
©AP Photo/Matt Rourke, File
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- momentum /moh-MEN-tuhm/
[noun] – the force that keeps a situation moving or improving
Sales showed strong momentum after new discounts were introduced. - innovation /in-uh-VEY-shuhn/
[noun] – a new idea or method that improves products or services
The company invested in innovation to attract younger customers. - strategic /struh-TEE-jik/
[adjective] – related to long-term planning and careful decision-making
Strategic planning helped the company manage rising costs. - resilience /ri-ZIL-yuhns/
[noun] – the ability to recover quickly from difficulties
The business showed resilience during economic challenges. - trajectory /trajectory /truh-JEK-tuh-ree//
[noun ] – the direction in which something develops over time
The company expects positive growth along its current trajectory.
Article Reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
McDonald’s reported a strong fourth-quarter performance on Wednesday after a global push toward value meals and promotional campaigns boosted sales and customer visits. The Chicago-based fast-food company announced that global same-store sales increased 5.7% in the October–December period, surpassing analysts’ expectations of 3.9%. Fourth-quarter revenue reached $7.01 billion, while net income climbed to $2.16 billion. Executives stated that the strategy aimed to win back price-sensitive households that had gradually reduced their spending at fast-food restaurants due to rising living costs and economic uncertainty.
The company credited a combination of discounted meals, returning menu favorites, and creative promotions for strengthening demand. U.S. combo meal price cuts and the return of Snack Wraps helped improve public perception of affordability. Seasonal campaigns such as the Monopoly game and a Grinch-themed meal also generated heavy traffic and merchandise sales. Executives described the results as evidence of strong business momentum, although growth may slow due to winter weather affecting store operations. The company plans further innovation in beverages inspired by the CosMc’s concept while continuing a strategic focus on value in global markets. Financial leaders highlighted the company’s resilience amid economic pressure and noted a broader trajectory toward expanding menu offerings and maintaining competitive pricing.
The company credited a combination of discounted meals, returning menu favorites, and creative promotions for strengthening demand. U.S. combo meal price cuts and the return of Snack Wraps helped improve public perception of affordability. Seasonal campaigns such as the Monopoly game and a Grinch-themed meal also generated heavy traffic and merchandise sales. Executives described the results as evidence of strong business momentum, although growth may slow due to winter weather affecting store operations. The company plans further innovation in beverages inspired by the CosMc’s concept while continuing a strategic focus on value in global markets. Financial leaders highlighted the company’s resilience amid economic pressure and noted a broader trajectory toward expanding menu offerings and maintaining competitive pricing.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What fast-food value promotions have been seen in the community, if any? If so, what promotions? If not, what could be introduced?
- What seasonal marketing campaigns have been seen in the community, if any? If so, which ones? If not, what ideas could work?
- Do value meals remain essential during economic uncertainty?
- Why does weather affect restaurant performance?
- How can promotions create long-term customer loyalty?
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.
- performance
- income
- gradually
- demand
- menu