Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- extinction /ik-STINGK-shuhn/
- elusive /ih-LOO-siv/
- stable /STEY-buhl/
- widespread /WAHYD-SPRED/
- suitability /soo-tuh-BIL-i-tee/
[noun] – a situation in which something no longer exists
The hunting and illegal trade of wildlife are driving some species to the brink of potential extinction.
[adjective] – difficult to describe, find, achieve, or remember
The elusive butterfly flitted from flower to flower, making it difficult to capture a clear photograph.
[adjective] – firmly fixed or not likely to move or change
The housing market has remained stable with balanced supply and demand.
[adjective] – existing or happening in many places and/or among many people
The flu outbreak led to widespread illness, affecting people across the region.
[noun] – the fact of being acceptable or right for something or someone
The suitability of the venue for the event was considered in terms of capacity, location, and facilities.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
In a promising step towards saving the endangered Scottish wildcats from extinction, conservationists have embarked on an ambitious plan to reintroduce the elusive feline species into the wild. With their distinctive appearance and dwindling numbers, these iconic creatures are facing a critical threat, making the reintroduction efforts crucial for their survival. The project, led by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s WildGenes laboratory, aims to breed and release captive-bred Scottish wildcats into carefully selected regions of the Scottish Highlands. These regions provide suitable habitats and offer protection for the wildcats, creating opportunities for them to thrive and reestablish stable populations.
The Scottish wildcat, once widespread across the country, has experienced a dramatic decline due to habitat loss, hybridization with domestic cats, and disease. With estimates suggesting that fewer than 100 purebred individuals remain in the wild, urgent action is required to prevent their extinction. The reintroduction program aims to bolster the wildcat population by releasing healthy individuals that have been carefully bred and genetically assessed to ensure their suitability for survival in the wild. The initiative not only focuses on releasing wildcats but also involves monitoring their progress and engaging local communities in conservation efforts. By raising awareness and encouraging active participation, the project aims to foster a sense of stewardship among local residents, emphasizing the importance of protecting the Scottish wildcat and its habitat. While the road to recovery for the Scottish wildcats is challenging, the reintroduction program offers hope for their long-term survival. By combining scientific expertise, community involvement, and targeted conservation measures, the project aspires to reverse the species’ decline and safeguard the future of these majestic creatures.
The Scottish wildcat, once widespread across the country, has experienced a dramatic decline due to habitat loss, hybridization with domestic cats, and disease. With estimates suggesting that fewer than 100 purebred individuals remain in the wild, urgent action is required to prevent their extinction. The reintroduction program aims to bolster the wildcat population by releasing healthy individuals that have been carefully bred and genetically assessed to ensure their suitability for survival in the wild. The initiative not only focuses on releasing wildcats but also involves monitoring their progress and engaging local communities in conservation efforts. By raising awareness and encouraging active participation, the project aims to foster a sense of stewardship among local residents, emphasizing the importance of protecting the Scottish wildcat and its habitat. While the road to recovery for the Scottish wildcats is challenging, the reintroduction program offers hope for their long-term survival. By combining scientific expertise, community involvement, and targeted conservation measures, the project aspires to reverse the species’ decline and safeguard the future of these majestic creatures.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What other animals do you know that are on the brink of extinction? Describe existing efforts to save them.
- Do you believe that reintroducing captive-bred wildcats into selected regions is an effective strategy for population recovery?
- Is it important for communities to be involved in conservation efforts?
- How do you think habitat loss, hybridization, and disease can be addressed?
- What do you think the role of organizations like the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland is in spearheading conservation projects and protecting endangered species?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- captive
- dwindling
- feline
- purebred
- majestic