Unlike conventional agriculture, which often depletes soil nutrients quickly, regenerative farming methods work to _______ the health of farmland. By rotating crops and using natural fertilizers, farmers can actually improve soil quality over time rather than degrading it.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
restore
ignore
measure
delay
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. The passage contrasts conventional farming (which "depletes" soil) with regenerative methods that "improve soil quality."
- Context clues: The word "Unlike" signals a contrast, and "improve" indicates positive change.
- Meaning: "Restore" means to return something to a former condition or improve it, which aligns with the goal of regenerative farming.
- Verify: Farmers who "restore the health of farmland" would indeed improve soil quality as described.
💡 Strategy: Contrast structures (Unlike X, Y does...) reveal that the blank should oppose the first described action.
Choice B is incorrect because "ignore" suggests neglect, which wouldn't lead to improvement. Choice C is incorrect because "measure" is a neutral action that doesn't address the farming goals described. Choice D is incorrect because "delay" implies postponing health restoration, not achieving it.