Tag: science

What Happens in Your Brain When You Can’t Recall a Word

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The video explains why people sometimes experience “tip-of-the-tongue” moments, when a word feels just out of reach. It discusses how the brain stores and retrieves language and why certain memories can temporarily become difficult to access, even when we know the information is there.

The video also explores the science behind memory and communication, showing how different areas of the brain work together during word recall. It highlights factors such as stress, aging, and distraction that can interfere with memory while emphasizing that occasional forgetting is a normal part of brain function.

Watch the video and learn more.

Vocabulary Questions:  

  1. What does “tip-of-the-tongue state” mean? “Lots of things seem to influence how likely you are to enter a tip-of-the-tongue state.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  2. What does “to trip someone up” mean? “Cognitively, recognizing a face and associating it with general information, like someone’s profession, is often easy, while names tend to trip us up.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “red herring” mean? “In these situations, the words seem to work as distracting, red herring-like blockers in the retrieval pathway.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym. 

Discussion Questions:  

  1. Have you ever experienced this situation? Describe it.
  2. What strategies can help someone remember a forgotten word?
  3. Can practicing language skills improve word recall? Share your insights.
  4. Do you think technology helps or weakens our abilities to remember words? Share your opinion.

How Reading Changes The Way Your Brain Works

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The video “How reading changes the way your brain works” by BBC World Service explores how reading affects the human brain. Unlike speaking, reading is not a natural ability but a skill the brain has to learn. The video explains how learning to read rewires neural pathways and changes how we process information.

Through research and expert insights, the video shows that reading enhances cognitive functions, improves comprehension, and strengthens connections in the brain. It highlights the unique ways written language shapes our thoughts and mental abilities, demonstrating the powerful impact of reading on daily life.

Watch the video and know more about the news.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “neurotypical brain” mean? “Scientific studies indicate that a neurotypical brain is born with a circuitry that allows our eyes to see and our vocal cords to produce sounds, but it doesn’t innately have the ability to read.” Use the term in a sentence.
  2. What does “logographic writing system” mean? “Research indicates that learning logographic writing systems activates different areas of the brain.” Use the word in a sentence.
  3. What does “brainchild” mean? “The ability to read was once considered humanity’s brainchild, a major cultural invention.” Use the word in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How do you think learning to read changes the way you think compared to listening or speaking?
  2. The video says reading rewires the brain. Can you give an example from your own life when reading helped you understand something differently?
  3. Why do you think reading is considered a “cultural invention” rather than a natural skill?
  4. How do you feel digital media, like social media or texting, affects your brain compared to reading books?
  5. After watching the video, has your opinion about reading changed? What would you do differently in your reading habits?

De-extinction of Giant Moa Bird

B1 – Intermediate 

Moa is a species of birds that has been extinct for 600 years. They were formerly endemic to New Zealand. On average, they are 3.6 feet tall, but they can grow up to 12 feet tall. They are covered in feathers. However, they are avians that can’t fly.

Colossal Biosciences, a biotechnology and genetic engineering company, plans to bringing back extinct species such as the giant moa birds.

Read the article about de-extinction and be ready to answer the questions that follow.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2507/250714-moa-de-extinction.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “on the cusp of doing something” mean? “Biotechnology and genetic engineering company Colossal Biosciences claims it is on the cusp of successfully bringing back extinct species.” Use this idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “resemble” mean? “Colossal defines de-extinction as: ‘The process of generating an organism that both resembles and is genetically similar to an extinct species.” Use this word in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “thrive” mean? “It would also enhance the adaptability of species to “thrive” amid climate change, dwindling resources, disease and human interference.” Use this word in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of resurrecting extinct animals?
  2. Considering its advantages and disadvantages, is de-extinction good or bad? Explain.
  3. Which extinct animal would you like to be made revived? Why this animal?

MicroHarvest Scales Up Microbial Protein Production

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

As the global demand for protein continues to increase, there is a race to develop technologies to mass produce protein.

Micro Harvest, a company that focuses on biotechnology and microorganisms, was able to turn non-protein substances into protein. They are able to make huge amounts of protein. Their goal is to also be able to produce food that is fit for human consumption in the future.

Read the article about MicroHarvest’s microbial protein production.

https://www.proteinproductiontechnology.com/post/microharvest-scales-up-production-aiming-for-15-000-tons-of-microbial-protein-annually-by-2026

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “strain” mean in this context, “A recent large-scale production trial confirmed that MicroHarvest’s strain performance and process parameters remain stable at this elevated scale.” Use this word in a sentence. Give another meaning of “strain”.
  2. What does “to pave the way for someone/something” mean? “This breakthrough paves the way for MicroHarvest’s ambitious plan to construct a facility capable of producing up to 15,000 tons of microbial protein annually by the end of 2026, addressing the increasing global demand for sustainable protein solutions.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “stringent” mean? “This technological advantage supports the company’s ability to meet the stringent requirements of commercial-scale production.” Use this word in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What was your reaction to and opinion about this special process of producing protein?
  2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of such method of protein production?
  3. Do you think this protein production process could be adapted in your country? Why or why not?
  4. Would it be interesting for you to try the meat that was produced through this process? Why or why not?
  5. Do you like meat? Why or why?
  6. Do people consume a lot of meat in your country? Talk about it.

Chinese Dam Slows Down Earth’s Rotation

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The construction of the Three Gorges Dam in China has brought significant attention to the effects of large-scale engineering projects on the Earth’s natural systems. One of the remarkable findings associated with this dam is its potential impact on the Earth’s rotation. Although the idea may seem far-fetched at first, scientific studies indicate that massive reservoirs can influence the global distribution of mass and, consequently, the rotation speed of the Earth. 

In conclusion, these dams serve as an example of how human actions can have broader environmental effects than previously anticipated. While the immediate goal of the dam was to generate electricity and control flooding, the dam also illustrates the complex relationship between human engineering and the Earth’s systems. As we move forward, it is essential to consider these interactions when planning and executing large-scale projects. Understanding these dynamics can help in making better decisions that align with environmental sustainability and Earth’s natural rhythms. 

Watch the video to learn more about how the Three Gorges Dam slows the Earth’s rotation.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is a “reservoir”? “When the dam slows or stops the flow of water to fill up its reservoir, it holds 10 trillion gallons of water which weigh a total of 83.4 trillion pounds.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “to put something in perspective” mean? “To put it in perspective, this dam could power the entirety of New Zealand and Ireland and Iceland and Costa Rica and the Bahamas and Rwanda combined.”  Use it in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  3. What does “miniscule” mean? “Every single movement of mass up or down, in fact, has some miniscule effect on how fast Earth rotates.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.


Discussion Questions:

  1. How does a dam slow down the Earth’s rotation?
  2. What is your reaction to this?
  3. Do you think it’s a problem if human activities can slightly change how the Earth spins? Why? 
  4. Should countries consider global effects when planning large infrastructure projects? Why? 
  5. The report states that there are many reasons for the slowing of Earth’s rotation, both natural and man-made. Are you concerned? Why or why not?

Scientists Resurrected the Dire Wolf

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Colossal Biosciences, a biotech company, has successfully de-extincted the dire wolf, a species that vanished 12,500 years ago. By using ancient DNA and advanced cloning techniques, scientists created three dire wolf pups from the genes of a gray wolf, its closest living relative.

These pups resemble the prehistoric predator, which once roamed North America and inspired the iconic dire wolves in the popular television series “Game of Thrones.”

Read the article to learn about the return of the dire wolf.

https://edition.cnn.com/2025/04/07/science/dire-wolf-de-extinction-cloning-colossal/index.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “standoffish” mean? “We’re still seeing a lot of juvenile behaviors. I think they are much more standoffish, much more skittish (than gray wolves). “ Make a sentence with this word. Give a similar word.
  2. Define “skittish“. “We’re still seeing a lot of juvenile behaviors. I think they are much more standoffish, much more skittish (than gray wolves). .” Use this adjective in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. Explain the phrase, “carbon copy“. “The debate over whether the wolves are a carbon copy of their extinct forerunners misses the point, Shapiro said, adding that the team had been successful in resurrecting the “functional essence” of the dire wolf.” Make a sentence using the phrase. Give a similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on using cloning and gene-editing to bring back extinct animals like the dire wolf? Do you think there are potential benefits or risks?
  2. What ethical considerations should be taken into account when deciding whether to resurrect extinct species?
  3. Should scientists focus on resurrecting extinct species like the mammoth or dire wolf, or should they prioritize conserving endangered species?
  4. Regarding Meachen’s statement, “I don’t think they are actually dire wolves. I don’t think what we have is dire wolves. What we had is something new — a mostly gray wolf that looks like a dire wolf.”, do you agree or disagree? Why?
  5. Could bringing extinct animals back to life contribute to biodiversity, or might it disrupt the balance of ecosystems? Share your opinion.

We Need Scientists Now, More than Ever

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In light of pressing global issues, scientists emphasize the indispensable role of science in safeguarding our planet’s future. Historical successes, like the Montreal Protocol’s role in curbing ozone layer depletion, showcase science’s potential in preventing disasters. However, recent assessments indicate that six out of nine Planetary Boundaries essential for Earth’s stability have been breached.

Read the article to know the urgent need for evidence-based approaches, increased investment in scientific research, and global collaboration to address environmental and health challenges

https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/climate-energy/why-we-need-scientists-now-more-than-ever-2025-05-07/?

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “the list goes on” mean? “Their alarm turned out to be an early warning that was at first dismissed and then attacked, before being proven to be the alarm that would steer us away from catastrophic consequences, as a result millions of cases of skin cancer were averted, eye cataracts prevented as well as the eventual destruction of ecosystems loss that could have led to agricultural system collapse, the list goes on.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “undermine” mean? ” If we want to leave a flourishing future for generations to come, science should consistently be nurtured, celebrated and invested in, not dismissed, undermined and attacked.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “to be grounded in something” mean? “Let us not be divided by political narratives, but united by our shared responsibility and grounded in modern and Indigenous people’s science. “ Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What historical example shows how science successfully helped prevent an environmental crisis?
  2. What are the “Planetary Boundaries,” and how many of them have been exceeded according to recent assessments?
  3. Why is it important to use evidence-based approaches when dealing with global issues like climate change or public health?
  4. How can increased investment in scientific research help protect the planet and future generations?
  5. What role should international cooperation play in solving large-scale scientific and environmental problems?

North America Is Dripping Down into Earth’s Mantle

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Geologists have identified a massive ancient slab of Earth’s crust beneath North America that is slowly sinking into the mantle, a process described as “dripping.” This phenomenon is occurring beneath regions from Michigan to Alabama and provides new insights into the dynamic processes shaping our planet’s interior.

Read the article to know why understanding these subterranean movements is crucial for comprehending seismic activity and the geological evolution of continents.

https://www.livescience.com/planet-earth/geology/north-america-is-dripping-down-into-earths-mantle-scientists-discover

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “slab” mean here, “An ancient slab of Earth’s crust buried deep beneath the Midwest is sucking huge swatches of present-day’s North American crust down into the mantle.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “splinter” mean? “The Farallon plate splintered due to the advance of the Pacific plate roughly 20 million years ago, and remnant slabs subducted beneath the North American plate slowly drifted off.“ Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “full-waveform inversion” mean? “The discovery was possible thanks to a wider project led by Hua to map what lies beneath North America using a high-resolution seismic imaging technique called “full-waveform inversion.“ Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you imagine life would be like if we could actually see this crust sinking beneath our feet? How would it change how we view the Earth’s inner workings?
  2. Do you think understanding this process could help us predict future geological events, like volcanic eruptions or earthquakes?
  3. How does this “dripping” crust affect the way we think about seismic activity and earthquakes in areas like Michigan or Alabama?
  4. Isn’t it fascinating that there’s an ancient piece of Earth’s crust slowly sinking into the mantle—what do you think that means for the planet’s long-term evolution?

Scientists Discover New Species

B2 – Upper Intermediate

During a 38-day expedition in Peru’s Alto Mayo region, scientists uncovered 27 new species, including mammals, fish, amphibians, and butterflies. This discovery highlights the rich biodiversity of the area.

Read the article to know more about the importance of conservation efforts in densely populated regions.

https://people.com/scientist-discovers-27-new-species-peru-alto-mayo-landscape-8763717

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to construct a corridor” mean? “Before constructing this corridor, Conservation International needs to know “where the most important species live, especially those that are new to science, rare, or threatened with extinction.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. Explain “human-influence”. “According to Trond, the Alto Mayo Landscape is the most “highly populated and human-influenced” landscape in which RAP has worked.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “knowledge gap” mean? “Trond’s expedition went to the Alto Mayo Landscape to fill these “knowledge gaps” so that the corridor can develop a land-use plan that supports biodiversity conservation, agricultural sustainability, and habitat connectivity across the broader region.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think makes the Alto Mayo region in Peru such a great place for finding new species?
  2. How do you think finding these new species helps scientists learn more about the rainforest and how it all works together?
  3. With all these new species found, do you think there’s enough being done to protect their home from things like deforestation?
  4. Do you think discoveries like this could inspire more people to visit or support conservation in places like Peru?

AI Shaping Proteomics and Multiomics

B2 – Upper Intermediate

This project leverages the extensive genetic database to train AI models, identifying precise disease subtypes for tailored treatments.

Read the article to know more about the launching of proteomics utilizing artificial intelligence to better understand and treat diseases.

https://www.technologynetworks.com/proteomics/articles/how-is-ai-shaping-proteomics-and-multiomics-395403

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Explain the word “underpinning”. “Discovery research is incredibly important for interrogating the underpinning mechanisms of biological states, such as health and disease.” Use it in a sentence and give 2 synonyms.
  2. What does the word “bottleneck” mean here, “There’s one drawback, however; DIA generates large amounts of data, which creates a bottleneck.” Use it in a sentence and give 2 synonyms.
  3. Explain “pan-cancer cohort”. “Local models were trained on simulated sites that contained data from a pan-cancer cohort and 29 cohorts that were held behind firewalls, representing 8 countries and 19,930 DIA-MS runs.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How do you feel about AI being used to analyze genetic and protein data to personalize disease treatments?
  2. Do you think AI-driven medical advancements will make healthcare more accessible, or could it widen the gap between those who can afford cutting-edge treatments and those who cannot?
  3. Since proteomics helps in understanding how proteins influence diseases, what conditions do you think could benefit the most from this research?
  4. Would you be open to having your genetic and protein data analyzed by AI to predict potential health risks, or would privacy concerns hold you back?