Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What types of coffee are you familiar with?
- What is your favorite type of coffee, and how often do you drink it?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- uncertain /uhn-SUR-tn/
- tackle /TAK-uhl /
- vital /VAHYT-l/
- strengthen /STRENGK-thuhn/
- endure /en-DOOR/
[adjective] – not known or fixed, or not completely certain
The outcome of the experiment is still uncertain as we await the final results.
[verb] – to try to deal with something or someone
She decided to tackle the challenging project head-on, determined to find a solution.
[adjective] – necessary for the success or continued existence of something; extremely important
Clear communication is vital for the success of any collaborative project.
[verb] – to make something stronger or more effective, or to become stronger or more effective
The new policies are designed to strengthen the company’s position in the market.
[verb] – to persist or continue to exist, even in the face of challenges or changes
She had to endure a long and arduous journey to reach her destination.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Arabica coffee, a special kind, faces an uncertain future due to unpredictable weather changes. By 2050, the areas where this cherished coffee can be grown might decrease by half, which is a big problem for farmers who rely on it. In response, Starbucks, a major company in the coffee industry, started a ten-year project. Scientists created new types of Arabica coffee that can handle changes in the weather. The result: six types of coffee made with care to taste and quality standards. These types grow faster and will satisfy Starbucks’ taste while also helping the farmers who supply them. A useful guide is available to share this important knowledge, making sure farmers know how to grow these new kinds of coffee despite climate change.
Howard Schultz, Starbucks’ leader, is deeply concerned about how upcoming weather changes might impact the coffee industry. Higher temperatures and severe droughts are causing increased costs and worry. Schultz’s love for coffee drives his determination to address this serious situation. In 2013, Starbucks made a wise investment in a large farm in Costa Rica, a hub for studying how weather changes affect coffee growth. Schultz believes in global collaboration, much like the Paris Agreement, to tackle this issue. Additionally, Starbucks actively supports coffee farmers, sharing vital knowledge, providing assistance to strengthen their resilience in facing these changes, and ensuring the cherished morning coffee tradition endures, no matter the weather.
Howard Schultz, Starbucks’ leader, is deeply concerned about how upcoming weather changes might impact the coffee industry. Higher temperatures and severe droughts are causing increased costs and worry. Schultz’s love for coffee drives his determination to address this serious situation. In 2013, Starbucks made a wise investment in a large farm in Costa Rica, a hub for studying how weather changes affect coffee growth. Schultz believes in global collaboration, much like the Paris Agreement, to tackle this issue. Additionally, Starbucks actively supports coffee farmers, sharing vital knowledge, providing assistance to strengthen their resilience in facing these changes, and ensuring the cherished morning coffee tradition endures, no matter the weather.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- Why is the future of Arabica coffee uncertain, according to the article?
- What might happen to the areas where Arabica coffee can be grown by 2050?
- How is Starbucks responding to the challenges faced by Arabica coffee farmers?
- What are the results of the ten-year project initiated by Starbucks?
- How are the new types of Arabica coffee designed to handle weather changes?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever been to a coffee farm or plantation? If yes, could you share what it was like and if it gave you any insights into the challenges faced by coffee growers? If not, would you be interested in visiting one in the future to learn more about coffee production?
- Have you or someone you know experienced the effects of climate change on farming or any other industry firsthand? If so, how did it change your view on the importance of preparing for and adapting to climate shifts? If not, do you believe climate change will significantly affect industries in the future?
- Do you think that what Starbucks is doing—trying to make coffee plants that can handle climate change—is a good example for other companies to follow when dealing with climate problems in their own industries?
- Why do you think it’s crucial for companies like Starbucks to invest in research and develop new types of coffee that can handle changing weather conditions? How does this benefit both the company and the coffee farmers?
- In your opinion, how can individuals and communities contribute to being better prepared for climate change, especially in industries like coffee production that are particularly affected?