Getting Around Without a Car
Learning Goals:
- Learn new words about different ways to travel.
- Talk about why using different types of transportation is important.
- Read a story about someone who changed how they travel.
- Listen to a conversation about making cities better for walking and biking.
- Write about your own experience with transportation.
Key Words:
- Walking: Going from one place to another on your feet.
- Biking: Riding a bicycle.
- Taxi: A car you pay someone to drive you in.
- Ride-sharing: Using an app on your phone to get a ride with someone else who is going the same way.
- Public transportation: Buses, trains, and subways that everyone can use.
Let’s Talk About It!
- How do you usually get to school/work?
- Have you ever tried walking, biking, or using public transportation instead of a car? What was it like?
- Why do you think some people choose to not drive a car? (It’s better for the environment, it’s good exercise, it saves money.)
Let’s Read a Story!
Maria used to drive her car to work every day. But then she started biking instead. At first, it was hard, but then she got stronger. She also saved money on gas and felt healthier. Now, she loves biking to work!
Questions about the Story:
- How did Maria used to get to work?
- Why did she change how she traveled?
- What are some good things that happened because she started biking?
Listen and Learn!
(Teacher plays a short conversation about how cities can become more friendly to people who walk and bike.)
Talk with a Partner!
One of you is a person who loves biking. The other person is curious about it. Ask and answer questions about biking.
Example:
- Curious Person: “Why do you like biking so much?”
- Biker: “It’s fun, and it’s good for the environment!”
Homework:
Write a short paragraph about your favorite way to travel. Why do you like it?
Extra Fun:
Draw a picture of your city with lots of people walking, biking, and using public transportation.