Globalisation - TOEFL Reading Practice Test

To ace the TOEFL iBT^® exam, mastering academic texts in English is crucial for success in the TOEFL Reading section. This segment mirrors the challenges of reading in English-speaking academic environments, assessing skills like identifying main ideas, extracting details, making inferences, and recognising text structure. Consistent practice is the key to excelling in this section. 

Our practice tests closely mimic the format and writing style of the actual exam, ensuring that you feel prepared and self-assured on  the test day. Therefore, join us in taking the TOEFL Practice Test centered on the passage 'Globalisation' to familiarise yourself with the test format and note the areas for improvement!

Reading Instructions

• You have 15 minutes to read the following passage and answer all 10 questions related to it.  
• Most questions are worth 1 point. 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. 

Globalisation is a complex and multi-layered event that has greatly changed the economic, cultural, and political landscapes of nations around the world. It refers to the growing connection and dependence of countries, driven by advancements in technology, communication, and trade. This term covers a wide range of processes, including the flow of goods, services, money, and information across borders. As a result, globalisation has led to the rise of a global economy, where local markets are influenced by international trends and events. This connection has deep effects for both developed and developing nations, shaping their economic policies, cultural identities, and social structures.

One of the most significant aspects of globalisation is the expansion of international trade. Over the past few decades, trade barriers have been carefully lowered, allowing countries to engage in larger exchanges of goods and services. For instance, the establishment of trade agreements, like the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1994 and the European Union (EU), has made it easier for products to move across borders. According to the World Trade Organisation, global goods trade volume increased by about 3% each year from 2000 to 2019. This increase in trade has contributed to economic growth in many regions, as countries can specialize in producing goods where they have an advantage. But critics argue that this has also led to job losses in certain sectors, especially in manufacturing, as companies move to countries with lower labor costs, resulting in significant economic challenges.

In addition to economic changes, globalisation has encouraged cultural exchange on an unmatched scale. The rise of the internet and social media platforms has allowed individuals to connect with others from different backgrounds, sharing ideas, traditions, and values. This cultural sharing can enrich societies, promoting greater understanding and tolerance. But it has also raised concerns about cultural sameness, where local customs and traditions may be overshadowed by dominant global cultures, especially those from Western nations. The spread of fast food chains, fashion brands, and entertainment industries shows this trend, leading some to argue that globalisation threatens cultural diversity. For example, the global popularity of American fast-food chains has led to the decline of traditional cooking practices in various countries, raising questions about preserving local identities.

The political effects of globalisation are also significant. As nations become more connected, issues like climate change, terrorism, and public health need combined international responses. Global management structures, like the United Nations and the World Trade Organization, have emerged to tackle these challenges. But the effectiveness of these institutions is often questioned, as they can struggle to balance the interests of different nations. The rise of populism and nationalism in various countries has led to a reaction against globalisation, with some leaders favoring protectionist policies that prioritize local industries over international cooperation. For instance, the United Kingdom's decision to leave the EU in 2016, commonly known as Brexit, reflects this trend, as it shows a desire to regain control over national policies and borders.

The environmental impact of globalisation is another critical area of concern. The increased movement of goods and people leads to higher carbon emissions and resource depletion. For example, the global supply chains that support many industries often involve extensive transportation, which worsens climate change. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), international shipping and aviation account for about 5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the demand for natural resources in developing countries can cause environmental damage, as ecosystems are exploited to meet global market needs. Because of this, there is a growing recognition of the need for eco-friendly practices that balance economic growth with environmental care. Efforts like fair trade and corporate social responsibility are gaining popularity as consumers become more aware of the effects of their purchasing choices.

In conclusion, globalisation is a complex and dynamic process that has reshaped the world in many ways. While it has enabled economic growth, cultural exchange, and international cooperation, it has also created challenges related to inequality, cultural identity, and environmental sustainability. The future of globalisation will likely depend on how well countries can work together, address urgent global issues, and ensure that the benefits of interconnectedness are fairly shared. So, ongoing dialogue and critical examination of globalisation's impact will be crucial in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable global society. Questions remain about how nations can manage the complexities of globalisation while preserving their unique cultural identities and addressing the urgent need for environmental responsibility.

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

Paragraph 1 

globalisation is a complex and multi-layered event that has greatly changed the economic, cultural, and political landscapes of nations around the world. It refers to the growing connection and dependence of countries, driven by advancements in technology, communication, and trade. This term covers a wide range of processes, including the flow of goods, services, money, and information across borders. As a result, globalisation has led to the rise of a global economy, where local markets are influenced by international trends and events. This connection has deep effects for both developed and developing nations, shaping their economic policies, cultural identities, and social structures.

1. According to paragraph 1, what does globalisation primarily refer to?    
   1. The decline of local markets
   2. The growing connection and dependence of countries 
   3. The isolation of nations from one another 
   4. The reduction of international trade 

1. In paragraph 1, each of the following is mentioned as an effect of globalisation EXCEPT: 
   1. Changes in economic policies 
   2. Cultural homogenisation 
   3. Increased political independence 
   4. Influence on social structures 

Paragraph 2

One of the most significant aspects of globalisation is the expansion of international trade. Over the past few decades, trade barriers have been carefully lowered, allowing countries to engage in larger exchanges of goods and services. For instance, the establishment of trade agreements, like the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1994 and the European Union (EU), has made it easier for products to move across borders. According to the World Trade Organization, global goods trade volume increased by about 3% each year from 2000 to 2019. This increase in trade has contributed to economic growth in many regions, as countries can specialise in producing goods where they have an advantage. But critics argue that this has also led to job losses in certain sectors, especially in manufacturing, as companies move to countries with lower labour costs, resulting in significant economic challenges.

1. What can be inferred about the impact of trade agreements like NAFTA and the EU on international trade?   
   1. They have made trade more complicated. 
   2. They have significantly increased the volume of trade. 
   3. They have led to a decrease in global trade. 
   4. They have had no effect on trade patterns. 

1. Why does the author mention the World Trade Organisation in paragraph 2? 
   
   1. To highlight the importance of international organisations 
   2. To provide evidence of the increase in global goods trade 
   3. To criticise the role of international trade 
   4. To suggest that trade agreements are ineffective 

Paragraph 3

In addition to economic changes, globalisation has encouraged cultural exchange on an unmatched scale. The rise of the internet and social media platforms has allowed individuals to connect with others from different backgrounds, sharing ideas, traditions, and values. This cultural sharing can enrich societies, promoting greater understanding and tolerance. But it has also raised concerns about cultural sameness, where local customs and traditions may be overshadowed by dominant global cultures, especially those from Western nations. The spread of fast food chains, fashion brands, and entertainment industries shows this trend, leading some to argue that globalisation threatens cultural diversity. For example, the global popularity of American fast-food chains has led to the decline of traditional cooking practices in various countries, raising questions about preserving local identities.

1. In paragraph 3, the word "overshadowed" is closest in meaning to:  
   1. Highlighted 
   2. Diminished 
   3. Enhanced
   4. Celebrated 

1. Which of the following sentences best expresses the essential information in the following text from paragraph 3?

 "This cultural sharing can enrich societies, promoting greater understanding and tolerance."   

1. 1. Cultural sharing can lead to misunderstandings. 
   2. Societies can benefit from cultural sharing. 
   3. Cultural exchange is often unhelpful. 
   4. Understanding and tolerance are not affected by culture. 

Paragraphs 4

The political effects of globalisation are also significant. As nations become more connected, issues like climate change, terrorism, and public health need combined international responses. Global management structures, like the United Nations and the World Trade Organization, have emerged to tackle these challenges. But the effectiveness of these institutions is often questioned, as they can struggle to balance the interests of different nations. The rise of populism and nationalism in various countries has led to a reaction against globalisation, with some leaders favouring protectionist policies that prioritise local industries over international cooperation. For instance, the United Kingdom's decision to leave the EU in 2016, commonly known as Brexit, reflects this trend, as it shows a desire to regain control over national policies and borders.

1. Which of the following best summarises the main idea of paragraph 4? 
   1. Globalisation has led to a decline in international cooperation. 
   2. Political responses to globalisation are complex and often contentious. 
   3. The United Nations is ineffective in addressing global issues. 
   4. Nationalism is the only response to globalisation. 

Paragraph 5

The environmental impact of globalisation is another critical area of concern. (A) The increased movement of goods and people leads to higher carbon emissions and resource depletion. (B) For example, the global supply chains that support many industries often involve extensive transportation, which worsens climate change. (C) According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), international shipping and aviation account for about 5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. (D) Additionally, the demand for natural resources in developing countries can cause environmental damage, as ecosystems are exploited to meet global market needs. Because of this, there is a growing recognition of the need for eco-friendly practices that balance economic growth with environmental care. Efforts like fair trade and corporate social responsibility are gaining popularity as consumers become more aware of the effects of their purchasing choices.

1. In paragraph 5, there is a missing sentence. The paragraph shows four letters  (A),  (B),  (C),  (D) that indicate where the following sentence could be added. 
   

   "Consequently, there is an urgent need for sustainable practices." 

   Where would the sentence best fit? 

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

Paragraph 6

In conclusion, globalisation is a complex and dynamic process that has reshaped the world in many ways. While it has enabled economic growth, cultural exchange, and international cooperation, it has also created challenges related to inequality, cultural identity, and environmental sustainability. The future of globalisation will likely depend on how well countries can work together, address urgent global issues, and ensure that the benefits of interconnectedness are fairly shared. So, ongoing dialogue and critical examination of globalisation's impact will be crucial in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable global society. Questions remain about how nations can manage the complexities of globalisation while preserving their unique cultural identities and addressing the urgent need for environmental responsibility.

1. What is the main purpose of the passage?
   
   
   1. To argue against globalisation 
   2. To provide a comprehensive overview of globalisation and its effects 
   3. To promote local cultures over global influences 
   4. To highlight the benefits of international trade 

Directions: An introductory sentence for a brief summary of the passage is provided below. Complete the summary by selecting the THREE answer choices that express the most important ideas in the passage. Some sentences do not belong in the summary because they express ideas that are not presented in the passage or are minor ideas in the passage. 

1. globalisation has significantly transformed the world, impacting economic, cultural, and political landscapes. 
   
   
   1. It has led to increased international trade and economic growth. 
   2. Cultural exchange has enriched societies but also threatened local identities. 
   3. Political responses to globalisation have been largely positive. 
   4. Environmental concerns have arisen due to the increased movement of goods and people. 
   5. The future of globalisation will depend on international cooperation and sustainable practices. 
   6. globalisation has resulted in a uniform global culture that diminishes diversity. 

Hold on!  Before checking your answers and matching them, explore the TOEFL Exam Pattern and Syllabus!

Answer Key with Explanation for TOEFL Reading Passage - Globalisation

1.  Answer: B

Explanation: The passage explicitly defines globalisation as the "growing connection and dependence of countries," highlighting its essence as a process that links nations through advancements in technology, communication, and trade. This definition is central to understanding the multifaceted nature of globalisation.

2. Answer: C

Explanation: The paragraph discusses changes in economic policies, cultural identities, and social structures as effects of globalisation. However, it does not mention increased political independence; rather, it implies that globalisation creates interdependence among nations, which often leads to a reduction in political autonomy.

3. Answer: B

Explanation: The passage states that trade agreements have lowered barriers, allowing for larger exchanges of goods and services, and cites a specific increase in global goods trade volume. This suggests that such agreements have positively impacted international trade by facilitating greater trade flows.

4. Answer: B

Explanation: The mention of the World Trade Organization serves to substantiate the claim regarding the increase in global goods trade volume, as it is a credible source that tracks and reports on international trade statistics. This adds weight to the argument about the positive effects of globalisation on trade.

5. Answer: B

Explanation: In this context, "overshadowed" implies that local customs and traditions are being diminished or made less significant by the dominant global cultures. The term suggests a loss of prominence rather than enhancement or celebration.

6. Answer: B

Explanation: The correct answer is option B. This sentence captures the essence of the original text, which highlights the positive aspects of cultural sharing, such as promoting understanding and tolerance. It succinctly conveys the idea that cultural exchange can have beneficial effects on societies.

7. Answer: B

Explanation: The correct answer is option B. The paragraph discusses the significant political effects of globalisation, including the emergence of global management structures and the rise of populism and nationalism. This complexity and contention in political responses are central to the paragraph's main idea.

8. Answer: B

Explanation: The correct answer is option B. The missing sentence logically follows the statement about the increased movement of goods and people, as it directly relates to the consequences of that movement, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable practices.

9. Answer: B

Explanation: The passage covers various aspects of globalisation, including economic, cultural, political, and environmental impacts. Its aim is to inform readers about the complexities and multifaceted nature of globalisation rather than to argue against it or promote local cultures.

10. Answer: A, B, D

Explanation: These choices encapsulate the key themes of the passage: the economic benefits of globalisation, the cultural implications, the environmental concerns, and the need for cooperation and sustainability in the future. Choices C and F do not accurately reflect the passage's content, as they present a more negative view of political responses and cultural impacts than is warranted.

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