British Government Assures Olympics Security

Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

1. assure (v.) [uh-shoor, uh-shur] – to tell firmly or confidently

Example: .  The government assured tourists that it is safe to visit the country.

2. elaborate (adj.) [ih-lab-er-it] –with many carefully arranged or planned parts

Example: The elaborate event included over 2000 guests and hundreds of security officers.

3. military exercise (n.) [mil-i-ter-ee ek-ser-sahyz] – the use of military resources in training for military operations

Example: The military exercise revealed how fast the military could respond to emergencies.

4. deployment (n.) [dih-ploi-muhnt] – the organization and sending out of people or things to be used for a specific reason

Example: People protested the deployment of their country’s soldiers overseas.

5. overshadow (v.) [oh-ver-shad-oh] – to make something less fun because of negative emotions like sadness or fear

Example: Her graduation party was overshadowed by her anxiety over the speech she prepared.

Article
Read the text below.

UK Defense Secretary Philip Hammond assures the public that there are no terrorist threats to the London 2012 Olympics. In a TV interview, Mr. Hammond said the elaborate security measures being done in the country are for general security purposes only. Those in charge of security for the 2012 Olympics include the country’s military forces, which held a military exercise from May 2 to 10. The exercise, known as “Exercise Olympic Guardian,” included missile systems tests and the deployment of fighter jets, helicopters and a warship.  Dummy missiles were launched from six different locations in London. Helicopters and jets flew over south east England, while the warship HMS Ocean sailed to Greenwich, an area in south London. In his interview, Mr. Hammond wanted people to know that security will not overshadow the Olympics. He said the military will quietly do its job and that the security measures  will not take the focus away from the Olympic events which will remain a celebration of sports and culture. According to Mr. Hammond, military presence in the Olympics will help make participants feel safe. Also, part of the security measures is the limited flying zone—48km wide—around the Olympic Park, where several games will be held and where the athletes' accommodations is located. Other measures include mobile ground radar systems and the deployment of air observers by the Army.

Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor. 

Discussion A 

·         What do you think of military presence in the Olympics? Please explain further.

·         How much security do you think the Olympics should have? Why do you think so?

Discussion B

·         How do you think people living in London are affected by military exercises and increased security?

·         Would you want to actually visit London for the Olympics? Please explain further.

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