Reading Passage: Urbanization and Its Impact
Urbanization refers to the increasing number of people living in cities rather than
in rural areas. Over the past few decades, urbanization has accelerated rapidly,
especially in developing countries. People move to cities in search of better job
opportunities, education, healthcare, and overall living standards.
While urbanization can drive economic growth and modernization, it also comes
with serious challenges. One major issue is overcrowding, which often leads to a
shortage of housing and higher living costs. Traffic congestion and pollution are
also common problems in rapidly growing cities. Additionally, urban areas can
experience a rise in social inequality, with some residents enjoying wealth and
access to services, while others live in poverty without basic needs.
Governments and urban planners are now looking for sustainable solutions to these
problems. Creating more green spaces, investing in public transportation, and
developing affordable housing are among the strategies being used to improve the
quality of urban life. Some cities have also adopted smart technologies to monitor
air quality, manage traffic, and enhance public safety.
Urbanization is likely to continue in the coming decades. The key to success lies in
planning and innovation that take both people and the environment into account.
✅ Comprehension Questions (Multiple Choice – B2 level)
1. What is the main idea of the passage?
A. Cities should stop growing.
B. Urbanization improves the environment.
C. Urbanization is increasing and brings both benefits and challenges.
D. People prefer to live in the countryside.
2. According to the text, what is one main reason people move to cities?
A. To enjoy more green space
B. To escape high living costs
C. To find better opportunities
D. To avoid traffic
3. What is NOT mentioned as a problem caused by urbanization?
A. Pollution
B. Poor education
C. Overcrowding
D. Traffic congestion
4. In paragraph 2, the word "inequality” most likely means:
A. Having different cultural values
B. A lack of balance between rich and poor
C. More people living in one place
D. Higher cost of education
5. What does “it” refer to in the sentence:
“While urbanization can drive economic growth and modernization, it also
comes with serious challenges”?
A. Economic growth
B. Modernization
C. Urbanization
D. Overcrowding
6. What is one solution mentioned for improving city life?
A. Building taller buildings
B. Cutting down forests
C. Creating green spaces
D. Banning cars
7. Why are smart technologies being used in some cities?
A. To provide free internet
B. To increase population growth
C. To manage urban problems like traffic and pollution
D. To replace public services
8. What is the tone of the passage?
A. Completely negative
B. Balanced and informative
C. Emotional and biased
D. Humorous
9. Which of the following is implied about the future of urbanization?
A. It will stop soon
B. It depends only on technology
C. It will likely continue and needs good planning
D. It only affects poor countries
10. According to the passage, what should urban planning focus on?
A. Making cities more expensive
B. Reducing population size
C. Balancing human and environmental needs
D. Encouraging people to move to rural areas
point : 8/10
