Welcome to another IELTS Reading practice session. As you may know, the Reading section of the IELTS exam evaluates your ability to understand and interpret texts efficiently. One common topic is “Benefits and Risks of Genetically Modified Crops” (GM crops), which has appeared frequently due to its relevance and complexity. Understanding the benefits and risks associated with genetically modified crops not only helps you in your reading practice but also equips you with knowledge on a contemporary issue that might appear in the IELTS exam.
IELTS Reading Practice: Genetically Modified Crops
Reading Passage: Medium Text
Genetically modified (GM) crops are plants that have undergone genetic engineering to possess certain desirable traits. These traits may include resistance to pests, tolerance to herbicides, or improved nutritional content. While GM crops offer numerous benefits, they also present several risks that spark ongoing debates.
One primary benefit of GM crops is increased agricultural productivity. By introducing genes that confer resistance to pests and diseases, GM crops can reduce dependency on chemical pesticides. This not only lowers production costs for farmers but also lessens environmental pollution. For instance, Bt corn is genetically modified to produce a toxin that targets certain insects, significantly lowering pest-related damages and yielding higher outputs.
Moreover, GM crops can enhance nutritional content. Biofortified crops, such as Golden Rice, are modified to contain higher levels of essential nutrients. Golden Rice is engineered to have increased amounts of Vitamin A, addressing deficiencies in regions where rice is a staple food. This can play a crucial role in combating malnutrition, especially in developing countries.
However, the cultivation of GM crops is not without risks. One major concern is the potential for adverse environmental impacts. There is a fear that GM crops may crossbreed with wild plants, leading to the creation of “superweeds” that are resistant to herbicides. This could disrupt ecosystems and diminish biodiversity. Additionally, the long-term effects of consuming GM foods on human health are still not fully understood, prompting caution and further research.
Another significant risk involves ethical and socio-economic issues. The commercialization of GM crops often involves patenting, which gives biotech companies control over seed distribution. This can limit farmers’ access to seeds and make them dependent on multinational corporations. In developing countries, this creates a potential inequality, as small-scale farmers might struggle to compete with larger, financially stronger entities.
In conclusion, while genetically modified crops offer promising solutions to agricultural and nutritional challenges, they also pose substantial environmental, health, and ethical questions that require careful consideration. Ongoing research and regulatory measures are vital to maximizing benefits while minimizing risks.
Questions
1. Multiple Choice
Select the correct answer.
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What is one benefit of Bt corn?
- A. It requires more pesticides.
- B. It decreases pest-related damage.
- C. It is rich in Vitamin A.
- D. It is resistant to viruses.
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What is the primary nutrient enhanced in Golden Rice?
- A. Iron
- B. Zinc
- C. Vitamin A
- D. Protein
2. True/False/Not Given
- GM crops have been proven to reduce biodiversity.
- All GM crops are free of health risks.
- Gene transfer from GM crops to wild plants has been validated as a major environmental concern.
3. Sentence Completion
Complete the sentences below.
- GM crops can help in reducing __ production costs due to lesser need for __.
- Biofortified crops are genetically modified to __.
Answers
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Multiple Choice
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- B. It decreases pest-related damage.
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- C. Vitamin A
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True/False/Not Given
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- Not Given
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- False
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- True
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Sentence Completion
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- agricultural, pesticides
-
- enhance nutritional content
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Common Mistakes and Tips
Common Mistakes
- Misinterpreting Questions: Ensure you read the questions carefully; words like “all” or “some” significantly change the meaning.
- Skipping Keywords: Pay attention to keywords in the passage that directly relate to the questions.
- Overlooking Synonyms: Understand that the exam often uses synonyms to paraphrase the questions.
Tips
- Skim First: Skim the passage first to get a general idea, then read the questions before diving into a detailed reading.
- Identify Keywords: Identify and highlight keywords in the questions and look for them in the passage.
- Time Management: Allocate appropriate time for each passage and question type to ensure you complete all sections.
Vocabulary
- Genetic Engineering: (noun) The deliberate modification of the characteristics of an organism by manipulating its genetic material. /dʒəˈnɛtɪk ɛnˈdʒɪnɪərɪŋ/
- Biofortified: (adjective) Enhanced with additional nutrients. /ˈbaɪ.oʊˌfɔːr.tɪfaɪd/
- Crossbreed: (verb) To breed (plants or animals) using parents of different species. /ˈkrɔːs.briːd/
Grammar
- Comparative Clauses: Example: “GM crops are more resistant to pests than traditional crops.”
- Formula: Subject + be + more/less + adjective + than + object
- Passive Voice: Example: “GM crops are engineered to contain additional nutrients.”
- Formula: Object + form of “to be” + past participle (V3) + by + subject
Conclusion
In mastering the IELTS reading section, especially on complex topics like genetically modified crops, it’s crucial to understand the balance between benefits and risks. Practice regularly, focus on comprehension strategies, and build a strong vocabulary to excel in the reading section.
For more insights on topics like methods for achieving sustainable agriculture in developing countries, risks of genetic modifications, and the influence of genetic modification in agriculture, visit our detailed posts.
Happy studying, and best of luck in your IELTS exam!