Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- cluster /KLUHS-ter/
- catastrophic /kat-uh-STROF-ik/
- conducive /kuhn-DOO-siv/
- anomaly /uh-NOM-uh-lee/
- elucidate /ih-LOO-si-deyt/
[noun] – a group of similar things that are close together, sometimes surrounding something
The scientist observed a cluster of stars in the night sky.
[adjective] – causing sudden and very great harm or destruction
A volcanic eruption can have catastrophic effects on nearby towns.
[adjective] – making a situation or outcome more likely or possible
A quiet environment is conducive to effective studying.
[noun] – something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected
The sudden drop in temperature was an anomaly for the season.
[verb] – to make something clear or explain
Can you elucidate your plans for the upcoming project?
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
In November, the West Pacific experienced a rare cluster of four tropical cyclones, the first occurrence since 1961, prompting discussions about the influence of climate change on global weather patterns. This event coincided with the Philippines enduring its sixth typhoon in one month, including the devastating Supertyphoon Man-Yi, which claimed over 160 lives since October. Simultaneously, the Atlantic witnessed two Category 5 hurricanes, Helene and Milton, which caused catastrophic damage in Florida. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), higher global temperatures amplify storm intensity through increased evaporation and elevated sea surface temperatures, resulting in stronger winds and heavier rainfall. However, scientists stress that attributing specific weather events solely to climate change is complex, as other atmospheric phenomena may also contribute.
Tropical storm researchers indicate that the sub-tropical ridge, a high-pressure system, has shifted unusually northward, steering storms into warmer waters conducive to their development. While climate change has likely intensified tropical storms, studies suggest it may also reduce their frequency during late seasons. Researchers at Climate Central reported that warmer ocean temperatures in the Atlantic have heightened hurricane wind speeds by 18 mph since 2019, with over 80% of recent storms showing significant influence from carbon pollution. Experts emphasize that while the evidence of increased storm intensity is strong, the exact relationship between climate change and the clustering of storms, such as the recent typhoon anomaly, requires further investigation to elucidate long-term patterns and impacts.
Tropical storm researchers indicate that the sub-tropical ridge, a high-pressure system, has shifted unusually northward, steering storms into warmer waters conducive to their development. While climate change has likely intensified tropical storms, studies suggest it may also reduce their frequency during late seasons. Researchers at Climate Central reported that warmer ocean temperatures in the Atlantic have heightened hurricane wind speeds by 18 mph since 2019, with over 80% of recent storms showing significant influence from carbon pollution. Experts emphasize that while the evidence of increased storm intensity is strong, the exact relationship between climate change and the clustering of storms, such as the recent typhoon anomaly, requires further investigation to elucidate long-term patterns and impacts.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever experienced a typhoon or a strong storm? If so, what did you do to stay safe? If not, how do you think you would prepare for one?
- Have you ever heard about climate change affecting storms? If so, what did you learn about it? If not, what do you think might be the connection between climate change and stronger storms?
- Do you agree that climate change is making storms stronger and more dangerous?
- Why do you think it is difficult for scientists to say if climate change caused specific storms?
- What might be the long-term effects on communities if storms continue to become stronger?
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.
- long-term
- phenomena
- occurrence
- intensity
- atmospheric