Q1: Vocabulary, Living with Drought

Front

Agriculture

Back

The practice of growing crops and raising animals for food, fiber, and other products. Example: Many people in rural areas depend on agriculture to make a living.

Front

Arid

Back

Very dry; having little or no rainfall. Example: The desert is an arid region where few plants can survive.

Front

Average

Back

A number that shows the typical amount by dividing the total by the number of items. Example: The average rainfall in the area has decreased over the past decade.

Front

Be gripped by

Back

To be strongly affected by a powerful feeling or situation. Example: The country was gripped by a long and dangerous drought.

Front

Climate

Back

The usual weather conditions in a region over a long period of time. Example: The tropical climate is hot and humid year-round.

Front

Commodity

Back

Something that can be bought and sold, especially a basic good like oil, wheat, or water. Example: Clean water is becoming a valuable commodity in many dry areas.

Front

Conventional

Back

Usual, traditional, or commonly used. Example: Conventional farming methods often use a lot of water.

Front

Converts

Back

Changes something into a different form or use. Example: The machine converts saltwater into fresh drinking water.

Front

Desalinization

Back

The process of removing salt from seawater to make it drinkable. Example: Desalinization helps provide fresh water to coastal cities with limited rainfall.

Front

Drought

Back

A long period with little or no rainfall, causing a water shortage. Example: The drought lasted for months, drying up rivers and lakes.