Understanding Laughter: Why We Do It
Laughter is a universal human behaviour, but have you ever wondered why we laugh and what it means? This video delves into the fascinating reasons behind laughter, from its biological roots to its role in social interaction and health. We'll explore how laughter connects us, the science behind it, and why it's more than just a response to humour.
Key Vocabulary:
1. Phenomenon (noun)
- Definition: A fact or situation that is observed to exist or happen.
- Synonym: Occurrence
2. Archaeological (adjective)
- Definition: Relating to the study of human history through the excavation of sites and the analysis of artefacts and other physical remains.
- Synonym: Historical
3. Theories (noun)
- Definition: Suppositions or systems of ideas intended to explain something.
- Synonym: Hypotheses
4. Ultrasonic (adjective)
- Definition: Involving sound waves with a frequency above the upper limit of human hearing.
- Synonym: High-frequency
5. Vocalise (verb)
- Definition: To produce sounds or words.
- Synonym: Articulate
6. Primates (noun)
- Definition: Members of the most developed order of mammals, including humans, monkeys, and apes.
- Synonym: Mammals
7. Ancient (adjective)
- Definition: Belonging to the very distant past.
- Synonym: Old
8. Non-aggressive (adjective)
- Definition: Not aggressive; peaceful.
- Synonym: Passive
9. Amused (adjective)
- Definition: Finding something funny or entertaining.
- Synonym: Entertained
10. Complex (adjective)
- Definition: Consisting of many different and connected parts.
- Synonym: Complicated
11. Social groups (noun)
- Definition: Collections of people who interact and share similar characteristics and a sense of unity.
- Synonym: Communities
12. Contagious (adjective)
- Definition: (Of an emotion, feeling, or attitude) likely to spread to and affect others.
- Synonym: Infectious
13. Neurotransmitters (noun)
- Definition: Chemicals that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another in the brain.
- Synonym: Brain chemicals
14. Cardiovascular (adjective)
- Definition: Relating to the heart and blood vessels.
- Synonym: Circulatory
15. Endorphins (noun)
- Definition: Chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators.
- Synonym: Happiness chemicals
These key words and phrases, ranging from emotions and physical reactions to scientific terms, offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of language used to describe the complex and universally shared experience of laughter.
10 Engaging Conversation Questions:
1. Have you ever wondered why we laugh when something is funny?
2. Can you explain how laughter affects our body based on what you know?
3. Why do you think laughter is considered contagious?
4. Do you believe animals can laugh too? Why or why not?
5. How do you think laughter helps us in social situations?
6. Have you noticed any differences between real laughter and fake laughter? What are they?
7. Why is laughter important in our daily lives?
8. Can you think of a time when laughter made you feel better?
9. How do scientists study laughter, in your opinion?
10. Do you agree that laughter can improve our health? Why?
These conversation questions are designed to spark engaging discussions among B1 level students, encouraging them to use their English skills to explore the fascinating subject of laughter and its effects on humans and animals alike.