NATIVEUK.COM LESSONS
International Day of Light
Celebrated on the 16th of May, the International Day of Light marks the anniversary of the first successful operation of the laser in 1960 by physicist Theodore Maiman. The day celebrates the role of light in science, culture, art, and education, and its impact on fields from medicine to communications.
Speaking Discussion
- Is the night a lost territory for modern humans?
- Should companies be forced to turn off all street lights after midnight to save energy and birds?
- Why do we find a sunset so emotional? Is it a biological fear of the dark?
- If you could live in perpetual daylight (like in some parts of the Arctic), would you do it?
- Is sleep the most valuable currency of the 21st century?
Activity 1: The Lighting Designer
The Task: You are a bio-Architect designing a digital detox hotel. You have 3 minutes to describe the lighting system. How do you use light to force people to: A) Wake up at 5 AM, and B) Fall into a deep sleep at 9 PM? Use wavelengths and intensity.
Activity 2: Rapid Fire Debate
Justify in 30 seconds: 1. 'The lightbulb was the most destructive invention in human history.' 2. 'Sleep is a weakness we should try to overcome with technology.' 3. 'We are becoming a species of 'Indoor Ghosts' who have forgotten the sun.'