Narrator: Listen to part of a lecture in an environmental science class.
Professor: Today, let's consider the concept of 'rewilding.' Rewilding aims to restore ecosystems by reintroducing species that have disappeared, often apex predators, to rebalance food chains. A classic example is the reintroduction of gray wolves to Yellowstone National Park in 1995. Before that, elk populations had exploded, overgrazing willow and aspen trees, which damaged riverbanks and reduced bird habitats. After wolves returned, they controlled elk numbers and behavior, allowing vegetation to recover. This, in turn, stabilized riverbanks and brought back beavers, which created wetlands that supported more biodiversity. However, rewilding is not without controversy. Some argue it can harm local livelihoods, especially for farmers who fear livestock losses. Also, ecosystems have changed, and simply reintroducing a species does not guarantee the original balance will return, as climate change and human development alter the landscape. So, while rewilding offers hope, it requires careful planning and community involvement.
❓ 質問 What is the main point the professor makes about rewilding?
A. A) It is a simple and universally accepted solution to restore ecosystems.
B. B) It involves reintroducing species and can have positive effects, but faces challenges.
C. C) The Yellowstone wolf reintroduction was a failure because it harmed farmers.
D. D) Rewilding should focus only on plants, not animals, to avoid controversy.
✅ 正解
B) It involves reintroducing species and can have positive effects, but faces challenges.
TOEFL Listening Tips
Skim the questions first to predict the content
Watch for signal words in lectures and conversations (however, actually, in fact)
For main idea questions, focus on the beginning; for detail questions, focus on examples and data
For attitude questions, pay attention to the speaker's tone and word choice
Take notes on keywords; don't try to write down every word