Sure, here is the TOEFL Reading practice passage and questions as per your requirements: --- Reading Passage: Urbanization, the transformation of rural areas into urban centers, has been a defining characteristic of the modern era. This process, while indicative of economic growth and societal progress, poses significant challenges to biodiversity. As cities expand, natural habitats are fragmented or destroyed, leading to a decline in species diversity and abundance. One of the primary consequences of urbanization is habitat loss. When land is developed for infrastructure, such as roads and buildings, the natural ecosystems are often irreversibly altered. This loss of habitat is particularly detrimental to species with specialized habitat requirements. For example, many amphibians, which rely on specific wetland environments, face population declines as these areas are drained for construction. In addition to habitat loss, urbanization contributes to pollution, which adversely affects local flora and fauna. Air pollution from vehicles and industrial processes can lead to respiratory issues in animals and hinder plant growth. Water pollution, often a result of runoff from urban areas, contains harmful substances that can devastate aquatic ecosystems. Moreover, light pollution disrupts the natural behaviors of nocturnal animals, affecting their reproduction and feeding patterns. Urban areas also introduce invasive species, which can outcompete native species for resources. The introduction of non-native plants and animals, whether intentional or accidental, often leads to a decrease in native biodiversity. In cities, invasive species such as pigeons and rats thrive, while native species struggle to survive. However, urbanization is not entirely detrimental to biodiversity. Urban green spaces, such as parks and gardens, can provide critical refuges for wildlife. These spaces can be designed to support a wide range of species by incorporating native vegetation and providing habitats for pollinators like bees and butterflies. Additionally, urban areas can serve as important research sites for studying ecology and evolution. The unique environmental pressures of cities can lead to rapid evolutionary changes, offering insights into how species adapt to changing conditions. Efforts to mitigate the negative impacts of urbanization on biodiversity include implementing sustainable urban planning practices. Green architecture, which incorporates natural elements into building design, and the creation of wildlife corridors to connect fragmented habitats are strategies that can enhance urban biodiversity. Public awareness and education programs are also essential in promoting biodiversity-friendly practices among city inhabitants. In conclusion, while urbanization poses significant challenges to biodiversity, it also offers opportunities for conservation and ecological research. By integrating green spaces and sustainable practices into urban planning, cities can become havens for both humans and wildlife. Questions: 1. What is one primary consequence of urbanization mentioned in the passage? - (A) Increase in rural populations - (B) Habitat loss - (C) Decrease in economic growth - (D) Reduction of urban centers 2. What does the author mention as a particular threat to amphibians due to urbanization? - (A) Air pollution - (B) Light pollution - (C) Loss of wetland environments - (D) Introduction of invasive species 3. The word "devastate" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to: - (A) Improve - (B) Destroy - (C) Support - (D) Encourage 4. The word "refuges" in paragraph 4 is closest in meaning to: - (A) Dangers - (B) Habitats - (C) Challenges - (D) Barriers 5. According to the passage, what is one potential benefit of urban green spaces? - (A) They contribute to habitat fragmentation. - (B) They support a wide range of species. - (C) They increase pollution levels. - (D) They reduce the need for urban planning. 6. What can be inferred about the relationship between urbanization and invasive species? - (A) Urbanization typically reduces the presence of invasive species. - (B) Urbanization supports the dominance of native species over invasive ones. - (C) Urbanization creates conditions that favor invasive species. - (D) Urbanization has no effect on the spread of invasive species. 7. Why does the author mention "wildlife corridors" in the passage? - (A) To illustrate a common urban planning failure - (B) To suggest a strategy for enhancing biodiversity - (C) To highlight the importance of economic growth - (D) To explain why urbanization is unavoidable 8. Where would the following sentence best fit in the passage? "These corridors allow animals to move safely between different habitats." - (A) After the first sentence of paragraph 1 - (B) After the second sentence of paragraph 3 - (C) After the third sentence of paragraph 5 - (D) After the second sentence of paragraph 6 9. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a negative impact of urbanization on biodiversity? - (A) Habitat loss - (B) Pollution - (C) Introduction of invasive species - (D) Increased agricultural activities 10. Complete the summary by selecting the THREE answer choices that express the most important ideas in the passage. - (A) Urbanization leads to habitat loss, pollution, and the spread of invasive species, negatively impacting biodiversity. - (B) Urbanization results in economic decline and higher biodiversity in city centers. - (C) Urban green spaces and sustainable planning can mitigate urbanization's negative effects. - (D) The unique challenges of urban environments provide opportunities for ecological research. - (E) Urbanization primarily affects aquatic ecosystems while leaving terrestrial habitats intact. Answer Key: 1. (B) 2. (C) 3. (B) 4. (B) 5. (B) 6. (C) 7. (B) 8. (D) 9. (D) 10. (A), (C), (D) ---