©REUTERS/Peter Cziborra/File Photo
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- quadriplegic /kwod-ruh-PLEE-jik/
- archival /ahr-KAHY-vuhl/
- nuanced /NOO-ahnst/
- aftermath /AF-ter-math/
- candid /KAN-did/
[adjective] – paralyzed in all four limbs
After the accident, he became quadriplegic and had to adapt to a new way of life.
[adjective] – related to archives or historical records
The researcher spent hours in the library reviewing archival materials for her thesis.
[adjective] – having subtle differences or details that make something more complex and interesting
The author’s nuanced portrayal of the main character revealed her inner struggles and strengths.
[noun] – the period that follows an unpleasant event or accident, and the effects that it causes
The community worked together to rebuild in the aftermath of the storm.
[adjective] – truthful and straightforward; frank
She appreciated his candid feedback on her presentation.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
A new documentary titled Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story delves into the life and legacy of actor Christopher Reeve, famous for his role as Superman in the 1978 film of the same name. Released recently in UK cinemas, the film presents an intimate portrayal of Reeve’s journey, both as an iconic actor and as an individual who faced extraordinary adversity. After a tragic horse-riding accident in 1995 left Reeve quadriplegic, his life took a transformative turn as he dedicated himself to spinal cord injury research and advocacy. The documentary features archival footage and interviews with Reeve’s children, who recount his struggles and triumphs both before and after the accident, providing audiences with a nuanced perspective on Reeve’s determination and advocacy. The work not only highlights Reeve’s life in the spotlight but also sheds light on the complex realities of living with a spinal cord injury.
The documentary, co-directed by Ian Bonhote and Peter Ettedgui, seeks to capture Reeve’s resilience and the profound challenges he encountered in the aftermath of his accident. Reeve was known for his candid reflections on his condition, openly sharing his setbacks and optimism regarding spinal cord research. His son, Matthew Reeve, noted that the film emphasizes his father’s honesty and his hopes for scientific advancement. Together with his wife, Dana Reeve, Christopher Reeve dedicated himself to helping people with paralysis. They worked to raise awareness and support research that has lasting effects today. Will Reeve, their son, noted that his parents valued family over fame. This documentary highlights their beliefs and shows how Reeve influenced both the film industry and spinal injury research, honoring his legacy as a true hero beyond his movie roles.
The documentary, co-directed by Ian Bonhote and Peter Ettedgui, seeks to capture Reeve’s resilience and the profound challenges he encountered in the aftermath of his accident. Reeve was known for his candid reflections on his condition, openly sharing his setbacks and optimism regarding spinal cord research. His son, Matthew Reeve, noted that the film emphasizes his father’s honesty and his hopes for scientific advancement. Together with his wife, Dana Reeve, Christopher Reeve dedicated himself to helping people with paralysis. They worked to raise awareness and support research that has lasting effects today. Will Reeve, their son, noted that his parents valued family over fame. This documentary highlights their beliefs and shows how Reeve influenced both the film industry and spinal injury research, honoring his legacy as a true hero beyond his movie roles.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever participated in a community service project or advocacy effort? If so, what was your role and what did you learn from the experience? If not, what type of project would you be interested in joining, and why?
- Have you ever faced a situation where you had to be resilient, similar to how Christopher Reeve showed resilience after his accident? If so, what did you do to overcome that situation? If not, what do you think resilience means, and how can it help someone in difficult times?
- Do you agree that personal experiences can shape someone’s commitment to a cause?
- What lessons can we learn from Christopher Reeve’s advocacy efforts regarding spinal cord injuries?
- In what ways can storytelling, like in this documentary, raise awareness and drive change for important social issues?
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.
- legacy
- extraordinary
- advocacy
- setback
- spinal cord