Pre-reading questions:
- What is the general behavior of orcas in the wild, and how does this recent behavior differ?
- Do you think orcas are naturally aggressive? Why or why not?
Vocabulary:
- puzzle /puhz-uhl/
- investigate /in-VES-ti-geyt/
- conduct /KON-duhkt/
- motive /MOH-tiv/
- establish /ih-STAB-lish /
[verb] – to cause someone to feel confused and slightly worried because they cannot understand something
Solving the math problems on the test puzzled Sarah, but she kept trying her best to find the correct answers.
[verb] – to examine a crime, problem, statement, etc. carefully, especially to discover the truth
The detective diligently investigates the mysterious disappearance of a valuable book from the library.
[noun] – behavior
The teacher praised Lisa for her excellent conduct during the school assembly.
[noun] – a reason for doing something
The detective was trying to determine the motive behind the crime by gathering clues and talking to witnesses.
[verb] – means to create or develop something that is considered effective or successful.
The government plans to establish a new park in the neighborhood, providing a place for families to enjoy outdoor activities.
Article reading:
Orcas, known as the ocean’s top predators, are famous for their high intelligence and social behavior. However, there has been a noticeable increase in reports of orcas ramming into boats in recent years, which has raised concerns among scientists and sailors alike. This unusual conduct has left researchers baffled as they strive to uncover the underlying reasons. Some experts speculate that the rising frequency of human-orca interactions might be a contributing factor. Boat presence in orca habitats may lead to curious, territorial, or frustrated interactions. Deciphering their motives is crucial for safety. Scientists explore the theory that orcas use ramming for communication, revealing their social structure and rivalries. By studying food availability, environmental changes, and orca behavior, researchers aim to unravel this puzzle and safeguard these majestic creatures.
The recent incidents of orcas ramming boats have sparked scientific interest and concerns. Factors like increased human interaction, complex social dynamics, and environmental changes could contribute to this behavior. Further research is needed to understand the reasons behind these encounters and ensure safety for both humans and orcas. By gaining a deeper understanding, we can establish effective strategies for coexistence and conservation.
Comprehension questions
- What is the main topic of the article?
- Why have scientists and sailors become concerned about orcas in recent years?
- What are some possible reasons mentioned in the article for orcas ramming into boats?
- Why is it important for scientists to decipher the motives behind orcas’ behavior?
- How do researchers plan to unravel the mystery of orcas ramming boats?
Discussion questions
- Have you ever heard about orcas ramming boats before reading this article? If yes, what were your initial thoughts about this behavior? If not, what surprises you the most about this phenomenon?
- Imagine you were a scientist researching the interactions between humans and orcas. What methods or approaches would you use to study their behavior and understand the motives behind their actions?
- Do you agree that factors like food supply and environmental shifts may be connected to the unsettling encounters between humans and orcas?
- In your opinion, should there be stricter regulations or guidelines in place to protect both humans and orcas during their interactions? Why or why not?
- Discuss the potential consequences, both positive and negative, of increased human presence in the habitats of marine animals like orcas.