B2 – Upper Intermediate
Looks like winter didn’t come as expected this time around. In some European countries, it didn’t snow as much as the usual. This could be a preview on how winters are going to be like in the years to come. This change could be brought about by the continuous rise in the temperatures around the world.
The consequences of this could extend not only all through out the tourism industry.
Read the article to know more about how Europe felt a warmer winter this time.
https://www.voanews.com/a/snow-is-a-no-show-as-europe-feels-the-winter-heat-/6909079.html
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “blanket” mean in this sentence, “Mild weather has left many regions of Europe that would normally be blanketed in snow at this time of year bare, and winter sports resorts are fearing for the future.”? Use it in your own sentence.
- What does “grapple with” mean? “In the Swiss village of Adelboden, organizers of Saturday’s ski World Cup race grappled with above-freezing temperatures to ensure athletes could compete in the popular event while spectators basked in the blazing sunshine.” Use it in your own sentence.
- What does “soar” mean? “Michael Hayboeck of Austria soars through the air at the fourth stage of 71th Four Hills ski jumping tournament in Bischofshofen, Austria, Jan. 6, 2023.” Use it in your own sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What is your reaction to this news? How was the last winter in your country like? Talk about some changes in the the climate that you noticed.
- How does this change in the winter weather impact Europe?
- How is tourism like in your country in winter?
- Do you like traveling in winter? Why or why not?