Tag Archive: world news – intermediate

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you think “gender reveal” means based on the term itself? Can you think of any traditional or common ways that people might announce the gender of a new baby to their friends and family? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. gender /JEN-der / [noun] – a group of people in a society who share particular qualities or ways of behaving that society associates with being male, female, or another identity In our progressive society, we aim to break down stereotypes and promote gender equality, allowing everyone to express themselves…
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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What comes to mind when you think about snakes? Are there any cultural or mythological beliefs related to snakes in your region or country? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. critical /KRIT-i-kuhl/ [adjective] – saying that someone or something is bad or wrong His critical review of the restaurant’s food and service left no room for doubt about his dissatisfaction. emerge /ih-MURJ/ [verb] – to appear by coming out of something or out from behind something After hours of searching, the elusive butterfly finally emerged from behind the bushes, delighting the…
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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Have you ever visited or seen a tall tower in person? If so, where was it, and what do you remember about it? Can you think of any famous towers from around the world? What do you know about them? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. tower /TOU-er/ [noun] – a tall, narrow structure that often stands alone and is used for various purposes, such as observation, communication, or housing The Eiffel Tower in Paris is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. ambitious /am-BISH-uhs/ [adjective] – having a…
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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What comes to mind when you think about ‘viruses’? Can you think of any historical examples where viruses have significantly impacted human populations or ecosystems? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. extensive /ik-STEN-siv/ [adjective] – covering a large area; having a great range The national park boasts extensive forests, rivers, and hiking trails for visitors to explore. calmly /KAHM-lee/ [adverb] – in a peaceful, quiet way and without worry or extreme emotion Despite the chaos around them, she handled the situation calmly and with grace. symptom /SIMP-tuhm/ [noun] – any feeling…
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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you think is meant by “extremely hot weather”? How do you think it can impact people and the environment? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. extreme /ik-STREEM/ [adjective] – very large in amount or degree The extreme heat during the summer made it challenging to spend time outdoors. remarkable /ri-MAHR-kuh-buhl/ [adjective] – unusual or special, and therefore surprising and worth mentioning The young artist’s talent was truly remarkable; her paintings captured the essence of nature with extraordinary detail and beauty. deadly /DED-lee/ [adjective] – likely to cause death Venomous…
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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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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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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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©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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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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