Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- unprecedented /uhn-PRES-i-den-tid/
- bolster /BOHL-ster/
- mandatory /MAN-duh-tawr-ee/
- endorse /en-DAWRS/
- revitalization /ree-vahyt-l-ahy-ZEY-shuhn/
[adjective] – never having happened or existed in the past
The city faced unprecedented flooding, leaving residents in shock and in need of immediate help.
[verb] – to support or improve something or make it stronger
The government introduced new policies to bolster economic growth.
[adjective] – required by law or rule; compulsory
Attendance at the safety meeting is mandatory for all employees.
[verb] – to publicly or officially say that you support or approve of something
The famous athlete decided to endorse the new fitness brand.
[noun] – the process of making something stronger, more active, or more successful
The revitalization of the old town brought new life to the community.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
California has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at supporting journalism and advancing artificial intelligence research, allocating approximately $250 million in state funds and contributions from technology companies. This unprecedented initiative, revealed on Wednesday, represents the first of its kind in the United States and is scheduled to commence in 2025, with $100 million designated for the inaugural year. The primary objective is to strengthen local news organizations across California, which have been struggling to survive in the digital age. The state government, in partnership with leading technology companies, aims to bolster the press’s critical role in sustaining a vibrant democratic society by ensuring financial support for newsrooms.
This agreement follows extensive negotiations between lawmakers and technology firms, who had previously resisted legislative efforts to impose mandatory revenue-sharing with media companies. The resolution, endorsed by influential organizations such as the California News Publishers Association, Alphabet, and OpenAI, is regarded as a significant step towards securing the future of journalism in the state. Nonetheless, the initiative has not been met with unanimous approval. Some journalists and legislators have voiced concerns, suggesting that while the funding is considerable, it may not fully address the deep-seated challenges facing the journalism industry. Despite these reservations, the initiative is expected to have a lasting and transformative impact on the preservation and revitalization of local news outlets in California, potentially serving as a model for other states to follow.
This agreement follows extensive negotiations between lawmakers and technology firms, who had previously resisted legislative efforts to impose mandatory revenue-sharing with media companies. The resolution, endorsed by influential organizations such as the California News Publishers Association, Alphabet, and OpenAI, is regarded as a significant step towards securing the future of journalism in the state. Nonetheless, the initiative has not been met with unanimous approval. Some journalists and legislators have voiced concerns, suggesting that while the funding is considerable, it may not fully address the deep-seated challenges facing the journalism industry. Despite these reservations, the initiative is expected to have a lasting and transformative impact on the preservation and revitalization of local news outlets in California, potentially serving as a model for other states to follow.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever encountered a situation where the media played a crucial role in informing or influencing public opinion? If so, how did it impact you or those around you? If not, what media event do you think could have had a significant impact?
- Can you share an experience where media coverage helped you understand a complex issue better? If so, what was the issue, and how did the coverage help? If not, what type of media coverage would be most useful to you?
- Do you agree that technology companies should share their revenue with media companies to support journalism?
- What are the possible problems and advantages of using government money and contributions from tech companies to support journalism?
- How could California’s new plan be used as a guide for other states, and what difficulties might come up if other states try to do the same? What factors could affect whether it works or not in different places?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- unveil
- artificial intelligence
- primary
- negotiation
- reservation