380. Content-based instruction



Worksheet # 105 [For a student of mine, who is a doctor].

June 21, 2010. This worksheet is a prompt to foster speaking.


What is malaria?

A serious and ancient disease caused by one-celled Plasmodium parasites, malaria is spread by the bite of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. The symptoms of malaria include periodic chills, fever, headache, and sweating. Complications affecting the kidneys, liver, brain, and blood can be fatal. Malaria is a major health problem in the tropics, where it afflicts up to 500 million people.


From: http://kids.britannica.com

1. What are the symptoms of this disease?

2. Does it have any cure?

3. Are there cases in Europe; because it is a disease of Africa, isn’t it?

4. Is it mortal?

5. What is the treatment for this infection?

6. Are there cases in other continents?

7. Is it associated to tropical humid climates?

8. Don’t look at the text. What parts of the body does this disease mainly affect?

9. I have heard that only female mosquitoes bite – is it true?

10. Is it a big problem the abundance of mosquitoes in Africa? If affirmative, could you do anything to protect you from mosquitoes biting you?

11. If I travel to Africa, must I get vaccinated against malaria? Any other vaccinations against other diseases? What procedures should I take to get vaccinated in Spain; where can I carry out these medical services?


Picture from University of Colorado at Boulder.

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