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Why Zoos Are Good Reading Answers: IELTS Reading Practice Test

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Updated on Mar 12, 2024, 05:22

Zoos have long been a topic of discussion and debate, with different opinions regarding their positive or negative impact on society. Some people believe that zoos play a crucial role in conserving wildlife and providing educational opportunities, while others have raised concerns about animal welfare and ethical considerations. 
 

In this practice test, we will explore the different perspectives surrounding the question of whether zoos are beneficial, with a focus on the potential advantages highlighted by proponents. By examining the positive aspects of zoos, we can gain a better understanding of their role in wildlife conservation, education, and research.


 

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1. Why Zoos Are Good Reading Passage

You should spend approximately 20 minutes answering Questions 1 - 13 based on the Reading Passage below.
 

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2. Why Zoos Are Good Reading Questions & Answers

Discover exciting and informative IELTS reading answers about Why Zoos Are Good.

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1.

Why Zoos Are Good Reading Passage

 

The general Instructions for IELTS Reading are as follows:

  • You should read the instructions for each question carefully and answer according to them.
  • The reading passages will increase in difficulty as you progress through the test.
  • You should manage your time carefully to ensure enough time to answer all the questions.
  • You cannot bring any electronic devices, including mobile phones, into the test room.
  • You are advised to read the passages and questions thoroughly before answering them.

 

Why Zoos Are Good


 

A. From my perspective, many types of animals residing in zoos or wildlife reserves can have a level of well-being that is equal to or better than that found in the jungle. Animals in reputable zoos are fed a diversified, high-quality diet that includes all of the necessary nutrients, and any ailments they may have are treated. Their freedom of mobility may be limited, but they reside in a safe facility free of violence and social exclusion from others of their species. They are not threatened or stressed by predators, nor are they bothered by infections or wounds. About its wild equivalent, the typical trapped animal will also have a longer life expectancy and will not perish from dehydration, famine, or being caught in a predator's jaws. Compared to its wild equivalent, the typical caged animal will live longer and won't perish from malnutrition, drought, or a predator's teeth. I believe it is incorrect to assume that a life that is "free" is necessarily "good" because a lot of extremely bad things occur to genuinely "wild" animals that just don't happen in decent zoos.
 

B. For starters, zoos help with conservation. Countless species are going extinct around the planet, and several are becoming increasingly vulnerable, putting them at risk of extinction. Furthermore, several of these accidents were unanticipated, spectacular, and sudden, or were discovered later. A species that has been produced in confinement can be used as a reserved breed in the event of a population decline or extermination in the wilderness. Many species can only be found in cages, with several of them living in zoos. They are only found in forests as they were returned from zoos but also because their wild numbers have been bolstered by captive-bred animals. There would be fewer animals alive now if these efforts had not been made. Even though rehabilitation achievements are few and far between, the figure grew, and the fact that animals have been preserved or re-established as a result of breeding programs underlines the significance of such efforts.
 

C. In addition to this, there is also the education that can take place in zoos through signs, talks, and presentations that directly communicate information to visitors about the animals they are seeing and their place in the world. Zoos might have been poor in this area, but they are currently becoming more advanced in marketing and grassroots efforts. Many people will gain a better grasp of things and a different point of view as a result, and they will hopefully have a better appreciation for nature, conservation efforts, and how they may help.
 

D. Zoos also play an important part in scientific study. We ought to understand how vital species live, act, and react if we are to rescue wildlife and recover and rebuild habitats. Radical progress in wild species can be achieved by conducting studies on mammals and birds because there is less danger and fewer uncertainties. For instance, knowing about an animal's oestrus cycle or breeding rate can assist us in regulating wildlife. Research findings in zoos regarding anesthetic doses, as well as expertise in managing and transferring animals, help with procedures like collecting and relocating at-risk or violent creatures. This could aid in the conservation and the decrease of human-animal conflicts, as well as provide a skill set for addressing the growing concerns of loss of habitat and other issues.
 

E. In conclusion, given the various ongoing worldwide environmental risks, I find it difficult to regard zoos as anything but critical to the ability of thousands of species to survive. Zoos used to be poor in this area, but they are currently becoming more advanced in their marketing and outreach efforts. They are essential for more than just animal protection; they are also essential to learning about animals to help those that are still in the jungle, as well as for educating and notifying the wider populace about these living creatures and their globe so how they can support or at least acknowledge being more eco friendly. A species that has been produced in confinement can be used as a reserve species in the event of a population collapse or extermination in nature. Many species can only be found in confinement, with several of them.

2.

Why Zoos Are Good Reading Questions & Answers

Discover exciting and informative IELTS reading answers about Why Zoos Are Good.

Questions and Answers 1-4
  • The reading passage has six paragraphs: A-E.
  • Which paragraph contains the following information? Write the correct A-E letter in boxes 1-4 on your answer sheet.

 

  1. a reference to how quickly animal species can die out
  2. reasons why it is preferable to study animals in captivity rather than in the wild
  3. mention of two ways of learning about animals other than visiting them in zoos
  4. reasons why animals in zoos may be healthier than those in the wild

 

Why Zoos Are Good Reading Answers with Explanations (1-4)


 

Type of question: Matching headings

 

These questions require you to match a paragraph with a heading that most accurately summarises it. The main intention behind this task is to check how well you can understand and recognise the subject of discussion in each paragraph.
 

How to best answer the questions
 

  • Read through the passage and mentally note the ongoing discussion in each paragraph. 
  • Read the set of headings carefully, paying special attention to the keywords. 
  • You can try using the process of elimination for each question and eliminate headings that absolutely cannot match the given paragraph.
  • Review the headings and paragraphs and confirm your answers.

 

1. B

 

Reference

 

From paragraph B: “For starters, zoos help with conservation. Countless…….breeding programs underlines the significance of such efforts.”
 

Explanation

Animals not kept in conservation are at risk of becoming extinct or are increasingly threatened with extinction. Unfortunately, many species have suffered from sudden, unexpected, dramatic events, or their plight was not discovered until later.


 

2. E

 

Reference

 

From paragraph E: “In conclusion, given the various ongoing worldwide environmental risks…….Many species can only be found in confinement, with several of them.”
 

Explanation

Zoos are beneficial for animal conservation, scientific study, and education. Animals in zoos are provided with quality nutrition and medical care, and their safety is ensured. Zoos contribute to the conservation of endangered species and help with scientific research. They also provide educational opportunities for visitors to learn about animals and conservation efforts.


 

3. C

 

Reference

 

From paragraph C: “In addition to this, there is also the education………appreciation for nature, conservation efforts, and how they may help.”
 

Explanation

As the passage states, while television documentaries and natural history museums are great ways to learn about animals, there's nothing like seeing a living creature in person. Observing its behaviour, hearing its sounds, and smelling its surroundings can provide a much more immersive and memorable learning experience.


 

4. A

 

Reference

 

From paragraph A: “From my perspective, many types of animals………..occur to genuinely "wild" animals that just don't happen in decent zoos.”
 

Explanation

According to the passage, animals in captivity are provided with a safe environment and are treated for various diseases. They also have a higher chance of living longer when provided with proper nutrition. Although their movement may be restricted, they are protected from predators and other dangers found in the wild.

Questions and Answers 5-9
Do the following statements agree with the information given in the reading passage?
In boxes 5-10 on your answer sheet, write.

  • TRUE: if the statement agrees with the information
  • FALSE: if the statement contradicts the information
  • NOT GIVEN: if there is no information on this

 

5. An animal is likely to live longer in a zoo than in the wild

6. There are some species in zoos that can no longer be found in the wild.

7. Improvements in the quality of TV wildlife documentaries have resulted in increased numbers of zoo visitors.

8. Zoos have always excelled at transmitting information about animals to the public.

9. Studying animals in zoos is less stressful for the animals than studying them in the wild.

 

Why Zoos Are Good Reading Answers with Explanations (5-9)


 

Type of question: TRUE/FALSE/NOT GIVEN
 

In this task, you are given a set of statements. Based on your understanding of the passage, you should identify the nature of the given statement and write the correct answer. 
 

You can assess whether the statement given in the question is:
 

TRUE               if the statement agrees with the information

FALSE              if the statement contradicts the information

NOT GIVEN    if there is no information on this
 

How to best answer the question
 

  • Read the given question statements carefully and note down the keywords
  • With the help of the keywords, locate them in the passage, which will help you decide whether the given statement is true or false
  • Your answer will not be given if the information is not in the passage.

 

 

5. TRUE

 

Reference

 

From paragraph A: “From my perspective, many types of animals residing in zoos or wildlife reserves can have a level of well-being that is equal to or better than that found in the jungle.”
 

Explanation

The answer is true because zoo animals have a safe environment and are protected from predators and bullying, which is not always the case for animals in the wild. Zoos provide a controlled environment where animals are cared for and can live relatively stress-free lives.

 

 

6. TRUE

 

Reference

 

From paragraph B: “For starters, zoos help with conservation. Countless…….breeding programs underlines the significance of such efforts.”

 

Explanation

It is true that a significant number of animal species can only be found in captivity, particularly in zoos. This is because breeding programs in zoos have helped to preserve and increase the population of these species, which may have otherwise gone extinct due to various factors. While it is important to consider these animals' welfare in captivity, zoos' role in conservation efforts cannot be denied.


 

7. NOT GIVEN

 

Reference

 

From paragraphs A to E: “From my perspective, many types of animals…...Many species can only be found in confinement, with several of them.”
 

Explanation

The answer is not given because no information is provided about the improvements in the quality of TV wildlife documentaries that have resulted in increased numbers of zoo visitors.


 

8. FALSE

 

Reference

 

From paragraph D: “Zoos also play an important part in scientific study………addressing the growing concerns of loss of habitat and other issues.”
 

Explanation

The answer is false because communication isn't what zoos used to have. Sophisticated communication and outreach work took place only later. Many zoos are now working to train conservation workers in other countries or send their animal keepers abroad to teach them.


 

9. NOT GIVEN

 

Reference

 

From paragraphs A to E: “From my perspective, many types of animals…...Many species can only be found in confinement, with several of them.”
 

Explanation

The passage does not provide any context regarding studying animals in zoos as less stressful for the animals than studying them in the wild; therefore, the answer is not given

Questions and Answers 10-11
  • Choose TWO letters, A-E. Write the correct letters in boxes 23 and 24 on your answer sheet.

 

Which TWO of the following are stated about zoo staff in the text?
 

  1. Some take part in television documentaries about animals
  2. Some travel to overseas locations to join teams in zoos.
  3. Some get experience with species in the wild before taking up zoo jobs.
  4. Some teach people who are involved with conservation projects.
  5. Some specialise in caring for species that are under threat.

 

Why Zoos Are Good Reading Answers with Explanations (10-11)


 

Type of question: Multiple Choice Question

 

This is the typical MCQ type. You just need to select one answer out of the 4 options.

 

How to best answer the questions 

 

  • Skim through the questions and identify the keywords
  • Use the elimination method and recognise options that include inaccurate or false information as per the given passage 
  • Match each option with the passage and choose an answer most accurately supported by the information in the passage. 
  • Cross-check your answers and finalise them.

 

 

10. B

 

Reference

 

From paragraph B: “For starters, zoos help with conservation. Countless…….breeding programs underlines the significance of such efforts.”
 

Explanation

As the paragraph explains, many zoos now send their animal keepers abroad to train those who work in zoos and reserves and teach them the necessary knowledge and skills.


 

11. D

 

Reference

 

From paragraph D: “Zoos also play an important part in scientific study………addressing the growing concerns of loss of habitat and other issues.”

 

Explanation

Many zoos actively educate others about conservation efforts. Some even send their animal keepers to educate conservation workers on how to care for and protect endangered species. This exchange of knowledge and expertise can significantly impact the fight to preserve wildlife and their habitats.

Questions and Answers 12-13
  • Choose TWO letters, A-E. Write the correct letters in boxes 25 and 26 on your answer sheet.

 

Which TWO of these beliefs about zoos does the writer mention in the text?

 

  1. They can help children overcome their fears of wild animals.
  2. They can increase public awareness of environmental issues.
  3. They can employ a range of professional people.
  4. They can generate income to support wildlife conservation projects.
  5. They can raise animals that can later be released into the wild.

 

Why Zoos Are Good Reading Answers with Explanations (12-13)


 

Type of question: Multiple Choice Question

 

This is the typical MCQ type. You just need to select one answer out of the 4 options.

 

How to best answer the questions 

 

  • Skim through the questions and identify the keywords
  • Use the elimination method and recognise options that include inaccurate or false information as per the given passage 
  • Match each option with the passage and choose an answer most accurately supported by the information in the passage. 
  • Cross-check your answers and finalise them.

 

12. B

 

Reference

 

From paragraph E: “In conclusion, given the various ongoing worldwide environmental risks…….Many species can only be found in confinement, with several of them.”
 

Explanation

Zoos not only protect animals, but they also play a crucial role in educating people about them and their environment. People need to understand the importance of conservation efforts and how they can help. Zoos provide a unique opportunity for people to learn about animals and their habitats, which can help protect and conserve them in the wild.

 

 

13. E

 

Reference

 

From paragraph E: “In conclusion, given the various ongoing worldwide environmental risks…….Many species can only be found in confinement, with several of them.”
 

Explanation

As explained by the paragraph, zoos play a crucial role in protecting animals and educating people about them. By providing visitors with information about the animals they are seeing and their place in the world, zoos can help individuals better understand nature, conservation efforts, and how they can contribute to these efforts.

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FAQs

Q. How can I improve my comprehension skills for the IELTS Reading test?

Ans. To improve your comprehension skills for the IELTS reading test, you can:

 

1. Read Regularly

2. Practice skimming and scanning

3. Focus on vocabulary

4. Use context clues

5. Take practice tests
 

By following these tips, you can improve your skills and perform better in the IELTS reading test.

Q. What are some good resources for improving my reading skills in general?

Ans.  Try using sites like Project Gutenberg and Medium, where you can find a lot of different things to read in order to improve your reading skills. If you have a lot of books, go to your local library, and they'll help you find books that suit you. To easily find books and audiobooks you want to listen to, apps such as the Kindle or Goodreads can also be used. To improve your understanding of what you read, use websites such as Khan Academy or Newsela to practice exercises that correspond with your reading levels.

Q. What are some common misconceptions about the IELTS Reading test?

Ans. There are several misconceptions about the IELTS reading test, including the belief that you need to know all the words in the passage, read the entire passage, that the questions are straightforward, that you need to answer the questions in order, and that you need prior knowledge of the topics. By understanding these misconceptions, you can approach the test with confidence and a clear understanding of what is required to do well.

Q. How can I stay calm and focused during the IELTS Reading test?

Ans. To stay calm and focused during the IELTS reading test, practice mindfulness, manage your time, stay hydrated, stay relaxed, read the questions carefully, and stay positive. By following these tips, you can perform to the best of your abilities.

Q. What is the band score range for the IELTS Reading module?

Ans. The band score range for the IELTS reading module is 0 to 9. The score is based on the number of correct answers and is calculated using a conversion table. The final score is rounded to the nearest half-band and reported as a whole band or a half-band. A score of 9 indicates expert user proficiency, while a score of 0 indicates non-user proficiency. The score requirements vary depending on the institution or organization that requires the test.

Q. Can I retake the IELTS Reading test alone?

Ans. No, you cannot retake the IELTS reading test alone. The IELTS test is taken as a whole, and you cannot retake individual modules separately. If you want to retake the IELTS test, you will need to retake all four modules (listening, reading, writing, and speaking) together. It is recommended that you prepare thoroughly before retaking the test to improve your chances of achieving a higher band score.

Q. What are good tips/practices for IELTS Reading preparation?

Ans. To prepare for the IELTS reading exam, you should familiarize yourself with the test format, improve your reading speed, develop your vocabulary, practice with sample tests, improve your skimming and scanning skills, and read a variety of texts. Practice is essential, and with regular practice and dedication, you can improve your reading skills and achieve a high score on the test.

Q. What is the minimum preparation time required for the IELTS Reading test?

Ans. The minimum preparation time required for the IELTS reading test is four weeks. This will give you enough time to improve your reading skills, develop your vocabulary, practice with sample tests, and work on your skimming and scanning skills. However, the amount of preparation time required depends on your current level of English proficiency and familiarity with the test format.

Q. How can I score better on my IELTS Reading test?

Ans. To score better on your IELTS reading exam, you should focus on time management, skimming and scanning, vocabulary, accuracy, practice with sample tests, and reading different types of texts. Consistent and dedicated preparation is the key to achieving a high score on the test.

Q. Is the IELTS Reading test difficult to score?

Ans. The difficulty of the IELTS reading test depends on your English proficiency and familiarity with the test format. The test can be challenging because it contains a wide range of texts and questions within a limited time. However, with consistent preparation and practice, you can improve your skills and achieve a high score on the test.

Q. How can I answer multiple choice questions for the IELTS Reading test?

Ans. To answer multiple-choice questions in the IELTS reading test, you should read the instructions and questions carefully, skim the text quickly to locate the relevant section, eliminate wrong answers, and make an educated guess if you are unsure. With practice, you can improve your skills and achieve a high score on the test.