Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- hypothesis /hahy-POTH-uh-sis/
- presumed /pruh-ZOOMD/
- plausible /PLAW-zuh-buhl/
- swift /swift/
- resemblance /ri-ZEM-bluhns/
[noun] – an idea or explanation for something that is based on known facts but has not yet been proved
The scientist formulated a hypothesis to explain the observed phenomena in the experiment.
[adjective] – assumed or believed to be true without direct evidence
The presumed winner celebrated cautiously until the official announcement.
[adjective] – seeming likely to be true, or able to be believed
The explanation provided seemed plausible, given the available evidence.
[adjective] – happening or moving quickly or within a short time, especially in a smooth and easy way
The swift river currents carried the canoe downstream effortlessly.
[noun] – the fact that two people or things look like each other or are similar in some other way
The resemblance between the mother and daughter is evident in their shared smiles and mannerisms.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Farouk El-Baz, a renowned geologist and distinguished space scientist acclaimed for his expertise in desert exploration, posited more than four decades ago that wind played a pivotal role in shaping the Great Sphinx of Giza before the ancient Egyptians added intricate embellishments. Recently, a study conducted by the Applied Mathematics Laboratory at New York University (NYU) substantiated this hypothesis. Researchers at NYU aimed to recreate the conditions of the landscape approximately 4,500 years ago, during the presumed period of the limestone statue’s origin. Their objective was to explore the potential impact of wind on the formation of rock structures.
Leif Ristroph, a senior author of the study and an associate professor at NYU’s Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences, explained that the findings put forth a plausible explanation for the emergence of sphinx-like shapes through erosion. Laboratory experiments demonstrated that materials can indeed adopt sphinx-like forms under the influence of rapid currents. The research team fashioned clay models resembling yardangs, natural compact sand formations sculpted by wind in exposed desert regions. These models underwent a swift stream of water to simulate the effects of wind erosion. By incorporating harder, non-erodible elements within the soft-clay mound, mirroring the composition of the Great Sphinx, the researchers observed the manifestation of a lion-like form. Ristroph emphasized that certain naturally occurring yardangs in the desert bear a resemblance to seated or reclining animals with raised heads, occasionally earning them the moniker “Mud Lions.” He contends that these experiments enhance our comprehension of yardang formation.
Leif Ristroph, a senior author of the study and an associate professor at NYU’s Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences, explained that the findings put forth a plausible explanation for the emergence of sphinx-like shapes through erosion. Laboratory experiments demonstrated that materials can indeed adopt sphinx-like forms under the influence of rapid currents. The research team fashioned clay models resembling yardangs, natural compact sand formations sculpted by wind in exposed desert regions. These models underwent a swift stream of water to simulate the effects of wind erosion. By incorporating harder, non-erodible elements within the soft-clay mound, mirroring the composition of the Great Sphinx, the researchers observed the manifestation of a lion-like form. Ristroph emphasized that certain naturally occurring yardangs in the desert bear a resemblance to seated or reclining animals with raised heads, occasionally earning them the moniker “Mud Lions.” He contends that these experiments enhance our comprehension of yardang formation.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever visited or seen the Great Sphinx of Giza, whether in person, through pictures, or on television? If yes, how would you describe your experience and reaction to seeing this ancient structure in real life? If not, have you ever wondered about the methods and forces involved in creating such historical monuments, like the Great Sphinx?
- Have you ever participated in or observed experiments or studies that aimed to recreate historical conditions, similar to the NYU study attempting to understand the impact of wind on the formation of the Great Sphinx? If yes, could you share your insights or reactions to the experiments? If not, what are your thoughts on the value of such experiments in enhancing our understanding of historical mysteries?
- Do you think studies, like the one from New York University on the role of wind in shaping the Great Sphinx, help people rethink and learn more about ancient structures and civilizations?
- How might the idea that wind erosion played a role in shaping the Great Sphinx lead us to reconsider the stories told by ancient structures? In what ways could studying natural forces enhance our understanding of history, and can you think of other historical mysteries where this approach might be applied?
- What particular ancient civilization or structure do you find mysterious or intriguing? What aspects of its history or construction do you believe warrant further exploration or investigation?
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.
- geologist
- limestone
- clay
- wind erosion
- sphinx-like shape