Текст для читання "Problems of Ecology"

Text 3. Problems of Ecology

(1) _____ about the human condition in the XXI century stemmed from more than the problems of the present. It derived as well from a fear (2) _____ the future, the future of the (3) _____ human beings, of the (4) _____ itself, and of what is termed its ecology. The word ECOLOGY is often used to refer to human beings and their environment, but it is much broader than that. Ecologists think (5) _____ humans as related to a vast chain of life, which extends through mammals, amphibians, invertebrates and the simplest microorganisms, other plants or animals. In popular usage ecology may be synonymous (6) _____ pollution problems. Again this is an (7) _____ . The causes and (8) _____ of pollution make up important elements in the study of ecology, but they are not its whole subject. (9) _____ important is the usage of our environment in ways that will safeguard the heritage of fertile soil, pure air, fresh water, and forests for those who come (10) _____ us.

Ecological violation consists not merely of poisoning the atmosphere and contaminating oceans, rivers, and lakes by dumping wastes into them, but it is also the result of wastage of land as our most valuable natural resource. And to meet the needs of the increasing population humans sacrifice the most precious thing they have ever had. It's our nature [4].

Tasks

I. Fill in the each gap with the one word from the box which best fits each space?

a) oversimplification; b) earth's; c) about; d) earth; e) after; f) with; g) Pessimism; h) prevention; i) of; j) Equally.

II. Are the following statements true or false? (Put T or F).

1. The word "ecology" is often used to refer to human beings and their environment.

2. Ecologists do not think of humans as related to a vast chain of life.

3. In popular usage ecology may be synonymous with nature.

4. The important elements in the study of ecology are causes and prevention of pollution.

5. Ecological violation consists of unreasonable usage of mineral resources and forest cutting.

6. Wastes are usually dumped into rivers, oceans and lakes.

7. Our environment is safe for those who come after us.

8. The most valuable natural resources is oil.

9. The population of earth is constantly increasing.

10. Humans sacrifice nature trying to meet their needs.

III. Make up your questions (5) to the sentence.

To meet the needs of the increasing population humans sacrifice the most precious thing they have ever had.