Exercise 3 - Part 1
For questions 1-8, think of the best word to complete each sentence.
City living is inherently noisy, but the specific impact of urban sounds on human psychology is only now being thoroughly (1) . Constant exposure to traffic and construction noise has been linked to elevated stress levels and sleep disturbances. Conversely, acoustic experts argue that deliberate sound design can dramatically improve city life. Introducing natural elements, like fountains or bird sanctuaries, can effectively (2) chaotic background racket. These pleasant auditory additions help urban dwellers relax, boosting cognitive performance and emotional well-being. Forward-thinking architects are now beginning to (3) acoustic planning into new developments. Using sound-absorbing building materials is one way to create quiet zones in dense areas. This strategy is proving highly beneficial in schools and hospitals where focus and healing are (4) . Local councils are also showing a (5) to implement low-noise traffic zones. Reducing vehicle speeds not only increases safety but lowers the decibel levels of neighborhoods. Public response to these initiatives has been overwhelmingly positive. If modern cities are to remain (6) , planners must treat sound not as an inevitable byproduct, but as an asset to manage. Failing to act could mean that stress-related illnesses will continue to (7) unchecked. We must design spaces that soothe our senses rather than constantly (8) them with technological noise.