澳大利亚Scholarship奖学金7/8考9 Reading/Viewing英文阅读Mock Test(01)
AAS Scholarship Level 8 Reading Test 10
Read The Journey to Save the Forest and answer questions 1 to 7.
Passage 1: The Journey to Save the Forest (Narrative, 350 words)
Maya had always loved nature, spending much of her childhood hiking through forests and exploring the vast wilderness near her home. However, as she grew older, she became increasingly aware of the erosional effects human activities had on the environment. One summer, Maya learned about the biodiverse forest near her home that was being threatened by deforestation and climate change. The once-thriving ecosystem was now at risk, and the delicate balance of life was quickly being disrupted.
Determined to make a difference, Maya began researching how the forest’s geophysical features, such as its soil and water systems, were being affected. She found that the erosional forces, fueled by poor agricultural practices and industrial development, were rapidly diminishing the forest’s capacity to sustain life. The trees that once protected the soil were being cut down, leaving the land vulnerable to erosion from heavy rains and strong winds.
Maya was also shocked to discover that many of the forest’s challenges were anthropogenic—directly caused by human actions. From logging to pollution, human negligence had played a major role in the destruction of the land. She decided it was time to act, so she joined an environmental organization that was working to protect the forest and restore its natural balance.
The group launched an interactive campaign to raise awareness about the forest’s plight. They organized community events, educational programs, and social media efforts to bring attention to the issue. Maya worked tirelessly, coordinating with local schools, businesses, and government officials to spread the word about the need for sustainable land management and conservation.
With the community’s help, the team was able to implement a restoration plan. This plan involved replanting native species, improving soil quality, and reducing the anthropogenic impacts on the environment. Slowly, the forest began to heal, and the land started to regain its strength. Maya’s efforts proved that through sustainable practices, the earth could recover, even after years of destruction.
1. (VUC) The word opposite in meaning to ‘erosional’ is:
A) Restorative
B) Destructive
C) Beneficial
D) Nutritional
2. (FII) According to the passage, what is one of the main causes of the forest’s destruction?
A) The geophysical features of the forest.
B) Anthropogenic activities, such as logging and pollution.
C) Natural disasters like floods and earthquakes.
D) The growth of biodiverse species.
3. (MAI) What might have motivated Maya to take action to protect the forest?
A) She was encouraged by a personal connection to the environment and the desire to protect the biodiverse forest.
B) Maya felt guilty about the erosional effects on the land.
C) She was trying to increase the profits of the forest industry.
D) Maya wanted to learn more about geophysical issues.
4. (M&T) In the sentence ‘Maya worked tirelessly, coordinating with local schools, businesses, and government officials to spread the word about the need for sustainable land management and conservation,’ the phrase ‘worked tirelessly’ suggests:
A) Maya was indifferent about her role in the campaign.
B) Maya felt overwhelmed but did not stop her efforts.
C) Maya was uninterested in her task but had to finish it.
D) Maya had limited involvement in the project and did not prioritize it.
5. (LD) The phrase ‘interactive campaign’ is an example of:
A) Symbolism, where a concept is represented by an object.
B) Alliteration, where the same consonant sound repeats in a series of words.
C) Metaphor, where one thing is described as another.
D) Adjective-noun construction, where an adjective describes the noun.
6. (MAI) What do you think was the result of the interactive campaign led by Maya and her group?
A) It helped raise awareness and encouraged the community to take steps toward sustainable forest restoration.
B) The campaign led to the immediate replanting of the entire forest without further planning.
C) It resulted in the closure of local businesses to protect the forest.
D) It reduced the erosional effects of the forest but did not address anthropogenic issues.
7. (WA) What is the primary purpose of the last paragraph in the passage?
A) To show that the forest’s restoration plan was implemented successfully, proving the power of sustainable practices.
B) To highlight how the forest became stronger due to anthropogenic factors.
C) To express doubt about the forest’s recovery.
D) To describe how the community remained indifferent to the restoration efforts.
Read The Critical Role of Wetlands in Ecosystem Balance and answer questions 8 to 15.
Passage 2: The Critical Role of Wetlands in Ecosystem Balance (Information Report, 350 words)
Wetlands, often described as nature’s kidneys, play an indispensable role in maintaining the health of the planet’s ecosystems. These environments, where water saturates the land, are found in both freshwater and coastal regions. Wetlands are known for their biodiverse ecosystems, supporting a multitude of species from various taxonomic groups. Unfortunately, they are under threat from human activities, including urbanization, industrial expansion, and unsustainable agriculture.
One of the most vital functions of wetlands is their capacity for geophysical regulation. These ecosystems act as natural filters, removing pollutants and excess nutrients from the water. They trap chemicals, sediment, and other harmful substances, preventing them from reaching larger bodies of water. This filtering process significantly improves water quality, reducing the harmful impacts of anthropogenic pollutants. In regions where industrialization has exacerbated environmental damage, wetlands offer a chance to rehabilitate ecosystems, ensuring cleaner water for human populations and wildlife alike.
Wetlands also provide critical habitats for numerous species, including migratory birds, amphibians, and aquatic plants. Their interactive ecosystems support the life cycles of these organisms, many of which rely on wetlands for breeding, feeding, and shelter. Wetlands are essential for sustainable biodiversity, as they contribute to the overall balance of local and global ecosystems.
However, wetlands are under constant threat due to erosional processes and land development. As wetlands are drained for agriculture or urbanization, the loss of these areas has profound implications. Not only does it disrupt local ecosystems, but it also accelerates the rate of erosion, leading to the loss of soil quality and the degradation of surrounding environments. Furthermore, the anthropogenic changes to wetland landscapes have compounded the challenges posed by climate change, contributing to increasingly erratic weather patterns.
Protecting and restoring wetlands is essential for maintaining the delicate balance of the world’s ecosystems. Governments, environmental organizations, and local communities must work together to ensure these vital areas are preserved for future generations, contributing to a sustainable relationship between humanity and the environment.
8. (FII) According to the passage, one of the main roles of wetlands is:
A) To trap pollutants and chemicals, improving water quality.
B) To absorb solar radiation and regulate global temperatures.
C) To increase the amount of water available for industrial use.
D) To serve as temporary homes for migratory species without ecological benefits.
9. (VUC) The word ‘rehabilitate’ as used in the passage means:
A) To damage or destroy.
B) To restore to a previous condition.
C) To make something unusable.
D) To enhance without restoring.
10. (C&I) Which of the following statements is INCORRECT based on the passage?
A) Wetlands act as filters, improving water quality by trapping pollutants.
B) Wetlands contribute to sustainable biodiversity and support numerous species.
C) Wetlands have little to no role in combating the negative effects of climate change.
D) Wetlands are often threatened by human activities such as industrial development.
11. (MAI) Why might wetlands be referred to as ‘nature’s kidneys,’ according to the passage?
A) Because they naturally filter and purify water, preventing harmful substances from spreading.
B) Because they are able to heal damaged ecosystems on their own without intervention.
C) Because they provide water and shelter for kidney-related species.
D) Because they are essential for the growth of plant and animal life only in coastal areas.
12. (SC) Complete the sentence: ‘The loss of wetlands leads to increased soil erosion and degradation of the surrounding ________.’.
A) water supply
B) air quality
C) ecosystems
D) biodiversity
13. (WTP) What is the primary purpose of the fourth paragraph in the passage?
A) To explain how wetlands support biodiversity and the life cycles of various species.
B) To describe the erosional effects of wetland loss on the environment.
C) To argue that wetlands are not important for the global ecosystem.
D) To suggest that wetlands are primarily beneficial for human industrial development.
14. (MAI) How might the anthropogenic impact on wetlands lead to broader environmental challenges, according to the passage?
A) The destruction of wetlands accelerates erosional processes, which in turn worsens climate change and resource depletion.
B) The destruction of wetlands leads to more efficient agricultural processes, which can help protect the environment.
C) Human impact on wetlands has no significant long-term effects on the environment.
D) Anthropogenic changes create better opportunities for wildlife to adapt to climate change.
15. (S) What structure does the passage follow?
A) It discusses the role of wetlands in ecosystem regulation, the threats they face, and the need for conservation.
B) It compares wetlands to other ecosystems, such as forests and grasslands.
C) It focuses primarily on the economic benefits of wetland conservation.
D) It describes only the types of species that rely on wetlands for survival.
Read The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Modern Healthcare and answer questions 16 to 23.
Passage 3: The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Modern Healthcare (Expository, 350 words)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly evolved and is making a profound impact across various sectors, particularly in healthcare. The integration of AI technologies in medical practice has revolutionized the way diagnoses are made and treatments are formulated. Machine learning models are now capable of analyzing vast datasets from imaging, genomics, and electronic health records to identify patterns and predict outcomes. These systems can enhance diagnostic accuracy, sometimes outperforming human specialists, especially in tasks like interpreting medical scans or identifying rare conditions. This empirical shift has proven to be transformative in medical diagnostics, where AI assists clinicians in making more accurate decisions in a fraction of the time.
However, as AI continues to evolve, significant concerns have arisen. Ethical dilemmas are at the forefront of the discussion, with critics arguing that the increased reliance on AI could compromise patient care by sidelining the indispensable role of human judgment. Although AI systems can process enormous amounts of data, there are apprehensions regarding technological overreach, especially concerning patient data security and privacy. Additionally, the cybernetic nature of these systems, relying on complex algorithms, has raised concerns about potential biases embedded in the data sets used to train them. For instance, if the data used to train AI models does not adequately represent diverse populations, the predictions made by AI systems may be skewed, leading to disparities in healthcare outcomes.
Despite these challenges, proponents of AI in healthcare emphasize its potential to provide sustainable solutions, particularly in underserved areas. AI has the capacity to extend healthcare access to regions where medical expertise is scarce. For example, AI can support remote consultations or assist general practitioners in diagnosing difficult cases by leveraging observational data that would otherwise be inaccessible in rural or developing regions. This could help reduce healthcare disparities and provide equitable care to broader populations.
As AI’s role in healthcare deepens, a collaborative approach between technologists, ethicists, and healthcare providers is essential to navigate the complex landscape of privacy, equity, and medical practice. Ensuring that AI is used responsibly and transparently will be critical in advancing both the technology and patient outcomes.
16. (VUC) In which sentence is the word, empirical, used CORRECTLY?
A) AI’s empirical nature means it can only work on theoretical data.
B) Empirical evidence supports the idea that AI enhances diagnostic accuracy.
C) Empirical data is not required in AI training models for medical applications.
D) The empirical studies showed no difference in patient care when AI was implemented.
17. (C&C) How do the views of proponents and critics of AI in healthcare differ?
A) Proponents believe AI can improve healthcare by offering more precise diagnoses, while critics worry it might undermine human judgment and lead to privacy violations.
B) Proponents are concerned about AI reinforcing biases, while critics argue it will eliminate human judgment.
C) Proponents think AI should replace doctors, while critics argue that AI will only improve administrative tasks.
D) Proponents believe AI is too expensive for use in low-income areas, while critics believe it is under-regulated.
18. (FII) According to the passage, what is one of the primary concerns with the growing use of AI in healthcare?
A) AI will replace human healthcare workers entirely.
B) The technology may introduce biases, leading to unequal healthcare outcomes.
C) AI systems are entirely accurate and free of errors.
D) AI replacing doctors entirely in healthcare systems.
19. (M&T) In the sentence ‘AI systems can process enormous amounts of data, there are apprehensions regarding technological overreach,’ the phrase ‘technological overreach’ suggests:
A) The careful implementation of AI without exceeding the limits.
B) The unintended consequences of relying too heavily on technology in healthcare.
C) The rapid development of technology in medical fields.
D) The continuous improvement in technological systems.
20. (MAI) Why might AI be considered beneficial for underserved areas, according to the passage?
A) AI provides immediate solutions that human doctors cannot offer.
B) AI assists healthcare workers by offering additional support in remote or rural areas where medical expertise is limited.
C) AI can replace all doctors in underserved areas.
D) AI requires fewer resources than traditional medical facilities, making it more feasible in rural areas.
21. (FII) The passage indicates that AI in healthcare can lead to:
A) Universal access to healthcare services, regardless of geographical limitations.
B) The degradation of medical practices in rural areas.
C) Exponential growth in the healthcare industry without limitations.
D) A reduction in the quality of medical care due to technological advancements.
22. (WTP) What is the primary purpose of the last paragraph in the passage?
A) To describe how AI in healthcare is being implemented in underserved areas.
B) To emphasize the need for a collaborative approach to ensure AI is used ethically and effectively in healthcare.
C) To argue that AI should replace human doctors in medical decisions.
D) To showcase the technological advancements of AI in healthcare.
23. (MI/S) The main theme of the passage is:
A) The growing role of AI in healthcare and its benefits and challenges.
B) The inevitable replacement of doctors with AI in the near future.
C) The need for AI systems to be developed without regard to ethical concerns.
D) The failure of AI technologies to improve patient care.
Read The Rise and Fall of the Empire and answer questions 24 to 30.
Passage 4: The Rise and Fall of the Empire (Narrative, 350 words)
In a time long ago, the kingdom of Aldoria was ruled by a monarchistic system, where a single ruler, the king, held absolute power over all aspects of society. This kingdom, known for its towering castles and rich traditions, had been established by a long line of dynastic rulers. The throne had passed from father to son for centuries, and each monarch claimed their authority as the rightful heir by divine right.
Aldoria’s society was deeply feudalistic, with the king granting large portions of land to nobles in exchange for loyalty and military service. These nobles, in turn, had their own vassals who worked the land. Peasants, the lowest class, lived under the heavy hand of these powerful landowners. The imperialist ambitions of Aldoria expanded its influence over neighboring kingdoms. However, as the empire grew larger, the tensions within its borders also grew, leading to civil unrest and battles over succession.
As the years passed, the rulers of Aldoria increasingly emphasized their nationalistic ideals. They sought to unite the people under a single banner, emphasizing Aldoria’s supremacy and cultural identity above all else. These ideas stirred the people, fueling both pride and division. While some saw the strength of the empire as a symbol of national greatness, others viewed the rise of nationalism as a threat to the old ways of the kingdom.
The last king of Aldoria, King Harwin, faced a rebellion from his own people who had grown tired of the strict hierarchies that bound them to their land. The rebellion, led by a former nobleman, took the form of a powerful uprising that would change the course of Aldoria’s history forever. It was a revolution that would chronicle the downfall of the old order and the beginning of a new era.
The collapse of Aldoria left a mark on history as a cautionary tale of how power, when abused and unchecked, can bring even the mightiest empire to its knees.
24. (VUC) The word ‘monarchistic’ as used in the passage means:
A) A system where a ruler holds absolute power
B) A government ruled by a council of nobles
C) A system where the people elect their leaders
D) A military dictatorship
25. (MAI) What might have motivated the rebellion against King Harwin’s reign?
A) The growing dissatisfaction with the feudalistic system and strict social hierarchies.
B) The king’s failure to protect the empire from external threats.
C) A desire for new imperialist ambitions to expand further.
D) The king’s refusal to embrace nationalistic ideals and the promotion of unity.
26. (LD) The phrase ‘The last king of Aldoria, King Harwin, faced a rebellion from his own people’ is an example of:
A) Hyperbole, as it exaggerates the significance of King Harwin’s reign.
B) Irony, as the king is overthrown by those he ruled.
C) Metaphor, as the rebellion symbolizes a greater conflict.
D) Simile, comparing King Harwin’s downfall to an external event.
27. (SC) Complete the sentence: ‘The imperialist ambitions of Aldoria expanded, but they also led to ________ within its borders.’
A) peace
B) prosperity
C) division
D) unity
28. (FII) According to the passage, the feudalistic system in Aldoria:
A) Created a more equal society by distributing land among the peasants.
B) Led to a class divide, with peasants working the land for their noble overlords.
C) Was based on democracy, where everyone had a voice in government.
D) Was overthrown quickly during King Harwin’s reign.
29. (M&T) In the sentence ‘The rise of nationalism stirred the people, fueling both pride and division,’ the word ‘stirred’ conveys a sense of:
A) Calm and peace
B) Limited availability
C) Excitement and emotion
D) Total submission and obedience
30. (S) What structure does the passage follow?
A) It presents the benefits and concerns of AI in healthcare and explores potential solutions.
B) It describes the ethical challenges posed by AI and concludes with its overall rejection in healthcare.
C) It compares the technological abilities of AI with the limitations of human doctors.
D) It describes the advantages of AI in healthcare without addressing potential issues.
Read The Importance of Coral Reefs in Marine Ecosystems and answer questions 31 to 37.
Passage 5: The Importance of Coral Reefs in Marine Ecosystems (Information Report, 350 words)
Coral reefs are often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea” due to their incredible biodiversity and essential role in marine ecosystems. These underwater structures are built by colonies of tiny coral polyps that secrete calcium carbonate, forming vast and complex structures. Coral reefs support a wide range of marine life, providing shelter, food, and breeding grounds for numerous species, including fish, invertebrates, and even larger marine mammals. Their importance cannot be overstated, as the…
Beyond their role in supporting biodiversity, coral reefs also protect coastlines from erosion and storm damage. By acting as natural barriers, they absorb the energy from waves, reducing the impact of strong tides and storms on coastal communities. This function is particularly crucial in regions that are vulnerable to rising sea levels and increasingly frequent extreme weather events, a consequence of global climate change.
However, coral reefs are facing a multitude of threats. One of the primary threats is anthropogenic in nature, with human activities such as overfishing, pollution, and coastal development severely damaging these ecosystems. Rising sea temperatures caused by climate change have also led to coral bleaching, a phenomenon in which corals expel the symbiotic algae that live within them, resulting in the corals turning white and becoming more vulnerable to disease and death.
Efforts to protect coral reefs have become a priority for many environmental organizations and governments worldwide. Restoration projects are being initiated, including coral farming and transplantation, to help rebuild damaged reefs. Additionally, marine protected areas are being established to restrict activities that could harm coral ecosystems, while sustainable fishing practices are being promoted to ensure the health of marine life in these regions.
Despite these efforts, the future of coral reefs remains uncertain. Their survival depends on the collective actions of governments, industries, and individuals to reduce pollution, mitigate climate change, and promote sustainable marine practices. The continued health of coral reefs is not only vital for marine biodiversity but also for the protection of coastal populations and the planet’s overall environmental stability.
31. (FII) According to the passage, one of the primary functions of coral reefs is:
A) To provide shelter, food, and breeding grounds for marine species.
B) To filter pollutants from the ocean.
C) To provide resources for coastal tourism.
D) To increase the temperature of ocean waters.
32. (C&I) Which of the following statements is INCORRECT based on the passage?
A) Coral reefs provide shelter and food for a wide range of marine species.
B) Rising sea temperatures have no effect on the health of coral reefs.
C) Coral reefs protect coastlines from erosion and storm damage.
D) Human activities are a major cause of damage to coral reefs.
33. (VUC) The word ‘anthropogenic’ as used in the passage means:
A) Natural
B) Caused by human activities
C) Beneficial for marine life
D) Related to marine ecosystems
34. (SC) Complete the sentence: ‘Coral reefs are often referred to as the ‘rainforests of the sea’ because they are home to ________.’
A) A few species
B) A diverse array of marine life
C) Only plant species
D) Coastal communities
35. (MAI) What could be one potential consequence if coral reefs continue to decline at the current rate, based on the passage?
A) Marine life will thrive in new ecosystems as coral reefs are replaced by other types of habitats.
B) The loss of coral reefs could lead to a dramatic decline in biodiversity, disrupting ecosystems globally.
C) Human populations would experience no significant effect since coral reefs only benefit marine species.
D) Coastal areas would see a dramatic increase in tourism, as reefs become more accessible after their destruction.
36. (FII) The passage suggests that one of the reasons coral reefs are important is:
A) They generate significant income from fishing activities.
B) They provide coastal protection against storm damage and erosion.
C) They act as barriers to prevent marine life from migrating.
D) They are the primary source of oxygen in marine ecosystems.
37. (WA) What is the primary purpose of the last paragraph in the passage?
A) To describe the positive effects of coral reefs on marine biodiversity.
B) To explain the role of coral reefs in protecting coastal populations.
C) To emphasize the challenges facing coral reefs and the need for collective action to protect them.
D) To highlight the economic value of coral reefs for tourism.
Read The Power of Literary Devices in Storytelling and answer questions 38 to 44.
Passage 6: The Power of Literary Devices in Storytelling (Expository, 350 words)
Literary devices are tools that writers use to enhance their writing, making it more engaging and compelling. One such device is symbolism, which gives objects, characters, or events a deeper meaning beyond their literal sense. For example, in many works of literature, the color red can symbolize love, passion, or danger, depending on the context. Writers use symbolism to convey complex ideas and emotions, adding layers of depth to their stories.
Another device commonly used is allegory. An allegorical story uses characters, events, and settings to represent abstract ideas or moral qualities. For instance, George Orwell’s *Animal Farm* is an allegory that critiques totalitarian regimes through the portrayal of farm animals. The allegorical elements allow readers to draw parallels between the story and real-world issues, enhancing their understanding of the author’s message.
Poeticism is another device that is often used to create a lyrical or rhythmic quality in writing. Writers may use poetic language to evoke emotions and provide a deeper connection to the reader. Poeticism often focuses on the beauty of words, the sound of sentences, and the emotional weight behind them. This can make a passage resonate more deeply with readers, allowing them to appreciate the aesthetic value of the writing.
Foreshadowing is a device used to hint at events that will happen later in a story. By providing subtle clues, foreshadowing builds suspense and anticipation. A character finding an old map at the beginning of a novel could foreshadow a great adventure later on. It prepares the reader for what is to come and adds layers of meaning as the story unfolds.
Other devices, such as alliterative phrases, can be used to create rhythm and make writing more memorable. Alliteration, the repetition of consonant sounds, can add a musical quality to a story, drawing attention to particular phrases. Writers often use alliteration to emphasize important themes or moments in their writing.
Through the careful use of these devices, writers can narrate stories that are rich with meaning, intrigue, and emotion. The most powerful stories are those that use a combination of these techniques to engage readers on multiple levels, allowing for both a surface-level and a deeper interpretation.
38. (VUC) The word ‘symbolism’ as used in the passage means:
A) The literal meaning of objects, characters, or events.
B) Giving objects or characters a deeper meaning.
C) The moral message of a story.
D) The setting and atmosphere of a story.
39. (C&C) How do symbolism and allegory differ based on the passage?
A) Symbolism uses objects to represent abstract ideas, while allegory uses characters and events to represent these ideas.
B) Allegory focuses on the aesthetic quality of language, while symbolism uses a literal interpretation.
C) Symbolism is only used in poetry, while allegory is used in all forms of writing.
D) Allegory and symbolism are interchangeable in meaning and function.
40. (M&T) In the sentence ‘Writers use symbolism to convey complex ideas and emotions, adding layers of depth to their stories,’ the word ‘layers’ suggests:
A) Shallow understanding
B) Depth and complexity
C) Simplicity and clarity
D) Repetition of ideas
41. (FII) The passage suggests that poeticism is used to:
A) Make the writing more rhythmic and emotionally resonant.
B) Focus on the plot rather than the emotional tone.
C) Introduce characters and set the scene.
D) Focus on the structural aspects of a story.
42. (MAI) Why might foreshadowing be considered an essential tool for writers, based on the passage?
A) It helps the reader understand the basic plot of the story.
B) It creates suspense and builds anticipation for upcoming events.
C) It provides a sense of finality at the end of the story.
D) It allows readers to ignore the symbolic meanings of objects and events.
43. (WA) What is the primary purpose of the last paragraph in the passage?
A) To describe the different literary devices and their functions in a story.
B) To explain how the careful use of literary devices can make stories more engaging and meaningful.
C) To introduce new literary devices not covered in the passage.
D) To focus solely on the aesthetic value of literary devices in writing.
44. (SEQ) What sequence of events does the passage describe in relation to literary devices?
A) The use of symbolism and allegory in the beginning, followed by the introduction of foreshadowing and alliteration.
B) The evolution of symbolism, allegory, and poeticism with examples of how these devices are used in writing.
C) The description of poeticism and foreshadowing first, followed by the use of narration and symbolism.
D) A detailed explanation of foreshadowing and alliteration, followed by examples of symbolism and allegory.
Read The Importance of Urban Green Spaces and answer questions 45 to 50.
Passage 7: The Importance of Urban Green Spaces (Information Report, 350 words)
Urban green spaces, such as parks, community gardens, and tree-lined streets, have long been recognized for their contributions to the well-being of cities. As cities grow and expand, the role of these green areas becomes even more important, offering a variety of environmental, psychological, and social benefits. Green spaces help to mitigate urban problems like air pollution, heat islands, and flooding, all of which have increased as a result of urbanization and climate change.
One of the most significant contributions of urban green spaces is their ability to address the urban heat island effect. This phenomenon occurs when urban areas experience higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas, primarily due to human activities and dense infrastructure. Green spaces, by providing vegetation and tree canopy, help to reduce the absorption of solar radiation by urban surfaces, thereby cooling the surrounding areas. This effect is particularly beneficial in mitigating the impact of heat waves, which have become more frequent and intense due to climate change.
Moreover, urban green spaces are critical for enhancing mental health. Numerous studies have demonstrated the psychological benefits of spending time in nature, with individuals reporting lower levels of stress, increased concentration, and improved mood. The presence of greenery in urban environments offers individuals the opportunity to disconnect from the constant noise and demands of modern life. These spaces act as sanctuaries for city dwellers, providing spaces for relaxation, physical activity, and social interaction, all of which contribute to overall well-being.
However, despite their importance, urban green spaces face significant threats, primarily due to anthropogenic activities. Urban sprawl and the prioritization of economic development often result in the destruction or fragmentation of these essential spaces. Governments and city planners face the challenge of balancing the demand for infrastructure with the need to protect and create green spaces.
In conclusion, urban green spaces are indispensable for fostering ecological balance, improving mental health, and creating resilient cities. As urban populations continue to grow, it is essential that we prioritize the integration and preservation of green spaces to ensure the long-term health and prosperity of urban environments.
45. (MAI) What might happen if urban green spaces continue to disappear, based on the passage?
A) The biodiversity of cities will thrive.
B) Urban populations will experience a decrease in mental health.
C) Cities will become more environmentally sustainable.
D) People will have more access to social spaces.
46. (VUC) These words can be used as nouns or verbs.
Which of these words is used as a verb in the text?
A) Mitigate
B) Urbanization
C) Fragmentation
D) Biodiversity
47. (FII) According to the passage, one of the main benefits of urban green spaces is:
A) To help increase urban sprawl.
B) To mitigate the urban heat island effect and provide cooling benefits.
C) To encourage urban expansion and housing development.
D) To promote the use of artificial materials in urban construction.
48. (MAI) Based on the passage, how might the loss of urban green spaces indirectly impact the overall environmental stability of cities?
A) It would lead to an increase in urban biodiversity and improved mental health for residents.
B) The destruction of green spaces could worsen the urban heat island effect, leading to increased energy consumption and exacerbating climate-related issues.
C) It would improve the ability of cities to withstand environmental challenges such as flooding and heatwaves.
D) The loss of green spaces would result in the revitalization of the ecological balance within urban areas, leading to more sustainable living conditions.
49. (SEQ) What is the sequence of the effects of urban green spaces as described in the passage?
A) The passage first describes the environmental benefits, followed by the psychological and social advantages, and ends with the challenges to preserving green spaces.
B) The passage starts by discussing the pressure of urbanization, followed by the environmental benefits of green spaces.
C) The passage details the rapid disappearance of green spaces before describing their social and environmental impacts.
D) The passage begins with the social benefits, followed by the economic advantages and environmental effects.
50. (MI/S) The main idea of this passage is:
A) Urban green spaces offer environmental, psychological, and social benefits, and their preservation is crucial for the well-being of cities.
B) Green spaces are only valuable for physical health and not for mental well-being.
C) Urban green spaces are being rapidly replaced by commercial and residential developments.
D) The challenge of preserving green spaces in cities is not significant compared to other urban issues.