August 29, 2026

https://www.rarejob.com/dna/2026/08/29/some-robotaxis-approved-to-operate-without-steering-wheels-and-losing-the-brake-pedal-could-be-next/

MATERIAL: Daily News Article
CATEGORY:  Technology/Innovations 
TITLE:  Some robotaxis approved to operate without steering wheels and losing the brake pedal could be next  
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 UNLOCKING WORD MEANINGS: 
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION  
1. clear the way [kleer thuh wey] 
Additional Information: This idiom is usually followed by the preposition for.  

2. pending [PEN-ding] 
Additional Information: This adjective may also mean happening or likely to happen soon.  

3. assumption [uh-SUHMP-shuhn] 
Additional Information: Its verb form is assume.  

4. glossy [GLOS-ee] 
Additional Information: This adjective may also mean having a shiny, smooth surface.  

5. counsel [KOUN-suhl] 
Additional Information: This word can be used as a verb, which means to give advice to someone.  
---
SYNONYMS  
1. clear the way - allow, enable, permit  
2. pending - awaiting, undecided, unfinished  
3. assumption - belief, idea, expectation  
4. glossy - shiny, smooth, polished  
5. counsel - lawyer, advisor, consultant  
---
DEFINITION:  
1. clear the way - to make it possible for something to happen  
2. pending - waiting to be decided, approved, or finished; not yet settled  
3. assumption - a belief or idea accepted as true without official proof or facts  
4. glossy - looking attractive or impressive on the surface, but without real depth, quality, or honesty  
5. counsel - a lawyer or group of lawyers who provide legal advice to a person, company, or organization  
---
FREE CONVERSATION/DISCUSSION:  
1. What do you think about robotaxis operating without steering wheels?  
2. How safe do you feel about cars that drive themselves?  
3. What are the advantages of using robotaxis in cities?  
4. How might robotaxis change public transportation?  
5. Do you think people will trust cars without brake pedals?  
6. What challenges might companies face when developing robotaxis?  
7. How can technology ensure passenger safety in autonomous vehicles?  
8. What laws should be created for driverless cars?  
9. How could robotaxis affect traditional taxi drivers?  
10. What are the environmental benefits of robotaxis?  
11. Do you think robotaxis will reduce traffic accidents?  
12. How might robotaxis help people who cannot drive?  
13. What are the possible risks of removing manual controls from vehicles?  
14. How do you think robotaxis will change the future of travel?  
15. Would you ride in a car without a steering wheel?  
16. How can companies clear the way for safer autonomous technology?  
17. Why do you think some robotaxi projects are still pending approval?  
18. What assumptions do people make about self-driving cars?  
19. How can glossy advertisements influence public opinion about technology?  
20. Why is legal counsel important in developing new technologies?  
21. How can governments regulate robotaxi operations effectively?  
22. What ethical issues arise from using artificial intelligence in transportation?  
23. How might robotaxis affect car ownership in the future?  
24. What skills will future drivers need if cars become fully autonomous?  
25. How can robotaxis improve mobility for elderly or disabled passengers?  
26. What are the biggest technological hurdles for robotaxis today?  
27. How can companies build public trust in autonomous vehicles?  
28. What role does innovation play in shaping transportation systems?  
29. How can robotaxis contribute to reducing carbon emissions?  
30. What do you think the next major breakthrough in transportation will be?  

August 28, 2026



MATERIAL: Daily News Article  
CATEGORY: Health  
TITLE: Immigration crackdown threatens Haitian caregivers and the seniors who rely on them  
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UNLOCKING WORD MEANINGS: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION  
1. immigrant [IM-i-gruhnt] 
Additional Information: The verb form of this word is immigrate.  

2. overrepresented [oh-ver-rep-ri-ZENT-id]
 Additional Information: An antonym of this word is underrepresented.  

3. lifeline [LAHYF-lahyn] 
Additional Information: Some variations of the spelling of this word are life line or life-line.  

4. institutionalization [in-sti-too-shuh-nl-ahy-ZEY-shuhn] 
Additional Information: Its root word is institution, which refers to a building where people are sent to be cared for, especially a hospital.  

5. incontinent [in-KON-tn-uhnt]
Additional Information: An antonym of this word is continent.  
---
SYNONYMS  
1. immigrant - newcomer, settler, foreigner  
2. overrepresented - excessive, disproportionate, dominant  
3. lifeline - support, aid, help  
4. institutionalization - confinement, placement, admission  
5. incontinent - uncontrolled, unrestrained, undisciplined  
---
DEFINITION:  
1. immigrant - a person who comes to live permanently in another country  
2. overrepresented - more common or more numerous than expected or compared with others  
3. lifeline - a source of help or support that someone depends on during a difficult situation  
4. institutionalization - the process of placing a person in a hospital or other care facility for long-term care  
5. incontinent - unable to control oneself when passing urine and other waste products from the body  
---
FREE CONVERSATION/DISCUSSION:  
1. Why are Haitian caregivers important to senior citizens?  
2. How might immigration policies affect healthcare services?  
3. What challenges do immigrant caregivers face in foreign countries?  
4. Why do some seniors rely heavily on immigrant caregivers?  
5. How can governments balance immigration control and caregiving needs?  
6. What emotional impact might deportation have on seniors losing their caregivers?  
7. How can communities support immigrant workers during policy changes?  
8. What skills make caregivers valuable in elderly care?  
9. How does cultural diversity benefit caregiving environments?  
10. What are the possible consequences of an immigration crackdown?  
11. How can seniors adapt if their caregivers are forced to leave?  
12. Why do many immigrants choose caregiving as a profession?  
13. What role does compassion play in caregiving?  
14. How can healthcare institutions prepare for caregiver shortages?  
15. What are the ethical concerns in deporting essential workers?  
16. How might family members respond to losing trusted caregivers?  
17. What can governments do to protect vulnerable seniors?  
18. How does immigration contribute to the economy?  
19. What are the emotional challenges of being an immigrant caregiver?  
20. How can society show appreciation for immigrant workers?  
21. What alternatives exist if immigrant caregivers are deported?  
22. How can technology assist in elderly care during caregiver shortages?  
23. Why is caregiving considered a lifeline for many families?  
24. What lessons can other countries learn from this situation?  
25. How can public awareness help prevent unfair immigration policies?  
26. What are the long-term effects of losing skilled caregivers?  
27. How can seniors advocate for their caregivers’ rights?  
28. What does this issue reveal about the connection between immigration and healthcare?  
29. How can empathy influence immigration decisions?  
30. What steps can be taken to ensure fair treatment for immigrant caregivers?  


August 27, 2026

https://www.rarejob.com/dna/2026/08/27/between-prices-and-a-diarrhea-causing-parasite-lettuce-is-causing-hard-times-at-some-restaurants/


MATERIAL: Daily News Article  
CATEGORY: Business  
TITLE: Between prices and a diarrhea-causing parasite, lettuce is causing hard times at some restaurants  
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UNLOCKING WORD MEANINGS: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION  
1. outbreak [OUT-breyk]  
Additional Information: It is usually followed by the preposition of.  

2. sicken [SIK-uhn]  
Additional Information: This word may also mean “to make somebody feel very shocked and angry.” 
 
3. recall [ri-KAWL]  
Additional Information: This word can also function as a noun (ex. The toy maker announced a recall of the plastic action figures because of small, dangerous parts).  

4. entice [en-TAHYS]  
Additional Information: A related word is tempt.  

5. sentiment [SEN-tuh-muhnt]  
Additional Information: It is used in a formal context.  
---
SYNONYMS  
1. outbreak - epidemic, surge, eruption  
2. sicken - infect, upset, disgust  
3. recall - withdraw, remove, take back  
4. entice - attract, lure, persuade  
5. sentiment - feeling, opinion, attitude  
---
DEFINITION:  
1. outbreak - a sudden start of something unpleasant, especially a disease  
2. sicken - to make someone sick or ill  
3. recall - to officially ask customers to return a product, or to remove it from stores because it is broken or not safe  
4. entice - to attract or persuade someone to do something by offering them something pleasant, special, or attractive  
5. sentiment - a general feeling, opinion, or attitude that people have about a situation or topic  
---
FREE CONVERSATION/DISCUSSION:  
1. Why do you think lettuce prices have increased recently?  
2. How can restaurants cope with rising ingredient costs?  
3. What safety measures should be taken to prevent food contamination?  
4. How might a parasite outbreak affect consumer confidence?  
5. What role does the government play in food safety regulation?  
6. How can restaurants maintain quality while facing supply challenges?  
7. Why is lettuce often linked to foodborne illnesses?  
8. What alternatives can restaurants use when lettuce becomes scarce?  
9. How do food price changes affect small businesses?  
10. What can consumers do to ensure their food is safe to eat?  
11. How might this issue impact farmers and suppliers?  
12. What are the economic effects of food contamination outbreaks?  
13. How can technology help monitor food safety?  
14. Why is public sentiment important in business recovery after a crisis?  
15. What lessons can restaurants learn from this lettuce problem?  
16. How does media coverage influence public reaction to food safety issues?  
17. What are the long-term effects of repeated food contamination incidents?  
18. How can restaurants rebuild trust after a health scare?  
19. What strategies can reduce dependency on imported produce?  
20. How do food safety issues affect international trade?  
21. What are the responsibilities of restaurant owners during outbreaks?  
22. How can consumers support local businesses during tough times?  
23. Why is transparency important in handling food safety problems?  
24. What can schools teach students about food hygiene?  
25. How can collaboration between farmers and restaurants improve food safety?  
26. What impact does social media have on spreading news about food contamination?  
27. How can restaurants prepare for future supply chain disruptions?  
28. Why is lettuce particularly vulnerable to contamination compared to other vegetables?  
29. What are the environmental factors that contribute to foodborne parasites?  
30. How can public awareness campaigns help prevent similar incidents?

August 26, 2026

August 25, 2026

August 24, 2026



MATERIAL: Daily News Article  
CATEGORY: Top Stories  
TITLE: Conflicts and energy shocks threaten progress against global hunger, UN agency head warns  
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UNLOCKING WORD MEANINGS: 
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION  
1. disruption [dis-RUHP-shuhn]  
Additional Information: Its verb form is disrupt (ex. Bad weather severely disrupted the city’s bus and train services).  

2. fertilizer [FUR-tl-ahy-zer]  
Additional Information: Some adjectives used with fertilizers are natural and artificial.  

3. modestly [MOD-ist-lee]  
Additional Information: Its adjective form is modest (ex. Sales showed a modest increase this month after the company gave discounts to customers).  

4. reinforce [ree-in-FAWRS]  
Additional Information: An adverb that is often used with reinforce is strongly.  

5. affordable [uh-FAWR-duh-buhl]  
Additional Information: A related word is inexpensive.  
---
SYNONYMS  
1. disruption - disturbance, interruption, disorder  
2. fertilizer - compost, plant food, manure  
3. modestly - slightly, gently, somewhat  
4. reinforce - strengthen, support, boost  
5. affordable - cheap, low-cost, reasonable  
---
DEFINITION:  
1. disruption - a situation in which an event, problem, or system stops working or continuing in its normal, expected way  
2. fertilizer - a substance that is added to soil or land to help plants and crops grow healthy and fast  
3. modestly - by a small amount or degree; slightly or to a limited extent  
4. reinforce - to make a feeling, idea, or situation stronger  
5. affordable - cheap enough for ordinary people to have enough money to buy or pay for  
---
FREE CONVERSATION/DISCUSSION:  
1. What are some causes of global hunger today?  
2. How do conflicts affect food production in different countries?  
3. Why is energy important for agriculture and food distribution?  
4. What can governments do to reduce hunger worldwide?  
5. How can fertilizer help improve crop yields?  
6. What happens when fertilizer becomes too expensive for farmers?  
7. How can technology help solve food shortages?  
8. Why do energy shocks make food prices rise?  
9. What role does the United Nations play in fighting hunger?  
10. How can communities support families affected by hunger?  
11. What are some affordable ways to grow food at home?  
12. How can schools teach students about food sustainability?  
13. What are the effects of climate change on food supply?  
14. How can countries reinforce their food security systems?  
15. Why is modest progress still important in solving hunger?  
16. What can individuals do to help reduce food waste?  
17. How do wars and conflicts disrupt food transportation?  
18. What are examples of natural fertilizers used by farmers?  
19. How can renewable energy help reduce hunger?  
20. Why is cooperation between nations important for food security?  
21. What are some challenges faced by farmers in poor regions?  
22. How can governments make food more affordable for everyone?  
23. What are some organizations that help fight global hunger?  
24. How can people support local farmers?  
25. What are the long-term effects of hunger on children?  
26. How can education help communities overcome hunger?  
27. Why is it important to reinforce global efforts against hunger?  
28. What can be done to prevent future food crises?  
29. How can modest changes in policy lead to big improvements?  
30. What lessons can we learn from countries that successfully reduced hunger?  


August 23, 2026

https://www.rarejob.com/dna/2026/08/23/mount-olympus-home-of-the-ancient-greek-gods-vies-for-world-heritage-status/

MATERIAL: Daily News Article  
CATEGORY: Lifestyle/Entertainment  
TITLE: Mount Olympus, home of the ancient Greek gods, vies for World Heritage status  
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UNLOCKING WORD MEANINGS: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION  
1. mythological [mith-uh-LOJ-i-kuhl] 
Additional Information: Do not confuse mythological with mythical. While both can refer to ancient myths, mythical is also used more generally to mean imaginary.  

2. craggy [KRAG-ee] 
Additional Information: This adjective may also mean having a face with many deep lines on it.  

3. induct [in-DUHKT]
 Additional Information: Its noun form is induction.  

4. excavation [eks-kuh-VEY-shuhn] 
Additional Information: Its verb form is excavate.  

5. sanctuary [SANGK-choo-er-ee] 
Additional Information: This noun may also mean an area for birds or animals where they are protected and cannot be hunted.  
---
SYNONYMS  
1. mythological - legendary, ancient, traditional  
2. craggy - rocky, rough, uneven  
3. induct - appoint, enroll, admit  
4. excavation - digging, uncovering, exploration  
5. sanctuary - temple, refuge, shelter  
---
DEFINITION:  
1. mythological - relating to myths, which are old traditional stories about gods, heroes, and magic  
2. craggy - rough, steep, and covered with rocks  
3. induct - to officially bring or add a person, place, or thing into a special group, list, or organization, often during a special ceremony or event  
4. excavation - the act of carefully digging up earth to find old buildings, tools, or objects buried for a long time  
5. sanctuary - a holy or special religious place where people go to pray, such as a temple, small church, or open-air area  
---
FREE CONVERSATION/DISCUSSION:  
1. What makes Mount Olympus important in Greek mythology?  
2. Why do people want Mount Olympus to become a World Heritage site?  
3. How do myths help us understand ancient cultures?  
4. What do you imagine when you hear the word “mythological”?  
5. Why do mountains often appear in legends and stories?  
6. How can nature and religion be connected in places like Mount Olympus?  
7. What does it mean for a site to be “protected”?  
8. How do archaeologists benefit from excavations?  
9. What might people find during an excavation near Mount Olympus?  
10. Why is it important to preserve historical sites?  
11. How do myths influence modern entertainment?  
12. What is the difference between mythological and mythical stories?  
13. Why do people visit sanctuaries?  
14. How can sanctuaries help protect wildlife?  
15. What do you think ancient people believed about gods living on mountains?  
16. How can tourism affect sacred places like Mount Olympus?  
17. What lessons can we learn from ancient Greek myths?  
18. How do ceremonies like induction show respect for tradition?  
19. Why do people still study ancient myths today?  
20. What feelings do you get when you see a craggy mountain?  
21. How can myths inspire art and literature?  
22. What challenges do archaeologists face during excavations?  
23. Why do people build temples or sanctuaries in nature?  
24. How can World Heritage status help protect Mount Olympus?  
25. What makes a place worthy of being called a sanctuary?  
26. How do myths explain natural events or landscapes?  
27. What role do gods play in ancient stories about Mount Olympus?  
28. How can modern technology help preserve ancient sites?  
29. Why do people feel connected to mythological stories?  
30. What can we do to protect cultural heritage for future generations?  


August 22, 2026


*MATERIAL: Daily News Article* 

*CATEGORY:* Top Stories  

*TITLE:** FBI chief holds talks in Cambodia over closer security cooperation to combat online scam crimes  

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 UNLOCKING WORD MEANINGS: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION  
1. raid [reyd] Additional Information: 
This word can also be used as a verb (ex. Police raided several illegal gambling houses last night).  

2. transnational [trans-NASH-uh-nl] 
Additional Information: Some nouns often used with transnational are crime and corporation.  

3. swindle [SWIN-dl] 
Additional Information: It sometimes follows the form swindle (someone) + out of + (something).  

4. proliferation [proh-lif-uh-REY-shuhn] 
Additional Information: This word is often followed by the preposition of.  

5. complicit [kuhm-PLIS-it]
 Additional Information: This word is commonly used in news reporting and legal contexts.  

---

 SYNONYMS  
1. raid - attack, invasion, assault  
2. transnational - international, global, cross-border  
3. swindle - cheat, deceive, trick  
4. proliferation - growth, increase, expansion  
5. complicit - involved, guilty, participating  

---

 DEFINITION:  
1. raid - a sudden visit by the police or other authorities to a place to catch criminals, find illegal things, or stop illegal activities  
2. transnational - relating to something that happens in two or more countries or affects people in different countries  
3. swindle - to trick or cheat someone in order to take their money or valuable things  
4. proliferation - a rapid increase in the number or amount of something  
5. complicit - relating to being involved in or helping with something wrong or illegal  

---
FREE CONVERSATION/DISCUSSION:  
1. Why do you think online scams are increasing worldwide?  
2. How can international cooperation help reduce cybercrime?  
3. What role does the FBI play in global security?  
4. Why might Cambodia be an important partner in combating online scams?  
5. How do online scams affect ordinary people?  
6. What are common types of online scams you know?  
7. How can individuals protect themselves from being swindled online?  
8. Why is it important for countries to share information about cybercriminals?  
9. What challenges do authorities face when investigating transnational crimes?  
10. How does technology make it easier for criminals to operate across borders?  
11. What can companies do to prevent being victims of online fraud?  
12. Why do you think some people become complicit in online crimes?  
13. How can education help reduce the proliferation of scams?  
14. What are the consequences of being caught in a raid?  
15. How do you feel about governments monitoring online activities for security?  
16. Should social media platforms be responsible for preventing scams?  
17. What are the ethical issues in tracking online criminals?  
18. How can law enforcement agencies build trust with other countries?  
19. What makes transnational crimes harder to solve than local crimes?  
20. How can victims of online scams recover their losses?  
21. Why do scammers often target vulnerable people?  
22. What are examples of successful international cooperation against cybercrime?  
23. How can technology be used to detect and stop online fraud?  
24. What lessons can be learned from previous cybercrime investigations?  
25. How can governments raise awareness about online safety?  
26. Why is the proliferation of fake websites dangerous?  
27. What are the signs that a website might be a scam?  
28. How can businesses verify the legitimacy of online transactions?  
29. What are the long-term effects of online scams on the economy?  
30. How can individuals report suspicious online activities effectively?  

August 21, 2026



**MATERIAL: Daily News Article**  
**CATEGORY:** Business  
**TITLE:** OpenAI says its AI technology acted on its own in an ‘unprecedented’ hack of another company  

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UNLOCKING WORD MEANINGS: 
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION  
1. hack [hak] Additional Information: 
A person who hacks a system or a program is called a hacker.  

2. intrusion [in-TROO-zhuhn] 
Additional Information: A related noun is invasion.  

3. sophistication [suh-fis-ti-KEY-shuhn] 
Additional Information: The adjective form of the word is sophisticated.  

4. vulnerability [vuhl-ner-uh-BIL-i-tee] 
Additional Information: The adjective form of the word is vulnerable.  

5. malicious [muh-LISH-uhs] 
Additional Information: The noun form of the word is malice.  

---

SYNONYMS  
1. hack - break into, access, infiltrate  
2. intrusion - entry, invasion, trespass  
3. sophistication - advancement, complexity, refinement  
4. vulnerability - weakness, exposure, sensitivity  
5. malicious - harmful, mean, destructive  

---

DEFINITION:  
1. hack - to gain access to a computer, network, or online account without permission  
2. intrusion - the act of entering a place, situation, or computer system without permission  
3. sophistication - the quality of being advanced, complex, and highly developed  
4. vulnerability - the quality of being weak, open to harm, damage, or attack, whether physical, emotional, or digital  
5. malicious - intended to cause harm or damage  

---

 FREE CONVERSATION/DISCUSSION:  
1. What do you think about AI acting on its own without human control?  
2. Should companies be held responsible if their AI systems cause harm?  
3. How can businesses protect themselves from hacking incidents?  
4. Do you believe AI can ever be fully trusted?  
5. What are some benefits and risks of using AI in cybersecurity?  
6. How would you feel if your personal data was hacked by an AI system?  
7. What does “unprecedented” mean in this context?  
8. Should governments create stricter laws for AI technology?  
9. How can AI be used to prevent hacking instead of causing it?  
10. What makes a company vulnerable to cyberattacks?  
11. Do you think AI can develop malicious intentions?  
12. How can employees help maintain cybersecurity in their workplace?  
13. What are examples of sophisticated technologies you use daily?  
14. Why do hackers target large companies?  
15. How can people protect their online accounts from intrusion?  
16. What would you do if your company was hacked?  
17. Do you think AI should have limits or restrictions?  
18. How can we balance innovation and safety in AI development?  
19. What are the ethical issues surrounding autonomous AI actions?  
20. How do you define “malicious behavior” in technology?  
21. What role does vulnerability play in cybersecurity?  
22. Should AI systems be allowed to make independent decisions?  
23. How can education help reduce hacking incidents?  
24. What are the dangers of sophisticated AI systems?  
25. How can companies detect intrusions early?  
26. What lessons can be learned from this OpenAI incident?  
27. How can collaboration between companies improve cybersecurity?  
28. Do you think AI will replace human cybersecurity experts?  
29. What are your thoughts on the future of AI and hacking?  
30. How can society ensure AI is used responsibly?  


August 20, 2026



MATERIAL: Daily News Article
CATEGORY: Science Environment
TITLE: Virginia study on groundwater, data centers calls for tighter water regulations

UNLOCKING WORD MEANINGS: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

1. clamp down on [klamp doun on] 
Additional Information: Its noun form is clampdown (ex. Teachers are starting a clampdown on students who use their phones during class).

2. lay blame [ley bleym] 
Additional Information: It may also follow the form lay the blame on (something).

3. constrain [kuhn-STREYN] 
Additional Information: A related word is control.

4. resonant [REZ-uh-nuhnt] 
Additional Information: This adjective may also mean (of a sound) deep, clear, and continuing for a long time.

5. admonish [ad-MON-ish] 
Additional Information: This verb is used in a formal context.

SYNONYMS

1. clamp down on - restrict, stop, suppress
2. lay blame - accuse, hold responsible, point fingers
3. constrain - limit, restrict, curb
4. resonant - meaningful, impactful, significant
5. admonish - scold, reprimand, warn

DEFINITION:

1. clamp down on - to take strict action to stop or limit bad behavior, illegal acts, or unfair use of something
2. lay blame - to say that a specific person, group, or thing is responsible for a bad situation or problem
3. constrain - to limit or restrict the size, amount, or freedom of something
4. resonant - having a strong personal meaning, deep connection, or special importance to a group of people
5. admonish - to speak to someone firmly or publicly to criticize them and show that their actions were wrong



FREE CONVERSATION/DISCUSSION:

1. What is your initial reaction to the article about data centers and water use?
2. Why do you think data centers require such large amounts of water?
3. How important is groundwater to your local community?
4. Do you think governments should limit the growth of tech companies to protect natural resources?
5. Who should be responsible for protecting water supplies, companies or the government?
6. How would you feel if a large data center was built near your neighborhood?
7. What are some ways technology companies can reduce their environmental impact?
8. Do you think people realize how much physical infrastructure is needed to support the internet?
9. Is technology growing too fast for environmental laws to keep up?
10. Should companies be forced to pay higher taxes if they use a lot of local water?
11. How can communities balance economic growth with environmental protection?
12. Have you ever experienced a water shortage in your area?
13. What everyday actions do you take to conserve water at home?
14. Do you think artificial intelligence and cloud computing are worth the environmental cost?
15. How might water shortages affect local businesses and agriculture?
16. Should local residents have a say in whether data centers are built in their town?
17. What alternative cooling methods could data centers use instead of water?
18. Do you think stricter water regulations will slow down technological progress?
19. How can local governments encourage companies to use renewable energy and sustainable practices?
20. What other industries do you know that use large amounts of natural resources?
21. Should tech companies be required to build their own water treatment facilities?
22. Do you worry about the future availability of clean drinking water?
23. How important is environmental sustainability when you choose to use a tech service?
24. What role should scientists play in shaping government environmental policies?
25. How do you think the issue of resource consumption by tech facilities will change in the next ten years?

August 19, 2026

https://www.rarejob.com/dna/2026/08/19/why-britain-is-getting-a-new-prime-minister-without-a-general-election/

MATERIAL: Daily News Article  
CATEGORY: Top Stories  
TITLE: Why Britain is getting a new prime minister without a general election  
---
 UNLOCKING WORD MEANINGS: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION  
1. resignation [rez-ig-NEY-shuhn]  
Additional Information: Its verb form is resign.  
2. secure [si-KYOOR]  
Additional Information: An antonym of this word is lose.  
3. go-ahead [GOH-uh-hed]  
Additional Information: Its phrasal verb form is go ahead.  
4. mar [mahr]  
Additional Information: This verb is often followed by the preposition by.  
5. notably [NOH-tuh-blee]  
Additional Information: A related word is especially.  
---
SYNONYMS  
1. resignation – quitting, departure, leaving  
2. secure – obtain, get, acquire  
3. go-ahead – permission, approval, consent  
4. mar – damage, spoil, ruin  
5. notably – especially, particularly, mainly  
---
DEFINITION  
1. resignation – the act of officially leaving a job or position  
2. secure – to get, obtain, or achieve something important  
3. go-ahead – a permission or approval to start doing something  
4. mar – to damage or spoil something, especially something good or beautiful  
5. notably – used to mention something that is different, surprising, or worth attention  
---
FREE CONVERSATION/DISCUSSION  
1. Why do countries sometimes change leaders without holding elections?  
2. What are the advantages of having a parliamentary system?  
3. How does Britain choose a new prime minister?  
4. Why might a prime minister resign before their term ends?  
5. What qualities make a good political leader?  
6. How do political parties influence leadership changes?  
7. Should citizens always vote for their leaders directly?  
8. What are some reasons a government might avoid a general election?  
9. How does the resignation of a leader affect a country’s stability?  
10. What challenges does a new prime minister face upon taking office?  
11. How do political transitions affect international relations?  
12. Why is political accountability important in a democracy?  
13. What role does the media play in leadership changes?  
14. How can citizens stay informed about political events?  
15. What are the pros and cons of frequent leadership changes?  
16. How does Britain’s system differ from other countries’ systems?  
17. Why might a leader’s resignation be considered honorable?  
18. What emotions might citizens feel when a leader resigns?  
19. How can a new leader gain public trust quickly?  
20. What lessons can other countries learn from Britain’s process?  
21. How does political stability affect economic growth?  
22. Should leaders be allowed to stay in power for long periods?  
23. What happens when a leader’s resignation is unexpected?  
24. How do political parties prepare for leadership transitions?  
25. What are some historical examples of leadership changes in Britain?  
26. How can citizens express their opinions about leadership changes?  
27. What role does Parliament play in choosing a new prime minister?  
28. How does the resignation of a leader affect public confidence?  
29. Why is transparency important during political transitions?  
30. What might happen if a country delays choosing a new leader?  


August 18, 2026



MATERIAL: Daily News Article  
CATEGORY: Health  
TITLE: Wildfire smoke kills tens of thousands of people a year  
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UNLOCKING WORD MEANINGS: 
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION  
1. asthma [AZ-muh] 
Additional Information: This word is used in a medical context.  

2. swamp [swomp] 
Additional Information: A related verb is overwhelm.  

3. prolonged [pruh-LAWNGD] 
Additional Information: Its verb form is prolong.  

4. irritant [IR-i-tnt] 
Additional Information: The verb form of the word is irritate.  

5. combustion [kuhm-BUHS-chuhn] 
Additional Information: The adjective form of this word is combustible.  
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SYNONYMS  
1. asthma - breathing difficulty, respiratory illness, bronchial condition  
2. swamp - overload, overwhelm, flood  
3. prolonged - extended, lengthy, continued  
4. irritant - annoyance, discomfort, bother  
5. combustion - burning, ignition, fire  
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DEFINITION:  
1. asthma - a medical condition that makes it difficult to breathe because the airways become narrow or swollen  
2. swamp - to give someone or something such a large amount of work, people, or things that it becomes difficult to manage  
3. prolonged - continuing for a longer time than usual or expected  
4. irritant - a substance or thing that causes discomfort, irritation, or an unpleasant reaction  
5. combustion - the process of burning that produces heat, light, or energy  
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FREE CONVERSATION/DISCUSSION:  
1. What do you think causes most wildfires today?  
2. How can wildfire smoke affect people’s health?  
3. Why do you think asthma is becoming more common?  
4. What can communities do to reduce exposure to smoke?  
5. How does air pollution relate to respiratory diseases?  
6. What are some ways to protect yourself during wildfire season?  
7. How can governments help prevent wildfires?  
8. What are the long-term effects of breathing polluted air?  
9. Why is clean air important for public health?  
10. How can technology help monitor air quality?  
11. What role does climate change play in wildfires?  
12. How can people with asthma stay safe during smoky conditions?  
13. What are some natural ways to improve air quality?  
14. How does wildfire smoke travel across regions?  
15. What can schools do to protect students during wildfires?  
16. Why do you think wildfire smoke kills so many people each year?  
17. How can we raise awareness about air pollution dangers?  
18. What are the signs that air quality is poor?  
19. How can cities prepare for wildfire emergencies?  
20. What are the benefits of planting more trees?  
21. How does prolonged exposure to smoke affect the lungs?  
22. What are irritants found in wildfire smoke?  
23. How does combustion contribute to air pollution?  
24. What can individuals do to reduce fire risks?  
25. How can media help educate people about wildfire safety?  
26. What are the challenges in controlling wildfires?  
27. How can firefighters protect themselves from smoke?  
28. What lessons can we learn from countries with frequent wildfires?  
29. How can we balance development and environmental protection?  
30. What do you think the future of wildfire prevention looks like?