SAT Writing and Language Test 2
Questions 1-5 are based on the following passage
The Growing Need for Sustainable Agriculture
Sustainable agriculture has become increasingly critical in addressing global food security and environmental concerns. As traditional farming methods contribute to soil degradation and climate change, the shift towards sustainable practices is essential for the future of agriculture.
[1] One of the primary advantages of sustainable agriculture is its ability to preserve soil health. [2] Practices such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and reduced tillage enhance soil fertility and structure. [3] For example, crop rotation helps prevent soil depletion by alternating crops that use different nutrients. [4] Cover crops protect the soil from erosion and improve its organic matter content. [5] However, sustainable farming often requires more knowledge and labor, which can be a challenge for widespread adoption.
[6] Another significant benefit of sustainable agriculture is its role in reducing environmental impact. [7] Conventional farming practices often rely on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, which can contaminate water sources and harm wildlife. [8] Sustainable methods minimize the use of these chemicals, promoting biodiversity and reducing pollution. [9] Additionally, sustainable agriculture practices can help mitigate climate change by sequestering carbon in the soil and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The table below illustrates the differences in environmental impact and resource efficiency between sustainable and conventional farming methods.
Environmental Impact and Resource Efficiency Comparison
| Farming Method | Soil Health (Organic Matter %) | Water Usage (gallons/year) | Chemical Use (pounds/year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sustainable | 6% | 500,000 | 100 |
| Conventional | 3% | 1,000,000 | 500 |
By addressing these challenges and optimizing sustainable practices, it is possible to create a more resilient and environmentally responsible agricultural system.
Questions:
- Which of the following best describes the main focus of the passage?
- A) The economic benefits of sustainable agriculture.
- B) The importance of sustainable agriculture in preserving soil health and reducing environmental impact.
- C) The challenges faced by conventional farming methods.
- D) The history of sustainable agriculture practices.
- What is the primary benefit of crop rotation mentioned in the passage?
- A) It reduces water usage.
- B) It prevents soil erosion.
- C) It helps prevent soil depletion.
- D) It increases crop yield.
- In the context of the passage, what does the term “cover crops” refer to?
- A) Crops grown specifically for harvesting.
- B) Crops grown to protect and enhance soil health.
- C) Crops that require minimal water and fertilizers.
- D) Crops that are genetically modified for better growth.
- According to the passage, what is one challenge associated with sustainable farming?
- A) Higher chemical usage.
- B) Increased knowledge and labor requirements.
- C) Lower biodiversity.
- D) Higher greenhouse gas emissions.
- How does sustainable agriculture contribute to mitigating climate change?
- A) By reducing water usage.
- B) By using genetically modified crops.
- C) By sequestering carbon in the soil.
- D) By increasing chemical use.
Answers and Explanations:
- Explanation: The passage focuses on how sustainable agriculture benefits soil health and reduces environmental impact, contrasting it with conventional farming methods.
- B) The importance of sustainable agriculture in preserving soil health and reducing environmental impact.
- C) It helps prevent soil depletion.
- Explanation: The passage states that crop rotation helps prevent soil depletion by alternating crops that use different nutrients.
- B) Crops grown to protect and enhance soil health.
- Explanation: The passage explains that cover crops protect the soil from erosion and improve its organic matter content, indicating their role in soil health.
- B) Increased knowledge and labor requirements.
- Explanation: The passage mentions that sustainable farming often requires more knowledge and labor, posing a challenge for its adoption.
- C) By sequestering carbon in the soil.
- Explanation: The passage notes that sustainable agriculture can help mitigate climate change by sequestering carbon in the soil and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Free Digital SAT 2024 Online Practice Mock Test-3
Free SAT Mock Test Online: Are you preparing for the SAT and looking for the best resources to boost your score? Look no further! Our Free Digital SAT Practice Test 3, updated for 2024, offers comprehensive SAT mock tests online, specifically designed to enhance your reading and writing skills. This practice test includes high-quality, realistic questions that mirror the actual SAT, helping you become familiar with the test format and types of questions you’ll encounter.
By using our free SAT mock test, you can build your confidence, improve your test-taking strategies, and achieve a higher score. Whether you are aiming for a top-tier college or simply looking to do your best, our updated SAT practice test is an invaluable tool in your preparation arsenal.
Contact Us