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Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- precipitous /pri-SIP-i-tuhs/
[adjective] – very sudden and steep
The hikers stopped at the edge of the precipitous cliff. - deleterious /del-i-TEER-ee-uhs/
[adjective] – harmful or damaging
Too much screen time can have deleterious effects on sleep. - ramification /ram-uh-fi-KEY-shuhn/
[noun] – the possible results of an action or decision
The new law could have serious ramifications for small businesses. - salient /SEY-lee-uhnt/
[adjective] – most noticeable or important
The most salient point in her speech was climate change. - paradigmatic /par-uh-dig-MAT-ik/
[adjective] – serving as a typical example or model of something
The scientist’s work became paradigmatic in modern biology.
Article Reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Chief executive officers of companies in the S&P 500 received compensation packages that rose almost 10% in 2024, according to a recent industry survey. The increase took place while the stock market advanced strongly, with the S&P 500 gaining more than 23% and overall profits expanding by more than 9%. Many companies adjusted pay structures to link compensation with performance, with large portions given through stock awards. These awards usually require companies to reach targets in profit or stock price before executives can access them. The median pay package for CEOs climbed to $17.1 million, compared to a median employee salary of about $85,400. At some companies in industries with lower wages, the gap became extreme, reaching more than 1,000 times the typical worker’s pay.
The survey identified several of the highest earners, including leaders in technology, aerospace, and entertainment. One executive in the security and technology sector received a package valued at over $160 million, mostly tied to long-term goals up to 2030. Female CEOs also reached record representation, with 27 included and a median pay of $20 million. Analysts stated that share-based awards have caused a precipitous rise in executive pay, reflecting strong financial markets. Observers warned, however, that these pay gaps can lower morale and increase turnover among staff, creating a deleterious effect on workplace stability. Experts noted that stock-linked pay delivers a clear market signal favored by shareholders, though the ramifications for fairness remain debated. The situation has been described as both salient in economic discussions and a paradigmatic example of modern corporate inequality.
The survey identified several of the highest earners, including leaders in technology, aerospace, and entertainment. One executive in the security and technology sector received a package valued at over $160 million, mostly tied to long-term goals up to 2030. Female CEOs also reached record representation, with 27 included and a median pay of $20 million. Analysts stated that share-based awards have caused a precipitous rise in executive pay, reflecting strong financial markets. Observers warned, however, that these pay gaps can lower morale and increase turnover among staff, creating a deleterious effect on workplace stability. Experts noted that stock-linked pay delivers a clear market signal favored by shareholders, though the ramifications for fairness remain debated. The situation has been described as both salient in economic discussions and a paradigmatic example of modern corporate inequality.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever faced a difficult situation that led to important changes? If so, what changes happened? If not, what kind of change would challenge you the most?
- Have you experienced harmful effects from a quick decision? If so, what happened? If not, what decision would you think is risky?
- Do you agree that the most salient point of any report must be clear to everyone?
- What could be the long-term ramifications of ignoring important warnings in society?
- Which salient factors should governments focus on first when solving major problems?
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.
- compensation
- adjust
- extreme
- shareholder
- discussion