1Lesson Goals
I will be able to:
- describe what people can do at Tūranga.
- use can and could to ask for help.
- plan a library visit with a partner.
Start here: What do you like doing in a library?
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Tūranga Library
Christchurch · Learning and community
Teacher note: The library illustration is an imagined scene, not a photograph of Tūranga. Read the listening script from the teacher answers twice. Learners can plan a visit without visiting the library.
2Reading
Tūranga is the central public library in Christchurch. It stands in Cathedral Square and opened on 12 October 2018. The building has five floors, with different spaces for reading, learning and relaxing.
Visitors can borrow books, read magazines and use computers. There are places to study quietly and spaces where people can meet or learn together. Children have their own area with books and activities.
Tūranga also has creative spaces. People can explore technology, including 3D printing, or learn practical skills. Some equipment and activities need a booking or help from staff, so it is a good idea to ask first.
The building’s design reflects connections with Ngāi Tahu and Ngāi Tūāhuriri. Its art and cultural stories help visitors learn about the local area.
A library visit can be useful for English learners. You can look for a book at your level, read with a friend or ask a librarian a question. Tūranga shows that a library can be a place for both quiet study and shared learning.
3Vocabulary
Match 1–6 with A–F.
- borrow
- quietly
- equipment
- booking
- librarian
- creative
A. a person who works in a library
B. things used for a particular activity
C. to take something to use and return later
D. able to make or think of new things
E. with little noise
F. an arrangement to use something at a particular time
Use two words in your own sentences.
4Reading Comprehension
- Where is Tūranga?
- When did it open?
- How many floors does it have?
- Name two things visitors can do there.
- Why should visitors ask before using some equipment?
- Which groups have connections with the building’s design?
- How could a library visit help an English learner?
Answer in sentences. Use the reading.
5Grammar
Can + base verb: You can borrow a book.
Could I…? / Could you…? Polite requests: Could you help me?
Complete each sentence with can or could. Use could for the polite requests.
- Visitors ___ borrow books.
- ___ you help me find a book, please?
- We ___ use the computers.
- ___ I ask you a question, please?
6Listening & Speaking
Listen: Your teacher will read a short script twice. Answer these questions.
- What time will the friends meet?
- What will they do first?
- Who will they ask about the creative spaces?
Then discuss with a partner:
- What would you like to do at Tūranga?
- Which activity would help your English? Why?
- Agree on two activities and a time to meet.
Try: I think… because… / We could… / What do you think?
Tūranga Library — continued
7Writing
Write 60–80 words inviting a friend to visit Tūranga. Include a meeting time, two activities and a polite request. Use can at least once.
Plan your ideas, then write.
Check capitals, punctuation and verb forms.
8Something New
Library helper: Match each need with the best action.
1. You need a place to concentrate.
2. You want to use special equipment.
3. You cannot find an easy book.
A. Ask a librarian for a recommendation.
B. Look for a quiet study space.
C. Ask about booking and staff help.
9Success Criteria ✓
- I can describe what people can do at Tūranga.
- I can use can and could to ask for help.
- I can plan a library visit with a partner.
- I can use three new words.
- I can answer questions about the listening.
Exit reflection: One thing I learned…
One thing I want to practise…
10Show What You Can Do
Final challenge: Make a three-step plan for an English-learning visit. For each step, say what you will do and how it will help you learn.