Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What thoughts or associations do you have when it comes to different types of cheese?
- In what ways or on what occasions do you typically consume cheese?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- victory /VIK-tuh-ree/
- emphasize /EM-fuh-sahyz/
- aspect /AS-pekt/
- ensure /en-SHOOR/
- commitment /kuh-MIT-muhnt/
[noun] – an occasion when you win a game, competition, election, war, etc. or the fact that you have won
Her victory in the marathon was a testament to her months of rigorous training.
[verb] – to show that something is very important or worth giving attention to
During the presentation, the speaker emphasized the importance of teamwork in achieving our goals.
[noun] – a particular part or feature of something
One aspect of my job that I really enjoy is collaborating with my colleagues on creative projects.
[verb] – to make something certain to happen
To ensure the safety of our employees, we conduct regular fire drills and provide training on emergency procedures.
[noun] – a promise or firm decision to do something
His commitment to the project was evident in the countless hours he dedicated to its success.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
The Guild of Fine Food recently held the World Cheese Awards, where Nidelven Blå, a Norwegian blue cheese made by Gangstad Gårdsysteri, was named the best cheese in the world. This prestigious award came after a tough competition featuring 4,502 cheeses from various countries, judged by a panel of experts.
Nidelven Blå, the winning cheese, is known for its unique qualities. Made from pasteurized cow’s milk, it’s a semi-solid blue mold cheese famous for its creamy, fudgy texture. This victory showcases the careful craftsmanship of the Gangstad Gårdsysteri dairy. Norway, the host country, saw a record-breaking turnout with 293 entries. The competition, now in its 35th year, has become a prominent stage, displaying cheeses from 43 different countries. This win not only highlights the exceptional quality of Nidelven Blå but also emphasizes the worldwide significance of the World Cheese Awards. The event has grown into a respected platform for artisans and experts in the cheese-making community. The rigorous judging process, which examines aspects like appearance, aroma, texture, flavor, and mouthfeel, ensures that only the most outstanding cheeses receive recognition. The 2023 World Cheese Awards represented the pinnacle of cheese craftsmanship, honoring not just the winning cheese but also the commitment and expertise of cheese makers around the world. This event continues to be a guiding light for excellence in the global cheese industry, cementing its status as the foremost cheese competition worldwide.
Nidelven Blå, the winning cheese, is known for its unique qualities. Made from pasteurized cow’s milk, it’s a semi-solid blue mold cheese famous for its creamy, fudgy texture. This victory showcases the careful craftsmanship of the Gangstad Gårdsysteri dairy. Norway, the host country, saw a record-breaking turnout with 293 entries. The competition, now in its 35th year, has become a prominent stage, displaying cheeses from 43 different countries. This win not only highlights the exceptional quality of Nidelven Blå but also emphasizes the worldwide significance of the World Cheese Awards. The event has grown into a respected platform for artisans and experts in the cheese-making community. The rigorous judging process, which examines aspects like appearance, aroma, texture, flavor, and mouthfeel, ensures that only the most outstanding cheeses receive recognition. The 2023 World Cheese Awards represented the pinnacle of cheese craftsmanship, honoring not just the winning cheese but also the commitment and expertise of cheese makers around the world. This event continues to be a guiding light for excellence in the global cheese industry, cementing its status as the foremost cheese competition worldwide.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What is the name of the winning cheese at the World Cheese Awards, and where is it made?
- How many cheeses were entered into the competition, and who judged them?
- What is unique about Nidelven Blå, the winning cheese?
- How many entries did Norway have in the competition, and why was this considered record-breaking?
- What aspects are examined during the judging process at the World Cheese Awards?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever tried a blue cheese like Nidelven Blå, known for its creamy and fudgy texture? If yes, what was your experience like? If not, is there a particular type of cheese you prefer?
- Have you ever been to a cheese-tasting event or competition? If yes, how was it? Did you find any new or exceptional cheeses? If not, would you want to go to one in the future? Why or why not?
- Do you think global cheese competitions like the World Cheese Awards play a significant role in promoting and celebrating the artistry of cheese-making worldwide?
- Why do you think events like the World Cheese Awards are important for highlighting the diversity and quality of cheese production around the world?
- How do you think winning an award like this might inspire cheese makers to keep improving and making outstanding cheeses?