Artificial Weather: A Global Storm In A Tea Cup
Artificial Weather: A Global Storm In A Tea Cup

Artificial weather is a topical argument that governments have debated for decades. This conversation lesson plan will highlight how to compare, contrast, express an opinion, and use common prepositions. Build spoken confidence and apply the theory in English as a second language.


There are two schools of thought on whether societies should future-proof against droughts, flooding, and food shortages. Our planet is heating up, and spotlight debates about how we should or shouldn’t combat rising temperatures have been an ongoing topical subject for decades.

Future Proof: The Pursuit of Artificial Weather

Schools Of Thought

There are two schools of thought on whether societies should future-proof against droughts, flooding, and food shortages. Our planet is heating up, and spotlight debates about how we should or shouldn’t combat rising temperatures have been an ongoing topical subject for decades. 

With no end in sight, some countries have considered turning to technology as a possible solution. The environment is a hot topic for most exam bodies and, as such, should be researched to build vocabulary and confidence.

Conversation Course

In this conversation class, we will debate the concept of producing heat and rain artificially and how it could deviate from a very certain outcome. You will learn how to express yourself in English as a second language. In particular; voice tones, comparative and superlative, use of common prepositions and interaction skills.

China’s ambitious endeavours in the field of weather manipulation have sparked intense ethical debates worldwide. With the ability to create artificial rain and even simulate the sun, China’s scientific advancements have raised concerns about the potential consequences and ethical implications of playing with nature. This article will explore the ethical dilemmas associated with China’s pursuit of artificial weather, exploring the benefits, risks, and the need for responsible innovation in this rapidly evolving field.

The Promise of Artificial Rain:

China’s efforts to create artificial rain have been driven by many factors, including addressing water scarcity, mitigating droughts, and enhancing agricultural productivity. By deploying cloud seeding techniques, such as dispersing chemicals into clouds to induce precipitation, China aims to alleviate water shortages and ensure food security. However, critics argue that manipulating rainfall patterns may have unintended ecological consequences, disrupting natural ecosystems and exacerbating environmental imbalances.

Unleashing the Artificial Sun:

China’s pursuit of an artificial sun, a nuclear fusion reactor known as the “Artificial Sun,” has garnered both excitement and apprehension. This groundbreaking project aims to replicate the process that powers the sun, potentially unlocking a virtually limitless source of clean and sustainable energy. However, the ethical concerns surrounding nuclear fusion technology are significant, as it involves handling radioactive materials and the potential for nuclear accidents. Striking a balance between scientific progress and the safety of humans and the environment becomes crucial in this context.

Ethical Considerations:

The ethical debate surrounding China’s weather manipulation efforts revolves around several key considerations:

  1. Critics argue that tampering with the weather interferes with the natural order of the environment, potentially leading to unforeseen consequences.
  2. Concerns about the transparency and accountability of the research and development process have been raised, emphasising the need for open dialogue and international collaboration.
  3. Questions arise regarding the equitable distribution of the benefits and risks associated with artificial rain and artificial sun technologies, particularly in developing countries heavily affected by climate change.

Responsible Innovation:

As China continues to push the boundaries of weather manipulation, prioritising responsible and ethical innovation becomes imperative. This includes conducting comprehensive risk assessments, ensuring public engagement and participation in decision-making processes, and establishing international regulatory frameworks to govern the deployment of artificial weather technologies. By fostering a multidisciplinary approach incorporating input from scientists, policymakers, and ethicists, we can navigate the ethical challenges while harnessing the potential benefits of artificial rain and artificial sun technologies.

Artificial Weather

China’s advancements in artificial rain and artificial sun technologies have undoubtedly opened up new possibilities for addressing pressing environmental and energy challenges. However, the ethical debates surrounding these endeavours highlight the need for caution, responsibility, and a comprehensive understanding of the potential risks and benefits. As we venture further into the realm of weather manipulation, it is essential to strike a delicate balance between scientific progress, ethical considerations, and the long-term sustainability of our planet.

Artificial Weather Questions – Part 1

1. Should China continue to invest in artificial rain technologies despite the potential ecological consequences?

2. What measures should be taken to minimise the environmental impact of artificial rain in China?

3. Is the manipulation of rainfall patterns through artificial rain a viable solution for addressing water scarcity in China?

4. Should artificial rain be a long-term solution to address droughts in China, or are there better alternatives?

5. How can we ensure the responsible and ethical use of artificial rain technologies in China?

6. What are the potential economic benefits of manipulating rainfall patterns through artificial rain in China, and do they outweigh the ecological risks?

7. Should the use of artificial rain be limited to specific regions in China, or should it be implemented nationwide?

8. How can local communities and indigenous peoples be involved in decision-making regarding artificial rain in China?

9. What are the potential social and cultural impacts of manipulating rainfall patterns through artificial rain in China?

10. Should international cooperation be encouraged to develop guidelines and regulations for using artificial rain technologies globally?

Artificial Weather – Questions Part 2

11. What are the potential risks of relying heavily on artificial rain for agricultural production in China?

12. How can we ensure that artificial rain technologies do not exacerbate existing water inequalities in China?

13. Should there be a regulatory body on artificial rain technologies until further research is conducted on their ecological impacts?

14. What role should scientists and experts play in shaping policies and regulations related to artificial rain in China?

15. How can we effectively monitor and evaluate the ecological consequences of manipulating rainfall patterns through artificial rain in China?

16. Should there be public awareness campaigns to educate the general population about the potential risks and benefits of artificial rain in China?

17. Should the government provide financial incentives for developing and implementing more sustainable and eco-friendly artificial rain technologies?

18. How can we strike a balance between addressing immediate water needs through artificial rain and promoting long-term water conservation and sustainability in China?

19. Should artificial rain technologies be reserved for extreme weather events only, or should it be implemented as a regular practice?

20. What are the potential legal and regulatory challenges associated with using artificial rain technologies in China, and how can they be overcome?

Join us on Spotify.

Read about this course.

Retake a section - A chance to score high
Retake a section – A chance to score high

Businesses want to seek out top talent, and this is understandable; why should they settle for less? You can now retake one section of the IELTS exam so you don’t need to retake the whole exam.


Retake a section -  A chance to score high

The IELTS One Skill Retake refers to the option provided by the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) for candidates to retake one specific skill (Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking) if they are unsatisfied with their scores in that section.

Businesses want to seek out top talent, and this is understandable; why should they settle for less?

The IELTS One Skill Retake refers to the option provided by the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) for candidates to retake one specific skill (Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking) if they are unsatisfied with their scores in that section. This option allows candidates to focus on improving their performance in a specific skill without retaking the entire test. It provides flexibility and enables candidates to target their efforts towards the areas they need to improve the most.

IELTS One Skill Retake

Born out of a need to identify with students who failed to obtain a set grade in one of the four skills evaluated: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. The IELTS one-skill retake may help test takers increase their overall grade point average scores in academic and general exam formats. This, in turn, could make all the difference in terms of immigration requirements.

Retake Complacency 

A second chance may impact your study both in and out of a learning environment, so it’s essential to maintain the integrity of your study plan. 

Although this exam format is widely available, you should check with your test centre as the facility may vary globally. 

Retake Availability

The IELTS One Skill Retake Test is available online at this time but may appear in test centres shortly. Results are made available to test takers within five days. 

You have to sit your Retake Test within 60 days of taking the full IELTS exam.

The IELTS exam is scored on a nine-band scale, with each band representing a level of proficiency in English. The scoring system is designed to provide a fair and accurate assessment of a candidate’s language skills. Here is a breakdown of the scoring system for each section of the IELTS exam:

Listening

The Listening section consists of 40 questions; each correct answer is awarded one mark. The raw scores are then converted to a band score ranging from 1 to 9.

Reading 

The Reading section also consists of 40 questions; each correct answer is awarded one mark. The raw scores are then converted to a band score ranging from 1 to 9.

Writing 

The Writing section is evaluated based on four criteria: Task Achievement, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Each criterion is assigned a band score ranging from 0 to 9. So, the four criterion scores are then averaged to calculate the final Writing band score.

Speaking 

A certified examiner assesses the Speaking section based on four criteria: Fluency and Coherence, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, and Pronunciation. Each criterion is assigned a band score ranging from 0 to 9. The four criterion scores are then averaged to calculate the final Speaking band score.

Once the scores for each section are obtained, an overall band score is calculated by taking the average of the four individual section scores. So, the overall band score is rounded to the nearest half or whole band.

The nine-band scale ranges from band 1 (non-user) to band 9 (expert user), with band 0 assigned for candidates who did not attempt the test. So, each band score corresponds to a specific level of English proficiency. Band 9 indicates the highest level of language proficiency.


Join us on Spotify

Conspiracy Theories: Unmasked For A Curious Mind
Conspiracy Theories: Unmasked For A Curious Mind

Conspiracy theories have long captured the imaginations of people across the globe. A topical conversation lesson plan.


Weaving intricate tales of hidden agendas, secret societies, and covert manipulations. These theories, often dismissed as mere speculation or paranoia, continue to persist and gain traction in various aspects of society. But what exactly is a conspiracy theory, and why do they exist?

At their core, conspiracy theories are alternative explanations that question the official narrative surrounding significant events or phenomena. They suggest the existence of a secretive group or organisation working behind the scenes to manipulate outcomes, control governments, or conceal the truth. Such theories find fertile ground in the gaps of information, uncertainties, and mistrust that can arise in complex and turbulent times.

The existence of conspiracy theories can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, human nature plays a significant role. As social beings, we strive to make sense of the world around us, seeking explanations for events that seem inexplicable or beyond our control. Conspiracy theories provide a sense of order and understanding, offering a comprehensible narrative in the face of uncertainty.

Questioning the status quo

Additionally, conspiracy theories often flourish during times of societal upheaval, when people feel marginalised, powerless, or disillusioned with the established order. In these instances, conspiracy theories can serve as a form of resistance or a means to reclaim a sense of agency. They provide an outlet for expressing discontent, challenging authority, and questioning the status quo.

Furthermore, the widespread availability of information through the internet and social media has contributed to the proliferation of conspiracy theories. The ease of accessing and disseminating information, coupled with the echo chambers of like-minded individuals, can reinforce and amplify these theories, making them appear more credible and widespread than they actually are.

However, it is crucial to approach conspiracy theories with scepticism and critical thinking. While some theories may uncover legitimate concerns or raise important questions, many lack credible evidence and rely on speculation, misinformation, or logical fallacies. It is essential to distinguish between genuine investigative inquiry and baseless conjecture.

Origin

In this article, we will delve deeper into the world of conspiracy theories, examining their origins, psychological appeal, and the societal implications they pose. By understanding the underlying factors contributing to their existence, we can better navigate the complex landscape of information and discern fact from fiction.

Join us as we embark on a journey to unravel the enigma of conspiracy theories in this conversation lesson plan. We explore the human fascination with hidden truths and the allure of alternative explanations. Let us delve into the mysterious realm where scepticism meets curiosity as we seek to shed light on the shadows of conspiracy theories and their enduring presence in our world.

Scepticism meets curiosity

1. The Moon Landing Hoax: Some believe the U.S. government staged the Apollo moon landing in 1969 to win the Space Race against the Soviet Union.

2. 9/11 Inside Job: This theory suggests that the U.S. government orchestrated the 9/11 terrorist attacks as a pretext for engaging in war in the Middle East.

3. Chemtrails: Conspiracy theorists claim that the white trails left by aeroplanes in the sky are chemicals that are sprayed for sinister purposes, such as mind control or weather manipulation.

4. Flat Earth: This theory asserts that the Earth is flat instead of spherical, despite centuries of scientific evidence to the contrary.

5. New World Order: Believers in this theory claim that a global cabal of powerful individuals or organisations controls world events and plans to establish a totalitarian world government.

6. Reptilian Elite: Some conspiracy theorists believe that shape-shifting reptilian humanoid aliens secretly control the world’s governments and institutions.

7. JFK Assassination: This theory suggests that the assassination of U.S. President John F. Kennedy in 1963 was not carried out by Lee Harvey Oswald alone but was a result of a larger conspiracy involving multiple individuals or groups.

8. Area 51 and Extraterrestrial Life: This theory revolves around the idea that the U.S. government is hiding evidence of extraterrestrial life and advanced technology at the secretive Area 51 military base in Nevada.

9. Vaccination Conspiracy: Some argue that vaccines are harmful and that their real purpose is to control or harm the population, despite overwhelming scientific consensus on their efficacy and safety.

10. Princess Diana Death Assassination Plot: This theory suggests that Princess Diana was killed due to her involvement with Dodi Al-Fayed.

Conspiracy Theories Part 2

11. Illuminati: Believers in this theory claim that a secret society called the Illuminati controls world events and manipulates governments and economies.

12. Global Warming Hoax: Some argue that the scientific consensus on global warming and climate change is a hoax perpetuated to control the economy or advance a political agenda.

13. Elvis Presley Faked His Death: This theory suggests that Elvis Presley, the famous musician, faked his death in 1977 and is still alive.

14. Paul McCartney Replacement: Some claim that Paul McCartney of The Beatles was replaced by a look-a-like after his alleged death in 1966.

15. HIV/AIDS Conspiracy: This theory suggests that HIV/AIDS was intentionally created and spread by governments or pharmaceutical companies for various reasons, such as population control or profit.

16. Big Pharma: Conspiracy theorists argue that pharmaceutical companies intentionally suppress natural cures and promote harmful drugs for profit.

17. Reversed Messages in Music: This theory claims that hidden messages are intentionally inserted into music tracks when played in reverse, with potentially harmful effects on the listener’s subconscious mind.

18. Roswell UFO Incident: This conspiracy theory revolves around the alleged crash of an extraterrestrial spacecraft in Roswell, New Mexico, in 1947 and the subsequent government cover-up.

19. The Mandela Effect: This theory suggests that collective false memories of specific events or details are evidence of alternate realities or parallel universes.

20. Hollow Earth: Some believe that the Earth is hollow and a hidden civilization resides within it.

Conspiracy Theories Part 3

Topical Debates

1. Should the death penalty be abolished?

2. Is climate change primarily caused by human activity?

3. Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be allowed in food production?

4. Is free speech more important than preventing hate speech?

5. Should recreational marijuana use be legalised?

6. Is it ethical to use animals for scientific experiments?

7. Should the government provide free healthcare for all citizens?

8. Is homeschooling a better option than traditional schooling?

9. Should the voting age be lowered to 16?

10. Is capitalism the best economic system?

11. Should affirmative action policies be implemented to promote diversity?

12. Is censorship necessary to protect society?

13. Should the use of nuclear energy be expanded?

14. Is using animals for entertainment, such as zoos or circuses, ethical?

15. Should the minimum wage be raised?

16. Is universal basic income a viable solution to poverty?

17. Should the government regulate social media platforms to combat misinformation and hate speech?

18. Is it ethical to use artificial intelligence in decision-making processes?

19. Should the United States adopt stricter gun control laws?

20. Is globalisation more beneficial or harmful for developing countries?


Join us on Spotify

Book this course.