Learning English Podcast - Ancient Snake, Earth Day, Mars Rocks

Dan Novak tells listeners what they will hear on the program.

First, Dan reports on the discovery of a huge snake that lived about 47 million years ago in present-day India. Researchers say the massive snake was longer than a school bus and may have weighed up to a metric ton.

Then, April 22 is the 54th anniversary of Earth Day. On this day each year, people around the world mark the importance of protecting Earth's environment. This year, activists are using Earth Day to push for an end to single-use plastics. Andrew Smith has the report.

Next, we hear the VOA Learning English Science Report from Bryan Lynn. Bryan reports on the American space agency NASA’s goal of seeking a faster, less costly plan to transport rock samples from Mars to Earth. Bryan then joins podcast host Dan Novak in the studio to talk more about NASA’s aims.

Finally, we hear the Lesson of the Day from Andrew Smith and Jill Robbins. Today, Andrew and Jill take a closer look at Lesson 23 of our Let’s Learn English program. In this episode, Ms. Weaver visits local food trucks with her employees Anna and Jonathan. Andrew and Jill talk about why they like – and do not like – food trucks as a choice for a meal. They also explain why Americans sometimes say “outta” instead of “out of.” They also provide a lesson on American coins and the famous people you will find on them. Make sure to listen to the end so that you can hear Andrew and Jill make up a chant about food trucks!