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photo Tara Benwell Instructions:
  1. Preview the vocabulary and read the gapfill text.
  3. Answer the comprehension questions by writing full sentences.

Scientists Design Real-Life Invisibility Cloak

dateline: 30 September 2014

Pre-Listening Vocabulary

  • angle: a position from which you have a viewpoint
  • complex: detailed; difficult to make or do
  • cloak (verb): to hide or cover
  • cloak (noun): an outer coat-like garment that covers much of the body
  • straight on: from a direct viewpoint (not from multiple angles); also “head on”
  • optical: related to sight and light
  • garment: a piece of clothing

Scientists Design Real-Life Invisibility Cloak

Scientists from New York’s of Rochester have developed a cloaking device to make 3D items invisible from a variety of angles. When you “cloak” an object, you hide it from view. Everything surrounding the cloaked object remains . While the science of cloaking is not new, previous cloaking devices were expensive and complex. They also required the viewer to look at an object straight on. The new Rochester Cloak, designed by scientists who in optical research, is made from simple layered lenses and allows the user to look at the object from viewpoints. The new device, not unlike the magical garment in the Harry Potter series, also leaves the background undisturbed. Scientists say it could have several uses, such as cloaking a trailer behind a large truck, which would allow the driver to see better. It could also be used by medical professionals in surgery.

Comprehension Questions

    1. What does the verb “cloak” mean?
    2. Where is Rochester?
    3. Why does the report mention the Harry Potter series?

Discussion Questions: Can you think of any other practical uses for an invisibility cloak (device rather than garment)?

show Answers

Written by Tara Benwell for EnglishClub

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