Hello students. I’m proud of you for completing years 1 and 2 of our American English course. In order for you to become a strong intermediate American English learner, you need to be able to read, understand, and discuss abridged American English short stories. In this lesson, throughout Year 3 of your studies, you will read, listen to, and write about popular American English short stories. Please follow the directions below closely.
- Study the American English vocabulary below. Part 1
Words in This Story
palace – n. a very large and impressive house
signora – n. a title or form of address used of or to an Italian-speaking married woman, corresponding to Mrs. or madam
enormous – adj. very great in size or amount
lizard – n. a type of reptile that has four legs and a long body and tail
butterfly – n. a kind of insect that has a long thin body and brightly colored wings and that flies mostly during the day
- Study the American English vocabulary below. Part 2 of 2.
Words in This Story
sparkle – v. to be or become bright and lively
scream – v. to suddenly cry out in a loud and high voice because of pain, surprise, etc.
handsome – adj. pleasing to look at
glow – n. a pink color in your face from exercising, being excited, etc.
grab – v. to quickly take and hold (someone or something) with your hand or arms
crawl – v. to move with the body close to or on the ground
- Listen to the story. Part 1
- Listen to the story. Part 2 of 2
- Watch the video and read along. Part 1
- Watch the video and read along. Part 2 of 2
- Take the short story quiz.
Take the quiz: https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/rappaccinis-daughter-nathaniel-hawthorne/2616819/p1.html?isEmbedded=True
- Write a summary of the short story you just read and listened to in the comments section below. Click here to read an article that teaches you how to summarize a story. Remember to let us know who the characters of the story are, what they do, and what the story is about.