Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- supermoon /SOO-per-moon/
- coincide /koh-in-SAHYD/
- proximity /prok-SIM-i-tee/
- elliptical /ih-LIP-ti-kuhl/
- luminous /LOO-muh-nuhs/
[noun] – a full moon that appears larger and brighter than usual because it is closer to the Earth in its orbit
The supermoon lit up the night sky, captivating everyone with its large appearance.
[verb] – to happen at the same time or during the same period
The meteor shower will coincide with the lunar eclipse, creating a rare celestial event.
[noun] – the state of being near in space or time
The park’s proximity to the city center makes it a popular spot for locals.
[adjective] – having an oval or egg-like shape
The elliptical orbit of the planet made it closer to the sun at certain times.
[adjective] – producing or reflecting bright light, especially in the dark
The luminous stars filled the sky, guiding sailors through the night.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
October’s supermoon will be the closest of the year, offering a rare opportunity for stargazers. Occurring on October 25, it will coincide with a visible comet, Tsuchinshan-Atlas, in the Northern Hemisphere. The supermoon will be 222,055 miles (357,364 kilometers) from Earth, appearing larger and more luminous due to its proximity. A supermoon occurs when the full moon aligns with the point in the moon’s elliptical orbit closest to Earth, known as perigee. This celestial event is expected to draw attention not only for its striking visual impact but also for the chance to observe the comet, which may not return for thousands of years. Despite the moonlight washing out some of the comet’s tail, the unique timing of these phenomena enhances the viewing experience.
The supermoon will reach its full phase on Thursday night, and experts have noted that it will be 30% brighter than the average full moon. Although the comet’s visibility will be affected by the moonlight, NASA officials have advised that it remains a spectacle worth observing. Supermoons generally happen three to four times a year, and they are known for their heightened brightness and size, although the difference can be subtle. As lunar exploration efforts continue to develop, with plans for new landers and crewed missions, these supermoons offer a reminder of humanity’s enduring fascination with the moon and its potential for future scientific discovery.
The supermoon will reach its full phase on Thursday night, and experts have noted that it will be 30% brighter than the average full moon. Although the comet’s visibility will be affected by the moonlight, NASA officials have advised that it remains a spectacle worth observing. Supermoons generally happen three to four times a year, and they are known for their heightened brightness and size, although the difference can be subtle. As lunar exploration efforts continue to develop, with plans for new landers and crewed missions, these supermoons offer a reminder of humanity’s enduring fascination with the moon and its potential for future scientific discovery.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever observed a supermoon or another rare celestial event? If so, what was the experience like? If not, would you like to witness one in the future?
- Have you ever been interested in astronomy or stargazing? If so, what sparked your interest? If not, what other hobbies or interests do you have related to science?
- Do you agree that rare celestial events, like supermoons, help people appreciate the universe more?
- Why do you think certain celestial events only happen a few times in a person’s lifetime? What does this rarity say about the nature of our universe?
- How could the study of supermoons and other lunar phenomena contribute to future space missions? Do you think studying the moon is key to understanding more about space?
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.
- stargazer
- visible
- celestial
- advise
- discovery