Speaking 5.
HANDOUT 10
SPEAKING PARTS 2-3 – Natural World
VOCABULARY
1. Write the adjective forms of these nouns in the correct column.
act disaster globe meteorology catastrophe
structure torrent tropics violence
-al -ent -ive -ous
2. The adjective forms of the following nouns are common in more formal writing and
speaking. Write the adjective forms in the table in exercise 1.
attraction creation effect expense center
dependence efficiency fame frequency nation
norm politics religion variety
-al -ent -ive -ous
3. Write an appropriate adjective from exercises 1 and 2 in each sentence. In each sentence, a
noun which collocates with the adjective is written in italics.
0. The economic consequences of large-scale military action can be disastrous for a country.
1. We chose the premises because their _____________ location meant easy access by public
transport.
2. The earthquake caused major _____________ damage to buildings in the area.
3. Statistics show a fall in incidences of _____________ crime involving harm to a person or
property.
4. A vaccine can be an _____________ means of controlling the spread of a disease.
5. There is not just one but _____________ ways of solving the problem.
6. In some parts of the world, people are still persecuted for the _____________ beliefs.
7. The accounts are inspected regularly and at _____________ intervals.
8. It is _____________ practice in some countries for women to give birth at home rather than at
hospital.
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PART 2
Describe an environmental problem that has been in the news.
You should say
● when this was
● where the event happened
● what actually took place
and say how you felt about this problem.
Sample answer
Well, there are so many issues I could think of as natural disasters like earthquakes and floods
seem to be in the news almost every year, but there was one story recently about some animals
that were under threat. It wasn’t focused on one species in particular, it was looking at various
animals that could actually become extinct in different African countries if we don’t take steps to
protect them. These were really iconic animals like gorillas, leopards, rhinos, and apparently
they’re now listed as endangered species. Well, what made it really depressing was they were in
danger thanks to us. In some cases it was due to a loss of habitat either because people need more
agricultural production, or even worse, I think, because of hunting and poaching. I hate to think
of future generations being robbed of the chance to admire creatures like these in their natural
environment. It’s lucky we have lots of organizations that focus on wildlife conservation.
Hopefully with their help we can put pressure on those in power to take actions to stop creatures
like these dying out.
PART 3
1. What are the main environmental problems in your country?
The main environmental problem, which my country is facing, is that my country is
“overpopulated”, and as such, it is straining our rather limited resources. We also have terrible air
pollution in our cities because of the excessive level of smoke from the industries and vehicles.
Then, my country is also facing the “global warming” problem, because of which, one part of my
country becomes extremely hot during the summertime. Finally, we also have bad water
contamination in our lakes, rivers and oceans because of industrial and plastic wastes.
Your answer (take notes only)
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2. Why does the world have to suffer from natural disasters more than ever before?
Well, I think this is a worldwide issue that needs to be solved before it is too late. (Reason)
Obviously, there is global warming that is resulting from human activities such as deforestation
or over-exploitation of natural resources. Moreover, the exhaust fumes from vehicles or factories
are the main reason that causes ozone depletion. That is why more natural disasters are happening.
Personally I think both governments and citizens all over the world should act now before
humankind has to suffer from more serious disasters in the future.
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Your answer (take notes only)
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3. Do you think that weather affects our feelings?
One hundred percent yes. If the weather is fine, humans can have the mood or motivation to do
certain things. When the weather is cool or sunny, people may tend to feel happier; however, if
really bad weather conditions happen, for instance scorching heat or torrential rain, it is easy for
people to have their mood down. The appearance of snow may make people excited but thick
layers of snow with bitterly cold weather can cause depression for people.
Your answer (take notes only)
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4. Do you think more should be done to protect naturally beautiful spots in your country?
Yes, I think more should be done to protect the naturally beautiful spots, like sea beaches, lakes,
mountains and forests, in my country. We will have to make sure that our natural sea beaches and
lakes don’t become dirty and contaminated, not only because of tourists but also for protecting
seafood. Special efforts should also be made to protect the mountains from becoming “residence”
and “industrial sites”. Finally, our natural heritage forest sites should also be protected from
unauthorized “deforestation” in order to protect our wildlife.
Your answer (take notes only)
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5. What can a government do to encourage people not to harm the environment?
To start, a government can take all the necessary steps to increase awareness, either by using
different kinds of print and digital media or by introducing details school curricula on
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environmental protection, among its citizens so that they are encouraged to take care of their
natural environment. Then, a government can also introduce stringent laws in order to punish its
citizens who harm their environment willingly. Finally, a government can also introduce an “award
system” for those people who successfully keep the environment clean and safe in their own towns
or places.
Your answer (take notes only)
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