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Passage 1: The Urban Forest: Trees in Modern Cities

You should spend about 20 minutes on Questions 1–13, which are based on the reading passage below.

In the age of concrete jungles and expanding urban sprawl, trees have become more than just a backdrop to city life — they have emerged as vital components of urban well-being. Known collectively as the ‘urban forest,’ the collection of trees, shrubs, and other vegetation in cities plays a crucial role in improving air quality, reducing urban heat, and enhancing residents’ mental health.

Urban forests are not a new concept. In the late 19th century, city planners in Europe and North America began integrating parks and tree-lined boulevards into cities to combat the adverse effects of industrialisation. However, the modern urban forest is more than just ornamental. Research has demonstrated that trees absorb pollutants like nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter, which helps lower respiratory illnesses. A single mature tree can absorb up to 150 kilograms of carbon dioxide each year.

Moreover, trees provide shade, which mitigates the urban heat island effect — a phenomenon where city centres become significantly hotter than surrounding rural areas. This effect results from vast expanses of asphalt and concrete absorbing and radiating heat. Studies show that neighbourhoods with higher tree canopy coverage can be up to 5 degrees Celsius cooler during summer.

The benefits extend beyond environmental impacts. Numerous studies suggest that green spaces, including trees on streets, can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve cognitive function. In one experiment, hospital patients with a view of trees recovered faster than those facing brick walls.

Despite these benefits, maintaining an urban forest is not without challenges. Trees in cities are exposed to harsh conditions, including soil compaction, pollution, limited rooting space, and vandalism. Climate change further exacerbates these stresses, introducing pests and diseases that urban trees may not be resilient against.

Modern urban forestry management now employs technology to overcome these hurdles. For example, some cities use sensors to monitor tree health, soil moisture, and pest activity in real time. Others have adopted community-based initiatives, encouraging residents to participate in planting and caring for local trees.

An innovative example comes from Melbourne, Australia, where each tree is assigned an ID number and an email address. Residents can report damage or disease, but the system unexpectedly resulted in people sending love letters to their favourite trees, highlighting the emotional connection between people and urban greenery.

As cities grow, integrating trees into the built environment will become increasingly important. Experts argue that urban forests should be seen not as optional beautification projects but as critical infrastructure for sustainable, liveable cities.

Questions 1–6

Do the following statements agree with the information in the passage?
Write:

• TRUE if the statement agrees with the information
• FALSE if the statement contradicts the information
• NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this

1. Trees in cities can help reduce the number of people suffering from asthma.
2. The concept of urban forests began in the 21st century.
3. Urban trees can help to cool cities during heatwaves.
4. Urban forests have no effect on mental health.
5. Melbourne’s tree ID system was designed to help people send emails to trees.
6. Some cities are using technology to help monitor the condition of their trees.

Questions 7–10

Complete the sentences below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.

7. The urban heat island effect happens because cities have large areas of ________.
8. Hospital patients with a view of trees recovered more quickly than those looking at ________.
9. Trees in cities often face problems such as ________ and pollution.
10. Climate change increases the threat of ________ to urban trees.

Questions 11–13

Choose the correct letter A, B, C or D.

11. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a benefit of urban trees?
    A) Absorbing pollutants
    B) Lowering stress levels
    C) Increasing noise pollution
    D) Providing shade
12. According to the passage, city residents in Melbourne:
    A) Cut down old trees regularly.
    B) Are encouraged to send emails to each other.
    C) Have developed an unexpected bond with trees.
    D) Ignore the trees in their neighbourhood.
13. What is the main idea of this passage?
    A) Urban forests require more research.
    B) Trees have become unnecessary in cities.
    C) Urban forests can help make cities more sustainable and liveable.
    D) Cities should limit the number of trees they plant.

Passage 2: The Secret Lives of Coral Reefs

You should spend about 20 minutes on Questions 14–26, which are based on the reading passage below.

Coral reefs are among the most diverse ecosystems on Earth, yet they cover less than one per cent of the ocean floor. Often described as the “rainforests of the sea,” coral reefs are home to thousands of marine species, from tiny shrimp to large predators such as sharks. They also provide food, coastal protection, and income to over 500 million people worldwide.

A coral reef is built by tiny animals called polyps, which form colonies that secrete calcium carbonate, creating the hard structure of the reef. These polyps have a mutualistic relationship with microscopic algae called zooxanthellae, which live inside their tissues. The algae photosynthesise, providing nutrients to the coral, while the coral offers shelter and carbon dioxide.

However, coral reefs face significant threats. Rising sea temperatures cause coral bleaching, a stress response where corals expel their algae, losing their colour and primary energy source. Without the algae, corals can starve and die if temperatures do not return to normal quickly. Ocean acidification, caused by increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, reduces the availability of carbonate ions needed to build coral skeletons.

Additionally, overfishing disrupts the balance of reef ecosystems. Herbivorous fish, for example, help control algae growth. Without them, algae can overgrow and smother corals. Destructive fishing practices, like using dynamite or cyanide, further damage these delicate structures.

Interestingly, researchers are now exploring innovative ways to protect reefs. Some scientists are breeding ‘super corals’ that can withstand higher temperatures. Others are experimenting with artificial reefs made of concrete or metal, which provide surfaces for coral larvae to attach and grow.

Marine protected areas (MPAs) have also shown promise. When fishing is restricted or banned in certain regions, fish populations can recover, benefiting the entire reef system. Community-led conservation has proven particularly effective, with local fishers becoming stewards of the reefs they depend on.

Tourism can be both a blessing and a curse for reefs. While it generates income for conservation, irresponsible activities like anchoring on reefs, collecting corals, and trampling can cause severe damage. Sustainable tourism practices, such as using mooring buoys and educating divers, are essential to minimise harm.

Ultimately, saving coral reefs requires global action on climate change, stricter regulations on fishing practices, and increased awareness of their ecological and economic value. Their survival depends not only on scientific intervention but also on human behaviour and commitment to preserving these vibrant underwater worlds.

Questions 14–17

Complete the notes below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.

The structure of coral reefs is built by (14) ________. These animals rely on (15) ________ that live inside them for energy. When sea temperatures rise, corals lose their algae in a process known as (16) ________, which can lead to coral death. One solution to this is creating (17) ________, which are artificial habitats to encourage coral growth.

Questions 18–22

Match each factor with the correct effect.
Write the correct letter, A–F.

Factors
A. Overfishing
B. Marine protected areas
C. Tourism
D. Super corals
E. Ocean acidification
F. Destructive fishing practices

Effects
18. Helps maintain the balance of algae on reefs
19. Provides a controlled area where fish numbers can recover
20. Can damage reefs if not done responsibly
21. Makes it harder for corals to build their skeletons
22. Might allow corals to survive higher temperatures

Questions 23–26

Choose the correct letter A, B, C or D.

23. What is the main role of herbivorous fish in reef ecosystems?
    A) They feed on coral polyps.
    B) They reduce the number of predators.
    C) They keep algae growth under control.
    D) They protect corals from bleaching.
24. Which of these is a direct human action that destroys coral reefs?
    A) Coral bleaching
    B) Dynamite fishing
    C) Ocean acidification
    D) Climate change
25. What is one benefit of sustainable tourism?
    A) It increases destructive fishing.
    B) It prevents coral bleaching.
    C) It can generate funding for reef protection.
    D) It reduces ocean temperatures.
26. What does the passage mainly discuss?
    A) How to develop coastal communities
    B) How coral reefs benefit the fishing industry
    C) The threats to coral reefs and possible solutions
    D) The impact of predators on reef fish

Passage 3: The Rise of Vertical Farming

You should spend about 20 minutes on Questions 27–40, which are based on the reading passage below.

As the world’s urban population grows, traditional farming faces challenges in meeting the demand for fresh produce. One promising solution is vertical farming — the practice of growing crops in stacked layers, often within controlled indoor environments.

Unlike conventional agriculture, vertical farms do not rely on soil. Instead, they use hydroponic or aeroponic systems, where plants receive nutrients through water or mist. This method significantly reduces the amount of water needed — up to 95% less than traditional farming — and eliminates the need for pesticides.

One of the biggest advantages of vertical farming is its potential to produce food close to where people live, reducing transportation costs and carbon emissions. Cities like Singapore, Tokyo, and New York have already adopted vertical farms to supply local supermarkets and restaurants.

However, vertical farming is not without drawbacks. High energy consumption is one of the biggest criticisms. Artificial lighting, temperature control, and nutrient circulation require significant electricity. Proponents argue that renewable energy sources and energy-efficient LED lights can offset these demands.

Another challenge is the limited range of crops that can be grown profitably. Leafy greens, herbs, and strawberries thrive in vertical systems, but staple crops like wheat or corn are not economically viable indoors due to space constraints.

Vertical farms also face economic barriers. The initial cost of setting up these farms is high, and profitability depends on consumer willingness to pay a premium for locally grown produce. Some large companies are experimenting with automated systems and AI to improve efficiency and cut labour costs.

Despite the challenges, the technology continues to advance. Some farms now integrate aquaponics — a system combining fish farming with plant cultivation. Fish waste provides nutrients for the plants, while plants help filter and clean the water for the fish, creating a closed-loop ecosystem.

Critics point out that vertical farming should not be seen as a complete replacement for traditional agriculture but rather a supplement. It offers a way to make cities more self-sufficient, improve food security, and reduce pressure on arable land.

In a world facing climate change, land degradation, and population growth, vertical farming represents an innovative step towards sustainable urban food production. With continued technological improvements, it could play a significant role in feeding the cities of tomorrow.

Questions 27–32

Do the following statements agree with the information in the passage?
Write:

• TRUE if the statement agrees with the information
• FALSE if the statement contradicts the information
• NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this

27. Vertical farms typically grow plants using soil-based systems.
28. Vertical farming helps reduce the need for transporting produce long distances.
29. Wheat is one of the most commonly grown crops in vertical farms.
30. Some vertical farms are experimenting with raising fish alongside plants.
31. Vertical farming uses less water than conventional farming.
32. Renewable energy can help solve the problem of high energy use in vertical farming.

Questions 33–36

Complete the summary below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.

Vertical farming involves growing crops in (33) ________, often without soil. Instead, plants get nutrients through (34) ________ systems. The main benefit is producing food closer to cities, which reduces (35) ________ and pollution. However, the systems require high amounts of (36) ________ to function properly.

Questions 37–40

Choose the correct letter A, B, C or D.

37. What is the main reason vertical farms use less water?
    A) They recycle fish waste.
    B) They use hydroponic and aeroponic systems.
    C) They rely on natural rainfall.
    D) They grow crops that need little water.
38. Which of the following is a disadvantage of vertical farming?
    A) It cannot grow strawberries.
    B) It increases pesticide use.
    C) It has high initial costs.
    D) It requires large amounts of soil.
39. According to the passage, what role does AI play in vertical farming?
    A) It helps produce more water.
    B) It reduces plant growth time.
    C) It lowers labour costs and improves efficiency.
    D) It increases crop variety.
40. Which statement best summarises the author’s view of vertical farming?
    A) It will soon replace all traditional farms.
    B) It is an innovative, complementary approach to urban food supply.
    C) It is too costly to be useful for cities.
    D) It only works in rural areas.

Answer Key

📘 Passage 1: The Urban Forest: Trees in Modern Cities

Questions 1–6 (TRUE / FALSE / NOT GIVEN)

1. TRUE — trees absorb pollutants which helps lower respiratory illnesses
2. FALSE — urban forests began in the late 19th century, not the 21st
3. TRUE — trees provide shade, mitigating the urban heat island effect
4. FALSE — trees can reduce stress and improve mental health
5. FALSE — the system was for reporting damage, not for sending emails
6. TRUE — cities use sensors to monitor tree health

Questions 7–10 (Sentence completion)
7. asphalt and concrete
8. brick walls
9. soil compaction
10. pests and diseases

Questions 11–13 (Multiple choice)
11. C — Increasing noise pollution is NOT a benefit
12. C — Residents formed an unexpected bond, sending love letters
13. C — Urban forests help make cities sustainable and liveable

Passage 2: The Secret Lives of Coral Reefs

Questions 14–17 (Notes completion)
14. polyps
15. zooxanthellae
16. coral bleaching
17. artificial reefs

Questions 18–22 (Matching)
18. A — Overfishing → balance of algae
19. B — MPAs → fish populations recover
20. C — Tourism → can damage reefs if irresponsible
21. E — Ocean acidification → harder to build skeletons
22. D — Super corals → survive higher temperatures

Questions 23–26 (Multiple choice)
23. C — Herbivorous fish keep algae under control
24. B — Dynamite fishing is direct human action
25. C — Sustainable tourism generates funding
26. C — The passage is about threats and solutions

Passage 3: The Rise of Vertical Farming

Questions 27–32 (TRUE / FALSE / NOT GIVEN)
27. FALSE — They do not use soil
28. TRUE — Reduces transport needs
29. FALSE — Staple crops like wheat aren’t viable indoors
30. TRUE — Aquaponics combines fish and plants
31. TRUE — Uses up to 95% less water
32. TRUE — Renewables can help with high energy demand

Questions 33–36 (Summary completion)
33. stacked layers
34. hydroponic or aeroponic
35. transportation costs
36. electricity

Questions 37–40 (Multiple choice)
37. B — Hydroponic/aeroponic systems save water
38. C — High initial costs are a disadvantage
39. C — AI lowers labour costs and improves efficiency
40. B — It’s an innovative, complementary solution