Passage 1: History of Public Libraries
Public libraries have been a vital part of society for centuries, providing free access to knowledge and information. The concept of lending books can be traced back to ancient times when private libraries existed for the privileged class. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that public libraries became more widespread, thanks to the industrial revolution and the growth of literacy rates. These institutions offered access to books, newspapers, and educational resources for the general population.
By the 20th century, public libraries evolved to provide not just books, but multimedia resources such as audiobooks, CDs, and DVDs. Today, with the advent of the internet, libraries have incorporated digital services, offering e-books, online databases, and access to free Wi-Fi, thus adapting to the needs of the digital age.
Questions 1–4
The development of public libraries:
- Early libraries were usually for the (1) ____________.
- Public libraries became more popular in the (2) ____________ century due to rising literacy.
- Besides books, modern libraries offer (3) ____________ and DVDs.
- Public libraries now provide access to (4) ____________ content, such as e-books and databases.
Questions 5–8
- TRUE if the statement agrees with the information
- FALSE if the statement contradicts the information
- NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this
6. The Industrial Revolution increased the number of public libraries.
7. Public libraries are struggling to survive in the digital age.
8. Audiobooks were available in libraries in the 18th century.
Passage 2: The Future of Renewable Energy
Renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power are becoming more important as the world seeks to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. Governments around the world are investing in renewable energy projects to meet targets for reducing carbon emissions. Wind farms and solar panels are now common sights in many countries, and research into new technologies is ongoing.
However, despite the advantages of renewable energy, challenges remain. The initial cost of setting up renewable energy systems can be high, and energy storage is still an issue. In the case of wind and solar power, energy production depends on weather conditions, which can be unpredictable.
Questions 9–14
Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.
9. What is the main reason governments are investing in renewable energy?- A. To save money
- B. To reduce carbon emissions
- C. To produce more electricity
- D. To create jobs
- A. Solar
- B. Wind
- C. Geothermal
- D. Hydroelectric
- A. Lack of technology
- B. High setup costs
- C. Difficulty in maintenance
- D. Lack of government support
- A. It’s too expensive
- B. It depends on weather conditions
- C. It’s not fully developed yet
- D. It requires fossil fuels
- A. The cost of production
- B. Storage capacity
- C. Weather conditions
- D. Research development
- A. It requires less maintenance
- B. It’s unpredictable
- C. It helps reduce emissions
- D. It’s free of cost
Passage 3: Telecommuting in Modern Workplaces
Telecommuting, or remote work, has been on the rise in recent years. This method allows employees to work from home or other remote locations instead of commuting to a central office. Several factors have contributed to this trend, including advancements in technology and changing attitudes toward work-life balance. Companies are increasingly offering telecommuting options to attract and retain talent, particularly in industries where physical presence in the office is not always necessary.
While telecommuting offers many benefits, such as increased flexibility and reduced commuting time, it also has its downsides. Employees may feel isolated from their coworkers, and some employers worry that remote workers may not be as productive without the structure of a traditional office environment.
Questions 15–21
Match the statements (15-21) with the correct person from the list (A-C).
List of People
- A. An employee
- B. An employer
- C. A technology expert
16. Worries about the productivity of remote workers.
17. Thinks telecommuting offers more work-life balance.
18. Is concerned about employees feeling isolated.
19. Believes telecommuting depends on technological advancements.
20. Offers telecommuting to attract workers.
21. Sees potential in remote working despite its downsides.
Questions 22–31
Complete the summary below using words from the box.
Telecommuting has grown in popularity because of improvements in (22) __________ and changes in attitudes toward (23) __________. Many companies now offer remote work options to attract and (24) __________ employees. However, telecommuting can also lead to (25) __________, with some workers feeling disconnected from their (26) __________. Employers are also concerned about (27) __________. Telecommuting has advantages, such as flexibility and reduced (28) __________, but it requires effective (29) __________ to ensure productivity. Overall, telecommuting is seen as a growing trend in the (30) __________ world, but it may not be the best fit for (31) __________ roles.
Box of words
- technology
- flexibility
- travel
- productivity
- coworkers
- isolation
- communication
- physical
- retain
- professional
- family
Answers
Passage 1: History of Public Libraries
1-4. Note Completion
1. privileged2. 19th
3. CDs
4. digital