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Academic English

“The Four Seasons”

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Level: Topic: Speakers: Length:
intermediate climate man 01:55

Pre-Listening Exercise

What seasonal changes do people in your hometown experience throughout the year? Are there four basic seasons (i.e., winter, spring, summer, and fall)? Is it one season all year around? Do you have a typhoon, hurricane, or rainy season?

Agree or Disagree? Let’s Spark Some Conversation!

These statements are designed to get everyone thinking, moving, and talking! The goal is to explore ideas, share opinions, and get ready for the next part of the lesson.

  • In a face-to-face classroom: Read each statement aloud. If you agree, move to one side of the room; if you disagree, move to the other. Talk with your group—why do you feel that way? Then, pair students with members of the other group and have students explain their reasons. Rotate partners for more practice.

  • In an online classroom: Use polls, emojis, or the chat box in your online platform to show your opinion. Then, join the conversation as a group or in breakout rooms. What do others think? Do you agree or disagree with them?

  • For independent learners: Read each statement and think about your opinion. Then say your answer out loud and explain your reason, as if you’re talking to a classmate. This helps you get ready to speak and join real conversations in English. Consider recording your ideas and check your progress.

  1. People’s moods and behaviors change depending on the season.
  2. Life feels more exciting when the seasons change regularly.
  3. Summer vacations are not as relaxing as they used to be.
  4. Winter weather creates more problems than benefits.
  5. Spring is the most unpredictable and difficult season to plan for.
  6. Fall brings the best balance between work and relaxation.
  7. Cities look more beautiful during autumn than in any other season.
  8. Changing seasons help people feel more connected to nature.
  9. Countries without four seasons miss out on important experiences.
  10. Seasonal changes affect our health more than we realize.

Idioms

“fair-weather friend” = someone who is only when things are going well
“He’s just a fair-weather friend, so when things become difficult, don’t expect him to be around to help you.”

“under the weather” = sick
“My mom has been a little under the weather for the past few days.”

Listening Exercise

A. Listen to the recording and answer the questions.

Post-Listening Exercise

Decide on a place you would like to visit during your next vacation. Then, do some research on the area’s climate and describe the region’s seasons, including average temperatures and precipitation. Finally, explain popular activities that you could enjoy during different times of the year.

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