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.

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?

Read about this course.

Podcast-Mind your own business.

Welcome to this edition of one2one Podcasts, focused on expressing an opinion in English as a second language.

PODCAST

Welcome to this edition of one2one Podcasts, focused on expressing an opinion in English as a second language.

Podcast

Business conversation questions

1. ” Remote work is a more efficient and productive way of conducting business than traditional office-based work.”
2.  “Data-driven decision-making is essential for businesses to stay competitive in the modern market.”
3.  “Sustainability initiatives in business are just a PR stunt and do not significantly impact the environment.”
4.  “Digital marketing is the most effective way for businesses to reach and engage with their target audience.”
5. “Artificial intelligence and automation will lead to significant job losses and negatively impact the workforce.”
6. “Corporate social responsibility should be mandatory for all businesses, regardless of size or industry.”
7. “Flexible work hours and work-life balance initiatives are crucial for employee satisfaction and retention.”
8. “Traditional brick-and-mortar stores will become obsolete as e-commerce continues to dominate the market.”
9. “Innovation and adaptation to new technologies are essential for long-term business success.”
10. Government regulations and policies are necessary to ensure fair competition in the business industry.”
11. “Investing in employee training and development is a key strategy for businesses to stay competitive and retain top talent.”
12. “Businesses should prioritise diversity and inclusion in their hiring practices to foster innovation and reflect the diverse customer base.”
13.  “Corporate mergers and acquisitions contribute to market consolidation and limit competition, ultimately harming consumers.”
14. “Investing in sustainable and renewable energy sources is not only environmentally responsible but also financially beneficial for businesses in the long run.”
15. “Ethical sourcing and supply chain management should be a priority for businesses to ensure fair treatment of workers and prevent exploitation.”
16.  “Businesses have a moral obligation to give back to the communities they operate in through philanthropy and social initiatives.”
17. “Blockchain technology has the potential to revolutionise various industries and improve transparency and security in business transactions.”
18. “Businesses should prioritise customer experience and satisfaction to build strong brand loyalty and increase profitability.”
19. “The government should provide more financial incentives and support for small businesses to foster entrepreneurship and economic growth.”

Join us on Spotify.

Inheritance – What’s yours is mine

Inheritance tax, also known as estate tax or death tax, is a controversial topic that has been debated for years. It is a tax levied on transferring property or assets from a deceased person to their heirs or beneficiaries.

Join us for this controversial conversation class on the subject of inheritance tax. Featured recently in the media, learn how to express your opinion in English as a second language. This class is available as part of our conversation course.

Podcast

Inheritance tax, also known as estate tax or death tax, is a controversial topic that has been debated for years. It is a tax levied on transferring property or assets from a deceased person to their heirs or beneficiaries. Below are some arguments for and against inheritance tax:

Inheritance Tax Advantages

1. Promotes equality: Inheritance tax ensures wealth is distributed more evenly among society. It prevents the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few and helps reduce wealth inequality. Taxing the wealthiest estates provides resources that can be used for public goods and services that benefit all citizens.

2. Revenue generation: Inheritance tax generates significant revenue for the government. This revenue can fund public services such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social welfare programs. It helps reduce the budget deficit and provides resources for the government to invest in the economy.

3. Prevents the creation of a hereditary aristocracy: Inheritance tax discourages the creation of a hereditary aristocracy by making it more difficult for wealthy families to pass on their wealth to future generations without any taxation. This ensures that individuals are motivated to work hard and contribute to society rather than relying solely on inherited wealth.

Inheritance Tax Disadvantages

Critics argue that inheritance tax is a form of double taxation. The assets being passed down have already been subjected to income tax, capital gains tax, and other taxes throughout the deceased person’s lifetime. Taxing them again upon death is seen as unfair and burdensome.

Inheritance tax can harm family-owned businesses and farms. In some cases, heirs may be forced to sell or liquidate assets to pay the tax, leading to the loss of jobs and the dissolution of family-owned enterprises. This can negatively impact local economies and communities.

Tax planning

High inheritance tax rates often incentivise wealthy individuals to engage in tax planning strategies to minimise their tax liability. This can lead to complex estate planning, the creation of trusts, and other methods to avoid or evade the tax. As a result, the revenue generated from inheritance tax may be lower than anticipated.

The debate on inheritance tax revolves around fairness, equality, economic impact, and revenue generation. Proponents argue that it promotes equality and generates revenue for public goods. In contrast, opponents say that it is a form of double taxation, negatively affects small businesses, and encourages tax evasion. The outcome of this debate depends on the balance between these factors and the specific context of each country or jurisdiction.

Conversation Questions 

1. What are your thoughts on inheritance tax? Do you believe it is fair or unfair?

2. Do you think inheritance tax helps reduce wealth inequality? Why or why not?

3. What impact do you think inheritance tax has on small businesses and family-owned farms?

4. Is it important for society to discourage the creation of a hereditary aristocracy? Why or why not?

5. In your opinion, does inheritance tax encourage tax evasion and avoidance? Why or why not?

6. Should inheritance tax rates be higher or lower? What factors should be considered in determining the appropriate rate?

7. Do you think inheritance tax revenue is effectively used for public goods and services? Can you provide any examples?

8. How does this tax compare to other forms of taxation, such as income tax or sales tax?

9. Would you support any reforms or changes to the current inheritance tax system? If so, what would they be?

10. How does this tax vary across different countries? Are there any countries with particularly high or low rates that you find interesting?

Writing Practice:

Essay writing task

Some people believe that inheritance tax is beneficial because it helps distribute wealth across society. Others believe that this form of taxation is simply not fair since its money that has already been taxed.

Write an essay to express your opinion. Your essay should have a minimum word count of 250 words, and you should take no longer than 40 minutes to complete this task.

Your essay will be corrected by a language instructor at the beginning of your class in real time so that you can identify any errors made and correct them. 

Stories – Idioms

Idioms are often considered the most challenging part of the English language. Two short stories to help with understanding.

Stories with idioms

Learning idioms is important for a number of reasons. Here are a few:

1. Better communication: Idioms are widely used in English, and learning them can help you understand and communicate more effectively with native speakers. Idioms can add colour and nuance to your speech, making you sound more fluent and natural.
2. Cultural understanding: Idioms are often tied to cultural references and can help you understand the history, customs, and traditions of English-speaking countries. By learning idioms, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the language and culture.
3. Improved listening skills: Idioms can be difficult to understand if you’re not familiar with them. By learning idioms, you’ll be able to pick up on them more easily when you hear them in conversation or in movies and TV shows.
4. Enhanced writing skills: Idioms can be used to add flair and personality to your writing, making it more engaging and interesting to read. By incorporating idioms into your writing, you can make your work more memorable and stand out from the crowd.

Overall, learning idioms is an important part of mastering English and can help you become a more effective communicator, both in spoken and written form. This lesson plan is based on reading and comprehension.

Stories

The following stories were written to help with understanding. These short stories were written and produced exclusively for One2one Academy.

Story 1 – A SUCCESSFUL START-UP

A short story about a character called Sarah who owns a start-up

As CEO of a successful start-up, Sarah knew that it was essential to keep costs low in order to stay competitive in the market. However, she also knew that cutting corners on quality was not an option if she wanted to maintain customer satisfaction. After months of negotiations, Sarah finally closed a deal with a major investor, securing the funding she needed to take her business to the next level. With a ballpark figure in mind, she began to brainstorm new ideas for expanding her product line, embracing blue-sky thinking and exploring all possibilities.

Despite her best efforts to keep her team informed, Sarah realised that some members had been left out of the loop on important decisions. She quickly made adjustments to ensure that everyone was on the same page and working towards the same goals.

Still, she knew that success was never guaranteed in the competitive world of business. Sarah was determined not to put all her eggs in one basket, carefully balancing risks and rewards as she continued to build her company. With a commitment to quality and innovation, she remained confident that her start-up would continue to thrive and grow.

Written and produced exclusively for One2one Academy ©

Story 2 – A Beautiful Day

A short story about a character called Jane who organised a picnic for friends at a park.

It was a beautiful day, and Jane was looking forward to a picnic in the park with her friends. She started to get ready by _________(put) on her favourite dress and ___________ (tie) her hair. Then, she ___________ (pack) her picnic basket with sandwiches, fruits, and drinks.

As she ___________(step) of her house, she saw her friends ___________(wait) her at the gate. They ___________(set) towards the park, chatting and laughing along the way.

When they ___________(arrive) the park, they ___________(spread) a blanket and ___________(lay) all the food. They ___________(dug) and ___________(eat) all the delicious snacks.

After the meal, they ___________(clean) the area and ___________(pack) the leftover food. They ___________(set) to explore the park and ___________(come) a beautiful lake.

Jane ___________(suggest) they go for a boat ride, so they ___________(hop) a boat and ___________(row) into the lake. They ___________(take) the beautiful scenery and ___________(chat).

As the sun started to set, they ___________(row) to shore and ___________(head) home. It was a perfect day filled with laughter, good food, and great company.

Written and produced exclusively for One2one Academy ©

Spotify

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Money – Save Or Spend?

Money, should we save or spend? The debate between saving for tomorrow or living for today is one that has been ongoing for years.

It is a question of personal preferences and circumstances. While some believe that it is important to save for the future, others argue that we should enjoy life while we can. In reality, both sides of the argument have their pros and cons.

One of the most significant advantages of saving for the future is financial stability and security. It allows us to have a safety net in case of emergencies or unexpected expenses. Saving also helps us achieve long-term goals such as buying a house, starting a business, or retiring comfortably. In addition, saving for the future allows us to have peace of mind, knowing that we have a plan in place for our financial future.

Money – The Temptation

However, one of the most significant disadvantages of saving for the future is that it requires discipline and patience. It can be challenging to resist the temptation to spend money on things we want now rather than saving it for later. In addition, the future is still being determined, and there is no guarantee that our savings will be enough to cover all our expenses in the future.

On the other hand, living for today allows us to enjoy life and experience new things. Life is short, and we never know what tomorrow may bring. Therefore, it is vital to seize the moment and make the most of our time. Living for today allows us to create memories, have fun, and enjoy the present moment.

However, one of the most significant disadvantages of living for today is that it can lead to financial instability and debt. It is essential to find a balance between saving for the future and enjoying the present. This can be achieved by creating a budget, prioritising expenses, and setting financial goals.

Money And Instability

In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of saving for the future. The pandemic has caused economic instability and uncertainty, leading to many job losses and financial hardship. Those with savings could weather the storm better than those without.

Finding ways to cut expenses and prioritise our spending while saving for the future. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us the importance of having savings and being prepared for unexpected events. It is always possible to start saving for the future. With discipline, patience, and a clear plan, we can achieve financial security while still enjoying the present. Ultimately, the decision between saving for tomorrow or living for today is personal, and it is up to each individual to find a balance that works for them.

Questions

1. Is it better to spend money or invest it in the future?

2. Should individuals be responsible for their own financial security, or should the government provide more support?

3. Is it worth taking on debt to finance education or other investments?

4. Should there be limits on how much individuals can save or invest?

5. Is it fair for wealthy individuals to pay higher taxes to support social welfare programs?

6. Should there be a universal basic income to ensure financial security for all individuals?

7. Is it ethical for companies to offer high-interest loans to individuals who may be unable to repay them?

8. Should there be more regulations on how financial institutions operate to protect consumers?

9. Should individuals be required to take financial literacy courses before being able to open a bank account or apply for a loan?

10. Should the government provide more financial support for small businesses and entrepreneurs?

11. Is it ethical for businesses to prioritise profits over the well-being of their employees?

12. Should there be a cap on CEO salaries to reduce income inequality?

13. Is it fair for companies to use tax loopholes to avoid paying their fair share of taxes?

14. Should more incentives exist for individuals and businesses to invest in renewable energy?

15. Is it ethical for companies to engage in price gouging during times of crisis or scarcity?

16. Should there be more transparency in how companies use consumer data for advertising and marketing purposes?

17. Is it ethical for companies to engage in offshore outsourcing to reduce labour costs?

18. Should there be more regulations on how companies treat their customers, particularly in industries like healthcare and insurance?

19. Is it ethical for companies to use sweatshop labour to manufacture their products?

20. Should there be more support for employee-owned businesses as a more equitable alternative to traditional corporate structures?

Try this lesson plan!

If you liked this lesson plan, you may enjoy Politics. Join me in this debate-style lesson plan that explores the concept of expression. Politics is a challenging topic to discuss. We all have an opinion about how a country should be managed, and very often, there is a good reason to avoid a discussion. Welcome to this one2one podcast; this lesson plan will provide insight into how we express ourselves in English as a second language. Our conversation course builds confidence, increases vocabulary and will help you to start, stop and maintain a conversation. Expressing yourself in the English language can be about more than just agreeing with someone. We should also know how to disagree. Again, vocabulary is key, and the focus may shift towards using voice tones, speed of speech or more complex sentence constructions.