The Neolithic Revolution - TOEFL Reading Practice Test with Answer Key

Mastering the TOEFL iBT® Reading section requires focused preparation and exposure to authentic test-like format. Strengthening your comprehension skills is crucial for excelling in the TOEFL iBT® exam. So, we’ve prepared a customized TOEFL iBT® Reading Practice Test with Answer Key, crafted to replicate real exam conditions and help you understand the exam structure.

Let’s begin your preparation with the practice test on the topic- ‘The Neolithic Revolution’ and start your journey to TOEFL iBT® Reading proficiency!

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, 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.

Although stone tools were utilized as early as 2.5 million years ago, it was not until around 10,000 BCE that Homo sapiens started employing these tools for intentional farming of plants and animals. The transition to sustained agriculture, known as the "Neolithic revolution" among anthropologists, marked a significant milestone in human society's evolution, directly resulting in increased population, establishment of lasting settlements, and advancements in technology and social structures.

Neolithic agriculture emerged at varying times across different regions globally, commencing in the Levant and Mesopotamia, then progressing to Northern Africa, Southeast Asia, and Europe. Despite commonly labeling it a "revolution," it would be erroneous to view agriculture as an abrupt and complete transformation, something societies universally embraced immediately. Instead, its progression was gradual, initially serving as a complement to traditional hunting and gathering lifestyles reliant on naturally sourced plants and animals. As societies deepened their knowledge and dependence on domesticated flora and fauna, they transitioned to more permanent settlements and intensified land cultivation.

Neolithic agriculturalists gathered and sowed seeds of palatable grains they knew would yield desirable results, carefully choosing and improving plants deemed nutritious and tasty while steering clear of undesirable ones. Initially, agriculture focused on a few key plants like Emmer wheat, Einkorn wheat, and barley. Subsequently, they expanded to include pulses such as lentils, peas, chickpeas, and bitter vetch, along with the versatile flax plant. These eight plant varieties are recognized as the Neolithic founder crops or primary domestics, marking significant advancements in early agriculture.

The achievement of people in planting, tending, and reaping these crops was not just due to their improved understanding of the plants and their growth requirements. They also experimented with inventive methods of irrigation, leading to increased productivity and eventual surpluses of food. However, surplus food is of little value unless individuals possess the means and infrastructure to store it, a need fulfilled through granaries. Consequently, these food surpluses facilitated various social advancements, including specialization in occupations (as not everyone had to engage in food production), trade, and the emergence of social hierarchy.

The progress in agriculture progressed simultaneously with technological advancements. Individuals crafted various stone tools like hoes for soil cultivation, sickle blades for crop harvesting, and grinding stones for grain processing. However, the most significant tool was the polished stone axe, crucial for Neolithic farmers in clearing vast forested areas and expanding cultivation spaces. Additionally, along with the adze, the axe facilitated the transformation of felled trees into usable wood for constructing shelters and other structures.

In addition to growing crops, ancient farmers also tamed animals. Initially, they focused on domesticating sheep, goats, and dogs due to their suitability in terms of temperament, diet, and mating behavior. Over time, cows and pigs were also included. These animals offered more than just meat; they supplied milk (a sustainable protein source), leather, wool, and fertilizer. Cows were particularly valued for their work in plowing and towing, while dogs provided security not only for humans but also for their crops and livestock, along with companionship.

It is indisputable that agriculture facilitated unprecedented population growth. The presence of surplus food and a settled agricultural lifestyle provided a level of security and safety absent in nomadic hunter-gatherer societies. It can be contended that the progress seen across various domains of society, encompassing technology, knowledge, art, writing, and astronomy, would not have occurred without a sedentary way of life. However, the Neolithic revolution, often heralded as a giant step forward for humankind was not always positive.

Sedentary agriculture led to a more limited diet for Neolithic populations, characterized by higher consumption of starch and plant protein but a reduced variety of foods overall. An increasing number of scholars argue that human nutrition declined with the advent of the Neolithic era. Moreover, the proximity of humans to each other and domesticated animals led to an increase in diseases, exacerbated by slower advancements in sanitation compared to agricultural progress. Furthermore, agriculture demanded significantly more labor than hunting and gathering. As a consequence of these factors, it is likely that the life expectancy of Neolithic individuals was shorter than that of seemingly less developed hunter-gatherer societies.

Directions: Now answer the questions.

Paragraph 2

Neolithic agriculture emerged at varying times across different regions globally, commencing in the Levant and Mesopotamia, then progressing to Northern Africa, Southeast Asia, and Europe. Despite commonly labeling it a "revolution," it would be erroneous to view agriculture as an abrupt and complete transformation, something societies universally embraced immediately. Instead, its progression was gradual, initially serving as a complement to traditional hunting and gathering lifestyles reliant on naturally sourced plants and animals. As societies deepened their knowledge and dependence on domesticated flora and fauna, they transitioned to more permanent settlements and intensified land cultivation.

1. Which statement accurately conveys the main idea of the highlighted sentence? "Despite commonly labeling it a "revolution," it would be erroneous to view agriculture as an abrupt and complete transformation, something societies universally embraced immediately." The options are as follows: 
   1. The term "revolution" is somewhat deceptive as agriculture was not embraced instantaneously.
   2. Agriculture represented a chance for abrupt and swift progress, leading to its designation as a "revolution."
   3. Despite being labeled a "revolution," agriculture proved to be a misstep for societies that swiftly and fully embraced it.
   4. Conventional notions regarding the uptake of agriculture have recently undergone a transformative shift, termed a "revolution."

Paragraph 3

Neolithic agriculturalists gathered and sowed seeds of palatable grains they knew would yield desirable results, carefully choosing and improving plants deemed nutritious and tasty while steering clear of undesirable ones. (A) Initially, agriculture focused on a few key plants like Emmer wheat, Einkorn wheat, and barley. (B) Subsequently, they expanded to include pulses such as lentils, peas, chickpeas, and bitter vetch, along with the versatile flax plant. (C)These eight plant varieties are recognized as the Neolithic founder crops or primary domestics, marking significant advancements in early agriculture.(D)

1. Directions: Look at the part of the passage that is displayed above. The letters (A), (B), (C), and (D) indicate where the following sentence could be added.
   
   Early farming came about as people observed and experimented with plant reproduction.
   
   Where would the sentence best fit?
   1. Choice A
   2. Choice B
   3. Choice C
   4. Choice D

Paragraph 4

The achievement of people in planting, tending, and reaping these crops was not just due to their improved understanding of the plants and their growth requirements. They also experimented with inventive methods of irrigation, leading to increased productivity and eventual surpluses of food. Of course, food surpluses are useless unless people have the ability and facilities to store them , which people did in granaries. Consequently, these food surpluses facilitated various social advancements, including specialization in occupations (as not everyone had to engage in food production), trade, and the emergence of social hierarchy.

1. In paragraph 4, which of the following does the term 'them ' refer to?
   1. People
   2. Facilities
   3. Food Surpluses
   4. Techniques

1. Which of these conclusions can be drawn from the details provided in paragraph 4?
   1. Hunter-gatherer communities typically had less specialized roles compared to agricultural communities.
   2. The presence of excess food caused significant disputes within and among farming communities.
   3. Agricultural success relied on acquiring resources and expertise from external sources.
   4. Farmers directly owned and managed granaries, regardless of social hierarchy.

1. In the author's view, which of these tools played the most crucial role in advancing intensive agriculture?
   1. The adze
   2. The axe
   3. The sickle
   4. The hoe

Paragraph 6

In addition to growing crops, ancient farmers also tamed animals. Initially, they focused on domesticating sheep, goats, and dogs due to their suitability in terms of temperament, diet, and mating behavior. Over time, cows and pigs were also included. These animals offered more than just meat; they supplied milk (a sustainable protein source), leather, wool, and fertilizer. Cows were particularly valued for their work in plowing and towing, while dogs provided security not only for humans but also for their crops and livestock, along with companionship.

1. Paragraph 6 indicates which of the following about domesticated animals?
   1. They had diverse uses for Neolithic farmers.
   2. Their domestication was restricted to animals capable of providing milk, leather, wool, or fertilizer.
   3. They were domesticated before plant species.
   4. They consumed a significant portion of the food surpluses produced by plant cultivation.

Paragraph 7

It is indisputable that agriculture facilitated unprecedented population growth. The presence of surplus food and a settled agricultural lifestyle provided a level of security and safety absent in nomadic hunter-gatherer societies. It can be contended that the progress seen across various domains of society, encompassing technology, knowledge, art, writing, and astronomy, would not have occurred without a sedentary way of life. However, the Neolithic revolution, often heralded as a giant step forward for humankind was not always positive.

1. The main aim of paragraph 7 is to
   1. Recapitulate the advantages of the Neolithic revolution mentioned earlier.
   2. Introduce the adverse effects of the introduction of agriculture.
   3. Offer instances of other significant advancements comparable in significance to the Neolithic revolution.
   4. Describe the essential prerequisites for the emergence of agriculture.

1. Which of the following options is the closest meaning to the word 'heralded' as used in paragraph 7?
   1. Criticized.
   2. Dismissed.
   3. Celebrated.
   4. Defined.

1. Which of the following is not listed as a negative consequence of the Neolithic revolution?
   1. Increased prevalence of diseases due to inadequate sanitation.
   2. Greater labor intensity compared to earlier food production methods.
   3. Heightened competition within society for specific resources.
   4. Limited variety in dietary choices for individuals.

1. Instructions: Below is an introductory sentence for summarizing the passage. You need to choose three answer choices that represent the most significant ideas in the passage to complete the summary. Some answer choices are irrelevant or minor ideas not discussed in the passage. This question is worth 2 points.
   
   In the Neolithic period of the stone age, agriculture was an important development for human societies.
   
   Answer Choices
   1. People acquired the knowledge to cultivate diverse plants, employing innovative tools and methods.
   2. Agriculture emerged at varying times across different regions globally, starting from the Levant and culminating in Europe.
   3. Although agriculture facilitated advancements, its surplus food production had an overall adverse impact on human well-being.
   4. Not all Neolithic hunter-gatherer communities transitioned to an agricultural lifestyle, as some preferred retaining their traditional practices.
   5. Neolithic farmers domesticated an array of animals, offering additional food supplies, labor assistance, and protection.
   6. In addition to agricultural tools, individuals devised instruments to aid in constructing a range of buildings and structures.

Answer Key with Explanation for TOEFL iBT® Reading Passage - The Neolithic Revolution

1. Answer: A

Explanation: The statement accurately conveyed by the highlighted sentence is option The term "revolution" is somewhat deceptive as agriculture was not embraced instantaneously. This statement reflects the idea that although agriculture is often called a "revolution," implying a sudden and complete change, it was actually a gradual transition that societies did not universally and immediately embrace. It highlights the discrepancy between the perception of agriculture as a rapid revolution and the reality of its gradual adoption. Choice B misinterprets the sentence by suggesting agriculture was a swift and positive change. Choice C goes too far by stating agriculture was a misstep. The passage points out downsides, but doesn't claim it was entirely negative. Choice D invents a new concept ("transformative shift termed a revolution") not mentioned in the passage.

2. Answer: A

Explanation: The sentence "Early farming came about as people observed and experimented with plant reproduction." would best fit after choice A in the passage. This is because Choice A discusses the initial focus of agriculture on a few key plants, and adding the sentence about early farming before this point provides context about how agriculture began and the process of experimentation and observation that led to it. It helps bridge the discussion between the general concept of agriculture and the specific mention of key plants being cultivated.

3. Answer: C

Explanation: In paragraph 4, the term 'them' refers to Option C, “Food Surpluses”. The sentence mentions "food surpluses are useless unless people have the ability and facilities to store them." Here, 'them' refers back to 'food surpluses,' indicating that food surpluses need the ability to store them in facilities.

4. Answer: A

Explanation: The conclusion that can be drawn from the details provided in paragraph 4 is option A, “Hunter-gatherer communities typically had less specialized roles compared to agricultural communities.” The paragraph discusses how food surpluses enabled social advancements like specialization in occupations, trade, and social hierarchy. This implies that in agricultural communities, people could specialize in non-food production roles because of the surplus food, whereas hunter-gatherer communities likely had fewer specialized roles due to their focus on obtaining food directly from nature. The other answer choices are not directly supported by the passage. There is no mention of the presence of excess food causing significant disputes (Option B). The passage doesn't say that agricultural success relied on acquiring resources and expertise from external sources (Option C). The text only mentions granaries being built, not that farmers directly owned and managed them regardless of social hierarchy (Option D).

5. Answer: B

Explanation: In the author's view, the tool that played the most crucial role in advancing intensive agriculture is option B, “The axe”. The passage mentions that the axe was essential for clearing large areas of forest to make space for crops, which was a critical step in advancing intensive agriculture. While other tools mentioned in the passage, like the hoe and sickle, were also important for cultivation, the axe played a unique role in enabling the large-scale land clearing that was necessary for intensive agriculture. The other choices are incorrect because the adze was helpful for shaping wood, but the passage doesn't emphasize its role in land clearing for agriculture. The hoe was used for cultivating soil, which is certainly important for agriculture, but it wouldn't have been as effective for clearing large swathes of forested land. The sickle was used for harvesting crops, which is an essential step in agriculture, but it doesn't directly contribute to expanding cultivated land.

6. Answer: A

Explanation: The correct answer is Option A, “They had diverse uses for Neolithic farmers”. Paragraph 6 discusses how domesticated animals provided various benefits such as additional food sources, labor assistance, protection, and materials like leather, wool, and fertilizer. This indicates the diverse roles that domesticated animals played in Neolithic farming societies, supporting option Choice C is incorrect because the passage talks about animal domestication but not the timing compared to plants. Paragraph 6 highlights the variety of uses for domesticated animals (milk, leather, wool, fertilizer, labor) beyond the options in B and doesn't mention them consuming surpluses (D).

7. Answer: B

Explanation: The main aim of paragraph 7 is to Introduce the adverse effects of the introduction of agriculture (Option B). The paragraph starts by acknowledging the indisputable role of agriculture in population growth and societal progress. However, it then shifts the focus to the downsides of this revolution, mentioning a more limited diet, increased disease due to proximity to animals, and potentially even shorter lifespans for Neolithic people compared to hunter-gatherers. Option A, Recapitulating advantages isn't the main focus; it acknowledges them then shifts to downsides. Options C and D are not mentioned in the paragraph.

8. Answer: C

Explanation: Out of the choices provided, the closest meaning to 'heralded' as used in paragraph 7 is option C, “Celebrated”. The sentence containing "heralded" reads: "The Neolithic revolution, often heralded as a giant step forward for humankind...". In this context, "heralded" suggests the revolution was widely praised or seen as a significant achievement. The passage doesn't imply the revolution was being criticized, rather that it had previously been celebrated, making option A, “Criticized” incorrect. Option B, “Dismissed” suggests something was considered unimportant, which isn't the case here. Option D, Defined means to establish the meaning of something, which isn't the intended meaning in this context.

9. Answer: C

Explanation: The option that is not listed as a negative consequence of the Neolithic revolution is Option C, “Heightened competition within society for specific resources”. The passage discusses negative consequences such as increased prevalence of diseases due to inadequate sanitation (option A), greater labor intensity compared to earlier food production methods (option B), and limited variety in dietary choices for individuals (option D). However, it does not mention heightened competition within society for specific resources as a negative consequence of the Neolithic revolution.

10. Answer: A, B, E

Explanation: The table is completed correctly below.

In the Neolithic period of the stone age, agriculture was an important development for human societies.

Answer Choices

A. People acquired the knowledge to cultivate diverse plants, employing innovative tools and methods.

B .Agriculture emerged at varying times across different regions globally, starting from the Levant and culminating in Europe.

C. Although agriculture facilitated advancements, its surplus food production had an overall adverse impact on human well-being.

D. Not all Neolithic hunter-gatherer communities transitioned to an agricultural lifestyle, as some preferred retaining their traditional practices.

E. Neolithic farmers domesticated an array of animals, offering additional food supplies, labor assistance, and protection.

F. In addition to agricultural tools, individuals devised instruments to aid in constructing a range of buildings and structures.

Correct Choices

Choice A. People acquired the knowledge to cultivate diverse plants, employing innovative tools and methods. This choice aligns with the introductory sentence as it discusses how agriculture involved the cultivation of various plants with innovative techniques.

Choice B. Agriculture emerged at varying times across different regions globally, starting from the Levant and culminating in Europe. This choice provides context about the emergence of agriculture in different parts of the world during the Neolithic period, expanding on the importance of agriculture mentioned in the introductory sentence.

Choice E. Neolithic farmers domesticated an array of animals, offering additional food supplies, labor assistance, and protection. This choice complements the introductory sentence by highlighting the role of domesticated animals in providing various benefits to Neolithic societies, including food supplies and labor assistance.

Incorrect Choices

Choice C. Although agriculture facilitated advancements, its surplus food production had an overall adverse impact on human well-being. - This statement is mentioned in the passage but is not as significant as other ideas like the emergence of agriculture in different regions or the domestication of animals.

Choice D. Not all Neolithic hunter-gatherer communities transitioned to an agricultural lifestyle, as some preferred retaining their traditional practices. - While this is mentioned in the passage, it is not a central idea to summarize the significance of agriculture in the Neolithic period.

Choice F. In addition to agricultural tools, individuals devised instruments to aid in constructing a range of buildings and structures. - This statement is about the tools used in construction, which is not directly related to summarizing the importance of agriculture in the Neolithic period.

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