Electric Cars: Driving the Future Responsibly

 

What phrasal verbs with the preposition 'on' do you know?

 ⚡ Electric Cars: Driving the Future Responsibly

 

As the world faces the growing threat of climate change, governments increasingly call on industries to reduce their carbon emissions. One of the most promising solutions is the rise of electric cars, which run on rechargeable batteries instead of fossil fuels. Although still

developing, this technology has begun to catch on rapidly in both developed and emerging markets.

 

To improve efficiency, engineers draw on decades of research in battery chemistry and renewable energy. Modern lithium-ion batteries are lighter, faster to charge, and more durable than ever before. However, experts agree that society must move on from relying on non-renewable sources to power the electricity grids that feed these vehicles. Without cleaner energy production, electric cars will only take on part of the environmental challenge, not the whole picture.

 

Manufacturers also stay on the lookout for ways to recycle old batteries safely, minimizing toxic waste. Initiatives like second-life energy storage systems show how innovation can align with sustainability goals.

 

Still, it’s not just about technology—it’s about mindset. People must come on board and recognize that responsible consumption plays as big a role as production itself. If humanity can maintain this collective effort, the transition to electric mobility may represent one of the most significant steps toward a cleaner and more sustainable planet.

Lasallian Values in the Undergraduate Programme of Communication at La Salle University Cancun

Lasallian Values in the Undergraduate Programme of Communication at La Salle University Cancun

 

La Salle University Cancun offers an Undergraduate Programme of Communication that not only provides academic excellence but also integrates Lasallian values into its curriculum. These values—faith, service, fraternity, and commitment—are central to the university's mission and are reflected in the training of communication professionals.​

 

The program equips students with the skills to design and implement communication strategies across various media platforms, including video, radio, and social media. Students learn to create messages that are informative, educational, and entertaining, always considering ethical standards and social responsibility.​

 

Beyond technical skills, the program emphasizes the importance of social justice and community engagement. Students are encouraged to participate in academic events, collaborative projects, and internships that foster a sense of solidarity and service. Facilities such as a television studio, radio booth, and photography lab support hands-on learning experiences.

 

Graduates are prepared to lead with empathy and integrity, embodying the Lasallian commitment to serving others and promoting human dignity. They are equipped to address communication challenges in diverse contexts, contributing positively to society.

 

Reading Comprehension Exercise:

https://www.topworksheets.com/t/rGH1qFa2haN

Closing Speaking Practice in Teams: How do you think that the school values are reflected in your undergraduate programme? 

People Talking about Engineering Materials in Civil Engineering

 ESP Civil Engineering – Part 4: Multiple Matching

Instructions

You are going to read comments by eight people about materials used in civil engineering.

For questions 24–29, choose from the people (A–H). The people may be chosen more than once.

There are two extra letters which you do not need to use.

Which person…

24. says a material is useful for insulation systems?

25. thinks a material is too expensive for common projects?

26. mentions that a material is not very resistant to impacts?

27. believes the protection of a structure is inadequate?

28. says the explanation of a topic was easy to understand?

29. mentions environmental advantages in construction?

People Talking about Engineering Materials in Civil Engineering

A. Site Engineer

“Ferrous alloys are tremendously important in bridge construction because they support very heavy loads.”

B. Materials Scientist

“Polymers are pretty useful in modern buildings, especially for insulation systems and pipes.”

C. Safety Inspector

“In my opinion, ceramics are not particularly resistant to strong impacts or sudden pressure.”

D. Project Manager

“Some exotic materials are exceptionally expensive, so they are usually reserved for special projects.”

E. Environmental Engineer

“The use of non-metallic compounds in sustainable buildings is relatively common today.”

F. Architect

“I think the corrosion protection on this ferrous structure is not adequately designed for coastal conditions.”

G. Civil Engineering Student

“The explanation about composite materials was fairly clear and easy to follow.”

H. Construction Worker

“The fire resistance of this polymer material is insufficiently tested for public buildings.”

Pergolas in Modern Construction

ESP Civil Engineering – Part 2: Open Cloze Exercise

Complete the text with the correct preposition: from, of, or with.

Pergolas in Modern Construction

Pergolas are popular structures used in gardens, parks, and public spaces. They are usually made (9) ______ timber, steel, or aluminium.

A pergola normally consists (10) ______ vertical columns and horizontal beams that provide partial shade. Modern pergolas are often designed (11) ______ decorative lighting and waterproof covers.

Some pergolas are constructed (12) ______ recycled materials to reduce environmental impact. In coastal areas, engineers prefer pergolas built (13) ______ aluminium because this material resists corrosion.

Architects often combine pergolas (14) ______ green areas to improve the appearance of outdoor spaces. Many modern designs are covered (15) ______ climbing plants to create natural shade.

Today, pergolas are considered an important part (16) ______ sustainable urban design.

The Nichupté Bridge Project

ESP Civil Engineering – Part 3: Word Formation Exercise

Complete the text with the correct ADJECTIVE form of the words in CAPITAL LETTERS.

The Nichupte Bridge Project

The Nichupte Bridge project in Cancún is one of the most important recent infrastructure developments in the region. The bridge includes a Example: circular access ramp designed to improve traffic flow.

CIRCLE

The main support columns have a (17) ______ shape that helps the structure resist coastal winds.

CYLINDER

Engineers selected a (18) ______ arrangement of steel beams to distribute weight effectively across the bridge.

TRIANGLE

Several technical buildings near the bridge have a (19) ______ design with straight lines and regular angles.

RECTANGLE

A small observation platform features a (20) ______ roof inspired by modern architecture.

SPHERE

Unlike traditional bridges, some sections of the structure have an intentionally (21) ______ appearance to create a contemporary style.

ASYMMETRY

Additional diagonal supports were installed to strengthen the bridge against hurricanes and vibrations.

The pedestrian walkways include smooth and (22) ______ edges to improve safety and aesthetics.

ROUND

The bridge also has an (23) ______ roof structure above certain pedestrian areas.

ANGLE

ESP Civil Engineering – B2 Reading Exercise: Construction Materials in Civil Engineering

ESP Civil Engineering – Part 1: Multiple Choice Reading Exercise

Construction Materials in Civil Engineering

Multiple-Choice Questions

ESP Civil Engineering – B2 Reading Exercise

Reading Text: Construction Materials in Civil Engineering

Civil engineering projects require a careful selection of construction materials to guarantee safety, durability, and cost efficiency. Engineers must consider the physical properties of materials before using them in buildings, bridges, roads, and other infrastructure projects.

Steel is one of the most important materials in civil engineering because of its high strength and resistance to heavy loads. It is widely used in skyscrapers, bridges, and reinforced concrete structures. In addition, steel can withstand tension better than many other materials.

Concrete is another essential construction material. It is produced by mixing cement, sand, gravel, and water. Concrete is highly resistant to compression, which makes it suitable for foundations, columns, and dams. However, it may crack under tension if it is not reinforced with steel.

Aluminium is lighter than steel and resistant to corrosion. Civil engineers often use aluminium in window frames, roofing systems, and modern façades. Its low weight also reduces the overall load of a structure.

Glass is commonly used in modern architecture because it allows natural light to enter buildings. Engineers use special types of reinforced glass to improve safety and thermal insulation. Although glass improves the appearance of buildings, it must be carefully installed to avoid breakage.

Plastic materials are widely used in civil engineering for pipes, insulation, and drainage systems. Plastics are lightweight, inexpensive, and resistant to corrosion. Nevertheless, some plastics may deteriorate after long exposure to sunlight and high temperatures.

Rubber is frequently used in road construction and waterproofing systems. It can absorb vibrations and reduce noise, especially in transport infrastructure. Recycled rubber is also becoming more popular in sustainable construction projects.

Finally, timber remains an important material in residential construction. Engineered timber products are increasingly used because they are renewable and environmentally friendly. Timber also provides good thermal insulation and can create aesthetically attractive structures.

Choosing the correct material is essential in civil engineering because the quality of materials directly affects the stability, safety, and lifespan of a structure.

1. Why is steel widely used in civil engineering?

A. Because it has high strength

B. Because it is transparent

C. Because it is flexible

D. Because it is lightweight

2. What is concrete mainly resistant to?

A. Heat

B. Electricity

C. Corrosion

D. Compression

3. Why is steel added to concrete?

A. To improve colour

B. To resist tension

C. To reduce cost

D. To increase transparency

4. Which advantage of aluminium is mentioned in the text?

A. It absorbs vibrations

B. It is highly conductive

C. It is resistant to corrosion

D. It is extremely heavy

5. Why is glass popular in modern buildings?

A. Because it is stronger than steel

B. Because it reduces structural weight

C. Because it is inexpensive

D. Because it allows natural light to enter

6. What are plastics commonly used for in civil engineering?

A. Reinforced foundations

B. Electrical cables

C. Pipes and drainage systems

D. Steel structures

7. How does rubber help in transport infrastructure?

A. It improves transparency

B. It increases electrical conductivity

C. It strengthens steel

D. It absorbs vibrations and reduces noise

8. Why are engineered timber products becoming more popular?

A. Because they are renewable and eco-friendly

B. Because they are waterproof

C. Because they are heavier than steel

D. Because they are used in electrical systems

Nature Books

 Part 8: You are going to read four book reviews. For questions 47-56, choose from the sections (A-D). The sections may be chosen more than once.

Of which book are the following stated?

47. It presents complicated material in manageable chunks of data.

48. The book failed to sustain the reviewer’s interest throughout.

49. Readers are left to draw their own conclusions about some of the book’s material.

50. Its author sought expert advice on certain aspects of the book.

51. The book is both instructive and virtually appealing.

52. It looks both backwards and forwards in time.

53. Its author effectively brings together different fields of study.

54. It offers a selective, rather than comprehensive, coverage of its topic.

55. It is possible to feel a sense of involvement with the subject matter.

56. The text is a skillful mixture of data and personal comment.