Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- dome /dohm/
- orchard /AWR-cherd/
- drought /drout/
- simulated /SI-myuh-lay-tuhd/
- ultimately /UHL-tuh-muht-lee/
[noun] – a rounded or spherical structure, often used to cover a space or area
A large dome covered the stadium, protecting fans from the rain.
[noun] – a piece of land where fruit trees are grown
The family picked apples from the orchard during the fall harvest.
[noun] – a long period when there is little or no rain
The region experienced severe droughts, affecting crop production.
[adjective] – made to look like or have the features of something else
The scientists conducted experiments in a simulated environment to observe the effects of various climate conditions.
[adverb] – finally, after a series of things have happened
After months of hard work and preparation, the team ultimately achieved their goal of winning the championship.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
In the Belgian province of Limburg, a unique experiment is being conducted to study the future effects of climate change on pear farming. Scientists have set up 12 transparent domes in an orchard, simulating the weather conditions expected in 2040. These conditions include more frequent heatwaves, irregular rainfall leading to both droughts and floods, and overall higher temperatures. The purpose of the experiment is to assess how global warming will impact pear production in Europe, where extreme weather events have already affected fruit growers. Early results from the 2023 harvest suggest that while Belgian pears might escape severe damage, the ecosystem is showing signs of change, such as an earlier growing season. This could affect the way the ecosystem absorbs CO2 and other environmental factors.
The three-year study will examine the effects of the simulated 2040 climate on pear growth, with this year’s harvest being studied at the Flanders Centre of Postharvest Technology. Scientists are comparing pears grown under these future conditions with those grown under current climate conditions, focusing on factors such as size, firmness, and sugar content. Initial findings indicate that pears exposed to warmer conditions are softer and have a higher sugar content, which reduces their shelf life and storage potential, ultimately affecting sales for farmers. In recent years, European pear growers have already faced significant challenges due to climate-related issues such as drought, hail, and floods. Belgium’s pear production is projected to drop by 27% this year, caused by unusual weather patterns such as an early bloom and a late frost.
The three-year study will examine the effects of the simulated 2040 climate on pear growth, with this year’s harvest being studied at the Flanders Centre of Postharvest Technology. Scientists are comparing pears grown under these future conditions with those grown under current climate conditions, focusing on factors such as size, firmness, and sugar content. Initial findings indicate that pears exposed to warmer conditions are softer and have a higher sugar content, which reduces their shelf life and storage potential, ultimately affecting sales for farmers. In recent years, European pear growers have already faced significant challenges due to climate-related issues such as drought, hail, and floods. Belgium’s pear production is projected to drop by 27% this year, caused by unusual weather patterns such as an early bloom and a late frost.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever visited a farm or orchard? If so, what was your favorite part of the visit? If not, what kind of farm would you like to visit someday?
- Have you ever learned about climate change in school? If so, what topic about climate change interests you the most? If not, what would you like to learn about climate change?
- Do you agree that climate change will have a significant impact on farming in the future?
- What additional measures should farmers take to adapt to changing weather conditions?
- In what ways can communities adapt to the challenges posed by climate change in agriculture?
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.
- CO2
- ecosystem
- shelf life
- fruit grower
- climate change