Intermediate Listening Power

Activity 1.

Listen to the file.

Arhes National Park

Activity 2.

Listening Comprehension. Answer the following questions.

1. What makes Arches National Park in Utah a unique sightseeing destination?
A. the wildlife
B. the desert climate
C. the geology

2. What is one reason given for hiking with a partner in the park?
A. It make the experience more enjoyable.
B. A partner can help you in case of emergency.
C. The entrance fee is less for two people or more.

3. According to the recording, you should wear ______________ while visiting the park in the summer.
A. light shoes
B. a hat
C. sturdy clothing

4. What is one item that might be part of the fifth point?
A. bandages
B. a flashlight 
C. a lighter

5. Which item was NOT mentioned as a means of getting around in the park?
A. a GPS unit
B. a guidebook
C. a map

Activity 3.

Listening to Details. Listen to the file for the last time and fill in the blanks with the correct answer.

Narrator: Arches National Park is ⁽¹⁾ in the dry desert of Southeastern Utah just ⁽²⁾ of the city of Moab. This park is home to over 2,000 natural arches carved from sandstone layers by ⁽³⁾, water, and erosion. Local and international visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of these natural wonders throughout the year. Some ⁽⁴⁾ are just off the road and are accessible to all people within a short distance on well-traveled ⁽⁵⁾; other arches can only be reached by driving distances on four-wheel drive roads or after long strenuous hikes along sandy washes.

Like any hike of this nature, you should be ⁽⁶⁾ for the adventure in the desert:

First, hike with a partner for ⁽⁷⁾and leave word where you will be traveling in case of an emergency. Personally, I enjoy hiking with family members and close friends.

Second, carry a cellphone with you. However, keep in mind that you might not get any ⁽⁸⁾, so don't depend on it.

Third, be sure to have the right clothing and footware for the hike. Light, breathable clothing is best during the summer, along with a hat and ⁽⁹⁾ hiking shoes.

Fourth, carry plenty of water because you can become quickly dehydrated without it. Having a few snacks can give you energy, too.

Fifth, take a small first-aid kit with you, particularly on longer hikes in case you get ⁽¹⁰⁾.

Sixth, pack a detailed map of the area you are hiking, along with a compass and/or a GPS to locate your position. You might need them to navigate through unfamiliar terrain.

And finally, take nothing home with you except for pictures and memories. You can protect these areas by leaving all rocks, flowers, and other objects for future visitors.

Activity 4

Vocabulary. Read and study the following words.

• erosion (noun): wearing away of the soil by wind and water 
  - Erosion is often a natural process by which many geological formations are created.

• breathtaking (adjective): incredible, awesome, amazing 
  - The scenic views of the valley were breathtaking.

• strenuous (adjective): physically difficult 
  - We took a very strenuous hike that lasted all day, and I'm exhausted.

• wash (noun): a dry stream bed
  - We followed the wash for about a mile until we reached the mouth of the canyon.

• leave word (verb): notify or inform
  - She didn't leave word where she would be traveling, and now her family is really worried.

• sturdy (adjective): strong
  - You need to wear sturdy hiking boots for this trip because we will be going through some rough terrain.

• dehydrated (adjective): suffer from lack of water
  - The lost hiker was extremely dehydrated when she was found wandering in the desert.

Activity 5.

Discussion. Answer the following questions related to the conversation.

• Name one national park in your country and think about what makes it a unique place to visit (e.g., the scenic views, the wildlife, the flora, outdoor recreation, etc.).
  
• What things do you consider when selecting a place to visit (e.g., location, things to see and do, cost, etc.).