Audio: What is a "passive" home?

A2, B1, B2

In this audio programme from the VOA Special English site, you will learn what a "passive" home is and how it  saves energy. The programme is written in simplified American English and the presenters speak slowly to help you with comprehension. American accents.  Audio time: 3 minutes 55 seconds. Total activity time: 15 to 30 minutes.


Task: Listen to the programme without reading the transcript and discover:

- how much of the total US energy use comes from homes
- how much passive homes reduce energy costs
- how passive homes are similar to or different from normal homes
- the temperature inside an unfinished passive home on a cold winter's day
- where and when the first passive home was built
- the price compared with normal homes
- how passive homes can be made more energy-efficient

Then read the transcript and check your answers.

If you have problems understanding, listen with the transcript. Then cover the transcript, listen again and answer the questions.

Go to the activity here.