Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- province /PROV-ins/
- revelation /rev-uh-LEY-shuhn/
- structural /STRUHK-cher-uhl/
- originate /uh-RIJ-uh-neyt/
- intensified /in-TEN-suh-fide/
[noun] – a specific administrative region or territory within a country
The province of Cebu is known for its ancient Spanish forts, incredible marine parks, mouthwatering food, and thriving business parks.
[noun] – the act of making something known that was secret, or a fact that is made known
The scientist’s groundbreaking discovery was a revelation in the field of medicine.
[adjective] – relating to the way in which parts of a system or object are arranged
The engineer examined the structural integrity of the bridge before approving its use.
[verb] – to come from a particular place, time, situation, etc.
The ancient practice of acupuncture is believed to originate from China over 2,500 years ago.
[adjective] – something has become more intense or heightened in its level or degree
The intensified training program helped the athletes achieve remarkable progress in a short period of time.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Pangolins, resembling anteaters, are heavily poached and trafficked for their meat and scales, which some believe have medicinal value. There are currently eight known species, found in equal numbers in Asia and Africa.
Through a comprehensive study of contraband scales confiscated from Hong Kong and China’s Yunnan province between 2012 and 2019, scientists have unearthed genetic markers not previously observed in any known pangolin species.. This genomic analysis has led to the unexpected revelation of a ninth species, christened Manis mysteria. According to Jing-Yan Hu, a co-author of the study and a research assistant at the State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resource at Yunnan University, the discovery of a new species from confiscated scales was an unforeseen development. This research endeavor involved a structural examination of 33 scale samples from various seizures, each bearing its own unique characteristics, with five scales connected to skin, three to claws, and the rest originating from pangolin tails, backs, bellies, or heads. This discovery significantly impacts our knowledge of pangolin diversity and evolution. It provides conservationists with a clear focus for protective measures. The revelation not only deepens our understanding but also highlights the need for intensified conservation efforts and collaborative action against the illegal pangolin trade. Dr. Aryn Wilder, an esteemed conservation genetics expert, praises this finding as crucial. She stresses that identifying this new species allows for concentrated conservation strategies, safeguarding it from potential extinction. Wilder emphasizes the urgency of tailored conservation efforts to ensure the survival of Manis mysteria and the preservation of its unique biodiversity.
Through a comprehensive study of contraband scales confiscated from Hong Kong and China’s Yunnan province between 2012 and 2019, scientists have unearthed genetic markers not previously observed in any known pangolin species.. This genomic analysis has led to the unexpected revelation of a ninth species, christened Manis mysteria. According to Jing-Yan Hu, a co-author of the study and a research assistant at the State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resource at Yunnan University, the discovery of a new species from confiscated scales was an unforeseen development. This research endeavor involved a structural examination of 33 scale samples from various seizures, each bearing its own unique characteristics, with five scales connected to skin, three to claws, and the rest originating from pangolin tails, backs, bellies, or heads. This discovery significantly impacts our knowledge of pangolin diversity and evolution. It provides conservationists with a clear focus for protective measures. The revelation not only deepens our understanding but also highlights the need for intensified conservation efforts and collaborative action against the illegal pangolin trade. Dr. Aryn Wilder, an esteemed conservation genetics expert, praises this finding as crucial. She stresses that identifying this new species allows for concentrated conservation strategies, safeguarding it from potential extinction. Wilder emphasizes the urgency of tailored conservation efforts to ensure the survival of Manis mysteria and the preservation of its unique biodiversity.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever encountered information or news about pangolins and their conservation? If so, how did it impact your understanding of the challenges they face and the importance of conservation efforts? If not, what are your thoughts after learning about pangolins in this article?
- Have you ever participated in or supported any conservation efforts aimed at protecting endangered species or their habitats? If so, what was your experience like and what motivated you to get involved? If not, what are your thoughts on how individuals can contribute to wildlife conservation?
- Do you think the discovery of a new pangolin species will have a significant impact on conservation efforts for these animals?
- Which animals do you believe require greater attention regarding illegal trade and poaching in Japan? Are there any initiatives or organizations in your country that are actively working to combat illegal trade and poaching of animals?
- How do you think individuals can effectively raise awareness about the illegal trade of pangolins and contribute to their 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.
- comprehensive
- diversity
- extinction
- preservation
- unforeseen