B2 – Upper Intermediate
Laser pointers are typically used in business and school presentations. It is a pointing device that makes it easier for the audience to follow what the speaker is discussing.
Unfortunately, some people tend to use it for other purposes that could be fatal to a lot of people travelling by plane.
Let’s read the article and know more about the threats this kind of incidents pose to planes.
https://www.english-online.at/news-articles/technology/laser-pointer-incidents-on-the-rise.htm
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does the word “shine into” mean? “In February, a Virgin Atlantic flight to New York JFK had to return to London Heathrow because a laser light had been shone into the cockpit.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
- What does “to target a particular person or thing” mean? “Pope Franciscus’ flight from Cuba to Mexico was targeted by a laser beamer during landing.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
- What does the phrasal verb “carry something out” mean? “Most attacks are carried out by young men or boys, who are often not aware of the dangers of laser instruments.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
Discussion Questions:
- What is your reaction to this news?
- How does laser pointing affect aviation safety?
- Given the possible danger laser pointing pose to aircrafts, do you think the selling of this item should be strictly regulated?
- What might be airline measures for pilots to reduce the severity of this incident?
- How can these incidents be stopped?
- Have you heard of laser pointing incidents involving aircrafts in your country? How did it end?
- Share your thoughts on this: “According to psychologists, playing around with guns and other weapons is something that typically attracts males.“.