The Kaibab Plateau is home to one of the last ponderosa pine forests in the southwest. It's a unique habitat, protected by Grand Canyon National Park, and a spectacle to behold.Less than 5% of the 6 million annual visitors to the park make it beyond the rim. For most, a trip to a scenic overlook is enough to get a taste of the beauty in this magic place. But for those with a sense of adventure, traveling into the heart of the park can be quite the thrill.
A Grand Canyon rafting trip is the adventure of a lifetime. It can take two weeks to raft its entire length. Entrusting their fate to the river, paddlers navigate their way through at least 80 big water rapids, including the infamous Lava Falls. The waters of the Colorado rivers are a rafter’s mecca but it's best not to fall in.
“Spring is a common season to spot rattlesnakes”
The Grand Canyon peak rattlesnake, only found in this region; it's perfectly adapted to canyon life. While the river is a barrier to some, for him, it's an opportunity. Swimming gives him the freedom to search for new hunting grounds. His ability to scour more of the park gives Grand Canyon its own natural form of rodent control. Spring is a common season to spot rattlesnakes.
Questions:
Part 1: Comprehension
Watch and summarize the video thinking of who, what, when, where & why.
Part 2: True or False Questions
a) True or false – There are not many ponderosa pine forests in the southwest. T/F
b) True or False – There are more than 80 big water rapids. T/F
c) True or False – 6 million people a year visit Kaibab Plateau. T/F
d) True or False – If you want to see the rattlesnake, spring is the best season. T/F
Part 3: Guess the meaning of unknown vocabulary.
a) "Heart of (something)" (0:54 min)
b) "Entrusting" (1:22 min)
c) "Infamous" (1:31 min)
d) "To scour" (2:56 min)
Part 4: Dictation
a) Fill in the blanks (0:35 – 0:45 minutes) For most _____________________________________________________magic place.
b) Fill in the blanks (1:51 - 2:03 minutes) The _____________________________________________________________fall in.
c) Fill in the blanks (2:26 - 3:12 minutes) While __________________________________________________________grounds.
Part 5: Talking Points
Part 6: Role play Scenarios
Scenario 1: Grand Canyon Park Ranger and Tourist
The park ranger is leading a guided tour of the Grand Canyon, while the tourist is asking questions about the Kaibab Plateau and the unique ecosystem there. The ranger can provide information on the plants, animals, and geology of the area.
Scenario 2: Grand Canyon Rafters
A group of friends are embarking on a rafting trip down the Colorado River. They must work together to navigate the rapids, avoid obstacles, and set up camp each night. They can also take turns sharing stories and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Scenario 3: Travel Agent and Adventure Seeker
An adventure seeker is planning a trip to the Grand Canyon and wants to experience the best of what the park has to offer. The travel agent can provide information on the different activities available, such as hiking, rafting, and wildlife watching, and help the traveler plan an itinerary that fits their interests and budget.
Part 7: Writing Activity
Write a paragraph describing your favorite travel destination using at least three different conjunctions. Make sure to use conjunctions to link related ideas and make your writing flow smoothly.
Part 8: Critical Thinking - Tourism Vs Conservation.
Objective: To come up with a consensus on the best way to balance tourism and conservation.
In groups come up with and present a 5 point strategy that will help your country strike a good balance between tourism and conservation.
Your group should consider the following:
- Economic benefits of tourism
- Environmental impact of tourism
- Cultural heritage impact of tourism
- Impact of tourism on local communities
Lastly, present your strategies, and then as a class reach a consensus on the 5 best points.
Answers:
Part 1: Comprehension
This video was created by National Geographic. They are a TV company that specializes in creating outdoor and adventure documentaries about animals, nature, and travel. In this video the speaker introduces some of America’s great national parks, and in particular looks at going beyond the rim of the Grand Canyon. The commentator talks about the Kaibab Plateau which has a beautiful ponderosa pine forest and then goes on to talk about how the Grand Canyon rafting trip is the adventure of a lifetime. The speaker states that the Colorado rivers are a rafters Mecca. Lastly, he talks about a specific type of rattlesnake that is unique to the area and how it navigates its way around the river. I think they created the video to promote the area and raise awareness of the location as a possible travel destination.
Part 2: True or False
A: True B: True C: False D: True
Part 4: Dictation
a) Fill in the blanks (0:35 – 0:45 minutes) For most, a trip to a scenic overlook is enough to get a taste of the beauty in this magic place.
b) Fill in the blanks (1:51- 2:03 minutes) The waters of the Colorado rivers are a rafter’s mecca but it's best not to fall in.
c) Fill in the blanks (2:26 - 3:12 minutes) While the river is a barrier to some, for him, it's an opportunity. Swimming gives him the freedom to search for new hunting grounds.
Part 7: Writing (example)
My favorite travel destination is Hawaii because it is a tropical paradise, offers endless activities, and has friendly locals. Firstly, Hawaii is a tropical paradise, with crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and lush greenery. I love walking along the beach, soaking up the sun, and taking in the stunning views. Secondly, there are endless activities to do in Hawaii, such as hiking to waterfalls, surfing, or snorkeling. Whether I want to be active or just relax, there is always something to do. Lastly, the locals are incredibly friendly, welcoming visitors with open arms and sharing their love for the islands. Their warmth and hospitality make me feel at home and eager to return.
