Taking the Train in the USA: All You Need to Know - Pre-Reading Worksheet

Predict Before Reading

Work in pairs. Look at the title, the first sentence, and the photograph. Discuss.
1. Focus on the phrase: “All you need to know.”
What does it suggest about the article? Make a list of topics or tips you expect to find.

2. Look at the first sentence of the article below in italics.
Think riding the rails is a thing of the past in the USA? Think again.
a. What do you understand about the way train travel is viewed in the U.S.?
b. What might “Think again” mean?
c. What kind of tone or message does the sentence suggest?

3. Based on the title, the first sentence, and the photograph, what general impression do you get of train travel in the U.S.? Write 1-2 sentences.
Be ready to share your list and ideas with the class.