The IELTS Reading section tests a candidate’s ability to understand texts from various genres. Topics related to environmental issues, like plastic pollution, are frequently seen due to their global relevance. Here, we will explore a practice reading passage on plastic pollution, create several types of questions typical in the IELTS exam, and provide detailed answers and explanations.
Based on historical data and the ever-growing concern over environmental preservation, it’s likely that similar topics will feature prominently in future IELTS exams. Understanding the strategies to manage plastic pollution is crucial not only for the exam but also for real-world applications.
Reading Passage: Strategies for Managing Plastic Pollution
Passage Type: Medium Text
Strategies for Managing Plastic Pollution
Plastic pollution has become a pervasive environmental issue that affects marine life, terrestrial ecosystems, and human health. Various strategies have been proposed and implemented worldwide to manage plastic waste effectively, focusing on reducing, reusing, recycling, and innovating alternatives to conventional plastics.
plastic-pollution-ocean|Plastic Pollution in the Ocean|A photograph depicting plastic bottles and bags floating on the surface of the ocean, with a polluted beach in the background.
One fundamental approach is waste reduction at the source. This involves initiatives such as banning single-use plastics, encouraging the use of reusable items, and promoting minimalistic packaging. Governments and organizations around the world have introduced legislation to curb the production and consumption of single-use plastic items, which are substantial contributors to plastic pollution.
Recycling is another critical strategy. Effective recycling systems help decrease the amount of plastic waste entering landfills and the natural environment. However, the success of recycling programs relies heavily on public participation and proper waste segregation. Thus, educating the public and enhancing recycling infrastructure are vital components.
Innovation in biodegradable and compostable plastics presents a promising solution. These materials break down more easily than traditional plastics, reducing their environmental footprint. Research and development in this field are crucial, as scientists strive to create materials that offer the same benefits as plastics but are environmentally friendly.
Despite these efforts, the battle against plastic pollution requires global cooperation and sustained commitment. International treaties and agreements play pivotal roles in coordinating actions and sharing effective practices. The importance of public awareness and education cannot be overstated, as informed citizens are more likely to make environmentally conscious choices.
Collaborative efforts between governments, industries, and communities are essential to making significant strides in managing plastic pollution. While challenges remain, the collective push towards sustainable practices and policies offers hope for a cleaner, healthier planet.
Questions
Multiple Choice
-
What is one key approach to managing plastic pollution?
A. Increasing the production of single-use plastics
B. Encouraging the use of reusable items
C. Opposing international treaties
D. Reducing public awareness -
What does the success of recycling programs largely depend on?
A. Government funding
B. Public participation and proper waste segregation
C. The amount of plastic produced
D. Opposition from industries
True/False/Not Given
- Recycling reduces the amount of plastic waste entering the natural environment.
- Governments do not play a major role in managing plastic pollution.
- Biodegradable plastics have been universally accepted as the best solution to plastic pollution.
Matching Information
Match each strategy with its description:
6. Waste reduction at the source
7. Enhancing recycling systems
8. Developing biodegradable plastics
A. Focuses on creating environmentally friendly alternatives
B. Involves legislative measures to limit plastic use
C. Relies on educating the public about segregation
Sentence Completion
- One approach to managing plastic pollution involves ___ at the source.
- Public participation is crucial for the success of __ programs.
Summary Completion
Complete the summary using the list of words (A-G) below:
Plastic pollution is a significant issue impacting various ecosystems. Strategies to manage it include __ (11), __ (12), and developing biodegradable plastics. Education and __ (13) are essential for successful implementation.
A. International treaties
B. Banning plastics
C. Waste reduction
D. Recycling
E. Industrial growth
F. Public awareness
G. Legislative measures
Answers
Multiple Choice
- B. Encouraging the use of reusable items
- B. Public participation and proper waste segregation
True/False/Not Given
- True
- False
- Not Given
Matching Information
- B. Involves legislative measures to limit plastic use
- C. Relies on educating the public about segregation
- A. Focuses on creating environmentally friendly alternatives
Sentence Completion
- waste reduction
- recycling
Summary Completion
- C. Waste reduction
- D. Recycling
- F. Public awareness
Common Mistakes
When tackling reading passages on topics like plastic pollution, students often misinterpret the author’s intentions or specific details. A common mistake is not paying attention to qualifiers such as “substantial,” “largely,” or “crucial,” which can change the meaning of the statements.
Vocabulary
- Pervasive (adj.) /pərˈveɪsɪv/: spreading widely throughout an area or a group of people.
- Legislation (n.) /ˌledʒɪsˈleɪʃn/: laws, considered collectively.
- Segregation (n.) /ˌseɡrɪˈɡeɪʃn/: the action or state of setting someone or something apart from others.
Grammar Focus
- Relative Clauses: “Governments and organizations around the world have introduced legislation that curb the production and consumption of single-use plastic items.”
- Passive Voice: “These materials are broken down more easily than traditional plastics, reducing their environmental footprint.”
Advice for High IELTS Reading Scores
- Practice Regularly: Regular exposure to diverse topics enhances comprehension skills.
- Skim and Scan: Develop the ability to identify key points quickly.
- Vocabulary Building: Consistently learn new words and their usage.
- Mock Tests: Simulate exam conditions to build stamina and familiarity with the test format.
Best of luck on your IELTS journey!