READING PART 1

Task Reading Passage: The Benefits of Urban Green Spaces

Urban green spaces, such as parks, gardens, and green roofs, are crucial components of cities,
providing significant environmental, social, and health benefits. As urbanization continues to
increase globally, the need for accessible green areas has become more important than ever.
Firstly, urban green spaces play a vital role in improving air quality. Plants absorb carbon
dioxide and release oxygen, thus helping to reduce pollution levels in densely populated areas.
For instance, a study conducted in New York City found that its parks collectively remove over
1,000 tons of pollutants from the air each year. Secondly, these green areas offer recreational
opportunities for residents, promoting physical activity and mental well-being. Parks and gardens
serve as venues for various activities, such as walking, jogging, and social gatherings, which
enhance community cohesion. Furthermore, the presence of greenery has been shown to reduce
stress levels, contributing to improved mental health. In addition to environmental and social
benefits, urban green spaces also play an important role in enhancing biodiversity. They provide
habitats for various species of plants and animals, contributing to the ecological health of urban
areas. Maintaining biodiversity is crucial for sustaining ecosystem services that benefit human
populations. Another significant advantage of green spaces is their role in climate regulation.
Urban areas tend to be warmer than surrounding rural areas, a phenomenon known as the "urban
heat island" effect. Green spaces mitigate this effect by providing shade and releasing moisture
into the air, thereby cooling the environment. Despite the clear benefits of urban green spaces,
many cities face challenges in their preservation and expansion. Land scarcity, budget
constraints, and competing urban development needs often hinder the establishment of new parks
and green areas. It is essential for city planners and policymakers to prioritize green space
initiatives to ensure that urban residents can enjoy these valuable resources.

Questions:

What is one of the primary environmental benefits of urban green spaces mentioned in the
passage?

According to the text, how do urban green spaces contribute to mental well-being?

Name one activity that residents can engage in at parks and gardens.

What phenomenon does the presence of green spaces help mitigate in urban areas?

Why is biodiversity important in urban green spaces?

How many tons of pollutants do New York City parks remove annually, according to the study?

What challenge do cities face regarding the establishment of green spaces?

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a benefit of urban green spaces?

a) Improved air quality

b) Increased noise pollution

c) Enhanced community cohesion

d) Climate regulation
Complete the sentence: "Urban green spaces serve as venues for various activities, such as
_____."

What must city planners prioritize to ensure the enjoyment of urban green spaces for residents?

1. One primary environmental benefit: Improving air quality (plants absorb carbon
dioxide and release oxygen, reducing pollution).
2. Contribution to mental well-being: Green spaces help reduce stress and promote
relaxation, improving mental health.
3. One activity in parks and gardens: Walking (also jogging or social gatherings).
4. Phenomenon mitigated by green spaces: The “urban heat island” effect.
5. Importance of biodiversity: It provides habitats for various species and supports
ecosystem services that benefit humans.
6. Pollutants removed annually in New York City parks: Over 1,000 tons.
7. Challenge cities face: Land scarcity, budget constraints, and competing urban
development needs.
8. NOT mentioned as a benefit: a) Improved air quality
9. Complete the sentence: “Urban green spaces serve as venues for various activities, such
as walking, jogging, and social gatherings.”
10. What city planners must prioritize: Green space initiatives to ensure residents can
enjoy these valuable resources.

READING PART 2

Task
Reading Passage
The Evolution of Urban Gardening
Urban gardening has evolved significantly over the past few decades, transforming the way city
dwellers interact with their food sources and environment. Once seen as a niche interest, urban
gardening has gained widespread popularity, driven by a growing awareness of the benefits of
local food production, sustainability, and community engagement. Historically, urban gardening
appeared during World War II when governments encouraged citizens to grow "victory gardens"
in their backyards. These gardens were not only a means to supplement diets but also a way to
promote morale during difficult times. However, the practice dwindled after the war, as
industrial agriculture took precedence and urban spaces became more developed. In recent years,
various factors have reignited interest in urban gardening. Food security concerns, the rise of
organic food movements, and the impact of climate change have prompted individuals and
communities to seek sustainable alternatives. Urban gardens now flourish in various forms,
including rooftop gardens, community plots, and vertical gardens. These spaces not only provide
fresh produce but also serve as green oases in concrete jungles, helping to improve air quality
and enhance city aesthetics. Community-based initiatives have played a vital role in this
resurgence. Organizations dedicated to promoting urban gardening conduct workshops, provide
resources, and establish communal gardens, fostering social connections among residents. These
collaborative efforts often result in shared knowledge, skills, and produce, creating a sense of
community ownership and pride. Another significant aspect of urban gardening is its educational
potential. Schools and local organizations often incorporate gardening programs into their
curricula, teaching children about biology, ecology, and nutrition. Such programs help instill
values of sustainability and environmental stewardship from a young age. Despite these positive
trends, urban gardening also faces challenges. Limited space, soil contamination, and local
regulations can hinder the establishment of new gardens. Additionally, urban gardeners must
contend with the realities of urban life, including pollution and the availability of water
resources. As urban areas continue to grow, the role of urban gardening will likely become
increasingly important. It not only addresses food production but also promotes mental well-
being, community cohesion, and environmental awareness. Encouragingly, more cities are
recognizing the value of integrating green spaces into urban planning, paving the way for a
healthier future.

Questions 11-14: True/False/Not Given

11. Urban gardening first gained prominence during World War II.
12. The decline of urban gardening after World War II was primarily due to a lack of interest
from the public.
13. Rooftop gardens are a modern form of urban gardening.
14. Urban gardening has no educational benefits for children.
Questions 15-24: Multiple Choice
15. What sparked the revival of urban gardening in recent years?
A) A decline in industrial agriculture
B) Increased awareness of sustainability
C) The rise of corporate farming
D) Changes in city planning
16. What is one of the benefits of community-based urban gardening initiatives?
A) They reduce the need for urban planning.
B) They create social connections among residents.
C) They eliminate pollution in urban areas.
D) They prevent soil contamination.
17. How do schools incorporate urban gardening in their curricula?
A) By focusing solely on nutrition.
B) By teaching children about various subjects related to gardening.
C) By promoting commercial gardening practices.
D) By discouraging outdoor activities.
18. What kind of challenges do urban gardeners face?
A) Surplus of available land
B) Excessive rainfall
C) Limited space and soil contamination
D) High demand for urban produce
19. According to the passage, urban gardening can improve:
A) Economic stability in cities.
B) Mental well-being and community cohesion.
C) Industrial agriculture practices.
D) The development of new technologies.
20. What are vertical gardens?
A) Gardens that grow in small pots.
B) Gardens that are built on walls and structures.
C) Gardens that require a lot of soil.
D) Gardens that are found in rural areas.
21. How has the perception of urban gardening changed over time?
A) It has become less popular.
B) It has evolved into a mainstream practice.
C) It is now considered outdated.
D) It has remained the same.
22. What is a victory garden?
A) A garden with decorative plants.
B) A garden designed for competitions.
C) A garden created during World War II for food production.
D) A garden used for commercial purposes.
23. Why is the integration of green spaces into urban planning seen as beneficial?
A) It increases property values.
B) It helps in managing traffic flow.
C) It promotes a healthier living environment.
D) It reduces the need for public transport.
24. What role can urban gardening play in addressing climate change?
A) Providing job opportunities in cities.
B) Reducing the urban heat island effect.
C) Eliminating all forms of pollution.
D) Promoting the use of chemical fertilizers.

11. Urban gardening first gained prominence during World War II.
True

12. The decline of urban gardening after World War II was primarily due to a lack of interest
from the public.
False

13. Rooftop gardens are a modern form of urban gardening.

False

14. Urban gardening has no educational benefits for children.

False

15. What sparked the revival of urban gardening in recent years?

A) A decline in industrial agriculture

16. What is one of the benefits of community-based urban gardening initiatives?

C) They eliminate pollution in urban areas

17. How do schools incorporate urban gardening in their curricula?

B) By teaching children about various subjects related to gardening.

18. What kind of challenges do urban gardeners face?

D) High demand for urban produce

19. According to the passage, urban gardening can improve:

B) Mental well-being and community cohesion.

20. What are vertical gardens?

B) Gardens that are built on walls and structures.

21. How has the perception of urban gardening changed over time?
B) It has evolved into a mainstream practice.

22. What is a victory garden?

B) A garden designed for competitions.

23. Why is the integration of green spaces into urban planning seen as beneficial?
C) It promotes a healthier living environment.
24. What role can urban gardening play in addressing climate change?
C) Eliminating all forms of pollution.

READING PART 3
Task
The Impact of Urbanization on Natural Habitats

Urbanization is the process by which cities grow as more people begin living and working in the
urban areas. While urbanization can drive economic development and increase living standards,
it can also have profound effects on local ecosystems and wildlife. As cities expand, natural
habitats are often destroyed to make way for housing, roads, and other infrastructure. This
transformation leads to a loss of biodiversity, as many species either relocate or become
endangered. One of the most critical impacts of urbanization is habitat fragmentation. This
occurs when large habitats are divided into smaller, isolated patches, making it difficult for
species to find mates, food, and escape from predators. Endemic species, which are native to a
specific area, are particularly vulnerable. For instance, the red-legged frog in the western United
States has seen a drastic decline in population due to urban encroachment, resulting in reduced
breeding habitats. Moreover, urban areas often introduce various forms of pollution, such as air
and water contaminants, which can adversely affect wildlife. Rainwater runoff collects pollutants
from urban surfaces, leading to the contamination of nearby water bodies. This can disrupt
aquatic ecosystems and harm fish populations, ultimately impacting those who rely on these
resources for their livelihood. Another significant aspect is the introduction of invasive species.
Urban areas often serve as entry points for non-native species, which can outcompete local flora
and fauna for resources. For example, the introduction of the zebra mussel in North American
waterways has caused severe ecological and economic impacts, as it disrupts local ecosystems
and damages infrastructure. To mitigate the negative effects of urbanization, many cities are
adopting sustainable urban planning practices. These include the creation of green spaces, such
as parks and community gardens, which help to preserve local wildlife. Additionally, urban
wildlife corridors can connect fragmented habitats, allowing species to move freely and maintain
genetic diversity. Finally, community engagement is essential in fostering a sense of stewardship
over local environments. Educational programs that promote awareness of local ecosystems can
inspire residents to participate in conservation efforts, ensuring that urban growth does not come
at the expense of biodiversity.

Questions 25-40 Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.

25. What is one of the main benefits of urbanization mentioned in the text?

A. Decrease in pollution

B. Economic development

C. Increase in biodiversity

D. Preservation of natural habitats

26. What does habitat fragmentation lead to?

A. Increased pollution levels

B. Isolation of species
C. Enhanced biodiversity

D. Growth of green spaces

27. Which species is specifically mentioned as being affected by urban encroachment?

A. Zebra mussel

B. Red-legged frog

C. Local flora

D. Urban birds

Complete the sentence with a word or short phrase.

28. Urban growth can lead to a loss of ____________ due to habitat destruction.

29. Contaminated rainwater runoff poses a threat to ____________ ecosystems.

30. Invasive species can outcompete native species for ____________.

Choose True, False, or Not Given.

31. Urban areas do not impact local wildlife.

32. Sustainable urban planning practices are being adopted by many cities.

33. Community engagement is irrelevant to conservation efforts.

Answer the following questions based on the text.

34. What are two ways cities are attempting to preserve local wildlife?

35. How can educational programs contribute to conservation efforts within urban
environments?

36. Describe the relationship between urbanization and species relocation as mentioned in the
passage.

37. What role do parks and community gardens play in urban areas according to the text?

Choose the correct option to complete the sentences.

38. Urbanization can lead to ____________.

A. economic stagnation

B. improved air quality

C. increased habitat destruction

39. The introduction of non-native species is often facilitated by ____________.

A. wildlife corridors

B. urban infrastructure

C. community gardens

40. The text emphasizes the importance of ____________ to foster a sense of stewardship.

A. government policy

B. community engagement

C. economic incentives

25. What is one of the main benefits of urbanization mentioned in the text?
B) Economic development

26. What does habitat fragmentation lead to?

B) Isolation of species

27. Which species is specifically mentioned as being affected by urban encroachment?

B) Red-legged frog

28. Urban growth can lead to a loss of biodiversity due to habitat destruction.

29. Contaminated rainwater runoff poses a threat to aquatic ecosystems.

30. Invasive species can outcompete native species for resources.

31. Urban areas do not impact local wildlife.

False

32. Sustainable urban planning practices are being adopted by many cities.
False.

33. Community engagement is irrelevant to conservation efforts.

False.

34. What are two ways cities are attempting to preserve local wildlife?
By creating green spaces (parks and community gardens) and establishing urban wildlife
corridors to connect fragmented habitats.

35. How can educational programs contribute to conservation efforts within urban
environments?
They raise awareness about local ecosystems and encourage residents to participate in
conservation activities.

36. Describe the relationship between urbanization and species relocation as mentioned in the
passage.
As urban areas expand, many species are forced to relocate or become endangered due to
habitat destruction.

37. What role do parks and community gardens play in urban areas according to the text?
They help preserve local wildlife, improve environmental quality, and provide green spaces
within cities.

38. Urbanization can lead to ____________.

A) government policy

39. The introduction of non-native species is often facilitated by ____________.

A) wildlife corridors

40. The text emphasizes the importance of ____________ to foster a sense of stewardship.
B) community engagement