Set the Scene:
Let’s start with some engaging questions to connect your everyday life to the subject of Almaty, Kazakhstan. Please take a moment to think about and discuss the following questions:
- Have you ever visited a city surrounded by mountains, and how did it make you feel?
- What do you think are the advantages and disadvantages of living in a city with a resort-like atmosphere?
- How do you think the natural beauty of a city can impact its culture and economy?
- Have you ever tried any traditional dishes from Kazakhstan or Central Asia, and what did you think of them?
- What do you know about the history and architecture of cities in Central Asia, and how do you think they differ from those in other parts of the world?
Featured Image Analysis & Prediction:
Take a look at the featured image of Almaty, Kazakhstan. What do you see in the image? What do you think this activity will be about based on this image? Please discuss your thoughts and predictions with your partner or group.
Introduction:
Now, let’s read the introduction to the activity and learn more about Almaty, Kazakhstan. As you read, pay attention to the city’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
Video Engagement:
Watch the video about Almaty, Kazakhstan, and pause at the following points to discuss the questions:
- Pause at 2:00 minutes: What are your first impressions of the city, and what do you think are its most notable features?
- Pause at 5:00 minutes: How do you think the city’s natural beauty and outdoor activities contribute to its culture and economy?
- Pause at 8:00 minutes: What do you think are the most significant challenges facing the city, and how can they be addressed?
You can watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYeyfs7rJOU or visit the original post: https://maestrocursos.com.br/quizzed-esl-activities/almaty-discover-kazakhstans-largest-city/
Vocabulary and Grammar Focus:
Let’s review some key vocabulary and grammar from the activity. Please take a look at the vocabulary list and grammar focus below:
Vocabulary:
| Term | Definition | Example Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Derussification | The process of removing Russian influence from a region or country, often involving the adoption of a new alphabet or language. | Kazakhstan is undergoing derussification, with the alphabet being translated into Latin. |
| Shubat | A traditional Kazakh dairy product made from camel milk. | You can try shubat at Sandik restaurant in Almaty, which offers traditional Kazakh dishes. |
| Resort-like atmosphere | A description of a place that has a relaxed and pleasant environment, often associated with vacation or leisure activities. | Almaty has a resort-like atmosphere, with walkable and bike-friendly areas, featuring sidewalk cafes and street artists. |
Grammar Focus:
The present perfect continuous tense is used to describe actions or situations that started in the past and continue up to the present moment. For example: “The city has been experiencing severe air pollution due to the increasing number of motor vehicles.” Please review the grammar quiz below:
- The population of Almaty ________ rapidly over the past few decades due to its economic and cultural significance.
- A) has been decreasing
- B) is decreasing
- C) has been increasing
- D) was increasing
- By the time the new public transportation system is implemented, the city ________ on it for over five years.
- A) will have been working
- B) has been working
- C) is working
- D) works
Answer Key:
- C) has been increasing
- A) will have been working