Video comprehension · Science · B2

The SAT question everyone got wrong

In 1982, not a single student found the right answer to question 17 of the SAT, the famous American exam. Not even the people who wrote it! Find out why, and what it has to do with the length of a day.

Watch the video

Watch the whole video once (the last two minutes are an advert: you can stop at 16:22). Don't worry if you don't understand everything!

Video: The SAT Question Everyone Got Wrong, from the YouTube channel Veritasium.

How to work

  1. 1

    Check what you understood

    General comprehension

    Part by part, the main ideas: a famous exam, three bold students and a surprising paradox.

  2. 2

    Listen for the details

    Detailed comprehension

    Now listen for the details: numbers, names and the exact words of the video.

  3. 3

    Learn the key words

    Vocabulary

    Exams, circles and planets: match the words, then watch the video again. How much more can you understand now?

  4. 4

    For scientists only

    Going further

    The maths and astronomy behind the paradox: N + 1 rotations, sidereal days and satellites. Really meant for students with a strong scientific background.

  5. 5

    At any time

    Vocabulary list

    All the key words, sorted by theme, with a self-test.

  6. 6

    Your turn to write

    Food for thought

    One exam to decide your future? Daring to say “You're wrong”? Choose a topic and give your opinion.