Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What types of waste are commonly produced on farms? How might these types of waste affect the environment if not managed properly?
- How can improper disposal of farm waste impact water sources? What are some specific examples of water quality issues that might arise from this problem?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- standard /STAN-derd/
- harmful /HAHRM-fuhl/
- change /cheynj/
- group /groop/
- ecosystem /EE-koh-sis-tuhm/
[noun] – a level of quality or attainment
The new car meets safety standards for all drivers.
[adjective] – causing or likely to cause harm
Smoking is harmful to your health.
[noun] – the act or instance of making something different
The new policy will bring many changes to the school.
[noun] – a number of people or things that are located, gathered, or working together for a common purpose
They formed a group to study for the exam.
[noun] – a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment
The ecosystem in the forest is very diverse.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has found significant problems in how Vermont manages phosphorus waste from farms. This issue has led to poor water quality in Lake Champlain and nearby lakes. According to a recent report, Vermont’s current system for overseeing farm pollution does not meet the standards set by the federal Clean Water Act and needs major improvements. Phosphorus runoff from both large and small farms has caused harmful algae blooms that damage the lake’s environment. The EPA has suggested that Vermont’s Natural Resources Agency should take complete control of managing large farms, including issuing permits, conducting regular inspections, and monitoring nutrient levels.
The EPA has stressed the importance of Vermont improving its control by setting stricter rules for agricultural activities. Local officials agree that changes are needed but note that farmers have already made significant efforts to reduce pollution. Previous requests for corrective measures have not led to sufficient changes in phosphorus management. Environmental groups have welcomed the EPA’s recent actions, seeing them as a key step forward. They hope that adopting the recommended changes will significantly improve Lake Champlain’s ecosystem and overall water quality in Vermont.
The EPA has stressed the importance of Vermont improving its control by setting stricter rules for agricultural activities. Local officials agree that changes are needed but note that farmers have already made significant efforts to reduce pollution. Previous requests for corrective measures have not led to sufficient changes in phosphorus management. Environmental groups have welcomed the EPA’s recent actions, seeing them as a key step forward. They hope that adopting the recommended changes will significantly improve Lake Champlain’s ecosystem and overall water quality in Vermont.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What environmental issue is being addressed by the EPA in Vermont?
- Why is Vermont’s current system for overseeing farm pollution considered inadequate?
- What problem has phosphorus runoff caused in Lake Champlain?
- What actions does the EPA recommend for managing large farms?
- What do local officials agree is necessary for improving water quality in Vermont?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever been involved in a project to improve environmental conditions, such as water quality or pollution control? If so, what steps did you take to address the issue? If not, what changes would you suggest for improving environmental conditions in your community?
- Do you have any experience with farm activities or agricultural practices? If so, how did you see these activities impacting the environment? If not, what are your thoughts on how farms might affect local ecosystems?
- Do you agree that local officials should work together with environmental groups to improve water quality?
- What could be the potential consequences if Vermont does not improve its phosphorus management? Think about the impact on both the environment and local communities.
- In what ways might stricter environmental regulations influence the relationship between farmers and the government? What kind of dialogue or cooperation might be necessary?