Across cultures: Living ‘off-grid’ What do you think ‘off-grid’ refers to? What clues can you find in the photo? Read the first paragraph of the article on the next page to check. Which verbs collocate with these nouns to describe what an ‘off-gridder’ does? Now read all of the article. 1 Find nouns and adjectives which describe ‘off-gridders’ and their lifestyle. Example: noticeable glee, smug, … 2 Which ones show the ‘off-gridders’ in a positive light? Which in a negative light? Discuss these questions. 1 How are ‘off-gridders’ viewed in Austria: as pioneers or dreamers? 2 How would you describe Perez’s tone at the start and the end of the article? Do you see a contradiction in living ‘off-grid’, but having a 21st-century lifestyle? 3 Why do you think it is becoming more popular? Do you think ‘off-grid’ living could become popular where you live? Why? / Why not? 4 Think about three different Austrian regions. How easy would ‘off-grid’ living be in each of them? Give reasons. a Reading 27 b c electricity own waste disposal own water 28 Speaking 29 Which view is closer to your own? A Today’s society is ever more irresponsible and selfish, so the world as we know it is unlikely to survive. B We are better informed than ever about the harm we do to the planet, so there is real hope for humanity. Divide into group A or group B according to your point of view. Group A, read about George Monbiot on p. 219 and answer the questions. Group B, read about the ‘Doomsday Clock’ on p. 221 and answer the questions. Prepare to debate the issue. Think of arguments to support your view. The following expressions might be useful: Reporting an opinion What he/she’s saying is … The point he/she’s making is … One example he/she gives is … Agreeing, partly agreeing or disagreeing I think he/she makes a valid point … I think he/she’s spot on … I (partly/don’t) agree with … Expressing your own opinion on a topic It seems to me … I think it’s terrible the way … I don’t approve of … Conduct a debate with the other group. Media task. In class brainstorm which other pressing environmental problems there are: e.g. waste, the loss of biodiversity, genetically modified food, food production in general, fossil fuels, nuclear energy, etc. Choose one of them and prepare a presentation. In your presentation, you should: ■■ describe the problems ■■ explain the causes ■■ suggest improvements and possible solutions Give your presentation in class and provide a handout including a list of important technical terms related to your topic. Speaking 25 a b c d 26 104 Language skills Extras Explore 8 Saving the world Nur zu Prüfzwecken – Eigent m des Verlags öbv
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