Tag Archive: world news – intermediate

©REUTERS/Alfredo Galarza Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What role do you think turtles play in their ecosystems, and why might their preservation be important? What is deforestation, and how do you think it could impact conservation efforts in rainforests? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. passionate /PASH-uh-nit/ [adjective] – showing strong emotions or intense devotion The passionate artist poured her heart into every brushstroke, creating a masterpiece. threaten /THRET-n/ [verb] – to express an intention to harm or cause damage; to pose a danger or risk to someone or something The endangered species was threatened by…
Read more

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Where do you think penguins usually live, and how have they adapted to their habitats? Have you heard or read anything about penguins facing challenges or changes in their environment? Why do you think it’s important to study and understand the habits and movements of penguins? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. breakthrough /BREYK-throo/ [noun] – a significant development or discovery that represents a step forward The scientist’s groundbreaking research on renewable energy was considered a major breakthrough in the field. satellite /SAT-l-ahyt / [noun] – an artificial body placed in…
Read more

©REUTERS/Catarina Demony Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What are your thoughts on the concept of Guinness World Records and the types of records they recognize? What factors do you think might contribute to the longevity of animals? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. award /uh-WAWRD/ [verb] – to officially grant or give a particular recognition or title The committee awarded the trophy to the outstanding student for her exceptional academic achievements. accuracy /AK-yer-uh-see/ [noun] – the fact of being exact or correct The accuracy of the weather forecast ensured that people were well-prepared for the upcoming…
Read more

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Why do you think students choose to study abroad? What countries are you aware of that students from your country commonly choose for international studies or to pursue higher education? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. agent /EY-juhnt/ [noun] – individuals who are thought to be connected or associated with a particular organization or authority The investigators suspected several agents were involved in the covert operation. affect /uh-FEKT/ [verb] – to have an influence on someone or something, or to cause a change in someone or something The ongoing weather changes…
Read more

©REUTERS/Jose Luis Gonzalez Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you think makes giraffes unique among other animals? If you were to imagine the daily life of a giraffe, what challenges and advantages do you think they might face in their natural habitat? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. endure /en-DOOR/ [verb] – to undergo or withstand difficulties or hardships Despite the challenges, Maria endured the rigorous training program to become a skilled athlete. process /PROS-es/ [noun] – a series of actions or steps taken to achieve a particular result The baking process involves mixing ingredients,…
Read more

©REUTERS/Tingshu Wang Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What comes to mind when you think about festivals? In your imagination, what kinds of activities or attractions might be part of an ice and snow festival? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. impressive /im-PRES-iv/ [adjective] – evoking admiration due to notable qualities The mountain range offered an impressive view, with snow-capped peaks stretching as far as the eye could see. contribute /kuhn-TRIB-yoot / [verb] – to give or provide something, typically in terms of effort, resources, or ideas, to achieve a common goal Every team member worked hard…
Read more

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you think the term “polluter pay” means, and how do you think it could be relevant to environmental issues? Can you speculate on the potential benefits and challenges associated with implementing a “polluter pay” system to address environmental problems? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. collapse /kuh-LAPS/ [noun] – to fall down suddenly because of pressure or having no strength or support The old bridge collapsed under the weight of the heavy truck. manufacture /man-yuh-FAK-cher/ [verb] – to produce goods in large numbers, usually in a factory using machines…
Read more

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Can you share any personal experiences or stories you’ve encountered related to helping animals in need? In what ways can individuals provide assistance to a shelter for homeless animals? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. shelter /SHEL-ter/ [noun] – a place that provides protection or housing, especially for those in need The homeless kittens found warmth and care in the animal shelter. adopt /uh-DOPT/ [verb] – to take someone or something as one’s own, especially legally or officially Many families choose to adopt pets from shelters rather than buy them. result…
Read more

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you think winter smog might refer to? How do you think winter smog might affect a city or region when it’s colder? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. emerge /ih-MURJ/ [verb] – to appear by coming out of something or out from behind something After hours of negotiations, a solution to the problem finally emerged. construction /kuhn-STRUHK-shuhn/ [noun] – the work of building or making something, especially buildings, bridges, etc.: The construction of the new bridge is expected to be completed by next year. capture /KAP-cher / [verb] –…
Read more

©REUTERS/Hannah McKay Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you know about diamonds and their sources? How important is sustainability to the products you buy or use daily? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. impressive /im-PRES-iv/ [adjective] – something that evokes admiration or respect because of its notable or remarkable quality The impressive architectural design of the skyscraper left all the visitors in awe. vast /vast/ [adjective] – extremely big The renowned author embarked on a literary journey across the vast expanse of themes and characters within her novel series. element /EL-uh-muhnt/ [noun] – a part…
Read more