SAMPLE ESSAY

It is true that some people believe that confining wild animals in zoos is cruel and that zoos should therefore be closed down. While I believe that cruelty to animals should be avoided at all costs, I agree with those who see a vital role for zoos in protecting wildlife.

On the one hand, there is an outcry in many countries over the cruel conditions in which animals are kept in some zoos. As a result, many people argue that the public must exert pressure on governments to shut down all zoos. For example, in some zoos the animals are still kept in cages, with little room in which to move around. Critics argue correctly that the health of wild animals kept in such conditions must suffer, because they cannot exercise or follow their natural behaviour. Physically and mentally, therefore, it is cruel to maintain wild animals in such confined spaces.

On the other hand, others argue that not all zoos subject wild animals to cramped conditions and, in addition, zoos perform a useful role in animal protection. Firstly, the welfare of animals is a priority for many zoos. London Zoo, for instance,

houses wild animals in large, open spaces, often with trees or ponds to mimic their natural habitats. Secondly, our small planet is facing an ecological crisis. Today, there are many endangered species, because of exploitation and habitat destruction, which have left many creatures on the brink of extinction. Captive breeding programmes in zoos have saved some species, including the well-known success story of the giant panda.

In conclusion, I agree that all zoos must provide spacious, natural environments for their animals. However, zoos have an important role to play in wildlife protection and survival.

PHÂN TÍCH TỪ VỰNG

An outcry (at/over/against something): phản đối

Example: The new tax provoked a public outcry.

To exert pressure on: gây áp lực lên

Example: Environmental organisations should exert pressure on governments to invest in renewable energy projects.

Captive breeding: nhân giống trong điều kiện nuôi nhốt

Example: A successful captive breeding program in zoos has resulted in an increase in the world’s panda population.

Cramped: chật chội, nhỏ 

Example: The classroom was small, and so the students were forced to work in cramped conditions.

To mimic: bắt chước

Example: Conditions in the astronaut training centre were designed to mimic conditions of zero gravity in space.

To subject: chịu đựng

In prison, he was subjected to many beatings.

To confine: giới hạn, giam hãm

Example: During the train journey, the horses were confined in a small carriage.