Advanced Reading Lesson1-10

Read the article and have a discussion based on the following questions.

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Lesson 1: The Impact of Reading Aloud on Memory and Comprehension

The Impact of Reading Aloud on Memory and Comprehension

 In school, a significant amount of time is spent studying and reading material that we need to recall later for tests. Our ability to remember what we’ve read often becomes a key measure of our academic success. But there are different ways to study: some people read information aloud, others silently; some take notes or ask someone to quiz them. Most students eventually find a method that works best for them.

Previous research has shown that reading information aloud can improve memory compared to reading silently. However, researchers wanted to explore a different angle: does reading aloud help us understand information better?

 While past studies focused on how well people remember individual words, they often overlooked whether reading aloud affects comprehension on a deeper level. To address this gap, a research team conducted four experiments. Participants were given passages to read—some aloud and some silently. After reading each passage, they answered multiple-choice questions. Some questions tested their memory of the content, while others assessed their understanding and ability to connect different pieces of information.

 The findings revealed that while reading aloud does enhance memory, it does not necessarily improve comprehension or the ability to make meaningful connections between ideas. Participants who read aloud remembered details better, but their deeper understanding of the text remained unchanged. One of the researchers explained that being able to recall information does not equate to a better understanding of it.

 The researchers further commented, “Read your grocery lists aloud to remember them better, but don’t bother reading your textbook chapters aloud.” Their advice underscores the distinction between memorization and comprehension: while reading aloud may help retain specific facts, it does little to enhance one’s grasp of complex concepts.

 These findings suggest that while reading aloud can be a useful tool for memorization, it may not be the best approach for understanding more complex or interconnected information. Therefore, students may need to adopt different study methods depending on whether their goal is to remember facts or deeply understand a topic.

Questions

1. Summarize the content of the article.

2. Do you think reading aloud is a useful strategy for studying, or do you prefer other methods? Why?

3. How important do you think it is to focus on comprehension rather than just memorization when studying?

4. Based on the research findings, would you change your study habits to improve understanding rather than memory? Why or why not?

5. What study techniques do you find most effective for improving comprehension of complex information?

6. Do you agree with Brady R.T. Roberts’ advice about not reading textbook chapters aloud? Why or why not?

7. How do you balance the need for memorization and comprehension when preparing for exams?

8. In your opinion, should schools encourage different study techniques to help students understand content better? If so, how?

9. Do you think the ability to remember information is overrated in education systems today? Explain your viewpoint.

10. If you were conducting a similar study, what additional factors would you explore to understand the impact of reading methods on learning?

Lesson 2: The Debate Over Anonymous Reviews by Public Figures

The Debate Over Anonymous Reviews by Public Figures

 In today’s digital age, public figures often navigate unique challenges when it comes to their interactions with businesses. While they frequently use fake names to book hotels or make restaurant reservations for privacy, some take this further by writing anonymous online reviews. This practice, particularly when leaving negative feedback, has sparked ongoing debate.

Supporters of anonymous reviews argue that everyone, including public figures, has the right to share honest feedback about their experiences. The primary purpose of review platforms, they claim, is to provide a space for transparency—whether the feedback is positive or negative. They believe that public figures should not be excluded from this process simply because of their fame.

 Critics, however, worry about the potential consequences. Negative reviews from influential individuals can have a disproportionate impact on businesses, especially small ones. Critics also argue that anonymous reviews lack accountability, as they don’t give businesses the opportunity to address complaints directly. Some feel that public figures, with their vast platforms and resources, have an unfair advantage when it comes to sharing opinions online.

 This debate raises broader questions about the role and ethics of online reviews. Should all reviews, whether written by public figures or private individuals, be attributed to a real identity? Many business owners prefer direct feedback in person, allowing them to address issues on the spot. However, surveys show that many people feel uncomfortable confronting staff, even when dissatisfied.

 Experts suggest that online reviews should focus on the specific experience rather than targeting individuals personally. Keeping feedback constructive and fair ensures that reviews remain helpful while minimizing potential harm to workers or businesses. Whether anonymous or not, the question remains: how can we balance the need for honest feedback with the responsibility of wielding influence carefully?

Questions

1. Summarize the content of the article.

2. Do you think celebrities should use fake names when writing online reviews? Why or why not?

3. Is it fair for a wealthy person like Millie Bobby Brown to criticize low-paid service workers through online reviews? Why do you feel this way?

4. How would you feel if a famous person left a negative review about your workplace? Would it affect your opinion of them?

5. Do you believe that anonymous reviews are more honest, or do they encourage unfair criticism? Explain your viewpoint.

6. Should businesses prioritize resolving complaints in person rather than online?

What are the advantages and disadvantages?

7. How comfortable are you with leaving a negative review for a restaurant or hotel? What factors would influence your decision?

8. What could be a more constructive way for celebrities to express dissatisfaction with services rather than writing anonymous reviews?

9. Do you think online review platforms should have stricter rules for who can post reviews and how? What changes would you suggest?

10. How do you think social media affects people’s opinions on topics like this? Does it encourage constructive debate or more hostility?

Lesson 3: Learning Through Adventure: Using Games to Teach Languate

 Learning Through Adventure: Using Games to Teach Language

 While walking along a forest path, a small, goblin-like creature suddenly emerges from the trees. It seems to be searching for something.

 “Should we attack it?” someone asks.

 “It’s close enough,” another voice responds.

  “No, wait—let’s ask it what it’s looking for!” suggests another person.

 This might sound like a scene from a fantasy story, but it’s actually part of a unique language learning activity. In this class, students aren’t just memorizing vocabulary—they are actively engaging in a role-playing game where creativity and language practice go hand in hand.

 In one language program, educators have found an innovative way to help students learn a new language by using tabletop role-playing games. These types of games offer a fun and interactive way for students to practice speaking, listening, and problem-solving. Rather than focusing on grammar drills or textbook exercises, students immerse themselves in a collaborative story where they have to communicate with each other to complete challenges.

 The game takes the pressure off speaking a new language, as it encourages students to speak freely and think on their feet. Students practice using language in real-life situations, such as negotiating with characters in the game or solving problems as a team. The game fosters valuable skills like persuasion, negotiation, and collaboration, which are essential for effective communication.

 While the game involves fantasy elements like mythical creatures and magical worlds, the scenarios are often inspired by real-life experiences. For instance, players might need to convince a character to give them an item, only to find that they must complete a task first. These challenges help students develop their ability to use language practically and think critically.

 Teachers remind students that the goal is not just to play a game, but to create a shared story together. In this story, anything can happen, and students can practice using language in a fun, immersive way.

 This method of language learning attracts a diverse group of students, each with different backgrounds and native languages. The weekly sessions offer an exciting opportunity for students to practice their new language while making connections with others from different cultures. Through these interactive adventures, students not only improve their language skills but also build confidence and enjoy the process of learning together.

Questions

1. Summarize the content of the article.

2. Do you think using games is an effective way to learn a language? Why or why not?

3. How important is it to create a fun and relaxed environment when learning a new language? What are some other ways to do this?

4. What do you think are the advantages of practicing English through role-playing games compared to traditional classroom methods?

5. Would you feel comfortable participating in a language learning session that uses a game? Why or why not?

6. In your opinion, can storytelling help improve communication skills? Why might this be important for language learners?

7. Do you agree with the approach of creating real-life scenarios within a fantasy game? How might this help or hinder language learning?

8. How do you think different cultural backgrounds (like those from China, Japan, Iran, etc.) impact the dynamics of a role-playing game in a language learning context?

9. Should language institutes incorporate more non-traditional methods, like games, to teach languages? Why or why not?

10. Do you think that making mistakes is a crucial part of learning a new language? How should teachers and students handle mistakes during learning activities?

Lesson 4: The Global Challenges of Food Waste

The Global Challenge of Food Waste

 In recent years, the issue of food waste has become a growing global concern. Reports from international organizations estimate that in 2022 alone, approximately 19% of all food produced—equivalent to 1.05 billion metric tons—was wasted. This waste comes from three primary sources: households, food service providers such as restaurants, and retailers. Among these, households contribute the most, accounting for 60% of the waste. Restaurants are responsible for 28%, while retailers make up the remaining 12%.

 The numbers are staggering. On average, each person wastes about 79 kilograms of food annually. This amounts to over a billion meals being thrown away worldwide every single day. Meanwhile, nearly 783 million people across the globe face chronic hunger, highlighting the stark contrast between food waste and food insecurity.

 The environmental consequences of food waste are equally alarming. Producing food consumes vast amounts of resources, including land and water, and significantly contributes to climate change. Experts estimate that food waste is responsible for 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Addressing this issue could lead to substantial environmental benefits, such as conserving natural resources and reducing harm to ecosystems, while also improving global food availability.

 Researchers specializing in food systems stress the importance of reducing waste as a key step toward sustainability. They argue that addressing this issue could lead to conserving valuable resources, minimizing environmental damage, and even freeing up land for alternative purposes. One effective strategy highlighted in studies involves donating surplus food from retailers to food banks and charitable organizations, ensuring excess food benefits those in need rather than going to waste.

 Interestingly, the difference in food waste generated by households in wealthier versus less affluent countries is smaller than many might expect. This finding underscores that food waste is not a problem exclusive to richer nations but a universal challenge. Experts emphasize that reducing food waste is a practical step individuals can take immediately, offering the dual benefits of saving money and protecting the planet.

 The issue of food waste affects us all. By working together, individuals, businesses, and governments can play a part in reducing this crisis and fostering a more sustainable future.

Questions

1. Summarize the content of the article.

2. What do you think about the claim that households are responsible for 60% of global food waste?

3. Are you surprised that each person wastes about 79 kilograms of food per year?

4. Do you know of any restaurants or supermarkets in your area that donate surplus food?

5. What do you make of the claim that food waste is not a “rich world problem”?

6. Have you taken any steps to reduce food waste in your household?

7. Do you often buy more food than you need?

8. What kinds of food items in your home are most likely to go to waste, and why?

9. How difficult do you think it would be to live a zero-waste lifestyle?

10. What are some innovative solutions you can think of to address food waste on both a personal and global level?

Lesson 5: Genome Editing Controversy

  Genome Editing Controversy

 In 2018, Chinese researcher He Jiankui made headlines when he announced that he had helped create the world’s first genetically edited babies. Using a tool called CRISPR, He altered the genomes of twin girls to make them resistant to HIV. This caused a major controversy, with many scientists condemning his work as “unethical” and fearing it could lead to the rise of “designer babies”—embryos whose genes are edited for specific traits.

 For his actions, He was fined $430,000 and sentenced to three years in prison for engaging in illegal medical practices. Genome editing involves removing specific genes and replacing them with new ones to give certain cells or organisms desired characteristics. Despite the backlash, He stated that he is proud to have helped families who wanted healthy children, though he admits he moved too quickly with the procedure.

 After being released from prison in 2022, He has returned to the scientific field but is currently not planning to create any more gene-edited babies. Instead, he is focused on researching human embryo genome editing to treat rare genetic diseases like Alzheimer’s. He emphasized that his research will comply with both domestic and international regulations, using discarded human embryos. He believes society will eventually accept genome editing as a valuable medical tool.

 He’s new proposals, published in 2023, have already stirred debate, with some labeling them as a “publicity stunt.” Editing the genes of embryos for pregnancy is illegal in many countries, including the U.S., and even in places like the U.K., embryo editing is only allowed for research purposes under strict guidelines.

 There is still uncertainty about how genome editing might affect individuals later in life. As this research develops, ethical questions surrounding the use of gene-editing technology will continue to challenge the scientific community and society at large.

Questions

1. Summarize the content of the article.

2. Do you think He Jiankui’s decision to genetically edit the twin girls’ genomes was justified, given the potential health benefits? Why or why not?

3. How do you feel about the ethical concerns surrounding gene editing, particularly the fear of creating “designer babies”?

4. Should scientists be allowed to use gene editing techniques like CRISPR to prevent diseases in unborn children? Why or why not?

5. He Jiankui claims that society will eventually accept genome editing. Do you agree with this prediction? What factors could influence this acceptance?

6. Do you believe the punishment He received—three years in prison and a fine—was appropriate for his actions? Why or why not?

7. Should countries where genome editing for pregnancies is illegal reconsider their stance in light of potential medical benefits, such as preventing genetic diseases? Why or why not?

8. How should governments regulate scientific research that involves human embryo genome editing? Should there be global standards?

9. Given the potential unknown effects of genome editing on individuals later in life, do you think it is worth pursuing this technology for medical purposes?

10. What do you think about He’s return to research after his prison sentence? Should someone who has faced legal consequences in science be allowed to continue working in the field? Why or why not?

Lesson 6: The Future of Remote Work

The Future of Remote Work

 During the coronavirus pandemic, many individuals realized they were more productive working from home. Others valued the flexibility it provided, enjoying extra time with their families and avoiding long commutes.

 Even after the pandemic ended, remote work continued to be popular among employees. However, the availability of remote job opportunities has decreased compared to the height of the pandemic. Data from a professional networking platform showed that remote job postings declined by 23% between early 2023 and January 2024. Despite this drop, the demand for remote positions remains strong.

 In many countries, including the United States, around 10% of job postings were for remote roles. However, these positions received nearly half of all job applications. This trend reflects a significant mismatch between the number of remote jobs available and the number of people seeking them, making such positions highly competitive.

 Surveys consistently show that employees value flexibility in their work arrangements. However, some companies are hesitant to offer remote options, often preferring traditional office-based roles. This reluctance is partly due to economic uncertainty, which leads many businesses to rely on familiar practices during challenging times.

 Despite these challenges, experts remain hopeful about the future of work. Businesses are gradually adapting to new ways of operating, and flexible work arrangements are gaining acceptance. For instance, in countries like the UK and Ireland, over 40% of job postings now offer hybrid roles, allowing employees to split their time between working from home and the office.

 As work environments continue to evolve, the balance between remote, hybrid, and office-based roles will likely shift. Companies and employees alike will need to adapt to find solutions that meet the needs of both sides, paving the way for a more flexible future of work.

Questions

1. Summarize the content of the article.

2. In your opinion, what are the key advantages of working from home?

3. Is it difficult to find remote or hybrid job opportunities in your country?

4. Why do you believe some companies are hesitant to provide remote work options?

5. Do you think businesses will expand their remote or hybrid work offerings in the future?

6. How adaptable is your current work schedule?

7. Do you know a lot of people who have the ability to work from home?

8. What would your perfect working setup look like?

9. How has the pandemic permanently affected your industry?

10. What challenges do you think employees face when working remotely or in hybrid roles?

Lesson 7: The Importance of Work-Life Balance

 The Importance of Work-Life Balance

 Balancing work and personal life can be difficult for many people, but some countries seem to have found a way to achieve it more successfully. According to recent reports, nations like New Zealand, Italy, France, Denmark, and Spain are leaders in maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

 The rankings come from the Global Life-Work Balance Index by a human resources company, and the OECD Better Life Index, which compares the well-being of people in its 38 member countries. The OECD is an international organization that promotes economic growth and cooperation among countries.

 New Zealand ranks first in the Global Life-Work Balance Index, partly due to its relaxed culture. People in New Zealand are entitled to a minimum of 32 days of paid leave each year, and workers only average 26.3 hours of work each week, which allows plenty of time for personal activities.

 In Italy, people enjoy an average of 16.5 hours per day for sleep, meals, and leisure, which is above the OECD average. This means Italians spend more time on personal care compared to many other countries.

 France also provides its workers with a good balance. On average, French people dedicate 16.2 hours a day to personal activities, and workers receive at least 36 days of paid leave every year. With an average of just 25.6 hours worked per week, French employees enjoy more free time than many others.

 Denmark, which ranks second in the OECD index, stands out for its low number of people working long hours. Only about 1% of workers in Denmark work over 50 hours a week, compared to 10% in the wider OECD region. Spain, while losing some of its traditional afternoon break culture, still offers generous leave days and ranks highly for personal time.

 These examples show that prioritizing time for leisure and personal care can help people lead happier and healthier lives. Countries with a good work-life balance often create a better quality of life for their citizens.

Questions

1. Summarize the content of the article.

2. What are your thoughts on the countries listed as having the best work-life balance?

3. Which countries from the list do you think would offer the best lifestyle for living and working?

4. How do you think your country compares when it comes to achieving a good work-life balance?

5. How many days of paid leave do workers typically receive in your country?

6. Do you think many people in your country regularly work over 50 hours a week?

7. Do you feel that your job offers a healthy work-life balance?

8. Would you prefer to have more vacation days or shorter working hours each day?

9. What activities do you do to relax after a busy workday?

10. When was the last time you took a day off, and how did you spend it?

Lesson 8: The Development of an AI Tool to Predict Future Health Conditions

  The Development of an AI Tool to Predict Future Health Conditions

 Researchers have developed an innovative artificial intelligence tool with the potential to predict future health conditions. This tool, which was created through collaboration among various experts from universities and hospitals, has been trained using a vast amount of real patient data. By utilizing deep learning techniques, the AI can identify patterns within healthcare data and predict future symptoms, medications, conditions, and procedures.

 The initial results of the tool’s testing were published in a leading medical journal. The AI was trained using health data from over 800,000 patients from two different countries. To test its effectiveness, researchers compared the predictions made by the tool with the actual outcomes of a smaller group of patients whose medical records were analyzed.

 In one country, the AI tool accurately predicted the next health disorder in 68% to 76% of cases. In another country, the accuracy rate was even higher, with predictions correct 88% of the time. The tool also demonstrated an impressive accuracy rate of at least 80% when predicting biomedical concepts, such as conditions, medications, symptoms, or relapses.

 The lead author of the study emphasized that the AI tool is not intended for self-diagnosis. Rather, it is designed to support healthcare professionals by ensuring that no diagnosis is missed and by providing continuous monitoring of patients. As the tool processes more data, its predictions improve over time.

 Although the AI tool shows great promise, the researchers pointed out that further testing is needed. They are currently seeking hospitals to participate in trials of a more advanced version, which aims to enhance the accuracy and usefulness of the tool in the medical field.

Questions

1. Summarize the content of the article.

2. What is your opinion on the AI tool designed to predict health conditions?

3. Were you surprised by how accurately the AI tool predicted future health outcomes?

4. Would you feel confident relying on an AI tool for health monitoring?

5. How do you think AI will influence the future of healthcare?

6. Do you believe that AI could eventually replace doctors?

7. Are there any AI tools that you use in your workplace?

8. How do you think AI will affect your industry in the future?

9. Are there specific jobs or industries where you think AI should not be implemented?

10. Do you feel hopeful about the future of AI?

Lesson 9:The Search for the Perfect Show

 The Search for the Perfect Show

Are you ready for a cozy evening filled with entertainment? You’ve finished your chores, prepared some snacks, poured a drink, and slipped into your favorite comfortable clothes. But wait—what should you watch?

If you often find yourself sitting down to watch TV without a clue about what to choose, you’re not alone. A recent survey revealed that only 19% of viewers typically know what they want to watch before turning on the screen.

TiVo, a company known for its digital video recorders, surveyed nearly 4,500 people in the US and Canada about their viewing habits. They release the Video Trends Report twice a year, highlighting interesting insights into how we consume content.

With so many options available, finding something enjoyable can be a challenge. So, where do we look for inspiration? According to the survey, a majority of people rely on recommendations from friends—43% said this is their go-to method. Commercials during other shows also influence choices, with 42% of respondents admitting they decide based on these ads.

Social media plays a significant role, too; over a third of people discover shows through platforms like Instagram and Twitter. Additionally, 29% of viewers find new content while browsing the home screens of their streaming apps.

Interestingly, nearly half of the participants reported visiting two or three different streaming platforms before settling on a show. This demonstrates that even with countless options, choosing what to watch can still feel overwhelming. So, next time you find yourself in this situation, remember—it’s a common experience, and inspiration can come from many different places!

Questions

1. Summarize the content of the article.

2. Do you typically know what you want to watch before you turn on the TV?

3. How long does it generally take you to choose something to watch?

4. Where do you find suggestions for TV shows to watch?

5. How many different streaming platforms do you use?

6. What are your favorite snacks for watching TV?

7. Which TV shows are you currently enjoying?

8. What are some of the best shows you’ve seen lately?

9. Are there any new shows you’re excited about?

10. How have streaming services changed the way you watch TV?

Lesson 10:The Influence of Japanese Words on English

The Influence of Japanese Words on English

 Have you ever noticed how some English words sound remarkably similar to Japanese? This is no coincidence—many of these words are indeed borrowed from Japanese. Recently, one of the most renowned English dictionaries added 22 new Japanese words to its collection, increasing the number of recognized Japanese terms to over 570.

 The process of Japanese words entering English dates back centuries, with records showing their usage as early as the 16th century. Among the latest additions, many are related to food. Words like onigiri (rice balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and takoyaki (octopus balls) have been included. Linguists explain that food-related terms are often borrowed because people prefer using the authentic names of dishes rather than attempting to translate them into English.

The selection process for adding these words is careful and systematic. Experts consider factors such as how long a word has been used in English and how frequently it appears in conversations or writings. For the recent additions, they collaborated with language specialists to ensure accuracy. An example of a new word is “katsu,” which is a shortened form of katsuretsu, itself derived from the English term “cutlet.”

 Beyond food, new additions also include terms related to Japanese art and culture. For instance, kirigami refers to the craft of cutting and folding paper into intricate, three-dimensional shapes, while kintsugi describes the art of repairing broken pottery with materials like gold or silver, highlighting the beauty of imperfections.

 Another interesting word is isekai, which translates to “other world.” This term is commonly used to describe a genre of fantasy or science fiction where characters are transported to unfamiliar and fantastical worlds, a theme featured in many popular stories.

 As global interactions increase and Japanese cuisine and culture gain international appeal, the integration of Japanese words into English is expected to continue growing. This blending of languages reflects the rich exchange of ideas and traditions in an increasingly connected world.

Questions

1. Summarize the content of the article.

2. What do you think about the new Japanese words added to the English dictionary?

3. The Oxford English Dictionary has recorded Japanese words in English since the 16th century. What is your opinion on this long history of language exchange?

4. Are you surprised that the word “katsu” has English origins?

5. Can you name any other English words that have come from Japanese?

6. How do you feel when you hear words from your native language being used in English?

7. Do you think it is effective to use an English-English dictionary when studying English?

8. What are some of the most interesting English words you’ve learned lately?

9. Has your language borrowed many words from English?

10. Which languages are most similar to your native language?