Intermediate

New research confirms ancient human footprints in New Mexico dating back 21,000–23,000 years

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. When you think about ancient human footprints, what thoughts or questions come to mind? What do you imagine these footprints might reveal about the past? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. presence /PREZ-uhns/ [noun] – the fact that someone or something is in a place His calming presence in the room made everyone feel at ease during the meeting. debate /dih-BEYT/ [noun] – serious discussion of a subject in which many people take part The debate on the new school policy went on for hours, with parents, teachers, and students expressing…
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Abu Dhabi to introduce thrilling white-water rafting in Al Ain

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What is white-water rafting? What other extreme sports do you know of? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. thrill /thril/ [noun] – a feeling of extreme excitement, usually caused by something pleasant Skydiving offers an adrenaline-pumping thrill as you freefall through the air before opening the parachute. paradise /PAR-uh-dahys/ [noun] – a place or condition of great happiness where everything is exactly as you would like it to be The lush green valleys and majestic mountains of the countryside make it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. authentic /aw-THEN-tik/ [adjective] – If…
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Spacecraft set to explore Apophis, an asteroid named after the Egyptian god of chaos and darkness

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What comes to mind when you hear the word asteroid? What do you think asteroids are made of? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. investigate /in-VES-ti-geyt / [verb] – to examine a crime, problem, statement, etc. carefully, especially to discover the truth The detective was called to investigate the mysterious disappearance of the valuable painting from the art gallery. chaos /KEY-os/ [noun] – a state of total confusion with no order After the earthquake, the city was in chaos with buildings collapsed and roads blocked. darkness /DAHRK-nis/ [noun] – the quality…
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Japanese sushi chain adopts digital conveyor belts amid ‘sushi terrorism’ concerns

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©FOOD and LIFE COMPANIES Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. When you hear the term “digital conveyor belts” in the context of a sushi chain, what do you think it might involve? How do you think this digital technology could change the way sushi is served and enjoyed? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. concern /kuhn-SURN/ [noun] – a worried or nervous feeling about something or something that makes you feel worried Her concern for her friend’s well-being led her to call and check on them. device /dih-VAHYS/ [noun] – an object or machine that has been…
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Morehouse College launches virtual reality education ‘Metaversity’

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Have you ever experienced virtual reality programs? Tell me about it. Would you want to use virtual reality to learn? Why or why not? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. historically /hi-STAWR-ik-lee/ [adverb] – in comparison with quantities, qualities, etc. in the past Historically, this region was known for its rich cultural heritage. enhance /en-HANS/ [verb] – to improve the quality, amount, or strength of something Reading books can enhance your knowledge and broaden your perspective. simulation /sim-yuh-LEY-shuhn/ [noun] – a model of a set of problems or events that can…
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US regulators investigate OpenAI’s ChatGPT model for concerns

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What is an AI-powered chatbot? What are some common use cases for AI-powered chatbots? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. concern /kuhn-SURN/ [noun] – a worried or nervous feeling about something, or something that makes you feel worried She expressed her concern about the safety of the new construction project in the neighborhood. accuracy /AK-yer-uh-see/ [noun] – the fact of being exact or correct The scientist emphasized the importance of data accuracy in conducting reliable experiments. intellectual /in-tl-EK-choo-uhl/ [adjective] – relating to your ability to think and understand things, especially complicated…
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Bengal cats remain illegal throughout the U.S.

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you already know or think about Bengal cats? What do you believe are some of the benefits and responsibilities associated with having a pet cat? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. breed /breed/ [noun] – a particular type of animal or plant The Labrador Retriever is a popular breed of dog known for its friendly nature. household /HOUS-hohld/ [noun] – homes or living environments of people Many households in the neighborhood have adopted Shiba Inu dogs for their friendly demeanor, intelligence, and charming appearance. ban /ban/ [verb] – to…
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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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