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IV. SPEAKING
Ways to protect local biodiversity
1. Look at the table below. Which of the following are ways to protect local biodiversity? Tick (✔) the correct boxes. Add two more if you can.
| 1. banning the hunting of wild animals | |
| 2. planting local trees, flowers, and other plants | |
| 3. promoting mass tourism | |
| 4. educating people about the importance of biodiversity | |
| 5. increasing your carbon footprint |
2. Work in pairs. Choose a way to protect local biodiversity from the list in 1, and tell your partner about it. Use the following questions.
Why is it important? How will it help protect local biodiversity? What can you do to help?
Example: Plants play an important role in ecosystems. They provide food and shelter for many animal species. Each plant supports the ecosystem and biodiversity of the local area. We can help by researching the local flora, and planting more native plants.
3. Work in groups. Your class is on a field trip to a national park. Read the situations below and think of some possible responses. Provide reasons for each answer.
1. Some of your classmates want to collect some rare insects/flowers for their collection.
Example: 'You shouldn't do that for several reasons. First, rare plant and animal species are endangered. Second, if people start killing or collecting them, they will soon disappear. Finally, this will harm local biodiversity and have a serious effect on the balance of the local ecosystem.'
2. Some classmates have brought some snacks and want to feed the wild animals in the park.
3. You see some classmates throwing rubbish, such as plastic bottles, paper, and cans, on the grass and in the water.
4. Some classmates want to collect wood to build a fire in the park.
4. Report your answers to the whole class. Vote for the best response.
