Unit 45: Ocean Health & Marine Conservation

Part 1 — Word formation

Instructions: Read the text below. Use the word in CAPITALS at the end of some of the lines to form a word that fits in the gap in the same line. For C1 Advanced, pay close attention to prefixes, suffixes, and noun/adjective/adverb transformations.

The health of our oceans is currently in a state of _ (1). Recent studies suggest that marine ecosystems are facing _ (2) levels of pollution, threatening thousands of species. The _ (3) of coral reefs due to rising sea temperatures is a particularly _ (4) concern for marine biologists. While some international treaties have been signed, the _ (5) of these agreements remains a major challenge. Without _ (6) action to reduce plastic waste, the damage to our oceans may become _ (7). It is vital that we find _ (8) ways to protect these vital ecosystems before it is too late.

1. DECLINE
2. UNPRECEDENT
3. DEGRADATION
4. ARGUED
5. EFFECTIVE
6. DECISIVE
7. REVERSIBLE
8. SUSTAIN

Part 2 — Key word transformations

Instructions: Complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence, using the word given. Do not change the word given. You must use between three and six words, including the word given. 1. Although the weather was stormy, the research vessel continued its mission. | SPITE → The research vessel continued its mission ____ the stormy weather. 2. We decided to cancel the diving expedition because of the sudden drop in visibility. | ACCOUNT → The diving expedition was cancelled ___ the sudden drop in visibility. 3. They discussed the impact of overfishing during the conference. | REGARD → The conference was held __ the impact of overfishing. 4. Despite the fact that the sea was polluted, many tourists still visited the coast. | SPITE → Many tourists still visited the coast __ the pollution in the sea. 5. The project was successful because the team worked together so well. | VIRTUE → The project was successful __ the team's teamwork. 6. Because of the rising sea levels, many coastal cities are at risk. | ACCOUNT → Many coastal cities are at risk _____ rising sea levels.

Answer key

Part 1 1. decline 2. unprecedented 3. degradation 4. argued 5. effectiveness 6. decisive 7. irreversible 8. sustainable Part 2 1. in spite of 2. on account of 3. with regard to 4. in spite of 5. by virtue of 6. on account of