ADVANCED/INTERMEDIATE ENGLISH LESSON: The language of how things work (4)

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How Does It Work (4)

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

This week’s English lesson :

A traditional light bulb

 

SECTION ONE

A light bulb generates light through the process of electricity passing through a filament (in incandescent bulbs) or a gas (in fluorescent tubes). In incandescent bulbs, when electrical current flows through the tungsten filament, it heats up to a temperature where it emits visible light. In fluorescent bulbs, electricity excites mercury vapor, producing ultraviolet light that then excites a phosphor coating inside the bulb, emitting visible light. LED bulbs operate differently by using a semiconductor to convert electricity directly into light, making them more energy-efficient. All types of bulbs require a power source to function and convert electrical energy into light energy.

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

Here’s a list of components of an incandescent light bulb along with their descriptions:

1. **Bulb** – The glass enclosure that houses the filament and protects it from external elements.
2. **Filament** – A thin wire, typically made of tungsten, that heats up and produces light when electricity passes through it.
3. **Base** – The metal part at the bottom of the bulb that connects to the socket and provides electrical contact.
4. **Support Wires** – Thin wires that hold the filament in place and connect it to the base for electrical conduction.
5. **Inert Gas** – A gas, often argon or nitrogen, filling the bulb to prevent the tungsten filament from oxidizing and extending its life.
6. **Glass Seal** – The joint where the glass bulb is sealed, ensuring the inert gas remains inside the bulb.
7. **Coating** (optional) – A layer on the inside or outside of the bulb (e.g., frosted or coloured) that can diffuse light or alter its appearance.

SECTION THREE:

1. “A light bulb moment” – representing a sudden idea or realization.
2. “Switching on the light” – illustrating enlightenment or understanding.
3. “Burning the candle at both ends” – working too hard, similar to a light bulb that is overused.
4. “Bright ideas lead to bright futures” – emphasizing the importance of innovative thinking.
5. “In the spotlight” – being the center of attention, akin to a well-lit bulb.
6. “Dimmer switch” – referring to controlling energy or enthusiasm levels.
7. “Light at the end of the tunnel” – hope or clarity after a difficult time.
8. “Flickering thoughts” – indicating uncertainty or hesitance in decision-making.
9. “A bulb that’s burnt out” – feeling exhausted or unproductive.
10. “Letting your ideas shine” – encouraging creativity and self-expression.

SECTION FOUR:  Watch the 4 minute video and then answer the four questions below.

QUESTIONS:

  1.  What is a “Light Bulb Moment” (idiom)
  2. Who was Michael Faraday?
  3.  Who was Thomas Edison?
  4. Which metal is used for the filament inside the bulb?
  5. What is the expected life span of a traditional light bulb?
  6. One light bulb is still in use today in England and was first turned on in 1883. How long has this light bulb been on?
  7. Why do light bulbs get so hot?
  8. Towards the end of the video James used the word “boffin” what is a boffin?
  9. What does the expression mean?  “It doesn’t have the same ring to it”

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