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Pre-reading questions:
- Have you ever heard of any geological wonders before? If so, which ones?
- What do you think makes a geological wonder unique or special?
Vocabulary:
- awe-inspiring /AW-in-spahyuhr-ing/
- jewel /JOO-uhl/
- vast /vast/
- delicate /DEL-i-kit/
- civilization /siv-uh-luh-ZEY-shuhn/
[adjective] – causing you to feel great respect or admiration
The students stood in front of the grand statue, their eyes wide with awe-inspiring admiration as they marveled at its majestic beauty.
[noun] – a precious stone that is used to decorate valuable objects
The teacher held up a small, sparkling jewel for the students to see, explaining how it was a precious gem that people treasure for its beauty and value.
[adjective] – extremely big
The children looked out from the top of the hill and gasped at the sight of the vast ocean spreading out before them, with its endless blue waves stretching as far as the eye could see.
[adjective] – needing careful treatment, especially because easily damaged
The butterfly landed gently on the flower’s petals, showcasing its delicate beauty.
[noun] – human society with its well developed social organizations, or the culture and way of life of a society or country at a particular period in time
Thousands of years ago, ancient Egyptians built magnificent pyramids that still stand today, showing the advanced knowledge and skills of their civilization.
Article reading:
Voyaging into the heart of the Ennedi Massif unveils a tapestry of geological wonders. The region’s rugged sandstone towers, shaped by centuries of wind and water erosion, stand tall as nature’s sentinels. These magnificent formations, some reaching heights of over 300 meters, evoke a sense of awe and wonder. As explorers traverse the maze-like canyons and deep gorges, they discover hidden oases where crystal-clear pools glisten like rare jewels amidst the vast desert landscape. It is a surreal juxtaposition of arid plains and lush pockets of life, reminding us of the delicate balance between harshness and resilience. Beyond its sheer beauty, the Ennedi Massif holds scientific significance that continues to intrigue researchers and geologists. This geological marvel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserves a rich tapestry of ancient rock art dating back thousands of years. Carved into the sandstone walls, these masterpieces provide a glimpse into the lives and cultures of civilizations long gone.
The Ennedi Massif’s remote splendor and geological wonders make it a destination unlike any other. Its ancient rock formations, breathtaking landscapes, and scientific significance create a captivating allure for those seeking adventure and a deeper understanding of our planet’s rich history.
Comprehension questions
- What does the Ennedi Massif preserve that dates back thousands of years?
- How are the sandstone towers shaped in the Ennedi Massif?
- What can explorers find in the Ennedi Massif’s hidden oases?
- Why is the Ennedi Massif considered a surreal juxtaposition?
- What scientific significance does the Ennedi Massif hold?
Discussion questions
- What kinds of landscapes and geological features can be found in your country? Could you tell me about them?
- If you were to plan an adventurous trip to the Ennedi Massif, what activities or explorations would be at the top of your itinerary? How would you make the most of your time there?
- Do you agree that the Ennedi Massif in Chad is a hidden gem that deserves more recognition and attention from adventurers worldwide?
- The Ennedi Massif is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. What do you think makes it deserving of such a prestigious title?
- The ancient rock art in the Ennedi Massif provides insights into past civilizations. How do you think these masterpieces were created, and what stories do you think they tell?