Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- elusive /ih-LOO-siv/
- unprecedented /uhn-PRES-i-den-tid/
- enigmatic /en-ig-MAT-ik/
- meticulous /muh-TIK-yuh-luhs/
- interdisciplinary /in-ter-DIS-uh-pluh-ner-ee/
[adjective] – difficult to describe, find, achieve, or remember
The artist’s inspiration was elusive, making it hard for him to paint.
[adjective] – never having happened or existed in the past
The school implemented an unprecedented rule to address the increase in bullying.
[adjective] – mysterious and difficult to understand
The old man’s enigmatic smile left the children wondering what he was thinking.
[adjective] – very careful and with great attention to every detail
She was meticulous about organizing her notes before the exam.
[adjective] – involving two or more areas of knowledge
The university introduced an interdisciplinary course combining science and literature.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
A rare spade-toothed whale, one of the world’s most elusive marine species, was found on a New Zealand beach in July, marking a significant milestone for marine researchers. The 5-meter-long male whale, known to inhabit the Southern Pacific Ocean’s deep trenches, represents only the seventh specimen ever documented. Discovered near Dunedin, the whale was transported to a research facility for an unprecedented dissection. The species, first identified through skeletal remains in 1872, has remained enigmatic due to its infrequent appearances and the lack of live observations. Experts explained that the dissection, conducted in collaboration with Māori cultural representatives, aims to uncover crucial details about the whale’s biology, behavior, and habitat.
The meticulous dissection process incorporates scientific precision and cultural sensitivity, reflecting the importance of the whale as a “taonga,” or treasure, in Māori tradition. Observers noted markings from cookiecutter sharks, although these were not linked to the cause of death. Researchers expressed hope that examining the whale’s anatomy, including its auditory and digestive systems, would yield valuable insights. The skeletal remains will be preserved for public display, with 3D technology employed to replicate the jawbone and teeth. DNA evidence has confirmed the distinctiveness of the spade-toothed whale from other beaked species. The study also aims to explore potential parasitic species unique to the whale and identify how these findings could inform broader ecological and biological knowledge. The integration of indigenous knowledge and scientific inquiry underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in understanding rare marine species.
The meticulous dissection process incorporates scientific precision and cultural sensitivity, reflecting the importance of the whale as a “taonga,” or treasure, in Māori tradition. Observers noted markings from cookiecutter sharks, although these were not linked to the cause of death. Researchers expressed hope that examining the whale’s anatomy, including its auditory and digestive systems, would yield valuable insights. The skeletal remains will be preserved for public display, with 3D technology employed to replicate the jawbone and teeth. DNA evidence has confirmed the distinctiveness of the spade-toothed whale from other beaked species. The study also aims to explore potential parasitic species unique to the whale and identify how these findings could inform broader ecological and biological knowledge. The integration of indigenous knowledge and scientific inquiry underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in understanding rare marine species.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever seen a rare animal in your country? If so, what was it? If not, what rare animal would you like to see?
- Have you ever worked on a group project? If so, how was your experience? If not, what kind of group project would interest you?
- Do you agree that it is important to study rare animals like the spade-toothed whale?
- Why do you think the spade-toothed whale has remained so mysterious to researchers?
- Why is it important to include indigenous knowledge in scientific studies?
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.
- marine
- inhabit
- treasure
- broader
- collaboration