Category: Homework

Virtual Reality as a Reliable Shooting Performance-Tracking Tool

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Virtual reality (VR) technology has shown promise beyond training scenarios. A recent study indicates that VR can accurately track and record shooting performance, offering a reliable tool for law enforcement and military training.

Read this article to know why this development could lead to more effective and personalized training programs.

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/06/240611171431.htm#:~:text=Summary%3A,track%20individuals’%20progress%20over%20time.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “marksmanship” mean? “We’ve figured out how to export the data and interpret it. We’ve focused on the three big challenges of marksmanship, decision-making and reaction time to measure 21 relevant variables — allowing us to put a report in a user’s hand and say, ‘This is how accurate, precise, focused and fast you are.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “reproducibility” mean? “We were using it as an outcome variable for research, and we found that it has very good day-to-day reproducibility of performance, which is crucial for research.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “screening tool” mean? “This equipment is close to what the military and police use every day, so this has potential to be used as a screening tool across the country.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your thoughts on incorporating virtual reality technology into training protocols.
  2. How does virtual reality technology accurately track and record shooting performance in training scenarios?
  3. What are the potential benefits of using VR for law enforcement and military training compared to traditional methods?
  4. How might the integration of VR into training programs improve the personalization of training for individuals?
  5. What specific features of the VR system make it a reliable tool for monitoring and enhancing shooting performance?

New Dimensions in Quantum Computing: Majorana Particles Go 2D

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Researchers have made a breakthrough in quantum computing by developing a method to produce Majorana particles in a two-dimensional plane. This innovation could lead to more stable and efficient qubits.

Read the article to know why this innovation is crucial for the advancement of quantum computing technology​.

https://scitechdaily.com/new-dimensions-in-quantum-computing-majorana-particles-go-2d/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is “qubit”? “While classical computers use bits as the basic unit of information, which can be either 0 or 1, quantum computers use qubits, which can exist in a state of 0, 1, or both simultaneously.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “quantum computing” mean? “Researchers have innovated a 2D method for producing Majorana particles, aiming to improve quantum computing with stable and efficient qubits.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “readout” mean? “In the longer term, the flexibility and scalability of the 2D platform should allow us to think about concrete strategies to create networks of Majoranas and integrate them with auxiliary elements needed for control and readout of a Majorana qubit.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Talk about the things you know about Majorana particles.
  2. How does the two-dimensional production method of Majorana particles contribute to the stability of qubits in quantum computing?
  3. What specific advantages do Majorana particles offer over traditional qubits in quantum computing systems?
  4. What institutions or research teams are leading the innovation in producing Majorana particles in two dimensions?
  5. How might the development of 2D Majorana particles impact the future scalability and efficiency of quantum computers?

Autonomous Drone Navigation

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Advances in artificial intelligence are revolutionizing autonomous drone navigation. New algorithms and machine learning techniques are enhancing drones’ ability to navigate complex environments.

Read the article to know why this is more efficient and reliable for tasks ranging from delivery services to environmental monitoring​.

https://scitechdaily.com/ai-unleashed-revolutionizing-autonomous-drone-navigation/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “light detection and ranging or lidar” mean? “In recent years, advancements in visual sensor technology like light detection and ranging, or lidar, and thermal imaging have allowed drones to perform limited advanced-level tasks such as object detection and visual recognition.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. Define “deep learning” and “machine learning”. “When combined with the team’s algorithms — powered by deep learning and machine learning, a subset of AI — drones could assist in developing 3D or 4D advanced imagery for mapping and monitoring applications.” Use these terms in sentences.
  3. What does “line of sight” mean? “Currently, someone must manually fly a drone and have a high level of situational awareness to keep it clear of obstacles in its surroundings, like buildings, trees, mountains, bridges, signs or other prominent structures, while staying within the drone pilot’s line of sight.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What new techniques are being used to enhance the navigation capabilities of autonomous drones?
  2. How might these advancements in AI improve the efficiency of drone delivery services?
  3. In what ways could environmental monitoring benefit from improved autonomous drone navigation?
  4. What challenges do autonomous drones face in navigating complex environments, and how are these being addressed by recent AI developments?

Colorado Springs Is Becoming a Smart City

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Smart cities are urban areas that utilize technology and data to improve the quality of life for their residents. These cities integrate various systems such as transportation, energy, healthcare, and communication to create a more efficient and sustainable environment. The goal of a smart city is to enhance the overall well-being of its citizens by providing better services and infrastructure.

One key aspect of a smart city is the use of IoT (Internet of Things) devices to collect data and analyze patterns. This data can then be used to make informed decisions about resource allocation and city planning. For example, sensors can monitor traffic flow in real-time, allowing for adjustments to be made to reduce congestion and improve air quality.

Watch the video and learn how Colorado Springs is turning itself into a smart city.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “hidden in plain sight” mean? “This is one of 40 smart trash cans in Colorado Springs, which since 2017, has been implementing different kinds of smart technology hidden in plain sight throughout the city.” Use this idiom in a sentence.
  2. What does “informed decision” mean? “And so by deploying these technologies, it enables us to get data from this infrastructure that’s out there and help us make more informed decisions.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  3. What does “micromobility” mean? “And we’re beginning to expand where scooters are throughout our community. Micromobility wasn’t even a concept 5-10 years ago.” Use this word in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What makes Colorado Springs a “Smart City”?
  2. Which forms of smart technologies are being employed in your city? Which ones do you think are needed to be added?
  3. Is there free wifi available everywhere in your city, and if so, how is it? If not, do you think they should equip the every area of the city with wi-fi?
  4. What technological advancement, in your opinion, can foster a stronger sense of community?
  5. Share your thoughts on this, “Technology won’t solve our problems, but the data that we’re collecting and the people that are utilizing that data will have an impact on improving that situation into the future.“

A Piece of Advice to Your Younger Self

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Life is full of challenges and struggles that test our resilience and determination. Be it personal, academic, or professional obstacles, we all face difficulties at some point in our lives. These struggles can come in many forms, such as financial hardships, health issues, or relationship problems. There will always be a point in our life where we struggle and ask ourselves if we can survive. 

Read this article and find out what people answers if they are asked to advice their younger self.

https://www.juliebjelland.com/hsp-blog/if-you-could-give-a-piece-of-advice-to-your-younger-self-what-would-it-be

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the verb “meander” mean? “You were always on the exact right path, even if it may have meandered and had its own timeline.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘meander’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does the noun “to brush something off” mean, “Your instincts are right. Trust them. Don’t brush them off.”? Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘to brush something off’ in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to work hand in hand” mean? “Don’t ignore your heart. Just because everyone is complimenting your head (logical thinking), doesn’t mean you can’t also listen to your heart. They can work hand in hand.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘to work hand in hand in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What piece of advice would you give your younger self?
  2. What struggles did you have before and how were you able to overcome them?
  3. Choose a piece of advice from the article to give to your younger self. Explain why you think the young you needs to hear this word of wisdom.
  4. What do you think Paula Prober mean when she said, “You are scuba diving through life while others are simply water skiing.“?
  5. When things get tough, what words of wisdom do you always remember, and who said them?

Europe’s Waste Goes to Other Countries

B1 – Intermediate 

One problem of any city or country in the world is where to dump their millions of tonnes of wastes.

Europe exports a huge amount of their garbage to developing countries. The problem is a lot of these waste trades are not exactly legal.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript to find out where Europe’s waste trades.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/europes-waste-goes-to-other-countries-level-3/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “developing country” mean? “Every year, Europe exports millions of tonnes of waste to developing countries; however, a significant portion of these shipments are illegal.” Use this term in a sentence.
  2. What does “shipment” mean? “Italian customs officers use a new alert system to catch illegal waste shipments.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use this word in your own sentence.
  3. Define “circular economy”. “Recycled materials, like copper from electronic cables, are now being processed within Europe to support the circular economy.” Use this term in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Share your opinion about illegal waste exports from Europe to the developing countries.
  2. What are the new EU rules to prevent illegal waste exportation?
  3. What are the effects of waste exports on the developing countries?
  4. What are your thoughts on Tunisia returning hundreds of containers of waste to Italy?
  5. Discuss one policy or incentive that can be implemented to improve this situation.

Australia to Allow Foreign Citizens into Its Army

B1 – Intermediate 

Australia is having problems recruiting people to join the military. Due to this, they will be allowing citizens from the UK, Canada, and New Zealand to enlist in the Australian army.

Read the article about Australia opening up its forces to foreigners.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2406/240606-army-recruits.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to sign up” mean? “Australia is having problems getting people to sign up for its army.” Use this phrase in your own sentence.
  2. What does “a pool of people” mean? “Recruiting from a wider pool of people will help ensure [the ADF] reflects the full diversity of Australia, and is able to draw on the talents of [all] of Australian society.” Use this idiom in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to draw on something” mean? “Recruiting from a wider pool of people will help ensure [the ADF] reflects the full diversity of Australia, and is able to draw on the talents of [all] of Australian society.” Use this expression in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. According to the article, what is Australia’s reason for changing its military recruitment policy?
  2. What is your opinion about a country allowing foreigners to join their military?
  3. What could be the good and bad things about letting citizens from other countries become part of another country’s army?
  4. “Opposition Foreign Minister Simon Birmingham disagreed with the policy. He said it showed government failure.” Do you agree with Mr. Birmingham or not? Explain. 
  5. How can a country/the government motivate people to join the military?
  6. If this were to be done in your country, do you think it will be a good idea? Why or why not?

Panama Evacuates Islanders Due to Rising Sea Levels

B1 – Intermediate 

As a result of global warming, the sea levels across the world are rising at an alarming rate.

The rise in sea levels is greatly due to water from melting glaciers and ice sheets and seawater expansion caused by the warmer temperatures.

In Panama, residents of a small island called Gardi Sugdub had to be evacuated because the sea levels on the island has gone up by a lot.

Read the article about the evacuation of islanders in Panama because of rising sea levels.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2406/240603-rising-sea-levels-5.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “last minute” mean? “A government official said some people are refusing to leave their ancestral home. They will stay until the last minute.” two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use this phrase in your own sentence.
  2. What does “a sign of something to come” mean? “The government said Gardi Sugdub is a sign of things to come.” two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use this idiom in your own sentence.
  3. What does “engulf” mean? “Many more islands are under threat from being engulfed.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use this word in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the effects of rising sea levels in Panama?
  2. What is your reaction to this, “A recent environmental study estimated Panama would lose 2.01 percent of its coastal territory to rising sea levels.”?
  3. Some inhabitants of the island do not want to leave their homes. How can the government convince them to evacuate?
  4. Do you think the relocated inhabitants will have a better life in their new community? Explain.
  5. Does news about rising sea levels affect you? Why or why not?

Europe’s Ludicrous Hydrogen Bet

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Recently, the world has reached an unprecedented state of destabilization as threats including global warming, wars, and material shortages grow more prevalent as we go through the 21st century. As such, nations and global superpowers have had to adapt in order to survive the chaos of our current world.

The global superpower, the EU, wants to address two major issues: economic problems and global warming. In order to do this, the leaders of the EU have begun to heavily invest in hydrogen as the fuel of the future. The EU claims that the hydrogen they produce will be enough to bring its emission rates to 0% by 2050.

But is hydrogen really the fuel of the future? Is hydrogen really the miracle gas that the leaders of the EU believe it to be?

Watch the video below to have a better understanding of how Europe plans to clean up its economy by way of clean hydrogen.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to sound like a broken record” mean? “If you asked EU leaders how to save the climate in the last few years, they sounded like a broken record.” Use this expression in your own sentence.
  2. What does ”the champagne of energy” mean? “Hydrogen has been defined as the champagne of energy.” Make your own sentence using this phrase.
  3. What does ”lobby register” mean? “Corporate Europe Observatory, an NGO, combed through lobby registers.” Use this to make your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the supposed benefits of using hydrogen as a renewable energy source?
  2. What are the problems with this supposed ‘miracle solution’?
  3. Do you think that the hydrogen strategy is worth being on EU’s top priority for subsidies and fast-track planning? Explain your insights.
  4. Do you believe that hydrogen will solve the economic and gas emission problems in Europe? Why do you believe your statement?
  5. Share what you know about and your thoughts on EU’s net zero goals by 2050.

Prices of Air Travel

B1 – Intermediate

In recent years, the prices of air travel have fluctuated significantly, influenced by various factors such as fuel costs, economic conditions, and global events.

The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, led to unprecedented disruptions in the airline industry, causing dramatic shifts in airfare pricing. As airlines adapt to changing demand and new safety protocols, passengers face both opportunities and challenges in securing affordable flights.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about airfares stabilizing.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/prices-of-air-travel-level-3/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “surge” mean? “Airfares in Europe and Asia are stabilizing or dropping, which indicates the end of the post-COVID travel surge.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘surge’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does “budget airline” mean? “Budget airline Ryanair’s CEO noted that ticket prices are increasing less than expected, which affected European airline shares.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “downturn” mean? “Overall, the industry expects a return to normal pricing rather than a major downturn.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘downturn’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. In what ways can travelers find the best deals on airline tickets?
  2. What are the pros and cons of budget airlines compared to traditional carriers?
  3. What strategies can airlines use to keep ticket prices competitive while maintaining profitability?
  4. What role do economic conditions play in determining airfare prices? Explain.