Listening

Warm Up

Helpful Words and Phrases

Listen and repeat.

  1. a court
    • ex. Our school has a volleyball court and a basketball court.
  2. a clinic
    • ex. The coach held a basketball clinic to teach young players new skills and techniques.
  3. in the spotlight
    • ex. The new player was in the spotlight because he played very well in his first game.
  4. a partnership
    • ex. The two companies formed a partnership to create new products together and help each other grow.
  5. motor
    • ex. Children can improve their motor abilities through physical activities, such as running, jumping, and throwing a ball.

Article

Read the article below and answer your tutor's questions.

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Before the U.S. Open women’s final, children and adults with disabilities took part in a special event on the court at Flushing Meadows. They joined the Court of Dreams clinic, an event that puts people with disabilities in the spotlight. During the clinic, they practiced different ways to hit the tennis ball and enjoyed time on a real court.

The Court of Dreams clinic is a partnership between the U.S. Tennis Association (USTA) and the Beautiful Lives Project, a group that helps people with disabilities join sports and other fun activities. This was the third year of the event. Around 100 children and adults joined this year. In the past, there were only about 50 participants. This means the event is growing.

According to Tony Gionfriddo, director of the Beautiful Lives Project, many players showed improvement during the clinic. “They are getting better and better with each shot,” he said. Families say the clinic is very helpful. Natasha Scott, whose 8-year-old twins attended the clinic, said she saw her kids improve their motor skills, ability to follow directions, and confidence.

This material was based on an article by The Associated Press.

Discussion

Choose a topic and discuss the questions with your tutor.

Sports Club and Clinics

  • In your opinion, how important is joining a sports club or clinic to children and adults? Discuss.
  • Are you a member of any sports club right now? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • If you could start a sports club or clinic, what kind would it be? Discuss.

People with Disabilities

  • In your opinion, is your government doing well in taking care of people with disabilities in your country? Why do you say so? Discuss.
  • Why do you think it’s important for people with disabilities to be included in sports and activities? Discuss.
  • How can communities help people with disabilities feel more included? Discuss.