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Describe a time when you got close to a wild animal

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Cue Card

Describe a time when you got close to a wild animal

You should say:

  • Where you were
  • What the animal was doing
  • Who you were with
  • And explain how you reacted.

Sample Part 3 Questions

  1. What’s the difference between a wild animal and an animal in the zoo?
  2. Why should zoo staff teach the public about animals?
  3. Why do people like to have a pet?
  4. What influence do humans have on wild animals?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'll never forget the summer I spent volunteering at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa. I was tasked with helping to care for a group of orphaned cheetah cubs, and it was an experience that left me in awe of these incredible animals. One of the cubs, a little ball of fluff named Themba, had been separated from his mother during a brutal storm. He was scared and alone, but as I fed him and cared for him, he began to trust me. One day, as I was preparing his enclosure for the night, Themba suddenly darted out of his den and rubbed up against my leg, purring contentedly. It was a moment of pure connection, and I felt a deep sense of responsibility to protect and care for this amazing creature.

As I looked into Themba's eyes, I saw a spark of recognition, a sense that he knew I was there to help him. It was a moment of mutual understanding, and I felt a deep connection to the natural world. In that instant, I knew that I wanted to dedicate my life to protecting and preserving the beauty and wonder of the wild. Themba's trust in me was a reminder that even in the most unexpected moments, we can form deep connections with the creatures that share our planet.

That experience with Themba taught me the importance of compassion, empathy, and understanding. It showed me that even in the wild, there is a deep sense of connection and community that can be formed between humans and animals. And it's a lesson that has stayed with me to this day, inspiring me to continue working towards a world where humans and animals can coexist in harmony.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

connection with nature
a sense of unity and understanding between humans and the natural world
feeling a deep sense of connection to the land
experiencing a sense of oneness with the environment

Sample Part 3 Answers

What’s the difference between a wild animal and an animal in the zoo? One of the main differences between a wild animal and an animal in a zoo is the level of freedom they have. Wild animals are able to roam free in their natural habitats, whereas animals in zoos are kept in enclosures that mimic their natural habitats, but are still confined. For example, a wild lion can roam the savannah and hunt for its own food, whereas a lion in a zoo is fed by zookeepers and has a limited space to roam. This lack of freedom can affect the behavior and well-being of the animal, and can lead to stress and boredom. On the other hand, animals in zoos are protected from predators, harsh weather conditions, and human activities that can harm them in the wild. So, while animals in zoos may not have the same level of freedom as wild animals, they are still able to thrive and live a relatively safe and healthy life.

Why should zoo staff teach the public about animals? Zoo staff should teach the public about animals because education is key to conservation and protecting wildlife. By teaching people about the importance of conservation and the impact of human activities on the environment, zoos can inspire people to take action and make a difference. For example, if people learn about the devastating effects of plastic pollution on marine life, they may be more likely to reduce their use of single-use plastics and support organizations that work to clean up the oceans. By educating the public, zoos can also dispel myths and misconceptions about certain animals and promote empathy and understanding. By sharing their knowledge and passion for wildlife, zoo staff can inspire a love of nature and a desire to protect it in the next generation.

Why do people like to have a pet? People like to have pets because they provide companionship and a sense of connection. Having a pet can be a very rewarding experience, as it allows people to form a bond with another living creature and take care of it. For example, dog owners often report feeling a sense of purpose and responsibility when caring for their pets, and many people find that having a pet helps to reduce stress and anxiety. Additionally, having a pet can also provide a sense of social connection, as people often meet other pet owners while walking their dogs or at pet stores. Overall, having a pet can bring joy and fulfillment to people's lives, and many people find that the benefits of pet ownership far outweigh the responsibilities.

What influence do humans have on wild animals? Humans have a significant influence on wild animals, and it's often not a positive one. Human activities such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change can have devastating effects on wildlife habitats and populations. For example, the destruction of rainforests has led to the loss of habitat for many species, including orangutans and elephants. Similarly, the use of pesticides and herbicides has been linked to the decline of bee populations, which are essential for pollination. Additionally, human activities such as overfishing and hunting have led to the decline of many species, including elephants and rhinos. Overall, humans have a profound impact on the natural world, and it's essential that we take steps to mitigate our impact and protect wildlife and their habitats.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

make a difference
to have a positive impact or effect on something
By reducing our carbon footprint, we can make a difference in the fight against climate change.

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