Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- nominate /NOM-uh-neyt/
- administrator /ad-MIN-uh-strey-ter/
- simultaneously /sahy-muhl-tey-nee-uhs-lee/
- emphasize /EM-fuh-sahyz/
- regain /ree-geyn/
[verb] – to formally suggest someone for a position or honor
She was nominated for the award because of her excellent performance.
[noun] – a person responsible for managing and overseeing operations
The administrator of the school ensures everything runs smoothly.
[adverb] – happening at the same time
The two events were happening simultaneously, so I had to choose one.
[verb] – to give special importance or attention to something
The teacher emphasized the importance of studying for the exam.
[verb] – to get something back after losing it
After weeks of rest, he was able to regain his strength.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Jared Isaacman, the billionaire space traveler nominated to lead NASA, shared his vision for the future of space exploration in a recent Senate hearing. Nominated by President Donald Trump, Isaacman is expected to become NASA’s 15th administrator if confirmed. He aims to push forward both the Moon and Mars missions simultaneously, arguing that the United States should not give up on one in favor of the other. Isaacman expressed his belief that the Moon and Mars missions can be developed in parallel, as NASA currently has enough funding for both. As a businessman and a space explorer, Isaacman’s nomination has raised questions due to his lack of a traditional background in science or government. However, he has a strong record as an entrepreneur and space traveler, having flown into space twice and completed the first private spacewalk.
Isaacman’s vision includes returning astronauts to the Moon through the Artemis program and advancing the country’s plans to explore Mars. He emphasized that the United States must regain its position in space, especially to compete with countries like China. The Artemis program aims to land astronauts near the Moon’s south pole by 2027, but challenges such as the high cost and slow progress of the Space Launch System rocket have delayed the program. Isaacman also supports continuing the International Space Station program until it can be replaced by private space outposts. Although Isaacman has ties to SpaceX and Elon Musk, he reassured senators that his loyalty would remain with NASA and the nation. His leadership could shape the future of space exploration, with both scientific and geopolitical implications.
Isaacman’s vision includes returning astronauts to the Moon through the Artemis program and advancing the country’s plans to explore Mars. He emphasized that the United States must regain its position in space, especially to compete with countries like China. The Artemis program aims to land astronauts near the Moon’s south pole by 2027, but challenges such as the high cost and slow progress of the Space Launch System rocket have delayed the program. Isaacman also supports continuing the International Space Station program until it can be replaced by private space outposts. Although Isaacman has ties to SpaceX and Elon Musk, he reassured senators that his loyalty would remain with NASA and the nation. His leadership could shape the future of space exploration, with both scientific and geopolitical implications.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever imagined traveling to space? If so, what kind of activities would you want to experience? If not, why do you think space exploration is important?
- Do you think private companies should be involved in space exploration? If so, what benefits do you see? If not, what concerns do you have?
- Do you agree with Isaacman’s idea of developing the Moon and Mars missions at the same time?
- Isaacman believes the U.S. should not give up on one mission in favor of the other. What might be the advantages and challenges of pursuing both the Moon and Mars missions simultaneously?
- How can NASA ensure that space exploration benefits not only the U.S. but also other countries and the global community?
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.
- billionaire
- recent
- belief
- land
- scientific