DTW GED PREP

In early history, most human societies were rural, with people living in small villages and farming communities. Agriculture was the primary way of life, and people relied on farming for food, clothing, and shelter. However, the world has undergone significant changes, particularly in terms of population distribution. Today, more than 50% of the global population lives in urban areas—towns and cities. This marks the first time in human history that urban populations have surpassed rural ones, and this trend is expected to continue as urbanization increases worldwide.

There are several reasons for the shift from rural to urban living. Cities tend to offer more opportunities for employment, education, healthcare, and access to various services. These opportunities are often not as readily available in rural areas, where populations tend to be smaller and economies are more focused on agriculture or limited industries. The concentration of jobs, cultural institutions, and infrastructure in cities makes them attractive to people seeking a better quality of life and improved prospects for themselves and their families.

However, the transition from rural to urban life does not always guarantee an improved standard of living. In many developing countries, particularly in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, people moving from rural areas to cities often face significant challenges. Many arrive with little or no resources and are unable to find adequate employment. As a result, large numbers of people end up living in poverty, often in informal settlements or slums with limited access to clean water, sanitation, or basic services. In these cities, the demand for jobs and housing outpaces the availability of opportunities, leading to overcrowding, unemployment, and increased social inequality.

The rapid population growth in cities, particularly in developing countries, exacerbates these challenges. As the global population continues to rise—projected to reach 10.9 billion by the beginning of the next century—the vast majority of this growth will occur in less developed regions. This creates immense pressure on urban infrastructure, services, and resources, making it harder for cities to keep up with the demands of their growing populations. In contrast, population growth in more developed countries, such as those in Europe, North America, and Japan, is much slower. This is largely due to smaller family sizes and lower birth rates, which result in slower population growth.

In summary, while urbanization brings opportunities for economic growth, education, and healthcare, it also presents challenges, especially in developing countries where the pace of population growth is outstripping the ability of cities to provide for their citizens. Addressing these challenges will require careful planning, investment in infrastructure, and policies that promote sustainable urban development to ensure that urbanization leads to better living conditions for all.

POPULATION TRENDS AND ISSUES

Directions: Choose the best answer to the following questions. Questions 1 and 2 are based on the following graph:

1. According to the graph, which conclusion can be drawn?
   A. Experts can accurately predict the world’s population in the year 2100.
   B. Experts agree that the world’s population will decline by 2100.
   C. The world’s population is projected to keep growing over the next 75 years.
   D. The world’s population is expected to triple during the second half of the 21st century.
2. By 2070, the world’s population is predicted to be three times what it was in 1970.
   ______ TRUE or ______ FALSE

1. According to the graph, which conclusion can be drawn?

✅ C. The world’s population is projected to keep growing over the next 75 years.

🟩 Explanation: The graph shows observed population growth until about 2020, and projections afterward. The red median projection continues to increase through 2100, though at a slower rate, indicating that growth is expected to continue (though some projections show a plateau or slight decline).

2. By 2070, the world’s population is predicted to be three times what it was in 1970.

✅ FALSE

🟩 Explanation:

• In 1970, the population was a little over 3.5 billion.
• In 2070, the population is projected to be slightly over 10 billion.
  This is less than triple the 1970 population (3.5 × 3 = 10.5 billion). So, the statement is false.