JAM topic · Advanced
The Ethics of Keeping Animals in Zoos
Present your argument on whether traditional zoos should be phased out in favor of wildlife sanctuaries.
How to structure your minute
- 1
Start
present your primary position on zoos
- 2
Middle
weigh animal welfare against conservation goals
- 3
End
share a thoughtful closing thought
Sample answer
about 129 words · 1 minuteFrom my perspective, traditional zoos designed primarily for human entertainment should gradually be replaced by vast wildlife sanctuaries. While I acknowledge that historical zoos played a role in public education and species preservation, keeping majestic creatures in confined enclosures causes undeniable psychological harm to animals. Modern technology now allows us to educate the public through immersive documentaries and virtual reality without restricting animal freedom. Of course, genuine sanctuary work remains vital for protecting endangered species from extinction and poaching in the wild. However, confining animals purely for commercial display is increasingly difficult to justify in an enlightened society. We ought to redirect public funding toward protecting natural habitats and supporting ethically run sanctuaries where animals can roam freely. Shifting our focus in this direction demonstrates genuine respect for nature.
Use it for ideas. Say it your own way.
Useful phrases
From my perspective...
From my perspective, the current policy needs immediate revision.
played a role in...
Community groups played a role in shaping the new park.
increasingly difficult to justify...
Excessive packaging is increasingly difficult to justify today.
redirect public funding toward...
Cities must redirect public funding toward sustainable infrastructure.
Common mistakes
Animals suffer from being in small cages.
Animals suffer from being kept in small cages.
Include the participle 'kept' for clearer passive construction.
We must protect animals from extinction in wild.
We must protect animals from extinction in the wild.
Use the definite article 'the' before 'wild' in this context.
Tips for this topic
- Contrast negative words like 'confined' with positive terms like 'sanctuary' to highlight your point.
- Keep your tone formal yet passionate to persuade listeners effectively.
Now say it yourself
Speak on “The Ethics of Keeping Animals in Zoos” for one minute. You get what went well and the one thing to fix.