Thinking in English 34. Should Zoos Exist?: A Discussion of the Benefits and Controversies Surrounding Zoos (English Vocabulary Lesson)
On today’s episode we are going to discuss the controversy and debate surrounding zoos! Are zoos vital organisations because they promote scientific research and public education, and save animals on the verge of extinction? Or are zoos terrible prisons with no educational value that damage animals physically and psychologically?
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VOCABULARY LIST
Controversial (adj) - causing disagreement or discussion
The book was very controversial
To struggle (v) - to experience difficulty and make a very great effort in order to do something
I’ve been struggling to understand this article all afternoon
Logistically (adv) - in a way that involves the careful organization of a complicated activity
In theory, this is a great idea, but logistically, it's a nightmare
Aristocrat (n) - a person of high social rank who belongs to the aristocracy
Many aristocrats were killed in the French Revolution
Conservation (n) - the protection of plants, animals, and natural areas from the damaging effects of human activity
Wildlife conservation is an important idea in a number of African countries
Biodiversity (n) - the number and types of plants and animals that exist in a particular area in the world, and the problems of protecting this
Much of this area’s biodiversity is threatened by climate change
Captive (adj) - (of a person or animal) having limited ability to move or act freely because of being kept in a space
If it is successful, releasing captive animals into the wild could restore the population to over 500 this year!
Habitat (n) - the natural environment in which an animal or plant usually lives
With so many areas of forest being cut down, a lot of wildlife is losing its natural habitat
Detrimental (adj)- causing harm or damage
These chemicals have a detrimental impact on the environment
Comprehension Questions
Q. Why was Calgary zoo struggling to feed its pandas?
A. They could not buy/import enough bamboo!’
Q. Where is the world's oldest operational zoo?
A. Tiergarten Schönbrunn in Austria
Q. What is the leading cause of death of gorillas in captivity?
A. Heart disease
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