Using “ao” Posted by Rachel on Dec 24, 2009
Today, we’re going to examine how to use “ao” as a preposition. Here, it is used as “upon” or “when.” Ao descobrir o rato no quarto, ela deu um grito. When she discovered the mouse in her room, she screamed. Ao encontrar o garoto perdido, ficamos aliviados. Upon finding the lost boy, we felt relieved…
In the News: Goldman Case Posted by Rachel on Dec 23, 2009
This week, it was hard to avoid the biggest news story coming out of Brazil: the fate of the Goldman case. Sean Goldman, born in the US, was abducted by his Brazilian mother in 2004 when he was four. She brought him to Rio de Janeiro, remarried, and died during childbirth last year. Sean’s father…
Piranha Attack Posted by Rachel on Dec 22, 2009
This week, tourists in Ubarana, São Paulo had a nasty surprise during a day at the river. People swimming in the Rio Tietê in São Paulo state were attacked by piranhas. Luckily, no one was badly hurt and those who were bitten were treated at a nearby clinic. According to the authorities, the piranhas attack…
Globo Amazônia Videos Posted by Rachel on Dec 21, 2009
Globo Amazônia has launched a really cool new feature where readers and activists can send in their videos discussing why the Amazon and environmental preservation are important. Watch Cristiane Torloni’s video and then see if you can answer the following questions: 1. What two words does she use to describe “failure?” 2. What event does…
NPR Coverage of Brazil Posted by Rachel on Dec 18, 2009
NPR has had quite a few stories about Brazil lately, and they are always excellent and interesting. Check out the latest news features and be sure to listen to them, too! In One Brazilian Farm Town, Reviving the Forest Brazil Pins Hopes on Massive, Untapped Oil Fields In Brazil’s Slums, Police Try a Softer Touch…
Estar satisfeito Posted by Rachel on Dec 17, 2009
Today, we’re going to study a nice little expression you can use in a number of ways. 1. to be pleased Ela está satisfeita com os resultados. She’s pleased by the results. Estamos satisfeitos com o projeto. We’re pleased with the project. 2. to be full Não quero mais bolo. Estou satisfeita. I don’t want…
Drought in the Northern Amazon Posted by Rachel on Dec 16, 2009
Even though the weather phenomenon El Niño takes place in the Pacific, its effects are far reaching. The north of the Amazon is currently experiencing a devastating drought, affecting the lives of fishermen and residents who live along the Rio Negro. There are so many dead fish, claims a visiting photographer, that you can smell…