Intermediate

Benito the giraffe begins 50-hour journey to new safari home in Mexico’s Puebla

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©REUTERS/Jose Luis Gonzalez Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you think makes giraffes unique among other animals? If you were to imagine the daily life of a giraffe, what challenges and advantages do you think they might face in their natural habitat? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. endure /en-DOOR/ [verb] – to undergo or withstand difficulties or hardships Despite the challenges, Maria endured the rigorous training program to become a skilled athlete. process /PROS-es/ [noun] – a series of actions or steps taken to achieve a particular result The baking process involves mixing ingredients,…
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Global coffee creamer market anticipates a 4.5% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) from 2024 to 2032

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What is the purpose of adding coffee creamer to coffee, and why do some people prefer using it? Do you think the popularity of coffee creamers is influenced by cultural factors, or is it more about personal taste preferences? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. steadily /STED-uh-lee/ [adverb] – in a stable and continuous manner, without sudden or extreme changes The company’s profits have been growing steadily over the past few years. primarily /PRY-muh-ruh-lee/ [adverb] – mainly or chiefly; fundamentally The success of the business is primarily attributed to its innovative…
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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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