Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- solidify /suh-LID-uh-fahy/
- dominant /DOM-uh-nuhnt/
- accolade /AK-uh-leyd/
- elude /ih-LOOD/
- contender /kuhn-TEN-der/
[verb] – to make something certain or stronger, or to become more certain or stronger
The new partnership helped solidify the company’s position in the international market.
[adjective] – more important, strong, or noticeable than anything else of the same type
His dominant leadership style helped guide the team through difficult challenges.
[noun] – praise and approval
The scientist received numerous accolades for her groundbreaking research in biology.
[verb] – to escape or be out of reach
Despite numerous nominations, the prestigious Oscar award eluded the actor until his latest film.
[noun] – someone who competes with other people to try to win something
She is a strong contender for the position of CEO in the company.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
The Boston Celtics have solidified their position as a dominant force in the NBA, following their championship victory under coach Joe Mazzulla last season. The team’s success, marked by Jayson Tatum’s contributions, has placed them as the favorites to secure the 2025 championship, according to BetMGM Sportsbook. Tatum, who has consistently been a top performer, achieved 334 wins with the Celtics in his first six seasons, earning five All-Star appearances and an Olympic gold medal. Despite these accolades, the ultimate achievement—an NBA championship—eluded him until last season. The Celtics’ pursuit of a 19th title will begin on Tuesday night in Boston, where the team is set to face the New York Knicks in the first game of the NBA’s 79th season.
In addition to Boston’s ambitions, other teams have strengthened their rosters to challenge the reigning champions. New York, with key acquisitions such as Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns, and Philadelphia, adding Paul George, are among the teams aiming to surpass Boston in the Eastern Conference. Rising teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers, led by Donovan Mitchell, and the Orlando Magic, led by Paolo Banchero, are expected to offer significant competition. In the Western Conference, Oklahoma City, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, is predicted to be a strong contender, alongside Denver, Dallas, and Minnesota. The NBA’s new season promises intense competition as teams strategize to dethrone the Celtics, who remain poised and determined to retain their title.
In addition to Boston’s ambitions, other teams have strengthened their rosters to challenge the reigning champions. New York, with key acquisitions such as Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns, and Philadelphia, adding Paul George, are among the teams aiming to surpass Boston in the Eastern Conference. Rising teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers, led by Donovan Mitchell, and the Orlando Magic, led by Paolo Banchero, are expected to offer significant competition. In the Western Conference, Oklahoma City, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, is predicted to be a strong contender, alongside Denver, Dallas, and Minnesota. The NBA’s new season promises intense competition as teams strategize to dethrone the Celtics, who remain poised and determined to retain their title.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever supported a sports team that won a championship? If so, how did you celebrate their victory? If not, what team would you like to see win in the future?
- Have you ever attended a professional sports game? If so, what was your experience like? If not, what sport would you want to see live and why?
- Do you agree that teamwork is essential for a sports team’s success?
- What factors contribute to a team’s dominance in a sports league?
- In your opinion, what is more important: individual talent or teamwork? Why do you feel this way?
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.
- contribution
- achieve
- ambition
- strategize
- determined