Intermediate

Rome unveils museum showcasing ancient marble map in bid to boost tourism

Forma Urbis

©REUTERS/Remo Casilli Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What comes to mind when you think about ancient Rome and its historical artifacts? What aspects of ancient history or archaeology intrigue you the most? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. official /uh-FISH-uhl/ [adjective] – agreed to or arranged by people in positions of authority The city council announced the official opening of the new public park. mayor /MEY-er/ [noun] – a person who is elected or chosen to lead the group who governs a town or city The mayor announced new initiatives for community development during the town…
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Forensic experts dismiss extraterrestrial claims, reveal entities as earthly dolls

Extraterrestrial

©REUTERS/Sebastian Castaneda Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What are your thoughts or initial reactions when you hear about discoveries that are initially considered mysterious or related to aliens? What aspects of archaeology or ancient civilizations interest you the most? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. mysterious /mi-STEER-ee-uhs/ [adjective] – strange, not known, or not understood The sudden disappearance of the key witness added a mysterious element to the ongoing investigation, leaving detectives puzzled about the circumstances. determine /dih-TUR-min/ [verb] – to reach a conclusion or decision after careful examination or investigation The detective worked tirelessly to…
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Oppenheimer shines, ‘Poor Things’ upsets in Golden Globes’ Hollywood return

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©REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you think major film award ceremonies like the Golden Globes represent in the world of entertainment? Why might awards ceremonies be considered significant events for the film industry? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. atomic /uh-TOM-ik/ [adjective] – relating to atoms or nuclear reactions The scientists conducted experiments to study the atomic structure of various elements. additionally /uh-DI-shuh-nuh-lee/ [adverb] – also or in addition She finished her work early; additionally, she offered to help her colleagues with their tasks. concern /kuhn-SURN/ [noun] – a worried or nervous…
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Harbin’s enchanting Ice Festival draws record crowds and sparkles with winter magic

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©REUTERS/Tingshu Wang Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What comes to mind when you think about festivals? In your imagination, what kinds of activities or attractions might be part of an ice and snow festival? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. impressive /im-PRES-iv/ [adjective] – evoking admiration due to notable qualities The mountain range offered an impressive view, with snow-capped peaks stretching as far as the eye could see. contribute /kuhn-TRIB-yoot / [verb] – to give or provide something, typically in terms of effort, resources, or ideas, to achieve a common goal Every team member worked hard…
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Companies brace for environmental cleanup costs in 2024

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you think the term “polluter pay” means, and how do you think it could be relevant to environmental issues? Can you speculate on the potential benefits and challenges associated with implementing a “polluter pay” system to address environmental problems? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. collapse /kuh-LAPS/ [noun] – to fall down suddenly because of pressure or having no strength or support The old bridge collapsed under the weight of the heavy truck. manufacture /man-yuh-FAK-cher/ [verb] – to produce goods in large numbers, usually in a factory using machines…
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KTOZ Shelter’s “Operation Frost” rescues 120 homeless dogs from bitter cold in Krakow, Poland

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Can you share any personal experiences or stories you’ve encountered related to helping animals in need? In what ways can individuals provide assistance to a shelter for homeless animals? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. shelter /SHEL-ter/ [noun] – a place that provides protection or housing, especially for those in need The homeless kittens found warmth and care in the animal shelter. adopt /uh-DOPT/ [verb] – to take someone or something as one’s own, especially legally or officially Many families choose to adopt pets from shelters rather than buy them. result…
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LG expands webOS reach with Re: New Program

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What is a smart TV, and how do you think it differs from a regular TV? In your opinion, what makes a home entertainment experience “enhanced” or enjoyable? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. newly /NOO-lee/ [adverb] – recently She proudly displayed her newly acquired painting on the living room wall. recommendation /rek-uh-men-DEY-shuhn/ [noun] – a suggestion or piece of advice about what someone should do or choose The teacher gave a recommendation for a good book to read over the summer. preference /PREF-er-uhns/ [noun] – a greater liking for one…
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Rare clam species makes astonishing comeback in Croatian waters

Clam

©REUTERS/Antonio Bronic Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What role do you think certain marine organisms might play in supporting the overall health of marine ecosystems? In what ways do you think human activities impact the survival of marine species in their natural habitats? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. severe /suh-VEER/ [adjective] – causing very great pain, difficulty, worry, damage, etc.; very serious The storm caused severe damage to the coastal towns, leaving many homes uninhabitable. astonishment /uh-STON-ish-muhnt/ [noun] – very great surprise The magician’s disappearing act left the audience in complete astonishment, amazed by the…
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MEA Water Treatment Chemicals Market surges as industrial development, regulatory policies, and water scarcity awareness drive growth

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Why is water considered a critical resource in industrial and urban development? In what ways can industrial activities affect water quality? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. growth /grohth/ [noun] – the process of developing or increasing in size, quantity, or degree The city’s population growth led to a higher demand for clean water. industrial /in-DUHS-tree-uhl/ [adjective] – relating to or characterized by industry, typically manufacturing or the production of goods The city’s economic success was tied to its thriving industrial sector. policy /POL-uh-see/ [noun] – a course or principle of…
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NASA tests giant robot Valkyrie, eyes future space role

Humanoid

©REUTERS/Evan Garcia Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you know about humanoids and their functions? Can you think of any advancements in robotics that have impressed you recently? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. assist /uh-SIST/ [verb] – to help The team worked together to assist the injured hiker. optimistic /op-tuh-MIS-tik/ [adjective] – hoping or believing that good things will happen in the future The coach is optimistic about the team’s chances in the upcoming match. programming /PROH-gram-ing/ [noun] – the activity or job of writing computer programs Programming demands precision and creativity. objective /uhb-JEK-tiv/…
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