Listen to part of a lecture in an environmental science class. Professor: Today we're discussing the role of wetlands in flood control. Now, many people think wetlands are just wastelands, but they actually act like natural sponges. When heavy rain falls, wetlands can absorb and store large amounts of water, slowly releasing it into rivers and streams. This reduces the peak flow of floodwater, which is critical in preventing sudden floods downstream. However, over the past century, urban development has led to the draining of over half of the world's wetlands. As a result, many cities now face higher flood risks. For example, after severe storms, areas that once had wetlands nearby often experience more rapid and severe flooding. Some researchers propose restoring these wetlands as a cost-effective alternative to building concrete levees. But there are challenges, including land acquisition and changes in local water chemistry. So, while wetland restoration is promising, it requires careful planning and community support.
❓ 문제 According to the professor, what is one major benefit of wetlands mentioned in the lecture?
A. They provide habitats for rare species.
B. They act as natural sponges that absorb floodwater.
C. They increase the flow of rivers and streams.
D. They are cheap sources of drinking water.
✅ 정답
They act as natural sponges that absorb floodwater.
TOEFL Listening Tips
Skim the questions first to predict the content
Watch for signal words in lectures and conversations (however, actually, in fact)
For main idea questions, focus on the beginning; for detail questions, focus on examples and data
For attitude questions, pay attention to the speaker's tone and word choice
Take notes on keywords; don't try to write down every word