Soil Degradation - TOEFL iBT® Reading Practice Test

The TOEFL Reading section often features passages on environmental topics like 'Soil Degradation.' These texts build essential skills for understanding the causes, effects, and mitigation of global ecological issues.

Engaging with passages on 'Soil Degradation' helps you identify main ideas, follow complex arguments, and grasp the interplay of natural and human factors—key skills for excelling in TOEFL Reading.

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. 

Soil degradation is an increasingly urgent environmental issue that poses important threats to farming output, variety of life, and the overall health of natural environments worldwide. It includes a decline in soil quality and usefulness, primarily driven by human activities such as tree removal, overgrazing, industrial growth, and unsustainable farming practices. The effects of soil degradation are far-reaching. They lead to lower crop yields, increased susceptibility to climate change, and the wearing away of essential soil functions. As the global population continues to grow, the demand for food production intensifies, highlighting the urgent need to preserve and restore soil health.

One of the main causes of soil degradation is wearing away, a process where the top layer of soil is removed by wind, water, or human actions. This issue can be worsened by tree removal, as trees play an important role in stabilizing soil through their root systems. When forests are cleared for agricultural expansion or urban development, the exposed soil becomes increasingly prone to erosion. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), about 24 billion tonnes of rich soil are lost each year due to erosion. This astonishing figure not only reduces farming output but also contributes to sediment buildup in waterways, harming aquatic environments. The connection between deforestation and erosion illustrates a critical cause-and-effect relationship that needs further investigation.

Climate change also plays an important role in the threat to species. Rising temperatures and changing weather patterns can alter habitats and food availability, forcing species to adapt or face extinction. For example, polar bears, which rely on sea ice for hunting seals, are experiencing notable population drops as the Arctic ice melts due to global warming. The National Snow and Ice Data Center has reported that Arctic sea ice extent has decreased by about 40% since the late 1970s. This loss of habitat not only threatens the polar bear population but also disrupts the entire Arctic ecosystem, affecting other species that depend on the same surroundings. Some scientists suggest that adjustment methods, such as moving to cooler areas, may offer a solution, but these methods are often hindered by human intrusion and habitat fragmentation.

In addition to wearing away and climate change, poaching remains a major threat to many endangered species. The unlawful animal trade, driven by demand for animal parts such as ivory, fur, and traditional medicine, has led to the severe decline of species like elephants and rhinoceroses. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the unlawful trade in wildlife is worth an estimated $23 billion each year, making it one of the most profitable illegal activities in the world. Efforts to combat poaching have included stricter enforcement of laws, increased penalties for offenders, and international cooperation to break down trafficking networks. However, these measures often face challenges due to dishonesty and not enough resources in affected regions. Some conservationists argue that local initiatives, which involve local populations in conservation efforts, may yield more sustainable results.

Conservation efforts aimed at protecting endangered species have taken various forms, including the establishment of protected areas, breeding programs, and public awareness campaigns. Protected areas, such as national parks and wildlife reserves, serve as safe havens for endangered species, allowing them to thrive in their natural surroundings. For example, the establishment of Yellowstone National Park in the United States has helped the recovery of the grey wolf population, which was once on the brink of extinction. Additionally, captive breeding programs have been successful in increasing the populations of species like the California condor and the Arabian oryx, which were once critically endangered. Public awareness campaigns play an important role in educating communities about the importance of variety of life and the need for conservation, fostering a sense of responsibility towards protecting endangered species. However, the effectiveness of these campaigns often depends on cultural attitudes and economic conditions in different regions. 

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

Paragraph 1 

Soil degradation is an increasingly urgent environmental issue that poses important threats to farming output, variety of life, and the overall health of natural environments worldwide. It includes a decline in soil quality and usefulness, primarily driven by human activities such as tree removal, overgrazing, industrial growth, and unsustainable farming practices. The effects of soil degradation are far-reaching. They lead to lower crop yields, increased susceptibility to climate change, and the wearing away of essential soil functions. As the global population continues to grow, the demand for food production intensifies, highlighting the urgent need to preserve and restore soil health.

Factual Information Question

1. According to paragraph 1, what are some human activities that contribute to soil
   degradation?
   
   1. Industrial growth
   2. Urban development
   3. Overfishing
   4. Deforestation 

Negative Factual Information Question

1. The author mentions all of the following as effects of soil degradation EXCEPT:
   
   1. Increased susceptibility to climate change
   2. Lower crop yields
   3. Enhanced soil functions
   4. Threats to the variety of life 

Paragraph 2 

One of the main causes of soil degradation is wearing away, a process where the top layer of soil is removed by wind, water, or human actions. This issue can be worsened by tree removal, as trees play an important role in stabilising soil through their root systems. When forests are cleared for agricultural expansion or urban development, the exposed soil becomes increasingly prone to erosion. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), about 24 billion tonnes of rich soil are lost each year due to erosion. This astonishing figure not only reduces farming output but also contributes to sediment buildup in waterways, harming aquatic environments. The connection between deforestation and erosion illustrates a critical cause-and-effect relationship that needs further investigation. 

Inference Question

1. What can be inferred about the relationship between tree removal and soil erosion from
   paragraph 2?
   
   1. Tree removal has no impact on soil stability.
   2. Tree removal can exacerbate soil erosion.
   3. Tree removal is beneficial for agricultural expansion.
   4. Tree removal leads to increased biodiversity.

Rhetorical Purpose Question

1. Why does the author mention the statistic from the Food and Agriculture Organization
   (FAO) in paragraph 2?
   
   1. To highlight the importance of tree planting
   2. To emphasise the severity of soil loss due to erosion
   3. To suggest solutions for soil degradation
   4. To compare soil loss with other environmental issues

Paragraph 3 

Climate change also plays an important role in the threat to species. Rising temperatures and changing weather patterns can alter habitats and food availability,  forcing species to adapt or face extinction. For example, polar bears, which rely on sea ice for hunting seals, are experiencing notable population drops as the Arctic ice melts due to global warming. The National Snow and Ice Data Center has reported that Arctic sea ice extent has decreased by about 40% since the late 1970s. This loss of habitat not only threatens the polar bear population but also disrupts the entire Arctic ecosystem, affecting other species that depend on the same surroundings. Some scientists suggest that adjustment methods, such as moving to cooler areas, may offer a solution, but these methods are often hindered by human intrusion and habitat fragmentation. 

Vocabulary Question

1. In paragraph 3, the word intrusion is closest in meaning to:
   
   1.  Entry
   2. Disruption
   3. Protection
   4. Observation

Paragraph 4 

 In addition to wearing away and climate change, poaching remains a major threat to many endangered species. The unlawful animal trade, driven by demand for animal parts such as ivory, fur, and traditional medicine, has led to the severe decline of species like elephants and rhinoceroses. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the unlawful trade in wildlife is worth an estimated 23 billion each year, making it one of the most profitable illegal activities in the world. Efforts to combat poaching have included stricter enforcement of laws, increased penalties for offenders, and international cooperation to break down trafficking networks. However, these measures often face challenges due to dishonesty and not enough resources in affected regions. Some conservationists argue that local initiatives, which involve local populations in conservation efforts, may yield more sustainable results. 

Sentence Simplification Question

1. Which of the following sentences best expresses the essential information in the following text from paragraph 4? Efforts to combat poaching have included stricter enforcement of laws, increased penalties for offenders, and international cooperation to break down trafficking networks.
   
   1. Stricter laws and penalties have been implemented to combat poaching.
   2. Poaching is a major threat that requires international cooperation.
   3. Various measures have been taken to address poaching, including law enforcement and
      penalties.
   4.  Local initiatives are the only effective way to combat poaching, including law enforcement and
      penalties.

Paragraph 5 

Conservation efforts aimed at protecting endangered species have taken various forms, including the establishment of protected areas, breeding programs, and public awareness campaigns. Protected areas, such as national parks and wildlife reserves, serve as safe havens for endangered species, allowing them to thrive in their natural surroundings. For example, the establishment of Yellowstone National Park in the United States has helped the recovery of the grey wolf population, which was once on the brink of extinction. Additionally, captive breeding programs have been successful in increasing the populations of species like the California condor and the Arabian oryx, which were once critically endangered. Public awareness campaigns play an important role in educating communities about the importance of variety of life and the need for conservation, fostering a sense of responsibility towards protecting endangered species. However, the effectiveness of these campaigns often depends on cultural attitudes and economic conditions in different regions.

Purpose of the Passage Question

1. What is the main purpose of paragraph 5?
   
   1. To discuss the various methods of conservation for endangered species
   2. To highlight the importance of public awareness in conservation efforts
   3. To provide examples of successful conservation initiatives
   4. To argue against the establishment of protected areas

Paragraph 6 

The importance of preserving endangered species goes beyond the immediate environmental advantages. Variety of life contributes to ecosystem services that are essential for human survival, including clean air and water, pollination of crops, and climate regulation. Furthermore, many cultures around the world hold inherent values associated with wildlife, viewing them as symbols of heritage and identity. Therefore, the loss of species can lead to cultural and spiritual consequences. While the challenges of conserving endangered species are tough, the combined efforts of governments, non-governmental organisations, and local communities can lead to positive outcomes. The ongoing discussion surrounding endangered species serves as a reminder of our connectionwith the natural world and the responsibility we have to ensure its preservation for future generations. Nevertheless, questions remain about the most effective strategies for conservation, particularly in the face of rapid environmental change and economic and social challenges. 

Prose Summary Question

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. This question is worth 2 points.

1. Soil degradation and the loss of biodiversity are pressing environmental issues that require urgent attention.
   
   1. The decline in soil quality is primarily driven by human activities such as deforestation
      and overgrazing.
   2. Climate change and poaching are significant threats to endangered species and their
      habitats.
   3. Conservation efforts can take various forms, including protected areas and public
      awareness campaigns. 
   4. The loss of biodiversity has no impact on human survival or cultural identity. 
   5. The combined efforts of various stakeholders can lead to successful conservation
      outcomes.

Insert Missing Sentence Question

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. Thus, the preservation of endangered species is not only an environmental concern but also a cultural one. Where would the sentence best fit? 

   Where would the sentence best fit?

   The importance of preserving endangered species goes beyond the immediate environmental advantages. (A) Variety of life contributes to ecosystem services that are essential for human survival, including clean air and water, pollination of crops, and climate regulation. (B) Furthermore, many cultures around the world hold inherent values associated with wildlife, viewing them as symbols of heritage and identity. (C) Therefore, the loss of species can lead to cultural and spiritual consequences. (D) While the challenges of conserving endangered species are tough, the combined efforts of governments, non-governmental organisations, and local communities can lead to positive outcomes.

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

Prose Summary Question

1. 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. This question is worth 2 points.

   Soil degradation and the loss of biodiversity are pressing environmental issues that require urgent attention.

    Answer Choices

   1. The decline in soil quality is primarily driven by human activities such as deforestation
      and overgrazing.
   2. Climate change and poaching are significant threats to endangered species and their
      habitats.
   3. Conservation efforts can take various forms, including protected areas and public
      awareness campaigns.
   4. The loss of biodiversity has no impact on human survival or cultural identity. 
   5. The combined efforts of various stakeholders can lead to successful conservation
      outcomes. 

Answer Key with Explanation for TOEFL Reading Passage - Soil Degradation

Here are the answers and explanations for the questions based on the provided passage: 

1. Answer: A
Explanation: Paragraph 1 explicitly mentions several human activities that contribute to soil degradation, including industrial growth, tree removal, overgrazing, and unsustainable farming practices. While urban development and deforestation are related, the question specifically asks for activities listed in the paragraph, making industrial growth the correct choice.

2. Answer: C
Explanation: The passage outlines the negative effects of soil degradation, such as lower crop yields, increased susceptibility to climate change, and threats to biodiversity. Enhanced soil functions is not mentioned as an effect; rather, the passage implies that soil functions are diminished due to degradation, making this option the correct answer.

3. Answer: B
Explanation: The passage states that tree removal worsens soil erosion because trees stabilize soil with their root systems. When trees are removed, the soil becomes more vulnerable to erosion, indicating that tree removal indeed exacerbates the problem of soil erosion.

4. Answer: B
Explanation: The statistic about the loss of 24 billion tonnes of soil each year serves to highlight the alarming extent of soil degradation caused by erosion. This statistic underscores the urgency of addressing soil loss, making option B the most appropriate choice.

5. Answer: A
Explanation: In the context of the passage intrusion refers to the unwanted entry or interference of humans into natural habitats, which disrupts ecosystems. Therefore, entry is the closest synonym, as it conveys the idea of an unwelcome presence.

6. Answer: C
Explanation:This option succinctly captures the essence of the original sentence by summarising the efforts made to combat poaching without omitting any critical information. It effectively conveys that multiple strategies, including law enforcement and penalties, are being employed.

7. Answer: A
Explanation: Paragraph 5 outlines different conservation strategies, such as protected areas, breeding programs, and public awareness campaigns. This focus on various methods makes option A the most fitting choice for the main purpose of the paragraph.

8. Answer: A, B and C
Explanation: Options A, B, and C encapsulate the key themes of the passage: the causes of soil degradation, the threats to biodiversity, and the various conservation efforts. Option D is incorrect as it contradicts the passage, and option E, while relevant, is more of a conclusion than a key idea.

9. Answer: B
Explanation: The sentence "Thus, the preservation of endangered species is not only an environmental concern but also a cultural one" fits best after the mention of cultural values associated with wildlife in Option B. This placement reinforces the connection between environmental and cultural significance.

10. Answer: A, B and C
Explanation: As previously discussed, these options effectively summarise the main ideas of the passage, highlighting the causes of soil degradation, the threats to biodiversity, and the methods of conservation. Option D is incorrect as it contradicts the passage, and option E, while relevant, is not a primary idea.

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