SECTION 1 Questions 1–14
Read the text below and answer Questions 1–7.
The Seaside Aquarium Membership Plan
Here are some of the frequently asked questions about the Seaside Aquarium Membership Plan:
What does membership include?
Membership provides unlimited entry to the aquarium for twelve months, access to member-only talks, and a 10% discount in the gift shop. It does not include food purchased in the café or tickets for special evening events.
How can people join?
Visitors may buy membership online or at the admissions desk. Online members receive a digital confirmation immediately, while membership cards are posted within five working days.
Are there different types of membership?
Individual, family, and senior memberships are available. Family membership covers two adults and up to three children under the age of sixteen living at the same address.
Are there any extra rules?
Membership cards are not transferable and must be shown on entry. Children under twelve must always be accompanied by an adult, and members are encouraged to book school-holiday visits in advance because those periods are especially busy.
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.
Membership allows unlimited visits for one year.
2.
Members receive free meals in the aquarium café.
3.
People can purchase membership through the internet.
4.
Online members receive their physical membership card immediately.
5.
Family membership includes children who are younger than sixteen.
6.
Membership cards may be shared between friends.
7.
Members are advised to reserve visits during busy holiday periods.
Everyday Backpacks
Online customer reviews
A. Natalie
I spent several days deciding whether to buy this backpack because it cost more than the others I was considering. I'm pleased I chose it. The fabric feels durable, and the cream colour looks exactly like it did online.
B. Victor
This backpack is useful both for commuting to work and for short hikes at the weekend. It looks smart enough for the office, but it is also comfortable to carry on country walks. The side pockets are very handy.
C. Ana
The bag itself is well made, but the dark green shade was much deeper than the pictures suggested. That was disappointing. Still, it arrived in very secure packaging and there were no marks or scratches.
D. Benji
I ordered the larger version first because I thought I would need extra space, but it felt too bulky on my back. Swapping it for the smaller size solved the issue, and customer service dealt with everything very efficiently.
E. Carla
I bought two backpacks in different colours because I couldn't decide which one I preferred, and I ended up keeping both. The only slight problem is that the shoulder straps are shorter than I expected, although the bags are still comfortable enough to wear.
Questions 8–14
Look at the five online customer reviews of backpacks, A–E.
For which review are the following statements true?
Write the correct letter, A-E, in boxes 8–14 on your answer sheet.
NB, You may use any letter more than once.
8.
The colour of the backpack did not match the website image.
9.
The customer decided to keep both backpacks they bought.
10.
The customer first ordered a backpack that was the wrong size.
11.
The customer mentioned one part of the backpack was shorter than expected.
12.
The customer was happy with the purchase after considering it for some time.
13.
The backpack is described as suitable for two different purposes.
14.
The customer commented positively on the packaging.
SECTION 2 Questions 15–27
Read the text below and answer Questions 15–21.
The Benefits of Walking Regularly
Walking is one of the simplest forms of exercise, yet it brings many important benefits. Because it requires little equipment and can be fitted into daily routines, it is accessible to a wide range of people.
Physical health
Regular walking can improve heart health, strengthen muscles, and support healthy weight management. It is also a gentle activity, which makes it suitable for many people who are new to exercise.
Mental well-being
Walking, especially outdoors, can lift mood and reduce stress. Many people find that a short walk helps clear the mind and improve concentration.
Social opportunities
Walking with friends, relatives, or organised groups provides a chance to talk and build relationships. This makes the activity enjoyable as well as beneficial.
Convenience
Unlike some sports, walking does not require expensive equipment or special training. It can be included in commuting, shopping trips, or lunch breaks.
Long-term habits
Because walking is practical and flexible, it is easier to maintain over time than many more demanding forms of exercise. This helps people build healthier routines.
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.
Regular walking can improve heart health and strengthen .
16.
Walking can support healthy management.
17.
A short walk may improve concentration and lift .
18.
Walking with others can help people build .
19.
Walking does not require expensive equipment or special .
20.
Walking can easily be included in commuting, shopping trips, or lunch .
21.
Because it is practical, walking can help people build healthier .
Planning a successful day trip
A day trip can be relaxing and enjoyable if it is organised properly. Good preparation helps you make the most of your time and avoid unnecessary problems while you are away.
Before departure
First, decide on your destination and check travel times carefully. It is helpful to look at opening hours, ticket prices, and the weather forecast in advance. Pack only what you need, but make sure essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, and a phone charger are included.
If the trip involves a lot of walking, wear suitable shoes and comfortable clothing. It is also sensible to keep some cash with you in case card payments are not accepted everywhere.
During the trip
Keep your travel documents and valuables somewhere safe but easy to reach. If you are travelling with others, agree on meeting points in case anyone gets separated. Taking short breaks can help you keep your energy up throughout the day.
Before returning home
Check return times so that you do not miss your train or bus. Give yourself a little extra time in case of queues or delays. Before leaving, make sure you have collected all your belongings.
-
First stage – organising
Choose the destination and confirm the practical details before setting out. -
Second stage – enjoying the trip
Keep important things safe and manage your time and energy well. -
Third stage – returning
Check travel arrangements and allow for possible delays.
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.
The best way to organise a day trip
Check travel times, opening hours, and the weather 22 before leaving.
Before departure:
- pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and a phone 23 .
- wear suitable shoes and comfortable 24 .
During the trip:
- agree on 25
in case people get separated.
- take short breaks to maintain energy.
Before returning:
- check return 26 carefully.
- allow extra time in case of queues or 27
.
SECTION 3 Questions 28–40
Read the text below and answer Questions 28–40.
The History of Clocks
A
People have measured time in different ways for thousands of years. Early methods included observing the sun and stars, as well as using sundials and water clocks. These devices were useful but depended on conditions such as daylight or careful maintenance.
B
Mechanical clocks began to appear in medieval Europe. They were often installed in churches and public buildings, where they helped communities organise work, prayer, and daily life. Although not especially accurate by modern standards, they represented a major step forward.
C
In the 17th century, the development of the pendulum clock greatly improved accuracy. This invention allowed time to be measured more consistently and influenced science, navigation, and everyday routines.
D
Later, portable clocks and watches became increasingly common. As manufacturing methods improved, personal timepieces became more affordable to ordinary people, not just the wealthy. Accurate timekeeping became a more important part of transport, industry, and communication.
E
Today, electronic and atomic clocks provide extremely precise measurements of time. Digital devices have made clocks part of everyday life, from phones and computers to transport systems. Even so, traditional clocks are still valued for their design and craftsmanship.
Questions 28–32
The text 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. Portable clocks become widely available
ii. Early ways of measuring time
iii. The rise of digital clocks in public buildings
iv. Mechanical clocks in medieval communities
v. Extremely accurate modern timekeeping
vi. The decline of craftsmanship in clock design
vii. The effect of the pendulum clock
viii. Why sundials replaced all other clocks
28.
Section A
29.
Section B
30.
Section C
31.
Section D
32.
Section E
Questions 33–37
Complete the summary below.
Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer.
Write your answers in boxes 33–37 on your answer sheet.
The development of clocks
Early methods of measuring time included sundials and water 33 . Mechanical clocks were often placed in churches and public 34 . In the 17th century, the 35 clock greatly improved accuracy. Later, personal timepieces became more affordable to ordinary 36 . Today, atomic clocks provide extremely precise 37 of time.
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 does the writer say about medieval mechanical clocks?
39. The writer mentions that portable clocks and watches became more common because
40. What would be the best subtitle for this text?