Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- short circuit /shawrt SUR-kit/
- originate /uh-RIJ-uh-neyt ]/
- spokesperson /SPOHKS-pur-suhn /
- inspection /in-SPEK-shuhn/
- landmark /LAND-mahrk/
[noun] – a problem caused by an electrical connection that is incomplete
The robot stopped moving because of a short circuit in its wiring.
[verb] – to come from a particular place, time, situation, etc.
The river originates in the mountains and flows down to the valley below.
[noun] – someone who is chosen to speak officially for a group, organization, etc.
The company’s spokesperson announced the new product during the press conference.
[noun] – the act of looking at or examining something carefully in order to discover something
The mechanic performed an inspection of the car to make sure it was safe to drive.
[noun] – a building or place that is easily recognized, especially one that you can use to judge where you are
The Eiffel Tower is a famous landmark in Paris, France.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
A fire broke out at Legoland in Denmark, causing significant damage to part of Miniland, a popular section of the theme park known for its detailed Lego brick replicas of famous buildings. The incident occurred early Wednesday morning, around 4 a.m., and is believed to have been caused by a short circuit in one of the electric cars used in the park. Surveillance footage showed that the fire originated in the car while it was being recharged overnight. Although the fire was quickly extinguished, several replica buildings in Miniland were destroyed, and an area modeled after a Danish port was also severely damaged. Kasper Tangsig, a spokesperson for Legoland, indicated that there was no other activity at that time, leading to the conclusion that the fire was likely due to an electrical fault. Consequently, a thorough inspection of all electrical equipment in Miniland is planned to ensure safety.
Legoland, near Lego HQ in Billund, opened in 1968, drawing 1.6 million visitors a year. It boasts rides, restaurants, and play areas with Lego bricks. Its highlight, Miniland, uses 20 million bricks for mini landmarks. Legoland, despite grappling with the aftermath of a recent fire, continues to hold its position as one of Denmark’s premier tourist destinations. Established in 1932, the very name “Lego” embodies the essence of playful creativity, translating to “play well” in Danish. In a significant move in 2025, Merlin Entertainments acquired Legoland parks, marking a new chapter in its storied history.
Legoland, near Lego HQ in Billund, opened in 1968, drawing 1.6 million visitors a year. It boasts rides, restaurants, and play areas with Lego bricks. Its highlight, Miniland, uses 20 million bricks for mini landmarks. Legoland, despite grappling with the aftermath of a recent fire, continues to hold its position as one of Denmark’s premier tourist destinations. Established in 1932, the very name “Lego” embodies the essence of playful creativity, translating to “play well” in Danish. In a significant move in 2025, Merlin Entertainments acquired Legoland parks, marking a new chapter in its storied history.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Can you recall a time when you experienced a short circuit in your home or school? If so, how did you resolve the situation? If not, have you heard of anyone else experiencing it? Could you tell me something about it?
- Have you ever visited a landmark like Legoland or another famous tourist attraction? If yes, what was your experience like? If not, would you like to visit one in the future? Why or why not?
- Do you agree that theme parks like Legoland should invest more in preventive measures to avoid accidents like short circuits and fires?
- How do you think the recent fire at Legoland might impact tourism in Denmark? What steps could the authorities take to mitigate any negative effects?
- Reflecting on the Legoland incident, what do you think are the broader implications for theme parks and other large attractions in terms of safety regulations and emergency preparedness?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- replica
- extinguish
- indicate
- tourist spot
- investigation