Analyzing the Waterbird Census Passage: Blank 1

The question asks us to select the most appropriate word to fill in blank number 1 in the provided passage. The passage discusses the findings of a recent census of waterbirds. Let's look at the sentence containing the first blank:

"A recent census of waterbirds conducted as a part of the Asian Waterbird Census (1)______ an increase in their population in Najafgarh Jheel this year."

We need a verb that describes what a census does with its findings. A census is a systematic counting or survey. What does it do with the data it collects, like an increase in population?

Evaluating the Options for Blank 1

Let's examine the given options:

• reaped: This word usually means to gather a harvest or gain a reward as a result of effort. It doesn't fit the action of a census documenting population numbers.
• recorded: This means to write down or register facts, events, etc. This is precisely what a census does – it records data and observations, such as an increase in a population.
• played: This word has many meanings, like participating in a game or instrument, or performing a role. None of these meanings are suitable in the context of a census finding an increase in population.
• responded: This means to react to something or answer. A census doesn't "respond" an increase; it might *report* or *record* it.

Determining the Correct Word for Blank 1

Based on the meaning of the options and the context of the sentence, the most appropriate word to describe what the census did with its finding (an increase in population) is 'recorded'. A census collects information and records it for analysis and reporting.

Therefore, the completed sentence with the first blank filled would be:

"A recent census of waterbirds conducted as a part of the Asian Waterbird Census recorded an increase in their population in Najafgarh Jheel this year."

This sentence makes logical sense and uses the word 'recorded' in its correct context.

Revision Table: Understanding Key Vocabulary

Additional Information: About Censuses and Surveys

A census is a comprehensive count or survey of a population or sample. It is used to gather data about characteristics such as size, distribution, and other demographics. This information is crucial for planning and understanding trends.

Key aspects of a census or survey often involve:

• Data Collection: Systematically gathering information.
• Data Recording: Documenting the collected information accurately.
• Data Analysis: Studying the recorded data to identify patterns and trends.
• Reporting Findings: Presenting the conclusions drawn from the analysis.

In the case of a waterbird census, the goal is often to monitor population sizes, species diversity, and the health of their habitat. The passage describes the census achieving the step of 'recording' an increase and documenting changes in species numbers, which is a typical outcome of such a survey.