Tag Archive: Culture & Travel – Intermediate

©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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©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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©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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©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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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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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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©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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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Do you have a pet? If yes, what kind of pet do you have? If not, would you consider having a pet in the future, and why or why not? Why are pets important to many families around the world? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. marriage /MAR-ij/ [noun] – a legally accepted relationship between two people in which they live together, or the official ceremony that results in this After years of dating, they finally decided to enter into marriage. fancy /FAN-see/ [adjective] – elegant, luxurious, or elaborate Her wedding…
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©REUTERS/Amanda Perobelli Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What types of items are most likely to be collected as hobbies or passions? What motivates individuals to start and maintain collections of specific items? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. mere /meer/ [adjective] – only or nothing more than Beyond mere ingredients, the chef sees her dishes as a celebration of local culture and tradition, infused with flavors that evoke memories of childhood. found /found/ [verb] – to establish or bring something into existence Elon Musk founded SpaceX in 2002 to revolutionize space exploration. value /VAL-yoo/ [verb] –…
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©REUTERS/Jose Manuel Ribeiro/File Photo Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Have you ever experienced Italian culture firsthand, perhaps through travel or local events? What aspect of Italian culture left a lasting impression on you? In your view, how do historical symbols and landmarks contribute to a nation’s identity and global reputation? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. voyage /VOI-ij/ [noun] – a long journey, especially by ship The ancient mariner’s voyage across the vast ocean lasted over two years. contemporary /kuhn-TEM-puh-rer-ee/ [adjective] – existing or happening now, and therefore seeming modern The architect’s design is a blend…
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