Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What challenges do communities face during extreme weather conditions?
- Aside from extreme temperatures, what other effects of climate change have you observed recently?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- throughout /throo-OUT/
- equipped /ih-KWIPT/
- cool down /kool doun/
- heatstroke /HEET-strohk/
- supply /suh-PLAHY/
[adverb] – in every part, or during the whole period of time
The tradition of celebrating cherry blossom festivals is observed throughout Japan.
[adjective] – provided with necessary items or equipment
The new laboratory is equipped with the latest technology to conduct advanced research.
[phrasal verb] – to decrease in temperature; to become cooler
After a strenuous workout, it’s important to cool down gradually to prevent muscle strain.
[noun] – a serious condition caused by the body overheating, usually as a result of prolonged exposure to or physical exertion in high temperatures
The marathon runner collapsed due to heatstroke after pushing himself too hard in the scorching sun.
[noun] – the amount of something available for use
The supermarket increased its supply of bottled water in anticipation of the hurricane.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Japan is currently facing an extreme heatwave, with authorities issuing high-level heat alerts due to extremely hot and humid conditions. They advise people to avoid intense activities and visit cooling centers located throughout Tokyo and nearby areas. These centers, equipped with air conditioning, are set up in places like community centers and libraries to help residents cool down. The Ministry of Environment’s warnings come as hospitals report an increase in patients, including fatalities related to heatstroke. Hisako Ichiuji, 60, described the situation as life-threatening after visiting a cooling center at Tokyo Tower. Meanwhile, an 86-year-old farmer in Fukuoka was found deceased surrounded by towels and water bottles, according to the Asahi newspaper.
In response to higher electricity demand, Japan’s largest power provider, JERA, has increased output at some plants and restarted others being repaired. Tokyo’s main power company, TEPCO, bought extra electricity to meet the increased demand. Trade Minister Ken Saito confirmed that the government is closely watching and will act to maintain a stable electricity supply. The Agriculture Ministry has noted damage to crops such as rice and decreased fish catches, including salmon, due to the ongoing heatwave. Farmers and fishermen are bracing for additional challenges from the extreme weather. The heatwave in Japan has led to health emergencies, electricity supply problems, and concerns for agriculture and fishing. Authorities are taking steps to protect residents and ensure a stable electricity supply during these difficulties.
In response to higher electricity demand, Japan’s largest power provider, JERA, has increased output at some plants and restarted others being repaired. Tokyo’s main power company, TEPCO, bought extra electricity to meet the increased demand. Trade Minister Ken Saito confirmed that the government is closely watching and will act to maintain a stable electricity supply. The Agriculture Ministry has noted damage to crops such as rice and decreased fish catches, including salmon, due to the ongoing heatwave. Farmers and fishermen are bracing for additional challenges from the extreme weather. The heatwave in Japan has led to health emergencies, electricity supply problems, and concerns for agriculture and fishing. Authorities are taking steps to protect residents and ensure a stable electricity supply during these difficulties.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What measures are being advised to the people in Tokyo to cope with the heatwave?
- Where are cooling centers set up, and how do they help residents?
- What did Hisako Ichiuji describe about the situation after visiting a cooling center?
- What incident involving an 86-year-old farmer was reported by the Asahi newspaper?
- How has the electricity demand affected power companies like JERA and TEPCO?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever experienced a heatwave? If yes, how did you cope with the extreme heat? If not, what would you do to stay cool in such conditions?
- Have you ever visited a cooling center during hot weather? If yes, what was the experience like for you? If not, do you think these centers are effective in helping people stay cool? Why or why not?
- Do you agree with the steps taken by Japan’s power providers to ensure a stable electricity supply during the heatwave?
- What additional measures do you think Japan could take to protect its residents during extreme heatwaves?
- How do you think the government should balance the need for increased electricity with environmental concerns?