Read the following paragraph and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 1 to 6.

 

Attention Residents,

We would like to share some important updates (1)______the rapid urbanisation taking place in our neighborhood. Significant changes have occurred over the past few years, transforming the area(2)______. Many of you may have (3)______attention to the development of high-rise buildings in places where rice fields once stood, reflecting the ongoing urban growth.

The city is expanding, attracting more people to our urban areas, and we are proud to announce the addition of(4)______, a large shopping center, and an abundance of convenience stores on every corner, enhancing the quality of life for our community. Additionally, new electric buses have been introduced, providing a quiet and comfortable ride (5)______all residents.

However, it is important to acknowledge some challenges that come with this growth. Increased traffic jams during rush hours and the rising cost of living are notable concerns that need to be addressed as we continue to develop. We encourage everyone (6)______to these changes while remaining mindful of the balance between convenience and urban challenges.

Thank you for your attention and continued cooperation.

Best regards,

[Community Management Team]

 

Read the following advertisement and mark the letter A, B, C and D on your answer sheer to indicate the option that best fit each of the numbered blanks from 7 to 12

LIVING IN A MODERN CITY

"How will I navigate this city? Will it be exciting or will it be really (7) _____?" Are these the questions that you often ask yourself before a (8) _____? But that’s all going to change! A new urban development project has introduced a system (9) _____ 'Smart City'. Now you can connect with your community and access resources efficiently. When you move into the city, you can explore local services (10) _____ everyone in the area. You will also see what’s available in your neighborhood. Then you can choose what amenities you want to utilize. If you want to learn about events and (11) _____ community groups, check out the city’s online platform. And if you prefer (12) _____ nature and visiting parks, look at the environmental initiatives!

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.

Urbanization is the movement of people from the country to cities and the growth of urban areas. It happens because there are often more opportunities in cities. However, when a city's population grows too quickly, it causes problems. Here are a few persistent problems caused by urbanization and some ideas to solve them.

Poverty: Urban areas have a higher cost of living, which means many people have to live in slums. These areas have high crime rates and only basic sanitation, and the people living there often have no access to healthcare. A solution for these issues would be to increase the number of social workers and police and have them provide service to these areas. A better, but more expensive one, would be to remove all the old buildings and houses, and have the city government build better quality, low-cost housing.

Pollution: Large populations create lots of waste. This can be too much for sanitation services to handle, so some areas can get very dirty. One option is to have volunteers clean up these places and have more trash cans installed. Another might be to have police give large fines to people who throw litter on the ground.

Traffic: People in cities often use private cars to get to work and school. This leads to heavy road congestion and causes lots of air pollution. To solve this problem, many cities don't let people drive private vehicles in the city center. This can reduce the amount of traffic by making people use public transportation.

In conclusion, urbanization can cause a lot of problems for people living in cities. Poor living standards. unclean environments, and congested traffic are just some of the issues. Solving the problems of urbanization is one of the biggest challenges for modern society.

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as one of the problems caused by urbanization?

Mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct arrangement of the sentence to make a meaningful paragraph/letter in each of the following questions.

a. However, despite these advancements, the region still struggles with infrastructure challenges, as public transportation remains underdeveloped.

b. Over the past decade, Greystone has undergone a remarkable transformation, shifting from a quiet suburban town to a vibrant hub of commercial activity.

c. The influx of new residents has increased demand for housing, resulting in a rapid expansion of 

residential developments across the city. 

d. This economic growth has attracted businesses from tech startups to retail giants, significantly 

enhancing employment opportunities and boosting the local economy. 

e. The surge in population, along with the expansion of commercial sectors, has led to a noticeable 

strain on public services and transportation networks.

Read the following passage about Urban Development and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

SMART URBAN DEVELOPMENT IN HANOI

Smart urban technologies, vital components of modern city planning, are being rapidly integrated into Hanoi. The latest initiative, Hanoi Smart City, (18) ______. Launched in early 2023, it aims to enhance urban living through technology. This project includes the implementation of smart traffic systems and public services, making the city more efficient and accessible.

Hanoi Smart City is developed by a local tech firm (19) ______. This project exemplifies the advancements in urban management and digital solutions. (20) ______.

The city's infrastructure is inspired by both traditional Vietnamese culture and modern design. (21) ______. However, what makes it unique is the integration of IoT (Internet of Things) technologies that improve connectivity and responsiveness.

Hanoi Smart City impresses residents with its ability to streamline services. The combination of data analytics and citizen engagement allows for better resource management. Equipped with advanced technologies, (22) ______.

Mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best arrangement of utterances or sentences to make a meaningful exchange or text in each of the following questions from 13 to 17.

a. However, despite these advancements, the region still struggles with infrastructure challenges, as public transportation remains underdeveloped.

b. Over the past decade, Greystone has undergone a remarkable transformation, shifting from a quiet suburban town to a vibrant hub of commercial activity.

c. The influx of new residents has increased demand for housing, resulting in a rapid expansion of residential developments across the city. 

d. This economic growth has attracted businesses from tech startups to retail giants, significantly enhancing employment opportunities and boosting the local economy. 

e. The surge in population, along with the expansion of commercial sectors, has led to a noticeable strain on public services and transportation networks.

Mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best arrangement of utterances or sentences to make a meaningful exchange or text in each of the following questions from 13 to 17.

a. Urban sprawl in Hanoi has accelerated in recent years due to rapid population growth and economic development.

b. The city's infrastructure struggles to keep pace with the increasing demand for housing and services.

c. As neighborhoods expand, agricultural land is converted into residential and commercial areas.

d. This growth leads to environmental concerns, including air pollution and traffic congestion.

e. Balancing development with sustainable practices remains a significant challenge for Hanoi's future.

Read the following passage about urbanisation and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 18 to 22.

Urbanisation occurs in many parts of the world, both in developed and developing nations. It refers to the process in which urban areas grow (18)_________________________. This can lead to the concentration of populations into towns and cities. When properly planned, (19)______________________. However, if it is poorly managed, it can pose a significant challenge to maintaining the sustainability of these areas.

Big cities attract a lot of people as they usually offer more employment opportunities as well as a better life. The economy of urban areas tends to grow rapidly as more businesses and factories are created, and more workers are needed. (20)______________________.  This also encourages governments to spend money on better schools, hospitals, roads, public transport, and more. As cities expand, many more facilities such as public parks and gardens, swimming pools, libraries, cinemas and sports centres are built, (21)______________________.

However, when too many people move to a big city, (22)______________________.  For example, big urban areas can easily get overcrowded as railway networks and roads can't cope with the large number of passengers. The economic growth and expansion of big cities come at a big price for local residents as house prices and rents go up, and they can't afford to either buy or rent. Another problem is that big cities are experiencing more air pollution than rural areas. This can increase the risk of infections, heart disease, and lung cancer, and severely affect people who are ill.   

Read the following passage and choose the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

Choosing a career is a significant decision (18) __________. With so many options available, finding the right path can feel overwhelming. However, by considering key factors such as interests, skills, job market trends, and financial stability, you can make a well-informed choice.

First, it is important to reflect on your interests and passions. Think about what activities bring you joy and what topics naturally attract your attention. When you pursue a career that aligns with your passions, work becomes more enjoyable and rewarding. For example, someone fascinated by technology (19) __________.

In addition to interests, understanding your skills and strengths can help guide your decision. Consider what tasks you excel at and what comes naturally to you. (20) __________, careers in finance, engineering, or data science might be a great fit. Recognizing your strengths allows you to choose a career where you can thrive and achieve success.

Beyond personal preferences, researching job market trends is essential. (21) __________. In recent years, careers in technology, artificial intelligence, and sustainability have been on the rise, offering promising opportunities.

Finally, financial security is a key consideration. While following your passion is important, (22) __________. Understanding salary expectations, job benefits, and advancement opportunities can help you make a practical decision.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose a career path that not only aligns with your passions and skills but also ensures long-term stability and success.

Read the following passage about urbanisation and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 18 to 22.

Urbanisation occurs in many parts of the world, both in developed and developing nations. It refers to the process in which urban areas grow (18)_________________________. This can lead to the concentration of populations into towns and cities. When properly planned, (19)______________________. However, if it is poorly managed, it can pose a significant challenge to maintaining the sustainability of these areas.

Big cities attract a lot of people as they usually offer more employment opportunities as well as a better life. The economy of urban areas tends to grow rapidly as more businesses and factories are created, and more workers are needed. (20)______________________.  This also encourages governments to spend money on better schools, hospitals, roads, public transport, and more. As cities expand, many more facilities such as public parks and gardens, swimming pools, libraries, cinemas and sports centres are built, (21)______________________.

However, when too many people move to a big city, (22)______________________.  For example, big urban areas can easily get overcrowded as railway networks and roads can't cope with the large number of passengers. The economic growth and expansion of big cities come at a big price for local residents as house prices and rents go up, and they can't afford to either buy or rent. Another problem is that big cities are experiencing more air pollution than rural areas. This can increase the risk of infections, heart disease, and lung cancer, and severely affect people who are ill.   

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 31 to 40.

A New Capital

When Pakistan was established as a new state in 1947, Karachi initially served as its capital. However, maintaining Karachi as the capital proved to be a challenge due to several disadvantages, such as its climate and the condition of the existing infrastructure. Rather than attempting to improve these issues, the government opted to create a completely new capital city. In 1959, a commission was formed to explore potential locations for this new capital. Dr. Doxiadis, a renowned architect and city planner, was appointed as the chief advisor to the commission.

Dr. Doxiadis and his team explored several possible sites for the new capital, considering both geographical and environmental factors. After a thorough evaluation, they narrowed the options down to two locations: one just outside Karachi and the other located north of Rawalpindi. Both sites had their own sets of advantages and drawbacks, making the decision a complex one.

The final choice was made after carefully considering a range of factors such as transportation, water availability, economic implications, and national interests. Ultimately, the area north of Rawalpindi was selected. On February 24, 1960, the new capital city was named Islamabad, and a comprehensive master plan for its development was created. The plan divided the area into three distinct sections: Islamabad itself, neighboring Rawalpindi, and a national park.

Each section was designed to serve a specific purpose. (I) Islamabad would function as the country’s political and cultural center, meeting the administrative needs of the nation. (II) Rawalpindi, located nearby, would continue as the regional hub for industry and commerce. (III) The national park area was intended to provide space for education, recreation, and agriculture, enhancing the quality of life for residents. (IV)

Today, Islamabad is a vibrant city with a population of around 1 million people. Known for its clean and healthy environment, it offers a pollution-free atmosphere, abundant water resources, and ample green spaces. Tree-lined streets, elegant public buildings, and well-planned shopping centers make the city a model of successful urban planning. With its efficient design and flourishing urban life, Islamabad stands as a prime example of well-executed city planning and growth.

The phrase "narrowed the options down" in paragraph 2 could be best replaced by:

Read the following passage about urbanisation and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 18 to 22.

Urbanisation occurs in many parts of the world, both in developed and developing nations. It refers to the process in which urban areas grow (18)_________________________. This can lead to the concentration of populations into towns and cities. When properly planned, (19)______________________. However, if it is poorly managed, it can pose a significant challenge to maintaining the sustainability of these areas.

Big cities attract a lot of people as they usually offer more employment opportunities as well as a better life. The economy of urban areas tends to grow rapidly as more businesses and factories are created, and more workers are needed. (20)______________________.  This also encourages governments to spend money on better schools, hospitals, roads, public transport, and more. As cities expand, many more facilities such as public parks and gardens, swimming pools, libraries, cinemas and sports centres are built, (21)______________________.

However, when too many people move to a big city, (22)______________________.  For example, big urban areas can easily get overcrowded as railway networks and roads can't cope with the large number of passengers. The economic growth and expansion of big cities come at a big price for local residents as house prices and rents go up, and they can't afford to either buy or rent. Another problem is that big cities are experiencing more air pollution than rural areas. This can increase the risk of infections, heart disease, and lung cancer, and severely affect people who are ill.        

Read the following passage about urbanization and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.

It's a widely held belief that cities harm the environment. For this reason, many developing countries have imposed restrictions on the movement of people from rural to urban areas and on the size of large cities. But there are problems with this viewpoint. Urbanization that is properly controlled can benefit the environment in a number of ways.

First, urbanization is a highly productive force due to the combination of economies of scale and positive externalities. Over 5.5 times as much is produced in Asia's cities as in its rural areas. Urban agglomeration makes it possible to use fewer resources to produce the same amount of work as non-urban areas. Urbanization therefore reduces the environmental impact. Urbanization is necessary because the service sector depends on a concentration of clients. The growth of service industries, which typically generate less waste than manufacturing, is another environmentally beneficial aspect of urbanization.

Second, for any given population, high urban density has no effect on the environment. According to urban economics studies, density is one of the most significant factors influencing energy consumption. In places with a high population density, public transportation may be more convenient and quicker. City dwellers are more likely to walk or ride a bike instead of drive. Third, the construction, upkeep, and operation of environmentally friendly public services and infrastructure, such as waste management, sanitation, and piped water, are considerably simpler and less expensive in urban areas. More people can now afford to use eco-friendly facilities and services thanks to urbanization.

Fourth, urbanization is driving the development of new technologies, including eco-friendly ones. Eco-friendly vehicles, utilities, and equipment are essential to the green economy's long-term survival. Asia's enormous market will support green innovations in cities because the region's enormous population will provide entrepreneurs with many incentives and opportunities to invest in the development of energy-efficient products. Last but not least, the improved standard of living brought about by urbanization has improved access to housing, food, healthcare, and education. Cities with more residents can invest more in infrastructure, which reduces traffic and improves public health. Urbanization fosters pro-environmental attitudes, especially among middle-class property owners, which greatly aid in the introduction and enforcement of environmental laws and regulations.

Any expanding city will inevitably incur expenses. People are moving in large numbers to Asian cities, and many companies have opened offices there to capitalize on this trend. Examples of industrial operations that contribute to urban sprawl and harm the environment include the generation of electricity, transportation, construction, trash, and waste disposal. Both the advantages and disadvantages of urbanization should be taken into account when assessing its effects on the environment.

Which of the following statements is TRUE, according to the passage?

Read the following passage about the urban shift and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 31 to 40.

[I] Global urbanisation has increased significantly in recent decades, and one of the main drivers of this growth has been rural migration. [II] Half of the world's population already resides in cities, and by 2050, experts predict that number to reach as high as two-thirds. [III] Many factors contribute to this global phenomenon, which then gives rise to various issues. [IV]

There are many push factors which force people away from rural life. For example, rural residents have fewer employment options because there are not many large companies nearby. What's more, rural jobs are mainly related to agriculture, so crop failures due to natural disasters can make it difficult to earn a good living. By contrast, there are pull factors that attract people to urban life. Urban areas have more industries, so people can easily get good jobs and achieve a higher standard of living. They also offer entertainment alternatives, such as theme parks, sporting and musical events, allowing urban citizens to access leisure activities easily.

In the process of urbanisation, rural migration causes various far-reaching impacts on the environment and urban citizens. First, deforestation occurs when city governments have forests cut down to build accommodation for new residents, which harms the environment and reduces air quality. As growing populations bring about more deforestation and pollution, the air quality worsens, which can lead to health issues for residents. Second, due to population expansion, cities are struggling to offer adequate public facilities for urban people. As a result, some low- income people are unable to obtain the necessary affordable housing and end up living in slums, where the quality of life is very poor.

Rural migration is a complicated process, of which the causes and the effects should be fully comprehended. By carefully planning city development and suitable social policies, we can provide urban citizens with good public services, exciting job opportunities and a high quality of life without harming the environment.

(Adapted from Bright)

Question 36: The word far-reaching in paragraph 3 is OPPOSITE in meaning to ______.

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.

Urban farming, or the practice of growing food within city limits, has gained popularity worldwide. As cities expand and populations grow, there is increasing pressure on food supplies, making urban farming an appealing solution. From rooftop gardens to community plots, urban farms can help produce fresh, local food in areas that are typically food deserts. Additionally, they provide green spaces in densely populated areas, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Urban farming also has social benefits. It encourages community engagement and provides educational opportunities for residents. People can learn about sustainable agriculture, food production, and environmental conservation. Furthermore, urban farms can offer job opportunities, particularly in underprivileged neighborhoods, where employment options are often limited. By creating jobs and encouraging healthy eating, urban farms positively impact the health and well-being of local communities.

However, urban farming is not without its challenges. One significant issue is space; cities are crowded, and land is scarce. Finding suitable plots for farming can be difficult and expensive. There are also regulatory hurdles, as some cities have strict zoning laws that limit agricultural activities. Additionally, urban soil can be contaminated with pollutants, making it unsuitable for food production. Despite these obstacles, innovative solutions, such as hydroponics and vertical farming, are making urban farming more feasible.

In the future, urban farming could play a vital role in food security. As climate change and urbanization continue, local food sources will become increasingly important. By reducing dependency on long supply chains, urban farming can ensure that cities remain resilient in the face of global challenges.

The word "feasible" in paragraph 3 is CLOSEST in meaning to _______.

Read the following leaflet and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 7 to 12. 

WELCOME TO GREEN HOME RESIDENCE

Discover Green Home Residence – a modern apartment complex designed to elevate your lifestyle. With (7)______of amenities, including a gym, swimming pool, and lush gardens, this is more than just a place to live – it’s a community where comfort meets convenience.

At Green Home, we believe in fostering connections. Residents can easily interact and support one (8)______ in a friendly, vibrant environment.

Understanding the common (9)______faced by urban homeowners, we’ve carefully planned solutions to minimize noise, improve ventilation, and provide ample parking spaces.

Our skilled (10)______are always ready to assist you in choosing the perfect unit and answering any questions you may have about the property.

We’ve (11)______with innovative architectural designs that maximize natural light and energy efficiency, ensuring sustainability and comfort in every apartment.

(12)______, Green Home Residence is conveniently located near schools, shopping centers, and major highways, making it the ideal choice for families and professionals alike.

Don’t wait – visit us today and experience the future of urban living at Green Home Residence!

Mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best arrangement of utterances or sentences to make a meaningful exchange or text in each of the following questions from 13 to 17.

a. However, despite these advancements, the region still struggles with infrastructure challenges, as public transportation remains ins underdeveloped.

b. Over the past decade, Greystone has undergone a remarkable transformation, shifting from a quiet suburban town to a vibrant hub of commercial activity,

c. The influx of new residents has increased demand for housing, resulting in a rapid expansion of residential developments across the city.

d. This economic growth has attracted businesses from tech startups to retail giants, significantly enhancing employment opportunities and boosting the local economy.

e. The surge in population, along with the expansion of commercial sectors, has led to a noticeable strain on public services and transportation networks.

Read the following passage about urbanisation and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 18 to 22.

Urbanisation occurs in many parts of the world, both in developed and developing nations. It refers to the process in which urban areas grow (18)_________________________. This can lead to the concentration of populations into towns and cities. When properly planned, (19)______________________. However, if it is poorly managed, it can pose a significant challenge to maintaining the sustainability of these areas.

Big cities attract a lot of people as they usually offer more employment opportunities as well as a better life. The economy of urban areas tends to grow rapidly as more businesses and factories are created, and more workers are needed. (20)______________________.  This also encourages governments to spend money on better schools, hospitals, roads, public transport, and more. As cities expand, many more facilities such as public parks and gardens, swimming pools, libraries, cinemas and sports centres are built, (21)______________________.

However, when too many people move to a big city, (22)______________________.  For example, big urban areas can easily get overcrowded as railway networks and roads can't cope with the large number of passengers. The economic growth and expansion of big cities come at a big price for local residents as house prices and rents go up, and they can't afford to either buy or rent. Another problem is that big cities are experiencing more air pollution than rural areas. This can increase the risk of infections, heart disease, and lung cancer, and severely affect people who are ill.        

Read the following passage about smart growth and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.

Smart Growth

           Recently, experts have tried to curb the spread of suburban sprawl, or at least create urban areas that are developed more purposefully. This is known as "smart growth." City planners create communities that are designed for more walking and less dependency on cars. Some developers recover old communities in downtown urban areas, rather than develop the next piece of farmland or wilderness.

           U.S. states such as Oregon are passing laws to prevent unplanned urban sprawl. They have created boundaries around cities that limit the growth of development. Officials have created laws stating that the minimum size of a plot of land is 32 hectares (80 acres). This is to prevent developers from creating suburban communities. An 80-acre plot of land is financially impractical for a single-family home!

           Other smart-growth communities are creating new types of development. Some have large amounts of undeveloped "green space," organic farms, and lakes. Urban areas typically drain the water from rain and snow, which cannot collect in the paved-over grounD. Rather than use drainage pipes and ditches, smart-growth communities create wetlands designed to filter storm runoff.

           More city planners are developing urban areas by considering their geography. Engineers construct buildings that integrate seamlessly with the surrounding environment, drawing upon natural resources. White roofs, for example, reflect the sun's rays and lower the cost of air conditioning. Homebuilders in urban areas as diverse as Los Angeles, California, U.S., and the island communities of Greece create homes and businesses with white plaster or tile roofs for this reason.

           There is also a move toward preserving and maintaining more green areas and planting more trees in urban areas. Landscape designers often consult with city planners to incorporate parks with development.

Which of the following is NOT TRUE, according to paragraphs 2 and 3?

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.

Urbanization is the movement of people from the country to cities and the growth of urban areas. It happens because there are often more opportunities in cities. However, when a city's population grows too quickly, it causes problems. Here are a few persistent problems caused by urbanization and some ideas to solve them.

Poverty: Urban areas have a higher cost of living, which means many people have to live in slums. These areas have high crime rates and only basic sanitation, and the people living there often have no access to healthcare. A solution for these issues would be to increase the number of social workers and police and have them provide service to these areas. A better, but more expensive one, would be to remove all the old buildings and houses, and have the city government build better quality, low-cost housing.

Pollution: Large populations create lots of waste. This can be too much for sanitation services to handle, so some areas can get very dirty. One option is to have volunteers clean up these places and have more trash cans installed. Another might be to have police give large fines to people who throw litter on the ground.

Traffic: People in cities often use private cars to get to work and school. This leads to heavy road congestion and causes lots of air pollution. To solve this problem, many cities don't let people drive private vehicles in the city center. This can reduce the amount of traffic by making people use public transportation.

In conclusion, urbanization can cause a lot of problems for people living in cities. Poor living standards. unclean environments, and congested traffic are just some of the issues. Solving the problems of urbanization is one of the biggest challenges for modern society.

Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence:

"Solving the problems of urbanization is one of the biggest challenges for modern society."