“Internet plant” is the latest accusation (or insult) for many new music artists, trying to grow their audiences. If you have spent enough time on social media in recent years, it is likely you are already familiar with this phrase. The idea of being a “plant” doesn’t mean that you have leaves or get your energy from the sun, but instead is a different use of the word. Take a look at this article to find out more about the meaning of this phrase, and why it has become one of the latest internet conspiracies.

The second article is about the death of skinny jeans – at least in the fashion world. At one point, it almost seemed like a challenge of who could have the skinniest of jeans, but now some people wouldn’t want to be caught dead in them. Like all fashion trends, it is likely only a matter of time before they are back in style, but for now this article talks about why they stopped being popular. If the style of your jeans doesn’t seem like the most interesting of topics for you, it at least gives us some insight into the cyclical nature of fashion trends, how we can change with them, and give us a better understanding of why things are changing in the first place. Why do we care about being “fashionable”? How are fashion trends changing as we try to become more eco-conscious? Find our more in the second article.

Finally, the video is about sunlight. Even when people know all the great benefits of getting a daily dose of the sun on your skin, it is still underestimated how much it affects both our physical and mental processes. The video seems to be a mix of styles that goes from highly-stylised speech, to simple explanations of what happens and why it's important. Despite all of these benefits, many people will say that they simply do not have enough time to fit a 20 minute walk in the sun into their schedule. In some cases, work and other commitments can mean that you aren’t even awake during the sunlight hours. Find out about the huge impact that this can have on you from your ability to sleep, to your chances of fighting off diseases.

Here are some interesting stories that I have found this week. With different topics, I am sure you will find something that is new and challenging for you. Why not use this as a chance to learn some new language?

Try to note some new language that you see or hear in the articles or video and bring it to the class.

1. https://www.vox.com/culture/24114819/industry-plants-music-pop-rap-internet-hottest-conspiracy

2. https://www.npr.org/2024/04/11/1241145778/fashion-skinny-jeans-trends-vogue-quiet-luxury

3. https://www.bbc.co.uk/ideas/videos/why-morning-light-is-so-crucial-to-your-health/p0bl8d5w

Have a great week.

See you in class!