The IELTS Reading test is a critical component of the overall IELTS exam, assessing your ability to comprehend written English in a variety of contexts. In this article, we focus on an increasingly relevant topic: “How Is Blockchain Technology Influencing Global Philanthropy?” This is a contemporary topic that aligns with recent trends and has appeared in various forms in past IELTS exams. Understanding such modern topics can not only prepare you for potential questions but also enrich your knowledge base for better performance in IELTS Reading passages.
Blockchain technology’s application in global philanthropy has gained popularity due to its transparency and security. Given its rising significance, this topic is likely to reoccur in future exams. Let’s delve into a sample IELTS Reading passage with questions to help you practice.
Reading Passage
Medium Text: Blockchain and Global Philanthropy
Blockchain technology, the underlying foundation for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, is revolutionizing the field of global philanthropy. Traditionally, charitable organizations have faced challenges such as lack of transparency, high administrative costs, and difficulties in funds distribution. Blockchain, however, offers solutions to these problems.
One of the primary advantages of blockchain technology is transparency. Every transaction made using blockchain is recorded in a public ledger, which can be accessed by anyone. This level of transparency helps build trust among donors, who can see exactly where their donations are going. Moreover, blockchain reduces administrative costs by automating processes that are typically manual, such as record-keeping and verification, making more funds available for the intended causes.
Another area where blockchain is making waves is in the distribution of funds. Smart contracts, a feature of blockchain, can automate the release of funds only when certain conditions are met, ensuring that donations are used as intended. This can be particularly useful in disaster relief situations, where it’s crucial that funds are used efficiently and effectively.
Several global organizations have already started to adopt blockchain technology for their philanthropic efforts. For instance, the United Nations World Food Programme uses blockchain to distribute food vouchers to refugees, ensuring that aid reaches those who need it the most without any intermediaries.
Despite its advantages, blockchain faces several challenges in the field of philanthropy. Regulatory issues, technological barriers, and a lack of understanding among potential users can hinder its widespread adoption. Nonetheless, as technology evolves and more organizations recognize its benefits, blockchain is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of global philanthropy.
Blockchain Distribution
Questions
1. Multiple Choice
-
Which of the following is a primary advantage of blockchain technology in philanthropy?
a) Reduces transaction size
b) Improves transparency
c) Increases manual labor
d) Decreases the number of donors -
How do smart contracts benefit the distribution of funds in charitable organizations?
a) By allowing intermediaries to manage funds
b) By automating the release of funds under certain conditions
c) By increasing the complexity of transactions
d) By hiding the transaction records
2. True/False/Not Given
-
Blockchain technology can help reduce the administrative costs in charitable organizations.
True / False / Not Given -
All global organizations have adopted blockchain for their philanthropic efforts.
True / False / Not Given
3. Sentence Completion
- The United Nations World Food Programme uses blockchain to ____.
4. Matching Features
-
Match the following features with their related benefits in the text:
- Transparency
- Smart Contracts
a) Distribution of food vouchers to refugees
b) Public ledger accessible by anyone
Answer Keys
Multiple Choice
- b) Improves transparency
- b) By automating the release of funds under certain conditions
True/False/Not Given
- True
- False
Sentence Completion
- distribute food vouchers to refugees
Matching Features
-
- Transparency -> b) Public ledger accessible by anyone
- Smart Contracts -> a) Distribution of food vouchers to refugees
Lessons Learned
Common mistakes when tackling reading comprehension questions include:
- Overlooking Keywords: Pay attention to critical keywords in the passage and questions.
- Making Assumptions: Stick closely to the information given in the passage.
- Misinterpreting Questions: Read questions carefully to understand what is being asked.
Vocabulary
- Transparency (noun) /trænsˈpærənsi/: The quality of being done in an open way without secrets.
- Intermediaries (noun) /ˌɪntərˈmiːdiəri/: A person or organization that acts as a mediator or agent between parties.
- Regulatory (adjective) /ˈrɛɡjələtɔːri/: Related to the act of controlling an activity or process, especially by rules.
Grammar
Conditional Sentences
- Type 1 Conditional: Used to talk about real and possible situations.
- Structure: If + present simple, will + base form of the verb
- Example: “If blockchain technology is adopted, transparency will improve.”
Advice on Preparing for the Reading Section
- Practice Regularly: Regular practice with different types of texts will enhance your reading skills.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: A broad vocabulary helps in better understanding of texts.
- Understand Question Types: Familiarize yourself with the types of questions asked in the IELTS Reading section and practice strategies for each.
- Stay Updated: Read articles on current trends and issues, as these are commonly chosen topics for reading passages.
Following these strategies can significantly enhance your IELTS Reading score and ensure you are well-prepared for a variety of topics, including how blockchain technology is influencing global philanthropy.
