B2 – Upper Intermediate
Chaos is a very common term we hear often. It is used to describe apparently random and unpredictable events. The rowdy behavior of children in a theme park might be a good example. However, scientists have a different perspective on chaos. To them, it is a system that is not completely random and yet cannot be predicted easily. This is what they refer to as “chaos theory”.
Let’s watch the video and know more about the significance and complexities of this theory.
https://www.bbc.com/reel/video/p0gn8kps/the-butterfly-effect-what-is-chaos-theory-
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does the idiom “like clockwork” mean? “Chaos theory questions this deterministic vision. Not everything is predictable anymore, nor does it work like clockwork.” Use it in your own sentence.
- What does the verb “resemble” mean? “For example, in the calculations Lawrence used for his model, the trajectory created a pattern that resembled the wings of a butterfly.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
- What is the meaning of the word “trolling“? “For example, how trolling on social networks can be triggered by a single negative comment“. Use it in a sentence and give example scenarios.
Discussion Questions:
- What is chaos theory and how is it connected to the butterfly effect?
- How has chaos theory influenced the development of new technologies and economics?
- “Chaos is not the same as disorder.” Explain this in your own words. Give example circumstances as well.
- “Ultimately, chaos theory introduces an element of uncertainty into our reading of the universe. It reveals the limit of our knowledge.” How does this make you feel?
- Give an example scenario for chaos theory.