Tag Archive: Culture & Travel – Intermediate

Ribeira Sacra winegrowers embrace steep hills and a rich heritage in Spain

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What is a famous beverage in your country? What do you know about the potential benefits of drinking wine, and why do you think some people believe it is good for health? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. medieval /mid-EE-vuhl/ [adjective] – related to the Middle Ages (the period in European history from about AD 600 to AD 1500) The medieval castle stood proudly on the hill, showcasing its ancient architecture. monastery /MON-uh-ster-ee/ [noun] – a building in which monks live and worship The old monastery was known for its beautiful…
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Beloved Manhattan garden faces demolition as city pushes for affordable housing

Elizabeth Garden

©REUTERS/Caitlin Ochs Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What are some well-known parks or green spaces in your country? How does the government in your country typically inform the public about new construction projects? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. dealer /DEE-ler / [noun] – a person who buys and sells goods or services The art dealer managed to sell a rare painting for a significant amount. alternative /awl-TUR-nuh-tiv/ [adjective] – different from the one that is usual or expected We need to find an alternative route because the main road is closed. stick with /stik with/…
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Greece to impose cruise ship tax on popular islands to combat overtourism

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What factors make a destination appealing to tourists? What vacation spots would you like to visit someday, and why? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. pressure /PRESH-er/ [noun] – the continuous physical force exerted on or against an object by something in contact with it; or a situation causing mental or emotional strain The deadline for the project created a lot of pressure for the entire team. policy /POL-uh-see/ [noun] – a set of ideas or a plan of what to do in particular situations that has been agreed to officially…
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Ancient Roman tombs with mythological murals to open in Southern Israel’s new educational park

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©AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What types of historical sites have you learned about in history class? How do these sites help us understand past cultures and societies? Can you name any well-known conservation projects that you’ve heard about? Why are these projects important for preserving our history and environment? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. conserve /kuhn-SURV/ [verb] – to protect something from being damaged, changed, or wasted We should conserve water by turning off the tap while brushing our teeth. reveal /ri-VEEL/ [verb] – to make something known that was previously…
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Tomatina festival paints Bunol red with tomato fun and global cheers

Tomatina

©REUTERS/Eva Manez Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What types of festivals do you know about from different cultures or countries? How do people in your country prepare for and celebrate festivals? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. spirited /SPIR-i-tid/ [adjective] – full of energy, enthusiasm, or liveliness The team gave a spirited performance at the championship game. manner /MAN-er/ [noun] – a way of doing something; the style or method She spoke in a calm and respectful manner during the meeting. firecracker /FAHYUHR-krak-er/ [noun] – a small explosive device that makes a loud noise and sometimes…
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Amphibious car parade ends in Amsterdam due to new emission rules

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©REUTERS Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. How important is it to preserve traditional events? What are some ways you personally try to reduce your environmental impact in daily life? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. parade /puh-REYD/ [noun] – a public procession or celebration, often with people walking or in vehicles, typically held to mark a special event The children watched the colorful parade pass by their school. standard /STAN-derd/ [noun] – a level of quality The new standards for safety were implemented across all factories. turnout /TURN-out/ [noun] – the number of people attending an…
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Bosnian businessman transforms Van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night’ into nature park

StarryNight

©REUTERS/Amel Emric Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What are some famous parks in your city or country? What makes them unique? What do you know about Vincent van Gogh? Can you name some of his famous works or describe his style of painting? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. cottage /KOT-ij/ [noun] – a small house, usually in the countryside They spent their summer vacation in a cozy cottage by the lake. pattern /PAT-ern/ [noun] – repeated decorative designs or arrangements The blanket was made with colorful patterns and designs. swirl /swurl/ [noun] – patterns or…
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Key West celebrates Ernest Hemingway’s 125th birthday with annual festival

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you know about Ernest Hemingway and his writing style? Do you know of any other authors who have had a significant influence on literature or culture? Could you tell me something about him/her? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. pen /pen/ [verb] – to write or compose Sarah decided to pen a thank-you note to her grandmother for the birthday gift. adventurous /ad-VEN-cher-uhs/ [adjective] – willing to take risks or try out new experiences Mark’s adventurous spirit led him to travel to remote islands and explore their wildlife. farewell…
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Zoo keeps animals cool during summer heat

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Do you enjoy summer? What are some easy ways to stay cool in the summer? Do you like going outside? How can you stay cool while doing outdoor activities? 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 The conservation of forests helps protect wildlife. treat /treet/ [noun] – a special and enjoyable occasion or experience She gave her dog treats for being good. cool off /kool…
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Bike polo grows in Moscow’s community

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©REUTERS/Shamil Zhumatov Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What benefits do people gain from playing sports? What traditional sports originated in your country? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. point out /poynt out/ [phrasal verb] – to mention or draw attention to something She pointed out the flaws in his argument during the debate. opponent /uh-POH-nuhnt/ [noun] – those who compete against someone in a contest, game, or argument The chess player studied his opponents’ moves carefully before making his own. fellowship /FEL-oh-ship/ [noun] – friendly association, especially with people who share one’s interests The hiking club…
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