CITIES vs. VILLAGES

Today people all over the world are moving out of small villages in the country to go and live in big, noisy cities. They are moving from the peaceful hills, mountains, fields, rivers and streams of the countryside to the busy world of streets, buildings, traffic and crowds. This movement from rural areas to urban areas is growing every day.

In many countries, the main reason people come to live in towns and cities is work. After one or two large factories have been built in or near a town, people come to find work, and soon an industrial area begins to grow. There is usually a residential area nearby, where the factory workers can live. The families of these workers need schools, hospitals and shops, so more people come to live in the area to provide these services.

In almost every city in the world, there is a business district where the big companies have their offices. In the United States, this area is usually in the city center downtown. People often travel a long way to work each day. They take a bus or a train, and rarely drive on their own – small parking places and expensive fares are the reason they leave their vehicles in garages. However, villages are becoming more popular since the working population needs some time off, relaxation and a healthy environment. Some villages have got wonderful resorts offering fresh food and clean water to those who wish to spend some time in less polluted and crowded areas.

Comprehension check

1. People are moving from villages to cities because…
   1. the traffic in villages is noisy.
   1. there are residential areas near big factories.
   1. they need jobs.
   1. they need new houses.

2. Big companies worldwide…
   1. have their offices in the United States.
   1. have their offices in town centers.
   1. build factories in residential areas.
   1. provide services in residential areas.

3.  Workers usually go to work…
   1. by buses or by underground.
   1. by car.
   1. on foot.
   1. by other vehicles.

4. Those who work in cities like going to villages because…
   1. they can start new businesses there.
   1. they go on holiday there.
   1. the parking spaces are expensive.
   1. they are hungry and thirsty.

5. Towns and cities are …
   1. offering clean water and healthy food.
   1. offering wonderful village resorts.
   1. less dirty and crowded.
   1. more dirty and with too many people.

•  The conclusion of the story is that…
  • cities are useful for career opportunities so as villages are useful for health and fun.
  • workers influence the growth of villages.
  • villages are losing their population.
  • urban areas must have factories and residential areas as well.