©REUTERS/Jose Luis Gonzalez
Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What do you think makes giraffes unique among other animals?
- If you were to imagine the daily life of a giraffe, what challenges and advantages do you think they might face in their natural habitat?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- endure /en-DOOR/
- process /PROS-es/
- closely /KLOW-slee/
- commitment /kuh-MIT-muhnt/
- appropriate /uh-PROH-pree-it/
[verb] – to undergo or withstand difficulties or hardships
Despite the challenges, Maria endured the rigorous training program to become a skilled athlete.
[noun] – a series of actions or steps taken to achieve a particular result
The baking process involves mixing ingredients, shaping the dough, and baking in the oven until golden brown.
[adverb] – in a way that is attentive, vigilant, or with close attention
The detective watched the suspect closely as he entered the building, looking for any suspicious behavior.
[noun] – the state or quality of being dedicated to a cause or activity
Sarah’s commitment to environmental conservation is evident in her daily efforts to reduce waste and promote sustainable living.
[adjective] – suitable or fitting for a particular purpose or situation
Wearing casual attire may not be appropriate for a formal dinner party.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Benito, the magnificent giraffe, who became a beloved figure in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, has embarked on a journey to his new residence at Africam Safari in Puebla. This decision resulted from concerns raised by dedicated activists of the Save Benito movement, who argued that the conditions at Central Park in Ciudad Juarez were not suitable for such a majestic creature. Since May, Benito has endured the arid climate of Ciudad Juarez, facing scorching summers and chilly winters, with temperatures expected to drop to 9°C (48°F) on the day of his departure.
The meticulous relocation process involved delicately lifting Benito with a crane, placing him into a large box, and transporting him on a truck for a 50-hour road journey to Africa Safari. This careful operation, executed late on Sunday, marked the beginning of an odyssey closely monitored by vigilant veterinarians. Africam Safari, located approximately 150 km southeast of Mexico City, provides not only more favorable weather conditions but also the companionship of seven other giraffes for Benito. This relocation is a triumph for the Save Benito movement, emphasizing the commitment to prioritize the well-being and appropriate living conditions for animals in captivity, echoing the collective voice of those advocating for Benito’s betterment.
The meticulous relocation process involved delicately lifting Benito with a crane, placing him into a large box, and transporting him on a truck for a 50-hour road journey to Africa Safari. This careful operation, executed late on Sunday, marked the beginning of an odyssey closely monitored by vigilant veterinarians. Africam Safari, located approximately 150 km southeast of Mexico City, provides not only more favorable weather conditions but also the companionship of seven other giraffes for Benito. This relocation is a triumph for the Save Benito movement, emphasizing the commitment to prioritize the well-being and appropriate living conditions for animals in captivity, echoing the collective voice of those advocating for Benito’s betterment.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- Why did Benito, the giraffe, leave Ciudad Juarez for Africam Safari in Puebla?
- What challenges has Benito faced in Ciudad Juarez’s climate since May?
- What was the meticulous relocation process for Benito, and when was it executed?
- What is Africam Safari providing for Benito besides favorable weather conditions?
- Why do activists from the Save Benito movement consider Benito’s relocation a triumph, and what is their commitment regarding animals in captivity?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever visited a zoo or wildlife sanctuary and observed animals in captivity? If yes, what was your experience like? If not, would you consider visiting one in the future? Why or why not?
- Do you think it’s important for animal rights activists to speak up and advocate for the well-being of animals in captivity, like the Save Benito movement did? If yes, why? If not, what alternative approaches could be taken to ensure the welfare of animals?
- Do you agree with the decision to relocate Benito from Central Park in Ciudad Juarez to Africam Safari in Puebla?
- In what ways might the relocation of Benito contribute to the overall well-being of giraffes, and how could it impact conservation efforts for these majestic creatures?
- Considering the meticulous process involved in relocating Benito, what challenges might arise when transporting large animals over long distances, and how can these challenges be mitigated for the well-being of the animals?