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.

MAKING FRIENDS IN THE SKY

"Who will I sit next to? Will they be interesting, or will they be really (1) __________ ?” Are these the questions that you often ask yourself before a (2) __________ ? But that's all going to change! An airline company has introduced a new system (3) __________ 'Meet & Seat'. Now, you can choose your 'next-door neighbour'. When you book your tickets, you can show your social media profile (4) __________ everyone on the plane. You will also see everyone else's profile. Then, you can choose who you want to sit next to. If you want to talk about work and (5) __________ business contacts, look at people's professional network profiles. And if you prefer (6) __________ fun and chat about travelling and shopping, look at their social network profiles!"

(Adapted from C21 Smart)

Question 5: Then, you can choose who you want to sit next to. If you want to talk about work and (5) __________ business contacts, look at people's professional network profiles.

Read the following passage and choose the correct answer to each of the questions.

1. In recent years, the concept of zero-waste cities has gained significant attention. The idea is simple but revolutionary. A zero-waste city aims to send no waste to landfills or incinerators. Instead, everything is reused, recycled, or composted. This approach not only reduces the amount of waste produced but also helps conserve natural resources and protect the environment.

2. One key element of a zero-waste city is the design of products that can either be reused or fully recycled. Manufacturers are encouraged to produce goods with fewer materials and create packaging that is easy to recycle. Additionally, citizens are motivated to change their consumption habits. People are encouraged to avoid disposable items and opt for reusable alternatives such as cloth bags, glass bottles, and metal containers. Cities also promote the use of shared economies, such as borrowing tools or second-hand markets, which help to reduce the demand for new products. Educational campaigns and community events have also been organized to ensure that everyone is informed about the importance of waste reduction.

3. San Francisco is an example of a city that has embraced this vision. Since launching its zero-waste initiative, it has successfully diverted over 80% of its waste from landfills. The city has implemented strict recycling and composting programs, and it has banned plastic bags and Styrofoam containers. Residents are actively engaged in the process by separating their waste into different categories, such as recyclables, organic waste, and general trash.

4. Zero-waste cities represent a new approach to urban living. They offer a solution to the growing problem of waste management. Although creating a zero-waste city is challenging, the benefits are undeniable. Reduced pollution, cleaner streets, and a more sustainable future make this concept an attractive goal for cities worldwide. As more cities adopt zero-waste policies, they pave the way for a cleaner, healthier planet.

(38) The word its in paragraph 3 refers to __________.

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

Vietnamese cultural identity is a rich and intricate tapestry that reflects the nation's long and storied history. Rooted in over a thousand years of civilization, Vietnam's cultural identity is a fusion of indigenous traditions and external influences, shaped by its geographical location and historical interactions.

First and foremost, at the heart of Vietnamese culture is a deep reverence for family and comm Unity. Confucian Values emphasizing respect for elders, filial piety, and sOCi6l harmony have played a pivotal role in Shaping Vietnamese society. These values are reflected in the close-knit family structures, hierarchical relationships, and communal rituals that are integral to daily life.

Secondly, Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its exquisite flavors and diversity. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients, fragrant herbs, and balanced flavors, Vietnamese food tells a story of the country's agricultural heritage and regional variations. Iconic dishes like pho, banh mi, and spring rolls have become global favorites, representing the culinary artistry deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture. Also, Vietnam's artistic expressions are equally captivating. Traditional art forms like water puppetry, silk painting, and folk music continue to thrive alongside contemporary artistic movements. Áo dài, a graceful traditional dress, exemplifies the fusion of elegance and modesty in Vietnamese fashion, symbolizing cultural pride and identity.

Today, in the face of modernization and globalization, Vietnamese cultural identity remains resilient. While adapting to the challenges of the 21st century, the Vietnamese people continue to honor their traditions, celebrate their unique cultural expressions, and pass on their heritage to future generations, ensuring that their cultural identity remains Vibrant and enduring.

Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 3?

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

School Announcement: Environmental Clean-Up Day

Dear Students and Staff,

We are excited to announce our upcoming Environmental Clean-Up Day! (13) __________ us on Saturday, August 10th, from 9 AM to 12 PM as we work together to clean up our local park. This event is a great opportunity to help protect our environment and earn community service hours.

✔ All necessary supplies (14) __________.

Please sign (15) __________ in the main office by August 5th. Let's make a difference together!

Thank you,

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

School Announcement: Environmental Clean-Up Day

Dear Students and Staff,

We are excited to announce our upcoming Environmental Clean-Up Day! (13) __________ us on Saturday, August 10th, from 9 AM to 12 PM as we work together to clean up our local park. This event is a great opportunity to help protect our environment and earn community service hours.

✔ All necessary supplies (14) __________.

Please sign (15) __________ in the main office by August 5th. Let's make a difference together!

Thank you,

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

Vietnamese cultural identity is a rich and intricate tapestry that reflects the nation's long and storied history. Rooted in over a thousand years of civilization, Vietnam's cultural identity is a fusion of indigenous traditions and external influences, shaped by its geographical location and historical interactions.

First and foremost, at the heart of Vietnamese culture is a deep reverence for family and comm Unity. Confucian Values emphasizing respect for elders, filial piety, and sOCi6l harmony have played a pivotal role in Shaping Vietnamese society. These values are reflected in the close-knit family structures, hierarchical relationships, and communal rituals that are integral to daily life.

Secondly, Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its exquisite flavors and diversity. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients, fragrant herbs, and balanced flavors, Vietnamese food tells a story of the country's agricultural heritage and regional variations. Iconic dishes like pho, banh mi, and spring rolls have become global favorites, representing the culinary artistry deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture. Also, Vietnam's artistic expressions are equally captivating. Traditional art forms like water puppetry, silk painting, and folk music continue to thrive alongside contemporary artistic movements. Áo dài, a graceful traditional dress, exemplifies the fusion of elegance and modesty in Vietnamese fashion, symbolizing cultural pride and identity.

Today, in the face of modernization and globalization, Vietnamese cultural identity remains resilient. While adapting to the challenges of the 21st century, the Vietnamese people continue to honor their traditions, celebrate their unique cultural expressions, and pass on their heritage to future generations, ensuring that their cultural identity remains Vibrant and enduring.

Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?

Read the following passage about Our Festival Traditions 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.

Katê Festival

Cultural diversity is a vital aspect of any society, and festivals of ethnic groups play an essential role in preserving the cultural identity of a community. Embracing cultural values through festivals is an important way of staying connected with one community as well as its history and traditions, and a well-known Katê Festival of the Chăm people in Vietnam is an example to prove so.

The Katê Festival, also known as Mbăng Katê, is the biggest yearly festival for the Chăm people in Vietnam. It is a special time of year when they honour important figures in their history and the dead in their families. The Kate Festival takes place on the first day of the seventh month in the Chăm calendar, usually in September or October. It lasts for three days and takes place around three important ancient structures in Ninh Thuận Province: the Po Klaung Yăgrai Tower, the Po Romé Tower and the Po Inû Nagar Temple. All of these places are very important to Champa culture and history.

On the morning of the first day, Cham families take part in processions as they travel to the towers and temple, bringing gifts of fruit, meat and rice. In a special ceremony, the Cham people receive the costumes of the Goddess Po Nagar from the Raglai people, a cultural group with close connections to Champa culture. The Chăm carry the costumes to the temple to celebrate Po Nagar, then they open the gates. Inside the temple, they start bathing the statues of important figures and watching sacred dances. After those performances, people enjoy lively parties until the evening of the festival's second day.

On the last day, people make special offerings to their gods at community houses in their villages and pray for luck and good health for the coming year. Once this is over, there are traditional music performances, and then people do fun activities like playing football and participating in weaving competitions.

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

Read the following passage and choose the correct answer to each of the questions.

1. In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards more eco-friendly alternatives to plastic products. Among these changes is the introduction of paper straws, which have become increasingly popular in cafes, restaurants, and homes. This shift is largely driven by growing awareness of the environmental damage caused by plastic pollution, particularly in our oceans.

2. Plastic straws have long been criticised for their contribution to pollution. They are lightweight, making them easily blown into waterways and oceans, where they can harm marine life. Unlike plastic, which takes hundreds of years to decompose, paper straws break down much more quickly. This means they are less likely to accumulate in the environment, making them a seemingly better option.

3. However, the production of paper straws also has an environmental impact. The manufacturing process requires cutting down trees, which can contribute to deforestation if not managed sustainably. Moreover, many paper straws have a thin plastic lining to prevent them from getting soggy quickly. This plastic lining can still cause environmental issues and reduce the benefits of switching from plastic to paper.

4. There are also practical concerns. Many people find paper straws less durable than plastic ones. They can become soft and unusable in a short amount of time, especially when used in hot beverages. This inconvenience can lead to increased waste if people use more straws as replacements.

5. On the other hand, some companies are working to address these issues. They are developing more durable and completely biodegradable paper straws, as well as investing in sustainable forestry practices to ensure that the production of paper products does not contribute to deforestation.

6. In conclusion, while paper straws do offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to plastic straws, they are not without their own set of problems. The key to making a positive impact lies in continuing to innovate and improve these products, as well as encouraging responsible production and disposal practices. As consumers, being aware of these issues can help us make more informed choices and support companies that prioritise sustainability.

(36) The word they in paragraph 4 refers to __________.

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.

Although there is disagreement on the origins of batik, some people – though not all-  (18)______. Its production technique spreading throughout the island, then over the centuries batik spread to Sumatra and north into Malaysia’s coastal areas and southern Thailand.

Javanese batik displays the peoples’ view of the universe. Three traditional, easy-to-obtain colours are used - indigo, brown, and white –(19)______. Nobility have special patterns, with wider stripes or wavy lines indicating a higher rank. 

Sumatra’s batik dates to the 13th century. Sumatra’s ethnic groups have their own styles of batik, which use clay for the dye.(20)______. 

The first introduction of Malaysian batik is in the 17th century. Today, tourists can find Malaysian batik on the east coast in Johor, Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang. Motifs tend to be of plants but geometric shapes as human and animal images are taboo. 

Finally making its way to southern Thailand, (21)______. Its themes vary from the islands landscape and important parts of island culture such as coconut shells, palm trees, tropical flowers, and fishing boats. Batik, has made a significant contribution to Singapore’s arts scene, with traditional and contemporary presentations. 

(22)______. In 2009, UNESCO designated Indonesian batik as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

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

Vietnamese cultural identity is a rich and intricate tapestry that reflects the nation's long and storied history. Rooted in over a thousand years of civilization, Vietnam's cultural identity is a fusion of indigenous traditions and external influences, shaped by its geographical location and historical interactions.

First and foremost, at the heart of Vietnamese culture is a deep reverence for family and comm Unity. Confucian Values emphasizing respect for elders, filial piety, and sOCi6l harmony have played a pivotal role in Shaping Vietnamese society. These values are reflected in the close-knit family structures, hierarchical relationships, and communal rituals that are integral to daily life.

Secondly, Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its exquisite flavors and diversity. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients, fragrant herbs, and balanced flavors, Vietnamese food tells a story of the country's agricultural heritage and regional variations. Iconic dishes like pho, banh mi, and spring rolls have become global favorites, representing the culinary artistry deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture. Also, Vietnam's artistic expressions are equally captivating. Traditional art forms like water puppetry, silk painting, and folk music continue to thrive alongside contemporary artistic movements. Áo dài, a graceful traditional dress, exemplifies the fusion of elegance and modesty in Vietnamese fashion, symbolizing cultural pride and identity.

Today, in the face of modernization and globalization, Vietnamese cultural identity remains resilient. While adapting to the challenges of the 21st century, the Vietnamese people continue to honor their traditions, celebrate their unique cultural expressions, and pass on their heritage to future generations, ensuring that their cultural identity remains Vibrant and enduring.

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as Confucian values emphasizing respect for?

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.

         Vietnamese cultural identity is a rich and intricate tapestry that reflects the nation’s long and storied history. Rooted in over a thousand years of civilization, Vietnam’s cultural identity is a fusion of indigenous traditions and external influences, shaped by its geographical location and historical interactions.

         First and foremost, at the heart of Vietnamese culture is a deep reverence for family and community. Confucian values emphasizing respect for elders, filial piety, and social harmony have played a pivotal role in shaping Vietnamese society. These values are reflected in the close-knit family structures, hierarchical relationships, and communal rituals that are integral to daily life.

         Secondly, Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its exquisite flavors and diversity. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients, fragrant herbs, and balanced flavors, Vietnamese food tells a story of the country’s agricultural heritage and regional variations. Iconic dishes like pho, banh mi, and spring rolls have become global favorites, representing the culinary artistry deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture. Also, Vietnam’s artistic expressions are equally captivating. Traditional art forms like water puppetry, silk painting, and folk music continue to thrive alongside contemporary artistic movements. Áo dài, a graceful traditional dress, exemplifies the fusion of elegance and modesty in Vietnamese fashion, symbolizing cultural pride and identity.

         Today, in the face of modernization and globalization, Vietnamese cultural identity remains resilient. While adapting to the challenges of the 21st century, the Vietnamese people continue to honor their traditions, celebrate their unique cultural expressions, and pass on their heritage to future generations, ensuring that their cultural identity remains vibrant and enduring.

In which paragraph does the writer state that Vietnamese cultural identity is influenced by both internal and external factors?

Read the following advertisement 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 1 to 6.

Next Sunday, we are organizing a large lunch gathering at our home. It is anticipated to be an (1) ________ event, with everyone savoring the meals and conversations. We will arrange a (2) ________ in the backyard, with spacious seating and vibrant decorations to create a welcoming and festive atmosphere.

The dishes, (3) ________ an assortment of cuisines, will suit everyone’s preferences. We will spend the whole afternoon engaging (4) ________ our visitors, exchanging stories, and enjoying their company.

After lunch, we plan to organize some fun activities to (5) ________ both children and adults entertained. All in all, it will be a wonderful way to conclude the weekend on a positive note.

Read the following passage about Our Festival Traditions 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.

Katê Festival

Cultural diversity is a vital aspect of any society, and festivals of ethnic groups play an essential role in preserving the cultural identity of a community. Embracing cultural values through festivals is an important way of staying connected with one community as well as its history and traditions, and a well-known Katê Festival of the Chăm people in Vietnam is an example to prove so.

The Katê Festival, also known as Mbăng Katê, is the biggest yearly festival for the Chăm people in Vietnam. It is a special time of year when they honour important figures in their history and the dead in their families. The Kate Festival takes place on the first day of the seventh month in the Chăm calendar, usually in September or October. It lasts for three days and takes place around three important ancient structures in Ninh Thuận Province: the Po Klaung Yăgrai Tower, the Po Romé Tower and the Po Inû Nagar Temple. All of these places are very important to Champa culture and history.

On the morning of the first day, Cham families take part in processions as they travel to the towers and temple, bringing gifts of fruit, meat and rice. In a special ceremony, the Cham people receive the costumes of the Goddess Po Nagar from the Raglai people, a cultural group with close connections to Champa culture. The Chăm carry the costumes to the temple to celebrate Po Nagar, then they open the gates. Inside the temple, they start bathing the statues of important figures and watching sacred dances. After those performances, people enjoy lively parties until the evening of the festival's second day.

On the last day, people make special offerings to their gods at community houses in their villages and pray for luck and good health for the coming year. Once this is over, there are traditional music performances, and then people do fun activities like playing football and participating in weaving competitions.

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as one of the key locations where the Katê Festival is celebrated?

Read the following passage and choose the correct answer to each of the questions.

1. In recent years, the concept of zero-waste cities has gained significant attention. The idea is simple but revolutionary. A zero-waste city aims to send no waste to landfills or incinerators. Instead, everything is reused, recycled, or composted. This approach not only reduces the amount of waste produced but also helps conserve natural resources and protect the environment.

2. One key element of a zero-waste city is the design of products that can either be reused or fully recycled. Manufacturers are encouraged to produce goods with fewer materials and create packaging that is easy to recycle. Additionally, citizens are motivated to change their consumption habits. People are encouraged to avoid disposable items and opt for reusable alternatives such as cloth bags, glass bottles, and metal containers. Cities also promote the use of shared economies, such as borrowing tools or second-hand markets, which help to reduce the demand for new products. Educational campaigns and community events have also been organized to ensure that everyone is informed about the importance of waste reduction.

3. San Francisco is an example of a city that has embraced this vision. Since launching its zero-waste initiative, it has successfully diverted over 80% of its waste from landfills. The city has implemented strict recycling and composting programs, and it has banned plastic bags and Styrofoam containers. Residents are actively engaged in the process by separating their waste into different categories, such as recyclables, organic waste, and general trash.

4. Zero-waste cities represent a new approach to urban living. They offer a solution to the growing problem of waste management. Although creating a zero-waste city is challenging, the benefits are undeniable. Reduced pollution, cleaner streets, and a more sustainable future make this concept an attractive goal for cities worldwide. As more cities adopt zero-waste policies, they pave the way for a cleaner, healthier planet.

(39) According to the passage, San Francisco __________.

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.

         Vietnamese cultural identity is a rich and intricate tapestry that reflects the nation’s long and storied history. Rooted in over a thousand years of civilization, Vietnam’s cultural identity is a fusion of indigenous traditions and external influences, shaped by its geographical location and historical interactions.

         First and foremost, at the heart of Vietnamese culture is a deep reverence for family and community. Confucian values emphasizing respect for elders, filial piety, and social harmony have played a pivotal role in shaping Vietnamese society. These values are reflected in the close-knit family structures, hierarchical relationships, and communal rituals that are integral to daily life.

         Secondly, Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its exquisite flavors and diversity. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients, fragrant herbs, and balanced flavors, Vietnamese food tells a story of the country’s agricultural heritage and regional variations. Iconic dishes like pho, banh mi, and spring rolls have become global favorites, representing the culinary artistry deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture. Also, Vietnam’s artistic expressions are equally captivating. Traditional art forms like water puppetry, silk painting, and folk music continue to thrive alongside contemporary artistic movements. Áo dài, a graceful traditional dress, exemplifies the fusion of elegance and modesty in Vietnamese fashion, symbolizing cultural pride and identity.

         Today, in the face of modernization and globalization, Vietnamese cultural identity remains resilient. While adapting to the challenges of the 21st century, the Vietnamese people continue to honor their traditions, celebrate their unique cultural expressions, and pass on their heritage to future generations, ensuring that their cultural identity remains vibrant and enduring.

Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 3?

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

Carpooling, the practice of sharing a ride with others, is an effective way to reduce the number of vehicles on the road. One of the most significant advantages of carpooling is its positive impact on the environment. (22) __________ cars on the road, the fewer harmful greenhouse gases are emitted. This reduction in vehicle emissions can lead to improved air quality, particularly in urban areas (23) __________ pollution levels are typically higher.

Carpooling also offers economic benefits. Sharing a ride can significantly lower transportation costs for individuals by splitting (24) __________ such as fuel, tolls, and parking fees. This makes commuting more affordable and can ease the financial burden of car ownership.

Additionally, carpooling fosters a (25) __________ of community. It provides an opportunity for social interaction and networking (26) __________ passengers can engage in conversations and build relationships during their shared journeys. This can enhance the overall commuting experience, making it more enjoyable and less stressful.

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.

         Vietnamese cultural identity is a rich and intricate tapestry that reflects the nation’s long and storied history. Rooted in over a thousand years of civilization, Vietnam’s cultural identity is a fusion of indigenous traditions and external influences, shaped by its geographical location and historical interactions.

         First and foremost, at the heart of Vietnamese culture is a deep reverence for family and community. Confucian values emphasizing respect for elders, filial piety, and social harmony have played a pivotal role in shaping Vietnamese society. These values are reflected in the close-knit family structures, hierarchical relationships, and communal rituals that are integral to daily life.

         Secondly, Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its exquisite flavors and diversity. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients, fragrant herbs, and balanced flavors, Vietnamese food tells a story of the country’s agricultural heritage and regional variations. Iconic dishes like pho, banh mi, and spring rolls have become global favorites, representing the culinary artistry deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture. Also, Vietnam’s artistic expressions are equally captivating. Traditional art forms like water puppetry, silk painting, and folk music continue to thrive alongside contemporary artistic movements. Áo dài, a graceful traditional dress, exemplifies the fusion of elegance and modesty in Vietnamese fashion, symbolizing cultural pride and identity.

         Today, in the face of modernization and globalization, Vietnamese cultural identity remains resilient. While adapting to the challenges of the 21st century, the Vietnamese people continue to honor their traditions, celebrate their unique cultural expressions, and pass on their heritage to future generations, ensuring that their cultural identity remains vibrant and enduring.

Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?

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

Vietnamese cultural identity is a rich and intricate tapestry that reflects the nation's long and storied history. Rooted in over a thousand years of civilization, Vietnam's cultural identity is a fusion of indigenous traditions and external influences, shaped by its geographical location and historical interactions.

First and foremost, at the heart of Vietnamese culture is a deep reverence for family and comm Unity. Confucian Values emphasizing respect for elders, filial piety, and sOCi6l harmony have played a pivotal role in Shaping Vietnamese society. These values are reflected in the close-knit family structures, hierarchical relationships, and communal rituals that are integral to daily life.

Secondly, Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its exquisite flavors and diversity. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients, fragrant herbs, and balanced flavors, Vietnamese food tells a story of the country's agricultural heritage and regional variations. Iconic dishes like pho, banh mi, and spring rolls have become global favorites, representing the culinary artistry deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture. Also, Vietnam's artistic expressions are equally captivating. Traditional art forms like water puppetry, silk painting, and folk music continue to thrive alongside contemporary artistic movements. Áo dài, a graceful traditional dress, exemplifies the fusion of elegance and modesty in Vietnamese fashion, symbolizing cultural pride and identity.

Today, in the face of modernization and globalization, Vietnamese cultural identity remains resilient. While adapting to the challenges of the 21st century, the Vietnamese people continue to honor their traditions, celebrate their unique cultural expressions, and pass on their heritage to future generations, ensuring that their cultural identity remains Vibrant and enduring.

In which paragraph does the writer mention a present concession relationship?

Read the following passage and choose the correct answer to each of the questions.

1. In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards more eco-friendly alternatives to plastic products. Among these changes is the introduction of paper straws, which have become increasingly popular in cafes, restaurants, and homes. This shift is largely driven by growing awareness of the environmental damage caused by plastic pollution, particularly in our oceans.

2. Plastic straws have long been criticised for their contribution to pollution. They are lightweight, making them easily blown into waterways and oceans, where they can harm marine life. Unlike plastic, which takes hundreds of years to decompose, paper straws break down much more quickly. This means they are less likely to accumulate in the environment, making them a seemingly better option.

3. However, the production of paper straws also has an environmental impact. The manufacturing process requires cutting down trees, which can contribute to deforestation if not managed sustainably. Moreover, many paper straws have a thin plastic lining to prevent them from getting soggy quickly. This plastic lining can still cause environmental issues and reduce the benefits of switching from plastic to paper.

4. There are also practical concerns. Many people find paper straws less durable than plastic ones. They can become soft and unusable in a short amount of time, especially when used in hot beverages. This inconvenience can lead to increased waste if people use more straws as replacements.

5. On the other hand, some companies are working to address these issues. They are developing more durable and completely biodegradable paper straws, as well as investing in sustainable forestry practices to ensure that the production of paper products does not contribute to deforestation.

6. In conclusion, while paper straws do offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to plastic straws, they are not without their own set of problems. The key to making a positive impact lies in continuing to innovate and improve these products, as well as encouraging responsible production and disposal practices. As consumers, being aware of these issues can help us make more informed choices and support companies that prioritise sustainability.

(33) What is the main reason for the growing popularity of paper straws?

Read the following passage and choose the correct answer to each of the questions.

1. Have you ever checked to see what the weather would be like for the week? You can thank meteorologists for the weather forecast! A meteorologist is a scientist who studies the atmosphere to predict the weather. Their work involves observing weather patterns, analysing data from satellites and weather stations, and using computer models to forecast future weather conditions. Meteorologists play a crucial role in helping people prepare for various everyday conditions as well as providing timely warnings about extreme weather events like hurricanes and tornadoes.

2. To become a meteorologist, one typically needs a degree in meteorology or a related field like atmospheric science. Many meteorologists also study physics, mathematics, and computer science, as these subjects are essential for understanding and predicting weather patterns. Some meteorologists work in research, studying climate change and developing new forecasting models. Others work in broadcasting, delivering weather reports on television or radio.

3. Meteorologists often work in offices, but they may also spend time in the field, gathering data and monitoring weather conditions firsthand. The job can be challenging, as weather is unpredictable, and forecasts are not always accurate. However, it is also rewarding, as accurate weather predictions can save lives and property by providing timely warnings of severe weather.

4. The work of a meteorologist is never dull, as they must constantly keep up with new developments in weather technology and science. Whether they are tracking a major storm or predicting a sunny day, meteorologists help people plan their activities and stay safe.

(31) The word tracking in paragraph 4 is closest in meaning to __________.

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

Vietnamese cultural identity is a rich and intricate tapestry that reflects the nation's long and storied history. Rooted in over a thousand years of civilization, Vietnam's cultural identity is a fusion of indigenous traditions and external influences, shaped by its geographical location and historical interactions.

First and foremost, at the heart of Vietnamese culture is a deep reverence for family and comm Unity. Confucian Values emphasizing respect for elders, filial piety, and sOCi6l harmony have played a pivotal role in Shaping Vietnamese society. These values are reflected in the close-knit family structures, hierarchical relationships, and communal rituals that are integral to daily life.

Secondly, Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its exquisite flavors and diversity. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients, fragrant herbs, and balanced flavors, Vietnamese food tells a story of the country's agricultural heritage and regional variations. Iconic dishes like pho, banh mi, and spring rolls have become global favorites, representing the culinary artistry deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture. Also, Vietnam's artistic expressions are equally captivating. Traditional art forms like water puppetry, silk painting, and folk music continue to thrive alongside contemporary artistic movements. Áo dài, a graceful traditional dress, exemplifies the fusion of elegance and modesty in Vietnamese fashion, symbolizing cultural pride and identity.

Today, in the face of modernization and globalization, Vietnamese cultural identity remains resilient. While adapting to the challenges of the 21st century, the Vietnamese people continue to honor their traditions, celebrate their unique cultural expressions, and pass on their heritage to future generations, ensuring that their cultural identity remains Vibrant and enduring.

The word indigenous in paragraph 1 is OPPOSITE in meaning to _____