©dailyrecord
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- spark /spahrk/
- habitat /HAB-i-tat/
- caution /KAW-shuhn/
- surge /surj /
- spotlight /SPOT-lahyt/
[verb] – to cause the start of something, especially an argument or fighting
A minor disagreement between the two friends sparked a heated argument.
[noun] – the natural environment in which an animal or plant usually lives
The rainforest is a diverse habitat that is home to a wide variety of species.
[verb] – to warn someone about a possible problem or danger
The sign cautioned hikers about the steep and slippery path ahead.
[noun] – a sudden and great increase
There was a surge in demand for online shopping during the holiday season.
[verb] – to bring attention to or highlight
The documentary aims to spotlight endangered species and raise awareness about their habitat preservation.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Sun bears, the smallest bear species and among Asia’s most endangered animals, have gained widespread attention due to a viral video featuring Angela, a bear at China’s Hangzhou Zoo. The video shows Angela standing and waving, sparking discussions about her remarkably human-like behavior and even leading to conspiracy theories suggesting she might be a person in a bear costume. Experts have since clarified that Angela is indeed a bear and hope her newfound fame will shed light on the challenges faced by sun bears. Sun bears, also known as “honey bears,” are facing threats such as habitat loss, poaching for the illegal wildlife trade, and cruel practices like commercial bear bile farming for traditional Chinese medicine. With their wild population estimated to be between 1,000 and 2,500, conservationists stress the importance of raising global awareness to protect these creatures.
Beyond the attention brought to sun bears, zoos worldwide have reported increased interest in these animals, leading to heightened educational efforts about their conservation. However, experts caution against potential misunderstandings and illegal trade resulting from the increased fame. Despite the excitement generated by the viral video, experts emphasize that sun bears are more than their unique behaviors. Protecting their natural habitats and addressing the threats they face remain critical for their survival in the wild. The surge in interest provides an opportunity to spotlight sun bear conservation and encourage efforts to ensure their long-term well-being.
Beyond the attention brought to sun bears, zoos worldwide have reported increased interest in these animals, leading to heightened educational efforts about their conservation. However, experts caution against potential misunderstandings and illegal trade resulting from the increased fame. Despite the excitement generated by the viral video, experts emphasize that sun bears are more than their unique behaviors. Protecting their natural habitats and addressing the threats they face remain critical for their survival in the wild. The surge in interest provides an opportunity to spotlight sun bear conservation and encourage efforts to ensure their long-term well-being.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever visited a zoo or wildlife sanctuary and had a close encounter with an endangered species, such as a sun bear? If yes, could you describe your experience and how it affected your understanding of the importance of conservation? If not, have you ever considered visiting such a place to learn more about endangered species and their conservation needs?
- Have you ever shared or engaged with online content, such as videos or articles, that raised awareness about endangered animals like sun bears? If yes, what motivated you to share or engage with that content, and do you believe such online engagement can lead to meaningful conservation outcomes? If not, do you think you would be inclined to share or engage with such content in the future?
- Do you think the viral video featuring Angela, the sun bear, has the potential to create both positive and negative impacts on sun bear conservation efforts?
- How can the increased interest and awareness generated by the viral video be effectively channeled into concrete actions that contribute to the protection and preservation of sun bears and their habitats?
- In what ways can social media and online platforms be utilized to promote responsible engagement and education about endangered species while also avoiding potential misunderstandings and detrimental consequences for conservation efforts?
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.
- address
- awareness
- remarkably
- widespread
- illegal wildlife trade