A moment that changed me: I brought a baby gorilla home – and learned so much about being a parent

This is a list of key vocabulary and expressions from the article in order of how useful they are. The student must choose 6 items from the list to study in the lesson.

To last

To carry (something/ someone)

Rather than

To be desperate (to do something/ for something)

To rely on (something/ someone)

Brief

It was 2016, and I’d been a zookeeper for seven years.

Bond

Chuck

A nappy

Wrinkles

A toddler

On someone’s lap

Leap

To cling (to/ onto something/ someone)

Inevitable

To snuggle

To master (something)

To hang on/ To hang onto something

As if

Chuckle

Grin

Failing that

To bowl in

To slump

15 conversation-provoking questions related to the article.

1.       Why did Alan end up adopting Afia, the baby gorilla, and what was his goal?

2.       How did Alan describe living with Afia?

3.       How did Alan’s family feel about the situation?

4.       How did Alan feel at the end?

5.       Would you like to do what Alan did?

6.       Would you prefer to work professionally with animals or children?

7.       What is the strongest bond you’ve ever had with an animal?

8.       How do pets and animals feel about humans?

9.       My friend told me that he doesn’t want to get a dog because he’ll be too sad when it dies. Is he right?

10.     Are there any cruel animal practises in your native country?

11.     How would you feel if your partner brought home a new pet?

12.     Do you like to visit zoos?

13.     How do parents feel when their kids finally leave home?

14.     Are you fascinated by wildlife and animal behaviour?

15.     What is a wildlife experience that you would love to have?

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How children with special educational needs are being failed in England