French company offers fine dining on the edge of space

admin 2023年6月28日

Intermediate

science, science & technology

Pre-reading questions:

I will read each question. Then, please answer them.

Do you have an unforgettable dining experience? Tell me about it.
If you were asked to enhance a dining experience, what feature would you add?

Vocabulary:

I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.

innovative /IN-uh-vey-tiv/

[adjective] – using new methods or ideas
The innovative teaching methods employed by the teacher made the classroom experience engaging and interactive for the students.

twist /twist/

[noun] – a change in the way in which something happens
The movie had an unexpected twist in the plot, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats.

partially /PAHR-shuh-lee/

[adverb] – not completely
The construction project was partially completed before it was delayed due to bad weather.

prior /PRAHY-er/

[adjective] – existing or happening before something else, or before a particular time:
Please submit your report prior to the end of the business day.

exceptional /ik-SEP-shuh-nl/

[adjective] – much greater than usual, especially in skill, intelligence, quality, etc.
The chef’s culinary skills were exceptional, as every dish they prepared received rave reviews.

Article reading:

Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.

Celeste, an innovative luxury dining experience combined with a high-altitude balloon journey, is set to revolutionize the culinary world. Zephalto, a French company, intends to create a unique dining adventure by featuring a rotating roster of culinary masters who will be free to create their own menus. The goal is to provide a personalized guest experience. Some chefs may decide to serve the meal before the journey begins to add a mysterious twist to the concept. To ensure safety, Zephalto has partnered with France’s space agency and a famous aviation company. The balloon that will be used for Celeste will be powered by helium and will be required to meet the same European Aviation Safety Agency certifications as commercial aircraft.

Zephalto has already conducted three partially piloted test flights, with plans to conduct a full journey test later this year. People of all ages can join the flights, and no prior training is necessary for this extraordinary gastronomic adventure. Initially, Celeste will launch from France, but Zephalto plans to expand its operations worldwide. Zephalto’s commitment to creative freedom, safety, and accessibility is evident in its successful test flights, partnerships with known organizations, and ambitious plans for global expansion. Celeste promises to provide an exceptional and elegant dining experience that will be accessible to everyone, making it a truly remarkable and unforgettable adventure.

Comprehension questions

I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.

What is the concept behind Celeste’s dining experience?
Who has Zephalto partnered with to ensure safety?
How many partially piloted test flights has Zephalto conducted?
Who can join the flights for Celeste?
In which country will Celeste initially launch?

Discussion questions