Unit 11 – Protect the Earth

Starting Off

Look at the photo and answer the questions.

1. Why do you think green spaces are important in cities?
2. How do you feel when you spend time in parks or gardens?
3. Can you think of any benefits of having green areas in crowded urban areas?

Listening

1. Listen to this conversation about the benefits of urban green spaces and how they improve city life. Pay attention to the details to answer the questions.

Speaking

Activity 1: Warm-Up 

Before we start, let’s think about green spaces and their importance. Answer the following questions based on your own experiences and opinions.

1. How do you feel when you spend time in green spaces like parks or gardens?
2. Have you ever had a favorite green space you visited regularly? What made it special?
3. Do you think green spaces are important for a community? Why or why not?
4. How do green spaces affect your mood or energy levels?
5. What is your favorite activity to do in a green space, like a park or garden?

Activity 2: Small Group Discussion

Let’s discuss these questions in pairs or small groups. Take turns sharing your thoughts and listen to your partner’s ideas.

1. What do you think is the biggest benefit of having green spaces in cities?
2. Have you noticed any differences between areas with many green spaces and those without?
3. How do you think green spaces can help people relax or stay healthy?
4. Do you think creating more green spaces should be a priority for governments? Why or why not?
5. If you could design a new park for your community, what features would you include?

Activity 3: Role-Play

Now, let’s do a role-play! Practice expressing your thoughts about green spaces in different scenarios.

Role 1: Convincing a Friend
Imagine your friend prefers spending time indoors. Try to persuade them to visit a nearby park with you. Use phrases like:

• “I think you’ll love the fresh air…”
• “Being outdoors can really help you feel refreshed…”
• “Let me explain why it’s worth visiting this park…”

Role 2: Suggesting Improvements
Imagine you’re talking to a local official about improving green spaces in your neighborhood. Suggest some ideas and explain why they’re important. Use phrases like:

• “I believe adding more benches would be helpful because…”
• “One idea could be planting more trees to…”
• “What I feel is missing in our park is…”

Activity 4: Debate

Now, let’s have a debate. There are two teams, and each team has a different perspective.

Team 1: Green Spaces Are Essential for Mental Health
Argue why green spaces are vital for mental health. Focus on benefits like stress relief, relaxation, and a sense of calm.

Team 2: Green Spaces Are Essential for the Environment
Argue why green spaces are crucial for the environment. Highlight points like improving air quality, reducing urban heat, and supporting biodiversity.

Debate Guidelines:

• Each team will have 3–4 minutes to present their arguments.
• Use phrases like:
  • “One reason why green spaces are important is…”
  • “We believe that green spaces are essential because…”
  • “Green spaces contribute to mental health by…”
  • “The environmental benefits of green spaces include…”

After the debate, discuss as a class which arguments were the most convincing and why.

Reflection: The Value of Green Spaces

Take a moment to think about these questions:

1. Why are green spaces important for both individuals and communities?
2. How do you feel after spending time in nature or a green space?
3. What would happen to cities or towns without green spaces?
4. How can you encourage others to appreciate and take care of green spaces?