Monthly Archive: November 2017
China’s influence concerns other nations
Vocabulary: firearm – a rifle, pistol, or other portable gun A man was sentenced to more than four years in prison for carrying a firearm. infrastructure – the system of public works of a country, state, or region Hundreds of soldiers were deployed to restore infrastructure in Puerto Rico. deem – regard or consider in a specified way The event was deemed a great success. meddle – to interest oneself in what is not one’s concern More powerful countries indirectly meddle in the affairs of developing nations. boldness – willingness to take risks and act innovatively with confidence or courage I admire the boldness and independence that characterized his leadership. …
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China’s influence concerns other nations
Pre-reading questions: What do you think are the most important qualities of a leader? In your opinion, what do all of the most developed countries have in common? Vocabulary: stance – an attitude or view about an issue that you state clearly Many citizens agree with the governor’s stance on tax reform. diplomacy – the conduct of the relations of one state with another by peaceful means Diplomacy is almost always better than public threats. acquisition – the process of buying something or obtaining something The young woman’s acquisition of paintings is from her deceased uncle. colonialism – a situation in which one country rules another Colonialism gave bigger…
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China’s influence concerns other nations
Pre-reading questions: What do you think is the most powerful country in the world? Describe Japan in one word. Vocabulary: colonization [noun] – to take control of another country by living there or sending people to live there The European colonization began in 1492. influence [noun] – the power to make other people agree with your opinion or do what you want Celebrities influence fashion. era [noun] – a period of history or a long period of time We are living in an era of fast technological advancement. bold [adjective] – not afraid to do things which involve risk or danger Hiring a fresh graduate is a bold move. …
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Netflix’s charge increases
Vocabulary: streaming – transmitting data from internet directly to a TV/computer Streaming has become more popular in the past three years. subscription – a payment made to receive a service The amount of our magazine subscription only reached $250,000 this year. ultra high definition – ultra HD, display is sharper than 1080p The new Samsung TV has an ultra HD feature. pricing scheme – a pricing plan We discussed the new pricing scheme for our products during the meeting. programming– practice of organizing media programs in a daily schedule The new programming will feature some rising stars. Netflix is raising its prices for its streaming services. The standard plan, which allows…
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Netflix’s charge increases
Pre-reading questions: Are you familiar with Netflix? Are there other popular apps in your country similar to Netflix? What is your favorite movie/TV show? Why is it your favorite movie/TV show? Vocabulary: existing users – current customers The company takes good care of its existing users. exclusive – only available to a specific group I was invited to join an exclusive club for soccer players. invest – to use money for profit gain I want to invest in a new house. prime – a subscription plan higher than the standard A prime membership in the country club has a lot of benefits. Netflix has decided to increase its…
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Netflix’s charge increases
Pre-reading questions: Do you like watching movies online? Do you think watching movies in cinemas is more fun? Vocabulary: membership [noun] – to become a member of a club This coffee shop requires membership. prime membership [noun] – membership higher than a standard plan My prime membership at the health club will end next week. improve [verb] – become better She needs to improve her grades this year. standard [adjective] – considered normal I have a standard TV at home. plan [noun] – something that you pay for to receive a service My mobile phone plan is expensive. Netflix will increase its membership fee. The standard membership plan for…
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