SECTION 1 Questions 1-14 Read the text below and answer Questions 1-7. THE BEST SUITCASES A   Briggs and Riley Weekender A weekend suitcase that’s sophisticated and unusually spacious for its type. The strong nylon outer fabric is water and abrasion resistant, so it should handle any knocks without showing signs of damage. B   Mulberry Scotchgrain Trimmed in brown leather, with gold details, this bag from the renowned fashion house is a truly indulgent buy. If you’re investing this much in a suitcase then you’d better be planning an amazing holiday to go with it. C   Rimova Salsa A design you can trust, this case is built from super light polycarbonate and is incredibly solid. The built-in combination lock offers state-of-the-art security so you can travel with peace of mind. D   Tripp Holiday Simple and affordable, the Tripp range offers a great selection of tough cases. They also come in a huge range of cheerful colours that should go with anything you choose to put on, and you’ll definitely be able to spot it on the luggage carousel at the airport. E   Eastpak Tranverz Holdall For those who want something in between an annual holiday suitcase and a weekend bag, this is a fantastic compromise. With two wheels and a telescopic handle, the bag is guaranteed for 30 years. Did we mention it also comes in colourful leopard print? F   Herschel Parcel From the brand behind some of today’s most popular rucksacks, this suitcase really is a delight. Custom printed, with Herschel’s signature leather toggles this well-crafted case is as cool, stylish and up to date as they come. G   The Diplomat Travel in style with this beautiful suitcase that goes back to the days when trains ran on steam and air travel was leisurely. The leather case, part of the Steamline Luggage range, features roller wheels and a metal frame to hold it in shape. Questions 1-7 Look at the seven reviews of suitcases, A-G. For which suitcase are the following statements true? Write the correct letter, A-G, in boxes 1-7 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any letter more than once. 1   This suitcase is for those who wish to purchase expensive luggage. 2   This suitcase is the right one for people who like to follow the latest fashion. 3   It is easy to choose one of these suitcases to match most clothing. 4   The manufacturer is confident that this suitcase will last a long time. 5   Items in this suitcase will not be affected if it gets wet. 6   This suitcase is of a useful, medium size. 7   Those who want to be reminded of an earlier age of travel will like this suitcase. Read the text below and answer Questions 8-14. THE OXFORD SCHOOL OF DRAMA One-Year Acting Course This is an intensive course which is designed for those who have completed their academic studies and have some theatre or film experience already. In order to be accepted, you should be a high achiever, knowledgeable about the industry and determined to succeed. Term One: Technical classes in acting, voice, movement, applied movement and characterisation, music, singing, film, radio and professional development. The term finishes with an internal production given for tutors and students. Term Two: All technical classes continue from term one. There is an internal performance of a one-act play, the recording of an audio showreel at a professional studio and the Showcase Drama in front of an invited audience including casting directors and agents. Term Three: Technical classes continue with additional focus on audition technique, workshops and masterclasses. This term includes a public performance of a play outdoors in the grounds of Blenheim Palace, and the chance to act a short film recorded on location by a professional crew. How to Apply Entry to The Oxford School of Drama is by audition only and there are no academic requirements for any of our courses. Once we have received your application form and audition fee, we will email you with a date for your audition and further details about what to expect when you are here. For your initial audition, you will need to prepare two contrasting speeches from plays, lasting no longer than two minutes. There will also be some group work for which you will need to wear loose, comfortable clothing. If you are applying from overseas, you will be able to submit your first audition by means of DVD, YouTube or link to a secure website. You will be invited to submit this once we have received your application form and audition fee. If you are successful in your first audition, you will be invited to attend future auditions here at the school. The school will provide a free bus from central Oxford for those attending auditions. Questions 8-14 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 8-14 on your answer sheet, write TRUE               if the statement agrees with the information FALSE              if the statement contradicts the information NOT GIVEN    if there is no information on this 8   Students can begin the one-year course without any previous involvement in acting. 9   Students will act in a performance in front of their classmates at the end of the first term. 10   Family members may attend a performance during the second term. 11   Students are required to make a film on their own in the last term of the course. 12   In their first audition, candidates perform speeches they have worked on in advance. 13   The Oxford School of Drama will send candidates details of local accommodation. 14   Overseas candidates can do all their auditions via a digital link. Advertisements SECTION 2 Questions 15-27 Read the text below and answer Questions 15-20. BORDER CROSSING FOR COMMERCIAL VEHICLES This Border Crossing Guide is designed for drivers and motor carriers operating commercial vehicles at Michigan’s international border crossings. This information will help you cross the border from the US into Canada, and from Canada into the US. Your first point of contact at the border consists of Primary Inspection. The best way to clear customs at Primary Inspection is to make sure Customs gets information about your shipment before you set off, using the Pre-Arrival Processing System (PAPS). When using this you need to provide information about your shipment, and you also need to send proof of a current annual inspection for your vehicle, tractor and trailer. Before you arrive at the border, make sure you have all your paperwork up to date and ready to present at Primary Inspection. You’ll need a photo ID in addition to your birth certificate or passport. Drivers must also turn on interior cab lights and open all interior drapes or blinds to sleeper areas for easy inspection. If all of your paperwork is in order and was processed ahead of time, you will be released at the primary lane and this may be your only stop. If you are not a Canadian or US citizen, a visa is obligatory and you will also be required to complete an I-94 card. I-94 cards are available only at border crossings into the United States. Drivers who clear customs at Primary Inspection will be instructed to report to Immigration to fill out the 1-94 card and receive verbal clearance from a US official to proceed into the United States. The charge for the I-94 card is $6. If your paperwork is not in order, you will be directed to Secondary Inspection. When you get there, look for the signs for Truck Inspection and follow these. Questions 15-20 Complete the flow-chart below. Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 15-20 on your answer sheet. Procedure for border crossing Before setting off To speed up the border crossing, use PAPS. For this, send your 15………………………… details and current vehicle inspection documents. ↓ Before arriving at the border Check that documents such as 16………………………… and birth certificate/passport are ready for inspection. Make sure the 17………………………… are on inside the vehicle. Check that the 18…………………………  in the vehicle can be easily seen. ↓ At the border (Primary Inspection) This may be the only stop if paperwork is in order. Non US/Canadian citizens must have a visa, and go to the 19………………………… area to complete an I-94 card (there is a small 20………………………… for this) and to receive verbal clearance. ↓ At the border (Secondary Inspection) If there is a problem with paperwork, you will be sent to Truck Inspection. Read the text below and answer Questions 21-27. Appendix: Dealing with absence in the workplace This appendix considers how to handle problems of absence and gives guidance about authorised and unauthorised absence of employees from work. The organisation should be aware of the rights of employees and in particular the requirements of the Equality Act 201O when making any decisions about absences of employees who are disabled. In these cases, the employer should consider what reasonable adjustments could be made in the workplace to help the employee. This might be something as simple as supplying an appropriate chair for the use of the employee. In cases where an employee suffers from an allergy caused by something in the workplace, the employer should consider remedial action or a transfer to alternative work. If the absence is because of temporary difficulties relating to dependants, the employee may be entitled to have time off under the provisions of the Employment Rights Act 1996. In cases where the employee has difficulty managing both work and home responsibilities, employees have the right to request flexible ways of working, such as job-sharing, and employers must have a good business reason for rejecting any such application. Employers should investigate unexpected absences promptly and the employee should be asked for an explanation at a return-to-work interview. In order to show both the employee concerned and other employees that absence is regarded as a serious matter and may result in dismissal, it is very important that persistent absence is dealt with firmly and consistently. Records showing lateness and the duration of and explanations for all spells of absence should be kept to help monitor levels of absence or lateness. If the employer wishes to contact the employee’s doctor for more information about a medical condition, he or she must notify the employee in writing that they intend to make such an application and they must secure the employee’s consent in writing. Consideration should be given to introducing measures to help employees, regardless of status or seniority, who may be suffering from stress. The aim should be to identify employees affected and encourage them to seek help and treatment. Questions 21-27 Complete the notes below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 21-27 on your answer sheet. Absence in the workplace Employees’ rights •  help with issues related to disabilities, e. g. provision of a suitable 21………………………… •  provision of arrangements to deal with any work-related 22………………………… •  time off work to deal with short-term problems of 23………………………… •  possibility of arrangements that are 24………………………… to help with domestic responsibilities Recommendations to employers •  make it clear that absence is a possible reason for 25………………………… •  ask employees for consent before contacting their 26………………………… . •  identify employees affected by 27………………………… and provide support SECTION 3 Questions 28-40 Read the text below and answer Questions 28-40. A visit to Oymyakon, the world’s coldest town A You don’t need a sat nav to drive to Oymyakon. From Yakutsk, you cross the Lena River and simply follow the M56 almost all of the way before taking a left at Tomtor for the final few kilometres. The journey takes two days of hard driving; two days of glistening landscapes, frozen rivers and untouched snow; two days of endless forest and breathtaking beauty; two days to penetrate the heart of Siberia and reach the coldest inhabited place on Earth. The beauty surprised me. Siberia isn’t known for its pleasant appearance. It’s always billed as a place of hardship. But for hour after hour, the wintry wonderland was bathed in a crisp, clean sunshine, presenting a continuous panorama of conifer trees wreathed in silence and snow. B As we left the flat plain, the road began to twist and turn, leading us into untouched hills and on towards the Verkhoyansk Mountains. Beneath their snow-clad peaks, the slopes became steeper and the valleys deeper. Down in a valley, we stopped to look at a hot spring beside the road. It was immediately obvious against the snow – a spot shrouded in heavy mist. Trees emerged from the strange haze as ghostly silhouettes. C Despite the magical ambience of the Siberian wilderness, its reputation for hardship hit me every time I climbed out of the vehicle. Within less than a minute, the skin all over my face began to feel as if it were burning. If I wasn’t wearing my two sets of gloves, I rapidly lost the feeling in my fingertips. I learned very quickly not to draw too deep a breath because the shock of the cold air in my lungs invariably set me off on an extended bout of coughing. Siberia in winter is a world barely fit for human habitation. This is a place of such searing cold that it bites through multiple layers of clothing as if they aren’t there. D Oymyakon is a quiet little town – the world’s coldest – of about 550 inhabitants, with its own power station, a school, two shops and a small hospital. It probably originated as a seasonal settlement where reindeer herders spent the summer on the banks of the Indigirka River. E The temperature when I arrived was -45°C – not particularly cold, I was informed. A number of factors combine to explain Oymyakon’s record low temperatures. It is far from the ocean, with its moderating effect on air temperature. In addition, the town sits in a valley, below the general level of the Oymyakon Plateau, which, in turn, is enclosed on all sides by mountains up to 2,000 metres in height. As the cold air sinks, it accumulates in the valley, with little wind to disturb it. Oymyakon’s average temperature in January is -50°C. Lower temperatures have been recorded in Antarctica, but there are no permanent inhabitants there. F Day-to-day life in Oymyakon presents certain challenges during the long winters. There are hardly any modern household conveniences. Water is hacked out of the nearby river as great chunks of ice and dragged home on a sledge. The giant ice cubes are stacked outdoors and carried into the house one at a time to melt when needed. The lack of running water also means no showers or baths, or indeed flushing toilets. Since 2008, the town’s school has enjoyed the luxury of indoor toilets, however. It’s one of the small number of civic buildings in the centre of town that are linked to the power station. G The power station provides winter heating in the form of hot water, but many houses lie outside its range and rely on their own wood-burning stove. Fuel is plentiful enough in the surrounding forest, but someone still has to venture out to cut the wood. Everybody in Oymyakon owns good boots, a hat made of animal fur and fur-lined mittens. The boots are usually made from reindeer hide, which is light but keeps your feet very warm – the individual hairs are hollow, like a thin tube with air inside. Since air is a poor conductor of heat, the skin makes excellent winter footwear, and felt soles give added insulation. Hats come in a variety of furs, including fox, raccoon, sable and mink. H Oymyakon’s two shops keep a decent stock of basic foods in tins and packets, but locals also have do-it-yourself options, including hunting, trapping, ice-fishing, reindeer-breeding and horse-breeding. Indeed, being self-sufficient runs in the blood in Siberia. The Oymyakon diet relies heavily on meat for its protein, a primary source of energy in the prolonged winter. Unsurprisingly, given the weather, everyone eats heartily in Oymyakon. A typical meal I was offered consisted of a thick horse soup and huge piles of horse meatballs, all washed down with cloudberry cordial. I Spring is the best season here, I’m told. The snow melts, the river flows once more and the forest is full of wildflowers. But it’s short. In the summer Oymyakon can be uncomfortably hot. Much of the forest becomes boggy, so mosquitoes are a constant presence. Oymyakon’s climate certainly wouldn’t suit me, but residents I spoke to said they wouldn’t live anywhere else. Questions 28-36 The text has nine paragraphs, A-I. Choose the correct heading for each paragraph from the list of headings below. Write the correct number, i-xi, in boxes 28-36 on your answer sheet. List of Headings i        Various sources of supplies ii       The effects of going outside iii      Oymyakon past and present iv      A contrast in the landscape v       Animals that can survive the cold vi      How Oymyakon is affected by its location vii     Keeping out the cold viii    Not the only challenging time of the year ix      Better than its reputation x       Very few facilities in buildings xi      More snow than anywhere else in the world 28   Paragraph A 29   Paragraph B 30   Paragraph C 31   Paragraph D 32   Paragraph E 33   Paragraph F 34   Paragraph G 35   Paragraph H 36   Paragraph I Questions 37-40 Complete the summary below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 37-40 on your answer sheet. Why Oymyakon gets so cold Oymyakon is a long way from any 37………………………… which would prevent the temperature from falling so low. The town is located in a 38………………………… within a plateau surrounded by 39…………………………  Because there is not much 40………………………… cold air collects in the town. Answer: Section 1 1   B 2   F 3   D 4   E 5   A 6   E 7   G 8   FALSE 9   TRUE 10   NOT GIVEN 11   FALSE 12   TRUE 13   NOT GIVEN 14   FALSE Section 2 15   shipment 16   photo ID 17   (cab) lights 18   sleeper areas 19   immigration 20   charge 21   chair 22   allergy 23   dependants 24   flexible 25   dismissal 26   doctor 27   stress Section 3 28   ix 29   iv 30   ii 31   iii 32   vi 33   x 34   vii 35   i 36   viii 37   ocean 38   valley 39   mountains 40   wind

SECTION 1 Questions 1-14 Read the text below and answer Questions 1-8. The best travel wallets Keep all your bank cards, documents, passports and ID in one of these convenient carriers, which have been selected by Becca Meier. A   Kipling Travel Doc Travel Document Holder This zip-around wallet comes in five different patterns and is made of nylon. It also has a space where users can put a pen, pockets for cards, an ID window and a pocket for change. B   Lifeventure Mini Travel Document Wallet This is a waterproof wallet, which uses anti-RFID (radio frequency identification) material so your financial details will be safe. It is black with smart sky-blue finishing touches and has a small internal compartment, a smartphone pocket and an external pocket. It can fit two passports. C   Cath Kidston Breton Stripe A wallet so slim it could easily pass for a small notebook. The inside compartment labels identifying each separate section all have silver lettering on them. The wallet has a special coating which makes it easy to wipe anything like sand off. D   Ted Baker Voyager’s Travel Wallet This wallet comes in smooth black leather, and is no bigger than a passport, but roomy enough for any insurance documents or flight tickets. A small navy-blue pen is supplied inside. E   Radley Abbey Travel Wallet This plain travel wallet opens up to reveal pockets in various colours labelled ‘cards’, ‘passport’ and ‘tickets’, as well as others left blank for extras. It comes in a handy drawstring bag. F   Gotravel Organiser The black wallet features seven slip-in card compartments, two small interior zip pockets and a load of other slip-in compartments. It can fit at least four passports. G   Gotravel Glo Travel Wallet This is a simple, very reasonably priced wallet. It is made of PVC plastic and will suit those who like a wallet that is easy to spot. It comes in a range of bright colours with a white holiday-related design on the front. It has five compartments that can fit a passport with other cards/tickets. Questions 1-8 Look at the seven reviews of travel wallets, A-G. For which travel wallet are the following statements true? Write the correct letter, A-G, in boxes 1-8 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any letter more than once. 1   This wallet will suit people who prefer natural materials. 2   Users of this wallet do not need to worry about taking it out in the rain. 3   Parts of the inside of this wallet have categories printed on them in one colour. 4   This wallet would suit someone who needs to keep several passports together. 5   Something is provided for writing. 6   This will suit people who want to be able to find their document wallet easily in their luggage. 7   Something to keep this wallet in is provided. 8   This wallet has been specially made to prevent people detecting the numbers on any bank cards, etc. inside it. Read the text below and answer Questions 9-14. UK rail services – how do I claim for my delayed train? Generally, if you have been delayed on a train journey, you may be able to claim compensation, but train companies all have different rules, so it can be confusing to work out what you’re entitled to. The type of delay you can claim for depends on whether the train company runs a Delay Repay scheme or a less generous, older-style scheme. Delay Repay is a train operator scheme to compensate passengers when trains are late, and the train company will pay out even if it was not responsible for the delay. The scheme varies between companies, but up to 2016 most paid 50 percent of the single ticket cost for 30 minutes’ delay and 100 percent for an hour. On the London Underground, you get a full refund for 15-minute delays. Companies that do not use Delay Repay and still use the older scheme will not usually pay compensation if the problem is considered to be out of their control. But it is still worth asking them for compensation, as some may pay out. You are unlikely to get compensation for a delay if any of the following occur: •  Accidents involving people getting onto the line illegally •  Gas leaks or fires in buildings next to the line which were not caused by a train company •  Line closures at the request of the emergency services •  Exceptionally severe weather conditions •  Strike action National Rail Conditions of Travel state that you are entitled to compensation in the same form that you paid for the ticket. Some train companies are still paying using rail vouchers, which they are allowed to do if you do not ask for a cash refund. Since 2016, rail passengers have acquired further rights for compensation  through the Consumer Rights Act. This means that passengers could now be eligible for compensation due to: a severely overcrowded train with too few carriages available; a consistently late running service; and a service that is delayed for less than the time limit that applied under existing compensation schemes. However, in order to exercise their rights beyond the existing compensation schemes, for instance Delay Repay, and where the train operating company refuses to compensate despite letters threatening court action, passengers may need to bring their claims to a court of law. Questions 9-14 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 9-14 on your answer sheet, write TRUE               if the statement agrees with the information FALSE              if the statement contradicts the information NOT GIVEN    if there is no information on this 9   The system for claiming compensation varies from one company to another. 10   Under Delay Repay, a train company will only provide compensation if it caused the delay. 11   Under Delay Repay, underground and other train companies give exactly the same amounts of money in compensation. 12   An increasing number of train companies are willing to pay compensation for problems they are not responsible for. 13   It is doubtful whether companies using the older scheme will provide compensation if a delay is caused by a strike. 14   Passengers may receive compensation in the form of a train voucher if they forget to request cash. SECTION 2 Questions 15-27 Read the text below and answer Questions 15-19. Vacancy for food preparation assistant Durrant House plc runs restaurants and cafés as concessions in airports, train stations and other busy environments around the country. We currently have a vacancy for a food preparation assistant in our restaurant at Locksley Stadium, serving football fans and concert-goers before, during and after events. In addition, we cater for private parties several times a week. If you have relevant experience and a passion for preparing food to a very high standard, we’ll be delighted to hear from you. You must be able to multitask and to work in a fast-paced environment. It goes without saying that working as an effective and supportive member of a team is essential, so you need to be happy in this type of work. The role includes the usual responsibilities, such as treating hygiene as your number  one priority, cleaning work areas, and doing whatever is required to provide food of excellent quality. The person appointed will carry out a range of tasks, including ensuring all raw food items are fresh, preparing vegetables to be cooked, making sure frozen food products are used in rotation, and throwing away any food products that are near or have passed their expiry date. He or she will be required to familiarise themselves with the storage system, so as to put food product supplies in the proper place and retrieve them in the right order. In particular, we are looking for someone with skill at baking, to play a large role in the production of pies and cakes. Given the nature of the venue, working hours vary from week to week, depending on the events being held, and will often involve starting early in the morning or finishing late at night. You can expect to work an average of around 18 hours a week, although this cannot be guaranteed. You will also have the opportunity to work in another of our sites for one or two days a week, or for longer periods, and will be paid for ten days of holidays a year. Training will be provided in food safety. If this sounds like the job for you, please contact Jo Simmons at simmons.j@durrant-house.com. Questions 15-19 Complete the notes below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 15-19 on your answer sheet. Vacancy for food preparation assistant Location of restaurant: in a 15……………………. Requirements: •  relevant experience •  ability to multitask •  must enjoy working in a 16……………………. Responsibilities include: •  maintaining high standards of 17……………………. and quality •  checking the freshness of raw food •  ensuring no food is used after its expiry date •  learning the procedure for the 18……………………. of food •  doing a considerable amount of the baking Conditions: •  working hours are not 19……………………. •  payment is made for holidays Read the text below and answer Questions 20-27. Setting up a business partnership in the UK Two or more people can go into business together by setting up either a limited company or a partnership. A partnership is the easier way to get started, and simply links two or more people together in a simple business structure. Unlike a limited company, a partnership doesn’t have a separate legal status. The partners are usually self-employed individuals, although a limited company counts as a ‘legal person’ and can also be a partner. In a partnership, you and your partner or partners personally share responsibility for your business. This means, among other things, that if your business cannot afford to pay its debts, you must pay them yourselves. Again, this is not the case with a limited company. Partners share the business’s profits, and each partner pays tax on their share. When you set up a business partnership you need to choose a name. You can trade under your own names, for example, ‘Smith and Jones’, or you can choose another name for your business. You don’t need to register your name. However, you should register your name as a trademark if you want to stop people from trading under your business name. Business partnership names must not include ‘limited’, ‘Ltd’, ‘limited liability partnership’, LLP’, ‘public limited company’ or ‘pic’, be offensive, or be the same as an existing trademark. Your name also can’t suggest a connection with government or local authorities, unless you get permission. There is no central database of partnership names in the UK, so to avoid using the same name as another business, it is advisable to search on the internet for the name you are considering. You must include all the partners’ names and the business name (if you have one) on official paperwork, for example invoices. You must choose a ‘nominated partner’ who is responsible for registering your partnership with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), the government department responsible for the collection of taxes. This person is responsible for managing the partnership’s tax returns and keeping business records. Alternatively, you can appoint an agent to deal with HMRC on your behalf. All partners need to register with HMRC separately and send their own tax returns as individuals. You must register by 5 October in your business’s second tax year, or you could be charged a penalty. You must also register for VAT if your VAT taxable turnover is more than £85,000. You can choose to register if it’s below this, for example to reclaim VAT on business supplies. Questions 20–27 Complete the sentences below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 20–27 on your answer sheet. 20   A partnership is different from a limited company in not having its own ……………………. as a legal body. 21   The partners are personally responsible for paying all the partnership’s ……………………. . 22   The partnership’s ……………………. are divided between the partners. 23   Registering the partnership’s name prevents others from using that name when ……………………. . 24   The best way to find out if a name is already in use is to use the ……………………. . 25   The names of the partners and the partnership must appear on ……………………. and other documents. 26   You must have a nominated partner, or someone to act as your ……………………., for all contact with HMRC. 27   You will have to pay a ……………………. if you miss the deadline for registering the partnership. SECTION 3 Questions 28-40 Read the text below and answer Questions 28-40. THE ROLE OF THE SWISS POSTBUS Switzerland’s postbuses are much more than just a means of public transportation. The Swiss PostBus Limited is the largest of the country’s 78 coach companies. Administered by the Motor Services Department of the Post Office, it carries over 120 million passengers each year and is carefully integrated with other public transport services: trains, boats and mountain cableways. The Swiss transportation system resembles a tree, with the larger branches representing federal and private railways, the smaller branches being the coaches, and the smaller branches being the coaches, and the twigs being the urban transit operators running trams, city buses, boats, chairlifts and so on. But the trunk that holds the tree together is the vast postbus network, without which the whole network would not function. There isn’t an inhabited place in Switzerland that cannot be reached by some sort of public transport. Federal law and the Swiss Constitution stipulate that every village with a population greater than 40 is entitled to regular bus services. The frequency of these services is directly related to population density. Timetables are put together four years in advance, and seldom change. If a new route is to be introduced, the population of the area affected is invited to vote in a referendum. At times, postbuses are the main – sometimes the only – links between settlements. These coaches, often with a trailer in two to increase their capacity, are a common sight in high-altitude regions, and their signature sound – part of Rossini’s William Tell Overture, played by the drivers on three-tone post horns with electrical compressors at every road turn – is one of the most familiar Swiss sounds. The three-tone horns can still be used to ‘talk’ to post offices (and each other) from a distance. By altering the combination of the tones, a driver can announce ‘departure of post’, ‘arrival of post’, ‘arrival of special post’, and so on – so much more romantic and often more reliable than radio or mobile phones. This musical ‘language’ started in the mid-nineteenth century, when the coach drivers could also blow their horns a certain number of times on approaching the station to indicate the number of horses needing to be fed, giving the stationmaster time to prepare the fodder. The postbus history goes back to 1849, when the Swiss postal service was made a monopoly. The role of today’s modern yellow buses was, back then, played by horse-drawn carriages (or in winter by sleighs, in order to travel on snow), which were the same colour. By 1914, eight years after the first motor coaches were introduced, there were still 2,500 horses, 2,231 coaches (or carriages) and 1,059 sleighs in service. After the First World War, Swiss Post bought a fleet of decommissioned military trucks which were converted into postbuses, but it was not until 1961 that the last horse-drawn coach was replaced with a motorised version. Today, the Swiss Post Office boasts one of the world’s most advanced coach fleets, including fuel-cell models and the world’s first driverless bus. This was launched in 2015 in the town of Sion, the capital of the canton of Valais, one of the 26 cantons, or administrative regions, that make up the country. Postbuses often go to places that other means of transport cannot reach. Most of the drivers therefore see themselves as educators and tour guides. Although it’s not in their job description, they’re likely to point out the sights – waterfalls, gorges, and so on – and are always ready to pull over for a photo opportunity. Switzerland’s longest postbus journey, and one of the highest, crosses four mountain passes – an eight-hour trip undertaken by a single postbus. The route goes through several cantons; two languages (German and Italian); all four seasons – from burning sunshine to showers and heavy snowfalls; and countless places of interest. One of the passes, the Gotthard, is often described as ‘the People’s Road’, probably because it connects the German-speaking canton of Uri with Italian-speaking Ticino. Like Switzerland itself, postbuses ‘speak’ all four state languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh – and, by law, their automated intercom announcements are given in the language of whichever canton the bus is currently passing through. Irrespective of their previous driving experience, drivers undergo lots of training. During the first year, they have to drive postbuses under the supervision of a more experienced driver. Only after two years of safe driving in the valleys can they be pronounced ready for a mountain bus. Some routes are not at all busy, with the bus often carrying just two or three passengers at a time. But for most people living in small mountain villages, the postbus is of the utmost importance. It not only carries the villagers to town and back, it takes village children to and from school, delivers mail, transports milk from the village farms down to the valley, collects rubbish from the village (Swiss laws do not allow dumping anywhere in the mountains), and brings building materials to households. It takes elderly villagers to shops and carries their shopping up the hill to their homes. More a friend than just a means of transportation, for the dwellers of mountain villages the postbus is an essential part of life. Questions 28-32 Choose the correct letter, A, B, C or D. Write the correct letter in boxes 28-32 on your answer sheet. 28   When comparing the Swiss transportation system to a tree, the writer emphasises A   the size of the postbus system. B   how competitive the postbus system is. C   how important the postbus system is. D   the threat to the postbus system. 29   What is said about bus services in the second paragraph? A   Villages have the chance to request more buses every four years. B   New routes are often introduced to reflect an increase in population. C   Bus timetables tend to change every four years. D   The number of buses that call at a village depends on how many people live there. 30   According to the fourth paragraph, what were three-tone horns first used to indicate? A   how many coach horses required food B   how long the bus would stay at the station C   how many passengers wanted a meal D   how soon the bus would arrive at the station 31   What point does the writer make about the postbus drivers? A   Many choose to give passengers information about the surroundings. B   Most are proud of driving buses to places without other forms of transport. C   They are required to inform passengers about the sights seen from the bus. D   They are not allowed to stop for passengers to take photographs. 32   What is said about the buses’ automated announcements? A   They are given in the language of the bus’s starting point. B   The language they are given in depends on where the bus is at the time. C   They are always given in all the four languages of Switzerland. D   The language they are given in depends on the bus’s destination. Questions 33-40 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 33-40 on your answer sheet, write TRUE               if the statement agrees with the information FALSE              if the statement contradicts the information NOT GIVEN    if there is no information on this 33   Some postbuses after the First World War were originally army vehicles. 34   The number of driverless buses has increased steadily since 2015. 35   On the longest postbus route in Switzerland, passengers have to change buses. 36   The weather on the longest postbus route is likely to include extreme weather conditions. 37   There is a widely used nickname for part of the longest route used by postbuses. 38   Bus drivers’ training can be shortened if they have driven buses before joining PostBus. 39   In some villages most passengers are school children. 40   Buses carry only rubbish that can be recycled. Section 1 1   D 2   B 3   C 4   F 5   D 6   G 7   E 8   B 9   TRUE 10   FALSE 11   FALSE 12   NOT GIVEN 13   TRUE 14   TRUE Section 2 15   stadium 16   team 17   hygiene 18   storage 19   guaranteed 20   status 21   debts 22   profits 23   trading 24   internet 25   invoices 26   agent 27   penatly Section 3 28   C 29   D 30   A 31   A 32   B 33   TRUE 34   NOT GIVEN 35   FALSE 36   TRUE 37   TRUE 38   FALSE 39   NOT GIVEN 40   NOT GIVEN

SECTION 1 Questions 1-14 Read the text below and answer questions 1 – 7. Your guide to entertainment in Westhaven A     TRAX INDOOR KARTING CENTRE Experience the fun and thrills of indoor racing driving in our mini open-topped karts. No experience necessary. Individuals and groups welcome. Refreshments available in new burger bar. Spectators welcome. All drivers must meet the minimum height requirement of 5 feet (1.52 m), and participate at their own risk. Open: all year daily 10 am to 6 pm (later times by appointment) except Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Charges: from £11 per person. B     WESTHAVEN LIFEBOAT MUSEUM The Westhaven Lifeboat Museum is an exciting display illustrating over 150 years of courage — photos with texts of epic rescues, models of lifeboats and video displays. Try our hands-on simulator — take charge of a daring rescue on a stormy sea. Ideal for school groups! A must for all ages. Souvenir shop. No charge for admission but donations welcome. Open: 25th March to 26th October, 10 am to 5 pm. 27th October to 2nd January, 10 am to 4 pm. C     STAR LEISURE CENTRE Exciting leisure complex with four pools, wave machine, two thrilling flumes, bubble pool, fitness suite, special programme for under-fives, organised holiday activities and much, much more. Open: all year daily. Charges: Check our website at www.starfeisute.ca.uk for current rates. D     LLOYD’S LANES 20 fully computerised ten-pin bowling lanes, amusement area, fast food area, large-screen Sky TV — Lloyd’s Lanes is ideal for a whole fun day out! Open: ten-pin bowling daily, 10 am till late — 7 days a week. Charges: Monday to Friday 10 am to 6 pm: non-members £3.50; members £2.50. other times: non-members £4.50; members £3.75. appropriate footgear essential to protect bowling surfaces shoe hire £1.00 at all times E     WESTHAVEN GOLF CLUB Beautiful lakeside course; a pleasant, manageable walk through nine challenging holes. 24-bay driving range, suitable in rain, wind or sun; three golf professionals can give affordable coaching. Restaurant: good food served all day. Visitors welcome. Open: all year from 7.30 am to 10 pm. Charges: 9 holes £10; 18 holes £15. Questions 1-7 The text has five advertisements labelled A-E. Which advertisement contains the following information? Write the correct letter A-E in boxes 1-7 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any letter more than once. 1   Payment at this venue is optional. 2   Expert instructors are available for lessons. 3   There is a restriction on what you can wear. 4   Some basic information is published in another place. 5   This has particular provision for very young children. 6   It has a feature especially recommended for educational parties. 7   They will open at unscheduled times if you make an arrangement. Read the text below and answer Questions 8-14. DO YOU HAVE A MUSIC PROJECT IN MIND THAT MIGHT BENEFIT FROM FUNDING? Music is wonderfully therapeutic! This is recognised by The Dosoco Foundation, which supports local projects that use music for social good. The next round of Dosoco grant funding will shortly be open for applications. Grants are available from £700 to £1,000 (for organisations) and up to £300 (for individuals) in the areas of music education (e.g. working with a talented music student with either physical, social or learning disabilities), music access (e.g. a music club for groups that might struggle to start something on their own), music innovation (e.g. using an electronic device such as Raspberry Pi to help disabled people make music) and music therapy (e.g. an idea for using music to support positive mental health). Case study Dosoco recently awarded a grant to Alexia Sloane, a young composer with sight loss, to enable her to attend the sound-and-music summer-school composition course at the Purcell School. Alexia has since gained a place as a composer with the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain – the first blind composer to be appointed – and has also been awarded the title of Young Composer of the Year. She was the first female composer ever to receive this honour in its ten-year history. Organisations, families and individuals can apply by completing a simple form. Dosoco can contribute up to 50% towards project costs. Projects must be locally based and must be new ideas for using music to make a positive impact on people’s lives where help is really needed. For more information please visit www.thedosocofoundation.org Questions 8-14 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 8-14 on your answer sheet, write TRUE              if the statement agrees with the information FALSE             if the statement contradicts the information NOT GIVEN   if there is no information on this 8   You can apply to Dosoco now for grant funding. 9   You can apply for a grant that will help to educate a musician. 10   Alexia Sloane lost her sight after attending a summer-school composition course. 11   Alexia now plays several instruments with the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain. 12   Alexia has received an award for her work in music. 13   Applications can be made by filling in an online form. 14   In some cases Dosoco will cover the full cost of the project. Advertisements SECTION 2 Questions 15-27 Read the text below and answer Questions 15-21. Guide to employees on workplace monitoring What is workplace monitoring? Employers have the right to monitor your activities in many situations at work. For example, your activities may be recorded on CCTV cameras, and your letters may be opened and read. In addition, your employer may use an automated software programme to check the emails you receive at work. Phone calls may be listened to and recorded, and the log of websites you use may be checked. All of these forms of monitoring are covered by data protection law. Data protection law doesn’t prevent monitoring in the workplace. However, it does set down rules about the circumstances and the way in which monitoring should be carried out. Before deciding whether to introduce monitoring, your employer should identify any negative effects the monitoring may have on staff. This is called impact assessment. Monitoring electronic communications at work Your employer can legally monitor your use of electronic communications in the workplace if the monitoring relates to the business and the equipment being monitored is provided partly or wholly for work. Except in extremely limited circumstances, employers must take reasonable steps to let staff know that monitoring is happening, what is being monitored and why it is necessary. As long as your employer sticks to these rules, they don’t need to get your consent before they monitor your electronic communications, but only if the monitoring is for specific reasons. These may be to establish facts which are relevant to the business or to check standards, for example, listening in to phone calls to assess the quality of your work. Monitoring is also allowed if its purpose is to prevent or detect crime. It may be necessary to make sure electronic systems are operating effectively, for example, to prevent computer viruses entering the system. Your employer is also allowed to listen in to any calls you make to confidential helplines, but in this case he or she is not allowed to record these calls. Questions 15-21 Complete the notes below. Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 15-21 on your answer sheet. Guide to employees on workplace monitoring Your employer may monitor you at work by checking •  recordings of your activities •  your letters and 15……………………. •  your phone calls and which websites you have visited Rules for monitoring are established by data protection law. This states that employers must carry out a procedure that is known as 16……………………. before introducing monitoring. In general, monitoring is legal if •  it relates to the business •  you are using 17……………………. intended for work •  the worker has been informed Monitoring may be used •  to evaluate the 18……………………. of your work •  to stop of find out about 19……………………. •  to stop the possibility of 20……………………. affecting systems •  to check calls to 21……………………. (these cannot be recorded) Read the text below and answer Questions 22-27. International Experience Canada: application process If you want to travel and work temporarily in Canada as part of International Experience Canada (IEC), your first step is to become a candidate in one or more IEC pools. There are three categories of pool: International Co-op (Internship), Working Holiday and Young Professionals. To apply, first use our questionnaire to see if you meet the criteria to get into the IEC pools. This should take you about ten minutes. You can find it at www.cic.gc.ca/ctc-vac/cometocanada.asp. After completing this, if you are eligible you will be sent a personal reference code, which you should use to create your online account. At the same time, you should fill in any remaining fields in your profile with the required information, including which IEC pools you want to be in. (Some parts will already have been completed for you.) If you are sent an invitation to proceed with your application, you will have 10 days to decide whether to accept this or not. If you accept, click the ‘Start Application’ button. You then have 20 days to complete your application. For International Co-op and Young Professionals categories, your employer in Canada must pay the compliance fee and inform you of your offer of employment number. (This does not apply to the Working Holiday pool.) Once you have received this, you should then upload copies of police and medical certificates, if required. If you do not have these, you should upload proof that you have applied for them. You should then pay your participation fee of C$126 online by credit card. (There is an additional payment of C$100 if you are applying for the Working Holiday category.) Your application will then be assessed. You can apply to withdraw at this stage and will be given a refund if you do this within 56 days. If your application is successful, you will receive a letter of introduction which you can show to Immigration when you enter Canada. Questions 22-27 Complete the flow-chart below. Choose ONE WORD AND/OR A NUMBER ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 22-27 on your answer sheet. Applying to International Experience Canada Fill in the online 22……………………. to get a personal reference code. ↓ Create your 23……………………., and provide the necessary information for the profile in your application. ↓ If sent an invitation, you must accept this within 24……………………. . You then have a limited time to 25……………………. the application. ↓ Your 26……………………. is required to send you an offer of employment number. ↓ Upload copies of any necessary certificates or proof of application. ↓ Make the payment for participation online. You may receive a 27……………………. later if you change your mind. ↓ If successful, you will receive a letter of introduction to be shown at Immigration. SECTION 3 Questions 28-40 Read the text below and answer Questions 28-40. RESEARCH ON IMPROVING AGRICULTURAL YIELDS IN AFRICA Three programmes are investigating ways of improving agricultural productivity in Africa. More than, half of the global population growth between now and 2050 is expected to occur in Africa. And more people means a requirement for more food. Ethiopia, for example, has the largest livestock population in Africa but with a growing population, even its 53 million cattle are not enough. And now efforts to develop fanning there are bringing a significant health concern. Professor James Wood from the University of Cambridge explains that new breeds that are being introduced are more vulnerable to bovine TB (tuberculosis) than the zebu cattle which were previously reared there. ‘This may have health implications for those who work with and live alongside infected cattle, and also raises concerns about transmission to areas which previously had low levels of TB,’ he warns. Wood leads a research programme which is looking at the feasibility of control strategies, including cattle vaccination. The programme brings together veterinary scientists, epidemiologists, geneticists, immunologists and social scientists in eight Ethiopian and UK institutions. ‘We need this mix because we are not only asking how effective strategies will be, but also whether farmers will accept them, and what the consequences are for prosperity and wellbeing,’ says Wood. The impact that increasing productivity can have on farmers’ livelihoods is not lost on an insect expert at the University of Ghana, Dr Ken Fening, who is working on another food-related research project. Cabbages are not indigenous to Africa but have become a major cash crop for Ghanaian farmers and an important source of income for traders from markets and hotels. ‘A good crop can bring in money to buy fertilisers and farm equipment, and also help to pay for healthcare and education for the family,’ he says. Recently, however, fields of stunted, yellowing cabbages, their leaves curled and dotted with mould, have become a familiar and devastating sight for the farmers of Ghana. From his field station base in Kpong, Ghana, Fening works closely with smallholder farmers on pest-control strategies. Two years ago they started reporting that a new disease was attacking their crops. ‘It seemed to be associated with massive infestations of pink and green aphids,’ says Fening, ‘and from my studies of the way insects interact with many different vegetables, I’m familial* with the types of damage they can cause.’ But farmers were typically seeing the total loss of their crops, and he realised that the devastation couldn’t just be caused by sap-sucking insects. Despite no previous reports of viral diseases affecting cabbage crops in Ghana, the symptoms suggested a viral pathogen. Together with Cambridge plant biologist Dr John Carr, Fening collected samples of cabbage plants in Ghana showing signs of disease, and also aphids on the diseased plants. Back in Cambridge, Fening used screening techniques including a type of DNA ‘fingerprinting’ to identify the aphid species, and sophisticated molecular biology methods to try to identify the offending virus. ‘Aphids are a common carrier of plant-infecting viruses,’ explains Carr. ‘The “usual suspects” are turnip mosaic virus and cauliflower mosaic virus, which affect cabbages in Europe and the US.’ ‘We found that two different species of aphids, pink and green, were generally found on the diseased cabbages,’ says Fening. ‘It turned out this was the first record of the green aphid species ever being seen in Ghana.’ The pink aphid was identified as Myzus persicae (Sulzer). What’s more, the virus was not what they expected, and work is now ongoing to identify the culprit. The sooner it can be characterised, the sooner sustainable crop protection strategies can be developed to prevent further spread of the disease not only in Ghana, but also in other countries in the region. Another researcher who hopes that eradication strategies will be the outcome of her research project is Dr Theresa Manful. Like Fening, she is a researcher at the University of Ghana. She has been working with Cambridge biochemist Professor Mark Carrington on a disease known as trypanosomiasis. ‘This is a major constraint to cattle fearing in Africa,’ she explains. ‘Although trypanosomiasis is also a disease of humans, the number of cases is low, and the more serious concerns about the disease relate to the economic impact on agricultural production.’ The parasite that causes the disease is carried by the tsetse fly, which colonises vast swathes of sub-Saharan Africa. Carrington says that a lot is now known about the parasite’s molecular mechanisms, in particular the way it evades the immune system of the animal acting as its host by altering the proteins in its coat so as to remain ‘invisible’. ‘But then when you look at the effect on large animals, you realise that there is almost nothing known about the dynamics of an infection, and even whether an infection acquired at an early age persists for its lifetime,’ he says. So Manful and Carrington set about testing cattle in Ghana. They discovered that nearly all were infected most of the time. For Manful, one of the important gains has been the ability to expand the research in Ghana: ‘I now have a fully functional lab and can do DNA extraction and analysis in Ghana -1 don’t have to bring samples to Cambridge. We are teaching students from five Ghanaian institutions the diagnostic methods.’ ‘Agriculture faces increasing challenges,’ adds Carr. ‘Bioscience is playing a crucial part in developing ways to mitigate pest impact and reduce the spread of parasites. We want to ensure not only that every harvest is successful, but also that it’s maximally successful.’ —————— * aphids: small insects which feed by sucking liquid from plants. Questions 28-32 Choose the correct letter, A, B, C or D. Write the correct letter in boxes 28-32 on your answer sheet. 28   What is the main problem faced by cattle farmers in Ethiopia, according to Professor Wood? A   TB is being transmitted from people to cattle. B   New breeds of cattle have led to an increase in TB. C   The traditional breeds of cattle are being affected by TB. D   TB has spread into places where it was previously unknown. 29   When discussing the cultivation of cabbages in Ghana, the writer says that this crop A   was introduced from outside Africa. B   is not eaten much by local people. C   is not grown correctly by many farmers. D   requires the use of fertiliser and special equipment. 30   Fening believed that the new disease destroying cabbages was A   caused by overuse of pesticides. B   also affecting other locally grown vegetables. C   linked to insect attacks on these vegetables. D   connected with the development of new insect breeds. 31   Fening first suspected that the cabbage disease was caused by a virus because A   evidence of viral disease could be seen on the cabbage leaves. B   pink and green aphids did not commonly attack cabbages. C   viral diseases affecting vegetables had occurred elsewhere in Africa. D   aphids would not have caused so much damage to the crops. 32   When doing further research in Cambridge, Fening and Carr discovered that A   the virus was unfamiliar to them. B   two different viruses were present. C   the aphids’ DNA was more complex than expected. D   one aphid was more harmful than the other. Questions 33-36 Look at the following statements (Questions 33-36) and the list of researchers below. Match each statement with the correct researcher, A-E. Write the correct letter, A-E, in boxes 33-36 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any letter more than once. 33   A particular crop may make an important contribution to the local economy in one African country. 34   Tests will be carried out by local people in the country where the research is focused. 35   Different specialists must work together to ensure the success of a programme. 36   One type of insect attacking plants in Ghana was previously unknown there. List of Researchers A     James Wood B     Ken Fening C     John Carr D     Theresa Manful E     Mark Carrington Questions 37-40 Complete the summary below. Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 37-40 on your answer sheet. Trypanosomiasis Trypanosomiasis is a disease caused by a parasite which is spread by an insect called the 37………………………. The parasite can remain unaffected by the host’s 38………………………. because it is able to change the 39………………………. on its outer covering. It is uncommon among humans but has been found to affect most 40………………………. in Ghana. Section 1 1   B 2   E 3   D 4   C 5   C 6   B 7   A 8   FALSE 9   TRUE 10   FALSE 11   FALSE 12   TRUE 13   NOT GIVEN 14   FALSE Section 2 15   emails 16   impact assessment 17   equipment 18   quality 19   crime 20   (computer) viruses 21   (confidential) helplines 22   questionnaire 23   account 24   10 days 25   complete 26   employer 27   refund Section 3 28   B 29   A 30   C 31   D 32   A 33   B 34   D 35   A 36   B 37   tsetse fly 38   immune system 39   proteins 40   cattle

SECTION 1 Questions 1-14 Read the text below and answer Questions 1-7. Five reviews of the Wellington Hotel A My husband and I first stayed at the Wellington a few years ago, and we’ve returned every year since then. When we arrive and check in, we’re always treated like old friends by the staff, so we very much feel at home. Our one disappointment during our last visit was that our room overlooked the car park, but that didn’t spoil our stay. B The hotel hardly seems to have changed in the last hundred years, and we prefer that to many modern hotels, which tend to look the same as each other. The Wellington has character! Our room was very comfortable and quite spacious. We can strongly recommend the breakfast, though we had to wait for a table as the hotel was so full. That was a bit annoying, and there was also nowhere to sit in the lounge. C We made our reservation by phone without problem, but when we arrived the receptionist couldn’t see it on the computer system. Luckily there was a room available. It wasn’t quite what we would have chosen, but it was a pleasure to sit in it with a cup of tea, and look out at the swimmers and surfers in the sea. D We’d be happy to stay at the Wellington again. Although there’s nothing special about the rooms, the view from the lounge is lovely, and the restaurant staff were friendly and efficient. Breakfast was a highlight – there was so much on offer we could hardly decide what to eat. We’d stay another time just for that! E The staff all did their jobs efficiently, and were very helpful when we asked for information about the area. The only difficulty we had was making our reservation online – it wasn’t clear whether payment for our deposit went through or not, and I had to call the hotel to find out. Still, once we’d arrived, everything went very smoothly, and we had a delicious dinner in the restaurant. Questions 1-7 Look at the five online reviews of the Wellington Hotel, A-E. Which review mentions the following? Write the correct letter, A-E, in boxes 1-7 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any letter more than once. 1   liking the view from the bedroom window 2   finding the receptionists welcoming 3   being pleased with the bedroom 4   becoming confused when booking a room 5   being impressed by the wide choice of food 6   staying in the hotel regularly 7   finding it inconvenient that the hotel was crowded Read the text below and answer Questions 8-14. Come and play walking football or walking netball Walking football and netball have become increasingly popular in recent years, but do you know you can take part in this area? The names make it clear what they are – two of the country’s favourite sports where, instead of running, the players walk. It’s as simple as that. Walking football was invented in the UK in 2011, but it was a 2014 TV commercial for a bank, showing it providing financial support to someone who wanted to set up a website for the game, that brought it to people’s attention. Since then, tens of thousands of people — mostly, though not only, over the age of 50 — have started playing, and there are more than 800 walking football clubs. Both men and women play walking football, but at the moment the netball teams consist only of women. However, men are beginning to show an interest in playing. The two games are designed to help people to be active or get fit, whatever their age and level of fitness. In particular, they were invented to encourage older men and women to get more exercise, and to give them a chance to meet other people. Regular physical activity helps to maintain energy, strength and flexibility. You can start gently and do a little more each session. The benefits include lower heart rate and blood pressure, greater mobility, less fat and more muscle. Many players have given up a sport – either through age or injury – and can now take it up again. They’re great ways for people to enjoy a sport they used to play and love, and keep active at the same time, though people who have never played the standard game before are also very welcome. The local councils Active Lifestyles Team runs sessions at all the council’s leisure centres. Come alone or with a friend, and enjoy a friendly game on Monday or Saturday afternoons, or Tuesday or Thursday evenings. Each session costs £3 per person, and you don’t have to come regularly or at the same time each week. Our aim is to set up netball and football clubs as soon as there are enough regular players. Questions 8-14 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 8-14 on your answer sheet, write TRUE               if the statement agrees with the information FALSE              if the statement contradicts the information NOT GIVEN    if there is no information on this 8   Walking football became well-known when a club featured in a TV programme about the sport. 9   The majority of walking netball players are men. 10   Most clubs arrange social activities for their members, 11   Players are tested regularly to measure changes in their fitness. 12   People who have never played football are encouraged to play walking football. 13   People can take part in the Active Lifestyles Team’s sessions whenever they wish 14   The Active Lifestyles Team intends to start clubs in the future. Advertisements SECTION 2 Questions 15-27 Read the text below and answer Questions 15-20. Dress regulations at work Your contract may state that you need to dress in a certain manner or wear a uniform. Your contract might also state that you need to dress ‘smartly’, rather than specifying any particular garments. As you might well have conflicting ideas of what counts as smart’, you should ask your employer for clarification. Many employers that have a strict dress code choose to provide clothing or a discount on clothing. However, this is not necessarily compulsory for the employer and is a factor you need to consider when taking a job. Protective clothing and equipment Your employer can tell you to put on protective clothing and equipment (such as gloves, a visor, boots, etc.). If you don’t, your employer is entitled to take disciplinary action, which can include excluding you from the workplace. You are required to: •  co-operate with your employer on health and safety •  correctly use work items provided by your employer, including protective equipment, in accordance with instructions •  not interfere with or misuse anything provided for your health and safety or welfare. Of course, any protective gear has to fit and be appropriate for the situation. It shouldn’t cause you pain. If it does, you should negotiate alternative equipment or arrangements. Don’t be put off. Sometimes employers can, out of caution, interpret health and safety rules unnecessarily rigidly. And of course, you shouldn’t be required to pay for any protective equipment or clothing that you need. However, if your employer buys the gear, they are entitled to keep it when you leave. The obligation to maintain protective clothing lies with the employer. The employer is also required to provide an appropriate storage space to keep the protective equipment in when it is not being used. And finally, the employer must provide the equipment and service free of charge to the employee. Jewellery Banning employees from wearing jewellery and loose clothing may be justified to prevent a potential hygiene hazard if you work in areas of food production or areas which need to be kept sterile. Likewise, your employer can judge that loose jewellery may constitute a snagging hazard if you operate machinery. If you think restrictions are not justified by health and safety concerns, talk to your workplace union rep if you have one, as they may know of solutions to the problem which other employees have used before. Questions 15-20 Complete the sentences below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 15-20 on your answer sheet. 15   If employees are unsure what their company wishes them to wear for work, they should request ……………………… 16   Some companies offer their employees a ……………………… when they buy items to wear for work. 17   Employees who fail to wear protective clothing when required could be subject to ……………………… procedures. 18   Employees ought not to be in ……………………… because of protective clothing or equipment. 19   It is the company’s responsibility to ensure that there is a suitable place for the ……………………… of protective equipment. 20   Employees who work with certain types of ……………………… may have to remove jewellery to avoid potential injuries. Read the text below and answer Questions 21-27. How to achieve a better work-life balance As more and more employees work from home full time and everyone has 24/7 access to email, balancing work and family may not seem like an easily attainable goal. So how can you juggle the demands of both worlds? Below are some tips to help you get started. It’s easy to get sucked into habits that, make us less efficient without realizing it – like keeping your social media page open at work so you don’t miss something ‘important’. Draw up a list with all the activities that don’t enhance your life or career. Then minimize the time you spend on them. It’s hard to say no’, especially to a supervisor or loved one, but sometimes that powerful little word is essential. Learn to use ‘no’ judiciously and it will become a powerful tool in balancing work and family. Research shows that exercise helps you remain alert. Finding time to hit the gym may be hard, but it will ultimately help you get more things done because exercise really boosts energy and improves your ability to concentrate. Study after study shows that significant sleep deprivation affects your health and well-being. Exposure to electronics can significantly negatively impact your sleep, so try to unplug an hour before you go to sleep. What would you do if you had a whole day to yourself with no demands on your time? While most people don’t have the luxury of a whole day dedicated to relaxation, constantly putting off that downtime and putting everyone’s needs before yours will wear you down. Pick a time to do something just for you. Even just a few minutes of ‘me time’ a day will help to recharge your batteries. Don’t assume your family and manager are aware of your concerns. If you feel you have to adjust your schedule to discover a better work-life balance, then voice that requirement. If that means asking your boss for permission to leave a few minutes early once a week so you can hit that yoga class on the way home, do it. All new habits require time to build, so if you find yourself sneaking your smartphone to bed, that’s okay. Leave your phone downstairs tomorrow night. Tiny steps are the key to finding that balance, so start small, and go from there. Most of all, know your limitations and what works best for you; then decide what really matters, what advice you want to follow, and prioritize. Questions 21-27 Complete the notes below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 21-27 on your answer sheet. Achieving a better work-life balance How to begin •  Make a complete 21……………………… of things that are not helpful and reduce involvement in them •  Refuse some requests as this can be a useful 22……………………… in gaining a better work-life balance Things that cars help •  Regular exercise – can increase 23……………………… significantly •  Sleep – insufficient sleep can make people ill – avoid focusing on 24……………………… in the lead-up to bedtime Issues that require attention •  Those who see other people’s 25……………………… as more important than their own will suffer •  If the working day is too long, get 26……………………… to shorten it occasionally •  People should learn to recognise their own 27……………………… SECTION 3 Questions 28-40 Read the text below and answer Questions 28-40. San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge A For several decades in the nineteenth century, there were calls to connect the rapidly growing metropolis of San Francisco to its neighbours across the mile-wide Golden Gate Strait, where San Francisco Bay opens onto the Pacific Ocean. Eventually, in 1919, officials asked the city engineer, Michael O’Shaughnessy, to explore the possibility of building a bridge. He began to consult engineers across the USA about the feasibility of doing so, and the cost. Most doubted whether a bridge could be built at all, or estimated that it would cost $100 million. However, a Chicago-based engineer named Joseph Strauss believed he could complete the project for a modest $25 to $30 million. After his proposal was accepted, Strauss set about convincing the communities on the northern end of the strait that the bridge would be to their benefit, as well as to that of San Francisco. With population centres growing fast, there was severe traffic congestion at the ferry docks, and motor vehicle travel by ferry was fast exceeding capacity. B The bridge could not be constructed without the agreement of the US War Department, which owned the land on each side of the Strait and had the power to prevent any harbour construction that might affect shipping traffic. In 1924, San Francisco and Marin counties applied for a permit to build a bridge, and after hearing overwhelming arguments in favour of the project, the Secretary of War agreed. Despite the economic benefits promised by its supporters, the project met fierce resistance from a number of businesses – particularly ferry companies – and civic leaders. Not only would the bridge be an obstacle to shipping and spoil the bay’s natural beauty, they argued, it wouldn’t survive the sort of earthquake that had devastated the city in 1906. Eight years of legal actions followed as opponents tried to prevent it from being built. C Meanwhile, Strauss’s team scrapped their original plans in favour of a suspension span capable of moving more than two feet to each side: this would withstand strong wind far better than a rigid structure. They also planned the two towers, and decided on a paint colour they called ‘international orange’. D O’Shaughnessy, Strauss and the Secretary to the Mayor of San Francisco believed a special district needed to be created, with responsibility for planning, designing and financing construction. The formation of this district would enable all the counties affected by the bridge to have a say in the proceedings. This happened in 1928, when the California legislature passed an act to establish the Golden Gate Bridge and Highway District, consisting of six counties. In 1930, residents voted on the question of whether to put up their homes, their farms and their business properties as security for a $35 million bond issue to finance construction. The outcome was a large majority in favour. However, the District struggled to find a financial backer amid the difficulties of the Great Depression, a problem made worse by years of expensive legal proceedings. Now desperate, Strauss personally sought help from the President of Bank of America, who provided a crucial boost by agreeing to buy $6 million in bonds in 1932. E Construction began in January 1933, with the excavation of a vast amount of rock to establish the bridge’s two anchorages – the structures in the ground that would take the tension from the suspension cables. The crew consisted of virtually anyone capable of withstanding the physical rigours of the job, as out-of-work cab drivers, farmers and clerks lined up for the chance to earn steady wages as ironworkers and cement mixers. The attempt to build what would be the first bridge support in the open ocean proved an immense challenge. Working from a long framework built out from the San Francisco side, divers plunged to depths of 90 feet through strong currents to blast away rock and remove the debris. The framework was damaged when it was struck by a ship in August 1933 and again during a powerful storm later in the year, setting construction back five months. F The two towers were completed in June 1935, and a New Jersey-based company was appointed to handle the on-site construction of the suspension cables. Its engineers had mastered a technique in which individual steel wires were banded together in spools and carried across the length of the bridge on spinning wheels. Given a year to complete the task, they instead finished in just over six months, having spun more than 25,000 individual wires into each massive cable. The roadway was completed in April 1937, and the bridge officially opened to pedestrians the following month. The next day, President Roosevelt announced its opening via White House telegraph. G The Golden Gate has endured as a marvel of modern engineering; its main span was the longest in the world for a suspension bridge until 1981, while its towers made it the tallest bridge of any type until 1993. It withstood a destructive earthquake in 1989 and was closed to traffic only three times in its first 75 years due to weather conditions. Believed to be the most, photographed bridge in the world, this landmark was named one of the seven civil engineering wonders of the United States by the American Society of Civil Engineers in 1994. Questions 28-35 The text has seven sections, A-G. Which section mentions the following? Write the correct letter, A-G, in boxes 28-35 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any letter more than once. 28   why it was easy to recruit workers to build the bridge 29   a change in the design of the bridge 30   opposition to building the bridge 31   why a bridge was desirable 32   problems with raising funding for the bridge 33   permission being given to build the bridge 34   which records the bridge broke 35   the idea that building a bridge might be impossible Questions 36-40 Complete the sentences below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 36-40 on your answer sheet. 36   Building the bridge required a …………………… issued by the Secretary of War. 37   One objection to building the bridge was that another …………………… would destroy it. 38   Construction was delayed when the framework was damaged by a ship and again by a …………………… 39   The last part of the bridge to be constructed was the …………………… 40   The bridge was first used by …………………… in May 1937. Answer: Section 1 1   C 2   A 3   B 4   E 5   D 6   A 7   B 8   FALSE 9   FALSE 10   NOT GIVEN 11   NOT GIVEN 12   TRUE 13   TRUE 14   TRUE Section 2 15   clarification 16   discount 17   disciplinary 18   pain 19   storage 20   machinery 21   list 22   tool 23   energy 24   electronics 25   needs 26   permission 27   limitations Section 3 28   E 29   C 30   B 31   A 32   D 33   B 34   G 35   A 36   permit 37   earthquakes 38   storm 39   roadway 40   pedestrians

SECTION 1 Questions 1-14 Read the text below and answer Questions 1-6. TRANSITION CARE FOR THE ELDERLY What is transition care? Transition care is for older people who have been receiving medical treatment, but need more help to recover, and time to make a decision about the best place for them to live in the longer term. You can only access transition care directly from the hospital. Transition care is focused on individual goals and therapies and is given for a limited time only. It offers access to a package of services that may include: •  low-intensity therapy such as physiotherapy (exercise, mobility, strength and balance) and podiatry (foot care) •  access to a social worker •  nursing support for clinical care such as wound care •  personal care Who provides transition care services? Transition care is often provided by non-government organisations and is subsidised by the government. If your circumstances allow, it is expected you’ll contribute to the cost of your care. Daily care fees are set by the organisation that provides your transition care services (your service provider). They should explain these fees to you, and the amount charged should form part of the agreement between you and the service provider. The fee is calculated on a daily basis. Where do I receive transition care? Transition care is provided in your own home or in a ‘live-in’ setting. This setting can be part of an existing aged-care home or health facility such as a separate wing of a hospital. What if I’m already receiving services through a different programme? If you’re already receiving subsidised residential care in an aged-care home, but you need to go somewhere else for transition care, your place in the aged-care home will be held until you return. Questions 1-6 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 1-6 on your answer sheet, write TRUE               if the statement agrees with the information FALSE              if the statement contradicts the information NOT GIVEN    if there is no information on this 1   Only hospital patients can go on to have transition care. 2   Transition care may be long term or short term. 3   Everyone receiving transition care must contribute to the cost. 4   Transition care at home is only available for patients who live alone. 5   Transition care may be given on a hospital site. 6   You may lose your place in a care home if you have to leave it to receive transition care. Read the text below and answer Questions 7-14. CABIN BAGS FOR AIR TRAVEL If you want a small bag with wheels that you can take onto the plane with you, there’s a wide choice. Here are some of the best. A The Flyer B3 is an ultra-lightweight cabin bag which can withstand some pretty harsh treatment, its nylon and polyester sides won’t rip or burst open if it’s dropped or thrown whilst in transit. However, the trolley handle feels quite thin and flimsy. The top carrying handle is hard and flat, and the side handle isn’t easy to grip. B The Lightglide has two external pockets, both of which are zipped and lockable, but the inside pocket does not zip. In tests, we found the contents remain dry when given a good soaking, even around the zips. The trolley handle has a choice of two heights and the plastic hand grip doesn’t have any sharp ridges that’ll make your hands sore. For carrying there are fabric handles at the top and side. C The Foxton is easy to control across most surfaces. However, the zips don’t always run smoothly especially around the corners, so you may have to give them a good tug, especially if the case is very full. This is definitely one to avoid if you’re going somewhere rainy as it lets loads of water in, and documents in the pockets will also get pretty wet unless they’re in plastic folders. D The Skybag has a single external zipped pocket and another located inside the lid. Your clothes are kept in place by two adjustable straps. The zips are easy to grip and they run smoothly around the case. However, this cabin bag felt a little heavy to pull on all but smooth floors, and it was hard to steer compared with some of the other suitcases. E The Travelsure 35 is available in a huge range of fabric designs including leopard print or lipstick kisses. The retractable trolley handle is comfortable but can’t be adjusted to suit users of different heights. There’s no internal divider, but there are two handy zipped pockets in the lid. We test each bag by letting it fall onto a hard floor – and our results show that you’ll have to treat this bag with great care if you want it to last. The fabric tore so badly at one of the corners that it was unusable. Questions 7-14 The text has five paragraphs, A-E. Which paragraph mentions the following? Write the correct letter, A-E, in boxes 7-14 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any letter more than once. 7   The zips on this cabin bag may be difficult to use. 8   This cabin bag may be badly damaged if it is dropped. 9   The handles of this cabin bag have a number of different problems. 10   This cabin bag is very resistant to water. 11   There’s a good choice of patterns for the fabric of this cabin bag. 12   This cabin bag isn’t very easy to move around. 13   This cabin bag has just one internal zipped pocket. 14   The trolley handle of this cabin bag is adjustable. SECTION 2 Questions 15-27 Read the text below and answer Questions 15-20. College car parking policy – staff Parking permits and tickets Staff permits are required to park a motor vehicle (other than a motorcycle parked in the cycle bays) on campus between 8.30 am and 4.30 pm, Monday to Friday, during term time. Annual permits can be purchased from the Hospitality Department. Application forms can be downloaded from the College website. All permits/tickets must be clearly displayed in the windscreen of vehicles during the dates of term time, as published in the academic calendar. Please inform the Services Administrator of any changes to registration details on telephone ext. 406. Annual car parking permits can be purchased from 20th September and are valid for one academic year from 1st October to 30th June. The annual charges for car parking are displayed on the application form. Enforcement The nominated contractor will issue fixed Penalty Charge Notices (see below) on vehicles that fail to display a valid permit and/or parking ticket, or vehicles that are parked on yellow lines or in disabled parking bays without displaying a blue disabled-parking permit. Reductions of parking space availability may arise in order to accommodate College recruitment activities and/or estate development/maintenance projects. Vehicles that are in breach of the policy will be issued with a Penalty Charge Notice. Penalty Charge Notice (PCM) The PCN is £30, increasing to £60 seven days after issue. The nominated contractor is responsible for the collection of unpaid PCNs and may use legal action where necessary to recover unpaid PCNs. If issued with a PCN, appeals must be taken up directly with the parking enforcement company (details included on the notice) not the college. Disabled parking The college has designated car parking spaces for disabled car drivers. The college will make all reasonable efforts to ensure these parking spaces are used only by drivers who display their blue disabled-parking permits, and a valid pay-and-display or annual permit, as appropriate. If issues arise concerning the availability of the parking spaces, those concerned should raise the matter with the Domestic Services Department in order to effect a temporary solution. Visitors The College welcomes visitors and provides parking arrangements through pre-arranged permits, which must be displayed in the vehicle. Please contact the Hospitality Department for further information, On Open Days, sections of car parking on campus may be reserved for visitors. Short-term drop-off/pick-up provision There will be two short-term drop-off/pick-up spaces for users of the nursery, with a maximum of ten minutes’ waiting time allowed. These are located outside Concorde Building. The nursery staff bays may not be used under any circumstances. Questions 15-20 Answer the questions below. Choose NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 15-20 on your answer sheet. 15   Where can you buy parking permits at the college? 16   Which document shows the dates of term time? 17   What is the start date of annual parking permits? 18   Who is responsible for giving out parking fines if you park in the wrong place? 19   What do visitors need to show when parking? 20   Where can the nursery pick-up point be found? Read the text below and answer Questions 21-27. Maternity benefits If you are expecting a baby, there are a number of benefit schemes that could help you financially. However, eligibility differs for each individual scheme. Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) You may be entitled to Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) from your employer. This is a weekly payment, to help make it easier for you to take time off, both before and after the birth of your baby. SMP can be paid for up to 39 weeks. You are entitled to SMP if you have been employed by the same company for at least 26 weeks by the end of the 15th week before your baby is due. You must also be earning an average of at least £87 per week (before tax). The amount you get depends on how much you earn. For 6 weeks, you will receive 90% of your average weekly earnings. Then you will receive £112.75 per week for the remaining 33 weeks. Maternity Allowance (MA) Maternity Allowance (MA) is available to those who are employed or self-employed but not eligible for Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP). You may be entitled to Maternity Allowance if you have been employed or self-employed for at least 26 weeks in the 66 weeks before you are due to give birth. You don’t have to work for the same employer for those 26 weeks. You also don’t have to work full weeks (as a part week counts as a full week) during the same period. Maternity Allowance can be paid for up to 39 weeks, and is either paid at the same standard rate as SMP or 90% of your average weekly earnings. You’ll receive whichever amount is the lower. You can find Maternity Allowance forms at antenatal clinics throughout the country. Child Tax Credit If you’re on a low income, over 16, and are responsible for at least one child, you may also be entitled to Child Tax Credit. The amount you get will depend on your personal circumstances and income. When your income is being assessed, any child benefit, maintenance payments or Maternity Allowance payments will not be classed as income. This means that it will not be taken into account when calculating your Child Tax Credit. Sure Start Maternity Payments If you get benefits or Child Tax Credit because you’re on a low income, then you may be entitled to Sure Start Maternity Payments. These are individual grants to help towards the cost of a new baby. Questions 21-27 Answer the questions below. Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 21-27 on your answer sheet. 21   What is the minimum period you must have worked for an employer in order to be eligible for SMP? 22   For how long is SMP payable every week as a percentage of your average weekly earnings? 23   What sum is payable every week as the second part of SMP entitlement? 24   What is the maximum length of time MA is payable? 25   Where can MA forms be obtained? 26   Apart from income, what else is considered when assessing how much Child Tax Credit is paid? 27   What are Sure Start Maternity Payments? SECTION 3 Questions 28-40 Read the text below and answer Questions 28-40. PAPYRUS Used by the ancient Egyptians to make paper, the papyrus plant has helped to shape the world we live in A Libraries and archives are cultural crossroads of knowledge exchange, where the past transmits information to the present, and where the present has the opportunity to inform the future. Bureaucracies have become the backbone of civilizations, as governments try to keep track of populations, business transactions and taxes. At a personal level, our lives are governed by the documents we possess; we are certified on paper literally from birth to death. And written documentation carries enormous cultural importance: consider the consequences of signing the Foundation Document of the United Nations or the Convention on Biological Diversity. Documentation requires a writing tool and a surface upon which to record the information permanently. About 5,000 years ago, the Sumerians started to use reeds or sticks to make marks on mud blocks which were then baked, but despite being fireproof, these were difficult to store. Other cultures used more flexible but less permanent surfaces, including animal skins and wood strips. In western culture, the adoption of papyrus was to have a great impact. Sheets of papyrus not only provide an invaluable record of people’s daily lives, they can also be dated using carbon-dating techniques, giving precise information about the age of the text written on them. B Papyrus is strongly associated with Egyptian culture, although all the ancient civilizations around the Mediterranean used it. The papyrus sedge is a tall grass-like plant. It was harvested from shallow water and swamplands on the banks of the River Nile. Manufacturing sheets of papyrus from papyrus sedge was a complex, messy process. Pith from inside the plant’s stem was cut into long strips that were laid side by side. These were then covered with a second layer of strips which were laid at right angles to the first, then soaked in water and hammered together. The sheet was then crushed to extract the water, dried and then polished to produce a high-quality writing surface, individual sheets could be glued together and rolled up to make scrolls or folded and bound to form books. C In moist climates, the cellulose-rich sheets of papyrus would readily decay, becoming covered by mould or full of holes from attacks by insects. But in dry climates, such as the Middle East, papyrus is a stable, rot-resistant writing surface. The earliest known roll of papyrus scroll was found in the tomb of an official called Hemeka near Memphis, which was then the capital city of Egypt, and is around five thousand years old. in 79CE, nearly 2,000 papyrus scrolls in the library of Julius Caesar’s father-in-law were protected at Herculaneum by ash from the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius. However, the most famous discoveries of papyrus have come from the rubbish dumps of the ancient town of Oxyrhynchus, some 160km south-west of Cairo, in the desert to the west of the Nile. Oxyrhynchus was a regional administrative capital and for a thousand years generated vast amounts of administrative documentation, including accounts, tax returns and correspondence, which was periodically discarded to make room for more. Over time, a thick layer of sand covered these dumps, andthey were forgotten. But the documents were protected by the sand, creating a time capsule that allowed astonishing glimpses into the lives of the town’s inhabitants over hundreds of years. Collections of documents that record information and ideas have frequently been viewed as potentially dangerous. For thousands of years, governments, despots and conquerors have resorted to burning libraries and books to rid themselves of inconvenient evidence or obliterate cultures and ideas that they found politically, morally or religiously unacceptable. One such calamity, the burning of the Great Library of Alexandria, and the papyrus scrolls and books it contained, has been mythologized and has come to symbolize the global loss of cultural knowledge. D Besides their use in record-keeping, papyrus stems were used in many other aspects of Mediterranean life, such as for boat construction and making ropes, sails and baskets, as well as being a source of food. In 1969 the adventurer Thor Heyerdahl attempted to cross the Atlantic from Morocco in the boat Ra, to show that it was possible for mariners in ancient times to cross the Atlantic Ocean. Ra was made from bundles of papyrus stems and modelled on ancient Egyptian craft. As a marshland plant, papyrus sedge stabilizes soils and reduces erosion, while some investigations show that it has potential for water purification and sewage treatment. E True paper was probably invented in China in the first century CE. Like papyrus, it was constructed from a meshwork of plant fibres, but the Chinese used fibres from the white mulberry tree, which yielded a tough, flexible material that could be folded, stretched, and compressed. The adoption of this paper by western cultures soon rendered papyrus obsolete. Despite dreams of paper-free societies, western cultures still use enormous quantities of paper, often in ways that it would be inconceivable to use papyrus for. As a paper substitute, the role of the papyrus sedge in western cultures has been superseded; papyrus is little more than a niche product for the tourist market. What makes papyrus noteworthy for western societies nowadays is its use as the surface upon which our ancient ancestors recorded their lives, their art and their science. In the words of the ancient Roman philosopher Pliny the Elder, it is ‘the material on which the immortality of human beings depends’. ————————— *From Stephen Harris, What have Plants Ever Done for Us?, Bodleian Library Publishing 2015. Reprinted by kind permission of Bodleian Library Publishing. Question 28-32 The text below has five sections, A-E. Choose the correct heading for each section from the list of headings below. Write the correct number, i-viii, in boxes 28-32 on your answer sheet. List of Headings i       Solving the puzzle of a papyrus document ii      The importance of written records and different ways of recording them iii     The use of papyrus for a range of purposes iv     Suggestions for future possibilities for papyrus v      How papyrus was cultivated and different manufacturing methods vi     The decline of papyrus use vii    The preservation and destruction of papyrus documents viii   The process of papyrus production 28   Section A 29   Section B 30   Section C 31   Section D 32   Section E Questions 33-37 Choose the correct letter, A, B, C or D. Write the correct letter in boxes 33-37 on your answer sheet. 33   What was the problem with using animal skins and wood strips for writing on? A   They did not last for a long time. B   They were not easy to store. C   They were insufficiently flexible. D   They could be destroyed by fire. 34   Why did papyrus manufacturers hammer the papyrus? A   to remove water from the pith strips B   to join the layers of pith strips together C   to allow the pith strips to be easily cut D   to position the layers of pith strips at the correct angle 35   When referring to burning libraries and books, the writer is suggesting that A   information can be used for harm as well as for good. B   new ways must be found to ensure information is not lost. C   cultural knowledge depends on more than written texts. D   those in power may Wish to keep others in ignorance. 36   The writer refers to Thor Heyerdahl to illustrate the point that A   papyrus could be used as a food on long sea voyages. B   the ancient Egyptians already had advanced navigation skills. C   papyrus could be used to build boats for long sea journeys. D   the ancient Egyptians knew of the environmental benefits of papyrus 37   What does the writer conclude about papyrus today? A   It is better for the environment than using paper. B   Its significance is restricted to its role in the past. C   It is still the best writing surface for some purposes. D   More efforts need to be made to ensure it stays in use. Questions 38-40 Complete the summary below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 38-40 on your answer sheet. How papyrus documents have survived Papyrus is rich in cellulose and in some conditions will be destroyed by fungal growths or be consumed by 38…………………… However, it can survive for long periods in an environment that is dry. It has been found in a 5,000-year-old 39…………………… in Egypt, and in Herculaneum many papyrus documents were preserved following a huge 40…………………… in 79 CE. in the town of Oxyrhynchus, unwanted administrative documents were left on rubbish dumps which were covered with sand, preserving them for many years. Answer: Section 1 1   TRUE 2   FALSE 3   FALSE 4   NOT GIVEN 5   TRUE 6   FALSE 7   C 8   E 9   A 10   B 11   E 12   D 13   D 14   B Section 2 15   Hospitality Department 16   academic calendar 17   1st October 18   nominated contractor 19   permits 20   Concorde Building 21   26 weeks 22   6 weeks/ six weeks 23   £112.75 24   39 weeks 25   antenatal clinics 26   personal circumstances 27   grants Section 3 28   ii 29   viii 30   vii 31   iii 32   vi 33   A 34   B 35   D 36   C 37   B 38   insects 39   tomb 40   eruption

SECTION 1 Questions 1-14 Read the text below and answer Questions 1-7 New cycle path to Marshbrook Country Park 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. It avoids the main road into Atherton on the south side, and keeps mainly to less busy roads. Once the path leaves the built-up area, it goes through countryside until it reaches Marshbrook. B Funding for the cycle path has come largely from the country and town councils, while almost a third of it was raised through crowdfunding. Maintenance of the path is the responsibility of the county council. The cycle path was completed ahead of schedule – partly thanks to perfect weather for construction – and under budget. C Annie Newcome is the chief executive of Cycle Atherton, the organisation that aims to get people cycling more often and more safely. Cycle Atherton proposed the 12-kilometre-long cycle path initially, and has been active in promoting it. Ms Newcome says she is delighted that all the hard work to achieve the funding proved successful. D Marshbrook Country Park is a very popular recreational area, and the new path makes it much easier to reach from the town in an environmentally friendly way. 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. E Although the path is now open, 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 stretches of the path, to provide some shelter from the wind and to benefit wildlife. F Further information and a detailed map of the path including a proposed 5-kilometre extension are available online. The map can easily be downloaded and printed. Visit the county council website and follow the links to Atherton Cycle Path. Questions 1-7 The text has six paragraphs, A-F. Which paragraph mentions the following? Write the correct letter, A-F, in boxes 1-7 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any letter more than once. 1   what still needs to be done 2   the original suggestion for creating the path 3   a reason why the path opened early 4   people who no longer need to get to the park by car 5   the route of the path 6   the length of the path 7   who paid for the path Read the text below and answer Questions 8-14. Study dramatic arts at Thornley If you are hoping for a career in the theatre, Thornley College of Dramatic Arts is the place to come. 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 industries. We also have expertise in preparing students for the specialised requirements of TV, film and radio. We’ll make sure you’re thoroughly prepared for the reality of work in your chosen field. Our college-based tutors all have extensive practical experience in the entertainment industry as well as academic qualifications, 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. We are well-known around the world, with our students coming from every continent. Every year, we receive two thousand applications for the one hundred places on our degree courses. Only the most talented get places, and we are proud that over ninety percent of our students gain professional work within a year of graduating – a figure few other drama colleges in the UK can match. To mark our fiftieth anniversary this year, we are putting on a production of Theatre 500. Written by two staff members especially for this occasion, this multimedia show celebrates five hundred years of drama, and involves all our students in one way or another. Another major development is that the college is about to move. Our new premises are now under construction in the heart of Thornley, next to the council building, which has won a prize for its architecture. For the last two years, we have been developing designs with Miller Furbank Architects for our new home, and one aim has been to ensure the buildings complement the council offices. Work started on the foundations of the buildings in March last year, and we plan to move to the new site this coming September. We have also 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. As a result, part of the space in the new buildings has been designed to be adaptable, in order to accommodate classes, performances and workshops for different-sized groups of local people. Questions 8-14 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 8-14 on your answer sheet, write? TRUE             if the statement agrees with the information FALSE            if the statement contradicts the information NOT GIVEN   if there is no information on this 8   The college has introduced new courses since it opened. 9   The college provides training for work in the film industry. 10   Students have the chance to work with relevant professionals. 11   Many more people apply to study at the college than are accepted. 12   Theatre 500 was created by students. 13   The new building and the council building were designed by the same architects. 14   Local groups will be charged for using college premises. SECTION 2 Questions 15-27 Read the text below and answer Questions 15-20 How to make your working day more enjoyable Research shows that work takes up approximately a third of our lives. Most of us get so bogged down with day-to-day tasks though, that we easily forget why we originally applied for the job and what we can get out of it. Here are a few ideas for how to make your working day better. Physical changes to your work environment can make a massive difference to how you feel. Get some green plants or a family photo for your desk. File all those odd bits of paper or throw them away. All of these little touches can make your work environment feel like it’s yours. Make sure any screens you have are at a suitable height so you’re not straining your neck and shoulders. Humans need a change of environments 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. And if there’s a conference coming up, ask if you can go along to it. Not only will you practise your networking skills, but you’ll also have a day away from the office. Use coffee time to get to know a colleague you don’t usually speak to. There’s no point in getting away from staring at one thing though, only to replace it with another; so leave your mobile alone! 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. When you’re trying to focus on something, hunger is the worst thing. 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. also, if you’re dehydrated, you won’t be able to focus properly. So keep drinking water. Finally, if you’ve been dreaming about starting up a big project for some time, do it! There are so many different things you can do to get you enjoying work more each day. Questions 15-20 Complete the sentences below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 15-20 on your answer sheet. 15   Bringing a personal ……………… to work will make the place feel more homely. 16   It is important to check the position of all ……………… before use to avoid pulling any muscles. 17   Leaving the office in the middle of the day may help to raise ………………. later on. 18   It is advisable to avoid checking a ……………….. during breaks. 19   Getting involved in ……………….. at work may have negative results. 20   Having a few ……………….. available can help people concentrate better at work. Read the text below and answer Questions 21-27 How to get promoted If you’re sitting at your desk wondering whether this will be the year you finally get promoted, here are some tips. It starts with you. You are perhaps the most important part in the ‘promotion process’, so you need to know what you want – and why you want it. Take an honest look at yourself – your achievements and also your skills, particularly those you could exploit to take on a different role. 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. If you are less sure about your boss’s view of your prospects and how they may react, start softly with a more deliberate focus on increasing your boss’s understanding of the work you do and the added value you deliver. 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? 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. The chances are that those decision-makers won’t know all they should about you. Raising your profile in your organisation is critical so that when those in charge 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. 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 lack the latest management theory, enrol on some relevant courses that fit around your day job. So what are you waiting for? Questions 21-27 Complete the notes below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 21-27 on your answer sheet. Steps to take to achieve a promotion ●   First step: examine past successes and any 21……………… that would help gain promotion ●   Set up a meeting with your boss to talk about: –  how best to use your high level of 22……………… in future –  or how much extra 23………………. you already bring to the company ●   Focus on the important people in the company: –  find out which ones will be members of the 24……………… who decide on the promotion –  consider how much they are aware of your 25……………… for the future ●   Take steps to raise your profile by: –  offering to create a feature for a company publication –  participating in the 26……………… of events for customers ●   Work on self-development: –  take any 27………………. that fill in gaps in knowledge SECTION 3 Questions 28-40 Read the text below and answer Questions 28-40. Animals can tell right from wrong Until recently, humans were thought to be the only species to experience complex emotions and have a sense of morality. But Professor Marc Bekoff, an ecologist at University of Colorado, Boulder, US, believes that morals are ‘hard-wired’ into the brains of all mammals and provide the ‘social glue’ that allows animals to live together in groups. His conclusions will assist animal welfare groups pushing to have animals treated more humanely. Professor Bekoff, who presents his case in his book Wild Justice, said: ‘Just as in humans, the moral nuances of a particular culture or group will be different from another, but they are certainly there. Moral codes are species specific, so they can be difficult to compare with each other or with humans.’ Professor Bekoff believes morals developed in animals to help regulate behaviour in social groups. He claims that these help to limit fighting within the group and encourage co-operative behaviour. His ideas have met with some controversy in the scientific community. Professor Frans de Waal, who examines the behaviour of primates, including chimpanzees, at Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, US, said: ‘I don’t believe animals are moral in the sense we humans are – with a well-developed and reasoned sense of right and wrong – rather that human morality incorporates a set of psychological tendencies and capacities such as empathy, reciprocity, a desire for co-operation and harmony that are older than our species. Human morality was not formed from scratch, but grew out of our primate psychology. Primate psychology has ancient roots, and I agree that order animals show many of the same tendencies and have an intense sociality.’ Wolves live in tight-knit social groups that are regulated by strict rules. Wolves also demonstrate fairness. During play, dominant wolves will appear to exchange roles with lower-ranking wolves. They pretend to be submissive and go so far as to allow biting by the lower-ranking wolves, provided it is not too hard. Prof Bekoff argues that without a moral code governing their actions, this kind of behaviour would not be possible. Astonishingly, if an animal becomes aggressive, it will perform a ‘play bow’ to ask forgiveness before play resumes. In other members of the dog family, play is controlled in a similar way. Among coyotes, cubs which are too aggressive are ignored by the rest of the group and often end up having to leave entirely. 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. Elephants are intensely sociable and emotional animals. Research by Iain Douglas-Hamilton, from the department of zoology at Oxford University, suggests elephants experience compassion and has found evidence of elephants helping injured members of their herd. In 2003, a herd of 11 elephants rescued antelopes which were being held inside an enclosure in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The top female elephant unfastened all of the metal latches holding the gates closed and swung them open, allowing the antelopes to escape. This is thought to be a rare example of animals showing empathy for members of another species – a trait previously thought to be the exclusive preserve of humankind. 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. On three occasions the male money picked up tokens she dropped and inserted them into the slot and allowed her to have the food. 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. Since chimpanzees are known to be among the most cognitively advanced of the great apes and our closet cousins, it is perhaps not remarkable that scientist should suggest they live by moral codes. 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. Chimpanzees also demonstrate a sense of justice and those who deviate from the code of conduct of a group are set upon by other members as punishment. Experiments with rats have shown that they will not take food if they know their actions will cause pain to another rat. In lab tests, rats were given food which then caused a second group of rats to receive an electric shock. The rats with the food stopped eating rather than see this happen. Whales have been found to have spindle cells in their brains. These specialised cells were thought to be restricted to humans and great apes, and appear to play a role in empathy and understanding the emotions of others. Humpback whales, fin whales, killer whales and sperm whales have all been found to have spindle cells. They also have three times as many spindle cells as humans and are thought to be older in evolutionary terms. This finding suggests that emotional judgements such as empathy may have evolved considerably earlier in history than formerly thought and could be widespread in the animal kingdom. Questions 28-32 Complete the summary below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 28-32 on your answer sheet. Complex social behaviour in wolf packs Wolves live in packs and it is clear that there are a number of 28……………… concerning their behaviour. Some observers believe they exhibit a sense of 29………………. . The stronger, more senior wolves seem to adopt the roles of the junior wolves when they are playing together. They act as if they are 30………………. to the juniors and even permit some gentle 31……………… . What is even more surprising is that when one of the juniors gets too forceful, it bends down begging for 32……………… . Only when that has been granted will the wolves continue playing. Questions 33-37 Look at the following animals (Questions 33-37) and the list of descriptions below. Match each animal with the correct description, A-G. Write the correct letter, A-G, in boxes 33-37 on your answer sheet. 33   coyotes 34   domestic dogs 35   elephants 36   Diana monkeys 37   rats List of Descriptions A     often attack peers who fail to follow the moral code B     appear to enjoy playing with members of a different species C     sometimes share treats with a peer D     may assist a peer who is failing to complete a task E     may be driven away by their peers if they do not obey the moral code F     seem unwilling to benefit from something that hurts their peers G     may help a different type of animal which is in difficulty Questions 38-40 Choose the correct letter, A, B, C or D. Write the correct letter in boxes 38-40 on your answer sheet. 38   What view is expressed by Professor de Waal? A   Apes have advanced ideas about the difference between good and evil. B   The social manners of some animals prove that they are highly moral. C   Some human moral beliefs developed from our animal ancestors. D   The desire to live in peace with others is a purely human quality. 39   Why does Professor Bekoff mention the experiment on Diana monkeys? A   It shows that this species of monkey is not very easy to train. B   It confirms his view on the value of research into certain monkeys. C   It proves that female monkeys are generally less intelligent than males. D   It illustrates a point he wants to make about monkeys and other creatures. 40   What does the writer find most surprising about chimpanzees? A   They can suffer from some of the same illnesses as humans. B   They appear to treat disabled peers with consideration. C   They have sets of social conventions that they follow. D   The males can be quite destructive at times. Answer IELTS General Reading Test 04 Section 1 1   E 2   C 3   B 4   D 5   A 6   C 7   B 8   NOT GIVEN 9   TRUE 10   TRUE 11   TRUE 12   FALSE 13   NOT GIVEN 14   FALSE Section 2 15   photo 16   screens 17   productivity 18   mobile 19   gossip 20   snacks 21   skills 22   commitment 23   value 24   panel 25   potential 26   organisation / organization 27   courses Section 3 28   rules 29   fairness 30   submissive 31   biting 32   forgiveness 33   E 34   C 35   G 36   D 37   F 38   C 39   D 40   B

SECTION 1 Questions 1-14 Read the text below and answer Questions 1-7 Young Fashion Designer UK competition Young Fashion Designer UK is an exciting national competition which aims to showcase and promote the exceptional work achieved by students studying courses in textile design, product design and fashion throughout the UK. The competition is designed for students to enter the coursework they are currently working on rather than specifically producing different pieces of work. If you would like to add to your coursework, that is for you and your teacher to decide. You can apply independently or through your school/college. To enter please ensure you follow these steps: 1)   Provide three A3 colour copies from your design folder. You must include: –  initial ideas about the clothing –  a close-up photograph of the front and back view of the finished clothing. 2)   Please label each sheet clearly with your name and school (on the back). 3)   Print off a copy of your registration form and attach it to your work. 4)   Post your entry to the Young Fashion Designer Centre. Once the entry deadline has passed, the judges will select the shortlist of students who will be invited to the Finals. You will be notified if you are shortlisted. You will need to bring originals of the work that you entered. Each finalist will have their own stand consisting of a table and tabletop cardboard display panels. Feel free to add as much creativity to your stand as possible. Some students bring tablets/laptops with slideshows or further images of work but it should be emphasised that these may not necessarily improve your chances of success. The judges will assess your work and will ask various questions about it. They will look through any supporting information and the work you have on display before coming together as a judging panel to decide on the winners. You are welcome to ask the judges questions. In fact, you should make the most of having experts on hand! There are 1st, 2nd and 3rd prize winners for each category. The judges can also decide to award special prizes if the work merits this. The 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners will receive a glass trophy and prize from a kind donor. Questions 1-7 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 1-7 on your answer sheet, write TRUE             if the statement agrees with the information FALSE            if the statement contradicts the information NOT GIVEN  if there is no information on this 1   Participants are required to create a new item of clothing for the Young Fashion Designer UK competition. 2   Participants must send information about the thoughts that led to the item they are entering for the competition. 3   The shortlist will consist of a fixed number of finalists. 4   Finalists can choose how to present their work to the judges on their stand. 5   It is strongly recommended that finalists support their entry with additional photographs. 6   Questions that the students ask the judges may count towards the final decisions. 7   Extra prizes may be awarded depending on the standard of the entries submitted. Read the text below and answer Questions 8-14. Which keyboard should you buy? It’s worth remembering that a bad keyboard can significantly affect your entire computing experience. So make sure you pick the right keyboard for your needs. A   Logitech K120 Logitech’s K120 offers a number of extra features. It’s spill-resistant, draining small amounts of liquid if you have an accident. It isn’t particularly eye-catching, but it feels very solid. For the price, it’s a tempting choice. B   Cherry MX 3.0 Keyboard The Cherry MX 3.0 looks simple and neat, thanks to its compact build. It’s solid, durable and you don’t need to push keys all the way down to activate them. It’s also rather loud though, which can take some getting used to. C   Logitech K780 The K780 is a compact, pleasantly modern-looking keyboard. There’s an integrated stand for smartphones and tablets too. It’s quiet to type on, and the circular keys are easy to familiarise yourself with, well-spaced and large enough to hit accurately. For this price though, the lack of backlighting is disappointing. D   Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic The Sculpt’s curved, strange-looking build serves a purpose. It provides wrist support and lifts your forearms into a relaxed position so you don’t hurt yourself from typing for lengthy periods. It feels weird, but it seems to do the trick. E   Microsoft Universal Bluetooth Keyboard Microsoft’s Bluetooth keyboard has one very handy feature – you can fold it in half and carry it around in your jacket pocket or bag, and it feels rather like a large wallet. It has generously sized keys, though the two-piece spacebar takes some getting used to. Another useful feature is that you can get up to three months’ use from a single charge. F   Corsair Strafe RGB Keyboard Corsair’s keyboard is expensive, flashy and extremely impressive. All of its keys are programmable, there’s eye-catching backlighting and the buttons are textured for improved grip. All this is because it’s designed for gamers. However, it’s also silent, meaning it is suitable for everyday office work too. Questions 8-14 Look at the six reviews of computer keyboards, A-F. For which keyboard are the following statements true? Write the correct letter, A-F, in boxes 8-14 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any letter more than once. 8   This keyboard may not suit users who prefer the keys to be almost silent. 9   This keyboard is easily portable because it can be made to fit into a small space. 10   This keyboard includes a special place to put small devices. 11   This keyboard is designed to prevent injury to those who spend a lot of time on the computer. 12   This keyboard offers good value for money. 13   This keyboard is primarily aimed at people who use their computer for entertainment. 14   It shouldn’t take long for users to get used to the shape of the keys on this keyboard. Advertisements SECTION 2 Questions 15-27 Read the text below and answer Questions 15-20 Working for a small company may be better than you think Recent research shows that many job-seekers believe their ideal position would be in a large company. However, working for a small or medium-sized business has many advantages that are too easily overlooked. Here are just a few of them. Working in a small organisation with a small workforce means it’s likely to be easy to become part of it. It won’t be long before you’re familiar with the staff and the departments that you need to deal with. This can provide a feeling of comfort that takes much longer to develop in a large company. Departments are likely to be small and have close connections with each other, which helps to make internal communication work well – everyone knows what’s going on. You’ll also gain a better understanding of how your own role fits into the company as a whole. In a small business you’re likely to have considerable variety in your workload, including opportunities to work in different areas of the company, which will allow you to identify abilities that you didn’t know you had. An introduction to new activities could even lead to a change of career. This variety in your work will help to make it stimulating, so you have a good reason for getting out of bed in the morning. There will be plenty of opportunities to show initiative, and you’ll also learn to function well as part of a team. Because it’s much harder to overlook someone within a small workforce than a large one, your efforts are more likely to attract the attention of those higher up. You’ll have plenty of opportunity to show what you can do, and to have your potential noticed. The result is very likely to be that promotion comes to you faster. Small businesses are usually flexible, something that is rarely true of large organisations. This means that if they’re well managed, they can adapt to make the most of changes in the wider economy, which in turn can help you. Don’t dismiss them as a place to work because of the myths about them. Small firms can be ideal places for developing your career. Questions 15-20 Complete the sentences below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 15-20 on your answer sheet. 15   In a small business it is easy to become ……………….. with colleagues and other departments. 16   You may find you have ………………… you were not aware of. 17   Finding that your work is ………………… will make you enjoy doing it. 18   Other people are likely to realise that you have ………………… . 19   Opportunities for ………………… will come sooner than in a larger business. 20   You can benefit from a small company being more ……………….. than a large one. Read the text below and answer Questions 21-27 Starting a new job A Make sure you know when and where you are expected to report on your first day. If the route from home is unfamiliar to you, make a practice run first: the normal first activity in a new job is a meeting with your boss, and it would be embarrassing to be late. Dress formally until you’re sure of the dress code. B You should expect to have an induction programme planned for you: a security pass; visits to whatever parts of the organisation you need to understand to do your job properly; meetings with anyone who could affect your success in the role; and someone to show you where everything is and tell you all the real rules of the culture – the ones that are never written down but which everyone is meant to follow. C It can be a shock to join a new organisation. When you are a newcomer, feeling uncertain and perhaps a little confused, there can be a strong temptation to talk about your old job and organisation as a way of reminding yourself and telling others that you really know what you are doing, because you did it in your previous role. Unfortunately, this will suggest that you have a high opinion of yourself, and that you think your old place was better. It has enormous power to annoy, so don’t do it. D All employers have a core product or service paid for by customers which justifies their existence. If you are not part of this core activity, remember that your role is to provide a service to the people who are part of it. Understanding their concerns and passions is essential for understanding why your own role exists, and for knowing how to work alongside these colleagues. This is why you must see this product or service in action. E When I worked for a television company, all of us, whatever our job, were strongly encouraged to visit a studio and see how programmes were made. This was wise. Make sure you do the equivalent for whatever is the core activity of your new employer. F Don’t try to do the job too soon. This may seem strange because, after all, you have been appointed to get on and do the job. But in your first few weeks your task is to learn what the job really is, rather than immediately starting to do what you assume it is. G Starting a new job is one of life’s major transitions. Treat it with the attention it deserves and you will find that all your work in preparing and then going through the selection process has paid off magnificently. Questions 21-27 The text has seven paragraphs, A-G. Which paragraph mentions the following? Write the correct letter, A-G, in boxes 21-27 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any letter more than once. 21   the emotions that new employees are likely to experience at first 22   a warning to be patient at first 23   how colleagues might react to certain behaviour 24   travelling to your new workplace before you start working there 25   an example of observing an activity carried out within an organisation 26   some things that the organisation should arrange for when you begin 27   a division of jobs within an organisation into two categories SECTION 3 Questions 28-40 Read the text below and answer Questions 28-40. How animals keep fit No one would dream of running a marathon without first making a serious effort to train for it. But no matter how well they have stuck to their training regime, contestants will find that running non-stop for 42 kilometres is going to hurt. Now consider the barnacle goose. Every year this bird carries out a 3000-kilometre migration. So how do the birds prepare for this? Do they spend months gradually building up fitness? That’s not really the barnacle goose’s style. instead, says environmental physiologist Lewis Halsey, ‘They just basically sit on the water and eat a lot.’ Until recently, nobody had really asked whether exercise is as tightly connected to fitness in the rest of the animal kingdom as it is for us. The question is tied up in a broader assumption: that animals maintain fitness because of the exercise they get finding food and escaping predators. Halsey points out that this may not necessarily be the case. Take the house cat. Most domestic cats spend much of the day lounging around, apparently doing nothing, rather than hunting for food. But over short distances, even the laziest can move incredibly fast when they want to. Similarly, black and brown bears manage to come out of several months’ hibernation with their muscle mass intact – without having to lift so much as a paw during this time. Barnacle geese go one better. In the process of sitting around, they don’t just maintain their fitness. They also develop stronger hearts and bigger flight muscles, enabling them to fly for thousands of kilometres in a migration that may last as little as two days. So, if exercise isn’t necessarily the key to physical strength, then what is? one clue comes from a broader view of the meaning of physical fitness. Biologically speaking, all it means is that the body has undergone changes that make it stronger and more efficient. In animals such as bears these changes appear to be triggered by cues such as falling temperatures or insufficient food. In the months of hibernation, these factors seem to prompt the release of muscle-protecting compounds which are then carried to the bears’ muscles in their blood and prevent muscle loss. Barnacle geese, Halsey suggests, may be responding to an environmental change such as temperature, which helps their bodies somehow ‘know’ that a big physical challenge is looming. In other bird species, that cue may be something different. Chris Guglielmo, a physiological ecologist, has studied the effect of subjecting migratory songbirds known as yellow-rumped warblers to changing hours of daylight. ‘We don’t need to take little songbirds and train them up to do a 6- or 10-hour flight,’ he says. If they are subjected to the right daylight cycle, ‘we can take them out of the cage and put them in the wind tunnel, and they fly for 10 hours.’ Unlike migratory birds, however, humans have no biological shortcut to getting fit. Instead, pressures in our evolutionary history made our bodies tie fitness to exercise. Our ancestor’s lives were unpredictable. They had to do a lot of running to catch food and escape danger, but they also needed to keep muscle mass to a minimum because muscle is biologically expensive. Each kilogram contributes about 10 to 15 kilocalories a day to our metabolism when resting – which doesn’t sound like much until you realise that muscles account for about 40 percent of the average person’s body mass. ‘Most of us are spending 20 percent of our basic energy budget taking care of muscle mass,’ says Daniel Lieberman, an evolutionary biologist and marathon runner. So our physiology evolved to let our weight and fitness fluctuate depending on how much food was available. ‘This makes us evolutionarily different from most other animals,’ says Lieberman. In general, animals merely need to be capable of short bouts of intense activity, whether it’s the cheetah chasing prey or the gazelle escaping. Cats are fast, but they don’t need to run very far. Perhaps a few mad dashes around the house are all it takes to keep a domestic one fit enough for feline purposes. ‘Humans, on the other hand, needed to adapt to run slower, but for longer,’ says Lieberman. He argues that long ago on the African savannah, natural selection made us into ‘supremely adapted’ endurance athletes, capable of running prey into the ground and ranging over long distances with unusual efficiency. But only, it appears, if we train. Otherwise we quickly degenerate into couch potatoes. As for speed, even those animals that do cover impressive distances don’t have to be the fastest they can possibly be. Barnacle geese needn’t set world records when crossing the North Atlantic; they just need to be able to get to their destination. ‘And’, says exercise physiologist Ross Tucker, ‘humans may be the only animal that actually cares about reaching peak performance.’ Other than racehorses and greyhounds, both of which we have bred to race, animals aren’t directly competing against one another. ‘I don’t know that all animals are the same, performance-wise … and we don’t know whether training would enhance their ability,’ he says. Questions 28-30 Choose the correct letter, A, B, C or D. Write the correct letter in boxes 28-30 on your answer sheet. 28   The writer discusses marathon runners and barnacle geese to introduce the idea that A   marathon runners may be using inefficient training methods. B   the role of diet in achieving fitness has been underestimated. C   barnacle geese spend much longer preparing to face a challenge. D   serious training is not always necessary for physical achievement. 29   The writer says that human muscles A   use up a lot of energy even when resting. B   are heavier than other types of body tissue. C   were more efficiently used by our ancestors. D   have become weaker than they were in the past. 30   The writer says that in order to survive, early humans developed the ability to A   hide from their prey. B   run long distances. C   adapt their speeds to different situations. D   predict different types of animal movements. Questions 31-35 Complete the summary below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 31-35 on your answer sheet. What is the key to physical fitness? In biological terms, when an animal is physically fit, its body changes, becoming more powerful and 31……………… . For bears, this change may be initially caused by colder weather or a lack of 32………………. , which during 33……………. causes certain compounds to be released into their 34………………. and to travel around the body. These compounds appear to prevent muscle loss. In the case of barnacle geese, the change may be due to a variation in 35…………….. . Questions 36-40 Look at the following statements (Questions 36-40) and the list of researchers below. Match each statement with the correct researcher, A, B, C or D. Write the correct letter, A, B, C or D, in boxes 36-40 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any letter more than once. 36   One belief about how animals stay fit is possibly untrue. 37   It may not be possible to train all animals to improve their speed. 38   One type of bird has demonstrated fitness when exposed to a stimulus in experimental conditions. 39   Human energy use developed in a different way from that of animals. 40   One type of bird may develop more strength when the weather becomes warmer or cooler. List of Researchers A     Lewis Halsey B     Chris Guglielmo C     Daniel Lieberman D     Ross Tucker Section 1 1   FALSE 2   TRUE 3   NOT GIVEN 4   TRUE 5   FALSE 6   NOT GIVEN 7   TRUE 8   B 9   E 10   C 11   D 12   A 13   F 14   C Section 2 15   familiar 16   abilities 17   stimulating 18   potential 19   promotion 20   flexible 21   C 22   F 23   C 24   A 25   E 26   B 27   D Section 3 28   D 29   A 30   B 31   efficient 32   food 33   hibernation 34   blood 35   temperature 36   A 37   D 38   B 39   C 40   A

SECTION 1 Questions 1-14 Read the text below and answer Questions 1-6 Harvey’s Storage Harvey’s Storage is a well-established independent company. We are centrally located in the city and provide excellent facilities for all your storage requirements. We provide safe and secure units for both long- and short-term storage dependent on your needs. Our rates are competitive and tailored to your specific requirements and your choice of storage unit. Heavy-duty locks and keys are provided to all of our customers and included in the prices listed. You can hire the unit with the storage capacity you need, for the period of time that the storage is required, in a sound and secure environment, monitored by CCTV. With 24-hour access, customers can deliver and collect items when it is convenient to do so, unrestricted by business or office hours. Tarmac roadways allow customers to park cars and lorries immediately outside their units, minimising the effort required to collect or drop items off. Household storage Self-storage is ideal for families or individuals with either a short- or long-term need to store their belongings. Some of our clients are de-cluttering, or they may be getting their property decorated, or planning to go abroad for a time. Student storage You may be travelling or going home to see family and friends in the vacation, or need time to find a place to stay. You may want to store all your books and personal items, or just a few boxes or a musical instrument. We offer no-nonsense competitive pricing with flexible hire periods and with no hidden extras. We can provide you with short- or long-term affordable hire in a safe and secure environment. You are responsible for organising transport but we can also recommend local van and driver hire companies. Business storage Free up your expensive retail space with affordable self-storage. We have three different business storage centres to choose from so you can choose the location that is most convenient for you. Questions 1-6 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 1-6 on your answer sheet, write? TRUE              if the statement agrees with the information FALSE             if the statement contradicts the information NOT GIVEN   if there is no information on this 1   There is an extra charge for locks and keys. 2   It is possible to arrange to share a storage unit with someone else. 3   You can pick up your property from the storage unit during the night-time. 4   You can drive your vehicle right next to your storage unit. 5   Students’ possessions can only be stored during vacation periods. 6   The storage company will collect and deliver students’ property. Read the text below and answer Questions 7-14. Local museums A   Whittlesey Museum The museum is located in the Old Town Hall, which was originally built to house horse-drawn fire engines. It has eight rooms, and the exhibits cover topics such as archive photographs, costume, domestic life and local celebrities. B   Octavia Hill’s Birthplace House Built in 1740, this is the birthplace of pioneer social reformer Octavia Hill, who was active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in social housing and the arts, as well as in conservation issues. Visitors are taken on a guided tour and are then free to explore the gardens. C   Chatteris Museum The old market town of Chatteris was largely rebuilt, after two serious fires in 1706 and 1864 destroyed many of the town’s ancient buildings. The museum’s exhibits illustrate traditional aspects of the life of local farmers as well as the railway boom of the 19th century. The museum has a touch-screen kiosk which contains over 9,000 historic photographs and texts, reproductions of which can be made on request. D   March and District Museum Located in the middle of the market town of March, the museum is housed in a former school built in 1851. Its wide-ranging collections include reconstructions of an early 20th-century kitchen, sitting room and nursery. There is also an interesting display of historic cameras and radios, and a medal which was awarded to train driver Ben Gimbert for his bravery in preventing loss of life when a train full of explosives caught fire in 1944. E   Wisbech and Fenland Museum This 19th-century gem holds collections from around the world including Ancient Egypt. Its library, which is open to the public on the first Saturday of each month, contains the manuscript of Great Expectations by the 19th-century novelist Charles Dickens, and the Research Room can be booked for researching local records. Questions 7-14 Look at the five descriptions of museum, A-E, in one area of England. For which museum are the following statements true? Write the correct letter, A-E, in boxes 7-14 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any letter more than once. 7   There are exhibits related to the history of agriculture in the region. 8   Equipment for putting out fires used to be kept in this building. 9   You can find information on the rise of one type of transport. 10   There are things to see both inside and outside. 11   It is possible to obtain copies of old pictures and documents. 12   On certain days you can see an original work by a writer of fiction. 13   Someone who was interested in environmental matters lived here for a time. 14   This museum has an exhibit related to a heroic achievement. SECTION 2 Questions 15-27 Read the text below and answer Questions 15-20 Workplace health and safety considerations for plumbers Like many trades, plumbing can be a dangerous job. It is important to take all reasonably practicable measure to keep customers and yourself incident and injury free. Biohazard waste Plumbers regularly come into contact with biohazard waste. It’s the nature of the job, but that doesn’t mean you should be complacent about it. According to Safe Work Australia, communicable diseases from work-related exposures to biological hazards such as sewage have been estimated to cause 320,000 deaths across the globe each year. In addition to this, plumbers are regularly exposed to other biohazards such as mould, bacteria and algae. Don’t risk it – make sure appropriate clothing and equipment is used. Confined spaces Plumbers may spend much of their time working in confined spaces, where they are at risk from contaminants, including airborne gases, vapours and dusts, that may cause injury from fire or explosion. They may also be exposed to high concentration of airborne contaminants that may be harmful to health. For example, one plumber was fined $220,000 after an employee suffered from carbon-monoxide poisoning. Another potential hazard for plumbers in confined spaces is that of drowning, if water sources are not adequately cut off. The Safe Work Australia confined spaces code of practice outlines the necessary steps and precautions for avoiding illness and injury. Electricity The Master Plumbers’ Association calls electricity ‘plumbing’s hidden killer’. Metal pipes are often conductive and so gloves which provide insulation should form part of a plumber’s tool kit, as should a plumbing voltage monitor and a volt tester. Gloves should be checked prior to every use and replaced every 12 to 14 months. Electrical equipment like bridging conductors should be regularly checked, with appropriate tags on the equipment to verify its safety. The project should be stopped immediately if there is any sign of electricity, so that the power can be disconnected by a qualified electrician prior to continuing work. Questions 15-20 Complete the table below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 15-20 on your answer sheet. Read the text below and answer Questions 21-27 How to manage flexible working with your employees There is no denying that flexible working has grown enormously in recent years. It does, however, require careful management. When it comes to implementing flexible working one word is key: trust. All flexible workers should be trusted and given well-defined objectives from the start and their contribution should be assessed according to their output, as opposed to the time they spend on the job. It can be a big step to implement such as change in your business, so if you are slightly cautious then I recommend perhaps setting up an end-of-the-day review to see how much progress has been made. As all parties find their feet with the new set-up, this contact can slowly be reduced. In my eyes, it is also vital that there is shared calendar access for everyone so that people can see where their colleagues are each day. This way if they need to catch up with someone they can plan when to do so. Technology now exists to enable employees to stay in touch with other members of staff and external partners. iMeet, for example, is a tool which allows all forms of collaboration for remote working, from video conferencing, live chat and file sharing to screen sharing. The new breed of worker is therefore fully equipped to work productively away from the office, and can still feel like they’re in the same room as others when necessary. In my experience, employees are often more productive working at home as they can work the exact hours they want and do not have to cope with distraction caused by other employees. Being outside the confines of the office walls also appears to foster creativity. In addition, we find staff are more motivated as they have a better work-life balance. In terms of the business, we find this helps with top talent recruitment and staff retention, and a happy workforce is a more successful one. Questions 21-27 Complete the notes below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 21-27 on your answer sheet. Flexible working How to organise flexible working ●   trust your employees ●   provide them with clear 21……………. ●   base measurements of performance on their output ●   initially, have a 22…………….. of progress each day ●   make sure a 23………………. Is accessible to give details of colleague locations. ●   use a program such as iMeet to encourage different types of 24………………. between workers Benefits of flexibility ●   greater productivity ●   less 25……………… from colleagues ●   increase in 26……………… ●   more motivated staff ●   greater success for the company with staff recruitment and 27……………… SECTION 3 Questions 28-40 Read the text below and answer Questions 28-40. Questions 28-33 The text has six sections, A-F. Choose the correct heading for each section from the list of headings below. Write the correct number, i-vii, in boxes 28-33 on your answer sheet. List of Headings i              Developing an item that appears true to life ii             Extending the project to other endangered species iii            A short but intensive investigation with longer-term follow-up iv            Problems facing sea turtles at a global level v             Collection of eggs and their possible onward routes vi            Intensive and large-scale poaching in one location vii           Why catching the poachers may not solve the problem 28   Section A 29   Section B 30   Section C 31   Section D 32   Section E 33   Section F Preventing the theft of turtle eggs Conservationists and law enforcement have struggled to prevent wildlife trafficking. But could some plastic eggs and GPS trackers change the game? A Humans have been eating sea turtle eggs (and killing adult turtles for meat) for millennia. However, as human populations exploded and as sea turtles began to confront additional threats such as intensive fishing, beach development and climate change, sea turtle populations declined precipitously. Today, all but one of the world’s seven species of sea turtles are considered threatened according to the IUCN* Red List. And the one that’s not – the flatback turtle – is listed as data deficient, which means scientists simply don’t know how it’s doing. B One major problem is that every year millions of sea turtle eggs are illegally taken by poachers for sale on the black market. The situation is particularly serious in Nicaragua, in Central America, which is home to four sea turtle species. Kim Williams-Guillen, who works for conservation body Paso Pacifico, described the poaching of sea turtle nests on the beaches of Nicaragua as ‘uncontrolled, unregulated, extensive and contested’. Even the best-protected beaches are plundered to some extent and it’s not uncommon to see poachers digging up nests just meters from tourists watching sea turtles laying their clutch at night, she said. This poaching becomes particularly frenzied during the arribadas – mass laying events where thousands of turtles nest on the same beach for a single night in a biological strategy to overwhelm natural predators. C ‘Even with armed guards, the numbers of poachers overwhelm military personnel by ten to twenty to one,’ Williams-Guillen said. ‘Although many poachers are locals with limited resources, during these arribadas there are influxes of gangs of poachers from larger cities outside local communities. These are not just local poor people without other options.’ But to protect the country’s sea turtles, Williams-Guillen said conservationists shouldn’t just depend on catching low-level operators. ‘If one poacher decides to stop, another one will just step into his place… we need to know more about the middlemen and people higher up in the distribution chain,’ she said. D Paso Pacifico’s solution is the creation of high-tech sea turtle eggs: fake eggs convincingly crafted to look like the real thing, but which contain GPS tracking devices. These have the potential to reveal the destination markets for trafficked sea turtle eggs. Making convincing sea turtle eggs is not easy, and Paso Pacifico is still working on perfecting a prototype. In particular, it’s proving quite problematic to create the right texture, since sea turtle eggs are not covered in a hard shell like those of birds, but are quite flexible. So Paso Pacifico brought in Lauren Wilde, a special effects artist in the US, to create a convincing outer shell. First, Wilde had to get her hands on the real thing. Since it’s illegal to send sea turtle eggs over the border, Wilde is using land turtle eggs from California. ‘It was really eye opening and important for me to feel these eggs and how the shell bends a little,’ she said. To get the GPS device inside the shell, Paso Pacifico is using 3D printers to make a plastic ball which will then have a GPS transmitter fitted inside. This will take the place of the embryo inside the shell. Lastly the fake shells will be sealed with silicone, waterproofing them. E Sea turtles on average lay around 100 eggs in a nest, and once the fake eggs are finished they will be slipped in with the real ones. Williams-Guillen said it might even be possible to deliver fake eggs into nests while poachers are at work. Wary of tourists, poachers will often back off if strangers come near and then return when they have gone. ‘It would be pretty easy to drop an egg in the dark into a nest they have been digging up,’ she said. Once the poacher picks up the fake egg along with the real ones, conservationists and law enforcement agents will be able to track them. Experts believe most of the stolen eggs eventually make their way out of Nicaragua, possibly to El Salvador or Guatemala. However, there is also growing concern that sea turtle eggs from Central America are actually heading to the USA, from where they are sold on to other countries around the world. F To date, Paso Pacifico has yet to put a single fake egg in a nest. But Williams-Guillen said she isn’t too concerned that publicity for their scheme will result in poachers looking for the eggs. ‘The vast majority of the poaching is happening at night, so already it is hard to tell [the eggs] apart, and at this point, poachers and middlemen are not closely inspecting eggs, but rather shoving them into a sack as quickly as possible.’ Of course, poachers will eventually become aware of the prospect of fake eggs among the real ones – especially when customers try to bite into an egg and break their teeth on the GPS transmitter instead. So, Paso Pacifico plans to do a massive deployment of as many fakes as possible to gather a lot of data before poachers get wise. Knowing where the eggs go will allow conservationists and law enforcement agents to focus their resources on the right places – whether it be through awareness-building campaigns or crackdowns on illegal sellers. And eventually Paso Pacifico hopes to share the technology with interested parties around the world. —— *IUCN: International Union for Conservation of Nature Questions 34-37 Choose the correct letter, A, B, C or D. Write the correct letter in boxes 34-37 on your answer sheet. 34   What does the writer suggest about the flatback turtle? A   It could be as severely threatened as other turtles. B   It has been neglected by scientists in the past. C   It is in less danger than some other species. D   It should be removed from the IUCN Red List. 35   Williams-Guillen says that the poaching of sea turtle eggs in Nicaragua A   is mainly carried out by local people. B   may be encouraged by the presence of tourists. C   sometimes has a highly organised structure. D   can only be controlled by the use of armed guards. 36   In Section E, Williams-Guillen says that one way to encourage poachers to take the fake eggs is to A   make fake nests and put the eggs into them. B   put them in nests with just a few real eggs. C   distract the poachers after the fake eggs have been put in the nests. D   put them in nests that the poachers have started to dig up. 37   It is planned to use a large number of fake eggs at the beginning because A   some of the fake eggs may be missed by the poachers. B   it may not be possible to continue the project indefinitely. C   some eggs may be hidden in the sand. D   it may not be feasible to fund long-term research. Questions 38-40 Complete the summary below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 38-40 on your answer sheet. Making convincing sea turtle eggs One difficulty in creating a fake sea turtle egg is to get the appropriate texture for the shell. Unlike a bird’s egg, a turtle’s egg has a shell which is 38……………… . Lauren Wilde has studied eggs from Californian turtles that live on 39……………… to create a realistic reproduction of the shell. A GPS device will then be placed inside a 40…………….. in the fake shell. Finally, silicone will be applied to the shell to make it waterproof. Section 1 1   FALSE 2   NOT GIVEN 3   TRUE 4   TRUE 5   FALSE 6   FALSE 7   C 8   A 9   C 10   B 11   C 12   E 13   B 14    D Section 2 15   sewage 16   poisoning 17   drowning 18   gloves 19   tags 20   disconnected 21   objectives 22   review 23   calendar 24   collaboration 25   distraction 26   creativity 27   retention Section 3 28   iv 29   vi 30   vii 31   i 32   v 33   iii 34   A 35   C 36   D 37   B 38   flexible 39   land 40   ball

SECTION 1 Questions 1-14 Read the text below and answer Questions 1-6 Consumer advice What to do if something you ordered hasn’t arrived If something you’ve ordered hasn’t arrived, you should contact the seller to find out where it is. It’s legal responsibility to make sure the item is delivered to you. They should chase the delivery company and let you know what’s happened to your item. If your item wasn’t delivered to the location you agreed (e.g. if it was left with your neighbour without your consent), it’s the seller’s legal responsibility to sort out the issue. If the item doesn’t turn up, you’re legally entitled to a replacement or refund. You can ask for your money back if you don’t receive the item within 30 days of buying it. If the seller refuses, you should put your complaint in writing. If that doesn’t work, you could contact their trade association – look on their website for this information, or contact them to ask. You might also be able to get your money back through your bank or payment provider – this depends on how you paid. ●   If you paid by debit card, contact your bank and say you want to use the ‘chargeback’ scheme. If the bank agrees, they can ask the seller’s bank to refund the money to your account. Many bank staff don’t know about the scheme, so you might need to speak to a supervisor or manager. You should do this within 120 days of when you paid. ●   If you paid by credit card and the item cost less than £100, you should contact your credit card company and say you want to use the ‘chargeback’ scheme. There’s no time limit for when you need to do this. If the item cost more than £100 but less than £30,000, contact your credit card company and say that you want to make a ‘section 75’ claim. ●   If you paid using PayPal, use PayPal’s online resolution centre to report your dispute. You must do this within 180 days of paying. Questions 1-6 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 1-6 on your answer sheet, write TRUE               if the statement agrees with the information FALSE              if the statement contradicts the information NOT GIVEN    if there is no information on this 1   You will receive a card telling you if an item has been left with a neighbour. 2   It may be quicker to get a refund than a replacement for a non-delivered item. 3   You are entitled to a refund if the item fails to arrive by a certain time. 4   There is a time limit when using the ‘chargeback’ scheme for a debit card payment. 5   You can use the ‘chargeback’ scheme for a credit card payment of more than £100. 6   PayPal’s online resolution centre has a good reputation for efficiency. Read the text below and answer Questions 7-14. Rice cookers What’s the best rice cooker for you? A   Ezy Rice Cooker This has a 1.8 litre pot and a stainless steel exterior. It has a separate glass lid, and the handle on the lid stays cool. It produces perfectly cooked white rice, but tends to spit when cooking brown rice. There are slight dirt traps around the rim of the lid, and neither the pot nor the lid is dishwasher safe. B   Family Rice Cooker This has a plastic exterior and a flip-top lid. The lid locks when closed and becomes a secure handle to carry the cooker. The aluminium interior pot is quite difficult to clean, and it can’t be put in a dishwasher. It’s programmed to adjust the temperature once the rice is done so that it stops cooking but doesn’t get cold. C   Mini Rice Cooker This has a flip-top lid and a 0.3 litre capacity. The interior pot is made of non-stick aluminium and is dishwasher safe. This rice cooker is ideal when cooking for one. However it does not have any handles at the side, and water sometimes overflows when cooking brown rice. D   VPN Rice Cooker This has a painted steel exterior with a handle on each side and a steel inner pot. It has a lift-off lid and comes with a booklet including a range of ideas for rice dishes. However, the keep-warm setting must be manually selected and the handles are tricky to grip. E   S16 Rice cooker This is simple to use, not spitting or boiling over even when cooking brown rice. The exterior stays cool when in use, so there’s no danger of burning your hand. However, the lack of handles is a nuisance, and a recipe book would have been useful. Questions 7-14 Look at the five reviews of rice cookers, A-E. For which rice cooker are the following statements true? Write the correct letter, A-E, in boxes 7-14 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any letter more than once. 7   The handles at the side are hard to use. 8   It cooks brown rice without making a mess. 9   It automatically switches setting to keep to rice warm when cooked. 10   It’s difficult to get the removable top really clean. 11   A selection of recipes is provided with the cooker. 12   It has a handle at the top for carrying the cooker safely. 13   The outside of the cooker doesn’t get too hot. 14   You can put the pot in the dishwasher. SECTION 2 Questions 15-27 Read the text below and answer Questions 15-22 Safety when working on roofs A fall from height is the most serious hazard associated with roof work. Preventing falls from roofs is a priority for WorkSafe New Zealand. Investigation by WorkSafe into falls that occur while working at height show that more than 50 percent of falls are from under three metres, and most of these are from ladders and roofs. The cost of these falls is estimated to be $24 million a year – to say nothing of the human costs that result from these falls. More injuries happen on residential building sites than any other workplace in the construction sector. In order to prevent such injuries, a hazard assessment should be carried out for all work on roofs to assess potential dangers. It is essential that the hazards are identified before the work starts, and that the necessary equipment, appropriate precautions and systems of work are provided and implemented. Hazard identification should be repeated periodically or when there is a change in conditions, for example, the weather or numbers of staff onsite. The first thing to be considered is whether it is possible to eliminate this hazard completely, so that workers are not exposed to the danger of falling. This can sometimes be done at the design, construction planning, and tendering stage. If the possibility of a fall cannot be eliminated, some form of edge protection should be used to prevent workers from falling. It may be possible to use the existing scaffolding as edge protection. If this is not practicable, then temporary work platforms should be used. In cases where such protection is not possible, then steps should be taken to minimise the likelihood of any harm resulting. This means considering the use of safety nets and other similar systems to make it less likely that injury will be caused if a fall does occur. Ladders should only be employed for short-duration maintenance work such as touching up paint. People using ladders should be trained and instructed in the selection and safe use of ladders. There should be inspection of all ladders on a regular basis to ensure they are safe to use. Questions 15-22 Complete the notes below. Choose NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 15-22 on your answer sheet. Safety when working on roofs Investigations show that ●   over half of falls are from less than 15………………. ●   most falls are from ladders and roofs ●   falls cost $24 million per year ●   the majority of falls occur on 16………………. Hazard identification should be carried out ●   before the work starts ●   when conditions such as the weather or worker numbers change Controls ●   17 ………………. the hazard at the planning stage before the work begins if possible ●   prevent a fall by using edge protection, e.g. scaffolding or 18………………. ●   reduce the likelihood of injury, e.g. by using 19…………….. Ladders ●   these should only be used for 20……………… which does not take a long time ●   training should be provided in their 21…………….. and use ●   regular 22……………… of ladders is required Read the text below and answer Questions 23-27 Maternity Allowance for working women You can claim Maternity Allowance once you’ve been pregnant for 26 weeks. Payments start 11 weeks before the date on which your baby is due. The amount you can get depends on your eligibility. You could get either: ●   £140.98 a week or 90% of your average weekly earnings (whichever is less) for 39 weeks ●   £27 a week for 14 weeks Maternity Allowance for 39 weeks You might get Maternity Allowance for 39 weeks if one of the following applies: ●   you’re employed ●   you’re self-employed and pay Class 2 National Insurance (including voluntary National Insurance) ●   you’ve recently stopped working You may still qualify even if you’ve recently stopped working. It doesn’t matter if you had different jobs, or periods when you were unemployed. Maternity Allowance for 14 weeks You might get Maternity Allowance for 14 weeks if for at least 26 weeks in the 66 weeks before your baby is due: ●   you were married or in a civil partnership ●   you were not employed or self-employed ●   you took part in the business of your self-employed spouse or civil partner How to claim You’ll need an MA1 claim form, available online. You can print this and fill it in, or fill it in online. You also need to provide a payslip or a Certificate of Small Earnings Exemption as proof of your income, and proof of the baby’s due date, such as a doctor’s letter. You should get a decision on your claim within 24 working days. You should report any changes to your circumstances, for example, if you go back to work, to your local Jobcentre Plus as they can affect how much allowance you get. Questions 23-27 Complete the sentences below. Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 23-27 on your answer sheet. 23   The maximum amount of money a woman can get each week is £……………… . 24   Being ………………. for a time does not necessarily mean that a woman will not be eligible for Maternity Allowance. 25   In order to claim, a woman must send a ………………. or a Small Earnings Exemption Certificate as evidence of her income. 26   In order to claim, a woman may need to provide a ……………….. as evidence of the due date. 27   Payment may be affected by differences in someone’s ………………… , such as a return to work, and the local Jobcentre Plus must be informed. SECTION 3 Questions 28-40 Read the text below and answer Questions 28-40. The California Gold Rush of 1849 The discovery of gold in the Sacramento Valley sparked the Gold Rush, arguably one of the most significant events to shape American history in the 19th century A On January 24, 1848, James Wilson Marshall, a carpenter, found small flakes of gold in the American River near Coloma, California. At the time, Marshall was working to build a water-powered sawmill for businessman John Sutter. As it happens, just days after Marshall’s discovery, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed, ending the Mexican-American War and transferring California, with its mineral deposits, into the ownership of the United States. At the time, the population of the territory consisted of 6,500 Californios (people of Spanish or Mexican descent); 700 foreigners (primarily Americans); and 150,000 Native Americans. B Though Marshall and Sutter tried to keep news of the discovery quiet, word got out, and by mid-March 1848 at least one newspaper was reporting that large quantities of gold were being found. Though the initial reaction in San Francisco was disbelief, storekeeper Sam Brannan set off a frenzy when he paraded through town displaying a small bottle containing gold from Sutter’s Creek. By mid-June, some three-quarters of the male population of San Francisco had left town for the gold mines, and the number of miners in the area reached 4,000 by August. C As news spread of the fortunes being made in California, the first migrants to arrive were those from lands accessible by boat, such as Oregon, the Sandwich Islands (now Hawaii), Mexico, Chile, Peru and even China. Only later would the news reach the East Coast, where press reports were initially skeptical. Throughout 1849, thousands of people around the United States (mostly men) borrowed money, mortgaged their property or spent their life savings to make the arduous journey to California. In pursuit of the kind of wealth they had never dreamed of, they left their families and local areas; in turn, their wives had no option but to shoulder different responsibilities such as running farms or businesses, and many made a real success of them. By the end of the year, the non-native population of California was estimated at 100,000 (as compared with 20,000 at the end of 1848 and around 800 in March 1848). To accommodate the needs of the ‘49ers, as the gold miners were known, towns had sprung up all over the region, complete with shops and other businesses seeking to make their own Gold Rush fortune. The overcrowded chaos of the mining camps and towns grew ever more lawless. San Francisco, for its part, developed a bustling economy and became the central metropolis of the new frontier. D How did all these would-be miners search for gold? Panning was the oldest way. The basic procedure was to place some gold-bearing material, such as river gravel, into a shallow pan, add some water, and then carefully swirl the mixture around so the water and light material spilled over the side. If all went well, the heavier gold nuggets or gold dust would settle to the bottom of the pan. Gold panning was slow even for the most skillful miner. On a good day, one miner could wash about 50 pans in the usual 12-hour workday. E Another way was to use what was called a ‘rocker’. Isaac Humphrey is said to have introduced it to the California gold fields. It was simply a rectangular wooden box, set at a downward angle and mounted on a rocking mechanism. The dirt and rock was dumped into the top, followed by a bucket of water. The box was rocked by hand to agitate the mixture. The big rocks were caught in a sieve at the top, the waste exited the lower and with the water, and the heavy gold fell to the bottom of the box. The rocker had advantages and disadvantages. The advantages were that it was easily transportable; it did not require a constant source of water; and, most importantly, a miner could process more dirt and rock than with a pan. The primary disadvantage was that the rocker had difficulty in trapping the smallest particles of gold, commonly known as ‘flour’. Some miners added small amounts of mercury to the bottom of the rocker. Due to its chemical composition, it had a facility to trap fine gold. Periodically, the miners would remove and heat it. As it vaporized, it would leave gold behind. F After 1850, the surface gold in California had largely disappeared, even as miners continued to reach the gold fields. Mining had always been difficult and dangerous labor, and striking it rich required good luck as much as skill and hard work. Moreover, the average daily pay for an independent miner had by then dropped sharply from what it had been in 1848. As gold became more and more difficult to reach, the growing industrialization of mining drove more and more miners from independence into wage labor. The new technique of hydraulic mining, developed in 1853, brought enormous profits, but destroyed much of the region’s landscape. G Though gold mining continued throughout the 1850s, it had reached its peak by 1852, when gold worth some $81 million was pulled from the ground. After that year, the total take declined gradually, leveling off to around $45 million per year by 1857. Settlement in California continued, however, and by the end of the decade the state’s population was 380,000 Questions 28-31 Choose the correct letter, A, B, C or D. Write the correct letter in boxes 28-31 on your answer sheet. 28   The writer suggests that Marshall’s discovery came at a good time for the US because A   the Mexican-American War was ending so there were men needing work. B   his expertise in water power would be useful in gold mining. C   the population of California had already begun to increase rapidly. D   the region was about to come under the control of the US. 29   What was the reaction in 1848 to the news of the discovery of gold? A   The press played a large part in convincing the public of the riches available. B   Many men in San Francisco left immediately to check it out for themselves. C   People needed to see physical evidence before they took it seriously. D   Men in other mines in the US were among the first to respond to it. 30   What was the result of thousands of people moving to California? A   San Francisco could not cope with the influx of people from around the world. B   Many miners got more money than they could ever have earned at home. C   Some of those who stayed behind had to take on unexpected roles. D   New towns were established which became good places to live. 31   What does the writer say about using pans and rockers to find gold? A   Both methods required the addition of mercury. B   A rocker needed more than one miner to operate it. C   Pans were the best system for novice miners to use. D   Miners had to find a way round a design fault in one system. Questions 32-36 The text has seven sections, A-G. Which section contains the following information? Write the correct letter, A-G, in boxes 32-36 on your answer sheet. 32   a reference to ways of making money in California other than mining for gold 33   a suggestion that the gold that was found did not often compensate for the hard work undertaken 34   a mention of an individual who convinced many of the existence of gold in California. 35   details of the pre-Gold Rush population of California 36   a contrast between shrinking revenue and increasing population Questions 37-40 Complete the summary below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 37-40 on your answer sheet. Basic techniques for extracting gold The most basic method used by many miners began with digging some 37………………. out of a river and hoping it might contain gold. Small amounts were put in a pan with water. The pan was spun round, causing the liquid and less heavy contents of the pan to come out. Gold dust, which weighed more, remained in the pan or, if the miners were very lucky, there might even be some 38……………….. too. It was, however, a very laborious method. The rocker was also used. A miner would put some earth and rock into the higher end, together with some water. He would then shake the rocker. Larger stones stuck in the 39……………….. , while gold dropped to the bottom. Unfortunately, the rocker was not designed to catch what was called flour. However, a process was introduced involving 40………………. to ensure no gold was washed out in the water. Answer : Section 1 1   NOT GIVEN 2   NOT GIVEN 3   TRUE 4   TRUE 5   FALSE 6   NOT GIVEN 7   D 8   E 9   B 10   A 11   D 12   B 13   E 14   C Section 2 15   3 / three metres / meters 16   residential building sites 17   eliminate 18   (temporary) (work) platforms 19   safety nets 20   (maintenance) work 21   selection 22   inspection 23   140.98 24   unemployed 25   payslip 26   doctor’s letter 27   circumstances Section 3 28   D 29   C 30   C 31   D 32   C 33   F 34   B 35   A 36   G 37   gravel 38   nuggets 39   sieve 40   mercury

SECTION 1 Questions 1-14 Read the text below and answer Questions 1-7. Visitor attractions in southern England A   Blackthorn Castle This famous, historically accurate, reconstructed castle and village enable visitors to travel back in time. Explore the grounds and experience the atmosphere of an ancient lifestyle. In the fields, you can see the type of sheep that the original inhabitants of the castle probably kept. Homemade snacks are on sale. B   Withney Wetland Centre Visitors will enjoy a visit to Withney whatever the season. In winter, for example, they can watch from the centrally heated observatory as thousands of swans feed on the water. Trained wardens give informative talks or lead guided walks round the site. The visitors’ centre may also be hired for private or corporate events. C   Headley Hall Headley Hall is a large seventeenth-century country house, preserved as it was when it was built. Take time to admire the various works of art displayed, and visit the huge kitchen complete with period equipment — demonstrations are given at weekends. In the park, there is space for the younger visitors to run around, and picnic tables are available. D   Lewis House Lewis House is the birthplace of Frank Lewis, a renowned painter of the eighteenth century. More of his works are on display here than anywhere else in the world. Visitors can see Lewis’s studio and some of the articles he used on a daily basis. E   Canford Wildlife Centre At Canford we have a new walk-through exhibit called Island Magic. Here visitors can observe many species from the tropical island of Madagascar and read about some of the urgent conservation projects that are taking place there to save endangered species from extinction. F   Oakwell Museum This is an ideal venue for families. They can visit the childhood gallery with its large playroom, and listen to stories told by actors dressed in the costumes of a hundred years ago. They can also enjoy the popular games and wooden animals of that period. Questions 1-7 Look at the six visitor attractions in southern England, A-F, in the text. For which visitor attraction are the following statements true? Write the correct letter, A-F, in boxes 1-7 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any letter more than once. 1   Visitors can look at animals from another part of the world. 2   People can hold a business conference in this place. 3   Visitors can find out what toys were used in the last century. 4   Activities are available all year round here. 5   You can buy light meals here. 6   Visitors can see how food was prepared in the past. 7   You can visit modern imitations of old buildings here. Read the text below and answer Questions 8-14. Paragliding in Australia What is paragliding? Paragliding is a kind of flying, but instead of the wing being made of metal, wood or plastic, it is made of nylon or polyester. The wing (known as a canopy) is attached to a harness by lines, not dissimilar to a parachute. The harness is where the pilots sit – and they report that it outperforms a parachute in terms of comfort. Is it safe? Like sailing and deep-sea diving, paragliding is as safe as the person doing it. The big advantage is that it’s probably the slowest form of aviation, so if you do crash you’ll hit the ground quite gently! Where do I learn? There are lots of schools, mainly based inland by appropriate hills or mountains, and there are also schools on the coast near spectacular cliffs. These are very attractive, though the prospect of landing in the sea seems to dissuade beginners! All schools will show you within a couple of days how to inflate the canopy, launch and land. They use radio instruction, tandem flying practice and schoolroom theory sessions to help you get the most from paragliding. It takes about seven days to get your basic licence; then you’re free to fly independently at sites across Australia. What do I need? Pilots normally wear warm clothes, in case they get very high up, and a helmet in case they stumble on landing. In terms of gear, schools supply basic training, canopies, harnesses, etc. However, you’ll probably want to buy your own more sophisticated equipment, which you’ll be able to choose much better once you’ve tried some out on your course. Who can do it? There’s no upper age limit provided your instructor deems you capable, but the youngest anybody can paraglide is 14. Anybody with good eyesight and good balance is a potential paraglider pilot. It’s a very relaxed sport as you’re mostly sitting down. You’ll probably experience pain in some muscles you didn’t know you had whilst learning, but many of those will be due to the walk up the training hill to launch. Flying a paraglider is a great sport. We hope to see you in the air with us this season! Questions 8-14 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 8-14 on your answer sheet, write TRUE              if the statement agrees with the information FALSE             if the statement contradicts the information NOT GIVEN   if there is no information on this 8   A paraglider is more comfortable than a parachute. 9   Most paragliding schools are situated by the sea. 10   Learners must pass a theory test in order to get their licence. 11   Learners are able to paraglide unaccompanied after a week’s course. 12   It is advisable to purchase some equipment before you do your training. 13   Fit people of any age can take up paragliding. 14   The preliminary uphill walk may strain some of your muscles. SECTION 2 Questions 15-27 Read the text below and answer Questions 15-21. How to prepare for an interview Why prepare? There are three main reasons. One:    Although you can’t guess every question you might be asked, if you are prepared you can tailor your answers to fit. Two:    If you’re well prepared, you will have more confidence and this will affect the way you come across. Three:    Attitude matters. Prospective employers will choose a not-quite-perfect but willing candidate over a brilliant one who obviously isn’t bothered. What to prepare? Find out about the organisation •  Visit the website and read any materials that you have been sent. If nothing has been sent, phone the company to ask for any reading matter they may have. •  Talk to anyone you know who works there already. Find out about the job •  Ask for a job description or specification. This will tell you the duties that go with the job. •  Talk to anyone you know who is familiar with the work you may be doing. Find out what the employer is looking for •  Make a list of the skills specified in the job advertisement. •  Think of examples to back up claims that you have these skills. You can then answer most of the questions that will come up, such as ‘Tell me more about how you work in a team’. Add in a few ‘lessons learned’ – what you did and how you might have done it better. You can also outline any voluntary work you have done for a charity, or any experience of paid work in an unrelated sector. Preparing for other kinds of questions Interviewers are also looking for someone who is likely to stay with the organisation and progress within it. Prepare to answer questions about your ambitions for the future. You may also be asked to account for gaps in your career history, if you have any. Be positive and accentuate the learning or experience you gained during these periods. Preparing your own questions •  Do ask technical questions about software, systems and structures and how things are done. •  Do ask about possibilities for training. •  Don’t ask about salary unless you have been offered the job. When you’ve prepared as much as this, you’ve got a good chance of success. Good luck! Questions 15-21 Complete the sentences below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 15-21 on your answer sheet. 15   By preparing for your interview, you will gain ………………… which will help you present yourself well. 16   Read through any documents you have received about the company and also go to their ………………… . 17   Check the job description to find out what ………………… are involved in the post you have applied for. 18   Interviewers may be interested to hear about any unpaid help you have given to a ………………… . 19   Be ready to talk about your ………………… for the development of your career. 20   Explain any ………………… that there are in your work record and clarify how you used the time to improve your skills. 21   Questions about ………………… should be delayed until a later stage. Read the text below and answer Questions 22-27. Setting up your own business Here are some ideas about how you should start: Know your market So you know what you want to sell – the most important thing is that it should be something that people want to buy. Start by thinking about who your target customers are. Are they people who live locally? Are they a particular group of people? Now, look at your competitors. What is different about what you will be doing and how will you persuade people to come to you instead of going to someone who is already established? How will you reach the customers? Will you promote your product by phoning people, or visiting local traders, or advertising in magazines or online? Will your delivery system be direct or through shops? How will your business work? Now think about what your business needs to succeed. Do you need to look for premises or can you work from home? Do you need to invest in manufacturing equipment to start with? Is the business something chat you can do on your own, or if you get more work will you be looking to recruit staff? If so, what skills would they need? Whether you’re a sole operator or are looking to recruit a team, effective management is essential. The law regulates how companies are run and you need to set aside the time to see that this is done properly, in relation to issues like accounting, insurance and tax. The money! As you are working our die prices for your products, you need to make sure you build in all your costs. Remember you will probably need help from an accountant at least once a year, so build that in too, and do a forecast of how much money you think will flow in and out of the business. Look at what you expect to happen over the next three years — and work out what you need to do to break even, as well as the turnover that you hope to achieve to give you a profit. If you think you will need to find some funding to help get the business off the ground, how much will you need and who will you approach to get it? Your business plan Now write it all up and call it a business plan. Questions 22-27 Complete the sentences below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 22-27 on your answer sheet. Step 1: Decide who you are going to sell to and compare yourself with the 22………………… you are going to have. Step 2: Consider how you will market your product and your method of 23………………… . Step 3: Decide if you will have to find 24………………… to work in, or buy equipment. Step 4: Think whether you will need to take on staff as your business grows. Step 5: Make sure you deal with the accounts and other essentials in accordance with the 25………………… . Step 6: Calculate all the 26………………… involved in your business when deciding how much to charge. Step 7: Calculate the turnover you are aiming for in order to make a profit in the first three years. Step 8: Consider if you require any 27………………… to start your business, and where to find it. SECTION 3 Questions 28-40 Read the text below and answer Questions 28-40. Understanding hares With its wild stare, swift speed and secretive nature, the UK’s brown hare is the rabbit’s mysterious cousin. Even in these days of agricultural intensification, the hare is still to be seen in open countryside, but its numbers are falling. A Like many herbivores, brown hares spend a relatively large amount of their time feeding. They prefer to do this in the dark, but when nights are short, their activities do spill into daylight hours. Wherever they live, hares appear to have a fondness for fields with a variety of vegetation, for example short as well as longer clumps of grasses. Studies have demonstrated that they benefit from uncultivated land and other unploughed areas on farms, such as field margins. Therefore, if farmers provided patches of woodland in areas of pasture as well as assorted crops in arable areas, there would be year-round shelter and food, and this could be the key to turning round the current decline in hare populations. B Brown hares have a number of physical adaptations that enable them to survive in open countryside. They have exceptionally large ears that move independently, so that a range of sounds can be pinpointed accurately. Positioned high up on their heads, the hares’ large golden eyes give them 360° vision, making it hard to take a hare by surprise. Compared to mammals of a similar size, hares have a greatly enlarged heart and a higher volume of blood in their bodies, and this allows for superior speed and stamina. In addition, their legs are longer than those of a rabbit, enabling hares to run more like a dog and reach speeds of up to 70 kph. C Brown hares have unusual lifestyles for their large size, breeding from a young age and producing many leverets (babies). There are about three litters of up to four leverets every year. Both males and females are able to breed at about seven months old, but they have to be quick because they seldom live for more than two years. The breeding season runs from January to October, and by late February most females are pregnant or giving birth to their first litter of the year. So it seems strange, therefore, that it is in March, when the breeding season is already underway, that hares seemingly go mad: boxing, dancing, running and fighting. This has given rise to the age-old reference to ‘mad March hares’. In fact, boxing occurs throughout the breeding season, but people tend to see this behaviour more often in March. This is because in the succeeding months, dusk – the time when hares are most active – is later, when fewer people are about. Crops and vegetation are also taller, hiding the hares from view. Though it is often thought that they are males fighting over females, boxing hares are usually females fighting off males. Hares are mostly solitary, but a female fights off a series of males until she is ready to mate. This occurs several times through the breeding season because, as soon as the female has given birth, she will be ready to mate again. D But how can females manage to do this while simultaneously feeding themselves and rearing their young? The reason is that hares have evolved such self-sufficient young. Unlike baby rabbits, leverets are born furry and mobile. They weigh about 100 g at birth and are immediately left to their own devices by their mothers. A few days later, the members of the litter creep away to create their own individual resting places, known as ‘forms’. Incredibly, their mother visits them only once every 24 hours and, even then, she only suckles them for a maximum of five minutes each. This lack of family contact may seem harsh to us, but it is a strategy that draws less attention from predators. At the tender age of two weeks, leverets start to feed themselves, while still drinking their mother’s milk. They grow swiftly and are fully weaned at four weeks, reaching adult weight at about six months. E Research has shown that hares’ milk is extremely rich and fatty, so a little goes a long way. In order to produce such nutritious milk, females need a high-quality, high-calorie diet. Hares are selective feeders at the best of times: unlike many herbivores, they can’t sit around waiting to digest low-quality food – they need high- energy herbs and other leaves in order to sprint. This causes them problems when faced with the smallest alterations in food availability and abundance. So, as well as reductions in the diversity of farmland habitat, the decline in the range of food plants is injurious to hares. F The rapid turnaround in the breeding cycle suggests that hares should, in principle, be able to increase their populations quickly to exploit new habitats. They certainly used to: studies show that hares evolved on the open plains and spread rapidly westward from the Black Sea after the last ice age (though they were probably introduced to Britain as a species to be hunted for the pot by the Romans). But today’s hares are thwarted by the lack of rich farmland habitat. When the delicate herbs and other plants they rely on are ploughed up or poisoned by herbicides, these wonderful, agile runners disappear too, taking with them some of the wildness from our lives. Questions 28-33 The following text has six sections, A-F. Choose the correct heading for each section from the list of headings below. Write the correct number, i-ix, in boxes 28-33 on your answer sheet. List of headings i       The need for population reduction ii      The problem with being a fussy eater iii     Reproductive patterns iv     The need for further research v      A possible solution to falling numbers vi     The fastest runners vii    A rather lonely beginning viii   A comparison between past and present survival rates ix     Useful physical features 28   Paragraph A 29   Paragraph B 30   Paragraph C 31   Paragraph D 32   Paragraph E 33   Paragraph F Questions 34-36 Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D. Write the correct letter in boxes 34-36 on your answer sheet. 34   According to the writer, what is the ideal habitat for hares? A   open grassland which they can run across B   densely wooded areas to breed in C   areas which include a range of vegetation D   land that has been farmed intensively for years 35   When leverets are living alone they are not visited often by their mother because A   this helps to protect them from being eaten by other animals. B   the ‘forms’ are so far apart. C   they are very energetic from a surprisingly early age. D   they know how to find their own food from birth. 36   What does the writer suggest about the adult hares’ diet? A   They need some plants with a high fat content. B   They need time to digest the plants that they eat. C   It is difficult for them to adapt to changes in vegetation. D   It is vital for them to have a supply of one particular herb. Questions 37-40 Complete the summary below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 37-40 on your answer sheet. Brown hares The brown hare is well known for its ability to run fast, at speeds of up to 70 kph, largely due to the length of its legs as well as the unusual size of its heart. An increased amount of blood also gives it the necessary 37………………… to continue running fast for some time. A running hare resembles the 38………………… more closely than its relative, the rabbit. The hare has some other characteristics that help it to avoid capture. The first is its excellent all-round 39………………… .This means that predators cannot easily creep up behind it. Another feature is its ability to position its massive 40………………… separately, to sense the slightest indication of danger. Answer: Section 1 1   E 2   B 3   F 4   B 5   A 6   C 7   A 8   TRUE 9   FALSE 10   NOT GIVEN 11   TRUE 12   FALSE 13   FALSE 14   TRUE Section 2 15   confidence 16   website 17   duties 18   charity 19   ambitions 20   gaps 21   salary 22   competitors 23   delivery 24   premises 25   law 26   costs 27   funding Section 3 28   v 29   ix 30   iii 31   vii 32   ii 33   viii 34   C 35   A 36   C 37   stamina/energy 38   dog 39   vision 40   ears

SECTION 1 Questions 1-14 Read the text below and answer Questions 1-6. Summer activities at London’s Kew Gardens A Climb up to the walkway among the trees, 18 metres above the ground, for a spectacular experience. Feel as tall as the trees and enjoy a bird’s-eye view over the gardens. B The Nash Conservatory displays stunning images from leading wildlife photographer Heather Angel. Each photograph explores the wealth of biodiversity at Kew Gardens, from foxes to birds, tiny insects to towering trees. C A world of pollination comes to life in the Princess of Wales Conservatory. Find yourself in a tropical environment whilst walking through clouds of colourful butterflies as they fly around the Conservatory! Come face-to-face with gigantic sculptures of insects, birds and bats, which will help tell the fascinating stories of how they interact with plants. D An extraordinary sound installation created by Chris Watson. On the hour throughout the day, the Palm House is filled with the sound of the dawn and dusk choruses of birds that live in the Central and South American rainforests. E Come and see the fantastic outdoor exhibition of garden, wildlife and botanical photography. Walk amongst enlarged photographs and admire the wonderful garden photos – all taken by children aged 16 and under from all round the country. If you are in this age category and fancy yourself as a photographer, then you can enter for the next show! F Young explorers can discover the new children’s outdoor play area, shaped like a plant, in Kew’s magical Conservation Area. As you journey through this interactive landscape, discover the functions of every part of a plant. Tunnel through giant roots, get lost among the leaves and hide amongst the large fungi, whilst solving puzzles along the way! G What is biodiversity all about? Did you know that every breath we take and every move we make depends on plants? Take a guided tour to discover what biodiversity means and why it matters so much. H Visit our exciting and colourful exhibition of South American botanical paintings, which brings the continent’s exotic and lush plants to life in works from two hundred years ago and from this century. Questions 1-6 The text has eight sections, A-H. Which sections contain the following information? Write the correct letter, A-H, in boxes 1-6 on your answer sheet. 1   learning what all the different sections of a plant do 2   seeing art showing plants from a different part of the world 3   the possibility of having your work exhibited 4   learning about why human beings need plants 5   something that happens daily at the same times 6   learning about the relationship between various creatures, insects and plants Read the text below and answer Questions 7-14. City Park and Ride We have six purpose-built Park and Ride sites serving the city, more than almost anywhere else in the UK. Established for over 40 years, they provide around 5,000 parking spaces for cars. The sites are located on the main routes into the city centre. More than 3,000,000 passengers a year take a bus from a Park and Ride site into the city, reducing congestion and helping to improve the air quality in the city centre. Parking at the sites is available only for those travelling from the site on a Park and Ride or other scheduled bus services, and is free. No overnight parking is permitted. Heavy goods vehicles are not permitted at the Park and Ride site at any time. It’s simple to use. Just park your car and buy your bus ticket from the bus driver, with the correct money if possible. An individual adult daily return purchased prior to 12:30 hrs for use chat day costs £2.40. If purchased after 12:30 hrs it costs £2.10. Up to four children under 16 travel free with an adult or concessionary pass holder. The return fare for unaccompanied children under 16 is £1.10. Cycle and Ride for just £1.10 a day. Just park your cycle, motorcycle or scooter in the allocated space, and buy your ticket from the site office. You may be asked to provide evidence that you have travelled to the Park and Ride site by cycle, motorcycle or scooter. Return tickets for concessionary bus pass holders cost £1 after 09:30 Monday to Friday and any time at the weekend or bank holidays (when open). At other times there is no reduction for holders of concessionary bus passes. Questions 7-14 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 7-14 on your answer sheet, write TRUE              if the statement is true FALSE             if the statement is false NOT GIVEN   if the information is not given in the passage 7   This was one of the first UK cities to introduce a Park and Ride scheme. 8   The amount of congestion in the city centre has fallen. 9   There is a special section of the car park for heavy goods vehicles. 10   Bus drivers do not give change so you must have the correct money for a ticket. 11   Ticket prices vary depending on the time of day. 12   Children under 16 travelling alone are allowed free travel. 13   The space for cycles, motorcycles and scooters is close to the site office. 14   People with concessionary bus passes must pay the full fare to travel at certain times. Advertisements SECTION 2 Questions 15-27 Read the text below and answer Questions 15-20. HOW TO ORGANISE A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS CONFERENCE To start with Advance planning is the key to a hassle-free conference. The key players of a successful conference are the delegates, so identify the audience and then tailor the programme you are planning to their particular needs. Where and when The date and venue should then be chosen. These are often interdependent, and when choosing the date take into account the timing of similar regular events which may clash. Also, consider holiday periods which may mean that people are away and so will not be able to attend. When choosing a venue, check how easy it is to reach by train and plane etc. and the availability of parking for those driving. Visit the venue personally: consider the size of the main lecture hall and whether it is big enough for the anticipated number of delegates, then look into the potential of having breakout areas for separating into a number of groups for discussions. Then check whether there is a suitable lounge area for the tea/coffee breaks and an exhibition space for display stands if required. Who The next stage is to choose the speakers and invite them, making sure you give them ample notice so they are more likely to be available. Ask only those people that you know speak well. Do not try and speak yourself in addition to organising the conference, as this will be too demanding. Contacting people Let people know the date and venue by an early mailshot. This allows them, if they are interested, to put the date into their diaries. At the same time, contact all the speakers again, confirming their particular topic, the audio-visual aids which will be available and finding out their accommodation requirements. Ask them to provide a written summary of their presentation for distribution to delegates at the conference. Final arrangements Approximately 4-5 weeks before the conference, confirm the provisional numbers with the venue. Contact them again about two weeks prior to the conference to confirm final numbers, decide on menus and finalise the arrangements. Prepare delegate packs to include a name badge, delegate list and programme. The venue should provide pads of paper and pens. Then prepare questionnaires for all delegates to complete at the end of the conference. Their responses will enable you to gauge the success of the conference and start planning the next one! Questions 15 -20 Complete the notes below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 15-20 on your answer sheet. ORGANISING A BUSINESS CONFERENCE First steps: –  decide who the conference is for –  ensure the programme fulfils delegates’ requirements Venue and timing: –  try to avoid scheduling the conference during 15…………………… times or when other annual conferences occur –  check accessibility by different modes of transport –  choose a place with a large hall and also 16…………………… spaces for smaller meetings Speakers: –  choose appropriate speakers –  give the speakers as much 17…………………… as possible Communication: –  send out a mailshot to potential delegates –  confirm individual details with speakers, check if they will need accommodation and request a 18…………………… of their presentation Final tasks: –  give the venue precise numbers of attendees –  make sure each person attending receives information about the conference and a 19…………………… for identification –  use 20…………………… to get opinions on the conference Read the text below and answer Questions 21-27 How to deal with the annual performance appraisal The annual performance appraisal can help improve your productivity and provide a foundation for your work priorities. It is, however, critical to have the right attitude and approach. Knowing what areas your superiors see as your weaknesses is the most direct way of increasing the likelihood of being considered for promotion, if that is what you are looking for. Preparation Send your boss a summary of your achievements. Reminding your boss of activities, special assignments you did, and projects you were in charge of helps him or her create a more accurate performance appraisal. Consider keeping notes of these on a regular basis to make it easier to provide the data when required. Create a list of questions you would like to discuss during your appraisal. This one-on-one time with your boss is an excellent opportunity to ask him or her about your role in the company, request any additional responsibilities you would like and clarify your priorities. But it is best to focus your attention around personal and professional improvements, rather than financial considerations, such as an increase in salary. During the appraisal Present a positive attitude as soon as you enter the appraisal room. This approach may lead to a more constructive discussion of review items. Avoid taking any negative assessments that are offered as a personal attack, but rather try to take them on board calmly, because if you put the failings right you will improve your performance. A realistic assessment of your strengths and weaknesses can be one of the most beneficial ways of helping you advance in the company. After the appraisal Create a list of personal goals based on your performance appraisal. Make the items detailed and measurable if possible. Send this list to your boss so he or she knows you took the appraisal seriously. Use this list to help achieve higher scores on your next performance appraisal. Six months after the appraisal, ask for a mid-term review with your boss to discuss your progress. This session should be more relaxed and informal than the official review. Ask for more feedback to help you improve. Checking in with your boss helps him or her remember your dedication as far as your job is concerned, and may help remove any criticisms before they become a review point on your next formal appraisal. Questions 21-27 Complete the sentences below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 21-27 on your answer sheet. 21   By learning at an appraisal what areas of work need improving, staff can improve their chances of getting …………………… . 22   It is important to think of some …………………… that can be used during the appraisal. 23   The appraisal can be a good time to ask the boss for extra …………………… . 24   React …………………… to any criticism. 25   It is helpful to identify a number of individual …………………… arising from the appraisal comments. 26   Staff can request a meeting half-way through the year to look at the …………………… which has been achieved. 27   If staff act on any appraisal comments, they will demonstrate their …………………… to their work. SECTION 3 Questions 28-40 Read the text below and answer Questions 28-40. Efforts to save a special bird — the spoon-billed sandpiper Last year an international team of ornithologists devised a bold plan to rescue one of the world’s rarest birds. Gerrit Vyn reports. A At first glance the spoon-billed sandpiper resembles other small migratory birds of the sandpiper family that breed across the Arctic. But it is the only one to have developed a flattened bill that flares out into a ‘spoon’ at the end, and that makes it special. If it becomes extinct, thousands of years of evolution will come to an end, which would be a real tragedy. The bird’s Russian name, kulik-lopaten, means ‘shovel beak’, which is an apt description of a remarkable structure. The bill is 19 mm long and 10 mm wide near the tip and the edges are lined with sharp serrations, called papillae. Theories have varied as to how the bill functions; one suggestion is that the sandpiper sweeps it through the water in a similar fashion to its larger namesake, the spoonbill. But Nigel Clark, a leading authority on the sandpiper, says the comparison is misleading. B Until a few years ago, the spoon-billed sandpiper had never been fully documented, which added to its fascination. But an air of mystery is not helpful if you’re a Critically Endangered species. So the organisation ‘Birds Russia’ decided to produce a photographic and audio record of this imperilled bird with the help of experts round the world. In May of last year, I joined the international expedition to one of the species’ last breeding strongholds in North-East Russia. The primary aim of the two-and-a-half month expedition, however, was to collect eggs from wild sandpipers; those eggs would then be hatched in captivity nearby. Later, the chicks would be flown to the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT) headquarters at Slimbridge in the UK, in order to establish a small, self-sustaining population there. These birds would provide a ‘safety net’, an insurance policy against the wild birds dying out. C You might wonder why birds like the spoon-billed sandpiper travel such great distances, about 8,000 km in total, from their wintering grounds on the tropical coasts of Bangladesh, Burma and Vietnam in South-East Asia to breed on the low land, commonly called tundra, in North-East Russia, but from the birds’ point of view it is worth it. Though they often arrive to find hostile, wintry weather while they are finding their mates and making their nests, there are relatively few predators there, and the abundance of insects that emerge during the brief but intense Arctic summer creates ideal conditions for raising their chicks. D Two main factors are responsible for the sandpiper’s recent rapid decline: the ongoing destruction of stopover habitat on its migration route and hunting on its wintering grounds. The development of new industrial cities is destroying former tidal areas, where sandpipers and other migratory birds used to rest and refuel. Subsistence hunting is certainly a hazard in some Asian countries, where hunters trap birds for food. Conservationists are targeting this problem with small-scale interventions. For example, hunters from 40 villages have been given alternative sources of income, such as cool boxes in which they can take fish to sell at markets, in return for a halt to the bird-netting. E Once the expedition team had reached its destination, it was seven days before we spotted the first sandpiper. In the following days, more began to arrive and the males’ song was heard, advertising their patches of territory to potential mates. As the sandpipers paired up, the song gave way to the quiet of egg-laying and incubation. In total nine nests were found. The first one was lost to a predator, along with the female attending it. This was a stark reminder of the vulnerability of a tiny population to natural events, such as storms or predation. The team then selected donor nests and transferred the eggs to specially prepared incubators. They collected 20 eggs in all, taking entire clutches each time – it was early in the breeding season, so the females were likely to lay replacements. Then 50 days after our arrival, the moment arrived: I witnessed my first wild spoon-billed sandpipers hatch. I had been lying inside a wind-battered hide for 36 hours when ! saw the first tiny chicks emerge from the eggs. Having hidden a microphone near the nest, I could also just hear their first calls. Later, I watched them stumbling through the 15 cm-high jungle of grasses on comically oversized legs and feet. But my joy was tempered by concern. Difficulties on their migration route and in their wintering areas meant that other tiny creatures like these faced immense dangers. F The complex rescue plan does give some grounds for hope. Young chicks were flown to WWT Slimbridge last year and again this summer. A high-tech biosecure unit has been built for them there, it is divided in two, with the older birds in one section and this year’s chicks in the other. To minimise the risk of infections, staff change into full-body overalls and rubber shoes and wash their hands before entering. Hygiene is crucial: even a single strand of human hair could harm the chicks by becoming twisted round their legs or bills. The rescue plan’s final stage, once the captive flock has built up sufficiently, will be to fly eggs back to Russia, to release the chicks there. It’s a gamble, but when the survival of a species this special is at stake, you have to try. Questions 28-33 The text below has six sections, A-F. Choose the correct heading for each section from the list of headings below. Write the correct number, i-viii, in boxes 28-33 on your answer sheet. List of Headings i       Gaining public recognition ii      Reasons for continuing to make the long journey iii     A disappointment followed by desirable outcomes iv     The main stages of the plan v      A growth in the number of natural predators vi     increasing threats vii    A very unusual feature of these birds viii   Cautious optimism 28   Section A 29   Section B 30   Section C 31   Section D 32   Section E 33   Section F Questions 34 – 37 Choose the correct letter, A, B, C or D. Write the correct letter in boxes 34—37 on your answer sheet. 34   What was the main purpose of the international expedition? A   to add sandpiper eggs to an international frozen egg bank B   to maintain a small group of sandpipers for future generations C   to make an audiovisual record of the Russian sandpiper colony D   to protect a colony of wild sandpipers through a breeding season 35   What do we learn about the drop in the sandpiper population? A   The birds are increasingly being hunted on their way north to Russia. B   Scientists are managing to reduce deaths from netting considerably. C   Efforts are being made to protect some of their coastal habitat sites. D   Economic growth is one of the underlying causes of the decline. 36   Which feeling did the writer express when the sandpiper chicks hatched? A   relief that his long wait was over B   surprise at the sound of their song C   worry about birds of the same species D   amazement that they could walk so soon 37   The writer describes the sandpipers’ unit at WWT Slimbridge to emphasise A   how much care is being devoted to their welfare. B   how much money is being spent on the project. C   his surprise at how fragile the young birds are. D   his confidence in the technology available. Questions 38-40 Complete the summary below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write answers in boxes 38-40 on your answer sheet. The life cycle of the spoon-billed sandpiper In early spring, spoon-billed sandpipers return to their breeding grounds in Russia in the area known as 38………………. . Although the weather there is often very harsh, to begin with, there are obvious advantages to the sandpipers. There is above all a plentiful supply of 39………………. , and this makes it possible for the sandpiper chicks to develop well. The lack of 40………………. is another definite advantage. As a result, a good proportion of the chicks grow up to face the long flight to the South-East Asian coasts. Section 1 1   F 2   H 3   E 4   G 5   D 6   C 7   NOT GIVEN 8   TRUE 9   FALSE 10   FALSE 11   TRUE 12   FALSE 13   NOT GIVEN 14   TRUE Section 2 15   holiday 16   breakout 17   notice 18   summary 19   badge 20   questionnaires 21   promotion 22   questions 23   responsibilities 24   calmly 25   goals 26   progress 27   dedication Section 3 28   vii 29   iv 30   ii 31   vi 32   iii 33   viii 34   B 35   D 36   C 37   A 38   tundra 39   insects 40   predators

SECTION 1 Questions 1-14 Read the text below and answer Questions 1-6. Sustainable School Travel Strategy Over the last 20 years, the number of children being driven to school in England has doubled. National data suggests that one in five cars on the road at 8.50 am is engaged in the school run. Children are subject to up to 3.9 times more pollution in a car that is standing in traffic than when walking or cycling to school. Reducing cars around schools makes them safer places, and walking and cycling are better for health and the environment. It has been noted by teachers that children engaging in active travel arrive at school more alert and ready to learn. The County Council has a strong commitment to supporting and promoting sustainable school travel. We collect data annually about how pupils get to school, and our report on the Sustainable School Travel Strategy sets out in detail what we have achieved so far and what we intend to do in the future. Different parts of the County Council are working together to address the actions identified in the strategy, and we are proud that we have been able to reduce the number of cars on the daily school run by an average of 1% in each of the last three years, which is equivalent to taking approximately 175 cars off the road annually, despite an increase in pupil numbers. All schools have a School Travel Plan, which sets out how the school and the Council can collaborate to help reduce travel to school by car and encourage the use of public transport. Contact your school to find out what they are doing as part of their School Travel Plan to help you get your child to school in a sustainable, safe way. Questions 1-6 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 1-6 on your answer sheet, write TRUE              if the statement agrees with the information FALSE             if the statement contradicts the information NOT GIVEN   if there is no information on this 1   More children are injured when walking or cycling to school than when travelling by car. 2   Children who are driven to school are more ready to learn than those who walk or cycle. 3   Every year the Council gathers information about travel to schools. 4   The Council is disappointed with the small reduction in the number of cars taking children to school. 5   The number of children in schools has risen in recent years. 6   Parents can get help with paying for their children to travel to school by public transport. Read the text below and answer Questions 7-14. Flu: the facts A Flu (influenza) is an acute viral respiratory infection. It spreads easily from person to person: at home, at school, at work, at the supermarket or on the train. B It gets passed on when someone who already has flu coughs or sneezes and is transmitted through the air by droplets, or it can be spread by hands infected by the virus. C Symptoms can include fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, extreme fatigue, a dry cough, sore throat and stuffy nose. Most people will recover within a week but flu can cause severe illness or even death in people at high risk. It is estimated that 18,500-24,800 deaths in England and Wales are attributable to influenza infections annually. D Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection. Although anyone can catch flu, certain people are at greater risk from the implications of flu, as their bodies may not be able to fight the virus. If you are over 65 years old, or suffer from asthma, diabetes, or certain other conditions, you are considered at greater risk from flu and the implications can be serious. If you fall into one of these ‘at-risk’ groups, are pregnant or a carer, you are eligible for a free flu vaccination. E If you are not eligible for a free flu vaccination, you can still protect yourself and those around you from flu by getting a flu vaccination at a local pharmacy. F About seven to ten days after vaccination, your body makes antibodies that help to protect you against any similar viruses that may infect you. This protection lasts about a year. G A flu vaccination contains inactivated, killed virus strains so it can’t give you the flu. However, a flu vaccination can take up to two weeks to begin working, so it is possible to catch flu in this period. H A flu vaccination is designed to protect you against the most common and potent strains of flu circulating so there is a small chance you could catch a strain of flu not contained in the flu vaccine. I The influenza virus is constantly changing and vaccines are developed to predicted strains each year so it is important to get vaccinated against the latest strains. Speak to your GP or nurse today to book your flu vaccination. Questions 7-14 The text has nine sections, A-I. Which sections contain the following information? Write the correct letter, A-I, in boxes 7-14 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any answer more than once. 7   examples of people who are likely to be particularly badly affected by flu 8   how to get a vaccination if you choose to pay for it 9   why new vaccines become available 10   how long a vaccine remains effective 11   reference to the possibility of catching a different type of flu from the ones in the vaccine 12   categories of people who do not have to pay for vaccination 13   information about what a vaccine consists of 14   signs that you might have flu Advertisements SECTION 2 Questions 15-27 Read the text below and answer Questions 15-22. Tips for giving an effective business presentation Preparation Get someone else to evaluate your performance and highlight your best skills. For example, go through your presentation in front of a colleague or relative. Think about who your audience is and what you want them to get out of the presentation. Think about content and style. Go into the presentation room and try out any moves you may have to make, e.g. getting up from your chair and moving to the podium. Errors in the first 20 seconds can be very disorientating. Familiarise yourself with the electronic equipment before the presentation and also have a backup plan in mind, should there be an unexpected problem like a power cut. Dealing with presentation nervousness A certain amount of nervousness is vital for a good presentation. The added adrenaline will keep your faculties sharp and give your presentation skills extra force. This can, however, result in tension in the upper chest. Concentrate on your breathing. Slow it right down and this will relax you. Strangely, having something to pick up and put down tends to help you do this. It may seem an odd idea, but we seem to fee! calmer when we engage in what’s referred to as a displacement activity, like clicking a pen or fiddling with jewellery. A limited amount of this will not be too obvious and can make you feel more secure at the start. Interacting with your audience Think of your presentation as a conversation with your audience. They may not actually say anything, but make them feel consulted, questioned, challenged, then they will stay awake and attentive. Engage with your present audience, not the one you have prepared for. Keep looking for reactions to your ideas and respond to them. If your audience doesn’t appear to be following you, find another way to get your ideas across. If you don’t interact, you might as well send a video recording of your presentation instead! Structuring effective presentations Effective presentations are full of examples. These help your listeners to see more clearly what you mean. It’s quicker and more colourful. Stick to the point using three or four main ideas. For any subsidiary information that you cannot present in 20 minutes, try another medium, such as handouts. End as if your presentation has gone well. Do this even if you feel you’ve presented badly. And anyway a good finish will get you some applause – and you deserve it! Questions 15-22 Complete the sentences below. Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 15-22 on your answer sheet. 15   Practising your presentation on a …………………… or a family member is helpful. 16   Be prepared for a problem such as a …………………… . 17   One way to overcome pre-presentation nerves is to make your …………………… less rapid. 18   It is acceptable to do something called a …………………… at the start of the presentation to reassure you. 19   Your presentation should be like a …………………… with the people who have come to hear you. 20   Check constantly for …………………… to the points you are making. 21   Make sure you use plenty of …………………… to communicate your message effectively. 22   To keep the presentation short, use things like …………………… to provide extra details. Read the text below and answer Questions 23-27. How to get a job in journalism You can get a good qualification in journalism, but what employers actually want is practical, rather than theoretical, knowledge. There’s no substitute for creating real stories that have to be handed in by strict deadlines. So write for your school magazine, then maybe try your hand at editing. Once you’ve done that for a while, start requesting internships in newspapers in the area. These are generally short-term and unpaid, but they’re definitely worthwhile, since, instead of providing you with money, they’ll teach you the skills that every twenty-first-century journalist has to have, like laying out articles, creating web pages, taking good digital pictures and so on. Most reporters keep a copy of every story they’ve had published, from secondary school onwards. They’re called cuttings, and you need them to get a job — indeed a few impressive ones can be the deciding factor in whether you’re appointed or not. So start creating a portfolio now that will show off your developing talent. It seems obvious – research is an important part of an effective job hunt. But it’s surprising how many would-be journalists do little or none. If you’re thorough, it can help you decide whether the job you’re thinking about applying for is right for you. And nothing impresses an editor more than an applicant who knows a lot about the paper. There are two more elements to an application – your covering letter and curriculum vitae. However, your CV is the thing that will attract an editor’s attention first, so get it right. The key words are brevity, (no more than one page) accuracy (absolutely no spelling or typing errors) and clarity (it should be easy to follow). In journalism, good writing skills are essential, so it’s critical that the style of your letter is appropriate. And, make sure it conveys your love of journalism and your eagerness to do the work. Questions 23-27 Complete the flow-chart below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 23-27 on your answer sheet. Getting a job in journalism Gain relevant experience, e.g. writing articles to meet specific deadlines. ↓ Apply for temporary 23…………………… with local papers and acquire the extra 24…………………… you’ll need. ↓ Build up a set of 25…………………… in a portfolio, displaying how your writing ability has progressed over time. ↓ Take time to do detailed 26…………………… first, before applying for a post with a paper. ↓ Once you decide to apply, make sure your CV is short, makes sense and is without 27…………………… of any kind. ↓ Write your covering letter, paying particular attention to the style. SECTION 3 Questions 28-40 Read the text below and answer Questions 28-40. What is it like to run a large supermarket? Jill Insley finds out A You can’t beat really good service. I’ve been shopping in the Thamesmead branch of supermarket chain Morrisons, in south-east London, and I’ve experienced at first hand, the store’s latest maxim for improving the shopping experience – help, offer, thank. This involves identifying customers who might need help, greeting them, asking what they need, providing it, thanking them and leaving them in peace. If they don’t look like they want help, they’ll be left alone. But if they’re standing looking lost and perplexed, a member of staff will approach them. Staff are expected to be friendly to everyone. My checkout assistant has certainly said something to amuse the woman in front of me, she’s smiling as she leaves. Adrian Perriss, manager of the branch, has discussed the approach with each of his 387 staff. He says it’s about recognising that someone needs help, not being a nuisance to them. When he’s in another store, he’s irritated by someone saying, ‘Can I help you?’ when he’s only just walked in to have a quick look at the products. B How anyone can be friendly and enthusiastic when they start work at dawn beats me. The store opens at 7 am, Monday to Saturday, meaning that some staff, including Perriss, have to be here at 6 am to make sure it’s clean, safe and stocked up for the morning rush. Sometimes he walks in at 6 am and thinks they’re never going to be ready on time, but they always are. There’s so much going on overnight – 20 people working on unloading three enormous trailers full of groceries. C Perriss has worked in supermarkets since 1982 when he became a trolley boy on a weekly salary of £76. ‘It was less money than my previous job, but I loved it. It was different and diverse. I was doing trolleys, portering, bread, cakes, dairy and general maintenance.’ After a period in the produce department looking after the fruit and vegetables, he was made produce manager, then assistant store manager before reaching the top job in 1998. This involved intensive training and assessment through the company’s future store manager programme, learning how to analyse and prioritise sales, wastage, recruitment and many other issues. Perriss’ first stop as the store manager was at a store which was closed soon afterwards, though he was not to blame. D Despite the disappointing start, his career went from strength to strength and he was put in charge of launching new stores and heading up a ‘concept’ store, where the then new ideas of preparing and cooking pizzas in store, having a proper florist and fruit and vegetable ‘markets’ were trialled. All Morrisons’ managers from the whole country spent three days there to see the new concept. That was hard work,’ he says, ‘long days, seven days a week, for about a year.’ E Although he oversees a store with a large turnover, there is a strong practical aspect to Perriss’s job. As we walk around, he chats to all the staff while checking the layout of their counters and the quality of the produce. He examines the baking potato shelf and rejects three, one that has split virtually in half and two that are beginning to go green. He then pulls out a lemon that looks fine to me. When I ask why, he picks up a second lemon and says: ‘Close your eyes and just feel and tell me which you would keep.’ I do and realise that while one is firm and hard, the other is going a bit squashy. F Despite eagle-eyed Perriss pulling out fruit and vegetable that most of us would buy without a second thought, the wastage each week is tiny: produce worth £4,200 is marked down for a quick sale, and only £400-worth is scrapped. This, he explains, is down to Morrisons’ method of ordering, still done manually rather than by computer. Department heads know exactly how much they’ve sold that day and how much they’re likely to sell the next, based on sales records and allowing for influences such as the weather. G Perriss is in charge of 1,000 man-hours a week across the store. To help him, he has a key team of four, who each have direct responsibility for different departments. He is keen to hear what staff think. He recently held a ‘talent’ day, inviting employees interested in moving to a new job within the store to come and talk to him about why they thought they should be promoted, and discuss how to go about it. ‘We had twenty- three people come through the door, people wanting to talk about progression,’ he says. ‘What do they need to do to become a supervisor? Twenty-three people will be better members of staff as a result of that talk.’ H His favourite department is fish, which has a four-meter-long run by Debbie and Angela, who are busy having a discussion about how to cook a particular fish with a customer. But it is one of just 20 or so departments around the store and Perriss admits the pressure of making sure he knows what’s happening on them all can be intense. ‘You have to do so much and there could be something wrong with every single one, every day,’ he says. ‘You’ve got to minimise those things and shrink them into perspective. You’ve got to love the job.’ This is what Perriss certainly does. Questions 28-35 The following text has eight sections, A-H. Choose the correct heading for each section from the list of headings below. Write the correct number, i-x, in boxes 28-35 on your answer sheet. List of Headings i       Why Perriss chose a career in supermarkets ii      Preparing for customers to arrive iii     Helping staff to develop iv     Demonstrating a different way of organising a store v      The benefit of accurate forecasting vi     Keeping everything running as smoothly as possible vii    Making sure the items on sale are good enough viii   Noticing when customers need assistance ix     How do staff feel about Perriss? x      Perriss’s early career 28   Section A 29   Section B 30   Section C 31   Section D 32   Section E 33   Section F 34   Section G 35   Section H Questions 36-40 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 36-40 on your answer sheet, write TRUE              if the statement agrees with the information FALSE             if the statement contradicts the information NOT GIVEN   if there is no information on this 36   Perriss encourages staff to offer help to all customers. 37   Perriss is sometimes worried that customers will arrive before the store is ready for them. 38   When Perriss first became a store manager, he knew the store was going to close. 39   On average, produce worth £4,200 is thrown away every week. 40   Perriss was surprised how many staff asked about promotion on the ‘talent’ day. Answer: Section 1 1   NOT GIVEN 2   FALSE 3   TRUE 4   FALSE 5   TRUE 6   NOT GIVEN 7   D 8   E 9    I 10   F 11   H 12   D 13   G 14   C Section 2 15   colleague 16   power cut 17   breathing 18   displacement activity 19   conversation 20   reactions 21   examples 22   handouts 23   internships 24   skills 25   cuttings 26   research 27   errors Section 3 28   viii 29   ii 30   x 31   iv 32   vii 33   v 34   iii 35   vi 36   FALSE 37   TRUE 38   NOT GIVEN 39   FALSE 40   NOT GIVEN

SECTION 1 Questions 1-14 Read the text below and answer Questions 1-5. Is Your Child at School Today? School Attendance Information for Parents/Carers Introduction Receiving a good full-time education will give your child the best possible start in life. Attending school regularly and punctually is essential if children are to make the most of the opportunities available to them. The law says that parents must ensure that their child regularly attends the school where he/she is registered. What you can do to help •  Make sure your child arrives at school on time. This encourages habits of good timekeeping and lessens any possible classroom disruption. If your child arrives after the register has closed without a good reason, this will be recorded as an ‘unauthorised’ absence for that session. •  If your child has to miss school it is vital that you let the school know why, preferably on the first morning of absence. (Your child’s school will have an attendance policy explaining how this should be done.) •  If you know or think that your child is having difficulties attending the school you should contact the school. It is better to do this sooner rather than later, as most problems can be dealt with very quickly. Authorised and Unauthorised Absence If your child is absent and the school either does not receive an explanation from you, or considers the explanation unsatisfactory, it will record your child’s absence as ‘unauthorised’, that is, as truancy. Most absences for acceptable reasons will be authorised by your child’s school: •  Sickness •  Unavoidable medical or dental appointments (if possible, arrange these for after school or during school holidays) •  An interview with a prospective employer or college •  Exceptional family circumstances, such as bereavement •  Days of religious observance. Your child’s school will not authorise absence for the following reasons: •  Shopping during school hours •  Day trips •  Holidays which have not been agreed •  Birthdays •  Looking after brothers or sisters or ill relatives. Questions 1-5 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 1-5 on your answer sheet, write TRUE              if the statement is true FALSE             if the statement is false NOT GIVEN   if the information is not given in the passage 1   Children must go to the school where they are registered. 2   All arrivals after the register has closed are recorded as ‘unauthorised’ absences. 3   If your child is absent from school, you must send the school a letter to explain why. 4   Staff who think a child is having difficulties at school will contact the parents. 5   Schools will contact other authorities about children who take frequent unauthorised absences. Read the text below and answer Questions 6-14. HOLIDAY APARTMENTS TO LET A Sleeps 2-3. One-bedroom apartment with uninterrupted sea views. This is a small first-floor apartment in a well-established apartment complex containing a range of leisure facilities and a supermarket for residents. On the edge of the town but close to cafes and restaurants. On-street parking is generally available. B Sleeps 2-4. Spacious one-bedroom apartment in a complex that has only just opened, five minutes’ walk from the sea. Private parking in front of the building. It is located in a quiet, unspoilt village with a local market, banks, cafés and restaurants. There are some fabulous championship golf courses within easy walking distance. C Sleeps 2+child. One-bedroom cottage (child’s bed can also be provided), large terrace with uninterrupted views of the river and mountains. A truly peaceful location in a picturesque village, but less than ten minutes’ drive from the coast and all the amenities of a town. Owners live nearby and are happy to help in any way they can. D Sleeps 2-5. Two-bedroom apartment in a complex with its own pool and beautiful views of the national park. A peaceful location just 3 km from the town centre, where there are plenty of shops and excellent sports facilities. Superb local golf courses within easy reach. E Sleeps 2-4. Modern one-bedroom first-floor apartment in the house, owners resident on the ground floor. This great location offers easy access to all that this fantastic town has to offer, a few minutes’ drive from its supermarket, bank, cafes, restaurants. The ferry to the island beach leaves from 100 m away. Ten minutes walk from the new shopping centre, which has many shops, food hall, cinema and multi-storey car park. F Sleeps 2. One-bedroom first-floor apartment. Beautifully furnished, offering a high standard of comfort. Situated in a peaceful location on the edge of an inland village, with attractive views of the golf course. Many restaurants, bars, shops etc. are within easy walking distance. Garage available by arrangement with the owners. G Sleeps 2-4. Two-bedroom apartment in central location in the busy street with shops, restaurants etc. not far from the beach. The town has ideal facilities for holidays all year round, including swimming pool, tennis courts and golf course. Questions 6-14 The text has seven sections, A-G. For which apartment are the following statements true? Write the correct letter, A-G, in boxes 6-14 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any letter more than once. 6   It overlooks a golf course. 7   It has its own parking space. 8   It is in the centre of a town. 9   The sea can be seen from it. 10   There is a swimming pool for residents of the apartment complex. 11   It is in a new apartment complex. 12   It is part of an apartment complex with its own supermarket. 13   It has a private outdoor area where you can sit. 14   The owners will organise parking on request Advertisements SECTION 2 Questions 15-27 Read the text below and answer Questions 15-21. GZJ TRAVEL – Recruitment Info We’re looking for keen and effective people who are passionate about travel to work as Travel Sales Consultants in our rapidly-growing team. Our recruitment process has five stages. Here’s how it works: The first stage is to use our online application form to apply for a current vacancy. This is your chance to tell us about yourself, and the qualities and experience you have that make you the ideal person for the job. For the Travel Sales Consultant role, you’ll need to provide us with evidence that you have extensive experience in a marketing environment, as well as a solid academic background. If you’re interested in a career as a Corporate Travel Consultant, you’ll need at least one year’s experience as a Travel Consultant. If you reach Stage Two, we’ll arrange a telephone discussion, where you can find out more about us, including the rewards on offer. For instance, once a year we like to acknowledge outstanding efforts and celebrate successes with our co-workers, and we have prize-giving ceremonies designed to do just this. In Stage Three we’ll be able to give you more information about GZJ Travel and find out more about you, at an interview which you’ll attend with a small group of other applicants. We’ll be asking you about your ambitions and of course your sales ability, the most vital quality for our business. You’ll also be required to complete a psychometric test so we can find out more about your working style and characteristics. We’ll also tell you about some of the perks – for example, as a Flight Center employee you can take advantage of the free consultations conducted by our in-house health and wellbeing team, Healthwise. Next, in Stage Four, you’ll be introduced to the Area Leader and you’ll also visit one of our shops, where you’ll meet the team and find out more about the sort of work that’s involved. If you successfully pass Stage Four, you’ve reached the final stage of the process and we’ll be in touch with a job offer! And if you accept, we’ll book you into our Learning Center to get your training underway as soon as possible. Careerwise, the department responsible for the training, will then organise individual coaching to assist in setting goals for your career path. Questions 15-21 Complete the process/flow-chart below. Choose NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 15-21 on your answer sheet. GZJ Travel – Recruitment Process Stage One – Application form •  Go online and apply for jobs advertised. •  Give proof of achievement so far both in education and in a 15…………………… (Note: additional requirements for applicants interested in the role of 16……………………) ↓ Stage Two – Telephone discussion •  More information is given about company and the 17…………………… you could receive. •  Information about the annual event, where the prizes are given to those who have made 18…………………… ↓ Stage Three – Group interview •  Chance to tell us about how good you are at selling, and also about the 19…………………… you have. •  Take part in a 20……………………  (used to learn about your way of working) •  Information given on benefits (e.g. health consultations) ↓ Stage Four – Individual interview •  Meet a manager, and the 21…………………… working in a particular store. ↓ Stage Five – Job offer •  Job offer sent out to successful applicants. Read the text below and answer Questions 22-27. Hilton Laboratory Health and safety in the workplace Personal safety You must be familiar with the emergency procedures in your building so that you know what to do in the event of fire, spillages or other accidents. Do not enter restricted areas without authorisation, and at all times observe the warnings given. Do not wedge open fire doors or tamper with door closures, and do not block doorways, corridors or stairs, as ob­structions may affect access in the event of a fire. Avoid leaving drawers and doors open unnecessarily and do not trail cables or flexes across the floor. How to dispose of rubbish safely We aim to protect the environment by saving and recycling glass, waste paper, and an increasing range of other materials. It is important to check materials carefully for con­tamination before placing them in recycling containers. Never put sharp objects such as razor blades or broken glass into waste bins without having wrapped the items carefully to protect those emptying the bins. Other waste procedures may vary – contact your Building Manager or Divisional Safety Officer for advice with regard to your particular department. How to handle heavy objects Make sure that shelves are not overloaded and that glass and heavy objects are stored at working height where they will be easier to reach. Use steps or ladders to reach items at height; never climb on benches, tables or chairs. Never move anything that is beyond your capability. Wherever possible you should use the trolleys provided in the workplace to do the job for you. If repetitive manual operations are routine in your work, your department will ensure you receive appropriate instruction on safe working practices and posture. Staying alert If you become mentally or physically tired during the working day, and find that you’re feeling drowsy or not concentrating properly, you could be at risk of causing an accident or making a mistake that could harm you or your colleagues. To prevent this, make sure that you take regular breaks when necessary. Questions 22-27 Complete the sentences below. Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 22-27 on your answer sheet. 22   There are certain places in the building that staff should avoid unless they have …………………… 23   To ensure people can get out easily, it is important that there are no …………………… to exits. 24   Items which could cause injury must be …………………… before they are disposed of. 25   Not all departments have the same system for dealing with …………………… so you need to check before throwing things away. 26   …………………… are available to make tasks, which require moving objects easier. 27   You should have …………………… while you are working. SECTION 3 Questions 28-40 Read the text below and answer Questions 28-40. The Zebras’ long walk across Africa James Gifford investigates some interesting new research into migration patterns of zebras living in Botswana in southern Africa. A For any animal to travel over 270 km in Botswana partly across the sand and low bush terrain of the Kalahari Desert is a remarkable achievement. But to do so in 11 days and without any obvious motivation, as this zebra population does, is quite extraordinary. On average their journey involves an exhausting round-trip of 588 km – between the Makgadikgadi salt pan area and the Okavango river – making it second only to the great trek undertaken by the zebra herds in the Serengeti National Park. However, what is even more incredible still in my view is that until recently it was completely unheard of. B Hattie Bartlam, a researcher, discovered this migration while she was tracking zebra groups, officially known as harems, by the Okavango River for her PhD, Each harem consists of a stallion and his seven or eight mares with juvenile foals. There is no loyalty between zebras beyond this social group, though harems often gather together into so-called herds. For her study, Hattie had planned to compare the small-scale movement patterns of 11 different zebra herds in the area. C In December, when the annual rains had transformed the roads into rivers, Hattie was, therefore, more than a little surprised when she checked the data sent by the radio collars she fits to the zebras she is tracking to find that six of the harems were 270 km away on the edge of the Makgadikgadi, a huge mineral-rich area where salt has collected over the years as water evaporates in the heat. Then, when the last of the moisture from the rains had disappeared in May the following year, five of those harems came wearily back to the Okavango. This raised the question: why, despite a plentiful supply of food and water, were the zebras being drawn eastwards to the salt pans? Even more difficult to understand was what made six of the groups travel so far, while the other five remained by the Okavango. D This discovery created quite a buzz in the research community. I decided to visit Hattie and she explained that a century ago the large number of Botswana’s zebra and wildebeest herds and the resulting competition for grass made migration essential. One of the migration tracks went from the Okavango to Makgadikgadi. But in the late 1960s, giant fences were put up to stop foot and mouth and other diseases spreading between wildlife and domestic cattle. One of these went across the migration track. Though the animals could get round the obstacle, each leg of their journey would now be 200 km longer – an impossible distance given the lack of permanent water on the extended route. Even today, with the fence gone (it was taken down in 2004), there is dangerously little drinking water to support the zebras on the return journey to the Okavango. E As a zebra can live up to 20 years, the migration must have skipped at least one generation during the 40 or so years that the fences were up. This prompts another question: it has always been assumed that the young of social herbivores like zebras learn migratory behaviour from their parents, so how did the latest generation learn when and where to go? Not from their parents, who were prevented from migrating. Did they follow another species, such as elephants? We may never know. F Hattie’s data points to the conclusion that there are several zebra populations adopting different behaviour. The first, like the vast majority of the Okavango zebras, take it easy, spending the entire year by the river. The second group, 15,000-20,000 strong, work a bit harder. They divide their time between the Makgadikgadi salt pans and the Boteti River, which is reasonably nearby. They sometimes struggle to find water in the Boteti area during the dry season, often moving 30 km in search of fresh grazing. Their reward: the juicy grass around the Makgadikgadi after the rains. The final group of zebras, whose numbers are more modest (though as yet unknown), must surely be considered as among the animal kingdom’s most remarkable athletes. By moving between the Okavango and the salt pans, they enjoy the best of both worlds. But the price they pay is an extraordinary journey across Botswana. G Endangered species naturally tend to grab the headlines, so it’s refreshing for a relatively abundant animal like the zebra to be the centre of attention for once. Zebras are a vital part of the food chain: understanding their migration, in turn, helps us to interpret the movements of their predators, and Hattie’s research has shed light on the impact of fences on migratory animals. So what triggered her interest in zebras? She explains that it is easier to get funding to study exciting animals like lions. Crucial as that undoubtedly is, she believes that herbivores like zebras are key to understanding any ecosystem. The scientific community is fortunate that people like Hattie are willing to take the hard option. Questions 28-34 The reading passage has seven sections, A-G. Choose the correct heading for each section from the list of headings below. Write the correct number, i-x, in boxes 28-34 on your answer sheet. List of Headings i        A decrease in the zebra population ii       An obstruction on the traditional route iii      An unknown species iv      Some confusing information v       Staying permanently in the Makgadikgadi vi      Nearly a record in the zebra world vii     Three different ways of living viii    The original aim of the work ix      How was the information passed on? x       Why it is important to study zebras 28   Section A 29   Section B 30   Section C 31   Section D 32   Section E 33   Section F 34   Section G Questions 35-37 Complete the summary below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 35-37 on your answer sheet. Social behaviour in zebras Zebras tend to live together in small units, which experts call 35………………… . Here, a male zebra has charge of a number of adult 36………………… and their young. These units sometimes assemble in bigger groupings or 37…………………, but it is still clear that the zebras’ loyalty only extends to the small unit they live in. Questions 38-40 Choose the correct letter, A, B, C or D. Write the correct letter in boxes 38-40 on your answer sheet. 38   How did Hattie feel when she heard some of the zebras had travelled so far? A   annoyed because she would have to follow them to Makgadikgadi B   disappointed that not all of them made it back to Okavango C   frustrated as the rains had made the roads unusable D   unsure as to their real motivation for going 39   When describing the different Botswana zebra populations, the writer indicates A   his admiration for the ones who migrate the furthest distance. B   his sympathy for the ones who stay by the Okavango River. C   his disbelief that those by the Boteti have difficulty finding food. D   his anxiety that their migration patterns may not be able to continue. 40   What does the writer suggest in the final paragraph? A   Too much time has been wasted on research into the predators like lions. B   it is sometimes necessary to go against the trend in research matters. C   Research will result in a ban on fences in areas where zebras live. D   Research into animals which are not endangered will increase. Answer: Section 1 1   TRUE 2   FALSE 3   NOT GIVEN 4   NOT GIVEN 5   NOT GIVEN 6   F 7   B 8   G 9   A 10   D 11   B 12   A 13   C 14   F Section 2 15   marketing environment 16   Corporate Travel Consultant 17   rewards 18   outstanding efforts 19   ambitions 20   psychometric test 21   team 22   authorization/ authorisation 23   obstructions 24   wrapped (carefully)/ (carefully) wrapped 25   waste/ rubbish 26   Trolleys 27   (regular) breaks Section 3 28   vi 29   viii 30   iv 31   ii 32   ix 33   vii 34   x 35   harems 36   mares 37   herds 38   D 39   A 40   B

SECTION 1 Questions 1-14 Read the text below and answer Questions 1-6. Music Clubs A Whitehay Youth Music is intended for anyone aged between 6 and 14 who is keen to perform in public. The club is limited to 30 members at any time, and we operate a waiting list for membership. Two concerts are performed every year, and every member takes part. Members must have reached at least an intermediate standard on their instrument. the group meets in the Jubilee Hall on Wednesday evenings during term time for rehearsals and for workshops in which members learn how to improve their playing. B Whitehay Music Club brings together music lovers from around the district, for enjoyable evenings of food and music. We meet monthly in members’ homes, and during the evening we have a buffet meal and listen to recordings of both well-known and not so well-known music. The music is preceded by a brief talk providing background information about the composers and the music. Every few months we organise a coach trip to a musical event within a radius of 50 km. C Whitehay Philharmonic is an amateur orchestra, founded in 1954. Two or three times a year, it performs a wide range of music to large and appreciative audiences from the area, in the town’s Jubilee Hall. New members are always welcome, and can take part in rehearsals, although there may not be room for everyone to perform in the concerts. Because the orchestra only partly finances its performances through ticket sales, members with marketing experience are particularly welcome, in order to build sales. D Whitehay Music Society is primarily a fundraising group that organises a range of money-making activities – from street collections to seeking sponsorship from local businesses. The money raised is used to support professional musicians if, for example, illness prevents them from earning a living. As a member, you will receive a monthly newsletter describing our work, and containing details of concerts, operas and other performances, both locally and nationally. Everybody is welcome to join the society: children are particularly welcome, along with their parents. Questions 1-8 Look at the four advertisements for music clubs in a town called Whitehay, A-D. For which club are the following statements true? Write the correct letter, A-D, in boxes 1-8 on your answer sheet. 1   It needs members who can find ways of increasing audience numbers. 2   All its members perform in club concerts. 3   It distributes information about musical events to its members. 4   It requires its members to have reached a certain level as performers. 5   One of its aims is to introduce its members to music they may not be familiar with. 6   It helps children to develop their musical skills. 7   Its performances are popular with local people. 8   It helps people who are in financial need. Read the text below and answer Questions 9-14. Biological Research Institute Welcome to the Biological Research Institute campus. We hope that your visit will be enjoyable and interesting. Please read the information below and comply with the instructions given. On arrival, you should report to the Reception building by the main entrance gate, where you will be issued with a pass. This must be visible at all times during your visit to the campus. If you are driving a vehicle, please inform Reception. They will contact Security, who will identify the area where you should park your car. Please ensure that you park it in the designated area. You must keep to the campus speed limit (10 mph) at all times. Cars are parked at the owner’s risk. For your own safety, please follow the instructions displayed on noticeboards around the campus, as well as all instructions issued by authorised personnel. Do not enter any restricted areas or touch any machinery or other equipment unless authorised. Visitors must be accompanied by their host at all times whilst on the campus. Entry into certain areas requires the wearing of special clothing or equipment. This will be provided for you by your host, who will advise you on the appropriate protection for the area you visit. Unless your host has previously obtained permission from the Institute management, photography, whether still or video, is not permitted in any part of the campus. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times, and should only be brought on campus if the Institute management has previously agreed to this. No nursery facilities are available for visiting children. In the event of an accident, call 3333 and request the assistance of site first-aid personnel. Questions 9-14 Complete the sentences below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer Write your answers in boxes 9-14 on your answer sheet. 9   If you come by car, ………………………. will tell you where to park it. 10   Advice on ………………………. can be seen on noticeboards. 11   You will need to obtain authorisation before touching equipment such as ………………………. . 12   Permission from the management is required if you want to do any kind of ………………………. . 13   The Institute does not provide a ………………………. for children visiting the campus. 14   You should phone 3333 if any kind of ………………………. occurs. Advertisements SECTION 2 Questions 15-27 Read the text below and answer Questions 1520. Negotiating a better salary package for your new job If you make it through the recruitment interview, a job offer may be just around the corner and you face having to talk about the nitty-gritty: your financial value. Although many graduate training schemes have set starting salaries, there are loads of other jobs where you’ll need to exercise your negotiating skills. If you’re offered a job, it’s because the organisation sees you as a valuable asset and you should try to set your level of remuneration accordingly. There are no general rules about how and when to conduct your negotiation but being sensitive to the culture of the organisation is essential. There are also some practical steps you can take to position yourself sensibly. Familiarise yourself with the company itself, as well as the range of salaries on offer. Doing careful research in this way prior to starting negotiations is very valuable. You can look at the range of packages offered for comparable jobs in adverts on the internet, or ask for advice from people you know professionally or personally. You could also approach a local Training and Enterprise Council. Finally, if you’re a member of a union, they will have information on acceptable salary ranges for your profession. If the salary offered is less than you’d hoped for, you could negotiate an early pay review instead, say after the first six months. Ensure that the criteria are clearly set out though, and that they’re included in your contract. Make sure you check out the salary package, not just the number of zeroes on your payslip. You may find that the total package of pay and benefits raises the worth of the salary to an acceptable level. For instance, you may be offered private health cover, a non-contributory pension, a car to use for work purposes and/or significant bonuses. When bonuses are mentioned, you may want to discuss the basis on which they’re paid, so that you’re absolutely clear about the terms and conditions attached. When negotiating, be persuasive and consistent in your arguments but be prepared to agree to a compromise if you really want the job. If your negotiations are successful, ask for the agreed terms and conditions to be confirmed in writing ASAP. Questions 15-20 Complete the sentences below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 15-20 on your answer sheet. 15   When negotiating a salary, potential employees should take advantage of the company’s view of them as a useful ………………………. . 16   When negotiating a salary it is important to be aware of the company’s particular 17   Some people use the ………………………. to monitor salaries offered for similar positions. 18   People who belong to a ………………………. can ask for recommendations on what is the norm for payment in their field. 19   Some people try to arrange for a ………………………. of their salary to be carried out after an initial period. 20   It is important to be willing to accept a ………………………. if the negotiations are getting nowhere. Read the text and answer Questions 21-27. How to run a successful project A project manager’s main task is to bring a particular project to completion, both on time and within budget. There are many factors that can cause a project to veer off its tracks, but steps can be taken to ensure that your project experiences as little disruption as possible. 1   Prepare the framework If you get everything down in writing at the beginning of the project, you have an excellent foundation to build upon. Change is inevitable, but you have to maintain control. This is critical to avoid problems of ‘scope creep’, which is when the company paying for the project asks for ‘just one more little thing’ repeatedly, until the project becomes unmanageable. 2   Select the team Gather your human resources, and make sure that their skills align with their roles. This is an important first step: if you assign the wrong person to a task, you are reducing your chances of success. Make sure each team member is clear on what is expected from them and when. Encourage them to ask questions to clarify anything that may be uncertain, and to always come to you whenever something seems to be out of place or going wrong. Clear communication is critical. Make sure the whole team and the client company grasp the project’s limitations in terms of its achievable outcomes. You can finish a task successfully and on time as long as expectations are reasonable. 3   Staying on track How can you know if your project is going to be successful if you don’t have any way of measuring success? You will need interim milestones, especially for a long-term project, so that you can determine if you are staying on track or straying from the project’s goals. 4   Manage project risks Hopefully you have defined the more likely risks up front during the protect preparation, so you should now put contingency plans in place for certain occurrences. If you can see when a risk is imminent, you can take preventive action to avoid it, but be ready to halt a project if the risk becomes unacceptable. 5   Evaluate the project Once a project has been completed, it’s important to write a report, even if it is only for internal purposes. You can pinpoint what went right or wrong, determine what could have been done differently, and establish the best practices for use in future undertakings. Questions 21-27 Complete the flow-chart below. Choose NO MORE THAN TO WORDS from the text for each answer Write your answers in boxes 21-27 on your answer sheet How to run a successful project Bear in mind that your aim should be to keep to both the agreed deadline and the 21………………………. for the project. ↓ Fix the details at the start to prevent what is called 22………………………. – the client asking for more and more. ↓ Choose the team members wisely so that their 23………………………. match the duties you want them to take on. ↓ Promote good·24………………………. at all times so everyone knows what you require of them. ↓ Make sure 25………………………. are set so you can check whether the project is running to schedule. ↓ Prepare 26………………………. which can be activated if things go wrong on the project. ↓ Once the project is over, produce a 27………………………. outlining its strengths and weaknesses for future reference. SECTION 3 Questions 28-40 Read the text below and answer Questions 28-40. Mass appeal of the manta rays A I am underwater, face to face with a large flat fish which I recognise immediately as being a manta ray. For an instant I look straight into its gaping mouth and see the row of small, flattened teeth in its lower jaw. Close on its tail comes another manta ray, and another and another. The manta rays are unaffected by my being there, cruising past in a leisurely fashion without seeming to expend any great effort. B From above, the manta rays are great black silhouettes that fishermen called ‘devil fish’, because of the curious horn-like fins hanging down near their mouths. But looking into their eyes you get a sense of their peaceful nature. Unlike stingrays, mantas don’t have venomous spines in their tails, and unlike many fish species they seem to enjoy human company. Once, over-enthusiastically, I swim towards a manta. I am just a few inches away when it senses me. To my surprise, the whole fish twitches in alarm and shoots off, perhaps fearing that I will touch it. I feel ashamed to have given it a fright. C I have come to Hanifaru, a small lagoon next to an uninhabited island in the Maldives, especially to see manta rays. These great harmless creatures congregate here during the south-west monsoons between May and November and, if the tides and winds are right, enter a shallow cul-de-sac in the reef to hunt for plankton, their main source of nutrition. On certain days the bay can attract more than 100 mantas. I have seen many manta rays on dives around the world, though not in these numbers. D Guy Stevens is my guide, a British marine biologist who has been studying the mantas for the past five years. Based at the nearby Four Seasons resort, he has identified more than 2,000 individual manta rays, photographing and cataloguing them according to their distinctive skin patterns. Each day we make the 40-minute boat journey from the resort to Hanifaru. Feeding events, as Guy calls them, are never guaranteed, but, during the season, hotel guests can sign up for ‘manta alerts’. If Guy and his research assistants spot significant manta activity, the guests will be brought by fast speedboat to the lagoon to snorkel. When feeding, the mantas of Hanifaru tend to stay near the surface, making them accessible to snorkellers just as much as divers. They seem not to mind the human competition in this quite small space, and indeed they are often joined by other rays and even giant whale sharks, which feed on the same plankton. E Word among the diving community about the possibility of finding a mass of manta rays at Hanifaru has slowly been spreading over the past year. Outside the shallow lagoon I can see five large safari boats- live-aboard cruisers that take divers around the best underwater sites in the Maldives. It is something that Guy has been monitoring closely. ‘Word is out that Hanifaru is a top manta spot,’ he explains, ‘and although the government has declared the bay a “protected area”, we still don’t have any regulations in force to limit the number of people in the water at any one time.’ F During my stay, the resort received a visit from the then-president of the Maldives, Mohamed Nasheed. Since coming to power in 2008, he had made his interest in the marine environment and concerns about climate change well known. In 2009 he held an underwater cabinet meeting, urging other world leaders to act decisively to combat climate change. The protection of wildlife areas such as Hanifaru was clearly one of his objectives, and I asked him why he took such an interest. ‘Maldivians have lived with the reefs and their fish life since long before there were tourists,’ he said. ‘And while tourist dollars are good for our country, the sea and its produce are even more vital to my people. I have to balance what tourists want to see with preserving the marine environment- and in some cases, like Hanifaru, those objectives coincide.’ G On several dives I am lucky enough to get close to the mantas, sometimes at underwater ‘cleaning stations’. Here, the mantas come in small numbers, or individually, to pause above a coral outcrop and wait while small fish pick at their skin, removing parasites. Adapted for fast swimming with their flattened bodies, they can accelerate rapidly with a twitch of their wings. They gaze at human swimmers with a kind of knowing calm, something people often remark on when they try to capture the emotion they experience after seeing them. ‘The manta rays have the biggest brain of any fish,’ Guy explains, ‘and some manta researchers are convinced that mantas can recognise individual people underwater.’ H I return to the lagoon over the course of several days and learn more from Guy about his hopes for the future. ‘People can visit this place, but I want to be sure that they don’t harass the mantas by touching them or crowding them out while they’re feeding. We’re working to get a full-time ranger station and some kind of permit system to limit the number of boats that can enter the lagoon each day.’ Questions 28-30 The text on has 8 paragraphs, A-H. Which paragraph mentions the following? Write the correct letter, A-H, in boxes 28-30 on your answer sheet. 28   a record that is being kept of manta rays in the area 29   something that the writer regrets 30   the reason for the writer’s visit Questions 31-36 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 31-36 on your answer sheet, write TRUE              if the statement agrees with the information FALSE             if the statement contradicts the information NOT GIVEN   if there is no information on this 31   It is difficult to distinguish one manta ray from another. 32   For hotel guests, viewing manta rays feeding has to be arranged at short notice. 33   The manta rays appear to object to the presence of people in the water while they are feeding. 34   Guy Stevens is concerned about the increasing interest in Hanifaru. 35   Mohamed Nasheed succeeded in persuading certain other countries to take steps to protect the environment. 36   A procedure has now been established to control the number of visitors. Questions 37-40 Complete the summary below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer Write your answers in boxes 37-40 on your answer sheet. The manta ray During certain times of year, depending on the weather conditions and the tides, manta rays collect to look for 37………………………. to feed on. They eat the same food as other species, such as giant whale sharks. As for keeping clean, they are kept free from 38………………………. by smaller fish. Manta rays have certain characteristics which make them good swimmers; they use their 39………………………. to get up speed and they have flattened bodies, which help them to move quickly through the water. The nature of the manta’s 40………………………. is of particular interest to scientists. Answers: Section 1 1   C 2   A 3   D 4   A 5   B 6   A 7   C 8   D 9   security 10   safety 11   machinery 12   photography 13   nursery 14   accident Section 2 15   asset 16   culture 17   internet 18   union 19   review 20   compromise 21   budget 22   scope creep 23   skills 24   (clear) communication 25   (interim) milestones 26   (contingency) plans 27   report Section 3 28   D 29   B 30   C 31   FALSE 32   TRUE 33   FALSE 34   TRUE 35   NOT GIVEN 36   FALSE 37   plankton 38   parasites 39   wings 40   brain

SECTION 1 Questions 1-14 Read the text below and answer Questions 1-7. Evening Courses A   Cooking for today These are classes for those of you who can already make basic meals by keeping strictly to a simple recipe, but who would now like to use your imagination as well. We’ll learn how to make great family meals, discovering how to develop basic recipes into personal creations, with a few tricks and tips to help you become more confident. B   Entertaining the easy way This course has plenty of ideas and tips for special occasions that you can enjoy preparing, love eating and be proud to provide. The recipes are adaptable to your needs and lifestyle, building on your current skills and aimed at developing your own cooking style. C   Cooking for the family Keen to make better food for your kids? This course is for parents who want to learn how to make fun food with the aim of showing their kids how to cook later at home. We’ll learn plenty of tasty tips for snacks and picnics, family favourites, and dishes with fresh fruit and vegetables so that you and your family can get really fit and well and enjoy your food. D   Jewellery making This course aims to enable students to create silver jewellery. Your first project will be to make a silver ring and then you will have an opportunity to create another piece of your own design. This is an introductory course. Base metals are supplied free. Please wear suitable workshop clothing and bring a notebook and pen. E   Photography This course will allow you to take full advantage of your digital camera. Covering portrait, landscape and still-life photography, the classes will include effective use of lenses and lighting. To really benefit from the course, learners should have time to read ahead between sessions. F   Creative writing Come and learn how to have fun with stories and other kinds of creative writing. We will try out some new ideas and techniques for improving style and waking up the imagination. Writers who have not taken the foundation class will also be able to join, provided they already have some experience of the subject. Questions 1-7 Look at the six advertisements for evening courses, A-F. For which evening course are the following statements true? Write the correct letter, A-F, in boxes 1-7 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any letter more than once. 1   After taking this course, participants will be able to teach their skills to others. 2   Participants will be expected to prepare at home for each class. 3   Certain materials will be included in the course fee. 4   This course aims to teach people to prepare meals for guests. 5   This course will help participants to make the best use of a certain item. 6   This course is for people who want to do more than follow instructions. 7   Following this course should improve participants’ health. Read the text and answer Questions 8-14. The Bike Found The Bike Foundry aims to promote cycling, and to make an environmentally-friendly means of transport and leisure available to as many people as we can. Our Bikes All our bikes are hand-restored by our team and come with a three months’ guarantee. We stock bikes to suit different needs, at affordable prices. We gratefully accept donations of unwanted bikes. Training We offer maintenance and cycle training to schools and small groups on their own premises. Additionally we provide training to individuals and groups in our workshops. Maintenance Training Bike Basics This is a three-hour course which will teach you everything you need to know to keep on top of simple maintenance issues like looking after brakes and gears and how to repair a puncture. By the end of the course you’ll know how to take good care of your bike. Home Mechanics This twelve-hour course consists of teaching you how to use specialist tools and how to fit compatible replacement parts. It’s aimed at those who have completed Bike Basics or have some prior knowledge. Courses are run regularly for groups of up to fur trainees. We use professional mechanics’ tools and employ experienced staff Most importantly we have tea- and coffee-making facilities and a fridge where participants can keep their sandwiches, etc. Unfortunately our training room is up a flight of stairs. For £10 a year you can join our Tool Club. Membership gives you access to our workshop for one evening a week. If you want to repair your bike and know how to fit it, but lack specialist tools, then join our club. There’s a range of reference manuals available and a mechanic to offer advice. Cycling Training Our qualified instructors can teach you how to ride your bike, whether you have had prior experience or not. If you’re already riding and would like to build your confidence, we can teach you safe techniques to negotiate traffic. Booking Information To book a place, email training@bikefoundry.org We ask for a 50% deposit to confirm your place, refundable up to seven days before the course. Questions 8-14 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 8-14 on your answer sheet, write TRUE              if the statement agrees with the information FALSE             if the statement contradicts the information NOT GIVEN   if there is no information on this 8   The Bike Foundry sells only second-hand bicycles. 9   All the training sessions are held at the Bike Foundry. 10   The Bike Basics course is aimed at new cyclists. 11   Snacks are provided for participants on the maintenance training courses. 12   Members of the Tool Club have access to cycle reference books. 13   Most of the participants on the Cycling Training courses are beginners. 14   People can cancel their place on a training course one week before it begins and still get their money back. Advertisements SECTION 2 Questions 15-27 Read the text and answer Questions 15-21. Benefits for staff of Hamberton Hospital Our attractive benefits package is one of the ways we acknowledge the contribution they all make in the provision of high quality patient care. Our package is extensive and varied. As a Hamberton employee you’ll enjoy both National Health Service (NHS) and locally developed schemes, providing you with a range of benefits. These include: Financial Benefits •  opportunity to contribute to the NHS Pension Scheme – highly regarded by the independent pensions ad insurance sector •  Injury Benefits Scheme •   excellent occupational sick pay ad maternity leave and pay entitlements •   loans to assist with the purchase of housing for employees in the health service Work-Life Balance Here at Hamberton we are committed to helping all employees balance their work and home life commitment. We believe by helping people make this balance we are able to recruit, retain ad motivate the most valuable asset of the NHS – our employees. We are committed to making this balance work for all employees equally, not just parents. Over 50% of our staff work part-time in a range of flexible working options, which include: •   job sharing •   term-time-only working •   part-time working •   individually-tailored working patterns We also support employees further through our caring ad special leave arrangements. Health •   our own occupational health department, providing a totally confidential service open to all staff during normal working hours •   a round-the-clock free ad confidential counselling service •   policies supporting phased return to work after long illnesses or injuries Other Benefits On-site facilities include: •   excellent food provided in our restaurant •   ample parking •   retail outlets NHS Discounts Al NHS employees can access the NHS Discounts scheme. This allows members of staff fee access to a number of discounted products and services. For example, discounts are available at many high street shops and elsewhere, including savings on toys, utility bills, days out, and much more. Red Guava This is a further discount benefit, which is available to employees of Hamberton. Red Guava provides discounts on holidays, for example, and can save you money in many other ways too. Questions 15-21 Complete the sentences below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answer in boxes 15-21 on your answer sheet. 15   The hospital provides benefits to show its recognition of the ……………………….. of staff to its work. 16   Financial benefits include pay for staff who are ……………………….. or on maternity leave. 17   ……………………….. are available for staff who wish to buy a home. 18   Helping staff with their work-life balance is not restricted to ……………………….. . 19   The hospital has ……………………….. that are designed to help staff return to work after a long absence. 20   The facilities on hospital premises include a large area for ……………………….. . 21   The cost of ……………………….. is reduced by using the Red Guava scheme. Read the text and answer Questions 22-27. Performance-related pay There are a number of reasons why your employer might introduce this type of pay scheme. They may: •  be keen to ret current staff •  want to compete for new talent •  be seeking a fairer way of distributing wages. In order for performance-related schemes to work they should be based on clear, measurable targets agreed by both employer and employee. You will normally find out about these targets from your contract of employment and the performance appraisal meetings you have with your manager. Short-term schemes Short-term schemes usually offer bonus payment, or, depending on the type of work, commission on sales achieved. Payments vary and these schemes are normally used just to encourage staff to improve their own performance. Long-term schemes Long-term schemes offer rewards like share options, and can help to encourage loyalty to the organisation and its aims. Such schemes tend to be used as a way of retaining senior staff. What to do if you have problems If you don’t receive bonus or commission payments which you believe you are owed, check your contract of employment or staff handbook to see how your bonus is paid. Ask your employer if you need more information. If you think a mistake has been made, you should: •  speak to your employer to see if there has been a misunderstanding •  ask your employer to set out in writing how they have calculated your pay •  keep copies of ay letters ad notes of ay meetings. There are three ways that the law might cover a case of unpaid bonuses: •  breach of contract •  unlawful deductions from wages •  unlawful discrimination. Deductions from wages / breach of contract Any right to a bonus will normally be included in your contract of employment. It may not always be written down. It can be verbally agreed or understood to be there due to normal practice in your particular area of business. Failure to pay a bonus or commission that you are entitled to could amount to an unlawful deduction of wages. Discrimination Your employer must not discriminate against particular groups of people – for example, by giving smaller bonuses to women. Ideally your employer should have some guidelines setting out the normal range of bonuses to give, and these must be followed without discriminating against any specific group. Questions 22-27 Complete the notes below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 22-27 on your answer sheet. Performance-related pay One of the reasons for introducing performance-related pay is in order to 22……………………….. existing employees Employer and employee should agree on some 23……………………….. that can be measured Shor-term schemes: bonus or the payment of a 24……………………….. related to sales Long-term reward schemes: generally offered to employees at a 25……………………….. level Details of bonus payments: may be included in a contract or a handbook for staff If you think there has been a mistake with your pay: •  discuss the issue with your employer •  keep records of any relevant 26……………………….. It is illegal for employers to discriminate against any specific group, e.g. by giving less money to 27……………………….. SECTION 3 Questions 28-40 Read the text below and answer Questions 28-40. Marine Ecosystems A For some time now, the world’s oceans and the people who fish them have been a constant source of bad environmental news: cod is effectively an endangered species of fish in some places now; every year thousands of dolphins are injured by fishing vessels; huge tuna farms are ruining the Mediterranean Sea. What is more, marine biologists recently warned that our seafood is in terminal decline. According to research published in Science last November, stocks of all the fish and shellfish that we currently eat will collapse before 2050. Or at least, that’s how the media reported it. B However, the scientist who led the study has said that the main conclusion of his research has been buried beneath the headlines. While the danger to our seafood supply is real enough, says Boris Worm, assistant professor of marine conservation biology at Dalhousie University, Canada, there is a more serious point: that the way in which we manage the oceans is not only threatening the survival of individual species, it’s upsetting the delicate balance of marine communities and thus causing the collapse of entire ecosystems. Research has shown that the number of ecosystems where all higher forms of life are extinct, so-called dead zones, is increasing. The point that many reports failed to highlight, says Worm, is that we have to revolutionise the way our marine resources are run, changing the focus from stocks and quotas to biodiversity and ecosystem protection. And to do that, we must change the way the debate about our marine resources is conducted in the public domain. C Around 7,500 years ago, shrinking glaciers and the resulting higher water levels led to the development of what’s called the Wadden Sea, a 13,500-square-kilometre area of the North Sea. During the first 5,000 years or so, the sea pulsated with life. There was a high level of biodiversity on the seabed too, and the salt marshes and mud flats on the coast supported millions of birds. This continued until around 2,000 years ago, when human pressure began to affect it. Research has shown that some of the larger creatures disappeared more than 500 years ago. And by the late 19th century, populations of most of the other mammals and fish were severely reduced, leading to the collapse of several traditional fisheries. D What’s interesting is that overfishing isn’t the main agent of the decline, as we might assume. It’s due to an ongoing combination of exploitation, habitat destruction and pollution. Coastal development, for example, destroys large areas of wetlands that support a range of species. Pollution fuels a process known as eutrophication, which kills certain seagrasses. Nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus contained in human and industrial waste promote the growth of tiny phytoplankton. This over-enrichment of the sea can ultimately lead to the collapse of the entire system through oxygen starvation. Most marine ecosystems have an in-built capacity to deal with a certain amount of pollution because shellfish can absorb phytoplankton. But in many cases, these have been largely removed by fishing, so the effect of any nutrient-rich pollutants entering the system is increased. In a healthy system, coastal wetlands also act as filters, so their destruction causes even more pollution. These processes have been fairly well understood for a number of years. E What the Science paper has demonstrated, however, is that the decline in the health of ecosystems is greater where the number of different species is low. The population of marbled rock cod around the South Atlantic island of South Georgia, for example, still hasn’t recovered after the fishing industry caused its collapse during the 1970s. By contrast, North Sea cod has withstood very heavy fishing for hundreds of years, says Worm, and although it has declined substantially, it hasn’t yet collapsed completely. Worm believes that, ‘to have a greater number of species makes an ecosystem more robust’. His theory is backed up by evidence from experiments into how ecosystems react to change. F And some positive news came from the study. Worm and his colleagues were able to show that it’s possible to reverse such damage as long as there are enough species. A survey of 44 protected areas revealed increases in biodiversity and fish catches close to the reserves. Worm says, ‘We should be focusing our attention on protecting all of our marine resources at the ecosystem level, and managing levels of fishing, pollution and habitat disturbance to ensure that crucial services that maintain the health of the ecosystem continue to function.’ To anyone who knows anything about ecology, it would appear that Worm is just stating the obvious. And many protected areas on land are now managed in this way. G However, there has long been a tendency to view our oceans as a limitless resource, combined with a widespread failure to make an emotional connection with most marine wildlife. True, we have created a small number of marine protected areas. ‘We seem to have understood the value of protecting ecosystems in areas such as the Australian Great Barrier Reef that we consider to be particularly beautiful,’ says John Shepherd, Professor of Marine Sciences at Southampton University in the UK. ‘Human nature will always draw us towards those species or habitats that are more aesthetically pleasing. That’s why there will always be support for protecting pandas and very little for worms, even though nematodes play a vital role in maintaining the health of an ecosystem.’ Questions 28-34 The text has seven sections, A-G. Choose the correct heading for each section from the list of headings below. Write the correct number, i-viii, in boxes 28-34 on your answer sheet. List of Headings i        Plans for more marine protected areas ii        A historical overview of one specific area iii       Why more has not been done to save marine creatures iv       What the press has missed v        Where biodiversity has been shown to help vi       Who is currently being blamed vii      A reason for sore optimism viii     Various factors other than fishing 28   Section A 29   Section B 30   Section C 31   Section D 32   Section E 33   Section F 34   Section G Questions 35-37 Choose the correct letter, A, B, C or D. Write the correct letter in boxes 35-37 on your answer sheet. 35   Boris Worm’s main concern is that A   marine ecosystems will completely break down. B   insufficient attention is being paid to fish numbers. C   there will no longer be enough seafood for people to eat. D   politicians will be unwilling to discuss marine resources. 36   What point does John Shepherd make? A   Marine conservation areas are not high on the list of visitor attractions. B   People know very little about how different species actually live. C   The public are much less likely to help unattractive creatures. D   The marine environment was better understood in the past. 37   Which of the following best summarises the text as a whole? A   Scientists disagree about the state of the world’s oceans. B   A radical review of marine resource management is needed. C   The fishing industry is mainly responsible for today’s problems. D   The natural systems of our seas will not be able to repair themselves. Questions 38-40 Complete the summary below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 38-40 on your answer sheet. The Wadden Sea The Wadden Sea was created when the sea rose as a consequence of 38……………………….. slowly contracting. The waters were full of different species of marine creatures, and there were large numbers of 39……………………….. living on the wetlands along the shore. This continued until species began to decline 2,000 years ago. Overfishing was partly responsible for the changing circumstances, and so was pollution. At the same time there has been an increase in some nutrients in the Wadden Sea which can also destroy marine creatures and vegetation by depriving them of 40……………………….. which is essential for their survival. Answers: A Section 1 1   C 2   E 3   D 4   B 5   E 6   A 7   C 8   TRUE 9   FALSE 10   NOT GIVEN 11   FALSE 12   TRUE 13   NOT GIVEN 14   TRUE Section 2 15   contribution 16   sick 17   loans 18   parents 19   policies/schemes 20   parking 21   holidays 22   retain 23   targets 24   commission 25   senior 26   meetings/letters 27   women Section 3 28   vi 29   iv 30   ii 31   viii 32   v 33   vii 34   iii 35   A 36   C 37   B 38   glaciers 39   birds 40   oxygen

SECTION 1 Questions 1-14 Read the text below and answer Questions 1-7. Lost, Damaged or Delayed Inland Mail Claim Form Before completing this claim form for lost, damaged or delayed mail you should visit www.royalmail.com to find out all you need to know about our policies. Alternatively you can get the details from our ‘Mail Made Easy’ booklet, available at any local post office branch. When you fill in the form, make sure you complete it in full, using the checklist that we have provided to help you. If you find that you do not have the evidence required to make a claim but would like us to investigate an issue with your mail service, the easiest way to do this is by visiting our website. Lost items If you wish to claim compensation for lost items, you need to send us original proof of posting, e.g. a Post Office receipt. If claiming for the contents of a package, you also need to provide proof of value, e.g. till item reference number, receipt, bank statement, etc. Damaged items When claiming compensation for items that have been damaged, you should send us the items themselves, if possible. However, if these are very large or unsafe to post, you may instead provide photographs as evidence of the damage. Please retain the original packaging (and damaged items, if not sent to us) as we may need to inspect them. Time restrictions We allow up to 15 working days for items to arrive, so cannot accept a claim for loss unless 15 working days or more have passed since the item was posted. Claims for lost or damaged items must be made within 12 months of the postal date. Claims for delayed items must be submitted within 3 months of the date they were posted if the claim is made by the sender, or within 1 month of receipt if the claim is made by the recipient of the item. Questions 1-7 Complete the notes below. Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 1-7 on your answer sheet. Claiming compensation from the Royal Mail for lost, damaged or delayed -mail Before filling in the form •  go online to learn about their policies or get the 1……………………….. that contains the relevant information When filling in the form •  refer to the 2……………………….. to ensure all the relevant sections are completed (You can use their 3……………………….. to request action if you don’t have enough proof to make a claim.) When claiming compensation for a lost item •  include proof that you have posted the item •  in the case of a package, include something (e.g. bank statement) to prove its 4……………………….. When claiming for the cost of a damaged item, include •  either the actual item or 5……………………….. showing the damage to the item (You should keep the 6……………………….. that was used when the item was originally sent.) When to claim •  Lost or damaged items: within 12 months of posting the item •  Delayed items: if you are the 7……………………….., you must claim within three months of posting the package Read the text below and answer Questions 8-14. Days out for the family A   Carrickfergus Castle Considered to be Northern Ireland’s oldest castle, Carrickfergus has seen more than 800 years of military occupation since its foundations were laid. During summer, traditional feasts are served, and fairs and craft markets provide an extra attraction. The history of the castle is explained and brought to life with exhibits and guided tours. B   Glamis Castle Shakespeare used Glamis as the background when he wrote one of his best-known plays, Macbeth, and the Queen Mother grew up here. It is also rumoured to have a secret chamber in the walls of the castle. There are many ghost tales associated with this castle, which will capture the imagination of younger visitors. C   Tintagel Castle High up on the cliff tops, Tintagel Castle is the legendary home of King Arthur. The visitor’s guide on sale at the reception is well worth the money, as it can help you to visualise what it would have been like hundreds of years ago. You can park in the village car park and walk the half mile to the castle, or take the shuttle bus. D   Pickering Castle Built by William the Conqueror, this is a great castle for children to run around in. There are lots of special events too, including a chance to come along and see some plays which are put on during the summer months. Nearby Helmsley Castle is also worth a visit. E   Stokesay Castle A range of workshops, including music and combat, are held here during the summer. Children of all ages will enjoy learning at these and there is a guided tour which has been especially designed with younger visitors in mind. Some of them may find the dungeon quite scary though. F   Warwick Castle This castle is over 1,000 years old and has towers and a moat, and is just as you might imagine a castle to be. Children can even get to try on armour to see how heavy it is. At Christmas, a special market is held here – a great opportunity to look for presents and Christmas treats. Questions 8-14 Look at the descriptions of six castles, A-F. For which castle are the following statements true? Write the correct letter, A-F, in boxes 8-14 on your answer sheet. NB   You may use any letter more than once. 8   At certain times of year you can eat special meals here. 9   Children can get dressed up here. 10   There is another castle in the same area. 11   A lot of stories are told about this place. 12   Part of the castle may be frightening for some children. 13   Plays are performed here during part of the year. 14   A guided tour is offered which is particularly suitable for children. Advertisements SECTION 2 Questions 15-27 Read the text below and answer Questions 15-20. North Sydney Council North Sydney Council recognises the importance of balancing the demands of your work with the demands of your personal life. The standard working week for full-time council employees is 35 hours for ‘Indoor Staff and 38 hours for ‘Outdoor Staff, worked over 5 days. Indoor staff are able to access the benefit of flexi time. A number of these occasionally work from home where appropriate – an example of an initiative that can provide flexibility at certain stages of an employee’s career. Staff are entitled to 3 weeks per annum sick or carer’s leave. In addition to the normal parental leave/maternity leave provisions, women who have completed 12 months of continuous service can access a total of 9 weeks’ maternity leave that can be taken either as 9 weeks at full pay or as 18 weeks at half pay. The annual entitlement to paid holidays is 20 days, pro-rata for part-time. After 5 years of continuous service, employees are entitled to 6.5 weeks Long Service Leave (LSL). Our Financial Advice Program is conducted in partnership with FuturePlus Financial Services. We provide the services of advisors specialising in pensions, and all our employees are given the opportunity to meet them as part of the induction process. The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a counselling service provided at no charge to all employees and their families. The service is available by phone or face to face. The EAP provides registered psychologists for employees wishing to discuss work or non-work matters confidentially. Employees can also access information, such as articles and self assessments, online via eapdirect. Questions 15-20 Answer the questions below Choose NO MORE THAN TO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 15-20 on your answer sheet. 15   Which employees may choose not to work regular hours? 16   How much time off each year is an employee able to take to look after a relative? 17   What kind of leave involves a choice between two alternative periods of time? 18   How long must employees have worked without a break before being entitled to additional holidays? 19   What does the Financial Advice Program advise staff about? 20   What kind of professional people can employees see if they want to talk about their job in private? Read the text below and answer Questions 21-27. Registering As An Apprentice If you are keen to acquire new skills and learn best through ‘hands-on’ experiences, then registered apprenticeship is a good option for you. These programmes always involve work experience as well as classroom instruction and produce workers skilled in the occupation. There is a written contract to be signed by the apprentice and the employer, which acknowledge their joint commitment to the training process. This contract is approved and registered by the New York State Department of Labor. How Do I Qualify? First of all you must meet the employer’s minimum qualifications. This could be a high school diploma or the equivalent. However, some employers will ask for specific high school courses, prior experience, or occupationally related courses. What Is My Training Like? Training for each apprenticeable occupation is conducted according to a training outline that has been standardized for the occupation. This assures that apprentices across the state have the same sets of basic competencies and skills. At the successful completion of each registered apprenticeship, the Department of Labor awards the apprentice a ‘Certificate of Completion’, which is a nationally recognized credential. The length of time it takes you to learn the skills of the occupation depends upon two things: the standard training outline and your aptitude. Each trade has a definite term of training, listed in years. As a registered apprentice, you may progress according to that established training term, or you may become skilled more quickly or more slowly. It may even be that you start your apprenticeship with credit toward the goal. Your employer may choose to award you this for previous working experience in the occupation, or for prior coursework related to the occupation. As an apprentice, you are part of the employer’s workforce. You work full-time for the employer. A registered apprentice works under the guidance of more experienced craft workers called journey workers. From them, you learn the skills of the trade. As you master each skill, you become a more productive employee. At the same time as you are working, you are also required to attend classes (usually in the evenings). The location and times of these are set up by the local education agent in consultation with the employer. Your progress is tracked by you, your employer and your education provider. Successful completion of all requirements results in your certificate. Questions 21-27 Complete the sentences below. Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the text for each answer. Write your answer in boxes 21-27 on your answer sheet. 21   You and your employer will need. to sign a ……………………… before training starts. 22   Employers may have different minimum requirements regarding applicants’ ……………………… and experience. 23   Each industry has its own standardised ……………………… of training. 24   You may be given credit for work experience or if you have done relevant 25   You will be considered as a member of the ……………………… during the apprenticeship. 26   While at work, apprentices are supervised by what are known as ……………………… . 27   Employers are consulted when deciding the ……………………… and schedule for lessons. SECTION 3 Questions 28-40 Read the text below and answer Questions 28-34. Crossing the Humber estuary A For thousands of years, the Humber – an estuary formed where two major rivers, the Trent and the Ouse, meet – has been an obstacle to communications along the east coast of England, between the counties of Yorkshire to the north and Lincolnshire to the south. Before the arrival of the railways in the 19th century, water transportation was the most efficient means of moving heavy or bulk freight, and the Humber, situated at the heart of the waterway system associated with the two major rivers, was one of the chief highways of England. Its traffic brought prosperity to the settlements on its banks, particularly the city of Hull on its north bank, but the river itself tended to cut them off from some of their closest neighbours, as well as obstructing the progress of travellers moving north or south. B To cater for these local and, as time progressed, wider needs, ferries were provided across many of the streams flowing into the Humber, and in 1315, a ferry was established across the Humber itself between Hull and Lincolnshire. By 1800, this ferry had become fully integrated into the overland transport system, but the changes associated with the industrial revolution were soon to threaten its position. Increased traffic encouraged speculators to establish rival ferries between Hull and Lincolnshire, notably a service between Hull and New Holland which opened in 1826. This crossing was considerably shorter than on the existing Hull to Barton service, which closed in 1851, unable to cope with the increased competition from the rival service. The New Holland ferry service then grew into a major link between the north and south banks of the Humber, carrying passengers, and cattle and goods bound for Hull Market. In 1968, there was briefly a ferry service from Grimsby to Hull involving hovercrafts. This did not last long as the hovercrafts could not cope with the demands of the River Humber. The ferry service between Hull and New Holland ended with the opening of the Humber Bridge in 1981. C The bridge was the outcome of over 100 years of campaigning by local interests for the construction of a bridge or tunnel across the estuary. The first major crossing proposal was a tunnel scheme in 1872. This scheme was promoted by Hull merchants and businesses dissatisfied with the service provided by the New Holland ferry crossing. Over the next 100 years, a variety of proposals were put forward in an effort to bridge the Humber. In 1928, a plan was drawn up by Hull City Council to build a multi-span bridge fur miles west of Hull. However, the scheme was dropped after being hit by the financial woes of the Great Depression of the late 1920s and early 1930s. D Government approval for the construction of a suspension bridge was finally granted in 1959, although it was not until 1973 that work finally began. The reasons why a suspension bridge was chosen were twofold. Firstly, the Humber has a shifting bed, and the navigable channel along which a craft can travel is always changing; a suspension bridge with no support piers in mid-stream would not obstruct the estuary. Secondly, because of the geology and topography of the area, the cost of constructing a tunnel would have been excessive. E Work on the construction proceeded for eight years, during which time many thousands of tonnes of steel and concrete were used and upwards of one thousand workers and staff were employed at times of peak activity. The designers had been responsible for two other major suspension bridges in Britain but, with a total span of 2,220 m, or almost a mile and a half, the Humber was going to be the longest suspension bridge in the world. Nowadays designers have computers, but back then everything was done with slide rules and calculators. The towers were concrete rather than the usual steel, since concrete was cheaper and would blend in better with the setting. The bridge was designed to stand for 120 years. F Malcolm Stockwell, the bridgemaster, recalls that when the bridge first opened, there wasn’t a great deal of interest in it. Then children started visiting, and he remembers their astonishment at seeing the control room and all the lights. People who lived in towns on opposite banks a mile apart started crossing the river – a journey that previously might as well have been to the moon. The bridge brought them together. G The bridge opened up, both socially and economically, two previously remote and insular areas of England, and the improvement in communication enabled the area to realise its potential in commercial, industrial and tourist development. The bridge has saved many millions of vehicle miles and many valuable hours of drivers’ and passengers’ time – an important factor not only for the drivers and operators of commercial vehicles, but also for tourists and holidaymakers who would have had to travel around the estuary to reach destinations in the region. In the words of Malcolm Stockwell, ‘Although it can’t beat the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco for setting, it far outstrips it for sheer elegance and as a piece of engineering.’ Questions 28-34 The text has seven sections, A-G. Choose the correct heading for each section from the list of headings below. Write the correct number, i-x, in boxes 28-34 on your answer sheet. List of Headings i         Why the ferry crossing has always been difficult ii        Building the bridge iii       An advantage of the design for the bridge iv       The growing popularity of the bridge v        Opposition to building a bridge vi       Benefits and disadvantages the Humber has brought vii      Proposed alternatives to ferry services viii     How the bridge has contributed to the region’s growth ix       Rising demand for river transport 28   Section A 29   Section B 30   Section C 31   Section D 32   Section E 33   Section F 34   Section G Questions 35-40 Complete the summary below. Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 35-40 on your answer sheet. Crossing the Humber The first ferry across the Humber started operating in 1315, and by 1800, this service had been 35………………………. with other forms of transport. The mid-19th century saw greater 36………………………. in the provision of services. In 1968, an attempt to establish a service across the river using 37………………………. failed. The Humber Bridge is a suspension bridge because the channel that ships travel along moves, and 38………………………. supporting a bridge would obstruct it. A bridge rather than a 39………………………. was chosen on the grounds of cost. This was also one reason why 40………………………. was used for the towers. Answers: Section 1 1   booklet 2   checklist 3   website 4   value 5   (provide) photograph(s) / photos 6   (original) packaging 7   sender 8   A 9   F 10   D 11   B 12   E 13   D 14   E Section 2 15   indoor (staff/employees) 16   3 weeks/three weeks 17   maternity (leave) 18   5 years/five years 19   pension(s) 20   (registered) psychologists 21   (written) contract 22   qualifications/courses 23   outline/term 24   (prior) coursework 25   (employer’s) workforce 26   journey workers 27   location Section 3 28   vi 29   ix 30   vii 31   iii 32   ii 33   iv 34   viii 35   integrated 36   competition 37   hovercraft(s) 38   piers 39   tunnel 40   concrete

How many seasons are there in your country? In my neck of the woods, we experience four distinct seasons throughout the year - spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Each season brings its own charm and uniqueness. For instance, spring is all about blooming flowers and rejuvenation, while winter paints everything in a serene blanket of snow. Does your country ever have extreme weather? Absolutely, we do get our fair share of extreme weather from time to time. Occasionally, we encounter scorching heatwaves in the summer that can make you feel like you're melting. On the flip side, there are periods of bone-chilling cold in winter that would make you bundle up in layers like an onion. Does weather ever disrupt things in your country? Oh, you bet! Weather plays quite the mischief-maker here. Torrential rains can flood the streets, causing traffic chaos, and unexpected snowstorms might lead to schools and workplaces shutting down. Mother Nature certainly knows how to keep us on our toes! Why do you think some people enjoy living in a hot climate? I reckon some folks are drawn to the warmth because it brings a sense of relaxation. There's nothing quite like basking in the sun's rays, feeling the warmth on your skin. It's like nature's therapy, you know? Plus, the idea of endless summer days just seems to put a perpetual smile on their faces. What types of activities can people do in cold climates? Well, when the mercury takes a nosedive, people around here embrace the cold by engaging in winter sports like skiing and ice skating. It's all about making the most of the chilly situation. Cozying up by the fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa is also a cherished pastime. What do you think it must be like to live in a country with only one type of weather all year round? Living in a place where the weather is stuck on repeat sounds like a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, it might be nice to avoid extreme temperature swings, but on the other hand, the lack of variety could potentially become a tad monotonous. I suppose it's a trade-off between consistency and diversity. Is the weather easy to predict in your country? Well, predicting the weather here is like trying to hit a moving target. Sometimes the forecast is spot on, and other times it's as unpredictable as a game of roulette. It keeps the meteorologists and us common folks guessing, adding a dash of excitement to our daily lives. Do you think weather influences people’s moods? Absolutely, without a doubt. When the sun's shining bright, it's like an instant mood booster for everyone. Conversely, a gloomy, rainy day tends to make people a bit more introspective or, dare I say, a tad grumpy. It's fascinating how the weather can cast its spell on our emotions. Do you think the world’s climate is changing? Oh, no doubt about it. There's a growing consensus that the world's climate is undergoing some significant changes. It's not just a hunch; there's plenty of evidence pointing towards shifts in temperature patterns, rising sea levels, and more frequent extreme weather events. What do you think is affecting the world’s climate? Well, it's a bit of a hot potato, isn't it? The way I see it, human activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation are major players in this climate change drama. It's like we've been throwing a party with the planet and forgetting to clean up after ourselves, and now we're facing the consequences. Do you think individuals should take responsibility for the world’s global climate? Absolutely, we all need to chip in and do our part. It's not just a job for the bigwigs; individuals can make a difference too. Simple things like reducing waste, using sustainable energy, and being mindful of our carbon footprint can collectively contribute to a healthier, happier planet. After all, it's our home, and we should treat it with the care it deserves.

How do people in your country meet new people? Well, you know, it's quite common for folks in my country to meet new people through mutual friends or even at social gatherings. People often strike up conversations at events like parties or community gatherings. Some folks also prefer joining clubs or classes, you know, like cooking classes or sports clubs, to make new connections. Do you think it’s safe to meet new people online? Well, it's a bit of a mixed bag, isn't it? On one hand, it can be a great way to connect with like-minded individuals, but you gotta be cautious, you know? There are some shady characters out there. It's important to trust your instincts and maybe arrange to meet in a public place if you decide to take the online friendship offline. Do you think it’s important for friends to spend time together? Absolutely! I mean, friends are like the spice of life, right? Spending time together helps build stronger bonds and creates memories. Whether it's grabbing a coffee, going for a movie, or just chilling at home, those moments really make the friendship more meaningful. What kinds of things do friends in your country like to do together? Oh, you know, friends in my country are into all sorts of things. From hitting up local cafes for a cuppa joe to catching the latest flick at the cinema, or even planning a weekend getaway. Sometimes it's just about hanging out, having a laugh, and sharing stories – the simple things that keep the friendship flame burning. Do you think families spend enough time together these days? It's a bit touch and go, to be honest. With everyone's busy schedules, it can be a challenge. But, hey, quality over quantity, right? It's not just about the time spent but making the most of it. Maybe having a family dinner a few times a week or doing activities together, like a game night, can really strengthen those family ties. How has socialising changed over the last few decades? Oh, it's like night and day! Back in the day, people would mainly socialize in person, you know, face-to-face conversations. But now, with the rise of smartphones and social media, a lot of it happens online. People are sharing updates, photos, and even chatting with friends halfway across the globe. It's made the world feel smaller, in a way. Do you think it’s safe for children to socialise online? Well, you know, it's a bit of a tightrope walk. On one hand, it's a digital era, and kids need to learn how to navigate it responsibly. But, parents need to keep an eye on things, you know? Teach them about online safety, set some ground rules, and maybe have the computer in a common area. It's about finding that balance between letting them explore and keeping them safe in the virtual world.

Is punctuality important in your country? Absolutely, being on time is a big deal where I'm from. We see it as a sign of respect and responsibility. If you're late, it's like saying you don't value the other person's time, and that's a bit of a no-no. Do you think being on time is more important now than in the past? Yeah, I'd say so. With the fast-paced rhythm of life these days, time is more precious than ever. Everyone's got their plate full, and being punctual is like a secret handshake that helps things run smoothly. It's like we're all on this high-speed train, and missing it can throw everything off track. How do people make sure they are on time for an appointment? Well, folks here often rely on a mix of old-school and new-school methods. Setting alarms on their phones is pretty common, but you'll also find people still swearing by good old wristwatches. And of course, there's the classic habit of planning to be early, so even if something unexpected crops up, you've got a buffer. Do people in your country usually wear a watch? Yeah, wearing a watch is kind of like second nature here. It's not just about keeping time; it's also a fashion statement. You'll see folks checking their wrist instead of their phones. It's like a subtle nod to the importance of keeping things ticking along smoothly. Why do you think some people are frequently late? Well, it's a bit of a puzzle. Some folks are just naturally more laid-back, I guess. They might not realize the ripple effect their tardiness can have on others. Maybe it's a mix of poor time management or just the thrill of racing against the clock. It's like they're dancing to their own rhythm in a world that's tapping its foot to a different beat. Is it easy to control one’s time? Ah, that's the million-dollar question, isn't it? Controlling time is like trying to catch a handful of sand – it slips away, no matter how tight you grip it. With all the distractions and unexpected twists, it's a bit like herding cats. But with some discipline and planning, you can at least keep a leash on it. How can a person balance their daily schedule? Well, it's all about juggling priorities. Like spinning plates, you've got work, family, personal time, and a bunch of other responsibilities. It's about finding the right rhythm – not letting one plate fall while you're busy keeping another one spinning. A bit of organization and a pinch of flexibility usually do the trick. What is the main reason people run out of time? I'd say it's the classic case of biting off more than you can chew. People often overcommit themselves, taking on more tasks than they realistically have time for. It's like filling up a suitcase; eventually, it reaches its limit, and you're left with things spilling out. Learning to say no and not piling on too much can save you from running out of time like a leaky hourglass.

How do people in your country meet new people? Do you think it’s safe to meet new people online? Do you think it’s important for friends to spend time together? What kinds of things do friends in your country like to do together? Do you think families spend enough time together these days? How has socialising changed over the last few decades? Do you think it’s safe for children to socialize online? How do people in your country meet new people? In my neck of the woods, folks usually prefer to break the ice by joining local clubs or groups that align with their interests. You know, like hiking clubs, cooking classes, or even book clubs. It's a great way to kill two birds with one stone – pursue a passion and make new pals. Do you think it’s safe to meet new people online? Well, you know, it's a bit of a mixed bag. On the one hand, the internet can be a treasure trove of connections, but you've gotta keep your wits about you. It's like walking a tightrope – if you're cautious and use your common sense, you can strike up some genuine friendships. But if you throw caution to the wind, well, that's when trouble can come knocking on your door. Do you think it’s important for friends to spend time together? Absolutely! I reckon good friendships are like plants – they need some tending to thrive. Grabbing a cup of coffee, shooting the breeze, or even catching a flick together, it's these little things that keep the friendship flame burning. Otherwise, it's easy for it to fizzle out like a damp firework. What kinds of things do friends in your country like to do together? Oh, we're a laid-back bunch. You'll often find friends here kicking back at a local pub, chowing down on some grub, or just goofing off at someone's place. Playing it by ear, you know? Sometimes it's the simple things like a barbecue or a game night that really cement those bonds. Do you think families spend enough time together these days? Ah, that's a bit of a touchy subject, isn't it? It feels like everyone's caught up in the hustle and bustle of life. Between work, school, and other commitments, family time often takes a backseat. It's like we're all sailing on different ships in the same storm. But hey, it wouldn't hurt to drop anchor once in a while and gather the crew for some quality time. How has socializing changed over the last few decades? Oh, it's been quite the rollercoaster ride. Back in the day, it was all about face-to-face chats and neighborhood hangouts. Now, with smartphones and social media, it's like we've got the world in our pockets. People can connect instantly, but it feels like we're losing some of that personal touch, you know? It's like swapping handwritten letters for quick texts. Do you think it’s safe for children to socialize online? Well, it's a bit of a tightrope walk again. On one hand, it opens up a whole new world for them, connecting with friends and learning things. But we've got to keep a watchful eye, make sure they're not wandering into the dark alleys of the internet. It's like teaching them to ride a bike – you let them pedal, but you've got to keep an eye on the road to make sure they don't hit any bumps.

1. How do most people get their news in your country? In my neck of the woods, folks usually stay in the loop by catching up on the news through their favorite news apps or by tuning in to the evening news on TV. It's pretty common for people to scroll through their social media feeds too, just to get the gist of what's happening around. I reckon it's a mix of traditional and tech-savvy ways to stay informed. 2. How do you think people will get their news in the future? Well, I reckon the grapevine suggests that folks might increasingly lean on online platforms and streaming services to catch up on current affairs. It's like the news is going digital, you know? Maybe we'll see more bite-sized updates and videos popping up on people's screens, making it easier for everyone to stay in the know on the fly. 3. Do you believe everything you read in the newspapers? Oh, not for a minute! You've got to take everything with a grain of salt these days. I mean, newspapers have their own spin on things, and it's always good to read between the lines. You know what they say, don't believe everything you read in black and white. 4. How has TV changed people's lives? TV has been a game-changer, no doubt. It's not just a box in the corner of the living room anymore; it's like a window to the world. People gather 'round for family movie nights, binge-watch their favorite shows, and even catch up on the latest news. It's become a staple in our lives, shaping how we spend our leisure time and connect with the world. 5. What do you think of children watching TV? Well, I reckon it's all about balance. A bit of screen time can be alright, but too much of anything ain't good, right? It's important for kiddos to have a mix of activities, from playing outdoors to reading books. As they say, everything in moderation, including cartoons and kid shows. 6. How has social media changed the way we get and share the news? Oh, it's like a whole new ballgame with social media in the picture. These days, news spreads like wildfire. We're all just a click away from knowing what's happening across the globe. But, you know, there's a flip side – not all of it is as reliable as the evening news. It's a mixed bag, and folks need to sift through the noise to get to the real deal.

Do women pay more attention to their health than men? Certainly, I believe women tend to be more mindful of their health compared to men. It's not that men don't care about their well-being, but women often go the extra mile when it comes to things like regular check-ups and maintaining a balanced diet. They seem to have this knack for listening to their bodies and addressing health concerns before they escalate into something more serious. I guess it's like they say, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." Could governments do more to promote healthier lifestyle options? Absolutely, governments could certainly step up their game in promoting healthier lifestyle choices. You know, it's not just about advising people to eat more fruits and vegetables; it's about creating an environment that makes those choices easier. Maybe they could implement policies that make healthy food more affordable or invest in public spaces for outdoor activities. It's time for governments to put their money where their mouth is, so to speak, and actively foster a culture of well-being. Do you think most people worry more about their health as they get older? Oh, without a doubt! As folks age, the reality of mortality tends to kick in, and suddenly everyone becomes a bit of a health enthusiast. It's like a wake-up call that prompts people to reconsider their habits and adopt a more health-conscious lifestyle. You start noticing more individuals embracing things like regular exercise, watching their diet, and even taking up activities like yoga or tai chi to keep those joints in check. What do old people in your country do to keep fit? In my neck of the woods, older folks often swear by simple yet effective methods to stay fit. You'll find them taking leisurely strolls in the neighborhood, engaging in community-led exercise classes, and even participating in local dance clubs. It's not just about the physical aspect; these activities also contribute to a sense of community and social well-being, which is equally important in the golden years. What else can people do to keep fit besides sports? Well, you don't necessarily need to be a sports buff to stay fit. There's a whole spectrum of activities out there, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator, doing household chores vigorously (trust me, it can be a workout!), or even just dancing around while you're cooking. The key is finding something you enjoy so that it doesn't feel like a chore but more like a fun way to sneak in some exercise. Do you think that tobacco companies should be held reasonably responsible for a person’s addiction to nicotine? Absolutely! I mean, it's common knowledge that smoking is addictive, and these companies are well aware of it. It's like selling someone a ticket to a roller coaster without mentioning it's a one-way ride. They should bear some responsibility for the consequences. It's not about pointing fingers but promoting accountability and ensuring that people are fully informed about the risks before they get hooked. Should smoking in restaurants be banned? Oh, no doubt about it! Smoking in restaurants is like mixing oil and water; they just don't go together. Besides, it's not just about the health of the smoker; it's the secondhand smoke that poses a risk to everyone else. We all deserve to enjoy a meal without inhaling someone else's bad habits. It's high time we clear the air, both literally and figuratively. What are some things people can do to keep healthy? Maintaining good health is not rocket science. It's about adopting small, sustainable habits. For starters, incorporating more fruits and veggies into your diet, staying hydrated, getting a decent amount of sleep, and, of course, regular exercise. It doesn't have to be an intense workout; even a brisk walk can do wonders. It's like they say, "small hinges swing big doors." What foods do you think are unhealthy? Oh, we all know the usual suspects – the fast food, sugary sodas, and those tempting but not-so-healthy snacks. It's like a daily battle against the allure of convenience. But, you know, moderation is the key. It's okay to indulge every now and then, but making a habit out of it is like playing a dangerous game with your health. It's all about finding a balance. Do you think traditional medicine is a good alternative to modern medicine? Well, I think both have their merits. Traditional medicine often brings age-old wisdom and natural remedies to the table, while modern medicine offers advanced technologies and scientific breakthroughs. It's like having a toolbox with different tools for different situations. Sometimes a herbal tea does the trick, and other times you need the precise intervention of modern medicine. It's about knowing when to use which tool. What are the advantages or disadvantages of modern medicine? The beauty of modern medicine is its ability to diagnose and treat with incredible precision. We've seen groundbreaking advancements, like vaccines and antibiotics, that have saved countless lives. However, it's not without its drawbacks. Sometimes, the reliance on pharmaceuticals can lead to side effects, and the cost of certain treatments can be a burden for some. It's a double-edged sword, I suppose. What are the advantages or disadvantages of traditional medicine? Traditional medicine brings a rich tapestry of remedies passed down through generations. The use of natural ingredients often appeals to those seeking a more holistic approach. However, the challenge lies in standardization and scientific validation. While some remedies have proven benefits, others might be rooted more in tradition than in scientifically proven efficacy. It's like navigating through a forest; you need to know which paths lead to the treasure. Is it possible to maintain a healthy lifestyle in this modern world? Absolutely! Despite the hustle and bustle of the modern world, it's entirely possible to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It's about making conscious choices – opting for the stairs instead of the elevator, choosing whole foods over processed ones, and squeezing in a quick workout amidst your busy schedule. It's like weaving health into the fabric of your daily life, making it a seamless part of the modern hustle. Why do many people try to have a healthy lifestyle? Well, in today's fast-paced world, everyone's looking for that magic elixir to combat stress and fatigue. Having a healthy lifestyle is like investing in your own well-being, ensuring you have the energy and resilience to tackle whatever life throws your way. It's not just about living longer; it's about living better, feeling good in both body and mind. What are the most efficient ways to lose weight? Losing weight is like a journey, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach. It's about finding what works for you. Incorporating a mix of regular exercise, portion control, and choosing nutrient-dense foods can make a significant difference. Crash diets might promise quick results, but it's like a sprint instead of a marathon – you might get there fast, but the sustainability is questionable. Slow and steady wins the race, they say. Is physical activity (jogging, going to a gym, swimming pool) an important part of a healthy lifestyle? Absolutely! Physical activity is the cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. It's not just about shedding those extra pounds; it's about keeping your heart happy, your muscles strong, and your mind sharp. Whether it's a jog in the park, hitting the gym, or taking a dip in the swimming pool, the key is finding something you enjoy. It's like giving your body a daily dose of vitality, keeping everything in top-notch condition.

How do advertisements attract attention? Well, advertisements, you see, are like the charismatic storytellers of the commercial world. They employ a myriad of tactics to grab our attention – vibrant colors that practically jump out at you, catchy tunes that linger in your mind, and sometimes they rope in familiar faces, like celebrities, to add a touch of glamour. It's as if they're waving their arms, shouting, "Hey, over here! Something interesting is happening!" Do young and old people show the same attitude towards advertisements? It's quite fascinating, really. The younger crowd, they're all about the digital dazzle – social media, influencers, and the whole shebang. On the flip side, the older generation might find comfort in the more traditional avenues like newspaper ads or good old television commercials. But, you know, beneath the surface, everyone's got their own radar, tuning into what they find appealing in the vast sea of ads. Are advertisements a good or bad influence on children? Now, this is a nuanced topic. On one hand, ads can turn toys and snacks into these magical keys to joy. On the other hand, they serve as teachers, imparting valuable lessons about choices and preferences. It's like a seesaw, swaying between the positive and the not-so-great. Do advertisements actually influence people to buy things? How? Absolutely! It's like this intricate dance of subtle persuasion. Ads create this enchanting illusion that owning the latest gadget or trendiest sneakers will somehow elevate your status or bring boundless joy. It's as if they're softly whispering, "Go on, succumb to the allure – you know you want to." What are the harmful and beneficial effects of advertising? Ah, the yin and yang of advertising! On the sunny side, ads keep us informed about all the fantastic things available in the market. Yet, on the flip side, they can stoke a relentless desire for more possessions. It's akin to navigating a tempting buffet with both delectable and not-so-nutritious options – a delicate balance indeed. Do you think advertising should be allowed to interrupt TV or radio programs? What are the alternatives? Ah, the perennial dilemma! It's like the ongoing clash between attention-grabbing ads and our beloved shows. Personally, I lean towards finding a middle ground – perhaps strategically placing ads without overshadowing the content or incorporating sponsored segments seamlessly. It's all about maintaining equilibrium. What are the different methods of advertising? Oh, it's a veritable jungle out there! Social media blitz, guerrilla marketing, towering billboards, and the classic word-of-mouth – the advertising toolbox is vast. It's like advertisers are craftspeople, selecting the right tools based on who they want to reach and how subtle or overt they want to be. What is the most popular way of advertising? In the contemporary landscape, it's all about diving headfirst into the digital realm. Social media reigns supreme – think Facebook, Instagram, Twitter – they've become the hip gathering spots. Advertisers are all about sliding into those feeds, creating a splash that resonates with the cool kids of the digital age. Do you think that ads create a desire for more and more material possessions? Absolutely, and it's quite the psychological journey! Ads function like sly gardeners, planting these tiny seeds of desire in our minds. The more we're exposed to those gleaming, enticing products, the more we feel an innate need for them. It's akin to the experience of window shopping, where your cart suddenly overflows with items you didn't even know you craved. Crafty, isn't it?

Do you think diet is important? Absolutely! Maintaining a healthy diet is of paramount importance. I firmly believe that what we put into our bodies not only has a direct impact on our physical health but also plays a pivotal role in our energy levels and mental clarity. It's like fueling our engines with the right kind of energy to navigate the challenges of daily life. What is a balanced diet? A balanced diet is akin to curating a diverse playlist for our bodies. It involves incorporating a harmonious mix of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals into our daily meals. It's not about deprivation or cutting out certain food groups; instead, it's about ensuring that we get a bit of everything in moderation. It's like finding the right rhythm for our nutritional needs. What is the typical diet of people in your country? In the cultural tapestry of my country, the typical diet is a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Staples like rice or bread often take center stage, accompanied by an array of vibrant vegetables and a choice of meat or fish. The use of spices is an art form, adding that extra oomph and making each meal a flavorful and aromatic experience. Do many people eat in restaurants in your country? Absolutely! The culinary landscape in my country is vibrant, and eating out is a common practice, especially during weekends or celebratory occasions. It goes beyond mere sustenance; it's a social affair. Gathering with friends or family, sharing a delectable meal, and engaging in lively conversations make dining out a cherished and communal experience. Why do some people enjoy eating out? The allure of dining out lies in the amalgamation of various factors. Firstly, it provides a respite from the responsibilities of cooking and cleaning. Secondly, there's a distinct ambiance in restaurants – a combination of decor, lighting, and music that elevates the dining experience. Moreover, the extensive menu options and the thrill of trying something new contribute to the enjoyment. It's not merely about satisfying hunger; it's about immersing oneself in a multisensory culinary adventure. What’s the difference between restaurant food and home-cooked food? Home-cooked food is a manifestation of warmth and familiarity, akin to a comforting embrace from a loved one. It carries a personal touch, often rooted in family traditions and passed-down recipes. On the flip side, restaurant food is a culinary exploration. It tends to be more elaborate, featuring diverse ingredients and techniques. While it may lack the intimacy of a home-cooked meal, it compensates with the excitement of gastronomic innovation. Both have their unique charms, offering a balance between the heartwarming and the adventurous in the realm of gastronomy. Describe what you think is a healthy diet: Certainly! I believe a healthy diet is all about striking the right balance. It's like juggling a variety of foods, incorporating plenty of veggies, fruits, and lean proteins. You don't want to be all bark and no bite, so it's crucial to avoid excessive junk food. I reckon it's not about reinventing the wheel but rather sticking to the basics – you know, the whole shebang of vitamins, minerals, and whatnot. Are there many vegetarians in your country? Well, you know, it's a mixed bag. Some folks are on the veggie bandwagon, while others are riding the meat train. It's like a see-saw – it tips one way, then the other. But, truth be told, the vegetarian crew isn't exactly taking over the town. They're a bit of a niche, you could say. Why do you think some people choose to be vegetarians? Ah, you know, it's like different strokes for different folks. Some folks are all about saving the planet – they've got that green thumb, not just in their gardens but in their hearts too. Others are doing it for the health kick, like saying, "No more meat, let's keep it light and right." It's like they're on a mission, you know, marching to the beat of a different drumstick. Is the food that people eat today in your country different from the food that people used to eat in the past? (if yes, in what ways has it changed?) Oh, absolutely! The culinary landscape has done a 180. Back in the day, it was all about home-cooked goodness, passed down like an heirloom recipe. Now, it's a whole different ballgame – fast food joints popping up left and right. The convenience factor has skyrocketed, but the old-school charm of traditional grub is fading away, like a distant memory. How do you think the way we eat will change in the future? I reckon we're in for a wild ride. Fast food and on-the-go bites are here to stay, but I also see a trend towards healthier alternatives gaining traction. It's like the pendulum swinging back – a fusion of quick fixes and mindful munching. The future might just serve up a smorgasbord of options, where everyone finds their flavor, you know? Is American-style ‘fast food’ popular in your country? (Why? Popular with whom?) Oh, for sure! Fast food has planted its flag on our culinary map. It's like a magnet pulling in the young guns, always on the go. The quick fix, the instant satisfaction – it's like a love affair with convenience. Students, professionals, you name it – they're all in on the fast food fiesta. What do you think of this popularity? Is it a good thing? Well, it's a bit of a double-edged sword, if you ask me. On one hand, it's a time-saver, a flavor bomb when you're in a pinch. But on the flip side, health takes a hit. It's like trading the slow burn for a flash in the pan. So, it's a mixed bag – a guilty pleasure for some, a cautionary tale for others. More and more people are overweight nowadays. What do you think might be the cause of this? Oh, it's a real head-scratcher. I reckon it's a combo deal – fast food frenzy, sedentary lifestyles, you name it. It's like we're stuck in a rut, glued to screens and wolfing down snacks. The struggle is real, and the waistlines are paying the price. It's a battle against the bulge, my friend. What does a typical meal consist of in your country? Ah, picture this: a hearty spread that's a mishmash of flavors. Rice, veggies, a dollop of curry – it's like a symphony of tastes. But it's not just about the grub; it's about the camaraderie, the whole shebang. A meal isn't just a pit stop; it's a social affair, a time to chew the fat with loved ones. Do you think a vegetarian diet is better than a diet that includes meat? Well, that's the million-dollar question, isn't it? It's like comparing apples and oranges. A vegetarian diet has its perks – all that fiber, the veggie goodness. But then again, meat packs a punch with proteins and whatnot. It's like a tug of war, each side flexing its muscle. I guess it boils down to personal preference and what floats your culinary boat. Do you think that food defines a culture? If so, how? Absolutely! It's like the secret sauce of culture, you know? Food tells a tale, a flavorful narrative passed down through generations. Each dish is like a chapter, steeped in tradition, love, and a pinch of spice. It's not just eating; it's a cultural handshake, a way to savor the identity of a people. Do you think fast food, soda, and sweets should be sold in school cafeterias? Well, it's a bit of a sticky wicket. On one hand, it's a taste of freedom for the students – a cafeteria carnival of sorts. But on the flip side, it's like serving up a health hazard on a tray. It's a tough call, a balancing act between freedom and fostering healthy habits. Maybe a middle ground could be the golden ticket.

How do people in your country spend their free time? In my country, folks tend to unwind and relax in various ways during their leisure time. You'll often find people catching up with friends and family, enjoying outdoor activities like picnics or sports, or simply kicking back at home with a good book or movie. It's a mixed bag, really, as everyone has their preferred way to decompress. How does finance affect the way people spend their free time? Well, the impact of finance on leisure activities is quite noticeable. For those on a tight budget, free or low-cost options like hiking or visiting local parks become more appealing. On the flip side, those with more financial flexibility might indulge in dining out, concerts, or travel. Money tends to be a deciding factor in the choice between frugal pastimes and more extravagant pursuits. Is it important to have a hobby? Absolutely! Having a hobby is like a breath of fresh air in the routine of daily life. It not only provides a break from work but also adds a touch of joy and fulfillment. Whether it's gardening, painting, or even collecting stamps, a hobby can be a fantastic stress-buster and a way to express oneself outside the regular grind. Is it harmful to spend too much time on a hobby? Well, like they say, "Everything in moderation." While having a hobby is wonderful, it's crucial not to let it consume all your time and neglect other responsibilities. Too much of anything can lead to imbalance, so striking a healthy equilibrium between work, social life, and hobbies is key. Where do young people in this country usually spend their free time? The younger generation tends to gravitate towards social spaces – cafes, malls, and recreational areas. These places provide an environment for socializing, hanging out with friends, and engaging in activities like gaming or watching movies. It's all about creating memories and fostering connections. How do the men in your family usually spend their free time? The men in my family are a diverse bunch when it comes to leisure. While some are into sports and often hit the gym or the soccer field, others prefer quieter pursuits like reading or tinkering in the garage. Each of them has their unique way of unwinding, creating a colorful mix of interests. How do the women in your country usually spend their free time? Women in my country have a wide array of interests too. You'll find some immersed in creative activities like crafting or cooking, while others may be dedicated readers or fitness enthusiasts. Socializing is a common theme as well, with many enjoying time with friends over coffee or participating in community events. Do men and women spend their free time differently? How? Certainly, there are some general trends. Men often lean towards more active and competitive activities, such as sports or gaming, while women may prefer activities that allow for self-expression and creativity. However, it's crucial to remember that these are just broad patterns, and individual preferences vary widely. Which hobbies are the most popular with women in your country? And with men? For women, activities like yoga, painting, and gardening seem to be quite popular. On the other hand, men often enjoy sports like soccer, basketball, or even spending time tinkering with cars or gadgets. Of course, these are just general trends, and you'll find plenty of exceptions in both genders. Do people’s leisure time activities change as they get older? How? Absolutely, there's a noticeable shift in leisure preferences as people age. In their younger years, individuals might be more inclined towards energetic pursuits, like hiking or partying. However, as the years roll by, quieter activities such as reading, gardening, or even just enjoying a peaceful evening at home gain more appeal. It's a natural evolution reflecting changing priorities and lifestyles.

Which social networking platform do people in your country usually use? In my neck of the woods, folks are pretty hooked on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. These platforms are like the go-to hangout spots where everyone shares what's cookin' in their lives. What are some good aspects of social networking? Well, you know, there's the whole staying connected gig. It's like having a virtual porch where you can shoot the breeze with friends and fam. Plus, you get the lowdown on all the shindigs happening around town, and who doesn't love a good virtual party invite? What are some bad aspects of social networking? Ah, the flip side of the coin. Sometimes, it feels like people are playing the comparison game. You see everyone's highlight reel, and suddenly your life looks like a black-and-white movie. Also, there's the risk of getting caught up in drama – like, who needs that, right? What type of information should you put on social networking sites? Gotta be savvy about it, you know? Share the good vibes, like your latest kitchen masterpiece or that hilarious cat video. But when it comes to the nitty-gritty, keep it on the down-low. Personal details are like treasures – you wouldn't spill 'em all at once, right? Better safe than sorry!

When should people start saving for retirement? Well, you know, it's never too early to start putting a bit aside for the golden years. I reckon folks should kick off their retirement savings game as soon as they start pulling in a regular paycheck. That way, they can build up a decent nest egg over time and not be scrambling when the clock's ticking. At what age should people retire from work? I reckon that varies for different folks. You gotta take into account your health, your job satisfaction, and, of course, how much you've got stashed away. I'd say when you're still fit as a fiddle, and you've got enough dough to enjoy life without stressing over bills, that's the sweet spot to hang up your work boots. Why do some companies encourage early retirement? Well, you see, some companies are all about shaking up their workforce and making room for fresh blood. They might offer early retirement packages to cut costs or bring in new talent. Plus, it's a win-win – older employees get a chance to kick back, and the company gets a chance to bring in some young guns. What problems can people face after retirement? Oh, there's a bunch of hurdles folks can run into post-retirement. You might find yourself feeling a bit isolated, missing the daily grind, or even facing financial hiccups if you didn't plan things out. It's all about staying socially connected, finding new hobbies, and, most importantly, having a solid financial plan in place. How important are retirees to your country’s economy? Retirees are like the backbone of the economy, you know. They've got time, experience, and often a bit of cash to splash around. When they're out there spending on leisure, travel, and whatnot, it keeps the economic wheels turning. Plus, they've got the wisdom to mentor the younger generation, so they play a pretty crucial role in keeping the whole system ticking smoothly.

Can leadership skills be taught? Absolutely! I reckon anyone can pick up leadership skills with the right guidance and a bit of hands-on experience. It's not rocket science, you know? Take my own journey, for instance. I started off as a team member and gradually learned the ropes of leadership through some on-the-job training and a few leadership workshops. It's like learning to ride a bike – might be a bit wobbly at first, but practice makes perfect! Are some people born to be leaders? Well, you know what they say – some folks do have a knack for leading from the get-go. It's like they're born with a silver spoon in their leadership skills, if you catch my drift. But it's not all in the genes, you see. Others, like me, had to work on it. It's about finding your groove and stepping up when the opportunity knocks. Being a leader is not just about bossing people around; it's about knowing when to listen, when to act, and when to crack a joke to lighten the mood. It's a skill set you can develop, born leader or not. What should a leader do to remain popular? Keeping the troops on your side, eh? Well, it's all about staying down-to-earth and being in tune with your team. You gotta be like a captain steering a ship – listen to the crew, navigate through storms, and celebrate the victories together. A good leader is someone who rolls up their sleeves and gets their hands dirty, not just barking orders from the top. It's about creating a camaraderie, you know, like a tight-knit family. Throw in a bit of humor, a friendly pat on the back, and voila! You've got a leader who's not just popular but someone people genuinely want to follow. Why are elected politicians often so unpopular? Oh, that's a tough nut to crack! You see, politicians often get a bad rap because folks think they're all talk and no action. It's like promising to fix the leaky faucet and then forgetting about it. People want someone who walks the walk, not just talks the talk. Plus, the whole political game can be a bit like a rollercoaster – ups and downs, scandals here and there. It's tough to please everyone, and with all the conflicting opinions, someone's bound to be unhappy. So, staying popular in politics? Well, that's like juggling knives – tricky business!

Do you think it’s important to know about other cultures? Absolutely, understanding other cultures is crucial in today's interconnected world. It's like opening a window to different perspectives, traditions, and ways of life. This knowledge fosters tolerance, breaks down stereotypes, and promotes global harmony. Being aware of other cultures enhances communication and helps build meaningful connections with people from diverse backgrounds. How can we benefit from learning about other cultures? Learning about other cultures is like adding a colorful palette to the canvas of life. It broadens our horizons, making us more open-minded and accepting. By embracing diversity, we gain valuable insights that can be applied in various aspects of life, from business to personal relationships. It's a journey of continuous learning that enriches our understanding of the world and enhances our ability to navigate it. What do you think is the best way to learn about another culture? The best way to learn about another culture is through immersion. It's like jumping into the deep end of the pool. Traveling to the country, experiencing its traditions firsthand, and engaging with locals provide a genuine understanding. However, if travel is not feasible, exploring literature, films, and cuisine from that culture can also offer valuable insights. Do you think that learning foreign languages can help us understand foreign cultures? Absolutely! Learning a foreign language is like unlocking the door to a culture's soul. Language is deeply intertwined with a culture's history, values, and traditions. By speaking the language, you gain access to nuances and expressions that are often lost in translation. It's a bridge that connects people, fostering a deeper appreciation for their customs and way of life. What does it mean to be polite in your culture? In my culture, being polite involves showing respect and consideration for others. It's like using "please" and "thank you" as a basic courtesy, being mindful of personal space, and expressing gratitude. Politeness extends to using appropriate titles and gestures in formal settings. Overall, it's about creating a positive and respectful atmosphere in interactions with others. What is considered rude in your culture? In my culture, interrupting someone while speaking is considered rude. It's like disregarding their perspective and can be seen as impolite. Additionally, raising one's voice or engaging in confrontational behavior is generally frowned upon. Being punctual is also highly valued, as lateness can be perceived as a lack of respect for others' time. If a group of people came to your country from overseas, what advice would you give them? I would advise them to embrace the local customs and traditions, as it's like a key to unlocking a more authentic experience. Engaging with locals, trying traditional foods, and participating in cultural events can enhance their visit. Additionally, being open-minded and respectful of the local way of life will likely lead to positive interactions and a more fulfilling stay. What is culture shock? Culture shock is like a rollercoaster of emotions experienced when someone is confronted with a new and unfamiliar culture. It can involve feelings of disorientation, frustration, and even anxiety. The differences in customs, language, and social norms can be overwhelming initially, but over time, individuals may adapt and appreciate the uniqueness of the culture. What is the best/most important thing your culture/country has adopted from another culture? One of the most significant things my culture has adopted from another culture is the art of cuisine. The fusion of flavors, cooking techniques, and ingredients from various cultures has resulted in a diverse and delicious culinary landscape. It's like a culinary tapestry that reflects the rich tapestry of cultural influences, making our food scene vibrant and unique.

Is handwriting still important? Absolutely! While we're living in a digital age, there's no denying the importance of good old-fashioned handwriting. It's like a personal touch in a world full of keyboards and screens. You see, when you jot things down by hand, it's not just about the words; it's about the connection between your brain and the paper. It adds a human element to communication, and let's face it, who doesn't appreciate a heartfelt handwritten note? Is it possible to improve a student’s handwriting after years? Absolutely, without a doubt! It's never too late to brush up on those penmanship skills. I mean, Rome wasn't built in a day, right? With a bit of dedication and some practice, anyone can make strides in improving their handwriting. It's all about breaking those bad habits and forming new, better ones. It's like learning to ride a bike; you might wobble at first, but with time and effort, you'll be cruising smoothly. Is being left-handed the cause of the problem? Well, being a southpaw myself, I can vouch for the challenges that left-handed folks face. It's like navigating a world designed for righties. But, let's not play the blame game here. While being left-handed may present its own set of challenges, it's not the sole cause of poor handwriting. It's more about adapting and finding the right techniques to make those letters flow seamlessly, regardless of which hand you favor. Are handwriting problems more common in boys? Ah, now that's an interesting point to ponder. While it might be tempting to think that boys have a monopoly on messy handwriting, it's not necessarily true. It's more about individual habits and attitudes towards writing. Sure, there might be some statistical gender differences, but let's not stereotype. I've seen some guys with handwriting that could rival calligraphy, and vice versa. It's all about breaking those stereotypes and recognizing that handwriting skills know no gender bounds. What is the future of handwriting? Well, the crystal ball is a bit foggy on this one, but one thing's for sure – handwriting isn't going extinct anytime soon. It might not be as prevalent as it once was, given our reliance on keyboards and touchscreens, but there's a certain charm to putting pen to paper. It's like a timeless tradition that refuses to be overshadowed. Perhaps, in the future, we'll see a balance – a harmonious coexistence of digital and handwritten communication. After all, there's something special about a handwritten letter that emojis just can't convey. Do you think that handwriting expresses the personality? Absolutely, and it's like letting your personality dance across the page. Your handwriting is like a fingerprint – unique to you. The slant, the size, the loops – they all tell a story about the person behind the pen. It's like a silent conversation, revealing whether you're meticulous, spontaneous, or maybe a bit of both. Handwriting is a form of self-expression, a window into the soul. So, next time you see someone's handwriting, remember, it's like a glimpse into their personality – a sneak peek into the quirks and nuances that make them who they are.

Why do you think that some local singers or musicians aren’t as successful as some from other countries? Well, I reckon it boils down to exposure and marketing. You see, homegrown talents might not have the same push or resources to get their music out there. It's like having a fantastic dish but not having the right recipe to share it with the world. Meanwhile, artists from other countries often have better backing and promotion, helping them reach a wider audience. Do you think the Internet has affected the music industry? In what ways? Absolutely, mate! The internet has turned the music game on its head. It's like a double-edged sword, you know? On one hand, it's easier for artists to put their tunes out there and connect with fans directly, cutting out the middleman. But on the flip side, piracy and illegal downloads have hit the industry hard. It's like a wild west out there, with musicians trying to navigate through the digital frontier. Do you think there will be further changes in the music industry in the future? Oh, for sure! The music scene is always evolving. With technology advancing at the speed of light, who knows what's next? I'd say streaming platforms will keep dominating, and maybe virtual concerts will become the new norm. It's like predicting the next big hit – you can't be certain, but you know it's gonna be a game-changer. Do you think the music young people listen to in your country is becoming more globalized? Why/Why not? Definitely, mate! It's like the world's music playlist is getting shuffled, and everyone's tuned in. With the internet making borders blurry, young folks are exposed to a melting pot of sounds from all over. It's not just about local beats anymore; it's like a musical buffet where you can pick and choose from various genres worldwide. So yeah, globalization is like turning up the volume on the diversity of tunes young ears are grooving to.