Read the following 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 1 to 8.

Food is not merely a means of sustenance but a fundamental pillar of cultural identity,
intricately woven into the traditions, history, and values of a society. It reflects the unique
geography, climate, and historical trajectory of a place, with each dish telling a story about the
people who crafted it. From the aromatic spices of Indian cuisine to the delicate artistry of Japanese
sushi, food serves as a vivid manifestation of cultural heritage. As such, culinary practices function
as potent symbols of cultural distinction, enabling communities to preserve their identity amidst the
forces of globalization.
The evolution of food culture has been deeply shaped by historical events and socio-political
dynamics, with key moments in history triggering significant changes in culinary traditions. One of
the most impactful events was the colonial expansion of European empires, which directly introduced
new ingredients and cooking techniques to different regions. This influx of foreign commodities—
such as sugar, spices, and maize—fundamentally transformed local cuisines in places like India,
Africa, and the Americas. As a result, the historical processes of trade, migration, and colonization
led to the hybridization of traditional dishes, as indigenous flavors were blended with foreign
influences. These historical events caused a profound shift in food systems, creating the diverse
culinary landscapes we see today.
Globalization has further complicated the relationship between food and cultural identity,
presenting both opportunities and challenges. While it has democratized access to diverse culinary
traditions, enabling people around the world to explore and appreciate new cuisines, it has also led
to the hegemony of global food industries. In addition, the ubiquity of fast food chains and
processed, mass-produced meals has marginalized traditional cooking methods, particularly in
urban areas. Moreover, the rise of convenience foods has coincided with a growing threat to local
culinary practices, as younger generations gravitate toward their accessibility and uniformity.
Despite these pressures, food remains a vital conduit for cultural continuity, especially
through familial traditions and communal rituals. Meals continue to serve as a medium for
transmitting cultural knowledge, with recipes passed down through generations, preserving both
tangible and intangible aspects of heritage. In many cultures, food is central to significant social and
religious ceremonies, acting as a cornerstone of identity and social cohesion.
Question 1. [NTL] Which of the following is NOT mentioned as one of the foreign commodities
that transformed local cuisines?
A. Rice B. Maize C. Spices D. Sugar
Question 2. [NTL] The word triggering in paragraph 2 is OPPOSITE in meaning to ________.
A. maintaining B. creating C. encouraging D. preventing
Question 3. [NTL] The word their in paragraph 3 refers to ________.
A. fast food chains B. meanings C. convenience foods D. culinary practices Question 4.
[NTL] The word ubiquity in paragraph 3 could be best replaced by ________.
A. scarcity B. prevalence C. absence D. deficiency

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 Question 5. [NTL] Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph
1?
A. Food has a dual purpose, serving not only as a source of nourishment but also as a critical
element of cultural identity, deeply connected to a society's traditions and historical experiences.
B. Food is primarily a source of nutrition, offering people what they need to sustain themselves,
with minimal influence on cultural traditions or historical significance.
C. Food is significant because it provides the nutrients necessary for survival and reflects the
wealth and social status of a community.
D. Food is essential for maintaining historical records and cultural traditions, taking precedence
over other societal values in many communities.
Question 6. [NTL] Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?
A. Modern family traditions rarely involve the transmission of cultural knowledge through meals.
B. Traditional food practices have been completely eradicated in urban areas due to globalization.
C. The introduction of ingredients like sugar and spices transformed culinary practices in multiple
regions.
D. Younger generations are primarily rejecting globalized food options in favor of traditional
recipes.
Question 7. [NTL] In which paragraph does the writer explain how historical events influenced
culinary traditions?
A. Paragraph 1 B. Paragraph 2 C. Paragraph 3 D. Paragraph 4
Question 8. [NTL] In which paragraph does the writer highlight the role of food in preserving
cultural heritage through family and communal practices?
A. Paragraph 1 B. Paragraph 2 C. Paragraph 3 D. Paragraph 4

Read the following 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 9 to 16.
The future of work is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the rise of artificial
intelligence (AI) and automation. As machines are becoming increasingly adept at executing
sophisticated tasks, many traditional roles previously held by humans are being redefined or
displaced. This paradigm shift not only alters the manner in which work is executed but also
determines the nature and demand for future jobs. Over the coming decades, we are likely to
witness a surge in demand for professions that necessitate creativity, emotional intelligence, and
advanced problem-solving—attributes that AI has yet to replicate effectively. They will become
essential in fields where human insight and innovation remain crucial, even as technology advances.
The ascent of AI and automation is responsible for the reduction of routine, manual, and
repetitive occupations. As businesses leverage these technologies to optimize operations, reduce
costs, and enhance productivity, many traditional roles are consequently becoming obsolete. As a
result, this technological evolution also leads to the creation of entirely new career paths, especially
in emerging fields like data analytics, machine learning, and AI ethics. These new roles will require
the workforce to adapt and acquire highly specialized skill sets, making it all the more pertinent for
educational institutions to prepare students for these future demands.
In response to this shift, education systems and vocational training programs must undergo
significant overhauls. The emphasis will increasingly transition from traditional pedagogy to a more
dynamic, skills-based learning model that can keep pace with rapid technological advancements. As
automation assumes more routine tasks, individuals will be required to develop increasingly
complex, innovative, and critical-thinking abilities to remain competitive in the labor market.

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Lifelong learning will become imperative, with workers expected to relentlessly upskill and
adeptly navigate emerging roles in the swiftly evolving, AI-driven landscape.
Despite these disruptions, the future of work need not be gloomy. While AI will undoubtedly
take over many routine tasks, human ingenuity will remain indispensable in areas like innovation,
leadership, and emotional intelligence. Rather than supplanting humans, AI will likely serve to
augment human capabilities, fostering more collaborative environments where technology and
creativity are in synergy.
Question 9. [NTL] Which of the following is NOT mentioned as one of the attributes that AI has
yet to replicate effectively?
A. Emotional intelligence B. Advanced problem-solving
C. Creativity D. Technical expertise
Question 10. [NTL] The word pertinent in paragraph 2 is OPPOSITE in meaning to ________.
A. disadvantaged B. important C. irrelevant D. suitable
Question 11. [NTL] The word They in paragraph 1 refers to ________.
A. decades B. professions C. future jobs D. traditional roles
Question 12. [NTL] The word supplanting in paragraph 4 could be best replaced by ________.
A. reinforcing B. retaining C. complementing D. replacing
Question 13. [NTL] Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph
3?
A. Workers must continue to learn throughout their careers and adapt quickly to new roles in an
AIdriven world.
B. The workforce will be required to undergo periodic training in order to meet the needs of the AI
industry and preserve job stability.
C. Workers will be encouraged to focus on one specific skill set throughout their careers, as jobs in
AI-driven industries will remain static.
D. Lifelong learning will be discouraged, as workers will be expected to specialize in only one
area throughout their careers.
Question 14. [NTL] Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?
A. The primary challenge of AI in the workforce is its potential to replace human roles,
especially in creative and leadership positions.
B. Workers will be expected to focus on mastering a single skill set throughout their careers in
an AI-driven economy.
C. The rise of AI and automation will create new job categories requiring specialized skills, such
as AI ethics and machine learning.
D. Educational systems will prioritize traditional academic learning over skills-based training as
automation replaces routine tasks.
Question 15. [NTL] In which paragraph does the writer mention a present concession relationship?
A. Paragraph 1 B. Paragraph 2 C. Paragraph 3 D. Paragraph 4
Question 16. [NTL] In which paragraph does the writer discuss the emergence of new job roles due
to AI and automation?
A. Paragraph 1 B. Paragraph 2 C. Paragraph 3 D. Paragraph 4

Read the following 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 17 to 24.
William Shakespeare, widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language,
was born in 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon. His works have transcended time, continuing to be

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performed and studied centuries after his death. Shakespeare’s mastery over language and his
profound understanding of human nature set him apart from other playwrights. His plays, including
Hamlet, Macbeth, and Romeo and Juliet, are still widely celebrated for their depth and complexity.
The success of Shakespeare’s works can be attributed to the uncanny way in which he
captured the human condition, making his characters resonate deeply with audiences. Because his
characters embody emotions that are universal, they transcend their historical context, remaining
relatable to people across different time periods. This timelessness contributes to the perennial
appeal of his plays, ensuring their relevance even in contemporary society. As a result, the themes
Shakespeare explored—such as love, ambition, jealousy, and betrayal—continue to connect with
audiences, regardless of cultural background or era.
Shakespeare’s influence on literature and theatre is undeniable, and they are still felt across
genres. Writers, poets, and playwrights continue to draw inspiration from his works, often
referencing or adapting his characters and themes. The rhythm and richness of his language, notably
his innovative use of iambic pentameter, helped shape the evolution of English literature. Through
his legacy, Shakespeare has ensured that the art of storytelling remains a dynamic force, evolving
yet deeply rooted in his foundational contributions.
Though much of Shakespeare’s life remains shrouded in mystery, his influence is clear. His
works have shaped not only literature but also philosophy, psychology, and cultural studies.
Scholars continue to analyze his plays, uncovering new meanings and interpretations in them. Even
in the modern era, the enduring impact of his works solidifies Shakespeare as an indelible and
monumental figure in human history.
Question 17. [NTL] Which of the following is NOT mentioned as one of Shakespeare’s plays?
A. Hamlet B. Macbeth C. Othello D. Romeo and Juliet
Question 18. [NTL] The word uncanny in paragraph 2 is OPPOSITE in meaning to ________.
A. amazing B. incredible C. exceptional D. ordinary
Question 19. [NTL] The word them in paragraph 4 refers to ________.
A. interpretations B. meanings C. plays D. scholars
Question 20. [NTL] The word perennial in paragraph 2 could be best replaced by ________.
A. lasting B. loving C. shocking D. boring
Question 21. [NTL] Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph
4?
A. Shakespeare’s influence on history is fading, but his works remain important in certain areas.
B. Shakespeare’s works have such a powerful impact that they secure his place as an irreplaceable
figure in history, even today.
C. Even in the present era, Shakespeare’s influence diminishes, undermining his place as an
essential figure in the story of human history.
D. The waning influence of Shakespeare’s writings in modern times affirms his role as a
monumental figure in human history.
Question 22. [NTL] Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?
A. A great deal of Shakespeare’s life is well-documented, offering a clear understanding of his
personal experiences.
B. Shakespeare’s exceptional command of language and deep insight into human nature set him
apart from other playwrights.
C. Scholars unanimously agree on a single interpretation of Shakespeare’s plays based on their
universal themes.

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 D. Shakespeare's influence is limited to the field of theatre, with little effect on other areas such
as philosophy or psychology.
Question 23. [NTL] In which paragraph does the writer explain why Shakespeare’s works continue
to connect with audiences across different time periods?
A. Paragraph 1 B. Paragraph 2 C. Paragraph 3 D. Paragraph 4
Question 24. [NTL] In which paragraph does the writer focus on the influence of Shakespeare’s
works on various forms of art and their continued relevance in modern times?
A. Paragraph 1 B. Paragraph 2 C. Paragraph 3 D. Paragraph 4

Read the following 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 25 to 32.
China’s rapid urbanization over the past few decades has transformed its cities into
sprawling megacities. Once built with towering city walls to prevent expansion, Beijing, like many
others, now builds expansive ring roads to accommodate its growing population. The Seventh Ring
Road, when completed, will stretch 900 kilometers, encircling Beijing and cutting through
neighboring Hebei province. This shift reflects a broader trend in China’s urban planning: cities
have become vast, cardominated spaces, where growth continues unabated, often at the cost of
efficiency and livability.
The massive migration from rural areas has fueled this unprecedented urban growth, pushing
the urban population to over 500 million people. This migration has spurred the creation of more
than 100 cities, each with populations surpassing one million. However, despite this vast expansion,
China’s largest cities are struggling to address the growing challenges of congestion, pollution, and
urban sprawl. As a result, the quality of life for many residents in these cities has not improved in
line with economic growth, raising concerns about whether they are truly experiencing the benefits
of urbanization.
China’s larger cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, exemplify the challenges
associated with megacities. For instance, Beijing’s congestion results in travel speeds half that of
New York or Singapore, while Guangzhou and Shenzhen could support millions more residents if
they were as densely populated as cities like Seoul. Similarly, the rapid outward expansion has
created a dependence on cars, with superblocks and limited roads contributing to traffic jams. The
sprawling nature of these cities, combined with inadequate infrastructure integration, has stymied
efforts to improve daily life and made it increasingly difficult for residents.
However, the Chinese government has begun to acknowledge these challenges and is
shifting its focus toward enhancing urban living conditions. The primary focus has shifted
towards enhancing urban livability, prioritizing the well-being of residents over the relentless
pursuit of unchecked economic expansion. Efforts are being made to reduce traffic congestion,
control pollution, and improve public transportation networks across various cities.
(Adapted from The Economist)
Question 25. [NTL] Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a challenge associated with
China’s larger cities?
A. Traffic congestion B. Dependence on cars
C. Inadequate infrastructure integration D. Low incomes
Question 26. [NTL] The word stymied in paragraph 3 is OPPOSITE in meaning to ________.
A. prevented B. impeded C. assisted D. researched
Question 27. [NTL] The word they in paragraph 2 refers to ________.
A. challenges B. concerns C. cities D. residents

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Question 28. [NTL] The word unabated in paragraph 1 could be best replaced by ________.
A. restricted B. sustained C. reduced D. hindered
Question 29. [NTL] Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph
4?
A. Urban livability has taken precedence, with a shift in focus from economic expansion to the
well- being of residents.
B. Improving urban living conditions is no longer a central priority, with greater focus on
unrestrained economic growth rather than residents’ quality of life.
C. The emphasis is now on prioritizing both controlled economic growth and quality of life, with
equal attention given to sustainable development and residents’ well-being.
D. Priorities have shifted, with no emphasis placed on either improving urban life quality or on
continuous economic expansion.
Question 30. [NTL] Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?
A. China’s swift urbanization has resulted in the development of more than 100 cities, each
housing almost one million people.
B. Even as cities expand, the quality of life in China’s largest urban areas has not improved as
much as the economy.
C. Beijing’s traffic congestion leads to travel speeds comparable to those found in cities such as
New York or Singapore.
D. The Seventh Ring Road will span 900 kilometers, fully surrounding Beijing while staying
within its provincial limits.
Question 31. [NTL] In which paragraph does the writer mention a present exemplification
relationship?
A. Paragraph 1 B. Paragraph 2 C. Paragraph 3 D. Paragraph 4
Question 32. [NTL] In which paragraph does the writer explore the actions being taken by the
Chinese government to enhance the quality of life in urban areas?
A. Paragraph 1 B. Paragraph 2 C. Paragraph 3 D. Paragraph 4

BẢNG TỪ VỰNG
Words Phonetic transcriptions Meanings
1. adept (adj) /əˈdept/ Thành thạo
2. affirm (v) /əˈfɜːm/ Khẳng định
3. aromatic (adj) /ˌærəˈmætɪk/ Thơm
4. augment (v) /ɔːɡˈment/ Tăng cường
5. betrayal (n) /bɪˈtreɪəl/ Sự phản bội
6. car-dominated (adj) /kɑːr dɒmɪneɪtɪd/ Chiếm ưu thế bởi ô tô
7. cohesion (n) /kəʊˈhiːʒn/ Sự liên kết
8. coincide (v) /ˌkəʊɪnˈsaɪd/ Xảy ra đồng thời, trùng khớp
9. colonization (n) /ˌkɒlənaɪˈzeɪʃn/ Sự thuộc địa hóa
10. commodity (n) /kəˈmɒdəti/ Hàng hóa
11. complicate (v) /ˈkɒmplɪkeɪt/ Làm cho phức tạp
12. conduit (n) /ˈkɒndjuɪt/ Cầu nối, phương tiện
13. continuity (n) /ˌkɒntɪˈnjuːəti/ Sự liên tục
14. cornerstone (n) /ˈkɔːnəstəʊn/ Nền tảng

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15. critical-thinking (adj) /ˌkrɪtɪkl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/ Tư duy phản biện
16. deficiency (n) /dɪˈfɪʃnsi/ Sự thiếu hụt
17. delicate (adj) /ˈdelɪkət/ Tinh tế
18. democratize (v) /dɪˈmɒkrətaɪz/ Dân chủ hóa
19. embody (v) /ɪmˈbɒdi/ Thể hiện
20. empire (n) /ˈempaɪə(r)/ Đế chế
21. enduring (adj) /ɪnˈdjʊərɪŋ/ Lâu dài
22. exceptional (adj) /ɪkˈsepʃənl/ Đặc biệt, khác thường
23. execute (v) /ˈeksɪkjuːt/ Thực hiện, thi hành
24. exemplify (v) /ɪɡˈzemplɪfaɪ/ Minh họa
25. gloomy (adj) /ˈɡluːmi/ Ảm đạm
26. gravitate (v) /ˈɡrævɪteɪt/ Hướng về, đổ về
27. hegemony (n) /hɪˈdʒeməni/ Sự thống trị
28. hybridization (n) /ˌhaɪbrɪdaɪˈzeɪʃn/ Sự lai tạo
29. iambic (adj) /aɪˈæmbɪk/ Nhịp iambic (thơ ca)
30. impede (v) /ɪmˈpiːd/ Ngăn cản
31. imperative (adj) /ɪmˈperətɪv/ Cấp thiết, quan trọng
32. indelible (adj) /ɪnˈdeləbl/ Không thể phai mờ

33. indigenous (adj) /ɪnˈdɪdʒənəs/ Bản địa

34. indispensable (adj) /ˌɪndɪˈspensəbl/ Không thể thiếu, quan trọng
35. influx (n) /ˈɪnflʌks/ Sự du nhập
36. ingenuity (n) /ˌɪndʒəˈnjuːəti/ Sự khéo léo
37. interpretation (n) /ɪnˌtɜːprəˈteɪʃn/ Sự diễn giải
38. intricately (adv) /ˈɪntrɪkətli/ Một cách phức tạp, chặt chẽ
39. irrelevant (adj) /ɪˈreləvənt/ Không liên quan
40. irreplaceable (adj) /ˌɪrɪˈpleɪsəbl/ Không thể thay thế được
41. jealousy (n) /ˈdʒeləsi/ Sự ghen tỵ
42. legacy (n) /ˈleɡəsi/ Di sản
43. leverage (v) /ˈliːvərɪdʒ/ Tận dụng
44. maize (n) /meɪz/ Ngô
45. manifestation (n) /ˌmænɪfeˈsteɪʃn/ Sự biểu hiện
46. marginalize (v) /ˈmɑːdʒɪnəlaɪz/ Làm giảm giá trị
47. mass-produced (adj) /ˌmæs prəˈdjuːst/ Sản xuất ồ ạt
48. mastery (n) /ˈmɑːstəri/ Sự thành thạo
49. monumental (adj) /ˌmɒnjuˈmentl/ Vĩ đại
50. nourishment (n) /ˈnʌrɪʃmənt/ Sự nuôi dưỡng
51. obsolete (adj) /ˈɒbsəliːt/ Lỗi thời, lạc hậu
52. outward (adj) /ˈaʊtwəd/ Bên ngoài
53. overhaul (n) /ˈəʊvəhɔːl/ Sự đại tu

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54. paradigm (n) /ˈpærədaɪm/ Mô hình
55. pedagogy (n) /ˈpedəɡɒdʒi/ Sư phạm
56. pentameter (n) /penˈtæmɪtə(r)/ Câu thơ có 5 âm tiết
57. perennial (adj) /pəˈreniəl/ Lâu dài
58. periodic (adj) /ˌpɪəriˈɒdɪk/ Theo định kỳ
59. pertinent (adj) /ˈpɜːtɪnənt/ Liên quan, thích hợp
60. philosophy (n) /fəˈlɒsəfi/ Triết học
61. pillar (n) /ˈpɪlə(r)/ Trụ cột
62. playwright (n) /ˈpleɪraɪt/ Nhà viết kịch
63. prevalence (n) /ˈprevələns/ Sự phổ biến
64. redefine (v) /ˌriːdɪˈfaɪn/ Tái định nghĩa
65. reference (v) /ˈrefrəns/ Tham khảo
66. relentlessly (adv) /rɪˈlentləsli/ Một cách không ngừng nghỉ
67. repetitive (adj) /rɪˈpetətɪv/ Lặp đi lặp lại
68. replicate (v) /ˈreplɪkeɪt/ Sao chép
69. resonate (v) /ˈrezəneɪt/ Đồng điệu
70. ring road (n) /ˈrɪŋ rəʊd/ Đường vành đai
71. ritual (n) /ˈrɪtʃuəl/ Nghi lễ
72. scarcity (n) /ˈskeəsəti/ Sự khan hiếm
73. scholar (n) /ˈskɒlə(r)/ Học giả
74. shrouded in mystery Bí ẩn, chưa được tiết lộ
(idiom)
75. solidify (v) /səˈlɪdɪfaɪ/ Củng cố
76. sophisticated (adj) /səˈfɪstɪkeɪtɪd/ Phức tạp, tinh vi
77. sprawling (adj) /ˈsprɔːlɪŋ/ Rộng lớn; lan rộng
78. spur (v) /spɜː(r)/ Thúc đẩy
79. stymie (v) /ˈstaɪmi/ Cản trở
80. supplant (v) /səˈplɑːnt/ Thay thế
81. sustenance (n) /ˈsʌstənəns/ Dinh dưỡng; nguồn sống
82. swiftly (adv) /ˈswɪftli/ Một cách nhanh chóng
83. synergy (n) /ˈsɪnədʒi/ Sự hiệp lực, hoà hợp
84. take precedence over Được ưu tiên hơn
85. tangible (adj) /ˈtændʒəbl/ Hữu hình
86. towering (adj) /ˈtaʊərɪŋ/ Cao chót vót
87. trajectory (n) /trəˈdʒektəri/ Quỹ đạo
88. transcend (v) /trænˈsend/ Vượt qua
89. trigger (v) /ˈtrɪɡə(r)/ Gây ra
90. ubiquity (n) /juːˈbɪkwəti/ Sự phổ biến
91. unabated (adj) /ˌʌnəˈbeɪtɪd/ Không ngừng
92. unanimously (adv) /juˈnænɪməsli/ Nhất trí

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93. uncanny (adj) /ʌnˈkæni/ Kỳ lạ
94. unchecked (adj) /ˌʌnˈtʃekt/ Không thể kiểm soát
95. undeniable (adj) /ˌʌndɪˈnaɪəbl/ Không thể phủ nhận được
96. undermine (v) /ˌʌndəˈmaɪn/ Làm suy yếu
97. uniformity (n) /ˌjuːnɪˈfɔːməti/ Tính đồng nhất
98. unrestrained (adj) /ˌʌnrɪˈstreɪnd/ Không bị kiềm chế
99. weave (v) /wiːv/ Đan xen; dệt
100. well-documented (adj) /ˌwel ˈdɒkjumentɪd/ Ghi chép đầy đủ

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