November 10th • Knowledge & Society

World Science Day

World Science Day for Peace and Development is an international day that highlights the important role of science in society and the need to engage the wider public in debates on emerging scientific issues. Today, we debate the ethical implications of scientific research, the importance of scientific literacy in the modern world, and whether science is the ultimate solution to humanity's biggest challenges. Can we trust science when it conflicts with our personal beliefs?

A scientist working in a high-tech laboratory

Speaking Discussion

What scientific discovery do you think has had the biggest impact on your daily life? How would your life be different without it?
In your opinion, what are the most pressing ethical dilemmas facing scientists today (e.g., AI, genetic engineering, etc.)?
How important is it for the general public to understand complex scientific concepts? Should scientific literacy be a core part of all education?
Do you think that science and religion can coexist peacefully, or are they fundamentally at odds with each other?
What is a scientific area that you are particularly fascinated by? Why does it interest you, and what do you hope to see happen in this field?
How can we ensure that scientific progress benefits everyone in society, rather than just a wealthy few?

Activity 1: The future invention Pitch

The Task: You are a Leading Scientist. You have developed a new invention that will solve one of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

What is the invention, and how does it work?

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Sentences

Complete the sentence and justify it in 20 seconds.

"The biggest benefit of scientific progress is..."
"I think scientific ethics are..."
"In my opinion, the future of science will be..."

Key Vocabulary

Research (N/V) The systematic investigation into and study of materials and sources in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions.
Ethics (N) Moral principles that govern a person's behavior or the conducting of an activity.
Literacy (N) The ability to read and write; competence or knowledge in a specified area.
Development (N) The process of developing or being developed; a specified state of growth or advancement.
Observation (N) The action or process of observing something or someone carefully or in order to gain information.

Fluency Catalyst

The "Brain" Phrases: When talking about intelligence, use: "To pick someone's brain," or "To have a lightbulb moment."

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