“Conversation Starter Lesson Series: Intermediate” is designed for intermediate-level ESL learners who want to improve their fluency and confidence in speaking English.
Each lesson includes an engaging reading material with audio, vocabulary and expressions, comprehension questions, and discussion questions to be used for one to one class, group class, or self-study for both online and offline classes.
Unit 10: Science and Technology
Story 04: Electric Vehicles
Key Lesson Vocabulary & Expressions: Look over and review before proceeding.
- Contemplating
- Environmental benefits
- Harmful pollutants
- Global warming
- Charging stations
- Affordability
- Range
- Convenience
- Sustainability
- Priorities
Read or Listen to the following passage:
I’m in the market for a new car and I’m contemplating between an electric car or a regular gasoline car. The main reason I’m considering an electric car is because of the environmental benefits. Electric cars are much more environmentally friendly than traditional gasoline cars. They emit no harmful pollutants and contribute significantly less to global warming. Additionally, with the increasing availability of charging stations, the inconvenience of having to find a charging station is becoming less of an issue.
On the other hand, I’m also considering a traditional gasoline car because of the cost. Gasoline cars are generally more affordable than electric cars. They also have a longer range and are easier to fill up at any gas station.
Ultimately, I think it comes down to personal priorities. If environmental sustainability is important to you, then an electric car might be the better choice. However, if cost and convenience are more important, then a traditional gasoline car might be the better choice.
Comprehension Questions:
- What are the environmental benefits of an electric car?
- Are charging stations becoming more or less available?
- What is the main advantage of a traditional gasoline car over an electric car?
- What should the decision to buy an electric or gasoline car ultimately come down to?
- Which type of car might be a better choice for someone who prioritizes environmental sustainability?
Conversations Starters:
- What type of car do you currently drive? Why did you choose this particular car?
- What is your dream car? Why do you want it?
- How important is fuel efficiency to you when choosing a car?
- Would you prefer a car with more advanced technological features or a simpler car that is easier to maintain?
- How often do you use your car on a daily basis?
- Are you interested in electric or hybrid cars? Why or why not?
- How much do you think people should spend on a car?
- How do you feel about self-driving cars? Would you be comfortable riding in one?
- Have you ever owned a luxury car? How was your experience?
- Do you think car ownership will decrease in the future as people turn to ride-sharing services and public transportation? Why or why not?
