The concept of the 'Anthropocene' has gained significant traction in geological and environmental circles, proposing that human activity has become a dominant force shaping the Earth's systems. While the term remains unofficial in the geological timescale, its proponents argue that markers such as plastic pollution, nuclear fallout, and elevated carbon dioxide levels provide clear evidence of a distinct epoch. Critics, however, contend that the Anthropocene lacks a clear starting point, with some suggesting the Industrial Revolution and others pointing to the advent of agriculture. This ambiguity complicates its formal adoption, yet the debate itself underscores a profound shift in how scientists perceive humanity's role in planetary change.
❓ 批評家たちが人新世を地質時代として正式に採用することに反対する主な理由は何ですか？
A. A. 地球のシステムに対する人間の影響を示す証拠は不十分である。
B. B. この用語は環境分野以外では広く受け入れられていない。
C. C. 提案された時代には、明確に定義された始まりが欠けている。
D. D. 科学者たちは産業指標よりも農業に焦点を当てることを好む。
✅ 正确答案
C. The proposed epoch lacks a clearly defined beginning.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first