Pre-TOEFL Writing There is no benefit in keeping animals in zoos. (for recorded class)

Disagree

It is understandable that some people do not like keeping animals in cages because they feel sorry for them, but I cannot totally agree with the idea that there is no benefit in keeping animals in zoos. The reasons are as follows.

First, zoos are good for entertainment. Animals make people relax and laugh, so family and friends spend time visiting the zoo on weekends. Also, admission fees for zoos are reasonable compared to amusement parks and other places for entertainment. Because zoos can make people happy easily, they are beneficial.

Second, children can learn the importance of life and nature by visiting zoos. They can not only observe animals but also interact with them. Then they become fond of animals, and when they grow up, they will try to protect wild life and the environment.

Third, animals are protected in zoos. They are kept in a cozy place and fed well. There are no predators around unlike in their natural environment. It is said that animals in zoos live longer than wild animals. Thus, animals, especially endangered species, can live safely in zoos.

As I have written above, keeping animals have some benefits. Therefore, it cannot be said that there is no benefit in keeping animals in zoos.

Agree

Zoos are popular, so there seem to be benefits in keeping animals in zoos. However, I agree with the idea that there is no benefit in keeping animals in zoos.

Although people enjoy themselves in zoos, they should know that it is cruel to keep animals in zoos. Animals are kept in a small space and watched by people all day. This is stressful. Many animals in zoos become depressed or sick because of the stress. It is a torture to keep animals in zoos. It is unethical to have fun by watching animals in pain. It is not a real entertainment.

Some people believe that zoos teach children the importance of life and nature, but it is doubtful. Zoos can make children take it for granted that animals are kept in cages. Children should observe animals in their natural habitat. Wild animals are strong and beautiful, yet they are becoming rare. If they experience how precious wild lives are, they will love them from the bottom of their heart.

I do not think zoos contribute to preserving endangered species. They might be able to increase the numbers of them in zoos, but those species cannot live in the wild unless their habitat is protected. Since zoos cannot protect the whole ecosystem, they cannot save vulnerable spices.

In conclusion, I believe that zoos are not beneficial because they are not really entertaining, they cannot teach children the importance of life and nature, and they fail to save endangered species.