Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- evolve /ih-VOLV/
- notable /NOH-tuh-buhl/
- extension /ik-STEN-shuhn/
- percentage /per-SEN-tij/
- unpredictable /uhn-pri-DIK-tuh-buhl/
[verb] – to develop gradually, especially from a simple to a more complex form
The company’s business model continues to evolve as it grows and learns from customer feedback.
[adjective] – worthy of attention or notice; remarkable
The scientist made a notable discovery that could change medical treatments.
[noun] – the action of increasing the length of something
We applied for an extension on our project deadline to finish the remaining work.
[noun] – a part or share of a whole, expressed as a fraction of 100
The percentage of students passing the test increased this year.
[adjective] – not able to be predicted; uncertain
The weather in this region is highly unpredictable, often changing without warning.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
NASA’s space operations continue to evolve, with astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams setting a notable example by extending their mission duration far beyond initial expectations. Originally scheduled for eight days, their mission to test Boeing’s Starliner crew capsule lasted 286 days, marking a significant extension in spaceflight missions. The mission, launched in June 2024, concluded with their return aboard SpaceX on March 18, 2025. According to Ken Bowersox, NASA’s space operations chief, this mission has seen the largest percentage extension when compared to any other spaceflight in history. Space missions often face unexpected delays, and this extended journey is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of space exploration.
The prolonged mission provides valuable insights into the challenges and benefits of long-term spaceflight. While astronauts spend extended periods in space, they face physical and psychological impacts due to weightlessness and isolation. The effects of long stays on the human body are well-documented, but they also offer opportunities to test human endurance and observe how the body adapts to space conditions. In addition to the physical demands, astronauts continue to perform crucial tasks such as maintaining space equipment and conducting experiments. This mission adds to the growing body of knowledge about how human beings can sustain themselves in space for longer periods, advancing the understanding of space exploration. Technological advancements, such as improvements in life support systems and spacecraft, play a key role in supporting these extended missions.
The prolonged mission provides valuable insights into the challenges and benefits of long-term spaceflight. While astronauts spend extended periods in space, they face physical and psychological impacts due to weightlessness and isolation. The effects of long stays on the human body are well-documented, but they also offer opportunities to test human endurance and observe how the body adapts to space conditions. In addition to the physical demands, astronauts continue to perform crucial tasks such as maintaining space equipment and conducting experiments. This mission adds to the growing body of knowledge about how human beings can sustain themselves in space for longer periods, advancing the understanding of space exploration. Technological advancements, such as improvements in life support systems and spacecraft, play a key role in supporting these extended missions.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever had to adapt to a sudden change in your plans? If so, what happened? If not, how would you handle a change in your routine?
- Have you ever experienced something unexpected during a trip or event? If yes, what was it? If not, what would you do if something surprising happened during your travels?
- Do you agree that space missions should be extended to learn more about space exploration?
- Why do you think long-duration space missions can be both beneficial and challenging for astronauts?
- How do technological advancements, like the improvements in spacecraft, help astronauts during long missions?
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.
- astronaut
- initial
- compare
- valuable
- improvement