Embedded Files
Preparation work for live session
Preparation work for live session
We're going to watch a documentary on the concept of the megacity: the most extreme form of urbanisation. This first episode of the series looks in detail at four of the world's megacities: Shanghai, Dhaka, Tokyo and Mexico City (London is also part of the series, but features less in this episode). What do you already know about these cities? What preconceived ideas do you have?
Live session discussion - task review
Live session discussion - task review
Introduction
Introduction
What language is used to describe modern cities?
How is a megacity defined?
What has led to the development of the megacity?
Dhaka
Dhaka
What's life like in Dhaka's slums?
Shanghai
Shanghai
How has Shanghai changed?
How did the entrepreneur Tang make his fortune?
London
London
How does the presenter describe skyscrapers?
What is special about the Shard?
What do all tall buildings usually have in common?
Live session discussion - Episode 1: Living in the City
Live session discussion - Episode 1: Living in the City
Have you ever been to one of the megacities that appeared on the map at the beginning of the episode? Or are you from a megacity?
Most importantly, which of the cities in the episode would you most like to live in?
What do the cities in this episode have in common, and in what ways do they differ?
What is the attraction of cities such as this to people from rural areas?
Independent study - Episode 2: Cities on the edge
Independent study - Episode 2: Cities on the edge
The second episode of the Megacities series looks at risks that people encounter when living in close proximity to so many others. The first time you listen, make some notes on the key points about dangers and vulnerabilities associated with each of the cities.
Listening for details
Listening for details
What problems do megacities struggle with?
Why are megacities often built in dangerous places?
London
London
What factors cause riots in cities?
What connection have some scientists made between temperature and violent behaviour or riots?
Mexico City
Mexico City
What contributes to social problems in Mexico City?
What did you learn about crime and kidnapping in Mexico City?
In what ways are people protecting themselves against the threat of crime?
Tokyo
Tokyo
What does the example of Tokyo street racers illustrate in the programme?
What is the purpose of Tokyo’s life learning centres?
What is the Tokyo ‘Skytree’; how tall is it; how was it designed?
Critical discussion
Critical discussion
Now that we've discussed the content of the documentary, work together in groups of three or four:
What do the cities have in common in terms of dangers and security? In what ways are they unique?
With each group member focusing on a different city, what do you think they will look like in ten or twenty years time? Will the problems get worse or better? Do you foresee any new problems associated with their growth?
Choose one city. In groups develop a plan of action to help solve the dangers that the megacity that you have chosen faces.
In preparation for the seminar class, please complete online activities on intonation and showing attitude.
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