Lesson
New App Helps Track Loon Observations
Read this news story in English at three levels, easy, standard, and advanced (B1–C1) — with vocabulary and a comprehension quiz.
A new app allows citizens to log observations of loons, aiding research on these threatened birds affected by climate change and pollution.
Pick your level
Standard — Natural English
50 words · ~1 min readEasy version (A2–B1)
A new app helps people track loons. Loons are special birds in America. They face problems from climate change and pollution. The app helps citizens report what they see. This will help scientists learn more about loons.Standard version (B1–B2)
A new app has been developed to help track loon data by allowing citizens to log their observations. Loons are important waterbirds in America, but they face threats from climate change and pollution. The app is funded by an oil spill settlement and aims to involve non-scientists in research efforts.Advanced version (C1–C2)
A new mobile application has been introduced to streamline the collection of loon data by enabling citizens to log their observations of these iconic American waterbirds. Loons, which are facing significant threats from climate change and pollution, have seen a resurgence in Vermont after a dramatic decline in the 1980s. The app, funded by an oil spill settlement, seeks to engage non-scientists in research efforts to monitor and protect these birds, whose populations are increasingly vulnerable due to environmental changes.Lesson audio
Standard level
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Test your understanding
01What does the new app help citizens do?
02What are loons facing threats from?
03What funded the development of the app?
Discussion
How can citizen involvement in scientific research benefit wildlife conservation efforts?
Vocabulary
streamline word
to make something more efficient or effective
“The new app aims to streamline the process of collecting loon data.”
observations word
the act of watching and noting something
“Citizens can log their observations of loons using the app.”
threats word
things that can cause harm or danger
“Loons face threats from climate change and pollution.”
settlement word
an agreement reached after a dispute
“The app is funded by an oil spill settlement.”
research word
the systematic investigation into a subject
“The app helps in research on loon populations.”