Pre-reading questions:
- How important is communication?
- How do you take care of marine life in your own way?
Vocabulary:
- underwater /UHN-der-WAW-ter/
- massive /MAS-iv/
- telecommunication /tel-uh-kuh-myoo-ni-KEY-shuhn/
- interfere /in-ter-FEER/
- ensure /en-SHOOR/
[adjective] – under the surface of the water, especially under the surface of the ocean
The underwater research station provides valuable insights into marine ecosystems.
[adjective] – very large in size, amount, or number
The city was hit by a massive storm that caused widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure.
[noun] – communication using phones, radios, etc.
The telecommunications industry has revolutionized the way we communicate, making it easier and faster to connect with people from all over the world.
[verb] – to involve yourself in a situation when your involvement is not wanted or is not helpful
She asked her roommate not to interfere with her studies during the exam week.
[verb] – to make something certain to happen
The manager asked the employees to double-check the order to ensure accuracy before delivering it to the customer.
Article reading:
The undersea cable network is massive, with over 380 telecommunications cables spanning a length of more than 1.2 million kilometers worldwide. This network is crucial for modern communication, but its impact on sea creatures is still unknown. Some marine animals use magnetic fields and electric currents for navigation and hunting, and these cables might interfere with their ability to do so. The issue of undersea cables and their effect on the marine environment is a complex one, with potential impacts ranging from localized habitat damage to the introduction of artificial substrates.
In conclusion, the undersea cables that connect our world are a necessary part of modern society, but it’s important to understand their impact on the ocean’s delicate balance of life. As the number of cables continues to grow, let’s work together to minimize any harm to marine life and ensure a sustainable future for our oceans.
Comprehension questions
- What is the purpose of underwater cables in the ocean?
- How long are the submarine cables that are found in the sea?
- How do marine animals use magnetic fields and electric currents?
- What is the issue regarding the undersea cables and their effect on the marine environment?
- How can we ensure a sustainable future for our oceans with the increasing number of undersea cables?
Discussion questions
- What is your personal understanding of the impact of undersea cables on the marine environment?
- What steps have you taken to learn more about the impact of human activities on the ocean and its ecosystems?
- If there were more designated protected areas near undersea cables, would you believe that the impact on marine life would be reduced?
- Do you agree that underwater cables play an essential role in the modern era despite their potential impact on marine life?
- How can we ensure the continued growth of submarine cables while minimizing their negative impact on the ocean’s ecosystems?