Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- python /PAHY-thon/
[noun] – a very large type of snake that kills animals by wrapping around them and squeezing
Large pythons were found in villages near the river, causing fear among the farmers. - mammal /MAM-uhl/
[noun] – an animal that feeds its young with milk and usually has hair or fur
Scientists discovered a new species of small mammals living in the mountains. - camouflage /KAM-uh-flahzh/
[noun] – a way of hiding something by making it look like its surroundings
Some insects use camouflage to protect themselves from birds and other predators. - infancy /IN-fuhn-see/
[noun] – the early stage of development
The project to create electric buses is still in its infancy but shows promise. - incremental /in-kruh-MEN-tl/
[adjective] – happening in small steps or increases over time
The company made incremental changes to improve its new smartphone design.
Article Reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
During July 2025, Florida authorities and researchers unveiled an innovative method aimed at controlling the spread of Burmese pythons in the Everglades. To target the invasive snakes, 120 robotic rabbits were set up through a partnership between the University of Florida and the South Florida Water Management District. The pythons, which were first introduced through escapes or releases from the pet trade, have severely damaged local ecosystems, with studies estimating a 95 percent decline in small mammals across parts of Everglades National Park. Officials explained that while removing the snakes is not inherently difficult, detection has remained the greatest obstacle due to the animals’ camouflage and stealth. The new technology, funded at approximately $4,000 per unit, was developed as a more practical alternative to the earlier use of live rabbits, which proved too costly and labor-intensive.
The robotic rabbits, which are equipped to generate heat, scent, and lifelike movements, are placed inside monitored enclosures that alert contractors when a python is nearby. This innovative mechanism represents a technologically sophisticated yet ecologically pragmatic solution to a longstanding challenge. Experts indicated that tens of thousands, and possibly as many as 300,000, pythons now inhabit Florida, with each female capable of laying up to 100 eggs per breeding cycle. Authorities argue that every successful removal contributes to protecting native wildlife, though long-term results remain uncertain. The initiative, described as being in its infancy, has been met with cautious optimism. Environmental specialists emphasize that while such measures may appear experimental, the implications for biodiversity preservation are considerable, especially in a habitat where traditional methods have yielded only incremental progress.
The robotic rabbits, which are equipped to generate heat, scent, and lifelike movements, are placed inside monitored enclosures that alert contractors when a python is nearby. This innovative mechanism represents a technologically sophisticated yet ecologically pragmatic solution to a longstanding challenge. Experts indicated that tens of thousands, and possibly as many as 300,000, pythons now inhabit Florida, with each female capable of laying up to 100 eggs per breeding cycle. Authorities argue that every successful removal contributes to protecting native wildlife, though long-term results remain uncertain. The initiative, described as being in its infancy, has been met with cautious optimism. Environmental specialists emphasize that while such measures may appear experimental, the implications for biodiversity preservation are considerable, especially in a habitat where traditional methods have yielded only incremental progress.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever seen a snake in real life? If so, what did you feel when you saw it? If not, what animal have you seen that surprised or scared you?
- Have you ever visited a zoo or a wildlife park? If so, what animal did you find the most interesting? If not, what animal would you like to see in the future?
- Do you agree that technology can be a good solution to environmental problems?
- Why do you think Burmese pythons became such a serious problem in Florida?
- How could scientists improve the project with robotic rabbits in the future?
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.
- researcher
- innovative
- invasive
- ecosystem
- obstacle