ENGLISH FIRST ASSESSMENT TEST BATCH: 34
Read the passage and answer the following questions.
As global populations continue to swell, the pace of urbanization has accelerated, particularly in
developing countries. Rapid urbanization refers to the phenomenon where large numbers of people
move from rural areas to urban centres in a short period. While this transition can stimulate economic
growth, improve access to services, and create new opportunities, it also presents numerous
challenges that must be carefully managed to ensure sustainable urban development.
One of the most pressing challenges of rapid urbanization is the strain it places on infrastructure. As
cities grow, their existing infrastructure—roads, sewage systems, water supply, and electricity grids—
often becomes overburdened, leading to shortages and reduced quality of services. This can result in
traffic congestion, unreliable water supply, and frequent power outages, all of which can hamper the
city’s ability to function efficiently. Cities like Lagos, Nigeria, and Dhaka, Bangladesh, have
experienced rapid population growth and, as a result, struggle to keep up with the demands placed on
their infrastructure.
Another significant concern is the rise of informal settlements, or slums. As housing becomes scarce
and expensive, many urban migrants are forced to build makeshift homes in overcrowded areas
lacking basic services like sanitation, healthcare, and education. This not only creates health hazards
but also exacerbates social inequality, as these communities often lack the resources and political
power to demand improvements. In the absence of adequate planning and regulation, slums can
quickly expand, further complicating urban management.
Moreover, rapid urbanization can have severe environmental consequences. The expansion of cities
often leads to the destruction of natural habitats, increased pollution, and the depletion of natural
resources. Forests, wetlands, and agricultural land are cleared to make way for new developments,
leading to the loss of biodiversity and disruption of local ecosystems. Additionally, air and water
pollution from industrial and vehicular emissions degrade the environment, making urban areas less
livable and contributing to the global climate crisis.
Despite these challenges, there are opportunities to harness the benefits of urbanization. With the right
planning, cities can become centers of innovation, cultural exchange, and economic growth. The key
is sustainable urban development, which involves creating cities that are not only economically
vibrant but also environmentally responsible and socially inclusive. Governments and urban planners
must prioritize green spaces, energy-efficient buildings, and equitable access to public services. With
strategic investments and policies, rapid urbanization can be transformed into a force for positive
change rather than a source of unchecked problems.
1. What is one of the primary challenges of rapid urbanization mentioned in the passage?
a. High levels of agricultural productivity. c. Increased availability of healthcare.
b. Overburdened urban infrastructure. d. Lack of global migration.
2. What is the term used for overcrowded urban areas that lack basic services?
a. Smart cities b. Green spaces c. Informal settlements d. Suburban zones
3. The passage mentions that cities like Lagos and Dhaka struggle with rapid urbanization.
Which of the following is a consequence of this mentioned in the passage?
a. They experience a shortage of skilled labour for industrial jobs.
b. They face difficulty keeping up with the demands placed on their infrastructure.
c. They see a rise in governmental interventions to control urban sprawl.
d. They have an excess of natural resources due to reduced urban expansion.
4. The passage suggests that environmental degradation from urbanization leads to:
a. An improvement in the quality of urban life.
b. A decrease in air quality, loss of biodiversity, and damage to ecosystems.
c. A global climate crisis that benefits urban areas.
d. Enhanced ecosystem protection through urban expansion.
5. What can be inferred about the relationship between urbanization and economic growth
from the passage?
a. Urbanization is harmful to economic growth because it decreases industrial output.
b. Urbanization, if properly managed, can stimulate innovation and economic development.
c. Urbanization has no effect on economic growth as it only affects infrastructure.
d. Rapid urbanization will inevitably lead to economic decline in all cities.
6. What is the closest synonym to the word "congestion" in the passage?
a. Freedom b. Overcrowding c. Space d. Efficiency
7. What is the synonym of "sustainable" as used in the passage?
a. Unstable b. Environmental c. Temporary d. Destructive
8. Which word in the passage is closest in meaning to "rapid"?
a. Slow b. Quick c. Gradual d. Standard
