Part II: Read the following passage and choose the most suitable sentence from the list A - H for each gap from 1 - 5. There are two extra sentences that you do not need to use. Write your answer in the space provided. (0) has been done as an example. (2,5 points)
The Sahara’s meager resources are being plundered right to the present day. This is shown most clearly in the dramatic fall in the region’s precious water reserves. The rock is of a type which hinders easy underground storage so the water supply depends on rainfall. (0) B . However, the seriousness of the situation goes far beyond mere seasonal changes.
There’s one district where observations go back at least 125 years. Here it is known that wells of the balance beam type were once used in cultivated areas. This way of drawing water is intended for the irrigation of gardens and small plots and works only if there’s water not more than about five metres below the surface.
(1) ______. They have all been replaced by wells from which the water has to be raised by draught animals, because it is now 25 metres down. (2) ______.
In a classic example of a vicious circle, shortage of water has led to the digging of more wells to save the flocks and birds. As these have been deepened the water supply has been further depleted. (3) ______.
The Air region was once regarded as the Switzerland of Africa because of its temperate climate. (4) ______. Nowadays, though, there are only a third of the palms which existed there at the turn of the century. The amount of wildlife has shown a proportionate fall. (5) ______. This is highly dangerous in a world where the overall population is growing rapidly. We cannot afford to lose fertile land.
A. So, too, has the number of human beings who can now survive in the area.
B. This being so, it is easy to understand why it varies.
C. Today, though, not one well of this type exists.
D. This has resulted in soil erosion which then dries out the land still further.
E. Here, then, the water level has evidently dropped by 20 metres in little over a century.
F. It was criss-crossed by valleys filled with palm trees and was thronged with wildlife.
G. Such are conditions in the Sahara Desert in recent times.
