Choose the best arrangement of utterances or sentences to make a meaningful exchange or text in each of the following questions from 13 to 17.

Dear Uncle Sam,

I hope you're doing well!

a. After a lot of thought, I feel this is the right path for me, and I'm really excited to start this new journey.

b. Since you have so much experience and wisdom, I would love to hear your thoughts on this career choice.

c. I wanted to share some exciting news with you: I've decided to pursue a career in fashion design.

d. Your perspective would really help as I take this next step.

e. Any advice on how to get started, what skills I should focus on, or how to navigate the industry would mean a lot to me.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Mia

 

Read the following passage about Life in The Future and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.

In the near future, technology is expected to bring about significant changes to how we lead our lives. One of the most notable shifts will be the way we keep up with the rapid pace of technological advancements. With smart homes and autonomous vehicles, our daily routines will increasingly depend on sophisticated systems designed to make our lives easier. For example, smart assistants will look out for our needs, such as ordering groceries, adjusting room temperatures, or even scheduling doctor’s appointments.

Another major development will be in communication. Today, we already use video calls to stay in touch with friends and family across the globe, but the future promises even more immersive experiences. Virtual reality could allow us to hang out with people in virtual spaces, regardless of where they physically are. As a result, geographical barriers will become less relevant, creating a more connected and global society.

Healthcare is also likely to transform. Advances in artificial intelligence will enable doctors to look after patients more efficiently, diagnosing diseases earlier and prescribing personalized treatments. These changes may extend our lifespan and improve our quality of life. Additionally, breakthroughs in renewable energy will play a key role in sustaining our future. With green energy sources, such as solar and wind power, we can cut down on harmful emissions and move toward a more sustainable planet.

While these advancements sound exciting, they also bring challenges. As technology becomes more integrated into our lives, we must be careful to ensure privacy and security. We need to watch out for potential risks, like data breaches and the misuse of personal information. With thoughtful planning, however, the future holds great promise for improving the way we live, work, and interact with the world.

In which paragraph does the passage mention renewable energy sources?

Read the following passage and choose the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.

1. The world of work is changing rapidly, with new jobs constantly emerging, many of which didn't even exist five or ten years ago. The traditional idea of sticking with one career for life is no longer realistic. Career counselling has adapted to help people manage these changes, offering more than just advice on choosing a job and staying in it forever.

2. Today, career counselling focuses on helping individuals integrate into society through their work while also contributing to the community. It's no longer just about finding a job but understanding how personal struggles and challenges can shape a person's career journey. Career counsellors assist individuals in identifying their “pain” - the challenges they've faced - and use this as a foundation to help them create a meaningful career story that fits their values and personal goals.

3. As people face critical crossroads in their professional lives - whether choosing a school, career path, or job - career counselling becomes an essential resource. It helps individuals reflect on their past decisions and navigate the uncertainty that comes with major life transitions. As the workplace continues to change, workers face repeated crossroads and the need for adaptability. Career counsellors play a vital role in helping them navigate these challenges.

4. However, access to career counselling remains a challenge in many places. In South Africa, for instance, career counselling services are limited, with only a small percentage of people receiving support. The high cost of private counselling, along with a lack of trained teachers, further hinders access. Despite these barriers, efforts are underway to improve career guidance, such as the development of a career guidance hotline and the government's work on creating a more accessible career development system.

Which of the following is NOT mentioned in paragraph 2 as a role of career counselling?

Read the following passage about the urban shift and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 31 to 40.

[I] Landslides are a significant environmental challenge in the northern mountainous provinces of Vietnam, partiCularly during the rainy season. The region, characterized by steep slopes and heavy rainfall, is prone to this natural disaster, which poses serious threats to both the local population and infrastructure. [II] ln recent years, numerous landslides have occurred, often triggered by prolonged periods of heavy rain, resulting in devastating impacts on communities and livelihoods.

The mountainous terrain, combined with deforestation and improper land use, exacerbates the risk of landslides. [III] As farmers clear forests for agriculture, the natural vegetation that stabilizes the soil is lost, making slopes more susceptible to erosion. When heavy rains saturate the soil, it can quickly become unstable, leading to sudden and destructive landslides. [IV]

In response to this growing threat, local authorities and environmental organizations are taking proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with landslides. Efforts include reforestation projects, improving drainage systems, and raising public awareness about safe practices du ring the rainy season. Additionally, advanced monitoring systems are being implemented to provide early warnings, allowing communities to evacuate before a disaster strikes.

Despite these efforts, the challenges remain significant, and ongoing education and support for sustainable land management practices are crucial for reducing the incidence and impact of landslides in northern Vietnam.

Which of the following can be inferred from the passage?

Read the following passage and choose the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.

1. Many young Australians are uncertain about which career path to choose after school. With the rise of technology, including automation and artificial intelligence, some jobs may disappear, but new opportunities will also emerge. Existing jobs will evolve, requiring workers to adapt to new roles and skills. It's essential for young people to understand these changes and plan their careers accordingly to stay competitive in the future job market.

2. Technology is rapidly changing how we work. Jobs that involve repetitive tasks, such as data entry or reception work, are more likely to be replaced by machines. However, those that require human creativity, problem-solving, and communication skills will continue to be in demand. Fields like healthcare, education, and design are expected to see significant growth.

3. Another important factor is that young Australians will likely change careers multiple times throughout their lives. Studies show that today's teenagers could switch jobs around 17 times and work in five different careers. This underscores the need for flexibility and the ability to learn new skills. Being open to change and willing to develop new abilities will be vital for long-term career success in the evolving job market.

4. Although a university degree can help open doors, it is no longer enough on its own. Employers are increasingly looking for skills like teamwork, critical thinking, and effective communication. Gaining work experience, even through part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer work, will be essential. These experiences will help develop the practical skills that employers value and prepare young Australians for a successful career in the future workforce. By focusing on continuous learning and skill development, they can seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?

Read the following passage about education in Nepal and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 31 to 40. 

A few years ago, amid a record drought, scientists noticed something odd. A few of California’s giant sequoias inside Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks were dying in ways no one had ever documented – from the top down. When researchers climbed into the canopies, they discovered that beetles had bored into a few branches. By 2019, at least 38 of the trees had died – not a large number, but "concerning because we’ve never observed this before,” says Christy Brigham, the park’s chief of resource management.

Scientists had assumed that stately sequoias, with their bug-repelling tannins, were immune to dangerous pests. Worried experts are investigating whether some mix of increased drought and wildfire, both worsened by climate change, have now made even sequoias susceptible to deadly insect invasions.

If so, these ancient sentinels would be just the latest example of a trend experts are documenting around the world: Trees in forests are dying at increasingly high rates—especially the bigger, older trees. According to a study in the journal Science, the death rate is making forests younger, threatening biodiversity, eliminating important plant and animal habitat, and reducing forests’ ability to store excess carbon dioxide generated by our consumption of fossil fuels. [A]

There is no single direct cause. Decades of logging and land clearing play a role, scientists say. But increasing temperatures and rising carbon dioxide from the burning of fossil fuels have significantly magnified most other causes of tree death. Scientists are documenting longer and harsher droughts, more severe outbreaks of insects and disease, and increasingly catastrophic wildfires.

With 60,000 known tree species on Earth, those shifts are playing out differently across the planet. In central Europe, for instance, “You don’t have to look for dead trees,” says Henrik Hartmann, with Germany's Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry. “They’re everywhere.” In one recent year, following a week of excessive heat, hundreds of thousands of beech trees dropped their leaves. Even in colder regions, “You get a couple of hot years and the forests are suffering,” says Hartmann. “There are individual species that are being driven beyond the threshold of what they can handle.” [B]

Just last year, massive fires marched through a dry Australia, smoldered across 7.4 million acres in northern Siberia, and focused the world’s attention on blazes in the Amazon.

The consequences of all these changes around the world are still being assessed. The first national look at tree mortality in Israel showed vast stretches disappearing, thanks largely to scorching heat and wildfires. [C] In a country largely blanketed by stone and sand, forests mean a great deal. Trees support nests for eagles and habitat for wolves and jackals. They hold soil with their roots. [D]

“We’re dealing with a very tough situation. It’s a race to the unknown,” says Tamir Klein at the Weizmann Institute of Science.

Which of the following best describes the tone of this passage?

Read the following passage about smart growth and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.

Smart Growth

           Recently, experts have tried to curb the spread of suburban sprawl, or at least create urban areas that are developed more purposefully. This is known as "smart growth." City planners create communities that are designed for more walking and less dependency on cars. Some developers recover old communities in downtown urban areas, rather than develop the next piece of farmland or wilderness.

           U.S. states such as Oregon are passing laws to prevent unplanned urban sprawl. They have created boundaries around cities that limit the growth of development. Officials have created laws stating that the minimum size of a plot of land is 32 hectares (80 acres). This is to prevent developers from creating suburban communities. An 80-acre plot of land is financially impractical for a single-family home!

           Other smart-growth communities are creating new types of development. Some have large amounts of undeveloped "green space," organic farms, and lakes. Urban areas typically drain the water from rain and snow, which cannot collect in the paved-over grounD. Rather than use drainage pipes and ditches, smart-growth communities create wetlands designed to filter storm runoff.

           More city planners are developing urban areas by considering their geography. Engineers construct buildings that integrate seamlessly with the surrounding environment, drawing upon natural resources. White roofs, for example, reflect the sun's rays and lower the cost of air conditioning. Homebuilders in urban areas as diverse as Los Angeles, California, U.S., and the island communities of Greece create homes and businesses with white plaster or tile roofs for this reason.

           There is also a move toward preserving and maintaining more green areas and planting more trees in urban areas. Landscape designers often consult with city planners to incorporate parks with development.

In which paragraph does the writer explain how smart growth communities manage stormwater?

Read the following passage about education in Nepal and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 31 to 40. 

A few years ago, amid a record drought, scientists noticed something odd. A few of California’s giant sequoias inside Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks were dying in ways no one had ever documented – from the top down. When researchers climbed into the canopies, they discovered that beetles had bored into a few branches. By 2019, at least 38 of the trees had died – not a large number, but "concerning because we’ve never observed this before,” says Christy Brigham, the park’s chief of resource management.

Scientists had assumed that stately sequoias, with their bug-repelling tannins, were immune to dangerous pests. Worried experts are investigating whether some mix of increased drought and wildfire, both worsened by climate change, have now made even sequoias susceptible to deadly insect invasions.

If so, these ancient sentinels would be just the latest example of a trend experts are documenting around the world: Trees in forests are dying at increasingly high rates—especially the bigger, older trees. According to a study in the journal Science, the death rate is making forests younger, threatening biodiversity, eliminating important plant and animal habitat, and reducing forests’ ability to store excess carbon dioxide generated by our consumption of fossil fuels. [A]

There is no single direct cause. Decades of logging and land clearing play a role, scientists say. But increasing temperatures and rising carbon dioxide from the burning of fossil fuels have significantly magnified most other causes of tree death. Scientists are documenting longer and harsher droughts, more severe outbreaks of insects and disease, and increasingly catastrophic wildfires.

With 60,000 known tree species on Earth, those shifts are playing out differently across the planet. In central Europe, for instance, “You don’t have to look for dead trees,” says Henrik Hartmann, with Germany's Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry. “They’re everywhere.” In one recent year, following a week of excessive heat, hundreds of thousands of beech trees dropped their leaves. Even in colder regions, “You get a couple of hot years and the forests are suffering,” says Hartmann. “There are individual species that are being driven beyond the threshold of what they can handle.” [B]

Just last year, massive fires marched through a dry Australia, smoldered across 7.4 million acres in northern Siberia, and focused the world’s attention on blazes in the Amazon.

The consequences of all these changes around the world are still being assessed. The first national look at tree mortality in Israel showed vast stretches disappearing, thanks largely to scorching heat and wildfires. [C] In a country largely blanketed by stone and sand, forests mean a great deal. Trees support nests for eagles and habitat for wolves and jackals. They hold soil with their roots. [D]

“We’re dealing with a very tough situation. It’s a race to the unknown,” says Tamir Klein at the Weizmann Institute of Science.

In the last paragraph, Tamir Klein’s attitude toward the situation could be best described as ______.

Read the following passage about environmental pollution and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.

Since the early 1980s, people have become more aware of the serious effects of large-scale pollution on the environment. This kind of pollution often happens because of poor planning in developing countries or the short-sighted policies of some industrialized nations. These countries use up a large portion of the world’s natural resources, even though only a small part of the world’s population lives there.

Events like the Great Smog of London, the destruction of the Amazon rainforest and the nuclear accident at Chernobyl have received a lot of media attention, as have other acts that harm the environment. However, it’s important to remember that not all pollution is on such a large scale. In fact, a lot of pollution comes from sources closer to home. For instance, a recent oil spill from a tanker in Sydney accidentally released oil into the harbor. This not only damaged the surrounding area but also created toxic fumes that hung over the nearby suburbs for days, leaving residents frustrated and questioning how such a disaster could happen.

Protecting ourselves from pollution can feel like a never-ending task. We try to avoid breathing in traffic fumes, stay away from industrial areas, and wear masks when cycling. All of this might make some people feel safest at home. However, new research shows that staying indoors is not always better. Studies indicate that levels of harmful gases, dust, and other chemicals are often higher indoors than outdoors, even in polluted cities. Since most people spend more time inside than outside, some experts think we may need to pay more attention to indoor pollution to improve public health.

In conclusion, awareness of environmental pollution has grown since the 1980s due to major incidents and local sources of harm. While large-scale events like Chernobyl capture attention, everyday issues, including indoor pollution, also pose serious health risks. Addressing both is vital for public health and environmental protection.

In the sentence, "This not only damaged the surrounding area but also created toxic fumes that hung over the nearby suburbs for days," what does "This" refer to?

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 19. 

In 2022, an ambitious environmental project, which was designed to combat deforestation, ___(18)___. The project aimed to restore large areas that had been devastated by illegal logging and agricultural expansion, with the goal of planting over one million trees. This initiative marked a crucial step in global efforts to mitigate climate change, drawing significant attention from environmental organizations worldwide.

Having decided to employ advanced AI systems during the project, ___(19)___. These systems ensure that optimal conditions are maintained for tree growth and wildlife restoration, making the reforestation process more efficient. The AI not only gathers data from the ecosystem for further research but also interacts with the surrounding environment to support long-term sustainability, thus helping restore Amazon's ecological balance.

Read the following passage about smart growth and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.

Smart Growth

           Recently, experts have tried to curb the spread of suburban sprawl, or at least create urban areas that are developed more purposefully. This is known as "smart growth." City planners create communities that are designed for more walking and less dependency on cars. Some developers recover old communities in downtown urban areas, rather than develop the next piece of farmland or wilderness.

           U.S. states such as Oregon are passing laws to prevent unplanned urban sprawl. They have created boundaries around cities that limit the growth of development. Officials have created laws stating that the minimum size of a plot of land is 32 hectares (80 acres). This is to prevent developers from creating suburban communities. An 80-acre plot of land is financially impractical for a single-family home!

           Other smart-growth communities are creating new types of development. Some have large amounts of undeveloped "green space," organic farms, and lakes. Urban areas typically drain the water from rain and snow, which cannot collect in the paved-over grounD. Rather than use drainage pipes and ditches, smart-growth communities create wetlands designed to filter storm runoff.

           More city planners are developing urban areas by considering their geography. Engineers construct buildings that integrate seamlessly with the surrounding environment, drawing upon natural resources. White roofs, for example, reflect the sun's rays and lower the cost of air conditioning. Homebuilders in urban areas as diverse as Los Angeles, California, U.S., and the island communities of Greece create homes and businesses with white plaster or tile roofs for this reason.

           There is also a move toward preserving and maintaining more green areas and planting more trees in urban areas. Landscape designers often consult with city planners to incorporate parks with development.

Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 4?

Read the following advertisement and choose the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 1 to 6.

DISCOVER YOUR IDEAL CAREER WITH CAREER PATH FINDER

Choosing the right career can be (1) __________, but Career Path Finder makes it easier! Our website offers valuable tools to help you explore career options before (2) __________ a decision.

One of its key features is the Career Assessment Test, (3) __________ your skills, interests, and personality to suggest suitable career paths. If you're unsure where to start, this test provides personalized recommendations (4) __________ your strengths. Another helpful feature is the Job Market Insights (5) __________. Here, you can research salary expectations, job demand, and future trends in different industries. This ensures you choose a career with good growth potential and stability. Additionally, the Resume and Interview Guide helps you prepare (6) __________ job applications with expert tips.

Visit our website today and take the first step toward a fulfilling career!

Read the following passage about the urban shift and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 31 to 40. 

Pollution and Its Global Impact

[I] Pollution is one of the most pressing issues in the modern world, affecting not only the environment but also public health and global economies. [II] While urbanization and industrialization have brought significant progress, they have also introduced severe environmental challenges. [III] Reducing pollution requires a comprehensive approach that includes public awareness, technological innovation, and stricter environmental policies. [IV]

Air pollution is among the most widespread forms of environmental degradation. It stems from emissions by vehicles, factories, and deforestation, leading to harmful effects on both human health and the climate. According to the United Nations, fine particulate matter (PM2.5) causes millions of premature deaths annually. Water pollution, caused by untreated waste, agricultural runoff, and oil spills, destroys marine ecosystems and threatens human water supplies. Similarly, soil pollution—often overlooked—results from pesticides, heavy metals, and industrial waste, severely impacting agriculture and biodiversity.

While governments worldwide have implemented measures to combat pollution, individual action is equally essential. Reducing plastic consumption, opting for sustainable transportation, and recycling waste can significantly lessen environmental harm. Moreover, industries must adopt cleaner production methods, such as renewable energy and green technology. However, these solutions are effective only when paired with robust educational campaigns that encourage people to understand and address pollution’s consequences.

Despite these efforts, the problem persists, especially in developing nations, where economic constraints hinder environmental policies and waste management systems. At the same time, wealthier countries often export waste to poorer regions, exacerbating the issue. Experts stress that international cooperation is essential to tackle pollution on a global scale. Unless all nations contribute, the planet’s resources and ecosystems may face irreversible damage.

Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in the first paragraph?

"Reducing pollution requires a comprehensive approach that includes public awareness, technological innovation, and stricter environmental policies."

Read the following announcement and choose the correct option that best fits each of the numbered blanks.

Career Orientation Workshop Announcement

Dear Students,

We are excited to announce that our school will be holding a Career Orientation Workshop on November 15th. This workshop aims (13) __________ you explore different career paths and gain valuable insights into the job market. Industry experts will be present to guide you through career opportunities, answer your questions, and provide advice on how to prepare (14) __________ your future career.

Don't miss this chance to discover your potential and (15) __________ clear goals for your future career!

Date: November 15th

Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Location: School Auditorium

We look forward to seeing you there!

Read the following leaflet and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 7 to 12.

Small Steps, Big Impact: Sustainable Living Tips

Making small changes in our daily routines can have a significant effect on our planet. Let's see what you can do to make a difference every day.

♻ Eye-Opening Facts

Worldwide, over 300 million tons of plastic are produced each year, and (7) _______ single-use plastic items are among the most harmful to our oceans. We (8) _______ billions of plastic bottles and bags annually, most of which end up in landfills or the sea, threatening wildlife.

♻ How You Can Help

• Buy fresh, unpackaged fruits and vegetables instead of those wrapped in plastic. Supporting local farmers decreases transport (9) _______ and promotes sustainable farming.

• Make homemade meals whenever possible. (10) _______ buying pre-packaged snacks, prepare your own to reduce waste.

• Use a cloth shopping bag. This decreases the (11) _______ of disposable bags in circulation.

• Recycle as much as you can. Sort your waste into (12) _______ like paper, metal, and plastic, and drop them off at local recycling facilities.

Read the following passage and choose the correct answer to each of the questions.

1. Have you ever checked to see what the weather would be like for the week? You can thank meteorologists for the weather forecast! A meteorologist is a scientist who studies the atmosphere to predict the weather. Their work involves observing weather patterns, analysing data from satellites and weather stations, and using computer models to forecast future weather conditions. Meteorologists play a crucial role in helping people prepare for various everyday conditions as well as providing timely warnings about extreme weather events like hurricanes and tornadoes.

2. To become a meteorologist, one typically needs a degree in meteorology or a related field like atmospheric science. Many meteorologists also study physics, mathematics, and computer science, as these subjects are essential for understanding and predicting weather patterns. Some meteorologists work in research, studying climate change and developing new forecasting models. Others work in broadcasting, delivering weather reports on television or radio.

3. Meteorologists often work in offices, but they may also spend time in the field, gathering data and monitoring weather conditions firsthand. The job can be challenging, as weather is unpredictable, and forecasts are not always accurate. However, it is also rewarding, as accurate weather predictions can save lives and property by providing timely warnings of severe weather.

4. The work of a meteorologist is never dull, as they must constantly keep up with new developments in weather technology and science. Whether they are tracking a major storm or predicting a sunny day, meteorologists help people plan their activities and stay safe.

(27) Which of the following could be the best title for the passage?

Read the following leaflet and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 7 to 12.

Small Steps, Big Impact: Sustainable Living Tips

Making small changes in our daily routines can have a significant effect on our planet. Let's see what you can do to make a difference every day.

♻ Eye-Opening Facts

Worldwide, over 300 million tons of plastic are produced each year, and (7) _______ single-use plastic items are among the most harmful to our oceans. We (8) _______ billions of plastic bottles and bags annually, most of which end up in landfills or the sea, threatening wildlife.

♻ How You Can Help

• Buy fresh, unpackaged fruits and vegetables instead of those wrapped in plastic. Supporting local farmers decreases transport (9) _______ and promotes sustainable farming.

• Make homemade meals whenever possible. (10) _______ buying pre-packaged snacks, prepare your own to reduce waste.

• Use a cloth shopping bag. This decreases the (11) _______ of disposable bags in circulation.

• Recycle as much as you can. Sort your waste into (12) _______ like paper, metal, and plastic, and drop them off at local recycling facilities.

Read the following advertisement and choose the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 1 to 6.

DISCOVER YOUR IDEAL CAREER WITH CAREER PATH FINDER

Choosing the right career can be (1) __________, but Career Path Finder makes it easier! Our website offers valuable tools to help you explore career options before (2) __________ a decision.

One of its key features is the Career Assessment Test, (3) __________ your skills, interests, and personality to suggest suitable career paths. If you're unsure where to start, this test provides personalized recommendations (4) __________ your strengths. Another helpful feature is the Job Market Insights (5) __________. Here, you can research salary expectations, job demand, and future trends in different industries. This ensures you choose a career with good growth potential and stability. Additionally, the Resume and Interview Guide helps you prepare (6) __________ job applications with expert tips.

Visit our website today and take the first step toward a fulfilling career!

Choose the best arrangement of utterances or sentences to make a meaningful exchange or text in each of the following questions from 13 to 17.

a. John: I've taken a few design classes, and I'm planning to do more to improve my skills.

b. John: I'm thinking about becoming a graphic designer.

c. Sarah: That sounds interesting! What made you choose that career?

d. Sarah: Have you done any related studies or courses?

e. John: I've always loved art and working with computers, so graphic design seems like a great fit for me.

Read the following passage about smart growth and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.

Smart Growth

           Recently, experts have tried to curb the spread of suburban sprawl, or at least create urban areas that are developed more purposefully. This is known as "smart growth." City planners create communities that are designed for more walking and less dependency on cars. Some developers recover old communities in downtown urban areas, rather than develop the next piece of farmland or wilderness.

           U.S. states such as Oregon are passing laws to prevent unplanned urban sprawl. They have created boundaries around cities that limit the growth of development. Officials have created laws stating that the minimum size of a plot of land is 32 hectares (80 acres). This is to prevent developers from creating suburban communities. An 80-acre plot of land is financially impractical for a single-family home!

           Other smart-growth communities are creating new types of development. Some have large amounts of undeveloped "green space," organic farms, and lakes. Urban areas typically drain the water from rain and snow, which cannot collect in the paved-over grounD. Rather than use drainage pipes and ditches, smart-growth communities create wetlands designed to filter storm runoff.

           More city planners are developing urban areas by considering their geography. Engineers construct buildings that integrate seamlessly with the surrounding environment, drawing upon natural resources. White roofs, for example, reflect the sun's rays and lower the cost of air conditioning. Homebuilders in urban areas as diverse as Los Angeles, California, U.S., and the island communities of Greece create homes and businesses with white plaster or tile roofs for this reason.

           There is also a move toward preserving and maintaining more green areas and planting more trees in urban areas. Landscape designers often consult with city planners to incorporate parks with development.

The phrase "financially impractical" in paragraph 2 could be best replaced by __________.