Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- decline /dih-KLAHYN/
- surge /surj/
- discrepancy /dih-SKREP-uhn-see/
- modest /MOD-ist/
- trajectory /truh-JEK-tuh-ree /
[noun] – a reduction or decrease in amount, quality, or strength
There was a noticeable decline in sales during the winter months.
[verb] – to increase suddenly and strongly
Electricity demand surged during the heatwave.
[noun] – a lack of compatibility or similarity between two or more facts
The accountant noticed a discrepancy in the financial reports.
[adjective] – not large, elaborate, or expensive; limited in size or amount
The project had modest goals but achieved great success.
[noun] – the way in which a process or event develops over a period of time
The company’s growth trajectory has been steadily upward this year.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
In July 2024, the number of job openings in the United States decreased to its lowest level since early 2021. This decline indicates a potential slowdown in hiring activity across various sectors. The reduction in available jobs has been a consistent trend throughout the year, reflecting broader changes in the job market. Additionally, layoffs surged to their highest level since March 2023, although this rate is similar to levels seen before the pandemic. Despite the increase in layoffs, the overall job market presents mixed signals. Total hiring rose in July, and there was a slight increase in the number of people quitting their jobs. However, the rate of resignations remains significantly below the peak levels observed in 2022.
The drop in job openings was noted across several industries, though some areas experienced growth. Despite the overall reduction in job openings, the current situation still shows more available positions than unemployed individuals, highlighting a continued demand for workers. This discrepancy suggests that while there are fewer job openings, employers are still actively seeking to fill positions. The Federal Reserve will be paying close attention to these labor market trends, as they could influence future decisions regarding interest rates. Upcoming reports are expected to provide further details about the state of the job market. Economists predict modest job growth and a slight decrease in the unemployment rate, which may offer a clearer understanding of the labor market’s trajectory and its potential impact on the broader economy in the near future.
The drop in job openings was noted across several industries, though some areas experienced growth. Despite the overall reduction in job openings, the current situation still shows more available positions than unemployed individuals, highlighting a continued demand for workers. This discrepancy suggests that while there are fewer job openings, employers are still actively seeking to fill positions. The Federal Reserve will be paying close attention to these labor market trends, as they could influence future decisions regarding interest rates. Upcoming reports are expected to provide further details about the state of the job market. Economists predict modest job growth and a slight decrease in the unemployment rate, which may offer a clearer understanding of the labor market’s trajectory and its potential impact on the broader economy in the near future.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever faced a time when there were fewer job opportunities available in your area? If so, how did you find new opportunities? If not, how do you think you would handle it if it happened?
- Have you noticed any increases in job openings in fields you’re interested in? If so, what changes do you think caused this? If not, what types of jobs would you like to see more of? Why?
- Do you agree that a drop in job openings usually means the economy is slowing down?
- What could employers do to help balance the number of available jobs with the number of job seekers? What are some possible solutions?
- How does a surge in layoffs compare to past economic downturns in terms of its effects on workers? What can we learn from previous events?
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.
- job opening
- various
- remain
- reduction
- potential