Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following question...

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions.

        Throughout history, human populations have grown steadily. As societies expanded, people began forming larger communities, eventually leading to the development of cities. The shift from rural to urban living has been significantly influenced by industrialization. The Industrial Revolution, which began in the 18th century, marked a turning point in urban growth, as people moved to cities in search of better job opportunities and improved living conditions.

        Today, urbanization continues at an unprecedented rate. More than half of the global population now resides in urban areas, and this number is expected to rise. Developing nations, in particular, are experiencing rapid urban growth due to advancements in technology, infrastructure, and economic opportunities. However, with the benefits of this process come significant challenges, such as overcrowding, pollution, and inadequate public services.

        One major consequence of urbanization is the rise of megacities—cities with over 10 million residents. These massive urban centers, such as Mumbai, São Paulo, and New York City, often struggle with housing shortages, traffic congestion, and environmental degradation. Additionally, urban sprawl, the uncontrolled expansion of cities into surrounding rural areas, has led to deforestation and increased reliance on automobiles, contributing to air pollution and climate change.

        Despite these challenges, urbanization also offers numerous advantages. Cities provide better access to education, healthcare, and cultural experiences. Economic growth is often concentrated in urban areas, leading to higher wages and improved standards of living for many people. Governments and urban planners are continuously working on sustainable solutions, such as green spaces, efficient public transport systems, and smart city technologies, to ensure that urbanization remains beneficial for future generations.

        As the world’s population continues to grow, the future of urbanization depends on effective planning and innovative solutions. Finding a balance between development and sustainability will be crucial in shaping livable and resilient cities for the future.

Question 23: The word "expanded" in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to ____________.

        A. increased                B. shrank                        C. decreased                        D. narrowed

Question 24: Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a consequence of urbanization?

        A. environmental degradation                                B. job shortages

        C. traffic congestion                                        D. air pollution

Question 25: The phrase "unprecedented" in paragraph 2 could be best replaced by ____________.

        A. unusual                B. unmatched                        C. unbelievable                D. predictable

Question 26: The word "this" in paragraph 2 refers to ____________.

        A. technology                B. global population                  C. urbanization                D. advancement

Question 27: Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 4?

A. Economic growth tends to be concentrated in cities, leading to lower wages and a poorer quality of life for many individuals.

B. Economic growth, although common in parts of the world, does not always bring better living conditions for people.

C. Frequently concentrated in urban areas is economic growth, causing wages to rise and improving living standards for everyone.

D. Frequently found in urban areas is economic growth, resulting in increased wages and better living conditions for a large number of people.

Question 28: Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?

A. Many large cities struggle with problems related to housing and traffic.

B. The global population living in urban areas is decreasing.

C. Urban sprawl has no environmental impact.

D. Industrialization has had no effect on urbanization.

Question 29: In which paragraph does the author mention a contrasting relationship?

        A. Paragraph 1        B. Paragraph 2                        C. Paragraph 4                        D. Paragraph 5

Question 30: In which paragraph does the author discuss future solutions for urbanization?

        A. Paragraph 1        B. Paragraph 2                        C. Paragraph 4                        D. Paragraph 5