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

1. People learn new languages for many reasons - work, travel, or personal enjoyment. However, beyond practical uses, learning a language offers powerful cognitive, emotional, and social benefits. It strengthens brain function, improves memory, and enhances communication skills. Although learning a new language may seem difficult for adults, experts emphasize its long-term benefits for their brain health, adaptability, and mental agility.

2. One of the greatest advantages of language learning is its cognitive impact. Research shows that bilingual individuals have stronger memory, better concentration, and enhanced problem-solving abilities. Studies also indicate that speaking more than one language can delay the onset of dementia by strengthening executive functions such as multitasking and reasoning. Moreover, learning a new language physically changes the brain by increasing grey matter volume, which helps with memory, and protecting white matter, which helps the brain send information quickly. These changes help keep the brain sharp as people age.

3. Beyond mental benefits, language learning also boosts confidence and expands social opportunities. Speaking another language gives people a sense of pride and confidence. It also opens doors to cultural experiences and career growth by allowing learners to engage with diverse communities. Many language learners find that their skills help them start conversations and understand other people's traditions better. Moreover, the process of language learning fosters patience and a greater appreciation for cultural diversity.

4. To maximize learning, experts recommend consistent practice and immersion. Apps like Duolingo or Babbel, daily speaking practice, and watching movies in the target language can make learning fun and effective. Learning basic vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structures and finding a conversation partner are also important. By applying these strategies, learners can develop fluency and experience the lifelong rewards of bilingualism.

 

In which paragraph does the writer mention a concession relationship?

Rewrite the following sentences 

He installed the new AI-powered software on my computer last night. ( to install)

-> I _______________________________________________________

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.

Where in paragraph 1 does the following sentence best fit?

There is also likely more electricity generation centres, as households and communities take up the opportunity to install photovoltaic cells and small scale wind turbines.

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.

The word accessibility in paragraph 2 is OPPOSITE in meaning to:

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?

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 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?

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.

Discover the Future of Tech with SmartGadgets

• Experience (1)___________like never before with our smartphones that redefine connectivity.

• Our (2)_____________ will enhance your daily life and keep you ahead of the curve.

• Join thousands of customers (3)________with their purchases and enjoy unparalleled performance.

• Show the features (4)_________ your customers that truly set you apart from the competition.

• Don’t miss out on this (5)_______-in-a-lifetime opportunity to upgrade your tech.

• Start (6)_________the benefits of advanced technology today, or wait for the future to catch up!

With SmartGadgets, you're not just purchasing a product; you're investing in a lifestyle. Explore our collection now!

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.

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

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.

DEPENDENCE ON TECHNOLOGY: TIME FOR CHANGE!

[I] Los Angeles dancer, Brian Perez, was eating out with his friends one evening when suddenly everyone went quiet. [II] To his horror, he saw that the reason for this was that people were checking their phones. [III] What if they all put their gadgets in a pile in the middle of the table until they had finished the meal? [IV] If anyone picked up their phone, that person would have to pay the whole bill. And so, it is said, the game of 'phone stacking' was born.

The necessity for action like this highlights a major problem in today's society: our inability to disconnect from technology.

But while Brian's idea deals with the obsession in a social context, measures also need to be taken at home. Some people drop their smartphones into a box the moment they arrive home, which gives them the chance to interact with the people they live with. The fact that the phone cannot be heard - it is on silent - nor seen - the flashing lights are hidden by the box - means that they are no longer tempted to use it.

A less drastic solution is to ban electronic devices at certain times of day when the whole family is likely to be together, for example at meal times. This can be hard for everyone, from teenagers desperate to text friends to parents unable to switch off from work. On a normal day, however, dinner takes less than an hour, and the benefits of exchanging opinions and anecdotes with the rest of the family certainly makes up for the time spent offline.

Taking a break from technology is one thing, but knowing when to turn off a device is another. Time seems to stand still in the virtual world, and before you know it, you find that it is three o'clock in the morning. This is where a digital curfew comes in handy, a set time when all devices must be put away. Evenings without technology are usually nice and peaceful and make a more agreeable end to the day. And then it's time for bed. One of the best ways of ensuring you can sleep at night is to ban electronic devices altogether from the bedroom. Lying next to a machine bursting with information is far from relaxing, and the sounds it emits during the night can easily wake you up. With technology out of the room, a line has been drawn between daytime and sleep time, which enables us to switch off ourselves and drift off to sleep.

The phrase "the necessity for action" in paragraph II 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 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 option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN SPORT

The first sports game was televised in the USA over fifty years ago. In the following decades, television provided coaches with a wealth of information to analyse. By viewing recordings,(18)______. Moreover, coaching staff could detect factors related to team or athlete performance. In fact,  most of this data consisted of bare statistics without meaningful context.(19)______.

AI involves developing computer systems capable of tasks linked to human intelligence, such as decision making. AI can analyse not only a player's actions but also their relation to the coach's directives and other players' actions. Sports scientists believe AI is revolutionizing coaching by identifying patterns of behavior in ways previously impossible.

There may be limitless ways (20)______, but practical applications are emerging. A recent experiment in the Spanish football league used AI to analyse the passing strategies of 20 teams. The research revealed that Barcelona and Real Madrid (21)______. However, the algorithm detected just 31 passing patterns by Atlético Madrid. All other plays were unique, and the team won the league that season. One conclusion is that teams with a less predictable style of play are harder to counter. (22)______. Furthermore, Dr. Johann Muller, a sports scientist, observed that teams prioritizing offence suffer more injuries.

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.

Experience the Future at the Robot Exhibition!

Get ready to immerse ___(1)___ the fascinating world of robotics! This extraordinary exhibition, ___(2)___, stunning designs, and interactive displays, is perfect for all ages. Explore various robots, ___(3)___ amazing capabilities, from performing delicate tasks to engaging in lively conversations. Busy ___(4)___ the innovations shaping our future, you’ll be captivated by the endless possibilities of automation. Don’t miss your chance to ___(5)___ a ticket to the exhibition and witness the latest advancements in robotics firsthand. Join us for an ___(6)___ experience that will inspire and educate. Get your tickets today and step into tomorrow!

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.

Discover the Future of Tech with SmartGadgets

• Experience (1)___________like never before with our smartphones that redefine connectivity.

• Our (2)_____________ will enhance your daily life and keep you ahead of the curve.

• Join thousands of customers (3)________with their purchases and enjoy unparalleled performance.

• Show the features (4)_________ your customers that truly set you apart from the competition.

• Don’t miss out on this (5)_______-in-a-lifetime opportunity to upgrade your tech.

• Start (6)_________the benefits of advanced technology today, or wait for the future to catch up!

With SmartGadgets, you're not just purchasing a product; you're investing in a lifestyle. Explore our collection now!

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.

Rewrite the following sentences 

Home robots can assist us in doing the housework such as cooking, cleaning.  (have ) 

-> We _____________________________________________________

Read the following passage about human life expectancy 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. 

Nomophobia, short for "no-mobile-phone phobia," is a modern phenomenon that affects many people in today's digital age.

What is nomophobia? It is the irrational fear of being without one's mobile phone or being unable to use it. This condition can cause anxiety and distress, and it highlights the profound impact mobile devices have on our lives. The fear of losing or being separated from one's phone is a growing concern. Some common situations that trigger nomophobia include misplacing one's phone, running out of battery, or losing network signal. The fear intensifies when people imagine not having their phones to contact friends and family, access the internet, or use GPS for navigation.

Who easily suffers from nomophobia? Nomophobia is not limited to any age group and can affect individuals of all backgrounds. It often becomes evident when people experience panic or anxiety when they forget their phones at home or are unable to use them temporarily. Symptoms may include restlessness, rapid heartbeat, sweating, and a sense of insecurity.

The roots of nomophobia lie in the convenience and connectedness that mobile phones provide. These devices have become integral to our daily lives, serving as not just communication tools but also cameras, entertainment hubs, personal organizers, and more. This dependence on mobile phones can lead to a feeling of vulnerability when separated from them.

In which paragraph does the writer mention the cause of nomophobia?

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.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN SPORT

The first sports game was televised in the USA over fifty years ago. In the following decades, television provided coaches with a wealth of information to analyse. By viewing recordings,(18)______. Moreover, coaching staff could detect factors related to team or athlete performance. In fact,  most of this data consisted of bare statistics without meaningful context.(19)______.

AI involves developing computer systems capable of tasks linked to human intelligence, such as decision making. AI can analyse not only a player's actions but also their relation to the coach's directives and other players' actions. Sports scientists believe AI is revolutionizing coaching by identifying patterns of behavior in ways previously impossible.

There may be limitless ways (20)______, but practical applications are emerging. A recent experiment in the Spanish football league used AI to analyse the passing strategies of 20 teams. The research revealed that Barcelona and Real Madrid (21)______. However, the algorithm detected just 31 passing patterns by Atlético Madrid. All other plays were unique, and the team won the league that season. One conclusion is that teams with a less predictable style of play are harder to counter. (22)______. Furthermore, Dr. Johann Muller, a sports scientist, observed that teams prioritizing offence suffer more injuries.

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.

         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.