Learning Objective: This is a conversation, vocabulary and discussion class. At the end of the session, the participants are expected to enhance crtitical thinking and vocabulary skills.




Story Proper

The Tour de France bicycle race was sabotaged yesterday by someone who threw small nails onto the road. Several riders had to change their tyres because of punctures. Defending champion Cadel Evans had a flat tyre three times. Race leader Bradley Wiggins also had to change his back tyre but he did not say if it was because of the tacks on the road. Race director Jean-Francois Pecheux has asked the police to find out who scattered the tacks on the road, but said it would be "difficult" because there are thousands of spectators.



Race leader Bradley Wiggins slowed down when he heard the news. He wanted to give Evans enough time to catch up with the leading pack. The rules of the race say no rider should take advantage of another rider's bad luck. Cadel later thanked Wiggins for his sportsmanship. When the stage finished, Wiggins said: "What can you do? It's something we can't control….It's sad. Those are the type of things we have to put up with as cyclists." Wiggins is hoping to become the first British rider ever to win the Tour de France.


"Online activities, the mp3 and printable handouts are available for this lesson at http://www.breakingnewsenglish.com"




Discussion Proper

1. Paraphrase: Summarize the story in your own words based on your own understanding.


2. Tour de France: What do you know about Tour de France?


3. Sabotage: Have you been sabotaged personally or do you have any unforgettable story or experience of someone you've heard of being sabotaged?


4. Prevention: Is there any practical means of avoiding sabotage?