Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What do you think might be some reasons why scientists and space agencies would embark on a mission to explore the moon?
- How do you imagine a mission to explore the moon could impact our understanding of space and our own planet?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- target /TAHR-git /
- potential /puh-TEN-shuhl/
- ambitious /am-BISH-uhs/
- cost-effective /KAWST-i-FEK-tiv/
- contribution /kon-truh-BYOO-shuhn/
[noun] – a specific location or goal selected
The explorer marked an ancient city ruin as the target for their archaeological expedition, eager to uncover hidden secrets and artifacts.
[noun] – the inherent capacity or possibility for growth, development, or success
The young athlete showed great potential in her first few matches, impressing both fans and coaches.
[adjective] – having a strong wish to be successful, powerful, or rich
The ambitious entrepreneur launched a startup with the goal of revolutionizing the tech industry.
[adjective] – producing good results without costing a lot of money; economical
Switching to solar power proved to be a cost-effective solution for the household’s energy needs.
[noun] – the action of giving or providing something, especially to help achieve a common goal
Each team member’s contribution to the project was crucial for its overall success.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Japan is gearing up for a groundbreaking lunar expedition under the leadership of JAXA, with the goal of establishing itself among the elite nations in lunar exploration. The imminent “Moon Sniper” mission, slated for an extraordinary precision landing within 100 meters of its target, is focused on advancing lunar water exploration and evaluating the potential for human habitation. This ambitious endeavor by Japan, resilient and determined, is part of a strategic collaboration with the United States, responding to China’s progress in space exploration. JAXA, aspiring to contribute an astronaut to the lunar landscape through NASA’s Artemis program, aims to showcase Japan’s high-precision technology with the ongoing Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) probe mission, potentially granting Japan a strategic advantage in global space ventures.
The imminent SLIM probe’s 20-minute touchdown could make Japan the fifth nation to land on the moon, showcasing advanced technology with pinpoint landings and advanced cameras. Despite its modest scale, Japan’s avant-garde capabilities position it as a vital player in lunar exploration. Success in this mission may catalyze global, cost-effective lunar missions, thanks to Japan’s expertise in lightweight probe manufacturing. The integration of mini-probes from industry leaders like Sony and Tomy, coupled with contributions from Japanese academia, enhances progress in space exploration.
The imminent SLIM probe’s 20-minute touchdown could make Japan the fifth nation to land on the moon, showcasing advanced technology with pinpoint landings and advanced cameras. Despite its modest scale, Japan’s avant-garde capabilities position it as a vital player in lunar exploration. Success in this mission may catalyze global, cost-effective lunar missions, thanks to Japan’s expertise in lightweight probe manufacturing. The integration of mini-probes from industry leaders like Sony and Tomy, coupled with contributions from Japanese academia, enhances progress in space exploration.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What is the goal of Japan’s lunar expedition, and who is leading it?
- Describe the “Moon Sniper” mission’s focus and its specific objective during landing.
- Explain why Japan’s lunar expedition is described as ambitious, and what is the country’s response to China’s progress in space exploration?
- How does JAXA plan to contribute to the lunar landscape, and what is the name of the ongoing probe mission showcasing Japan’s technology?
- What potential outcome is associated with the success of the SLIM probe’s mission, and how might Japan’s capabilities contribute to global space exploration economically?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever been fascinated by space exploration or missions to the moon? If yes, what aspects of it captivate you, and if not, what other scientific endeavors interest you?
- Do you think international collaborations, like Japan partnering with the United States for lunar exploration, are essential for the success of space missions? If yes, why, and if not, what challenges might arise without such collaborations?
- Do you believe Japan’s lunar mission is a significant step in global space exploration?
- What challenges might Japan face in its ambitious lunar expedition, and how can these challenges be addressed?
- Considering the potential success of the SLIM probe mission, how might Japan’s advancements in space technology impact its role in future international collaborations and competitions in space exploration?