The Discussion Zone: Explore Global Topics, News Headlines, & Issues That Matter

🌏 The Discussion Zone: Exploring Global Topics, Headlines, & Issues That Matter! 🌍
✅  The topic for discussion will vary each week! Subjects may include: science, sport, culture, environment, animals, technology, and more!
✅  Ages 11 - 14 (International/American age)
✅  ESL Level Necessary: Advanced / Fluent (B2+, C1)
⚠️  If your learner is younger or still practicing reading fluency, check out my News class for ages 9-12: https://bit.ly/MegansNewsGroup

My name is Megan and I am an independent teacher. I am proud to offer my classes on the Outschool marketplace, and I look forward to meeting your learner!

In this weekly class, learners will dive into the events and issues that shape our world. Each week, we’ll explore a new topic through articles and video clips. Our class will consist of 1 main article for discussion and supplementary videos and/or text to expand learners' understanding of the main ideas which add context to our overall discussion.

CLASS MATERIALS
2 days before class, you will receive the materials necessary for the week, including a PDF document of our main article to be discussed. It is required for learners to complete the preparation assignments before class meets. This includes watching 1-2 short videos related to the topic and reading 1-2 supplementary texts to help build a wider understanding of the topic. I will share my screen in class, and so it is not required to print any of the class materials.
⪼  Would you like to see an example of the articles we will discuss in class? Check out this link:  https://bit.ly/DZ_Sample_Article

UPCOMING CLASS SCHEDULE (with Topics)
⪼  April 30 - May 1: Anglerfish Becomes Modern Folk Hero (Science, Animals, Social Media)
⪼  May 7 - 9: Life on Distant Planet 99.7% Certain (Science, Space)
⪼  May 14 - 16: [Topic Coming Soon!]
⪼  May 21 - 23: [Topic Coming Soon!]


CLASS STRUCTURE
1. Preparation (Before Class)
⪼  Please note, it is required to complete the preparation assignments before our class meets. This will include watching 1-2 short videos and reading 1-2 supplementary texts to prepare for discussion

2. During Class (40 Minutes)
⪼  Warm-Up: We’ll start by discussing the video clips and supplementary texts to spark curiosity and set the stage for the article.
⪼  Article Reading: As a group, we’ll read the article aloud to ensure comprehension and highlight key points.
⪼  Discussion: Learners will share their opinions, analyze the article’s main thesis, and engage in respectful discussions. I’ll guide the conversation with thought-provoking questions and encourage everyone to participate.

3. After Class Homework [Optional]:
⪼  Learners will have the opportunity to complete a Nearpod quiz featuring multiple-choice questions to reinforce key concepts from the article and discussion.
⪼  The quiz will provide immediate feedback, helping learners reflect on what they’ve learned and solidify their understanding.

PREVIOUS CLASS TOPICS
⪼  Japan’s Old Pick Jail Over Life Alone (Populations, Emotions, Well-Being)
⪼  The Stolen Masterpiece Worth £4.8m (Art, Crime)
⪼  ‘Humans Need Not Apply’ Job Ads Appear (AI, Technology, Careers)

CLASS POLICIES
⪼  I offer several dates/times for this ongoing class each week. Each class section taught in a single week will be based on the same material.
⪼  Class will begin on time and I respectfully ask that learners arrive on time as well. 
⪼  Mute Button: Learners will be unmuted during class and will be able to ask questions and share their opinions. I only use the Mute Button in the event of excessive background noise or excessive distraction. Please ensure that your learner knows how to mute and unmute their microphone.
⪼  Chat Box: The Chat Box will not be open during class in order to limit distractions.
⪼  Class recordings are available for 7 days after each completed class.
⪼  Transfers: Transfer requests must be made with a minimum of 24 hours notice and must be within the same calendar week.
⪼  Cancellations: All Ongoing classes have a standard refund policy: "Cancel subscription at any point, no refund for past subscriptions. Payments can be refunded within 24 hours of purchase."