Intermediate

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What is concrete? Why is concrete an important building material? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. construction /kuhn-STRUHK-shuhn/ [noun] – the work of building or making something, especially buildings, bridges, etc. The construction of the new hospital has been delayed due to a shortage of workers and materials, but the government is making efforts to speed up the process. concrete /KON-kreet/ [noun] – a very hard building material made by mixing together cement, sand, small stones, and water The workers poured concrete into the foundation to create a solid base for…
Read more

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you think causes mass fish deaths? What role do human activities and climate change play in contributing to mass fish deaths? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. launch /lawnch/ [verb] – to begin something such as a plan or introduce something new such as a product We’re going to launch a big recruitment drive in the fall. shortage /SHAWR-tij/ [noun] – a situation in which there is not enough of something The shortage of energy is the problem. exception /ik-SEP-shuhn/ [noun] – someone or something that is not included…
Read more

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What are some creative ways you can reuse or repurpose items instead of throwing them away? What are some challenges you think are associated with recycling? 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 Many people lost their jobs during the economic crisis, and it became challenging for them to pay their bills and take care of their families. manufacture /man-yuh-FAK-cher/ [verb] – to produce goods in large numbers, usually in a factory using machines The factory, located outside of the…
Read more

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What is a must-visit restaurant in your city or country? Could you tell me about it? What are some famous diners in your country? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. feast /feest/ [noun] – something that is very enjoyable to see, hear, experience, etc. The villagers prepared a grand feast to celebrate the arrival of the new year, with tables filled with roasted meats, fruits, and sweets. indulge /in-DUHLJ/ [verb] – to allow yourself or another person to have something enjoyable, especially more than is good for you Sometimes it’s nice…
Read more

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. How do the seasons affect our sleep patterns? What are the common sleep disturbances that occur during different seasons? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. vitality /vahy-TAL-i-tee/ [noun] – energy and strength After a long day of hiking in the mountains, I could feel my vitality returning as I rested and drank some water. approach /uh-PROHCH/ [noun] – a way of considering or doing something To make progress on your project, it’s important to choose the right approach that fits your goals and resources. lethargic /luh-THAHR-jik/ [adjective] – having little energy;…
Read more

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Why is it important to have a treaty? What are some examples of activities that take place on the high seas? 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 old mansion on the hill had a mysterious vibe about it, as if it held a secret waiting to be uncovered. delicate /DEL-i-kit / [adjective] – needing careful treatment, especially because easily damage Be careful when handling the antique vase; it’s very delicate and can easily break if you’re not gentle. sensitive /SEN-si-tiv/…
Read more

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What does the concept of “climate rights” mean? Do you believe that future generations should have climate rights? Why or why not? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. witness /WIT-nis/ [verb] – to see something happen I was able to witness a beautiful sunset from the top of the mountain during my hiking trip last weekend. opponent /uh-POH-nuhnt/ [noun] – a person who disagrees with something and speaks against it or tries to change it During the debate competition, I will have to present my argument effectively to convince the judges…
Read more