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 from 1 to 6.

 

Attention Residents,

We would like to share some important updates (1)______the rapid urbanisation taking place in our neighborhood. Significant changes have occurred over the past few years, transforming the area(2)______. Many of you may have (3)______attention to the development of high-rise buildings in places where rice fields once stood, reflecting the ongoing urban growth.

The city is expanding, attracting more people to our urban areas, and we are proud to announce the addition of(4)______, a large shopping center, and an abundance of convenience stores on every corner, enhancing the quality of life for our community. Additionally, new electric buses have been introduced, providing a quiet and comfortable ride (5)______all residents.

However, it is important to acknowledge some challenges that come with this growth. Increased traffic jams during rush hours and the rising cost of living are notable concerns that need to be addressed as we continue to develop. We encourage everyone (6)______to these changes while remaining mindful of the balance between convenience and urban challenges.

Thank you for your attention and continued cooperation.

Best regards,

[Community Management Team]

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 about Urban Development 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.

SMART URBAN DEVELOPMENT IN HANOI

Smart urban technologies, vital components of modern city planning, are being rapidly integrated into Hanoi. The latest initiative, Hanoi Smart City, (18) ______. Launched in early 2023, it aims to enhance urban living through technology. This project includes the implementation of smart traffic systems and public services, making the city more efficient and accessible.

Hanoi Smart City is developed by a local tech firm (19) ______. This project exemplifies the advancements in urban management and digital solutions. (20) ______.

The city's infrastructure is inspired by both traditional Vietnamese culture and modern design. (21) ______. However, what makes it unique is the integration of IoT (Internet of Things) technologies that improve connectivity and responsiveness.

Hanoi Smart City impresses residents with its ability to streamline services. The combination of data analytics and citizen engagement allows for better resource management. Equipped with advanced technologies, (22) ______.

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 about urbanisation 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 18 to 22.

Urbanisation occurs in many parts of the world, both in developed and developing nations. It refers to the process in which urban areas grow (18)_________________________. This can lead to the concentration of populations into towns and cities. When properly planned, (19)______________________. However, if it is poorly managed, it can pose a significant challenge to maintaining the sustainability of these areas.

Big cities attract a lot of people as they usually offer more employment opportunities as well as a better life. The economy of urban areas tends to grow rapidly as more businesses and factories are created, and more workers are needed. (20)______________________.  This also encourages governments to spend money on better schools, hospitals, roads, public transport, and more. As cities expand, many more facilities such as public parks and gardens, swimming pools, libraries, cinemas and sports centres are built, (21)______________________.

However, when too many people move to a big city, (22)______________________.  For example, big urban areas can easily get overcrowded as railway networks and roads can't cope with the large number of passengers. The economic growth and expansion of big cities come at a big price for local residents as house prices and rents go up, and they can't afford to either buy or rent. Another problem is that big cities are experiencing more air pollution than rural areas. This can increase the risk of infections, heart disease, and lung cancer, and severely affect people who are ill.        

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 summarizes the passage?

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. The city has undergone dramatic changes in the last few years, influencing the way residents interact with their environment.

b. New public transportation options have emerged, making it easier for people to commute and reducing carbon emissions.

c. However, with the rapid development, there have been concerns regarding traffic and pollution levels.

d. Besides, Community gardens and green spaces have been established, promoting a healthier lifestyle and environmental awareness.

e. Overall, the transformation has created a more vibrant and connected community.

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.

The word “rural” in paragraph 3 is OPPOSITE in meaning 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.

Question 17: 

a. However, despite this growth, Redmond still lacks a hospital, as the nearest one is located over 30 miles away in Longreach.

b. Once abundant parks on Oak Street and Richmond Avenue have been replaced by factories, marking a shift towards industrialisation.

c. The industrial shift has also attracted new businesses, from arcades to shops and factories, boosting the local economy and making Redmond more and more commercially active.

d. Redmond has transformed significantly over the past decade.

e. This industrial growth has led to a 25% population boom due to an influx of factory workers, resulting in increased traffic congestion.

(Adapted from i-Learn Smart World)

Read the following passage about the urban shift 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] Global urbanisation has increased significantly in recent decades, and one of the main drivers of this growth has been rural migration. [II] Half of the world's population already resides in cities, and by 2050, experts predict that number to reach as high as two-thirds. [III] Many factors contribute to this global phenomenon, which then gives rise to various issues. [IV]

There are many push factors which force people away from rural life. For example, rural residents have fewer employment options because there are not many large companies nearby. What's more, rural jobs are mainly related to agriculture, so crop failures due to natural disasters can make it difficult to earn a good living. By contrast, there are pull factors that attract people to urban life. Urban areas have more industries, so people can easily get good jobs and achieve a higher standard of living. They also offer entertainment alternatives, such as theme parks, sporting and musical events, allowing urban citizens to access leisure activities easily.

In the process of urbanisation, rural migration causes various far-reaching impacts on the environment and urban citizens. First, deforestation occurs when city governments have forests cut down to build accommodation for new residents, which harms the environment and reduces air quality. As growing populations bring about more deforestation and pollution, the air quality worsens, which can lead to health issues for residents. Second, due to population expansion, cities are struggling to offer adequate public facilities for urban people. As a result, some low- income people are unable to obtain the necessary affordable housing and end up living in slums, where the quality of life is very poor.

Rural migration is a complicated process, of which the causes and the effects should be fully comprehended. By carefully planning city development and suitable social policies, we can provide urban citizens with good public services, exciting job opportunities and a high quality of life without harming the environment.

(Adapted from Bright)

Question 31: Where in paragraph 1 does the following sentence best fit?

More and more people are moving to the city from the countryside each year.

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.

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

Read the following passage about Urban Development 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.

SMART URBAN DEVELOPMENT IN HANOI

Smart urban technologies, vital components of modern city planning, are being rapidly integrated into Hanoi. The latest initiative, Hanoi Smart City, (18) ______. Launched in early 2023, it aims to enhance urban living through technology. This project includes the implementation of smart traffic systems and public services, making the city more efficient and accessible.

Hanoi Smart City is developed by a local tech firm (19) ______. This project exemplifies the advancements in urban management and digital solutions. (20) ______.

The city's infrastructure is inspired by both traditional Vietnamese culture and modern design. (21) ______. However, what makes it unique is the integration of IoT (Internet of Things) technologies that improve connectivity and responsiveness.

Hanoi Smart City impresses residents with its ability to streamline services. The combination of data analytics and citizen engagement allows for better resource management. Equipped with advanced technologies, (22) ______.

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  

The phrase "plethora of job opportunities" in paragraph 2 could be best replaced by ____.

Mark the letter A, B, C or D 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. As public transportation becomes more automated and accessible, urban residents may find it easier to commute while reducing their environmental footprint. 

b. Urban life in the future is likely to be shaped by advancements in technology and a growing focus on sustainability. 

c. Cities will increasingly rely on smart systems, such as AI-driven traffic management and energy-efficient infrastructure, to address the challenges of overcrowding and pollution. 

d. Despite these innovations, cities will need to address social issues, ensuring that technological progress benefits all residents and not just a privileged few.

e. Vertical farming and green architecture are expected to become common, blending nature with urban spaces to improve air quality and provide healthier living conditions. 

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.

Urban farming, or the practice of growing food within city limits, has gained popularity worldwide. As cities expand and populations grow, there is increasing pressure on food supplies, making urban farming an appealing solution. From rooftop gardens to community plots, urban farms can help produce fresh, local food in areas that are typically food deserts. Additionally, they provide green spaces in densely populated areas, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Urban farming also has social benefits. It encourages community engagement and provides educational opportunities for residents. People can learn about sustainable agriculture, food production, and environmental conservation. Furthermore, urban farms can offer job opportunities, particularly in underprivileged neighborhoods, where employment options are often limited. By creating jobs and encouraging healthy eating, urban farms positively impact the health and well-being of local communities.

However, urban farming is not without its challenges. One significant issue is space; cities are crowded, and land is scarce. Finding suitable plots for farming can be difficult and expensive. There are also regulatory hurdles, as some cities have strict zoning laws that limit agricultural activities. Additionally, urban soil can be contaminated with pollutants, making it unsuitable for food production. Despite these obstacles, innovative solutions, such as hydroponics and vertical farming, are making urban farming more feasible.

In the future, urban farming could play a vital role in food security. As climate change and urbanization continue, local food sources will become increasingly important. By reducing dependency on long supply chains, urban farming can ensure that cities remain resilient in the face of global challenges.

Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 2?