Level: |
Topic: |
Speakers: |
Length: |
easy |
holidays |
man and interviewees |
01:32 |
Pre-Listening Exercise
Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s Day are some of the major holidays in the United States. From what you understand, how are these holidays celebrated (food, family activities, local celebrations, games and recreation, etc.)?
Speak Up, Take a Stand! Instructions for Getting the Conversation Started
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.
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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.
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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?
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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.
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- Every holiday should include a big meal.
- Traditions are the most important part of a holiday.
- It’s okay to change old holiday traditions.
- Food is the best part of most holidays.
- People should celebrate holidays the same way every year.
- Holidays are better when you spend them with family.
- Making special food at home is better than buying it.
- Not everyone needs to celebrate holidays.
- Learning about other cultures’ holiday food is fun.
- You can still enjoy a holiday without spending much money.
Idioms
“see eye to eye” = agree on this, have the same opinion
“Even though we come from different countries, we see eye to eye on many different issues.”
“stick out like a sore thumb” = very visible because something is different
“If we don’t follow the traditions, language, and body language of the culture, our actions might stick out like a sore thumb.”
Listening Exercise
A. Listen to the recording and answer the questions.
Vocabulary Practice
Do the vocabulary quizzes with the words from the conversation for more practice:
Post-Listening Exercise
Imagine an international exchange student is coming to live with you for a year. Talk about one holiday in your country, its meaning and significance, and what activities are held on that day.
Online Investigation
What are the three most important holidays in your country? What are three Web sites in English that can explain these holidays to others? Use the Internet to find this information.