SELECT READINGS 1. AUDIO CD (INTERMEDIATE)

These passages act as springboards into reading comprehension activities, reading skills development, vocabulary building, grammatical analysis and practice, and thought-provoking discussion and writing. Compelling topics such as Culture Shock, The Future of Technology, and Family Relationships encourage learners to make personal connections with the reading passages. A wide variety of text types includes newspaper articles, interviews, personal narratives, and essays. Extensive reading skill instruction in critical areas such as skimming and scanning prepares learners to read purposefully and effectively. A focus on vocabulary building skills – including using context and understanding word forms – helps learners improve their ability to handle unfamiliar words, while also expanding their vocabulary base. Full-colour photographs and fine art introduce the theme of each chapter. Culture Notes provide background information for terms and references learners encounter in the reading passages. Vocabulary glosses define challenging new words, phrases, and expressions in context. Full-colour maps help learners locate places mentioned in the reading passages. Recorded reading passages on the cassette introduce the voices of native speakers into the classroom.