“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 7: Sports
Story 03: Olympics
Key Lesson Vocabulary & Expressions: Look over and review before proceeding.
- Grace
- Flawless
- All-around competition
- Unparalleled skills
- Dedication
- Hard work
- Mental toughness
- Resilience
- Overcome
- Courage
Read or Listen to the following passage:
My favorite Olympic game is gymnastics. I’ve always been fascinated by the incredible physical abilities and grace of the gymnasts. The sport requires an immense amount of strength, flexibility, and focus, making it both challenging and rewarding.
One of my most memorable Olympic games was watching Simone Biles win the gold medal in the all-around competition in Rio de Janeiro. Her flawless execution and unparalleled skills left the crowd in awe, and I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. It was truly an inspiring moment, and it reminded me of the dedication and hard work that goes into becoming an Olympic athlete.
Gymnastics is not just about performing amazing feats of strength and agility. It also requires mental toughness and resilience. The gymnasts must be able to overcome their fears and doubts to perform at their best, and that takes a lot of courage.
Comprehension Questions:
- What is the author’s favorite Olympic game?
- What qualities does the sport of gymnastics require?
- What was the author’s most memorable Olympic moment?
- Why does the author find gymnastics inspiring?
- What is required in addition to physical ability to be a successful gymnast?
Conversations Starters:
- What are the benefits of hosting the Olympics in a city or country?
- What makes gymnastics different from other Olympic sports?
- Have you ever tried gymnastics? What did you think of it?
- What are some of the challenges that Olympic athletes face?
- In your opinion, which Olympic event requires the most skill?
- What are some of the important qualities that an Olympic athlete should possess?
- Do you think that the Olympics should have age restrictions for certain events?
- What is your favorite Olympic moment, and why did it inspire you?
- How do you think Olympic athletes handle the pressure and scrutiny of the competition?
- What can we learn from Olympic athletes, both in terms of sports and life in general?
