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Crop Growing Skyscrapers Reading Answers: IELTS Reading Practice Test

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Updated on Jul 02, 2024, 11:57

The Crop Growing Skyscrapers reading passage is an interesting text on the innovative indoor farming technique. The passage explains the benefits of this method and how it helps in dealing with future necessities. 
 

The passage contains 13 questions and is part of the IELTS Academic Reading test. It is sourced from Cambridge 11 Test 1. 

 

The passages for the IELTS Academic Reading test are extracted from books, journals, magazines and newspapers.

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1. Crop Growing Skyscrapers Reading Passage

The passages for the IELTS Academic Reading test are extracted from books, journals, magazines and newspapers. 

The given Reading test will help you get experience in the following IELTS Reading tasks.


 

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2. Crop Growing Skyscrapers Reading Questions and Answers

Discover exciting and informative IELTS reading answers about Crop Growing Skyscrapers.

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1.

Crop Growing Skyscrapers Reading Passage

General Information

  • Read Instructions: Understand each question before answering.
  • Manage Time: Spend about 20 minutes per passage.
  • Skim and Scan: Quickly get the main idea and find specific information.
  • Highlight Key Info: Underline essential words or phrases.
  • Answer All Questions: Attempt every question; no penalty for wrong answers.
  • Stay Focused: Avoid distractions and keep your attention on the task.
  • Check Spelling: Ensure correct spelling and grammar.
  • Transfer Answers Clearly: Write answers neatly on the answer sheet.
  • Don’t Dwell: Move on if stuck and return later.
  • Review: If time allows, review your answers.

 

 

 

 

Crop Growing Skyscrapers Reading Passage

 


 

Paragraph 1: By the end of 2050, almost 80% of the Earth’s population will migrate to urban centres. By using the conservative estimates in the present demographic trends, the human population density will increase exponentially up to three billion. Around 120 hectares of new land (about 20% larger than Australia) will be estimated to cultivate enough food to feed them if traditional farming practices continue as they are evolved today. Now, across the world, nearly 80% of the landscape suitable for raising crops is in use. When we go back to the past, some 15% of that has been laid waste due to poor management skills. How to ensure enough food security for the world’s population to live on? 
 

Paragraph 2: The technique of indoor farming is not new since many hothouse production of tomatoes, onions and other vegetables has been in fashion for a certain time. However, there is an urgent need to increase this technology to feed another three billion human population. Experts believe a whole new concept of indoor farming is required with super-efficient technologies. ‘Vertical Farm’ is one amongst them. The idea is to have multi-story buildings where food crops are grown in eco-friendly conditions. If they deploy it in the heart of urban centres, they would substantially decrease the transportation cost paid to bring food to the end consumers. This vertical farm has to be effective and accessible to the consumers to operate. Let's assume it is successfully implemented; proponents claim that vertical farms will guarantee urban renewal, sustainable development production of a safe and varied food chain (round-the-year production of all crops), and the obvious reconstruction of ecosystems that deteriorated due to horizontal farming.
 

Paragraph 3: The like-minded people of vertical farming discover various benefits of this system. For example, crops can be harvested throughout the year, as they would be preserved in man-made, controlled, maximum growing conditions. Similarly, no climate-related crop failures occur due to droughts, floods or pests. All the crops and food could be produced organically, neglecting the inorganic products of herbicides, pesticides, and fertilisers. The system would significantly decrease the occurrence of many non-communicable diseases necessary at the agricultural production interface. Even though the system would require energy, it would give it back in a different way to the grid via methane gas generation from composting non-edible parts of plants. This practice will help in reducing the need for tractors, ploughs, and shipping, which, in turn, reduce in consumption of fossil fuel.

 

Paragraph 4: Besides the advantages, a major setback of vertical farming is that the plants need artificial light, unlike traditional farming. However, when those plants are kept near the window, they will be exposed to more sunlight and grow more quickly, reducing their efficiency. Whereas the single-storey greenhouse has the benefit of natural light on the top. Nevertheless, many plants still need artificial lighting other than natural sunlight.
 

Paragraph 5: A multi-story facility without any natural light at the top might need far more. Producing sufficient light might be expensive unless cheap, renewable energy is there to support it, and this seems to be rather a long-term goal than a tangible result for the near future.
 

Paragraph 6: One difference in vertical farming that has been produced is to plant small trees in stacked trays that are alongside rails. Shifting the trays allows the small trees to get good sunlight for photosynthesis. This system is put in place and, thus, performs well within a single-story greenhouse with sufficient sunlight: it is not absolute, but it is possible to make it work without the sunlight from above.
 

Paragraph 7: Vertical farming is nothing but an attempt to combat the prolonged issues that we face in making food supply for an ever-growing human population. Presently, though, more steps need to be taken to decrease the aftermaths happening to the environment, specifically the consumption of energy. While it is doable that our food supply will be produced in skyscrapers in the future, experts think that it is way too far that we will merely make use of the space situated on urban area rooftops.

2.

Crop Growing Skyscrapers Reading Questions and Answers

Discover exciting and informative IELTS reading answers about Crop Growing Skyscrapers.

Questions and Answers 1-7
  • Complete the sentences below.
  • Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for every answer.

 

Indoor Farming
 

There are certain vegetables, including tomatoes _________, that are produced indoors. 

Vertical farms have a major setback, that is __________. 

There is an urgent need for vertical farming to feed ___________ human population. 

Nearly 120 hectares of land (20% larger than _________) is required for food production in the upcoming years.

 

The system consumes energy and returns it back through __________ generation.

 ______________ deteriorated the ecosystem and more consumption of fossil fuels.

If _____________ buildings are deployed in the heart of urban centres, the food transportation cost would be substantially decreased.


 

Pro Tip:

Use a wide range of grammatical structures in your answers. This will help to convince the examiner about your language skills.

 

Crop Growing Skyscrapers Reading Answers with Explanation 1-7

 

Question Type: Sentence Completion

 

The Sentence Completion provides you with a few incomplete sentences. You must find words from the passage to fill in the blanks and to complete the sentences. 

 

The question instructions will prescribe the word limit for your answers. Make sure to read and abide by that. 
 

How to Answer Sentence Completion Task:
 

  • Read the incomplete sentences first
  • Note the keywords or key points discussed in the sentence
  • Scan the passage and locate where the information is mentioned
  • Read the part and find appropriate words to fill in the blanks
     

Check out the answers now. 

 

1. Onions

 

Reference:

 

From Paragraph 2: The technique of indoor farming is not new since many hothouse production of tomatoes, onions, and other vegetables has been in fashion for a certain time.  
 

Explanation: 

The given passage explains a possible solution to the problem of lack of enough food to satisfy a growing population. As the passage introduces the idea of vertical farming, it compares it with traditional greenhouse farming techniques. According to the passage, some of the indoor plants we are familiar with are tomatoes and onions. 


 

2. Artificial lighting

 

Reference:

 

From Paragraph 4:  Besides the advantages, a major setback of vertical farming is that the plants need artificial light, unlike traditional farming.  
 

Explanation: 

The passage explains that, despite the huge advantages of implementing the vertical farming method, it has a major setback. The necessity of providing artificial lighting makes the technique expensive. Unlike outdoor cultivation, the plants in the technique are not exposed to sunlight, making it difficult for photosynthesis. 


 

3. Three billion

 

Reference:

 

From Paragraph 2: The technique of indoor farming is not new since many hothouse production of tomatoes, onions, and other vegetables has been in fashion for a certain time. However, there is an urgent need to increase this technology to feed another three billion human population.  
 

Explanation: 

The most important need to implement the vertical farming technique is to meet the need to ensure adequate resources to feed the growing demand. As the human population is constantly rushing, it is estimated to increase exponentially by up to three billion soon, and soon we will have to ensure new methods to feed this new demand. 


 

4. Australia

 

Reference:

 

From Paragraph 1: Around 120 hectares of new land (about 20% larger than Australia) will be estimated to cultivate enough food to feed them if traditional farming practices continue as they have evolved today. Now, across the world, nearly 80% of the landscape suitable for raising crops is in use.
 

Explanation: 

As there is a growing demand to increase crop production, it is also necessary to find more farmland. There is a necessity for 120 hectares of new land, which constitutes about 20% more than Australia. However, almost 80% of the landscape suitable for raising crops is already in use. 


 

5. Methane gas

 

Reference:

 

From Paragraph 3: Even though the system would require energy, it would give it back in a different way to the grid via methane gas generation from composting non-edible parts of plants.  
 

Explanation: 

According to the passage, although vertical farming requires a lot of energy, it also provides output. It produces methane gas as a by-product of the process. 


 

6. Horizontal Farming

 

Reference:

 

From Paragraph 3: This practice will help in reducing the need for tractors, ploughs, and shipping, which in turn, reduce the consumption of fossil fuel. 
 

Explanation: 

The passage explains that the new vertical farming method reduces dependence on fossil fuels. This is a major drawback of horizontal farming or traditional farming techniques. 


 

7. Multi-storey

 

Reference:

 

From Paragraph 2: The idea is to have multi-story buildings where food crops are grown in eco-friendly conditions. If they deploy it in the heart of urban centres, they would substantially decrease the transportation cost paid to bring food to the end consumers.  
 

Explanation: 

Unlike traditional or horizontal farming methods, vertical farming allows crop production to occur inside multi-story buildings within urban centres. This reduces the cost of transporting products from distant farmlands to urban areas. 


Also Read: IELTS Pattern and Format

Questions and Answers 8-13
Do the following statements agree with the information given in the reading passage?
In boxes 8 - 13 on your answer sheet, write.

  • TRUE if the statement agrees with the information
  • FALSE if the statement contradicts the information
  • NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this

 

8.   The concept of indoor farming is not new to humans. 

9.   By 2050, nearly 80% of the human population will live in urban centres.

10.  Vertical farming cannot be preserved by humans due to the usage of tractors, ploughs, etc.

11.   Vertical farming won’t be affected by droughts, floods, or pests.

12.   By making use of the conservative estimates in the current demographic trends, the human population will increase up to two billion.

13.   The major setback for vertical farming is it spreads non-communicable diseases.


 

Quick Tip:

Improve your vocabulary. This will help you to locate keywords and their synonyms easily in the passages.

 

Crop Growing Skyscrapers Reading Answers with Explanation 8-13


 

Question Type: Identifying Information
 

The Identifying Information task provides you with a set of information based on the topic discussed in the reading passage. You will be asked to verify if the given information is True, False, or Not Given in the context of the information provided in the passage. 

 

The Identifying Information Task analyses your ability to understand a text's claims. It also assesses your ability to locate an idea and understand its details. 
 

How to answer the Identifying Information task:
 

  • Read the question statements 
  • Find the keywords in the question statement
  • Scan the passage for the keywords
  • Locate the keyword or its synonyms
  • Read the sentence/paragraph containing the keyword
  • Verify the information with the question statement

 

Check out the answers now. 
 

8. True

 

Reference:

 

From Paragraph 2: The technique of indoor farming is not new since many hothouse production of tomatoes, onions, and other vegetables has been in fashion for a certain time. 
 

Explanation: 

The passage explains that the idea of indoor farming is not new to us. Indoor farming has been practised on a small scale to produce crops such as tomatoes and onions. So, it is true that we are already familiar with the concept. 

 

9. True

 

Reference:

 

From Paragraph 1: By the end of 2050, almost 80% of the Earth’s population will migrate to urban centres.  
 

Explanation: 

The passage explains that considering the current migration trend, it is predicted that by 2050, 80% of the human population will migrate to urban regions. So, it is important to find new methods to produce crops within urban centres. So, the claim that 80% of the population will soon migrate to urban areas is true


 

10. False

 

Reference:

 

From Paragraph 3: This practice will help in reducing the need for tractors, ploughs, and shipping, which, in turn, reduce the consumption of fossil fuel. 
 

Explanation: 

The passage denotes that introducing vertical farming techniques will reduce the use of tractors and ploughs. So, it is a false statement that vertical farming uses tractors and ploughs. 


 

11. True

 

Reference:

 

From Paragraph 3: The like-minded people of vertical farming discover various benefits of this system. For example, crops can be harvested throughout the year, as they would be preserved in man-made, controlled, maximum growing conditions. Similarly, no climate-related crop failures occur due to droughts, floods, or pests.  
 

Explanation: 

According to the passage, one of the benefits of the vertical farming system is that it is not influenced by climatic factors such as droughts, floods, or pests. Since the production occurs within an artificial environment, it takes place throughout the year. 

 

12. False

 

Reference:

 

From Paragraph 1: By the end of 2050, almost 80% of the Earth’s population will migrate to urban centres. By making use of the conservative estimates in the present demographic trends, the human population density will increase exponentially up to three billion.  
 

Explanation: 

The given passage explains that the estimated population growth is three billion. So, it is false to claim that the number is estimated to reach 2 billion. 


 

13. False

 

Reference:

 

From Paragraph 3:  The system would significantly decrease the occurrence of many non-communicable diseases necessary at the agricultural production interface.  
 

Explanation: 

The passage explains that vertical farming reduces the influence of external climatic factors and the chances of spreading non-communicable diseases at the agricultural level. So, it is false to claim that the new method increases the spread of diseases. 

 

While preparation is extremely important for your IELTS exam, it is equally important that you do it the right way. Make sure you draft a proper study plan and stick to it. Ensure regular practice and polish your knowledge constantly. Get expert help from Leap to make your IELTS journey easier and more fruitful. 
 

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Q. What is the IELTS test for?

A. The IELTS, or the International English Language Testing System, is a language proficiency test attempted by students who plan to study, work, or migrate to an English-speaking country. The test is accepted by over 140 countries and numerous prestigious universities worldwide. The test is a common requirement while applying for higher studies or working abroad.

Q. What is the difference between the IELTS Academic Reading and the IELTS General Training Reading tests?

A. The IELTS Academic Reading test is part of the IELTS Academic exam, which is taken by individuals who apply for a foreign university or professional registration. The IELTS General Training Reading test is part of the IELTS General test, which is attended by those who intend to work or migrate to an English-speaking country.

Q. How long is the IELTS Reading test?

A. The IELTS Reading test is one hour long. No breaks are allowed in between the tests. You have to answer 40 questions within this time. The questions are divided into three sections. It is better to divide your time equally between all three test sections.

Q. How is the IELTS test scored?

A. The IELTS scores are on a scale from 0 to 9. 0 represents the lowest attainable score, and 9 is the highest score you can achieve. The overall band score in the IELTS exam is an average of the score from all 4 modules of the test. Each module (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) is marked on a scale of 0-9.

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A. The ideal way to prepare for the IELTS Reading exam is through constant practice. Draft a timetable for your study plan. Then, understand the syllabus and gather essential documents for your preparation. Start your preparation and take regular mock tests to assess your progress.

Q. Can I use a pen or pencil during the IELTS Reading test?

A. Yes, you are allowed to bring a pen or pencil for your IELTS Reading test. You can ask your examiner to provide one if you forgot to bring one. The examiner will also provide you with a rough sheet which you can use to make notes during the test. Make sure you use it wisely and do not spend too much time making notes.

Q. How is the IELTS Reading test conducted?

A. The IELTS Reading test is conducted either online or offline. If you applied for a paper-based IELTS test, your IELTS Reading test will be offline. Here, the questions are provided in a booklet, and you can write your answers on the given answer sheet. If you apply for an online IELTS test, your IELTS Reading exam will be computer-based. Here, the passages and their questions will be displayed on a screen where you can also answer them accordingly.

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A. No, there isn’t any pass or fail in the IELTS test. The minimum score you can achieve is a band score of 0, and the maximum is 9. The minimum score required for your study-abroad or work purposes can vary depending on the institution. It is your university or company that determines their minimum score limit. On average, a band score of 6-6.5 is accepted by most universities.

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A. The validity of your IELTS score is for two years. After this, your certificate is outdated, and you must retake the test. This is to ensure that your knowledge is intact. It can be easier to retake your test since you are already aware of the test details, format, and question types. However, do not overlook the test and take essential preparation.

Q. Can I cancel or reschedule my IELTS Reading test?

A. Yes, you can reschedule your IELTS test. However, you must note that you cannot reschedule the Reading module alone. If needed, you have to reschedule your entire IELTS test. You can reschedule your test through the official website of IELTS IDP India.

Q. Is there a negative marking in the IELTS Reading test?

A. No, there is no negative marking system in the IELTS Reading test. You can receive one mark for each of your correct answers and zero marks for your wrong answers. Since there is no negative mark, it is better not to skip questions. Answer as many as possible to enhance your chances of scoring higher.

Q. Will I lose marks for punctuation mistakes in my IELTS Reading test?

A. Yes, you will lose marks for punctuation mistakes in my IELTS Reading test. IELTS is a language proficiency test; details such as punctuation marks, spelling, tense format, vocabulary, and grammar play an important role in displaying your proficiency in a language. Make sure you remember and and avoid the misuse of punctuation in your Reading test.