SECTION 1
Questions 1–14
Popular Tourist Destinations
A. Greenfield Park
This popular park in the city centre is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Despite being relatively small, it boasts beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a serene lake. The park's central location makes it an ideal spot for visitors exploring the nearby museums, shops, and cafes. Just follow the signs to enjoy a day out in nature amidst the bustling city life.
B. Bluewater Beach
This coastal destination opened to the public last year and has quickly garnered rave reviews for its pristine sandy shores and crystal-clear waters. It offers stunning views of the coastline and is a perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing. However, reaching Bluewater Beach can be challenging as it is located far from the main town, requiring a long drive along winding roads.
C. Mount Silver
Reaching the peak of Mount Silver is no easy feat, but the breathtaking views from the top make it worthwhile. The mountain offers several hiking trails, some of which are quite steep and require a good level of fitness. The area is also popular for camping, with plenty of spots to pitch a tent and enjoy the starry nights. Make sure to bring all necessary supplies as the nearest store is miles away.
D. Redwood Forest
The vast Redwood Forest is known for its towering trees and extensive network of trails. It’s an excellent place for nature walks and bird watching. The forest is quite remote, and accessing it can be difficult during rainy seasons when the roads may become impassable. Check the weather forecast and road conditions before planning your visit.
E. Crystal Cave
Crystal Cave attracts adventurers and geology enthusiasts from all over. The cave’s intricate formations and sparkling crystals are a sight to behold. Guided tours are available, but it's advisable to book in advance due to the cave's popularity. Located in a secluded area, the cave is not well-known among the general public, making it a hidden gem for those who discover it.
Questions 1–7
For which destination are the following statements true?
Write the correct letter, A–E, in boxes 1–7 on your answer sheet.
NB You may use any letter more than once.
1.
The site is impossible to get to at certain times.
2.
It is situated conveniently for accessing various tourist spots.
3.
You should bring your own supplies as the nearest store is far away.
4.
Tourists who enjoy a particular field of study come here.
5.
The difficult journey to the site is worth the effort.
6.
Few people have heard of this site.
7.
Some driving effort is needed to reach it.
Ocean View Condo (OVC) Newsletter
Newsletter for residents of Ocean View Condo Complex
Dear Residents
Roof Leak Repairs
Recent storms have led to roof leaks in some units, which are being addressed as a priority. We will be placing tarps over the damaged areas until full roof repairs can be completed next year. Scaffolding will be erected next week to facilitate this process.
Elevator Safety
Following a recent inspection, we will be upgrading the elevator systems to meet the latest safety regulations. As mentioned in our previous newsletter, the elevator lobby renovations will be done at the same time by contractors Elite Builders.
Lobby Redecoration
The main lobby is being repainted as part of the routine five-year maintenance plan. Please keep an eye out for wet paint signs, and make sure children avoid touching the freshly painted surfaces. We will not be liable for any damage to personal belongings.
Trash Disposal Issues
We have received numerous complaints about improper trash disposal in the common areas. We ask residents to securely seal their trash bags before leaving them outside their doors for pickup to prevent any odours from spreading in the corridors.
Noise and Home Renovations
While most residents adhere to the noise rules, we have received some complaints about renovation activities being carried out after hours. Please be reminded that any work involving power tools or loud noises must be done between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on weekdays and between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. on Saturdays. No exceptions are allowed, and we ask that you inform your neighbours beforehand if you are planning any work.
Questions 8–14
Do the following statements agree with the information given in the previous 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 roof leaks in some units are being treated as a priority.
9.
Full roof repairs will be completed this year.
10.
Some residents have ignored ‘wet paint’ signs in the past.
11.
Improper trash disposal has caused unpleasant odours in the hallways.
12.
Residents are required to seal their trash bags before placing them outside.
13.
Some residents have complained about excessive noise from renovations.
14.
Home renovations can be done after hours with the neighbours’ consent.
SECTION 2
Questions 15–27
Read the text below and answer Questions 15–20.
A Day in the Life of a Housekeeper
Housekeepers play an essential role in maintaining cleanliness and order in various establishments, including hotels, private homes, and offices. For those considering this career, here is what a typical day might involve for an experienced housekeeper.
Housekeepers often start their day early, ensuring that all rooms or areas are cleaned and organised. They may encounter some issues related to broken or malfunctioning equipment that requires immediate attention or repair. Ensuring a clean and safe environment is a top priority. Housekeepers might then interact with guests or residents, responding to requests for additional services such as extra towels or cleaning supplies. Engaging with occupants and addressing their needs is a key part of their role.
Later in the morning, a housekeeper might prepare cleaning supplies and organise their cart to efficiently clean the next set of rooms. This is also an excellent opportunity to inspect the rooms closely and note any maintenance issues that may need reporting. The housekeeper may then participate in a training session to stay updated on the latest cleaning techniques and safety protocols.
In the afternoon, housekeepers might conduct deep-cleaning tasks, such as scrubbing bathroom tiles, vacuuming carpets, or changing bed linens. They need to be prepared for a variety of tasks and possess a broad skill set. Housekeepers also monitor environmental factors, such as the air conditioning or heating systems, to ensure the rooms are comfortable for guests.
Towards the end of the day, housekeepers often engage in administrative tasks, documenting their activities and preparing reports. This helps in planning future cleaning schedules and maintaining records of any issues encountered. Before leaving, they might also review security measures to ensure all doors and windows are locked.
Questions 15–20
Complete the flowchart below.
Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer.
Write your answers in boxes 15–20 on your answer sheet.
A Day in the Life of a Housekeeper
It's an early start for the housekeeper. You may have to address 15 involving broken or malfunctioning equipment.
The next task may be preparing cleaning 16
for the next set of rooms.
It may be a good idea to participate in a training session to stay updated on the latest cleaning 17
.
You may then conduct deep-cleaning 18 to ensure thorough cleanliness. Monitoring environmental 19 is crucial to ensure the rooms are comfortable. You may finish the day by documenting your activities and preparing 20 .
Read the text below and answer Questions 21–27.
How to create an eco-friendly home
Creating an eco-friendly home is beneficial to both the environment and your well-being. But how can it be achieved?
The first step is to assess your home's current energy usage and identify areas where you can make improvements. The main benefit most people notice once they start implementing eco-friendly practices is a reduction in their energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint.
Tips for an eco-friendly home
A recent study showed that making simple changes like switching to LED bulbs and using energy-efficient appliances can significantly reduce your energy consumption. Choose renewable energy sources such as solar panels or wind turbines if possible.
Whether it’s reducing water usage or improving insulation, regular maintenance and upgrades are vital. Your home needs consistent care to ensure it remains energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.
Setting goals for your home, such as reducing waste or increasing energy efficiency, is excellent. Remember to be realistic, as setting unattainable goals can lead to frustration and disappointment.
Activities such as composting and recycling can decrease waste and make your home more sustainable. They also reduce your environmental footprint by reusing resources.
Sometimes it’s easier said than done, but if you’re juggling other responsibilities, learning to prioritise eco-friendly tasks is key. Break down your home improvement projects into manageable steps, depending on how much time you have each day. This approach will help you maintain an eco-friendly home.
Ensure you have time to relax and enjoy your home. If you can only see it as a list of chores, it can become overwhelming and diminish your enjoyment. Take time to appreciate the positive changes you’re making.
It’s important to use eco-friendly practices, such as using natural cleaning products and reducing plastic use. You don’t need to buy expensive supplies – homemade solutions and reusable materials work just as well, if not better.
Family and friends can be great partners in creating an eco-friendly home. From planting a garden to sharing eco-tips, involving loved ones makes the experience more enjoyable and rewarding.
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.
People who implement eco-friendly practices often experience lower .
22.
Switching to energy-efficient appliances can significantly reduce consumption.
23.
Setting for your home can help you stay motivated and organised.
24.
Composting and recycling help reduce your environmental .
25.
Divide your home improvement projects into smaller, tasks.
26.
Take time to and enjoy the results of your eco-friendly efforts.
27.
Using cleaning products benefits the environment.
SECTION 3
Questions 28–40
Manchester has become a leading city in the UK for improving air quality after introducing the 'Clean Air Initiative' to reduce pollution. This programme aims to cut down emissions from vehicles and industries, making the air cleaner for residents. Few cities worldwide, such as Oslo, have successfully implemented such measures. Like Oslo, Manchester's initiative is particularly focused on areas with high traffic congestion. John Roberts, an environmental consultant, notes, "Manchester's commitment to cleaner air through this initiative is commendable and sets a benchmark for other cities. The focus on high traffic areas is a crucial step in tackling urban pollution effectively.
‘The improvement in air quality in these areas is significant,’ said Dr. Helen Parker, an environmental scientist at the University of Manchester, whose team has studied the impact. ‘Over three years, air pollution levels have decreased from 20% to 12%, and the trend is continuing downwards’. Among more affluent areas, there was a notable improvement from 15% to 10%. Overall, the city's air pollution decreased from 18% to 11%. The data comes from the National Air Quality Survey (NAQS), which evaluates urban air quality across the country. The most significant decrease in Manchester was in areas previously suffering from high pollution levels due to heavy traffic.
No similar data has been reported in other UK cities, where air quality remains a concern. The survey programme shares its findings with comparable cities. For Manchester, the 15 closest 'neighbouring' cities at the start of its study in 2017 were Birmingham, Leeds, Sheffield, Liverpool, Newcastle, Bristol, Nottingham, Leicester, Coventry, Derby, Stoke, Wolverhampton, Hull, Bradford, and Southampton. The pollution levels in these cities have remained largely unchanged. Dr. Parker noted that the decrease in Manchester appears to be a sustainable trend. ‘This is three years of consistent improvement, not just a short-term reduction,’ she said at the Environmental Health Conference in Glasgow, where she presented the findings.
James Evans, a former government adviser, stated that one aspect that has driven the success in Manchester was involving the community in the process. ‘We focused on community engagement because sustainable change comes from within. We understand there’s no quick fix. The strategy of the 'Clean Air Initiative' is also about empowering residents and thinking long-term.
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. In the first paragraph, what does the writer say about Oslo?
29. How did Dr. Helen Parker respond to the decrease in pollution levels in Manchester?
30. According to the writer, the NAQS data indicate that
31. What links the 15 cities listed in the third paragraph?
Questions 32–35
Look at the following statements (Questions 32–35) and the list of people below.
Match each statement with the correct person, A, B, C, or D.
Write the correct letter, A, B, C, or D, in boxes 32–35 on your answer sheet.
NB You may use any letter more than once.
32.
The aim in Manchester was to reduce pollution with community input to ensure long-term sustainability.
33.
The pollution levels in Manchester have decreased steadily over a few years.
34.
Community involvement in the programme is very beneficial.
35.
Praises Manchester's initiative for setting a standard in urban air quality improvement.
List of People
- A) Dr. Helen Parker
- B) James Evans
- C) John Roberts
- D) Laura Green
Questions 36 to 39
Complete the sentences below.
Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer.
Write your answers in boxes 36–39 on your answer sheet.
36.
The 'Clean Air Initiative' in Manchester was created to lower the caused by vehicles and industries.
37.
Dr. Helen Parker’s team has been studying the of the 'Clean Air Initiative' over the past three years.
38.
Manchester’s most significant decrease in pollution occurred in areas with heavy .
39.
James Evans emphasised the importance of engagement to ensure lasting success in improving air quality.
Question 40
Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.
Write the correct letter in box 40 on your answer sheet.
Which title is the most suitable for the text?