Learning English Podcast for Wednesday September 27, 2023

On today's podcast, Dan Friedell and Caty Weaver host the show while Dan tells listeners what they will hear on the program. First, John Russell has a story about what might be the earliest known wooden structure made by humans. It was found in Zambia.
Then, Dan Novak has the Education Report on a move by Sweden to increase handwriting and book-reading in schools. The move comes after Swedish education officials found a drop in test scores. Scores fell although Sweden is one of the most technology-heavy education systems in Europe. While it is not clear if the electronics are to blame, Swedish officials saw enough of an erosion of skills to place more emphasis on traditional methods.
Then Dan Friedell and Dan Novak have an extended discussion about the report. After than, a promotional message for Let's Learn English with Anna, a VOA program for children.
Next, Mario Ritter has a report on U.S. President Joe Biden's trip to join striking auto workers near Detroit, Michigan. It is believed to be the first time a sitting president has joined a picket line. Finally, John and Bryan have today's Lesson of the Day. The lesson reviews a report about the Atlantic puffin bird which appears to be recovering after a sharp drop in its population in 2021. They look at the word conservation and how it is used in the report and the history of its use. Then, Dan and Caty sign off.

You can read and listen to these stories and more on our website.
Simple Logs May Be Oldest Human-built Wood Structure

Sweden Brings Books, Handwriting Back to School