Academic English
"Arches National Park"
| Level: | Topic: | Speakers: | Length: |
| intermediate | hiking | one man | 02:02 |
Pre-Listening Exercise
Name one national park in your country and think about what makes it a unique place to visit (e.g., the scenic views, the wildlife, the flora, outdoor recreation, etc.).
Idioms
"dying of thirst" = be very thirsty
"I need a drink soon. I'm dying of thirst."
"hit the trail" = start your trip, usually walking
"Hey, we'd better hit the trail soon because it's going to get hot today."
Listening Exercise
A. Listen to the recording and answer the questions.
What makes Arches National Park in Utah a unique sightseeing destination?
Arches National Park is located in the dry desert of Southeastern Utah just north of the city of Moab. This park is home to over 2,000 natural arches carved from sandstone layers by wind, water, and erosion.
What is one reason given for hiking with a partner in the park?
First, hike with a partner for safety and leave word where you will be traveling in case of an emergency. Personally, I enjoy hiking with family members and close friends.
According to the recording, you should wear ______ while visiting the park in the summer.
Third, be sure to have the right clothing and footwear for the hike. Light, breathable clothing is best during the summer, along with a hat and sturdy hiking shoes.
What is one item that might be part of the fifth point?
Fifth, take a small first-aid kit with you, particularly on longer hikes in case you get injured.
Which item was NOT mentioned as a means of getting around in the park?
Sixth, pack a detailed map of the area you are hiking, along with a compass and/or a GPS to locate your position. You might need them to navigate through unfamiliar terrain.
Vocabulary Practice
Try this activity to practice the vocabulary from the conversation:
Post-Listening Exercise
What is a popular park in your hometown? What do people do there? Does it cost anything to visit?
Online Investigation
Search for information on a national park in a country or city where you want to visit. Look up information about local hotels, park entrance fees, special tours, and specific points of interest in the park. What things do you consider when selecting a place to visit (e.g., location, things to see and do, cost, etc.). Share your results with a friend or classmate.
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