“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 03: Alternative Energy
Key Lesson Vocabulary & Expressions: Look over and review before proceeding.
- Environmental engineer
- Alternative energy
- Renewable sources
- Climate change
- Mitigate
- Fossil fuels
- Greenhouse gas emissions
- Innovative
- Practical
- Efficient
Read or Listen to the following passage:
I am an environmental engineer and my mission is to find alternative sources of energy to help protect our planet. I work on researching and developing new technologies that harness energy from renewable sources such as wind, solar, and geothermal power.
One of the things that drew me to this field is the urgent need for solutions to mitigate the impact of climate change. I am passionate about protecting the environment and preserving it for future generations. I believe that as an engineer, I can make a significant contribution towards creating a more sustainable world.
My work involves designing, testing, and implementing new energy systems that are both practical and efficient. I collaborate with other engineers and scientists to find innovative ways to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and minimize greenhouse gas emissions. It’s a challenging and rewarding job, and I feel like I am making a difference in the world.
Comprehension Questions:
- What is the mission of the environmental engineer?
- What are some renewable sources of energy the engineer is working with?
- Why did the engineer decide to pursue this field?
- Who does the engineer collaborate with to find new ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions?
- How does the engineer feel about their work?on?
Conversations Starters:
- What are some of the most promising alternative sources of energy?
- What are some challenges to implementing alternative energy sources on a large scale?
- Do you think individuals can make a difference in reducing their carbon footprint?
- What is the responsibility of governments and corporations in promoting alternative energy and protecting the environment?
- Have you personally made any changes in your lifestyle to reduce your impact on the environment?
- What role do you think education plays in promoting sustainability and protecting the environment?
- How important is it to protect natural habitats and biodiversity?
- Are there any environmental policies or initiatives in your country that you feel are particularly effective?
- How do you think climate change will impact future generations?
- What is the role of technology in addressing environmental issues?
