Passage 1: The History of Bicycles
Bicycles have a long and fascinating history, with origins dating back to the early 19th century. The first known bicycle, called the "dandy horse," was invented by a German baron named Karl von Drais in 1817. This wooden vehicle had no pedals and was propelled by pushing one’s feet against the ground, much like a scooter. It was considered a novelty rather than a practical mode of transportation.
In the 1860s, the design of the bicycle began to evolve. French inventors Pierre Michaux and Pierre Lallement developed a bicycle with pedals on the front wheel. Known as the "boneshaker" due to its uncomfortable ride on cobblestone streets, this version was the first to be widely manufactured. The introduction of metal frames and rubber tires in the late 19th century made bicycles more comfortable and practical, leading to their widespread popularity.
The modern bicycle took shape in the 1880s with the invention of the "safety bicycle." This design, which featured two wheels of equal size and a chain-driven rear wheel, made bicycles safer and more stable. Over the years, bicycles have continued to evolve, with advancements in materials, gears, and brakes. Today, bicycles are used for a wide range of purposes, including commuting, exercise, and competitive racing.
Questions 1-10
Questions 1-5: True, False, Not Given
Do the following statements agree with the information in Passage 1?
Write TRUE if the statement agrees with the information.
Write FALSE if the statement contradicts the information.
Write NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this.
2. The boneshaker had pedals on the back wheel.
3. Metal frames were introduced in the 20th century.
4. The safety bicycle had two wheels of equal size.
5. Bicycles are primarily used for transportation today.
Questions 6-10: Multiple Choice
Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.
6. Who invented the "dandy horse"?A. Pierre Michaux
B. Karl von Drais
C. Pierre Lallement
D. The French government
7. What was the major problem with the boneshaker?
A. It was too expensive.
B. It was uncomfortable to ride.
C. It was difficult to control.
D. It was only made for children.
8. What innovation made bicycles safer in the 1880s?
A. Rubber tires
B. Chain-driven rear wheel
C. Pedals on the front wheel
D. Metal frames
9. What is one common use of bicycles today?
A. Air travel
B. Fishing
C. Exercise
D. Space exploration
10. When did bicycles become widely manufactured?
A. 1810s
B. 1860s
C. 1880s
D. 1920s
Passage 2: Eco-Friendly Architecture
Eco-friendly or "green" architecture is an approach to building design that emphasizes sustainability, resource efficiency, and environmental responsibility. In recent years, the construction industry has seen a surge in the development of eco-friendly buildings, designed to minimize the environmental impact of construction and daily operation. This trend has been driven by concerns about climate change, resource depletion, and urbanization.
Green architecture incorporates a variety of strategies to reduce energy consumption and waste. One of the most common techniques is the use of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Buildings are also designed with energy-efficient systems, such as LED lighting and high-performance windows, to minimize energy use. Water conservation is another key aspect of eco-friendly design, with features like rainwater harvesting systems and low-flow fixtures becoming increasingly common.
In addition to reducing energy and water consumption, eco-friendly buildings often incorporate sustainable materials. This includes using recycled materials, locally sourced wood, and non-toxic paints. Many buildings are also designed with green roofs, which not only provide insulation but also absorb rainwater and improve air quality.
Although eco-friendly architecture has many benefits, it also faces challenges. The initial cost of building green can be higher than traditional construction, and some eco-friendly technologies are still developing. However, the long-term savings in energy and water costs, as well as the environmental benefits, often outweigh the initial expenses.
Questions 11-20
Questions 11-14: Matching Information
Match the following techniques (A-D) with the correct statement (Questions 11-14).
Write the correct letter (A-D) next to each statement.
A. Renewable energy
B. Green roofs
C. Sustainable materials
D. Water conservation systems
12. These reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
13. These involve using recycled or locally sourced resources.
14. These collect rainwater for reuse.
Questions 15-20: Sentence Completion
Complete the sentences below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.
16. Buildings often include __________ systems to reduce energy use.
17. __________ is one of the key strategies in eco-friendly design.
18. Rainwater can be collected and stored using __________ systems.
19. Using __________ materials can help lower the environmental cost of construction.
20. Although the initial cost of building green can be higher, it offers __________ in the long term.
Passage 3: The Science of Sleep
Sleep is an essential function that allows our bodies to recharge and repair. Despite being a natural part of life, scientists are still uncovering the many mysteries of sleep. The sleep cycle consists of several stages, including light sleep, deep sleep, and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Each stage plays a different role in maintaining our health and well-being.
During light sleep, the body relaxes and heart rate slows, preparing for the deeper stages of sleep. Deep sleep is when the body repairs tissues, builds bone and muscle, and strengthens the immune system. REM sleep, which typically occurs later in the sleep cycle, is associated with dreaming and memory consolidation. It is during REM sleep that the brain processes information from the day and stores it for future use.
Sleep deprivation, or a lack of adequate sleep, can have significant consequences for both physical and mental health. Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to a variety of health problems, including obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. It can also impair cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and decision-making. Therefore, getting enough sleep is crucial for overall health.
In recent years, researchers have explored various methods to improve sleep quality, including changes in diet, exercise, and stress management. Sleep hygiene, which refers to habits that promote good sleep, includes maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine before bed, and creating a comfortable sleeping environment.
Questions 21-30
Questions 21-25: Yes, No, Not Given
Do the following statements agree with the claims of the writer in Passage 3?
Write YES if the statement agrees with the views of the writer.
Write NO if the statement contradicts the views of the writer.
Write NOT GIVEN if it is impossible to say what the writer thinks about this.
22. REM sleep is crucial for memory processing.
23. Sleep deprivation can lead to cognitive decline.
24. Regular physical activity has no effect on sleep quality.
25. Creating a quiet environment can improve sleep hygiene.
Questions 26-30: Matching Features
Match each sleep stage with the correct description.
Write the correct letter (A-C) next to each question.
A. Light sleep
B. Deep sleep
C. REM sleep
27. The stage that helps with tissue repair and immune strength
28. The stage that prepares the body for deeper rest
29. The stage linked to memory consolidation
30. The stage with slower heart rate and body relaxation
Answers:
Passage 1
1. True2. False
3. Not Given
4. True
5. Not Given
6. B
7. B
8. B
9. C
10. B
Passage 2
11. B
12. A
13. C
14. D
15. construction
16. energy-efficient
17. Water conservation
18. rainwater harvesting
19. sustainable
20. savings
Passage 3
21. No
22. Yes
23. Yes
24. No
25. Yes
26. C
27. B
28. A
29. C
30. A