English Language Writing Skills

By Danso Kwasi Nti Samuel (DAS). Study the complete course source, examine every model and practise alongside Professor Jarvis.

Course printed page 481 PDF page 487 of 505

For tables, matching columns, IPA and original formatting, open the course PDF above.

Passage 8:

River pollution in Ghana has become a critical environmental issue, particularly due to

illegal mining activities and improper waste disposal. Small-scale miners, commonly

referred to as "galamsey," use harmful chemicals like mercury and cyanide, which

contaminate water bodies. In addition, factories often discharge untreated industrial waste

into rivers, further degrading the quality of the water.

The consequences of river pollution are severe. Polluted rivers pose health risks to

communities that rely on them for drinking water, fishing, and agriculture. Moreover,

aquatic life is threatened, disrupting the ecosystem and affecting livelihoods that depend

on the natural resources from these rivers.

To address the issue of river pollution, the government has embarked on initiatives to clamp

down on illegal mining and strengthen regulations for industries that pollute water bodies.

Environmental agencies are also monitoring water quality, while public education

campaigns encourage communities to adopt better waste management practices.

Questions

a) What are the main causes of river pollution in Ghana, according to the passage?

b) How does river pollution affect communities and ecosystems?

c) What actions are being taken by the government to reduce river pollution in Ghana?

d) Explain the following expressions in your own words:

 i. illegal mining

 ii. untreated waste

e) How does river pollution threaten the livelihoods of affected communities?

f) What is the attitude of the writer?