©Francois Mori / AP via CNN
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- official /uh-FISH-uhl/
- numerous /NOO-mer-uhs/
- critic /KRIT-ik/
- opposition /op-uh-ZISH-uhn/
- deputy /DEP-yuh-tee/
[noun] – relating to a position of responsibility
We welcomed an official from Sri Lanka at the airport.
[adjective] – many
There were numerous reports of missing jewelry in the store.
[noun] – someone who says that they do not approve of someone or something
The critics had a lot to say about the government.
[noun] – strong disagreement
The newly elected president faced opposition from many business leaders.
[noun] – the person whose rank is immediately below that of the leader of an organization
The deputy was observing the area for possible criminal activity.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Paris officials are urging drivers to slow down as they set a 30km/h speed limit on numerous roads. The measure is aimed at reducing pollution and improving traffic safety. Many critics argue that the move could worsen the city’s rush-hour traffic jams, which could result in an increase of greenhouse gas emissions. The rule change took effect on August 30, 2021. Under the new law, officials will also be removing 60,000 parking spaces on public roads to make them “more accessible to everyone,” and will better utilize underground parking. In addition, some sidewalks will be widened and bike lanes will be installed.
The results of a poll conducted by the Parisian City Hall showed that 61% of the city’s residents were in opposition of the new limit, and only 59% of them were in favor. A delivery driver described the rule as “crazy” and likened it to riding on “electric scooters”. Parisian Deputy Mayor David Belliard, who is in charge of transport, hopes that the limit would encourage more people to walk and use bikes. Moreover, officials said that the change is expected to reduce total road accidents by an estimated 25% and fatal accidents by 40%, attributing to a World Health Organization research. The rule change is also intended to halve noise pollution, which had negative physical and psychological effects on people, including stress, insomnia, and depression.
The results of a poll conducted by the Parisian City Hall showed that 61% of the city’s residents were in opposition of the new limit, and only 59% of them were in favor. A delivery driver described the rule as “crazy” and likened it to riding on “electric scooters”. Parisian Deputy Mayor David Belliard, who is in charge of transport, hopes that the limit would encourage more people to walk and use bikes. Moreover, officials said that the change is expected to reduce total road accidents by an estimated 25% and fatal accidents by 40%, attributing to a World Health Organization research. The rule change is also intended to halve noise pollution, which had negative physical and psychological effects on people, including stress, insomnia, and depression.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever seen a driver exceeding the speed limit in your city?
- When was the last time you were stuck in traffic? How did you feel about it?
- If you were a delivery driver in Paris, how would you feel about the new speed limit?
- Should there be more bicycle lanes installed in cities around the world?
- In your opinion, would Paris’ new speed limit be effective in improving road safety? Please explain your answer.
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.
- set
- improve
- worsen
- encourage
- effect