B1 — Intermediate
Sagrada Família is now the tallest church in the world. It took 144 years to build. Antoni Gaudí designed the church. Millions of tourists visit it every year.
New building plans including a grand staircase and a park in front of the main church entrance are causing concerns. Some residents are worried that they might lose their homes because of these development projects.
Listen to this audio and read the transcript about the worries of residents about these future projects at the Sagrada Familia.
https://newsinlevels.com/products/sagrada-familia-and-worried-neighbors-level-3
Vocabulary Questions:
- What is the meaning of “demolish”? ”To build the new staircase, the city might need to demolish several blocks of residential houses.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.
- What is the meaning of “residential houses”? “To build the new staircase, the city might need to demolish several blocks of residential houses. ” Use the term in a sentence. Give a synonym.
- What does “identity” mean in this sentence? “Many people fear they will lose their homes and their identity in the neighborhood.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.
Discussion Questions:
- Why are some people against the new staircase and park project?
- What is your opinion about the future plans for this church?
- Have you been to the Sagrada Familia? What do you think about it?
- Do you think historical buildings should continue to be expanded or changed? Why or why not?
- What problems can occur when cities develop areas around famous landmarks?
- Do you think it is fair to remove homes to complete a public project? Explain your answer.
- How can we balance tourism, history, and the needs of local residents?
- What would you do if a major construction project affected your neighborhood?