Read the passage.

Cities Are Growing
Southeast Asia as a whole remains largely rural, with agriculture still playing a major role in many economies. However, in recent years, more people have been moving to urban areas in search of jobs, better education, and higher living standards. This migration has fueled the rapid urbanization of major cities like Jakarta, Bangkok, Manila, and Ho Chi Minh City, transforming them into sprawling urban centers. As these cities grow rapidly, they face increasing urban challenges, including overcrowding, traffic congestion, and pollution.

The fast-paced population growth puts enormous strain on a city's infrastructure — the public works and structures essential for supporting a modern economy. Roads become clogged with vehicles, leading to longer commute times and rising air pollution. Hospitals and schools often struggle to accommodate the growing population, resulting in limited access to healthcare and education. Basic services like water supply, electricity, garbage disposal, and sewage facilities may also fall behind the rising demand, creating sanitation and safety issues. Housing shortages drive up costs, forcing many people into overcrowded places with poor living conditions. As cities continue to grow, addressing these challenges becomes crucial to ensuring sustainable development and improving the quality of life for all residents.

Adapted from: ©2019 Pearson Online & Blended Learning K–12 USA.

What problems have been caused by rapid urbanization (growth of cities) in Southeast Asia?
A complete answer will include the following information:

3-4 sentences in paragraph form

explain why people are moving to urban areas

explain what this is causing in cities like Jakarta

give 2-3 detailed examples of the challenges this growth has caused

You may use the sentence starters below to help you, or you may write your own original 3-4 sentences.

People are moving to urban areas _________________________. In cities like Jakarta, this is causing rapid __________ and strain on _________________. One challenge is ____(in your own words - do not copy from the passage)______________________. Another example is ____(in your own words - do not copy from the passage)______________________. A final example is ____(in your own words - do not copy from the passage)______________________.

(4 points)

Short Answer Rubric (4 points) Make it simple

1 answer

People are moving to urban areas in search of jobs, better education, and a higher quality of life. In cities like Jakarta, this is causing rapid population growth and strain on essential infrastructure. One challenge is increased traffic congestion, which leads to longer commute times and higher levels of air pollution. Another example is the overcrowding of schools and hospitals, resulting in limited access to education and healthcare services. A final example is a shortage of affordable housing, forcing many residents into cramped and unsanitary living conditions.