Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- devastation /dev-uh-STEY-shuhn/
- exacerbate /ig-ZAS-er-beyt/
- manuscript /MAN-yuh-skript/
- intensify /in-TEN-suh-fahy/
- substantial /suhb-STAN-shuhl/
[noun] – great destruction or damage over a large area
The storm caused massive devastation, leaving many people without homes.
[verb] – to make something that is already bad even worse
The lack of clean water exacerbated the spread of disease in the village.
[noun] – a writer’s original copy of a book, article, or document before it is published
The author submitted the final manuscript of his novel to the publisher.
[verb] – to make something stronger or more extreme
The government plans to intensify efforts to reduce air pollution in cities.
[adjective] – large in amount, value, or importance
The company made a substantial investment in new technology to improve its services.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Over the weekend, firefighters made significant progress in controlling wildfires across Los Angeles due to weaker winds and relentless firefighting efforts. Despite these advances, the fires caused extensive devastation, with thousands of homes destroyed, according to reports. Officials cautioned that strong winds expected through mid-week could exacerbate the situation. Key entertainment events, including the Producers Guild’s nomination announcement, have been delayed. Additionally, Meghan Markle’s upcoming Netflix series, originally scheduled for release on Wednesday, has been postponed until March 4. In Pacific Palisades, helicopters carrying water played a crucial role in preventing flames from reaching residential areas, including those in Mandeville Canyon, where celebrities reside. Belmont Music Publishers, located in the same area, reported the destruction of original manuscripts by composer Arnold Schoenberg.
Efforts to support victims have intensified, with organizations and individuals stepping in to provide assistance. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were seen distributing supplies to displaced residents, while major entertainment companies, including Disney and the Recording Academy, contributed to relief efforts. The Screen Actors Guild pledged $1 million to help industry workers affected by the disaster. Belmont Music Publishers expressed hope in preserving digital copies of lost works. Experts have highlighted the increased frequency of wildfires in California due to climate change and urban expansion. While technological advancements in firefighting and early warning systems have improved safety, the economic and cultural impact remains significant. Industry insiders emphasize that rebuilding efforts will require substantial time and resources. Authorities continue to monitor weather conditions and advise caution as efforts to contain the remaining fires persist.
Efforts to support victims have intensified, with organizations and individuals stepping in to provide assistance. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were seen distributing supplies to displaced residents, while major entertainment companies, including Disney and the Recording Academy, contributed to relief efforts. The Screen Actors Guild pledged $1 million to help industry workers affected by the disaster. Belmont Music Publishers expressed hope in preserving digital copies of lost works. Experts have highlighted the increased frequency of wildfires in California due to climate change and urban expansion. While technological advancements in firefighting and early warning systems have improved safety, the economic and cultural impact remains significant. Industry insiders emphasize that rebuilding efforts will require substantial time and resources. Authorities continue to monitor weather conditions and advise caution as efforts to contain the remaining fires persist.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever helped someone after a natural disaster? If so, what did you do? If not, how do you think people can help in such situations?
- Have you seen news about wildfires before? If so, what details do you remember? If not, why do you think wildfires are so dangerous?
- Do you agree that technology has improved safety during natural disasters?
- What steps should communities take to prepare for natural disasters like wildfires?
- Why do you think wildfires happen more often now than in the past?
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.
- extensive
- announcement
- destruction
- entertainment
- remain