Intermediate

Humpback whale sightings off the NSW Coast signal conservation success

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Which endangered species would you like to see in person? What other endangered animals do you wish to thrive and increase in population? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. migration /mahy-GREY-shuhn/ [noun] – the process of animals travelling to a different place, usually when the season changes The great wildebeest migration in Africa is a stunning spectacle, as thousands of animals traverse vast distances in search of greener pastures. surge /surj / [noun] – a sudden and great increase In times of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or floods, there is…
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Endangered Sumatran rhino birth signals hope in the battle against extinction

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©Antara Foto/Reuters Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What comes to mind when you hear the word “rhinoceros”? What do you believe are the unique characteristics of rhinoceroses? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. conservation /kon-ser-VEY-shuhn/ [noun] – the protection of plants and animals, natural areas, and interesting and important structures and buildings, especially from the damaging effects of human activity Conservation organizations work to protect endangered species and their habitats. endangered /en-DEYN-jerd/ [adjective] – animals or plants that may soon not exist because there are very few now alive: Endangered animals need our protection. illegal /ih-LEE-guhl…
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‘White People Meals’ trend in China reflects nation’s evolving culinary preferences

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What is your favorite Japanese food? Do you like Western food? Which one is your favorite? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. factor /FAK-ter/ [noun] – a fact or situation that influences the result of something The weather was a significant factor in the cancellation of the outdoor event. critic /KRIT-ik/ [noun] – someone who says that they do not approve of someone or something The art critic wrote a scathing review of the gallery’s latest exhibition, criticizing the lack of originality and artistic depth. nonetheless /nuhn-thuh-LES/ [adverb] – despite what…
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Scientists win Nobel Prize for ‘groundbreaking’ mRNA Covid-19 vaccines

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. How do you imagine vaccines playing a role in global health efforts and disease prevention? Have you heard of the ‘Nobel Prize’? Can you envision how the Nobel Prize influences advancements and recognition in science, literature, peace efforts, and other fields? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. crucial /KROO-shuhl/ [adjective] – extremely important or necessary It is crucial to double-check the safety measures before starting any experiment in the laboratory. committee /kuh-MIT-ee/ [noun] – a small group of people chosen to represent a larger organization and either make decisions or collect…
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New study reveals alarming link between common artificial sweetener and higher heart attack

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you know about the health effects of artificial sweeteners? Do you think artificial sweeteners are a healthier option than sugar? Why or why not? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. artificial /ahr-tuh-FISH-uhl/ [adjective] – made or produced by humans, often as an imitation of something natural Some artificial flowers look so real that it’s hard to tell they’re not natural. substitute /SUHB-sti-toot/ [noun] – a person or thing that takes the place or function of another Soy milk can be a substitute for dairy milk for people who are…
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Sweden to create a city entirely out of wood

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©Atrium Ljungberg / Henning Larsen Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you know about Sweden? What comes to mind when you hear the word city? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. ambitious /am-BISH-uhs/ [adjective] – If a plan or idea is ambitious, it needs a great amount of skill and effort to be successful or be achieved The company’s ambitious expansion plan involved entering new markets and diversifying its product offerings. enhance /en-HANS/ [verb] – to improve the quality, amount, or strength of something The art exhibition showcases various techniques and styles that enhance the…
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Florida’s Gatorland Park welcomes an extraordinary alligator with a jaw challenge to forever home

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©Gatorland Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What comes to mind when you hear the word “alligator”? What do you think life is like for alligators in their natural habitat? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. capture /KAP-cher / [verb] – to gain or win over the affection, admiration, or emotional attachment The talented musician’s performance captured the hearts of everyone in the audience, leaving them deeply moved by the music. commitment /kuh-MIT-muhnt/ [noun] – a promise or firm decision to do something Her commitment to environmental conservation was evident through her tireless efforts to protect the…
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Over 100 dolphins found dead in Amazon as water reaches 102 degrees Fahrenheit

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©André Zumak/Mamirauá Institute Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. When you hear about dolphins and drought in an environmental context, what thoughts or concerns come to mind? Can you think of any ways in which the well-being of marine life like dolphins might be connected to the availability of water in their habitat, especially during a drought? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. crisis /KRAHY-sis/ [noun] – a time of great disagreement, confusion, or suffering The economic crisis led to widespread unemployment and financial instability. distressing /dih-STRESS-ing/ [adjective] – a feeling of extreme worry, sadness, or pain…
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Lucid Motors expands global presence with new EV factory in Saudi Arabia

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©Romain Maurice/Getty Images for Haute Living Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What are electric vehicles (EVs) and how do they work? What are the environmental benefits of using electric vehicles? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. momentous /moh-MEN-tuhs/ [adjective] – very important or significant, often with a sense of historical importance The moon landing was a momentous event in human history. thrilling /THRIL-ing / [adjective] – very exciting or exhilarating Riding a roller coaster can be a thrilling experience. investment /in-VEST-muhnt/ [noun] – the act of putting money, effort, or resources into something with the expectation…
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Depressed? Experts say exercise may help

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Do you exercise? Why or why not? Do you think physical activity helps people stay happy? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. trigger /TRIG-er/ [verb] – to cause something to start The sound of fireworks can trigger anxiety in some individuals. moderate /MOD-er-it/ [adjective] – neither small nor large in size, amount, degree, or strength The organization promotes moderate exercise as a sustainable and healthy way to stay fit. outcome /OUT-kuhm/ [noun] – a result or effect of an action, situation, etc. Despite their best efforts, the outcome of the project…
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