Self-Driving Cars

turned on Tesla car GPS navigator
Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on September 29, 2020 and last updated on July 14, 2023

The topic of self-driving cars offers a captivating conversation topic for English learners, presenting valuable opportunities for language improvement. Discussing self-driving cars allows learners to practice expressing opinions, describing technological advancements and engaging in debates on safety, ethics and the impact on society. It expands their vocabulary related to transportation, technology and innovation. Furthermore, this topic encourages critical thinking, problem-solving and exploring the future implications of autonomous vehicles.

Engaging in conversations about self-driving cars enhances English learners’ language skills while exploring a relevant and thought-provoking subject.

Instructions:
Go through the vocabulary below with your students and ask them to try and use this vocabaulry where possible when discussing the different conversation questions.

Self-Driving Cars Review

Self-driving cars, also known as autonomous vehicles, have emerged as a fascinating and transformative technology in the automotive industry. These vehicles have the potential to revolutionize transportation by eliminating the need for human drivers. The topic of self-driving cars encompasses a wide range of considerations, including technological advancements, safety concerns, ethical dilemmas and potential societal impacts.

Exploring the development and implications of self-driving cars opens the door to engaging discussions on the future of transportation and the intersection of technology and human lives.

Useful Vocabulary

Try and use the following vocabulary when answering the question. Click to look up the definition in the dictionary

  • few and far between (idiom)
  • afford (verb)
  • understandable (adjective)
  • technology (noun)
  • attitude (noun)
  • adapt (verb)
  • shall (verb)

Conversation Questions

My Image
  • Will self-driving cars be common in the future?
  • Have you ever seen a self-driving car?
  • Do you think they are safe?
  • What are the advantages of a self-driving car?
  • What are the disadvantages of a self-driving car?
  • Do you think all or at least the majority of cars will be self-driving in the future?
  • How might self-driving cars change the job market for professional drivers?
  • Do you think people will trust self-driving cars? Why or why not?
  • What ethical considerations should be taken into account when programming self-driving cars?
  • Is it ethical to prioritise human lives over other factors when programming self-driving cars?
  • Should self-driving cars be programmed to prioritise the safety of occupants over pedestrians and cyclists?
  • Will self-driving cars reduce traffic congestion and improve overall efficiency?
  • Will self-driving cars lead to job loss or create new job opportunities in the transportation sector?
Gregory
This conversation topic was prepared by Gregory

Gregory is a qualified TEFL teacher who has been teaching English as a Foreign Language (ESL) for over a decade. He has taught in-person classes in Spain and to English learners around the world online.