©USA Today
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- withdrawal /with-DRAW-uhl/
- vault /vawlt/
- lose (one’s) bearings /looz (wuhn’s) BAIR-ings/
- disclose /dih-SKLOHZ/
- prior to (something) /PRAHY-er too (SUHM-thing)/
[noun] – the state of no longer being involved in something
Her withdrawal from the competition was a shock to her teammates.
[verb] – (in gymnastics) to leap over a form that was originally intended to mimic a horse
The gymnast is an expert in vaulting.
[idiom] – to become confused about where you are and where other things are
The ship lost its bearings in the storm last night.
[verb] – to make something known publicly, or to show something that was hidden
He refused to disclose any information
[adjective] – before a particular time or event
Prior to leaving, John left notes for his future tasks.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
American gymnast Simone Biles wins bronze on day 11 of the Olympics but had to quit the tournament to focus on her mental health. Biles confirmed her withdrawal on Tuesday, July 27; however, it remains unknown whether she would appear in future competitions. She made her decision during the women’s team final when she only did one vault and had to leave the arena. After experiencing “twisties,” a circumstance in which gymnasts lose their bearings and are unable to control how much they twist or how they will land, she returns to support her teammates. Biles eventually drew away from the uneven bars, vault, floor, and all-around.
Biles scored 14.000 whereas China took the gold and silver with 14.633 (Guan Chenchen) and 14.233 (Tang Xijing) points, respectively. The American gymnast disclosed on Wednesday, August 4th, that her aunt died two days prior to the competition and her victory. “At the end of the day, people don’t understand what we are going through,” said Biles. “Two days ago, I woke up and my aunt unexpectedly passed, and it wasn’t any easier being here at the Olympic Games.” With seven medals, Biles is tied with Shannon Miller as the most honored American Olympic gymnast.
Biles scored 14.000 whereas China took the gold and silver with 14.633 (Guan Chenchen) and 14.233 (Tang Xijing) points, respectively. The American gymnast disclosed on Wednesday, August 4th, that her aunt died two days prior to the competition and her victory. “At the end of the day, people don’t understand what we are going through,” said Biles. “Two days ago, I woke up and my aunt unexpectedly passed, and it wasn’t any easier being here at the Olympic Games.” With seven medals, Biles is tied with Shannon Miller as the most honored American Olympic gymnast.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Was there an incident when you had to withdraw from a competition or an activity? Please tell me more about it.
- Please share an instance where you once lost your bearings.
- How would you prioritize your mental health while involved in an activity?
- Was it wise for Biles to pull herself out from the competition?
- In your opinion, how would her teammates feel about her decision?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- tournament
- circumstance
- eventually
- respectively
- honored