©(Matt Crossick/PA Media Assignments via AP)
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- commemorative /kuh-MEM-uh-rey-tiv/
- tribute /TRIB-yoot/
- inscribe /in-SKRAHYB/
- resonate /REZ-uh-neyt/
- transcend /tran-SEND/
[adjective] – intended to honor or remember someone or something
The school held a commemorative ceremony to honor past students who had made significant contributions to the community.
[noun] – something done, given, or said to show respect or admiration
The band played a special song as a tribute to their late drummer.
[verb] – to write or carve words onto something, especially for permanent display
Her name was inscribed on a trophy for her outstanding performance.
[verb] – to produce an emotional effect or feeling of connection
The teacher’s powerful speech about hard work resonated with the students, motivating them to study harder.
[verb] – to go beyond the usual limits or boundaries
Her kindness transcends cultural differences and brings people together.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
The Royal Mint has launched a commemorative coin collection in honor of John Lennon, marking what would have been the late musician’s 85th birthday. This tribute is part of the Royal Mint’s ongoing “music legends” series, which has previously celebrated notable figures such as Paul McCartney, David Bowie, Queen, the Rolling Stones, and Shirley Bassey. The coin features a detailed portrait of Lennon, inspired by a well-known photograph taken by music industry photographer Bob Gruen in 1974. The image shows a side profile of Lennon, captured on the roof of his penthouse in New York. Lennon’s name is inscribed on the left side of the portrait, with the word “Imagine” placed on the right, a tribute to his renowned 1971 song and album. Lennon, widely recognized for his artistic contributions and peace advocacy, remains an influential cultural figure decades after his tragic death in 1980.
The commemorative coins became available for purchase on March 17, 2025, through the Royal Mint’s website, offering options in various precious metals, including gold, as well as different colors. Prices range from £18.50 ($24) for a five-pound coin to £6,420 ($8,330) for a 200-pound coin. Although these coins hold legal tender status, their significant value makes it unlikely they will be used in everyday transactions. Rebecca Morgan, director of commemorative coin at the Royal Mint, stated that Lennon’s achievements as an artist, activist, and advocate for peace continue to resonate globally. The addition of Lennon to the “music legends” series reinforces his enduring legacy as a cultural icon whose influence transcends generations.
The commemorative coins became available for purchase on March 17, 2025, through the Royal Mint’s website, offering options in various precious metals, including gold, as well as different colors. Prices range from £18.50 ($24) for a five-pound coin to £6,420 ($8,330) for a 200-pound coin. Although these coins hold legal tender status, their significant value makes it unlikely they will be used in everyday transactions. Rebecca Morgan, director of commemorative coin at the Royal Mint, stated that Lennon’s achievements as an artist, activist, and advocate for peace continue to resonate globally. The addition of Lennon to the “music legends” series reinforces his enduring legacy as a cultural icon whose influence transcends generations.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever bought or received a special item that reminded you of someone famous? If so, what was the item, and why was it special to you? If not, what kind of item would you like to have that honors someone famous?
- Have you ever attended an event or seen something that paid tribute to a famous person? If so, what was it like? If not, who would you like to see honored in this way?
- Do you agree that John Lennon’s influence is still strong in today’s world?
- Why do you think certain musicians like John Lennon continue to influence people many years after their death?
- If you could choose one famous person from your country to be featured on a commemorative coin, who would it be and why?
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
- influential
- renowned
- activist
- generation