Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What is a “heatwave,” and how does it differ from regular warm weather?
- Can you recall any personal experiences or news stories related to heatwaves?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- scorching /SKAWR-ching/
- highlight /HAHY-lahyt/
- extensive /ik-STEN-siv/
- biodiversity /bahy-oh-dahy-VUR-si-tee/
- measure /MEZH-er/
[adjective] – hot or burning
The scorching sun made the pavement too hot to walk on barefoot.
[verb] – to emphasize or draw attention to something
The speaker used graphs and charts to highlight the key points of the presentation.
[adjective] – covering a large area; having great extent
The national park had an extensive trail system for hikers to explore.
[noun] – the variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat
The conservationists worked to protect the biodiversity of the rainforest.
[noun] – a plan or course of action taken to achieve a particular purpose
Planting more trees is a measure to combat climate change.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
A scorching heatwave is causing unprecedented challenges in Brazil, affecting thousands of towns and cities with unusually high temperatures. This unusual weather pattern is a result of a complex interaction between natural climate phenomena and human-induced climate change. It’s impacting the lives of millions, leading to increased energy consumption and health risks. A recent study by a reputable university has highlighted the profound effects of climate change along Brazil’s extensive coast, identifying specific regions struggling with the consequences. Over the past few decades, there has been a noticeable increase in extreme temperatures and more frequent temperature fluctuations, indicating a significant shift in the country’s climate. This transformation does not just cause discomfort; it poses real threats to biodiversity, economic stability, and public health.
As the situation becomes more critical, experts urgently call for concrete actions to address climate change. They emphasize the need for strong policies and adaptation measures, especially considering Brazil’s vulnerability to climate change and its impact on vulnerable populations like children. The study underscores the global consequences of Brazil’s climate challenges. Swift international efforts are crucial to mitigate the widespread effects of rising temperatures, as the current heatwave serves as a stark reminder of the challenges of combating a warming planet.
As the situation becomes more critical, experts urgently call for concrete actions to address climate change. They emphasize the need for strong policies and adaptation measures, especially considering Brazil’s vulnerability to climate change and its impact on vulnerable populations like children. The study underscores the global consequences of Brazil’s climate challenges. Swift international efforts are crucial to mitigate the widespread effects of rising temperatures, as the current heatwave serves as a stark reminder of the challenges of combating a warming planet.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What challenges are towns and cities in Brazil facing due to the scorching heatwave?
- How has climate change manifested itself along Brazil’s extensive coast, according to the article?
- Why do experts urgently call for concrete actions to address climate change in Brazil?
- According to the article, what does the study underscore about the global consequences of Brazil’s climate challenges?
- Why are strong policies and adaptation measures deemed necessary, especially considering Brazil’s vulnerability to climate change?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever experienced an unprecedented weather event in your region? If so, how did it impact your daily life? If not, what weather events are common in your area?
- Can you recall a moment when you felt vulnerable due to extreme weather conditions? If so, how did you cope with it? If not, what measures do you think people should take during extreme weather?
- Do you agree with the urgency expressed by experts in tackling climate change?
- How might the tangible threats mentioned in the article impact not only the affected regions but also the global community?
- Considering the parallel between rising temperatures and health risks, how can societies adapt to protect vulnerable populations?