Unit 12 – Invention

Starting Off

Look at the photo and answer the questions.

  1. Who is the inventor of the telephone?
  2. Why is the telephone important in our daily life?
  3. How do you think life would be without telephones? 

Listening

  1. Listen carefully to the speaker as they talk about Alexander Graham Bell’s invention of the telephone and its impact. Pay attention to the details to answer the questions.

Speaking

Activity 1: Warm-Up

Let’s think about inventions and their impact on our lives. Answer the following questions:

  1. What is an invention that you use every day? Why is it important to you?
  2. If you could invent something, what would it be?
  3. Do you think inventions always make life better? Why or why not?
  4. What is the most impressive invention you’ve ever heard of?
  5. How do you think life would be different without modern inventions?

Activity 2: Small Group Discussion

Work in pairs or small groups. Take turns answering these questions and listening to your partner’s ideas:

  1. Which invention do you think has changed the world the most? Why?
  2. Have you ever thought about how an invention works? Which one, and why?
  3. Do you think it is more challenging to invent something today than in the past? Why or why not?
  4. How do inventions help people solve problems? Can you give an example?
  5. If someone invented a machine that could do your homework, would you use it? Why or why not?

Activity 3: Role-Play

Let’s practice expressing your ideas about inventions in different scenarios:

Role 1: Presenting an Invention Idea

Imagine you are presenting your new invention idea to a group of people. How would you explain your invention clearly and confidently?
 Use phrases like:

  • “This invention is called…”
  • “It works by…”
  • “The purpose of this invention is to…”
  • “I believe this will be helpful because…”

Role 2: Giving Feedback on an Invention

Imagine your friend is describing their invention idea to you. How would you give feedback respectfully and thoughtfully?
 Use phrases like:

  • “I think your idea is interesting because…”
  • “Have you thought about…”
  • “This invention could also be useful for…”
  • “One suggestion I have is…”

Activity 4: Debate

Now, let’s have a debate! Each team will argue for a different invention as the most important in invention history:

Team 1: Electricity
 Argue why electricity is the most important invention. Consider how it powers homes, industries, and modern technology.

Team 2: The Internet
 Argue why the internet is the most important invention. Consider its role in communication, education, and access to information.

Debate Guidelines:

  • Each team will have 3–4 minutes to present their argument.
  • Use phrases like:
    • “We believe that…”
    • “One reason this invention is important is…”
    • “This invention has changed the world by…”
  • After the debate, discuss which arguments were most convincing and why.

Reflection: The Role of Inventions

Take a moment to think about the following questions:

  1. Why do you think people invent new things?
  2. How do you feel about the inventions that have shaped your life?
  3. Can you think of an invention that had unexpected effects on society?
  4. What qualities do you think an inventor needs to be successful?
  5. Do you think we will see more groundbreaking inventions in the future? Why or why not?