Tag Archive: science & technology – intermediate

Russian programmers outsmart censors in digital cat and mouse game

code-1839406_1280

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What is a VPN? What might lead a government to restrict internet content? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. struggle /STRUHG-uhl/ [noun] – a determined effort or fight to achieve or resist something The struggle for civil rights was a long and arduous battle, but it eventually led to significant social change. liberty /LIB-er-tee/ [noun] – the state of being free from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one’s actions, thoughts, or beliefs The constitution guarantees the liberty to express opinions without fear of government retaliation. media /MEE-dee-uh/ [noun] – the…
Read more

British girl and father uncover gigantic marine reptile fossils

gigantic reptile

©Sergey Krasovskiy/Handout via REUTERS Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What does the term “evolution” mean? What are some examples of prehistoric marine creatures you know? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. indicate /IN-di-keyt/ [verb] – to suggest, show, or be a sign of something The presence of fresh footprints indicates that someone was here recently. distinguished /dih-STING-gwisht/ [adjective] – used to describe someone or something that is characterized by excellence, renown, or notable achievement She received an award from a distinguished panel of experts for her innovative research in environmental science. combined /kuhm-BAHYND/ [adjective] – describes…
Read more

Russian cosmonaut sets new space duration record

international-space-station-974_1280

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you think are some of the challenges astronauts face during long-duration space missions? How do you think astronauts prepare themselves physically and mentally for space missions? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. fellow /FEL-oh/ [adjective] – used to refer to someone who has the same job or interests as you, or is in the same situation as you I discussed the project with my fellow colleagues to gather their insights and perspectives. corporation /kawr-puh-REY-shuhn/ [noun] – a large company or group of companies that is controlled together as a…
Read more

Apple’s Vision Pro transforms media experience today

Vision Pro

©REUTERS/Mike Blake Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you think about the latest innovations in home entertainment and workplace technology? Have you ever used any virtual reality or augmented reality devices? If so, what was your experience like? If not, what are your thoughts or knowledge about how these devices work and their potential applications? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. web browser /web BROU-zer/ [noun] – a computer program that makes it possible for you to read information on the internet I opened my web browser to search for the latest news updates. long-term…
Read more

The rise of lab-grown meat industry faces hurdles despite growing demand

laboratory-2815641_1280

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What is your understanding of the term “cultured meat”? How do you think it is produced? Do you believe that cultured meat could become a widely accepted alternative to traditional meat in the future? Why or why not? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. pop up /pop uhp/ [phrasal verb] – to appear or emerge suddenly or unexpectedly During our road trip, several roadside cafes popped up, offering fresh snacks and drinks. alternative /awl-TUR-nuh-tiv/ [noun] – a choice or option that is different from what is usual or expected Instead of…
Read more

Cave bones redefine early Homo sapiens history in Europe

Screenshot 2024-02-02 110248

©Reuters Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What comes to mind when you think about the early history of human beings? Where do you imagine these early humans lived, and what challenges do you think they faced in their environments? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. belief /bih-LEEF/ [noun] – a conviction or acceptance that something is true or exists The community held a strong belief in the power of unity. adapt /uh-DAPT/ [verb] – to adjust or change in response to new conditions or circumstances The plants had to adapt to the arid environment by developing…
Read more

Explorer claims breakthrough in Amelia Earhart in Pacific

us-air-force-1461658_1280

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. How would you describe Amelia Earhart, considering her achievement as the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean? Do you believe you could become a female aviator? Why or why not? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. mission /MISH-uhn/ [noun] – a planned and organized effort or undertaking with a specific purpose The team embarked on a mission to provide aid to the disaster-stricken region, delivering essential supplies and medical assistance. aircraft /AIR-kraft/ [noun] – any vehicle, with or without an engine, that can fly, such as a…
Read more

Apple embraces shift in EU app landscape, introducing revised policies and fees

apple-inc-508812_1280

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. How would you describe the impact of Apple’s products and innovations on the tech industry? What sets Apple apart from other technology companies in terms of design and user experience? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. response /ri-SPONS/ [noun] – an answer or reaction Her immediate response to the question showcased her knowledge and confidence in the subject. adjustment /uh-JUHST-muhnt/ [noun] – a small change After analyzing market trends, the company decided to make strategic adjustments to its product offerings to stay competitive. payment /PEY-muhnt / [noun] – an amount of…
Read more

NASA postpones astronaut moon landing to 2026 citing challenges with spacecraft

nasa-874480_1280

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you think it takes to become an astronaut? Can you share any specific space exploration missions or developments that have captured your attention, and what about them has intrigued you? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. additional /uh-DISH-uh-nl / [adjective] – extra The team made additional efforts to ensure the project’s success. tackle /TAK-uhl / [verb] – to try to deal with something or someone The team decided to tackle the challenges head-on, addressing them with determination and strategic planning. actual /AK-choo-uhl/ [adjective] – existing in fact The actual…
Read more

Unlocking ancient genetics reshapes views on multiple sclerosis and European traits

brussels-1017987_1280

Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What areas of scientific research or breakthroughs have captured your interest lately? What comes to mind when you think about DNA? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. individual /in-duh-VIJ-oo-uhl/ [noun] – a single person or thing, especially when compared to the group or set to which they belong Each individual in the team contributed unique skills to achieve the project’s success. major /MEY-jer/ [adjective] – more important, bigger, or more serious than others of the same type The company made a major investment in new technology to improve its operations. infection…
Read more