Tryout TOEFL Reading Part 1
TOEFL Reading Test
Passage 1: The Origins of Coffee Culture
Coffee has played a significant role in shaping cultures and societies worldwide. First discovered in Ethiopia, the coffee bean made its way to Yemen, where it became an integral part of Sufi religious practices in the 15th century. From there, coffee spread to the Ottoman Empire and eventually to Europe in the 17th century. Coffeehouses became hubs of intellectual exchange, where artists, writers, and philosophers gathered to discuss ideas and share insights. These spaces were often referred to as "schools of the wise" because of their vibrant discussions.
The expansion of coffee culture continued with the establishment of global coffee chains in the 20th and 21st centuries. These businesses popularized coffee as a modern-day commodity, with a focus on convenience and lifestyle branding. Coffee, once a cultural symbol of community and conversation, has become a part of daily life for millions. In cities around the world, individuals often begin their day with a cup of coffee, whether brewed at home or purchased on the go.
However, the rise of coffee as a global industry has not been without challenges. The demand for coffee has put pressure on coffee-producing countries, many of which are in the Global South. Small-scale farmers face economic difficulties as prices fluctuate and production costs rise. Additionally, environmental issues such as deforestation and climate change threaten the sustainability of coffee cultivation. As a result, many organizations and consumers are advocating for fair-trade practices and environmentally sustainable farming methods to address these concerns.
1. What is the main idea of the passage?
2. According to the passage, where was coffee first discovered?
3. Which of the following is NOT mentioned in the passage?
4. The word "commodity" in paragraph two is closest in meaning to:
5. Why do some organizations advocate for fair-trade practices, according to the passage?
Passage 2: The Development of Renewable Energy
Renewable energy has become a cornerstone in the fight against climate change. Sources like solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy offer alternatives to fossil fuels, which emit significant amounts of greenhouse gases. Solar panels, for example, harness the power of the sun and are now widely used in both residential and industrial settings. Similarly, wind turbines convert wind into electricity, often in large-scale wind farms. These technologies not only reduce emissions but also provide opportunities for economic growth through job creation in the renewable energy sector.
Despite its benefits, renewable energy development faces several challenges. One major issue is the intermittency of some renewable energy sources. Solar panels, for instance, cannot generate power at night, and wind turbines require consistent wind speeds to operate efficiently. Additionally, the initial costs of renewable energy infrastructure, such as installing solar panels or building wind farms, can be prohibitively high. However, advancements in technology and supportive government policies are helping to lower these costs and improve efficiency.
Public perception also plays a significant role in the adoption of renewable energy. While many people recognize its environmental benefits, others resist these changes due to misinformation or concerns about aesthetic impacts, such as the appearance of wind turbines. Education and outreach efforts are crucial in addressing these barriers and ensuring a smoother transition to a more sustainable energy future.
6. What is the main idea of the passage?
7. According to the passage, why is renewable energy important?
8. Which of the following is NOT stated in the passage?
9. The word "intermittency" in paragraph two is closest in meaning to:
10. What is a suggested solution to address challenges in renewable energy adoption?
Passage 3: The Role of Bees in Agriculture
Bees play a vital role in agriculture by serving as pollinators for a wide variety of crops. Without bees, many fruits, vegetables, and nuts would experience reduced yields or fail to grow altogether. In fact, it is estimated that about one-third of the food we consume relies on pollination, either directly or indirectly. Almond trees in California, for example, depend almost entirely on honeybees for pollination during the growing season. The relationship between bees and crops underscores the importance of protecting bee populations.
Unfortunately, bee populations have been declining in recent years due to factors such as pesticide use, habitat loss, and disease. Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD), a phenomenon in which worker bees abandon their hives, has become a significant concern for scientists and farmers alike. The loss of bees not only threatens agricultural productivity but also impacts ecosystems that depend on pollination for biodiversity.
Efforts to protect bees are underway, ranging from banning harmful pesticides to creating habitats that support their needs. Urban beekeeping has also gained popularity as a way to encourage bee populations. By raising awareness about the importance of bees and implementing sustainable farming practices, society can help ensure the survival of these essential pollinators.
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