Author: theieltsbridge

Section 1: Helping pupils to choose optional subjects when they are aged 14-15: what some pupils say

Questions 1-6: Identifying information

[This question asks you to find information from the passage and write the number of the paragraph (A, B, C or D … .. ) in the answer sheet. Now, if the question is given in the very first part of the question set, I’d request you not to answer them. It’s mainly because this question will not follow any sequence, and so it will surely kill your time. Rather, you should answer all the other questions first. And just like List of Headings, only read the first two lines or last two lines of the expected paragraph initially. If you find the answers, you need not read the middle part. If you don’t find answers yet, you can skim the middle part of the paragraph. Keywords will be a useful matter here.]

Question 1: This pupil is interested in the subject despite the way it is taught.

Keywords for this question: interested in, the subject, despite, way it is taught,    

In paragraph D, Violeta says in lines 3-5, “ . . . the teacher is very knowledgeable, though I think we spend too much time listening to her: I’d like to meet more people working in the sector, and learn from their experience.”

Here, though I think we spend too much time listening to her = despite the way it is taught,

like to meet more people working in the sector, and learn from their experience = This pupil is interested in the subject,

So, the answer is: D

Question 2: This pupil is hoping to have a career that makes use of the subject.  

Keywords for this question: hoping, a career, refund, makes use of the subject,       

In paragraph B, Lucy says in the final lines, “ . . . My plan is to study history at university, and maybe go into the diplomatic service, so l can apply a knowledge of history.”

Here, My plan is to study history at university, and maybe go into the diplomatic service = hoping to have a career that makes use of the subject,

So, the answer is: B                

Question 3: This pupil finds the subject harder than they expected.

Keywords for this question: finds the subject harder, than, expected,  

In paragraph C, Mark says in lines 3-4, “ . . . . I didn’t think I’d have any problem with it, but I was quite wrong! . .. .”

Here, I didn’t think I’d have any problem with it, but I was quite wrong = harder than they expected,

So, the answer is: C   

Question 4: This pupil finds the lessons very entertaining.

Keywords for this question: finds the lessons, very entertaining,

In paragraph E, Walid says in lines 2-3, “ . . . I was afraid the lessons might be a bit dull. I needn’t have worried, though – our teacher gets us to do lots of fun things, so there’s no risk of getting bored. . .. . .”

Here, our teacher gets us to do lots of fun things, so there’s no risk of getting bored = finds the lessons very entertaining,

So, the answer is: E   

Question 5: This pupil appreciates the benefit of doing challenging work.

Keywords for this question: appreciates, benefit, doing challenging work,

In paragraph A, Krishnan says in lines 2-4, “ . . . Mr Peckham really pushes us, and offers us extra assignments, to help us improve. That’s good for me, because otherwise I’d be quite lazy.”

Here, offers us extra assignments, to help us improve. That’s good for me, because otherwise I’d be quite lazy = appreciates the benefit of doing challenging work,

So, the answer is: A

Question 6: This pupil has realised the connection between two things.

Keywords for this question: realised, connection between two things,  

In paragraph B, Lucy says in lines 1-2, “ . . . History is my favourite subject, and it’s fascinating to see how what we learn about the past is relevant to what’s going on in the world now. .. . .. .”

Here, it’s fascinating to see how what we learn about the past is relevant to what’s going on in the world now = has realised the connection between two things,

So, the answer is: B

It’s almost time for the next Ripton Festival  

Questions 8-14:  TRUE, FALSE, NOT GIVEN

[In this type of question, candidates are asked to find out whether:

The statement in the question agrees with the information in the passage – TRUEThe statement in the question contradicts the information in the passage – FALSEIf there is no information on this – NOT GIVEN

For this type of question, you can divide each statement into three independent pieces and make your way through with the answer. This question type generally follows a sequence. So, scanning skill is effective here.]

Question 7: The festival is held every year. 

Keywords for this question: held, every year,

The answer is in the very first lines where the writer says, “As usual, the festival will be held in the last weekend of June, this year on Saturday to Monday, 27-29 June. . . .. . .. .”   

Here, As usual = like every year,

This means the festival is a yearly event.

So, the answer is: TRUE

Question 8: This year’s festival focuses on the town’s history.

Keywords for this question: This year’s festival, focuses, town’s history,  

In lines 2-3 of the passage, the writer says, “ . . .. . .. . The theme is Ripton through the ages. Scenes will be acted out showing how the town has developed since it was first established. . .. .”

Here, The theme = This year’s festival focuses, Ripton through the ages = the town’s history,

So, the answer is: TRUE

Question 9: Goods displayed in the craft fair are unlike ones found in shops.  

Keywords for this question: goods, displayed in the craft fair, unlike ones, found in shops,

The second paragraph talks about the craft fair. However, there is no comparison of goods with other shops.

So, the answer is: NOT GIVEN

Question 10: The barbecue will be cancelled if it rains.

Keywords for this question: barbecue, will be cancelled, if it rains,

We find a discussion about ‘barbecue’ in paragraph no. 3, and the writer says in line no. 2, “ .. . he barbecue will be held in Palmer’s Field, or in the town hall if there’s rain. . . .. .. .”

Here, in the town hall if there’s rain = The barbecue will NOT be cancelled if it rains, it will take place in the town hall instead.

So, the answer is: FALSE

Question 11: Adults can attend the barbecue at any time without charge.

Keywords for this question: Adults can attend, barbecue, any time without charge,

In paragraph no. 3, lines 3-4 say, “ . . . Entry for under 16s is free all day; adults can come for free until 6 pm and pay £5 after that.. . . .”

Here, adults can come for free until 6 pm and pay £5 after that = Adults can attend the barbecue without charge until 6 pm, but after that they have to pay.

So, the answer is: FALSE

Question 12: Amateur musicians will perform during the whole of the barbecue.

Keywords for this question: Amateur musicians, will perform, during, whole of the barbecue,    

The final lines of paragraph no. 3 say, “. .. . with local amateur bands in the afternoon and professional musicians in the evening.”

Here, local amateur bands in the afternoon = Amateur musicians will perform in the afternoon only,

So the answer is: FALSE

Question 13: Seating is available for watching the boat races.

Keywords for this question: seating, available, for watching the boat races,  

In the fourth paragraph, lines 2-3 say, “ . .. . The spectator area by the bridge has plenty of room to stand and cheer the boats home, in addition to a number of benches. .. . .. . .”

Here, in addition to a number of benches = There will be some seats for watching the boat race,

So the answer is: TRUE

Question 14: People attending the festival will be asked to donate some money. 

Keywords for this question: People attending the festival, will be asked, donate some money,

In the final line of the passage, it says, “All money raised by the festival will go to support the sports clubs in Ripton.”

However, there is NO MENTION of any donation by people.

So the answer is: NOT GIVEN

Section 2: Reducing injuries on the farm

Questions 15-20: Completing the table

[In this type of question candidates need to fill in the gaps in a table. For this table, candidates need to write ONE WORD ONLY to fill in the blanks. Scanning skill is essential for this type of question.]

Question 15:

Risk factor: Heavy loads

Examples of farm activities: lifting sacks of _________.  

Keywords for this question: heavy loads, lifting sacks,

Take a look at lines 1-4 in paragraph no. 2 where the author says, “The first risk relates to the carrying of an excessive load or weight. This places undue demands on the spine and can cause permanent damage. Examples of tasks that involve this risk are moving 50-kilogramme fertiliser bags from one site to another or carrying heavy buckets of animal feed around fields.”  

Here, an excessive load or weight = heavy loads, moving .. .. . from one site to another = lifting, bags = sacks,

So, the answer is: fertilizer/ fertilizer  

Questions 16, 17, 18:

Risk factor: Awkward posture

Examples of farm activities: lifting a restless 16. _________. 

Examples of farm activities: moving something around a big 17. _________. 

Risk reduction measures to consider: Buy particular 18. ________ to help with support.

Keywords for this question: Awkward posture, lifting a restless, moving something, around a big, buy, particular, help with support,

In paragraph no. 3, the author says, “If a load is bulky or hard to grasp, such as a lively or agitated animal, it will be more difficult to hold while lifting and carrying. The holder may adopt an awkward posture, which is tiring and increases the risk of injury. Sometimes a load has to be held away from the body because there is a large obstacle in the area and the person lifting needs to be able to see where their feet are going. This results in increased stress on the back; holding a load at arm’s length imposes about five times the stress of a close-to-the-body position. In such cases, handling aids should be purchased that can take the weight off the load and minimise the potential for injury.”

Here, lively or agitated = restless, a load has to be held away from the body = moving something around, large = big, should be purchased = buy, can take the weight off the load = help with support,

So, the answers are:

1. animal
2. obstacle
3. aids

Questions 19 & 20:

Risk factor: A lot of 19. ________ while working

Examples of farm activities: fixing a fallen 20. _________. 

Keywords for this question: a lot of, while working, fixing a fallen,

The first few lines of the final paragraph say, “Another risk that relates to awkward posture is repetitive bending when carrying out a task. An example might be repairing a gate that has collapsed onto the ground.  .. . . . . .”

Here, repetitive = a lot of, when carrying out a task = while working, repairing = fixing, has collapsed onto the ground = fallen,

So, the answers are:

1. bending
2. gate

Good customer service in retail

Questions 21-27: Completing sentences

In this type of question, candidates are asked to write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS to complete sentences on the given topic. For this type of question, first, skim the passage to find the keywords in the paragraph concerned with the answer, and then scan to find the exact word.

[TIPS: Here scanning technique will come in handy. Target the keywords of the questions to find the answers. Remember to focus on Proper nouns, random Capital letters, numbers, special characters of text etc.]

Question 21: A _________ approach to selling is fine as long as you do not irritate the customer.  

Keywords for this question: approach, selling, fine, as long as, do not irritate, the customer,   

The answer can be found in lines 1-2 of the second paragraph, “Some customers just want to browse and not be bothered by sales staff. Try to be sensitive to how much help a customer wants; be proactive in offering help without being annoying. .. .. .”

Here, offering help without being annoying = fine as long as you do not irritate the customer,

So, the answer is: proactive

Question 22: Recommend additional products and _______ without being too forceful.

Keywords for this question: recommend, additional products, without being, too forceful,  

The final few lines of the second paragraph say, “. .. . . Suggest a product that naturally accompanies what the customer is considering or point out products for which there are special offers, but don’t pressure a customer into buying an item they don’t want.”

Here, Suggest a product & point out products = Recommend additional products, don’t pressure a customer = without being too forceful,

So, the answer is: special offers

Question 23: Know how to compare similar products which have different __________ .  

Keywords for this question: know, how to compare, similar products, have different,   

In the opening of the third paragraph, the writer mentions, “Build up a comprehensive knowledge of all the products in your shop, including the pros and cons of products that are alike but that have been produced under a range of brand names.”

Here, Build up a comprehensive knowledge = know, the pros and cons = how to compare, products that are alike = similar products, a range of = different,

So, the answer is: brand names

Question 24: Avoid _________ by always saying more than ‘no’.  

Keywords for this question: avoid, by, always saying, more than ‘no’, 

In lines 4-6 of the third paragraph, the writer says, “ . .  …. .. . . Negativity can put customers off instantly. If a customer asks a question to which the answer is ‘no’, do not just leave it at that – follow it with a positive, for example: ‘we’re expecting more of that product in on Tuesday’.”

Here, If a customer asks a question to which the answer is ‘no’, do not just leave it at that = avoid . . .. ..  .. . by always saying more than ‘no’,

So, the answer is: negativity

Question 25: Keep an eye on the __________ of goods on the shelves.   

Keywords for this question: keep an eye, on, goods on the shelves,

In the fourth paragraph, lines 1-3 say, “Meanwhile, if you see a product in the wrong place on a shelf, don’t ignore it – put it back where it belongs. This attention to presentation keeps the shop tidy, giving the right impression to your customers. .. . .. . . .. .”

Here, if you see a product in the wrong place on a shelf, don’t ignore it – put it back where it belongs = keep an eye,  

These lines suggest that the presentation of the right products should be given attention.

So, the answer is: presentation  

Question 26: If a customer has problems paying with their ________, handle the problem with care.

Keywords for this answer: if, a customer, problems, paying with, handle, problem, with care,  

In the fifth paragraph, the first few lines say, “When necessary, be discreet. For example, if the customer’s credit card is declined at the till, keep your voice down and enquire about an alternative payment method quietly so that the customer doesn’t feel humiliated. .. .. .. .” 

Here, When necessary, be discreet & keep your voice down and enquire about an alternative payment method quietly so that the customer doesn’t feel humiliated = handle the problem with care,

declined at the till = has problems paying with,

So, the answer is: credit card

Question 27: Any __________ from a customer should not affect how you treat them.   

Keywords for this answer: any, from a customer, should not affect, how you treat them,  

In the sixth paragraph, the writer says, “Finally, good manners are probably the most important aspect of dealing with customers. Treat each person with respect at all times, even when you are faced with rudeness.”

Here, Treat each person with respect at all times = should not affect how you treat them,

So, the answer is: rudeness

Section 3: Plastic is no longer fantastic

Questions 28-34:  List of headings

[In this question type, IELTS candidates are provided with a list of headings, usually identified with lower-case Roman numerals (i, ii, iii, etc,). A heading will refer to the main idea of the paragraph or section of the text. Candidates must find out the equivalent heading to the correct paragraphs or sections, which are marked with alphabets A, B, C, and so forth. Candidates need to write the appropriate Roman numerals in the boxes on their answer sheets. There will always be two or three more headings than there are paragraphs or sections. So, some of the headings will not be used. It is also likely that some paragraphs or sections may not be included in the task. Generally, the first paragraph is an example paragraph that will be done for the candidates for their understanding of the task.

TIPS: Skimming is the best reading technique. You need not understand every word here. Just try to gather the gist of the sentences. That’s all. Read quickly and don’t stop until you finish each sentence.]

Question 28: Paragraph A  

In section A, the first few lines talk about Carlos Ferrando’s experience of visiting a museum and watching a piece of artwork about plastic waste. Then, in the final lines, the writer says, “ .. . .. .. . The artwork, designed to raise public awareness, left Ferrando angry – and fuelled with entrepreneurial ideas.”

Here, left Ferrando angry = it was a very disturbing experience for Ferrando,   

So, the answer is: vi (A disturbing experience)

Question 29: Paragraph B

Let’s read lines 1-3 of Paragraph B. The author of the text says here, “Ferrando runs a Spanish-based design company, Closca, that produces an ingenious foldable bicycle helmet. But he has now also designed a stylish glass water bottle with a stretchy silicone strap and magnetic closure mechanism. .. .. .” 

Here, produces an ingenious foldable bicycle helmet & he has now also designed a stylish glass water bottle = two inventions,

If you read further inside this paragraph, you will find some physical details of both products.  

So, the answer is: iv (Two inventions and some physical details)

Question 30: Paragraph C

Let’s read lines 1-2 of Paragraph C. The author of the passage says, “The intention is to persuade people to stop buying water in plastic bottles, thus saving consumers money and reducing the plastic waste piling up in our oceans. . .. .. . .”

Here, The intention =  the reasons, saving consumers money and reducing the plastic waste piling up in our oceans = reasons for the need of Ferrando’s product,

So, the answer is: ii (The reasons why Ferrando’s product is needed)

Question 31: Paragraph D

To find an answer to this question, we must skim-read paragraph D. In lines 2-6, the writer explains, “ . .. .. .. Three decades ago, conspicuous consumption – the purchase of luxuries, such as handbags, shoes, cars, etc. on a lavish scale – heightened people’s social status. Indeed, the closing decades of the 20th century were a time when it seemed that anything could be turned into a commodity. Hence the fact that water became a consumer item, sold in plastic bottles, instead of just emerging, for free, from a tap.”

Here, Three decades ago & the closing decades of the 20th century were a time = looking back,

it seemed that anything could be turned into a commodity. Hence the fact that water became a consumer item, sold in plastic bottles = why water was bottled,

So, the answer is: viii (Looking back at why water was bottled)

Question 32: Paragraph E

In Paragraph E, take a look at lines 6-9. The writer says here, “ . .. . Some teenagers currently think that these stainless-steel vacuum-insulated water bottles that are coming back onto the market are ultra ‘cool’; never mind the fact that they feel oddly out-of-date to anyone over the age of 40 or that teenagers in the 1970s would have avoided ever being seen with one.”

Here, we can clearly see that one generation (the current teenagers) thinks that stainless-steel vacuum-insulated water bottles are ‘cool’ while the other generation (anyone over the age of 40) thinks that stainless-steel vacuum-insulated water bottles are ‘out-of-date’.

So, the answer is: v (The contrasting views of different generations)

Question 33: Paragraph F

In Paragraph F, have a look at lines 3-7, “ . .. .. . . it can be very hard for any design entrepreneur to really take off in the global mass market, though not as hard as it might have been in the past. If an entrepreneur had wanted to fund a smart invention a few decades ago, he or she would have had to either raise a bank loan, borrow money from a family member or use a credit card. Things have moved on slightly since then.”

Here, though not as hard as it might have been in the past. = The past was the time when opportunities were limited to raise a fund, 

So, the answer is: i (A time when opportunities were limited)

Question 34: Paragraph G

In Paragraph G, take a close look at lines 10-12, “ . .. . Using this approach, none of the donors has a stake in his idea, nor does he have any debt. Instead, it is almost a pre-sale of the product, in a manner that tests demand in advance and creates a potential crowd of enthusiasts. . .. .”

Here, none of the donors has a stake in his idea, nor does he have any debt = A no-risk solution,

So, the answer is: iii (A no-risk solution)

Questions 35-37:  Multiple-choice questions

[This type of question asks you to choose a suitable answer from the options using the knowledge you gained from the passage. This question type generally follows a sequence. So, scanning skill is effective here.]

Question 35: What does Ferrando say about his glass water bottle?

Keywords for this answer: What, Ferrando, say about, glass water bottle,  

In paragraph C, in lines 6-8, Ferrando says, “ . . .. .. .. ‘We are trying to create a sense that being environmentally sophisticated is a status symbol,’ he adds. ‘We want people to clip their bottles onto what they are wearing, to show that they are recycling – and to look cool.’ ”

Here, to show that they are recycling – and to look cool =  he wants people to be proud to show it,

So, the answer is: D (He wants people to be proud to show it.)

Question 36: What does the writer find fascinating about Ferrando’s story?

Keywords for this question: What, the writer, find fascinating, about Ferrando’s story,

To find an answer to this question, we have to read paragraph D and the opening of paragraph E, as the writer explains here, “Ferrando’s story is fascinating because it seems like an indicator of something unexpected. Three decades ago, conspicuous consumption – the purchase of luxuries, such as handbags, shoes, cars, etc. on a lavish scale – heightened people’s social status. Indeed, the closing decades of the 20th century were a time when it seemed that anything could be turned into a commodity. Hence the fact that water became a consumer item, sold in plastic bottles, instead of just emerging, for free, from a tap.”

These lines suggest that three decades ago people’s social status was based on the purchase of luxuries. So, using a plastic water bottle was also a symbol of status.

Then, in paragraph E, the first few lines say, “Today, though, conspicuous extravagance no longer seems desirable among consumers. Now, recycling is fashionable – as is cycling rather than driving. Plastic water bottles have become so common that they do not command status; . .. . .. .. ”

These lines suggest that at present, however, people’s attitude has changed regarding buying things for social status; and nowadays anything can be a commodity; and using plastic water bottles have so common that it doesn’t hold any social status anymore.

So, the answer is: D (the change it is revealing in people’s attitudes)

Question 37: What does the writer suggest about Closca’s bike helmet?

Keywords for this question: What, the writer, suggest, about, Closca’s bike helmet,  

In the opening of paragraph F, the writer says, “It is uncertain whether Clesca will succeed in its goal. Although its foldable bike helmet is available in some outlets in New York, including the Museum of Modern Art, . . .”

Here, foldable bike helmet = functional value,

available in .. . .. . the Museum of Modern Art = artistic value,

So, the answer is: A (It has both functional and artistic value.)

Questions 37-40:  Summary completion

[In this kind of question candidates are given a summary for one, two, or three paragraphs with some fill-in-the-blanks questions. Candidates need to find out the related paragraphs by correctly studying the keywords from the questions. Then, they should follow the steps of finding answers to fill in the gaps.]

Title of the summary: Funding a smart invention

Question 38: Thirty years ago, the methods used by creators to fund their projects involved getting money from the bank or from someone in the ___________.

Keywords for this question: Thirty years ago, methods used by creators, fund their projects, getting money from the bank, from someone in the,      

In lines 5-7 of Paragraph F, the writer mentions, “ . .. If an entrepreneur had wanted to fund a smart invention a few decades ago, he or she would have had to either raise a bank loan, borrow money from a family member or use a credit card. . … .. . ..”

Here, an entrepreneur = creators,

a few decades ago = Thirty years ago,

raise a bank loan = getting money from the bank,

from a family member = from someone in the family,

So, the answer is: family

Question 39: In order to get immediate funding, the method Ferrando took was to use a well-known ____________ to advertise his product and request financial support.

Keywords for this question: to get immediate funding, method Ferrando took, use a well-known, to advertise his product, request financial support,

In Paragraph G, the answer lies in lines 4-5. Here, the writer mentions, “ . .. Ferrando posted details about his water-bottle venture on a large, recognised platform for funding creative projects.”

Here, posted details about his water-bottle venture = use .. … . to advertise his product,

recognised = well-known,

for funding = request financial support,

So, the answer is: platform

Question 40: In addition, Ferrando advised his donors that his company would create bottles in two colours, followed by a __________ bottle once they had received a more significant amount.

Keywords for this question: In addition, Ferrando advised his donors would create bottles in two colours, followed by a, bottle, once they had received, more significant amount,

Again, in paragraph G, in lines 8-10, the writer explains, “ … . . .. . If he received the funds, he stated that the company would produce bottles in grey and white; if $60,000 was raised, a multicoloured one would be made. … .. . . .”     

Here, grey and white = two colours,

if $60,000 was raised = if Ferrando’s company received a more significant amount,

So, the answer is: multicoloured/ multi-coloured/ multi-colored

Section 1: New cycle path to Marsh brook Country Park

Questions 1-7: Identifying information

[This question asks you to find information from the passage and write the number of the paragraph (A, B, C or D … .. ) in the answer sheet. Now, if the question is given in the very first part of the question set, I’d request you not to answer them. It’s mainly because this question will not follow any sequence, and so it will surely kill your time. Rather, you should answer all the other questions first. And just like List of Headings, only read the first two lines or last two lines of the expected paragraph initially. If you find the answers, you need not read the middle part. If you don’t find answers yet, you can skim the middle part of the paragraph. Keywords will be a useful matter here.]

Question 1: what still needs to be done 

Keywords for this question: still, needs to be done,       

Paragraph E provides detail about the works that still need to be done. Take a look at these lines, “. . .. work is continuing to improve the signs along it, such as warnings when the path approaches a road. New hedges and trees will also be planted along the stretches of the path, . .. . ..”

Here, work is continuing to improve & will also be means the works that still need to be done.

So, the answer is: E

Question 2: the original suggestion for creating the path

Keywords for this question: original suggestion, creating the path,

In paragraph C, the writer of the text says in lines 2-3, “ . .. . Cycle Atherton proposed the 12-kilometre-long cycle path initially,  . . .. .”              

Here, proposed the 12-kilometre-long cycle path initially = original suggestion for creating the path,

So, the answer is: C   

Question 3: a reason why the path opened early

Keywords for this question: reason, path opened early,   

The answer can be found in paragraph B. Read lines 3-4 carefully, “ . .. . The cycle path was completed ahead of schedule – partly thanks to perfect weather for construction – and under budget.” 

Here, The cycle path was completed ahead of schedule = reason why the path opened early,

So, the answer is: B               

Question 4: people who no longer need to get to the park by car

Keywords for this question: people, no longer need, get to the park, by car,     

In section D take a look at lines 3-4, “ . . ..  At 2.5 metres wide, it is also suitable for users of wheelchairs, mobility scooters and buggies, who have not previously had access to the park without using motor vehicles.”

Here, suitable for users of wheelchairs, mobility scooters and buggies who have not previously had access to the park without using motor vehicles = people who no longer need to get to the park by car,

So, the answer is: D               

Question 5: the route of the path

Keywords for this question: route of the path,    

Have a look at the first lines of paragraph A, “A new dual-purpose cycle and pedestrian route has been built from Atherton bus station to the country park’s main entrance at Marshbrook.  .. … ..”

Here, from Atherton bus station to the country park’s main entrance at Marshbrook = the route of the path,

So, the answer is: A

Question 6: the length of the path  

Keywords for this question: length of the path,   

In paragraph C the writer says in lines 2-3, “ .. .. . Cycle Atherton proposed the 12-kilometre-long cycle path initially, .. … .”

Here, 12-kilometre-long = the length of the path,

So, the answer is: C

Question 7: who paid for the path    

Keywords for this question: who paid,   

In paragraph B, the writer says in the first lines, “Funding for the cycle path has come largely from the country and town councils, while almost a third of it was raised through crowdfunding. .. ..” 

Here, Funding = paid for the path,

So, the answer is: B

Study dramatic arts at Thornley   

Questions 8-14: TRUE, FALSE, NOT GIVEN

[In this type of question, candidates are asked to find out whether:

The statement in the question agrees with the information in the passage – TRUE
The statement in the question contradicts with the information in the passage – FALSE
If there is no information on this – NOT GIVEN

For this type of question, you can divide each statement into three independent pieces and make your way through with the answer.]

Question 8: The college has introduced new courses since it opened.

Keywords for this question: college, introduced, new courses, since, opened,     

In paragraph no. 1 the writer says in lines 2-4, “…. . .. . For fifty years we have been providing top-quality courses for actors, directors, producers, musicians and everyone else who wishes to work professionally in the theatre or related industry. … .. .”    

These lines suggest that the age of college is fifty years and it provides courses related to films and dramas. However, whether the college has introduced some new courses since its opening or not is NOT mentioned here.  

So, the answer is: NOT GIVEN  

Question 9: The college provides training for work in the film industry.

Keywords for this question: college, provides, training for work, film industry,     

In lines 4-5 of paragraph no. 1, the writer says, “ . .. .. We also have expertise in preparing students for the specialised requirements of TV, film and radio. . ..”

Here, preparing students for the specialised requirements = training for work, film = the film industry,

So, the answer is: TRUE

Question 10: Students have the chance to work with relevant professionals.

Keywords for this question: students, chance, work with, relevant professionals,  

In paragraph no. 2, take a look at these lines, “ . . .. . and we also collaborate with some of the country’s best directors, writers and actors to create challenging, inspiring and exciting projects with our students.”

Here, we also collaborate with . … to create .. … with our students = students of this college have the chance to work with,  

the country’s best directors, writers, and actors = relevant professionals,

So, the answer is: TRUE

Question 11: Many more people apply to study at the college than are accepted.  

Keywords for this question: many more people, apply to study, than, accepted,     

In paragraph no. 3, lines 2-3 say, “ .. . . Every year, we receive two thousand applications for the one hundred places on our degree courses. .. .. .”  

Here, two thousand applications for the one hundred places = many more people apply . .. .. than are accepted,  

So, the answer is: TRUE

Question 12: Theatre 500 was created by students.

Keywords for this question: Theatre 500, created, by students,      

We can find the answer to this question in paragraph no. 4. Here, in lines 1-2, the author of the text says, “To make our fiftieth anniversary this year, we are putting on a production of Theatre 500. Written by two staff members . .. ..”

Here, Written by two staff members = it was created by people who work in the theatre, not by the students,

So the answer is: FALSE

Question 13: The new building and the council building were designed by the same architects.

Keywords for this question: new building, council building, designed by, same architects,   

In paragraph no. 5, the writer of the text talks about the new building (Our new premises) and in lines 3-4 the writer says, “ . .. For the last two years, we have been developing designs with Miller Furbank Architects for our new home, .. . ..”

Here, our new home = the new building,

This means Miller Furbank Architects has been designing the new building. However, there is NO INFORMATION about who designed the council building.  

So the answer is: NOT GIVEN

Question 14: Local groups will be charged for using college premises.

Keywords for this question: local groups, will be charged for, using college premises,    

In the final paragraph, the first lines say, “We have been talking to cultural organisations in the district, and considering how we can bring cost-free benefits to the local community, as well as to our students. .. ..”

Here, considering how we can bring cost-free benefits to the local community = local groups will NOT be charged for using college premises,

So the answer is: FALSE

Section 2:How to make your working day more enjoyable

Questions 15-21: Completing sentences with ONE WORD ONLY

In this type of question, candidates are asked to write a maximum of one word to complete sentences on the given topic. For this type of question, first, skim the passage to find the keywords in the paragraph concerned with the answer, and then scan to find the exact word.

[TIPS: Here scanning technique will come in handy. Target the keywords of the questions to find the answers. Remember to focus on Proper nouns, random Capital letters, numbers, special characters of text etc.]

Question 15: Bringing a personal ________ to work will make the place feel more homely.  

Keywords for this question: bringing, personal, will make, place, feel more homely,    

In the second paragraph, the author of the text says in lines 2-4, “ . .. . Get some green plants or a family photo for your desk. File all those add bits of paper or throw them away. All of these little touches can make your work environment feel like it’s yours. .. . .”   

Here, family = personal, make your work environment feel like it’s yours = will make the place feel more homely,

So, the answer is: photo

Question 16: It is important to check the position of all _______ before use to avoid pulling any muscles.   

Keywords for this question: important to check, position, before use, avoid, pulling, any muscles,      

Again, in paragraph no. 2, read lines 4-5, “ .. . Make sure any screens you have are at a suitable height so you’re not straining your neck and shoulders.”

Here, Make sure = it is important to check, at a suitable height = check the position, not straining your neck and shoulders = avoid pulling any muscles,  

So, the answer is: screens

Question 17: Leaving the office in the middle of the day may help to raise ________ later on.

Keywords for this question: leaving, office, middle of the day, may help, raise, later on,

Take a look at lines 1-3 in paragraph no. 3, “Humans need a change of environment every now and then to improve productivity. Go out at lunchtime for a quick walk. If you have the option, it’s a good idea to work from home occasionally. . . .”

Here, improve = raise, Go out at lunchtime & work from home occasionally = leaving the office in the middle of the day, 

So, the answer is: productivity

Question 18: It is advisable to avoid checking a ______ during breaks.

Keywords for this question: advisable, avoid checking, during breaks,     

Lines 1-3 of the fourth paragraph say, “Use coffee time to get to know a colleague you don’t usually speak to. There’s no point in getting away from starting at one thing though, only to replace it with another; so leave your mobile alone! . .. .”

Here, coffee time = breaks, leave your mobile alone = it is advisable to avoid checking mobile,  

So, the answer is: mobile

Question 19: Getting involved in _______ at work may have negative results.

Keywords for this question: Getting involved in, work, may have, negative results,     

The last few lines of paragraph no. 4 say, “.. . .. Another tip is to try and stay out of office gossip. In the long run it could get you in more trouble than you realise.”

Here, could get you in more trouble than you realise = may have negative results,

So, the answer is: gossip

Question 20: Having a few _______ available can help people concentrate better at work.  

Keywords for this question: having, few, available, help people, concentrate, better,      

The answer can be found in paragraph no. 5. Here, in lines 1-3, the author of the text says, “ .. . . If you can keep some healthy snacks in your desk because if you have something you can nibble on, it will make you work more effectively and you’ll enjoy it more. .. . .”

Here, keep some = having a few, it will make you work more effectively and you’ll enjoy it more = can help people concentrate better at work,

So, the answer is: snacks

How to get promoted  

Questions 21-27: Completing notes

[In this type of question, candidates are asked to complete different notes with NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage. Keywords are important to find answers correctly. Generally, this type of question maintains a sequence. However, we should not be surprised if the sequence is not maintained. Find the keywords in the passage and you are most likely to find the answers.]

Title of the notes: Steps to take to achieve a promotion

Question 21:

First step: examine past successes and any _________ that would help gain promotion

Keywords for this question: First step, examine past successes, would help, gain promotion,

In the second paragraph, the writer of the text says in lines 2-3, “ . .. .. Take an honest look at yourself – your achievements and also your skills, particularly those you could exploit to take on a different role.”  

Here, achievements = past successes, those you could exploit to take on a different role = that would help gain promotion,   

So, the answer is: skills

Question 22:

Set up a meeting with your boss to talk about:

• how best to use your high level of ________ in future

Keywords for this question: set up, meeting, your boss, talk about, how best to use, high level, in future,    

In paragraph no. 3, the writer says in the beginning, “Your boss is the gatekeeper. If you think your boss is likely to be on your side, ask for a meeting to discuss your serious commitment to the organisation and how this could translate into a more defined career plan. .. ..”

Here, ask for a meeting to discuss = Set up a meeting with your boss to talk about, serious = high level of,

 So, the answer is: commitment

Question 23:

• or how much extra ________ you already bring to the company  

Keywords for this question:how much, extra, already bring, the company,   

Again, in paragraph no. 3, the writer says in lines 4-5, “ . .. . start softly with a more deliberate focus on increasing your boss’s understanding of the work you do and the added value you deliver.”

Here, added = extra, you deliver = you already bring to the company,

So, the answer is: value

Question 24:

Focus on the important people in the company:

• find out which ones will be members of the _________ who decide on the promotion

Keywords for this question: focus, important people, find out, which ones, will be, members, who decide on, promotion,

The answer can be found in paragraph no. 4. Here, take a look at lines 1-3, “Think about how you are perceived at work. In order for you to get your promotion, who needs to know about you? Who would be on the interview panel and whose opinion and input would they seek? … …”   

Here, Who would be = which ones will be, the interview panel = members of the panel, whose opinion and input would they seek = who decide on the promotion,

So, the answer is: panel  

Question 25:

• consider how much they are aware of your _________ for the future

Keywords for this question: consider, how much, aware, your, for the future,

In paragraph no. 4, the writer says again in lines 3-5, “ .. . . And once you’ve got a list of people to impress, ask yourself – do they know enough about you? And I mean really know – what you do day to day at your desk, your contribution to the team, and perhaps most importantly, your potential.”

Here, do they know enough about you? = consider how much they are aware,

So, the answer is: potential   

Question 26: Take steps to raise your profile by:

• offering to create a feature for a company publication
• participating in the _________ of events for customers

Keywords for this question: take steps, raise, profile, by, offering, create feature, company publication, participating, events for customers,

The answer can be found in the fifth paragraph. Here, the writer says in lines 2-5, “ . . .. Raising your profile in your organisation is critical so that when those in change start looking at that empty office and considering how best to fill it, the first name that pops into their heads is yours. If your firm has a newsletter, volunteer to write a feature to include in it. If they arrange regular client events, get involved in the organisation of them. And so on.”

Here, client events = events for customers, get involved in = participate in,  

So, the answer is: organisation / organization   

N.B: Here, the word ‘organisation’ is included in two places; first, in line no. 2 (organisation = company), and then, in line no. 5 (organisation = the action of organizing something). The answer is taken from line no. 5.

Question 27: Work on self-development:

• take any ________ that fill in gaps in knowledge

Keywords for this question: improve, grammar,  

In the final paragraph (paragraph no. 6), the writer says in lines 1-3, “If you think your experience needs enhancing, then look at ways you can continue to improve it. If you are confident in your professional expertise but lacks the latest management theory, enrol on some relevant courses that fit around your day job.”

Here, look at ways you can continue to improve = work on self-development, lacks the latest management theory = gaps in knowledge,  

So, the answer is: courses   

Section 3:Animals can tell right from wrong   

Questions 28-34: Summary completion:

[In this kind of question candidates are given a summary for one, two, or three paragraphs with some fill in the blanks questions. Candidates need to find out the related paragraphs by correctly studying the keywords from the questions. Then, they should follow the steps of finding answers to fill in the gaps.]

Title of the summary: Complex social behaviour in wolf packs 

Question 28: Wolves live in packs and it is clear that there are a number of _______ concerning their behaviour.

Keywords for this question: wolves, live in packs, clear, a number of, concerning, their behaviour,  

The answer can be found in lines 1-2 of paragraph no. 4. Here, the writer says, “Wolves live in tight-knit social groups that are regulated by strict rules. . … ..”

Here, tight-knit social groups = packs,   

Here, the phrase in the question ‘a number of’ indicates to ‘something plural’.

So, the answer is: rules

Question 29: Some observers believe they exhibit a sense of ________ . The stronger, more senior wolves seem to adopt the roles of the junior wolves when they are playing together.

Keywords for this question: some observers, believe, exhibit, sense of, stronger, more senior wolves, seem to adopt, roles, junior wolves, when, playing together,   

In paragraph no. 4, lines 2-4 say, “ . .. . . Wolves also demonstrate fairness. During play, dominant wolves will appear to exchange roles with lower-ranking wolves. .. .

Here, demonstrate = exhibit, dominant wolves = The stronger, more senior wolves, exchange roles = adopt the roles, lower-ranking wolves = junior wolves,

So, the answer is: fairness

Questions 30 & 31: They act as if they are 30. _________ to the juniors and even permit some gentle 31. ________.

Keywords for this question: they act, as if, to the juniors, even, permit, some gentle,    

In paragraph no. 4, lines 5-7 state, “ . .. .. They pretend to be submissive and go so far as to allow biting by the lower-ranking wolves, provided that it is not too hard. .. ..”

Here, They pretend to be = They act as if they are, allow = permit, lower-ranking wolves  = juniors, it is not too hard = gentle,

So, the answers are:

• submissive
• biting

Question 32: What is even more surprising is that when one of the juniors gets too forceful, it bends down begging for _______. Only when that has been granted will the wolves continue playing.

Keywords for this question: more surprising, when, one of the juniors, gets too forceful, bends down, begging for,    

In lines 10-12 of paragraph no. 4, the author of the text mentions, “ . .. .. Astonishingly, if an animal becomes aggressive, it will perform a ‘play bow’ to ask forgiveness before play resumes.”

Here, Astonishingly = What is even more surprising, when one of the juniors gets too forceful = if an animal becomes aggressive, play bow = bends down, begging for = ask, before play resumes = Only when that has been granted will the wolves continue playing,

So, the answer is: forgiveness

Questions 33-37: Matching places/names from list of descriptions:

[The rules for finding answers to this sort of question are simple. Just find the name of the names/places, read around it carefully and try to match with the given list of descriptions. Then, give a quick look to check whether there is another statement or idea provided by the same person in the text. If there is, check the reference carefully and decide your answer. Remember, the questions will not follow any sequential order. Do the reverse method when the statements are in questions]

Question 33: coyotes

Keywords for this question:  coyotes,   

In paragraph no.5, lines 2-5 say, “ . . . Among  coyotes, cubs which are too aggressive are ignored by the rest of the group and often end up having to leave entirely. . . .”

Here, too aggressive = do not obey the moral code, end up having to leave entirely = may be driven away by their peers,

So, the answer is: E (may be driven away by their peers if they do not obey the moral code.)

Question 34: domestic dogs

Keywords for this question: domestic dogs,  

Again, in paragraph no. 5, lines 5-8 say, “ . . . Experiments with domestic dogs, where one animal was given some ‘sweets’ and another wasn’t, have shown that they possess a sense of fairness as they allowed their companion to eat some.”

Here, sweets = treats, they allowed their companion to eat some = share treats with a peer,

So, the answer is: C (sometimes share treats with a peer.)

Question 35: elephants

Keywords for this question: elephants,     

The answer can be found in paragraph no. 6, as we find the mention of ‘elephants’ here. In this paragraph, lines 7-12state, “ . .. . In 2003, a herd of 11 elephants rescued antelopes which were being held inside an enclosure in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. . .. .”

Here, a herd of 11 elephants = elephants, rescued = help, antelopes = a different type of animal, being held inside an enclosure = in difficulty,

So, the answer is: G (may help a different type of animal which is in difficulty.)

Question 36: Diana monkeys

Keywords for this question: Diana monkeys,    

The answer lies in the beginning of paragraph no. 7 as the writer says here, “A laboratory experiment involved training Diana monkeys to insert a token into a slot to obtain food. A male who had become skilled at the task was found to be helping the oldest female, who had not learned how to do it. .. ..”  

Here, helping the oldest female = assist a peer, who had not learned how to do it = failing to complete a task,

So, the answer is: D (may assist a peer who is failing to complete a task.)

Question 37: rats

Keywords for this question: rats,

The answer lies in paragraph no. 9, as the writer explains in the beginning, “Experiments with rats have shown that they will not take food if they know their actions will cause pain to another rat. .. . .”

Here, they will not take food = unwilling to benefit from something, cause pain to another rat = hurts their peers,

So, the answer is: F (seem unwilling to benefit from something that hurts their peers.)

Questions 38-40: Multiple choice questions

[This type of question asks you to choose a suitable answer from the options using the knowledge you gained from the passage. Generally, this question is set found as the last question set in most passages so you should not worry much about it. Finding all the answers to previous questions gives you a good idea about these questions.]

Question 38: What view is expressed by Professor de Waal?

Keywords for this question: view, professor de Waal,     

The answer is found in lines 12-15 of paragraph no. 3, “Professor Frans de Waal, who examines . .. . . . . . . .. .. . . .. . . Human morality was not formed from scratch, but grew out of our primate psychology. Primate psychology has ancient roots, and I agree that other animals show many of the same tendencies and have an intense sociality.”

Here, Human morality = human moral beliefs, grew out = developed, Primate psychology has ancient roots = animal ancestors,

So, the answer is: C (Some human moral beliefs developed from our animal ancestors.)

Question 39: Why does Professor Bekoff mention the experiment on Diana monkeys?  

Keywords for this question: why, Professor Bekoff, mention, experiment on Diana monkeys,   

The mention of Diana monkeys is found in paragraph no. 7. Here, lines 8-11 say, “ .. . . As there was no benefit for the male monkey, Professor Bekoff argues that this is a clear example of an animal’s actions being driven by some internal moral compass.”

Here, that this is a clear example of an animal’s actions being driven by some internal moral compass indicates that animals’ actions is influenced by moral range that resides inside them (a point that the professor wants to make).

So, the answer is: D (It illustrates a point he wants to make about monkeys and other creatures.)

Question 40: What does the writer find most surprising about chimpanzees?  

Keywords for this question: find, most surprising, chimpanzees,  

In paragraph no. 8, the writer mentions in lines 5-12, “ . . .. A chimpanzee known as Knuckles is the only known captive chimpanzee to suffer from cerebral palsy, which leaves him physically and mentally impaired. What is extraordinary is that scientists have observed other chimpanzees interacting with him differently and he is rarely subjected to intimidating displays of aggression from older males. . .. ..”

Here, What is extraordinary = most surprising, chimpanzee to suffer from cerebral palsy = disabled peers, he is rarely subjected to intimidating displays of aggression from older males = treat disabled peers with consideration,

So, the answer is: B (They appear to treat disabled peers with consideration.)