PIRMĀ SEMESTRA NOSLĒGUMA TESTI
Space Exploration and Human Progress
Space has always fascinated people. Looking up at the night sky, humans have wondered what lies beyond the stars. Today, space is not only about mystery – it is also about science, technology, and human curiosity. From satellites that guide our daily lives to telescopes that reveal distant galaxies, space exploration continues to expand our knowledge. But as we move forward, we must ask: How will space shape our future on Earth and beyond?
How Space Affects Our Daily Lives
Even if we never leave the planet, space science influences us every day. Satellites in orbit provide GPS navigation, weather forecasts, and global communication. Space research has also created inventions we use on Earth, such as improved medical devices, water filters, and stronger materials.
Astronomy helps us understand the universe and our place in it. Space missions to the Moon and Mars inspire future generations to dream about exploration. At the same time, studying asteroids and distant planets may help us find new resources or even clues about life beyond Earth.
The Positive and Negative Sides
Exploring space brings many benefits:
Knowledge: We learn about planets, stars, and the origins of the universe.
Innovation: Space research develops new technologies that improve life on Earth.
Inspiration: Discoveries spark curiosity and global cooperation.
However, there are also challenges:
Cost: Space exploration requires huge amounts of money.
Risk: Space travel is dangerous for astronauts.
Environment: Rockets can create pollution, and space debris is a growing problem.
Space in the Future
In the next 10 to 20 years, space exploration will likely grow faster than ever. Humans may return to the Moon and build permanent bases. Missions to Mars could become reality, and private companies will play a bigger role in space travel. Space telescopes will reveal even more about distant galaxies, black holes, and possibly other forms of life.
But these changes raise important questions: Who should own space resources? How can we keep space safe and clean? And will space exploration benefit all humanity, or only a few?
Key Vocabulary:
asteroid — [ˈæs.tər.ɔɪd] — a small rocky object orbiting the sun; asteroīds
astronaut — [ˈæs.trə.nɔːt] — a person trained to travel into space; astronauts, cilvēks, kurš ir apmācīts ceļošanai kosmosā
black hole — [ˌblæk ˈhəʊl] — a region in space with gravity so strong nothing can escape; melnais caurums
galaxy — [ˈɡæl.ək.si] — a system of stars, planets, and dust held together by gravity; galaktika
launch — [lɔːntʃ] — to send a rocket or spacecraft into space; palaist (raķeti vai kosmosa kuģi)
mission — [ˈmɪʃ.ən] — a planned journey, often with a specific goal; misija
orbit — [ˈɔː.bɪt] — the path of an object in space around another body; orbīta
rocket — [ˈrɒk.ɪt] — a vehicle powered to travel into space; raķete
satellite — [ˈsæt.əl.aɪt] — a machine placed in orbit around earth or another planet; satelīts
space debris — [speɪs ˈdeb.riː] — old objects floating in orbit that can be dangerous; kosmosa atlūzas
space exploration — [speɪs ˌek.spləˈreɪ.ʃən] — the study and travel beyond earth; kosmosa izpēte
space station — [speɪs ˈsteɪ.ʃən] — a large spacecraft where astronauts live and work; kosmosa stacija
telescope — [ˈtel.ɪ.skəʊp] — an instrument for viewing distant objects in space; teleskops
universe — [ˈjuː.nɪ.vɜːs] — everything that exists — all matter, energy, space, and time; visums
astronaut — [ˈæs.trə.nɔːt] — a person trained to travel into space; astronauts, cilvēks, kurš ir apmācīts ceļošanai kosmosā
black hole — [ˌblæk ˈhəʊl] — a region in space with gravity so strong nothing can escape; melnais caurums
galaxy — [ˈɡæl.ək.si] — a system of stars, planets, and dust held together by gravity; galaktika
launch — [lɔːntʃ] — to send a rocket or spacecraft into space; palaist (raķeti vai kosmosa kuģi)
mission — [ˈmɪʃ.ən] — a planned journey, often with a specific goal; misija
orbit — [ˈɔː.bɪt] — the path of an object in space around another body; orbīta
rocket — [ˈrɒk.ɪt] — a vehicle powered to travel into space; raķete
satellite — [ˈsæt.əl.aɪt] — a machine placed in orbit around earth or another planet; satelīts
space debris — [speɪs ˈdeb.riː] — old objects floating in orbit that can be dangerous; kosmosa atlūzas
space exploration — [speɪs ˌek.spləˈreɪ.ʃən] — the study and travel beyond earth; kosmosa izpēte
space station — [speɪs ˈsteɪ.ʃən] — a large spacecraft where astronauts live and work; kosmosa stacija
telescope — [ˈtel.ɪ.skəʊp] — an instrument for viewing distant objects in space; teleskops
universe — [ˈjuː.nɪ.vɜːs] — everything that exists — all matter, energy, space, and time; visums
Practice: now that you have learned the key vocabulary, it is time to use it in practice. Think how you would answer the discussion-type questions, which will help you develop the ability to give longer answers and practise how to express your opinion — just as in an English exam or real conversation. For each question, an answer prompt is available to guide you.
Discussion-Type Questions
3. What dangers should we worry about when exploring space?
4. Which discovery in space excites you the most?
Discussion-Type Questions
1. What is the most important reason for exploring space?
"In my opinion, the most important reason for exploring space is to increase our understanding of the universe and our place in it. By studying other planets, stars, and galaxies, scientists can learn more about how the Earth was formed and whether life exists elsewhere. Space exploration also helps us develop new technologies that improve life on Earth, like GPS and weather forecasting. Personally, I think curiosity and the desire to discover the unknown are what truly drive humanity to explore space."
2. Do you think humans will live on another planet one day? Why or why not?
"I think it’s possible that humans will live on another planet one day, but it will take a lot of time and technology. Scientists are already studying Mars to see if it could support human life in the future. However, there are many challenges – like lack of oxygen, extreme temperatures, and radiation. In my opinion, it’s an exciting idea, but we first need to make sure we can survive safely and protect any environment we go to. It might not happen soon, but maybe in the distant future."
3. What dangers should we worry about when exploring space?
"In my opinion, space exploration is amazing but also very risky. One big danger is technical failure – if a spacecraft or rocket breaks, it can be life-threatening. Astronauts also face health problems from radiation and living in zero gravity for long periods. Another concern is space debris, which can hit satellites or spacecraft and cause serious damage. I think it’s important to keep exploring, but we must always put safety first and find ways to reduce these risks."
4. Which discovery in space excites you the most?
"I’m most excited about the discovery of possible signs of life on Mars. It makes me wonder if we’re really alone in the universe. Scientists have found evidence of water and certain minerals that suggest life might have existed there long ago. I also find black holes fascinating because they show how powerful and mysterious space can be. In my opinion, every new discovery helps us understand more about how the universe works and inspires people to keep exploring."
Practice speaking more:
In real life and English exams, you may need to discuss a topic or defend your opinion in a short conversation. For example, during a speaking test, you might have to agree or disagree with a statement and explain your reasons. In class, you usually do this in pairs or small groups to practise real communication. Take a look at the task.
In real life and English exams, you may need to discuss a topic or defend your opinion in a short conversation. For example, during a speaking test, you might have to agree or disagree with a statement and explain your reasons. In class, you usually do this in pairs or small groups to practise real communication. Take a look at the task.
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Pair Speaking Task: Discuss and Defend Your Opinion
Topic: Money spent on space exploration should be used to solve problems on Earth instead Instructions for Students 1. Decide if you agree or disagree with the statement. Agree: Earth has more urgent problems like poverty and climate change. Disagree: Space exploration is important for the future of humanity. 2. Take 1–2 minutes to prepare your arguments. Use examples from your own life, from school, or from what you’ve read/heard. 3. Discuss for 4–5 minutes. Take turns explaining your point of view. Listen actively and respond to each other’s ideas. 4. Try to: Give at least two reasons for your opinion Use linking words (e.g. first of all, in contrast, however, for example) Ask each other questions Defend your ideas with examples or explanations 5. At the end, agree on one of the following: You still disagree You changed your mind You found a middle ground (a balanced opinion) |
Revise vocabulary that would benefit you in this kind of task: Technology Today and Tomorrow
Model answer. Read and listen:
"I agree with the idea that money spent on space exploration should be used to solve problems on Earth first.
One main reason is that our planet faces urgent issues like poverty, hunger, and climate change. Millions of people still don’t have enough food, clean water, or medical care. This is because governments often spend huge amounts of money on rockets and missions while many people struggle to survive. For instance, improving education or building renewable energy systems could make life better for millions right now.
Another reason is that space exploration is extremely expensive and doesn’t always bring quick results. While some discoveries are useful, they often take decades to have a real impact. In addition, focusing on Earth’s problems first can create a safer and more stable world – which is the best base for future exploration.
However, I understand that space research has its benefits, such as new technology and scientific knowledge. Although it’s true that exploration inspires people, we should remember that saving our planet is more important than exploring others.
To sum up, I believe that our main priority should be solving human and environmental problems on Earth. Overall, it seems clear that investing in people and the planet will bring more direct benefits than spending billions on space missions."
One main reason is that our planet faces urgent issues like poverty, hunger, and climate change. Millions of people still don’t have enough food, clean water, or medical care. This is because governments often spend huge amounts of money on rockets and missions while many people struggle to survive. For instance, improving education or building renewable energy systems could make life better for millions right now.
Another reason is that space exploration is extremely expensive and doesn’t always bring quick results. While some discoveries are useful, they often take decades to have a real impact. In addition, focusing on Earth’s problems first can create a safer and more stable world – which is the best base for future exploration.
However, I understand that space research has its benefits, such as new technology and scientific knowledge. Although it’s true that exploration inspires people, we should remember that saving our planet is more important than exploring others.
To sum up, I believe that our main priority should be solving human and environmental problems on Earth. Overall, it seems clear that investing in people and the planet will bring more direct benefits than spending billions on space missions."
"I disagree with the idea that money spent on space exploration should be used only to solve problems on Earth.
One main reason is that space exploration helps us develop new technologies that also benefit people on our planet. For example, satellites are used for weather forecasting, GPS, and communication. These systems help save lives during natural disasters and make everyday life easier.
Another reason is that studying space helps us understand how to protect Earth better. The evidence shows that research on climate and the atmosphere is often supported by data collected from space. Moreover, exploring space encourages young people to study science and innovation, which are essential for solving global problems in the future.
However, I understand that poverty and climate change are serious issues. Although it’s true that we must focus on them, we should remember that space exploration and solving Earth’s problems do not have to compete – both can work together.
To sum up, I believe that investing in space research is an investment in the future of humanity. Overall, it seems clear that discoveries made in space can also help us build a better and safer world here on Earth."
One main reason is that space exploration helps us develop new technologies that also benefit people on our planet. For example, satellites are used for weather forecasting, GPS, and communication. These systems help save lives during natural disasters and make everyday life easier.
Another reason is that studying space helps us understand how to protect Earth better. The evidence shows that research on climate and the atmosphere is often supported by data collected from space. Moreover, exploring space encourages young people to study science and innovation, which are essential for solving global problems in the future.
However, I understand that poverty and climate change are serious issues. Although it’s true that we must focus on them, we should remember that space exploration and solving Earth’s problems do not have to compete – both can work together.
To sum up, I believe that investing in space research is an investment in the future of humanity. Overall, it seems clear that discoveries made in space can also help us build a better and safer world here on Earth."