Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- sluggish /SLUHG-ish/
- counter /KOUN-ter/
- ramp up /RAMP-uhp/
- expect /ik-SPEKT/
- trade surplus /TREYD sur-pluhs/
[adjective] – moving or operating more slowly than usual and with less energy
The old computer was so sluggish that it took minutes to open a file.
[verb] – to react to something with an opposing force or action
The manager tried to counter the complaints with better customer service.
[phrasal verb] – to increase or raise the level of something
The company decided to ramp up production to meet the holiday demand.
[verb] – to think or believe that something will happen
We expect the weather to be sunny for the weekend trip.
[noun phrase] – when a country exports more than it imports
The country reported a trade surplus due to high exports of electronics.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
China’s exports grew for the fifth consecutive month in August, signaling stronger demand from international markets despite a sluggish domestic economy. Official data revealed that exports rose by 8.7% compared to the same month last year, exceeding analysts’ expectations. This marked the fastest increase in 18 months. In contrast, imports showed a minimal rise of 0.5%, falling short of forecasts. Economists suggest that the export growth was partially due to a low base from August 2023, when exports declined by 8.8%. To counter the economic slowdown, Chinese leaders have ramped up investments in manufacturing to stimulate growth.
Experts noted that export volumes reached record highs, with favorable exchange rates contributing to this surge. Although import volumes dropped in August, they are expected to recover in the coming months, driven by rising external demand and increased government spending. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) remains China’s largest trading partner, with exports to ASEAN, the United States, and the European Union experiencing growth. China’s trade surplus widened to $91.02 billion in August. Despite strong export performance, China continues to face domestic challenges, as consumer spending remains weak. The consumer price index (CPI) rose by only 0.6% due to higher food prices caused by adverse weather conditions. Additionally, industrial activity showed signs of contraction, as the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) fell below 50, indicating a decline in manufacturing output.
Experts noted that export volumes reached record highs, with favorable exchange rates contributing to this surge. Although import volumes dropped in August, they are expected to recover in the coming months, driven by rising external demand and increased government spending. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) remains China’s largest trading partner, with exports to ASEAN, the United States, and the European Union experiencing growth. China’s trade surplus widened to $91.02 billion in August. Despite strong export performance, China continues to face domestic challenges, as consumer spending remains weak. The consumer price index (CPI) rose by only 0.6% due to higher food prices caused by adverse weather conditions. Additionally, industrial activity showed signs of contraction, as the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) fell below 50, indicating a decline in manufacturing output.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever experienced a situation where a country’s economic performance impacted your daily life? If so, how did it affect you? If not, how do you think you would be affected by such a situation?
- Have you ever traveled to a country that had a strong or weak economy? If so, what changes did you notice during your visit? If not, which country’s economic situation would you like to learn more about and why?
- Do you agree that a strong export performance can compensate for a sluggish domestic economy?
- How might a country’s trade surplus influence its relationships with trading partners? Consider both positive and negative effects.
- In what ways can governments stimulate growth when domestic spending is weak? Evaluate different strategies and their potential effectiveness.
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.
- consecutive
- decline
- challenge
- adverse
- output