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Academic English

“Battle at the Front”

Level: Topic: Speakers: Length:
difficult war man – man 01:31

Pre-Listening Exercise

In small groups, try to predict the following ideas about the news report before you listen:

  1. the setting, or where the action is taking place (e.g., in the countryside, along a beach, in the city, at sea, in the jungle, in the mountains, etc.);
  2. how long has the war being going on;
  3. problems that have resulted from the war (e.g., hunger, loss of life, orphaned children, blackouts, sniper attacks, starvation, disease, malnutrition, looting, landmines, etc.)

Agree or Disagree? Let’s Spark Some Conversation!

These statements are designed to get everyone thinking, moving, and talking! The goal is to explore ideas, share opinions, and get ready for the next part of the lesson.

  • In a face-to-face classroom: Read each statement aloud. If you agree, move to one side of the room; if you disagree, move to the other. Talk with your group—why do you feel that way? Then, pair students with members of the other group and have students explain their reasons. Rotate partners for more practice.

  • In an online classroom: Use polls, emojis, or the chat box in your online platform to show your opinion. Then, join the conversation as a group or in breakout rooms. What do others think? Do you agree or disagree with them?

  • For independent learners: Read each statement and think about your opinion. Then say your answer out loud and explain your reason, as if you’re talking to a classmate. This helps you get ready to speak and join real conversations in English. Consider recording your ideas and self-assess your progress.

  1. War is sometimes necessary to protect a country.
  2. Peace talks are more powerful than weapons.
  3. Soldiers should always be respected, no matter the war.
  4. War rarely solves the real problem.
  5. Countries should never get involved in wars that don’t affect them directly.
  6. Peacekeeping missions can help stop future wars.
  7. People should refuse to fight if they believe the war is wrong.
  8. The media influences how we feel about war and peace.
  9. A peaceful protest can be more effective than violence.
  10. Education is the best long-term solution to war.

Listening Exercise

A. Listen to the recording and answer the questions.

Post-Listening Exercise

  1. Pretend that it is one week after the original story was broadcasted, and you have been asked to report on the recent events of the conflict. First, write your story in about 50 words and then read your story. Share your production with your group or the class.
  2. Use a search engine to find an article(s) that discusses one or more problems associated with war. Write a short essay on the information you found. Give a short presentation to the class or in a small group.
  3. Discuss the following ideas with another student:
  • the greatest areas of conflict in the world and how they affect you directly or indirectly
  • the main causes of these conflicts
  • the keys to resolving these problems
Try More Free Listening at Dailyesl.com