Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What do you know about the most successful NBA teams in history?
- What strategies do you think strong NBA teams use to win games?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- outstanding /out-STAN-ding/
- favorite /FEY-ver-it/
- pursuit /per-SOOT/
- strengthen /STRENGK-thuhn/
- intense /in-TENS/
[adjective] – extremely good; excellent
The student received an award for her outstanding work in science class.
[noun] – a person or thing regarded with special favor or preference
She is the favorite in the singing competition because of her unique voice.
[noun] – the act of chasing or seeking something
His pursuit of knowledge led him to read many books.
[verb] – to make something stronger or more powerful
Regular exercise can strengthen your muscles and improve your health.
[adjective] – having or showing strong feelings or opinions; very strong
The intense heat during summer makes it hard to stay outside for long.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
The Boston Celtics have solidified their position as a strong team in the National Basketball Association (NBA) after winning the championship last season under Coach Joe Mazzulla. This success, mainly due to the outstanding performance of player Jayson Tatum, has made the Celtics favorites to win the 2025 championship, according to BetMGM Sportsbook. Tatum has had a big impact, achieving 334 wins with the team in his first six seasons and earning five All-Star appearances as well as an Olympic gold medal. Despite these awards, the top goal of winning an NBA championship eluded him until last season. The Celtics will start their pursuit of a 19th title on Tuesday night in Boston against the New York Knicks in the opening game of the NBA’s 79th season.
While Boston seeks to defend its title, other teams have strengthened their rosters to create tough competition. The New York Knicks have made key additions, such as Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns. The Philadelphia 76ers have also improved by adding Paul George to their team. Rising teams, like the Cleveland Cavaliers, led by Donovan Mitchell, and the Orlando Magic, featuring Paolo Banchero, are expected to challenge the Celtics. The Oklahoma City Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, are also strong contenders in the Western Conference. The new season promises intense competition as teams try to dethrone the Celtics, who remain focused on keeping their championship title.
While Boston seeks to defend its title, other teams have strengthened their rosters to create tough competition. The New York Knicks have made key additions, such as Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns. The Philadelphia 76ers have also improved by adding Paul George to their team. Rising teams, like the Cleveland Cavaliers, led by Donovan Mitchell, and the Orlando Magic, featuring Paolo Banchero, are expected to challenge the Celtics. The Oklahoma City Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, are also strong contenders in the Western Conference. The new season promises intense competition as teams try to dethrone the Celtics, who remain focused on keeping their championship title.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What did the Boston Celtics achieve last season?
- Who is mentioned as a key player for the Celtics?
- How many wins did Jayson Tatum achieve with the Celtics in his first six seasons?
- What major award has Jayson Tatum earned during his career?
- Which team is the Celtics set to play against in their opening game of the new season?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever played on a sports team? If so, what was your favorite memory from that experience? If not, what sport would you like to try?
- Do you have a favorite basketball player or team? If so, what do you admire most about them? If not, which sport do you enjoy watching?
- Do you agree that teamwork is important for a sports team to succeed?
- Why do you think some teams are able to strengthen their rosters effectively? What strategies could a team use to improve its players?
- In your opinion, what role does fan support play in a team’s performance? Can it make a difference in how a team plays during games?