Article A: Questions 36-40

    California wildfires are a recurring threat, fueled by a combination of natural and human-made factors. Climate change plays a significant role, with warmer temperatures, reduced rainfall, and longer fire seasons drying out the landscape, making it more susceptible to ignition and rapid fire spread. Extended periods of drought exacerbate the situation, turning dry vegetation into a tinderbox waiting for a spark.

    The frequency and intensity of wildfires in California have increased dramatically in recent years, with the annual average burned area in 2020-23 being three times higher than in the 2010s. While some fires are fueled by decades of fire suppression and changes in land management, others are driven by strong winds like the Santa Ana and Diablo winds, which act as accelerants, pushing flames across vast distances.

    California's growing population has expanded into the wildland-urban interface, where human development meets natural landscapes. This increased proximity to wildlands raises the risk of fire ignitions from human activities, such as faulty power lines, vehicles, and even campfires. The consequences are even more severe as more homes and lives are at risk in these areas.

    The impact of wildfires extends far beyond the immediate destruction of property and loss of life. The smoke from these fires poses a significant health risk, affecting air quality and causing respiratory problems. The economic consequences are also substantial, with businesses forced to close, infrastructure damaged, and communities struggling to recover.   

    In response to the devastating wildfires, organizations like the California Community Foundation (CCF) have established recovery funds to provide financial assistance and support to affected communities. These funds provide critical resources for housing, case management, mental health, and medical care for displaced residents, as well as rebuilding essential infrastructure and offering financial assistance to low-wage workers and immigrant families.

    The California government has also implemented measures to mitigate the risk of wildfires, including the development of Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ). These zones classify areas based on their susceptibility to wildfires, considering factors such as fire history, fuel types, terrain, and typical fire weather. This information helps communities and individuals understand the risks and take appropriate precautions to protect themselves and their property.

    While wildfires are a natural part of California's ecosystem, the increasing frequency and intensity of these events pose a significant challenge. Addressing the underlying causes, such as climate change and human activities, is crucial to mitigating the risks and protecting communities from the devastating consequences of wildfires.

Passage A: Question 31-35

    Scams in Taiwan have been on the rise in recent years, and they often target unsuspecting individuals. One of the most common scams involves fake phone calls or text messages that    31   people into believing they owe money or have won a prize. Scammers usually   32    their victims by pretending to be from official organizations such as banks or government agencies. They ask for personal information or urge victims to make an immediate payment to avoid legal trouble. The messages are often written in a way that    33    urgency, inspiring a sense of panic in the victim. To avoid falling victim to such scams, people should report   34    communications and always verify the source before taking action. In addition, it is important to remember that scams often appear in ways that make them look genuine, so being cautious and skeptical is key. People should also be aware that scammers often try to appeal   35    people’s emotions to make them act quickly.