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.

 

SMART ENERGY

The coming decades will bring significant changes in energy supply and consumption. With concerns about global warming and diminishing oil reserves, nations are shifting toward low-carbon economies, prompting major changes in electricity supply and usage. Firstly, electricity demand will increase as consumers transition from oil and gas to electricity for homes and vehicles. Secondly, power generation will rise, focusing on renewable sources. To tackle these challenges, countries are investing in Smart Grid technology, which aims to optimize the electricity network by understanding power generation and demand, thereby improving efficiency.

(I)Smart Grid technology integrates computer systems with electricity networks. (II)These systems gather data on supply and demand, enhancing engineers’ management capabilities. (III)This leads to better energy utilization, reduced fuel needs, and lower carbon emissions. Additionally, operational and maintenance costs are minimized. For consumers, smart technology provides real-time data on energy usage and variable tariffs, encouraging energy use during off-peak hours to reduce costs. For instance, appliances like washing machines can be run at night. Smart meters connected to the Internet or phone networks allow remote control of appliances. (IV)

However, challenges accompany these advancements. Managing supply and demand is difficult with renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and wave power, which are unpredictable. Unlike oil and gas, these sources cannot easily meet peak demands, risking blackouts or system failures. Solutions include improving energy storage and promoting off-peak electricity use. Another issue is the remote location of many renewable energy sources, such as coastal and upland areas, which often lack infrastructure. Building new networks is necessary, though smart technology can reduce costs through efficient planning.

Smart Technology is still in development, with pilot projects testing its feasibility. Consumers are experimenting with smart meters to manage their home electricity use, and trials are underway for new infrastructure. Implementation will likely occur in phases, starting with simple methods to achieve quick carbon savings before advancing to more complex systems. Urban areas, with their high energy demand, are the primary focus for initial investments. Cities will adopt sustainable power solutions, transportation systems, and electric vehicle charging networks. By 2050, these innovations will go a long way toward revolutionizing energy supply, transforming homes, transportation, and lifestyles.

 

The word “diminishing” in paragraph 1 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 option that bestfits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22. 

The development of humanoid robots has captured the imagination of many. Apollo, a highly advanced robot designed for social interaction, (18)____________. Apollo made her first public appearance in 2020, showcasing her ability to converse and express emotions. Since then, (19)____________.

Apollo was developed by a team of engineers and psychologists (20)____________. This collaboration aimed to create a robot that could effectively understand and respond to human emotions, making her a unique presence in the field of artificial intelligence. Apollo's design is sleek and modern, designed to be visually appealing while functional. His facial expressions and gestures are crafted to resemble those of a human, enhancing her ability to connect with people on a deeper level.

Equipped with advanced speech recognition technology, (21)____________. This allows him to engage in meaningful conversations and adapt her responses based on the emotional tone of the discussion.

As humanoid robots like Apollo become more integrated into society, (22) ____________. They hold the potential to transform the way we interact with technology and each other.

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.

Autonomous vehicles, which were once the stuff of science fiction, are now becoming a reality. Tesla, for instance, (18) ______. A month later, the company showcased   its fully self-driving car in California and has continued to expand its fleet ever since. At one of these events, Tesla's vehicle received a safety award from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2020, further validating   its technology. During a presentation at the Consumer Electronics Show in 2021, Tesla highlighted its commitment to safety and innovation.

The Tesla Model S is one of the most advanced electric vehicles (19) ______. Clearly, Tesla and other manufacturers are at the forefront   of transforming the automotive   industry. (20) ______. The vehicles are equipped with various sensors, cameras, and AI algorithms.

(21) ______. These technologies enable the cars to navigate complex environments, such as city streets and highways, with minimal human intervention. This is a significant leap toward a future where autonomous driving becomes the norm.

Thanks to continuous advancements in technology, (22) ______. Consumers can look forward to safer and more efficient transportation solutions.

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 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.

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

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

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

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

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

The word "they" in paragraph 2 refers to: 

Complete each sentence using the correct form of the word in brackets.

Before accessing the interactive learning module, you need to get your account (activate) ______________________by  using a unique code.

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

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

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

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

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

The word “versatility” in paragraph 3 could be best replaced by: 

Read the following passage about humanoid robots and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

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

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

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

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

(Adapted from Friends Global)

Question 20: (20) ______________.

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 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?

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. Digital tools have revolutionized the way we learn and teach, allowing for a more interactive and promoting educational experience.

b. In fact, many schools have adopted online platforms and virtual classrooms, providing students with flexibility and access to resources from anywhere.

c. This shift toward digital education has made learning more accessible for students with different needs, especially in remote or underserved areas.

d. Additionally, teachers now incorporate multimedia resources, such as videos, games, and interactive exercises, into their lessons to enhance learning outcomes.

e. As technology continues to evolve, the educational landscape will continue to transform, providing new opportunities for growth and innovation.

Read the following passage about humanoid robots and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

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

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

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

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

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 28 to 32.

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Adapted from English Workbook 12 – Global Success)

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

Read the following 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 passage and decide whether the following statements are True (T), False (F) or Not given (NG).

EDUCATION IN THE FUTURE

Education is another area of social life in which information technology is changing the way we communicate. Today's college students may not simply sit in a lecture or a library to learn about their field. Through their computers and the wonders of virtual reality they can participate in lifelike simulated experiences. Consider the following scenario of the future of education made possible through developments in information technology. For children over the age of 10, daily attendance at schools is not compulsory. Some of the older children attend school only once or twice weekly to get tutorial support or instruction from a teacher. For the most part, pupils are encouraged to work online from home. Students must complete a minimum number of study hours per year; however, they may make up these hours by studying at home at times that suit their family schedule. They can log on early or late in the day and even join live classes in other countries. In order to ensure that each student is learning adequately, computer software will automatically monitor the number of hours a week each student studies on-line as well as that students' learning materials and assessment activities. Reports will be available for parents and teachers. The software can then identify the best learning activities and condition for each individual student and generate similar activities. It can also identify areas of weak achievement and produce special programs adjusted to the students' needs.

College students today only study in libraries or traditional classrooms.