Learning English from the News

The 8th of December marked a year since Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad was forced to leave the capital, Damascus.Find full subtitles and a worksheet for this episode at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/learning-english-from-the-news_2025/251210Practise your reading skills with The Reading Room: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/features/the_reading_room Practise your listening skills with The Listening Room: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/features/the_listening_roomFIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newslettersFor more of our podcasts, search for these in your podcast app: ✔️ Learning English for Work ✔️ Learning Easy English ✔️ Learning English Grammar ✔️ Learning English Stories ✔️ 6 Minute English ✔️ Learning English Conversations ✔️ Learning English Vocabulary

An investigation has been ordered into the tragic fires in Hong Kong that claimed at least 151 lives. The hosts discuss how the blaze spread, implicating building works and flammable materials. Public shock is palpable, as mourners gather to pay their respects. Amidst calls for accountability, there are concerns over government crackdowns on inquiries and arrests. The narrative emphasizes the pressing need for transparency, highlighting the community's demand for justice in the aftermath of this disaster.

An expedition reaches for treasure worth $20 billion from a ship that sank in 1708. The adventure reveals fascinating recovered items like a cannon and ancient coins. Competing claims for ownership come from Colombia, Spain, and indigenous groups, sparking intrigue. The hosts dive into the meaning of trending vocabulary like 'wreck,' 'Holy Grail,' and 'legendary,' linking them to headlines. Join Georgie and Phil as they explore history and language in a thrilling treasure hunt!

The podcast dives into the shocking sentencing of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death for crimes against humanity. It explores the tumultuous backdrop of student protests and exile in 2024. The hosts unpack the meanings of key terms like 'ousted' and 'sham,' while discussing the family's vehement opposition to the verdict. Listeners gain insights into the idea that no leader is above the law, especially in authoritarian regimes. Vocabulary and political implications are examined, making for an engaging and thought-provoking discussion.

International leaders convene at COP30 in Brazil, but notable absences raise eyebrows. Brazilian President Lula warns about the dangers of fake news and climate denialism. Protests erupt over Amazon protections, with activists declaring that forests are not for sale. The conversation shifts to significant players and the impact of missing leaders like Trump and Xi. Concerns about low business participation highlight a subdued mood among attendees. Will COP30 still be effective without key figures?

A glacier in Antarctica has experienced an astonishing 50% shrinkage in just two months, marking the fastest retreat in modern history. The hosts discuss the alarming implications of this rapid melt, linking it to rising sea levels and potential threats for coastal regions. They dive into the scientific investigation behind this phenomenon, likening it to a modern whodunit as researchers seek to uncover its causes. Each topic is enriched with vocabulary lessons, making the conversation both informative and engaging.

Hurricane Melissa wreaks havoc on Jamaica, marking a historic weather event. Discover the term 'make landfall' and its usage in context. The hosts link warmer sea temperatures to climate change, exploring its role in intensifying storms. They discuss the fascinating work of Hurricane Hunters flying into the storm's eye to gather data. Metaphors like 'the eye of the storm' illustrate the calm amidst chaos. Tune in for insightful vocabulary and a deep dive into urgent environmental issues.

Historic jewels, worth millions of euros have been stolen from the Louvre museum in Paris. Hear about this story and learn some vocabulary from the headlines with Pippa and Phil.Find full subtitles and a worksheet for this episode at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/learning-english-from-the-news_2025/251022Practise your reading skills with The Reading Room: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/features/the_reading_roomFIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglishFollow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newslettersFor more of our podcasts, search for these in your podcast app: ✔️ Learning English for Work ✔️ Learning Easy English ✔️ Learning English Grammar ✔️ Learning English Stories ✔️ 6 Minute English ✔️ Learning English Conversations ✔️ Learning English Vocabulary

Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees were exchanged on Monday as a ceasefire deal is agreed to end the war in Gaza. Hear about this story and learn some vocabulary from the headlines with Pippa and Beth. Find full subtitles and a worksheet for this episode at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/learning-english-from-the-news_2025/251015FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglishFollow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newslettersFor more of our podcasts, search for these in your podcast app: ✔️ Learning English for Work ✔️ Learning Easy English ✔️ Learning English Grammar ✔️ Learning English Stories ✔️ 6 Minute English ✔️ Learning English Conversations ✔️ Learning English Vocabulary

More electricity has been generated through wind and solar power than coal for 1st time.Find full subtitles and a worksheet for this episode at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/learning-english-from-the-news_2025/251008FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newsletters For more of our podcasts, search for these in your podcast app: ✔️ Learning English for Work ✔️ Learning Easy English ✔️ Learning English Grammar ✔️ Learning English Stories ✔️ 6 Minute English ✔️ Learning English Conversations ✔️ Learning English Vocabulary