Read the following announcement and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option t...

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 1 to 5.

THE VISION OF ELON MUSK

        Often compared to a real-life "Iron Man," Elon Musk is a business magnate and engineer known for his ambitious goals to revolutionize transportation and space exploration. As the CEO of Tesla, Inc., he has significantly accelerated the world's transition to sustainable energy (1) ____________. His vision, however, extends far beyond Earth.

        In 2002, Musk founded SpaceX with the ultimate goal of making life multi-planetary. Despite numerous early failures and skeptics, SpaceX successfully developed the Falcon 1, (2) ____________. This achievement paved the way for reusable rocket technology, which has drastically reduced the cost of reaching orbit.

        Beyond electric cars and rockets, Musk has introduced other futuristic concepts such as the Hyperloop and Neuralink. The latter, for instance, (3) ____________. While these innovations demonstrate Musk’s willingness to take significant risks, they have also generated controversy and public debate. (4) ____________. Many experts argue that such bold experimentation is essential for long-term technological progress. (5) ____________.

Question 1. 

        A. produced mass-market electric vehicles

        B. by producing mass-market electric vehicles

        C. who produces mass-market electric vehicles

        D. to produce mass-market electric vehicles

Question 2. 

        A. the first privately funded liquid-fueled rocket to reach orbit

        B. that was the first privately funded liquid-fueled rocket reaching orbit

        C. which it was the first privately funded liquid-fueled rocket to reach orbit

        D. was the first privately funded liquid-fueled rocket to reach orbit

Question 3. 

        A. which aims to develop brain-computer interfaces to assist people with paralysis

        B. aims to develop brain-computer interfaces to assist people with paralysis

        C. aiming to develop brain-computer interfaces to assist people with paralysis

        D. is aimed to develop brain-computer interfaces to assist people with paralysis

Question 4. 

        A. Despite these concerns, there remains an undeniable impact on modern industry

        B. Despite these concerns, but his impact on modern industry is still undeniable

        C. Despite these concerns, his impact on modern industry remains undeniable

        D. Despite these concerns, it is the undeniable impact he has on modern industry

Question 5. 

        A. These projects have already played a part in changing the way we look at the world today

        B. For years to come, his work is having a significant role in shaping the future world

        C. The future of technology will be shaped entirely by how his work evolves in the coming years

        D. It is clear that his ongoing efforts will continue to influence global technology for years to come

Read the following leaflet and mark the letter A, B, C, or D to indicate the correct option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 6 to 11.  

Maintaining Cultural Roots While Living Abroad

Living in another country can be exciting, (6) ____________ it is easy to feel distant from your traditions. Here are some simple ways to stay connected to your culture and build a strong sense of identity.

● Try joining local cultural clubs, including weekend groups that celebrate festivals or shared traditions.

● Consider (7) ____________ part in small community events that remind you of home.

● Cook familiar dishes and share them with friends, using (8) ____________.

● Visit cultural centres and engage with (9) ____________ people who understand your background.

● Keep photos and mementos from home, which can give comfort during busy days.

● Spend time teaching your children simple customs, such as greetings or stories, and help them feel proud (10) ____________ their heritage.

By choosing activities that strengthen your cultural ties, you can feel more (11) ____________ while building a new life abroad.

Question 6.
A. and
B. because
C. or
D. but

Question 7.
A. take
B. taking
C. to taking
D. to take

Question 8. 

A. easy recipes family
B. recipes easy family

C. family easy recipes
D. easy family recipes

Question 9.
A. another
B. the others
C. other
D. others

Question 10.
A. with
B. from
C. about
D. of

Question 11. 

A. in your element
B. in the air
C. on cloud nine
D. out of line

Mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best arrangement of utterances or sentences to make a cohesive and coherent exchange or text in each of the following questions from 12 to 16.

Question 12. 

A. In the future, smart cities will be designed to make life more convenient and sustainable for their residents.

B. Furthermore, transportation in these cities will be managed by self-driving cars and interconnected public transit, reducing traffic congestion and pollution.

C. These cities will be equipped with sensors to monitor air quality, energy use, and water levels, providing real-time data to improve city management.

D. Additionally, smart cities will also use renewable energy sources, like solar and wind power, to decrease their environmental impact.

e. In conclusion, with advanced technology and eco-friendly practices, smart cities promise a higher quality of life and a greener future.

A. a-d-b-c-e
B. a-c-b-d-e
C. a-c-b-e-d
D. a-b-d-e-c

Question 13. 

A.  Nam: Hey! Long time no see! How have you been?

B.  Nam: I’m great, just heading to work. Good to see you!

C.  Minh: Not bad, thanks! And you?

A. a-b-c
B. c-a-b
C. b-a-c
D. a-c-b

Question 14. 

A. It often starts with the excitement of being in a new place, followed by feelings of confusion and frustration as differences become clearer.

B. As time passes, adapting becomes easier, and many even learn to appreciate or blend the new culture with their own.

C. Culture shock is a common experience when moving to a different country or environment, as it involves adjusting to unfamiliar norms and practices.

D. For instance, language barriers, customs, and different social norms can make even everyday tasks challenging.

e. Eventually, a sense of balance is found as people grow more accustomed to their surroundings, resulting in personal growth and a broader perspective.

A. a-c-d-e-b
B. c-d-a-b-e
C. b-a-e-c-d
D. c-a-d-b-e

Question 15. 

A.  Mai: Yeah, that’s true. But I feel like some students use their phones for educational apps or to take notes, so it could be inconvenient for them.

B.  Lan: Honestly, I think it might be a good idea. Phones can be a huge distraction, and it’s hard to focus when everyone’s texting or scrolling during class.

C.  Lan: I get that, but maybe they could have certain times or areas where phones are allowed. It would be more about controlling when and where they’re used, not a full ban.

D.  Mai: That sounds fair. A balance between using them for learning and keeping them out of the way during lessons might work best.

e. Mai: I heard mobile phones will be banned at school next semester. What do you think about that?

A. e-b-d-a-c
B. a-c-e-d-b
C. c-d-e-a-b
D. e-b-a-c-d

Question 16. 

Dear Emily,

A. I hope you’re doing well! I just got back from an amazing trip to Vietnam and had to tell you about it.

B. If you ever get the chance to visit Vietnam, you should go! I’d love to travel with you someday.

C. I loved the food, especially ‘Pho’ in Hanoi!

D. The locals were also very welcoming, and learning a few Vietnamese phrases helped.

e. The views at Fansipan were breathtaking, and I explored beautiful cities like Da Nang and Nha Trang.

Take care,

Sarah

A. c-e-a-d-b
B. a-e-c-d-b
C. d-a-c-b-e
D. b-e-d-c-a

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D to indicate the correct answer to each of the questions from 17 to 24.

Is Banning Single-Use Plastic the Right Option?

        In recent years, people worldwide have become more aware of the serious environmental problems caused by plastic waste. Over the past 65 years, plastic has become widely used because it is cheap, lightweight, and durable. While these advantages make plastic extremely convenient in everyday life, they also contribute to long-term environmental damage that is difficult to reverse.

        One major problem is that plastic does not biodegrade. Instead, it breaks down into microplastics, which harm wildlife and ecosystems and have been found in food chains and water sources. Recycling is also ineffective, as only about 9% of plastic has ever been recycled, with most ending up in landfills or being burned.

        To reduce plastic waste, many governments have introduced measures targeting single-use plastics. In the UK, taxes on plastic bags and plastic-free supermarket aisles have successfully lowered plastic use. Other actions include banning plastic straws and charging for disposable coffee cups. Countries such as Canada and India have even announced plans to ban single-use plastics entirely.

        However, eliminating single-use plastic entirely may not be practical or beneficial in all situations. In healthcare, disposable plastic items like gloves and syringes are essential for hygiene and safety. Plastic packaging also helps preserve food, while bottled water remains crucial during emergencies and in poorer regions.

        Additionally, alternatives are not always environmentally friendly. Producing paper bags, for example, often requires more energy and creates more pollution than plastic bags. Other options, like aluminum, glass, card or cotton, similarly have environmental issues of their own.

        In conclusion, reducing plastic waste is essential, but banning all single-use plastics may not be the best solution. Investing in better recycling technology and developing plastics that can be easily reused or broken down may offer a more effective long-term approach.

(Adapted from https://test-english.com)

Question 17. According to the first paragraph, which of the following is NOT mentioned as an advantage of plastic?

A. It is cheap to produce.
B. It is highly durable.

C. It is easy to recycle.
D. It is lightweight.

Question 18. Which word is OPPOSITE in meaning to 'introduced' in paragraph 3?

A. implemented
B. withdrawn
C. launched
D. enforced

Question 19. The word 'they' in the last sentence of paragraph 1 refers to ____________.

A. people around the world
B. single-use plastics

C. environmental problems
D. these advantages

Question 20. The word 'crucial' in paragraph 4 is CLOSEST in meaning to ____________.

A. minor
B. optional
C. accessible
D. essential

Question 21. Which of the following best restates the meaning of the sentence 'However, eliminating single-use plastic entirely may not be practical or beneficial in all situations' in paragraph 4?

        A. It is impossible to get rid of single-use plastic products under any specific circumstances.

        B. Single-use plastic should be eliminated only in some cases that bring about beneficial results.

        C. Removing all single-use plastic is consistently considered a good idea for the environment.

        D. A complete removal of single-use plastic might not be feasible or advantageous in every scenario.

Question 22. According to the passage, which of the following statements is TRUE?

        A. Plastic materials typically biodegrade very quickly when they are left in natural environments.

        B. The majority of plastic waste ever produced in the world has been successfully recycled.

        C. Producing paper bags always results in fewer environmental problems than making plastic ones.

        D. Several nations have officially announced their intentions to completely ban single-use plastics.

Question 23. Which paragraph primarily discusses specific governmental actions and policies implemented to reduce single-use plastic?

A. Paragraph 4
B. Paragraph 3
C. Paragraph 1
D. Paragraph 2

Question 24. Which paragraph mainly focuses on the environmental concerns associated with using alternative materials instead of plastic?

A. Paragraph 4
B. Paragraph 3
C. Paragraph 5
D. Paragraph 1

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D to indicate the correct answer to each of the questions from 25 to 34.

        It is completely normal not to have your life figured out at the age of sixteen. You are not expected to know exactly what your future will look like when you start high school, even if others think you should. In fact, feeling uncertain can be a privilege, as it allows you to keep many possibilities open. You have plenty of time ahead to explore life and discover who you truly are.

        Life does not end because you fail a chemistry test or oversleep and have a bad day. Everyone experiences moments when giving up feels easier than continuing. It is during these difficult times that your strength and determination are truly tested.

        The ability to let go of things that hold you back is essential for overcoming life’s challenges. [I] High school differs greatly from elementary or middle school. [II] You may find yourself staying up late to study, spending weekends doing homework. [III] There will be months filled with tests and exams, which can lead to significant stress and anxiety. [IV]

        However, these years can also be some of the most enjoyable in your life. Remember to have fun and appreciate the moments between studying and schoolwork. You will never be sixteen or seventeen again, laughing with friends at a party or swimming early in the morning on a cold day. Time moves forward, so do not be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. It is better to regret something you did than to wish you had tried. Fear should not hold you back from living fully.

        This period of life is also a perfect time to meet new people and build meaningful friendships. You will meet individuals from different backgrounds and take part in thought-provoking conversations that challenge your way of thinking. Through these experiences, you will learn the true value of friendship and connection.

        You have the freedom to become whoever you want to be. With effort and perseverance, you can achieve your goals. Remember, you are not just studying for exams; you are preparing for your future. While grades may seem important, they do not define who you are. Many successful people have failed before succeeding. As long as you believe in yourself, you can turn your dreams into reality.

Question 25. Which of the following best summarises paragraph 1?

        A. Many teenagers feel pressured to succeed academically from a young age.

        B. Uncertainty about the future is common at sixteen and allows for personal exploration.

        C. High school students should have their future figured out by the age of sixteen.

        D. Starting high school requires students to completely know their career paths as this is a privilege.

Question 26. The phrase “figured out” in paragraph 1 could be best replaced by ____________.

A. solved
B. planned
C. ignored
D. forgotten

Question 27. According to paragraph 3, which of the following is NOT mentioned as a part of high school life?

A. Taking exams.
B. Doing homework.
C. Playing sports.
D. Staying up late.

Question 28. Where in paragraph 3 does the following sentence best fit?

'This transition often brings with it a new level of academic rigor and responsibility.’

A. [I]
B. [II]
C. [III]
D. [IV]

Question 29. Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 4?

'It’s better to regret something you did than to wish you had tried'

        A. Taking action and facing the consequences is preferable to regretting missed opportunities.

        B. It is always better to avoid taking any serious risks in order to prevent feeling any regret.

        C. Reflecting on past actions is more valuable than planning for the uncertain days of the future.

        D. One should only try new things that are guaranteed to succeed to avoid feeling disappointed.

Question 30. The word “thought-provoking” in paragraph 5 is OPPOSITE in meaning to ____________.

A. engaging
B. challenging
C. uninspiring
D. stimulating

Question 31. The word “they” in the last paragraph refers to ____________.

A. goals
B. individuals
C. dreams
D. grades

Question 32. Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?

        A. Fear of failure should always prevent you from taking any risks in your everyday life.

        B. Many successful people have experienced setbacks before achieving their ultimate goals.

        C. Academic grades are considered the sole determinant of your long-term future success.

        D. Failing a chemistry test is a clear sign that a student is not suitable for high school.

Question 33. Which of the following can be inferred from the passage?

A. Academic grades are often unreliable indicators of a person’s long-term potential or future success.

B. Meaningful friendships in high school are more influential in shaping one’s future than academic achievements.

C. A student’s future success is largely dependent on their ability to establish a clear career path by the age of sixteen.

D. The challenges encountered in high school serve as a vital testing ground for a student’s character and perseverance.

Question 34. Which of the following best summarises the passage?

A. Although high school brings various challenges, it remains a vital period for self-discovery, building relationships, and personal growth.

B. Constant fear of failure prevents many teenagers from enjoying their youth and should be completely avoided during the high school years.

C. Teenagers should prioritize academic success and early planning to avoid any possible uncertainty about their professional future.

D. Success in later life depends almost entirely on how well students can perform and maintain high grades during their formal education.