II. Read the text and questions below. For each question, mark the correct letter A, B, C or D on
your answer sheet. (10 points)
Since the world has become industrialized, there has been an increase in the number of
animal species that have either become extinct or have neared extinction. Bengal tigers, for
instance, which once roamed the jungles in vast numbers, now number only about 2300 and by
the year 2025, their population is estimated to be down to zero. What is alarming about the
case of the Bengal tiger is that this extinction will have been caused almost entirely by

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poachers who, according to some sources, are not interested in material gain but in personal
gratification. This is an example of the callousness that is part of what is causing the problem
of extinction. Animals like the Bengal tiger, as well as other endangered species, are a valuable
part of the world’s ecosystem. International laws protecting these animals must be enacted to
ensure their survival, and the survival of our planet.
Countries around the world have begun to deal with the problem in various ways. Some
countries, in order to circumvent the problem, have allocated large amounts of land to animal
reserves. They, then charge admission to help defray the costs of maintaining the parks, and
they often must also depend on world organizations for support. With the money they get, they
can invest equipment and patrols to protect the animals. Another solution that is an attempt
to stem the tide of animal extinction is an international boycott of products made from
endangered species. This seems fairly effective, but will not by itself, prevent animals from
being hunted and killed.
1. What is the main topic of the passage?
A. The Bengal tiger B. international boycotts
C. endangered species D. problems with industrialization
2. What does the word "which" in paragraph 1 mean?
A. Bengal tigers B. animal species C. the jungles D. poachers
3. which of the following is closest in meaning to the word “alarming” in the first paragraph?
A. dangerous B. good C. gripping D. distressing
4. The above passage is divided into two paragraphs in order to contrast _______
A. a problem and a solution B. a statement and an illustration
C. a comparison and a contrast D. a specific and general information
5. Which of the following best describes the author’s attitude?
A. forgiving B. concerned C. happy D. surprised