Starting Off

Look at the photos and answer the questions!

1. The pictures show different types of weather in various places. Tell each other what kind of weather you see in the photos.
2. If you could choose, which place would you like to visit based on the weather in the pictures? Why?
3. How do you usually prepare for the weather in your area? Would it be different in any of the places shown?

Listening

Let’s think about how weather affects different parts of the world. Have you heard about any extreme weather events recently, like floods, heatwaves, or snowstorms? Discuss with a partner for 2-3 minutes.

Vocabulary 

Here are some important words and phrases from the listening passage. Match each word with its definition. 

1. Listen to this long conversation and answer the questions.

2. Answer the following questions based on the conversation.

1. What examples of extreme weather are discussed in the conversation?
2. What does the man suggest as a way to address climate change?
3. How does the woman feel about the impact of extreme weather events?
4. Why does the man emphasize the importance of education and awareness?
5. What can you infer about the woman’s attitude towards documentaries about climate change.

3. Look at the weather patterns in your country over the past year. Discuss with a partner how these compare to the events mentioned in the listening passage.

Speaking

1. Work with a partner. Take turns asking and answering the following questions. Provide detailed answers.

• What’s the weather like in your country during different seasons?
• Have you ever experienced extreme weather, like a heatwave, blizzard, or flood? What happened?
• If you could choose, would you prefer to live in a hot or cold climate? Why?
• How do people in your area adapt to different weather conditions?
• Why do you think extreme weather events are happening more frequently?

2. Look at the pictures of different weather events. Describe each picture. 

Example Questions to Guide Your Description:

• What’s happening in the picture?
• How would you describe the weather in this event?
• Which event seems more dangerous, and why?
• Which weather event do you think is the most extreme?

3. Do a Role Play

Situation: You are a news reporter covering extreme weather events around the world. Choose one of the weather events from the conversation (heatwave, flood, bushfire, or blizzard) and report about it.
Use this information:

1. Heatwave

What is happening:

• Temperatures are reaching record highs, exceeding 40°C (104°F) in some areas.
• Prolonged periods of heat are causing heat-related illnesses, such as heatstroke and dehydration.
• Roads and infrastructure are melting or cracking due to the intense heat.
• Wildfires are more likely to occur, especially in dry regions.
• Power demand is surging as people use air conditioning, leading to blackouts in some areas.

How people are coping:

• Staying indoors during peak heat hours (usually midday to early afternoon).
• Using fans, air conditioning, and staying hydrated with plenty of water.
• Visiting cooling centers or public buildings with air conditioning.
• Wearing light-colored, loose clothing and using sunscreen.
• Organizing community support to check on elderly or vulnerable individuals.

Advice or warnings:

• Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
• Drink water frequently, even if you’re not thirsty.
• Keep pets indoors and ensure they have access to water.
• Watch for signs of heatstroke: dizziness, nausea, confusion, and fainting.
• Never leave children or pets in parked cars, as temperatures can rise rapidly.

2. Flood

What is happening:

• Heavy rains are causing rivers, dams, and drainage systems to overflow.
• Urban areas are experiencing waterlogging, disrupting transportation.
• Homes and businesses are being submerged, leading to property damage.
• Landslides are occurring in hilly areas due to saturated soil.
• Waterborne diseases are spreading in flood-affected areas.

How people are coping:

• Evacuating to higher ground or designated shelters.
• Using boats or makeshift rafts for transportation.
• Sandbagging homes to prevent water from entering.
• Stocking up on essential supplies like drinking water, canned food, and medicine.
• Seeking help from rescue teams or local authorities.

Advice or warnings:

• Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, which may be deeper and faster-moving than they appear.
• Disconnect electrical appliances to avoid electrocution.
• Boil drinking water to kill bacteria.
• Stay tuned to weather updates and evacuation orders.
• Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, first aid, and non-perishable food.

3. Bushfire

What is happening:

• Extremely dry conditions and strong winds are fueling fires in forests and grasslands.
• Thick smoke is spreading to nearby areas, reducing air quality.
• Homes, wildlife, and natural habitats are being destroyed.
• Roads are being closed, and flights are delayed due to low visibility.
• Firefighters are working around the clock to contain the flames.

How people are coping:

• Evacuating areas under threat of fire.
• Wearing masks to protect against smoke inhalation.
• Using fire-resistant barriers and sprinklers to protect homes.
• Monitoring local fire services and weather updates.
• Moving livestock to safer areas and securing property.

Advice or warnings:

• Follow evacuation orders immediately—delaying can be fatal.
• Avoid outdoor activities in areas affected by smoke.
• Create a bushfire survival plan, including a safe evacuation route.
• Keep vehicles filled with fuel and ready for emergencies.
• Never try to outrun or fight a fire without professional equipment.

4. Blizzard

What is happening:

• Heavy snowfall, icy winds, and freezing temperatures are paralyzing regions.
• Roads and airports are closed due to low visibility and snow accumulation.
• Power outages are occurring as ice damages electrical lines.
• People are stranded in homes, cars, or public places.
• Frostbite and hypothermia are serious risks for those exposed to the cold.

How people are coping:

• Staying indoors and using blankets, heaters, or fireplaces to stay warm.
• Stocking up on food, water, and winter supplies.
• Shoveling snow to prevent roofs and driveways from collapsing.
• Checking on neighbors, especially the elderly or disabled.
• Wearing multiple layers of warm clothing when going outside.

Advice or warnings:

• Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary; roads may be slippery or blocked.
• Keep a survival kit in your car, including blankets, snacks, and a flashlight.
• Be cautious of carbon monoxide poisoning when using heaters.
• Limit outdoor exposure to prevent frostbite or hypothermia.
• Stay informed through weather reports and emergency alerts.

Use descriptive language and you can come up with your own ideas and research if you want to.

Example:
Good evening, this is [Your Name] reporting live from Southeast Asia. The floods here are more severe than expected, with entire villages underwater. This is the worst flooding event of the decade. Authorities are urging people to move to higher ground.

4. Share your thoughts on one of the following prompts:

1. What is the most memorable weather event you’ve experienced?
2. If you could control the weather, what changes would you make and why?
3. How can people contribute to reducing the effects of extreme weather caused by climate change?