Here is the official solution:
Q1. According to the passage, which of the following is a potential outcome of rural-to-urban migration?
Correct Answer: C• A is incorrect because the passage states the opposite—birth rates fall as people move to urban areas.
• B is incorrect because while the passage mentions a need for more food, it doesn't say food security will improve.
• C is correct, as the passage suggests that emigration from rural areas reduces destructive farming practices like slash-and-burn agriculture.
• D is incorrect because the passage emphasizes that current city planning is not sustainable.
• E is incorrect because the passage highlights the health challenges faced by those in poor urban areas, rather than improved access to care.
Q2. Which of the following best describes the structure of the passage?
Correct Answer: B• A is incorrect because the author does not endorse any particular viewpoint at the end of the passage.
• B is correct because the structure follows the introduction of urbanization, Stewart Brand's optimistic perspective, and then the contrasting UN report highlighting challenges.
• C is incorrect because the author does not dismiss the challenges; they are discussed in detail.
• D is incorrect because the passage is not primarily focused on detrimental effects, and opposing views are given substantial attention.
• E is incorrect because there is no comparison across regions or any proposed solutions in the passage.
Q3. Based on the passage, which of the following can be most reasonably inferred about the author’s view on the future of urbanization?
Correct Answer: B• A is incorrect because while the passage acknowledges environmental benefits, it emphasizes challenges more strongly, without suggesting that cities can adapt easily enough to mitigate the negative consequences.
• B is correct because the passage highlights potential crises due to strained food production, sanitation systems, and health care in urban areas, suggesting that without change, these crises are inevitable.
• C is incorrect because although food shortages are discussed, there is no mention of rural populations returning to traditional farming practices.
• D is incorrect because the passage does not suggest that slowed population growth will sufficiently resolve other challenges, like food security and health care strains.
• E is incorrect because the passage does not explicitly contrast urbanization's effects between developed and developing regions, instead focusing on general challenges across urban areas.