Listening

Pre-listening activity

1. Read and translate the following words and word combinations

• solutions

• holiday makers

• getting off the beaten track

• hotspots

• deep pockets

• environmental protection

• wilderness

• delicate ecosystems

• auctions

While-listening activity

1. Fill in the gaps

A solution may be at hand for _______ who are finding it harder to get off the beaten track. For those who really want to get away from it all, _________ has sprung up – Antarctica. However, this new hotspot, or freezing zone, might only be for those with the deepest pockets if a new policy gets under way. Tourism on Antarctica has been increasing dramatically in the past twenty years, from a few thousand people in 1985 to more than ______ in 2007. The growing numbers are having a negative effect on the pristine environment of the South Pole. To combat this, researchers from Holland’s Maastricht University have come up with a possible solution: limit the number of tourists allowed to visit and auction the vacations to the highest bidders.

Many ___________ agree that there is a need to protect the frozen wilderness from the damage created by modern tourism. Antarctica is ________on Earth. It has a very _________ that could be easily upset by hordes of tourists landing in airplanes and using skimobiles. A difficulty exists because Antarctica is not a country and therefore has no government to pass laws or guidelines _________-. The Maastricht University team’s proposal to auction off a fixed number of tourist places seems a workable solution. It would limit the number of visitors and therefore contain the amount of environmental damage, and the money would be used to protect Antarctica’s future. For further details, consult your local ________ travel agent.

Post-listening activity

1. Make a list of questions and discuss in pairs

Reading 1

While-reading activity

1. Read the text and translate unknown words

Seven ways to protect the environment

We all want to protect our planet, but we're mostly too busy or too lazy to put up big change that would improve our lifestyle and save the environment. These are 7 simple habits to implement in your everyday life which will make a difference. There is nothing new here but if you follow at least some of these tips, you can be proud of yourself participating in the protection of the environment.

Use compact fluorescent light bulbs:

It is true that these bulbs are more expensive, but they last much longer and they can save energy and in the long term your electricity bill would be reduced.

Donate: You have tons of clothes or things you want to get rid of. If they are still usable, give them to someone who needs them. You may also choose to give them to associations. These associations may sell them and collect a little money. Not only will you protect the environment, but you will also contribute to a good cause.

Turn off your devices:

When you do not use a house device, turn it off. For example, if you don't watch TV, turn it off. Turn off the light when you leave a room (even if you intend to return.) It's an easy habit to take up which will help you save a lot of money.

Walk or cycle:

Driving is one of the biggest causes of pollution. If you want to use your car, ask yourself the following question: do I really need my car? Walk or use your bike if the journey is a short one.

Detergent: Follow the recommended dose of detergent to wash your clothes or dishes.

Leaky faucets:

Watch leaky faucets, which can cause a significant increase in the water bill. An average of 120 liters of water can be wasted due to a dripping faucet.

Rainwater: Think of recovering rainwater. This water can be used for different purposes.

This list is far from being exhaustive but in addition to saving the environment, all these tips will help you save money.

Post-reading activity