WEEK 4

TRAVEL AND
CULTURAL
DISCUSSIONS
 KEY VOCABULARY

1. Destination – A place to which someone is going. 6. Culture – The ideas, customs, and social behavior of a particular group.
2. Itinerary – A planned route or journey. 7. Travel Insurance – Insurance coverage for losses incurred while traveling.
3. Accommodation – A place to stay while traveling. 8. Visa – An official document allowing entry to a foreign country.
4. Flight – The act of flying; a scheduled trip by air. 9. Passport – A government-issued document for international travel.
5. Sightseeing – The activity of visiting places of interest. 10. Adventure – An unusual and exciting experience.

READING PASSAGE

Reading Passage
Traveling opens up a world of adventure, allowing people to visit exciting
destinations and immerse themselves in diverse cultures. Before embarking on a Comprehension Questions:
journey, it’s important to have a well-planned itinerary that outlines flight 1. What is the purpose of having a well-
schedules, accommodation details, and sightseeing activities. A carefully crafted planned itinerary when traveling?
itinerary not only helps organize the trip but also maximizes the time spent 2. Name two important travel
exploring new places, ensuring that travelers can fully enjoy all the experiences requirements that travelers need to be
their destination has to offer. aware of before their trip.
3. How does travel insurance benefit
While planning a trip, travelers must also consider necessary requirements, such as travelers during their journey?
obtaining a visa and ensuring they have valid passports. Additionally, purchasing
travel insurance is a smart move to protect against unforeseen circumstances that
could disrupt the journey. By taking these precautions, travelers can minimize
stress and focus on enjoying their adventures and the rich experiences each new
location provides.

CONVERSATION PRACTICE
1. How do you usually plan your trips? 11. How do you choose your travel companions?
2. Have you ever created a travel itinerary? What did it 12. What is the most memorable trip you have taken?
include? 13. Have you ever tried local cuisine in a foreign country? What was it like?
3. What types of accommodation do you prefer when 14. What cultural differences have you encountered while traveling?
traveling? 15. Have you ever experienced travel delays? How did you handle it?
4. What items do you always pack for your travels? 16. How do you handle language barriers while traveling?
5. How do you prepare for a long flight? 17. What would you do if you lost your passport while traveling?
6. What travel insurance do you think is necessary? 18. How do you stay safe while traveling in unfamiliar places?
7. What is your favorite travel destination, and why? 19. How do you feel about traveling during peak seasons?
8. What is your dream travel destination? 20. What tips would you give someone traveling for the first time?
9. What activities do you enjoy during your travels?
10. Do you prefer traveling alone or with others? Why?

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 GRAMMAR FOCUS: FUTURE TENSE FOR PLANS
Grammar Rules and Examples:
The future tense describes actions that will happen later. It can be formed using "will" or "going to," depending on the context.

1. "Will" is used for: 2. "Going to" is used for:

Decisions made at the moment of speaking: Pre-planned actions or intentions:
"I will buy the ticket now." "I am going to visit my grandparents next week." (Already
Predictions about the future: planned)
"It will rain tomorrow." Predictions based on current evidence:
"Look at those clouds! It is going to rain soon."
Context Example:
Imagine you are planning a vacation with your friends and discussing your next steps. Use "will" for decisions you make in the
moment and "going to" for plans already made.

Complete the sentences using "will" or "going to" depending on the

context.
1. I (visit) __________ my friend in Italy next month.
(Hint: This is a pre-planned trip)

2. She (go) __________ to a travel expo this weekend.

(Hint: She’s already planned it)

3. We just decided! We (see) __________ the Eiffel Tower on our trip.

PRACTICE EXERCISE (Hint: A decision made now)

4. They (book) __________ their accommodation tomorrow after

checking prices.
(Hint: This is an intention already planned)

5. I think he (plan) __________ an adventure to the mountains next

summer.
(Hint: This is a prediction based on what you know)

FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Travel Foodie Exploration:
Task: Choose a traditional dish from your dream destination, describe it in detail, and explain why you’d love to try it.
Key Points to Include:
1. Dish Description: Share details about the ingredients, flavors, and appearance of the dish.
2. Cultural Background: Explain the dish’s cultural significance and when it’s commonly eaten.
3. Personal Connection: Describe why you’d want to try it and what excites you about the experience.

AUTHENTIC ASSESSMENT (5 POINTS)

Task: Travel Itinerary
Create a detailed travel itinerary for a trip you would like to take. Include key details such as:
1. Destination
2. Travel Dates
3. Accommodation
4. Planned Activities
5. Travel Requirements

Prepare to present your itinerary in 3-5 minutes, explaining your destination choices, why you selected certain activities,
and what you hope to experience during your trip. 2
 KEY VOCABULARY
1. Tradition – A long-established custom or belief. 6. Tolerance – Acceptance of different beliefs and practices.
2. Etiquette – The customary code of polite behavior in society. 7. Diversity – The state of having various cultural or ethnic groups.
3. Custom – A traditional and widely accepted way of behaving. 8. Norm – A standard or pattern of social behavior.
4. Heritage – Practices that are handed down from the past. 9. Interaction – Communication or involvement with others.
5. Festival – A day or period of celebration. 10. Influence – The capacity to have an effect on the character of
something.

READING PASSAGE

Reading Passage
Cultural differences can greatly enrich our experiences when traveling. Each
country has its own traditions, customs, and etiquette that reflect its unique
Comprehension Questions:
1. Why is it important to understand cultural
heritage. Understanding and respecting these differences is crucial for meaningful
differences while traveling?
interactions with locals.
2. What are two examples of how cultures
might celebrate differently?
For example, festivals celebrated around the world showcase the diversity of
3. How can diversity enhance travel
cultures. While some cultures may celebrate with loud music and dancing, others
experiences?
might observe quiet reflection and family gatherings. Tolerance and
openness to different norms can lead to rewarding experiences.

CONVERSATION PRACTICE
1. What traditions are unique to your culture? 11. How do you handle misunderstandings due to cultural differences?
2. What festivals are celebrated in your country? 12. How do you think cultural differences affect communication?
3. How do you celebrate holidays in your culture? 13. What role does tolerance play in traveling?
4. What is your favorite holiday, and how do you celebrate it? 14. How do you approach conversations about cultural differences?
5. What are some common etiquette practices in your culture? 15. Can you think of a time when you learned something from a
6. What cultural norm in your country may be different different culture?
elsewhere? 16. What cultural experiences have you enjoyed the most?
7. Have you participated in a cultural festival? What was it like? 17. What advice would you give someone traveling to a culture vastly
8. What is a memorable experience you’ve had while traveling different from their own?
in a different culture? 18. How do you feel about cultural appropriation in fashion and art?
9. How do you show respect for different customs while 19. How can travel promote cultural understanding?
traveling? 20. What is the importance of cultural preservation?
10. How do you educate yourself about other cultures before
traveling?

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 GRAMMAR FOCUS: COMPARATIVE AND SUPERLATIVE ADJECTIVES
Grammar Rules and Examples:
Comparative Adjectives: Superlative Adjectives:
Definition: Used to compare two entities. Definition: Used to describe the highest degree among three
Formation: or more entities.
Short adjectives: Add "-er" (e.g., "tall" → "taller"). Formation:
Long adjectives: Use "more" (e.g., "beautiful" → Short adjectives: Add "-est" (e.g., "tall" → "the tallest").
"more beautiful"). Long adjectives: Use "the most" (e.g., "beautiful" → "the
Example: "This book is more interesting than that one." most beautiful").
Example: "This is the most exciting festival of the year."

Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the adjective.

1. My city is (big) _______ than yours.
2. This is the (interesting) _______ book I have read.
PRACTICE EXERCISE 3. His culture is (rich) _______ than mine.
4. This dish is the (delicious) _______ I have tasted.
5. Summer is (hot) _______ than spring.

FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Cultural Norms Food Recipe:
Task: Create a mini food recipe featuring dishes from your culture and another culture.
1. Select Two Cultures: Choose your own culture and another culture you want to explore.
2. Research Recipes: Find 2 traditional recipes from each culture. These can include:
Main dishes
Snacks or street food
Desserts
3. Create the Food Recipe:
For each recipe, include:
The name of the dish
Ingredients list
A brief note on its cultural significance (1-2 sentences)
Example Recipe Note:
Dish: "Sushi"
Cultural Significance: "Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish that highlights the importance of fresh ingredients and
meticulous preparation, reflecting Japanese values of harmony and balance."

AUTHENTIC ASSESSMENT (5 POINTS)

Task: Cultural SImilarities and Differences Venn Diagram
Compare and understand cultural traits from real-life experiences.
Instructions:
1. Choose Two Cultures: Think about your own culture and one you’ve encountered or learned about.
2. Create a Venn Diagram: Highlight similarities and differences in areas like celebrations, family values, or social behaviors.
3. Apply to Real Life: Reflect on how understanding these differences can help in school, friendships, or future work situations.
4. Write a Reflection: Share how learning about these cultures can improve communication and relationships.

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 KEY VOCABULARY
1. Landmark – A recognizable object or feature used for navigation. 6. Souvenir – An object kept as a reminder of a person, place, or
2. Attraction – A place that draws visitors, often due to its historical event.
or cultural significance. 7. Tour – A journey for pleasure in which several places are visited.
3. Guidebook – A book that provides information about a 8. Experience – Knowledge or skill gained through involvement in
destination. or exposure to something.
4. Recommendation – A suggestion for a good course of action. 9. Local – Relating to a particular area; indigenous to the area.
5. Photography – The art or practice of taking photographs. 10. Scenery – The natural features of a landscape.

READING PASSAGE

Reading Passage
Tourist attractions are often the highlights of travel experiences. From historical
landmarks like the Eiffel Tower to natural wonders like the Grand Canyon, each
destination offers unique sights to behold. Guidebooks and online resources are Comprehension Questions:
excellent tools for planning visits to these attractions. 1. What are some examples of tourist
attractions mentioned in the passage?
When exploring new places, it’s essential to seek recommendations from locals 2. How can guidebooks assist travelers in
and other travelers. They can provide valuable insights into hidden gems and their journeys?
lesser-known landmarks that may not be in guidebooks. Additionally, taking 3. Why is it beneficial to seek
photographs of beautiful scenery creates lasting memories of your journey. recommendations from locals?

CONVERSATION PRACTICE
1. How do you decide which places to visit when traveling? 11. How do you handle language barriers when asking for directions
2. What attractions are on your travel bucket list? or recommendations?
3. How do you choose a place to stay when visiting a new city? 12. What local dishes do you recommend trying when visiting your
4. How do you prepare for visiting historical sites or landmarks? country?
5. What role do travel blogs play in your trip planning? 13. What do you enjoy most about exploring local markets?
6. What is your favorite tourist attraction you have visited? 14. What souvenirs do you like to collect from your travels?
7. Have you ever taken a guided tour? What did you enjoy about 15. How do you document your travel experiences (e.g., through
it? photos, journals)?
8. How do you feel about visiting popular tourist spots versus off- 16. Have you ever been to a famous festival? What was it like?
the-beaten-path locations? 17. How do you stay safe while visiting popular tourist attractions?
9. What is the most unique experience you have had while 18. What is the most interesting landmark in your area?
traveling? 19. What is the best travel advice you have received?
10. How do you interact with locals while traveling? 20. How do you balance relaxation and sightseeing during your
trips?

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 GRAMMAR FOCUS: ASKING FOR RECOMMENDATIONS AND SUGGESTIONS WHEN TRAVELING

Grammar Rules and Examples:

When asking for recommendations or suggestions, we often use phrases like:
1. Can you recommend...
Example: "Can you recommend a good restaurant around here?"
2. What would you suggest...
Example: "What would you suggest visiting in this area?"
3. Do you know any...
Example: "Do you know any popular tourist spots nearby?"
4. Where can I find...
Example: "Where can I find a nice local market?"
5. Is there a place you recommend for...
Example: "Is there a place you recommend for buying souvenirs?"

Complete the following sentences using the appropriate phrases to ask

for recommendations or suggestions.
1. Can you recommend __________ to try in this city?
PRACTICE EXERCISE 2. What would you suggest __________if I only have one day here?
3. Do you know any __________ to visit in the evening?
4. Where can I find __________to take home as souvenirs?
5. Is there a place you recommend for __________?

FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Tourist Attraction Description:
Task: Write a short description of a tourist attraction you have visited, including its significance and your experience.

Example: "I visited the Great Wall of China, a historical landmark that stretches over 13,000 miles. The views were breathtaking,
and it was fascinating to learn about its history."

AUTHENTIC ASSESSMENT (5 POINTS)

Task: Landmark Souvenir Shop
Imagine you’re at a famous landmark’s souvenir shop. Describe an item you’d buy to remember your visit.
Guidelines:
1. Describe the Souvenir:
Explain what the item is (a magnet, miniature model, postcard, etc.), including its colors, size, and any special designs.
2. Share Its Meaning:
Mention what makes this souvenir meaningful and how it represents the landmark.
Example:
“I’d choose a mini Eiffel Tower keychain with a little French flag because it reminds me of the tower’s shape and the culture of
Paris.”

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 KEY VOCABULARY
1. Delay – A situation where a scheduled event, such as a flight or train, 6. Refund – The return of money paid for a service that was not
occurs later than planned. provided or was unsatisfactory, often following a cancellation.
2. Emergency – A critical and unexpected situation that requires 7. Accident – An unforeseen incident that results in injury,
immediate action or assistance, often related to health or safety. damage, or disruption, necessitating quick response or care.
3. Health Insurance – A type of insurance that covers medical expenses 8. Travel Plan – A flexible schedule that helps travelers manage
incurred while traveling, ensuring access to healthcare in emergencies. changes caused by delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
4. Assistance – Help or support provided to travelers in need, especially 9. Rebooking – The process of arranging a new reservation for
during challenging circumstances. travel after the original plans have been altered or canceled.
5. Cancellation –The process of officially calling off a trip or reservation, 10. Travel Advisory – A formal notice issued by governmental or
which may require rearranging plans or seeking a refund. travel authorities warning travelers about potential risks, safety
concerns, or health issues in specific locations.

READING PASSAGE

Reading Passage
When traveling, it's important to be prepared for unexpected situations, such as delays. A
delay can occur when your flight or train is running late, disrupting your travel plans. In such Comprehension Questions:
cases, staying calm and checking for updates can help you manage the situation effectively. 1. What are two common travel issues
It’s also wise to have travel insurance in case of an emergency. Health insurance can cover mentioned in the passage, and how can
medical expenses, ensuring you have access to healthcare if needed. Always keep important travelers prepare for them?
documents handy and know where to find assistance if problems arise.
2. Why is having health insurance important
Another common travel issue is the cancellation of flights or reservations. If you need to when traveling, especially in emergencies?
cancel your trip, you may want to request a refund for any services not provided. This 3. What steps should a traveler take if they
process often involves rebooking your travel plans. Having a detailed itinerary can make this need to cancel a trip and request a refund?
easier, as it keeps track of all your reservations. If changes are necessary, you’ll need to go
through the rebooking process to arrange new travel. Finally, always check the latest
travel advisories before your trip, as they provide important information about
safety and health concerns in your destination.

CONVERSATION PRACTICE
1. What are some common problems travelers face during their trips? 11. What resources can help you find local assistance while traveling?
2. How do you usually prepare for unexpected travel issues? 12. How would you handle a language barrier when seeking help?
3. Have you ever experienced a flight delay? What happened? 13. What should you do if you need to cancel a trip at the last minute?
4. What should you do if you lose your luggage while traveling? 14. How can you request a refund for a canceled flight or accommodation?
5. How can you handle a situation where your hotel reservation is 15. What are some effective ways to rebook your travel plans?
missing? 16. How can having a detailed itinerary help you avoid travel problems?
6. What steps would you take if you had an accident during your trip? 17. What items should you carry with you to handle emergencies?
7. Why is it important to have health insurance while traveling? 18. How do travel advisories impact your travel plans?
8. How can travelers stay safe during emergencies in foreign 19. Can you share a time when you had to change your travel plans
countries? unexpectedly?
9. What would you do if you fell ill while traveling? 20. What is the best advice you’ve received about handling travel-related stress?
10. How do you communicate with airlines or hotels when facing
issues?
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 GRAMMAR FOCUS: IMPERATIVES FOR GIVING ADVICE OR INSTRUCTIONS
Grammar Rules and Examples:
Imperatives are used to give direct commands, advice, or instructions.
To form an imperative, use the base form of the verb (without a subject).
Imperatives can be positive (telling someone to do something) or negative (telling someone not to do something).
Examples:
Positive Imperatives: Negative Imperatives:
"Contact the airline immediately." "Don’t leave your bags unattended."
"Keep your belongings close." "Never share your personal information online."
"Follow the signs to the nearest exit." "Don’t forget to double-check your documents."

Fill in the blanks with the correct imperative form.

1. ________ the weather forecast before packing for your trip.
PRACTICE EXERCISE 2. ________ to carry your ID card.
3. ________ your phone during the meeting.
4. ________ too loudly in the library.
5. ________ at the entrance until I arrive.

FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT
"Survival Kit" Discussion:
Task: Identify and discuss essential items for managing travel challenges.
Consider what items you would include in a "travel survival kit" to handle unexpected travel problems (e.g., extra cash, phone
charger, first aid kit).
Create a list of these items with your teacher, and explain the purpose of each one.
Discuss how each item could help prevent or solve common travel issues.
Reflect on how being prepared can affect the overall travel experience and reduce.

AUTHENTIC ASSESSMENT (5 POINTS)

Task: Problem-Solving Activity
Choose one scenario from the options provided and identify possible solutions using imperative format (e.g., "Call the airline to
rebook"). After listing your solutions, discuss the pros and cons of each solution, considering factors such as time involved and any
potential fees.

Sample: Your flight is canceled unexpectedly.

Possible solutions:
“Call the airline to rebook.”
Pro: Directly addresses the issue, allowing for quick rebooking to the next available flight.
Con: Long wait times on the phone can be frustrating, especially during busy travel periods.

“Find a nearby hotel for the night.”

Pro: Provides a comfortable place to rest and regroup if you have to wait for the next flight.
Con: Additional hotel costs can add up quickly, especially if booked last minute.

Scenario 1: You lost your passport at the airport. Scenario 2: Your luggage didn’t arrive at your destination.

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 KEY VOCABULARY
1. Reflection – Serious thought or consideration. 6. Review – A formal assessment of something with the
2. Memory – The faculty by which the mind stores and remembers intention of instituting change if necessary.
information. 7. Summary – A brief statement of the main points.
3. Feedback – Information about reactions to a product or service. 8. Highlights – The best or most important parts of something.
4. Exploration – The action of traveling in or through an unfamiliar area 9. Journey – An act of traveling from one place to another.
to learn about it. 10. Satisfaction – Fulfillment of one's wishes or needs.
5. Suggestion – An idea or plan put forward for consideration.

READING PASSAGE

Reading Passage
Reflecting on a journey helps travelers gain a deeper understanding of their experiences and
the satisfaction they felt throughout the trip. By reviewing their memories and focusing on
the highlights, travelers can create a summary of their adventures that captures the essence
of their journey. This reflection not only helps preserve the experience but also allows them Comprehension Questions:
to share valuable insights with others. 1. How does reflecting on a journey help
travelers understand their experiences?
Feedback is equally important in travel planning, as it can guide future travelers by offering 2. Why is it important for travelers to
useful recommendations. After reflecting on their trip, individuals often provide feedback to
document the highlights of their trip?
friends or online platforms, helping others make informed decisions. This exchange of
feedback ensures continuous improvement, enabling travelers to refine their plans and make 3. In what way does feedback contribute to
future journeys even more rewarding. improving future travel experiences?

CONVERSATION PRACTICE

1. What travel memory has had the biggest impact on you? 11. How do you know if a trip was successful for you?
2. How do you like to document your travels, and why? 12. What makes a travel itinerary effective in your opinion?
3. What feelings do you experience when you revisit your travel 13. What is a valuable lesson you've learned from traveling?
memories? 14. What advice would you give to someone planning their first
4. What stories from your travels do you love to share with others? trip?
5. What insights did you gain from your most recent trip? 15. How do you find and embrace new experiences while
6. How does social media influence the way you share your travel traveling?
experiences? 16. What do you do when you encounter challenges on a trip?
7. What unique experiences would you recommend for first-time 17. What’s the first thing you do when you come back from a trip?
visitors to your country? 18. How do you feel about returning to places that have special
8. How do you decide which travel stories to tell your friends and meaning for you?
family? 19. If you could change one thing about your last trip, what would
9. What key moments would you highlight in a travel blog about it be?
your adventures? 20. How does sharing your travel experiences enhance your
10. What brings you the most joy when traveling? enjoyment of future trips?

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 GRAMMAR FOCUS: PAST TENSE FOR SHARING EXPERIENCES

Grammar Rules and Examples:

The past tense is used to describe actions that occurred at a specific time in the past. Irregular verbs do not follow the regular -ed
pattern and have unique forms in the past tense.
Examples:
Irregular verb: "I went to the beach last summer."
Irregular verb: "She saw her favorite band in concert.”
Fill in the blanks using the past tense form of the irregular verbs provided
in the parentheses.
1. I (go) ________ to many new places during my last trip.
PRACTICE EXERCISE 2. We (see) ________ some stunning sights along the way.
3. They (give) ________ us excellent advice for our travels.
4. She (take) ________ lots of photos during her vacation.
5. He (write) ________ about his experiences in a blog.

FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Photo Storytelling:
Task: Select 2-3 photos from a previous trip and share a story about each one. For each photo, describe what is happening, why
the moment was meaningful, and how it added to your travel experience.
Example: "This photo was taken at a local market in Morocco. I tried traditional street food here and had a conversation with a
vendor who shared his life story."

AUTHENTIC ASSESSMENT (5 POINTS)

Task: Travel Experience Discussion
Prepare to share your travel story by answering the following points.
1. Introduce the Trip: Explain where you went and why.
Prompt: "What made you pick that destination?"
2. Key Moments: Share the highlights of your trip.
Question: "What was the best part of your trip?"
3. Challenges: Talk about any difficulties and how you handled them.
Prompt: "How did you manage challenges, like delays or misunderstandings?"
4. Recommendations: Offer tips for future travelers.
Question: "What advice would you give for visiting this place?"

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