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.

While large-scale environmental issues like deforestation and melting ice caps often dominate headlines, a more insidious crisis is quietly unfolding: the drastic decline of insect populations worldwide. This issue involves more than just the loss of a few species; it entails the disruption of entire ecosystems, the imperilment of countless plant species that rely on insects for pollination, the breakdown of natural nutrient cycles which are essential for soil health, or (1) __________.

Although the exact rate of decline varies by region, scientists generally agree that the problem is widespread, a consensus that has been built upon decades of meticulous research, (2) __________. The causes are manifold and interconnected, ranging from habitat loss and pesticide use to climate change and light pollution. (3) __________.

(4) __________. Recognizing that insects form the base of many terrestrial and freshwater food webs is crucial to understanding the potential for catastrophic, cascading effects. The success of any conservation effort will be contingent upon a coordinated global strategy, one that must address a wide spectrum of issues ranging from the direct threats like pesticide use, which are relatively straightforward to regulate, to (5) __________ if ecosystems are to be truly restored.

(Adapted from ResearchGate)

Question 1: 

A. food webs that support larger animals subsequently collapse 

B. larger animals that are supportive of food webs subsequently collapsing 

C. the subsequent collapse of food webs that support larger animals 

D. subsequent is the collapse of larger animals as a support for food webs

Question 2: 

A. so that many experts fiercely debate the specifications of the remaining data points 

B. because the debate among experts remains fierce on many specific data points 

C. even though many specific data points remain fiercely debated among experts 

D. unless a fierce debate among experts remains to specify many data points

Question 3: 

A. The near impossibility of identifying a single culprit makes these causes appear very interconnected 

B. The identification of the interconnectedness of these causal culprits is nearly an impossibility; therefore 

C. Identifying a single and nearly impossible cause is made by the very interconnectedness of the culprits 

D. It is the very interconnectedness of these causes that makes identifying a single culprit nearly impossible

Question 4: 

A. Truthfully, the appearance of this crisis's scope, nevertheless, is only seen by looking beyond the insects themselves 

B. The true scope of this crisis, however, only becomes apparent when we look beyond the insects themselves
C. Looking beyond the insects themselves, however, is the true crisis, with a scope that only truly becomes apparent 

D. The scope of this crisis only truly becomes the apparent truth when looking beyond the insects themselves

Question 5: 

A. how the broader environment is systemically degraded 

B. systemically degrading the broader drivers of the environment 

C. to degrade the environment with its broader, systemic drivers 

D. the broader, systemic drivers of environmental degradation

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

In the demanding rhythm of modern Vietnamese life, the shared evening meal persists as an essential stabilizing ritual. It is a deliberate pause, a collective turning away from the digital distractions and individualistic pursuits that permeate the rest of the day. For a few hours, the home becomes a protected space where the noise of the outside world fades, replaced by the simple sounds of conversation and clinking chopsticks. This daily ritual offers a consistent point of return, a predictable respite in often chaotic and unpredictable lives.

The dinner table itself acts as a forum for genuine family connection. Here, the ephemeral details of each member's day—a success at school, a challenge at the office—are shared and transformed into collective experience. It is often the only time and place for sustained, face-to-face dialogue, allowing for the subtle exchange of advice and the reinforcement of mutual support. Children, in turn, absorb the intricate nuances of social etiquette and familial respect not through instruction, but through quiet observation and participation in this recurring ceremony.

More than just a vehicle for communication, the meal is a living repository of family heritage. Certain dishes evoke memories of a particular holiday or a story about a grandparent, weaving a thread of continuity between past and present. The recipes themselves, often passed down through generations, are a tangible link to a family's regional roots and history. Through the preparation and sharing of food, cultural identity is not just remembered; it is actively practiced and kept alive for the next generation to inherit.

The health of this small institution often mirrors the health of the family unit itself. A lively, communicative dinner table is frequently a sign of strong, resilient relationships. In an age where forces constantly pull individuals in separate directions, the simple analog act of gathering to eat remains one of the most potent expressions of belonging. It stands as a quiet affirmation that despite all external pressures, the family remains the vital center of Vietnamese life.

(Adapted from vietnamnews.com)

Question 6: The word permeate in paragraph 1 can be best replaced by ______.
A. dominate B. pervade C. define D. complicate

Question 7: Which of the following is NOT mentioned in paragraph 2 as a function of the dialogue that takes place at the family dinner table?
A. Sharing daily experiences B. The exchange of advice
C. The practice of cultural identity D. The reinforcement of mutual support

Question 8: The word ephemeral in paragraph 2 is OPPOSITE in meaning to ______.
A. enduring B. immersive C. personal D. commonplace

Question 9: The word it in paragraph 3 refers to ______.
A. the preparation B. the sharing of food C. family's history D. cultural identity

Question 10: Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 4?

A. In a world that constantly pulls people apart, the simple act of gathering for a meal is one of the most effective ways to create a sense of belonging.

B. Despite the many forces that divide people in the modern age, maintaining culinary traditions remains a potent way to foster a sense of community.

C. One of the most influential solutions to the forces pulling people apart in the modern age is the simple, analog act of gathering together to eat.

D. The basic, non-digital act of sharing a meal together remains a powerful manifestation of communal connection in an age of constant, divisive distractions.

Question 11: Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?

A. The evening meal provides a respite from chaotic lives because certain dishes consistently evoke memories of past family holidays.

B. At the dinner table, the daily successes and challenges of family members are shared and transformed into a living family heritage.

C. The home becomes a private sanctuary during the meal, offering a predictable escape from the specific pressures of modern professional life.

D. The level of active conversation at the dinner table can correspond with the robustness and durability of the family's connections.

Question 12: Which paragraph mentions a method of learning social rules without direct teaching?
A. Paragraph 2 B. Paragraph 1 C. Paragraph 3 D. Paragraph 4

Question 13: Which paragraph mentions food acting as a bridge to a family's past?
A. Paragraph 1 B. Paragraph 3 C. Paragraph 2 D. Paragraph 4

Read the following advertisement 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 14 to 19.

CAPTURE YOUR CREATIVE VISION IN NATURE: JOIN OUR PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS!

Do you want to take your photography skills to the next level? Absorb yourself in our photography workshops in nature, carefully designed to blend technical know-how with a(n) (14) ______. These workshops (15) ______ an emphasis on mastering light, composition, and perspective in breathtaking outdoor settings.

(16) ______ first glance, the unspoiled beauty of nature might seem overwhelming, but under the guidance of seasoned professionals, you'll learn to turn fleeting moments into cherished works of art. Participants consenting (17) ______ their craft will be furnished with techniques that transcend the basics and enable them to create captivating imagery. They will also have the chance to engage in constructive discussions, (18) ______ their appreciation of the intricate connection between art and nature.

Hurry up! Grab this golden opportunity to elevate your (19) ______ and reconnect with the world through your lens!

(Adapted from https://focusonnature.ca)

Question 14:
A. landscape discovery in-depth B. in-depth landscape discovery

C. in-depth discovery landscape D. landscape in-depth discovery

Question 15:
A. set B. steer C. have D. place

Question 16:
A. In B. About C. At D. Over

Question 17:
A. refining B. to refine C. to refining D. refines

Question 18:
A. cultivating B. which cultivate C. cultivated D. cultivate

Question 19:
A. artistically B. artistic C. artistry D. artist

Read the following leaflet 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 20 to 25.

Caffeine health effects

The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages the consumption of caffeine and (20) ______ stimulants by children and adolescents. In recent years, emergency departments have seen a rising trend of children being admitted due to overconsumption of caffeine, also known as caffeine toxicity.

The positive health effects of caffeine vary from person to person, depending on the dose. These effects include:

• Improved reaction time, alertness and ability to concentrate.

• Lessened (21) ______ effects of sleep deprivation.

• Protection against type 2 diabetes, heart attack and stroke.

• Reduced risk of Parkinson's disease; Alzheimer's disease; liver disease.

(22) ______ caffeine also can have negative effects such as nervousness, insomnia, irritability and panic attacks. Those with preexisting anxiety disorders may be more susceptible to these effects.

Heavy caffeine use — more than 400 milligrams per day — can cause:

• Increased risk of other (23) ______ behaviors, like smoking and alcohol abuse.

• (24) ______ physical and psychological dependence and withdrawal symptoms if caffeine intake is abruptly stopped.

• The FDA notes that toxic effects, including seizures, can (25) ______ with rapid consumption of 1,200 milligrams of caffeine.

(Adapted from https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org)

Question 20:
A. another B. the other C. other D. others

Question 21:
A. adverse B. severe C. minor D. positive

Question 22:
A. Since B. But C. Though D. So

Question 23:
A. habitual B. dangerous C. pleasant D. addictive

Question 24:
A. Setting out B. Bringing on C. Turning into D. Taking after

Question 25:
A. emerge B. follow C. access D. occur

Mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best arrangement of utterances or sentences to make a cohesive and coherent exchange or text in each of the following questions from 26 to 30.

Question 26:

A. In recent years, the city of Helmar has embraced public art as a tool for urban renewal and social connection.
b. These creative efforts have transformed once-neglected corners into vibrant gathering spots that reflect local identity.
c. To support this vision, local councils have commissioned murals, sculptures, and interactive installations in residential areas.

D. Recognising the positive psychological impact of visual culture, urban planners have included art in long-term development plans.

e. As a result, residents now feel a greater sense of pride and belonging in spaces they once avoided.

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

Question 27:

A. Mai: I helped organise our village’s mid-autumn celebration this year. It’s such a meaningful tradition. How about you?

B. Mai: That sounds lovely! I think keeping these customs alive really connects us to our roots.

C. Tom: I recently joined a lantern-making workshop—it was my first time doing anything like that.

D. Tom: Your festival sounds amazing. What role did you play in the preparations?

e. Tom: Absolutely. There’s something grounding about rituals that have lasted for generations.

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

Question 28:
a. Anna: Thank you! I didn’t realise it was that close.
b. Anna: Hi, could you tell me how to get to the old citadel ruins from here?
c. Guard: Sure. Walk past the fountain, turn right at the second gate, and you’ll see a stone arch with a plaque.

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

Question 29:

A. This encounter helped me realise that understanding another culture requires more listening than explaining.
b. It had honestly never occurred to me that a simple gesture, like removing shoes indoors, could carry such meaning.
c. I was part of a student exchange where we stayed with host families and joined daily life for two weeks.
d. Adapting to unfamiliar customs, like eating with chopsticks or greeting with a bow, challenged many of my assumptions.
e. Though uncomfortable at first, those small acts taught me to observe more carefully and speak more mindfully.

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

Question 30:

Dear Mr. Nguyễn,

A. If you are unable to attend the live session, a recorded version will be made available upon request.

B. The seminar will explore storytelling traditions across Southeast Asia and how they are being adapted in the digital age.

C. We would like to invite you to our upcoming virtual seminar on intercultural narratives, scheduled for October 12.
d. To confirm your participation, please complete the registration form sent to your email address.

e. For further inquiries or technical assistance, feel free to contact our support team anytime.

Yours sincerely,

Cultural Connect Initiative

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

Read the passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 31 to 40.

Haunted by a pile of unread books or a hobby gathering dust? For the average UK adult, the five hours spent daily staring at screens could instead be used to read 300 pages or even run a marathon. In response to this creeping digital encroachment on personal time, a movement is advocating for the 24-hour “digital detox.” [I] Spearheading this effort is the Offline Club, an organization holding its first global event this weekend. Over 1,000 people have pledged to disconnect, and those who signed up will be invited to a preparatory Zoom call for tips on how to navigate the subsequent 24 hours without internet access.

The mission to "swap screen time for real time" resonates deeply with individuals feeling the strain of digital saturation. Philip, a 33-year-old branding director from Rotterdam, can spend up to 14 hours a day on screens and joined the detox to "live in the moment a bit more" instead of doomscrolling through the curated perfection of social media. [II] Fernanda Grace, a 38-year-old community manager from Barcelona, has already begun making small adjustments, like using a traditional alarm clock to insulate the start of her day from digital intrusion, in her quest to "truly not feel guilty about disconnecting."

The Offline Club, which held its first in-person event in Amsterdam in February, has since seen a swift expansion into global hubs like Paris, Dubai, and London. At its regular "hangouts," attendees lock their phones away to read, converse, or simply be present. [III] The organization also hosts more immersive weekend retreats in the Dutch countryside, with tickets costing at least €425 (£356). Co-founder Ilya Kneppelhout notes these events have had a transformative impact, with some attendees making profound life changes after being afforded the mental space for genuine reflection.

The impetus for the club came from Kneppelhout's own phone-free weekend after confronting the realization that he "wasn't reading enough, I wasn't writing enough, and I wasn't getting out in nature enough." [IV] He has since left his job to manage the club's whirlwind growth. He acknowledges that while the business is not yet financially sustainable, the model is proving viable, currently supported by personal savings and family loans. He is envisioning a future with dedicated phone-free spaces and holidays that cater to a burgeoning societal desire to reclaim control from the ubiquitous screen.

Question 31: According to paragraph 1, the organized push for a day-long break from the internet arose from concerns over ______.

A. an organization called the Offline Club holding its first global event
B. a pledge which is taken by more than a thousand people to go offline
C. the huge portion of an individual's day consumed by electronic devices
D. a preparatory online meeting offering guidance on how to disconnect

Question 32: The word creeping in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to ______.

A. gradual B. damaging C. unstoppable D. annoying

Question 33: What alternative accomplishments are mentioned for the time spent daily on screens?

A. The pursuit of a new hobby that has been gathering dust at home.
B. The participation in a global event with over a thousand other people.
C. A five-hour daily commitment to abstain from using any digital screens.
D. The completion of a long-distance run or reading a substantial book.

Question 34: Which of the following best summarises paragraph 2?

A. The appeal of disconnecting is strong for individuals feeling overwhelmed by screen time, with some aiming to be more present and escape social media, while others seek to reduce the guilt associated with being offline.
B. The strain of digital saturation is causing significant mental health issues for professionals, who are now seeking digital detoxes to combat the anxiety and guilt that stem from constant online engagement with social media.
C. For those overwhelmed by digital saturation, the most effective approach to disconnecting is to start with small, practical adjustments, such as replacing a phone's alarm with a traditional clock to create a screen-free morning.
D. The experience of professionals who spend long hours doomscrolling often creates the feeling of guilt about disconnecting that other individuals are trying to overcome with small, practical lifestyle and mindset changes.

Question 35: The word its in paragraph 3 refers to ______.

A. London B. event C. The Offline Club D. Amsterdam

Question 36: What currently provides the financial support for the Offline Club?

A. The collection of significant membership fees from its global participants.
B. The founder's bold decision to leave his job to manage the club's growth.
C. A future vision of creating offline environments and specialized getaways.
D. Financial backing from the founder's own reserves and borrowed family money.

Question 37: Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 4?

A. His vision for the future includes specific phone-free zones and vacations designed to meet a growing public wish to regain power from ever-present screens.

B. He imagines a future where the creation of dedicated phone-free spaces and holidays will, in turn, foster a societal desire for freedom from the screen's control.

C. He foresees a future containing dedicated phone-free areas and holidays that serve as a form of public protest against the reliance on ubiquitous screens.

D. In his envisioned future, special holidays and phone-free zones will be needed should a societal desire to reduce the screen's pervasive control ever emerge.

Question 38: Which of the following can be inferred from the passage?

A. Small, consistent changes to daily routines, such as using an analogue alarm clock, are an effective way to manage the problem of digital saturation.

B. The founder's decision to leave his job stemmed from a high-pressure corporate career that had caused his personal feelings of digital fatigue.

C. The Offline Club's model for building community often integrates digital tools to supplement its signature phone-free, in-person events.

D. The Offline Club's business model includes tiered events, from accessible local hangouts to more costly and immersive weekend-long retreats.

Question 39: Where in the passage does the following sentence best fit?

The club's events, however, are structured for different degrees of engagement.

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

Question 40: Which of the following best summarises the passage?

A. The digital detox movement, led by organizations like the Offline Club, is a social trend that tends to appeal to affluent professionals who can afford costly, exclusive retreats in order to reclaim their personal time from the constant demands of screens.

B. The Offline Club has emerged as a solution for people feeling overwhelmed by screen usage, providing structured events for connection and reflection, a concept that aims to satisfy a widespread societal yearning for a less digitally-dominated lifestyle.

C. The Offline Club's founder, after realizing his own lack of real-world activities, created hangouts and retreats to help others disconnect, a movement which now provides a space for the mental reflection that can lead to profound life changes for participants.

D. The Offline Club, a response to digital saturation, hosts events for reflection, and these experiences are proving so effective that many participants go on to make profound life changes while also reducing their daily screen time and other online habits.