Vocabulary for Comprehension

Read the information about environmental problems. Then describe or explain using your own words for each of the bold words below.

When our grandparents were children, people had very little awareness of environmental problems. They should have been more environmentally conscious, but they might not have believed there would be a shortage of natural resources such as wood, water, or oil. However, today people all over the world are facing the realization that our natural resources are limited.

What is the root cause of this shortage? One of the causes is our stubborn dependence on cars powered by fossil fuels. Our sprawling cities force us to drive miles and miles every day to satisfy our daily needs. Clogged highways and traffic hams are proof that we are overly dependent on automobiles.

How can we solve this problem? Some urban planners are designing ecocities, cities that are compact, convenient, and environmentally friendly. These cities will have easy access to efficient public transportation, as well as bicycle and pedestrian walking paths. In addition, these communities will be sustainable. They will not simple rob the earth of resources in order to exist. They will incorporate solar and wind-powered energy rather than relying solely on fossil fuels. Residents will be able to grow fruits and vegetables in community gardens and indoor solariums. These cities will also have green spaces, park, and forests, providing a natural habitat for wildlife survival and human relaxation. Furthermore, they will be built with recycled materials and wood from certified sustainable forestry operations. By incorporating all of these features into ecocities, urban planners believe we will be able start restoring our environment so there will be something left for our grandchildren.
(Adapted from NorthStar – intermediate level)

1) Resources:
2) Root:
3) Fossil fuels:
4) Sprawling:
5) Clogged:
6) Convenient:
7) Efficient:
8) Sustainable:
9) Incorporate:
10) Habitat:
11) Restoring:

After you have completed the vocabulary exercise, write two (2) sentences for each of the words above. This is part of your homework. Marks will be given for participation.