A River Between Neighbours
Suggested lesson sequence
Warm up (2 minutes), read for gist, read again for detail, compare answers with evidence, complete vocabulary, discuss and write. Adapt timing to the learner. Score comprehension separately from vocabulary; neither score establishes a CEFR level.
Answer key
- C. Norvale is upstream; Southmere is downstream.
The opening establishes their positions on the same river. Evidence: paragraph 1.
- C. Control over decisions whose effects cross borders
Downstream communities are affected by decisions in which they have no vote. Evidence: paragraph 2.
- C. They may hide shortages at important times.
Seasonal timing can matter even when an annual average appears acceptable. Evidence: paragraph 3.
- B. Agreements need workable verification and response procedures.
The questions about measurement and drought concern practical implementation. Evidence: paragraph 4.
- A. They may reveal uneven effects and overlooked knowledge.
Local experience adds information without guaranteeing agreement. Evidence: paragraph 5.
- B. Judge measurable effects and allow transparent adaptation.
The conclusion calls for evidence, testable commitments and open revision. Evidence: paragraph 6.
Vocabulary key
- upstream
- verify
- predetermined
Speaking and writing guidance
Accept different opinions when supported with reasons. Assess task completion, clarity, vocabulary and sentence control separately. For B2, look for a supported position, a relevant counterargument and a response. Do not score political or philosophical agreement.
All stories and country scenarios in this series are original fictional teaching texts. Defne is a recurring fictional adult from İzmir, living in İstanbul and working as a flight attendant. New stories do not establish her exact age, employer or a job change.