Pre-Reading:

1a. Read the eye-catching features (title, subtitles, graphs, enlarged quotes, etc…) and paragraph 1.
What problem will be discussed in this text?
Write in your own words in English.

b. Support your answer with information from the graphs.
(8 points)

CLOSE READING
Section 1: Introduction (paragraphs 1 – 9):

2. What is paradoxical about the situation in Italy?

On the one hand:
on the other hand
(8 points)

3. What might happen if the world became less populated?
List four possible negative consequences.
1.
2.
3.
4.
(8 points)

4. The main idea of paragraphs 5-9 is

a. World population is on the rise, from 1.6 to 6 billion.
b. Fertility rates are dropping. However, we still do not feel the implications.
c. Researchers are afraid that resources like food and water will not be enough for world population.

(7 points)

Section 2: Kids in Cities Are a Liability (par. 10-12)

5. Why is fertility dropping in today's world? List four reasons.
1.
2.
3.
4.

……..