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.

The recent groundswell of youth-led climate activism is defined not by its policy papers but by its direct challenge to the status quo, a challenge expressed through mass protests that disrupt daily life, strategic social media campaigns that bypass traditional gatekeepers, and, most provocatively, through (1) ________, all of which aim to make complacency politically costly.

By framing the climate crisis as a matter of intergenerational justice, a powerful rhetorical strategy, these young activists force a conversation that is deeply uncomfortable for established institutions, (2) ________. This reframing from a technical problem to a moral failing is the primary source of the movement's profound emotional power and its ability to mobilize.

This approach, however, is not without its detractors. (3) ________. The counterargument is that without concrete, politically feasible proposals, the movement risks being perceived as more of a critique than a constructive force, a perception that could limit its long-term legislative influence.

(4) ________. The movement's enduring significance, therefore, may not lie in the specific policies it immediately achieves. The final measure of its impact, a metric that historians will likely debate for years, is attributable both to its success in shifting the Overton window of what is considered politically possible, a feat that was unthinkable just a decade ago, and to (5) ________ for all subsequent environmental and social justice campaigns.

(Adapted from Frontiers)

Question 1:
A. to unflinchingly confront world leaders about their perceived hypocrisy
B. the perception of world leaders as unflinchingly hypocritical in their confrontations
C. its unflinching confrontation of world leaders over their perceived hypocrisy
D. that world leaders are confronted unflinchingly over their perceived hypocrisy

Question 2:
A. if the fundamental question is the future of legitimately profiting from this unsustainability
B. though an unsustainable future makes the legitimacy of profitable questioning fundamental
C. while the fundamental question of legitimacy is how to profit unsustainably from the future
D. since it fundamentally questions the legitimacy of profiting from an unsustainable future

Question 3:

A. The movement's critics, however, level a recurring criticism against the concreteness of its purported policy alternatives.

B. Alternatively, a recurring criticism leveled against the movement is the purported lack of a concrete policy, though.

C. A alternative to a concrete policy, however, is the recurring criticism purportedly leveled against the movement's lack.

D. A recurring criticism leveled against the movement, however, is its purported lack of concrete policy alternatives

Question 4:
A. Such a perspective, however, arguably misinterprets a deliberate feature as a fundamental flaw
B. A fundamental flaw, however, is the arguable misinterpretation of this perspective's deliberate feature
C. A flawed perspective, however, is an arguable misinterpretation of a deliberate and fundamental feature
D. It is arguable, however, that such a misinterpretation of a deliberate feature is a flawed perspective

Question 5:
A. the effective profundity of establishing the new moral baseline
B. its profound effectiveness in establishing a new moral baseline
C. a new morality profoundly established from an effective baseline
D. basing a new morality on an established line is profoundly effective

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 6 to 11.

Digital Detox Challenge - Reconnect with the Real World

Feeling overwhelmed by screens? Here are simple steps to make the practice (6) ______ digital detox:

• Set a realistic goal, like limiting screen time to an hour daily.

• Chart your progress with a mobile app, (7) ______ use a notebook for offline tracking.

• Make the most of moments to engage in calming tasks, like arranging (8) ______ or taking mindful walks.

• Rally friends and (9) ______ peers to join the challenge, and try (10) ______ everyone’s focus to activities like board game nights.

• Treat yourself to a relaxing outing when your efforts pay (11) ______ to keep your momentum going.

Join the challenge at https://digitaldetox2025.vn/.

(Adapted from wearesocial.com)

Question 6:  A. of B. with C. in D. to

Question 7:  A. but B. so C. nor D. or

Question 8:  A. neat bookshelf collections B. bookshelf neat collections
         C. bookshelf collections neat D. neat collections bookshelf

Question 9:  A. others B. another C. other D. the others

Question 10:  A. projecting B. directing C. applying D. drawing

Question 11: A. benefits B. rewards C. dividends D. fruits

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 12 to 19.

In the age of hyperconnectivity, subtle design features embedded in online platforms—often referred to as “digital nudges”—are increasingly shaping consumer decisions. These nudges range from the placement of buttons and color schemes to the sequencing of information, each tailored to guide users toward specific behaviors. For example, e-commerce sites often highlight “most popular” items or preselect shipping options, shaping choices while maintaining a sense of autonomy.

Critics warn that such techniques may exploit cognitive biases and distort rational decision-making. The concept of “choice architecture” illustrates this: by altering the presentation of choices, designers can push users toward outcomes they might not freely choose. Default subscriptions and opt-out add-ons are not passive elements—they are deliberate strategies. The ethical tension emerges when these nudges operate unnoticed, making persuasion indistinguishable from manipulation.

Some believe, however, that digital nudging can support autonomy when used transparently and with positive intent. Health platforms use tailored reminders to encourage physical activity, while energy apps adjust prompts in response to changing environmental cues such as seasonal demand, extreme temperatures, or daylight variation. Although these nudges still affect behavior, their alignment with user welfare makes them ethically defensible. Transparency, therefore, becomes the key factor that distinguishes ethical nudging from covert coercion.

Yet regulation remains inconsistent. A few regions, such as the European Union, have explored interface fairness and user protection, but enforcement mechanisms are limited. Meanwhile, advanced algorithms are increasingly capable of shaping behavior across socioeconomic groups. Without oversight, digital nudging might reinforce structural inequalities rather than alleviate them.

Question 12: Which of the following is NOT mentioned in paragraph 1 as a method of digital nudging?
A. Color schemes B. Information sequence C. Product reviews D. Button placement

Question 13: The word distort in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to ______.
A. direct B. misrepresent C. conceal D. exaggerate

Question 14: The word they in paragraph 2 refers to ______.
A. users B. designers C. outcomes D. choices

Question 15: Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 2?

A. Rather than being casually included, default subscriptions and automatic add-ons reflect a purposeful tactic during setup.

B. Though often unnoticed, built-in subscriptions and bundled options sometimes result from strategic intention.

C. What seems like a standard set of preselected and trivial charges is, in fact, the product of intentional placement.

D. Subscriptions by default and opt-out supplements are not unintentional but are selected with a strategic purpose.

Question 16: The word covert in paragraph 3 is OPPOSITE in meaning to ______.
A. explicit B. strategic C. discreet D. suggestive

Question 17: Which of the following is TRUE according to paragraph 3?
A. Health platforms employ customized prompts to promote consistent physical activity among users.
B. Most energy apps modify their notifications based on seasonal changes in environmental conditions.
C. Ethical nudging should reveal the intent behind prompts to maintain user engagement nowadays.
D. Positive nudges tend to prioritize user welfare by aligning with individual preferences and goals.

Question 18: Which paragraph mentions the role of user awareness in ethical nudging?
A. Paragraph 1 B. Paragraph 2 C. Paragraph 3 D. Paragraph 4

Question 19: Which paragraph mentions influence through option layout?
A. Paragraph 1 B. Paragraph 2 C. Paragraph 3 D. Paragraph 4

Read the following piece of news 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.

Hue Storytelling Festival

The Hue Storytelling Festival celebrates the art of oral narratives, weaving global and local tales to enchant audiences. This year’s event marks a cultural triumph with these key features:

• A record-breaking (20) ______ of storytellers, featuring twenty groups from diverse regions. 

• A dazzling (21) ______ of traditional and contemporary stories, poised to be the festival’s finest yet. 

• HeritageVoice Network, an initiative (22) ______ by Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, debuting with a collection of timeless tales, told in a (23) ______ style for audiences. 

• Performances (24) ______ take place from July 5 to July 12 are set to mesmerize thousands with their storytelling craft. 

• A decade of success that has enabled Hue to (25) ______ its mission of preserving cultural narratives worldwide. 

Explore more at https://huestoryfest2025.vn/.
(Adapted from Vietnam Tourism)

Question 20:
A. deal B. volume C. amount D. quantity

Question 21:
A. presentation B. presentative C. present D. presentably

Question 22:
A. spearheading B. spearheaded C. to spearhead D. has spearheaded

Question 23:
A. lively B. cheerful C. charming D. candid

Question 24:
A. which B. what C. who D. whose

Question 25:
A. take out B. bring out C. carry out D. sort out

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 26 to 30.

Question 26:

A. Many cities have focused on community-based policing, which has helped build trust between law enforcement and local residents, leading to better cooperation and a reduction in criminal activities.

B. While challenges remain, these policies have certainly contributed to a noticeable drop in crime rates, fostering safer communities.

C. Moreover, the use of technology in policing, including surveillance cameras and data analytics, has enabled more efficient crime detection and prevention.

D. Additionally, there has been an increase in preventive measures, such as improved education and social services, which address the root causes of crime.

e. The recent decline in crime rates can be largely attributed to the implementation of effective policies.

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

Question 27:

A. Lisa: Yes, I did! The fine has almost doubled. I think it’s a great move to make people more cautious.

B. Mark: Hey, Lisa! Have you heard about the increase in fines for running red lights starting January 1st?

C. Lisa: Exactly! But with the new fines, I’ve noticed fewer people running red lights lately. Everyone seems to be more careful now.

D. Mark: It’s working! People are paying more attention to the signals now.

e. Mark: I agree. Many people used to ignore red lights, especially at night when traffic is less heavy.

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

Question 28:

A. Alex: I’ve started walking daily - it’s simple, and I feel so much better already. Have you tried it?
b. Alex: Totally! Plus, it’s free and fits into any routine.
c. Taylor: Yeah, it’s great! It’s like exercise without the hassle and helps with stress and heart health.

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

Question 29:

A. Online shopping has become increasingly popular, replacing traditional in-store shopping for many consumers.
b. Additionally, online platforms often provide a wider variety of products and better prices, which makes it more attractive for budget-conscious shoppers.

C. Another factor contributing to this trend is the rise of fast and reliable delivery services, making online purchases more efficient.

D. As technology continues to advance, it is likely that the preference for online shopping will keep growing, further transforming the retail landscape.

e. One of the main reasons for this shift is the convenience that online shopping offers, allowing people to shop from the comfort of their own homes at any time.

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

Question 30:

Dear Customer Service,

A. The Smart Home Speaker (model SHS-2024), bought on November 20th, 2024, stopped functioning properly within three days.

B. I expect a replacement or a full refund without further delay.

C. Despite claims of reliability, the device fails to connect to other devices and shuts down unexpectedly.

D. Kindly address this matter promptly and provide an update at your earliest convenience.

e. A recent purchase from your store has left me extremely disappointed.

Best regards,
Laura Mitchell

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

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

China seeks a silver lining as it tells companies to target older consumers

In the past few months, Wang Shuyun, a 78-year-old retiree in Beijing, splashed out on an 8,000 yuan ($1,115) nutrition course and spent 1,200 yuan on new Adidas shoes. Drawing on a far-above-average monthly pension of 10,000 yuan, she regularly procures imported milk and prioritizes her personal well-being. [I] “I focus on living a good life for myself, which I consider the most important goal,” said Wang.

She is part of a 300-million-strong retiree population, the core of a “silver economy” that Beijing is now vigorously promoting. [II] The government’s urgency is twofold. China is undergoing a rapid demographic aging, with the number of people aged 60 and above set to hit 400 million by 2035. Concurrently, spending from younger generations has faltered as they confront economic headwinds and job precarity. In contrast, older people often possess comfortable savings from the country’s past decades of growth, affording them greater discretionary spending.

The commercial potential of this group is substantial. According to research firm Euromonitor International, consumer expenditure by households headed by people aged 60 and over is forecast to surge 129% from 2015 to 2025. This growth rate significantly outpaces the 79% rate for the overall population. In response, companies are beginning to cater to this older demographic with new products. A century-old jewelry firm has debuted AI glasses for assistance with reading, tech giant Xiaomi is integrating accessibility functions into its phones, and insurance conglomerate Ping An is expanding home-based senior care services. [III]

Despite the government’s push and promising growth figures, significant constraints temper expectations. A vast pension disparity exists in China. While former civil servants like Wang receive generous provisions, the average urban retiree draws a much smaller monthly pension of 3,000 yuan. [IV] Pensions for those in rural areas can be as low as 200 yuan. This financial reality is compounded by a cultural tendency towards frugality, as many seniors who experienced leaner times maintain cautious spending habits. Economists argue that this spending is insufficient to counteract deflationary pressures, and thus, while China’s silver economy represents a burgeoning and lucrative market, its capacity to act as a primary engine for national growth is fundamentally limited.

Question 31: According to paragraph 1, the spending habits of the 78-year-old retiree appear to stem from ______.

A. her far-above-average monthly pension of 10,000 yuan
B. a personal objective centered on self-care and quality of life
C. a specific focus on imported milk and nutrition courses
D. her preference for spending on high-end consumer brands

Question 32: Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 2?

A. At the same time, younger generations are spending less as a result of an insecure job market and its impact on the wider economy.

B. Simultaneously, consumption by young people has slowed down due to their facing both financial pressures and unstable employment.

C. As spending from young people falters, they are concurrently forced to confront job instability and broader economic difficulties.

D. Concurrently, job precarity for young people has created economic headwinds, in turn causing their consumer spending to slow down.

Question 33: What trend is illustrated by the actions of companies like Xiaomi and Ping An?

A. The faltering of consumer spending from the younger generations in China.
B. The cautious spending habits maintained by many seniors from leaner times.
C. A corporate shift towards developing products aimed at the elderly market.
D. A widespread corporate investment in general artificial intelligence research.

Question 34: Which of the following best summarises paragraph 3?

A. The significant spending potential of China’s older demographic, backed by strong growth projections, is leading companies in various sectors to introduce new products and services tailored to their specific requirements.
B. The substantial projected spending growth from older Chinese consumers is driving innovation within technological sectors, with companies creating new smart devices and digital services to capture this very lucrative market.
C. Responding to considerable projected spending growth from older consumers, some companies are now shifting their focus away from younger demographics to create a new range of products like specialized senior care.
D. A significant economic boom is now underway, driven by the immense spending power of older Chinese consumers, a trend confirmed by the rapid launch of new, elderly-focused products across many different consumer industries.

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

A. accessibility B. Xiaomi C. a jewellery firm D. reading

Question 36: The word temper in paragraph 4 is closest in meaning to ______.

A. moderate B. frustrate C. challenge D. raise

Question 37: According to the passage, what is the financial situation for retirees living in rural areas?

A. An average monthly pension of about three thousand yuan.
B. A set of generous retirement provisions from the government.
C. An often exceptionally minimal amount of retirement income.
D. A cultural inclination for maintaining very frugal spending habits.

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

A. The development of specialized products like AI reading glasses is a key factor in cultivating the new discretionary spending habits of older consumers.

B. The commercial potential of China’s “silver economy” is not evenly distributed but is likely concentrated within a more affluent segment of the retiree population.

C. The differing economic situations have created social friction, with younger generations feeling resentful of the financial security enjoyed by many retirees.

D. The strong cultural tendency towards frugality among many seniors is likely to counteract the government’s efforts to stimulate their spending habits.

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

For her, personal fulfillment now takes precedence over traditional saving habits.

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

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

A. The promotion of a “silver economy” is Beijing’s key solution to recent economic problems, relying on the high spending power of retirees to successfully offset weaker consumption patterns seen among younger generations.

B. As China’s “silver economy” is promoted, companies are launching new senior products, though these offerings seem to be aimed at the elite minority of retirees with far more wealth than the general population of elderly citizens.

C. Although China’s “silver economy” demonstrates strong financial potential, its overall growth appears to be held back by the ingrained cultural frugality of older citizens, a restrictive mindset from a much more difficult past.

D. Beijing is promoting its “silver economy” to leverage retiree spending, but while this demographic has high growth potential, its broad economic impact is constrained by huge pension gaps and a culture of deep-seated frugality.