Appreciating Nature - vocabualry and discussion questions (B2-C1)
методическая разработка по английскому языку (11 класс)

Nouns:

• Majestic: mountain range, vista, panorama, precipice, waterfall, redwood, glacier, peak, skyline
• Serene: lagoon, cove, glade, meadow, moorland, stillness, tranquility, haven
• Picturesque: village, hamlet, landscape, seascape, countryside, waterscape, dells (small valleys)
• Rugged: terrain, coastline, cliffs, foothills, wilderness
• Lush: vegetation, foliage, rainforest, undergrowth, flora
• Unspoiled: wilderness, environment, habitat, ecosystem
• Idyllic: setting, retreat, escape, oasis
• Breathtaking: view, scenery, spectacle, prospect
• Impeccable: clarity (of water), preservation (of nature)
• Primeval: forest, landscape, jungle

Verbs:

• Cascades: (of water)
• Meanders: (of a river)
• Undulates: (of hills)
• Commands: (a view commands attention)
• Embraces: (a valley embraces a river)
• Dominates: (a mountain dominates the landscape)
• Lulls: (the sound of the waves lulls you to sleep)
• Whispers: (the wind whispers through the trees)
• Glistens: (dew glistens on the grass)
• Shimmers: (light shimmers on water)
• Unfurls: (a valley unfurls before you)
• Stretches: (a vast plain stretches to the horizon)
• Intersects: (rivers intersecting)

Adjectives:

• Impregnable: (fortress, mountain)
• Inviolate: (wilderness, sanctuary)
• Unsullied: (beauty, landscape)
• Azure: (sky, sea)
• Emerald: (green, forest)
• Sapphire: (blue, lake)
• Verdant: (lush green)
• Opulent: (lush, abundant)

Phrases & Collocations:

• A breathtaking vista: A stunning view.
• A panoramic view: A wide view.
• Rolling hills: Gently sloping hills.
• Towering mountains: Very high mountains.
• Crystal-clear waters: Exceptionally clear water.
• Dense forest: A thick forest.
• Tranquil atmosphere: Peaceful environment.
• Secluded cove: A hidden, sheltered bay.
• Picturesque village: A charming village.
• Unspoiled beauty: Natural beauty that has not been damaged.
• Lush vegetation: Abundant plant life.
• To be enveloped by nature: Completely surrounded by nature.
• To lose oneself in nature: To be absorbed by nature.
• The rugged terrain: Difficult and uneven land.
• To traverse the wilderness: To travel through the wilderness.
• A sense of awe: Feeling of wonder and respect.
• The symphony of nature: The combined sounds of nature.

General Appreciation of Nature:

1. To what extent do you think that exposure to nature is essential for human well-being? What specific benefits can be derived from spending time in natural environments? (This explores the importance of nature for human health)
2. Some argue that modern lifestyles have created a disconnect between people and the natural world. Do you agree? What are the consequences of this disconnect, and what can be done to re-establish our connection with nature? (This delves into the modern disconnect from nature and potential solutions)
3. How important is it for children to have regular access to natural environments? What are the long-term implications of growing up without a strong connection to nature? (Focuses on the importance of nature for child development)

Beautiful Places and Their Impact:

4. What factors contribute to a place being considered “beautiful”? Is beauty subjective, or are there universal qualities that make a place aesthetically pleasing? (This explores the definition and appreciation of beauty)
5. How can visiting beautiful places impact our values and perspectives? Can exposure to nature promote environmental awareness and conservation efforts? (Examines the influence of nature on human values and actions)
6. Should access to beautiful natural places be considered a basic human right? What are the ethical implications of limiting access to natural environments? (This explores the social justice aspect of nature)

Conservation and Preservation:

7. What are the most pressing threats to the world’s most beautiful natural places? How can individuals, communities, and governments work together to protect these areas from further damage or destruction? (This addresses the challenge of conservation)
8. To what extent should tourism be encouraged in fragile natural environments? What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of ecotourism, and what measures should be taken to mitigate its negative effects? (Examines the complexities of tourism and conservation)
9. Should the preservation of natural places take precedence over economic development? How can we balance the need for economic growth with the need to protect our natural heritage? (Explores the tension between economic needs and environmental protection)

Personal Experiences and Preferences:

10. What are your favorite ways to experience and appreciate nature? Do you prefer active pursuits, such as hiking or kayaking, or more contemplative activities, such as birdwatching or meditation? (Explores individual preferences and engagement with nature)
11. Have you ever had a particularly profound experience in nature that changed your life or perspective? What did you learn from this experience, and how has it influenced your actions? (Focuses on the power of nature to transform individual lives)

These discussion questions are designed to be open-ended and encourage critical thinking. They cover a range of topics, from the aesthetic and spiritual value of nature to its importance for human well-being and the need for its conservation. They also encourage personal reflection and the sharing of individual experiences.