Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Reduction of Insects can have huge implications for people- English lesson

Reduction of Insects can have huge implications for people- English lesson

Scientists are worried about the disappearance of bugs, spiders, slugs and worms.  Should you be worried too?  The scientists say that the world as a whole should be concerned because these types of life forms help prepare the soil for planting, they help to pollinate our food supply and they help support the larger animals such as birds.

Read this article for more information:  http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/wildlife/10989198/Creepy-crawlies-decline-as-human-population-soars.html

Key terms:
an explosion in pests. - insects that damage food crops
invertebrate - animals that don't have bones, such as slugs and snails
ecosystem - a system of animals, plants and insects that live together in a certain place. 
pollinating crops - bringing pollen from one plant to another
decomposition - dead vegetable and animal matter that turns back into dirt and soilwater filtration - making water clean again
massive reduction - less in number 
pest control - killing unwanted bugs
nutrients - beneficial food substance 
amphibian - animal that can live in the water and on the land
algae- microscopic animals that live in still water 
compromise food production  - stop food production 
disease transmission - the transfer of disease 
defaunation - loss of plants

Questions
What do the scientists  feel is the problem with less insects?
What is the effect on the soil of less insects?
What is the function of worms?  
What is the function of  bees?
How can this trend be reversed? 
What can you do personally to help this situation? 
How can natural predators help to reverse this trend? 



Lesson Plan by Rachael Alice Orbach, Professional English Teacher 

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