Listening

Warm Up

Helpful Words and Phrases

Listen and repeat.

  1. commute
    • ex. Ben decided to commute by bicycle to save money and exercise more.
  2. gear
    • ex. Many hikers invest in high-quality gear for hiking and camping.
  3. an advocate
    • ex. She is an advocate for better healthcare services in rural areas.
  4. a bicyclist
    • ex. The bicyclist wore a helmet for safety while riding through the city.
  5. a reflector
    • ex. The workers placed reflectors along the road to guide drivers at night.

Article

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

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Many people are choosing to commute by bicycle because it can save money, improve health, and reduce fuel costs. Michael Roper, a 72-year-old pub owner in Chicago, loves to commute by bicycle every day. Many people worry that riding a bike requires expensive gear, like special clothes or bicycles. However, experts say people do not need expensive gear. Natalie Frank, a new software engineer, asked her friends if anyone had a bicycle they no longer wanted, and a free road bike was hers a few weeks later.

Safety is very important when riding on busy city roads. Every bike advocate recommends wearing a bright helmet to protect your head. To stay visible to cars, a bicyclist should attach front and back lights to their bike and use a bright reflector.

Riders must also watch out for danger from parked vehicles. It is best to stay four feet away from parked cars so that opening doors do not hit you. You can also watch for people inside parked cars before passing them. Following these simple safety habits can make every ride smooth and enjoyable.

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

Discussion

Choose a topic and discuss the questions with your tutor.

Commute by Bicycle

  • Do you ride a bicycle to work or school? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • Imagine you’re just starting to ride a bicycle. Would you buy special clothes or bicycles or get regular gear? Why? Discuss.
  • Do you think more people in your city should commute by bicycle? Why or why not? Discuss.

Bicyclists Safety on Busy Roads

  • Have you ever had a dangerous experience while riding a bicycle or walking near traffic? Discuss.
  • What safety gear do you think is most important for a bicyclist (ex. helmet, clothes with reflectors)? Why? Discuss.
  • How do you think cities can make bicycle commuting safer for riders? Discuss.