Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct word or phrase that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 1 to 5.

Natural Wonders of the World

The world is full of incredible natural wonders, each showcasing (1) ______ beauty and uniqueness. The Grand Canyon in the United States is one of the most famous natural wonders. It is known for its vastness, with layers of rock that tell the story of Earth's history. The Canyon attracts millions of tourists every year, eager to witness the breathtaking views.

Another remarkable wonder is the Amazon Rainforest, (2) ______ is considered the "lungs of the Earth" because of its role in producing oxygen. It's home to countless species of plants and animals, many of which have never been discovered. (3) ______ the rainforest is beautiful, it is also facing major threats due to deforestation and climate change.

It is important for us to (4) ______ these natural wonders, not just for their beauty, but also for the critical environmental services they provide. And, there are places like the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, which is known for its incredible marine life and vibrant coral reefs. These reefs are (5) ______ threatened by rising ocean temperatures and pollution. Therefore, it is essential that we take actions to protect these incredible ecosystems before it's too late.