Reading Skill Part 21: Urbanization and City Planning

Bài Reading này có chủ đề: “Đô thị hóa và Quy hoạch thành phố”. Các bài Reading thường sẽ không có phần ghi âm hay luyện nghe luyện nói gì, nhưng đòi hỏi sự tập trung trong quá trình đọc bài viết. Các bạn hãy đọc kỹ bài đọc và trả lời câu hỏi sao cho đúng.

IELTS Reading Practice: Urbanization and City Planning

Passage 1: The Rise of Urbanization

Urbanization is a defining phenomenon of the modern era. It refers to the increasing number of people that live in urban areas. It predominantly results from the migration of people from rural areas to cities in search of better employment opportunities, improved living standards, and enhanced access to education and healthcare.

The process of urbanization has several significant implications. Firstly, it can lead to economic growth, as cities often become hubs of innovation, industry, and commerce. However, it also poses several challenges, such as the strain on infrastructure, the rise of informal settlements, and environmental degradation. The rapid expansion of urban areas can lead to the depletion of natural resources, increased pollution, and a higher demand for energy.

One of the main driving forces behind urbanization is the search for employment. Cities offer a wide range of job opportunities that are not available in rural areas. Moreover, urban areas provide better access to services and amenities such as education, healthcare, and entertainment, which are essential for improving the quality of life.

Despite the numerous advantages of urbanization, there are significant drawbacks. The high population density in cities often results in inadequate housing, traffic congestion, and higher levels of pollution. Additionally, urban areas can be marked by significant socio-economic inequalities, with a clear divide between the wealthy and the poor.

Urban planners play a crucial role in managing the challenges associated with urbanization. Effective city planning involves creating sustainable cities that can support their populations without compromising the environment. This includes the development of green spaces, efficient public transport systems, and renewable energy sources. Sustainable urban development aims to enhance the quality of life for all residents while minimizing the ecological footprint of the city.

Questions:

1.1. Multiple Choice Questions

1. According to the passage, what is one of the primary reasons people migrate to cities?
   • A. Better agricultural opportunities
   • B. Improved access to services and amenities
   • C. Desire to live in high-density areas
   • D. Seeking adventure and new experiences
2. What is one challenge of urbanization mentioned in the passage?
   • A. Decrease in job opportunities
   • B. Economic stagnation
   • C. Strain on infrastructure
   • D. Decline in educational standards

1.2. True/False/Not Given

1. Urbanization solely results from natural population growth. (True/False/Not Given)
2. Urban planners are responsible for ensuring the sustainability of cities. (True/False/Not Given)
3. Urbanization generally leads to a reduction in socio-economic inequalities. (True/False/Not Given)

1.3. Matching Information

Match each statement with the correct implication of urbanization (A, B, C, or D):

• A. Economic growth
• B. Environmental degradation
• C. Improved living standards
• D. Increased pollution

1. Urban areas become hubs of innovation and commerce. ( ___ )
2. Rapid expansion leads to a higher demand for energy. ( ___ )
3. Cities provide better access to healthcare. ( ___ )

Passage 2: City Planning and Sustainable Development

The concept of sustainable urban development is integral to modern city planning. Sustainable development refers to the ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In the context of urbanization, it emphasizes the creation of cities that are environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable.

One critical aspect of sustainable city planning is the development of green infrastructure. This includes parks, green roofs, and urban forests, which help mitigate the urban heat island effect, reduce energy consumption, and improve air quality. Green infrastructure also promotes biodiversity and provides recreational spaces for residents, enhancing their quality of life.

Another essential element is the implementation of efficient public transportation systems. Public transit reduces the reliance on private vehicles, which in turn decreases traffic congestion and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. Cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam are exemplary in their use of bicycles and public transportation, contributing to their reputations as sustainable urban centers.

Renewable energy sources play a significant role in sustainable urban development. Solar, wind, and hydroelectric power reduce dependence on fossil fuels and decrease carbon emissions. Urban areas are increasingly incorporating renewable energy into their grids, with initiatives such as solar panel installations on buildings and wind farms located near city perimeters.

Moreover, sustainable city planning involves inclusive growth that ensures all residents benefit from urban development. This includes affordable housing projects, equitable access to services, and community participation in decision-making processes. Ensuring that the benefits of urbanization are distributed fairly helps reduce socio-economic disparities and fosters a sense of community.

Questions:

2.1. Short Answer Questions

1. What is the primary goal of sustainable development?
2. Name two benefits of green infrastructure mentioned in the passage.
3. How do efficient public transportation systems contribute to sustainability?

2.2. Summary Completion

Complete the summary using words from the passage.

Sustainable urban development focuses on creating cities that are ________ (1), socially, and economically sustainable. Green infrastructure, such as parks and urban forests, helps to mitigate the ________ (2) effect and improve air quality. Efficient ________ (3) systems reduce reliance on private vehicles and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Incorporating ________ (4) energy sources, like solar and wind power, into city grids decreases dependence on fossil fuels. Inclusive growth ensures all residents benefit from urban development, reducing ________ (5) disparities.

2.3. Yes/No/Not Given

1. Green roofs contribute to reducing the urban heat island effect. (Yes/No/Not Given)
2. Copenhagen and Amsterdam have implemented public transit systems to reduce reliance on private vehicles. (Yes/No/Not Given)
3. Sustainable city planning only focuses on environmental sustainability. (Yes/No/Not Given)

Answer Key

1.1. Multiple Choice Questions

1. B. Improved access to services and amenities
2. C. Strain on infrastructure

1.2. True/False/Not Given

1. False
2. True
3. False

1.3. Matching Information

1. A. Economic growth
2. B. Environmental degradation
3. C. Improved living standards

2.1. Short Answer Questions

1. To meet the needs of the present without compromising future generations.
2. Mitigating the urban heat island effect and improving air quality.
3. By reducing reliance on private vehicles and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

2.2. Summary Completion

1. environmentally
2. urban heat island
3. public transportation
4. renewable
5. socio-economic

2.3. Yes/No/Not Given

1. Yes
2. Yes
3. No

Đọc lại bài cũ: Reading Skill Part 20: The Future of Work: Remote vs. Office.