©REUTERS/Nicoco Chan
Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What do you imagine the main characters in Zootopia might be like?
- What kind of adventures or challenges do you think the characters could face?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- represent /rep-ri-ZENT/
- magical /MAJ-i-kuhl/
- domestic /duh-MES-tik/
- earnings /UR-ningz/
- partnership /PAHRT-ner-ship/
[verb] – to symbolize or stand for something
The national flag represents the unity and identity of our country.
[adjective] – having qualities of magic; enchanting, extraordinary, or producing a sense of wonder
The garden was filled with magical flowers that glowed in the moonlight.
[adjective] – relating to a person’s own country
The company focuses on domestic markets before expanding globally.
[noun] – a company’s profits in a particular period
The tech giant reported record third-quarter earnings, reinforcing its financial strength and industry leadership.
[noun] – an association or relationship between individuals or groups, characterized by shared interests and cooperation
The successful business was built on a strong partnership between the founders, each contributing unique skills.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
In a moment filled with eager anticipation, Shanghai Disney Resort embarked on a significant chapter in its entertainment saga by unveiling its enchanting Zootopia-themed attraction on a crisp Wednesday morning. This milestone event represents Disney’s stride into uncharted territory, marking the resort’s debut of a Zootopia-themed site. Situated within the captivating Shanghai Disney Resort, which initially opened its doors in 2016, this new addition enhances the allure of the resort, known for its immersive and family-friendly experiences. Following the success of the Toy Story-themed attraction introduced in 2018, Zootopia, the beloved animated film that graced Chinese cinemas in 2016, now takes center stage in this magical destination. The resort, a source of shared adventures and joy, becomes particularly appealing as domestic travel and experiential pursuits enjoy a notable resurgence post-pandemic.
Walt Disney’s fourth-quarter earnings report reveals a remarkable 31% growth in its Experiences division, including theme parks. The surge is linked to higher attendance at Shanghai and Hong Kong parks, with Shanghai Disney Resort prominently contributing to this positive trend. This success underscores the harmonious partnership between Disney and the Chinese state-owned Shendi Group, which holds a 57% stake in the resort. This collaboration reinforces the resort’s role as a beacon of shared joy and adventure, solidifying its position as a magical destination where immersive experiences come to life.
Walt Disney’s fourth-quarter earnings report reveals a remarkable 31% growth in its Experiences division, including theme parks. The surge is linked to higher attendance at Shanghai and Hong Kong parks, with Shanghai Disney Resort prominently contributing to this positive trend. This success underscores the harmonious partnership between Disney and the Chinese state-owned Shendi Group, which holds a 57% stake in the resort. This collaboration reinforces the resort’s role as a beacon of shared joy and adventure, solidifying its position as a magical destination where immersive experiences come to life.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What did Shanghai Disney Resort recently unveil, and why is it considered a significant event?
- How does the article describe the addition of a Zootopia-themed attraction to the Shanghai Disney Resort?
- What is mentioned as one of the resort’s notable features, and why is it known for that?
- According to the article, what film now holds a prominent place in the entertainment offerings of Shanghai Disney Resort?
- How is the success of Shanghai Disney Resort contributing to the positive trend mentioned in Walt Disney’s fourth-quarter earnings report?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever visited a Disney theme park or a similar attraction that left a lasting impression on you? If yes, what was your favorite part of the experience? If not, would you be interested in exploring such themed attractions as the Zootopia-themed one in Shanghai Disney Resort? Why or why not?
- Do you enjoy animated films, and if so, have you watched Zootopia or any other Disney animated movies? If yes, which one is your favorite, and why? If not, would you be interested in watching Zootopia or other animated films after learning about the new attraction at the Shanghai Disney Resort?
- Did the article emphasize the positive impact of Zootopia on the resort’s attractions and experiences?
- Considering the notable growth in the Experiences division mentioned in Walt Disney’s earnings report, what factors do you think contributed to the increased attendance at Shanghai and Hong Kong parks, as highlighted in the article?
- Reflecting on the harmonious partnership between Disney and the Chinese state-owned Shendi Group, do you think such collaborations contribute to the cultural exchange and global reach of entertainment companies? How might these partnerships influence the content and themes of attractions within the resort?