October 29 • Cultural Insight

World Internet Day

World Internet Day, celebrated on the 29th of October, marks the anniversary of the first electronic message transmitted between two computers in 1969. The day recognises the internet's profound transformation of global communication, commerce, and human interaction.

Speaking Discussion

Has the internet made us smarter (more facts) or stupider (less deep thinking)?
Should the internet be a human right or a subscription service for those who can pay?
Why do we behave so much worse to strangers online than we do in person?
If you had to go offline for 1 year, what would be the hardest thing to lose?
Is the internet run by humans or is it running the humans?

Activity 1: The Digital Deletionist

The Task: You are the leader of a anti-Internet movement. You want to turn off the world web for one day a week. You have 3 minutes to pitch the benefits to the silicon valley board. Explain why going dark will save creativity and families.

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Debate

Justify in 30 seconds: 1. 'The internet was a mistake we can't undo.' 2. 'We are the first generation to live in two worlds at once, and we are failing at both.' 3. 'The only real freedom is 'Offline Freedom'.'

Key Vocabulary

Infrastructure (N) The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society.
Algorithm (N) A process or set of rules to be followed in calculations or other problem-solving operations, especially by a computer.
Subscription (N) The action of making or agreeing to make an advance payment in order to receive or participate in something.
Waking (Adj) Used to describe time when you are not asleep.
Disconnection (N) The state of being isolated or detached.

Fluency Catalyst

Native Phrase: When discussing impact, use: "To surf the web."

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