Intermediate

Scientists discover bird flu defense in humans

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What is bird flu? What specific regions or countries have experienced significant bird flu outbreaks in the past? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. significant /sig-NIF-i-kuhnt/ [adjective] – important or noticeable The discovery of a rare species of plant in the forest is a significant event for botanists and conservationists. strain /streyn/ [noun] – a force or influence that stretches, pulls, or puts pressure on something, sometimes causing damage The heavy workload put a strain on her physical and mental health. potential /puh-TEN-shuhl / [adjective] – possible when the necessary conditions…
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Unresolved emotions might be the cause of recurring dreams says experts

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What are some of your recurring dreams? What do you think those dreams mean? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. intense /in-TENS/ [adjective] – extreme and forceful or (of a feeling) very strong The intense emotions portrayed by the actor captivated the audience. subjective /suhb-JEK-tiv/ [adjective] – influenced by or based on personal beliefs or feelings, rather than based on facts Artistic interpretation is highly subjective, allowing for diverse and varied perspectives. therapist /THER-uh-pist/ [noun] – someone whose job is to treat a particular type of mental or physical illness or…
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Surge in child and teen diabetes cases amid COVID-19 raises concerns

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Have you heard of diabetes before? What do you know about it? How do you think the COVID-19 pandemic might have affected people’s health? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. substantial /suhb-STAN-shuhl/ [adjective] – large in size, value, or importance The company made a substantial profit this year, which allowed them to expand their business. uncertain /uhn-SUR-tn/ [adjective] – not knowing what to do or believe, or not able to decide about something I feel uncertain about what to wear to the party. thirst /thurst/ [noun] – a need for something…
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How white roofs cool homes in Indian slums

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©Mitul Kajaria Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. How does the color of a roof affect the temperature inside a building? How do white roofs impact energy consumption and utility costs for homeowners? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. unbearable /uhn-BAIR-uh-buhl / [adjective] – too painful or unpleasant for you to continue to experience The heat inside the classroom during the summer was unbearable, making it difficult for the students to concentrate on their studies. effective /ih-FEK-tiv/ [adjective] – successful or achieving the results that you want Using flashcards can be an effective way for students to…
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Concerns rise over melatonin overuse as sleep aid

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Have you tried using supplements to help you sleep? How was the experience? Do you think these supplements are safe? Why or why not? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. aid /eyd/ [noun] – help or support The government increased financial aid for small businesses during the economic downturn. disorder /dis-AWR-der/ [noun] – an illness of the mind or body The psychologist diagnosed her with an anxiety disorder based on her symptoms and behavior. excessive /ik-SES-iv/ [adjective] – too much The company faced criticism for its excessive use of packaging, which…
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China’s Chang’e-6 mission is set to collect moon samples from the far side next year

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©China National Space Administration Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you think a “mission to the moon” might involve? Why do you think space agencies or countries might be interested in sending missions to the moon? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. mission /MISH-uhn/ [noun] – an important job, especially a military one, that someone is sent somewhere to do Your mission is to isolate the enemy by destroying all the bridges across the river. crucial /KROO-shuhl / [adjective] – extremely important or necessary Her work has been crucial to the project’s success. data /DEY-tuh/…
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Japan implements a tourist tax at the famous ‘floating shrine’ to combat overtourism

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What comes to your mind when you hear about a shrine that appears to float on water? What do you think makes such a place unique or special? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. implement /IM-pluh-ment/ [verb] – to start using a plan or system The changes to the national health system will be implemented next year. emphasize /EM-fuh-sahyz/ [verb] – to show that something is very important or worth giving attention to He emphasized that all the people taking part in the research were volunteers. preserve /pri-ZURV/ [verb] – to…
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Canada implements nationwide ban on animal testing for cosmetics

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What are your thoughts on using animals to test cosmetic products? Do you think using animals to test cosmetic products is right and acceptable? Why or why not? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. ban /ban/ [noun] – an official order that prevents something from happening The country enacted a ban on the importation of certain endangered animal products to combat the illegal wildlife trade. prohibit /proh-HIB-it/ [verb] – to officially refuse to allow something The restaurant has a sign that prohibits smoking in outdoor dining areas. accessible /ak-SES-uh-buhl/ [adjective] –…
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Safety tips for outdoor adventures

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Why is it important to be prepared and informed before embarking on outdoor adventures? What are some common risks and hazards associated with outdoor activities? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. cautious /KAW-shuhs/ [adjective] – Someone who is cautious avoids risks Before crossing the busy street, it is important to be cautious and look both ways to ensure your safety. confidently /KAAN-fuh-duhnt-lee/ [adverb] – in a way that shows you are certain of your abilities or have trust in people, plans, or the future Despite being nervous, she stood up in…
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Google to block Canadian news in response to new media legislation

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. How do you usually stay updated on the latest news? What are some popular sources or platforms that people rely on for accessing news content? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. parliament /PAHR-luh-muhnt/ [noun] – in some countries, the group of (usually) elected politicians or other people who make the laws for their country The members of parliament gather in the government building to discuss and make decisions about the new laws. block /blok/ [verb] – to prevent movement through something It was impossible for cars to pass through because a…
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