Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- impact /im-PAKT/
- udder /UHD-er/
- acre /EY-ker/
- officially /uh-FI-shuh-lee/
- genetic /juh-NET-ik/
[verb] – to have an influence on something
The new policy significantly impacted employee satisfaction.
[noun] – the organ of a cow, sheep, or other animal, that produces milk and hangs like a bag between the legs
The farmer checked the cow’s udder to make sure it was healthy before milking.
[noun] – a unit for measuring area, equal to 4,047 square meters or 4,840 square yards
They bought a five-acre plot of land to build their new home.
[adverb] – in a formal or authorized manner
The new rules will be officially announced next week.
[adjective] – belonging or relating to genes (parts of the DNA in cells) received by each animal or plant from its parents
Genetic research has made significant strides in understanding inherited diseases.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
The National Animal Disease Center in Ames, Iowa, is currently addressing a significant health issue affecting livestock. The center, which has been around since 1961, is working to manage a bird flu outbreak that has recently impacted U.S. dairy cows. This outbreak is unusual because the H5N1 bird flu virus, typically found in birds, has now been discovered in the milk and udders of cows. The research team at the center is focusing on creating a vaccine for cows to help control the spread of the virus and prevent it from potentially affecting humans in the future.
The facility, located on a large 523-acre site, includes 93 buildings, such as high-security laboratories and office spaces. It operates with a $38 million budget and employs about 660 staff members. Researchers are engaged in various studies to understand how the virus spreads between cows and are evaluating a new vaccine designed to protect them. Initial results from these studies show promise, although the vaccine is still being developed. Scientists are also examining how the virus might have spread before it was officially reported and investigating new genetic changes in the virus. This research is crucial in helping to manage the current outbreak and prevent future issues. The ongoing work at the center aims to provide valuable insights into how the virus affects animals and to develop strategies to safeguard both livestock and human health.
The facility, located on a large 523-acre site, includes 93 buildings, such as high-security laboratories and office spaces. It operates with a $38 million budget and employs about 660 staff members. Researchers are engaged in various studies to understand how the virus spreads between cows and are evaluating a new vaccine designed to protect them. Initial results from these studies show promise, although the vaccine is still being developed. Scientists are also examining how the virus might have spread before it was officially reported and investigating new genetic changes in the virus. This research is crucial in helping to manage the current outbreak and prevent future issues. The ongoing work at the center aims to provide valuable insights into how the virus affects animals and to develop strategies to safeguard both livestock and human health.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever learned about a disease outbreak in animals through school or media? If so, what information stood out to you, and how did it impact your understanding of animal health? If not, what do you think might be important to know about such outbreaks?
- How would you feel if you were a farmer dealing with an outbreak of a disease affecting your livestock?
- Do you agree that investing in high-security laboratories is crucial for managing outbreaks of animal diseases?
- What problems might arise for dairy producers and consumers if there is a lack of clear communication about the safety of dairy products during an outbreak?
- What are the key factors in effectively managing public fear and anxiety during a health emergency?
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
- outbreak
- research
- laboratory
- develop