Read the following paragraph 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.

In 2018, the United Nations announced that Singapore was completely urbanized as 100 per cent of its population is defined as turban'. Urbanization has brought both advantages and disadvantages to the small city-state. On the one hand, Singapore has attracted a (7) ______ of skilled workers from many other countries to ensure the economy continues to grow. Migrants have also helped create a more culturally diverse society in Singapore. On the other hand, urbanization has (8) ______some serious problems such as deforestation, overpopulation, and waste management. Since it was first colonized by the British in 1819 and Singapore was formally founded, over 95 per cent of its (9) ______has been cleared. (10) ______population density, in many parts of Singapore, there are over 20,000 people living per square kilometer. Waste treatment used to be (11) ______problem in Singapore. However, thanks to the (12) ______of technology, this problem has been solved. Singapore has even become a leader in urban waste management.

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

[I] Urbanization refers to the increasing population shift from rural to urban areas, resulting in the growth of cities and metropolitan regions (Hall, 2014). [II] This phenomenon is driven by various factors, including economic opportunities, improved living standards, and social amenities available in urban centers. [III] As a result, urbanization significantly impacts both individuals and communities, leading to a range of benefits and challenges (Davis, 2016). [IV]

One of the primary advantages of urbanization is the economic growth it fosters. Cities often provide a plethora of job opportunities, attracting individuals seeking better employment and higher incomes. In urban areas, businesses flourish due to increased demand for goods and services, leading to enhanced economic productivity. Moreover, urbanization encourages innovation and technological advancements, as a dense concentration of people often fosters creativity and collaboration (Florida, 2017).

However, urbanization also presents significant challenges. Rapid population growth in cities can lead to overcrowding, straining public services such as transportation, healthcare, and education. Many urban areas struggle to provide adequate housing, resulting in the proliferation of informal settlements and slums. According to the United Nations (2018), nearly one billion people live in slums, lacking access to basic services. They also face adverse living conditions. This situation exacerbates social inequality and can lead to increased crime rates and health issues.

To address the challenges of urbanization, sustainable urban planning is essential. Governments and urban planners must prioritize creating inclusive, well-connected cities that provide access to essential services for all residents. Strategies such as developing affordable housing, enhancing public transport systems, and promoting green spaces can help improve the quality of life in urban areas while mitigating the negative impacts of urbanization  

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

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

Smart Growth

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

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

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

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

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

Which of the following is NOT TRUE, according to paragraphs 2 and 3?

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

1. In recent years, the idea of a six-hour workday has gained attention as a potential solution to modern work-life balance challenges. Sweden is one of the countries where this concept was tested, and the results have been eye-opening.

2. In 2015, a Swedish retirement home introduced a six-hour workday for its nurses. After the experiment, not only were the nurses happier and more energetic, but productivity also increased. The reduced working hours allowed employees to focus better during their shifts, leading to fewer mistakes and better care for patients. Moreover, absenteeism decreased, and employee satisfaction skyrocketed.

3. But how does a shorter workday improve productivity? Research suggests that the traditional eight-hour workday may lead to exhaustion, which causes workers to lose focus and make errors. By working fewer hours, they can maintain higher energy levels and complete tasks more efficiently. Studies from organizations like the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) also show that countries with shorter average working hours, such as Germany and the Netherlands, have higher productivity rates compared to those with longer working hours.

4. Critics argue that a six-hour workday may not be suitable for all industries, and some businesses worry about potential cost increases. However, many proponents believe the long-term benefits, such as improved employee well-being and reduced burnout, outweigh these concerns.

5. As work-life balance becomes a priority in today's society, the six-hour workday could be a glimpse into the future of work, where employees are happier, healthier, and more productive.

(32) The word they in paragraph 3 refers to __________.

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. 

WELCOME TO GREEN HOME RESIDENCE

Discover Green Home Residence – a modern apartment complex designed to elevate your lifestyle. With (7)______of amenities, including a gym, swimming pool, and lush gardens, this is more than just a place to live – it’s a community where comfort meets convenience.

At Green Home, we believe in fostering connections. Residents can easily interact and support one (8)______ in a friendly, vibrant environment.

Understanding the common (9)______faced by urban homeowners, we’ve carefully planned solutions to minimize noise, improve ventilation, and provide ample parking spaces.

Our skilled (10)______are always ready to assist you in choosing the perfect unit and answering any questions you may have about the property.

We’ve (11)______with innovative architectural designs that maximize natural light and energy efficiency, ensuring sustainability and comfort in every apartment.

(12)______, Green Home Residence is conveniently located near schools, shopping centers, and major highways, making it the ideal choice for families and professionals alike.

Don’t wait – visit us today and experience the future of urban living at Green Home Residence!

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. Urbanisation is a process that cannot be stopped, and the best way to minimise the problems caused by it is to plan for the growth and all the resources needed, and make sure the infrastructure can support the increasing population.

b. Big cities attract a lot of people as they usually offer more employment opportunities as well as a better life.

c. Urbanisation occurs in many parts of the world, both in developed and developing nations.

d. However, when too many people move to a big city, without good planning and investment, its infrastructure can become ineffective.

e. It refers to the process in which urban areas grow as people leave the countryside or more factories and towns are built in rural areas.

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.

Urbanization is the movement of people from the country to cities and the growth of urban areas. It happens because there are often more opportunities in cities. However, when a city's population grows too quickly, it causes problems. Here are a few persistent problems caused by urbanization and some ideas to solve them.

Poverty: Urban areas have a higher cost of living, which means many people have to live in slums. These areas have high crime rates and only basic sanitation, and the people living there often have no access to healthcare. A solution for these issues would be to increase the number of social workers and police and have them provide service to these areas. A better, but more expensive one, would be to remove all the old buildings and houses, and have the city government build better quality, low-cost housing.

Pollution: Large populations create lots of waste. This can be too much for sanitation services to handle, so some areas can get very dirty. One option is to have volunteers clean up these places and have more trash cans installed. Another might be to have police give large fines to people who throw litter on the ground.

Traffic: People in cities often use private cars to get to work and school. This leads to heavy road congestion and causes lots of air pollution. To solve this problem, many cities don't let people drive private vehicles in the city center. This can reduce the amount of traffic by making people use public transportation.

In conclusion, urbanization can cause a lot of problems for people living in cities. Poor living standards. unclean environments, and congested traffic are just some of the issues. Solving the problems of urbanization is one of the biggest challenges for modern society.

The word "persistent" 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 best answer to each of the following questions

Ha Noi Then and Now

The 'Ha Noi Then and Now' exhibition has drawn thousands of visitors this week. The photos evoke childhood memories for older residents while giving younger generations a glimpse into how the city has transformed over time. Through the exhibition, people from all walks of life can connect with the essence of Ha Noi, whether they are locals or newcomers curious about its history and development.

In the 'Then' hall, pictures vividly depict 20th-century Ha Noi. In 1954, the city had about 530,000 residents in an area of 152 sq km. The Old Quarter, dating back hundreds of years, comprised streets dedicated to specific trades and crafts that shaped the city's economy. Life was simpler; most people traveled by bicycle or on foot, as motorbikes and cars were luxuries that only a few could afford. Trains, starting in 1901, were the primary mode of public transport until 1991, as buses were infrequent and inconvenient. People lived and worked in low-rise buildings, creating a close-knit community atmosphere. The city was a fascinating mixture of French colonial buildings and traditional Eastern architecture, blending the influences of its history and culture.

In contrast, the 'Now' hall showcases a dynamic and modern Ha Noi with over 8 million residents and an urban area exceeding 3,000 sq km. Many rural villages have been incorporated into the expanding city, transforming its landscape. To accommodate the growing population, the government is building affordable housing and high-rise apartments. Transport has improved significantly with the construction of new roads, bridges, and electric buses. The Ha Noi Metro, launched in 2021, represents a major step forward in public transit and is set to expand further by 2030, connecting more areas of the city.

Despite these advancements, urbanisation has introduced challenges. "The city is becoming overcrowded as people move in for job opportunities," said a 21-year-old student. This growth has caused traffic congestion, rising unemployment, and worsening air pollution, which are major concerns for residents.

Through this exhibition, visitors can appreciate Ha Noi's rich history while grappling with the complexities of its rapid development, understanding both its past and its future trajectory.

In which paragraph does the author describe the challenges brought by urbanisation?

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.

Urbanization is the movement of people from the country to cities and the growth of urban areas. It happens because there are often more opportunities in cities. However, when a city's population grows too quickly, it causes problems. Here are a few persistent problems caused by urbanization and some ideas to solve them.

Poverty: Urban areas have a higher cost of living, which means many people have to live in slums. These areas have high crime rates and only basic sanitation, and the people living there often have no access to healthcare. A solution for these issues would be to increase the number of social workers and police and have them provide service to these areas. A better, but more expensive one, would be to remove all the old buildings and houses, and have the city government build better quality, low-cost housing.

Pollution: Large populations create lots of waste. This can be too much for sanitation services to handle, so some areas can get very dirty. One option is to have volunteers clean up these places and have more trash cans installed. Another might be to have police give large fines to people who throw litter on the ground.

Traffic: People in cities often use private cars to get to work and school. This leads to heavy road congestion and causes lots of air pollution. To solve this problem, many cities don't let people drive private vehicles in the city center. This can reduce the amount of traffic by making people use public transportation.

In conclusion, urbanization can cause a lot of problems for people living in cities. Poor living standards. unclean environments, and congested traffic are just some of the issues. Solving the problems of urbanization is one of the biggest challenges for modern society.

Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence:

"Solving the problems of urbanization is one of the biggest challenges for modern society."

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. 

WELCOME TO GREEN HOME RESIDENCE

Discover Green Home Residence – a modern apartment complex designed to elevate your lifestyle. With (7)______of amenities, including a gym, swimming pool, and lush gardens, this is more than just a place to live – it’s a community where comfort meets convenience.

At Green Home, we believe in fostering connections. Residents can easily interact and support one (8)______ in a friendly, vibrant environment.

Understanding the common (9)______faced by urban homeowners, we’ve carefully planned solutions to minimize noise, improve ventilation, and provide ample parking spaces.

Our skilled (10)______are always ready to assist you in choosing the perfect unit and answering any questions you may have about the property.

We’ve (11)______with innovative architectural designs that maximize natural light and energy efficiency, ensuring sustainability and comfort in every apartment.

(12)______, Green Home Residence is conveniently located near schools, shopping centers, and major highways, making it the ideal choice for families and professionals alike.

Don’t wait – visit us today and experience the future of urban living at Green Home Residence!

Read the following passage and choose the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 18 to 22.

Choosing a career is a significant decision (18) __________. With so many options available, finding the right path can feel overwhelming. However, by considering key factors such as interests, skills, job market trends, and financial stability, you can make a well-informed choice.

First, it is important to reflect on your interests and passions. Think about what activities bring you joy and what topics naturally attract your attention. When you pursue a career that aligns with your passions, work becomes more enjoyable and rewarding. For example, someone fascinated by technology (19) __________.

In addition to interests, understanding your skills and strengths can help guide your decision. Consider what tasks you excel at and what comes naturally to you. (20) __________, careers in finance, engineering, or data science might be a great fit. Recognizing your strengths allows you to choose a career where you can thrive and achieve success.

Beyond personal preferences, researching job market trends is essential. (21) __________. In recent years, careers in technology, artificial intelligence, and sustainability have been on the rise, offering promising opportunities.

Finally, financial security is a key consideration. While following your passion is important, (22) __________. Understanding salary expectations, job benefits, and advancement opportunities can help you make a practical decision.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose a career path that not only aligns with your passions and skills but also ensures long-term stability and success.

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

[I] Urbanization refers to the increasing population shift from rural to urban areas, resulting in the growth of cities and metropolitan regions (Hall, 2014). [II] This phenomenon is driven by various factors, including economic opportunities, improved living standards, and social amenities available in urban centers. [III] As a result, urbanization significantly impacts both individuals and communities, leading to a range of benefits and challenges (Davis, 2016). [IV]

One of the primary advantages of urbanization is the economic growth it fosters. Cities often provide a plethora of job opportunities, attracting individuals seeking better employment and higher incomes. In urban areas, businesses flourish due to increased demand for goods and services, leading to enhanced economic productivity. Moreover, urbanization encourages innovation and technological advancements, as a dense concentration of people often fosters creativity and collaboration (Florida, 2017).

However, urbanization also presents significant challenges. Rapid population growth in cities can lead to overcrowding, straining public services such as transportation, healthcare, and education. Many urban areas struggle to provide adequate housing, resulting in the proliferation of informal settlements and slums. According to the United Nations (2018), nearly one billion people live in slums, lacking access to basic services. They also face adverse living conditions. This situation exacerbates social inequality and can lead to increased crime rates and health issues.

To address the challenges of urbanization, sustainable urban planning is essential. Governments and urban planners must prioritize creating inclusive, well-connected cities that provide access to essential services for all residents. Strategies such as developing affordable housing, enhancing public transport systems, and promoting green spaces can help improve the quality of life in urban areas while mitigating the negative impacts of urbanization  

According to paragraph 2, which of the following is NOT a benefit of urbanization?

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. However, despite these advancements, the region still struggles with infrastructure challenges, as public transportation remains ins underdeveloped.

b. Over the past decade, Greystone has undergone a remarkable transformation, shifting from a quiet suburban town to a vibrant hub of commercial activity,

c. The influx of new residents has increased demand for housing, resulting in a rapid expansion of residential developments across the city.

d. This economic growth has attracted businesses from tech startups to retail giants, significantly enhancing employment opportunities and boosting the local economy.

e. The surge in population, along with the expansion of commercial sectors, has led to a noticeable strain on public services and transportation networks.

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.

Urbanization is the movement of people from the country to cities and the growth of urban areas. It happens because there are often more opportunities in cities. However, when a city's population grows too quickly, it causes problems. Here are a few persistent problems caused by urbanization and some ideas to solve them.

Poverty: Urban areas have a higher cost of living, which means many people have to live in slums. These areas have high crime rates and only basic sanitation, and the people living there often have no access to healthcare. A solution for these issues would be to increase the number of social workers and police and have them provide service to these areas. A better, but more expensive one, would be to remove all the old buildings and houses, and have the city government build better quality, low-cost housing.

Pollution: Large populations create lots of waste. This can be too much for sanitation services to handle, so some areas can get very dirty. One option is to have volunteers clean up these places and have more trash cans installed. Another might be to have police give large fines to people who throw litter on the ground.

Traffic: People in cities often use private cars to get to work and school. This leads to heavy road congestion and causes lots of air pollution. To solve this problem, many cities don't let people drive private vehicles in the city center. This can reduce the amount of traffic by making people use public transportation.

In conclusion, urbanization can cause a lot of problems for people living in cities. Poor living standards. unclean environments, and congested traffic are just some of the issues. Solving the problems of urbanization is one of the biggest challenges for modern society.

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as one of the problems caused by urbanization?

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.

A New Capital

When Pakistan was established as a new state in 1947, Karachi initially served as its capital. However, maintaining Karachi as the capital proved to be a challenge due to several disadvantages, such as its climate and the condition of the existing infrastructure. Rather than attempting to improve these issues, the government opted to create a completely new capital city. In 1959, a commission was formed to explore potential locations for this new capital. Dr. Doxiadis, a renowned architect and city planner, was appointed as the chief advisor to the commission.

Dr. Doxiadis and his team explored several possible sites for the new capital, considering both geographical and environmental factors. After a thorough evaluation, they narrowed the options down to two locations: one just outside Karachi and the other located north of Rawalpindi. Both sites had their own sets of advantages and drawbacks, making the decision a complex one.

The final choice was made after carefully considering a range of factors such as transportation, water availability, economic implications, and national interests. Ultimately, the area north of Rawalpindi was selected. On February 24, 1960, the new capital city was named Islamabad, and a comprehensive master plan for its development was created. The plan divided the area into three distinct sections: Islamabad itself, neighboring Rawalpindi, and a national park.

Each section was designed to serve a specific purpose. (I) Islamabad would function as the country’s political and cultural center, meeting the administrative needs of the nation. (II) Rawalpindi, located nearby, would continue as the regional hub for industry and commerce. (III) The national park area was intended to provide space for education, recreation, and agriculture, enhancing the quality of life for residents. (IV)

Today, Islamabad is a vibrant city with a population of around 1 million people. Known for its clean and healthy environment, it offers a pollution-free atmosphere, abundant water resources, and ample green spaces. Tree-lined streets, elegant public buildings, and well-planned shopping centers make the city a model of successful urban planning. With its efficient design and flourishing urban life, Islamabad stands as a prime example of well-executed city planning and growth.

Which of the following best summarizes the main point of the passage?

Choose the correct answer to fill in the blank in each of the following questions.

The better your communication skills are, __________ you will be in team projects.