近畿大学の英語：長文読解問題１

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長文読解問題

課題文

次の英文を読み、各問いに答えなさい。

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In recent years, people around the world have become increasingly aware of the importance of protecting the environment. The rise of global temperatures, melting ice caps, and severe weather patterns have prompted scientists, politicians, and activists to call for immediate action to address climate change. One of the most significant contributors to this issue is the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, which releases a large amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂) into the atmosphere. This greenhouse gas traps heat from the sun, leading to a warming effect known as global warming.

Many countries have taken steps to reduce their carbon emissions by investing in renewable energy sources, like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. These sources do not produce CO₂ and are therefore considered cleaner alternatives to fossil fuels. However, transitioning to renewable energy is not always easy. It requires significant financial investment, new infrastructure, and a shift in public attitudes.

Another solution is to reduce energy consumption. This can be achieved by improving the efficiency of buildings, vehicles, and appliances, as well as encouraging individuals to use less energy in their daily lives. While these changes might seem small, they can have a considerable impact when adopted on a large scale. For instance, if every household were to reduce its energy consumption by just a few percent, the cumulative effect could be a substantial reduction in CO₂ emissions.

In conclusion, while the challenges of addressing climate change are vast, there are multiple strategies that can make a difference. Through a combination of renewable energy, reduced energy consumption, and public awareness, it may be possible to slow down the effects of global warming and create a more sustainable future for all.

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質問

問1. According to the passage, what is one of the major causes of climate change?

(A) The reduction of renewable energy sources
(B) The burning of fossil fuels
(C) The development of new technology
(D) Increased use of hydroelectric power

問2. Which of the following statements is true about renewable energy sources?

(A) They produce a large amount of CO₂.
(B) They require minimal investment to develop.
(C) They are considered cleaner than fossil fuels.
(D) They are only used in a few countries.

問3. What is suggested as a way to reduce energy consumption?

(A) Improving the efficiency of everyday products
(B) Increasing fossil fuel consumption
(C) Reducing the amount of water used daily
(D) Promoting the use of coal

問4. Which of the following best describes the main idea of the passage?

(A) The urgent need for political action on climate change
(B) Various approaches to tackling climate change
(C) The advantages of fossil fuels over renewable energy
(D) The importance of individual action in combating global warming

問5. What is implied by the phrase "cumulative effect" in paragraph 3?

(A) The effect is likely to decrease over time.
(B) The combined impact of small actions can be significant.
(C) Only individual actions are effective.
(D) Large-scale changes are necessary to see any results.

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解答と解説

1. (B)

   • 解説: 文中で、「One of the most significant contributors to this issue is the burning of fossil fuels」と述べられており、気候変動の原因の一つが化石燃料の燃焼であることがわかります。

2. (C)

   • 解説: 再生可能エネルギー源は化石燃料よりも環境に優しいとされており、これは「cleaner alternatives」という表現からもわかります。

3. (A)

   • 解説: 文中に「This can be achieved by improving the efficiency of buildings, vehicles, and appliances」とあり、エネルギー消費を減らす方法の一つとして効率改善が挙げられています。

4. (B)

   • 解説: 気候変動に対するさまざまなアプローチが紹介されており、本文全体の趣旨に最も適しています。

5. (B)

   • 解説: 「cumulative effect」は小さな行動が積み重なって大きな影響を及ぼすことを意味します。

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この問題セットは大学入試に適したレベルですので、受験生が入試の読解力を効果的に鍛えることができるでしょう。