Lesson & Activities

CLB 4-6

CEFR A2-B1

Canada's Unpredictable Spring Weather

Printable Activities - Canada's Unpredictable Spring Weather

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Speaking Activity - Conversation Questions

Instructions:

Listen to and read the conversation questions.
Practice your speaking by answering each question out loud.
See some possible answers to the conversation questions by clicking the side arrows next to each question.

Conversation Questions

Conversation Questions - Canada's Unpredictable Spring SeasonLearn English with NETOL

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1. In which month does the spring season begin?

In Ontario, Canada, spring begins in March.

2. How is the weather where you live during the spring season?

3. What outdoor activities can people do in spring?

4. What is your favourite season?

Writing Activity - Pre-Reading Vocabulary

Instructions:

Get a pencil and paper.
Copy the words from below.
Look up the definitions of the words online.
Get to know the definitions of each word.

Important Words - Canada's Unpredictable Spring Weather

fascinating
unpredictable
season
mood
temperature
degrees
phenomenon
unexpected
severe
weather conditions
heads-up
meteorologist

Important Words - Canada's Unpredictable Spring SeasonLearn English with NETOL

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Reading Activity - Canada's Unpredictable Spring Weather

Instructions:

Read the following passage about Canada's Unpredictable Spring Season.
Thereafter, listen to - Canada's Unpredictable Spring Season audio.

Note: Reading out loud when learning a new language is important because it helps you practice your pronunciation. When you speak the words, you can hear how they sound, and this will improve your speaking skills.

Canada's Fascinating Spring Season

Spring in Canada is a fascinating season where the weather begins to reveal its unpredictable side. As winter fades away, we slowly see nature come back to life with blooming flowers and melting snow. However, the temperatures can change very quickly, making every day feel like an unpredictable surprise.

Ontario's Seasonal Changes

Throughout the year, Ontario's weather displays its distinct charm. Summer brings long, sunny, and warm days. In autumn, the trees transform as their leaves change colour and fall. Winter covers the province in frost and snow, turning it into a winter wonderland. During spring, we experience gentle warmth, melting ice, singing birds, and blossoming flowers.

The Beauty of the Spring Season in Canada

As the snow melts during the spring season, Canada's landscape changes dramatically. When spring arrives, it brings colourful flowers and budding trees, which turn parks and gardens into lively displays of pink and green. One of the most famous sights is the cherry blossoms that cover cities like Toronto, drawing thousands of visitors every year. The City of Toronto says that the cherry blossom season attracts about 200,000 visitors to High Park each year.

The Unpredictable Nature of Spring

Every year during the spring season, Ontario experiences unpredictable spring weather. The weather conditions in Ontario are similar to a mood ring because weather conditions can change a lot in just one single day. Ontario can have a temperature change of over 15 degrees Celsius in just one day, showing how dramatic the weather can be during the spring season.

Four Seasons in a Single Day

It's common to experience all four seasons in one day during the spring season. Imagine waking up to raindrops on your window, only to face icy conditions by mid-morning. The afternoon may bring snow, and as the day ends, the sun can break through, making it feel warm enough to not wear a jacket.. This common phenomenon reminds us to always have different clothes ready, showing us that in Canada, it's important to expect the unexpected.

Severe Weather in Spring

Severe weather is also a challenge during spring. Rainfall, thunderstorms, ice storms, hail, strong winds, and flooding in some areas can cause travel difficulties and even damage property. Many communities around Ontario work hard to prepare for and respond to these unpredictable conditions. Staying updated on weather conditions, watches, and warnings during the spring season is important for everyone's safety.

Weather Conditions: What is the Difference Between Weather Watches and Weather Warnings?

When checking the weather on different weather apps, you may see alerts called weather watch or weather warning. What is the difference between the two alerts?

Weather Watch:

A weather watch means that the weather conditions are right for thunderstorms or tornadoes to develop. It is like a "heads-up" that severe weather is possible. For example, if meteorologists see that the air is very warm and moist with strong winds, they might issue a watch for thunderstorms. In this case, you should keep an eye on the news and be ready, but there is no immediate danger.

Weather Warning:

A weather warning, on the other hand, is issued when severe weather is expected very soon or is already happening. For example, if a thunderstorm with heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning is now approaching your area, meteorologists may issue a warning. Similarly, if a tornado has been spotted or detected by radar, a tornado warning is issued immediately. This means you should quickly follow safety instructions and seek shelter right away.

Weather and Its Effect on Our Health

Spring's changing weather can pose health risks. Changes in temperature may lead to colds or flu-like symptoms as our immune systems adjust. Health Canada reports a higher risk of seasonal illnesses during this time of the year. Dressing appropriately for spring's changing weather conditions is important for staying healthy throughout the season.

Conclusion: Embracing the Unpredictability of Canadian Spring Weather

In conclusion, the spring season in Canada is full of unpredictable surprises and challenges. While the season brings beauty and new life to the landscape, it also reminds us to be prepared for sudden changes in weather and to take extra care, exercise caution, and dress appropriately. By understanding the ups and downs of this beautiful season, we can better enjoy all that spring has to offer.

Listening Activity - Canada's Unpredictable Spring Weather

Instructions:

Press the play buttons below.
Listen to the 2 audio files in order from 1 to 2.
Use the reading from above to follow along with the audio files.

Canada's Unpredictable Spring Weather: From Snow to Sunshine and Everything In Between - Audio

Part 1:

Audio Part 1 - Canada's Unpredictable Spring WeatherLearn English with NETOL

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Part 2:

Audio Part 2 - Canada's Unpredictable Spring WeatherLearn English with NETOL

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Writing Activity - Weather Watches Versus Weather Warnings

Instructions:

Get a pencil and paper.
Make a list from 1 to 10.
Read the weather advisories.
Decide which weather advisory is a weather watch or a weather warning by writing watch or warning next to each number.
Check your answers by clicking on the side arrows next to each weather advisory.

Weather Advisories: Weather Watches Versus Weather Warnings

Weather Advisory 1:

A snowstorm is expected to bring heavy snowfall and strong winds later this evening. Travel conditions may become extremely hazardous in affected areas. Is this advisory a weather watch or a weather warning?

Weather Warning

Weather Advisory 2:

Accumulating snowfall is possible later tonight. Residents are advised to monitor local broadcasts for further updates on changing conditions. . Is this advisory a weather watch or a weather warning?

Weather Advisory 3:

Prolonged heavy rainfall is forecast for the region and may cause flooding in low-lying areas. Residents should prepare for possible emergencies. Is this advisory a weather watch or a weather warning?

Weather Advisory 4:

Severe thunderstorms with large hail and gusty winds are approaching the area. Residents should take shelter immediately and avoid travel if possible. Is this advisory a weather watch or a weather warning?

Weather Advisory 5:

Light freezing rain is anticipated late tonight, which may result in ice accumulation on roads and sidewalks. The situation will be monitored closely. Is this advisory a weather watch or a weather warning?

Weather Advisory 6:

Conditions favourable for thunderstorms are developing this afternoon. Although no immediate threat is observed, residents should remain alert for potential escalation. Is this advisory a weather watch or a weather warning?

Weather Advisory 7:

A tornado has been sighted nearby. Immediate precautions are necessary—seek shelter and avoid windows. Is this advisory a weather watch or a weather warning?

Weather Advisory 8:

Early-morning temperatures may dip enough to promote frost formation. While no significant damage is expected, conditions warrant close observation. Is this advisory a weather watch or a weather warning?

Weather Advisory 9:

High temperatures and high humidity have prompted a heat advisory for the area. Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities. Is this advisory a weather watch or a weather warning?

Weather Advisory 10:

Strong winds combined with sleet are moving into the region, which may lead to power outages and difficult travel conditions. Residents should exercise caution. Is this advisory a weather watch or a weather warning?