Task 2 · · 17 samples

Some people think that zoos are cruel and should be closed down. Others, however, believe that zoos can be useful in protecting wild animals. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

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Plan your answer

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Ideas to explore

  • Zoos may support conservation through breeding programmes and care for animals that cannot safely return to the wild.
  • Captivity can limit animals’ movement and natural behaviour, while noise and visitor contact may cause stress.
  • A balanced position can distinguish entertainment-focused zoos from rescue centres or carefully managed conservation programmes.

Suggested structure

  1. Introduce the disagreement and state your own position clearly.
  2. Explain the strongest argument for zoos, using conservation or education as a reason.
  3. Explain the opposing welfare argument and its consequences for animals.
  4. Give your judgement, clarify any exception you accept, and conclude with a practical alternative.
Useful vocabulary & examples
breeding programme
An organised effort to help animals reproduce, often to support a threatened population.

A carefully managed breeding programme may help maintain the population of an endangered species.

animal welfare
The health, comfort and quality of life of animals.

Animal welfare should be central to any decision about keeping wild animals in captivity.

natural habitat
The place and environment where an animal normally lives in the wild.

Protecting a natural habitat can allow wild animals to live and reproduce with greater freedom.

return to the wild
To release an animal back into its natural environment when it can survive there.

Some rescued animals may be able to return to the wild after treatment.

Sample answers

AI-completed learning example

356 words · Illustrative target band

It is believed that zoos can be severe for animals and must be shut down. On the other hand, it could have a positive development thanks to the fact that they tend to preserve those in need. From my perspective, zoos have a beneficial impact on the conservation of threatened species. This essay will discuss both views before evaluating that claimed benefit. The case for closure begins with the conditions of captivit…

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AI-completed learning example

353 words · Illustrative target band

It is generally believed that zoos are brutal and should be closed down whereas others are of the view that zoos can be of use as a home for wild animals. In my opinion, I think that the wildlife park is important but they are cruel so they should close the zoos to allow the animals to live in more suitable conditions. The case for closure begins with the conditions of captivity. An enclosure may restrict movement a…

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AI-completed learning example

357 words · Illustrative target band

In this contemporary era, keeping wildlife in the fence sparks debate for decades. Some believe that forcing animals living in the confined spaces with inadequate conditions is a form of animal cruelty, while others consider that the zoos is a vital role in global biodiversity. In this essay I will delve into the argument of whether captivity can be justified by protective work. The case for closure begins with the …

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