Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- outline /OUT-lahyn/
[verb] – to describe the main ideas of something clearly and briefly
The report outlines the major changes needed to improve public transportation in large cities. - inefficient /in-i-FISH-uhnt/
[adjective] – not working in a way that uses time, energy, or resources well
Many factories still use inefficient machines that waste electricity and slow production. - multifaceted /muhl-tee-FAS-i-tid/
[adjective] – having many different parts, sides, or aspects
The study shows that climate adaptation is a multifaceted challenge involving science, planning, and community action. - pervasive /per-VEY-siv/
[adjective] – widely and affecting many people or areas
The report notes that air pollution has become pervasive in fast-growing urban regions. - obstacle /OB-stuh-kuhl/
[noun] – a thing that makes progress difficult or prevents success
The project faces several obstacles, including limited funding and a shortage of skilled workers.
Article Reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Electricity demand is expected to increase far more quickly than overall energy use in the coming decades, according to the latest assessment released by the International Energy Agency (IEA) during climate discussions in Brazil. The report outlines what is changing, when major shifts may occur, where demand is rising most rapidly, and why the trend has become a central global concern. The IEA states that renewable energy, led by solar power, is expanding at record speed, while coal and oil could reach a global peak before 2030. Another scenario, however, indicates that oil and gas demand may continue rising until 2050 due to varied national policies. Strong growth in India, Southeast Asia, Africa, Latin America, and China is shaping global energy patterns. The outlook also warns that around 730 million people still lack electricity and that nearly one-quarter of the global population continues relying on inefficient cooking methods that harm health and the environment.
The analysis explains how countries may respond to these challenges and why stronger action is needed to meet long-term climate goals. The IEA stresses the importance of major investment in power grids, energy storage, and supply chains for critical minerals used in wind turbines, electric vehicles, and solar panels. Rising demand from data centers is also transforming the energy system, with global investment expected to reach $580 billion this year. Energy specialists referenced in the report describe renewable growth as multifaceted, accelerating, pervasive, consequential, and unprecedented, but the outlook also highlights obstacles such as uneven policy support and the risk of surpassing the 1.5°C warming threshold.
The analysis explains how countries may respond to these challenges and why stronger action is needed to meet long-term climate goals. The IEA stresses the importance of major investment in power grids, energy storage, and supply chains for critical minerals used in wind turbines, electric vehicles, and solar panels. Rising demand from data centers is also transforming the energy system, with global investment expected to reach $580 billion this year. Energy specialists referenced in the report describe renewable growth as multifaceted, accelerating, pervasive, consequential, and unprecedented, but the outlook also highlights obstacles such as uneven policy support and the risk of surpassing the 1.5°C warming threshold.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever visited a place that uses solar panels or other renewable energy? If so, what did you notice about how the energy was used? If not, where do you think you might see renewable energy in the future?
- Have you ever experienced a power outage in your area? If so, how did it affect your daily activities? If not, how do you think a long power outage would change your routine?
- Do you agree that improving power grids and energy storage should be a global priority?
- How could using more renewable energy help reduce environmental problems?
- What factors do you think make it difficult for some nations to invest in renewable energy and modern power grids?
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.
- renewable energy
- solar power
- population
- electric vehicle
- support