Determine Main Ideas and Summarize Practice Test

Read the passage, then answer the question.

A community garden is a shared space where neighbors grow fruits, vegetables, and flowers together. One main idea is that community gardens can improve access to fresh food. In some neighborhoods, grocery stores with produce are far away. Garden plots allow families to grow tomatoes, beans, and greens close to home. Many gardens donate extra harvest to food pantries or share it at neighborhood events. Fresh food can also help people try new recipes and eat more vegetables.

Another main idea is that community gardens build stronger communities. Gardeners often work side by side, which gives them chances to meet new neighbors. People share tools, trade seeds, and teach each other planting skills. Some gardens create teams for watering schedules, so plants do not dry out during hot weeks. Schools sometimes visit gardens for science lessons, and older gardeners may share stories about how farming worked when they were young.

Finally, community gardens can help the environment in small but real ways. Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Garden soil can soak up rainwater, which reduces runoff on sidewalks and streets. When gardeners compost food scraps, they keep waste out of landfills and create rich soil. However, gardens still need planning, like testing soil for safety and setting rules so everyone uses the space fairly.

Which two ideas are most important to understanding this passage?

Read the passage.

The Amazon rainforest is one of the largest tropical rainforests on Earth. It covers parts of several South American countries, with the biggest area in Brazil. The region is warm and wet, and it receives heavy rain for much of the year. Many rivers flow through the forest, including the Amazon River, which carries huge amounts of water to the Atlantic Ocean.

Another main idea is that the Amazon has amazing biodiversity. Scientists estimate that millions of species may live there, including insects, birds, frogs, and plants. Tall trees form layers, or levels, that create different habitats. Some animals, like sloths, spend most of their lives in the trees, while others, like jaguars, travel on the forest floor.

However, the Amazon faces threats from deforestation. When trees are cut to create farmland or roads, habitats shrink and animals lose shelter. Cutting trees can also release stored carbon into the air. In some areas, forests are cleared by burning, which can cause smoke that affects nearby towns.

Finally, people are working to protect the rainforest. National parks and Indigenous territories can limit logging and support traditional ways of living. Some companies buy products like nuts and fruits that can be harvested without cutting trees. Scientists also use satellite images to track changes in forest cover over time.

Which two ideas are most important to understanding this passage?