The story of Rachid Yazami, a Moroccan scientist whose 1980 discovery revolutionised rechargeable batteries used worldwide. Duration: 2 h 30 · 40 points.
[1] Professor Rachid Yazami's passion for science started when he was a child in his native city, Fez, with a fascination for geology. His academic ambitions soon progressed from analysing rocks to acquiring a doctorate in graphite compounds for lithium batteries in France. In 1980, aged 26, he made a key discovery that led to the development of the lithium-graphite anode, which is used in rechargeable batteries in mobile phones and laptops.
[2] "I still remember the day I opened my battery and saw that graphite had become a gold colour. I converted graphite into gold," he told Rebecca from Inspire Middle East. His professors were very supportive when they realised the importance of his discovery: lithium can be stored in graphite. This was a turning point in battery history.
[3] Despite this scientific achievement, it took more than a decade to commercialise the lithium battery. For some reason, the French government didn't consider the invention of graphite as a major invention. So, Yazami did not get a copyright, which means that it could be used for free by other companies. Today, around 95% of batteries produced globally use Yazami's technology. Worldwide, analysts think that the commercial lithium battery market is worth about $80 billion.
[4] In his battery research, Yazami is exploring the capabilities of artificial intelligence for ameliorating the quality of people's lives. He is working on a technique that will allow an electric car battery to last for up to ten years instead of five years now. Moreover, the battery can be charged in 10 minutes — the same time we spend at the gas station when we fill our car tank.
[5] Yazami has won many awards, including the Draper Prize, the equivalent of a Nobel Prize for engineers. Even at the age of 67, he remains dynamic and wholly dedicated to his work. He is currently the Principal Scientist at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, and is frequently consulted by the business community there.
Adapted from www.euronews.com
List: launch · cultural · strange · foreign · achieve
Complete the paragraph: "There are many things I would like my school administration to change. First, …"
There are many things I would like my school administration to change. First, the classrooms are too crowded — sometimes we are 40 students in one room, which makes it hard to concentrate. Second, the school library needs more recent books and better internet access. Third, the schedule should leave more time for extracurricular activities such as sports, music and drama. Finally, the cafeteria should offer healthier food at affordable prices. These changes would make our school a much better place.
Do you prefer to travel with your friends or with your family? Write a short article for a travel blog about your choice. Give your reasons.
Why I Prefer Travelling With My Friends
Travelling is one of life's greatest pleasures, but the question of with whom can completely change the experience. Personally, I prefer travelling with my friends.
First and foremost, friends share the same age, interests and energy. We can stay out late, try new activities, and enjoy a sense of freedom that family trips rarely offer. Secondly, travelling with friends teaches valuable life skills — we have to make decisions together, manage our budget and solve unexpected problems as a team.
That said, family trips have their own charm. They are usually more relaxing, better organised and create unforgettable memories with our loved ones.
To sum up, I will always prefer travelling with friends because it brings adventure, independence and shared laughter. However, I deeply value family trips for the warmth and bonding they bring. Each kind of travel has its place in a happy life.