This is a free B2 upper-intermediate level English reading lesson about climate change. It includes the reading and reading comprehension exercises in 3 different formats together with the answer keys and explanations.
- True/False questions
- Multiple choice questions
- Short answer questions
Understanding Climate Change
Climate change refers to significant changes in global temperatures and weather patterns over time. While climate fluctuations can be natural, human activity has been a major cause since the industrial age. Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide trap heat from the sun and warm the planet, which is essential for life. However, the excessive levels of these gases are resulting in a warmer Earth. This phenomenon leads to various problems including extreme weather events, melting ice caps, and rising sea levels.
One of the main contributors to greenhouse gas emissions is the burning of fossil fuels. Using coal, oil, and natural gas for energy and transportation releases vast amounts of carbon dioxide. Deforestation is another contributor, as trees absorb carbon dioxide but are being cut down rapidly. Therefore, reducing emissions is crucial in tackling climate change. This can be done by switching to renewable energy sources, such as wind or solar power, and by improving energy efficiency.
Additionally, individuals can also play a role by changing their daily habits. This could involve using less electricity, recycling waste, or choosing public transport over a personal vehicle. Governments and businesses are also responsible for setting and following guidelines to curb emissions. International cooperation is equally vital for effective action because climate change is a global issue. Agreements like the Paris Agreement aim to unite countries in reducing global warming.
Climate change is already impacting ecosystems and communities worldwide. It’s imperative to address this crisis urgently, as the longer we wait, the more drastic the changes and the harder they will be to reverse. Education on the significance of these climate issues is essential, and although change can be difficult, it’s necessary for future generations. Only through sustained efforts across the globe can we hope to mitigate the effects of climate change and preserve our planet for future prosperity.
General Level: B2.0
Vocabulary: B1.9
Verb Form: A2.0
Clause: B1.0
Wordlist
burning NOUN C1 1
Definition (En):
- the act of burning something
n. execution by fire
n. a form of torture in which cigarettes or cigars or other hot implements are used to burn the victim’s skin
s. of immediate import
contributor NOUN C1 2
Definition (En):
- a writer whose work is published in a newspaper or magazine or as part of a book
curb VERB C2 1
Definition (En):
- an edge between a sidewalk and a roadway consisting of a line of curbstones (usually forming part of a gutter)
n. a horse’s bit with an attached chain or strap to check the horse
v. keep to the curb
drastic ADJ C1 1
Definition (En):
- forceful and extreme and rigorous
fluctuation NOUN C1 1
Definition (En):
- a wave motion
n. the quality of being unsteady and subject to changes
mitigate VERB +∞ 1
Definition (En):
- make less severe or harsh
prosperity NOUN C1 1
Definition (En):
- an economic state of growth with rising profits and full employment
n. the condition of prospering; having good fortune
Phrases and Idioms
Lemma | Sentences |
carbon dioxide | · Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide trap heat from the sun and warm the planet, which is essential for life. · Using coal, oil, and natural gas for energy and transportation releases vast amounts of carbon dioxide. · Deforestation is another contributor, as trees absorb carbon dioxide but are being cut down rapidly. |
greenhouse gas | · Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide trap heat from the sun and warm the planet, which is essential for life. · One of the main contributors to greenhouse gas emissions is the burning of fossil fuels. |
aim to | · Agreements like the Paris Agreement aim to unite countries in reducing global warming. |
cut down | · Deforestation is another contributor, as trees absorb carbon dioxide but are being cut down rapidly. |
for life | · Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide trap heat from the sun and warm the planet, which is essential for life. |
fossil fuel | · One of the main contributors to greenhouse gas emissions is the burning of fossil fuels. |
global warming | · Agreements like the Paris Agreement aim to unite countries in reducing global warming. |
lead to (something) | · This phenomenon leads to various problems including extreme weather events, melting ice caps, and rising sea levels. |
over time | · Climate change refers to significant changes in global temperatures and weather patterns over time. |
preserve (something) for (someone or something) | · Only through sustained efforts across the globe can we hope to mitigate the effects of climate change and preserve our planet for future prosperity. |
public transport | · This could involve using less electricity, recycling waste, or choosing public transport over a personal vehicle. |
result in (something) | · However, the excessive levels of these gases are resulting in a warmer Earth. |
solar power | · This can be done by switching to renewable energy sources, such as wind or solar power, and by improving energy efficiency. |
such as | · This can be done by switching to renewable energy sources, such as wind or solar power, and by improving energy efficiency. |
switch to (something) | · This can be done by switching to renewable energy sources, such as wind or solar power, and by improving energy efficiency. |
True / False / Not Given
- Human activities have only recently begun influencing climate change.
- Rising sea levels are a result of the Earth cooling down.
- Solar power is one alternative to fossil fuels mentioned in the text.
- Deforestation contributes to climate change because trees release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere when they are cut down.
- Using public transport instead of personal vehicles can reduce the effects of climate change.
- The Paris Agreement is a local initiative to improve urban environmental standards.
- Businesses do not need to follow any guidelines regarding climate change.
- Climate change currently affects all ecosystems and societies around the world.
- Education about climate issues is considered unnecessary in the text.
- The text specifies that certain animal species have become extinct due to climate change.
Multiple Choice
1) What does the text suggest is a necessary condition for life on Earth that is currently contributing to warming?
a) The sun
b) Greenhouse gases
c) Melting ice caps
d) Deforestation
2) Why are deforestation activities a cause for concern in relation to climate change?
a) Trees release carbon dioxide when cut
b) Deforestation leads to more sunlight reaching Earth
c) Trees absorb carbon dioxide and are being cut down
d) Deforestation promotes the use of fossil fuels
3) According to the text, how can individuals directly contribute to tackling climate change?
a) By signing international agreements
b) Through reducing their personal carbon footprint
c) By preventing extreme weather events
d) Through setting emissions regulations
4) Which international response to climate change does the text mention as a way to unite countries?
a) The Industrial Age Initiative
b) The Paris Agreement
c) Climate Change Education Programs
d) The Global Emissions Partnership
5) What is suggested as a consequence of excessive greenhouse gas levels?
a) The enhancement of the Earth’s magnetic field
b) The reduction of temperatures worldwide
c) The occurrence of extreme weather events
d) The increase in global communication efforts
6) Why is it urgent to address the climate change crisis, according to the text?
a) To promote international tourism
b) To ensure the abundance of fossil fuels
c) Because its effects are difficult to reverse over time
d) To increase awareness of energy efficiency
7) What role do governments and businesses play in combating climate change?
a) Developing new technologies for space exploration
b) Setting and following guidelines to curb emissions
c) Investing in the industrial sector
d) Expanding urban infrastructure
8) How does using coal, oil, and natural gas impact greenhouse gas emissions?
a) Decreases the number of trees on Earth
b) Enhances the absorption capacity of the oceans
c) Releases vast amounts of carbon dioxide
d) Reduces the overall cost of electricity
9) What does the text propose as a measure to reduce emissions?
a) Introducing more greenhouse gases
b) Switching to renewable energy sources
c) Expanding the use of fossil fuels
d) Increasing the world’s population
10) What is the importance of education mentioned in the context of climate issues?
a) Providing entertainment
b) Facilitating economic development
c) Encouraging change for future generations
d) Reducing the cost of renewable energy
Short Answer Questions
- What is the primary cause of climate change since the industrial age?
- Why are greenhouse gases essential for life, yet problematic in excessive levels?
- What severe consequences are mentioned as results of climate change?
- How can the release of vast amounts of carbon dioxide be attributed to energy and transportation?
- What is causing trees to no longer absorb carbon dioxide at a rate that is beneficial for the environment?
- What actions can individuals take to contribute to reducing emissions?
- Why is international cooperation crucial in tackling climate change?
- What international agreement is mentioned as an effort to unite countries in reducing global warming?
- Why is it crucial to address the climate crisis urgently?
- Why is education on climate issues essential?
True / False / Not Given Answers
1.
Answer: False
Explanation: The text states that human activities have been a major cause of climate change since the industrial age, indicating that it is not a recent influence.
Answer location: “While climate fluctuations can be natural, human activity has been a major cause since the industrial age.”
2.
Answer: False
Explanation: The excessive levels of greenhouse gases are resulting in a warmer Earth, not a cooler one. Rising sea levels are associated with the warming, not cooling, of the Earth.
Answer location: “However, the excessive levels of these gases are resulting in a warmer Earth.”
3.
Answer: True
Explanation: The text mentions wind or solar power as alternatives to fossil fuels in the context of switching to renewable energy sources.
Answer location: “This can be done by switching to renewable energy sources, such as wind or solar power,”
4.
Answer: False
Explanation: Trees absorb carbon dioxide, and when they are cut down through deforestation, they are no longer able to absorb it, contributing to climate change. The text does not say that trees release carbon dioxide when cut down.
Answer location: “Deforestation is another contributor, as trees absorb carbon dioxide but are being cut down rapidly.”
5.
Answer: True
Explanation: The text suggests that choosing public transport over a personal vehicle is a way individuals can play a role in reducing the effects of climate change.
Answer location: “This could involve using less electricity, recycling waste, or choosing public transport over a personal vehicle.”
6.
Answer: False
Explanation: The Paris Agreement is described as an effort to unite countries in reducing global warming, indicating that it is an international initiative, not just a local one.
Answer location: “International cooperation is equally vital for effective action because climate change is a global issue. Agreements like the Paris Agreement aim to unite countries in reducing global warming.”
7.
Answer: False
Explanation: The text states that both governments and businesses are responsible for setting and following guidelines, indicating that businesses do need to follow guidelines regarding climate change.
Answer location: “Governments and businesses are also responsible for setting and following guidelines to curb emissions.”
8.
Answer: True
Explanation: The text makes a clear statement that climate change is already impacting ecosystems and communities worldwide.
Answer location: “Climate change is already impacting ecosystems and communities worldwide.”
9.
Answer: False
Explanation: The text explicitly states that education on the significance of climate issues is essential, contradicting the statement that it is considered unnecessary.
Answer location: “Education on the significance of these climate issues is essential,”
10.
Answer: Not given
Explanation: The text does not provide any information about the extinction of specific animal species due to climate change.
Answer location: “N/A”
Multiple Choice Answers
1.
Answer: B
Explanation: The text states that greenhouse gases, in particular, carbon dioxide, are necessary for warming the planet and sustaining life.
Answer location: “Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide trap heat from the sun and warm the planet, which is essential for life.”
2.
Answer: C
Explanation: The text explains that deforestation is a concern because trees, which absorb carbon dioxide, are being cut down thus reducing the natural absorption of this greenhouse gas.
Answer location: “Deforestation is another contributor, as trees absorb carbon dioxide but are being cut down rapidly.”
3.
Answer: B
Explanation: The text suggests that individuals can contribute by changing daily habits that reduce their personal carbon footprint, like using less electricity or opting for public transport.
Answer location: “This could involve using less electricity, recycling waste, or choosing public transport over a personal vehicle.”
4.
Answer: B
Explanation: The text specifically mentions the Paris Agreement as an international effort to unite countries in combating climate change.
Answer location: “Agreements like the Paris Agreement aim to unite countries in reducing global warming.”
5.
Answer: C
Explanation: Excessive levels of greenhouse gases lead to problems such as extreme weather events, as stated in the text.
Answer location: “This phenomenon leads to various problems including extreme weather events, melting ice caps, and rising sea levels.”
6.
Answer: C
Explanation: The text emphasizes the urgency of addressing climate change because the longer action is delayed, the more severe the effects become and the harder they are to reverse.
Answer location: “It’s imperative to address this crisis urgently, as the longer we wait, the more drastic the changes and the harder they will be to reverse.”
7.
Answer: B
Explanation: The text highlights that governments and businesses have a responsibility to set and adhere to guidelines that limit emissions.
Answer location: “Governments and businesses are also responsible for setting and following guidelines to curb emissions.”
8.
Answer: C
Explanation: The text points out that utilizing fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas for energy and transport results in the release of large amounts of carbon dioxide, thereby increasing greenhouse gas emissions.
Answer location: “Using coal, oil, and natural gas for energy and transportation releases vast amounts of carbon dioxide.”
9.
Answer: B
Explanation: The text recommends switching to renewable energy sources and improving energy efficiency as measures to decrease emissions.
Answer location: “This can be done by switching to renewable energy sources, such as wind or solar power, and by improving energy efficiency.”
10.
Answer: C
Explanation: The text highlights the importance of education in raising awareness and spurring change to ensure a better future for coming generations.
Answer location: “Education on the significance of these climate issues is essential, and although change can be difficult, it’s necessary for future generations.”
Short Answer Answers
1.
Answer: Human activity.
Explanation: The text states that while there can be natural fluctuations, human activity is the major cause of climate change since the industrial age.
Answer location: “While climate fluctuations can be natural, human activity has been a major cause since the industrial age.”
2.
Answer: They trap heat from the sun to warm the planet, but excessive levels result in a warmer earth.
Explanation: The text explains that greenhouse gases are essential for warming the Earth, which is necessary for life, but excessive levels lead to an overly warm Earth.
Answer location: “Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide trap heat from the sun and warm the planet, which is essential for life. However, the excessive levels of these gases are resulting in a warmer Earth.”
3.
Answer: Extreme weather events, melting ice caps, rising sea levels.
Explanation: The text lists extreme weather events, melting ice caps, and rising sea levels as severe consequences of climate change.
Answer location: “This phenomenon leads to various problems including extreme weather events, melting ice caps, and rising sea levels.”
4.
Answer: Through the burning of fossil fuels.
Explanation: The text attributes the release of vast amounts of carbon dioxide to the burning of fossil fuels for energy and transportation.
Answer location: “One of the main contributors to greenhouse gas emissions is the burning of fossil fuels. Using coal, oil, and natural gas for energy and transportation releases vast amounts of carbon dioxide.”
5.
Answer: Deforestation.
Explanation: The text mentions that rapid deforestation leads to fewer trees available to absorb carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change.
Answer location: “Deforestation is another contributor, as trees absorb carbon dioxide but are being cut down rapidly.”
6.
Answer: Using less electricity, recycling waste, choosing public transport.
Explanation: The text provides examples of actions individuals can take to reduce emissions, which includes using less electricity, recycling waste, and choosing public transport.
Answer location: “This could involve using less electricity, recycling waste, or choosing public transport over a personal vehicle.”
7.
Answer: Because climate change is a global issue.
Explanation: The text stresses the importance of international cooperation by highlighting that climate change affects the entire globe, not just individual countries.
Answer location: “International cooperation is equally vital for effective action because climate change is a global issue.”
8.
Answer: The paris agreement.
Explanation: The Paris Agreement is given as an example of an international effort to bring countries together to combat global warming.
Answer location: “Agreements like the Paris Agreement aim to unite countries in reducing global warming.”
9.
Answer: The longer we wait, the more drastic the changes and the harder to reverse.
Explanation: The text states the urgency is due to the worsening effects and increasing difficulty of reversing changes the more we delay addressing climate change.
Answer location: “It’s imperative to address this crisis urgently, as the longer we wait, the more drastic the changes and the harder they will be to reverse.”
10.
Answer: It’s necessary for future generations.
Explanation: The text explains that education about climate issues is vital for the benefit and well-being of future generations.
Answer location: “Education on the significance of these climate issues is essential, and although change can be difficult, it’s necessary for future generations.”
