REVISION A
Student’s Book pages 41-42
Before reading
Give two ways in which the writer thinks the ceremony -the 2012 Opening Ceremony-is special.
Suggested answer The writer thinks it is special because he says that the amateur performers put on an incredible show; he also says that the special effects were impressive.
While reading
In the summer of 2012, incredible sporting achievements were celebrated with a unique theatrical spectacle that marked the opening of the Olympics in London. The Olympic stadium was transformed into a stage for a four-hour event that told the history of Britain, up until the modern day.
The spectacle involved thousands of volunteers. These amateur performers and crew put together an incredible show, demonstrating impressive teamwork and a professional attitude throughout. The volunteer cast took the audience on a time-travelling journey from rural England, through the Industrial Revolution, to the 1960s, using dances and sketches that represented each decade.
The special effects were also impressive, with light-shows, optical illusions, incredible scene changes and smooth mechanics. It was a spectacle that appealed to the emotions too. Moments of pride followed moments of humour. Rowan Atkinson (better known as Mr Bean) interrupted an orchestral piece in his own comic style.
After an event such as this, only one thing remained: to pay tribute to the athletes taking part in the Summer Olympics. The Olympians marched around the stadium, capturing the magic of this moment! As the audience watched breathlessly, the Olympics were declared officially open.
To this day, audience members and people who watched the spectacle on their televisions are still talking about the incredible achievement of this celebratory opening ceremony.
The text talks about:
- The four main elements of the show.
- The Olympic Games in London 2012 CE.
After reading
What happened in the summer of 2012 CE?
In the summer of 2012, incredible sporting achievements were celebrated with a unique theatrical spectacle that marked the opening of the Olympics in London. The Olympic stadium was transformed into a stage for a four-hour event that told the history of Britain, up until the modern day.
What did the spectacle involve?
The spectacle involved thousands of volunteers.
Who put an incredible show?
These amateur performers and crew put together an incredible show, demonstrating impressive teamwork and a professional attitude throughout.
What did the volunteer cast do?
The volunteertook the audience on a time-travelling journey from rural England, through the Industrial Revolution, to the 1960s, using dances and sketches that represented each decade.
How were the special effects? Explain.
The special effects were also impressive, with light-shows, optical illusions, incredible scene changes and smooth mechanics. It was a spectacle that appealed to the emotions too.
Who is Rowan Atkinson?
He is better known as Mr Bean interrupted an orchestral piece in his own comic style.
Mention the only thing that remained.
Only one thing remained: to pay tribute to the athletes taking part in the Summer Olympics. The Olympians marched around the stadium, capturing the magic of this moment! As the audience watched breathlessly, the Olympics were declared officially open.
Quote a sentence which indicates that the spectacle is unforgettable.
To this day, audience members and people who watched the spectacle on their televisions are still talking about the incredible achievement of this celebratory opening ceremony.
Write the reference of :
To this day, audience members and people who watched the spectacle on their televisions are still talking about the incredible achievement of this celebratory opening ceremony.
WHO refers to people.
What are the four elements of the show?
The show consisted of sketches, lightshows, dances, music and comedy. The first part was a dance display, which was followed by sketches of important moments in British history. After this, the Olympic athletes joined a procession, and when this finished, the Olympics was offiially opened.