The IELTS Reading Test is a critical component of the IELTS examination, designed to assess a candidate’s reading comprehension and analytical skills. One pressing global issue that has garnered significant attention and is relevant for inclusion in IELTS Reading texts is antibiotic resistance. The increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria is a profound challenge facing global healthcare systems. This topic not only regularly appears in news and academic articles but is also a frequent subject in IELTS Reading materials due to its international importance and scientific relevance.
In this article, we’ll explore the topic “How is the global community addressing the challenge of antibiotic resistance?”. This will include a tailored IELTS Reading practice text, associated questions, answers, and educational insights tailored to help you prepare effectively for the IELTS Reading section.
Practice IELTS Reading Test: Antibiotic Resistance
Reading Passage: Antibiotic Resistance – A Global Challenge
The rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has become a significant global health threat. As bacteria evolve mechanisms to withstand antibiotic treatment, common infections and minor injuries, which have been treatable for decades, can once again become deadly.
Antibiotic Resistance Mechanism
Global Initiatives to Combat Antibiotic Resistance
The global community has adopted several initiatives to address the challenge of antibiotic resistance. Among the most prominent are the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), and the initiatives by the Global Antibiotic Research and Development Partnership (GARDP). These strategies focus on improving awareness and understanding of antimicrobial resistance, strengthening surveillance and research, and promoting the development of new antibiotics and treatments.
Improving Awareness and Understanding
Educational campaigns play a crucial role in mitigating antibiotic resistance. These campaigns aim to inform the public about the dangers of misuse and overuse of antibiotics. For instance, WHO’s World Antibiotic Awareness Week emphasizes the necessity of sustainable antibiotic practices and the risks associated with antibiotic misuse.
Strengthening Surveillance and Research
Strengthening surveillance systems is essential for tracking antibiotic resistance patterns and implementing effective control measures. National and international efforts, such as the Global Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance System (GLASS), work towards collecting and analyzing data on AMR to understand its spread and to devise informed policies.
Promoting Development of New Antibiotics
Given the limited pipeline for new antibiotics, there is a pressing need for innovative research. Organizations like GARDP are investing in the research and development of new antibiotics and alternative therapies. Collaborative efforts between governments, healthcare institutions, and pharmaceutical companies are crucial to overcome financial and regulatory challenges associated with the development of new drugs.
Reading Comprehension Questions
Based on the passage, answer the following questions. Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.
Multiple Choice
Which of the following organizations has initiated the Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance?
- A. Global Antibiotic Research and Development Partnership (GARDP)
- B. World Health Organization (WHO)
- C. National Institutes of Health (NIH)
- D. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
What is the main objective of educational campaigns mentioned in the passage?
- A. To develop new antibiotics
- B. To inform the public about the misuse and overuse of antibiotics
- C. To create new surveillance systems
- D. To collect data on resistant bacteria
True/False/Not Given
- Educational campaigns about antibiotic resistance are only targeted at healthcare professionals.
- A. True
- B. False
- C. Not Given
Matching Information
- Match each initiative with its corresponding goal.
- WHO’s World Antibiotic Awareness Week
- GLASS
- GARDP
A. Improving public knowledge on antibiotic use and resistance.
B. Conducting research and development for new antibiotics.
C. Collecting and analyzing data on antibiotic resistance.
Sentence Completion
- Improving surveillance systems help in ____.
- A) tracking resistance patterns
Answer Key and Explanations
B. World Health Organization (WHO)
- Explanation: The passage states that WHO has initiated the Global Action Plan on AMR.
B. To inform the public about the misuse and overuse of antibiotics
- Explanation: The passage highlights the role of educational campaigns in informing the public about the dangers of misuse and overuse of antibiotics.
B. False
- Explanation: The passage mentions campaigns targeted at the public.
- A. Improving public knowledge on antibiotic use and resistance.
- C. Collecting and analyzing data on antibiotic resistance.
- B. Conducting research and development for new antibiotics.
A) tracking resistance patterns
- Explanation: The passage indicates that improving surveillance systems helps in tracking resistance patterns.
Common Mistakes in IELTS Reading
1. Misinterpreting Questions
One common mistake is misinterpreting the question types or the required answer. Carefully read the instructions to discern the exact requirements of the questions.
2. Overlooking Keywords
Pay attention to keywords in the question and locate them in the text to ensure your answers are aligned with the passage’s details.
3. Rushing Through
Despite the time pressure, it’s crucial not to rush through the passage. Skimming techniques are essential, but comprehending the main ideas is vital for answering correctly.
Vocabulary Focus
Antibiotic resistance (noun) /æn.ti.baɪˈɒt.ɪk rɪˈzɪs.təns/: The ability of bacteria to withstand the effects of an antibiotic.
Surveillance (noun) /sɜːˈveɪ.ləns/: Close observation, especially of a suspected activity.
Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/: Make less severe, serious, or painful.
Grammar Focus
Relative Clauses
Examples:
- The rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has become a significant global health threat.
- Educational campaigns that aim to inform the public about the dangers of misuse and overuse of antibiotics are crucial.
Passive Voice
Examples:
- Surveillance systems are being strengthened to track antibiotic resistance patterns.
- Collaborative efforts are required to overcome financial and regulatory challenges.
Tips for Achieving a High Reading Score
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice with authentic reading materials and sample tests is imperative.
- Enhance Vocabulary: Strengthen your vocabulary by reading diverse materials and using vocabulary lists.
- Manage Time: Develop effective time management skills to allocate sufficient time for reading, understanding, and answering questions.
- Identify Key Information: Focus on identifying and understanding main ideas and specific details.
- Review Your Answers: Leave time to review your answers and ensure they are aligned with the text.
By diligently preparing using structured practice materials and understanding the intricacies of the IELTS Reading Test, you can significantly improve your reading skills and achieve a higher score.