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

Read the following advertisement and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fit each of the numbered planks from 1 to 6.

MINDSCAPE EDU: WHERE LEARNING MEETS INNOVATION

"Before MindScape Edu, I lacked (1) ____________ in my studies", says Sarah Chen, a high school student. Now, she's thriving with our revolutionary (2) ____________ that personalizes education.

What makes us unique? It starts (3) ____________ our core system, incorporating the latest neuroscience research, featuring breakthrough AI technology that works differently for (4) ____________ student. (5) ____________ traditional platforms that stick to fixed learning paths, MindScape Edu evolves with you.

Real success stories prove our impact. "When I started (6) ____________ the hang of the analytical tools, my grades improved dramatically", reports Michael Torres, a college freshman. His experience mirrors thousands of others worldwide.

The future of education is here! MindScape Edu prompts students to adopt innovative approaches. Ready to transform your learning experience?

Start your free trial today!

(Adapted from MindScape Edu Success Stories)

Question 1:
A. capacity
B. proficiency
C. possibility
D. ability

Question 2:        

A. educational methodology adaptive
B. adaptive educational methodology

C. educational adaptive methodology
D. adaptive methodology educational

Question 3:
A. for
B. with
C. on
D. in

Question 4:
A. every
B. all
C. many
D. some

Question 5:
A. Instead of
B. Due to
C. Unlike
D. Regardless of

Question 6:
A. taking
B. making
C. getting
D. putting

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 13:

John: Hi, David. Have you seen the new movie that came out last week?

John: It’s a sci-fi thriller with a lot of action and a great storyline.

David: Hi, John. I haven’t seen it yet. What’s it about?

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

(Adapted from I-Learn Smart World)

Question 14:

A.  Tina: That sounds interesting! I think I’ll join too. Do you know when the sign-up period ends?

B.  Sarah: Yes, I heard they offer various sports like soccer, basketball, and swimming.

C.  Tina: Hi Sarah, are you going to join the new sports club at school?

D.  Tina: Good idea! Let’s meet after school tomorrow and sign up together.

e. Sarah: I believe it ends next Friday. We should sign up as soon as possible to secure our spots.

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

(Adapted from B1 Preliminary School for trainer)

Question 15: 

Hi Jordan,

A. It’s been so rewarding to finally make time for my painting, which I had always wanted to pursue.

B. The workshops are also a great way to meet people who share similar interests and exchange ideas.

C. Thanks again for recommending the local art studio near my place – it has been a wonderful discovery!

D. I’ve been learning new techniques and experimenting with abstract themes, which has been really exciting.

e. Perhaps you could join me for a class sometime? It would be great to create something together.

Write back soon,

Alex

(Adapted from Cutting Edge)

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

Question 16:         

A. Lifelong learning, however, is not merely about acquiring qualifications but also about nurturing curiosity and adaptability.

B. It is an ongoing process that allows individuals to develop professionally and personally throughout their lives.

C. As technology continues to evolve rapidly, the ability to learn and relearn has become a critical skill in the modern world.

D. From formal education to self-directed learning, it provides countless opportunities for growth and improvement.

e. In conclusion, embracing lifelong learning enables us to remain relevant, adaptable, and open to new challenges in an ever-changing world.

(Adapted from Global Success )

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

Question 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. 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.

(Adapted from Bright)

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

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 18 to 22.

        The philosopher St. Augustine famously stated, "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page." This notion aligns with the value of study-abroad programs, (18) ____________ diverse cultures, languages, and perspectives. These programs are not merely about academic learning but are transformative journeys that often leave a profound impact on participants. Students describe these experiences as "rewarding" and even "life-changing," (19) ____________. Such programs not only enrich students academically but also prepare them to navigate a globalized world with empathy and understanding.

        A significant advantage of studying abroad (20) ____________. Unlike traditional classroom instruction, firsthand encounters—such as observing art in its original context or engaging with local communities—can deepen one's understanding of a subject. As one student observed after viewing Michelangelo's David, (21) ____________. Such moments sharpen one's senses, cultivate a sensitivity to beauty and pain, and foster a deeper awareness of the interconnectedness of human experiences.

        Moreover, studying abroad nurtures self-reflection, an essential aspect of personal growth. By documenting their experiences, students can analyze their values and beliefs (22) ____________. This reflective process not only enhances their capacity to adapt but also helps them better understand themselves and their aspirations. As educators recognize these multifaceted benefits, efforts continue to expand access to study-abroad opportunities, ensuring that more students can embark on this transformative journey.

(Adapted from Longman Academic Reading Series)

Question 18:         

A. which offer students unique opportunities to experience

B. provided students unique opportunities to experience

C. of which it provides students with unique opportunities to experience

D. to offering students unique opportunities to experience

Question 19:         

A. underscoring the indelible mark that studying abroad can leave on their lives

B. diminishing the impact that studying abroad has on their lives.

C. ignoring the significant role studying abroad plays in their personal development

D. highlighting the temporary effects that studying abroad leaves on their experiences

Question 20:

A. that lies in its ability to enhance experiential learning

B. lies in its ability to enhance experiential learning

C. of which lies in its ability to enhance experiential learning

D. are lying in its ability to enhance experiential learning

Question 21:         

A. the overwhelming emotion evoked by standing before the masterpiece went beyond what textbooks could convey

B. the masterpiece created no significant emotional impact compared to what textbooks could explain.

C. the emotional experience of seeing the masterpiece was completely dependent on what was learned from textbooks.

D. the masterpiece evoked emotions that textbooks could easily replicate in words

Question 22:         

A. while confronted challenges in familiar environments

B. while confronting challenges in unfamiliar environments

C. because confronting challenges in unfamiliar environments

D. in view of confronting challenges in unfamiliar environments

Read the following passage about the evolution of robotics 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.

Man or Machine

        The evolution of robotics has seen remarkable advancements, exemplified by Honda's ASIMO, a humanoid robot showcased at the Museum of Science in 2003. This four-foot-tall robot, resembling a child in an astronaut suit, captivated audiences with its human-like movements, despite being remotely controlled.

        While ASIMO demonstrated impressive engineering, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has focused on creating robots capable of human-like interaction. Kismet, with its expressive facial features, elicits emotional responses from human observers, showcasing the potential for robots to engage in social interactions. Cog, another MIT project, aimed to develop intelligence through environmental interaction, testing theories of embodiment and developmental robotics.

        Scientists differentiate between robots like ASIMO, which are largely pre-programmed, and those like Cog and Kismet, which can learn and adapt. MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) and Media Lab continue to push the boundaries, creating robots capable of autonomous interaction and learning.

        These developments hold immense potential. Humanoid robots could revolutionize various sectors, from assisting the elderly to performing hazardous tasks such as firefighting and space exploration. In Japan, these robots are envisioned as a solution to an aging population, taking on tasks traditionally carried out by humans.

        However, the creation of human-like robots raises profound questions about humanity. It reflects our innovative spirit and desire to control our environment. Yet, it also reveals a potential dehumanization, suggesting that human companionship and interaction can be replicated by machines. This perspective risks reducing human experience to mere surface behaviors, potentially diminishing the value of genuine human connection. The debate continues, exploring the complex relationship between humans and the machines we create.

(Adapted from Road to Ielts- Reading)

Question 23: Which of the following is NOT mentioned in the passage regarding the potential applications of humanoid robots?

A. Assisting the elderly.
B. Performing hazardous tasks like firefighting.

C. Replacing human companions entirely.
D. Space exploration.

Question 24: The word "these" refers to ____________.

A. Human populations.
B. Tasks traditionally carried out by humans.

C. Humanoid robots.
D. Solutions to aging populations.

Question 25: The word "demonstrated" in the context of the passage is CLOSEST in meaning to ____________.

A. hid
B. showed
C. built
D. broke

Question 26: Which word is OPPOSITE in meaning to "potential" as used in the sentence "These developments hold immense potential..."?

A. possibility
B. limitation
C. strength
D. capability

Question 27: Which of the following BEST paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 5?

A. Human experience is enhanced by the presence of robots, creating genuine connections.

B. The focus on robots might oversimplify human interaction, undermining the importance of real relationships.

C. Robots are capable of replicating all aspects of human behavior, leading to a deeper understanding of human connections.

D. Human beings are more complex than robots and can not be replicated.

Question 28: Which of the following statements about the robots discussed in the passage is NOT TRUE?

A. ASIMO is capable of learning and adapting to its environment independently.

B. Kismet can display a range of human-like facial expressions.

C. Cog was designed to test theories of developmental robotics.

D. Humanoid robots are being considered as a solution for aging populations in Japan.

Question 29: In which paragraph, does the writer mention MIT's focus on creating robots with human-like interaction?

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

Question 30: In which paragraph, does the writer primarily focus on the differences between pre-programmed and learning robots?

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

Read the following passage about the future of energy 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] As the world grapples with the finite nature of fossil fuel reserves and the detrimental impact of climate change, the future of energy undeniably lies in renewable sources. [II] Scientists and engineers are making substantial advancements in the development of technologies that more efficiently harness solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy. [III] Although the transition to these renewable sources presents significant challenges, it is also regarded as a pivotal step towards establishing a sustainable and resilient energy system. [IV]

        One of the most promising advancements in renewable energy is the enhancement of solar panel efficiency. Progress in photovoltaic technology has led to the creation of panels that convert a higher proportion of sunlight into electricity. Likewise, wind turbines are becoming more and more efficient. They are capable of generating power even under low-wind conditions. These innovations are essential for making renewable energy more feasible and accessible to a broader population.

        However, the transition to renewable energy is fraught with obstacles. The intermittent nature of sources like solar and wind necessitates reliable storage solutions to ensure a consistent power supply. Although battery technology has seen significant improvements, further advancements are imperative to meet growing demand. Moreover, new infrastructure for distributing renewable energy requires expansion and upgrading to accommodate these new power sources.

        The economic impact of transitioning to renewable energy is another critical consideration. While the initial investment in renewable energy infrastructure can be substantial, the long-term benefits include reduced energy costs and job creation in the green energy sector. Governments and private enterprises are increasingly acknowledging the necessity of investing in renewable energy projects, which is crucial for fostering innovation and diminishing reliance on fossil fuels.

             Ultimately, the future of energy hinges on our capacity to innovate and adapt. By continuing to invest in research and development, improving infrastructure, and addressing economic and technical challenges, we can transition towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy system.

(Adapted from the Ha Nam Provincial Gifted Student Exam, 2023–2024)

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

The shift towards renewable energy is seen as a necessary response to the global energy crisis.

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

Question 32: The phrase “harness” in paragraph 1 could be best replaced by ____________.

A. create
B. capture
C. release
D. control

Question 33: Which of the following is identified as a significant challenge in the transition to renewable energy in the passage?

A. The high cost of renewable energy infrastructure        

B. The intermittent nature of solar and wind energy

C. Lack of political support for renewable energy        

D. Limited availability of renewable energy sources

Question 34: The word “They” in paragraph 2 refers to ____________.

A. solar panel
B. wind turbines

C. photovoltaic technology
D. renewable energy

Question 35: Which of the following best summarises paragraph 3?

         A. Challenges in renewable energy include storage solutions and infrastructure expansion.

         B. The intermittent nature of renewable energy sources requires improved storage solutions.

         C. Infrastructure must be upgraded to accommodate renewable energy sources.

         D. Battery technology needs significant improvements to support renewable energy.

Question 36: The word “intermittent” in paragraph 3 is OPPOSITE in meaning to ____________.

A. infrequent
B. broken
C. constant
D. irregular

Question 37: Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?

         A. Fossil fuel resources are abundant and not a concern.

         B. Renewable energy technology is not yet viable for widespread use.

         C. Investment in renewable energy can reduce long-term energy costs.

         D. The transition to renewable energy is without challenges.

Question 38: Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 4?

         A. The economic benefits of renewable energy are difficult to measure.

         B. Governments are hesitant to invest in renewable energy projects.

         C. Investing in renewable energy leads to lower costs and new jobs.

         D. The initial cost of renewable energy projects is prohibitive.

Question 39: Which of the following can be inferred from the passage?

         A. Solar and wind energy are the only viable renewable energy sources.

         B. Innovation and investment are key to the future of renewable energy.

         C. The economic impact of renewable energy is purely negative.

         D. Renewable energy will completely replace fossil fuels in the near future.

Question 40: Which of the following best summarises the passage?

         A. Fossil fuels will remain the primary energy source despite advancements in renewable energy.

         B. The transition to renewable energy has no economic benefits and is not sustainable.

         C. Renewable energy sources like solar and wind are unreliable and too costly to develop.

         D. Addressing renewable energy challenges requires ongoing innovation and investment.