• Learn and practice vocabulary related to environmental issues, sustainability, and conservation
• Understand and use relative clauses (defining and non-defining)
• Practice discussing global environmental problems and proposing solutions
Introduction to Environmental Issues
Why is it important?
Environmental issues are critical topics in today’s world. Being able to discuss them in English will help you engage in important global conversations.
◦ Pollution is a growing problem in many cities.
◦ Renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, are becoming more popular.
Grammar Focus
Using Relative Clauses
What are relative clauses?
Relative clauses give additional information about a noun in a sentence.
Relative Pronouns: who ◦ which ◦ that ◦ whose ◦ where ◦ when
Types of Relative Clauses
Defining Relative Clauses:
Provide essential information about the noun (no commas)
The company that recycles plastic bottles is helping reduce waste.
Non-Defining Relative Clauses:
Provide extra, non-essential information (use commas)
The Amazon rainforest, which is the largest in the world, is under threat from deforestation.
Examples:
◦ The river which flows through the city is polluted.
◦ People who care about the environment are advocating for more green policies.
Choose the correct relative pronoun
1. The park, __________ is located in the city center, is a popular spot for tourists. 2. The activist __________ started the campaign is working on a new project.
Vocabulary
Environmental Issues and Solutions
Key Vocabulary
Climate Change:
Long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns
Pollution:
The presence of harmful substances in the environment
Deforestation:
The cutting down of trees in large areas
Sustainability:
Practices that do not deplete resources or harm the environment
Renewable Energy:
Energy from sources that are not depleted when used, like solar and wind
Phrases for Solutions
• We should invest in renewable energy.
• Reducing plastic use can help combat pollution.
• Conservation efforts are crucial to protect endangered species.
Example Sentences:
◦ Climate change, which affects the entire planet, is caused by human activities.
◦ Deforestation, which leads to habitat loss, is a major problem in many countries.
Match the vocabulary with the correct definition
1. Pollution
2. Renewable Energy
Practice
Discussing Environmental Issues
1. Discuss the following questions in pairs or groups. Use relative clauses to expand your answers.
Questions:
a. What environmental issues affect your community?
b. What are some solutions to reduce pollution in your city?
c. How can individuals contribute to protecting the environment?
2. Write a short paragraph about an environmental issue in your country, using both defining and non-defining relative clauses.
Homework:
Write a 150-word essay on an environmental issue you feel strongly about. Use at least three relative clauses (defining and non-defining).
Homework Example:
Climate change, which affects people all over the world, is caused by the burning of fossil fuels. In my city, air pollution, which is mostly from cars, is a major issue. We need to invest in public transportation, which could reduce emissions significantly.
Preview of Next Class:
Making requests and offering help using polite language and formal vs. informal structures.