Pre-reading questions:
- Are you a member of Gen Z? If so, how do you identify with your generation? If not, how would you describe your generation?
- What do you think is the biggest challenge facing Gen Z in the workplace?
Vocabulary:
- era /EER-uh/
- diverse /dih-VURS/
- distinguish /dih-STING-gwish/
- resource /REE-sawrs/
- individual /in-duh-VIJ-oo-uhl /
[noun] – a period of time of which particular events or stages of development are typical:
The Renaissance era was a time of great change and cultural rebirth in Europe, marked by advances in art, science, and philosophy.
[adjective] – including many different types of people or things
The student body at our school is very diverse, with students from many different countries and backgrounds.
[verb] – to notice or understand the difference between two things, or to make one person or thing seem different from another
It can be difficult to distinguish between different species of birds, but with practice, you can learn to recognize their unique characteristics.
[noun] – a useful or valuable possession or quality of a country, organization, or person
The internet is a valuable resource for finding information on almost any topic you can think of.
[noun] – a single person or thing, especially when compared to the group or set to which they belong
In our class, we celebrate the strengths and accomplishments of each individual, recognizing that everyone has something special to offer.
Article reading:
The shift to remote working has also made it harder for young workers to switch off, making it challenging to distinguish between their personal and professional lives. However, there are steps that can be taken to mitigate this stress. Companies can offer support and resources for mental health and well-being and provide opportunities for professional development and career growth. Incorporating relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga into the workday can also help individuals manage stress and build resilience.
In conclusion, while Gen Z may be facing unprecedented levels of stress in the workforce, it is not an insurmountable problem. Prioritizing mental health and promoting a healthy work-life balance can help these young workers thrive. Companies can support their employees’ well-being by providing resources for mental health and growth opportunities, while individuals can prioritize their own self-care practices to reduce stress and build resilience.
Comprehension questions
- How is the pandemic affecting Gen Z in the workforce, and what percentage of Gen Zers report experiencing burnout, according to a recent survey?
- What can companies do to help Gen Z workers manage stress and promote well-being in the workplace?
- What are some relaxation techniques that can help individuals manage stress and build resilience?
- What is the author’s conclusion about the problem of stress among Gen Z in the workforce?
- What can companies and individuals do to prioritize mental health and promote a healthy work-life balance for young workers?
Discussion questions
- How would you describe Gen Z? What are some of their defining characteristics?
- Based on your experience, have you ever experienced burnout or high levels of stress at work or at school? How did you handle these challenges, and what support or resources were most helpful to you?
- If companies offered opportunities for professional development and career growth, how might this benefit Gen Z workers?
- Do you agree that Gen Z is the most stressed-out generation in the workforce? Why or why not?
- In what ways has the pandemic affected the work-life balance of Gen Z workers? How can companies and individuals adapt to these changes?