The IELTS Reading section is renowned for testing candidates on various current and significant topics, making it essential to be well-prepared on a wide range of subjects. One such noteworthy topic is “What are the implications of climate change on economic inequality?”. Understanding this subject not only helps in excelling in the IELTS exam but also broadens one’s perspective on global issues. This article delves into this topic, offering a comprehensive reading passage, a set of questions, and detailed explanations to help you prepare effectively.
Climate change and economic inequality have become increasingly prevalent themes in IELTS Reading exams over the past few years. Given their relevance, it is highly probable that such topics will continue to appear in future exams.
Reading Passage
Below is a reading passage designed to emulate the format and complexity found in the IELTS Reading exam, categorized under Medium Text.
The Economic Inequality Crisis Exacerbated by Climate Change
Climate change is no longer a distant specter looming on the horizon; it is a present-day reality impacting every segment of society. However, its repercussions are not evenly distributed. Often, those who contribute the least to climate change bear the brunt of its consequences, leading to a vicious cycle of economic inequality.
Poorer communities, especially those residing in developing nations, have fewer resources to mitigate the effects of climate change. They are more likely to live in vulnerable areas susceptible to extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, and hurricanes. These communities typically rely on agriculture, a sector extremely sensitive to climate variability. Diminished crop yields and loss of livestock directly translate to reduced income, further marginalizing already poor populations.
Meanwhile, wealthier nations and individuals have the resources to shield themselves from the worst impacts of climate change. They can afford adaptive technologies, insurance, and better infrastructure, minimizing their exposure to environmental hazards. This disparity in resilience amplifies existing economic divides.
The economic strain is also felt in the labor market. Jobs in climate-sensitive industries, such as agriculture, fishing, and tourism, are declining or becoming more perilous. Workers in these sectors often lack the financial safety nets or alternative employment opportunities available in more diversified economies. This job insecurity exacerbates poverty and reduces social mobility.
Furthermore, climate-induced migration is an emerging challenge. Many individuals and families are forced to leave their homes in search of safer, more stable environments. This displacement often leads to a cascade of economic difficulties, including loss of property, unemployment, and inadequate access to essential services.
International responses to climate change, such as carbon taxes and green technologies, although necessary, sometimes inadvertently widen economic gaps. Poorer nations and lower-income individuals in affluent countries may struggle to afford these new expenses, while wealthier segments effortlessly adapt, leading to increased economic polarization.
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Questions
Multiple Choice Questions
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What is the main idea of the passage?
- a. Climate change affects all nations equally.
- b. Poorer communities are more impacted by climate change.
- c. Wealthier nations contribute more to climate change.
- d. Climate change only affects agriculture.
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According to the passage, which sector is most sensitive to climate change?
- a. Technology
- b. Agriculture
- c. Manufacturing
- d. Banking
Identifying Information (True/False/Not Given)
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Wealthier individuals can afford to protect themselves from climate impacts. (True/False/Not Given)
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Climate-induced migration has led to increased social mobility. (True/False/Not Given)
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Developing nations primarily contribute to climate change. (True/False/Not Given)
Summary Completion
Complete the summary using the list of words, A-H, below:
Climate change has a disproportionate effect on (6) communities. These communities often lack resources, living in areas prone to (7), causing significant economic hardships. Conversely, wealthier nations and individuals can afford (8) to mitigate climate change impacts, leading to greater economic (9).
A. solutions
B. stability
C. economic
D. inequality
E. poorer
F. weather events
G. prosperity
H. technology
Answers and Explanations
Multiple Choice Answers
- b. Poorer communities are more impacted by climate change.
- Explanation: The passage emphasizes that poorer communities suffer more from climate change effects, underscoring the economic inequality it exacerbates.
- b. Agriculture
- Explanation: The passage specifically mentions agriculture as a sector extremely sensitive to climate variability.
Identifying Information Answers
- True
- Explanation: The passage states that wealthier individuals can afford adaptive technologies and insurance to protect themselves.
- False
- Explanation: The passage explains that climate-induced migration leads to economic difficulties, not increased social mobility.
- Not Given
- Explanation: The passage does not discuss the primary contributors to climate change.
Summary Completion Answers
- E. poorer
- F. weather events
- A. solutions
- D. inequality
Common Mistakes
One frequent mistake candidates make is overanalyzing the passage, leading to confusion and misinterpretation of details. It’s crucial to identify key points and understand the main idea. Also, ensure that answers to “True/False/Not Given” questions are based only on the information presented in the passage, avoiding assumptions.
Vocabulary
- Mitigate (verb) [ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt]: To make less severe, serious, or painful.
- Disparity (noun) [dɪˈspærɪti]: A great difference.
- Inadvertently (adverb) [ɪnədˈvɜːtəntli]: Without intention; accidentally.
- Resilience (noun) [rɪˈzɪlɪəns]: The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties.
Grammar
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Relative clauses: “Poorer communities, especially those residing in developing nations, have fewer resources…”
- Example: The book, which I bought yesterday, is fascinating.
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Parallel structures: “Diminished crop yields and loss of livestock directly translate to reduced income…”
- Example: He enjoys reading, writing, and jogging.
Tips for High IELTS Reading Scores
- Practice Regularly: Continuously expose yourself to a variety of topics.
- Improve Vocabulary: Regularly learn and use new words.
- Understand Question Types: Familiarize yourself with different question formats.
- Time Management: Practice under timed conditions to enhance speed and efficiency.
By honing these skills and strategies, you can significantly increase your likelihood of achieving a high score in the IELTS Reading section.