Speaking Worksheet
Space Exploration Priorities
Speaking Practice
1
Discussion
Discuss the questions. Ask follow-up questions and push for examples, evidence, and qualification.
- Is space exploration a justified priority when there are urgent problems on Earth?
- Should private companies be allowed to shape the future of space travel?
- What is the strongest argument for sending humans rather than robots into space?
- Could space research help solve problems on Earth, or is that argument exaggerated?
- Who should own or regulate resources found beyond Earth?
2
Collaborative task
You advise an international space agency. Choose between funding a Moon base, Mars research, asteroid defence, or climate satellites.
- scientific value
- risk
- public benefit
- international cooperation
I would argue that...A more nuanced view is...The main trade-off is...That depends on whether...I see your point, but...The long-term consequence might be...
3
Report and challenge
Defend your funding choice against a group that chose a different priority.