Practice questions – Unseen passages

I. Coral reefs are often referred to as the "rainforests of the sea" due to their
incredible biodiversity. Covering less than 1% of the ocean floor, coral reefs are
home to more than 25% of marine species. These vibrant ecosystems not only
support marine life but also protect coastal areas from erosion, provide
livelihoods to millions, and contribute to global carbon regulation.

Coral reefs are formed by colonies of tiny animals called coral polyps. Over centuries,
these polyps secrete calcium carbonate, creating the intricate structures we recognize as
coral reefs. However, these ecosystems are extremely fragile and are under severe threat
due to human activities. Overfishing, pollution, and climate change, particularly rising sea
temperatures, are the leading causes of coral bleaching—a phenomenon that occurs when
corals expel the algae living within them, losing their color and vital energy source.

Efforts to protect coral reefs are gaining momentum globally. Marine protected areas,
sustainable fishing practices, and awareness campaigns are some measures being taken.
Moreover, innovations like coral gardening and artificial reefs are being explored to restore
damaged ecosystems. Yet, experts warn that without decisive global action to combat
climate change, coral reefs might disappear within the next century, taking with them an
irreplaceable part of Earth's natural heritage.

A. Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):

1. Why are coral reefs called the "rainforests of the sea"?

a) They cover a large portion of the ocean floor.

b) They are home to a vast variety of marine species.

c) They have tall structures like trees.

d) They regulate the Earth's temperature.

2. What do coral polyps secrete to form coral reefs?

a) Carbon dioxide

b) Calcium carbonate

c) Algae
d) Phytoplankton

3. What is coral bleaching primarily caused by?

a) Overfishing

b) Rising sea temperatures

c) Excess calcium carbonate

d) Lack of oxygen

B. Short Answer Questions:

4. Mention two benefits provided by coral reefs to humans.

5. What is coral gardening, and how does it help coral reefs?

II. Literacy is often regarded as the cornerstone of personal and societal development. It
empowers individuals by providing them with the skills to acquire knowledge,
communicate effectively, and make informed decisions. At the societal level, literacy
contributes to economic growth, reduces poverty, and promotes equality.

Globally, significant progress has been made in improving literacy rates over the past few
decades. However, challenges remain, particularly in developing countries where access
to quality education is limited. According to UNESCO, over 770 million adults worldwide
still lack basic literacy skills, two-thirds of whom are women. This gender disparity
highlights the need for targeted interventions to ensure equitable access to education for
all.

The role of technology in enhancing literacy cannot be overlooked. E-learning platforms,

mobile applications, and digital libraries have made learning resources more accessible
than ever. Yet, these advancements come with challenges, including the digital divide,
which excludes those without access to technology or the internet.

Governments and organizations worldwide are working to address these issues through
initiatives such as free education programs, adult literacy campaigns, and technology-
driven solutions. While progress is being made, achieving universal literacy remains a
critical goal for a sustainable and inclusive future.
MCQ Questions

1. What is one of the primary benefits of literacy at the societal level?

a) Improved physical health

b) Economic growth

c) Increased population growth

d) Greater urbanization

2. According to UNESCO, what percentage of adults lacking basic literacy skills are
women?

a) One-third

b) One-half

c) Two-thirds

d) Three-fourths

3. What is a significant challenge in improving global literacy rates?

a) Lack of interest in education

b) The digital divide

c) Overpopulation

d) Lack of teaching professionals

4. Which technological advancement is mentioned as contributing to literacy

enhancement?

a) Artificial intelligence

b) Mobile applications

c) Block chain technology

d) Space exploration

5. What is a major goal associated with literacy, as mentioned in the passage?

a) Universal health care

b) Universal literacy

c) Universal housing
d) Universal employment

III.Tourism is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world, contributing significantly to

the global economy. It provides employment opportunities, promotes cultural exchange,
and fosters international relationships. However, the rapid expansion of tourism has also
raised concerns about its environmental and social impact. Unregulated tourism can lead
to deforestation, pollution, loss of biodiversity, and the degradation of local cultures.

Sustainable tourism has emerged as a solution to these challenges. It aims to minimize the
negative effects of tourism while maximizing its benefits. This approach focuses on
responsible travel practices, such as reducing carbon footprints, supporting local
communities, and preserving natural and cultural heritage. For example, eco-tourism
initiatives encourage tourists to visit protected areas in a manner that does not harm the
environment.

Several countries have embraced sustainable tourism by implementing policies to regulate

tourist activities. These include limiting the number of visitors to fragile ecosystems,
promoting the use of renewable energy in tourist facilities, and encouraging the
consumption of local products. Nevertheless, the success of sustainable tourism depends
on the cooperation of all stakeholders, including governments, businesses, and tourists
themselves.

As awareness of environmental issues grows, more travellers are seeking eco-friendly

options. However, challenges such as lack of awareness, high costs, and inadequate
infrastructure persist. For tourism to truly become sustainable, global efforts are required
to balance economic growth with environmental and social responsibility

1. What is one of the key benefits of tourism mentioned in the passage?

a) Preservation of biodiversity

b) Cultural exchange

c) Reduction in pollution

d) Decrease in deforestation

2. What does sustainable tourism primarily aim to achieve?

a) Maximizing tourist arrivals

b) Reducing the negative effects of tourism

c) Promoting international trade

d) Building more tourist facilities

3. Which of the following is an example of sustainable tourism?

a) Constructing luxury resorts in forests

b) Encouraging visits to protected areas responsibly

c) Organizing large-scale music festivals in fragile ecosystems

d) Promoting long-distance international travel

4. What is a significant challenge to sustainable tourism mentioned in the passage?

a) Lack of cultural diversity

b) Insufficient global awareness

c) Overpopulation in urban areas

d) Decline in global travel trends

5. What role do governments play in promoting sustainable tourism?

a) Increasing tourist taxes

b) Regulating tourist activities and preserving ecosystems

c) Discouraging domestic tourism

d) Promoting only international tourism

6. Which of the following measures can help make tourism more sustainable?

a) Reducing the use of renewable energy

b) Limiting visitor access to fragile ecosystems

c) Importing products for tourists

d) Constructing larger hotels

7. What is one reason more travelers are seeking eco-friendly options?

a) Growth in awareness about environmental issues

b) High costs of luxury tourism

c) Availability of cheap international flights

d) Decline in traditional travel options

8. According to the passage, what is essential for sustainable tourism to succeed?

a) Reducing costs for tourists

b) Cooperation of all stakeholders

c) Increasing international trade agreements

d) Eliminating local tourism campaigns

9. What impact can unregulated tourism have on local cultures?

a) Promotion of local heritage

b) Degradation of cultural identity

c) Greater cultural diversity

d) Increased community participation

10. How have some countries promoted sustainable tourism?

a) By increasing the number of tourist visas issued

b) By promoting renewable energy use in tourist facilities

c) By building large theme parks in protected areas

d) By encouraging international flights

11. Which term best describes the focus of eco-tourism initiatives?

a) Economic profit

b) Responsible travel

c) Mass tourism

d) Globalization

12. What balance does sustainable tourism aim to achieve?

a) Economic growth and environmental responsibility

b) Mass tourism and economic stability

c) Cultural exchange and reduced costs

d) Urbanization and environmental preservation