Standard

Use an appropriate text type from the options below the task you choose. Write 250 to 400 words.

You have noticed that more and more young people take notes in class with a computer instead of a pen. You have tried both methods and want to exchange opinions with your friends. Write a text in which you discuss, in your opinion, the advantages and disadvantages of either method.

Answer keys:

•  A broad interpretation of the term “computer” should be accepted; it can be interpreted as any electronic device, such as a tablet or even a phone.
• Taking notes with a computer does not necessarily have to be viewed as typing only; discussion about other relevant technology or tools, such as speech-to-text apps or audio recordings, should be accepted.
• Both advantages and disadvantages must be discussed effectively. There does not need to be equal space devoted to both, but neither should be left minimal (in a single sentence) or completely ignored.
• Some scripts might compare the two methods, while others would focus on only one. Any approach adopted (one-sided, balanced, analytic, etc.) is permissible as long as the focus remains on advantages and disadvantages. However, it is not necessary to come up with a conclusion regarding which method is better.
• Focus should remain on how well-developed the ideas are. Ideally, there should be 2 or more distinguishable ideas for each. But if only one advantage and one disadvantage are presented in a developed way, this should be permissible. If there is really one or more of each, this is very general and superficial.

• Choice of text type:

• Register and tone:
• Semi-formal, with possible touches of informality.
• Friendly, engaging, and personal tone.

Sample answer (detailed outline):

Use an appropriate text type from the options below the task you choose. Write 250 to 400 words.

You want to make a short video using cameras on a drone (a small flying device) to show the unique sides of your neighbourhood. You know that there might be privacy and safety concerns, so you want to seek permission. Write a text for the city council in which you explain your goals for the video and how the drones will be used responsibly.

Answer keys:

• The two required aspects of the task are [i] “to explain your goals” and [ii] “explain how the drones will be used responsibly”. (Equal weight does not have to be given to those two elements, but both should be given some developed attention.)
  • It is expected that the “goals” be plural i.e. there should be 2 or more distinguishable goals. However, should the script introduce a single goal only, this should be fully developed and well supported with examples and details.
  • The “goals” may relate to what the final video will be like (the end product), or to the reason why they want to create the video (their motivation), or both.
  • The response should explain how the drones will be used responsibly, rather than simply providing an explanation of what they will do. “used responsibly” is expected to relate to privacy and safety.
  • The writer may discuss where the drones will be used, but it must be developed to harness the idea of "using drones responsibly" (e.g., addressing safety/privacy concerns).

• Choice of text type:

• Register and tone:
• Formal register with perhaps some flashes of semi-formality
• Serious, persuasive, and polite tone

Sample answer (detailed outline):

Use an appropriate text type from the options below the task you choose. Write 250 to 400 words. 

You feel that the technology at your school is outdated. You want the school to upgrade it to enhance teaching and learning for all students. Write a text in which you explain to the school principal the problem with the current technology and suggest how it should be improved.

Answer keys:

• The two required aspects of the task are [i] “explain the problem with the current technology” and [ii] “suggest how it could be improved”. (Equal weight does not have to be given to those two elements, but both should be given some developed attention.)
  • While a response can mention how outdated technology affects the writer personally, it should focus on the impacts on the student body in general. “Outdated” might include unstable wi-fi connection, no smart TVs in classrooms, slow printers, etc.
  • The term “improved” can be interpreted as a replacement of the existing technology, addition of equipment, and/or modification of the technology or the way in which it is used. It is necessary for the suggestion(s) to be linked directly to how they will enhance teaching and learning.
  • In some responses, ‘limitations, advantages, benefits, budget, etc.’ might be explained. This is expected in proposals and should be permissible as long as they are linked to how technology enhances the teaching and learning of students.

• Choice of text type:

• Register and tone:
• Formal register
• Serious, explanatory, persuasive tone

Sample answer (detailed outline):

Use an appropriate text type from the options below the task you choose. Write 250 to 400 words.

At your school, students have to use a lot of apps to complete their schoolwork. You are unsure how you feel about this and want to think about it more. Write a text in which you consider some of the ways apps are used in your school, and explore whether you find this beneficial or distracting. 

Answer keys:

• The two aspects of this question are: (i) to consider the ways apps are used to complete schoolwork, and (ii) to explore whether this use is beneficial or distracting. (Equal weight does not need to be given to the aspects, but both should be given some developed attention.) 
• “Consider some of the ways apps are used” should involve introducing at least two different apps; listing apps is not enough – there should be some elaboration on their use. However, should only one app be mentioned and how this is used, this must be fully developed and well supported with examples and details. 
• There will be a range of uses, depending on your experience. Examples could include: communication with students and teachers, how teachers plan their lessons, research, submitting assignments, locating resources/lessons shared by teachers, reviewing lessons/content, signing up for extracurricular activities, participating in online events/classes, etc. 
• The second aspect is reflective, and responses will vary. Whether you find this “beneficial or distracting” might be presented as advantages or disadvantages. Discussion of (ii) may focus on whether the use of apps is beneficial or distracting, or both.
• Choice of text

• Register and tone: 
• Informal (semi-formal if presenting as a proposal) 
• Could be relaxed (as a reflective activity), thoughtful, comparative

Sample answer (detailed outline):

What is a “third space” venue—and could it be the future of hybrid working? 

As many companies move towards a hybrid operating system where employees are split between office and home, a third way of working is growing increasingly popular. Logging on from a cafe, co-working space* or even a rural retreat is an attractive proposition for many. 

[ – 5 – ] 
“Third spaces”, such as bars or cafes, are often the venue of choice for both remote workers and freelancers—and they are popping up in locations around the world. 

In New York, the wine bar Kindred offers work slots from 10am to 4pm. For $25, you can drop in and out throughout the day and have access to high-speed wifi, charging stations and unlimited coffee. At Hudson Yards, workers can have access to a connected outdoor work pod, seat, or a swing to plug into for the day if they make a reservation. In Tokyo, the shared working space Andwork is sited in The Millennials hotel. It offers communal tables and pods, access to a common kitchen, and the chance to refresh by taking a nap or a shower. 

[ – 6 – ] 
“Giving people a place to go that is not their house is a huge business opportunity”, said Cal Newport, author of Deep Work. The concept of “deep work” is about enabling people to focus on mentally complex tasks without getting sidetracked. This idea was the inspiration for a UK start-up, FLOWN, which offers subscribers access to woodland cabins with floor-to-ceiling windows where they can undertake their tasks. 

[ – 7 – ] 
One outstanding question is how co-working will evolve. 90% of companies anticipate a hybrid approach to work with employees mixing and matching where they work according to their comfort levels. That also provides an opportunity for businesses to creatively develop their own “third spaces”. 

However we end up working in the future, one thing is clear: there will be more variety than ever when it comes to the how, when and where.

Question:

1. Choose the three true statements (paragraphs 1–3). 
A. Many workers prefer to work in a cafe than in the countryside.
B. Most people who already work in bars or cafes are freelance workers.
C. One “third space” venue gives workers the option to come and go during the day.
D. One “third space” venue offers limitless coffee to workers who pay a fee.
E. At one “third space” venue, customers can use a work pod without making a reservation.
F. One “third space” venue allows tired workers to sleep while on site.

Answer the following questions (paragraphs 4–6).
2. How is the possibility of creating alternative work spaces perceived by Cal Newport?
3. What type of activities do the spaces at FLOWN support?
4. According to most companies, what will be important to employees when choosing the places where they work?

Choose an appropriate heading from the list that completes each gap in the text. 

Find the word or phrase in paragraphs 4–5 which means the following: 
8. distracted 
9. members 
10. carry out 
11. unresolved 

Answer keys:

1. Target answer: C, D, F (in any order)

C. One “third space” venue gives workers the option to come and go during the day.

• Evidence: “In New York, the wine bar Kindred offers work slots from 10am to 4pm. For $25, you can drop in and out throughout the day…”
• Explanation: The phrase “drop in and out throughout the day” clearly shows that workers have the flexibility to come and go — exactly what the statement says.

D. One “third space” venue offers limitless coffee to workers who pay a fee.

• Evidence: “…and have access to high-speed wifi, charging stations and unlimited coffee.”
• Explanation: This line refers to Kindred’s offer, where workers pay $25 and receive unlimited coffee. “Limitless coffee” means the same as “unlimited coffee,” so the statement is true.

F . One “third space” venue allows tired workers to sleep while on site.

• Evidence: “In Tokyo, the shared working space Andwork… offers communal tables and pods, access to a common kitchen, and the chance to refresh by taking a nap or a shower.”
• Explanation: “Taking a nap” means workers can sleep while on site, matching this statement exactly.

Why others are incorrect:

• A: Not mentioned; the text does not compare cafés to the countryside.
• B: The text says “for both remote workers and freelancers,” not “most people… are freelancers.”
• E: Incorrect because at Hudson Yards, workers can access pods if they make a reservation, not without one.

2. Target answer: (as a) huge business opportunity.

• Evidence: “Giving people a place to go that is not their house is a huge business opportunity, said Cal Newport...”
• Explanation: Cal Newport believes that creating new or alternative working spaces (outside the home) is not just beneficial for workers but also a promising opportunity for businesses to profit and innovate in the new hybrid work model.

3. Target answer: Mentally complex (tasks)

• Evidence from text: “The concept of ‘deep work’ is about enabling people to focus on mentally complex tasks without getting sidetracked. This idea was the inspiration for a UK start-up, FLOWN…”
• Explanation: FLOWN’s working spaces (like woodland cabins) are designed to help people concentrate deeply on challenging mental work, which matches the idea of “deep work.”

4. Target answer: (their) comfort levels.

• Evidence from text: “90% of companies anticipate a hybrid approach… with employees mixing and matching where they work according to their comfort levels.”
• Explanation: Most companies believe employees will choose where to work based on how comfortable and productive they feel in each environment — at home, in the office, or in a “third space.”

5. C. Companies choose for employees

• Evidence: “Third spaces, such as bars or cafes, are often the venue of choice for both remote workers and freelancers—and they are popping up in locations around the world.”
• Explanation: This paragraph introduces what third spaces are and how companies (and workers) use them. It gives examples of companies offering third-space venues (like Kindred, Hudson Yards, and Andwork). → Therefore, the heading “Companies choose for employees” matches best because it shows how companies are providing or organizing these new working environments.

6. F. Good for new businesses as well as workers

• Evidence: “Giving people a place to go that is not their house is a huge business opportunity… This idea was the inspiration for a UK start-up, FLOWN…”
• Explanation: This paragraph focuses on the business potential of creating third spaces (for entrepreneurs and start-ups) while also benefiting workers who need quiet, creative environments.
  → So it’s good for businesses (a huge opportunity) and good for workers (helping them focus on “mentally complex tasks”).

7. B. What the future holds for co-working

• Evidence: “One outstanding question is how co-working will evolve. 90% of companies anticipate a hybrid approach… That also provides an opportunity for businesses to creatively develop their own third spaces.”
• Explanation: This paragraph looks ahead to the future of work — how co-working and hybrid models will continue to evolve and become more flexible.
  → Therefore, the heading “What the future holds for co-working” fits perfectly.

8. distracted → sidetracked

• Evidence from text: “The concept of ‘deep work’ is about enabling people to focus on mentally complex tasks without getting sidetracked.”
• Explanation: “Sidetracked” means to lose focus or get distracted from what you’re doing. The phrase “without getting sidetracked” directly means “without being distracted.”

9. members → subscribers

• Evidence from text: “This idea was the inspiration for a UK start-up, FLOWN, which offers subscribers access to woodland cabins…”
• Explanation: A subscriber is someone who signs up or becomes a member of a service. Here, subscribers are people who have a membership to use FLOWN’s spaces.

10. carry out → undertake

• Evidence from text: “…where they can undertake their tasks.”
• Explanation: To undertake means to carry out or to do something, especially a job or task. In this context, workers “undertake their tasks” = “carry out their tasks. 

11. unresolved → outstanding

• Evidence from text: “One outstanding question is how co-working will evolve.”
• Explanation: Here, “outstanding” doesn’t mean “excellent,” but rather “unresolved or not yet answered.” The question about the future of co-working remains unsolved — it’s still outstanding.

Africa counts on technology to attract youth to farming

RULINDO, Rwanda – Marie Chantal Akingeneye lost her only cow to an unknown illness. Since then she has had no source for fertilizer for her fruit and vegetables. She hopes a new phone app could help. The United Nations developed this technology and after attending a training course on how to use the app, Marie Chantal thinks it will help to keep her goats and pigs healthy and modernize her farm for her six-year-old son to take over.

“It tells farmers about diseases that attack animals,” the 28-year-old mother explains. “The cow died because I didn’t know it was sick.”

Experts say that these simple, mobile phone-based apps could produce great results in Africa by encouraging more youth to become farmers and helping to solve problems of unemployment and hunger. The free app also provides information on weather, market prices for crops, and producing and conserving healthy foods.

It is becoming increasingly important for farmers to access up-to-date information as climate change nowadays means traditional knowledge on planting seasons is unreliable. A simple text to farmers just to say, “The weather forecast for the next three days is this” can fundamentally change what they do.

Daniel Nshimiyimana, a Rwandan university graduate who turned his grandparents’ neglected land into a successful farm producing bananas, maize and beans, is one of 50 farmers who have been testing the app since 2016. “The app helps by telling me about the quality of seeds I have to plant, the quantity of fertilizer to use, the distance between the trees,” he said. “My bunches of bananas used to weigh 30 kilos. Now they are 40, 50 kilos,” Nshimiyimana said, proudly pointing at the banana trees. 

But according to one senior consultant, the advantages of technology can be uncertain when it is donor-funded. “If the funding runs out, the project is going to fail.” It will also take time for technology to revolutionize Africa’s agriculture as farmers tend to be conservative with poor digital literacy.

Question:

Choose an appropriate ending from the list that completes each sentence (paragraphs 1-3).

The following statements are either true or false. Tick the correct option, then justify it using words as they appear in the text (paragraphs 4-6).
5. Farmers cannot depend on past experience to know when to grow crops.
True
False
Justification:

6. Daniel Nshimiyimana’s grandparents ran a successful farm.
True
False
Justification:

7. Daniel is disappointed with his banana crop.
True
False
Justification:

8. Without financing, the app will not continue to be developed.
True
False
Justification:

9. Farmers usually prefer to use traditional methods.
True
False
Justification:

To whom or to what do the underlined words refer? Answer using words as they appear in the text.

10. It tells farmers... (paragraph 2)
11. ...change what they do. (paragraph 4)
12. Now they are 40, 50 kilos... (paragraph 5)
13. ...it is donor-funded. (paragraph 6)

Answer:

1. Target Answer: H

• Text Evidence: "Marie Chantal Akingeneye lost her only cow to an unknown illness. Since then she has had no source for fertilizer for her fruit and vegetables." 
• Explanation: The demise of her cow resulted in the cessation of her only source of fertilizer, which means she experienced a significant reduction in available fertilizer compared to the prior period.

2. Target Answer: A

• Text Evidence: "It tells farmers about diseases that attack animals," the 28-year-old mother explains. 
• Explanation: Marie Chantal explicitly states that the application provides farmers with intelligence regarding pathologies that affect livestock, which is the identification of animal illnesses.

3. Target Answer: E

• Text Evidence: "Experts say that these simple, mobile phone-based apps could produce great results in Africa by encouraging more youth to become farmers and helping to solve problems of unemployment and hunger." 
• Explanation: The experts propose that the application will contribute to the resolution of unemployment by motivating youth to pursue agriculture, thereby enabling more people to find work.

4. Target Answer: F

• Text Evidence: "The free app also provides information on weather, market prices for crops, and producing and conserving healthy foods." 
• Explanation: The application is shown to disseminate various types of relevant data (including weather and market prices), which constitutes information useful for farming operations.

5. Target answer: True

• Justification: (as climate change nowadays means) traditional knowledge on planting seasons is unreliable.
• Explanation: The text asserts that traditional knowledge regarding agricultural cycles is now unreliable due to shifting climatic conditions, meaning that farmers cannot depend on their past experience to determine planting times.

6. Target answer: False

• Justification: (his) grandparents’ neglected land
• Explanation: Daniel transformed his grandparents’ land, which is described as neglected, into a successful enterprise, indicating that the farm was not successful under his grandparents' management.

7. Target answer: False 

• Justification: proudly pointing (at the banana trees)
• Explanation: Daniel expresses evident pride in the increased weight of his banana bunches and is proudly pointing at the trees, which is behavior directly contradictory to being disappointed.

8. Target answer: True

• Justification: If the funding runs out, the project is going to fail.
• Explanation: The statement directly warns that the viability of the project is contingent upon continued financial support (funding), and its cessation would lead to the failure of the entire enterprise.

9. Target answer: True 

• Justification: (farmers) tend to be conservative
• Explanation: The characterization of farmers as conservative suggests they typically favor established or historical practices (traditional methods) over new technological ones.

10. Target answer: (the) app
Accept: (a/the new) phone app; the application; the (new phone) app developed by the UN

• Text Evidence: "She hopes a new phone app could help... and after attending a training course on how to use the app, Marie Chantal thinks it will help... 'It tells farmers about diseases..." 
• Explanation: The pronoun refers anaphorically to the singular entity that is being described as a potential source of help and the subject of the training course, which is the app.

11. Target answer: (the) farmers

• Text Evidence: "A simple text to farmers just to say, ‘The weather forecast for the next three days is this’ can fundamentally change what they do."
• Explanation: The pronoun functions as a substitute for the subject whose actions can be fundamentally altered by the weather forecast text, which is the farmers.

12. Target answer: (my/the) bunches of bananas
Accept: Daniel (Nshimiyimana)'s bunches of bananas
Do Not Accept: bananas.

• Text Evidence: "My bunches of bananas used to weigh 30 kilos. Now they are 40, 50 kilos..."
• Explanation: The plural pronoun refers to the agricultural products whose weight has significantly increased following the use of technology, which are the bunches of bananas.

13. Target answer: technology
Accept: the technology
Do Not Accept:
the app
the project
the technology of the app
the advantages of technology

• Text Evidence: "...the advantages of technology can be uncertain when it is donor-funded." 
• Explanation: The singular pronoun is used to refer back to the subject whose funding source determines its uncertain advantages, which is technology.

Teen inventor’s tips to make you creative

When Ann Makosinski was growing up in Canada, she didn’t play video games and seldom watched television – only half an hour on weekends when her schoolwork was done. Instead, she listened to 19th century opera and classical Indian music, learned piano and violin, watched silent films at home and played with electronic gadgets.

Now 19 years old, Makosinski has won several major prizes for her inventions. These include a flashlight that works with the heat of the human hand and a coffee cup that uses heat to charge a phone. 

Our news reporter talked with her to get some advice about how to be creative from an early age and how to turn a good idea into an invention. Here are some of her tips.

Turn off your phone
Unlike most of her friends, Makosinski did not have a cellphone at high school. She says she concentrated better on her studies without it. She suggests that creative people who want more time to invent go on a technology-free diet for a week or two. “In this way, they will have more spare time.”

The appearance of an invention is important
Makosinski chose to study English literature at university. She explains that it is important to develop an interest in both art and science. “If you make something but the invention does not look good to the customer, nobody is going to buy it.”

Do not stop doing a project because it is difficult
According to Makosinski, one of the hardest parts of creating something is not giving up even when the task is difficult and you are not good at it.

When you are doing a project, do not go to parties 
Makosinski believes that you must concentrate on a project. “You should not listen to loud music or go to social get-togethers.”

Accept that the project may not work at the beginning
Makosinski says that when you start to create something you must not think about the goal or the dream but instead, accept you might not be successful. “The first time you try to make something, it probably won’t work but you learn more when you fix a mistake than when you get it right immediately.”

Question:

1. Choose the five true statements. (paragraphs 1-2) 
A. Ann sometimes visited Canada.
B. Ann watched very little television.
C. Ann watched television after schoolwork.
D. Ann enjoyed singing opera.
E. Ann learnt music in India.
F. Ann played musical instruments.
G. Ann often went to the movies.
H. Ann received a number of awards.
I. Ann invented a heat-powered flashlight.
J. Ann warmed her coffee using a phone.

To whom or to what do the underlined words refer? Answer using words as they appear in the text.
2. concentrated better on her studies without it. (paragraph 4)
3. They will have more spare time. (paragraph 4)
4. Nobody is going to buy it. (paragraph 5)
5. You are not good at it. (paragraph 6)

What do the following words mean in the text? Choose the appropriate words from the list.

Choose the correct answer. (paragraph 8)
10. For Ann, failure can be positive, because...
A. You can rarely be successful.
B. You can always find a new goal.
C. You get things right more quickly.
D. You learn when things go wrong.

Answer:

1. Target answer: B, C, F, H, I (in any order)

B. Ann watched very little television.

• Text Evidence: "didn't play video games and seldom watched television – only half an hour on weekends"
• Explanation: Seldom watched television means she watched TV very little

C. Ann watched television after schoolwork.

• Text Evidence: "seldom watched television – only half an hour on weekends when her schoolwork was done."
• Explanation: The text says she only watched TV when her schoolwork was done, confirming she watched it after finishing her work.

F. Ann played musical instruments.

• Text Evidence: "...listened to 19th century opera and classical Indian music, learned piano and violin, watched silent films at home and played with electronic gadgets." 
• Explanation: The text directly states that she played musical instruments.

H. Ann received a number of awards.

• Text Evidence: "Now 19 years old, Makosinski has won several major prizes for her inventions."
• Explanation: Winning several major prizes means that she has received a number of awards.

I. Ann invented a heat-powered flashlight.

• Text Evidence: "These include a flashlight that works with the heat of the human hand..."
• Explanation: A flashlight that works with the heat of the human hand is a heat-powered flashlight.

2. Target answer: (a) cellphone

Accept: (her) phone
Do not accept: cell(phones)

• Text Evidence: “Unlike most of her friends, Makosinski did not have a cellphone at high school.”
• Explanation: The answer must be exactly what she did not own in high school. The text uses “a cellphone” in singular form, so plural forms like “cellphones” are not accepted.

3. Target answer: creative people (who want more time to invent)

• Text Evidence: “She suggests that creative people who want more time to invent go on a technology-free diet…”
• Explanation: The question asks who should follow this advice. Only “creative people who want more time to invent” is accurate because it appears exactly in the text.

4. Target answer: (the) invention
Accept: an/your invention
Do not accept: something

• Text Evidence: “If you make something but the invention does not look good to the customer, nobody is going to buy it.”
• Explanation: The noun required is “the invention”, which is clearly stated as the object that must look good. Answers like “something” are too vague.

5. Target answer: (the) task
Accept: difficult task / creating something
Do not accept: tasks, project, making the invention

• Text Evidence: “One of the hardest parts of creating something is not giving up even when the task is difficult.”
• Explanation: The question refers to what is difficult or what people might give up on. The text explicitly uses “the task”, making it the correct specific answer.

6. Target answer: C

• Text Evidence: "it is important to develop an interest in both art and science."
• Explanation: To develop something, in this context, means to create or start it. The best synonym from the list is form, as in to form or create an interest. 

7. Target answer: E

• Text Evidence: "Makosinski believes that you must concentrate on a project." 
• Explanation: When you concentrate on something, you give it all your attention. The easiest word for this meaning is focus.

8. Target answer: H

• Text Evidence: "Makosinski says that when you start to create something you must not think about the goal..." 
• Explanation: To create something means to make or plan it. In the context of an inventor, the best match is design since they are making a plan for an invention.

9. Target answer: A

• Text Evidence: "...you must not think about the goal or the dream but instead, accept you might not be successful." 
• Explanation: Here, dream refers to the thing you wish to achieve or the goal (which is also mentioned). The simplest word for a deep wish is hope.

10. Target answer: D

• Text Evidence: “If you make something but the invention does not look good to the customer, nobody is going to buy it.”
• Explanation: Option D corresponds to the idea that appearance matters, directly supported by the text.

• A says “you are rarely successful”, which is not mentioned in the text.
• B talks about finding new goals, but the text never says this.
• C suggests you succeed more quickly, but Ann says the opposite first attempts often fail.

Top Future Transport Innovations

A recent report released by the US Department of Transportation (DOT) identified a critical need for improvement of the nation’s transportation system. While the DOT has begun accelerating the improvement of the country’s highways and bridges, new forms of transit are being developed and will most likely be implemented soon. These five innovations will revolutionize transportation in the near future.

• Hyperloop transportation systems
  Hyperloops are essentially transportation tubes where pods of passengers or freight pass through a pressurized track at high speeds. Hyperloops run at an average of 600 miles per hour. There are several companies currently working to advance the technology. One company hopes to launch its first passenger service in the next year or two.
• [ – 3 – ]
  Automated city buses and shuttles will be in operation in the near future. Autonomous vehicles use cameras, radars and GPS systems to recognize and communicate with traffic lights and have impressive safety records. These buses of the future will reduce the impact on the environment because they are electric. Such buses are already in operation in China and Germany, and are being tested in the US.
• [ – 4 – ]
  While automated buses are being developed worldwide, China is working on a bus system that will reduce traffic congestion. The bus “straddles” traffic by running on special tracks that allow regular vehicles to drive underneath. A system currently being designed in China is expected to reduce traffic congestion by thirty percent.
• [ – 5 – ]
  A fleet of flying hotels is being designed by a company in Canada. Driftscape is a mobile, self-sustaining hotel that uses drone technology. Driftscape allows guests to travel while sleeping, and to roam or to touch down in diverse locations. It consists of several modular units including food and beverage elements. Driftscape offers spectacular panoramas and has minimal impact on the environment, preserving the integrity and authenticity of the locations visited.
• [ – 6 – ]
  Air traffic control systems in operation today are ground-based, using technology that dates back to the 1960s. Control systems using satellites allow air traffic controllers to be more efficient. The US is currently working on such a system: NextGen, which is being implemented in stages through 2025. GPS technology will be used to increase accuracy and shorten routes. NextGen will save time and fuel, reduce late arrivals, increase flight capacity and permit controllers to monitor aircraft with improved safety margins.

Question:

Answer the following questions.
1. Which aspects of the transportation system is the DOT already working to improve?
2. According to the text, how soon might passenger hyperloops come into service?

Choose an appropriate heading from the list that completes each gap in the text.

Find the word or phrase in paragraphs 4-5 which means the following:
7. globally
8. to land
9. to land

Choose an appropriate word from the list that completes each gap in the following text.

NextGen is a new system for regulating air traffic, which is being introduced in [ – 10 – ] over the next few years. The use of GPS technology will have many [ – 11 – ]. It will increase time and fuel efficiency, as well as leading to fewer flight [ – 12 – ]. Those operating the system will also be able to track [ – 13 – ] much more effectively.

Answer:

1. Target answer: (the country's) highways and bridges

Do Not Accept:
our nation's transportation system
"highways" or "bridges" on its own

• Text Evidence: "While the DOT has begun accelerating the improvement of the country’s highways and bridges, new forms of transit are being developed..." 
• Explanation: The narrative explicitly identifies the country's highways and bridges as the specific components of the national infrastructure that the DOT is currently endeavouring to enhance and upgrade.

2. Target answer: (in the) next year (or two)
Accept: Other wording with the same meaning

• Text Evidence: "One company hopes to launch its first passenger service in the next year or two”.
• Explanation: The text specifies a projected timeline, noting that at least one corporation anticipates initiating passenger operations within the next year or two.

3. Target Answer: G

• Text Evidence: "Automated city buses and shuttles will be in operation in the near future... These buses of the future will reduce the impact on the environment because they are electric." 
• Explanation: The section describes automated (self-driving) shuttles that are electric and operate in city environments, making Self-driving electric buses the most precise and comprehensive descriptor.

4. Target Answer: E

• Text Evidence: "While automated buses are being developed worldwide, China is working on a bus system that will reduce traffic congestion. The bus ‘straddles’ traffic by running on special tracks that allow regular vehicles to drive underneath." 
• Explanation: The description of a bus running on tracks high enough to allow traffic underneath accurately corresponds to the concept of Elevated buses.

5. Target Answer: B

• Text Evidence: "A fleet of flying hotels is being designed by a company in Canada. Driftscape is a mobile, self-sustaining hotel... It consists of several modular units, including food and beverage elements." 
• Explanation: The section introduces a system of flying hotels composed of modular units (pods), which is perfectly summarized by the term Flying hotel pods.

6. Target Answer: F

• Text Evidence: "Air traffic control systems in operation today are ground-based... Control systems using satellites allow air traffic controllers to be more efficient. The US is currently working on such a system: NextGen."
• Explanation: The segment details a modernisation plan that replaces older systems with new control systems using satellites for managing air traffic, aligning precisely with the heading Satellite-based air traffic control.

7. Target answer: worldwide

• Text Evidence: "While automated buses are being developed worldwide..." 
• Explanation: The term globally means across the entire world, which is directly conveyed by the exact word worldwide in the text.

8. Target answer: (to) touch down

• Text Evidence: "...to travel while sleeping, and to roam or to touch down in diverse locations." 
• Explanation: The phrase to touch down is the specific aerial or flight-related terminology used in the text to denote the action of landing at a location.

9. Target answer: locations

• Text Evidence: "...and to roam or to touch down in diverse locations." 
• Explanation: The term locations is used in the text as a synonym for specific geographical places where the flying hotel pods can land.

10. Target answer: F

• Text Evidence: "NextGen is being implemented in stages through 2025."
• Explanation: A large project is typically done in sequential stages or phases.

11. Target answer: A

• Text Evidence: "GPS technology will be used to increase accuracy and shorten routes. NextGen will save time and fuel, reduce late arrivals, increase flight capacity…"
• Explanation: The list that follows (increased efficiency, fewer delays) are all positive outcomes or benefits.

12. Target answer: B

• Text Evidence: "NextGen will save time and fuel, reduce late arrivals, increase flight capacity…"
• Explanation: The new system is meant to reduce flight interruptions, specifically delays.

13. Target answer: G

• Text Evidence: "...permit controllers to monitor aircraft with improved safety margins."
• Explanation: The system is designed to track planes.

Kangaroos can communicate with humans, study finds

Kangaroos can use body language to communicate with humans in a similar way to domesticated animals such as dogs, horses and goats, a new study has found.

Researchers at the Universities of Sydney and Roehampton studied kangaroos at three locations across Australia and found that the animals were capable of “seeking help” by gazing intently at a human while striving to access food placed in a closed box, instead of merely attempting to open the box themselves. Such behaviour is usually associated with domesticated animals. Gazing at humans when stretching for inaccessible food and alternating that gaze between the humans and the task, is often interpreted as an attempt at communication, the report said.

Dr Alexandra Green, a co-author of the study, said rather than just giving up when they couldn’t open the box, the vast majority of the kangaroos looked to the researcher and then back to the box, a gesture interpreted as a request for help. 

“Their gaze was pretty intense,” said Dr Green. “We’ve previously thought only domesticated animals try to ask for help with a problem. But kangaroos do it too. If they can’t open the box, they look at the human and back to the container. When asking for assistance, some approached the human and started scratching at them. Some of the braver ones even used their noses to nudge the human,” Dr Green said.

Dr Alan McElligott, who is also the lead author of the research, said their study found that communication between animals can be learnt and that the behaviour of gazing at humans to access food is not related to domestication.

“Indeed, kangaroos showed a very similar pattern of behaviour we have seen in dogs, horses and even goats when put to the same test,” said Dr McElligott, who previously led a study that found goats can understand certain human signals.

“Our research shows that the potential for communication towards humans by animals has been underestimated. This signals an exciting development in this area,” Dr McElligott added. “Kangaroos are the first marsupials to be studied in this manner and the positive results should lead to more research into other animals beyond the usual domestic species.”

Question:

Choose the correct answer (paragraph 1).
1. The new study into animal behaviour has found that kangaroos can…
A. invent new methods to communicate with humans.
B. learn from humans how to use body language.
C. communicate with humans like domesticated animals.
D. copy other animals in order to communicate with humans.

Find the word or phrase in paragraph 2 which means the following:
2. asking for
3. staring
4. reaching for
5. switching

Find the words that complete the following sentences. Answer using the words as they appear in paragraphs 3–4.
6. When trying to open a box, a kangaroo would look to a researcher instead of...
7. Looking first at the box then at the researcher was understood…
8. When trying to solve a problem, Dr Green noticed that kangaroos would communicate like…
9. Dr Green observed that some kangaroos were also prepared…

Choose the appropriate word(s) from the list that completes each gap in the following text (paragraphs 5–7).

[ – 10 – ] Dr McElligott, kangaroos are able to learn behaviour in order to communicate with humans. [ – 11 – ] the “food in the box” problem, Dr McElligott stated that kangaroos behaved very similarly to dogs and horses. He, therefore, thinks we have probably underestimated how much other animals [ – 12 – ] kangaroos can communicate with humans. [ – 13 – ] this, he thinks that they should research the matter further.

Answer:

1. Target Answer: C

• Text Evidence: "Kangaroos can use body language to communicate with humans in a similar way to domesticated animals such as dogs, horses and goats..." 
• Explanation: The paragraph draws a behavioral parallel between kangaroos' communicative actions and those exhibited by domesticated species, suggesting that they employ analogous signalling methods with humans.

• Option A is incorrect: The text describes how they communicate (similar to dogs), not that they invent new methods.
• Option B is incorrect: The study found kangaroos use body language; the text does not state they learned this from humans.
• Option D is incorrect: The text states they communicate like domesticated animals, not that they copy other animals to communicate.

2. Target answer: seeking

• Text Evidence: “... were capable of “seeking help” by …”
• Explanation: The action of asking for assistance is conveyed through the term "seeking help" within the context of the study's findings.

3. Target answer: gazing (intently)

• Text Evidence: "...by gazing intently at a human while striving to access food..." 
• Explanation: Staring is defined as looking fixedly or intently, which is synonymous with the phrase gazing intently.

4. Target answer: stretching for

• Text Evidence: "Stretching for access food and alternating that gaze between the humans and the task..." 
• Explanation: The term reaching for signifies extending a limb towards an object, which is precisely conveyed by the verbal phrase stretching for within the description of the behavior.

5. Target answer: alternating

• Text Evidence: "...and alternating that gaze between the humans and the task..."
• Explanation: Switching refers to the periodic change or exchange between two things, which is conveyed by the word alternating when describing the direction of the kangaroo's gaze.

6. Target answer: (just) giving up

• Text Evidence: "...rather than just giving up when they couldn't open the box, the vast majority of the kangaroos looked to the researcher…”
• Explanation: The text contrasts the kangaroos' communicative gesture with the simpler action of ceasing their efforts, specifying that they looked to the human instead of just giving up.

7. Target answer: as a request (for help)

• Text Evidence: "...the gesture interpreted as a request for help." 
• Explanation: The behavior, characterized by the alternating gaze, was interpreted by the scientists as a communicative signal, specifically as a request for help.

8. Target answer: domesticated animals

• Text Evidence: "We've previously thought only domesticated animals try to ask for help with a problem. But kangaroos do it too." 
• Explanation: Dr Green's observation is presented as a challenge to the previous belief that this type of problem-solving communication was restricted to domesticated animals.

9. Target answer: to nudge (the human)

• Text Evidence: "Some of the braver ones even used their noses to nudge the human." 
• Explanation: In addition to gazing, the researchers documented that the more assertive kangaroos employed their noses to nudge the human, a direct physical means of soliciting attention.

10. Target Answer: A

• Text Evidence: “Dr Alan McElligott, who is also the lead author of the research,...”
• Explanation: According to is used to state the source of the information, which is Dr McElligott.

11. Target Answer: H

• Text Evidence: "Indeed, kangaroos showed a very similar pattern of behaviour we have seen in dogs, horses and even goats when put to the same test,” said Dr McElligott,..."
• Explanation: Regarding is the correct preposition to mean "concerning" or "with respect to" the problem.

12. Target Answer: F

• Text Evidence: "...kangaroos showed a very similar pattern of behaviour we have seen in dogs, horses and even goats when put to the same tes…t"
• Explanation: Including is used to introduce kangaroos as an example of "other animals".

13. Target Answer: C

• Text Evidence: "...the positive results should lead to more research into other animals beyond the usual domestic species."
• Explanation: “Because of” shows that the underestimation is the reason for the need for further research.

Lily’s passion for upcycling expands into homeware business

A 20-year-old with a talent for upcycling and making individual homeware items has shared her business journey. Lily Wood, from Ipswich, is the owner of Abstract Frog – an Internet business that she started at just 17.

It was in her teenage years that Lily decided university wasn’t for her. She said: “Everyone was pushing me to go there and I didn’t really know what I would like to study so I thought, ‘why don’t I set up my own business creating stuff that I like?’”

She began by frequenting charity shops to turn unloved items into modern pieces for the home to sell through her online shop.

Lily makes artwork and prints, and more recently has started making homeware such as chopping boards and trays using recycled items.

“I always try and find stuff from charity and antique shops that I can use instead of buying things in bulk - that’s the special part of it.

“I like upcycling and learning about the history of an item and then making it into something more modern,” she added.

Lily researches each item’s past and tells that story through her work. She said: “I’ll ask the person in the shop when did this unusual item arrive and do you know anything about it? I’ll take notes just so that there’s a story behind it. It adds a bit of character rather than something bought from a High Street retailer.” 

For other young people thinking about starting their own business, Lily says to keep things simple and organised. She said: “Set your prices and be clear about your values – what is unique to your business and why should people buy from you. Also give yourself as little to do as possible.”

Lily hopes to build her customer base and aims to take her work to local fairs in the coming weeks. She would also like to collaborate with other artists in the future.

Question:

Choose the correct answer (paragraphs 1–2).
1. According to paragraph 1, the focus of the text will be how Lily…
A. buys products online.
B. discovered her talents.
C. developed a business.
D. found homeware items.

2. When she was 17, Lily…
A. joined a friend’s business.
B. sold her business Abstract Frog.
C. started selling items online.
D. took a course in upcycling.

3. Lily decided not to go to university because she...
A. had been told that it was a bad idea.
B. could imagine a different plan for her future.
C. couldn’t take the subjects she liked.
D. didn’t know what job she wanted to do.

Answer the following questions (paragraphs 3–5).
4. Where does Lily sell her products?
5. What products has Lily lately started to offer her customers? Give one example.
6. Which word in paragraphs 3–5 means “large quantities”?

Find the word or phrase in paragraphs 6–7 which means the following:
7. thing
8. out of the ordinary
9. personality

Choose the appropriate word(s) from the list that completes each gap in the following text (paragraphs 8–9).

Lily has a number of tips for starting a business [ – 10 – ] making your values clear to the customer. Lily explains that you can do this [ – 11 – ] thinking about what makes your business and products special. As for her own business, Lily plans to show her work to the public [ – 12 – ] finding other creative people to work with.

Answer: 

1. Target Answer: C

• Text Evidence: "A 20-year-old with a talent for upcycling and making individual homeware items has shared her business journey... is the owner of Abstract Frog – an Internet business that she started at just 17." 
• Explanation: The opening paragraph introduces Lily by immediately describing her business journey and identifying her as the proprietor of an Internet business, establishing the narrative's focus on her commercial development.

• Option A is incorrect: The text describes the result of her work (homeware items), not the initial focus of the text.
• Option B is incorrect: Her talent is mentioned, but the focus is on how that talent led to a business.
• Option D is incorrect: Finding homeware items is part of her process, but the main theme is the creation and operation of her business.

2. Target Answer: C

• Text Evidence: "...is the owner of Abstract Frog – an Internet business that she started at just 17." and "She began by frequenting charity shops to turn unloved items into modern pieces for the home to sell through her online shop." 
• Explanation: The introductory paragraph explicitly states she started her Internet business at age 17, and the third paragraph explains the process of selling the upcycled items through her online shop.

• Option A is incorrect: The text describes starting her own business, not joining a friend's.
• Option B is incorrect: The text describes the age she started the business, not sold it.
• Option D is incorrect: While she had a talent for upcycling, the text states she decided not to take a course and instead started her business.

3. Target Answer: B

• Text Evidence: "It was in her teenage years that Lily decided university wasn’t for her... I didn’t really know what I would like to study so I thought, 'why don’t I set up my own business creating stuff that I like?'" 
• Explanation: Lily's reasoning was based on her own creative inquiry (why don’t I set up my own business) as a preferable alternative to an uncertain academic pursuit, indicating she envisioned a distinct path for her future.

• Option A is incorrect: She mentions others discouraged her from going, but her decision was based on her own lack of study interest and business idea.
• Option C is incorrect: She states she didn't know what she wanted to study, which is the opposite of being unable to take subjects she liked.
• Option D is incorrect: Not knowing what she wanted to study (academic focus) is different from not knowing what job she wanted to do (career goal).

4. Target answer: (through her) online shop
Accept: online
Do Not Accept: internet

• Text Evidence: "...turn unloved items into modern pieces for the home to sell through her online shop”.
• Explanation: The text clearly specifies that she markets and distributes her repurposed items for sale through her online shop.

5. Target answer: chopping boards/trays
Accept: Homeware such as chopping boards/ trays
Do Not Accept: "recycled items" on its own ", homeware" on its own

• Text Evidence: "...and more recently has started making homeware such as chopping boards and trays using recycled items." 
• Explanation: The recent additions to her inventory are specifically chopping boards and trays, which are categorized under homeware items fabricated from recycled materials.

6. Target answer: bulk

• Text Evidence: "I always try and find stuff from charity and antique shops that I can use instead of buying things in bulk..." 
• Explanation: The word bulk is used to describe the purchase of materials in large quantities, contrasting with her preferred method of acquiring unique items.

7. Target answer: (an) item

• Text Evidence: "Lily researches each item's past and tells that story through her work."
• Explanation: The noun item is used as a formal synonym for an object or thing within the context of her research.

8. Target answer: unusual

• Text Evidence: "I’ll ask the person in the shop when did this unusual item arrive..."
• Explanation: The adjective unusual denotes that an object is remarkable or unconventional, which corresponds directly to the meaning of out of the ordinary.

9. Target answer: character

• Text Evidence: "It adds a bit of character rather than something bought from a High Street retailer."
• Explanation: The word character is used here to signify the distinctive quality or personality that a unique, storied object possesses.

10. Target Answer: D

• Text Evidence: "For other young people thinking about starting their own business, Lily says to keep things simple and organised."
• Explanation: Including is used to list the examples of her tips.

11. Target Answer: E

• Text Evidence: "She said: 'Set your prices and be clear about your values – what is unique to your business and why should people buy from you."
• Explanation: By is used to introduce the method (thinking about what makes it special).

12. Target Answer: C

• Text Evidence: "Lily hopes to build her customer base and aims to take her work to local fairs in the coming weeks. She would also like to collaborate with other artists in the future."
• Explanation: Before indicates that showing her work will happen earlier than finding collaborators.