NATIVEUK.COM LESSONS
August 20 • Science
World Mosquito Day
Observed annually on August 20th, this day commemorates British doctor Sir Ronald Ross's 1897 discovery that female mosquitoes transmit malaria between humans. While they are the deadliest animals on Earth, they are also an essential part of the food chain. Today we're debating the ethics of extinction—if we had the technology to delete mosquitoes from the planet forever, should we do it? We explore the most hated insect.
Speaking Discussion
- Why did nature create an animal whose only job is to annoy and kill other animals?
- If you could remove one species from the earth, would it be the mosquito?
- How much would you pay for a permanent vaccine that makes you invisible to mosquitoes?
- Is human life more important than the balance of the ecosystem?
- What is your secret method for surviving a night with a mosquito in your room?
Activity 1: The Scientist's Choice
You are a Biologist. You have the "Red Button" to kill every mosquito. Explain why you WILL or WILL NOT press it using the word "Ecosystem".
Activity 2: Rapid Fire Debate
Justify your answer in 30 seconds:
- "Nature doesn't make mistakes; every insect has a purpose."
- "Mosquitoes are the true villains of history."
- "Malaria is a bigger threat than climate change."