As we enter into the last month of the year 2013, we may start to think about the past and wonder about the future. Talking about predictions and the future can be difficult in English.

We use ‘will’ for general predictions but if we are talking about probability. We can also use ‘could, might, or may.’ This week’s English listening exercise uses a TED video featuring Pete Alcorn’s prediction for the 2200 uses these words frequently.

Answer the questions below in comments, and we’ll respond.

1. How long does he think we are from a new enlightenment?
2. The world’s population is expected to ____ ___ at something hopefully a bit less than 10 billion.
3. What are the 2 benefits of a declining population?
4. What happened in Europe after the plague? (4 things)
5. Human history is kind of viewed as this _________ ____ from the good old days.
6. Why talk about the future?
7. Fear for the future can lead to some ____ decisions.
8. What does he predict for your great great grandchildren?

What do you think about the world’s future? What about your countries future? As always if you put your answers in comments I’ll correct them.