7/28/2021 – Topic: Living in Seattle – part 2

A ferry ride is a fun summer activity in Seattle. And a nice way to stay cool!

Today’s Words

summer activity

nickname – the short version of someone’s first name; sometimes a nickname describes the quality of a person or thing.

EXAMPLES:

The boy’s first name is Robert but everyone calls him by his nickname, “Bob.”

The nickname for Seattle is the Emerald City because there are lots of green parks and gardens in the city.

emerald - a gem stone that is green in color.

Emerald City – the nickname for Seattle

jet – an airplane that flies very fast

Jet City – the old nickname for Seattle

 

street sign / road sign – a sign you can see on the street. For example, a “STOP” sign or “sidewalk closed” sign.

2 Idioms: “The dog days of summer” and "To break out of your shell."

The dog days of summer are the hottest days of summer. They are so hot that it’s hard to do anything or go anywhere. Nothing is happening.

EXAMPLE: It’s too hot to study English and do homework during the dog days of summer!

To break out of your shell means to try something new such as a new activity you have not done in the past.

EXAMPLE: The young girl broke out of her shell by joining her school’s soccer team.

Small Group Questions

1.     Today is very hot. What do you like to eat or drink on a hot day?

2.    What is the name of your favorite city park? Why is it your favorite?

3.    Is there a new summer activity you would like to try? Why?

4.    How did you learn about it? What information do you need? For example, the location? The date and time?

5.    Do you like to try new activities or stay with the ones you already know?

6.    The hottest days of summer are called “the dog days of summer.” Have you heard this idiom? Are we having the dog days of summer this week?

7.    What is a nickname? Do you have a nickname? Do you know someone with a nickname?

8.    The nickname for Seattle is the “Emerald City.” What is an emerald? Why do you think Seattle has this nickname?

9.    In the past, Seattle was called the “Jet City.” Can you guess why?

10. There are street signs all around Seattle. For example, a “STOP” sign and “SIDEWALK CLOSED” sign. What street signs do you see in your neighborhood?

11.  Some Americans like to hang the U.S. flag on their house. Is there someone in your neighborhood who does this? Why do you think they do this?