©Andy and Sally Wasowski/Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center via AP
Pre-reading Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What plants are popular during the winter holidays?
- Why do people grow shrubs in their gardens?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- species /SPEE-sheez/
[noun] – a group of plants or animals that share similar characteristics
There are many species of trees in the forest. - native /NEY-tiv/
[adjective] – belonging to a place by birth or origin
This flower is native to the region. - berry /BER-ee/
[noun] – a small round fruit
Birds eat red berries in winter. - tolerant /TOL-er-uhnt/
[adjective] – able to grow or live well in different conditions
These flowers are tolerant of both sun and shade, so they can grow in many places. - hybrid /HAHY-brid/
[adjective] – made by combining two different types of plants or species
The farmer planted hybrid crops to produce bigger and healthier vegetables.
Article Reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Garden experts say that holly remains a popular winter shrub in many parts of the United States. There are hundreds of species from Asia, Europe, and the Americas, and several are native to North America. The plants are known for shiny leaves and bright red berries that appear during the colder months. Specialists advise planting in early spring so roots can grow before summer heat arrives.
Many types are tolerant of sun or shade and can grow in different soil conditions as long as the ground drains well. Some varieties are modern hybrid plants created to improve color or size. However, experts warn that certain imported hollies can spread too quickly in western states and harm local ecosystems. Careful selection and proper spacing help gardeners enjoy seasonal beauty while protecting nearby wildlife and native plants.
Many types are tolerant of sun or shade and can grow in different soil conditions as long as the ground drains well. Some varieties are modern hybrid plants created to improve color or size. However, experts warn that certain imported hollies can spread too quickly in western states and harm local ecosystems. Careful selection and proper spacing help gardeners enjoy seasonal beauty while protecting nearby wildlife and native plants.
Comprehension Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- When is holly popular in many parts of the United States?
- How many species of holly exist worldwide?
- When is the best time to plant holly?
- What makes hollies popular in winter?
- What type of soil do hollies prefer?
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever grown a shrub at home? If so, what was it? If not, would you like to try?
- Have you ever seen birds eating berries? If so, where? If not, would you like to?
- Do you agree that native plants are better for the environment?
- What type of plants are common in local neighborhoods?
- How can people make gardens more eco-friendly?