SAT Reading Practice Test-2

This passage is adapted from Jane Smith, “The Hidden Cost of Fast Fashion.” ©2020 by Green Living Journal.

Every year, millions of consumers flock to fast fashion retailers to purchase the latest trends at low prices. This phenomenon, driven by the rapid production and quick turnover of clothing styles, has significant economic, environmental, and ethical implications. In 2019 alone, the global fashion industry produced over 100 billion garments, much of it destined for landfills after only a few uses.

The rise of fast fashion can be traced back to the late 20th century, when advancements in manufacturing and globalization began to reshape the fashion industry. Today, the emphasis on speed and low cost has led to a cycle of overconsumption and waste. Consumers are encouraged to buy more clothing than they need, contributing to the throwaway culture prevalent in modern society.

Environmentalists have studied the impact of fast fashion on the planet, finding that the constant production and disposal of clothing lead to significant pollution and resource depletion. The textile industry is one of the largest polluters of water, and the use of synthetic fibers, which do not biodegrade, adds to the growing problem of plastic pollution.

Ethicists have also weighed in on the issue, noting that the demand for cheap clothing often results in poor working conditions and low wages for garment workers in developing countries. The pressure to produce clothing quickly and cheaply can lead to exploitative labor practices, raising serious ethical concerns about the true cost of fast fashion.

In response to these challenges, some experts advocate for a shift towards more sustainable and ethical fashion practices. This involves supporting brands that prioritize fair labor practices, investing in high-quality garments that last longer, and recycling or repurposing old clothing. By adopting these practices, consumers can reduce their environmental footprint and promote better working conditions for garment workers.

Ultimately, the hidden cost of fast fashion is not just measured in dollars and cents, but in the environmental damage and human suffering it causes. By reevaluating our relationship with clothing and making more intentional choices, we can create a more sustainable and equitable fashion industry.

Questions:

1. The primary purpose of the passage is to:

A. explain the benefits of fast fashion.B. highlight the negative effects of fast fashion.C. advocate for increased clothing production.D. describe the history of the fashion industry.

2. Based on the passage, what can be inferred about the relationship between fast fashion and environmental impact?

A. Fast fashion has no impact on the environment.B. Fast fashion improves the environment.C. Fast fashion can negatively affect the environment.D. Fast fashion only affects economic conditions.

3. In the context of the passage, the word “flock” most nearly means:

A. migrate.B. gather.C. repel.D. disperse.

Answers & Explanations

1. The primary purpose of the passage is to:B. highlight the negative effects of fast fashion.Explanation: The passage discusses the environmental, economic, and ethical consequences of fast fashion, pointing out the high levels of waste, pollution, and exploitation associated with the industry.
2. Based on the passage, what can be inferred about the relationship between fast fashion and environmental impact?C. Fast fashion can negatively affect the environment.Explanation: The passage mentions that the constant production and disposal of clothing lead to significant pollution and resource depletion, indicating a negative impact on the environment.
3. In the context of the passage, the word “flock” most nearly means:B. gather.Explanation: “Flock” refers to the large number of consumers who gather or move in large numbers to fast fashion retailers to purchase clothing, often leading to overconsumption and waste.

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