| Level | Topic | Speakers | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intermediate | Climate | Man | 01:55 |
Pre-Listening Exercise
What seasonal changes do people in your hometown experience throughout the year? Are there four basic seasons (i.e., winter, spring, summer, and fall)? Is it one season all year round? Do you have a typhoon, hurricane, or rainy season?
- People’s moods and behaviors change depending on the season.
- Life feels more exciting when the seasons change regularly.
- Summer vacations are not as relaxing as they used to be.
- Winter weather creates more problems than benefits.
- Spring is the most unpredictable and difficult season to plan for.
- Fall brings the best balance between work and relaxation.
- Cities look more beautiful during autumn than in any other season.
- Changing seasons help people feel more connected to nature.
- Countries without four seasons miss out on important experiences.
- Seasonal changes affect our health more than we realize.
Idioms
“fair-weather friend” = someone who is only there when things are going well
“He’s just a fair-weather friend, so when things become difficult, don’t expect him to be around to help you.”
“under the weather” = sick
“My mom has been a little under the weather for the past few days.”
Listening Exercise
Listen to the recording and answer the questions. (See transcript)
Vocabulary and Sample Sentences
Here are some words and expressions that appear in the recording:
-
occasionally (adverb): from time to time, now and then, once in a while
– We occasionally go on picnics during the spring and summer seasons. -
sledding (noun): the activity or sport of riding on a sled, usually in snow
– I took the kids sledding yesterday down a real fun hill, and we had a great time. -
hover (verb): remain somewhat steady
– You should be prepared for cold weather this weekend because temperatures will hover around freezing. -
stroll (verb): take a leisurely walk
– During the early spring, you often see couples strolling through the park. -
soar (verb): rise quickly
– The weather forecast predicts that temperatures will soar into the 100s by the middle of the week. -
humidity (noun): wetness in the air
– Because I live in a dry climate, I’m not used to the humidity when I travel.
Post-Listening Exercise
Decide on a place you would like to visit during your next vacation. Then, do some research on the area’s climate and describe the region’s seasons, including average temperatures and precipitation. Finally, explain popular activities that you could enjoy during different times of the year.