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Level A1 – BeginnerCEFR A1
2 min
72 words
- Cigarette filters often end up in rivers, lakes and oceans.
- They release many tiny microfibers into the water quickly.
- The filter sheds fibers almost immediately on contact.
- More fibers break away from the filter over several days.
- Fish and birds can swallow the tiny fibers by mistake.
- The fibers can carry harmful chemicals and tiny germs.
- This pollution can block digestion and harm animals.
- Putting more bins for butts can reduce pollution.
Difficult words
- filter — a small part that traps particlesfilters
- microfiber — a very small thread or plastic piecemicrofibers
- shed — to lose small pieces or let them fallsheds
- swallow — to take something into the stomach by mouth
- harmful — dangerous or likely to cause harm
- pollution — dirty or harmful material in the environment
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you seen cigarette butts in rivers or lakes?
- Do you use a bin when you see a cigarette butt?
- Do you think more bins can help reduce pollution?
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