Ecology and Conservation

Good day students. Last week and this week we have been discussing biodiversity. We watched a short video last week which introduced the concept of biodiversity and the goal of preserving the natural world around us. This week we will further discuss biodiversity and its role in the ecosystem; we will also touch upon ecology and conservation. If you notice, the two words preservation and conservation are somewhat similar. However, they have slightly different nuances. Conservation was a word used in the 1970's, and largely means to make sure that something is not wasted. Therefore, you must use it wisely. Preservation, on the other hand, means to keep something as it is, without making any changes. You keep it intact and protect it from danger.

Thank you for your homework which was 9.1 Vocabulary on page 70. We did part A in class, so you didn't have to do it. However it you did, I will give you credit. Next was part B 1 and 2, part C 1,2,3, and 4, part D 1 and 2, and part E. It is now 15:50 on Thursday, and I have not received all homework papers as of yet. However, it's ok. I said last week that if you turned it in by today you will get extra credit. Those of who did turn it in by now did quite well, and will get extra points. I will go over the answers and address any problems I found in class this week, as usual.

This week I would like to talk about an extension project we will do in pairs. I believe I told you this once several months ago. The next project will entail creating a short audio presentation, along with your partner, about an environmental issue with which you are concerned. Together you must write the script and give the presentation. We will start this in class this week, and it will be instead of a midterm test. It will be very good and useful for you to give your presentation in English. After you have finished, you will feel great!

Also this week for homework, we will probably do 9.3 Extending Skills D, E, and F 1, 2 and 3. The following week we will do 9.4 Extending Skills D and F 1, 2, and 3, and read page 75. These exercises will help you learn more environmental vocabulary in English and will help you speak and write effectively in the future. Please give it a try! See you in class.