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Level A1 – BeginnerCEFR A1
2 min
80 words
- Scientists studied how seals and coyotes use their voices.
- They examined animal brains after the animals died.
- The team used a special brain scan on the brains.
- They compared seals, sea lions and coyotes.
- Seals have a direct brain pathway to control the voice box.
- Coyotes have an indirect pathway through the mid-brain.
- This easier control may help seals learn new sounds.
- Some seals can copy human sounds and tunes.
- Researchers want to study whales, dolphins and porpoises next.
Difficult words
- scientist — A person who studies nature and does experiments.Scientists
- brain — The organ in the head that controls the body.brains
- pathway — A route of nerves or connections in the body.
- control — To make something move or work by choice.
- learn — To get knowledge or skill from practice or study.
- voice box — The organ that makes sound for speech and calls.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you heard a seal or a coyote sound?
- Can you copy a sound or tune?
- Which animal sound do you like more, seal or coyote?
