Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What do you know about SpaceX and its goals in space exploration?
- Why does SpaceX collaborate with NASA for its missions?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- conduct /kuhn-DUHKT/
- mission /MISH-uhn/
- immense /ih-MENS/
- innovation /in-uh-VEY-shuhn/
- determination /dih-tur-muh-NEY-shuhn/
[verb] – to organize and perform a particular activity
SpaceX conducted a successful rocket test last month.
[noun] – an important job or duty, often involving travel or a specific goal
The scientists completed their mission to explore the new island.
[adjective] – extremely large or great
The mountains were covered in immense amount of snow after the storm.
[noun] – a new idea, method, or invention
The new phone design is an innovation in the tech world.
[noun] – the quality of trying hard to achieve something, even when it is difficult
Her determination helped her win the race.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
On November 19, 2024, SpaceX conducted the sixth test flight of its Starship rocket, launched from Texas. The event marked a pivotal moment in the development of the world’s most powerful rocket, designed to carry astronauts to the Moon and Mars. The booster, designed to be caught by mechanical arms, splashed into the Gulf of Mexico after technical challenges led to a last-minute cancellation. This precaution was taken after communication with a launch tower computer was lost. SpaceX has partnered with NASA on this project, which has received over $4 billion in funding for lunar exploration missions, highlighting the rocket’s immense potential in advancing human space travel.
The test introduced several innovations, including a late-afternoon launch to enhance visibility during descent. Notable achievements included igniting one of the engines in space and testing advanced thermal protection systems, crucial for future missions. The spacecraft completed a controlled descent by flipping mid-air and landing upright in the Indian Ocean. Despite certain technical setbacks, the flight underscored SpaceX’s determination to refine Starship’s design. The ultimate goal is to create a fully reusable rocket, significantly lowering costs and expediting future missions. This test flight reaffirmed SpaceX’s role in revolutionizing space exploration and strengthening its collaboration with NASA.
The test introduced several innovations, including a late-afternoon launch to enhance visibility during descent. Notable achievements included igniting one of the engines in space and testing advanced thermal protection systems, crucial for future missions. The spacecraft completed a controlled descent by flipping mid-air and landing upright in the Indian Ocean. Despite certain technical setbacks, the flight underscored SpaceX’s determination to refine Starship’s design. The ultimate goal is to create a fully reusable rocket, significantly lowering costs and expediting future missions. This test flight reaffirmed SpaceX’s role in revolutionizing space exploration and strengthening its collaboration with NASA.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What SpaceX event occurred on November 19, 2024?
- Where was the Starship rocket launched from?
- Why did the booster land in the Gulf of Mexico?
- How is SpaceX collaborating with NASA?
- What goal does SpaceX aim to achieve with the Starship rocket?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever watched a rocket launch before? If so, where was it? If not, would you like to see one?
- Have you learned about NASA or SpaceX in school? If so, what did you learn? If not, what would you like to know?
- Are reusable rockets important for space travel?
- Why do you think SpaceX is trying to lower the cost of space travel?
- Why do you think countries like the USA invest so much money in space exploration, like NASA’s projects?