SECTION 1 Questions 1–14
Read the text below and answer Questions 1–7.
The London Bicycle Sharing Scheme
Here are some of the frequently asked questions about the London Bicycle Sharing Scheme:
When did the scheme start?
The London Bicycle Sharing Scheme, often referred to as "Boris Bikes," was launched in July 2010. It was named after the then-Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, who championed the initiative. The scheme aims to provide affordable and accessible transport to residents and visitors.
How does it work?
Users can hire a bike from any of the docking stations located throughout the city. Bikes can be hired and returned to any station, making it a flexible option for getting around. Users need to register online or use a bank card at the docking station to access a bike.
What are the costs involved?
The first 30 minutes of each ride are free. After that, there is a small charge for each additional 30 minutes. Regular users can purchase annual memberships, which offer reduced rates. Charges are automatically deducted from the user's bank account.
Are there any safety measures?
All bikes are equipped with front and rear lights, reflectors, and a bell. Helmets are not provided, but users are encouraged to wear their own. The bikes undergo regular maintenance checks to ensure they are safe to use. Users should also follow the city's cycling rules and regulations.
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.
The London Bicycle Sharing Scheme was introduced by Boris Johnson.
2.
Bikes can only be hired and returned at specific stations.
3.
Users can register for the scheme online.
4.
The first 30 minutes of each ride incur a charge.
5.
Annual memberships offer reduced rates for regular users.
6.
Helmets are provided with the bikes.
7.
Maintenance checks on the bikes are conducted regularly.
Luxurious Bedding
Online customer reviews
A. Sarah
I was sceptical about buying this duvet set because of the price, but I’m glad I did. The material is incredibly soft and luxurious. I chose the white set, and it adds a touch of elegance to my bedroom. The duvet cover fits my king-sized duvet perfectly, and the pillowcases are generously sized. Definitely worth the investment.
B. James
These sheets are ideal for all seasons. The grey colour is exactly as shown in the pictures, and they feel very smooth to the touch. I bought the double size, and it fits my mattress perfectly. The elasticated corners keep the sheets in place all night. I’ve washed them several times, and they still look brand new.
C. Priya
This bedding set looked great in the pictures, but I was disappointed with the actual product. The blue colour was much darker than shown online. Also, the fitted sheet was too tight for my mattress, making it difficult to put on. I contacted customer service, and they were very helpful, offering a full refund.
D. Michael
I’ve purchased several sets of this brand over the years, and they never disappoint. The material is durable yet soft, making it perfect for the winter months. However, the sheets tend to wrinkle easily, so I need to iron them after washing. I bought the beige colour this time, and it matches my bedroom decor beautifully.
E. Emma
I ordered the white and the navy blue sets, intending to return one, but ended up keeping both. They are true to size and very comfortable. The navy blue set did not fade after washing, which is great. These sets are perfect for both my guest room and my own bedroom. The pillowcases are a bit larger than expected, but that’s a minor issue.
Questions 8–14
Look at the five online customer reviews of sweaters, 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 bedding did not match the website image.
9.
The customer decided to keep both sets of bedding they ordered.
10.
The customer found the sheets difficult to fit on the mattress.
11.
The customer mentioned the material was durable.
12.
The customer was pleased with the purchase despite initial doubts.
13.
The bedding is described as suitable for all seasons.
14.
The customer found the pillowcases larger than expected.
SECTION 2 Questions 15–27
Read the text below and answer Questions 15–21.
The Benefits of Urban Green Spaces
Urban green spaces, such as parks and gardens, provide numerous benefits to city dwellers. These areas are crucial for improving the quality of life in urban environments. Here are some key advantages:
Improved Air Quality
Green spaces play a significant role in filtering pollutants and improving air quality. Trees and plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, creating a healthier atmosphere. Studies have shown that areas with more greenery have lower levels of air pollution.
Enhanced Physical and Mental Health
Access to green spaces encourages physical activity, which is essential for maintaining health. Walking, jogging, and playing sports in parks help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Moreover, spending time in nature has been linked to improved mental well-being, reducing stress and anxiety.
Social Interaction
Parks and gardens provide spaces for social interaction, fostering a sense of community. They serve as venues for public events, family gatherings, and recreational activities, helping to strengthen social bonds among residents.
Biodiversity Conservation
Urban green spaces are vital for conserving biodiversity. They provide habitats for various species of birds, insects, and small mammals. This contributes to the ecological balance and promotes a healthy environment.
Climate Regulation
Green spaces help regulate the urban climate by providing shade and reducing the heat island effect. Trees and vegetation cool the air through the process of transpiration, making cities more comfortable during hot weather.
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.
Urban green spaces assist in filtering and enhancing air quality.
16.
Engaging in physical activities in parks can lower the risk of diseases.
17.
Time spent in natural environments can boost mental health and alleviate anxiety and .
18.
Parks offer locations for community events and activities.
19.
Green spaces play a crucial role in preserving .
20.
Trees contribute to cooling the air through .
21.
Urban green spaces help mitigate the heat effect.
Resigning from a job in a professional manner
When you take the decision to resign and move on to another job, you might really want to dance your way out of the door, or get your own back by criticising your boss to the whole office. But you need to resist these temptations because in future you might find you’re working with your ex-line manager or other colleagues in a different company.
Letting your manager know
Show courtesy by telling your boss first. Request a meeting to say that you’re leaving, following up soon after with an official letter. Before the meeting with your boss, write a list of ongoing tasks along with status updates and suggestions concerning completion.
Use the meeting to clarify any other points, such as your notice period and leaving date, and how you will inform others (colleagues or external clients, contacts and suppliers). Ask about a reference too; your employer may only supply the most basic type but your line manager might also give you a more personal one. Making sure you get a good one can make subsequent job hunting less stressful.
Preparation
Work out how you can ensure a smooth transition and minimise disruption to your employer. There may be a range of things you can do to hand over professionally, such as completing projects, working out the priorities with your line manager, and leaving clear documentation for the successor in your post concerning processes or software.
Your letter of resignation
Keep your letter short. You don’t need to give lots of explanations or justification for why you’re leaving. Don’t be tempted to address the failings of the company or your boss, either. Instead, thanking your employer for the job and mentioning what you appreciated about it is a graceful touch. Here’s an idea of what to include:
-
First paragraph – the basics
Inform the employer that you wish to resign and confirm the agreed final date at work. -
Second paragraph – thank your employer
Mention any particular career-building projects you worked on or opportunities to develop skills and contribute to the employer’s goals and successes. You can also mention your appreciation at being able to work in a great team. -
Third paragraph – handover
State your willingness to finish existing projects and hand over your work smoothly.
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 resign
Avoid all 22 to resign in an angry way. Instead, follow this procedure:
Arrange a meeting with the boss to:
- mention any projects which are underway and give ideas for their 23 .
- discuss how much notice you need to give before you go.
- request information on the type of 24
you will receive.
Steps you can take before you leave:
- Work to cause as little 25
as possible to the organisation.
- Make sure your successor has adequate guidance on the organisation’s systems.
In the resignation letter:
- avoid mentioning any 26 of the organisation.
- show appreciation for aspects of the job, e.g., the chance to improve your 27
.
- indicate your wish to leave everything in good order.
SECTION 3 Questions 28–40
Read the text below and answer Questions 28–40.
The History of the English Language
A
The English language, as we know it today, has evolved over centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the early mediaeval period when Germanic tribes such as the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes settled in Britain. These tribes brought with them their own dialects, which formed the basis of Old English. The language was further influenced by the Vikings during the 8th to 11th centuries, adding new vocabulary and grammatical structures.
B
The Norman Conquest of 1066 was a turning point in the development of the English language. The Normans spoke Old Norman or Old French, and their language became the language of the ruling class in England. This period saw the introduction of a vast number of French words into English, particularly in areas related to law, art, literature, and religion. Middle English, which developed from Old English, incorporated many of these French influences.
C
The transition from Middle English to Early Modern English began in the late 15th century and continued through the 17th century. This period was marked by the standardisation of English spelling and grammar. The invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century played a crucial role in this process. William Caxton introduced the printing press to England in 1476, which helped disseminate a more uniform version of English.
D
The 18th century saw the emergence of prescriptive grammar rules. Grammarians and lexicographers sought to codify English grammar and usage. Samuel Johnson's *A Dictionary of the English Language*, published in 1755, was a monumental work that aimed to standardise English spelling and usage. The period also saw the rise of the English novel, with authors like Daniel Defoe, Samuel Richardson, and Jane Austen contributing to the literary canon.
E
In the 19th and 20th centuries, English continued to evolve, influenced by the British Empire's global reach. The language absorbed words from many different languages as English speakers encountered new cultures. The rise of American English also had a significant impact, particularly in the areas of business, technology, and entertainment. Today, English is a global lingua franca, used by millions of people around the world.
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. The impact of the Norman Conquest
ii. The origins of Old English
iii. The influence of the printing press
iv. The development of prescriptive grammar
v. The global spread of English
vi. The rise of American English
vii. The evolution of Middle English
viii. The standardisation of spelling
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 evolution of the English language
The English language originated from the dialects brought by the 33 tribes. The 34 conquest introduced many French terms into English. The development of the 35 press played a key role in standardising English spelling and grammar. In the 18th century, Samuel Johnson’s dictionary was published with the goal of standardising English 36 and usage. The emergence of 37 English had a substantial impact on the language in fields such as business, technology, and entertainment.
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 the Norman Conquest?
39. The writer mentions that the printing press helped to
40. What would be the best subtitle for this text?