Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- critically /KRIT-ik-lee/
- endangered /en-DEYN-jerd/
- obstruct /uhb-STRUHKT/
- preservation /prez-er-VEY-shuhn/
- integral /IN-ti-gruhl/
[adverb] – in a way that is extremely important or serious
The scientist examined the data critically before sharing it with the team.
[adjective] – at risk of no longer existing, especially in the wild
The park is home to several endangered animals, including rare birds and turtles.
[verb] – to block or prevent something from happening or progressing
Fallen trees obstructed the path, making it difficult for hikers to pass.
[noun] – the act of protecting something from harm, loss, or destruction
The preservation of old buildings helps maintain the town’s cultural heritage.
[adjective] – necessary and important as part of a whole
Good communication is an integral part of any successful relationship.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
The Mekong giant catfish, one of the world’s largest and rarest freshwater species, has shown signs of recovery following recent conservation efforts. In Cambodia, six of these critically endangered fish were caught and released within five days, marking a significant event for this species. These underwater giants, capable of growing up to 3 meters in length and weighing as much as 300 kilograms, were once found throughout the entire 4,900-kilometer Mekong River. However, their population has declined by 80% over recent decades due to overfishing, habitat fragmentation, and dams that obstruct migratory pathways. The captured fish were located near Phnom Penh and Tonle Sap Lake, areas critical to the species’ migratory journey to northern spawning grounds in Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand. Experts have stated that this development highlights the importance of safeguarding the Mekong River’s ecosystem, which sustains millions of livelihoods and generates $10 billion annually from fisheries.
Research initiatives, led by the Wonders of the Mekong project and Cambodia’s Fisheries Administration, have employed tagging and data collection to better understand the catfish’s behavior and habitat. Since the project began, approximately 100 fish have been tagged, enabling the identification of migration corridors and habitat preservation strategies. Local communities have also played an integral role by reporting accidental catches, which allows for the tagging and release of endangered specimens. Conservationists have emphasized the urgency of protecting this species and other aquatic megafauna, including the salmon carp and giant stingray, to ensure ecological balance. Experts have remarked that recent discoveries provide an opportunity to amplify regional and global attention on the conservation of the Mekong River, a vital yet increasingly vulnerable resource.
Research initiatives, led by the Wonders of the Mekong project and Cambodia’s Fisheries Administration, have employed tagging and data collection to better understand the catfish’s behavior and habitat. Since the project began, approximately 100 fish have been tagged, enabling the identification of migration corridors and habitat preservation strategies. Local communities have also played an integral role by reporting accidental catches, which allows for the tagging and release of endangered specimens. Conservationists have emphasized the urgency of protecting this species and other aquatic megafauna, including the salmon carp and giant stingray, to ensure ecological balance. Experts have remarked that recent discoveries provide an opportunity to amplify regional and global attention on the conservation of the Mekong River, a vital yet increasingly vulnerable resource.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever learned about an endangered species in school? If so, what was it? If not, what species are you curious about?
- Have you visited a place that focuses on preserving wildlife? If so, what did you see? If not, would you like to visit such a place?
- Do you agree that protecting rivers like the Mekong is essential for maintaining biodiversity?
- What would happen to the ecosystem if species like the Mekong giant catfish became extinct?
- Why might it be difficult to balance conservation efforts with the economic needs of local communities?
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.
- rare
- giant
- highlight
- initiative
- vulnerable