Track 32

Track 32

Examiner: Are zoos cruel to animals?

Student: I don’t know. I think some zoos are cruel, for example zoos that keep animals in small cages. But there are also zoos that give the animals space to move and look after them well. This I think is good. Zoos can also help protect endangered species, and this is a really great thing. There are some countries that have no laws to protect their animals - that’s a real problem. So, overall I don’t think zoos are as bad as people think.

Examiner: Do you think we could do more to protect our wildlife?

Student: Yes, we could do a little more. I think many areas of rainforest which have been destroyed by industries really need to be rejuvenated. Lots of wildlife live there and if they don’t have these forests, they won’t be able to survive. Gorillas, which are one of the most endangered rainforest species, are dying out rapidly.

Examiner: Do you think hunting is justified?

Student: I think hunting sometimes is a necessary thing. But I think hunting as a sport, when the main purpose is enjoyment, is a little cruel. We all need to eat, and traditional societies which don’t have shops to buy food need to be able to hunt for the things they need. This is necessary for them to be able to live.