Intermediate

Japanese sushi chain adopts digital conveyor belts amid ‘sushi terrorism’ concerns

japanese sushi

©FOOD and LIFE COMPANIES Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. When you hear the term “digital conveyor belts” in the context of a sushi chain, what do you think it might involve? How do you think this digital technology could change the way sushi is served and enjoyed? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. concern /kuhn-SURN/ [noun] – a worried or nervous feeling about something or something that makes you feel worried Her concern for her friend’s well-being led her to call and check on them. device /dih-VAHYS/ [noun] – an object or machine that has been…
Read more

Morehouse College launches virtual reality education ‘Metaversity’

virtual-reality-g05c4cfd28_1280

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Have you ever experienced virtual reality programs? Tell me about it. Would you want to use virtual reality to learn? Why or why not? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. historically /hi-STAWR-ik-lee/ [adverb] – in comparison with quantities, qualities, etc. in the past Historically, this region was known for its rich cultural heritage. enhance /en-HANS/ [verb] – to improve the quality, amount, or strength of something Reading books can enhance your knowledge and broaden your perspective. simulation /sim-yuh-LEY-shuhn/ [noun] – a model of a set of problems or events that can…
Read more

US regulators investigate OpenAI’s ChatGPT model for concerns

chatgpt-8101650_1280

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What is an AI-powered chatbot? What are some common use cases for AI-powered chatbots? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. concern /kuhn-SURN/ [noun] – a worried or nervous feeling about something, or something that makes you feel worried She expressed her concern about the safety of the new construction project in the neighborhood. accuracy /AK-yer-uh-see/ [noun] – the fact of being exact or correct The scientist emphasized the importance of data accuracy in conducting reliable experiments. intellectual /in-tl-EK-choo-uhl/ [adjective] – relating to your ability to think and understand things, especially complicated…
Read more

Bengal cats remain illegal throughout the U.S.

cat-2048416_1280

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you already know or think about Bengal cats? What do you believe are some of the benefits and responsibilities associated with having a pet cat? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. breed /breed/ [noun] – a particular type of animal or plant The Labrador Retriever is a popular breed of dog known for its friendly nature. household /HOUS-hohld/ [noun] – homes or living environments of people Many households in the neighborhood have adopted Shiba Inu dogs for their friendly demeanor, intelligence, and charming appearance. ban /ban/ [verb] – to…
Read more

Humpback whale sightings off the NSW Coast signal conservation success

whale-watching-gold-coast-gf6aa6c87a_1280

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Which endangered species would you like to see in person? What other endangered animals do you wish to thrive and increase in population? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. migration /mahy-GREY-shuhn/ [noun] – the process of animals travelling to a different place, usually when the season changes The great wildebeest migration in Africa is a stunning spectacle, as thousands of animals traverse vast distances in search of greener pastures. surge /surj / [noun] – a sudden and great increase In times of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or floods, there is…
Read more

Endangered Sumatran rhino birth signals hope in the battle against extinction

rhino

©Antara Foto/Reuters Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What comes to mind when you hear the word “rhinoceros”? What do you believe are the unique characteristics of rhinoceroses? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. conservation /kon-ser-VEY-shuhn/ [noun] – the protection of plants and animals, natural areas, and interesting and important structures and buildings, especially from the damaging effects of human activity Conservation organizations work to protect endangered species and their habitats. endangered /en-DEYN-jerd/ [adjective] – animals or plants that may soon not exist because there are very few now alive: Endangered animals need our protection. illegal /ih-LEE-guhl…
Read more

‘White People Meals’ trend in China reflects nation’s evolving culinary preferences

burger-g626debb7c_1280

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What is your favorite Japanese food? Do you like Western food? Which one is your favorite? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. factor /FAK-ter/ [noun] – a fact or situation that influences the result of something The weather was a significant factor in the cancellation of the outdoor event. critic /KRIT-ik/ [noun] – someone who says that they do not approve of someone or something The art critic wrote a scathing review of the gallery’s latest exhibition, criticizing the lack of originality and artistic depth. nonetheless /nuhn-thuh-LES/ [adverb] – despite what…
Read more

Scientists win Nobel Prize for ‘groundbreaking’ mRNA Covid-19 vaccines

nobel-2166136_1280

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. How do you imagine vaccines playing a role in global health efforts and disease prevention? Have you heard of the ‘Nobel Prize’? Can you envision how the Nobel Prize influences advancements and recognition in science, literature, peace efforts, and other fields? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. crucial /KROO-shuhl/ [adjective] – extremely important or necessary It is crucial to double-check the safety measures before starting any experiment in the laboratory. committee /kuh-MIT-ee/ [noun] – a small group of people chosen to represent a larger organization and either make decisions or collect…
Read more

New study reveals alarming link between common artificial sweetener and higher heart attack

sugar-5040276_1280

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you know about the health effects of artificial sweeteners? Do you think artificial sweeteners are a healthier option than sugar? Why or why not? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. artificial /ahr-tuh-FISH-uhl/ [adjective] – made or produced by humans, often as an imitation of something natural Some artificial flowers look so real that it’s hard to tell they’re not natural. substitute /SUHB-sti-toot/ [noun] – a person or thing that takes the place or function of another Soy milk can be a substitute for dairy milk for people who are…
Read more

Sweden to create a city entirely out of wood

wooden city sweden

©Atrium Ljungberg / Henning Larsen Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you know about Sweden? What comes to mind when you hear the word city? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. ambitious /am-BISH-uhs/ [adjective] – If a plan or idea is ambitious, it needs a great amount of skill and effort to be successful or be achieved The company’s ambitious expansion plan involved entering new markets and diversifying its product offerings. enhance /en-HANS/ [verb] – to improve the quality, amount, or strength of something The art exhibition showcases various techniques and styles that enhance the…
Read more