Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 1 to 5.

Staying in monasteries and religious retreats offers a unique travel experience that combines peace, simplicity, and spiritual reflection. While some travelers seek luxury and excitement, others are drawn to places where the pace is slower and (1) ________, especially those whose daily routines have grown overwhelmingly hectic and difficult to manage without additional support. (2) ________. As more people search for meaning in their journeys, spiritual retreats are becoming an increasingly attractive option.

Engaging in quiet contemplation for several hours, which may feel unusual to those used to constant stimulation, without checking a phone, (3) ________ and intentional acts of mindfulness, even if they seem mundane at first, are key aspects of the experience. These activities promote mental clarity and emotional balance, offering a refreshing alternative to typical vacations. (4) ________.

Some monasteries are quite simple in their facilities, (5) ________. At first, the lack of constant entertainment can feel unfamiliar or even challenging. However, this simplicity creates space for self-discovery and quiet reflection. Monastic hosts are typically warm and generous, sharing meaningful insights into their way of life, and while guests don’t need to follow the same beliefs, they are expected to show respect and remain open-minded.

(Adapted from BBC News)

Question 1:
A. the environment is calm B. till the environment is calm
C. for the environment to be calm D. how is the environment calm

Question 2:

A. These sanctuaries not only lack affordable accommodation but also keep guests engaged with the bustle of daily life

B. These sanctuaries not only provide luxurious rooms but also immerse guests in constant entertainment and activity
C. These sanctuaries not only charge high fees but also require guests to follow strict daily schedules
D. These sanctuaries not only offer affordable accommodation but also allow guests to disconnect from the noise of daily life

Question 3:

A. owing to shared daily chores requiring full attention, steady focus
B. participating in shared daily chores that require full attention, steady focus
C. the shared daily chores that participation requires steady focus and mindful attention
D. the participation with shared daily chores that demand full attention, steady focus

Question 4:

A. For those feeling overwhelmed or emotionally drained, such places can serve as a path toward restoration
B. Without the stress of daily life, such places can’t serve as a path toward restoration for those feeling overwhelmed or emotionally drained

C. Such places can serve as a path toward oblivion for those feeling emotionally drained; however, not everyone takes the time to go there

D. Hardly anyone who is feeling overwhelmed or emotionally drained would agree that such places can serve as a path toward restoration

Question 5:

A. if such places offer physical needs as a comfort without extending lasting simplicity or deeper meaning
B. so guests experience material needs that extend quietly beyond deeper forms of lasting comfort or simplicity
C. and their simplicity provides comfort, although it may not last beyond the material needs of visitors
D. but they often provide a deeper, lasting comfort that quietly extends far beyond material or physical needs

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 6 to 13.

Bolt, one of the most rapidly expanding technology companies in Europe and Africa, is currently recruiting for the position of Customer Support Specialist at its Ho Chi Minh City office in Vietnam. With over 200 million customers across more than 50 countries, Bolt is extending its presence in Southeast Asia. The role entails addressing customer issues in both Vietnamese and English, utilizing Bolt’s streamlined processes, and engaging in projects to enhance user experiences. The company places significant emphasis on applicants’ motivation, intelligence, and integrity, while offering opportunities to shape the future of the transportation industry.

In addition to the Customer Support Specialist position, Bolt is also recruiting for a Customer Support Team Leader for the Vietnamese market. This leadership role requires the team leader to resolve customer issues, ensure customer retention, and collaborate with stakeholders to refine processes and develop innovative solutions. The role demands exceptional communication skills, data analysis, decision-making based on key performance indicators, and project management expertise. Applicants must also possess strong leadership qualities to inspire the team and achieve exceptional results.

Originally a small startup from Estonia, Bolt has experienced exponential growth since its inception in 2013. The company offers a diverse array of services, including ride-hailing, food delivery, grocery delivery, and electric scooter rentals, serving over 200 million customers globally. Bolt initiated its Southeast Asian expansion in 2020, launching its services in Thailand, and is now poised to enter the Vietnamese market, marking it as the third Southeast Asian country for the company, following Thailand and Malaysia.

Vietnam’s ride-hailing market is fiercely competitive, with leading players such as Grab, Be, and Xanh SM. Grab has established a dominant presence with its multifaceted ecosystem, while Be, a Vietnamese-native app, focuses on delivering high-quality services tailored to local preferences. Despite the intense competition, Bolt’s market entry represents both a challenge and an opportunity, particularly as the sector continues to grow rapidly. The market is projected to reach USD 3.19 billion by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate of 22.10%.

(Adapted from VnEconomy)

Question 6: Which of the following is NOT mentioned as an essential competency for the Customer Support Team Leader position?

A. Collaboration with stakeholders to refine processes
B. Proficiency in analyzing data to derive strategic insights
C. Expertise in developing software solutions
D. Competence in directing and inspiring the team

Question 7: The word exponential in paragraph 3 is OPPOSITE in meaning to ________.

A. explosive B. consistent C. stagnant D. progressive

Question 8: Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 3?

A. Bolt’s regional introduction began in 2020 with the launch in Thailand, and they are now ready to extend their services to Vietnam, which represents their third market in Southeast Asia, following Thailand and Malaysia.

B. In 2020, Bolt began its regional development by starting in Malaysia and is preparing to operate in Vietnam, making it the third country in Southeast Asia where they have established services, after Malaysia and Thailand.

C. Beginning their regional growth in 2020 with a debut in Thailand, Bolt is currently ready to commence operations in Vietnam, which is their second Southeast Asian nation after Thailand.

D. Starting its presence in Southeast Asia with a Thai launch after 2020, Bolt is about to introduce its platform in Vietnam, which will be the second country in the region, subsequent to Malaysia.

Question 9: The word its in paragraph 4 refers to ________.

A. Be B. Xanh SM C. market D. Grab

Question 10: Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?

A. Despite fierce competition, Bolt’s entry into Vietnam represents a strategic opportunity due to the rapid growth of the sector.

B. Bolt offers a diverse array of on-demand mobility and delivery services, serving nearly 200 million customers globally.
C. Grab’s dominance in Vietnam's ride-hailing market is threatened by Bolt’s early entry and extensive service offerings.
D. Bolt’s expansion strategy in Southeast Asia relies primarily on acquiring local competitors to dominate the market.

Question 11: The word entails in paragraph 1 is mostly means ________.

A. involves B. eliminates C. exempts D. refrains

Question 12: Which paragraph mentions Bolt’s recruitment for a Customer Support Team Leader in the Vietnamese market?

A. Paragraph 1 B. Paragraph 2 C. Paragraph 3 D. Paragraph 4

Question 13: Which paragraph provides information about the basic duties and required attributes for individuals working directly with clients?

A. Paragraph 1 B. Paragraph 2 C. Paragraph 3 D. Paragraph 4

Mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct arrangement of the sentences to make a meaningful exchange or text in each of the following questions from 14 to 18.

Question 14:

A. Many fans feel inspired by their openness, seeing it as a sign of courage and authenticity.
b. However, critics argue that some stars might exaggerate or manipulate their past just to stay relevant in a competitive industry.

C. These stories often involve emotional topics such as childhood trauma, relationship breakdowns, or battles with addiction, which easily capture the public's curiosity.

D. This growing trend highlights the fine line between raising awareness and using personal struggles as a tool for self-promotion.
e. Nowadays, an increasing number of celebrities are opening up about the dramatic moments in their lives to attract attention and maintain their fame.

(Adapted from Huffpost)

A. d-b-c-e-a B. e-c-a-b-d C. d-e-a-c-b D. e-a-d-c-b

Question 15:

A. Rob: I agree. Sometimes people don’t realize how much unresolved issues affect their daily mood and relationships.
b. Rob: My cousin’s constant arguments at home are taking a toll on her mental health, and she’s finding it hard to break old patterns and communicate openly.

C. Mia: That’s true. Family conflicts often influence not just our personal life but also our work and social life.
d. Mia: That sounds really tough for your cousin. Getting stuck in the same family patterns is hard, and openly communicating requires courage and patience.

e. Mia: Dealing with family problems can be really stressful, especially when emotions run high and communication breaks down.

(Adapted from Listen a minute)

A. e-a-c-b-d B. a-e-d-c-b C. a-e-b-c-d D. e-b-c-a-d

Question 16:

Dear Aunt Lisa,

A. I’ve been in sales for quite a while now, but I’m really starting to feel that it’s not the right fit for me anymore.
b. Since you’ve been through several career transitions yourself, I’d really appreciate any advice or insights you might have.

C. I’ve been giving a lot of thought to my career lately, and I’m considering making a big change.
d. I’m thinking about shifting to a more creative field, like marketing or graphic design, but I’m unsure if it’s the right move.

e. Your opinion would mean a lot to me, and I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Love,
David

(Adapted from BBC News)

A. c-e-a-b-d B. c-a-d-b-e C. a-b-d-c-e D. a-c-b-d-e

Question 17:

A. Instead, organic farming relies on natural methods, such as composting, crop rotation, and biological pest control, to promote sustainability and protect the environment.

B. However, organic food often comes with a higher price tag due to the labor-intensive farming techniques and certification processes.

C. Organic produce often contains higher levels of antioxidants and essential vitamins compared to conventionally grown counterparts.

D. In recent years, organic food has gained significant attention from health-conscious consumers worldwide.
e. Organic food refers to products grown without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

(Adapted from ResearchGate)

A. d-a-e-b-c B. d-c-b-e-a C. d-b-c-e-a D. d-e-a-c-b

Question 18:

A. Beryl: It’s hard to say, but he’s getting older, and injuries have been affecting him more lately. It’s a bit sad to think about, but he’s had such an incredible career.

B. David: Beryl, I know you’re into tennis. Do you think Roger Federer will retire soon?

C. David: His career has been legendary. I think tennis will definitely feel different without him, but I’m excited to see what the next generation of players can do.

(Adapted from vtv.vn)

A. b-a-c B. c-a-b C. a-b-c D. a-c-b

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 19 to 28.

[I] Companion animals have become an essential part of family life in the United States, with over 90 million households owning at least one pet. For many people, pets are more than just animals—they are ride-or-die companions and cherished family members who offer comfort during difficult times. Their nonjudgmental presence provides emotional stability and helps individuals feel supported, especially when facing stress, anxiety, or isolation. In addition to emotional benefits, recent research suggests that pets play an important role in enhancing our social relationships, building trust, and improving overall well-being.

One of the most powerful effects of pet ownership is its ability to facilitate human interaction and communication in everyday life. [II] Simply walking a dog in a neighborhood can result in significantly more casual encounters, greetings, and small talk than walking alone. Studies have even shown that individuals accompanied by assistance animals are more likely to be approached by strangers, suggesting that the presence of a pet increases approachability and perceived trustworthiness.

For children and teenagers, living with animals can contribute meaningfully to the development of key emotional and social skills. Pet ownership encourages empathy, patience, responsibility, and kindness from an early age, which are crucial for forming healthy relationships. According to recent studies, children who live with dogs tend to show stronger social behaviors, such as cooperation, compassion, and the ability to recognize others’ emotions. In one study, adolescents with high levels of attachment to their pets also demonstrated greater empathy, stronger communication abilities, and more positive interactions with peers compared to those without close bonds to animals. [III]

On a broader community level, pets contribute to what researchers call social capital—the networks of trust, mutual support, and shared values within a neighborhood. [IV] People who have pets often turn to their neighbors for help with tasks like feeding, walking, or looking after their animals, which helps create mutual trust and a feeling of community. Community spaces like dog parks, sidewalks, or green areas naturally bring people together, encouraging conversation, interaction, and a spirit of cooperation. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, walking dogs allowed people to engage with others safely outdoors; although pets do not resolve every societal challenge, their capacity to fortify interpersonal connections remains evident, impactful, and profoundly significant.

(Adapted from The Conversation)

Question 19: Where in the passage does the following sentence best fit?

“Pets, particularly dogs, can help break the ice in social settings by offering a simple and friendly way to begin a conversation.”

A. [I] B. [II] C. [III] D. [IV]

Question 20: The word trustworthiness in paragraph 2 could be best replaced by ______.

A. contentment B. abundance C. predictability D. honesty

Question 21: According to paragraph 3, which of the following is NOT mentioned as a benefit observed in adolescents with strong attachments to their pets?

A. enhanced interpersonal skills
B. increased constructive engagement with peers
C. higher achievement in studies
D. increased ability to understand others’ feeling

Question 22: Which of the following best summarises paragraph 4?

A. Emotional support from pets exists, yet it does not substantially strengthen trust or wider social networks in the long run.

B. Turning to neighbors for pet-related tasks demonstrates the difficulties of managing pets without outside support.

C. The function of communal venues like parks is to facilitate pet interaction, consequently enhancing animal demeanor and resulting in a collective decrease in neighborhood disputes.

D. Pets help build social capital by fostering trust, cooperation, and meaningful interactions among neighbors, even during times of social isolation.

Question 23: According to the passage, living with pets for children and teenagers is considered ______.

A. a minor influence with negligible impact on personal growth
B. a meaningful way to develop emotional and social skills
C. a replacement for formal education in social development
D. a form of entertainment without significant educational value

Question 24: Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 4?

A. Despite being cherished associates, the utility of animals in cultivating interpersonal relationships is frequently overstated and devoid of any quantifiable impact.

B. Companion animals can provide association, yet their sway over larger societal dilemmas and interpersonal dynamics remains peripheral and exhibits little uniformity.

C. While companion animals may not tackle all social issues, their ability to bolster interpersonal bonds is unquestionable, influential, and deeply meaningful.

D. Companion animals are instrumental in addressing pervasive social challenges, given that their contribution to fortifying human bonds is subject to increasing recognition and acclaim.

Question 25: What explains why many people form deep emotional bonds with their pets?

A. Because pets are cheap to raise and require little attention

B. Because pets entertain people without affecting their emotional well-being

C. Because pets encourage individuals to steer clear of engaging with others

D. Because pets offer companionship and comfort during periods of hardship

Question 26: Which of the following can be inferred from the passage?

A. Non-pet owners may experience fewer spontaneous social interactions when walking through shared public environments.

B. Owners of pets demonstrate a lower inclination to frequent communal venues that are not explicitly delineated for animal use.

C. Adults who live alone with pets may face greater emotional strain compared to those with active social networks.

D. Pet ownership leads to increased dependence on animals and reduces the likelihood of forming deep human friendships.

Question 27: The word Their in paragraph 1 refers to ______.

A. Individuals B. Pets C. Households D. Benefits

Question 28: Which of the following best summarizes the passage?

A. Companion animals offer emotional comfort, boost social skills and empathy in children and teens, and build social trust and community bonds across neighborhoods, public spaces, and during events like the COVID-19 pandemic.

B. Pets are mainly valued for emotional support and helping children develop empathy, but their influence on adult relationships and broader communities remains limited and unsupported by reliable research or consistent social evidence.

C. While dogs may improve social interaction in public spaces, most benefits are observed primarily in children, not in wider community development or in offering lasting emotional stability for adults and socially isolated individuals.

D. Owning a pet helps children become more responsible and improves daily routines, although their presence often complicates public interactions and leads to disagreements in shared community environments like parks or sidewalks.

Read the following announcement and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 29 to 34.

Announcement from Horizon High School: “Overcoming Challenges: Tell Us How You Did It!”

At Horizon High School, we believe that every student has a story worth sharing. Life isn’t always smooth sailing—some of us face setbacks that shape (29) ______ we are. That’s why we’re launching “Overcoming Challenges: Tell Us How You Did It!”, a storytelling initiative aimed at celebrating your (30) ______.

Have you ever (31) ______ a life full of obstacles and still managed to rise above? Did you try facing your fears, supporting others, or (32) ______ yourself in tough times? Whether you’ve made waves in your community or quietly conquered personal struggles, we want to (33) ______ your journey.

Word count: 250–300 words.

Format: Typed and saved as a Word or PDF file.

Submission email: counseling@horizonhs.edu

Deadline: Friday, September 12th, 2025.

Let your voice be heard—your story might be the spark (34) ______ someone’s perspective.

(Adapted from The Age)

Question 29:
A. which B. whose C. who D. when

Question 30:
A. resilient B. resiliently C. resile D. resilience

Question 31:
A. claimed B. led C. done D. turned

Question 32:
A. reinventing B. returning C. redecorating D. replacing

Question 33:
A. talk into B. value over C. learn about D. study under

Question 34:
A. changes B. changed C. be changed D. changing

Read the following advertisement and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 35 to 40.

Your Dream Vacation Starts Here – Book Now & Save 30%!

Have you set your (35) ______ on exploring stunning beaches or lively cities this year? Whether it is a luxury resort in Bali (36) ______ a cultural excursion to Rome, TripSavvyGo.com offers the ideal holiday options tailored for you. Until December 31st, enjoy a 30% discount on (37) ______ international destinations when reservations are made via the TripSavvyGo app or website. Our user-friendly platform enables you to compare deals, customize your itinerary, and access (38) ______. This opportunity extends (39) ______ a mere discount; it is an invitation to immerse yourself in new cultures, rejuvenate your energy, and forge enduring memories. We offer handpicked destinations, verified (40) ______, and round-the-clock customer support to guarantee a seamless travel experience. Adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable moments are just a click away.

(Adapted from BBC)

Question 35: A. mile B. milk C. heart D. boat

Question 36: A. or B. than C. that D. when

Question 37: A. much B. another C. all D. little

Question 38:  A. members-only exclusive perks B. perks exclusive members-only
C. exclusive perks members-only D. exclusive members-only perks

Question 39: A. beyond B. opposite C. around D. without

Question 40: A. brochures B. reviews C. episodes D. articles