Listening Comprehension | Climate Change

by | Aug 5, 2024 | Focus on Listening

Listen | Understanding Climate Change

Understanding Climate Change

Listening Comprehension Quiz

Transcript. Don’t use the transcript before you listen and attempt the quiz at least once.

Expand Your Vocabulary

Understanding the vocabulary used in discussions about climate change can help you better comprehend the topic and express your thoughts more clearly. Here are ten important words and expressions mentioned in the article, along with explanations and examples of how they can be used in everyday English.

  1. Climate System
    Meaning: The climate system refers to the complex interactions between the Earth’s atmosphere, hydrosphere (water bodies), cryosphere (ice and snow), lithosphere (land), and biosphere (living organisms) that influence the planet’s climate.
    Example in everyday use: “The climate system is incredibly complex, with many factors affecting weather patterns globally.”
  2. Greenhouse Effect
    Meaning: The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in the Earth’s atmosphere trap heat, preventing it from escaping into space, thus warming the planet.
    Example in everyday use: “Thanks to the greenhouse effect, Earth is warm enough to support life, but human activities are making it stronger.”
  3. Carbon Dioxide
    Meaning: Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a colorless gas produced by burning carbon and organic compounds and by respiration. It is naturally present in the Earth’s atmosphere and is a major greenhouse gas.
    Example in everyday use: “Cutting down on fossil fuels can help reduce carbon dioxide emissions and combat climate change.”
  4. Global Warming
    Meaning: Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth’s average surface temperature due to human activities, especially the emission of greenhouse gases.
    Example in everyday use: “Global warming is leading to melting glaciers and rising sea levels.”
  5. Sea Levels
    Meaning: Sea levels refer to the average height of the ocean’s surface, used as a standard in measuring land elevation and depth. Rising sea levels are a consequence of melting ice caps and thermal expansion due to global warming.
    Example in everyday use: “Coastal cities are at risk due to rising sea levels.”
  6. Biodiversity
    Meaning: Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem. Climate change can threaten biodiversity by altering habitats and ecosystems.
    Example in everyday use: “Protecting biodiversity is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems.”
  7. Sustainable Practices
    Meaning: Sustainable practices are methods of using resources that do not deplete or permanently damage them, ensuring long-term environmental health.
    Example in everyday use: “Switching to renewable energy sources is a sustainable practice that can help fight climate change.”
  8. Paris Agreement
    Meaning: The Paris Agreement is an international treaty signed by numerous countries aimed at limiting global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
    Example in everyday use: “The Paris Agreement represents a global effort to tackle climate change.”
  9. Displaced
    Meaning: In the context of climate change, displaced refers to people or communities forced to leave their homes due to environmental changes such as rising sea levels or severe weather.
    Example in everyday use: “Many island nations are worried about being displaced due to rising sea levels.”
  10. International Cooperation
    Meaning: International cooperation refers to countries working together to address global issues like climate change, recognizing that such challenges transcend national borders.
    Example in everyday use: “International cooperation is vital in addressing the complex issue of climate change.”

Let’s Talk

Here are some thought-provoking questions based on the article that can help deepen your understanding and spark discussions with others:

  1. How has your understanding of climate change evolved after reading this article? Are there aspects of climate change you are more curious about now?
  2. Can you think of any specific examples from your own life where you have noticed the effects of climate change? How did it impact your perspective on the issue?
  3. What small actions can you take in your daily life to reduce your carbon footprint and help combat climate change?
  4. How do you think international cooperation can be improved to more effectively address climate change? Are there any countries you think are setting a good example?
  5. In what ways can individuals and communities be more proactive in protecting biodiversity and promoting sustainable practices?

Feel free to share your thoughts and responses to these questions in the comments section, or discuss them with friends and family to explore different perspectives and insights on this important topic.

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