UNIT 5 Into the wild

Using language

7 Listen to the TV debate and choose the correct topic.

DJ: Joining us today we have zookeeper Max Wilson, and Amy Lee from the organisation Keep Wild Animals Wild. They are here to discuss whether we should keep wild animals in zoos. Max, let's start with you.

Max: As a zookeeper, I've seen how zoos help protect animals in danger of dying out. For example, my z00 is well-known for its programme to save tigers.

Amy: I'm afraid I don't agree that these programmes are always successful. We 've seen a lot of examples where the animals start to depend too much on humans, and are unable to live on their own when returned to the wild. We've seen a lot of examples that have failed.

Max: But you must admit there are successful ones. And z0os are also a good way to educate people about animals. That's killing two birds with one stone.

Amy: Oh, I totally agree that people should learn as much as possible about animals because we share the planet with them.

Max: Exactly. Zoos allow us to observe animals in places that are similar to their natural environments.

Amy: I'm sorry, but that's just not true. No z00 can offer its animals an environment that's as good as their natural one. Elephants, for example, need a huge amount of space to live happily. On the whole, I think zoos do more good for people than for animals.

DJ: Well, I think we all agree that we should do our best to help protect animals and teach people more about them. Let's continue this discussion after a short break.