Unit 4 Space Exploration-Reading and Thinking 教案-2024-2025学年高中英语人教版（2019）必修第三册

Unit 4 Space Exploration-Reading and Thinking 教学目标 Knowledge & Skills: Grasp key vocab (e.g., launch, orbit) and complex structures; understand the development of space exploration and its significance. Process & Methods: Improve skimming/scanning abilities; discuss pros/cons of space exploration through group work. Affect & Values: Cultivate curiosity about science and respect for explorers’ efforts. Cultural Awareness: Recognize global cooperation in space missions (e.g., ISS) and diverse contributions. 重点难点 Key: Mastering space-related terms; understanding the text’s logical structure (chronology and arguments). Difficult: Analyzing the author’s attitude; expressing personal views on space exploration with supporting details. 教学内容 备注 Today, we are going to embark on an exciting journey into the vast realm of space exploration. Look at the title of this unit - "Space: The Final Frontier". What comes to your mind when you see this title? [Pause for students' responses] Yes, space has always fascinated humanity. We often look up at the stars and wonder, "Are we alone? What's out there?" Scientists, driven by this curiosity, work ceaselessly to find answers. They design and build vehicles to carry brave astronauts into space, aiming to unlock the secrets of the universe. Now, let's start reading the first paragraph. As you read, think about why people have such a strong desire to explore space. [Give students some time to read] So, who can tell me what people want to do when looking up at the stars according to this paragraph? [Call on a student] Student: People have always wanted to learn more about space. Teacher: Exactly! And why do scientists make vehicles? Student: To carry brave people into space to find out the secrets of the universe. Teacher: Very good. This shows that our natural curiosity about space has spurred us to take action. The desire to explore is deeply rooted in human nature. Now, let's move on to the second paragraph. This paragraph is full of important historical events in space exploration. Read it carefully and try to find out the key achievements. [Students read] Can someone summarize the main achievements mentioned here? [Call on another student] Student: In 1957, the USSR launched the Sputnik 1 satellite, which successfully orbited around Earth. In 1961, Yuri Gagarin from the USSR became the first person in the world to go into space. And in 1969, American astronaut Neil Armstrong stepped onto the moon. Teacher: Excellent! These are indeed remarkable milestones in human space exploration. The launch of Sputnik 1 marked the beginning of the space age. It was the first artificial satellite to orbit the Earth, opening up a new era of space exploration. Yuri Gagarin's spaceflight was a huge leap for humanity, demonstrating that it was possible for humans to venture into space. And Neil Armstrong's famous words, "That’s one small step for (a) man, one giant leap for mankind," truly emphasized the significance of this achievement. The moon landing was not only a technological triumph but also a moment that captured the world's imagination. But space exploration is not without its challenges and setbacks. There have been disasters, such as the tragedies of the USSR's Soyuz 11 and America's Challenger. All the astronauts on these missions lost their lives. Despite these heartbreaking events, the desire to explore the universe never died. Why do you think the desire to explore space remains so strong? [Initiate a class discussion] Student 1: Because the knowledge we can gain from space exploration is invaluable. We can learn about the origin of the universe and maybe find new resources. Student 2: Also, it's a way to push the boundaries of human knowledge and technology. It shows what we are capable of achieving. Teacher: Both of you are absolutely right. People believe in the importance of space exploration despite the risks. The knowledge we can obtain from space exploration can help us better understand the universe and our place in it. It also drives technological advancements that can benefit us on Earth. For example, technologies developed for space exploration have been applied in various fields, such as medicine, communication, and materials science. An example of the ongoing efforts in space exploration is the International Space Station. It orbits Earth and has astronauts from different countries on board. What do you think is the significance of the International Space Station? [Ask students] Student: It provides a platform for international cooperation in space exploration. Scientists from different countries can work together to conduct experiments and research. Teacher: Correct! The International Space Station is a symbol of international collaboration. It allows scientists from around the world to pool their resources, knowledge, and expertise. Through joint research, we can make more significant progress in understanding space and its effects on human beings. Now, let's focus on China's space exploration in the fourth paragraph. China's space programme started later than those of Russia and the US, but it has made remarkable progress in a short time. Read this paragraph and list China's achievements in space exploration. [Students read and make a list] Who would like to share the list of China's achievements? [Invite a student] Student: In 2003, China became the third country in the world to independently send humans into space when Yang Liwei successfully orbited Earth in the Shenzhou 5 spacecraft. Then Shenzhou 6 and 7 completed a second manned orbit and the first Chinese spacewalk. After that, the vehicle Jade Rabbit was sent to the moon to study its surface. China also launched the Tiangong 2 space lab into space and Tianzhou 1 to dock with it. More recently, China has sent Chang’e 4 to explore the surface of the far side of the moon. Teacher: Well done! China's space achievements are truly impressive. Sending Yang Liwei into space was a major milestone, demonstrating China's capabilities in manned spaceflight. The subsequent missions, such as the spacewalks and lunar explorations, have further expanded our understanding of space. The Chang’e 4 mission to the far side of the moon was a groundbreaking achievement. It was the first time in human history that a spacecraft had soft-landed on the far side of the moon, opening up new opportunities for scientific research. What do these achievements tell us about China's space programme? [Lead a discussion] Student 1: It shows that China has made great efforts in space exploration and has caught up with the advanced countries in a short time. Student 2: It also reflects China's determination and continuous investment in science and technology. Teacher: Absolutely. China's space achievements are a result of the hard work, dedication, and innovation of countless scientists, engineers, and astronauts. These achievements not only enhance our national pride but also contribute to the global understanding of space. Finally, let's look at the last paragraph. It mentions that Europe, the US, and China all have plans to further study and explore planets like Mars and Jupiter. What challenges do you think we may face in these future exploration missions? [Encourage students to think and discuss] Student 1: The long distance to these planets means it will take a long time for the spacecraft to reach there, and there may be problems with supplies and the health of astronauts. Student 2: There are also unknown risks in space, such as radiation and meteoroids. Teacher: You've pointed out some very valid challenges. The vast distances in space exploration pose significant challenges in terms of travel time, resource supply, and the well-being of astronauts. The harsh space environment, with radiation and the presence of meteoroids, also adds to the risks. However, despite these difficulties, scientists hope future discoveries will not only enable us to understand how the universe began but also help us survive well into the future. Now, let's summarize what we've learned today. We've explored the history of space exploration, from the early achievements of the USSR and the US to China's remarkable progress. We've also discussed the importance of space exploration and the challenges we face. Can someone briefly summarize the main points? [Call on a student] Student: People have a strong desire to explore space due to curiosity. There have been many achievements in space exploration, but also disasters. The International Space Station is an example of ongoing efforts. China has made great progress in space exploration. Future exploration of planets like Mars and Jupiter will face challenges, but it is important for our understanding of the universe and our future survival. Teacher: Perfect summary! Space exploration is a never - ending journey. It not only satisfies our curiosity but also has the potential to change the course of human history. I hope this reading has inspired you to learn more about space and maybe even consider a career in this exciting field. ( 第 1 页 共 1 页 ) 学科网（北京）股份有限公司 学科网（北京）股份有限公司 学科网（北京）股份有限公司 学科网（北京）股份有限公司 $$