Do you sometimes feel sad when the weather is bad?
What is your favorite season? Which sport do you like to do during this time of the year?
Vocabulary development
Activity 1: Vocabulary Development
Activity 2: Grammar: Be + Have
Activity 3: Video & comprehension questions
Activity 4: Reading
Activity 5: Speaking
Activity 6: Vocabulary review
Grammar
Be and Have to describe emotions and symptoms
Use “be” + adjective Use “have” + noun
I am tired. | I have a fever. |
Are you happy? | Do you have a cold? |
He is frustrated. | He has a temperature. |
She is depressed. | She has a stomachache. |
We are sleepy. | We have a headache. |
They are scared. | They have the blues. |
They are not in great shape. | Do they have a mild depression? |
She was afraid. | She didn’t have a sore throat. |
Watch the capsule
Answer the comprehension questions that follow.
Reading & comprehension questions
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that happens during certain times of the year. It usually begins in the fall or winter when there is less sunlight, but many people start to feel better again in the spring and summer when the days are longer and brighter.
SAD is mostly caused by the lack of sunlight. Sunlight helps control our body’s natural clock, which affects how we feel and sleep. Less sunlight can cause changes in the brain, leading to lower levels of serotonin, a chemical that helps us feel happy. This can make people feel tired, sad, or stressed.
People with SAD may feel down most of the day, lose interest in activities they enjoy, sleep more than usual, and eat more. They may also have low energy and find it hard to concentrate.
SAD affects women more often than men. In fact, about four out of five people with SAD are women. However, when men do get SAD, their symptoms can be stronger.
Fortunately, there are helpful ways to treat SAD. Light therapy, where a person sits near a special light that mimics natural sunlight, is a popular solution. Other treatments include talking to a therapist, spending more time outside during daylight, and getting regular exercise.
The good news is that people with SAD can feel better. With the right support and care, most people begin to enjoy life again. Brighter days – pun intended – are ahead.
Writing or Speaking
Vocabulary review