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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Read the following passage 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 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 hinders in paragraph 4 is OPPOSITE in meaning to __________.

Choose the correct arrangement of the sentences to make a meaningful paragraph/letter in each of the following questions.

a. Trees also support wildlife by offering habitats and food for various species.

b. Firstly, trees improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.

c. Planting trees offers numerous benefits for the environment and our communities.

d. Additionally, trees provide shade, which cools the environment and reduces the need for air conditioning.

e. Finally, green spaces with trees enhance the beauty of our communities and promote mental well-being.

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

Small Steps, Big Impact: Sustainable Living Tips

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

♻ Eye-Opening Facts

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

♻ How You Can Help

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

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

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

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

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

Exciting Job Opportunity at Our Community Centre!

The Sunshine Community Center is looking for enthusiastic students to join our dynamic team.

The job includes:

- Organising community events and activities

- Assisting in (10) __________ tasks

- Helping with social media updates

✔ No (11) __________ prior experience needed!

Contact Mr. Brown at brown.james@communitycenter.org by May 15 to apply.

Don't miss (12) __________!

Choose the word that differs from the other three in the position of stress in each of the following questions.

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

Smart Growth

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

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

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

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

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

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

Choose the 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 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 NOT mentioned as a way to gain work experience?

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

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

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

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 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 mention a concession relationship?

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

Dear Uncle Sam,

I hope you're doing well!

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

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

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

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

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

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Mia

Read the following 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.

In which paragraph does the writer explain how smart growth communities manage stormwater?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The phrase ‘susceptible to’ in paragraph 2 could be best replaced by ____.

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

Career Orientation Workshop Announcement

Dear Students,

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

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

Date: November 15th

Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Location: School Auditorium

We look forward to seeing you there!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Which of the following best describes the tone of this passage?

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.

Mountain Lions Amid Wildfires: A Struggle for Survival

Beth Pratt, the California director for the National Wildlife Federation, has spent her career protecting Los Angeles’ mountain lions. These top predators live in a rocky area surrounded by fancy houses and many roads. When wildfires destroy vast stretches of open land, the survival options for these animals become critically limited. “This is the LA area—these mountain lions can’t just move into the Kardashians’ backyard,” Pratt says, her voice filled with concern for the animals in such a difficult situation.

(I) The chaparral vegetation, covering about 10% of California, is one of the world’s most flammable ecosystems. (II) In Los Angeles, suburban sprawl intrudes on these areas, blocking wildlife escape routes. (III)Fires strip the land of food and shelter, transforming vibrant ecosystems into barren landscapes. (IV) Pratt highlights the urgency of the situation, explaining how areas that once supported life are now “taken out of commission,” leaving many species to starve or struggle for survival.

The consequences extend beyond wildlife. Wildfires have caused devastating human losses, with 88,000 people evacuated and a rising death toll of 25. Meanwhile, the non-human world suffers equally, particularly endangered species with limited ranges. Red-legged frogs, reintroduced into Santa Monica streams in 2014, are among the most affected, with their habitats repeatedly destroyed. The Woolsey Fire of 2018 was followed by mudslides that wiped out much of the region's delicate ecosystem, and scientists fear similar outcomes this time. California newts, reptiles, and snakes are also at high risk, while mammals and birds, although more likely to escape, face challenges in finding food and shelter as the ecosystem bounces back.

Despite the devastation, hope remains. The chaparral is a fire-adapted ecosystem, and life often endures beneath the soil. Seeds can survive and germinate quickly, with grasses sprouting weeks after the first rain. Shrubs may take up to a decade to recover, depending on rainfall. Prof. Stefan Doerr, an expert on wildfires, emphasizes the resilience of this landscape, noting its evolutionary adaptation to high-intensity fires occurring every 30 to 100 years. While the aftermath looks bleak, these fires play a role in maintaining biodiversity, offering a glimmer of hope for recovery.

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

“Seeds can survive and germinate quickly, with grasses sprouting weeks after the first rain.”?