Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- complication /kom-pli-KEY-shuhn /
- deliberation /dih-lib-uh-REY-shuhn/
- stipulate /STIP-yuh-leyt/
- unwavering /uhn-WAY-vr-uhng/
- setback /SET-bak/
[noun] – a problem or difficulty that makes a situation harder to deal with
The surgery was successful, but a minor complication required additional treatment.
[noun] – careful consideration or discussion before making a decision
After much deliberation, the committee chose the best candidate for the job.
[verb] – to state exactly what must be done or how something must be done
The contract stipulates that the work must be completed by the end of the month.
[adjective] – never changing or becoming weaker; strong and steady
Her unwavering dedication to the project earned her the respect of her peers.
[noun] – something that happens that delays or prevents a process from developing
The unexpected weather conditions caused a significant setback in construction.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
NASA has recently determined that it would be too perilous to bring two astronauts back to Earth using a newly developed spacecraft that encountered significant technical problems. As a result, the astronauts will return next year using an alternative spacecraft. Originally, the mission was intended to be a brief test flight; however, due to unforeseen complications, it has now evolved into a much longer mission. The astronauts have been stationed at the International Space Station (ISS) since early June, contending with various technical issues that have repeatedly delayed their return. Following months of careful deliberation, NASA made the decision to postpone their return to prioritize their safety.
The revised plan stipulates that the astronauts will return in February, utilizing a different spacecraft. In the meantime, the troubled spacecraft will attempt an unmanned return to Earth in September. NASA’s decision highlights its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of its crew members, particularly in light of the technical challenges encountered during the mission. This delay represents a considerable setback for the company that manufactured the spacecraft, as this mission was intended to be a landmark achievement for their program. Despite these difficulties, NASA remains resolute in its support of the spacecraft program, with hopes of addressing the current issues and preparing the program for future missions. This approach reflects NASA’s dedication to advancing space exploration while maintaining the highest safety standards.
The revised plan stipulates that the astronauts will return in February, utilizing a different spacecraft. In the meantime, the troubled spacecraft will attempt an unmanned return to Earth in September. NASA’s decision highlights its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of its crew members, particularly in light of the technical challenges encountered during the mission. This delay represents a considerable setback for the company that manufactured the spacecraft, as this mission was intended to be a landmark achievement for their program. Despite these difficulties, NASA remains resolute in its support of the spacecraft program, with hopes of addressing the current issues and preparing the program for future missions. This approach reflects NASA’s dedication to advancing space exploration while maintaining the highest safety standards.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever encountered a situation where plans were delayed due to technical problems? If so, how did you handle it? If not, what do you think would be the best way to manage such a delay?
- Have you ever had to make a difficult decision after careful consideration, similar to how NASA decided to delay the mission? If so, what was the outcome? If not, what do you think is the most challenging part of making such decisions?
- Do you agree that delaying the astronauts’ return was the best decision for ensuring their safety?
- What are the potential risks and benefits of postponing a mission due to technical issues? How might this impact future missions?
- How important is it for organizations like NASA to maintain an unwavering commitment to safety, even if it leads to significant delays? What could be the long-term consequences of such a commitment?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- alternative
- evolve
- postpone
- attempt
- standard