Set the Scene:
Let’s start with some engaging questions to connect your everyday life to the subject of the Sphinx Observatory. Have you ever visited a remote location that left you in awe? What do you think it would be like to work in a research center at an altitude of nearly 3,600m? How do you think scientists conduct experiments in such extreme conditions? What do you know about the Swiss Alps, and have you ever heard of the Sphinx Observatory before?
Featured Image Analysis & Prediction:
Take a look at the featured image of the Sphinx Observatory. What do you see in the image? What do you think this activity will be about based on this image? Do you think the observatory is easily accessible, or is it located in a remote area?
Introduction:
Read the introduction to the Sphinx Observatory activity to learn more about this fascinating research center. Take note of its unique location, altitude, and the type of research conducted there.
Video Engagement:
Watch the video associated with the activity: Inside Europe’s Most Remote Building. Pause the video at the following strategic points:
- When the video mentions the altitude of the Sphinx Observatory
- When the video discusses the construction of the Yungfra railway tunnel
- When the video talks about the installation of the fast lift
For each pause point, reflect on or discuss the following questions:
- What challenges do you think scientists face when working at such a high altitude?
- How do you think the construction of the Yungfra railway tunnel was achieved, given the harsh conditions and limited technology at the time?
- What benefits do you think the fast lift installation has brought to the Sphinx Observatory, and how has it improved accessibility for scientists and tourists?
Visit the original post for more information: https://maestrocursos.com.br/quizzed-esl-activities/inside-europes-most-remote-building-2/
Key Features and Vocabulary:
Review the key features of the Sphinx Observatory, including its location, altitude, and unique research capabilities. Familiarize yourself with the key vocabulary related to the activity, such as:
| Term | Definition | Example Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Altitude | The highest point or level of something, especially the height of an object or point in relation to sea level or ground level. | The Sphinx Observatory is located at an altitude of nearly 3,600m in the Swiss Alps. |
| Hydroelectric Power | Electric power generated from the energy of flowing or falling water. | Hydroelectric power was needed for the construction of the Yungfra railway tunnel, leading to the construction of the first hydro power plant near La Brunan. |
| Permafrost | A layer of soil and rock that remains frozen for two or more consecutive years, typically found in polar regions. | The construction of the elevator shaft at the Sphinx Observatory was challenging due to permafrost, which was addressed with a cooling system. |
Grammar Focus:
Review the grammar focus on the present perfect continuous tense, which is used to describe an action that started in the past and continues up to the present moment. Practice using this tense to describe ongoing research and construction activities at the Sphinx Observatory.
Complete the grammar quiz by choosing the correct form of the verb in parentheses to complete each sentence.
- The Sphinx Observatory (have/has been operating) at an altitude of nearly 3,600m in the Swiss Alps for over 80 years.
- Scientists (have been conducting/are conducting) groundbreaking research at the observatory to learn more about the universe.
- The construction team (has been working/has worked) on the new lift installation for several months.
- The Yungfra railway (has been bringing/has brought) passengers to the highest railway station in Europe since 1912.
- Researchers (have been using/are using) the Sphinx Observatory to test technology in extreme conditions before it is sent into space.
Check your answers with the provided answer key.
