Listening

Warm Up

Helpful Words and Phrases

Listen and repeat.

  1. mandatory
    • ex. The school uniform is mandatory, so every student must wear it.
  2. hydration
    • ex. The coach gave the players a hydration break after the first half of the game.
  3. a fluid
    • ex. The doctor told me to drink plenty of fluids because I had a cold.
  4. cool
    • ex. After playing soccer, the boys sat under a tree to cool down and rest.
  5. mixed
    • ex. I have mixed feelings about moving to a new city. I’m excited but also nervous.

Article

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

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FIFA introduced mandatory hydration breaks at the World Cup for the first time in the tournament’s history. The new rule requires a three-minute break in the middle of each half to help protect players and referees from extreme heat. The decision came as experts warn that the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada could be one of the hottest ever.

FIFA said the breaks would give players time to drink water, replace lost fluids and salt, and cool their bodies. Experts say cooling methods, such as using cold, wet towels, can help lower body temperature. FIFA said it created the rule after learning from past tournaments played in very hot weather.

However, the rule received mixed reactions. Some scientists said three minutes is too short to make a major difference during very hot matches. Some coaches supported the breaks but questioned whether they were needed in every game. Others said the pauses interrupt the flow of play and allow coaches to give extra instructions. Experts also said sports may need more changes in the future as global temperatures continue to rise.

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

Discussion

Choose a topic and discuss the questions with your tutor.

Hydration Breaks

  • Do you think hydration breaks are a good idea in World Cup matches? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • Besides hydration breaks, how can players stay safe when they play sports in extreme heat? Discuss.
  • Some people say the hydration breaks interrupt the game. Do you agree or disagree? Why? Discuss.

Future Changes in Sports and Sports Rules

  • Do you think sports will look very different in the future? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • In your opinion, should athletes have a say in deciding new rules in sports? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • In your opinion, should sports organizations change rules quickly when there is a new problem? Why or why not? Discuss.