Read the following passage and choose the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

Choosing a career is a significant decision (18) __________. With so many options available, finding the right path can feel overwhelming. However, by considering key factors such as interests, skills, job market trends, and financial stability, you can make a well-informed choice.

First, it is important to reflect on your interests and passions. Think about what activities bring you joy and what topics naturally attract your attention. When you pursue a career that aligns with your passions, work becomes more enjoyable and rewarding. For example, someone fascinated by technology (19) __________.

In addition to interests, understanding your skills and strengths can help guide your decision. Consider what tasks you excel at and what comes naturally to you. (20) __________, careers in finance, engineering, or data science might be a great fit. Recognizing your strengths allows you to choose a career where you can thrive and achieve success.

Beyond personal preferences, researching job market trends is essential. (21) __________. In recent years, careers in technology, artificial intelligence, and sustainability have been on the rise, offering promising opportunities.

Finally, financial security is a key consideration. While following your passion is important, (22) __________. Understanding salary expectations, job benefits, and advancement opportunities can help you make a practical decision.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose a career path that not only aligns with your passions and skills but also ensures long-term stability and success.

Mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate 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. Protecting our planet is essential for future generations. Simple actions can make a significant impact, such as reducing waste, recycling, and conserving energy.

b. Education plays a vital role in raising awareness about environmental issues. By informing ourselves and others, we can encourage sustainable practices in our communities.

c. The environment is crucial for our survival and well-being. However, it faces numerous threats from pollution, deforestation, and climate change. 

d. In conclusion, it is our responsibility to protect the environment. Together, we can create a healthier and more sustainable world for everyone.

e. Planting trees and supporting wildlife conservation efforts can help restore ecosystems and maintain biodiversity. Additionally, using public transportation or biking reduces carbon emissions and helps combat air pollution.

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.

(29) According to paragraph 2, meteorologists __________.

Read the following advertisement 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 1 to 6.

Green Energy Project Competition Announcement

Binh Minh High School is excited to announce another opportunity for students to showcase their creativity and innovation! We proudly present the Green Energy Project Competition, an event that aims to promote the use of (1)______ and inspire solutions for a sustainable future.

This is a competition (2)______ for its focus on practical and impactful ideas. Participants will work on projects that highlight innovative methods with a view to (3)______ energy consumption and environmental pollution. By contributing to these efforts, we can ensure that future generations will have the chance to (4)_______ a normal life in harmony with nature.

All students are encouraged to apply (5)______this exciting event. The most (6)______ projects will receive awards and be showcased in a special exhibition at the school.

Don’t miss this chance to make a difference and have your ideas recognized! Join us in our mission to create a sustainable world. Stay tuned for further details on how to register and submit your projects.

Let’s build a brighter, greener future together!

Read the following passage 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 33 to 40.

Air pollution is a significant environmental issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It results from various sources, including industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and the burning of fossil fuels. [I] Among the most harmful pollutants are fine particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides. These pollutants not only degrade air quality but also have serious health consequences, such as respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and even premature death. [II]

In major cities, traffic congestion plays a critical role in worsening air pollution. The high concentration of vehicles, particularly those running on diesel fuel, releases large amounts of pollutants into the atmosphere. [III] Additionally, industrial activities in urban areas contribute to the problem by emitting harmful gases and chemicals. [IV]

Governments and environmental organizations have been implementing various measures to combat air pollution. These include promoting the use of renewable energy, encouraging public transportation, and imposing stricter emission regulations on industries. Moreover, advancements in technology have led to the development of electric vehicles and air purification systems, which help reduce pollution levels. However, despite these efforts, achieving clean air remains a global challenge that requires cooperation from all sectors of society.

Where in this passage does the following sentence best fit?

Exposure to these pollutants over long periods can significantly weaken the immune system and reduce life expectancy.

Mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate 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. The recent installation of solar-powered streetlights in the town represents a significant advancement in both technological innovation and environmental consciousness. 

b. In addition to improving community satisfaction, the solar-powered lights offer substantial economic benefits by significantly reducing the town’s electricity expenses through their superior energy efficiency. 

c. Ultimately, this project not only contributes to the town’s environmental goals but also underscores its commitment to fostering sustainable urban development.

d. These newly implemented lights have garnered positive feedback from residents, who appreciate the enhanced brightness and safety provided during nighttime hours.

e. Recognizing the broader implications of this initiative, the local government has expressed optimism that it will serve as a model for other municipalities, inspiring them to adopt similar sustainable solutions.

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 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 __________.

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 best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 1?

Read the following passage and choose the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

Choosing a career is a significant decision (18) __________. With so many options available, finding the right path can feel overwhelming. However, by considering key factors such as interests, skills, job market trends, and financial stability, you can make a well-informed choice.

First, it is important to reflect on your interests and passions. Think about what activities bring you joy and what topics naturally attract your attention. When you pursue a career that aligns with your passions, work becomes more enjoyable and rewarding. For example, someone fascinated by technology (19) __________.

In addition to interests, understanding your skills and strengths can help guide your decision. Consider what tasks you excel at and what comes naturally to you. (20) __________, careers in finance, engineering, or data science might be a great fit. Recognizing your strengths allows you to choose a career where you can thrive and achieve success.

Beyond personal preferences, researching job market trends is essential. (21) __________. In recent years, careers in technology, artificial intelligence, and sustainability have been on the rise, offering promising opportunities.

Finally, financial security is a key consideration. While following your passion is important, (22) __________. Understanding salary expectations, job benefits, and advancement opportunities can help you make a practical decision.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose a career path that not only aligns with your passions and skills but also ensures long-term stability and success.

Read of 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.

Join Earth Hour - Make a Difference!

Each year, Earth Hour encourages people worldwide to turn off their lights for one hour, helping (7)______ positive environmental change. This movement shows how the (8)______ of people acting together can make a huge impact. (9)______ rising pollution and energy consumption, Earth Hour reminds us to consider our power usage and how it affects the planet. By turning off non-essential lights, we help reduce emissions and protect (10)______ natural resources that support our environment. In this event, we transmit a strong (11)______  of unity and responsibility toward future generations. Join us on this journey; every small action counts. Your (12)______ to this movement is valid, meaningful, and impactful. Together, let’s show that we care about a sustainable future.

Be a part of Earth Hour – your actions matter!

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.

The word it in paragraph 2 refers to

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.

[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 advertisement 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 1 to 6.

Green Energy Project Competition Announcement

Binh Minh High School is excited to announce another opportunity for students to showcase their creativity and innovation! We proudly present the Green Energy Project Competition, an event that aims to promote the use of (1)______ and inspire solutions for a sustainable future.

This is a competition (2)______ for its focus on practical and impactful ideas. Participants will work on projects that highlight innovative methods with a view to (3)______ energy consumption and environmental pollution. By contributing to these efforts, we can ensure that future generations will have the chance to (4)_______ a normal life in harmony with nature.

All students are encouraged to apply (5)______this exciting event. The most (6)______ projects will receive awards and be showcased in a special exhibition at the school.

Don’t miss this chance to make a difference and have your ideas recognized! Join us in our mission to create a sustainable world. Stay tuned for further details on how to register and submit your projects.

Let’s build a brighter, greener future together!

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

1. In recent years, the idea of a six-hour workday has gained attention as a potential solution to modern work-life balance challenges. Sweden is one of the countries where this concept was tested, and the results have been eye-opening.

2. In 2015, a Swedish retirement home introduced a six-hour workday for its nurses. After the experiment, not only were the nurses happier and more energetic, but productivity also increased. The reduced working hours allowed employees to focus better during their shifts, leading to fewer mistakes and better care for patients. Moreover, absenteeism decreased, and employee satisfaction skyrocketed.

3. But how does a shorter workday improve productivity? Research suggests that the traditional eight-hour workday may lead to exhaustion, which causes workers to lose focus and make errors. By working fewer hours, they can maintain higher energy levels and complete tasks more efficiently. Studies from organizations like the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) also show that countries with shorter average working hours, such as Germany and the Netherlands, have higher productivity rates compared to those with longer working hours.

4. Critics argue that a six-hour workday may not be suitable for all industries, and some businesses worry about potential cost increases. However, many proponents believe the long-term benefits, such as improved employee well-being and reduced burnout, outweigh these concerns.

5. As work-life balance becomes a priority in today's society, the six-hour workday could be a glimpse into the future of work, where employees are happier, healthier, and more productive.

(29) What does the passage mainly discuss?

Read the following passage 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.

Mountain Lions Amid Wildfires: A Struggle for Survival

Beth Pratt, the California director for the National Wildlife Federation, has spent her career protecting Los Angeles’ mountain lions. These top predators live in a rocky area surrounded by fancy houses and many roads. When wildfires destroy vast stretches of open land, the survival options for these animals become critically limited. “This is the LA area—these mountain lions can’t just move into the Kardashians’ backyard,” Pratt says, her voice filled with concern for the animals in such a difficult situation.

(I) The chaparral vegetation, covering about 10% of California, is one of the world’s most flammable ecosystems. (II) In Los Angeles, suburban sprawl intrudes on these areas, blocking wildlife escape routes. (III)Fires strip the land of food and shelter, transforming vibrant ecosystems into barren landscapes. (IV) Pratt highlights the urgency of the situation, explaining how areas that once supported life are now “taken out of commission,” leaving many species to starve or struggle for survival.

The consequences extend beyond wildlife. Wildfires have caused devastating human losses, with 88,000 people evacuated and a rising death toll of 25. Meanwhile, the non-human world suffers equally, particularly endangered species with limited ranges. Red-legged frogs, reintroduced into Santa Monica streams in 2014, are among the most affected, with their habitats repeatedly destroyed. The Woolsey Fire of 2018 was followed by mudslides that wiped out much of the region's delicate ecosystem, and scientists fear similar outcomes this time. California newts, reptiles, and snakes are also at high risk, while mammals and birds, although more likely to escape, face challenges in finding food and shelter as the ecosystem bounces back.

Despite the devastation, hope remains. The chaparral is a fire-adapted ecosystem, and life often endures beneath the soil. Seeds can survive and germinate quickly, with grasses sprouting weeks after the first rain. Shrubs may take up to a decade to recover, depending on rainfall. Prof. Stefan Doerr, an expert on wildfires, emphasizes the resilience of this landscape, noting its evolutionary adaptation to high-intensity fires occurring every 30 to 100 years. While the aftermath looks bleak, these fires play a role in maintaining biodiversity, offering a glimmer of hope for recovery.

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

“Seeds can survive and germinate quickly, with grasses sprouting weeks after the first rain.”?

Mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate 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. Many people, especially students, have started using these resources.

b. The local library just opened a new section dedicated to environmental education.

c. This section includes books, documentaries, and interactive exhibits about climate change and conservation.

d. The goal is to raise awareness and encourage sustainable practices in the community.

e. It’s a great initiative that will benefit both current and future generations.

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. 

JOIN OUR GREEN SUNDAY EVENT!

The School Media Club is excited to invite all students to participate in Green Sunday, an event dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and action. This special day will take place on Sunday, December 8, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, at the schoolyard and surrounding community areas.

The event is open to all students, (7)______ you are eager to make a difference for the environment. We welcome (8)______ from all grade levels to join us in this meaningful activity.

During the event, students will (9)______various tasks such as planting trees, cleaning up public spaces, and spreading environmental messages. The activities are designed to suit (10)______level of experience, so don’t worry if it’s your first time volunteering!

Green Sunday is also a wonderful opportunity to foster (11)______among students from different classes. Let’s work closely with each (12)______to create a greener and cleaner community for everyone.

Sign up at the Media Club office before December 6. Let’s make this event a success together! 

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 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?