like africa, cuba, haiti where the people do not have access to medical care.

🧾 Vocabulary (Word Bank Introduction – 5–7 min)

Introduce and discuss these advanced terms and expressions:

Preventable – something that can be avoided with proper action.

the medicine i am taking is preventable for any vascular disease.

Premature death – dying earlier than expected due to avoidable causes

Chronic disease – long-term illness like diabetes or heart disease

Public health policy – strategies to protect or improve community health

Health equity – fair and equal access to health services

Burden of disease – the negative impact of illness on individuals and society.

since my colleagues have gone to holydays i´ve been carrying all the burdens in the office.

in two years poor people will carry the burdens of the fees.

Investment in health – putting resources (money, time, planning) into health systems

Socioeconomic factors – elements like income/minimum wage/ education, and job status that influence health

Resilience – the ability to bounce back from difficulty or illness

Universal healthcare – a system where everyone receives health services regardless of income

💡 Tip: You can write these on a board or have students match them to definitions.

🎧 Watch the TED Talk (10 min)

Title: Health Is Our Greatest Wealth by Craig Metcalf

Link: Watch here

📝 Ask students to take notes on:

One quote or statistic that stood out

The speaker’s main message

Any surprising or new ideas

💬 Guided Discussion (20–25 min)

Use these questions to deepen understanding and encourage critical thinking:

1. The speaker says that “health is not a cost but an investment.” Do you agree? Why?

2. What connections does he make between national health and the economy?

3. How can investing in health lead to a more productive society?

4. In your country, is preventive healthcare taken seriously? What could improve?

5. Do you think health should be considered a human right or a personal responsibility?

6. What role do education and employment play in someone’s ability to stay healthy?

7. What health-related changes would you make to your city or country’s priorities?

✍️ Writing Task (Homework or 10–15 min in-class)

Prompt:

Do you believe governments should invest more in healthcare than in the military or infrastructure? Why or why not?

-> No i don't. Im my opinion doesn't have logic in this comparisson, because the main thing is the importance of the Government pay attention to the healthcare too as a area to invest. To be honest, it is important to invest in all of these three points. Since the society start to became older, more than ever, healthcare should be on the governments eyes as a garantee.

Requirements:

150–200 words

Use 3 words from the Word Bank

Include at least two linking words, such as: however, in contrast, as a result, moreover, although

💡 Optional Extension

If you want to stretch the topic:

Research what percentage of your country’s budget goes to healthcare

Debate: “Health is a personal responsibility, not a government concern”

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Part 1: Work-Life Balance

1. Warm-Up Discussion (10 min)

Question: “What does ‘balance’ mean to you in a modern work context?”

Introduce contrasting views:

Some believe balance means rigid separation (e.g., leaving work at 5 pm).

Others think it’s about flexibility and integration over time.

2. Reading & Listening

Read: The Guardian article on how work-life is now more important than pay — 83% of employees prioritize it  .

3. Vocabulary & Concepts

Focus Terms: blurred boundaries, burnout, digital disconnection, hybrid model, FWA (flexible work arrangement)  .

Concept: Job demands‑resources model – balancing high demands with sufficient resources helps prevent burnout  .

4. Discussion Questions

Have boundaries blurred in your experience? Give examples.

Can flexible hours lead to more freedom—or more work?

How can companies support well‑being? (Data-driven surveys? Wellness apps? Booster breaks?)

5. Writing Task

Choose one of the prompts:

1. Argue whether flexible/integrated work is better than fixed boundaries.

2. Propose a plan for a company to improve employee well‑being and balance, using evidence and strategies.

Use 300–350 words, formal tone, strong connectors (e.g., “Moreover”, “Conversely”).

Include 4–5 target vocabulary items.

🤖 Part 2: AI in the Workplace

1. Warm-Up Discussion (10 min)

Prompt: “Where have you seen AI at work—helpful assistant or job robber?”

Elicit reactions to emerging tools (chatbots, generative AI).

2. Reading & Case Study

Article: Financial Times argues that a strong knowledge base is vital; AI shouldn’t replace human critical thinking  .

Case Study: Effects of AI-generated screenplays on writers’ livelihoods—Writers Guild demands protections  .

3. Vocabulary & Ethical Issues

Key Terms: automation, displacement, upskilling, ethical use, human‑centered tasks.

Ethics: Refer to guidelines for AI ethics and critical thinking  .

4. Small-Group or Paired Discussion

Which roles are at risk and which are secure from AI?

How can professionals upskill to stay relevant?

Should tasks like grading, CV‑screening, or customer service be automated—with safeguards?

5. Writing Task

Pick a format:

Op-Ed (300–350 words): “AI should augment—not replace—human workers.” Use examples and ethical reasoning.

Proposal Memo: Suggest strategies for your department/company to integrate AI responsibly (training, policy, safeguards).

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🔑 Key Vocabulary & Phrases (with definitions)

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🔑 Key Vocabulary & Phrases (with definitions)

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🔑 Key Vocabulary & Phrases (with definitions)

1. Wealth of health – metaphor comparing good health to financial wealth.

2. Chronic illness – a long-term health condition like diabetes or heart disease.

3. Lifestyle medicine – medical practices that focus on diet, exercise, and habits.

4. Burnout – physical and emotional exhaustion caused by overwork or stress.

5. Holistic approach – considering the whole person, including mental and social factors.

6. Preventative care – healthcare focused on preventing disease rather than treating it.

7. Resilience – the ability to recover from difficulties.

8. Mental clarity – a clear and focused state of mind.

9. Nourishment – the food or other substances necessary for growth and health.

10. Work-life integration – balancing work responsibilities with personal life smoothly.

11. Purpose-driven life – living with intention and meaning.

12. Healthspan – the length of time a person is healthy, not just alive.

13. Toxic stress – chronic stress that negatively affects the body and mind.

14. Thriving vs. surviving – living fully rather than just getting by.

15. Intentional living – making conscious choices about how to live your life.

16. Quality of life – the general well-being of a person or society.

17. Sedentary lifestyle – a way of life that involves little physical activity.

18. Mind-body connection – the link between a person’s thoughts, attitudes, and physical health.

19. Restorative practices – actions that restore health and balance, like sleep or meditation.

20. Disconnection from self – losing touch with one's needs, emotions, or well-being.

💬 Useful Expressions for Writing

“Health should be viewed as an investment, not an expense.”

“A reactive approach to health is no longer sustainable.”

“Our society often glorifies productivity at the cost of well-being.”

“True wealth is waking up feeling energized and fulfilled.”

“Neglecting health eventually becomes the most expensive decision.”

“We cannot thrive in a culture that rewards burnout.”

“Self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity for long-term success.”

“Longevity without quality of life is a hollow victory.”

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📝 Advanced Writing Class

Theme: Scrappers vs. Silver Spoons – Who Thrives at Work?
Focus: Writing skills, tone, vocabulary for workplace values
Student Level: Advanced

Output: Formal opinion article or essay]

1. 🔥 Warm-Up Discussion (10–15 minutes)

"In your opinion, what is more important for success: where you come from or what you’re made of?"

"Scrappers bring resilience and resourcefulness, while silver spoons often benefit from confidence and connections. But in the long run, which one adapts better to change?"

Encourage the student to use the following vocabulary during their answers (spoken first, to activate them for writing later):

Grit

Entitled

Resourceful

Privileged

Perseverance

Unwavering

Propelled

Ask them to explain the meanings in their own words or provide examples.

2. 🧠 Vocabulary Expansion & Register Awareness (10 minutes)

Now say:
"I’ll give you a few professional contexts, and you’ll suggest whether a 'scrapper' or a 'silver spoon' would be better suited—and why—using at least one of the vocabulary words in your answer."

Examples:

Starting a business in a difficult economy

Leading a team through a crisis

Working in a highly political corporate environment

Negotiating a raise

Encourage full sentences with linking language such as:
In contrast..., Conversely..., On the other hand..., As a result...

3. ✍️ Main Writing Task (30–40 minutes)

Prompt:
"In today’s job market, success is no longer guaranteed by privilege. It is earned through adaptability, character, and relentless effort."

Write a formal opinion article of around 300 to 400 words explaining whether you agree or disagree. Your argument should be thoughtful and supported with examples. Try to include:

A powerful introduction with a hook (e.g., a question, quote, or striking statement)

2 to 3 well-developed body paragraphs with connectors

A clear conclusion with a final reflection or call to action

4 to 5 of the vocabulary words from earlier

A respectful but persuasive tone

Let the student know this could be published in a career blog or a business magazine.

4. 💬 Optional Extension Task (Homework or Class Time)

Offer this reflective comparison task:

"Imagine two short texts—one written emotionally, the other in a formal tone. How does the tone affect the reader’s trust? What would be the best tone to use if you were applying for a leadership position or writing a blog about career struggles?"

Ask them to briefly rewrite a paragraph from an emotional tone into a more formal version, keeping the same meaning but adjusting the structure and word choice.

5. ✅ Wrap-Up (5–10 minutes)

Ask these reflection questions:

Which part of the writing was most challenging—vocabulary, tone, or organization?

Which vocabulary item felt the most useful to describe your opinion?

How can your background—scrapper or spoon—be framed powerfully in real life?

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BBC Learning English - The English We Speak / Dial down

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Don’t dial down your efforts to learn English!

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🎥 Resource

TED Talk: Why the best hire might not have the perfect resume by Regina Hartley—focuses on selecting “Silver Spoon” vs. “Scrapper” candidates and why resilience trumps polish  .

(Video is available on the TED website—optimal for transcription use, not embedded here)

🕒 Lesson Duration: 60–75 minutes

🧩 Part 1 – Context & Warm-Up (10–15 min)

Start with an open-ended discussion:

Silver Spoon vs. Scrapper — what do these terms mean to you?

Do you identify more with one term? Why?

In your experience, is it better to have polished credentials or proven grit?

Objective:

Activate prior opinions and introduce the key contrast: privilege vs. resilience.

📝 Part 2 – Vocabulary & Expressions (10 min)

Introduce and contextualize high-level terms drawn from the talk:

Silver Spoon (someone born into privilege)
“She came from wealth and had everything handed to her—a real silver spoon.”

Scrapper (someone who’s fought through adversity)
“He’s a scrapper—worked three odd jobs while studying.”

Patchwork résumé, Post‑Traumatic Growth, Can‑do attitude, Underdog, Resilience, Growth mindset, Cultural fit.

Practice Drill:

Ask the student to craft sentences describing people they know using at least three of the expressions above.

📺 Part 3 – Video Analysis (15–20 min)

Task:

Watch key clips (or refer to the transcript) covering:

1. Hartley’s definitions of Silver Spoon vs. Scrapper

2. The story of Steve Jobs and dyslexia—resilience as an asset ()

3. Companies that outperform by embracing Scrappers and diversity

Comprehension Check Questions:

Why might a flawless resume be deceptive?

What does “patchwork résumé” imply?

How does Hartley connect adversity to success?

What evidence does she use to show diverse hires outperform the S&P 500?

💬 Part 4 – Guided Discussion & Vocabulary in Context (10–15 min)

Prompt a deep-dive conversation using chunked language:

“Tell me about a time you felt like a scrapper.”

“How would you redefine a ‘perfect resume’ in today’s market?”

“Do you think adversity always translates into better job performance?”

Encourage responses using advanced vocabulary and chunks like:

“That stick-to-itiveness showed real grit…”

“Facing those challenges shaped my can‑do attitude…”

“What sets me apart is my resilience when things go south…”

🎯 Part 5 – Simulation & Skill Application (10–15 min)

Role-play prompt:

You’re the job candidate. I ask:

“Your resume shows a non-linear career path (projects, odd jobs). Tell me what that says about you.”

Goal:

Formulate a polished answer that:

Reframes non-linear paths as patchwork résumé

Highlights resilience, adaptability, and post‑traumatic growth

Uses at least 5 new terms and 2 key chunks

Sample response structure:

1. Acknowledge reality: “Yes, it’s patchwork, but…”

2. Emphasize learning: “That variety taught me…”

3. Deliver your value: “It demonstrates grit, adaptability, and a growth mindset…”

✍️ Part 6 – Reflection & Optional Homework

Discussion Prompts:

How would you market yourself as a Scrapper in interviews?

--> I would emphasize my resilience, adaptability, and the fact that I have successfully overcome different environments from legal operations to entrepreneurship and now investments. I would highlight that I learned how to lead teams, build partnerships, and improve efficiency even without a traditional linear path.

Can you see disadvantages to presenting adversity?

--> Yes, some institutions may interpret a patchwork résumé as a lack of focus or consistency. However, I would frame my path as intentional learning through diverse challenges, not random moves.

Are institutes biased toward Silver Spoon candidates?

--> Many institutes still favor Silver Spoon candidates because they look polished and predictable. But increasingly, organizations value grit, creativity, and adaptability, traits that Scrappers like me have cultivated through experience.

Homework Options:

Writing: Draft a 250-word “About Me” for LinkedIn that embraces your Scrapper story and resilience, including 8+ vocab items.

Listening: Find and reflect on another interview talk (e.g., an HBR or business podcast) featuring someone with a non-traditional path. Summarize using new expressions.

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Why the best hire might not have the perfect resume

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Given the choice between a job candidate with a perfect resume and one who has fought through difficulty, human resources executive Regina Hartley always gives the “Scrapper” a chance. As someone who grew up with adversity, Hartley knows that those who flourish in the darkest of spaces are empowered with the grit to persist in an ever-changing workplace. “Choose the underestimated contender, whose secret weapons are passion and purpose,” she says. “Hire the Scrapper.”

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Suggested classroom activity:

1. Watch ~2–3 minutes.

2. Ask comprehension questions:

What are the main economic impacts mentioned?

Who in Brazil is most affected? Why?

3. Follow with opinion prompts:

Do you agree that this is a global ripple effect?

In addition to economy, do you think there are social or political consequences?

🛠️ How to Integrate into Your Lesson

1. Warm-up reading (~7 minutes):

Read key paragraphs together.

Highlight terms: mediator, sanctions, energy crisis, multilateralism.

Ask him to paraphrase or comment.

2. Vocabulary check:

What does “non-alignment” mean?

Can you explain “energy crisis” in your own words?

3. Watch video (~5 minutes)

Pause at interesting segments and ask:
“What did you notice?”
“Why is fertilizer important for Brazil’s farmers?”

4. Discussion prompts (with connectors):

“Brazil remains neutral; however, we’re still economically impacted because…”

“This creates inflation, and as a result…”

5. Opinion practice:

“Therefore, do you think Brazil should diversify suppliers?”

“Even though the war is far away, we still feel it here—on the other hand, what else could be done?”

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Brazil's Economy: Caught in the Crossfire of Global Conflict

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🇧🇷 Class Plan: The Impact of War in the World and in Brazil

Level: Advanced

Length: 60–75 minutes

Format: Conversation-driven

Focus: Global conflicts and consequences; fluency using phrasal verbs and natural linking expressions

🎯

Objectives

Encourage natural speech while discussing global issues.

Practice phrasal verbs in context.

Use conversational chunks to express contrast, addition, and conclusion.

Explore how war affects Brazil economically, socially, and politically.

🧠 1. Warm-up (10 mins)

“What have you been hearing or reading about global events lately?”

“Do you think Brazil is influenced by global tensions or wars? In what ways?”

“When people talk about war, what do they usually focus on?”

Encourage spontaneous speech. Note down anything that can be revisited later (vocabulary, errors, good phrases).

🗣️ 2. Useful Phrasal Verbs (10–15 mins)

Instead of explaining directly, use guided questions:

Introduce informally during conversation:

🔥 Break out

When a conflict or violent situation suddenly starts, often after growing tension.

“The war broke out unexpectedly after weeks of diplomatic failure.”

🤝 Step in

When a country or leader decides to get involved in a situation to help solve it or stop it from getting worse.

“The UN had to step in to prevent the violence from escalating.”

🎯 Carry out

To perform or complete an action, mission, or plan—often used with military or political actions.

“The army carried out a peacekeeping mission in the region.”

🚫 Cut off

To stop giving or allowing access to something like supplies, services, or communication.

“The country was cut off from international aid due to sanctions.”

✋ Hold back

To decide not to take action even when you could—usually to avoid worsening a situation.

“They wanted to intervene, but chose to hold back and observe first.”

🧩 Fall apart

When a system, government, or relationship becomes weak and eventually collapses or stops functioning.

“After years of corruption and crisis, the regime began to fall apart.”

📢 Speak out

To publicly express a strong opinion, especially against something wrong or unjust.

“Several leaders spoke out against the attacks on civilians.”

⬇️ Back down

To retreat or withdraw from a position, demand, or conflict, often due to pressure or opposition.

“The country backed down after facing strong international criticism.”

Prompt with questions like:

“Can you imagine a situation where a country decides to step in?”

“What happens when diplomacy falls apart?”

Let your student come up with examples or relate to Brazil.

Key Vocabulary (10–15 mins)

Geopolitics

Global politics between countries.

Sanctions

Economic or political penalties.

Military intervention

When one country enters another with its army.

Displacement

When people are forced to leave their homes.

Propaganda

Biased information used to influence opinions.

Alliances

Agreements between countries to support each other.

Neutrality

When a country does not take sides in a conflict.

Ripple effects

Small events that lead to big consequences.

➡️ Ask:

Which of these is most relevant for Brazil right now?

Can you explain one using your own words?

🔗 3. Chunks for Argumentation (instead of conjunctions) – 15 mins

Encourage the use of natural linking chunks to structure opinions clearly. Say them aloud and ask your student to complete ideas using them.

To add ideas:

What’s more,

On top of that,

Another thing is that…

Let’s not forget that…

To show contrast:

That said,

At the same time,

Still,

Even so,

To conclude or express effect:

That’s why…

So in the end…

This just goes to show that…

All things considered…

Mini Practice:

Give a few sentence starters, such as:

“Brazil tries to stay neutral. That said,…”

“War causes damage to the economy. On top of that,…”

“Many Brazilians don’t follow international news. Still,…”

🌍 4. Discussion: Global Conflicts and Brazil (20–25 mins)

Let your student pick 1–2 questions to start. Build follow-ups as the conversation develops.

Sample questions:

1. Do you think war in Europe or the Middle East really affects Brazil? How?

2. What are the ripple effects of global instability on Brazilian society or economy?

3. In your opinion, how should Brazil position itself globally — neutral, active, passive?

4. Is Brazilian media giving enough attention to global conflicts?

5. What role do you think Brazil could play in peacebuilding or diplomacy?

Keep the atmosphere reflective but allow space for strong opinions.

💡 While the student speaks, gently suggest ways to incorporate phrasal verbs and linking chunks. Echo good usage.

🔄 5. Mini Debate (Optional – 10 mins)

Debate Prompt:

“Brazil should take a stronger stance in international conflicts.”

--> Brazil should take a stronger neutral position, searching for alternetives to force a better conversation with the other coutries. On top of that, Brazil could be more present at this war, representing a netrual position with a minister goin to Israel and trying a dialogue.

At the same time, it's important to alarm the brazilians about how cant this war impact in their lives, let's not forget the diesel price can impact directly in people's live's.

All this consiedered, the peace as the unique way has to be the proposit of the Government, not taking the problem to him, but understanding how important is this for the world.

Let your student take a position and defend it. Midway, you can suggest switching sides if they enjoy a challenge. Encourage strong openings and natural connectors like “Look at it this way,” or “That might be true, but…”

🧘‍♂️ 6. Cool-down & Reflection (5 mins)

Ask reflective wrap-up questions:

“Which word or phrase today felt most useful or new to you?”

“Has your opinion on Brazil’s role in the world changed in any way after today’s talk?”

Optional quick check:

“Can you give me one phrasal verb we used today and create a new sentence with it?”

✅ Optional Homework (speaking-based)

Task:

Ask your student to find a 5–10 minute news piece (audio or video) about Brazil’s relationship with another country — can be economic, political, or environmental.

For the next class:

Summarize the event orally

Give their opinion using at least 3 phrasal verbs and some linking chunks.

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BBC Learning English - Learning English from the News / Human consciousness: Where is it in the brain?

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A large study puts two leading theories to the test

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🎬 1. Film Setup & Context

Introduce Straw briefly:

The story follows Janiyah, a Black single mother overwhelmed by financial hardship, grief, and eventual trauma—culminating in a symbolic “last straw” moment.

The film tackles structural issues such as systemic neglect, mental health, crisis, and marginalization. theguardian.com+3medium.com+3indiatimes.com+3

STRUGGLES - DIFFICULTIES-

Class prompt: Why do you think the film is titled “Straw”? What do you imagine is the "last straw" in Janiyah's experience?

✍️ 2. Writing Practice with Connectors & Fillers

Give them a short paragraph prompt and ask them to expand it using connectors like however, moreover, consequently, and fillers for clarification:

Prompt version (basic):
“Janiyah goes to the bank because she has no ID. Then she’s mistaken for robbing it and it becomes a hostage situation.”

Challenge version (to expand):
“Janiyah’s day begins with mounting pressure—first, she is denied access to her daughter due to childcare issues. Consequently, she loses her job, and furthermore, her landlord issues an eviction notice. As a result, she heads to the bank without proper identification. Suddenly, things escalate into a crisis.”

Ask the student to expand, add feelings, balance clauses, and use linking words:

Nevertheless, despite, in addition, subsequently, notably, thus, as a result, for instance, on the other hand...

🧠 3. Discussion & Writing Prompts

Encourage deeper reflection and more formal writing style:

1. Exploration:
“Discuss how the film depicts systemic injustice and mental health struggles. Use furthermore or moreover to add supporting ideas.”

2. Compare:
“Compare Straw to The Color Purple. Similarly, both address racial trauma, yet they differ in focus—whereas one deals with historical bondage, the other addresses modern economic hardship.”

3. Reaction:
“Write your reaction: On one hand, Janiyah’s confrontation reflects broader societal failure. On the other hand, it might be argued that the film's portrayal risks melodrama. Nevertheless, her story sparks necessary awareness.”

📱 4. Integrating Social Media

Use Tweets or news posts to illustrate public reactions:

News response: “Audiences have praised the film for its heart‑wrenching storyline and an unexpected, 'insane' plot twist.” people.comindiatimes.com

Critical perspective: “Critics argue the film is over‑the‑top and overly dramatized.” refinery29.com+12decider.com+12youtube.com+12

Prompt:
“Analyze these reactions. In short, what do public acclaim and critical skepticism reveal about how we receive racially focused drama?”

📝 5. Classroom Activity

Display film screenshot(s) from the carousel.

Have the student compose a summary paragraph (60–80 words) integrating 2–3 connectors and 1 filler sentence.

Then write a reaction paragraph (another 60–80 words) discussing how Straw made them feel and why it matters socially.

✅ 6. Polishing Writing Style

Wrap up by reviewing:

Polite tone: Avoid blaming; say “The film suggests…” not “The film shows…”

Clarity: Keep sentences direct and smooth.

Connectors: Use them to structure argument.

Fillers: “In fact, …”, “Essentially, …”, “That said, …” for natural expression.

Objectivity: Balance praise and critique.

🚀 Take-home Assignment

Ask the student to write an op-ed-style short essay (200–250 words):

Title idea: “Why Straw Matters in situations that we live nowadays, can you write about the limits and how to hold guards? a how a person can suffer with a lot of struggles through society.

-> Everybody has a limit. Firstly, to talk about this idea, is important to understand that everybody can break down. Living in a society of pressure, it make you feel humilhated an overhelmed can make anyone feel worn-down and collapse.

Suffer a lot ot struggles and stay in a position that seems didn't have solution is an invite to go crazy and make something even wrong.

In fact, everybody needs assistance, and hold your own guards can be impossible in some cases.

Intro with hook and thesis

Body: examples from film using connectors

Conclusion: significance for broader social awareness

Emphasize good writing conventions, strong cohesion, and respectful language.

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‘Straw’ ending explained: Here’s what really happened to Janiyah’s daughter in Tyler Perry’s latest movie

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Tyler Perry’s new psychological crime drama ‘Straw’ stars Taraji P. Henson as a single mother pushed beyond her limit. Let’s unpack the Netflix movie’s tense and unpredictable twist ending.

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✍️ Writing Task: Reflective Essay on The Color Purple

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✍️ Writing Task: Reflective Essay on The Color Purple

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🎯 Objective

Write a thoughtful, structured essay (250–350 words) that explores how The Color Purple portrays race, gender, power, and identity — and how those themes still resonate today.

📌 Prompt

Choose one of the following prompts for your essay:

1. "Finding One’s Voice":
How does Celie’s journey toward self-worth and empowerment inspire reflection on the power of voice and identity?
In your opinion, what helps a person ‘find their voice’ in today’s world?

2. "Intersectionality and Oppression":
In what ways does the film show how racism, sexism, and poverty affect Black women differently from others?
Can you relate these issues to any current events or social movements?

3. "Sisterhood and Liberation":
How do relationships between women in the film help them survive and grow?
What does this say about the role of community and support among marginalized people today?

4. "Redemption and Masculinity":
Analyze the transformation of Mister or Harpo.
Do you think redemption is always possible? What does it take for someone to truly change?

🧠 Instructions

Begin with a clear introduction that states your main idea.

Use at least one scene from the film to support your points.

Reflect on connections between the film and the real world.

End with a strong conclusion that shares your personal takeaway from the story.

💡 Language Goals

Use transition words (however, moreover, for example, in contrast…).

Include at least 2–3 complex sentences using relative clauses, conditionals, or passive voice.

Try to include strong opinion phrases:
I believe that… / It seems clear that… / One could argue…

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🎬 Recommended Scenes for Discussion

1. Sofia's Defiance ("Hell No" Scene)
This scene showcases Sofia's strength as she confronts societal expectations and racism.
Watch on YouTube

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The Color Purple (3/6) Movie CLIP - Hell No (1985) HD

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🎬

The Color Purple

– Discussion Guide (for an Advanced English Class)

✨ Class Goals

Engage in a critical discussion about race, gender, power, and identity.

Analyze key scenes and messages in The Color Purple (1985 film or 2023 musical film).

Connect the movie’s historical context with contemporary issues in Black communities.

🧩 Key Themes to Explore

1.

Multiple Oppressions: Racism, Sexism & Poverty

How do these forces shape Celie’s life?

In what ways are Black women uniquely impacted in the story?

What are some examples of intersectionality in the film?

2.

Sisterhood & Empowerment

How do female characters like Shug Avery and Sofia empower each other?

How does the relationship between women shift power dynamics?

3.

Black Masculinity and Redemption

How are male characters like Mister and Harpo portrayed?

What do you think about Mister’s transformation? Is it believable or problematic?

4.

Voice, Identity & Self-Worth

What is the role of letter-writing in Celie’s journey?

When does Celie truly begin to “find her voice”? What leads to that moment?

5.

Faith, Spirituality, and Liberation

How is God or spirituality depicted throughout the film?

What changes in Celie’s view of religion and faith?

🎯 Key Scenes for Close Discussion

1. Celie and Nettie’s Separation

How does this scene highlight power, vulnerability, and injustice?

What does this separation symbolize for Black families?

3. Shug Avery’s Arrival

What impact does Shug have on Celie’s sense of self?

Discuss the complexity of Shug’s role — both liberating and flawed.

5. The Confrontation at the Dinner Table

How does Celie claim power in this scene?

What’s the emotional and symbolic weight of this confrontation?

7. The Reunion with Nettie

What emotions does this reunion evoke?

What does it say about hope and resilience?

🔥 Broader Discussion Questions

What messages in The Color Purple still resonate with Black communities today?

What lessons can we draw about resilience, community, and justice?

In your opinion, how does the film handle the portrayal of Black men and masculinity?

What do you think Alice Walker and the filmmakers want us to take away from Celie’s journey?

💜

The Color Purple

– Short Summary

The Color Purple is a deeply moving story of pain, resilience, and transformation. Set in the early 1900s American South, it follows Celie, a young Black woman who is separated from her sister Nettie and forced into an abusive marriage. Silenced and mistreated for most of her life, Celie’s spirit is nearly broken — until she meets Shug Avery, a bold, free-spirited singer who helps her rediscover her worth.

Through heartbreak, loss, and betrayal, Celie slowly finds her voice. She learns to stand up for herself, to love without shame, and to claim her identity as a full, powerful human being. The story also centers the strength of Black sisterhood — particularly in Celie’s deep bond with Nettie, and her friendship with the fierce and outspoken Sofia, who fights back against oppression.

Ultimately, The Color Purple is a story of liberation — not just from external cruelty, but from internalized shame and silence. It celebrates the power of love, connection, and self-discovery in the face of immense adversity. The film leaves a lasting message: that every person, no matter how voiceless they seem, deserves to be heard and seen.

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The Color Purple (1985) | Sisters Separated | Warner Bros. Entertainment

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🔐

Lesson Plan: The Price of Privacy

Level: Upper-Intermediate (strong)

Time: 60–75 minutes

🎯

Objectives

:

Use advanced vocabulary related to technology, privacy, surveillance, and ethics

Practice opinion-sharing, defending ideas, and agreeing/disagreeing

Develop fluency and critical thinking through structured discussion

🧠

Warm-up

(10 min)

💬 Questions:

“What apps do you use daily that track your activity or location?”

“Would you give up some privacy for comfort or speed?”

“Do you read the terms and conditions before accepting them?”

🗣️

Key Vocabulary in class content

highlight:

Dubious – If something is dubious, it means you're not sure whether it's true or trustworthy.
Example: I’m dubious about his explanation—it doesn’t sound right.

Hijacked – This means something was taken over by force, often used for vehicles or ideas.
Example: The plane was hijacked by armed men.
Or: The conversation was hijacked by someone with a different agenda.

Engineer of – This refers to someone who plans or creates something complex.
Example: She was the engineer of the company’s success.

Bamboozled – This is an informal word meaning tricked or confused.
Example: I was bamboozled by the salesman into buying something I didn’t need.

Trade-off – This is when you give up one thing in order to get another.
Example: There’s a trade-off between working long hours and having free time.

Retrieve – To retrieve means to get something back.
Example: He retrieved the file from the trash on his computer.

Divulge – This means to reveal something private or secret.
Example: She refused to divulge the details of the conversation.

Residual data – This refers to leftover information that remains after a process is complete.
Example: Even after deleting the app, residual data stayed on the phone.

Harbored – If you harbored something, you kept it hidden, often feelings or people.
Example: He harbored resentment for years.
Or: She harbored a fugitive in her home.

Surplus – This means more than what is needed.
Example: We had a surplus of food after the party.

Persuade – To persuade means to convince someone to do or believe something.
Example: He persuaded me to try the new restaurant

Introduce and discuss the following terms with definitions/examples:

Data mining

Surveillance capitalism

Facial recognition

Consent

Algorithm bias

Digital footprint

Data breach

Opt-in vs opt-out

Targeted advertising

💡 Mini-task: Match the word to its definition or create a sentence with each term.

📺

Main Input: Video

(10 min)

🎥 Suggested Video:

“Your Data is Showing” – The New York Times (2022)

📍 Watch on YouTube (6:56 min)

💬 Post-Viewing Questions:

What surprised you in the video?

How easy is it to track someone’s digital life?

Do you feel comfortable with how companies use your data?

📖

Alternative/Additional Reading

(optional)

📰 Article:

“The Trade-Off Between Privacy and Convenience” – Harvard Business Review

📍 Read here

💬 Suggested questions:

What examples of trade-offs are mentioned?

Do you agree with the idea that most people “say they care about privacy” but don’t act accordingly?

How does this apply to your own habits?

🔍

Discussion Questions

(15–20 min)

Use these to guide a rich conversation:

1. Should privacy be a basic right in the digital age?

2. Would you prefer a highly personalized but data-driven world or a private but less convenient one?

3. Should governments limit how much data companies collect?

4. Is it ethical for smart devices to listen in, even if it helps us?

5. How do you feel about surveillance in public spaces for safety?

📘

Language Focus – Opinion & Agreement Structures

(10 min)

Teach/review expressions:

“As far as I’m concerned…”

“The way I see it…”

“One could argue that…”

“That’s a valid point, but…”

“I totally see your point, although…”

“Let me play devil’s advocate for a moment…”

📝 Mini-task: Student reformulates their opinions using these phrases.

🏁

Wrap-Up / Homework Suggestion

Speaking Prompt:

🎤 Prepare a 2-minute opinion talk: “Is there a fair balance between privacy and convenience in today’s world?”

Writing Prompt:

📝 Write a short argumentative paragraph (150 words):

“Governments should strictly regulate how tech companies collect and use our personal data. Do you agree?”

Governments should strictly regulate how tech companies collect and use our personal data. Privacy is a basic human right, and the Government has the guty to protect this right.

Nowadays, tech companies collect too much data without transparency, which can already be considered an invasion of privacy. Furthermore, the issue has escalated, as these companies not only sell our data but also exploit it to influence our purchasing decisions. The problem stars when people even know how their data is used, and didn't have anything to do at this stage.

In 2024, Netshoes suffered a data breach that exposed the information of around 38 million users, including CPF numbers and addresses. This is not the first data breach incident at Netshoes. In 2017, half a million customer records were exposed, and that number rose to 2.5 million in 2018. Until now, no action has been taken against Netshoes or anyone involved in the data breach.

In conclusion, without strict oversight, tech companies will continue to prioritize profit over privacy, putting millions at risk. Regulation is no longer optional, it's a necessity.

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Shoshana Zuboff on surveillance capitalism | VPRO Documentary

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🧠

“Rethinking Urban Life – The Housing Crisis”

🎯 Objectives:

Develop critical thinking through discussion and problem-solving

Expand topic-specific vocabulary (urban life, housing, social issues)

Practice writing skills through structured opinion writing

Engage in collaborative and independent thinking

🕒

Lesson Breakdown (90 minutes)

🔹

1. Warm-Up Discussion (10 min)

Topic: “What makes a city livable?”

Ask: “What do you need to feel comfortable and happy where you live?”

Use images or headlines (e.g., housing protests in Spain) to spark ideas.

💬 Vocabulary focus: infrastructure, affordability, accessibility, gentrification, public services

🔹

2. Vocabulary Expansion (15 min)

–

Urban Life & Housing

Let’s look at some key vocabulary that will help us talk about housing problems in big cities:

Gentrification: This is when poorer neighborhoods become more attractive to wealthier people, often leading to rising rents and pushing out the original residents. For example, “Many people are worried about gentrification in their city because long-time residents can no longer afford to live there.”

Overcrowding: This happens when too many people live in a small space. It’s common in areas where housing is expensive and people can’t afford larger homes. You might say, “Overcrowding in the city has made public transport and hospitals very stressful.”

Rent control: This is a law that limits how much landlords can charge for rent. It’s meant to keep housing affordable. For example, “Some cities use rent control to help low-income families stay in their homes.”

Displacement: When people are forced to leave their homes, often because of rising prices, construction, or gentrification. For example, “The new luxury buildings caused displacement in the neighborhood.”

Urban planning: This refers to how cities are designed and organized—like where to build homes, parks, schools, and transportation. A sentence might be, “Good urban planning can help reduce traffic and improve access to green spaces.”

💡 Activity Tip:

After reading each word and example aloud, ask your student:

“Can you think of an example from your city or country?”

“Which of these problems do you think is the most serious?”

🔹 3. Critical Thinking & Problem Solving (25 min)

Activity: City Council Challenge

You are part of a city council in a major European city facing a housing crisis.

Task:

• Work through the following problem:

“Tourism has boosted the economy but made housing unaffordable for locals. How would you balance tourism and the rights of residents?”

🧩 Use these guiding questions:

• Should Airbnb be limited? Why?

• What laws could protect local residents?

• Is tourism always good for cities?

➡️ Present your city plan in 3 minutes. Teacher gives feedback on structure, clarity, and persuasiveness.

⸻

🔹 4. Writing Task (30 min)

Prompt:

“Some people believe that housing is a human right and should not be left to the free market. Do you agree or disagree? Support your opinion with examples.”

Structure:

1. Introduction with thesis

2. Two body paragraphs (1 argument per paragraph)

3. Counterargument + rebuttal

4. Conclusion

Focus: Logical flow, vocabulary from the lesson, linking devices (however, although, moreover)

✍️ Tip: Provide a sentence starter guide if needed:

• “It is widely believed that…”

• “One argument in favor of…”

• “However, critics argue that…”

For sure, I agree that housing is a basic human right. Everybody deserves a place to call "home". Housing is essential to living a good life and meeting basic needs.

Although housing is a basic need, many governments still rely on market forces to regulate it.

Of course, it is normal that tourism influences changes in rent prices. However, issues like gentrification, overcrowding and and displacement are serious social problems that can violate a basic human right as a result of the state's omission.

It is widely believed that market can regulate itself and find the balance for everybody in any sector. Nonetheless, the reality is very different.

An organized urban plan is crucial to guarantee a balance between tourism and the rights of residents, preparing the city to welcome tourists without violating housing of those in need. Furthermore, applying rent control as a measure to prevent abuse, seems necessary to avoid displacement.

In conclusion, a basic human right cannot be infringed upon because of government's omission. Moreover, it is fundamental to guarantee free market, provided that this practice respects housing as a basic human right.

⸻

🔹 5. Wrap-Up and Reflection (10 min)

• Share final thoughts

• Vocabulary review: quick quiz or use new words in spontaneous sentences

• Feedback on writing (if there’s time) or assign revision as homework

⸻

📚 Optional Homework:

• Revise your essay based on peer or teacher feedback

• Interview a friend/family member about their view on housing and summarize their opinion in English

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Spain: Canary Islands Residents Protest Against Mass Tourism, Call for Limits | Spotlight | N18G

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BBC Learning English - Phrasal verbs with Georgie / Phrasal verbs for health and fitness

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Don’t give up your dreams of learning English!

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Protein Craze or Clever Marketing?

🥞🍿💪

Level

: AdvanceD

Duration

: 60 minutes

Skills

: Reading 📖 | Speaking 🗣️ | Vocabulary 🧠 | Critical Thinking 🤔

Materials

: Article excerpt 📄 | Vocabulary handout 📘 | Discussion prompts 💬

1. Warm-Up – Trend Spotting

(10 min) 🔍

Activity: Discuss recent health or fitness trends.

Ask:

What health trends are popular on social media? 📱

Have you ever tried “high-protein” products? 🍫

Do you follow celebrity health advice? ⭐

Encourage phrases like:

“In my opinion…” “It seems like…” “I’ve noticed that…” 💬

2. Vocabulary Focus – Protein Power Words

(15 min) 📚💥

Target Vocabulary:

High-protein 💪

Staples (food staples) 🍞

Unveiled 🎉

Marketing gimmick 🎭

Fuel your day ⛽

Protein-rich 🥣

Worth the extra cost 💸

Activity:

Match words to definitions + create your own sentence ✍️

Example:

Unveiled – revealed or introduced something publicly.

“The company unveiled a new protein drink last month.”

3. Reading Comprehension

(10 min) 📖

Task: Read the excerpt or summarized version.

Questions:

What products are mentioned? 🍕

What issue is the article questioning? ❓

--> Whole Food, Whey Protein, Popcorn, Chicken breast an dpulses, Cereal bar, milk shake protein.

--> The article cites the marketing movement involving the protein slogan in all kind of food, as a wonderfull solution and a new eating culture. However, the article shows us the dark side of this industry, demonstrating how people can eat protein with whole foods and daily food. Moreover, it show us how some snacks are manipulated with water to have more protein concentration in their labels. After all, what is the principal theme of the article is a marketing gimmick connected with influencers and presented to consumers using the protein label.

4. Discussion – Is It Worth It?

(20 min) 🗣️🤔

Discussion Prompts (pairs or groups):

Are protein-packed versions of snacks necessary? 🍫✅❌

Do you think it’s smart marketing or manipulation? 🎯🧠

Should celebrities influence health choices? 👩‍⚕️⭐

Is this a helpful or harmful trend? ❤️⚠️

Encourage connectors:

“Although,” “Despite,” “On the other hand,” “It could be argued that…” 🔗

5. Optional Extension – Write It Out

✍️📰

Homework:

Write a mini-article (150–200 words):

“Is the Protein Craze Helping or Harming Us?”

Use at least 5 new vocabulary words from the lesson! ✅✅✅✅✅

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Khloe Kardashian popcorn: Are protein snacks useful and worth it?

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A rising number of food products contain claims about being a source of protein or being rich in it.

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Lesson Plan: The Fitness Revolution — a modern obsession?

Level: Advanced

Focus: Speaking, Vocabulary, Critical Thinking

Optional Grammar: Modals for advice & obligation, Conditionals

Length: 60–75 min

1. Warm-Up 🧠🗣️

Discuss:

Do you think working out has become a trend nowadays? Why?

How often do you work out? What’s your motivation?

Is working out more about health or appearance today?

2. Key Vocabulary 💬

Introduce and discuss the following terms:

Wellness culture

Gym rat

Clean eating

Cheat day

Fad diets

Body image pressure

Overtraining

Supplements

Discipline vs obsession

Sustainable habits

➡️ Ask the student to create sentences or give examples with each word.

3. Short Reading Activity 📖

Title: “Chasing the Perfect Body: When Health Turns Harmful”

Text:

In today’s fitness-focused world, more people than ever are hitting the gym, eating clean, and sharing their progress online. While the shift toward healthier lifestyles is a positive change, experts warn of a darker side. Some individuals fall into obsessive patterns — extreme diets, constant workouts, and anxiety over their appearance. The pressure to look “perfect” on social media can lead to burnout, disordered eating, and even depression.

Health professionals emphasize the importance of balance. A sustainable fitness journey should support both physical and mental well-being, not harm them.

Comprehension Questions:

1. What are the positive aspects of the fitness trend mentioned?

2. What are some negative effects people may experience?

3. Do you agree that social media plays a big role in this? Why or why not?

4. What advice would you give to someone who is starting their fitness journey?

4. Speaking Practice – Pros & Cons ⚖️

Part A – The Good Side:

What are the benefits of regular exercise?

How has the idea of health changed in recent years?

Do you think people are more educated about wellness?

Part B – The Bad Side:

What are the risks of taking fitness too far?

Can gym culture be toxic?

How can we protect ourselves from unhealthy expectations?

5. Grammar in Context ✍️

(Optional)

Use of modals & conditionals:

People should listen to their bodies.

You mustn’t skip meals to lose weight.

If someone trains too hard, they might get injured.

If I had followed that extreme diet, I would have felt terrible.

6. Agree or Disagree Game ✅❌

Present the statements below and ask the student to explain their opinion:

“The gym has become a status symbol.”

--> For sure. It is impossible, nowadays, to do not say the gym become a status simbol with so many marketing and influencers on digital midias. However, the growth of this moviment are not only about this.

“Fad diets are dangerous and unnecessary.”

--> Yes. This kind of magical diets are unnecessary and unhealthy for everyone. Unfortunaly, the principal person who are commited by this ideas are who have more necessity to lose weight and are fragile by fear or shame.

“Everyone should follow a strict workout routine.”

--> I don't believe everybody needs a "strict workout routine", for some persons works better be more flexible and face it in a recreational way.

“Social media motivates more than it harms.”

--> This balance are difficult to affirm. But for me it's true the growth of persons going to the gym and carry with themselfs after pandemic and the fitness boom on social media. Nevertheless, the comparison with others is the central part of the problem in social media.

7. Final Reflection ✨

Would you say the fitness revolution is more positive or negative?

What’s your personal approach to health and fitness?

How can someone strike the right balance between motivation and pressure?

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What’s the most transformative thing that you can do for your brain today? Exercise! says neuroscientist Wendy Suzuki. Get inspired to go to the gym as Suzuki discusses the science of how working out boosts your mood and memory -- and protects your brain against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

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🏘️ Topic: The Housing Crisis & Social Inequality

Level: Upper-Intermediate to Advanced

Time: 75–90 minutes

Focus: Speaking, Reading, Vocabulary, Grammar (Conjunctions)

🧠 Warm-Up Discussion

Ask your student:

How would you define “housing as a human right”?

In what ways is housing connected to social inequality?

What social groups are most affected by housing instability in your country?

Should the government intervene in the housing market? Why or why not?

🧾 Key Vocabulary

Introduce these words and expressions. Ask the student to explain them or use them in a sentence:

Precarious housing – unstable or insecure living conditions

Socioeconomic disparity – differences in income, education, and opportunity

Urban displacement – when people are forced to leave their neighborhoods due to rising costs

Structural inequality – systemic unfairness built into institutions

Speculative real estate – buying property to make money, not to live in

Rent-burdened – spending too much of your income on rent (usually over 30%)

📖 Reading Input (Adapted from Real Articles)

“Cities Divided: The Growing Chasm in Urban Housing”

In global cities from London to São Paulo, the housing crisis is not merely a shortage of homes — it’s a reflection of systemic inequality. Whereas luxury condominiums rise in central districts, marginalized communities are pushed to the outskirts.

The root causes are complex. While some point to population growth, others highlight speculative real estate investment that drives up prices. Moreover, wages have stagnated even though the cost of living has surged.

In Los Angeles, over 75,000 people experience homelessness. Unless governments adopt bold, long-term strategies, the crisis will worsen.

Policy responses differ: some governments offer tax breaks to developers, whereas others emphasize rent control and public housing. Nevertheless, critics argue these approaches often prioritize short-term optics over systemic change.

🔗 Grammar Focus: Conjunctions

Ask your student to identify conjunctions in the reading and explain the relationship they express.

Examples from the text:

Whereas – contrast

While – contrast

Even though – concession

Unless – condition

Nevertheless – contrast / concession

Moreover – addition

but = however/ even though/ nevertheless/ unless/ while

so = to sum up/ to make the story short/ finally

and = moreover/ besides that

Practice – Complete or transform the following sentences using conjunctions:

1. Property prices rose significantly, while/whereas/even though incomes remained static.

2. Unless some cities focus on affordable housing, others rely on market forces.

3. Governments introduced subsidies. nevertheless, the problem persisted.

4. We won’t see real change __moreover_ systemic reforms are enacted.

5. Many people remain homeless _even though__ cities report economic growth.

🗣️ Discussion Prompts

Encourage detailed answers and examples. Use follow-up questions like “Why?” or “Can you give an example?”

In what ways do housing policies reflect broader social values?

--> Housing policies are a reflection of the social values of a society. When the focus is on providing affordable and decent housing for everyone, it shows a value of equality. However, when policies prioritize the real estate market as a way to make profit, it often means that money is valued more than people's basic needs.

How does urban planning contribute to inequality?

--> Urban planning can contribute to inequality in several ways. For example, zoning laws may segregate communities by income or race, limiting access to resources and opportunities. Gentrification is another factor, where urban projects increase property values and force low-income residents to move away.

What’s the role of private companies in solving the crisis?

--> Private companies can be very important solving the housing crisis, especially when they work together with the government. Moreover, they can invest in social housing and use new technologies to build affordable homes.

Should housing be a public good or a commodity?

--> Housing is a basic human right, and it should be treated as a public good. Whereas facing housing like a commodity and only for profit can increase social inequality and iprove housing crises.

Are there housing initiatives in your country that you think are working?

--> Yes, the “Minha Casa, Minha Vida” program is one of the most important housing initiatives in Brazil.

It has helped millions of Brazilians get access to housing.

highlight:

settle down

settlement

settle members

✍️ Optional Homework – Opinion Writing

Prompt (150–200 words):

To what extent should the government be responsible for ensuring equal access to housing? Use at least four different conjunctions to connect your ideas clearly.

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Advanced Lesson Plan: Universal Basic Income (UBI) – Solution or Risk?

Skill focus: Speaking, Writing, Vocabulary

Level: Advanced

Topic type: Controversial / Global issue

1️⃣ Warm-up – Let’s Talk!

Start with some thought-provoking questions to activate prior knowledge and spark curiosity:

Have you heard of Universal Basic Income (UBI)? What is it?

Do you think people should receive money from the government with no conditions?

How would your life change if you received a monthly income from the state?

Encourage elaboration and examples from real life or recent news about minimun wage ( basic income)

2️⃣ Vocabulary Boost – Learn & Use!

Introduce and discuss the following key vocabulary related to UBI. Ask the student to categorize them into “pro” and “con” arguments or to use them in example sentences.

Means-tested – Financial support based on a person’s income or situation.

Welfare state – A system where the government provides many services to ensure citizens’ well-being.

Safety net – Government programs that protect people from extreme poverty or sudden hardship.

Pilot program – A small-scale experiment to test a new idea or policy.

Fiscal policy – Government management of taxes and public spending.

Dependency culture – A situation in which people rely too heavily on government help.

Economic inequality – The unequal distribution of income and wealth.

Automation – Technology or machines replacing human jobs.

Livable income – The minimum amount of money needed to meet basic needs.

Universal access – Available to all people, without restrictions or qualifications.

3️⃣ (Optional) Input – Watch

A short video on Finland’s UBI experiment

WRITE FOOTNOTES:

1. receiving free incomes might be risky for individuals.

2. in brazil the problem might be the education in finances

3. Finland seems to be better educated in terms of finances.

4. the experiment didn´t continue due to the knowledge economy of the country.

4️⃣ Speaking – Debate & Discuss

Debate Prompt:

Should governments implement Universal Basic Income for all citizens?

Assign sides or let the student choose one:

For UBI: It reduces poverty, supports people in uncertain economies, and prepares for job loss due to automation.

Against UBI: It’s expensive, may reduce motivation to work, and could create a culture of dependency.

Useful debate phrases:

“One of the key advantages is…”

“However, a major drawback is…”

“Although some people believe…, I would argue that…”

“From an economic perspective…”

odd jobs= cashiers/ sales/

5️⃣ Writing Task – Time to Reflect

Prompt:

Is Universal Basic Income a practical solution for today’s economic challenges, or is it too risky? Support your opinion with examples.

Instructions:

Write 200–250 words

Use at least 5 vocabulary terms from the lesson

Include a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion

Use linking expressions (e.g. however, in contrast, therefore, furthermore)

--> The idea of a Universal Basic Income as a practical solution to today's economic challenges seems not only like a good idea, but also a necessary action to combat the extreme poverty.

However, it's important to know this measure must have limits and isn't the solution for the main problem, being only a way to guarantee the existential minimum aiming to restore people's dignity.

Universal Basic Income, as a temporary form of support, can be an important tool to combat extreme poverty and give people the oppotunity to be able to find a job or start a business, therefore reorganize their lives. Furthermore, this action could be very important for the economy as a whole, making it move.

Although there are many benefits, all this money could end up being wasted if this measure doesn't come with other actions that really can ensure it is used effectively, such as offering vocational, financial and business courses. Furthermore, it is important to assist people in this journey and to understand the pain and needs of the participants.

In the end, as a safety net, it's important to monitor those who receive this benefit, ensuring that they respect the goals of the program in order to maintain its quality and achieve its purpose.

6️⃣ Grammar Focus – Precision in Argument

Use this opportunity to reinforce grammar structures useful in advanced discussions:

Conditionals:
If everyone received UBI, the job market might change dramatically.

whether you like it or not...

Modals for speculation:
UBI could help reduce inequality, but it might also encourage less productivity.

assumption: must

suggestion = should

Passive voice:
UBI has been tested in various countries with mixed results.

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Did Finland's basic income experiment work? - BBC News

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📢 English

Dear students,

From now on, we will have new policies for Spanish and English classes.
If a class is not cancelled at least 24 hours in advance, it will be charged as part of your current package.
Thank you very much for your understanding and commitment.

Best regards,

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Vocabulary List

Looming
Definition: Something bad that seems likely to happen soon.
Example: A recession is looming, and people are getting worried.

Frenzy
Definition: A state of great excitement, fear, or confusion.
Example: The news caused a frenzy among consumers and experts.

Turmoil
Definition: A state of confusion or disorder.
Example: Political turmoil often affects the economy.

Adjacents (as in government-adjacent sectors)
Definition: Related or close to something, especially in type or connection.
Example: Government-adjacent sectors include companies that work with or depend on government money.

Brusque
Definition: Quick, direct, and often seen as rude or unfriendly.
Example: The policy was applied in a brusque and confusing way.

Calculated
Definition: Planned or thought through in a specific way.
Example: The move seemed calculated but was still confusing to many.

Unfair trade competition
Definition: When companies or countries trade in a way that is seen as dishonest or harmful to others.
Example: Some say China creates unfair trade competition by lowering prices too much.

Stability
Definition: Being steady or not changing quickly.
Example: Tariffs might hurt the stability of the market.

Everyday people
Definition: Regular people who are not part of the government or big companies.
Example: Everyday people are feeling unsure about the economy.

Car parts
Definition: The pieces that make up a car, like engines or wheels.
Example: Tariffs on car parts can raise the price of vehicles.

Automobiles
Definition: Cars and other vehicles.
Example: The U.S. added tariffs on imported automobiles.

Dot-com recession
Definition: An economic slowdown that happened around the year 2000, when many internet companies failed.
Example: The dot-com recession hurt many tech companies.

Great Recession
Definition: A major global economic crisis from 2007 to 2009.
Example: The Great Recession caused millions to lose jobs.

Economic downturn
Definition: A period when the economy grows more slowly or shrinks.
Example: COVID-19 caused a big economic downturn worldwide.

Declines (noun)
Definition: Drops or decreases in numbers or strength.
Example: The economy saw sharp declines in 2008.

Lasts (verb)
Definition: To continue for a certain amount of time.
Example: A recession usually lasts for months, but a depression lasts longer.

Decade
Definition: A period of ten years.
Example: The Great Depression lasted for almost a decade.

Avoid
Definition: To stop something from happening.
Example: The government is trying to avoid a recession.

Measures (noun)
Definition: Actions or steps taken to fix or change something.
Example: New economic measures were introduced to support growth.

Shutting down (immigration)
Definition: Stopping or closing completely.
Example: The country is shutting down immigration as part of its new policy.

Index
Definition: A number that shows changes in the economy or other areas.
Example: The consumer confidence index dropped by 7 points.

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1. Warm-up Discussion (10 minutes)

Begin with questions to activate prior knowledge and stimulate critical thinking:

What are tariffs, and what purposes do they serve in international trade?

Can you think of historical instances where tariffs significantly impacted a country’s economy?

What might be some immediate and long-term effects of imposing tariffs on imported goods?

2. Reading Activity (15 minutes)

Selected Article for Analysis:

Is a Recession Looming? What to Expect from Trump’s Tariffs

Published by TIME on April 9, 2025.

Key Points from the Article:

Implementation of widespread tariffs has raised concerns about a potential U.S. recession.

Tariffs may lead to increased consumer prices due to higher import costs.

Potential stifling of economic growth and increased instability.

Possible limited job creation in manufacturing due to automation.

Vocabulary to Highlight:

Tariff: A tax imposed on imported goods and services.

Recession: A significant decline in economic activity across the economy.

Inflation: The rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services is rising.

Automation: The use of largely automatic equipment in a system of operation.

Activity: Have the student read the article, identify these terms, and discuss their meanings in context.

3. Comprehension and Critical Thinking Questions (15 minutes)

After reading, engage the student with the following questions:

1. What are the main arguments presented in the article regarding the impact of tariffs on the U.S. economy?
--> The impact of tariffs on the U.S. economy, according to the article is a recession. The article explains how difficult will be for the U.S. to avoid a recession if the tariffs stay at the level that's been announced. The article sopports the exports to other countries and imports into the U.S. from other countries are going to stop because there's higher levels of uncertainty.

2. How might increased tariffs influence consumer behavior and spending?
--> Firstly, the potential effects to the economy impact consumer confidence. With this high tariffs, the employers will have to pass it on to consumers, deacrising economy. According to the article, changes in consumer attitudes may be immediate, with people deciding to not going to take a vacation, deciding they can't afford a new house, and anothers reactions.

3. The article mentions potential job creation in manufacturing due to tariffs. Why might this be limited, according to the text?

--> According to the text, this actions won't will be significant to increase U.S. manufacturing, beacuse it's gonna take years to see a difference. Its a long and a big process.

4. Discuss the balance between protecting domestic industries and the potential negative effects on consumers.
--> It's undeniable the importance of a country protect it own domestic industries to protect the economy and industries. On the other hand, the way U.S. does that is excessive, trying to change a process putting tarrifs in more than 180 countries. That change creates a scenario of conflict, and competition to which the US did not expect the Chinese response.

4. Writing Assignment: Argumentative Essay (30 minutes)

Prompt:

Evaluate the effectiveness of imposing tariffs as a strategy to strengthen the domestic economy. Consider both the potential benefits and drawbacks, and support your argument with evidence from the article and additional sources if available.

Essay Structure:

1. Introduction

Introduce the concept of tariffs and their intended purpose.

Present a clear thesis statement outlining your position on their effectiveness.

2. Body Paragraphs

Paragraph 1: Discuss potential benefits of tariffs, such as protecting domestic industries and potential job creation.

Paragraph 2: Examine the drawbacks, including increased consumer prices and potential for economic recession.

Paragraph 3: Analyze the overall impact on the average American citizen, considering both economic and social factors.

3. Conclusion

Summarize the key points made.

Restate your thesis in light of the discussion.

Offer a final thought or recommendation regarding the use of tariffs in economic policy.

Note: Encourage the use of evidence from the reading and, if possible, integration of additional reputable sources to support arguments.

5. Peer Review and Discussion (Optional, 15 minutes)

If in a group setting, have students exchange essays for peer review, focusing on:

Clarity and coherence of arguments.

Use of evidence and examples.

Grammar and vocabulary usage.

Conclude with a class discussion on the various perspectives presented in the essays.

6. Homework/Extension Activity

Assign students to research a recent instance where another country implemented tariffs and analyze the economic outcomes. They should prepare a brief report comparing and contrasting that situation with the U.S. scenario discussed in class.

This lesson plan aims to develop advanced writing skills through critical analysis of current economic policies, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in international trade and domestic economic strategies

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Is a Recession Looming? What to Expect from Trump’s Tariffs

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Turmoil following Trump’s tariffs are sending experts and consumers into a frenzy about a potential recession.

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Understanding Travel Boycotts to the US

Objective: To enhance reading comprehension, discuss the socio-political factors influencing travel decisions, and develop related vocabulary.

1. Warm-Up Discussion:

The Impact of Tariffs and the Post-Trump Environment

Begin with a discussion to activate prior knowledge and set the context for the article.

Discussion Questions:

• How do tariffs imposed by a country affect international relations and global trade?

• In what ways can tariffs influence the perception of a country by foreigners?

• Considering the political climate after President Trump’s tenure, how might international travelers’ views towards the US have changed?

• Can political decisions lead individuals to boycott travel to certain countries? Why or why not?

Background Information:

Recent aggressive tariff policies by the US have led to global economic uncertainties. For instance, the Trump administration’s tariff implementations have caused fluctuations in global markets and strained relations with various countries.

2. Vocabulary Development

Introduce and discuss the following vocabulary words that will appear in the article:

• Boycott: To refuse to buy, use, or participate in something as a form of protest.

• Tariff: A tax imposed by a government on imported or exported goods.

• Perception: The way in which something is regarded, understood, or interpreted.

• Hostile: Unfriendly; antagonistic.

• Sanctuary: A place of refuge or safety.

• Deterrent: Something that discourages or is intended to discourage someone from doing something.

• Diplomatic: Concerning the profession, activity, or skill of managing international relations.

• Repercussions: Unintended consequences occurring after an event or action, especially unwelcome ones.

3. Reading Comprehension

Have the student read the article “The people boycotting travel to the US”. After reading, discuss the following questions:

Comprehension Questions:

1. What are the primary reasons mentioned in the article for individuals choosing to boycott travel to the US?

--> The primary reasons for individuals choosing to boyvott travel to the US are bascally two things: a reaction after Donald Trump issues tarrifs on alies and an immigration crackdown, that increases hostility towards tourists.

2. How have US immigration policies influenced travelers’ decisions? The perception of hostility by the tourists, and people starts to get worry about the border and getting stuck.

3. What specific examples does the article provide of countries or groups affected by US policies?

--> The article provide examples like: border crossings were down by more than 20%, some international properties have seen a bump in traffic, directly attributable to Canadians now spurning the US. The change in travel patterns is already having a tangible effect on the US economy.

4. How do the individuals interviewed in the article express their feelings about traveling to the US? They worry

--> They don't feel safe, they worry about the border, they are avoiding travel to the US.

5. What alternatives are travelers considering instead of visiting the US, according to the article?

--> Travelers are considering Canada, Mexico, South America and Europe, because they feel more welcoming at the moment.

4. Writing Assignment

Essay Prompt:

Reflect on the reasons discussed in the article for boycotting travel to the US. Do you believe that political and economic policies should influence personal travel decisions?

Write a 300-word essay expressing your opinion, supporting your arguments with examples from the article and your own experiences or observations.

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As the list of nations issuing travel warnings to the US grows, some visitors are opting to spurn it entirely. Here's what that could mean for the US and its citizens.
The cold shoulder has been particularly noticeable from the US's northern neighbour, Canada, which sends more than 20 million visitors to the country per year - more than any other nation. In response to Trump's proposed tariffs and repeated threats to annex the nation, former prime minister Justin Trudeau recently urged his fellow Canadians: "Now is the time to choose Canada," adding, "it might mean changing your summer vacation plans to stay here in Canada."

The appeal seems to have caught on, as many infuriated Canadians are now boycotting US holidays. In February, border crossings were down by more than 20%, according to Statistics Canada. The US Travel Association estimates that even a 10% reduction in Canadian visitors could result in $2.1bn in lost spending and 14,000 job losses.

While some Canadians are snubbing the US because of policy changes, others say they simply don't feel as safe as they once did.

"My partner and I decided not to go ahead with our planned vacations to the US this year," said Canadian travel journalist Kate Dingwall. "I worry about the border and getting stuck somehow, especially with how prickly Trump is to Canada. There's just a sense of uneasiness around visiting America at the moment."

Keith Serry, a writer and comedian based in Montreal, Quebec, cancelled five April appearances in New York City (including four shows at the upcoming New York City Fringe festival) due to the tense political situation.

"This decision will, of course, rob me of the opportunity to share my art with many of you in New York I've grown to know and love," he wrote on his Facebook page. "That said, the honest truth is that I just don't feel safe travelling to the States right now. In addition, I feel a powerful disinclination to spending my money in any way that might aid the economy of a hostile state."

In recent months, some Canadians have faced tougher border security than ever before - even those with clean records and valid documents. One woman made international headlines as she was detained by ICE for two weeks in reportedly bleak conditions after her visa was revoked.

"We're a country that prides itself, imperfectly but intentionally, on values like inclusion, equity and human rights. When those values feel out of step with what's happening across the border, it becomes harder to justify participation," said Amar Charles Marouf, a Canadian citizen who works as a curator at the World Economic Forum. "The political climate raises broader questions. What kind of treatment are we normalising? What assumptions are being made about who is welcome and who isn't?"

It's not that Canadians aren't traveling internationally; many are simply swapping their traditional destinations. Marouf says Mexico, South America and Europe all feel more welcoming at the moment. "California will be there when this is all over, but I just feel like there's less risk going to Portugal instead," added Dingwall.

Some international properties have seen a bump in traffic, directly attributable to Canadians now spurning the US. "In the last several weeks, we've received 10-plus leads from Canadians seeking to relocate events from the United States this summer," said Diarmaid O'Sullivan, director of sales & marketing at Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club Bermuda. "This is a mix of leisure travellers, including those planning weddings, and companies relocating business events. This represents an approximately 20% increase in forecasted revenue from the Canadian market."

Interestingly, all of this is happening just as the US had been experiencing record growth in the travel and tourism sector. Marta Solingo, professor at UNLV and director of Tourism Research at the UNLV Office of economic development, points to The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC)'s 2024 Economic Impact Trends Report, which showed the US as the world's top travel and tourism market. Not only did the industry achieve an unprecedented economic impact of $2.36tn in the US, but the US Bureau of Labor Statistics projections indicate that the US economy will add more than 800,000 jobs in the leisure and hospitality sector.

"Such numbers help us understand the importance of the sector in the US, showing that a decrease in tourism from top-origin countries could significantly damage the US economy," said Solingo. "The consequences of these issues can impact both large US-based corporations, such as hotel chains, and small businesses alike."

The change in travel patterns is already having a tangible effect on the US economy. Tourism Economics recently updated its inbound US travel forecast from a predicted 8.8% growth, to a 5.1% decline, attributing the change to "strained" travel sentiment, "sweeping tariffs" and "exchange rate shifts" making travel to the US more expensive.

"The combination of travel bans and a reduction of US travel could have a material impact on tourism and economic development," said Jeff Le, former deputy cabinet secretary for the State of California and the state's federal coordinator during the first Trump Administration.

In California alone, international visitors provided more than $24bn in local economies in 2023, reports Le. "Losing this would likely hurt both people and local government funds," he said. "It is harder to measure reputational loss, but I cannot imagine active boycotts help."

While the broad impact of boycotting travel to the US could have substantial national and governmental effects, some advocacy organisations also warn that the loss of tourism dollars is most likely to be felt by individuals.

"It's US workers and small businesses who get affected by US travel boycotts," said Thomas F Goodwin, leader of the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance. Goodwin notes that more than 99% of the US business and professional events industry is made up of small businesses, and more than 80% of all exhibitors are US and international small businesses. "When international business travellers forgo coming to the US, everyone from exposition booth builders and general service contractors to venue caterers and individual skilled labourers suffer - not politicians or the government. Boycotts have a knock-on effect on hotels, taxis, restaurants, local entertainers, high street commerce and more."

There is also a cost that is harder to quantify: the global influence of American culture.

"Visitor numbers declining in the US sends a signal that the US is losing its soft power - the influence it once held through openness, cultural leadership and global goodwill," said Neri Karra Sillaman, entrepreneurship expert at the University of Oxford and author of the forthcoming book Pioneers: 8 Principles of Business Longevity from Immigrant Entrepreneurs. "If this trend continues, it may force tourism boards or even local governments to create counter narratives to win back trust. I am not sure if it will be effective, however, since at the end of the day, it is the policies of the government that give the ultimate direction and influence perception."

Sillaman notes that travel boycotts also have a long-term cost to culture, the economy and overall innovation. "When academics, scientists, artists, designers and entrepreneurs start to choose other countries instead of US, the US is going to lose more than just visitors," she said. "In the long term, it's going to lose its competitiveness, goodwill and it will turn into a closed society that stifles growth and innovation."

This human impact of boycotts also shows up in a myriad of ways, noted Missouri lawyer John Beck. "I've worked with hundreds of non-citizens over the last 15 years and seen firsthand how policies between governments can result in individuals - regular travellers, students, families - getting caught in the middle," he said. "It's rarely about the politics. It's about missed weddings, lost business deals or being unable to visit a dying parent."

Beck says he has worked with at least 80 clients who have either delayed or cancelled US travel due to real or perceived hostility over the past few years. This causes complications with split families, international companies who can't move talent quickly and lost business due to the lack of ease of movement. Even though the geopolitical stakes are high, there is a human aspect on both sides of the border.

"Most Americans have little to do with the policies that frustrate global travellers," he said. "They just want safety, fairness and dignity. That's what we need to protect."

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'A hostile state': The call to boycott US travel

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As the list of nations issuing travel warnings to the US grows, some visitors are opting to spurn it entirely. Here's what that could mean for the US and its citizens.

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Class 3 Writing About Generations and Their Impact on the World

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Class 3 Writing About Generations and Their Impact on the World

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1. Warm-up Discussion (10-15 min)

Goal: Activate prior knowledge, introduce the topic, and review key vocabulary.

Questions to discuss:

• What are some of the biggest differences between generations?

• How has technology shaped different generations?

• What are some challenges younger generations face today?

• What groups or movements have emerged in the last decade? (e.g., incels, activists, influencers, digital nomads)

Vocabulary Review (Optional):

• Incels (involuntary celibates)

• Boomers, Millennials, Gen Z

• Cancel culture, toxic masculinity, woke culture

• Echo chambers, online radicalization, social justice movements

2. Writing Task (30-40 min)

Goal: Develop a well-structured opinion piece using the vocabulary in context.

Prompt:

“Different generations have shaped the world in many ways, from cultural revolutions to technological advancements. However, some challenges arise between generations, leading to social divisions. Write an essay discussing how generational differences impact society today. Include examples of online movements, cultural conflicts, and social changes.”

Structure Guide:

1. Introduction (5-7 sentences)

• Define generations and their importance.

• Mention key generational differences.

• Introduce a thesis statement

(e.g., “Generational conflicts shape society by influencing social movements, online behavior, and cultural norms.”).

--> Boomers, Millennials and Gen Z: three dfiferent generations, but also threee different ways to live.

Generation is a term used to separate persons who were born in different period of time. Talking about this three generations, it´s impossible to not say they belong from each oder, but also they are so different because of the technology and how this change how people live.

When we think about Boomers, we think about a generation without internet, soo much human touch and taboos too. on the other side, the Millennials was the generation who "discover" the social media during the young ages and fastly understand this movement and bring it tight to their lives. After than, the Gen Z already were born in this shaped world, facing life by another way, with another vision.

So, with so much differences the question is, how much generational conflicts is shapping the society? Where we are going?

2. Body Paragraph 1: Social and Cultural Impact

• Example: Cancel culture and its role in generational conflicts.

• Example: Millennials and Gen Z pushing for inclusivity, while older generations resist change.

--> It's a fact that this three generations face life in a different way. Nowadays, at the Gen Z, we see things and movements impossible to imagine in other generations, especifcly in the cuture and social part. With the intense use of social media, we start to see movements like cancel culture, toxic masculinity and woke culture. These movements are responsible for making violence against women and famous people grow.

3. Body Paragraph 2: Online Movements and Radicalization

• Example: Incels and echo chambers leading to extreme viewpoints.

• Example: Social media algorithms reinforcing generational divides.

-->

4. Body Paragraph 3: Technology and

Work Culture

• Example: Remote work culture vs. traditional corporate jobs.

• Example: AI and automation shaping career opportunities differently for generations.

5. Conclusion (5-7 sentences)

• Summarize key points.

• Offer a solution or a personal reflection (e.g., “Understanding generational differences can help bridge gaps rather than deepen conflicts.”).

3. Revision & Feedback (10-15 min)

Self-Editing Checklist:

✔ Did I clearly introduce my main idea?

✔ Did I use specific examples to support my points?

✔ Did I use transition words (however, for example, in contrast)?

✔ Did I include at least 3 target vocabulary words?

Teacher Feedback Focus:

• Grammar & sentence structure

• Use of vocabulary in context

• Clarity & coherence

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1. Warm-up (10–15 minutes)

Discussion Questions:

• “Have you ever heard of online communities that are built around frustration or shared struggles?”

• “What are some reasons people seek online communities instead of real-life connections?”

• “Do you think online communities are more positive or negative for people’s mental health?”

2. Vocabulary & Key Concepts (15 minutes)

Introduce and define key terms:

• Incel (involuntary celibate)

• Blackpill vs. Redpill (ideological divisions in incel communities)

• Echo chamber (reinforcement of beliefs within a closed group)

• Misogyny (hatred or prejudice against women)

• Radicalization (process of adopting extreme views)

• Toxic masculinity (harmful societal expectations of male behavior)

Use real or fictionalized quotes from incel forums (modified for appropriateness) and have students infer the meaning of words in context.

3. Reading & Analysis (20 minutes)

Provide a short article or excerpt on the rise of incel culture, its connection to social isolation, and its darker consequences.

Guided Questions:

--> After watching the video, I can say I've learned about a new issue, more specifically, a new problem facing this generation. This issue seems to be a consequence of isolation caused by the pandemic, or even a lack of love from parents.

Due to this isolation, boys are having trouble meeting girls and finding a girlfriend, which reflects their stress and frustration as hate. They place the responsibility for this problem on genetics or on the girls, which is truly disgusting.

Once we realize that the incel movement starts with victims, it is clear that incels also become aggressors, encouraging, talking about, and acting with violence against girls.

Talking about societal norms and dating expecations, it is evident that two things are the fuel of the problem, creating a greater pressure at kids.

• What are the main arguments presented?

what do we undertand about the new generation and its problems?

• Do you see incels as victims, aggressors, or both?

• How do societal norms and dating expectations play a role in this phenomenon?

4. Debate & Discussion (30 minutes)

Debate topic: Should online platforms ban incel communities?

5. Conclusion & Reflection (10 minutes)

• How do incel communities reflect broader societal issues?

--> The incel communities reflect the danger of anonymous forums and blogs on internet, as well as how they and other groups can easily organize attacks and grow as a community.

• What solutions could help people who feel isolated or excluded?

--> The solutions needs to start at home, with family near as a good listener and friend, and with love. Simultaneously, the govern needs to face this problem and invest in awareness campaigns and incentive therapy as a practice.

• How should we address radicalization without reinforcing negative behaviors?

--> In the case of the article, the best way is threat people with love, undestanding the pain and work toghether to face their fears.

Optional Homework:

• Write an opinion essay: Is loneliness a modern epidemic?

--> For sure, no doubts about that. loneliness was aways a problem, but after the pandemics and also in the "smartphone generation", people are even more far and cold, living their lives alone and showing a false life on social media.

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Inside the hateful and lonely world of incel men | Uncovering Incels (Part 1) | Short Documentary

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1. Core Terms Related to Incels

Incel (Involuntary Celibate)

• Definition: A person (typically a man) who believes they are unable to establish romantic or sexual relationships despite wanting to.

• Context: The term was originally coined in the 1990s by a woman creating an online support group, but it has since evolved into a more controversial online movement.

Blackpill vs. Redpill

• Redpill (from The Matrix): In incel communities, “taking the red pill” means awakening to the belief that society is unfair to men, especially in dating. This term is often used in men’s rights activism (MRA) and pickup artist (PUA) communities.

• Blackpill: A more extreme ideology, where incels believe that their fate is permanently sealed due to genetics, looks, or societal structures. Blackpillers often express hopelessness, resentment, and fatalism.

Chad & Stacy vs. Normies & Femcels

• Chad: A conventionally attractive and successful man who is seen as having effortless success with women.

• Stacy: The female equivalent of Chad—stereotyped as attractive, superficial, and only interested in high-status men.

• Normie: An average person who is neither highly attractive nor unattractive and has normal social interactions.

• Femcel: A term for a female incel, though some incel communities reject the idea that women can be truly involuntarily celibate.

2. Psychological and Sociological Concepts

Echo Chamber

• Definition: An online space where individuals are only exposed to opinions that reinforce their existing beliefs, leading to radicalization.

• Example: In incel forums, users may repeatedly blame their struggles on external factors (e.g., women, society) rather than self-reflection, deepening their frustration.

Misogyny & Misandry

• Misogyny: Hatred or prejudice against women, often found in incel communities through the belief that women are responsible for men’s loneliness.

• Misandry: Hatred or prejudice against men, sometimes used as a counterargument by those who believe feminism unfairly targets men.

Toxic Masculinity

• Definition: A cultural expectation that men should be dominant, aggressive, and emotionally repressed. Some argue that incels embody toxic masculinity through their entitlement to women’s attention, while others see them as victims of unrealistic male standards.

Radicalization

• Definition: The process by which individuals adopt increasingly extreme beliefs, sometimes leading to real-world violence. Some incel communities have been linked to attacks by men who expressed hatred toward women.

3. Online & Cultural Phenomena Related to Incels

The Manosphere

• Definition: A network of online communities discussing men’s issues, including MRAs (Men’s Rights Activists), PUAs (Pickup Artists), MGTOW (Men Going Their Own Way), and incels.

• Why It Matters: Some parts of the manosphere offer self-improvement advice, while others promote harmful stereotypes and resentment.

Looksmaxing

• Definition: A term in incel communities referring to extreme efforts to improve physical appearance through surgery, fitness, or other means.

• Example: Some incels believe that only drastic measures (e.g., jaw surgery) can help them become attractive enough to date.

Doomer Mentality

• Definition: A worldview centered around extreme pessimism and nihilism. In the incel community, this takes the form of believing that happiness or success is impossible.

• Example: Some incels claim that unless you are genetically gifted (a “Chad”), there is no point in trying to improve your life.

“It’s Over” Mentality

• Definition: A belief among incels that there is no hope for them to ever be in a relationship, leading to deep fatalism.

• Example: Some incels constantly reinforce each other’s negative outlook by posting things like “It’s over for us.”

How to Use These Concepts in Class:

• Discussion: Ask students how these terms relate to broader societal issues like social media influence, mental health, and gender norms.

• Case Study: Analyze a real or fictionalized incel post and identify key terms.

• Debate: Discuss whether incel forums should be banned or whether they should be reformed into support groups.

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BBC News on Instagram: "Nicholas Prosper will serve at least 49 years in prison after murdering his mother, brother and sister.

Prosper has been given a life sentence after admitting murdering Juliana Falcon, 48, Kyle Prosper, 16, and Giselle Prosper, 13, at their family home in Luton in September.

After killing his family, Prosper planned to carry out a mass shooting at his former primary school but was caught by police.

Tap the link in @BBCNews’s bio to find out more about the case.

#NicholasProsper #BBCNews"

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1,812 likes, 52 comments - bbcnews on March 19, 2025: "Nicholas Prosper will serve at least 49 years in prison after murdering his mother, brother and sister.

Prosper has been given a life sentence after admitting murdering Juliana Falcon, 48, Kyle Prosper, 16, and Giselle Prosper, 13, at their family home in Luton in September.

After killing his family, Prosper planned to carry out a mass shooting at his former primary school but was caught by police.

Tap the link in @BBCNews’s bio to find out more about the case.

#NicholasProsper #BBCNews". 

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In the “Working It” podcast episode titled “How to Get Ahead Without Burning Out”, several colloquial expressions, or “chunks,” are used to convey ideas informally. Here are some of these expressions along with their definitions:

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In the “Working It” podcast episode titled “How to Get Ahead Without Burning Out”, several colloquial expressions, or “chunks,” are used to convey ideas informally. Here are some of these expressions along with their definitions:

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1. No biggie: An informal way of saying “no big deal,” indicating that something is not a problem or is of little importance.

2. Crack on: A British informal expression meaning to continue or proceed with a task.

3. Burning the candle at both ends: Working excessively hard, to the point of exhaustion, by extending one’s workday into the early morning and late evening.

4. Hit the ground running: To start a new activity or job with immediate enthusiasm and energy, without any delay.

5. Keep your nose to the grindstone: To work hard and diligently on a particular task.

6. Throw in the towel: To give up or admit defeat in a challenging situation.

7. Burning the midnight oil: Staying up late working on a project or task.

8. Take it in stride: To handle a difficult situation calmly and without letting it affect you negatively.

9. Jump on the bandwagon: To start doing something because it has become popular or trendy.

10. The ball is in your court: It is now your responsibility to take action or make a decision.

Exercise 1: Complete the sentences using the correct chunk.

(Options: No biggie, Crack on, Burning the candle at both ends, Hit the ground running, Keep your nose to the grindstone, Throw in the towel, Burning the midnight oil, Take it in stride, Jump on the bandwagon, The ball is in your court)

1. We have a tight deadline, so let’s ___Crack On______ and finish this project as soon as possible.

2. She was exhausted from _____Burning the midnight oil_____ for weeks to meet the launch deadline.

3. He had a bad day at work, but he knows how to ____take it in stride______ and stay positive.

4. The marketing team needs someone who can ____Hit the ground running______ from day one without much training.

5. You’ve been working nonstop—you need to rest! Stop ____Burning the candle at both ends______ or you’ll burn out.

6. The decision is yours now. _____The ball is in your court_____ and let us know what you want to do.

7. Don’t worry about the mistake. It’s _____No biggie_____, and we can fix it easily.

8. I know this project is tough, but you’ve come so far! Don’t ____Throw in the towel______ now.

9. Everyone is suddenly investing in AI startups. It looks like they’re all _____Jump on the bandwagon_____.

10. If you want to get promoted, you have to _____Keep your nose to the grindstone_____ and stay focused on your goals.

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Working It live: How to get ahead without burning out

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Psychologist Audrey Tang shares strategies for when work overwhelms you

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In the “Working It” podcast episode titled “How to Get Ahead Without Burning Out”, host Isabel Berwick converses with psychologist Dr. Audrey Tang about strategies for career advancement while maintaining well-being. The discussion introduces several key expressions and phrases pertinent to workplace dynamics and mental health. Below are these expressions along with their definitions:

Key Expressions and Definitions:

1. Burnout: A state of severe emotional, physical, and social exhaustion that significantly impacts daily life.

2. Resilience: The capacity to adapt positively to adversity and maintain effective functioning in daily activities.

3. Toxic Positivity: The overgeneralization of a happy, optimistic state across all situations, which can result in the denial and invalidation of authentic human emotions.

4. Structural Issues: Fundamental organizational problems that can contribute to employee stress and burnout, such as excessive workloads or lack of support.

5. Remote Work: A work arrangement where employees perform their job duties outside of the traditional office environment, often from home.

6. Work-Life Balance: The equilibrium between professional responsibilities and personal life, ensuring neither domain overwhelms the other.

7. Emotional Exhaustion: A state of feeling emotionally worn-out and drained due to accumulated stress from personal or work life.

8. Supportive Work Environment: A workplace atmosphere that fosters employee well-being through understanding, assistance, and resources.

9. Positive Adaptation: The process of adjusting effectively to new or challenging circumstances.

10. Meaningful Praise: Genuine and specific acknowledgment of an individual’s efforts or achievements, contributing to their sense of value and motivation.

Class Discussion Plan:

Objective: To engage in a comprehensive discussion about career progression and burnout prevention, utilizing key expressions from the podcast to enhance understanding and practical application.

1. Warm-Up (10 minutes)

• Questions:

• “How do you define career success?”

achieving happiness that can be combined with other values that make you happy. work is a purpose and not a burden you have to carry on.

• “What strategies do you employ to manage work-related stress?”

working out, walking, therapies, and gathering. ( friends gathering)

2. Vocabulary Introduction (15 minutes):

• Activity: Present the key expressions and their definitions.

• Exercise: Provide sentences with blanks for the student to fill in using the appropriate terms.

• “Maintaining a healthy __________ is essential to prevent burnout.”

• “Companies should address __________ to create a supportive work environment.”

3. Listening and Comprehension (20 minutes):

• Activity: Listen to selected excerpts from the podcast focusing on burnout and resilience.

• Questions:

• “What factors contribute to burnout according to Dr. Tang?”

• “How can leaders model seeking help in the workplace?”

4. Discussion and Application (15 minutes):

• Activity: Engage in a dialogue about implementing the discussed strategies in the student’s professional life.

• Questions:

• “Can you identify any structural issues in your workplace that may lead to burnout?”

• “How can you promote a supportive work environment among your colleagues?”

5. Role-Play (15 minutes):

• Scenario: The student assumes the role of a manager addressing a team member showing signs of emotional exhaustion.

• Objective: To practice offering meaningful praise and discussing resilience-building strategies.

6. Wrap-Up and Reflection (5 minutes):

• Activity: Summarize the key takeaways from the lesson.

• Question: “What is one strategy you plan to implement to advance your career without compromising your well-being?”

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Transcript: Working It live — How to get ahead without burning out

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Isabel Berwick talks to psychologist Dr Audrey Tang

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Stigma, discrimination and mental illness

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Stigma is when someone sees you in a negative way because of a particular characteristic or attribute, such as mental illness. When someone treats you in a negative way because of your mental illness, this is discrimination. Treating all people with respect and dignity means not judging, labelling or discriminating against them based on any personal attribute, including mental illness.

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Lesson Plan: Mental Health Stigma

Lesson Objectives:

• Discuss the stigma surrounding mental health in different societies.

• Expand vocabulary related to mental health and social issues.

• Express opinions and debate solutions to reduce stigma.

highlights:

respectful - tolerant- open minded/ narrow minded - trustworthy-

1. Warm-up (10 minutes)

Discussion Questions:

• How do people in your country view mental health issues?

• Why do you think there is stigma around mental health?

• Have attitudes toward mental health changed over time?

2. Vocabulary Expansion (10 minutes)

Introduce key terms and phrases:

• Stigma – Negative social perception or shame associated with something.

• Taboo – A subject that people avoid discussing.

• Mental illness – Disorders affecting a person’s thinking, emotions, or behavior.

• Therapy – Treatment for mental health issues.

• Vulnerability – The state of being open to emotional or psychological difficulties.

• Coping mechanisms – Strategies to deal with stress or emotional pain.

• Resilience – The ability to recover from difficulties.

3. Listening/Reading Activity (15 minutes)

• Provide a short article or video about mental health stigma (e.g., how celebrities or public figures have helped reduce stigma).

• Comprehension Questions:

• What are some examples of mental health stigma in the article/video?

• How have individuals or organizations worked to change perceptions?

4. Speaking & Debate (15 minutes)

Discussion Scenarios:

• “A friend is struggling with anxiety but refuses to seek help because they fear being judged. What advice would you give?”

--> Firstly, is very important to be able to listen, and understand his fear. After that, and with de right informations, make him see that help can start in secret, showing how anxiety is a illness, how important is to seek help, and recommending a Therapy.

• “Some employers hesitate to hire people with a history of mental illness. Should companies have policies to protect these employees?”

--> Is logical the act of employers hesitate to hire people with a history of mental illness, chosing to protect the profit. But is logical too the necessity of companies have policies to protect not only this employees, but to prevent and create a respecfull and oppen minded atmosphere.

• “In some cultures, therapy is seen as a sign of weakness. How can we change this perception?”

--> To change this perception is necessary to break some taboos to fight and end with some stigmas. Is fundamental to start with the awareness through education. Besides that, demonstrate how bigger are the mental health problem are, with information and data, and how therapy are the key. In the end, maybe motivate people try therapy.

5. Wrap-up & Homework (10 minutes)

• Summarize key points from the discussion.

• Homework: Write an opinion essay on:

“How can society reduce mental health stigma?”

--> Society can reduce mental health stigma with awareness throught education, information and data. After that, is important to keep always raising awareness and discouraging acts of judgment and prejudice.

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Understanding the impact of stigma on people with mental illness

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Many people with serious mental illness are challenged doubly. On one hand,
they struggle with the symptoms and disabilities that result from the disease.
On the other, they are challenged by the stereotypes and prejudice that result
from misconceptions about mental illness. As a result of both, people with
mental illness are robbed of the opportunities that define a quality life:
good jobs, safe housing, satisfactory health care, and affiliation with a
diverse group of people. Although research has gone far to understand the
impact of the disease, it has only recently begun to explain stigma in mental
illness. Much work yet needs to be done to fully understand the breadth and
scope of prejudice against people with mental illness. Fortunately, social
psychologists and sociologists have been studying phenomena related to stigma
in other minority groups for several decades. In this paper, we integrate
research specific to mental illness stigma with the more general body of research
on stereotypes and prejudice to provide a brief overview of issues in the
area.

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Here are some comprehension questions based on the BBC article Why some elderly Japanese are turning to crime to help you write your assignment.

Comprehension Questions

Understanding the Main Idea

1. Why are some elderly people in Japan committing crimes on purpose?

--> Elderly people are struggling with poverty, so they prefer to go to jail to receive some money and have better conditions.

2. What basic needs does prison provide that some elderly people lack outside?

--> Some money, like pension, a nice room to sleep and food.

3. How has Japan is aging population affected crime rates?

--> Because of this situation, crime rates, commited by elderly pople, are growling fast.

Key Details

4. What types of crimes do most elderly offenders commit?

--> Pretty teft.

5. What is the connection between social isolation and elderly crime?

--> Some elderly people suffer with isolation and starts to commit crimes to go to prision to have better conditions to live.

6. Why do some elderly people giggle when talking about returning to prison?

--> Because that was the real objective. They prefer to go to prision than face the reality of an unassisted system.

7. How does the welfare system contribute to the increase in elderly crime?

--> Givving better conditions to prisioners than the elderly pople, the government can create a propitious place to commit crimes.

8. What does the article mean when it says elderly crime outstrips that of younger generations?

--> Elderly people are commiting more crimes than younger generations.

Critical Thinking & Discussion

9. Do you think prison should be a solution for elderly people struggling with poverty? Why or why not?

--> Absolutely not. The prision is the place where criminals should serve their sentences in consequence of an ilegal act. In the same way, elderly people struggling with poverty deserves to be cared for by the government.

10. What could the Japanese government do to reduce elderly crime?

--> In this case, its essecial to pay more attention to elderly people, ensuring basic financial conditions, accessibility, and leisure, to garantee a good life to elderly people.

11. Could this situation happen in other countries? Why or why not?

--> Maybe things like that can happen in coutries where the conditions are similar to Japan, i mean, prisions in good condition, a possibility to receive and save some money serving, and where elderly people are neglected. On the other hand, that situation doesn't seem possible in developing countries without these conditions.

Vocabulary in Context

12. What is the difference between petty theft and more serious crimes?

--> petty theft its about small ilegal actions, and more serious crimes are more violent or offensive.

13. What does recidivism mean, and why is it common among elderly offenders?

--> recidivism mean infringe the law another time.

14. What does the article mean when it says social issues are the undoing of many elderly people?

--> Unassist elderly people is a cause of social issues, with them suffering the consequences.

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Channel 4 News on Instagram: "Almost 40,000 people have died alone in the first half of the year, and thousands were not discovered until a month or more after their death, according to Japan’s National Police Agency.

It comes amid a loneliness crisis, as Japan grapples with an older population and declining birth rates.

#Japan #Elderly #Loneliness #Channel4News"

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905 likes, 34 comments - channel4news on September 5, 2024: "Almost 40,000 people have died alone in the first half of the year, and thousands were not discovered until a month or more after their death, according to Japan’s National Police Agency.

It comes amid a loneliness crisis, as Japan grapples with an older population and declining birth rates.

#Japan #Elderly #Loneliness #Channel4News". 

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Here are some useful vocabulary terms and phrases related to elderly people, financial security, and legal protection:

Financial & Housing Terms

1. Mortgage A loan taken out to buy a home, usually repaid over many years. Some elderly people struggle with mortgage payments after retirement.

2. Reverse mortgage A loan that allows elderly homeowners to access the value of their home while still living in it.

3. Pension A regular payment from the government or a company after retirement.

4. Retirement savings Money set aside for use after a person stops working.

5. Fixed income A limited amount of money received regularly, often referring to pensions or retirement benefits.

6. Debt Money that a person owes to a bank or lender. Many elderly people face debt due to medical expenses.

7. Loan Money borrowed that must be paid back, often with interest.

8. Foreclosure When a bank takes a person’s home because they failed to pay their mortgage.

Security & Social Issues

9. Elderly abuse Mistreatment of older people, often financial, physical, or emotional.

10. Nursing home A facility where elderly people live and receive medical care.

11. Social security Government assistance programs that provide financial support to retired or disabled people.

12. Fraud A crime that involves tricking people, often elderly victims, into giving away their money.

13. Identity theft A type of fraud where someone steals another person’s personal information to commit crimes.

Legal Protections for the Elderly

14. Age discrimination Unfair treatment based on age, such as being denied a job or medical care.

15. Power of attorney A legal document allowing someone to make financial or medical decisions for an elderly person.

16. Elder law Legal policies that protect older adults rights, including housing, healthcare, and financial matters.

17. Long-term care insurance

Insurance that helps cover the cost of nursing homes or home care services.

18. Will & inheritance A legal document that states how a person’s assets will be distributed after their death.

19. Guardianship A legal arrangement where a person is responsible for making decisions for an elderly person who cannot do so themselves.

20. Scam A dishonest scheme to trick people out of their money, often targeting the elderly.

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Here are the definitions of the key terms:

Key Terms & Definitions

1. Shoplifting “ The act of stealing goods from a store without paying.

2. Social isolation “ A state in which a person has little or no contact with others, leading to loneliness.

3. Welfare system “ Government programs designed to provide financial and social support to people in need.

4. Recidivism “ The tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend after being released.

5. Life expectancy “ The average number of years a person is expected to live based on demographic factors.

6. Incarceration “ The state of being imprisoned or confined in jail.

7. Petty theft “ A minor crime involving the stealing of small or inexpensive items.

8. Giggle “ A light, high-pitched laugh, often from nervousness or amusement.

9. Outstrips “ Exceeds or surpasses something in degree, amount, or performance.

10. Undoing “ A cause of downfall or failure; something that ruins or destroys.

11. Serving “ (in the context of prison) The act of completing a sentence or period of imprisonment.

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Elderly Crime in Japan - A Social Crisis.

1. Warm-up

Why do people commit crimes? and Do you think some people commit crimes on purpose?

Watch the picture of the article and brainstorm what may be happening with elderly people? : (homeless, struggling) how’s life for elderly people nowadays?

invisible - homeless- no attention- no respect - no routines - no lifestyle - poor elderly. elderly has struggles.

2. Reading/Listening Activity (15 min)

Use this BBC article: Why some elderly Japanese are turning to crime

Have the student skim the article and identify key points.

Discussion: What are the main reasons elderly people commit crimes?

3. Vocabulary & Discussion (15 min)

Introduce key terms:

shoplifting, social isolation, welfare system, recidivism, life expectancy, incarceration

Ask: How does Japan is aging population contribute to this problem?

4. Speaking Activity Role-play (10 min)

One student plays a government official, the other an elderly citizen considering committing a crime.

The official must persuade the citizen not to go to prison and offer alternatives.

5. Debate (10 min)

Should governments provide better welfare for the elderly, or is prison a reasonable solution?

6. Wrap-up (5 min)

Ask: What solutions do you think Japan should implement?

Reflect on:Could this happen in other countries?

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Japan is in the grip of an elderly crime wave - the proportion of crimes committed by people over the age of 65 has been steadily increasing for 20 years. The BBC's Ed Butler asks why.

At a halfway house in Hiroshima - for criminals who are being released from jail back into the community - 69-year-old Toshio Takata tells me he broke the law because he was poor. He wanted somewhere to live free of charge, even if it was behind bars.

"I reached pension age and then I ran out of money. So it occurred to me - perhaps I could live for free if I lived in jail," he says.

"So I took a bicycle and rode it to the police station and told the guy there: 'Look, I took this.'"

The plan worked. This was Toshio's first offence, committed when he was 62, but Japanese courts treat petty theft seriously, so it was enough to get him a one-year sentence.

Small, slender, and with a tendency to giggle, Toshio looks nothing like a habitual criminal, much less someone who'd threaten women with knives. But after he was released from his first sentence, that's exactly what he did.

"I went to a park and just threatened them. I wasn't intending to do any harm. I just showed the knife to them hoping one of them would call the police. One did."

Altogether, Toshio has spent half of the last eight years in jail.

I ask him if he likes being in prison, and he points out an additional financial upside - his pension continues to be paid even while he's inside.

"It's not that I like it but I can stay there for free," he says. "And when I get out I have saved some money. So it is not that painful."

Toshio represents a striking trend in Japanese crime. In a remarkably law-abiding society, a rapidly growing proportion of crimes is carried about by over-65s. In 1997 this age group accounted for about one in 20 convictions but 20 years later the figure had grown to more than one in five - a rate that far outstrips the growth of the over-65s as a proportion of the population (though they now make up more than a quarter of the total).

Another example is Keiko (not her real name). Seventy years old, small, and neatly presented, she also tells me that it was poverty that was her undoing.

"I couldn't get along with my husband. I had nowhere to live and no place to stay. So it became my only choice: to steal," she says. "Even women in their 80s who can't properly walk are committing crime. It's because they can't find food, money."

We spoke some months ago in an ex-offender's hostel. I've been told she's since been re-arrested, and is now serving another jail-term for shoplifting.

Japan's Elderly Crime Wave can be heard on Assignment on the BBC World Service from Thursday 31 January - click here for transmission times

Michael Newman, an Australian-born demographer with the Tokyo-based research house, Custom Products Research Group points out that the "measly" basic state pension in Japan is very hard to live on.

"The pensioners don't want to be a burden to their children, and feel that if they can't survive on the state pension then pretty much the only way not to be a burden is to shuffle themselves away into prison," he says.

The repeat offending is a way "to get back into prison" where there are three square meals a day and no bills, he says.

"It's almost as though you're rolled out, so you roll yourself back in."

Newman points out that suicide is also becoming more common among the elderly - another way for them to fulfil what he they may regard as "their duty to bow out".

The director of "With Hiroshima", the rehabilitation centre where I met Toshio Takata, also thinks changes in Japanese families have contributed to the elderly crime wave, but he emphasises the psychological consequences not the financial ones.

"Ultimately the relationship among people has changed. People have become more isolated. They don't find a place to be in this society. They cannot put up with their loneliness," says Kanichi Yamada, an 85-year-old who as a child was pulled out of the rubble of his home when the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima.

"Among the elderly who commit crimes a number have this turning point in their middle life. There is some trigger. They lose a wife or children and they just can't cope with that... Usually people don't commit crime if they have people to look after them and provide them with support."

Toshio's story about being driven to crime as a result of poverty is just an "excuse", Kanichi Yamada suggests. The core of the problem is his loneliness. And one factor that may have prompted him to reoffend, he speculates, was the promise of company in jail.

It's true that Toshio is alone in the world. His parents are dead, and he has lost contact with two older brothers, who don't answer his calls. He has also lost contact with his two ex-wives, both of whom he divorced, and his three children.

I ask him if he thinks things would have turned out differently if he'd had a wife and family. He says they would.

"If they had been around to support me I wouldn't have done this," he says.

Michael Newman has watched as the Japanese government has expanded prison capacity, and recruited additional female prison guards (the number of elderly women criminals is rising particularly fast, though from a low base). He's also noted the steeply rising bill for medical treatment of people in prison.

There have been other changes too, as I see for myself at a prison in Fuchu, outside Tokyo, where nearly a third of the inmates are now over 60.

There's a lot of marching inside Japanese prisons - marching and shouting. But here the military drill seems to be getting harder to enforce. I see a couple of grey-haired inmates at the back of one platoon struggling to keep up. One is on crutches.

"We have had to improve the facilities here," Masatsugu Yazawa, the prison's head of education tells me. "We've put in handrails, special toilets. There are classes for older offenders."

He takes me to watch one of them. It begins with a karaoke rendition of a popular song, The Reason I was Born, all about the meaning of life. The inmates are encouraged to sing along. Some look quite moved.

"We sing to show them that the real life is outside prison, and that happiness is there," Yazawa says. "But still they think the life in prison is better and many come back."

Michael Newman argues that it would be far better - and much cheaper - to look after the elderly without the expense of court proceedings and incarceration.

"We actually costed a model to build an industrial complex retirement village where people would forfeit half their pension but get free food, free board and healthcare and so on, and get to play karaoke or gate-ball with the other residents and have a relative amount of freedom. It would cost way less than what the government's spending at the moment," he says.

But he also suggests that the tendency for Japanese courts to hand down custodial sentences for petty theft "is slightly bizarre, in terms of the punishment actually fitting the crime".

"The theft of a 200-yen (£1.40) sandwich could lead to an 8.4m-yen (£58,000) tax bill to provide for a two-year sentence," he writes in his 2016 report.

That may be a hypothetical example, but I met one elderly jailbird whose experience was almost identical. He'd been given a two-year jail term for only his second offence: stealing a bottle of peppers worth £2.50.

And I heard from Morio Mochizuki, who provides security for some 3,000 retail outlets in Japan, that if anything the courts are getting tougher on shoplifters.

"Even if they only stole one piece of bread," says Masayuki Sho of Japan's Prison Service, "it was decided at trial that it is appropriate for them to go to prison, therefore we need to teach them the way: how to live in society without committing crime."

I don't know whether the prison service has taught Toshio Takata this lesson, but when I ask him if he is already planning his next crime, he denies it.

"No, actually this is it," he says.

"I don't want to do this again, and I will soon be 70 and I will be old and frail the next time. I won't do that again."

Just over a year ago, Greek pilot Vasileios Vasileiou checked into a luxury hilltop hotel in Kabul. The Intercontinental was popular with foreign visitors - which is why, on 20 January, Taliban gunmen stormed it, killing at least 40 people. Vasileios explains how he survived.

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Why some Japanese pensioners want to go to jail

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Japan is in the grip of an elderly crime wave - the proportion of crimes committed by people over the age of 65 has been steadily increasing for 20 years. The BBC's Ed Butler asks why.

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Listening Activity

Watch a short video about motivation theories (Self-Determination Theory, the role of every human with motivation)

Discuss: What did you learn?

Wrap-up & Reflection

What is your main takeaway from today?

--> My main takeaway from today firstly was learning how i can tackle a big problem, or even a depression, facing life like a game, seing simple things as a challenge, and concentrating in beat them, restoring happines in life.

--> After that, was incredible to learn how the primor things in life it's the key to live more. So, when we spend a lot of time at work and not enjoying with family and friends, we are wasting time and our health.

How will you apply this knowledge in your daily life?

--> After learning with Jane, i think the most value knowledge i can take from the video is the importance of appreciating the simple moments even more, and how that is so impactful in life.

Word bank:

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Jane McGonigal: The game that can give you 10 extra years of life | TED Talk

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When game designer Jane McGonigal found herself bedridden and suicidal following a severe concussion, she had a fascinating idea for how to get better. She dove into the scientific research and created the healing game, SuperBetter. In this moving talk, McGonigal explains how a game can boost resilience -- and promises to add 7.5 minutes to your life.

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The Psychology of Motivation

1. Warm-up (5-10 min)

What motivates you to do something, even when it is difficult?

running a marathon wasn´t my dream but a plus for encouragement.

Pictionary: What do you think motivates these people?

2. Vocabulary (10-15 min)

threatening tasks - dare you -

Introduce key terms:

Intrinsic motivation (doing something for personal satisfaction)

Extrinsic motivation (doing something for external rewards)

Goals (short-term vs. long-term)

Self-discipline (staying consistent without external pressure)

Procrastination (delaying tasks)

Practice: Give your student short scenarios and ask, Is this intrinsic or extrinsic motivation?

3. Discussion (15-20 min)

Why do some people struggle to stay motivated?

-> Some people struggle to stay motivated because is very difficult to keep doing things with discipline and consistence. In another way, sometimes people don't focus on the real objective, and And end up giving in to the momentary desire.

Which is more effective: rewarding yourself for good habits or developing self-discipline?

--> I believe that answer is different from person to person. Talking about me, is more effective developing self-discipline and gradually shielding my mind. on the other side, some people prefer to reward themselves to stay motivated and achieve small objectives.

Have you ever set a goal and lost motivation? What happened?

--> Yeah, of course. Like everyone, i don´t wake up motivated every day. By far, i usually wake up doing things only because of the discipline. Talking about an specific goal, when i lost motivation, normally is about not believing anymore in the process, like doing a diet and do not achieve the objective.

4. Listening/Reading Activity (15 min)

Watch a short video or read an article about motivation theories (Self-Determination Theory, the role of dopamine, etc.).

Discuss: What did you learn?

5. Speaking Practice (15-20 min)

Role-play: Convince a friend to stay motivated to exercise/eat healthy.

Debate: People should be rewarded for good habits. Agree or disagree?

Word bank:

determined - self -concious - no burdens- solve and face- squeeze the time studying -

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Motivation is the desire to act in service of a goal. It’s the crucial element in setting and attaining our objectives. Motivation is one of the driving forces behind human behavior. It fuels competition and sparks social connection. Its absence can lead to mental illnesses such as depression. Motivation encompasses the desire to continue striving toward meaning, purpose, and a life worth living.

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1. Warm-Up Discussion

Do you think the new generation is more focused on health than previous ones? Why or why not?

What are some modern trends that promote a healthier lifestyle? (e.g., fitness apps, plant-based diets, mental health awareness)

2. Vocabulary Expansion

key words: Use these words in sentences related to your life.

Wellness, longevity, mindfulness, nutrition, sustainable living, mental health, fitness culture, wearable technology (e.g., smartwatches, fitness trackers).

3. Debate or Opinion Sharing

Will the new generation live longer and healthier than past generations? Why or why not?

Are social media and influencers helping or harming health trends?

5. Writing Task

Prompt: Imagine the year 2050. How has the focus on health changed the world?

--> After 25 years of focus on health, people come to live longer, and the idea of becoming a centenary person turn into a usual thing. Beyond that, the concept of becoming an elderly person is not more about being at 60 or 65 years, but to achieve 80 years old without vitality. Moreover, live until 100 years already became a normal thing, not rare. On other side, the health food industry became more than a market field or a trend, but mostly more profitable than ever, and the result of a collective focus on health, and the government impossed. In the end, people start to pay more attention to achieve a sustainable living.

word bank:

spread

harmful

afford

make it possible

keep up

trainers

bankrupt

illness/disease

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Class Topic: The Psychology of Gaming

Key Points to Cover

1. Positive Effects of Gaming

Cognitive Benefits:

Improves problem-solving and strategic thinking.

Enhances hand-eye coordination and reaction time.

Social Benefits:

Multiplayer games help develop teamwork and communication skills.

Online gaming creates communities and friendships.

Emotional Benefits:

Games can reduce stress and provide a sense of achievement.

can worse your stress because is competitive.

teamwork must be diverse.

2. Negative Effects of Gaming

Addiction and Overuse:

Gaming addiction can disrupt sleep, relationships, and work/school performance.

Aggression and Violence:

Some argue violent games may increase aggressive behaviour, but research is mixed.

Health Issues:

Long hours of gaming can lead to physical problems like eye strain, posture issues, and lack of exercise.

3. The Debate: Gaming as a Sport or Art
E-Sports: Professional gaming has become a multi-billion-dollar industry.

Creativity: Many games are now recognized as art for their stories, design, and music.

Activities/writing

What are the most significant benefits of gaming?

How can we avoid the negative impacts of gaming?

Should gaming be considered a sport? Why or why not?

Argue that gaming is good for individuals and society.

Argue that gaming has more harmful effects than benefits.

1. When we talk about significant benefits of gaming, we can analise this discussion in two perpectives: first, the cognitive benefits are the most notorious; in other way emotional benefits are an also true think thats gamming can provides, but only if this practice are made with moderation. The way you face the gamming practice, can turn thinks more competitive than should be, so this may turn gamming a motive to being more stressed.

2. The way we can avoid the negative impact of gamming are with moderation, and also creating another objetives, like learn 15 minutes per day and turn that habits more longer day by day, because this practice will reduce the levels of discharge of dopamine and also its decline.

3. I don't think gamming should be considered a sport because dont demands physical exercise in the practice, so i think its correct expression "e-sport" like a individual classification for competitive games, creating an specific term for its practice and formalizing a difference between one an the other one.

4. With moderation, of corse. Gamming its a giant comercial industry, its responsible for moviment a lot of money. Moreover, gammin are an universe for soo much people, are a way to socialize, distract an have fun.

5. I dont think so. The real problem are in the addiction in gamming. Gamming to have some fun can be a moment of therapy, to socialize, and reduce stress. Alternatively, like everything without control, gamming realy can be harmful, but its not about gamming, its about lose control and became addicted.

Word bank;

overwhelming

getting sick

seeking - searching

baseline

peaks

novelty

narrow

lofty

willing/ willingness

cold turkey

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How Gaming Affects Your Brain (Andrew Huberman)

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Recent Developments:

• January 18, 2025: TikTok ceased operations in the U.S. following a Supreme Court decision upholding a law that mandated its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to divest its ownership or face a ban.

• January 19, 2025: President-elect Donald Trump announced plans to issue an executive order granting TikTok a 90-day extension to negotiate a security deal, allowing the app to resume services in the U.S.

Linking to Cybercrime:

These events highlight critical aspects of cybercrime and cybersecurity:

• Data Privacy Concerns: The U.S. government’s actions stem from fears that ByteDance could be compelled by Chinese laws to share user data, posing a potential national security risk. This scenario underscores the importance of data sovereignty and the vulnerabilities associated with foreign ownership of technology platforms.

• Regulatory Measures: The enforced shutdown and subsequent negotiations illustrate how governments may intervene to mitigate perceived cyber threats, emphasizing the role of policy in cybersecurity.

Classroom Application:

case to discuss:

• International Cybersecurity Policies: Examine how different countries address foreign tech companies operating within their borders.

Your view:

• Corporate Responsibility: Debate the ethical obligations of tech companies in protecting user data against potential misuse.

Your view:

• Legal Frameworks: Analyze the legal precedents for government intervention in tech operations and their implications for the future.

Conclusion:

word bank:

meanwhile

upheld= respeitado

enacted

perceived

avert = prevenir

path = way/ path bike

free speech

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TikTok ban comes into force in US as app stops working

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A message appearing for US users says they “can’t use TikTok for now”.

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Here are the definitions for the terms you mentioned:

1. Phishing:

Phishing is a type of cyber attack where attackers disguise themselves as legitimate entities, typically via email, to trick individuals into providing sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, or other personal details. The goal is often to steal sensitive data or spread malware.

2. Ransomware:

Ransomware is a type of malicious software (malware) that encrypts a victim’s files or locks them out of their system, rendering the data inaccessible. The attacker then demands a ransom, usually in cryptocurrency, to restore access to the data or system. Failure to pay often results in permanent data loss.

3. Insider Threats:

Insider threats refer to risks posed by individuals within an organization, such as employees, contractors, or business partners, who have inside information concerning the organization’s security practices, data, and computer systems. These insiders can misuse their access, intentionally or unintentionally, to harm the organization by leaking sensitive information, sabotaging systems, or committing fraud.

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Cybersecurity Challenges for Global Businesses

Focus Areas:

• Common Threats: Examples like phishing, ransomware, and insider threats.

• Business Impact: Discuss financial losses, reputational damage, and legal consequences.

• Emerging Solutions: The use of AI for real-time threat detection, blockchain for secure transactions, and multi-factor authentication.

• Real-World Examples: Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack or the 2021 Facebook data breach.

Activities:

1. Scenario Simulation:

• Present a scenario where a company faces a ransomware attack. Have students develop a response strategy, including internal and external communication plans.

2. News Analysis:

• Analyze a real cybersecurity breach, such as the Marriott data leak. Discuss what went wrong and how it could have been prevented.

3. Panel Discussion:

• Topic: “Should companies invest more in proactive cybersecurity measures than reactive solutions?” Divide the class into teams representing CEOs, cybersecurity experts, and government regulators.

Resources:

• Video: cyber crime

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=V3TiBF71lwk

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Is Your Business REALLY Cyber Secure? | Cybersecurity Podcast