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 questions from 23 to 30.

            In an era marked by climate change and environmental degradation, adopting green living habits has become increasingly vital. Green living refers to a lifestyle that seeks to minimize one's ecological footprint through conscious choices in daily activities. This can include everything from reducing waste to conserving energy and using sustainable products. As more individuals recognize the importance of preserving our planet, the movement toward greener practices continues to gain momentum.

            One of the most significant aspects of green living is its focus on sustainability. By choosing products that are eco-friendly, consumers can support businesses that prioritize environmental responsibility. For instance, using reusable bags, bottles, and containers reduces plastic waste and promotes a circular economy. Furthermore, opting for locally sourced foods not only supports local farmers but also decreases the carbon emissions associated with transportation.

            When green living habits are adopted, they can lead to profound changes in our environment. By reducing their energy consumption through the use of energy-efficient appliances, individuals help lower greenhouse gas emissions. Consequently, this contributes to cleaner air and mitigates the effects of climate change. Moreover, by practicing water conservation methods, such as fixing leaks and using low-flow fixtures, households can significantly decrease water waste, promoting the sustainable use of this precious resource.

            In conclusion, educating individuals about green living habits is crucial for promoting a more sustainable future. Schools and community organizations can offer workshops and resources that highlight the benefits of eco-friendly practices. Additionally, social media campaigns can raise awareness and encourage people to share their experiences with sustainable living. By empowering individuals to make informed choices, we can collectively work toward a healthier planet for generations to come.

 

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as one of the green living practices?

 

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

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

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

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

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

Which of the following is NOT a benefit of urban farming mentioned in the passage?

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.

VOLUNTEERS FOR GREEN CAMPAIGN

Our club would like to recruit ___(7)___ for our Green Campaign.

Are you ___(8)___ 15 years old? And do you really wish ___(9)___ a difference?

Please volunteer for our Green Lifestyle initiative, ___(10)___ clean up our communities and nurture disadvantaged children.

Make an impact, one action at a time!

Embrace a fulfilling experience that not only cares for the environment but also ___(11)___ the lives of those in need.

Together, let's create a sustainable future and spread kindness.

___(12)___ interested in our campaign, please sign up!

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 questions from 23 to 30.

            In an era marked by climate change and environmental degradation, adopting green living habits has become increasingly vital. Green living refers to a lifestyle that seeks to minimize one's ecological footprint through conscious choices in daily activities. This can include everything from reducing waste to conserving energy and using sustainable products. As more individuals recognize the importance of preserving our planet, the movement toward greener practices continues to gain momentum.

            One of the most significant aspects of green living is its focus on sustainability. By choosing products that are eco-friendly, consumers can support businesses that prioritize environmental responsibility. For instance, using reusable bags, bottles, and containers reduces plastic waste and promotes a circular economy. Furthermore, opting for locally sourced foods not only supports local farmers but also decreases the carbon emissions associated with transportation.

            When green living habits are adopted, they can lead to profound changes in our environment. By reducing their energy consumption through the use of energy-efficient appliances, individuals help lower greenhouse gas emissions. Consequently, this contributes to cleaner air and mitigates the effects of climate change. Moreover, by practicing water conservation methods, such as fixing leaks and using low-flow fixtures, households can significantly decrease water waste, promoting the sustainable use of this precious resource.

            In conclusion, educating individuals about green living habits is crucial for promoting a more sustainable future. Schools and community organizations can offer workshops and resources that highlight the benefits of eco-friendly practices. Additionally, social media campaigns can raise awareness and encourage people to share their experiences with sustainable living. By empowering individuals to make informed choices, we can collectively work toward a healthier planet for generations to come.

The word “vital” in paragraph 1 is OPPOSITE in meaning to _______.

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

Urbanisation, which involves the movement of people from rural to urban areas, (16) __________. This has been happening quickly in recent years because people are looking for better jobs, healthcare, and education. Urbanisation has many benefits. Cities often have more job opportunities, which can help people earn more money. They also usually have better transportation, sanitation, and public services, (17) __________ for residents.

However, there are also challenges. Rapid growth can lead to overcrowding, which makes it hard to find enough housing and puts pressure on public services. (18) __________ in some areas. Additionally, more people in cities can lead to more pollution and use up natural resources more quickly. Urban areas might also struggle with traffic congestion, higher crime rates, and (19) __________.

In summary, while urbanisation can bring economic growth and better living conditions, (20) __________ to avoid problems like overcrowding and pollution. Sustainable development, which considers (21) __________, is key to making sure cities grow in a way that benefits everyone.

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. 

JOIN OUR GREEN SUNDAY EVENT!

The School Media Club is excited to invite all students to participate in Green Sunday, an event dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and action. This special day will take place on Sunday, December 8, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, at the schoolyard and surrounding community areas.

The event is open to all students, (7)______ you are eager to make a difference for the environment. We welcome (8)______ from all grade levels to join us in this meaningful activity.

During the event, students will (9)______various tasks such as planting trees, cleaning up public spaces, and spreading environmental messages. The activities are designed to suit (10)______level of experience, so don’t worry if it’s your first time volunteering!

Green Sunday is also a wonderful opportunity to foster (11)______among students from different classes. Let’s work closely with each (12)______to create a greener and cleaner community for everyone.

Sign up at the Media Club office before December 6. Let’s make this event a success together! 

Read of 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.

Join Our Eco-Friendly Community

If you want to make a difference, join (7)_______community members dedicated to sustainability. Together, we can (8)_______ positive change in our environment. Our community focuses on the importance of (9)_______to reduce waste. Join us in our fight against climate change (10)_______ contribute to a healthier planet.

Participate in our (11)__________that teach sustainable living practices. Our mission is to educate members about the (12)_________of green energy solutions.

Join us today and be part of a movement that matters!

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 9: This reduces the need for long-distance food (9) __________.

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 this in paragraph 2 refers to _____.

Read the following passage about plastic bags 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.

Plastic bags are used by everybody. From a vegetable vendor to a designer store, everyone seems to use them. Even though they are one of the modern conveniences that we seem to be unable to do without, they are responsible for causing pollution, killing wildlife, and using up the precious resources of the Earth.  But, most of us are blissfully unaware of the outcomes that are occurring and will take place in the future.

Every once in a while, the government passes out an order banning store owners from providing plastic bags to customers for carrying their purchases. About a hundred billion plastic bags are used every year in the U.S. alone. The problem is further worsened by the developed countries shipping off their plastic waste to developing countries like India.

Once they are used, most bags go into landfills. Each year, more and more bags are ending up littering the environment. Once they become litter, plastic bags find their way into our waterways, parks, beaches, and streets. About 100,000 animals, such as dolphins, turtles, whales, penguins are killed every year due to these bags. And worse, the ingested plastic bag remains intact even after the death and decomposition of the animal. One of the worst environmental effects is that they are non-biodegradable. No one will live so long to witness the decomposition of plastic!

A tote bag can make a good substitute for carrying groceries and the shopping. You can keep the bag with the cashier, and then put your purchases into it instead of the usual plastic bag. Recycling the bags you already have is another good idea. Plastics are not only non-biodegradable, but are one of the major pollutants of the sea. For a clean and green environment, try to use alternatives to plastic whenever and wherever possible.

The word “worsened” in paragraph 2 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 31 to 40.

[I] Green living, often referred to as sustainable living, encourages individuals to adopt environmentally friendly practices in their daily lives. [II] This lifestyle includes reducing waste, conserving natural resources, and promoting eco-friendly habits, which collectively help to minimize the negative impact on the environment (Davies & Mulligan, 2017). [III] Although green living requires effort and adjustment, its benefits for the planet and future generations are substantial. [IV]

One of the fundamental aspects of green living is waste reduction. This can be achieved through practices like recycling, composting, and reducing single-use plastics. According to a report by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), recycling and composting can significantly decrease the amount of waste sent to landfills, which helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and pollution (EPA, 2021). Additionally, adopting reusable items such as water bottles and shopping bags minimizes reliance on plastic, which is crucial for protecting ecosystems and wildlife.

Another key component of green living is energy conservation. Simple changes, like switching to LED light bulbs and using public transportation, can reduce an individual's carbon footprint. A study by the International Energy Agency (IEA) shows that energy efficiency improvements, if widely implemented, could decrease global energy demand by up to 40% by 2050 (IEA, 2019). By conserving energy, individuals not only lower their utility bills but also contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions, which is essential for mitigating climate change.

Green living also involves making conscious choices about the products we consume. This includes opting for sustainably sourced goods, supporting local businesses, and choosing organic produce. Sustainable agriculture practices reduce the need for chemical pesticides and fertilizers, which can harm both the soil and water sources (Smith & Taylor, 2020). By making informed purchases, consumers can support eco-friendly industries and help create a demand for greener alternatives.

The phrase "carbon footprint" in paragraph 3 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 31 to 40.

In an era of increasing global awareness, debates around sustainable practices such as fair trade, organic farming, and recycling are gaining prominence. Farmers in developing countries are among the most vulnerable people, dependent on world commodity markets, middlemen, and unpredictable weather. 

(I)Fair trade arrangements aim to support cooperative groups by guaranteeing prices above the world market rate and additional bonuses. (II) However, critics argue that fair trade may not lift a country out of poverty. (III)They claim that most of the money generated from sales goes to wealthy countries that promote these products. (IV)In fact, only about 5% of the sale price of a fair-trade chocolate bar (retailing for £1.73 in the UK) reaches the poor country.

Another significant trend is the rise of organic food, marketed as being free of chemicals, which appeals to consumers concerned about the dangers of chemicals in food. These chemicals are suspected of causing various health problems, including cancer and developmental issues in children. Despite these concerns, British farmers have not converted to organic farming in large enough numbers to meet the demand. As a result, supermarkets often import organic vegetables from distant countries, contributing to higher greenhouse gas emissions due to transportation. Environmentalists are now urging consumers to buy locally grown vegetables, even if they are pesticide-treated, suggesting a good wash can minimize the risk.

In recent years, a shift has occurred in how we handle waste. Once content to bury it in landfills or dump it at sea, we are now encouraged to recycle and treat waste as a resource. This shift has led to more widespread kerbside collections for various materials like paper, plastic, and metal. However, recycling has unintended consequences. Most of the UK's recyclables are sent to China or India, which incurs additional environmental costs from transportation. In these countries, workers often sort waste under dangerous conditions. Sometimes, materials that are sorted at home still end up in landfills because the market for them fluctuates.

While efforts to promote sustainability are commendable, they require constant evaluation to ensure they truly benefit people and the environment, rather than creating new inequalities or environmental harm.

According to the passage, which of the following statements is TRUE?

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

TO LIVE SUSTAINABLY, START AT HOME!

Let’s discover how we can contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle in our everyday activities.

Facts and figures: In the past decade, (7) _______ people have begun to recognize the importance of sustainability. Yet, we still (8) _______ millions of tons of food waste each year. This not only affects our environment but also contributes to food scarcity.

Positive action!

Use less plastic! Whenever possible, opt for (9) _______ alternatives to plastic products. This small change can make a big difference.

Shop smart! (10) _______ buying unnecessary items, focus on what you really need. This will help decrease waste and save money.

Make the most of resources! Learn to (11) _______ things you might usually throw away. For instance, vegetable scraps can be used for broth.

Involve your community! Encourage (12) _______ to participate in local clean-up events to foster a collective effort for a cleaner environment.

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

Smart cities are designed to make life easier and more efficient for people. In a smart city, technology plays a big role in managing important services. (24) __________, there are systems that control traffic lights to reduce traffic jams and help people get to their destinations faster. Public transportation, like buses and trains, runs on time because it uses data to plan the best routes. Energy is also saved by using smart streetlights that turn on and off automatically. (25) __________ important feature of smart cities is their focus on the environment. Many smart cities use renewable energy sources, like solar and wind power, to reduce pollution. Additionally, smart homes allow people to control devices like lights and heaters through apps on their phones. All of these features work together to create a city (26) __________ is safer, cleaner, and more comfortable to live in. By integrating these technologies, smart cities aim to create safer, greener, and more comfortable living environments. More cities are adopting these solutions to (27) __________ the growing needs of their populations and improve living standards. (28) __________ cities are moving toward this model to improve the quality of life for their citizens.

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

Urbanisation, which involves the movement of people from rural to urban areas, (16) __________. This has been happening quickly in recent years because people are looking for better jobs, healthcare, and education. Urbanisation has many benefits. Cities often have more job opportunities, which can help people earn more money. They also usually have better transportation, sanitation, and public services, (17) __________ for residents.

However, there are also challenges. Rapid growth can lead to overcrowding, which makes it hard to find enough housing and puts pressure on public services. (18) __________ in some areas. Additionally, more people in cities can lead to more pollution and use up natural resources more quickly. Urban areas might also struggle with traffic congestion, higher crime rates, and (19) __________.

In summary, while urbanisation can bring economic growth and better living conditions, (20) __________ to avoid problems like overcrowding and pollution. Sustainable development, which considers (21) __________, is key to making sure cities grow in a way that benefits everyone.

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.

Which of the following sentences best paraphrases the sentence: "Protecting ourselves from pollution can feel like a never-ending task"?

Read of 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.

Join Our Eco-Friendly Community

If you want to make a difference, join (7)_______community members dedicated to sustainability. Together, we can (8)_______ positive change in our environment. Our community focuses on the importance of (9)_______to reduce waste. Join us in our fight against climate change (10)_______ contribute to a healthier planet.

Participate in our (11)__________that teach sustainable living practices. Our mission is to educate members about the (12)_________of green energy solutions.

Join us today and be part of a movement that matters!

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

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

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

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

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

The word "They" in paragraph 1 refers to _______.

Read the following passage about plastic bags 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.

Plastic bags are used by everybody. From a vegetable vendor to a designer store, everyone seems to use them. Even though they are one of the modern conveniences that we seem to be unable to do without, they are responsible for causing pollution, killing wildlife, and using up the precious resources of the Earth.  But, most of us are blissfully unaware of the outcomes that are occurring and will take place in the future.

Every once in a while, the government passes out an order banning store owners from providing plastic bags to customers for carrying their purchases. About a hundred billion plastic bags are used every year in the U.S. alone. The problem is further worsened by the developed countries shipping off their plastic waste to developing countries like India.

Once they are used, most bags go into landfills. Each year, more and more bags are ending up littering the environment. Once they become litter, plastic bags find their way into our waterways, parks, beaches, and streets. About 100,000 animals, such as dolphins, turtles, whales, penguins are killed every year due to these bags. And worse, the ingested plastic bag remains intact even after the death and decomposition of the animal. One of the worst environmental effects is that they are non-biodegradable. No one will live so long to witness the decomposition of plastic!

A tote bag can make a good substitute for carrying groceries and the shopping. You can keep the bag with the cashier, and then put your purchases into it instead of the usual plastic bag. Recycling the bags you already have is another good idea. Plastics are not only non-biodegradable, but are one of the major pollutants of the sea. For a clean and green environment, try to use alternatives to plastic whenever and wherever possible.

In which paragraph does the writer replace other alternatives in producing plastic bags?

Read of 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.

Join Our Eco-Friendly Community

If you want to make a difference, join (7)_______community members dedicated to sustainability. Together, we can (8)_______ positive change in our environment. Our community focuses on the importance of (9)_______to reduce waste. Join us in our fight against climate change (10)_______ contribute to a healthier planet.

Participate in our (11)__________that teach sustainable living practices. Our mission is to educate members about the (12)_________of green energy solutions.

Join us today and be part of a movement that matters!