Showing posts with label Listening. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Listening. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 9, 2019

C1.1 Environment Podcast Listening

Hi all!

In our next class I would like to discuss something difficult to discuss when it comes to environmental activism: Our carbon footprints. How much do we, as individuals, contribute to climate change?

Please start by taking this carbon footprint quiz to see how many Earths we would need if everyone on Earth lived like you. Don't worry, I'll do this too and reveal my answer in class.

After you take your quiz and get the results, I want you to listen to this podcast about our impact on the Earth. What do the people in the podcast have to say about the topic and what is the problem they are dealing with? How would you deal with this issue? What is your answer to the question, "If you gave up flying, how would your life change?"

Andrew Fisher flew Air New Zealand from Shanghai to Auckland and Auckland to Buenos Aires.

Tuesday, August 21, 2018

Let's Make a Podcast! B2.1

Image result for podcast



In this project you have a simple goal. Create a podcast with a partner about something that you are both interested in, upload it, create comprehension questions, and allow us to listen to it in class. 

Step 1: Find your partner and agree on a topic to discuss. 

Step 2: Tell me about your topic so I can approve or advise you on your topic. 

Step 3: Discuss what you want to talk about with your partner. Create an outline to use to organize your discussion. Note cards, etc. 

Step 4: Record your podcast using the Soundcloud app. It is easy to use and upload the podcast. Keep it under 5 minutes. 

Step 5: After recording your podcast create some multiple choice comprehension questions for us to answer when we listen to your podcast in class. Email or give me a paper copy of these questions. (andrewnovakefny@gmail.com)

Step 6: Enjoy others podcasts in class and answer some comprehension questions to practice listening. Receive feedback on pronunciation and vocabulary. 


Due Date: 10am August 23rd, 2018. 

Tuesday, July 24, 2018

Medicine... its pretty scary.


163 - Syphilis in America
Hi All!

This is a simple listen, note, and present type of project. Here is what I need you do before you present to the class.

1. Choose a podcast from the list of episodes that I give you.
2. With a PARTNER, listen to the episode and note down the most important information that they give you about the topic. Create an outline.
3. Discuss your own opinions on the topic and be sure to note them down to include on your presentation.

Presentation.

1. What happened? How does your podcast relate to the field of medicine? A very brief intro/summary.
2. What did you know about this topic before you listened?
3. Give a summary of what was mentioned in the podcast, along with any of the more insane details that were mentioned (details get people's attention!) You are the editor here so decide what stays and what goes.
4. Give your opinion of what happened and any questions you would have for the people involved in this story.
5. Would you recommend people listen to this episode or not?

Your presentation should be 10 to 12 minutes long.

You may use prezi, powerpoint, etc. Make sure to include pictures if possible.

If your topic is graphic in nature, please include a disclaimer.

Episodes to choose from...

Dollops (http://thedollop.libsyn.com/)
33
52
50
46
90
101
99
95
133
149
144
231
155
163
156
167
182
220
280/281 Opium in America

Any episode of SAWBONES!


Wednesday, June 20, 2018

Terrestrial Podcast Listening



Terrestrial Podcast: Have a blank page to take notes on as we listen. 
1.       What generation is the announcer from?
2.       How are Ashley and her husband feeling about having kids?
3.       How does her friend describe the decision to become parents?
a.       It’s a logical, rational choice.
b.      Its much more primal and instinctual.
c.       Its not something that really needs to be planned for.
d.      The environment played no role in their decision.
4.       For Travis and Mary who is the only baby they want in their lives.
5.       For Travis, what was the first event that he witnessed that influenced his environmental awareness?
6.       Is Travis optimistic about the future? Why or not?
7.       How has Mary’s views on kids changed over time?
8.       What is her view on having children and climate change?
   
          ---- Break ----

9.       How responsible is the United States of America for resource usage/greenhouse gas emissions?
10.   World number 1 and World number 2 in the environmental “Choose your own adventure.” What is the difference?
11.   What can we expect to be happening frequently by the end of this century?
12.   What will be the consequences of such events?
13.   The Voluntary Human Extinction Movement. How should we see our greatest accomplishments as a species according to them?
14.   “Natalist propaganda.” How does Les define this?
15.   How many people can we expect to be living on Earth by 2100?


-----Break-----


16.   Keenan and Brianna have what opinion about climate and family planning?
17.   “It’s not right to blame children for the problems of the world.” Does this argument work for you or no?
18.   How can having a child be an environmentally friendly choice?
19.   How could his idea be done without government intervention?
20.   More education leads to what…?
21.   How can having a child lead to a more environmentally friendly world?


Tuesday, June 19, 2018

Environmental Disasters Project

Assignment: Presentation on an Environmental Disaster of Your Choosing.

Your presentation must address the following:


  • Where and when did this event occur?
  • Were there any measures that should have been taken to prevent this catastrophe?
  • What happened during the lead up to the event?
  • What were the initial consequences? What were the long term impacts?
  • What was done as a result to prevent this kind of disaster from happening again?
  • In your opinion, will an event like this happen again or not?
  • Please include any additional information you deem to be relevant. 
You should either create a Prezi or a Powerpoint presentation to present your findings to the class. 

In addition you should create a Kahoot! Kahoot instructions can be found HERE!

Good luck!


Resources:

List of Environmental Disasters

Natural and Man Made Disasters

Tragic Effects of Man Made Disasters


dek

Wednesday, January 24, 2018

C1.3 Consumerism Podcast Project


1. Find a podcast that explores the history and effects of a particular good or service. (Try to find one that is at least 25 minutes.)

2. Listen to the episode and take notes on what the presenters say on the topic you've chosen.

3. Summarize their episode, both the facts and their opinions, should they express them, into a 5-8 minute presentation.

4. Include your own views and add information from other sources or express other views as needed.

5. Make a Kahoot. (Make your Kahoot by clicking here.) You will present your Kahoot at the end of your presentation.

Possible podcasts:

THE DOLLOP!

RADIOLAB!

THIS AMERICAN LIFE!

99% INVISIBLE

Smartphone addiction!



Wednesday, January 17, 2018

Communication! Does privacy exist? What is the state of surveillance in the world?

Hey everyone! Check out these short documentaries and news stories related to communication and surveillance in the larger world. This first video (<------ Link to video here) comes from the BBC where a journalist goes to Guiyang, China to experience one of the worlds most sophisticated surveillance systems. Would you trust people in your government to have this level of power?



Next please watch the following documentary from VICE news about what other abilities governments all over the world have to spy on ordinary citizens like ourselves. In what ways do governments around the world use these technologies? How do they make you feel?


And lastly, if you would like to delve deeper into this topic please watch the following segment from John Oliver's HBO political satire and news show Last Week Tonight. This segment comes from April of 2015 so things may have changed since then.



Thursday, September 14, 2017

HYPNOSIS!

A fascinating documentary from one of my favorite documentarians: The one, the only, Louis Theroux. Do you believe in the POWER OF HYPNOSIS!?!?!?!?!?

Youtube Update!

Please check out these latest videos from some of my favorite youtube channels! Enjoy!














Tuesday, October 18, 2016

Edward Snowden and 'State of Surveillance'

Security or Privacy? This is a question that we all need to ask ourselves? Has mass collection of data about individuals made our world a safer place?



After watching this short film, please watch this short documentary about the whistle blower Edward Snowden. Is he a hero or a traitor?

Wednesday, September 28, 2016

Scandals of Election 2016 and Presidential Debate

Check out John Oliver's satirical take on the scandals of Clinton/Trump and understand the histories of both candidates more.


Also! Check out the first of three full Presidential debates below. What's your take ?

Thursday, September 22, 2016

The Code of the Street (Social Issues)

What is the code of the street?



Check the link below for the documentary.

Law and Disorder in Philadelphia by Louis Theroux 


Theroux investigates the high crime rates in one of the United States' largest cities, Philadelphia, mainly from the perspective of the local police as well as people affected by, and possibly involved in, crime in the city's low-income neighborhoods.


If you enjoy this topic and would like to get a deeper understand of the social and racial divides in America I recommend you read Code of the Street: Decency, Violence, and the Moral Life of the Inner City by Elijah Anderson. 

Thursday, September 15, 2016

It's been a while!

Hey everyone! Here are some documentaries and youtube channels I have been watching lately and couldn't recommend more. They are great for learning about world and cultural issues as well as improving your listening skills.

First, The Rise of ISIS from PBS (Public Broadcasting Service) Frontline. Frontline is a documentary show that goes extremely in depth into many topics and looks at issues from as many angles as possible. While some may find their reporting a little dry, I find it to be the most level headed reporting on the internet. No glitz, no glamour, just the facts as well as they can report them.
Isis territory map taken from Businessinsider.com

Next, I'd like to recommend a channel that I've just started watching that really delves into many of my favorite art forms: music, film, and animation. If you would like to learn more about the history of famous characters like Bugs Bunny, Superman, the X-Men, ALIEN, and more check out his channel here. And below enjoy his history of the American animation star, Bugs Bunny. 


Finally, can you hum the Harry Potter theme in your head? Can you recall music from Star Wars, from James Bond, from the Nightmare Before Christmas? If you have a beating heart you can probably think of one song, right? But what about any Marvel movie? Take a minute and think about it... if you remembered a song, kudos. I couldn't remember any. Here's one person's explanation as to why...

Monday, July 4, 2016

Entertaining, Educational, and Practical Youtube Channels to Enjoy!

Bored, I mean finished with all of your ILab activities? Looking for ways to expand your mind but also stay seated? Look no further than these fine Youtube bloggers.

1. Every Frame A Painting.

If you enjoy cinema as much as I do Tony Zhao will certainly scratch an itch. If you want to know about the world of cinematography, storytelling, and use of chairs in film look no further for thoughtful and in-depth analysis of all things film. Check out this example with Jackie Chan.


2. Kurzgesagt - In a Nutshell (Watch for a description) This channel discusses many issues humans face. ENJOY!


3. Crash Course - Need to know about anything? Find it here.


4. Primitive Technology - Trying to live in the forest alone with nothing? Learn how to do it here.


5. Want to know about the most current political issues in the USA? Look no further than John Oliver and his HBO show, Last Week Tonight.


6. Believe everything you see on the internet??? Quit being so gullible and question everything you see. You'll never believe anything you see on the internet again after watching this AMAZING gentleman. CAPTAIN DISILLUSION!

Wednesday, May 11, 2016

Challenging Documentaries for C1+ (UPDATED!)

Like many of you, I am often curious about the world but have little funds and time to be able to explore and see EVERYTHING the world has to offer. Thankfully thats what Louis Theroux was born to do. Enjoy and let me know how these documentaries made you feel by commenting below! (Also this is great practice at understanding the British accent, ROIGHT?!) For other documentaries I've posted before please check this link.

Louie Theroux and the Ultra Zionists -
Louis Theroux in Jerusalem's Old City, overlooking the Dome of the Rock and the Temple Mount
The Ultra Zionists is a British documentary that was televised on 3 February 2011. Louis Theroux investigates ultra-nationalist Jewish settlers in East Jerusalem, Hebron and Nablus. 

Wikipedia defines Zionism thusly: "Zionism (Hebrew: צִ×™ּוֹנוּת Tsiyyonut IPA: [t͡sijo̞ˈnut] after Zion) is a nationalist and political movement of Jews and Jewish culture that supports the re-establishment of a Jewish homeland in the territory defined as the historic Land of Israel (roughly corresponding to Palestine, Canaan or the Holy Land)."

More interesting information about the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict:

This American Life (Podcast): The Night in Question
Twenty years ago, the prime minister of Israel was assassinated. The killer was a lone gunman, Israeli and Jewish, just like the prime minister. Lots of witnesses saw it happen; the assassin confessed immediately, that night, and has never recanted. But today, oddly, lots of people don’t believe it happened that way. And a question hangs over the country: did this act change the fate of the nation?

Documentary: 5 Broken Cameras. (Also available on Netflix) Beginning in 2005, Palestinian Emad Burnet records his village's resistance to the encroachment of Israeli settlements. Also there is a connection here to a couple of scenes in Louis' documentary. 12 minutes into the Ultra Zionists you can see the Israeli side of the protests that people from the village pictured in 5 Broken Cameras go to every week to protest... 

Please let me know if you have any other interesting documentaries regarding the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

Transgender Kids: 



Louis Theroux travels to San Francisco where a group of pioneering medical professionals help children who say they were born in the wrong body transition from boy to girl or girl to boy at ever younger ages.
At the Child and Adolescent Gender Center at UCSF Hospital Louis meets children who have been diagnosed with gender dysphoria. Louis is told that children as young as three can show signs of rejecting the gender they were assigned at birth, leaving parents with a difficult dilemma - do they start transitioning a child who is still developing their own identity or do they wait and risk making the change once their body has gone through the transformations of puberty?
It is a decision that can be the start of a complex series of medical interventions, from puberty blockers to hormone replacement therapy and eventually gender reassignment surgery. Louis spends time with children and their families as they negotiate their way along this life-changing journey.
Louis Theroux: Behind Bars is a television documentary written and presented by Louis Theroux about one of America's most notorious prisons, San Quentin. There, he meets and speaks to serial murderers, gang members, at-risk inmates and guards.

Wednesday, April 13, 2016

Listening Practice

Students of all levels need listening practice. While speaking with other students at EF is helpful, it will not help you sound like a native speaker. The only way you can improve this is by listening to and imitating authentic native speech. Listening to music, watching TV shows and movies, and listening to conversations at restaurants or other public places are a great way to practice active listening but you cannot test your comprehension this way.

Check this list of websites below to practice comprehension and vocabulary with listening.

My favorite website to tell students about is elllo.org. This website is totally free and has over 1000 different listening activities with native speakers and non-native speakers of all accents.

Another great way to practice listening is through music. Check out lyricstraining.com to practice listening with popular music in English.

Thursday, March 17, 2016

New Jams

A fun new genre of music that has been invented on the internet is called Vaporwave. Please enjoy a sample of the music here. It's very funky.

http://keatscollective.bandcamp.com/album/hit-vibes

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Documentaries for Regional Perspective Students.

Warning, if you are about to watch these documentaries please be aware there are no subtitles and the language and topics discussed are of an advanced nature with extremely high level vocabulary!

Here is part 1 of Adam Curtis's documentary "The Power of Nightmares." If you are looking for a deeper explanation of why America and Extreme Islam does what it does, this is the documentary for you. Please come talk to me if you watch this and let me know if it changes your perspective on or gives you a new perspective on anything. Also, if you decide to take any notes on vocabulary just be sure to also note when in the documentary it was said.



And found here is another documentary, made after "The Power of Nightmares" entitled "All Watched Over By Machines of Loving Grace." It is about how computers have not liberated us but distorted and simplified our view of the world around us. Please watch the preview.

Thursday, February 4, 2016

B2 Excellence

Movie for you about excellence... What sacrifices does Andrew make on his path to becoming "one of the greats"? Would you ever make any of the sacrifices he does? Also, how do you feel about his choices throughout the film? Which ones do you agree with and which make you upset?

Link to the film: Here. Watch out for pop ups!

Thursday, January 28, 2016

Music and English 2 : Rock and Roll

Here is some newer rock music from Canadian artist Mac DeMarco. Enjoy.

[Verse 1]
Oh baby
Oh man

You're making me crazy
Really driving me mad

That's all right with me
It's really no fuss
As long as you're next to me
Just the two of us


[Chorus]
You're my, my, my, my kind of woman
My, oh my, what a girl
You're my, my, my, my kind of woman
And I'm down on my hands and knees
Begging you please, baby

Show me your world

[Verse 2]
Oh brother
Sweetheart
I'm feeling so tired
Really falling apart
And it just don't make sense to me
I really don't know
Why you stick right next to me
Wherever I go


Grizzly Bear - Two Weeks


Save up all the days
A routine malaise
Just like yesterday
I told you I would stay

Would you always?
Maybe sometimes?
Make it easy?
Take your time


Think of all the ways
Momentary phase
Just like yesterday
I told you I would stay

Every time you try
Quarter half a mile
Just like yesterday
I told you I would stay


Great band here. Tame Impala - Feels Like We Only Go Backwards.