The IELTS Reading test is a crucial component of the IELTS exam, aimed at assessing candidates’ reading skills through various texts and question types. One of the prevalent themes in recent years has been the environment, specifically the impacts of climate change. Given the global focus, the topic “What Are The Effects Of Climate Change On Coral Reefs?” is both timely and likely to appear in future examinations.
Coral reefs, often referred to as the rainforests of the sea, are incredibly important to marine life and human economies. However, climate change poses significant threats to these ecosystems. By understanding these effects, you not only enhance your reading skills but also gain knowledge on current environmental issues.
The Effects of Climate Change on Coral Reefs
IELTS Reading Practice: Medium Text
Passage
Coral reefs, known for their vibrant colors and diverse marine life, are under significant threat due to climate change. These underwater ecosystems are vital, providing numerous benefits from harboring marine diversity to protecting coastlines. However, climate change has multifaceted effects on coral reefs, including ocean warming, ocean acidification, and sea level rise.
Ocean Warming
One of the most direct impacts of climate change on coral reefs is ocean warming. With the increase in global temperatures, ocean temperatures have also risen. Elevated sea temperatures cause coral bleaching, a phenomenon where corals expel the symbiotic algae living in their tissues, causing them to turn white. Without these algae, corals lose a significant source of nutrition and are more susceptible to disease.
coral bleaching
Ocean Acidification
Ocean acidification, another byproduct of increased carbon dioxide levels, poses a serious threat to coral reefs. As CO2 is absorbed by seawater, it forms carbonic acid, which lowers the pH of the ocean. This process weakens coral skeletons, making them more fragile and less able to recover from damage.
Sea Level Rise
Sea level rise is detrimental to coral reefs as well. As sea levels climb, corals that thrive in shallow waters are pushed deeper, where sunlight is less accessible. This lack of sunlight inhibits their growth and reproductive capabilities, further threatening the delicate balance of these ecosystems.
Coral reefs are essential to marine biodiversity, supporting around 25% of all marine species. Moreover, they provide crucial services to human populations, including tourism, fisheries, and coastal protection. The continued degradation of coral reefs due to climate change could lead to disastrous ecological and economic consequences.
Questions
Multiple Choice
-
What is the primary reason for coral bleaching?
- A. Pollution
- B. Loss of symbiotic algae
- C. Overfishing
- D. Increased sunlight
-
How does ocean acidification affect coral reefs?
- A. Increases their growth rate
- B. Strengthens their skeletons
- C. Makes their skeletons more fragile
- D. Enhances their color
Identifying Information (True/False/Not Given)
- Coral reefs support about 50% of all marine species.
- Sea level rise benefits coral reefs by providing more underwater space.
Matching Headings
Match the following headings with the corresponding sections of the passage:
- i. Ocean Acidification
- ii. Sea Level Rise
- iii. Benefits of Coral Reefs
- iv. Ocean Warming
- Section One: ___
- Section Two: ___
- Section Three: ___
Answer Keys
- B. Loss of symbiotic algae
Explanation: Coral bleaching is caused by the expulsion of algae, as stated in the passage. - C. Makes their skeletons more fragile
Explanation: Ocean acidification weakens coral skeletons, making them more fragile. - False
Explanation: The passage states that coral reefs support around 25% of all marine species. - False
Explanation: Sea level rise is detrimental to coral reefs, not beneficial. - iv. Ocean Warming
- i. Ocean Acidification
- ii. Sea Level Rise
Common Mistakes
Students often misinterpret the symbiotic relationship between corals and algae, thinking pollution is the main cause of coral bleaching. Ensure to contextualize the information within the passage accurately.
Vocabulary
-
Multifacted (adjective): Having many aspects or sides.
- Pronunciation: /ˌmʌl.tiˈfækt.ɪd/
- Definition: Affected by many different factors or components.
-
Symbiotic (adjective): Involving interaction between two different organisms living in close physical association.
- Pronunciation: /ˌsɪm.baɪˈɒt.ɪk/
- Definition: A cooperative relationship between different organisms that benefits both parties.
Grammar Point
Cause and Effect Structures
When discussing cause and effect relationships in your IELTS essays or responses:
- Use phrases like “due to,” “because of,” “resulting in,” and “as a result of.”
- For example: “Elevated sea temperatures cause coral bleaching,” or “Ocean acidification results in the weakening of coral skeletons.”
Tips for Improving Your IELTS Reading Score
- Practice Regularly: Engage with different types of reading materials, especially those related to environmental issues.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Focus on themes common in the IELTS exam, such as climate change and ecosystems.
- Develop Skimming and Scanning Skills: Learn to quickly identify keywords and main ideas to answer questions efficiently.
- Take Practice Tests: Simulate exam conditions to improve timing and accuracy.
- Review Mistakes: Analyze your errors to understand where you went wrong and how to correct it.
With diligent practice and an in-depth understanding of thematic topics like the effects of climate change on coral reefs, you can enhance your reading skills and achieve a high score in the IELTS exam.
