Deforestation - TOEFL iBT® Reading Practice Test

Deforestation is a critical environmental issue frequently highlighted in academic texts. The TOEFL Reading section may include such topics, requiring you to understand causes, consequences, and proposed solutions.

Practising passages on 'Deforestation' will enhance your ability to interpret complex ideas, analyse global challenges, and grasp environmental policies—essential skills for TOEFL Reading success.

Reading Instructions:

• You have 15 minutes to read the following passage and answer all 9 questions related to it.
• Most questions are worth 1 point, but the last question is worth more. The directions indicate how many points you will receive for that specific question.
• The specific section/paragraphs have been provided again with the question for ease of understanding and quick solution.
• Some questions include a word or phrase that is highlighted in the question as well as in the paragraph for quick reference. 

Deforestation, or the removal of trees from forested areas, has become an urgent environmental problem in recent decades. This issue is mainly driven by human activities like farming, logging, and urban growth. According to the World Bank, about 13 million hectares of forest are lost each year, showing the urgency of tackling this global crisis. Forests play a crucial role in maintaining natural balance, supporting wildlife, and regulating the climate. For instance, they are vital for absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. As a result, the ongoing loss of these ecosystems poses serious threats not only to wildlife but also to human communities that depend on forests for their jobs and well-being.

One of the biggest causes of deforestation is agricultural expansion, especially in developing countries. As the global population keeps growing, the demand for food has increased, leading to the change of forests into farmland. For instance, in the Amazon rainforest, large areas have been cleared to grow soybeans and create pasture for cattle. This trend is especially worrying since the Amazon is often called the "lungs of the Earth because of its ability to absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen. Converting these forests not only adds to greenhouse gas emissions but also disrupts the complex ecosystems that have developed over thousands of years. Furthermore, losing forest cover can lead to soil
decline, which reduces agricultural productivity over time.

Logging, both legal and illegal, is another major factor in deforestation. Timber is a valuable resource, and the demand for wood products has led to large-scale logging operations around the world. While some logging practices are eco-friendly, many are not, resulting in significant forest damage. The illegal logging industry poses a serious threat, as it often happens without following environmental rules. This not only speeds up deforestation but also weakens the efforts of governments and organizations trying to protect forests. Moreover, losing trees due to logging can cause soil erosion, which reduces the land's agricultural productivity and raises the risk of landslides. For instance, in Southeast Asia, illegal logging has caused devastating landslides that have taken lives and destroyed infrastructure.

Urban growth is another factor leading to the decline of forested areas. As cities expand to accommodate growing populations, forests are often cleared to make room for buildings, roads, and commercial developments. This urban sprawl not only cuts down the amount of forest cover but also breaks up existing ecosystems, making it harder for wildlife to survive. The loss of habitat can lead to a drop in biodiversity, as species struggle to adapt to the changing landscape. For instance, the growth of cities like So Paulo has invaded nearby forests, leading to the removal of many species. Additionally, urban growth often leads to more pollution and resource use, worsening the environmental challenges linked to deforestation.

The effects of deforestation are wide-ranging and complex. One of the most urgent issues is climate change, as forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the air. When trees are removed, the stored carbon is released back into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming. Also, deforestation can disrupt local weather patterns,leading to changes in rainfall and more extreme weather events. This can have serious effects on agriculture, water supply, and overall human health. Furthermore, losing biodiversity due to deforestation can unbalance ecosystems, making them less strong against environmental changes and more vulnerable to disease outbreaks. For example, the decline of certain tree species can lead to habitat loss for various animals, which may then face extinction.

In light of these challenges, various plans have been suggested to reduce the impacts of deforestation. Replanting and creating new forests aim to restore lost tree cover and enhance carbon absorption. Eco-friendly forestry practices, which balance economic needs with environmental protection, are also gaining attention. For instance, certification programs like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) promote responsible logging practices.Additionally, policies that encourage responsible land use and conservation of existing forests are essential. But tackling deforestation requires a thorough approach that involves cooperation among governments, non-governmental organizations, and local communities. As the world deals with the consequences of deforestation, it is vital to recognize the inherent value of forests and take concerted action to protect these crucial ecosystems for future generations. The ongoing discussion about deforestation also raises important questions about sustainability and the balance between development and conservation. 

Directions: Once you have read the passage, answer the following questions.

Paragraph 1

Deforestation, or the removal of trees from forested areas, has become an urgent environmental problem in recent decades. This issue is mainly driven by human activities like farming, logging, and urban growth. According to the World Bank, about 13 million hectares of forest are lost each year, showing the urgency of tackling this global crisis. Forests play a crucial role in maintaining natural balance, supporting wildlife, and regulating the climate. For instance, they are vital for absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. As a result, the ongoing loss of these ecosystems poses serious threats not only to wildlife but also to human communities that depend on forests for their jobs and well-being.

Factual Information Questions

1. According to paragraph 1, what is one of the main human activities driving deforestation?
   1. Urban growth
   2. Natural disasters
   3. Climate change
   4. Wildlife conservation

Negative Factual Information Questions

1. The author mentions all of the following as consequences of deforestation EXCEPT:
   
   1. Threats to wildlife
   2. Increased agricultural productivity
   3. Loss of jobs for human communities
   4. Disruption of natural balance

Paragraph 2 

One of the biggest causes of deforestation is agricultural expansion, especially in developing countries. As the global population keeps growing, the demand for food has increased, leading to the change of forests into farmland. For instance, in the Amazon rainforest, large areas have been cleared to grow soybeans and create pasture for cattle. This trend is especially worrying since the Amazon is often called the "lungs of the Earth" because of its ability to absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen. Converting these forests not only adds to greenhouse gas emissions but also disrupts the complex ecosystems that have developed over thousands of years. Furthermore, losing forest cover can lead to soil decline, which reduces agricultural productivity over time.

Inference Questions

1. What can be inferred about the relationship between population growth and deforestation from paragraph 2?
   1. Population growth has no impact on deforestation.
   2. Population growth leads to increased demand for food, resulting in deforestation.
   3. Population growth is primarily a result of deforestation.
   4. Population growth is unrelated to agricultural practices.

Paragraph 3 

Logging, both legal and illegal, is another major factor in deforestation. Timber is a valuable resource, and the demand for wood products has led to large-scale logging operations around the world. While some logging practices are eco- friendly, many are not, resulting in significant forest damage. The illegal logging industry poses a serious threat, as it often happens without following environmental rules. This not only speeds up deforestation but also weakens the efforts of governments and organizations trying to protect forests. Moreover, losing trees due to logging can cause soil erosion, which reduces the land's agricultural productivity and raises the risk of landslides. For instance, in Southeast Asia, illegal logging has caused devastating landslides that have taken lives and destroyed infrastructure.

Rhetorical Purpose Questions

1. Why does the author mention illegal logging in paragraph 3?
   
   1. To highlight the economic benefits of logging
   2. To illustrate the challenges faced in forest protection efforts
   3. To suggest that logging should be completely banned
   4.  To compare legal and illegal logging practices

Paragraph 4 

Urban growth is another factor leading to the decline of forested areas. As cities expand to accommodate growing populations, forests are often cleared to make room for buildings, roads, and commercial developments. This urban sprawl not only  cuts down the amount of forest cover but also breaks up existing ecosystems, making it harder for wildlife to survive. The loss of habitat can lead to a drop in biodiversity, as species struggle to adapt to the changing landscape. For instance, the growth of cities like So  Paulo has invaded nearby forests, leading to the removal of many species. Additionally, urban growth often leads to more pollution and resource use, worsening the environmental challenges linked to deforestation.

Vocabulary Questions

1. In paragraph 4, the word sprawl is closest in meaning to:
   
   1. Expansion
   2. Decline
   3. Restriction
   4. Preservation

Paragraph 5 

The effects of deforestation are wide-ranging and complex. One of the most urgent issues is climate change, as forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the air. When trees are removed, the stored carbon is released back into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming. Also, deforestation can disrupt local weather patterns, leading to changes in rainfall and more extreme weather events. This can have serious effects on agriculture, water supply, and overall human health. Furthermore, losing biodiversity due to deforestation can unbalance ecosystems, making them less strong against environmental changes and more vulnerable to disease outbreaks. For example, the decline of certain tree species can lead to habitat loss for various animals, which may then face extinction.

Sentence Simplification Question 

1. Which of the following sentences best expresses the essential information in the following text from paragraph 5? When trees are removed, the stored carbon is released back into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
   
   1. Removing trees releases carbon into the atmosphere, which causes global warming.
   2. Trees are removed to prevent global warming.
   3. Carbon is stored in the atmosphere when trees are removed.
   4. Global warming is caused by the removal of trees.

Paragraph 6 

In light of these challenges, various plans have been suggested to reduce the impacts of deforestation. Replanting and creating new forests aim to restore lost tree cover and enhance carbon absorption. Eco-friendly forestry practices, which balance economic needs with environmental protection, are also gaining attention. For instance, certification programs like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) promote responsible logging practices. Additionally, policies that encourage responsible land use and conservation of existing forests are essential. But tackling deforestation requires a thorough approach that involves cooperation among governments, non-governmental organizations, and local communities. As the world deals with the consequences of deforestation, it is vital to recognize the inherent value of forests and take concerted action to protect these crucial ecosystems for future generations. The ongoing discussion about deforestation also raises important questions about sustainability and the balance between development and conservation. 

Prose Summary Questions 

1. Deforestation is a significant environmental issue caused by various human activities,
   leading to serious consequences for ecosystems and human communities.
   
   1. Agricultural expansion and urban growth are major contributors to deforestation.
   2. Deforestation has no impact on climate change or biodiversity.
   3. Effective solutions require cooperation among various stakeholders.
   4. The removal of trees is beneficial for agricultural productivity.

Insert Missing Sentence Questions

1. In paragraph 6, there is a missing sentence. The paragraph is repeated below and shows four letters (A, B, C, and D) that indicate where the following sentence could be added.

   "These initiatives aim to mitigate the adverse effects of deforestation on the environment."

   Where would the sentence best fit?

   In light of these challenges, various plans have been suggested to reduce the impacts of deforestation. (A) Replanting and creating new forests aim to restore lost tree cover and enhance carbon absorption. (B) Eco-friendly forestry practices, which balance economic needs with environmental protection, are also gaining attention. (C) For instance, certification programs like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) promote responsible logging practices. (D) Additionally, policies that encourage responsible land use and conservation of existing forests are essential.

   1. Option A
   2. Option B
   3. Option C
   4. Option D
      

Purpose of the Passage Questions.

1. What is the main purpose of the passage?
   
   1. To discuss the history of deforestation
   2. To highlight the causes and effects of deforestation and suggest solutions
   3. To promote logging as a sustainable practice
   4. To argue against urban development 

Prose Summary Questions

1. Deforestation is a significant environmental issue caused by various human activities, leading to serious consequences for ecosystems and human communities.
   
   1. Agricultural expansion and urban growth are major contributors to deforestation.
   2. Deforestation has no impact on climate change or biodiversity.
   3. Effective solutions require cooperation among various stakeholders.
   4. The removal of trees is beneficial for agricultural productivity.

Answer Key with Explanation for TOEFL Reading Passage - Deforestation

1. Answer: A
Explanation:In paragraph 1, the author explicitly states that deforestation is driven by human activities, including farming, logging, and urban growth. Urban growth is highlighted as one of the main contributors to the removal of trees, making option A the correct choice.

2. Answer: B
Explanation: The passage explains that as the global population grows, the demand for food increases, leading to the conversion of forests into farmland. This implies a direct relationship between population growth and deforestation, making option B the correct inference.

3. Answer: B
Explanation:The mention of illegal logging serves to highlight the difficulties in protecting forests. The author points out that illegal logging undermines conservation efforts and accelerates deforestation, which illustrates the challenges faced by governments and organizations in their protective measures. Therefore, option B is the best choice.

4. Answer: B
Explanation: The mention of illegal logging serves to highlight the difficulties in protecting forests. The author points out that illegal logging undermines conservation efforts and accelerates deforestation, which illustrates the challenges faced by governments and organizations in their protective measures. Therefore, option B is the best choice.

5. Answer: A
Explanation: In paragraph 4, "sprawl" refers to the uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into forested regions. The context indicates that it involves the growth and spread of cities, making "expansion" the closest synonym. Thus, option A is correct.

6. Answer: A
Explanation: This option accurately captures the essential information from the original sentence by stating that the removal of trees leads to the release of carbon, which contributes to global warming. It simplifies the sentence while retaining its core meaning, making option A the best choice.

7. Answer: A, C, and D
Explanation: A, C, D Option A is correct as it identifies agricultural expansion and urban growth as major contributors to deforestation. Option C is also correct because the passage emphasizes the need for cooperation among various stakeholders to effectively address deforestation. Option D is incorrect as the passage does not suggest that the removal of trees is beneficial for agricultural productivity; rather, it indicates the opposite. Option B is incorrect because the passage clearly states that deforestation impacts climate change and biodiversity.

8. Answer: A
Explanation: The missing sentence fits best after the introductory statement about various plans to reduce the impacts of deforestation. It logically follows the mention of replanting and creating new forests, as both initiatives aim to mitigate the adverse effects of deforestation on the environment.

9. Answer: B
Explanation: The main purpose of the passage is to discuss the various human activities leading to deforestation, the consequences of this environmental issue, and potential solutions to mitigate its impacts. This comprehensive approach aligns with option B, making it the correct answer.

10. Answer: A and C
Explanation: Option A is correct as it identifies agricultural expansion and urban growth as significant contributors to deforestation. Option C is also correct because the passage emphasizes the importance of cooperation among stakeholders to address deforestation effectively. Option B is incorrect as it contradicts the passage's assertions about the impact of deforestation on climate change and biodiversity. Option D is incorrect because the passage does not present tree removal as beneficial for agricultural productivity.

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