Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) Social Science Practice Test

What unique feature characterizes urban patterns in Latin American cities compared to those in the US?

1. Presence of gentrification

2. Followers of sector patterns

3. Wealthy residents near the business center

4. Increased rural-urban migration

The correct answer is: Increased rural-urban migration

The unique feature that characterizes urban patterns in Latin American cities, particularly in comparison to those in the United States, is the pattern of increased rural-urban migration. This phenomenon has been significant in many Latin American countries, where people relocate from rural areas to urban centers in search of better economic opportunities, education, and services. This influx of migrants often results in rapid urban growth, which can lead to the development of informal settlements or slums on the outskirts of major cities. This migration trend reflects broader socio-economic dynamics in Latin America, including agricultural changes, economic instability, and urbanization trends that differ from those in North America. In the U.S., urbanization patterns are often shaped by different historical factors, migration trends, and economic opportunities, which do not lead to the same level of rural-urban migration. While gentrification, sector patterns, and the proximity of wealthy residents to central business districts do exist in both regions, they do not uniquely characterize Latin American urban patterns to the same extent as increased rural-urban migration does. In Latin America, the consequences of this migration can directly influence urban layout, socio-economic divisions, and the availability of services and infrastructure.