4 fill-in-the-blank questions in the format of the IELTS test

Reading Passage

The Global Challenge of Water Scarcity

Water scarcity is a growing concern that affects every continent and is exacerbated by a combination of climate change, population growth, and inefficient water management. While the Earth is covered by water, only a tiny fraction of it is freshwater available for human consumption. This precious resource is unevenly distributed, leading to severe water shortages in many regions. The consequences of this scarcity are far-reaching, impacting not only public health and food security but also economic development and social stability.

One of the primary drivers of the increasing demand for water is the expansion of agriculture, which accounts for approximately 70% of all freshwater withdrawals globally. As the world’s population continues to grow, so does the need for food, which in turn puts immense pressure on our already strained water resources. Furthermore, industrial processes and energy production are also major consumers of water, contributing to the depletion of rivers, lakes, and underground aquifers.

Addressing the challenge of water scarcity requires a multifaceted approach. On one hand, it is crucial to invest in new technologies for water conservation and desalination. On the other, there is a pressing need for better governance and policies that promote efficient water use. Public awareness campaigns can also play a vital role in encouraging individuals to adopt more sustainable water consumption habits. Without a concerted global effort, the problem of water scarcity is likely to intensify, posing a significant threat to both human well-being and the health of our planet.

Questions 1 – 4

Complete the sentences below.

Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.

1. The issue of water scarcity is a _______________ that has an impact on all continents.
2. The majority of the world’s freshwater is used for the _______________.
3. Besides agriculture, significant amounts of water are also used in energy production and _______________.
4. To tackle water scarcity, a _______________ is needed, including new technologies and improved governance.

Answer Key

1. growing concern
   • Explanation: The first sentence of the passage states, “Water scarcity is a growing concern that affects every continent…”
2. agriculture
   • Explanation: The second paragraph mentions, “…the expansion of agriculture, which accounts for approximately 70% of all freshwater withdrawals globally.”
3. industrial processes
   • Explanation: The second paragraph says, “Furthermore, industrial processes and energy production are also major consumers of water…”
4. multifaceted approach
   • Explanation: The third paragraph begins with, “Addressing the challenge of water scarcity requires a multifaceted approach.”