Reading Passage: The Rise of Urban Gardening

Section A

In recent decades, urban gardening has witnessed a dramatic rise in popularity across major cities worldwide. From rooftops in New York to community plots in Nairobi, citizens are reclaiming unused urban spaces to cultivate vegetables, fruits, and herbs. The reasons for this surge are many: a desire for fresher produce, concerns about food security, and the need to reduce carbon footprints associated with long-distance food transportation. As urban populations grow, so does the appeal of growing food close to home.

Section B

Beyond food production, urban gardens offer significant social benefits. Community gardening projects foster collaboration and inclusivity, drawing together people of various ages and backgrounds. These green spaces serve as informal classrooms where children learn about plants and nutrition. They also provide a therapeutic outlet for many, improving mental health and reducing stress. In some neighborhoods, the presence of well-maintained gardens has even been linked to lower crime rates.

Section C

However, urban gardening is not without its challenges. One major issue is space—many urban dwellers live in apartments with little or no outdoor area. Soil contamination is another concern, particularly in industrial areas where land may contain harmful chemicals. Regulatory barriers and lack of awareness also hinder efforts, as not all city residents are familiar with safe gardening practices or permitted to grow food on communal property.

Section D

Innovative solutions are beginning to address these barriers. Technologies like vertical farming and hydroponics allow cultivation without soil, using minimal space and resources. Portable garden kits make it possible to grow food even on balconies or window sills. Some city governments have launched initiatives to promote urban agriculture, including offering grants, organizing workshops, and relaxing zoning laws to support residents interested in greening their environments.

Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text?
Choose: TRUE if the statement agrees with the information, FALSE if it contradicts the information.

Urban gardening is mainly popular in rural farming communities.

Rooftop gardens are the only form of urban gardening mentioned.

Urban gardens can serve as learning environments for young people.

Community gardening may contribute to reducing neighborhood crime.

Soil pollution is not an issue in modern urban gardening.

All city governments now provide funding for urban gardening projects.

Complete the sentences below.
Write ONE WORD ONLY from the passage for each answer.

Urban gardening is partly driven by concern over global supplies.

City gardens can reduce the caused by transporting food over long distances.

Children can gain practical in community gardens.

People who live in may struggle to find gardening space.

In some areas, the in soil poses health risks to growers.

One modern method of gardening without soil is .

To support urban farming, some local authorities now offer to residents.

The text has four sections.
Choose the correct heading for each section from the list below.
Write the correct letter, A–E, in the boxes.

List of Headings

A. Social and emotional advantages of gardening
B. Growth and popularity of urban gardening
C. Technological innovations and policy support
D. Problems limiting urban agriculture
E. Commercial benefits of gardening

Section A →

Section B →

Section C →

Section D →

Choose TWO letters, A–E.
From the passage, which TWO of the following are mentioned as benefits of urban gardening?

A. Increased property values
B. Improved emotional well-being
C. Opportunities for cultural exchange
D. Strengthened community relationships
E. Access to exotic crops

From the passage, which TWO of the following are identified as challenges to urban gardening?

A. Lack of interest from city residents
B. Soil contamination
C. High cost of gardening tools
D. Limited outdoor space
E. Competition from supermarkets

Complete the summary below.
Write ONE WORD ONLY from the passage for each answer.

Urban gardening has grown popular in response to concerns about food systems and the environment. A major issue faced by city gardeners is a shortage of , especially for those in apartments. Another obstacle is in the soil, which may pose health risks. Despite these challenges, modern solutions like hydroponics and support from local governments through funding and education have helped urban gardening in many cities.

IELTS Listening Practice Test

Listening Test Section 1: Local Council Officer's Welcome Talk

Complete the form below.
Type ONE WORD AND/OR A NUMBER for each answer.

Bin Collection Schedule:
General waste collected on:
Recycling bins collected on:
Bins should be out by:  a.m.

Bins Provided:
Black bin – general waste
Grey bin with  lid – for recyclables
No extra  for requesting a recycling bin

Recycling Guidelines:
Accepted items: paper, cardboard, plastic bottles, and
Glass must be taken to the bank
Nearest location: beside the pharmacy on  Road

Extra Tools:
 ClearSort – free mobile

Community Event:
 Clean-Up Day on Saturday at  a.m., starting from the Community Centre

Listening Test Section 2 - University Library Services – New Student Briefing

Choose the correct letter, A, B or C.

What is the name of the university’s main library building?
A. Westbridge Resource Centre
B. Fletcher Resource Centre
C. Doyle Academic Centre

What time does the library open on weekdays?
 A. 8:00 a.m.
B. 9:00 a.m.
C. 8:30 a.m.

How much free printing credit is given per semester?
A. £5
B. £10
C. £15

Label the floors of the library.
Choose the correct option, A–E, next to each floor.

Floors
First floor
Second floor
Third floor
Top floor

Options:
 A. Silent study zone
B. Rare books collection
C. Group study area
D. Café and lounge
E. Computer lab

Complete the sentences below.
TYPE NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER for each answer.

Students must use their  to access the library printers.
Workshops are offered on referencing and how to avoid .
Students living off-campus can request of up to three books.