Listening

Warm Up

Helpful Words and Phrases

Listen and repeat.

  1. lean
    • ex. He needs to lean forward so he does not fall back.
  2. a strap
    • ex. Put both straps of your backpack on your shoulders to carry the heavy books safely.
  3. padded
    • ex. My laptop is safe because the bag has a thick, padded pocket.
  4. a compartment
    • ex. This big bag has a small compartment for my keys and pens.
  5. spread
    • ex. Put books in different pockets to spread the heavy weight evenly.

Article

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

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Health experts are advising families to check children’s school backpacks as students return to school. They say backpacks that are too heavy can make it hard for children to walk, stay comfortable, and focus on learning. Some students carry laptops, books, sports equipment, lunch boxes, and water bottles every day.

The American Academy of Pediatrics says a backpack may be too heavy if a child leans forward to carry it, has trouble walking, or has shoulder straps that press into the skin. Dr. Sadika Kendi said back injuries are not common but can happen, especially if a child falls while carrying a heavy bag. Experts say parents should keep backpacks as light as possible because every child has different needs.

Experts also recommend using a backpack that fits well and has two wide, padded shoulder straps, a padded back, and several compartments to spread the weight. A waist or chest strap can also help. Families should clean out backpacks every week to remove unnecessary items and keep school papers organized.

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

Discussion

Choose a topic and discuss the questions with your tutor.

Heavy Backpacks

  • What do you think of students carrying laptops, books, and sports equipment in one backpack? Discuss.
  • Have you ever had to carry a heavy bag every day for school or work? Discuss.
  • Do you think schools in your country should limit the number of physical books students are required to bring each day? Why or why not? Discuss.

Things Carried Every Day

  • The article mentions that students often carry laptops, books, sports equipment, lunch boxes, and water bottles every day. What do students in your country carry to school every day? Discuss.
  • What are three essential items you must carry in your bag every day, and why are they important to you? Discuss.
  • What type of bag do you think is best for daily use and for bringing heavy items? Discuss.