In English (Intermediate)

Description: The U.S. lawmakers has passed a bill to grant the government more power to regulate tobacco industry.

In English (Intermediate)

Description: The health care costs in the U.S. have been growing rapidly in recent years. It becomes a leading concern of the voters.

In English (Intermediate)

Description: Good Friday is a religious holiday before Easter to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus and his death.

In English (Intermediate)

Description: The U.S. Congress is debating whether to pass a new law that makes it easier for labor union to organize workers.

In English (Intermediate)

Description: The top diplomats of America and Russia met recently to start a new chapter of their relationship. But the key message was lost in translation.

In English (Intermediate)

Description: The U.S. Secretary of State, Mrs. Hillary Clinton, began her first overseas trip to Asia, visiting Japan, Indonesia, South Korea and China.

In English (Intermediate)

Description: Global warming has genenrated heated debates among the world politicians, who disagree on the approach to take on the issue.

In English (Intermediate)

Description: Every four years, the election winner is sworn in as the president of the United States at the Capitol during an inauguration ceremony.

In English (Intermediate)

Description: In Mideast, the conflict between Israel and the Islamic group Hamas has been escalated to a war in Gaza Strip.

In English (Intermediate)

Description: As a tradition, Britain's Queen Elizabeth II delivers Christmas broadcast every year. Her tone was somber this year.