Survey uncovers widespread belief in 'dangerous' Covid conspiracy theories
This is a list of key vocabulary and expressions from the article in order of how useful they are. The student must choose 6 items from the list to study in the lesson. The expressions in italics are additional and cannot be found in the article.
Far (used for emphasising a difference when you are making a comparison)
To run (something) (meaning to control or organise)
In collaboration (with someone)
To be to blame (for something)
To conduct a survey
To dismiss (someone/ something)
To prompt (someone/ something)
Take something with a pinch of salt
Without a shred of evidence
15 conversation-provoking questions related to the article.
What do the charts in the article show us? Are you surprised by these figures?
How can we explain the differences between countries on these charts?
Where is your country on the charts? Why? (If your country is not on the charts, where do you think it would be? Why?)
Do you think conspiracy theories are becoming more popular? Why?
In general, when is it correct to be sceptical about a particular news story?
Are there any other conspiracy theories that are widespread in your country?
Can conspiracy theories be dangerous?
Which media sources do you trust? Why?
Where do you usually get your news from? Why?
Should conspiracy theorists be allowed on mainstream media?
Do you know someone who believes in a lot of conspiracy theories?
Do you know someone who often makes up stories that aren’t true?
Where do you think conspiracy theories start?
Has social media improved the quality of our news?
Do you think that the media will be more or less trustworthy in the future?