Read the following passage about plastic bags 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.

Plastic bags are used by everybody. From a vegetable vendor to a designer store, everyone seems to use them. Even though they are one of the modern conveniences that we seem to be unable to do without, they are responsible for causing pollution, killing wildlife, and using up the precious resources of the Earth.  But, most of us are blissfully unaware of the outcomes that are occurring and will take place in the future.

Every once in a while, the government passes out an order banning store owners from providing plastic bags to customers for carrying their purchases. About a hundred billion plastic bags are used every year in the U.S. alone. The problem is further worsened by the developed countries shipping off their plastic waste to developing countries like India.

Once they are used, most bags go into landfills. Each year, more and more bags are ending up littering the environment. Once they become litter, plastic bags find their way into our waterways, parks, beaches, and streets. About 100,000 animals, such as dolphins, turtles, whales, penguins are killed every year due to these bags. And worse, the ingested plastic bag remains intact even after the death and decomposition of the animal. One of the worst environmental effects is that they are non-biodegradable. No one will live so long to witness the decomposition of plastic!

A tote bag can make a good substitute for carrying groceries and the shopping. You can keep the bag with the cashier, and then put your purchases into it instead of the usual plastic bag. Recycling the bags you already have is another good idea. Plastics are not only non-biodegradable, but are one of the major pollutants of the sea. For a clean and green environment, try to use alternatives to plastic whenever and wherever possible.

 

What does the word “them” in the first paragraph refer to?

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.

How dangerous is using solid fuels at home? When coal, wood, and other solid fuels are used for cooking or heating, they release a significant (7)______ of black carbon and other harmful pollutants. These tiny particles, along with (8)______ from incomplete combustion, can enter our bodies and, in the long term, cause serious health problems such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. (9)______ the dangers caused by these solid fuels, household air pollution is responsible for millions of deaths each year. Using soot-free fuels is essential. Renewable energy is the future! There are several reasons why it is the best (10)______ to fossil fuels. Firstly, the sources of fossil fuel will be depleted within this century, while renewable energy comes from natural resources that will never (11)______. Secondly, renewable energy is reliable, efficient, and can adapt to various needs. Finally, renewable energy is clean, producing no harmful (12)_______ or contributing to climate change. Let’s power the planet with renewable energy and create a healthier, more sustainable world for ourselves and others! 

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 phrase susceptible to in paragraph 3 is 0 PPOSITE in meaning to _____

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.

Here are some ways to help reduce global warming. Which of these do you regularly do?

Don't use private cars. Your willingness to walk or cycle to nearby places can help reduce the emissions of carbon dioxide and also reduce your own carbon footprint. Use public transport. If travelling long distances, then use public transport rather than your car. However, if you carpool (travel together with a group of people in one car), then you are choosing to help ___(7)___ environment. If we travel with ___(8)___, we will use less petrol.

Make a decision to reduce, recycle, and reuse. Reduce waste by buying reusable products. Don't forget to recycle plastics, glass, and paper products. You may wish to reuse some of your old items to ___(9)___, too. Take unneeded ___(10)___ to a recycling centre.

Buy local goods. When you buy goods ___(11)___ from far-away places, it takes a lot of energy to ___(12)___ them to your area. This means that if you don't buy local food and products, then more emissions of carbon dioxide will happen during the transportation process.

(Adapted from English Discovery)

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.

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as one of events recieving a lot of media attention?

Read the following passage 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 18 to 22.

The global average temperature also set a new record in 2024,(18)______. This meant the planet passed the 1.5C (2.7F) level agreed as a target by the Paris climate agreement for the first time. The UN secretary general, António Guterres, (19) ______.

The 1.5°C limit is a long-term goal, breached when warming is sustained for a decade or more. In 2024, CO2 levels rose significantly, far exceeding the levels required to stay on track for this target. While suggesting a smaller increase, (20) ______. Global heating continues to worsen as emissions rise, underscoring the urgent need to reduce CO2. Despite available solutions, political inaction remains a major barrier to meeting climate goals.

Wildfires in 2024, particularly in the Americas, released massive amounts of CO2, exacerbating the climate crisis. The increased frequency and severity of these fires are linked to climate change, while El Niño contributed to the dry conditions that fueled them. Additionally, El Niño hindered vegetation growth, reducing the ability of plants to absorb CO2. (21) ______.

The 2024 CO2 rise of 3.6ppm was more than double the level needed for net-zero goals. (22)______. Projections for 2025 predict a lower rise as La Niña improves vegetation growth. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged nations to prioritize climate action, emphasizing the need for stronger commitments to address the crisis.

Read the following passage about the Exploring The Universe 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.

Science is a vast and fascinating field that seeks to understand the natural world and the universe beyond[I]. It encompasses various disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, and astronomy[II]. Each of these areas contributes to our understanding of complex phenomena, [III]. For instance, scientific research has led to significant breakthroughs in medicine, renewable energy, and environmental conservation[IV]. In this essay, we will explore the impact of science on our lives, particularly focusing on space exploration.

One of the most intriguing aspects of science is space exploration. Humans have always looked to the stars, wondering what lies beyond our planet. The launch of satellites and manned missions has allowed us to gather valuable information about the cosmos. For example, NASA's Mars Rover has provided insight into the potential for life on other planets. Through meticulous research and data collection, scientists can analyze soil samples and atmospheric conditions, paving the way for future explorations.

Space exploration also raises critical questions about our existence and the future of humanity. As we continue to advance technologically, the prospect of colonizing other planets becomes more plausible. This endeavor could serve as a solution to the challenges we face on Earth, such as overpopulation and resource depletion. However, ethical considerations must guide these efforts. We must ensure that we do not repeat the mistakes of history, such as the exploitation of natural resources and indigenous populations.

Moreover, scientific advancements have enabled us to develop technologies that enhance our understanding of the universe. Telescopes and space probes allow us to observe distant galaxies, study black holes, and uncover the mysteries of dark matter. Each discovery leads to new questions, further fueling our curiosity and drive for knowledge. The concept of the multiverse, for instance, challenges our understanding of reality and pushes the boundaries of scientific thought.

In addition to exploring the universe, science plays a crucial role in addressing pressing issues on Earth. Climate change, for example, is a significant concern that scientists are actively investigating. Through climate models and data analysis, researchers can predict future trends and propose solutions to mitigate the effects of global warming. Public awareness and education are essential in fostering a collective response to environmental challenges.

As we reflect on the wonders of science, it is clear that its contributions extend far beyond mere knowledge acquisition. Science empowers us to make informed decisions about our health, environment, and future. By fostering a culture of curiosity and critical thinking, we can inspire future generations to continue exploring the unknown.

Which of the following best summarises paragraph 5?

Read the following passage about Earth Hour and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that benefits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

Earth Hour is a movement organized by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). (18)______. It encourages people and businesses to turn off their lights and other non-essential electrical devices, for an hour from 8:30 to 9:30p.m on the last Saturday of March. The initiative was proposed in 2004 in Australia, but the idea of a worldwide movement (19) ______. Earth Hour was started as a lights-out event in Sydney, Australia, in 2007. Since then, it has grown to become an international movement for the environment, (20) ______. Later in October 2007, a similar event called “Lights Out” was held in San Francisco.

Due to the success of the event, the organizers decided to hold Earth Hour annually around the world. (21)______. More importantly, it has helped raise awareness of climate change and has become a symbol of our commitment to protecting our planet. Although one hour can’t change the world, it encourages governments and people to set long-term goals for sustainable development around the world.

Joining the event in 2009, (22) ______. Besides switching off lights, people can take part in a number of activities to raise awareness of environmental problems and call for action for climate, people and nature.

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.

According to paragraph 2, which of the following is NOT mentioned as a cause of air pollution?

Read the following passage about Heat Transfer in the Atmosphere 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.

Because the low latitudes of the Earth, the areas near the equator, receive more heat than the latitudes near the poles, and because the nature of heat is to expand and move, heat is transported from the tropics to the middle and high latitudes. Some of this heat is moved by winds and some by ocean currents, and some gets stored in the atmosphere in the form of latent heat.

(I) The term “latent heat” refers to the energy that has to be used to convert liquid water to water vapor. (II) We know that if we warm a pan of water on a stove, it will evaporate, or turn into vapor, faster than if it is allowed to sit at room temperature. (III) We also know that if we hang wet clothes outside in the summertime, they will dry faster than in winter, when the temperature is lower. The energy used in both cases to change liquid water to water vapor is supplied by heat - supplied by the stove in the first case and by the Sun in the latter case. This energy is not lost. (IV)  It is stored as vapor in the atmosphere as latent heat. Eventually, the water stored as vapor in the atmosphere will condense to liquid again, and the energy will be released to the atmosphere.

In the atmosphere, a large portion of the Sun’s incoming energy is used to evaporate water, primarily in the tropical oceans. Scientists have tried to pin down this proportion of the Sun’s energy. By analyzing temperature, water vapor, and wind data around the globe, they have estimated the quantity to be about 90 watts per square meter, or nearly 30 percent of the Sun’s energy. Once this latent heat is stored within the atmosphere, it can be transported, primarily to higher latitudes, by prevailing, large - scale winds. Or it can be transported vertically to higher levels in the atmosphere, where it forms clouds and subsequent storms, which then release the energy back to the atmosphere.

The word "it" in paragraph 2 refers to:

Read the following passage about Heat Transfer in the Atmosphere 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.

Because the low latitudes of the Earth, the areas near the equator, receive more heat than the latitudes near the poles, and because the nature of heat is to expand and move, heat is transported from the tropics to the middle and high latitudes. Some of this heat is moved by winds and some by ocean currents, and some gets stored in the atmosphere in the form of latent heat.

(I) The term “latent heat” refers to the energy that has to be used to convert liquid water to water vapor. (II) We know that if we warm a pan of water on a stove, it will evaporate, or turn into vapor, faster than if it is allowed to sit at room temperature. (III) We also know that if we hang wet clothes outside in the summertime, they will dry faster than in winter, when the temperature is lower. The energy used in both cases to change liquid water to water vapor is supplied by heat - supplied by the stove in the first case and by the Sun in the latter case. This energy is not lost. (IV)  It is stored as vapor in the atmosphere as latent heat. Eventually, the water stored as vapor in the atmosphere will condense to liquid again, and the energy will be released to the atmosphere.

In the atmosphere, a large portion of the Sun’s incoming energy is used to evaporate water, primarily in the tropical oceans. Scientists have tried to pin down this proportion of the Sun’s energy. By analyzing temperature, water vapor, and wind data around the globe, they have estimated the quantity to be about 90 watts per square meter, or nearly 30 percent of the Sun’s energy. Once this latent heat is stored within the atmosphere, it can be transported, primarily to higher latitudes, by prevailing, large - scale winds. Or it can be transported vertically to higher levels in the atmosphere, where it forms clouds and subsequent storms, which then release the energy back to the atmosphere.

Which of the following can be inferred from the passage?

Read the following passage 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 18 to 22.

The global average temperature also set a new record in 2024,(18)______. This meant the planet passed the 1.5C (2.7F) level agreed as a target by the Paris climate agreement for the first time. The UN secretary general, António Guterres, (19) ______.

The 1.5°C limit is a long-term goal, breached when warming is sustained for a decade or more. In 2024, CO2 levels rose significantly, far exceeding the levels required to stay on track for this target. While suggesting a smaller increase, (20) ______. Global heating continues to worsen as emissions rise, underscoring the urgent need to reduce CO2. Despite available solutions, political inaction remains a major barrier to meeting climate goals.

Wildfires in 2024, particularly in the Americas, released massive amounts of CO2, exacerbating the climate crisis. The increased frequency and severity of these fires are linked to climate change, while El Niño contributed to the dry conditions that fueled them. Additionally, El Niño hindered vegetation growth, reducing the ability of plants to absorb CO2. (21) ______.

The 2024 CO2 rise of 3.6ppm was more than double the level needed for net-zero goals. (22)______. Projections for 2025 predict a lower rise as La Niña improves vegetation growth. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged nations to prioritize climate action, emphasizing the need for stronger commitments to address the crisis.

Read the following passage about Heat Transfer in the Atmosphere 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.

Because the low latitudes of the Earth, the areas near the equator, receive more heat than the latitudes near the poles, and because the nature of heat is to expand and move, heat is transported from the tropics to the middle and high latitudes. Some of this heat is moved by winds and some by ocean currents, and some gets stored in the atmosphere in the form of latent heat.

(I) The term “latent heat” refers to the energy that has to be used to convert liquid water to water vapor. (II) We know that if we warm a pan of water on a stove, it will evaporate, or turn into vapor, faster than if it is allowed to sit at room temperature. (III) We also know that if we hang wet clothes outside in the summertime, they will dry faster than in winter, when the temperature is lower. The energy used in both cases to change liquid water to water vapor is supplied by heat - supplied by the stove in the first case and by the Sun in the latter case. This energy is not lost. (IV)  It is stored as vapor in the atmosphere as latent heat. Eventually, the water stored as vapor in the atmosphere will condense to liquid again, and the energy will be released to the atmosphere.

In the atmosphere, a large portion of the Sun’s incoming energy is used to evaporate water, primarily in the tropical oceans. Scientists have tried to pin down this proportion of the Sun’s energy. By analyzing temperature, water vapor, and wind data around the globe, they have estimated the quantity to be about 90 watts per square meter, or nearly 30 percent of the Sun’s energy. Once this latent heat is stored within the atmosphere, it can be transported, primarily to higher latitudes, by prevailing, large - scale winds. Or it can be transported vertically to higher levels in the atmosphere, where it forms clouds and subsequent storms, which then release the energy back to the atmosphere.

The word "evaporate" in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to:

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 best summarises the passage?

Read the following leaflet/notice and choose the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 7 to 12.

TRANSFORMING FARMING WITH VERTICAL FARMING!

What is Vertical Farming?

Vertical farming is an innovative way of growing crops on vertically stacked layers, (7) __________ traditional horizontal land. By using less space, this (8) __________ allows farmers to produce more food, even in areas where traditional farming is impossible.

How Does Vertical Farming Work?

Vertical farms use advanced hydroponic systems that allow crops to grow in (9) __________ stacked layers. These systems control light, temperature, water, and humidity to create the perfect environment for plants. With natural sunlight and minimal resources, this (10) __________ reduces waste and helps grow crops year-round.

Why is Vertical Farming Important?

Vertical farming can help solve many agricultural challenges. It allows food (11) __________ in urban areas, reducing the need for long-distance transportation. It also helps farmers produce crops without worrying about climate change or weather conditions, (12) __________ a reliable food source.

Join the Green Revolution

Vertical farming is the future of agriculture. Start growing smarter, not harder!

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

APPLICATIONS OF AI IN URBAN PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT

1. AI is transforming cities, making them smarter, more sustainable, and efficient. By integrating AI into urban planning, cities can operate more smoothly, enhancing the lives of those who live and work there. Key areas where AI can have a significant impact include digital twin technology, smart infrastructure, and optimizing transportation systems.

2. Digital twins are virtual versions of real cities created using data from sensors and devices. These digital models help city planners understand how a city works in real-time. Planners can test different ideas and plans in a virtual space before making changes in the real world. AI helps predict the outcomes of these tests, so the best solutions can be chosen. This saves time, resources, and reduces the risk of making mistakes. It also helps reduce the impact of changes like adjusting traffic flow or modifying energy use.

3. AI is also crucial for reducing the carbon footprint in urban environments, which is key to building sustainable cities. AI-driven platforms can optimize energy use, manage energy grids efficiently, and improve waste management systems. For instance, AI can predict when maintenance is needed, allowing problems to be fixed before they disrupt services. Smart grids can integrate renewable energy sources and optimize the way energy is distributed, minimizing waste and pollution. These solutions are leading the way to a low-carbon future, helping cities meet their net-zero emissions goals.

4. AI is also improving transportation in cities. By analyzing traffic data, public transport schedules, and pedestrian movement, AI helps optimize traffic flow and make public transport more reliable. Traffic lights become smarter, buses run on time, and pedestrian safety is improved. These improvements reduce traffic congestion and make cities more livable for everyone.

In which paragraph does the author mention cities' ambitious environmental goals?

Read the following passage about climate change 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.

           Climate change refers to the long-term alteration of temperature and typical weather patterns in a place. This phenomenon is largely driven by human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas, which increase the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. They trap heat from the sun, leading to global warming and causing severe weather events, such as hurricanes, floods, and droughts, to become more frequent and intense. Climate change impacts nearly every region of the world and affects the natural environment, economies, and human health.

           As temperatures rise, polar ice caps and glaciers are melting at alarming rates, contributing to rising sea levels. Coastal regions face an increased risk of flooding, and many low-lying islands are at risk of disappearing entirely. Additionally, higher temperatures lead to the warming of oceans, affecting marine ecosystems and causing coral bleaching, which threatens biodiversity and the livelihoods of millions of people who depend on fishing.

            [I] The consequences of climate change are not just environmental; they also affect human society in significant ways. [II] Changes in weather patterns disrupt agriculture, leading to crop failures and food shortages in vulnerable regions. [III] Furthermore, climate change is linked to health issues such as respiratory diseases, heat strokes, and the spread of diseases carried by insects, like malaria and dengue fever. [IV]

           To combat climate change, a coordinated global effort is necessary. Governments, organizations, and individuals all have roles to play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable practices. Shifting to renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and hydropower, is essential. Additionally, conserving forests and investing in technology that captures carbon dioxide from the atmosphere can help mitigate the effects of climate change and pave the way for a healthier planet.

Where in paragraph 3 does the following sentence best fit?

"These impacts have far-reaching consequences that extend beyond environmental damage." 

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.

What does Henrik Hartmann mean in paragraph 5 when he says, ‘There are individual species that are being driven beyond the threshold of what they can handle’?

Read the following passage about climate change 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.

           Climate change refers to the long-term alteration of temperature and typical weather patterns in a place. This phenomenon is largely driven by human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas, which increase the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. They trap heat from the sun, leading to global warming and causing severe weather events, such as hurricanes, floods, and droughts, to become more frequent and intense. Climate change impacts nearly every region of the world and affects the natural environment, economies, and human health.

           As temperatures rise, polar ice caps and glaciers are melting at alarming rates, contributing to rising sea levels. Coastal regions face an increased risk of flooding, and many low-lying islands are at risk of disappearing entirely. Additionally, higher temperatures lead to the warming of oceans, affecting marine ecosystems and causing coral bleaching, which threatens biodiversity and the livelihoods of millions of people who depend on fishing.

            [I] The consequences of climate change are not just environmental; they also affect human society in significant ways. [II] Changes in weather patterns disrupt agriculture, leading to crop failures and food shortages in vulnerable regions. [III] Furthermore, climate change is linked to health issues such as respiratory diseases, heat strokes, and the spread of diseases carried by insects, like malaria and dengue fever. [IV]

           To combat climate change, a coordinated global effort is necessary. Governments, organizations, and individuals all have roles to play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable practices. Shifting to renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and hydropower, is essential. Additionally, conserving forests and investing in technology that captures carbon dioxide from the atmosphere can help mitigate the effects of climate change and pave the way for a healthier planet.

Which of the following best summarizes the passage?