“Conversation Starter Lesson Series: Upper-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 2: Travel and Adventure
Story 05: Discovering the Past: Historical Sites and Landmarks
Key Lesson Vocabulary & Expressions: Look over and review before proceeding.
- Cultural heritage
- Medieval
- Iconic
- Gladiatorial games
- Fortification
- Enduring
- Intangible
- Triumphs
- Ancestors
- Spectacle
Read or Listen to the following passage:
Historical sites and landmarks are physical reminders of our past and serve as important cultural and educational resources. These places provide a unique glimpse into the customs, traditions, and events that have shaped our world. From ancient ruins and medieval castles to modern-day monuments and museums, historical sites and landmarks offer visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about our shared heritage.
One example of a historical site is the Colosseum in Rome, Italy. Built almost 2,000 years ago, this iconic amphitheater was the site of gladiatorial games, animal hunts, and other public spectacles. Today, the Colosseum is a major tourist attraction and serves as a symbol of the ancient Roman Empire’s power and influence.
Another example is the Great Wall of China, which spans over 13,000 miles and was built over 2,000 years ago to protect China from invaders. This massive fortification is considered one of the world’s greatest engineering feats and is an important symbol of Chinese history and culture.
Historical landmarks also include modern-day structures, such as the Statue of Liberty in New York City, which was gifted to the United States by France in 1886 as a symbol of friendship and freedom. The statue has become an enduring symbol of American values and ideals and is visited by millions of people each year.
Visiting historical sites and landmarks can provide an educational and enriching experience, allowing us to better understand our shared cultural heritage. By exploring these places, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the struggles, triumphs, and traditions of our ancestors.
Comprehension Questions:
- What are historical sites and landmarks?
- What is the Colosseum in Rome, Italy?
- What was the Great Wall of China built for?
- What is the Statue of Liberty in New York City?
- Why is visiting historical sites and landmarks important?
Conversations Starters:
- Why are historical sites and landmarks important for understanding cultural heritage?
- Have you ever visited the places described in the passage?
- What makes a site or landmark iconic? What historical sites or landmarks have you visited? What historical sites or landmarks do you want to visit?
- What are historical sites or landmarks of your country?
- Do you prefer visiting historical sites and landmarks or relaxing on the beach on your vacation?
- Why are some historical sites and landmarks considered enduring symbols of their respective cultures or time periods?
- In what ways can intangible aspects of cultural heritage, such as music or folklore, be preserved and shared with future generations?
- Can triumphs of the past be celebrated in a way that acknowledges and addresses the negative aspects of that same history?
- How can we connect with the experiences and perspectives of our ancestors when visiting historical sites and landmarks?
- What role do spectacles and public performances play in the cultural heritage of a society?
