Read the following announcement and choose the correct option that best fits each of the numbered blanks.

 

Career Orientation Workshop Announcement

Dear Students,

We are excited to announce that our school will be holding a Career Orientation Workshop on November 15th. This workshop aims (13) __________ you explore different career paths and gain valuable insights into the job market. Industry experts will be present to guide you through career opportunities, answer your questions, and provide advice on how to prepare (14) __________ your future career.

Don't miss this chance to discover your potential and (15) __________ clear goals for your future career!

Date: November 15th

Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Location: School Auditorium

We look forward to seeing you there!

Read the following passage about education in Nepal 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 few years ago, amid a record drought, scientists noticed something odd. A few of California’s giant sequoias inside Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks were dying in ways no one had ever documented – from the top down. When researchers climbed into the canopies, they discovered that beetles had bored into a few branches. By 2019, at least 38 of the trees had died – not a large number, but "concerning because we’ve never observed this before,” says Christy Brigham, the park’s chief of resource management.

Scientists had assumed that stately sequoias, with their bug-repelling tannins, were immune to dangerous pests. Worried experts are investigating whether some mix of increased drought and wildfire, both worsened by climate change, have now made even sequoias susceptible to deadly insect invasions.

If so, these ancient sentinels would be just the latest example of a trend experts are documenting around the world: Trees in forests are dying at increasingly high rates—especially the bigger, older trees. According to a study in the journal Science, the death rate is making forests younger, threatening biodiversity, eliminating important plant and animal habitat, and reducing forests’ ability to store excess carbon dioxide generated by our consumption of fossil fuels. [A]

There is no single direct cause. Decades of logging and land clearing play a role, scientists say. But increasing temperatures and rising carbon dioxide from the burning of fossil fuels have significantly magnified most other causes of tree death. Scientists are documenting longer and harsher droughts, more severe outbreaks of insects and disease, and increasingly catastrophic wildfires.

With 60,000 known tree species on Earth, those shifts are playing out differently across the planet. In central Europe, for instance, “You don’t have to look for dead trees,” says Henrik Hartmann, with Germany's Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry. “They’re everywhere.” In one recent year, following a week of excessive heat, hundreds of thousands of beech trees dropped their leaves. Even in colder regions, “You get a couple of hot years and the forests are suffering,” says Hartmann. “There are individual species that are being driven beyond the threshold of what they can handle.” [B]

Just last year, massive fires marched through a dry Australia, smoldered across 7.4 million acres in northern Siberia, and focused the world’s attention on blazes in the Amazon.

The consequences of all these changes around the world are still being assessed. The first national look at tree mortality in Israel showed vast stretches disappearing, thanks largely to scorching heat and wildfires. [C] In a country largely blanketed by stone and sand, forests mean a great deal. Trees support nests for eagles and habitat for wolves and jackals. They hold soil with their roots. [D]

“We’re dealing with a very tough situation. It’s a race to the unknown,” says Tamir Klein at the Weizmann Institute of Science.

In the last paragraph, Tamir Klein’s attitude toward the situation could be best described as ______.

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 best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 4?

Choose the best arrangement of utterances or sentences to make a meaningful exchange or text in each of the following questions from 13 to 17.

Dear Uncle Sam,

I hope you're doing well!

a. After a lot of thought, I feel this is the right path for me, and I'm really excited to start this new journey.

b. Since you have so much experience and wisdom, I would love to hear your thoughts on this career choice.

c. I wanted to share some exciting news with you: I've decided to pursue a career in fashion design.

d. Your perspective would really help as I take this next step.

e. Any advice on how to get started, what skills I should focus on, or how to navigate the industry would mean a lot to me.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Mia

Read the following advertisement 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.

Green Energy Project Competition Announcement

Binh Minh High School is excited to announce another opportunity for students to showcase their creativity and innovation! We proudly present the Green Energy Project Competition, an event that aims to promote the use of (1)______ and inspire solutions for a sustainable future.

This is a competition (2)______ for its focus on practical and impactful ideas. Participants will work on projects that highlight innovative methods with a view to (3)______ energy consumption and environmental pollution. By contributing to these efforts, we can ensure that future generations will have the chance to (4)_______ a normal life in harmony with nature.

All students are encouraged to apply (5)______this exciting event. The most (6)______ projects will receive awards and be showcased in a special exhibition at the school.

Don’t miss this chance to make a difference and have your ideas recognized! Join us in our mission to create a sustainable world. Stay tuned for further details on how to register and submit your projects.

Let’s build a brighter, greener future together!

Read the following passage and choose the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.

1. Many young Australians are uncertain about which career path to choose after school. With the rise of technology, including automation and artificial intelligence, some jobs may disappear, but new opportunities will also emerge. Existing jobs will evolve, requiring workers to adapt to new roles and skills. It's essential for young people to understand these changes and plan their careers accordingly to stay competitive in the future job market.

2. Technology is rapidly changing how we work. Jobs that involve repetitive tasks, such as data entry or reception work, are more likely to be replaced by machines. However, those that require human creativity, problem-solving, and communication skills will continue to be in demand. Fields like healthcare, education, and design are expected to see significant growth.

3. Another important factor is that young Australians will likely change careers multiple times throughout their lives. Studies show that today's teenagers could switch jobs around 17 times and work in five different careers. This underscores the need for flexibility and the ability to learn new skills. Being open to change and willing to develop new abilities will be vital for long-term career success in the evolving job market.

4. Although a university degree can help open doors, it is no longer enough on its own. Employers are increasingly looking for skills like teamwork, critical thinking, and effective communication. Gaining work experience, even through part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer work, will be essential. These experiences will help develop the practical skills that employers value and prepare young Australians for a successful career in the future workforce. By focusing on continuous learning and skill development, they can seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?

Read the following passage and choose the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.

1. Many young Australians are uncertain about which career path to choose after school. With the rise of technology, including automation and artificial intelligence, some jobs may disappear, but new opportunities will also emerge. Existing jobs will evolve, requiring workers to adapt to new roles and skills. It's essential for young people to understand these changes and plan their careers accordingly to stay competitive in the future job market.

2. Technology is rapidly changing how we work. Jobs that involve repetitive tasks, such as data entry or reception work, are more likely to be replaced by machines. However, those that require human creativity, problem-solving, and communication skills will continue to be in demand. Fields like healthcare, education, and design are expected to see significant growth.

3. Another important factor is that young Australians will likely change careers multiple times throughout their lives. Studies show that today's teenagers could switch jobs around 17 times and work in five different careers. This underscores the need for flexibility and the ability to learn new skills. Being open to change and willing to develop new abilities will be vital for long-term career success in the evolving job market.

4. Although a university degree can help open doors, it is no longer enough on its own. Employers are increasingly looking for skills like teamwork, critical thinking, and effective communication. Gaining work experience, even through part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer work, will be essential. These experiences will help develop the practical skills that employers value and prepare young Australians for a successful career in the future workforce. By focusing on continuous learning and skill development, they can seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

The word those in paragraph 2 refers to __________.

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. Protecting our planet is essential for future generations. Simple actions can make a significant impact, such as reducing waste, recycling, and conserving energy.

b. Education plays a vital role in raising awareness about environmental issues. By informing ourselves and others, we can encourage sustainable practices in our communities.

c. The environment is crucial for our survival and well-being. However, it faces numerous threats from pollution, deforestation, and climate change. 

d. In conclusion, it is our responsibility to protect the environment. Together, we can create a healthier and more sustainable world for everyone.

e. Planting trees and supporting wildlife conservation efforts can help restore ecosystems and maintain biodiversity. Additionally, using public transportation or biking reduces carbon emissions and helps combat air pollution.

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 and choose the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.

1. The world of work is changing rapidly, with new jobs constantly emerging, many of which didn't even exist five or ten years ago. The traditional idea of sticking with one career for life is no longer realistic. Career counselling has adapted to help people manage these changes, offering more than just advice on choosing a job and staying in it forever.

2. Today, career counselling focuses on helping individuals integrate into society through their work while also contributing to the community. It's no longer just about finding a job but understanding how personal struggles and challenges can shape a person's career journey. Career counsellors assist individuals in identifying their “pain” - the challenges they've faced - and use this as a foundation to help them create a meaningful career story that fits their values and personal goals.

3. As people face critical crossroads in their professional lives - whether choosing a school, career path, or job - career counselling becomes an essential resource. It helps individuals reflect on their past decisions and navigate the uncertainty that comes with major life transitions. As the workplace continues to change, workers face repeated crossroads and the need for adaptability. Career counsellors play a vital role in helping them navigate these challenges.

4. However, access to career counselling remains a challenge in many places. In South Africa, for instance, career counselling services are limited, with only a small percentage of people receiving support. The high cost of private counselling, along with a lack of trained teachers, further hinders access. Despite these barriers, efforts are underway to improve career guidance, such as the development of a career guidance hotline and the government's work on creating a more accessible career development system.

In which paragraph does the writer explain the importance of adaptability in today's job market?

Read the following advertisement 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.

Green Energy Project Competition Announcement

Binh Minh High School is excited to announce another opportunity for students to showcase their creativity and innovation! We proudly present the Green Energy Project Competition, an event that aims to promote the use of (1)______ and inspire solutions for a sustainable future.

This is a competition (2)______ for its focus on practical and impactful ideas. Participants will work on projects that highlight innovative methods with a view to (3)______ energy consumption and environmental pollution. By contributing to these efforts, we can ensure that future generations will have the chance to (4)_______ a normal life in harmony with nature.

All students are encouraged to apply (5)______this exciting event. The most (6)______ projects will receive awards and be showcased in a special exhibition at the school.

Don’t miss this chance to make a difference and have your ideas recognized! Join us in our mission to create a sustainable world. Stay tuned for further details on how to register and submit your projects.

Let’s build a brighter, greener future together!

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.

Small Steps, Big Impact: Sustainable Living Tips

Making small changes in our daily routines can have a significant effect on our planet. Let's see what you can do to make a difference every day.

♻ Eye-Opening Facts

Worldwide, over 300 million tons of plastic are produced each year, and (7) _______ single-use plastic items are among the most harmful to our oceans. We (8) _______ billions of plastic bottles and bags annually, most of which end up in landfills or the sea, threatening wildlife.

♻ How You Can Help

• Buy fresh, unpackaged fruits and vegetables instead of those wrapped in plastic. Supporting local farmers decreases transport (9) _______ and promotes sustainable farming.

• Make homemade meals whenever possible. (10) _______ buying pre-packaged snacks, prepare your own to reduce waste.

• Use a cloth shopping bag. This decreases the (11) _______ of disposable bags in circulation.

• Recycle as much as you can. Sort your waste into (12) _______ like paper, metal, and plastic, and drop them off at local recycling facilities.

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.

The phrase "financially impractical" in paragraph 2 could be best replaced by __________.

Read the following advertisement and choose the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 1 to 6.

DISCOVER YOUR IDEAL CAREER WITH CAREER PATH FINDER

Choosing the right career can be (1) __________, but Career Path Finder makes it easier! Our website offers valuable tools to help you explore career options before (2) __________ a decision.

One of its key features is the Career Assessment Test, (3) __________ your skills, interests, and personality to suggest suitable career paths. If you're unsure where to start, this test provides personalized recommendations (4) __________ your strengths. Another helpful feature is the Job Market Insights (5) __________. Here, you can research salary expectations, job demand, and future trends in different industries. This ensures you choose a career with good growth potential and stability. Additionally, the Resume and Interview Guide helps you prepare (6) __________ job applications with expert tips.

Visit our website today and take the first step toward a fulfilling career!

Read the following advertisement 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.

Green Energy Project Competition Announcement

Binh Minh High School is excited to announce another opportunity for students to showcase their creativity and innovation! We proudly present the Green Energy Project Competition, an event that aims to promote the use of (1)______ and inspire solutions for a sustainable future.

This is a competition (2)______ for its focus on practical and impactful ideas. Participants will work on projects that highlight innovative methods with a view to (3)______ energy consumption and environmental pollution. By contributing to these efforts, we can ensure that future generations will have the chance to (4)_______ a normal life in harmony with nature.

All students are encouraged to apply (5)______this exciting event. The most (6)______ projects will receive awards and be showcased in a special exhibition at the school.

Don’t miss this chance to make a difference and have your ideas recognized! Join us in our mission to create a sustainable world. Stay tuned for further details on how to register and submit your projects.

Let’s build a brighter, greener future together!

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.

Small Steps, Big Impact: Sustainable Living Tips

Making small changes in our daily routines can have a significant effect on our planet. Let's see what you can do to make a difference every day.

♻ Eye-Opening Facts

Worldwide, over 300 million tons of plastic are produced each year, and (7) _______ single-use plastic items are among the most harmful to our oceans. We (8) _______ billions of plastic bottles and bags annually, most of which end up in landfills or the sea, threatening wildlife.

♻ How You Can Help

• Buy fresh, unpackaged fruits and vegetables instead of those wrapped in plastic. Supporting local farmers decreases transport (9) _______ and promotes sustainable farming.

• Make homemade meals whenever possible. (10) _______ buying pre-packaged snacks, prepare your own to reduce waste.

• Use a cloth shopping bag. This decreases the (11) _______ of disposable bags in circulation.

• Recycle as much as you can. Sort your waste into (12) _______ like paper, metal, and plastic, and drop them off at local recycling facilities.

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 33 to 40.

Air pollution is a significant environmental issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It results from various sources, including industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and the burning of fossil fuels. [I] Among the most harmful pollutants are fine particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides. These pollutants not only degrade air quality but also have serious health consequences, such as respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and even premature death. [II]

In major cities, traffic congestion plays a critical role in worsening air pollution. The high concentration of vehicles, particularly those running on diesel fuel, releases large amounts of pollutants into the atmosphere. [III] Additionally, industrial activities in urban areas contribute to the problem by emitting harmful gases and chemicals. [IV]

Governments and environmental organizations have been implementing various measures to combat air pollution. These include promoting the use of renewable energy, encouraging public transportation, and imposing stricter emission regulations on industries. Moreover, advancements in technology have led to the development of electric vehicles and air purification systems, which help reduce pollution levels. However, despite these efforts, achieving clean air remains a global challenge that requires cooperation from all sectors of society.

The word exhaust in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to _____.

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 19. 

In 2022, an ambitious environmental project, which was designed to combat deforestation, ___(18)___. The project aimed to restore large areas that had been devastated by illegal logging and agricultural expansion, with the goal of planting over one million trees. This initiative marked a crucial step in global efforts to mitigate climate change, drawing significant attention from environmental organizations worldwide.

Having decided to employ advanced AI systems during the project, ___(19)___. These systems ensure that optimal conditions are maintained for tree growth and wildlife restoration, making the reforestation process more efficient. The AI not only gathers data from the ecosystem for further research but also interacts with the surrounding environment to support long-term sustainability, thus helping restore Amazon's ecological balance.

Read the following passage and choose the correct answer to each of the questions.

1. In recent years, the idea of a six-hour workday has gained attention as a potential solution to modern work-life balance challenges. Sweden is one of the countries where this concept was tested, and the results have been eye-opening.

2. In 2015, a Swedish retirement home introduced a six-hour workday for its nurses. After the experiment, not only were the nurses happier and more energetic, but productivity also increased. The reduced working hours allowed employees to focus better during their shifts, leading to fewer mistakes and better care for patients. Moreover, absenteeism decreased, and employee satisfaction skyrocketed.

3. But how does a shorter workday improve productivity? Research suggests that the traditional eight-hour workday may lead to exhaustion, which causes workers to lose focus and make errors. By working fewer hours, they can maintain higher energy levels and complete tasks more efficiently. Studies from organizations like the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) also show that countries with shorter average working hours, such as Germany and the Netherlands, have higher productivity rates compared to those with longer working hours.

4. Critics argue that a six-hour workday may not be suitable for all industries, and some businesses worry about potential cost increases. However, many proponents believe the long-term benefits, such as improved employee well-being and reduced burnout, outweigh these concerns.

5. As work-life balance becomes a priority in today's society, the six-hour workday could be a glimpse into the future of work, where employees are happier, healthier, and more productive.

(29) What does the passage mainly discuss?

Read the following passage and choose the correct answer to each of the questions.

1. Have you ever checked to see what the weather would be like for the week? You can thank meteorologists for the weather forecast! A meteorologist is a scientist who studies the atmosphere to predict the weather. Their work involves observing weather patterns, analysing data from satellites and weather stations, and using computer models to forecast future weather conditions. Meteorologists play a crucial role in helping people prepare for various everyday conditions as well as providing timely warnings about extreme weather events like hurricanes and tornadoes.

2. To become a meteorologist, one typically needs a degree in meteorology or a related field like atmospheric science. Many meteorologists also study physics, mathematics, and computer science, as these subjects are essential for understanding and predicting weather patterns. Some meteorologists work in research, studying climate change and developing new forecasting models. Others work in broadcasting, delivering weather reports on television or radio.

3. Meteorologists often work in offices, but they may also spend time in the field, gathering data and monitoring weather conditions firsthand. The job can be challenging, as weather is unpredictable, and forecasts are not always accurate. However, it is also rewarding, as accurate weather predictions can save lives and property by providing timely warnings of severe weather.

4. The work of a meteorologist is never dull, as they must constantly keep up with new developments in weather technology and science. Whether they are tracking a major storm or predicting a sunny day, meteorologists help people plan their activities and stay safe.

(29) According to paragraph 2, meteorologists __________.

Read the following advertisement 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.

Green Energy Project Competition Announcement

Binh Minh High School is excited to announce another opportunity for students to showcase their creativity and innovation! We proudly present the Green Energy Project Competition, an event that aims to promote the use of (1)______ and inspire solutions for a sustainable future.

This is a competition (2)______ for its focus on practical and impactful ideas. Participants will work on projects that highlight innovative methods with a view to (3)______ energy consumption and environmental pollution. By contributing to these efforts, we can ensure that future generations will have the chance to (4)_______ a normal life in harmony with nature.

All students are encouraged to apply (5)______this exciting event. The most (6)______ projects will receive awards and be showcased in a special exhibition at the school.

Don’t miss this chance to make a difference and have your ideas recognized! Join us in our mission to create a sustainable world. Stay tuned for further details on how to register and submit your projects.

Let’s build a brighter, greener future together!