ADVANCED/INTERMEDIATE ENGLISH LESSON: The language of how things work (3)

How Does It Work (3)

During March we will be using the theme of “how things work” to increase our vocabulary.

This week’s English lesson :

The Vacuum Cleaner

 

SECTION ONE

A vacuum cleaner operates on a relatively straightforward but effective principle that combines suction and airflow to remove dirt and debris from surfaces. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its components and functions:

1. **Motor**: At the heart of a vacuum cleaner is an electric motor, which powers the device. This motor spins a fan (or impeller) that generates suction. As the fan blades rotate, they create a low-pressure area inside the vacuum cleaner, causing air from the outside to be pulled in.

2. **Intake Port**: When the suction is generated, ambient air enters the vacuum cleaner through an intake port. This port can have attachments like hoses or nozzles, allowing the vacuum to clean various surfaces, from carpets to hard floors.

3. **Airflow and Suction**: The airflow created by the motor pulls dirt, dust, and debris into the machine. This process is often enhanced by brushes or beater bars that agitate the carpet or surface, loosening dirt and helping it to be sucked into the vacuum.

4. **Filtration System**: As the dirt-laden air flows into the vacuum cleaner, it passes through a filtration system. This typically consists of multiple layers, which might include pre-filters, HEPA filters, or dust bags. The purpose of the filtration system is to trap particles and prevent them from being expelled back into the air. HEPA filters, for instance, are designed to catch very small particles, making the vacuum suitable for allergy sufferers.

5. **Dust Collection**: Depending on the type of vacuum cleaner, captured dirt and debris can be stored in a dust bag or a dustbin. Bagged vacuum cleaners accumulate dirt in disposable bags, while bagless models use a canister that can be emptied and cleaned. Both systems ensure that debris is isolated from the air once collected.

6. **Exhaust**: After the air passes through the filtration system and loses its dirt, it is expelled back into the environment through an exhaust port. Some vacuum cleaners may have additional filters in this exhaust path to further purify the air before it is released.

7. **Control Systems**: Many modern vacuum cleaners include electronic controls that optimize suction power based on the surface being cleaned. Features like adjustable height and suction levels help improve cleaning effectiveness and ease of use.

8. **Optional Features**: Advanced models may include features such as automatic cord rewind, built-in sensors to detect dirt levels, or specialized attachments like crevice tools and upholstery brushes to enhance versatility.

Through this combination of suction, airflow, filtration, and debris collection, vacuum cleaners efficiently remove dirt and maintain cleanliness in homes and various environments.

VOCABULARY:  After reading the text discuss the word   “”

GRAMMAR:  Go back through the text and say all of the verbs in the text.

DIAGRAM

1

SECTION TWO

1. 

SECTION THREE:  Watch the 3 minute video and then answer the four questions below.

QUESTIONS:

  1.  What is the guy’s name
  2. What example did he use to explain how the air pressure difference causes the suction?
  3. What is the bag made of?
  4. What would you use a “wet and Dry” vacuum cleaner for?
  5. Name three components of a standard vacuum cleaner.