*Read the passage below. Take notes as you read.

Now listen to a lecture on the same topic. You may take notes during the lecture. You have 3 minutes to read the passage and take notes, then 20 minutes to write your response.

Passage:

Climate change, driven largely by human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, is having profound effects on the world's oceans. One of the most vulnerable ecosystems facing the consequences of climate change is coral reefs. These underwater structures, teeming with diverse marine life, are highly sensitive to changes in temperature, acidity, and sea levels.

Firstly, rising sea temperatures pose a significant threat to coral reefs. Corals have a symbiotic relationship with tiny photosynthetic algae called zooxanthellae, which live within their tissues and provide them with energy. However, when sea temperatures increase, corals experience a phenomenon known as coral bleaching. During this process, corals expel the zooxanthellae, causing the coral to lose its vibrant colors and, more critically, leading to a breakdown of the essential symbiotic relationship. Without these algae, corals struggle to obtain sufficient nutrients and become more susceptible to disease.

Secondly, the acidification of seawater due to increased carbon dioxide absorption is another consequence of climate change impacting coral reefs. As the oceans absorb more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, the water becomes more acidic. This acidification hinders the ability of corals to build their calcium carbonate skeletons, essential for their structural integrity. Weakening coral structures make them more susceptible to physical damage from storms and human activities.

Lastly, rising sea levels exacerbate the challenges faced by coral reefs. Higher sea levels reduce the amount of light reaching corals, hindering their growth and vitality. Additionally, increased water temperatures and acidification contribute to the melting of polar ice caps, further elevating sea levels and exacerbating the threat to coastal ecosystems.

In conclusion, climate change poses a multifaceted threat to coral reefs and the marine life they support. The interconnected nature of these challenges necessitates urgent global action to mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect these vital ecosystems.

(* AI generated question)

Essay:

(主題の紹介 ):

The passage and the lecture both discuss _____________________________________ While the passage provides a broad overview of___________________________

(パッセージからの要点): 

According to the passage,________________________________

(講義からの要点 ):

The lecture, building upon the information in the passage, focuses on ___________________________

(まとめ):

In summary, both the passage and the lecture provide insights into ___________________________. While the passage outlines the general ____________________________, the lecture __________________________Together, they present a comprehensive picture of ________________

The lecture: 

"Good day, everyone. Today, we're going to discuss the profound effects of climate change on marine life, with a particular focus on the detrimental consequences for coral reefs. As we delve into this topic, it becomes evident that the intricate balance within these ecosystems is under threat.

Firstly, let's address the issue of rising sea temperatures. Coral reefs are highly sensitive to changes in temperature, and when the water becomes warmer than usual, corals undergo a process called bleaching. This phenomenon occurs when corals expel the symbiotic algae living in their tissues, resulting in the loss of the vibrant colors we associate with healthy reefs. Importantly, this process weakens the corals and makes them more susceptible to diseases, threatening the diverse marine life that relies on them for shelter and sustenance.

Moreover, the acidification of seawater is another consequence of climate change affecting coral reefs. With the increased absorption of carbon dioxide by the oceans, the water becomes more acidic. Corals rely on a delicate balance of acidity to build their calcium carbonate skeletons. However, with rising acidity levels, this process becomes disrupted, compromising the structural integrity of the coral reefs. The weakened structures are then more susceptible to damage from storms and other environmental stressors.

Lastly, consider the impact of rising sea levels on these ecosystems. As sea levels increase due to the melting of polar ice caps, coral reefs face reduced exposure to sunlight. This reduction in light impedes the photosynthesis process crucial for the growth of corals and the myriad organisms that depend on them. Furthermore, coastal ecosystems face heightened threats, as higher sea levels exacerbate the risks of storm surges and coastal erosion.

In conclusion, the effects of climate change on marine life, especially coral reefs, are interconnected and alarming. To preserve these crucial ecosystems, it is imperative that we take immediate and concerted global action to address the root causes of climate change and mitigate its impacts on our oceans."