Choose the correct answer to fill in the blank in each of the following questions.

The company __________ a significant increase in employee satisfaction since the new policy was introduced.

Read the following passage about The Benefits of Outdoor Activities 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.

Engaging in outdoor activities has become increasingly popular in recent years. Not only do these activities provide an escape from the daily grind of life, but they also offer numerous physical and mental health benefits. Hiking, cycling, and team sports are just a few examples of outdoor activities that can enhance well-being.

First and foremost, outdoor activities encourage physical fitness. Regular participation in activities like hiking or cycling helps individuals maintain a healthy weight and improve cardiovascular health. The fresh air and natural surroundings can make exercising feel less like a chore and more like an enjoyable experience. Furthermore, studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress levels and promote a sense of tranquility.

In addition to physical benefits, outdoor activities foster social connections. Participating in team sports or group hikes allows individuals to meet new people and strengthen existing relationships. The shared experience of overcoming challenges together can build camaraderie and enhance teamwork skills.

However, some people might argue that outdoor activities are not accessible to everyone. For instance, individuals living in urban areas may find it difficult to access green spaces or safe paths for cycling. This raises the question of equity in accessing outdoor resources.

Despite these challenges, the advantages of engaging in outdoor activities far outweigh the drawbacks. Those who participate regularly often report feeling happier and more fulfilled. The sense of achievement that comes from completing a challenging hike or mastering a new cycling route can significantly boost self-esteem.

In conclusion, outdoor activities play a crucial role in promoting both physical health and social well-being. By stepping outside and embracing nature, individuals can improve their quality of life. As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern living, it is vital to prioritize these enriching experiences.

The word “accessible” in paragraph 3 is OPPOSITE in meaning to________.

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 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 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?

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

Sustainable development has become a priority worldwide, as nations work to balance economic growth with environmental preservation. [I] Sustainable practices are critical to ensure that natural resources are conserved for future generations, while also meeting today’s economic needs. [II] Many countries have invested in green technologies to reduce carbon emissions and slow climate change.

[III] However, achieving sustainability involves more than just technology; it requires a collective shift in mindset towards reducing waste, reusing materials, and protecting biodiversity. [IV] According to the United Nations, sustainable development must incorporate social equity, economic progress, and environmental stewardship to be effective.

A key factor driving sustainability efforts is the awareness of limited resources. The earth’s resources, such as freshwater, fossil fuels, and fertile land, are finite, and overuse can lead to scarcity. In recent years, many nations have implemented regulations to control the extraction and consumption of resources, aiming to curb excessive demand and reduce environmental impact. For example, many cities have introduced restrictions on single-use plastics and have promoted recycling programs as a means to encourage responsible waste management.

While developing countries may prioritize industrial growth to boost economic development, developed nations often focus on reducing their carbon footprint and promoting eco-friendly policies. This disparity can lead to challenges in international relations, as countries negotiate agreements on emissions and resource use. Organizations like the United Nations work to bridge these gaps through global frameworks that encourage cooperation, but disparities in priorities and resources can hinder progress.

Increasing public awareness about environmental sustainability has been another critical component of these efforts. Through education and media campaigns, individuals are encouraged to adopt environmentally conscious practices, such as reducing energy consumption, using public transport, and supporting local economies. By making small adjustments in daily life, individuals contribute to broader global sustainability goals, ultimately promoting a healthier planet for future generations.

The word finite in paragraph 2 could be best replaced by _______ .

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 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 passage about environmental pollution 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.

Since the early 1980s, people have become more aware of the serious effects of large-scale pollution on the environment. This kind of pollution often happens because of poor planning in developing countries or the short-sighted policies of some industrialized nations. These countries use up a large portion of the world’s natural resources, even though only a small part of the world’s population lives there.

Events like the Great Smog of London, the destruction of the Amazon rainforest and the nuclear accident at Chernobyl have received a lot of media attention, as have other acts that harm the environment. However, it’s important to remember that not all pollution is on such a large scale. In fact, a lot of pollution comes from sources closer to home. For instance, a recent oil spill from a tanker in Sydney accidentally released oil into the harbor. This not only damaged the surrounding area but also created toxic fumes that hung over the nearby suburbs for days, leaving residents frustrated and questioning how such a disaster could happen.

Protecting ourselves from pollution can feel like a never-ending task. We try to avoid breathing in traffic fumes, stay away from industrial areas, and wear masks when cycling. All of this might make some people feel safest at home. However, new research shows that staying indoors is not always better. Studies indicate that levels of harmful gases, dust, and other chemicals are often higher indoors than outdoors, even in polluted cities. Since most people spend more time inside than outside, some experts think we may need to pay more attention to indoor pollution to improve public health.

In conclusion, awareness of environmental pollution has grown since the 1980s due to major incidents and local sources of harm. While large-scale events like Chernobyl capture attention, everyday issues, including indoor pollution, also pose serious health risks. Addressing both is vital for public health and environmental protection.

In the sentence, "This not only damaged the surrounding area but also created toxic fumes that hung over the nearby suburbs for days," what does "This" refer to?

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 underscores in paragraph 3 could be best replaced by __________.

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 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 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.

Which of the following is NOT mentioned in paragraph 2 as a role of career counselling?

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.

To Save the Planet, Begin at Home!

Let's look at what we can do at home each day to save the planet.

Facts and figures:

-  Farming with synthetic chemicals has killed insects and (7) __________ animals. Meanwhile, we (8) __________ 80 million cans each day and 45,000 tonnes of plastic packaging each year. These kill up to one million seabirds a year.

Positive action!

-  Buy and consume fresh, organic food and drinks, especially things produced locally. This reduces the need for long-distance food (9) __________.

-  Don't always buy food that comes in cans or plastic packaging. (10) __________ buying a pre-packaged sandwich, make your own! That helps reduce the (11) __________ of rubbish you produce.

-  Reuse packaging where possible. Separate paper, plastic, and metal (12) __________ and recycle them.

(Adapted from Move on)

Question 7: Farming with synthetic chemicals has killed insects and (7) __________ animals.

Choose the correct answer to fill in the blank in each of the following questions.

The team worked overtime to meet the deadline, __________ demonstrated their commitment to the project.

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] Landslides are a significant environmental challenge in the northern mountainous provinces of Vietnam, partiCularly during the rainy season. The region, characterized by steep slopes and heavy rainfall, is prone to this natural disaster, which poses serious threats to both the local population and infrastructure. [II] ln recent years, numerous landslides have occurred, often triggered by prolonged periods of heavy rain, resulting in devastating impacts on communities and livelihoods.

The mountainous terrain, combined with deforestation and improper land use, exacerbates the risk of landslides. [III] As farmers clear forests for agriculture, the natural vegetation that stabilizes the soil is lost, making slopes more susceptible to erosion. When heavy rains saturate the soil, it can quickly become unstable, leading to sudden and destructive landslides. [IV]

In response to this growing threat, local authorities and environmental organizations are taking proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with landslides. Efforts include reforestation projects, improving drainage systems, and raising public awareness about safe practices du ring the rainy season. Additionally, advanced monitoring systems are being implemented to provide early warnings, allowing communities to evacuate before a disaster strikes.

Despite these efforts, the challenges remain significant, and ongoing education and support for sustainable land management practices are crucial for reducing the incidence and impact of landslides in northern Vietnam.

Which of the following can be inferred from the passage?

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.

The word them in paragraph 3 refers to __________.

Read the following passage about environmental pollution 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.

Since the early 1980s, people have become more aware of the serious effects of large-scale pollution on the environment. This kind of pollution often happens because of poor planning in developing countries or the short-sighted policies of some industrialized nations. These countries use up a large portion of the world’s natural resources, even though only a small part of the world’s population lives there.

Events like the Great Smog of London, the destruction of the Amazon rainforest and the nuclear accident at Chernobyl have received a lot of media attention, as have other acts that harm the environment. However, it’s important to remember that not all pollution is on such a large scale. In fact, a lot of pollution comes from sources closer to home. For instance, a recent oil spill from a tanker in Sydney accidentally released oil into the harbor. This not only damaged the surrounding area but also created toxic fumes that hung over the nearby suburbs for days, leaving residents frustrated and questioning how such a disaster could happen.

Protecting ourselves from pollution can feel like a never-ending task. We try to avoid breathing in traffic fumes, stay away from industrial areas, and wear masks when cycling. All of this might make some people feel safest at home. However, new research shows that staying indoors is not always better. Studies indicate that levels of harmful gases, dust, and other chemicals are often higher indoors than outdoors, even in polluted cities. Since most people spend more time inside than outside, some experts think we may need to pay more attention to indoor pollution to improve public health.

In conclusion, awareness of environmental pollution has grown since the 1980s due to major incidents and local sources of harm. While large-scale events like Chernobyl capture attention, everyday issues, including indoor pollution, also pose serious health risks. Addressing both is vital for public health and environmental protection.

What is the OPPOSITE of "harm" as used in the passage?

"Events like the destruction of the Amazon rainforest and the nuclear accident at Chernobyl have received a lot of media attention, as have other acts that harm the environment."

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?