Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- distinctive /dih-STINGK-tiv/
[adjective] – something that is easy to recognize because it is different from other things
The singer’s distinctive voice made her easy to recognize on the radio. - adaptation /ad-uhp-TEY-shuhn/
[noun] – a change in the way that something is done or used to fit a new situation
Learning new technology requires adaptation to modern ways of working. - melancholic /mel-uhn-KOL-ik/
[adjective] – expressing feelings of sadness, often in a gentle or thoughtful way
The movie’s melancholic music made the ending feel emotional. - emblematic /em-bluh-MAT-ik/
[adjective] – representing a particular idea, belief, or situation
The flag is emblematic of the nation’s freedom and pride. - acknowledgment /ak-NOL-ij-muhnt/
[noun] – acceptance that something exists, is true, or is important
The award was an acknowledgment of her hard work.
Article Reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Switzerland has officially requested the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to include yodeling on its Intangible Cultural Heritage list. A decision is expected in December 2025. The Swiss government aims to preserve this ancient art that began in the Alpine regions as a form of communication among herders across valleys. Over time, yodeling became a recognized musical tradition, combining distinctive vocal tones that switch between the chest and head voice. The Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts is the first Swiss university to teach yodeling, demonstrating its growing academic and cultural value. According to the Swiss Yodeling Association, there are over 12,000 yodelers participating in more than 700 groups across the country.
Experts have explained that yodeling’s modern revival reflects cultural resilience and creative adaptation. Its styles differ by region, from the melancholic tones of Appenzell to the energetic melodies of Central Switzerland. What began as a male activity now includes women and younger performers, representing progress in social inclusion. Educators and folk music groups are introducing yodeling lessons in primary schools to preserve this emblematic tradition for the next generation. UNESCO will evaluate this proposal alongside other cultural nominations such as Ghanaian highlife music and the Venezuelan El Joropo dance. Inclusion on the UNESCO list would serve as an acknowledgment of yodeling’s enduring contribution to global culture and highlight Switzerland’s effort to safeguard a living art form that connects people through music.
Experts have explained that yodeling’s modern revival reflects cultural resilience and creative adaptation. Its styles differ by region, from the melancholic tones of Appenzell to the energetic melodies of Central Switzerland. What began as a male activity now includes women and younger performers, representing progress in social inclusion. Educators and folk music groups are introducing yodeling lessons in primary schools to preserve this emblematic tradition for the next generation. UNESCO will evaluate this proposal alongside other cultural nominations such as Ghanaian highlife music and the Venezuelan El Joropo dance. Inclusion on the UNESCO list would serve as an acknowledgment of yodeling’s enduring contribution to global culture and highlight Switzerland’s effort to safeguard a living art form that connects people through music.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever listened to folk music or traditional songs from another country? If so, which one did you like most? If not, which country’s music would you like to hear?
- Have you ever joined a school performance or cultural event? If so, what did you perform? If not, what kind of performance would you like to join?
- Do you agree that traditional art forms like yodeling should be protected by organizations such as UNESCO?
- Why do you think preserving cultural heritage is important for a country’s identity?
- How can modern education systems support both tradition and innovation?
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.
- officially
- tradition
- ancient
- value
- reflect