zoos should be banned ielts essay

IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Banning Zoos for Ethical Reasons (Band 6-9)

The topic of whether zoos should be banned for ethical reasons is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on historical data from past exams, this subject has appeared multiple times and is …

Written by: IELTS Mentor

Published on: September 30, 2024

One of the most common variations of this question in recent IELTS exams is:

Some people think that zoos are cruel and should be closed down. Others, however, believe that zoos can be useful in protecting wild animals. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Let’s analyze this question and provide sample essays for different band scores.

Table of Contents

Question Analysis

This question is asking you to discuss two opposing views on zoos:

• Zoos are cruel and should be closed.
• Zoos are useful for protecting wild animals.

You need to:

• Discuss both perspectives
• Provide your own opinion
• Support your arguments with relevant examples and explanations

Remember to maintain a balanced approach while clearly stating your position.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Zoos have long been a subject of debate, with some arguing for their closure on ethical grounds, while others defend their role in animal conservation. This essay will examine both viewpoints before presenting my own perspective on the matter.

Those who advocate for the closure of zoos often cite the unnatural and confined living conditions imposed on animals. They argue that keeping wild animals in captivity, regardless of the quality of care, deprives them of their natural habitats and behaviors. This confinement can lead to stress, abnormal behaviors, and shortened lifespans for many species. Moreover, critics point out that some zoos prioritize entertainment over animal welfare, subjecting animals to noisy crowds and unnatural routines for the sake of visitor satisfaction.

On the other hand, proponents of zoos emphasize their crucial role in conservation efforts. Many zoos participate in breeding programs for endangered species, helping to maintain genetic diversity and even reintroduce animals to the wild. They also serve as educational centers, raising awareness about wildlife conservation and environmental issues among the public, especially children. Furthermore, zoos provide a safe haven for animals that have been injured or orphaned in the wild and may not survive if released.

In my opinion, while the ethical concerns surrounding zoos are valid, their potential for conservation and education outweighs the drawbacks. However, I believe that strict regulations should be enforced to ensure that all zoos prioritize animal welfare over entertainment. This could include mandating larger, more natural enclosures, limiting visitor interaction, and requiring participation in conservation programs. By implementing these measures, we can harness the benefits of zoos while minimizing their negative aspects.

In conclusion, rather than banning zoos entirely, we should focus on reforming them to better serve both animals and humans. By striking a balance between conservation efforts and ethical treatment, zoos can continue to play a vital role in protecting endangered species and educating the public about the importance of wildlife preservation.

(Word count: 309)

Zoos balancing conservation, education, and animal welfare

Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)

This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and meets all the criteria for a high band score:

Task Response : The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly presenting the writer’s own opinion. It provides a well-developed response with relevant, extended examples and explanations.

Coherence and Cohesion : The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively, and each paragraph has a clear central topic.

Lexical Resource : The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Key terms are used appropriately and accurately.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy : The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures used flexibly and accurately. There are no noticeable errors, and the writing demonstrates a high level of grammatical control.

Development and Support : Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, showing a deep understanding of the topic.

Clarity of Argument : The writer’s position is clear throughout the essay, and the conclusion effectively summarizes the main points while reinforcing the writer’s opinion.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Zoos are places where people can see wild animals, but some people think they are bad for animals and should be closed. Others say zoos help protect animals. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

People who want to close zoos say that it’s not fair to keep animals in small spaces. Wild animals need a lot of space to run and play, but in zoos, they don’t have enough room. This can make the animals sad and unhealthy. Also, some zoos don’t take good care of their animals, which is very bad.

On the other hand, people who support zoos say they help save animals from dying out. Zoos can breed rare animals and sometimes put them back in the wild. They also teach people about animals and nature, which is important for children to learn. Some animals in zoos were hurt in the wild, and the zoo gives them a safe place to live.

I think that zoos can be good if they are run well. They should make sure the animals have big, nice places to live that are like their natural homes. Zoos should focus more on helping animals and teaching people, not just making money from visitors. If zoos do these things, they can be helpful for both animals and people.

In conclusion, I believe we shouldn’t close all zoos, but we should make them better for animals. Good zoos can help save animals and teach people about nature, which is very important for our world.

(Word count: 263)

Children learning about wildlife at an educational zoo exhibit

Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)

This essay demonstrates good writing skills and meets the criteria for a Band 6-7 score:

Task Response : The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting both viewpoints and the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed with more specific examples.

Coherence and Cohesion : The essay is generally well-organized with clear overall progression. Basic cohesive devices are used, but more sophisticated linking of ideas could improve the flow.

Lexical Resource : The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, with some attempt at using less common words. However, the range is somewhat limited, and there’s some repetition.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy : The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are some minor errors, but they do not impede communication.

Development and Support : Main points are supported with relevant ideas, but the examples and explanations could be more detailed and specific.

Clarity of Argument : The writer’s position is clear, but the argument could be strengthened with more precise language and more developed reasoning.

Key Vocabulary

• Ethical (adjective) – /ˈeθɪkl/ – relating to moral principles or standards of behavior
• Conservation (noun) – /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – the protection of plants, animals, and natural resources
• Habitat (noun) – /ˈhæbɪtæt/ – the natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism
• Endangered (adjective) – /ɪnˈdeɪndʒəd/ – (of a species) seriously at risk of extinction
• Breeding program (noun phrase) – /ˈbriːdɪŋ ˌprəʊɡræm/ – a planned system for producing offspring of a particular species
• Genetic diversity (noun phrase) – /dʒəˈnetɪk daɪˈvɜːsɪti/ – the variety of genes within a species or population
• Reintroduce (verb) – /ˌriːɪntrəˈdjuːs/ – to bring something back into use or existence
• Enclosure (noun) – /ɪnˈkləʊʒə/ – an area that is surrounded by walls or fences

These vocabulary items are crucial for discussing the topic of zoos and animal conservation. Understanding and using them correctly can significantly enhance your essay’s lexical resource score.

The debate over whether zoos should be banned for ethical reasons is a complex and nuanced topic that is likely to continue appearing in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for this and similar questions, practice writing balanced essays that consider multiple perspectives while clearly stating your own opinion.

Some potential variations of this topic that you might encounter in future IELTS exams include:

• Discuss the pros and cons of keeping animals in captivity for educational purposes.
• Some people believe that zoos play a crucial role in protecting endangered species, while others argue that conservation efforts should focus on preserving natural habitats. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• To what extent do you agree or disagree that zoos are no longer necessary in the age of digital technology and virtual experiences?

To further improve your writing skills, try composing your own essay on one of these topics or the original question discussed in this article. Feel free to share your practice essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners. Remember, consistent practice is key to achieving a high band score in IELTS Writing Task 2.

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Ielts essay # 1445 - zoos are inhumane and should be abolished, ielts writing task 2/ ielts essay:, zoos are inhumane and should be abolished., to what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion.

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Zoos Are Inhumane And Should Be Abolished - IELTS Band 9 Sample Essay

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Sample Essay 1 (Agreement)

The assertion that zoos are inherently inhumane and should be abolished sparks significant ethical debate. I wholeheartedly concur with this view, advocating for the complete cessation of zoos. This essay will delineate the ethical dilemmas posed by animal captivity and the misleading portrayal of conservation efforts, arguing for alternative methods of wildlife preservation that respect animal autonomy and dignity.

Zoos, by their very nature, confine animals to environments vastly inferior to their natural habitats, impeding their instinctual behaviours and leading to profound psychological and physical distress. For instance, elephants in zoos often suffer from joint disorders and shortened lifespans due to inadequate space and hard surfaces. Such conditions starkly contrast with their extensive roaming territories in the wild, highlighting the unethical nature of their captivity. The moral argument against zoos is further strengthened by numerous studies documenting elevated stress and abnormal behaviours among captive animals, which demonstrate that even the best artificial environments are no substitute for the freedom of the wild.

Moreover, the conservation claims of zoos are frequently overstated, with a minuscule percentage of zoo-held species actively participating in genuine conservation efforts. Many zoos prioritize popular or 'charismatic' animals that draw larger crowds, neglecting less known but equally endangered species. This selective conservation does little to halt biodiversity loss on a global scale. Furthermore, the educational value of zoos is questionable; observing animals in artificial settings offers a distorted view of wildlife and its complexities. Real conservation success stems from habitat preservation and supporting in-situ projects that benefit species within their natural ecosystems, fostering genuine sustainability and biodiversity.

In conclusion, the ethical compromises and conservation inefficacies inherent in zoos necessitate their abolition. True animal welfare and conservation are achievable only through initiatives that support natural habitats and respect animal sovereignty. Abandoning the archaic zoo model in favour of sanctuaries and protected reserves is essential for the ethical treatment and survival of wildlife.

Sample Essay 2 (Disagreement)

The statement that zoos are inhumane and should be abolished provokes strong opinions. However, I contend that zoos, when managed ethically, are indispensable institutions for animal conservation and education. This essay will argue that modern zoos offer critical benefits, including species preservation and public environmental awareness, which are essential in today’s rapidly changing ecological landscape.

Contrary to the view that zoos are cruel, many zoological parks now prioritize animal welfare through scientifically designed habitats that simulate natural environments. These modern facilities not only provide animals with space to roam but also include environmental enrichments that stimulate their natural behaviours and cognitive functions. For example, zoos like the Bronx Zoo in New York have implemented enrichment programs that encourage foraging behaviours in primates, effectively promoting psychological health and physical activity. Moreover, these improved living conditions are monitored by veterinary and animal behaviour specialists, ensuring a high standard of care. Such advancements in zoo management demonstrate a commitment to the humane treatment of animals, debunking the notion that all zoos are inhumane.

Beyond animal care, zoos play a pivotal role in conservation and education. Many species, now thriving, owe their survival to captive breeding programs managed by zoos. The golden lion tamarin and the black-footed ferret are notable success stories, having been brought back from the brink of extinction and reintroduced into their natural habitats. Zoos also serve as educational platforms that connect people with wildlife, fostering a sense of responsibility and urgency about environmental conservation. Through immersive exhibits and interactive educational programs, visitors gain a firsthand understanding of the complexities of ecosystems and the importance of biodiversity, inspiring conservation efforts on a global scale.

In conclusion, the assertion that zoos are inherently inhumane overlooks the significant evolution and positive impacts of modern zoological institutions. Through their efforts in animal welfare, conservation, and public education, zoos contribute indispensably to environmental stewardship and species preservation. Abolishing such vital institutions would be a disservice to both wildlife conservation and public ecological engagement.

Sample Essay 3 (Balanced View)

The debate over the morality and necessity of zoos often evokes strong emotions, with critics labelling them as cruel relics of the past. I firmly believe that while reform is needed, zoos play a critical role in conservation and education. This essay will explore the ethical implications of animal captivity and the invaluable conservation work conducted by zoos.

Critics of zoos argue that confining animals to limited spaces where they are unable to exhibit natural behaviours is inherently cruel. Many animals in zoos display signs of psychological distress, such as pacing and repetitive movements, indicative of poor welfare. These behaviours suggest a lack of mental stimulation and physical freedom. However, modern zoological parks are evolving. Institutions like the San Diego Zoo and the Singapore Zoo have redesigned enclosures to mimic natural habitats and engage animals in enrichment activities that promote natural behaviours. This approach includes the use of complex feeding puzzles that encourage problem-solving skills, which helps prevent boredom and stress. These improvements are crucial in transforming the zoo experience from mere spectacle to a form of active animal welfare promotion, aligning with broader animal rights perspectives.

Furthermore, zoos contribute significantly to conservation efforts. They are not only sanctuaries for endangered species but also hubs for breeding programs that help replenish wild populations. This includes efforts like genetic diversity preservation, which is vital for the long-term survival of species. The successful reintroduction of the once-extinct Przewalski's horse and the California condor underscores the potential of zoos in supporting biodiversity. Additionally, educational programs hosted by zoos cultivate a conservation ethos among visitors, inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. These programs often include interactive exhibits and citizen science projects that engage the public in conservation efforts. By demonstrating the challenges faced by species worldwide, zoos play a pivotal role in wildlife preservation and environmental education, thus acting as essential bridges between human societies and the natural world.

In conclusion, while the ethical concerns surrounding zoos are valid, their evolution into centres for conservation and education justifies their continued existence. By embracing reforms and focusing on their educational and conservation missions, zoos can bridge the gap between human curiosity and the imperative of biodiversity conservation, ensuring their relevance and ethical standing in society.

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In this IELTS Zoo Essay you have to discuss whether you think zoos are cruel and should be shut down or whether they are useful as they protect some wild animals.

Essays on zoos have appeared in the IELTS test before and this was a question that was recently in the test.

Some people think that zoos are all cruel and should be closed down. Others however believe that zoos can be useful in protecting wild animals.

Discuss both opinions and give your own opinion.

Understanding the Question

You must always read the question carefully and note if there is anything restricting the topic.

You have to discuss both sides of the argument and with this zoo essay question it would be very easy to read it and then simply write about the benefits and drawbacks of zoos.

But look at this bit carefully:

• Others however believe that zoos can be useful in protecting wild animals .

One of the arguments is specifically about protecting animals. So when you discuss the second argument you must be careful not to just write generally about the advantage of zoos. 

You have to focus on how they may protect wild animals . So when you brainstorm your ideas for the zoo essay, you should be thinking about:

• why animals need protecting and
• how zoos can help with this 

And in your other body paragraph you would need to explain why they are also seen as cruel. 

And of course you must remember to give your own opinion. In this essay, the author makes it clear at the beginning that they support the closing down of zoos. 

The opinion you decide on though is of course your choice.

Zoo Essay Sample

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own experience or knowledge.

Write at least 250 words.

Zoo Essay Model Answer

Zoos remain popular places for people to visit for entertainment and to learn about wild animals. Although some people are of the opinion that zoos can provide a sanctuary for endangered animals and so should be kept open, I believe that the cruelty that animals suffer outweighs this benefit, and that they should be shut down.

These days, animals are under threat from humans in many ways, seen for example in the way that their habitats are being destroyed through the cutting down of rain forests, or through poaching. Following on from this, the argument is that zoos can protect some of these animals that are under threat. The reason is that they are in a safe environment managed by trained staff who can ensure the animals are looked after and can produce offspring. There are examples of successes in this respect, such as with Pandas, which have been endangered for many years but have been protected.

However, there are more convincing arguments for why zoos should be shut down. Firstly, even though some species are under threat, there are lots of animals which do not fall into this category and who are there just for the entertainment of visitors. While it may be fun and educational to see them, animals are not meant to be caged, and their distress can often be seen in the way many of them pace back and forwards all day. Not only this, if the prime reason of zoos is to protect animals, this could be done in other environments such as wild life parks where the animals have more freedom.

In conclusion, animals should be protected but this does not have to be in zoos. Zoos are cruel to animals, not similar enough to their natural habitat, and they should be closed down. 

(299 Words)

Band scores are given for task response, coherence and cohesion, lexis (vocabulary) and grammatical range and accuracy. 

This zoo essay would get a good score for task response as it fully answers the question by discussing both opinions and giving a personal opinion. Ideas are also well explained, extended and supported. 

It would get a good score for coherence and cohesion as it is organised coherently and logically and is easy to follow. The introduction introduces the topic then there is a thesis statement.

One body paragraph discusses one side of the argument, and the other discusses the other side. The second body paragraph is also the writers opinion, and this is summarised again in the conclusion

.There is some interesting vocabulary and phrases. For example:

• sanctuary for endangered animals
• under threat from humans
• habitats are being destroyed
• produce offspring
• successes in this respect
• not meant to be caged
• natural habitat

There are also some good complex grammatical constructions and the grammar is precise. For example, the red words show that some of these are  adverbial clauses ,  noun clauses  and  relative clauses :

• Although  some people are of the opinion  that  zoos can provide a sanctuary for endangered animals...
• ...seen for example  in the way that  their habitats are being destroyed...
• ...the argument is  that  zoos can protect some of these animals who are under threat.
• ...trained staff  who  can ensure the animals are looked after...
• Pandas  who  have been endangered...
• ... even though  some species are under threat...
• ... While  it may be fun and educational...

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Band 4+: Zoos should be banned because it is cruel to keep wild animals in captivity. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Zoological parks should be blocked because it is cruel to keep wild animals in imprisonment. This essay completely agrees with that statement. I believe that, wild animals are isolated from nature’s foundations, environment and they lose their own skills and temper.

On the one hand, I agree with this essay opinion, because the forests, nature lose inhabitant. Moreover, this has caused the ecological balance to broken. So, we pull out the wild animals from nature. Therefore, animals decreased in the forests. For example, lions, tigers, wolfs located in the zoological garden and herbivore animals increased at environment. Gazelle, deer totally count climb and green plants reduce.

On the other hand, I support this essay idea, due to wild animals losing nature skill at the zoos. They remain in the same area and they do not hunt, As a result, animals lose their temper. Such as, people take the elephants from Africa, and the public stayed their at a wildlife park. After many years, the elephants did not use their own teeth and new born elephants have no teeth.

In conclude, reserve, zoos should be forbidden because animals lose skills and temper, also, their total number changes and this has a negative affect in the world life.

Check Your Own Essay On This Topic?

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IELTS Essay General Training: Wild Animals and Zoos

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This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of wild animals and zoos from the real IELTS exam.

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Some people believe that wild animals should not be kept in zoos or other man-made environments as there is no longer a need for them in the 21st century.

Do you agree or disagree?

Many believe that zoos are antiquated and inhumane. In my opinion, though zoos raise legitimate ethical concerns, their value for conservation is greater than ever before.

Critics of zoos argue that the animal life simulated there is unnatural. In the majority of zoos, animals are kept in small enclosures or cages. Any visitor to a zoo is first struck by the lack of energy and vitality present in animals not living in their natural habitats and fending for themselves. This unnatural divorce from their intended purpose in life is inherently unethical. Added to this is the fact that there are now alternatives to zoos. In countries such as Kenya and Tanzania, where the Serengeti is located, there are sprawling national preserves that accomplish the dual aims of aiding animal conservation and allowing interested spectators to see wildlife up close.

Nonetheless, zoos are principal locations for wildlife research and preservation initiatives. Nearly every zoo will not only allow local researchers to learn more about animals, but also contain programs for increasing population numbers. The hastening of climate change has brought disastrous results to animal habitats around the world and thousands of animals are now endangered. It is nearly impossible to quickly restore their homes so the only option remaining is to breed animals in captivity to increase their numbers and then release them into the wild later. This situation is unfortunate but necessary and will only become more essential in years to come as greater numbers of species are threatened and zoos become a key location for raising both public awareness and population levels.

In conclusion, despite the moral hazards zoos entail, their effect on wildlife conservation is crucial. Countries should therefore continue to maintain their current zoos.

1. Many believe that zoos are antiquated and inhumane. 2. In my opinion, though zoos raise legitimate ethical concerns, their value for conservation is greater than ever before.

• Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
• Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here .

1. Critics of zoos argue that the animal life simulated there is unnatural. 2. In the majority of zoos, animals are kept in small enclosures or cages. 3. Any visitor to a zoo is first struck by the lack of energy and vitality present in animals not living in their natural habitats and fending for themselves. 4. This unnatural divorce from their intended purpose in life is inherently unethical. 5. Added to this is the fact that there are now alternatives to zoos. 6. In countries such as Kenya and Tanzania, where the Serengeti is located, there are sprawling national preserves that accomplish the dual aims of aiding animal conservation and allowing interested spectators to see wildlife up close.

• Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
• Explain your main idea.
• Develop it with specific examples.
• Keep developing it fully.
• Stay focused on the same main idea.
• You can have some long sentences like this to really argue your point.

1. Nonetheless, zoos are principal locations for wildlife research and preservation initiatives. 2. Nearly every zoo will not only allow local researchers to learn more about animals, but also contain programs for increasing population numbers. 3. The hastening of climate change has brought disastrous results to animal habitats around the world and thousands of animals are now endangered. 4. It is nearly impossible to quickly restore their homes so the only option remaining is to breed animals in captivity to increase their numbers and then release them into the wild later. 5. This situation is unfortunate but necessary and will only become more essential in years to come as greater numbers of species are threatened and zoos become a key location for raising both public awareness and population levels.

• Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
• Explain your new main idea.
• Include specific details and examples.
• Continue developing it…
• as fully as possible!

1. In conclusion, despite the moral hazards zoos entail, their effect on wildlife conservation is crucial. 2. Countries should therefore continue to maintain their current zoos.

• Summarise your main ideas.
• Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here .

What do the words in bold below mean? Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.

Many believe that zoos are antiquated and inhumane . In my opinion, though zoos raise legitimate ethical concerns , their value for conservation is greater than ever before .

Critics of zoos argue that the animal life simulated there is unnatural . In the majority of zoos, animals are kept in small enclosures or cages . Any visitor to a zoo is first struck by the lack of energy and vitality present in animals not living in their natural habitats and fending for themselves . This unnatural divorce from their intended purpose in life is inherently unethical . Added to this is the fact that there are now alternatives to zoos. In countries such as Kenya and Tanzania, where the Serengeti is located, there are sprawling national preserves that accomplish the dual aims of aiding animal conservation and allowing interested spectators to see wildlife up close .

Nonetheless , zoos are principal locations for wildlife research and preservation initiatives . Nearly every zoo will not only allow local researchers to learn more about animals, but also contain programs for increasing population numbers . The hastening of climate change has brought disastrous results to animal habitats around the world and thousands of animals are now endangered . It is nearly impossible to quickly restore their homes so the only option remaining is to breed animals in captivity to increase their numbers and then release them into the wild later. This situation is unfortunate but necessary and will only become more essential in years to come as greater numbers of species are threatened and zoos become a key location for raising both public awareness and population levels .

In conclusion, despite the moral hazards zoos entail , their effect on wildlife conservation is crucial . Countries should therefore continue to maintain their current zoos.

For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:

zoos places where animals are kept for people to look at

antiquated old and outdated

inhumane not ethical, moral

raise legitimate ethical concerns mention real moral issues

value consider important

conservation keeping safe and alive

greater than ever before more important than in the past

critics detractors

argue claim

simulated recreated

unnatural artificial

majority most of

kept remained

small enclosures cages, small spaces

cages metal bars around an animal

visitor guest

first struck notice initially

lack of energy lacking energy

vitality present in life contained in

natural habitats where animals are from

fending for themselves looking after itself

unnatural divorce artificial separation

intended purpose stated aim

inherently unethical immoral from the beginning

added to this is the fact that also

alternatives different options

Serengeti a really large preservation

sprawling national preserves large place for animals to live

accomplish achieve

dual aims two purposes

interested spectators audiences who want to go there

up close in person

nonetheless regardless

principal locations main places

wildlife research looking into animals

preservation initiatives attempts to save animals

local living nearby

contain programs have initiatives

increasing population numbers more and more animals

hastening speeding up

climate change global warming

brought disastrous results caused something really bad

endangered not many left

restore bring back to life

only option remaining no other choices

breed reproduce

in captivity in zoos

release them into the wild go back to their natural habitat

unfortunate not lucky

necessary needed

more essential really important

species types of animals

threatened at risk

key location important place

raising both public awareness and population levels increasing knowledge about animals and their numbers

despite regardless of

moral hazards ethical concerns

entail involve

crucial really important

continue to maintain keep up

current present day

Pronunciation

Practice saying the vocabulary below and use this tip about Google voice search :

zuːz   ˈæntɪkweɪtɪd   ˌɪnhju(ː)ˈmeɪn reɪz lɪˈʤɪtɪmɪt ˈɛθɪkəl kənˈsɜːnz ˈvæljuː   ˌkɒnsə(ː)ˈveɪʃən   ˈgreɪtə ðæn ˈɛvə bɪˈfɔː ˈkrɪtɪks   ˈɑːgjuː   ˈsɪmjʊleɪtɪd   ʌnˈnæʧrəl məˈʤɒrɪti   kɛpt   smɔːl ɪnˈkləʊʒəz   ˈkeɪʤɪz ˈvɪzɪtə   fɜːst strʌk   læk ɒv ˈɛnəʤi   vaɪˈtælɪti ˈprɛznt ɪn   ˈnæʧrəl ˈhæbɪtæts   ˈfɛndɪŋ fɔː ðəmˈsɛlvz ʌnˈnæʧrəl dɪˈvɔːs   ɪnˈtɛndɪd ˈpɜːpəs   ɪnˈhɪərəntli ˌʌnˈɛθɪkəl ˈædɪd tuː ðɪs ɪz ðə fækt ðæt   ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪvz   sɛrɪngɛti:   ˈsprɔːlɪŋ ˈnæʃənl prɪˈzɜːvz   əˈkɒmplɪʃ   ˈdju(ː)əl eɪmz   ˈɪntrɪstɪd spɛkˈteɪtəz   ʌp kləʊs ˌnʌnðəˈlɛs ˈprɪnsəpəl ləʊˈkeɪʃənz   ˈwaɪldlaɪf rɪˈsɜːʧ   ˌprɛzə(ː)ˈveɪʃən ɪˈnɪʃɪətɪvz ˈləʊkəl   kənˈteɪn ˈprəʊgræmz   ɪnˈkriːsɪŋ ˌpɒpjʊˈleɪʃən ˈnʌmbəz ˈheɪsnɪŋ   ˈklaɪmɪt ʧeɪnʤ   brɔːt dɪˈzɑːstrəs rɪˈzʌlts   ɪnˈdeɪnʤəd rɪsˈtɔː   ˈəʊnli ˈɒpʃən rɪˈmeɪnɪŋ   briːd   ɪn kæpˈtɪvɪti   rɪˈliːs ðɛm ˈɪntuː ðə waɪld   ʌnˈfɔːʧnɪt   ˈnɛsɪsəri   mɔːr ɪˈsɛnʃəl   ˈspiːʃiːz   ˈθrɛtnd   kiː ləʊˈkeɪʃən   ˈreɪzɪŋ bəʊθ ˈpʌblɪk əˈweənəs ænd ˌpɒpjʊˈleɪʃən ˈlɛvlz dɪsˈpaɪt   ˈmɒrəl ˈhæzədz   ɪnˈteɪl ˈkruːʃəl kənˈtɪnju(ː) tuː meɪnˈteɪn   ˈkʌrənt  

Vocabulary Practice

I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:

Many believe that z____s are a_____________d and i_____________e . In my opinion, though zoos r_____________________________s , their v_______e for c__________________n is g______________________________e .

C______s of zoos a_____e that the animal life s___________d there is u____________l . In the m_________y of zoos, animals are k____t in s________________s or c_______s . Any v_________r to a zoo is f____________k by the l_______________y and v_________________n animals not living in their n_________________s and f________________________s . This u____________________e from their i_________________e in life is i_______________________l . A_____________________________________t there are now a____________s to zoos. In countries such as Kenya and Tanzania, where the S___________i is located, there are s_________________________s that a_____________h the d_________s of aiding animal conservation and allowing i___________________s to see wildlife u_______e .

N______________s , zoos are p________________s for w_________________h and p__________________________s . Nearly every zoo will not only allow l______l researchers to learn more about animals, but also c__________________s for i_________________________________s . The h___________g of c_____________e has b_____________________________s to animal habitats around the world and thousands of animals are now e_____________d . It is nearly impossible to quickly r_________e their homes so the o_____________________g is to b______d animals i______________y to increase their numbers and then r________________________d later. This situation is u_______________e but n_____________y and will only become m_________________l in years to come as greater numbers of s__________s are t______________d and zoos become a k_____________n for r_________________________________________________s .

In conclusion, d_________e the m____________s zoos e________l , their effect on wildlife conservation is c__________l . Countries should therefore c_____________________n their c_________t zoos.

Listening Practice

Learn more about this topic in the video below and practice with these activities :

Reading Practice

Read more about this topic and use these ideas to practice :

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/feb/02/zoos-time-shut-down-conservation-education-wild-animals

Speaking Practice

Practice with the following speaking questions from the real IELTS speaking exam :

• Have you ever seen a wild animal?
• What is your favourite wild animal?
• How do you feel when you see animals at the zoo?
• What is the importance of animals to children?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topic below:

Some people think that resources should be spent on protecting wild animals, while others think those would be better used for the human population.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer Essay: Protecting Wild Animals or Humans (Real Past IELTS Exam)

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I am a bit confused by the word moral hazards.

Would you please explain them more clearly or at least give another example? 😀

Sure Mike – it basically just means there are risks related to morality.

For example, if you were to drive after drinking, that would be a really extreme moral hazard.

Sometimes if you work for a company that does a lot of bad things then that could be called a moral hazard.

It is the risk of doing something immoral or being involved in immorality.

Is that clearer?

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Zoos should be banned because it is cruel to keep wild animals in captivity. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

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