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Warm Up

Helpful Words and Phrases

Listen and repeat.

  1. remarkable
    • ex. Pia has done a remarkable job on her project. Her teacher said it was the best in the class.
  2. an initiative
    • ex. The city began an initiative to build more playgrounds for kids to enjoy.
  3. (be) associated with
    • ex. Chocolate is often associated with happiness and celebrations.
  4. a hardship
    • ex. Losing their home was a great hardship that the family had to face.
  5. hardly
    • ex. It was very dark, so I could hardly see the road.

Article

Read the article below and answer your tutor's questions.

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Children with serious illnesses received a special surprise at a hospital in Kosovo in December. Volunteers dressed as superheroes came to visit the children and bring gifts. Seven children, who are fighting different kinds of cancer, experienced a moment of happiness during this difficult time because of this remarkable initiative. It also gave comfort and joy to the children’s parents.

The hospital is often associated with sadness and hardships. But it became a fun place because of the superheroes. Their goal was to bring hope and joy to children and families through their gifts and costumes. “The children dream about these characters every day,” said Dr. Rufadie Macastena Maxhuni. She explained how much the children loved the visit.

The superheroes were symbols of strength and courage, just like the children who fight illness every day. Meeting their favorite heroes helped the children forget about their treatments for a moment. “You can hardly describe these feelings with words,” said Berat Kajtazi, who played Captain America. This event showed how small acts of kindness can bring so much happiness.

This material was based on an article by The Associated Press.

Discussion

Choose a topic and discuss the questions with your tutor.

Moment of Happiness

  • Seven children at a hospital in Kosovo experienced a moment of happiness when volunteers dressed as superheroes. Do you think small moments of happiness can help people cope with big challenges? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • What experience has given you a moment of happiness (ex. getting married, getting a promotion)? Discuss.
  • How do you think people can create moments of happiness for others who are having a difficult time? Discuss.

Superheroes

  • Why do you think children love superheroes so much? Discuss.
  • What qualities do superheroes have that make them good role models for children? Discuss.
  • Imagine you’re a superhero. What powers would you have? Why? Discuss.