Reading Lesson 6: A Trip to Angkor Wat

Intro:

Get ready to explore one of the most amazing places in Cambodia – Angkor Wat! This ancient temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Khmer culture. In this lesson, you’ll learn about its history, architecture, and significance.

Reading:

Angkor Wat, located in Siem Reap province, is the largest religious monument in the world. It was built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu. Later, it gradually transformed into a Buddhist temple.

The temple complex is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture. It is surrounded by a moat and a wall, and its central tower rises high above the surrounding jungle. The temple walls are covered in intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and Khmer history.

Visitors to Angkor Wat can explore the many galleries, courtyards, and terraces. The temple is especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset, when the golden light reflects off the stone.

Angkor Wat is not only a religious site but also a source of national pride for Cambodians. It is a symbol of the country’s rich history and culture.

Vocabulary:

• monument (noun): a structure or building erected to commemorate a person or event.
• moat (noun): a deep, wide ditch surrounding a castle, fortification, or town, typically filled with water.
• carving (noun): an object or design cut from a hard material as an artistic work.
• depict (verb): show or represent by a drawing, painting, or other art form.
• mythology (noun): a collection of myths, especially one belonging to a particular religious or cultural tradition.

Tasks:

1. Answer the questions:
   • Where is Angkor Wat located?
   • Who built Angkor Wat?
   • What was Angkor Wat originally dedicated to?
   • What are the temple walls covered in?
   • Why is Angkor Wat important to Cambodians?
2. Identify Key Features:
   • Look at a picture of Angkor Wat and identify the following features:
     • moat
     • wall
     • central tower
     • galleries
     • courtyards
     • terraces
3. Summarize the Story:
   • Write a short summary (3-5 sentences) of the text about Angkor Wat.
4. Create a Travel Brochure:
   • Imagine you are a tour guide for Angkor Wat.
   • Create a travel brochure that includes:
     • A brief description of Angkor Wat
     • A list of interesting facts
     • Tips for visitors
     • Pictures or drawings

Answer Key:

1. Answer the questions:
   • Siem Reap province
   • King Suryavarman II
   • The god Vishnu
   • Intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and Khmer history
   • It is a symbol of Cambodia’s rich history and culture.
2. Identify Key Features: (Check student’s answers with a picture of Angkor Wat)
3. Summarize the Story: (Allow for individual answers, but check for accuracy and completeness)
4. Create a Travel Brochure: (Allow for creativity and individual expression, but assess for relevant information and visual appeal)

Outro:

Congratulations on your virtual tour of Angkor Wat! This incredible temple complex is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the Khmer people. It is a place of wonder and beauty that has captivated visitors for centuries. Remember to keep exploring and learning about the rich history and culture of Cambodia.