Summary
Chicago: A Global Center of Commerce and Culture
Located in the Great Lakes region of the American Midwest, Chicago is a city driven by optimism and a can-do attitude.
The Loop: A Showcase of Architecture
The central business district, encircled by the ‘L’ elevated train line, features a mix of old and new architecture, from the world’s first high-rises to modern skyscrapers.
Magnificent Mile and Riverwalk
Running north from The Loop is the Magnificent Mile, lined with upscale boutiques and restaurants. The Riverwalk, along the south bank of the Chicago River, offers a relaxing change of pace.
Millennium Park and The Art Institute of Chicago
Millennium Park features the Jay Pritzker Pavilion and the BP Footbridge, as well as public sculptures, including Cloud Gate, also known as “The Bean”. The Art Institute of Chicago is located nearby, showcasing European, American, and Asian masterpieces.
Other Attractions
Other attractions include the Garfield Park Conservatory, Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and studio, the Unity Temple, and the Field Museum, which houses over 20 million specimens from natural history.
Entertainment and Culture
Chicago offers a range of entertainment options, including jazz, blues, and theater, as well as lake and river cruises. The city is also home to the Museum of Science and Industry and the Chicago History Museum.
Key Vocabulary
| Term | Definition | Example Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Midwest | A region in the northern United States, known for its agricultural production and industrial centers. | “Chicago is located in the Great Lakes region of the American Midwest.” |
| The Loop | A central business district, typically marked by a high concentration of office buildings and commercial activity. | “The central business district, encircled by the ‘L’ elevated train line, features a mix of old and new architecture.” |
| Magnificent Mile | A famous street in Chicago known for its upscale boutiques and restaurants. | “Running north from The Loop is the Magnificent Mile, lined with upscale boutiques and restaurants.” |
| Riverwalk | A pedestrian path along the bank of a river, often used for recreation and relaxation. | “The Riverwalk, along the south bank of the Chicago River, offers a relaxing change of pace.” |
| Millennium Park | A public park in Chicago featuring public art, architecture, and cultural events. | “Millennium Park features the Jay Pritzker Pavilion and the BP Footbridge, as well as public sculptures, including Cloud Gate, also known as ‘The Bean’.” |
| Art Institute of Chicago | A museum in Chicago featuring a collection of European, American, and Asian art. | “The Art Institute of Chicago is located nearby, showcasing European, American, and Asian masterpieces.” |
| Entertainment | Activities or performances designed to entertain or amuse an audience. | “Chicago offers a range of entertainment options, including jazz, blues, and theater.” |
Watch The Video
Vocabulary Quiz
Vocabulary Quiz
1. Which word means “a feeling of hopefulness and confidence”?
A) Optimism
B) Pessimism
C) Cautiousness
D) Skepticism
2. Which word refers to a structure that is higher than its surroundings?
A) Skyscraper
B) High-rise
C) Monument
D) Landmark
3. Which word means “a place where people go to relax and enjoy themselves”?
A) Attraction
B) Entertainment
C) Recreation
D) Leisure
4. Which word refers to a large collection of objects or specimens?
A) Museum
B) Gallery
C) Collection
D) Exhibition
5. Which word means “a feeling of doubt or uncertainty”?
A) Skepticism
B) Cautiousness
C) Pessimism
D) Optimism
Answer Key:
1. A
2. B
3. D
4. A
5. A
Grammar Focus
Grammar Focus: Using the Present Perfect Tense with Since and For
Grammar Quiz:
1. The city has been a global center of commerce and culture ____________________.
- since its founding
- for over a century
- since the 19th century
- for a long time
2. The Loop features a mix of old and new architecture, from the world’s first high-rises ____________________.
- since the 19th century
- for over a century
- since its construction
- for a long time
3. The city has been a hub of jazz and blues music ____________________.
- since the 1920s
- for over a century
- since its founding
- for a long time
4. The Art Institute of Chicago has been showcasing European, American, and Asian masterpieces ____________________.
- since its opening
- for over a century
- since the 19th century
- for a long time
5. The city has been a popular tourist destination ____________________.
- since the 19th century
- for over a century
- since its founding
- for a long time
Answer Key:
1. for over a century
2. since the world’s first high-rises were built
3. for over a century
4. for over a century
5. for over a century