Getting Ready!

We have begun learning about earthquakes and other emergencies in our class. We have also been studying how to discuss mistakes. For example, people say:

1. We should have made an earthquake kit. 
2. Maybe we could have found more survivors.
3. That must have been a terrible shock! 
4. They shouldn't have built unsafe schools.

Take a look at this video about the earthquake in China, and use your class worksheet to find out some information:

We have a saying like this: "Hope for the best, plan for the worst!" We know California is going to have a "Big One" someday, an earthquake that is bigger than 7.5. Have you and your family made a plan? Here are some lessons to help you get ready.

Learn about the 1906 Earthquake and answer questions with a classmate. The first team to answer correctly will get a prize today in class!

1. History
2. Information 

Learn about earthquake preparedness. 

1. Take this quiz. What do you already know?
2. Read about making an earthquake kit. Write down five things you need to do. Compare with your teammate.

Grammar:

1. Past Modals
2. Modal Review Webpage
3. More Phrasal Verbs
4. Enjoy this song by Abba, The Day Before You Came; You can listen to many modals! Get the handout in class.

Women Hold Up Half the Sky

March 8th is International Woman's Day, so we can take some time to learn about women.

Speaking:

First take a look at this woman. Make a comment about her. Listen to my questions, think about possible answers, and then record them. Later, I will tell you about her. Here is a link to a new window.

Listening and vocabulary:

Next, listen to this report from Nicholas Kristof, an excellent journalist from the New York Times. He has written a book about women throughout the world. He called this book, "Half the Sky." Click here and listen to the beginning of this story today. Listen and  answer the questions from your class handout about Saima Mohammed. Her story is inspiring! (You can listen to all of the story, or just the beginning about Saima Mohammed.)

Writing:

Click on comment. Answer one or more of these questions:

1. Who is an inspiring woman that you know? How has this woman been important to you?
2. What would you do with a small business loan? Would you start a business in this country or in a different country?
3. What is the biggest obstacle facing women today in your opinion? What can help women overcome this obstacle?