Listening

Warm Up

Helpful Words and Phrases

Listen and repeat.

  1. a revolution
    • ex. The invention of smartphones started a revolution in how we communicate.
  2. take pride in (something)
    • ex. Maria takes pride in her garden, where she grows beautiful flowers.
  3. veterinary
    • ex. The veterinary clinic opens early to help sick animals get better.
  4. attribute
    • ex. Many people attribute their happiness to spending time with family and friends.
  5. a novelty
    • ex. Eating sushi was a novelty for Tom because he had never tried it before.

Article

Read the article below and answer your tutor's questions.

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Somalia is experiencing an agricultural revolution focused on camels, which are important in the country’s culture. For many years, Somali people have used camels for transportation and milk, and they take pride in raising them. Now, farms like Beder Camel Farm in Mogadishu are showing new ways to use camel milk.

The farm uses a modern process to safely collect milk from camels. So now, each camel gives about 10 liters of milk every day, which is more than usual. Veterinary expert and farm manager Dr. Abdirisak Mire Hashi attributes this increase in milk production to better food, modern tools, and regular veterinary care. According to him, Beder’s modern process helps keep Somali culture strong.

In addition, Beder Camel Farm has opened Somalia’s first yogurt factory that uses camel milk. For some people, camel milk yogurt is a novelty, but it is also very healthy. Camel milk has more vitamins and less lactose than cow milk. Lactose is a type of sugar in milk that could cause stomachaches for some people. Since camel milk has less lactose, more people can drink it, and it can help improve health across the country.

This material was based on an article by The Associated Press.
Photo Credits: The Associated Press

Discussion

Choose a topic and discuss the questions with your tutor.

Somalia Camels and Camel Farms

  • Camels are Somalia’s most famous animal and contribute to the country’s agricultural revolution. Why do you think it’s important to protect animals like camels in modern times? Discuss.
  • In your opinion, how can Somalians keep their culture strong? Discuss.
  • Camels are important in Somalia’s culture. What animal in your country is similarly important for your culture (ex. koi fish, cats)? Discuss.

Milk Production and Business

  • What type of milk is popular in your country (ex. cow milk, soy milk)? Discuss.
  • Do you think milk production is important for your country’s economy? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • In your country, do you think a milk factory would be a good business? Why or why not? Discuss.