Read thefollowing passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that bestfits each of the numbered blanksfrom 18 to 22. 

 In today’s digital world, (18) ______ . There are many tools, which have been created to protect people’s data from online threats. One of the most popular tools is encryption, (19) ______. When encryption is used, even if someone tries to steal the information, they cannot read it without the correct key.

Another important security tool is called multi-factor authentication (MFA). In this process, more than one way of verifying identity is needed to log in. For example, (20) ______. This makes it harder for hackers to access accounts. Biometric technology, (21) ______, is also used to keep information secure. This technology relies on personal features that are unique and hard to copy

A virtual private network (VPN) is another tool that is commonly used. When a VPN is turned on, a person’s online activity is hidden, and their data is kept private. With these technologies, people are given better control over their security, (22) ______.  

Read the following passage about humanoid robots 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.

          ChatGPT, a powerful language model developed by OpenAI, (18) ______. It was first introduced in 2020, (19) ______. Unlike traditional chatbots, which often provide limited and scripted responses, ChatGPT can generate detailed, coherent, and context-aware replies. This ability has made it useful for a range of applications, from customer service to creative writing assistance.

          Employing advanced natural language processing (NLP) capabilities, (20) ______. It processes user inputs by predicting what comes next in a sequence of words, allowing it to create sentences that are not only grammatically correct but also meaningful.

          However, despite its impressive capabilities, ChatGPT also has its limitations. It can sometimes generate responses that are factually incorrect or biased, as it relies on the data it was trained on. Additionally, there are concerns about privacy and security, especially when sensitive information is shared during interactions. (21) ______.

          Overall, ChatGPT represents a significant step forward in the field of artificial intelligence. It has changed the way people think about AI communication, offering new ways to assist, educate, and entertain. (22) ______. ChatGPT is just the beginning of what could be a future where AI plays an even more integral role in our daily lives.

Read the following passage about humanoid robots 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.

         The future of electric vehicles (EVs) is promising, as technological advancements and environmental concerns (18) __________. As governments worldwide implement stricter emissions regulations and offer incentives for EV adoption, manufacturers are investing heavily in research and development. (19) __________, resulting in longer ranges and faster charging times.

For instance, new solid-state batteries have the potential to enhance energy density and safety, making EVs more practical for everyday use.

         Additionally, the rise of autonomous driving technology is set to revolutionize the way we interact with vehicles. Many electric models are now equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (20) __________. Furthermore, the integration of smart technology allows for seamless connectivity, enabling drivers to monitor their vehicle's performance and locate charging stations through mobile apps.

         As charging infrastructure continues to expand, (21) __________, the convenience of owning an EV is increasing. This transition to electric vehicles not only promises a reduction in carbon emissions but also fosters a cleaner, healthier environment. Overall, (22) __________ and sustainable transportation.

Read thefollowing passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that bestfits each of the numbered blanksfrom 18 to 22. 

 In today’s digital world, (18) ______ . There are many tools, which have been created to protect people’s data from online threats. One of the most popular tools is encryption, (19) ______. When encryption is used, even if someone tries to steal the information, they cannot read it without the correct key.

Another important security tool is called multi-factor authentication (MFA). In this process, more than one way of verifying identity is needed to log in. For example, (20) ______. This makes it harder for hackers to access accounts. Biometric technology, (21) ______, is also used to keep information secure. This technology relies on personal features that are unique and hard to copy

A virtual private network (VPN) is another tool that is commonly used. When a VPN is turned on, a person’s online activity is hidden, and their data is kept private. With these technologies, people are given better control over their security, (22) ______.  

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

Technology in Education

[I] Education, as a cornerstone of societal progress, has undergone significant transformations with the advent of technology. While traditional teaching methods relied heavily on direct teacher-student interactions, modern classrooms are now enriched with digital tools and platforms that facilitate an immersive learning experience. [II] However, the integration of technology into education brings both challenges and opportunities, necessitating a balanced approach to ensure equitable and effective learning outcomes for all students. [III]

[IV] One of the most notable benefits of technology in education is the accessibility it offers. Online learning platforms, such as Khan Academy and Coursera, enable learners to access quality education regardless of their geographical location. Additionally, adaptive learning technologies tailor educational content to suit individual students' needs, fostering a more personalized learning experience. Despite these advantages, over-reliance on technology can exacerbate inequalities, as not all students have equal access to devices and high-speed internet. This digital divide remains a pressing issue, particularly in underprivileged communities.

Furthermore, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education has gained significant attention. AI-powered tools, such as virtual tutors and automated grading systems, have revolutionized the way students learn and teachers manage classrooms. For instance, chatbots can provide instant feedback to students, while data analytics help educators identify struggling learners and address their needs proactively. Nevertheless, critics argue that such innovations might reduce the importance of human interaction, which is crucial for developing critical thinking and emotional intelligence.

Finally, the effectiveness of technology in education hinges on proper implementation and training. Teachers must be adequately equipped to navigate digital tools and integrate them into their teaching practices. Moreover, fostering digital literacy among students is vital to ensure they can use these resources effectively and responsibly. As education systems worldwide embrace digital transformation, policymakers must prioritize inclusivity, ensuring that technological advancements benefit everyone.

In which paragraph does the writer discuss the potential of artificial intelligence in education?

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 28 to 32.

[I] Artificial Intelligence (AI) is likely to improve your engagement in non-STEM subjects (Literature, Art, Education, and Humanities). [II] For instance, AI-powered language learning platforms like Duolingo and Rosetta Stone use natural language processing and machine instructions to provide personalised learning experiences. [III] This can help you learn at your own pace and in your own way, thereby, increasing engagement and motivation. [IV]

AI-powered writing and grammar tools such as Grammarly and Hemingway can provide instant feedback and suggestions for alternative phrasing and word choices. By analysing your grammar, vocabulary, and style, these tools can take your writing skills to the next level and help you communicate better.

Similarly, you can play AI-powered educational games in history and social studies classes. Games like Civilization and Age of Empires use AI to create realistic historical simulations that can help you understand historical events and concepts more enjoyably and interactively.

In music and art, there are creative tools such as Amper Music and Dream. These tools use AI to create original music and art based on users’ input. This can provide you with fun and imaginative ways to study these subjects.

AI tools and platforms can be accessible to all students regardless of their geographical location or socio-economic status. If you do not have access to traditional educational resources, you can use your mobile devices to access them free of charge.

Overall, AI can stimulate your interest in non-STEM subjects by providing personalised instructions, creating various learning experiences, and offering real-time feedback and support. As AI technology continues to evolve, you can expect to see even more innovative uses of AI in non-STEM education.

(Adapted from English Workbook 12 – Global Success)

The phrase take your writing skills to the next level in paragraph 1 could be best replaced by .

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.

Announcement: Grand Opening of Our High-Tech Center

We are thrilled to announce the grand opening of our brand-new High-Tech Center, a state-of-the-art facility (1) ______ to revolutionize the way we integrate technology into daily life.

The center features cutting-edge advancements, including a (2) ______that ensures security and enhances user convenience. Visitors who would like to see our (3) ______ technology in action are warmly invited to join us for this special event.

The highlight of the center is its ability to (4) ______our demand for efficiency and innovation in various fields. Amazingly, the center intends to replace most of its workers (5) ______ robots, which makes operations faster, smarter, and more cost-effective.

We encourage you to capture this memorable occasion. Don’t forget to get someone (6)_______a picture of us during the ribbon-cutting ceremony!

Read the following passage 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.

Coming from the Czech word 'robota',(18)______. In 1949, the British inventor William Grey Walter introduced the first machine (19)______. Ten years later, the first industrial robotic arm was installed at a General Motors plant in the US. Such robots are mostly used in car and computer industries.

The first robot to use Artificial Intelligence was known as Shakey. (20)______. Shakey could observe its surroundings, create a plan, and find its way across a room or push a box along the floor. Twenty years later, a walking robot called Dante, which was capable of climbing steep slopes, (21)______. The late 1990s marked a milestone in the history of robots when Kismet, a robotic head designed to provoke and react to emotions, was created.

Since the beginning of the 21st century, more robots have been created to improve our life. The first self-driving car was launched on 8 October 2005 when a Volkswagen Touareg named "Stanley' won a racing competition across the desert. In 2012, the AI expert Geoffrey Hinton and his team created the first accurate visual recognition system.

(22) ______. She can imitate human gestures and facial expressions and is able to answer certain questions and to make simple conversations.

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.

Robots are useful for exploring and working in space. In particular, many robots have been sent to explore Mars. Such robots have usually looked like a box with wheels. Though these robots are useful, by their very nature they are unreliable, extremely expensive, and they break easily. Also, they cannot do very many tasks. Because of these problems, scientists have been developing a new and unusual kind of robot. These new robots move like snakes, so they have been given the name “snakebots.”

But how can such a robot shape be made? A snakebot is built like a chain made of about thirty parts, or modules. Each module is basically the same in that they all have a small computer and a wheel to aid movement. The large computer in the “head” of the snake makes all of the modules in a snakebot work together. The modular design of the snakebot has many advantages. If one module fails, another can be added easily. Snakebot modules can also carry different kinds of tools, as well as cameras. Since each module is actually a robot in itself, one module can work apart from the rest if necessary. That is, all the modules can separate and move on their own, and then later, reconnect back into a larger robot.

Overall, the snakebot design is much simpler than that of common robots. Thus, snakebots will be much less expensive to build. For example, a robot recently sent to Mars cost over a hundred million dollars, whereas snakebots can cost as little as a few hundred dollars.

With their versatility and affordability, snakebots seem to be the wave of the future, at least as far as space robots are concerned.

The word "they" in paragraph 2 refers to: 

Read the following passage about humanoid robots 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.

         The future of electric vehicles (EVs) is promising, as technological advancements and environmental concerns (18) __________. As governments worldwide implement stricter emissions regulations and offer incentives for EV adoption, manufacturers are investing heavily in research and development. (19) __________, resulting in longer ranges and faster charging times.

For instance, new solid-state batteries have the potential to enhance energy density and safety, making EVs more practical for everyday use.

         Additionally, the rise of autonomous driving technology is set to revolutionize the way we interact with vehicles. Many electric models are now equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (20) __________. Furthermore, the integration of smart technology allows for seamless connectivity, enabling drivers to monitor their vehicle's performance and locate charging stations through mobile apps.

         As charging infrastructure continues to expand, (21) __________, the convenience of owning an EV is increasing. This transition to electric vehicles not only promises a reduction in carbon emissions but also fosters a cleaner, healthier environment. Overall, (22) __________ and sustainable transportation.

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

Ada Lovelace, born in London in 1815, is widely recognized as the world's first computer programmer. Despite the limited opportunities for women in science and mathematics during her time, Lovelace's intelligence and passion for math set her apart. Her mother, Anne Isabella Milbanke, encouraged her mathematical studies from a young age, in contrast to her father, the famous poet Lord Byron.

Lovelace's most significant contribution came from her collaboration with Charles Babbage, the inventor of an early mechanical computer called the Analytical Engine. In 1843, she translated an article about the machine written by an Italian engineer.

However, it was her own detailed notes added to the translation that made history. These notes, which were longer than the original article, included what is now considered the first algorithm designed to be executed by a machine. This made Lovelace the first person to recognize that computers could follow instructions to perform tasks beyond simple calculations.

What truly set Lovelace apart was her visionary thinking. While Babbage saw the Analytical Engine as a tool for calculations, Lovelace believed it could be used for much more. She imagined that computers could be programmed to create music, art, and more, long before the development of modern computers. Her forward- thinking ideas laid the foundation for the field of computer science and continue to influence technology today.

Which of the followings is TRUE about the impact of Ada Lovelace's work?

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

Ada Lovelace, born in London in 1815, is widely recognized as the world's first computer programmer. Despite the limited opportunities for women in science and mathematics during her time, Lovelace's intelligence and passion for math set her apart. Her mother, Anne Isabella Milbanke, encouraged her mathematical studies from a young age, in contrast to her father, the famous poet Lord Byron.

Lovelace's most significant contribution came from her collaboration with Charles Babbage, the inventor of an early mechanical computer called the Analytical Engine. In 1843, she translated an article about the machine written by an Italian engineer.

However, it was her own detailed notes added to the translation that made history. These notes, which were longer than the original article, included what is now considered the first algorithm designed to be executed by a machine. This made Lovelace the first person to recognize that computers could follow instructions to perform tasks beyond simple calculations.

What truly set Lovelace apart was her visionary thinking. While Babbage saw the Analytical Engine as a tool for calculations, Lovelace believed it could be used for much more. She imagined that computers could be programmed to create music, art, and more, long before the development of modern computers. Her forward- thinking ideas laid the foundation for the field of computer science and continue to influence technology today.

Which Lovelace of the following is NOT MENTIONED in Paragraph 3?

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. Consequently, the use of AI in education not only enhances efficiency but also empowers both teachers and students, equipping them with the tools needed to succeed in a dynamic and technology-driven world.

b. By leveraging AI, educators can analyze large volumes of data to identify individual student needs and develop personalized teaching strategies that cater to diverse learning styles. 

c. For instance, intelligent tutoring systems can adapt to each student's progress, providing customized exercises and instant feedback to support effective learning. 

d. In today's rapidly evolving educational landscape, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a necessity to enhance both teaching and learning.

e. Moreover, AI-powered tools can streamline administrative tasks such as grading, scheduling, and lesson planning, enabling teachers to dedicate more time to fostering creativity and engagement in the classroom. 

Read the following passage about humanoid robots 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.

Humanoid robots, eminent characters in science fiction novels and sci-fi films, are becoming a reality. Sophia, as an example, (18) ______________. One month later, she had her premiere in Texas, USA, and has made multiple public appearances around the world since then. At one such event, Sophia was granted Saudi Arabian citizenship in October 2017 and even became the first Innovation Champion of the United Nations Development Programme later that year. During Sophia's trip to Vietnam in 2018, she addressed the Industry 4.0 Summit and Expo.

Sophia the Robot is the latest humanlike robot created by a Hong Kong-based company (19) ______________. Undoubtedly, Sophia together with other humanlike robots represents the rapid advancement in the field of robotics and artificial intelligence. (20) ______________.

Sophia's physical appearance is inspired by both the famous actress Audrey Hepburn and the creator's wife. (21) ______________. But what makes her more lifelike than other robots is the patented artificial skin called Frubber®, which has the feel and flexibility of human skin.

Sophia amazes the world with her ability to communicate naturally. The Sophia Intelligence Collective, which is a combination of Al and human input, and other sophisticated perception techniques enable Sophia to recognise human faces and identify human emotions and gestures. Equipped with machine learning algorithms, (22) ______________.

(Adapted from Friends Global)

Question 18: Sophia, as an example, (18) ______________.

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.

Discover the Digital Portfolio App

Looking for an innovative way to enhance your learning experience? The Digital Portfolio app is here to transform the way you engage with education!

A (7)______of benefits make this app a must-have for students and teachers alike. With its user-friendly interface, it helps users stay organized and track their academic progress effortlessly. One of its standout features is enabling students and teachers to connect by engaging with each (8)______in real-time. Whether it's to give (9) ______on homework or collaborate on group projects, this app bridges the gap in communication.

Teachers can use the app to explain (10) ______clearly with the help of interactive tools, ensuring students grasp even the most complex topics. The app has already (11) ______really well in schools worldwide, proving its effectiveness in modern education. (12) ______ accessibility, the Digital Portfolio app is compatible with multiple devices, ensuring seamless use anywhere, anytime.

Join the future of learning with the Digital Portfolio app today!

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

Technology in Education

[I] Education, as a cornerstone of societal progress, has undergone significant transformations with the advent of technology. While traditional teaching methods relied heavily on direct teacher-student interactions, modern classrooms are now enriched with digital tools and platforms that facilitate an immersive learning experience. [II] However, the integration of technology into education brings both challenges and opportunities, necessitating a balanced approach to ensure equitable and effective learning outcomes for all students. [III]

[IV] One of the most notable benefits of technology in education is the accessibility it offers. Online learning platforms, such as Khan Academy and Coursera, enable learners to access quality education regardless of their geographical location. Additionally, adaptive learning technologies tailor educational content to suit individual students' needs, fostering a more personalized learning experience. Despite these advantages, over-reliance on technology can exacerbate inequalities, as not all students have equal access to devices and high-speed internet. This digital divide remains a pressing issue, particularly in underprivileged communities.

Furthermore, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education has gained significant attention. AI-powered tools, such as virtual tutors and automated grading systems, have revolutionized the way students learn and teachers manage classrooms. For instance, chatbots can provide instant feedback to students, while data analytics help educators identify struggling learners and address their needs proactively. Nevertheless, critics argue that such innovations might reduce the importance of human interaction, which is crucial for developing critical thinking and emotional intelligence.

Finally, the effectiveness of technology in education hinges on proper implementation and training. Teachers must be adequately equipped to navigate digital tools and integrate them into their teaching practices. Moreover, fostering digital literacy among students is vital to ensure they can use these resources effectively and responsibly. As education systems worldwide embrace digital transformation, policymakers must prioritize inclusivity, ensuring that technological advancements benefit everyone.

Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 4? 

"The effectiveness of technology in education hinges on proper implementation and training"

Read the following passage about smart energy 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.

SMART ENERGY

The upcoming decades will bring significant changes in energy supply and consumption. As some major oil-producing countries have already reached 'peak oil' and concerns about global warming rise, many nations are prioritizing the transition to a low-carbon economy, which will transform electricity supply and usage. [I] Firstly, there will be an increase in overall demand, as consumers switch from oil and gas to electricity to power their homes and vehicles. [II] Secondly, there will be an increase in power generation, not only in terms of how much is generated, but also how it is generated, as there is growing electricity generation from renewable sources. [III] To meet these challenges, countries are investing in Smart Grid technology. [IV] This system aims to provide the electricity industry with a better understanding of power generation and demand, and to use this information to create a more efficient power network.

Smart meters can be integrated with the internet or telephone networks. This connectivity enables customers to control their appliances from a distance. For instance, individuals can turn devices on or off remotely, providing added convenience. Overall, the system offers significant benefits in managing energy usage. By analyzing real-time data, it allows for better decision-making. This technology not only improves efficiency but also supports cost savings. Ultimately, the integration of smart technology will enhance user experience and system management.

The coming decades will bring significant shifts in energy supply and usage. A problem is the fact that many renewable power generation sources are located in remote areas, such as windy uplands and coastal regions, where there is currently a lack of electrical infrastructure. New infrastructures therefore must be built. Thankfully, with improved smart technology, this can be done more efficiently by reducing the reinforcement or construction costs.

Although Smart Technology is still in its infancy, pilot schemes to promote and test it are already underway. Consumers are currently testing the new smart meters which can be used in their homes to manage electricity use. There are also a number of demonstrations being planned to show how the smart technology could practically work, and trials are in place to test the new electrical infrastructure. It is here where Smart Technology is likely to be promoted first, utilising a range of sustainable power sources, transport solutions and an infrastructure for charging electrically powered vehicles. The infrastructure is already changing fast.

The word underway 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.

Robots are useful for exploring and working in space. In particular, many robots have been sent to explore Mars. Such robots have usually looked like a box with wheels. Though these robots are useful, by their very nature they are unreliable, extremely expensive, and they break easily. Also, they cannot do very many tasks. Because of these problems, scientists have been developing a new and unusual kind of robot. These new robots move like snakes, so they have been given the name “snakebots.”

But how can such a robot shape be made? A snakebot is built like a chain made of about thirty parts, or modules. Each module is basically the same in that they all have a small computer and a wheel to aid movement. The large computer in the “head” of the snake makes all of the modules in a snakebot work together. The modular design of the snakebot has many advantages. If one module fails, another can be added easily. Snakebot modules can also carry different kinds of tools, as well as cameras. Since each module is actually a robot in itself, one module can work apart from the rest if necessary. That is, all the modules can separate and move on their own, and then later, reconnect back into a larger robot.

Overall, the snakebot design is much simpler than that of common robots. Thus, snakebots will be much less expensive to build. For example, a robot recently sent to Mars cost over a hundred million dollars, whereas snakebots can cost as little as a few hundred dollars.

With their versatility and affordability, snakebots seem to be the wave of the future, at least as far as space robots are concerned.

The word "unreliable" in paragraph 1 is OPPOSITE in meaning to: 

Read the following passage about humanoid robots 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.

Humanoid robots, eminent characters in science fiction novels and sci-fi films, are becoming a reality. Sophia, as an example, (18) ______________. One month later, she had her premiere in Texas, USA, and has made multiple public appearances around the world since then. At one such event, Sophia was granted Saudi Arabian citizenship in October 2017 and even became the first Innovation Champion of the United Nations Development Programme later that year. During Sophia's trip to Vietnam in 2018, she addressed the Industry 4.0 Summit and Expo.

Sophia the Robot is the latest humanlike robot created by a Hong Kong-based company (19) ______________. Undoubtedly, Sophia together with other humanlike robots represents the rapid advancement in the field of robotics and artificial intelligence. (20) ______________.

Sophia's physical appearance is inspired by both the famous actress Audrey Hepburn and the creator's wife. (21) ______________. But what makes her more lifelike than other robots is the patented artificial skin called Frubber®, which has the feel and flexibility of human skin.

Sophia amazes the world with her ability to communicate naturally. The Sophia Intelligence Collective, which is a combination of Al and human input, and other sophisticated perception techniques enable Sophia to recognise human faces and identify human emotions and gestures. Equipped with machine learning algorithms, (22) ______________.

(Adapted from Friends Global)

Question 21: (21) ______________.

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

Before making any changes, the school will __________ a survey to get feedback from students.

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

[I] A newborn baby can see, hear and feel. By the age of five, a child can talk, ride a bike and invent imaginary friends. How does this development happen? [II]We don't understand the way language, thinking and planning develop very well. [III]Now scientists are using new technology to ‘see’ into children's brains. And they are discovering new information about the way a baby's brain develops. [IV]

A study in 2010 showed that children who were afforded more focus often gained an edge in IQ. The brain of a newborn infant contains nearly a hundred billion neurons. This number is comparable to that of an adult's brain. As they mature, an infant assimilates information through the sensory modalities of sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch. This information fosters intricate connections between different regions of the brain. By the age of three, there are approximately a hundred trillion synaptic connections.

One experiment looked at images of babies' brains while they were listening to different sounds. The sounds were in different sequences. For example, one sequence was mu-ba-ba. This is the pattern ‘A-B-B’. Another sequence was mu-ba-ge. This is the pattern ‘A-B-C’. The images showed that the part of the brain responsible for speech was more active during ‘A-B-B’ patterns. This shows that babies can tell the difference between different patterns. This experiment is interesting because sequences of words are important to grammar and meaning. Compare two sentences with the same words in a different order: ‘John killed the bear’ is very different from ‘The bear killed John.’ So babies are starting to learn grammatical rules from the beginning of life.

Researchers also know that babies need to hear a lot of language in order to understand grammar rules. But there is a big difference between listening to television, audiobooks or the internet, and interacting with people. One study compared two groups of nine-month-old American babies. One group watched videos of Mandarin Chinese sounds. In the other group, people spoke the same sounds to the babies. The test results showed that the second group could recognize different sounds, however, the first group learned nothing. The scientist, Patricia Kuhl, said this result was very surprising. It suggests that social experience is essential to successful brain development in babies.

Which of the following best summarizes the passage?