SỞ GIÁO DỤC VÀ ĐÀO TẠO KỲ THI CHỌN HỌC SINH GIỎI THPT CẤP TỈNH
TỈNH NINH BÌNH VÀ CHỌN ĐỘI TUYỂN DỰ THI HSG QUỐC GIA
NĂM HỌC 2025- 2026
ĐỀ THI CHÍNH THỨC
Môn thi: TIẾNG ANH
SỐ PHÁCH
Thời gian: 180 phút (không kể thời gian phát đề) (Do Hội đồng chấm thi ghi)
Ngày thi thứ nhất: 16/9/2025
Đề thi gồm có 14 trang
Thí sinh KHÔNG được sử dụng tài liệu, kể cả từ điển.
Giám thị KHÔNG giải thích gì thêm.
ĐIỂM BÀI THI Họ và tên, chữ ký của 2 giám khảo
Bằng số: ............................. Giám khảo 1: ..................................
Bằng chữ: ........................... Giám khảo 2: ..................................
SECTION A: LISTENING (5.0 points)
• The listening section is in FOUR parts. You will hear each part TWICE. At the beginning of
each part, you will hear a sound.
• There will be a piece of music at the beginning and at the end of the listening section. You
will have TWO minutes to check your answers at the end of the listening section.
• All the other instructions are included in the recording.
Part 1. For questions 1-5, you hear a part of a radio interview in which two sports
journalists, Mike Crosbie and Judy Huntley, are talking about professional sport and the
media, and decide whether the following are mentioned by only one of the speakers, or by
both of them. In the corresponding numbered boxes provided.
write M for Mike
J for Judy
B for Both of the speakers
1. The preference is to work behind the scenes rather than in public view.
2. Recognition should be given to those who contribute behind the scenes in sports.
3. The growing commercialization of sports could negatively impact its accessibility and authenticity
4. Sports journalism is evolving, gaining more respect and visibility than before.
5. There is concern that the commercialization of sports could diminish its core values.
Your answers:
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Page 1 of 14 pages
Part 2. For questions 6-10, listen to a news report on global impact of the sixth-largest
earthquake and match each number (6-10) in Column I with one letter (A-J) in Column II to
make a correct information according to what is stated by the speaker(s). Write your answers
in the corresponding numbered boxes provided.
Column I Column II
A. tsunami is hardly perceivable at close range.
B. a flood of evacuees making a dash for shelters triggered a tailback.
6. In Kamchatka C. the densely populated coastline was hit by a huge and damaging tsunami.
D. favorable position helps mitigate the power of natural disaster.
7. In the Pacific Ocean
E. only a few people were evacuated for a minor tsunami threat.
8. In Hawaii F. there was no flooding or large waves and no significant chaos.
G. two million people were evacuated, some fleeing to high rooftops.
9. In Southern California
H. the earthquake's impact on the region is mild notwithstanding the
10. In Russia strength of the wave.
I. damage and flooding occurred, so people moved to higher ground.
J. visitors refused to evacuate despite early warnings.
Your answers:
6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Part 3. For questions 11-15, listen to an interview about the cost of iPhone and write the letter
A, B, C or D in the numbered boxes provided to indicate the correct answer to each of the
following questions according to what you hear.
11. What is the main impact of President Trump's proposed tariffs?
A. Increase in the cost of electronics products from China, including iPhones
B. Decrease in iPhone prices due to fewer production costs from China
C. Boost in production of iPhones within the United States for Apple
D. Reduction in the cost of Chinese electronics products by thirty percent
12. How much does Apple pay for the current iPhone model?
A. Approximately $850 for the 256GB iPhone 16 Pro model before tariffs
B. Around $500 for the base model, including production and assembly
C. Around $1,100 after considering Apple’s additional operational and manufacturing costs
D. Nearly $1,500 due to higher tariffs and shipping from China
13. What factor does Joanna believe is most uncertain right now?
A. Whether Apple will receive an exemption from the current tariff increases.
B. If Apple will move its entire production to the United States.
C. Whether other Chinese manufacturers will be impacted by tariffs as well.
D. How much tariffs will increase the overall price of iPhones?
14. What does Joanna suggest about purchasing an iPhone now?
A. Buy now if you need an iPhone soon to avoid price hikes
B. Wait until next year to see if tariffs decrease or are exempted
C. Wait and see if Apple finds an alternative manufacturing solution soon
D. Purchase an iPhone immediately to avoid a potential price increase
15. What is the possible impact of tariffs on Apple’s iPhone pricing?
A. Apple might absorb the costs without raising the price for consumers.
B. Apple will increase the price of the phone due to higher costs.
C. Apple will shift production entirely to the United States to avoid tariffs.
D. Apple will discontinue certain iPhone models due to production cost increases.
Your answers:
11. 12. 13. 14. 15.
Page 2 of 14 pages
Part 4. For questions 16-25, listen to part of a talk about altruism and complete the following
summary. Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS taken from the recording for each space.
Write your answers in the corresponding numbered boxes provided.
Scientists have long been perplexed by unselfishness of both humans and animals. Charles
Darwin perceived altruism as a possible (16) __________ in his theory of natural selection. After all,
why would evolution favor behaviors that reduce an individual’s survival odds? He later observed that
(17)__________ support their queen, suggesting that natural selection might favor altruism within
family groups.
According to William Hamilton, if the cost of individual was overshadowed by (18)__________,
altruism might become an attribute. He also coined the term "(19)__________" to further explain
Darwin's theory, especially in insect societies like ants. The fact that this species willingly sacrifice
their lives for the community stems from having (20)__________ of collective genes. Thus, sharing a
significant (21) __________ plays a role in the colony’s success.
Yet Hamilton’s theory doesn’t fully explain altruism between unrelated individuals. Humans, for
instance, are profoundly social and altruistic. Some scientists suggest that our brains evolved to
handle such cooperation because it’s incredibly (22) __________. But much of our generosity may
result from (23)__________ - helping others in expectation of future returns. Even vampire bats
(24)__________blood to feed hungry peers anticipate reciprocity one day. Likewise, humans refusing to
(25)__________even when such acts are complex or unpleasant can collaborate with others for
subsequent reward.
Your answers:
16. 17.
18. 19.
20. 21.
22. 23.
24. 25.
SECTION B. LANGUAGE IN USE (3.0 points)
Part 1. For questions 26-35, read the passage below and decide which answer (A, B, C, or D)
best fits each space. Write the letter A, B, C or D in the numbered boxes provided.
The age-old dichotomy between following one's passion and pursuing practical career choices
continues to (26) ______ young professionals in today's volatile economic landscape. (27) ______ of
creative fields such as arts, literature, or music can yield profound personal satisfaction and artistic
fulfillment, the financial (28) ______ associated with these careers often creates substantial anxiety
for both individuals and their families. In contrast, traditionally (29) ______professions like medicine,
engineering, or law offer (30) ______ prospects and societal prestige, yet may leave individuals
feeling spiritually unfulfilled should they lack (31) ______ interest in these fields. The most pragmatic
approach involves conducting a thorough cost-benefit analysis that considers not only immediate
financial returns but also long-term career sustainability, work-life balance, and personal growth
opportunities. Modern career counselors increasingly advocate for a hybrid strategy,
one (32)______ individuals can pursue primary careers while cultivating passionate interests as
secondary income streams or eventual career transitions. (33) ______ the most successful
professionals are those who can (34) ______ their intrinsic motivations with market realities, creating
a career path that provides both financial security and personal meaning in an increasingly
competitive (35) ______.
26. A. encourage B. perplex C. motivate D. inspire
27. A. While passionate pursuit B. Despite passionate pursuits
C. Notwithstanding passionate endeavors D. Although passionate undertakings
28. A. precision B. precariousness C. preciousness D. prediction
29. A. constant B. stable C. persistent D. steady
30. A. lucrative B. luxurious C. logical D. literal
Page 3 of 14 pages
31. A. genuine B. impulsive C. authentic D. spontaneous
32. A. in which B. whereby C. wherein D. through which
33. A. It is ultimately that B. Ultimately, it is
C. What ultimately matters is that D. Ultimately
34. A. recognize B. reconcile C. recommend D. reconsider
35. A. global economy B. economic milieu
C. marketplace dynamics D. commercial paradigm
Your answers:
26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35.
Part 2. For questions 36-40, read the passage, then fill in each of the numbered spaces with
the correct form of the words given in the box. Write your answers in the numbered boxes
provided. There are FOUR words that you do not need to use. The first one, (0), has been done
as an example.
DISPENSE HEART BIOLOGY KNOW PURSUE
CAPACITY SAFE INCREASE CHANGE WEAVE
In the modern educational landscape, smart devices have become (0) _______ tools, their
role deeply (36) ______ with the learning experience. These technologies, ranging from interactive
whiteboards to AI-driven tutoring systems, offer (37) _______ methods to ensure students’
engagement, even in challenging learning environments. (38) _______ of their significance are
evident across global educational systems, where they facilitate personalized learning, making it
possible for students to access tailored resources and support.
However, despite their advantages, some challenges remain. For instance, students who are
(39) _______, either physically or intellectually, may struggle to fully benefit from these devices
without additional assistance or adaptive tools. Yet, when used effectively, smart devices can create a
resonance that extends beyond the classroom, providing learners with a sense of empowerment and
autonomy. This potential is what makes them crucial in the future of education, transforming
traditional teaching methods into dynamic, interactive processes. The (40) _______ relationship
between technology and education is not just a trend, but rather a paradigm shift that promises to
enrich the learning journey for all.
Your answers:
0. indispensable 36. 37.
38. 39. 40.
Part 3. The passage below contains FIVE grammatical mistakes. For questions 41-45,
UNDERLINE the mistakes and WRITE THEIR CORRECT FORMS in the numbered boxes
provided. The first one has been done as an example.
Cognitivism, also known as cognitive psychology, is a theoretical perspective within
psychological that views the mind as an information-processing system. This perspective
emphasizes the mental processes that occur between stimuli and response, and seeks to understand
what these processes are influenced by a person's prior knowledge, motivation, and experiences. The
cognitivist perspective emerged like a response to behaviorist theories, which emphasized observable
behaviours and rejected the study of internal mental states and processes. Cognitivists, on the other
hand, posit that cognitive processes such as perception, attention, memory, problem-solving, and
reasoning play a central role in shaping behavior. To study these processes, cognitive psychologists
use a range of research methodologies, included laboratory experiments, computer simulations, and
brain imaging techniques, to gain insights into the workings of the human mind. This interdisciplinary
approach has led to the development of several influential theories, such as the information-
processing theory, which posits that the mind operates like a computer, procession information in a
series of stages; and the modularity of mind theory, which suggests that different mental processes
are specialized for different functions. Overall, the cognitivist perspective has made a significant
Page 4 of 14 pages
contribution to our understanding of the mind and has provided a framework for understanding human
behavior that integrates psychological, neurological, and computer perspectives.
Your answers:
eg. psychology 41. 42.
43. 44. 45.
SECTION C. READING COMPREHENSION (5.0 points)
Part 1. For questions 46-55, read the following passage and fill in each of the numbered
spaces with ONE suitable word. Write your answers in the corresponding numbered boxes
provided.
Penny-pinching is all well and good, but if you want to give your income a serious
(46)__________, there is no substitute for entrepreneurial grit. Many (47) __________ talent and
expertise into a second source of income, providing consulting services on the side, for example,
while (48) ________ their full-time jobs. Others put more skin in the game, (49) __________ major
investments to start local franchise operations, or purchase rental property in (50) __________ of
passive income. But all those who call themselves successful share similar character traits: a rock-
solid work ethic and a willingness to roll up their (51 ) __________.
The obvious first step is to use (52) __________you know to create part-time gigs you can do
on nights and weekends. Do you speak a second language? Do you offer classes at your local library
or community centre? Are you a (53) __________ hand at Maths? You can start tutoring, which can
rake (54)__________ a considerable amount of money. You can start a home decorating service, or
offer workshops on creative writing or wedding photography—there are infinite opportunities. IT
consultants charge 80 pounds per hour or more, while Web designers charge (55)__________ from
500 to several thousand pounds to create company websites.
Your answers:
46. 47. 48. 49. 50.
51. 52. 53. 54. 55.
Part 2. For questions 56-69, read the passage and do the following tasks. Write your answers
in the corresponding numbered boxes provided.
A. In the quest to find viable alternative sources of energy, it is understandable that better-known
technologies are favoured. This accounts for the relative prevalence of solar panels and wind
turbines, compared to the comparative scarcity of methods harnessing energy from the tides, for
example. Cost and scale play a big part too, as does politics, since it takes a huge political
commitment for a government to back research and investment into a source of energy that may
only reap benefits long after that government is gone. In simple terms, it takes people with long-
term vision and concern for coming generations to make these decisions. They also have to be in
positions of power.
B. It is important to draw a distinction between renewable and alternative energies. According to Dr
Michael Rudd, of the Dublin Institute of Energy Alternatives, 'There are many alternatives, one of
which is burning wood instead of coal. That does not mean we solve the problems facing the
planet, however. For us to find a viable alternative, it has to be renewable'. Dr Rudd points out that
there is a temptation to overcomplicate matters because of the desire to use advanced technology
for a solution. 'Yes, of course we could invest trillions in using electrolysis to split water into its
component parts and use the hydrogen for fuel in our vehicles and factories. And yes, there would
be benefits. But the answer is staring us in the face. Why not use that water as it is? We have
been using flowing water as an energy source for thousands of years,’ he says.
C. Water mills are indeed the first example of harnessing natural forces in order to perform a range of
mechanical tasks. The ancient Greeks and Romans had them, and they existed in ancient China
Page 5 of 14 pages
and India. They were used for grinding wheat to make flour, hammering, and sawing timber or
stone. Nowadays, we would rarely think of constructing a dam without making provision for water
to pass through and generate electricity – it seems too good an opportunity to miss. 'But how
many dams do you know of?' asks Dr Rudd, 'There are just not that many of them, even though
proposals exist to build thousands. Building dams creates the same problems that water mills
create; once you block the flow of water, you are potentially blocking navigation routes too, and
we still need them, otherwise all our rivers would have hydroelectric dams on them. Recent
research suggests that creating reservoirs has its problems too, since the stagnant water tends to
accumulate methane- a greenhouse gas, and just the kind of thing we are trying to avoid.’
D. Wind energy has been used for even longer than water if we consider the thousands of years that
have elapsed since we first attached a sail to a boat. The ugliness, noise and damage to wildlife
associated with wind farms have all been well documented. Of course, the supply of power is at
the mercy of wind strength – considerably less dependable than the flow of a river or the fall of
gravity from a hydroelectric dam. It also presents us with an infrastructure issue. In recent years,
there have been several cases where a particularly windy night generated more electricity than
could be used because there were no systems in place to exploit the excess. This is certainly one
obstacle that needs to be overcome.
E. Solar energy is perhaps the biggest success story in some countries. However, ignorance is one
of the barriers which has prevented its implementation in others. Consistently perceived to be a
method for countries with a guaranteed minimum number of sunshine hours, solar power suffers
in certain countries simply because people are not convinced that it will work there. Those people
include financial organisations which could, if they had a more realistic overview, provide financial
incentives for people wishing to invest in green energy. According to Dr Rudd, 'Solar energy for
domestic use presents us with a similar picture to that of geothermal energy and heat insulation –
all of them are considerably cheaper if they are incorporated in the planning stage than if they are
added retrospectively. Once all new homes take this into account, we will see a massive
difference. However, there is a further barrier – that of split incentives – whereby the builder or
owner of the property is reluctant to invest in technology, the benefits of which will be passed on to
the tenant in the form of reduced energy bills'.
F. Wave and tide power have significantly greater potential than damming rivers, and they harness
more predictable forces than wind or solar energy. Many of the above obstacles apply here too,
with the threat to marine life and the altering of ecosystems being perhaps more convincing
arguments against. However, the huge cost has proved the greatest impediment so far. Despite
figures that guarantee a return, this method has not yet started generating a significant amount of
energy worldwide. A one-billion-pound project in Wales was given the green light in 2015, but hit
delays almost immediately. Problems specific to this technology include the difficulty of working
underwater and the effect of corrosion on metal parts.
For questions 56-61, decide whether the following statements are True (T), False (F) or Not
Given (NG). Write your answers in the corresponding numbered boxes provided.
56. Governments do not care about energy sources they will not directly benefit from.
57. Most dams have some form of energy-generating technology built in.
58. The wind is a more reliable source of energy than rivers.
59. Environmental problems are greater with wind, wave and tide technology.
60. Ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans used water power primarily for grinding
grain and other mechanical tasks.
61. According to Dr Rudd, solar energy is only effective in countries with a high minimum number of
sunshine hours.
Your answers:
56. 57. 58. 59. 60. 61.
Page 6 of 14 pages
For questions 62-69, read the summary and fill in each space with NO MORE THAN TWO
WORDS taken from the passage. Write your answers in the corresponding numbered boxes
provided.
The transition to sustainable energy is shaped by political will, economic feasibility, and technological
familiarity, resulting in the (62) ________ of tidal energy relative to more established sources such as
solar and wind. Although numerous (63) ________ are available, only those derived from naturally
replenished sources offer long-term viability. Governments may choose to (64) ________ in advanced
technologies like hydrogen fuel, yet experts argue that optimizing traditional hydropower remains
more practical. Nevertheless, environmental concerns persist, particularly regarding (65) ________,
which can emit methane and disrupt ecosystems. Wind energy faces (66) ________ limitations,
especially in storing surplus electricity. Solar power, while successful in some regions, is most cost-
effective when integrated during the (67) ________. However, (68) ________ - where developers
bear the cost while tenants benefit - continue to hinder widespread adoption. Meanwhile, wave and
tidal energy, despite their predictability, face a major (69) ________: high costs. Unlocking their full
potential requires strategic foresight, ecological sensitivity, and coordinated investment.
Your answers:
62. 63.
64. 65.
66. 67.
68. 69.
Part 3. In the passage below, six paragraphs have been removed. For questions 70-75, read
the passage and choose from paragraphs A-G the one which fits each gap. There is ONE extra
paragraph which you do not need to use. Write your answers in the corresponding numbered
boxes provided.
SECRET UNDERGROUND STATIONS
Charles Brent, goes to meet Professor Mal Cook, a historian who studies the history of London.
Historian and professor, Malcolm Cook, has spent years investigating the history of London,
especially the underground, the oldest and one of the most hectic underground railway systems in the
world. The professor says, “I find the history of London absorbing, and particularly enjoy researching
the underground. Although a lot of it is hidden there is still a lot of evidence if you know where to
look.”
70.
The professor explained that the entire underground network of 255 miles has around forty
abandoned stations, some above and some below ground. Some stations have also just disappeared
without trace and are long forgotten, whereas others are almost intact, standing as dirty and grimy
time capsules from the day they were closed.
71.
I asked the professor to tell us more about it. “Well, the Ticket Hall and lifts at Aldwych station have
been remarkably restored and preserved since its closure in 1994. They are frequently used by film
and television companies as film sets and this was very evident throughout the tour. The original
ticket office is in perfect condition, because it was re-decorated for a period drama not that long ago.”
72.
The professor explained how the tour group then went down the emergency staircase, the only way
now to get down to the platforms. He continues, “This was when we really felt that we were in a ghost
station. The paint on the walls and roof is peeling off rather badly in places and there were puddles
everywhere on the platforms. There was also a horrid, foul smell in the air. It had an abandoned air
about it and you couldn’t mistake the fact it is no longer in operation.”
73.
“Since I went on that tour, part of it has been cleaned up, at least on the surface, by a film company.”
A few years ago, part of a James Bond film, Die Another Day, was filmed in a disused London
underground station. Bond enters through a small door opposite the Houses of Parliament near
Westminster Bridge, to get to Q's gadget laboratory.
74.
Page 7 of 14 pages
Of course, one of the things the London Underground ground is most famous for is providing shelter
to Londoners during the Second World War. I commented that it must have felt very safe and secure
down there, sheltering people of all ages and class from all over London at night, while the destruction
and devastation continued unabated above ground.
75.
I asked the professor if all these ghost stations are in such a bad state of repair. He replied that they
weren't. 'There's a disused platform at Holborn that hasn't been used since 1994. Up until recently,
you could still see it through some gates, but doors have now replaced the gates. However, the
platform is still there and kept in an excellent condition!’
Missing paragraphs
A. 'For example, when travelling between Tottenham Court Road and Holborn on the Central Line,
look out of the window and you'll see a station which has stood disused since 1932. This was
once where people alighted to visit the British Museum, but today it stands neglected. There are
many such stations, often called ghost stations, and I love finding out more about them.’
B. It hasn't changed much since it was shut down and if you didn't know any better, you'd think it was
still operational. There are actually new advertising posters on the walls and between these there
are white boards put up on the walls. These serve as screens for what was a new video projection
system that they were testing here as the platform is not being used by the public. ’
C. Professor Cook did his research and found out that it was a film stage, not a real station, but the
film company had done a lot of research before shooting the film. The professor commented, 'The
film company had actually based most of the station on Aldwych. The walls had been painted the
same, but the shape of the tunnel was different. Even so, the film makers went to a lot of trouble
to make it look realistic!’
D. 'On the right of the ticket office are the two original Otis lifts, put in when the station was opened in
1907. These lifts were the main reason the station was shut down, as they would have taken
nearly four million pounds to replace. Something I love is that if one lift broke down, the other lift
could be brought up alongside, locked together and a door opened between the two lifts to allow
passengers to transfer into the still operating lift. This is one of the reasons you'll see most of the
lifts on the Underground system come in twos!’
E. Professor Cook goes on to say, 'There are many organised tours of these empty stations, some of
which in a better condition than others. Aldwych Station, for instance, built in the early twentieth
century, offers a wonderful tour which I went on a few weeks ago!
F. 'Yes', said Cook, 'they would surface the next morning unsure if their homes were still standing or
not. Many stations were used for this, including Aldwych. London Transport did not originally want
people sleeping on their platforms and tried to discourage them from doing so at the start of the
war. In the end, Aldwych was closed to trains and used only as shelter for most of the war.’
G. 'The whole place is rather despondent - a once thriving station that now has no useful life. We all
felt a bit as if we were intruders and shouldn't really have been there. There was quite a sharp
wind blowing down the corridors, which meant we could hear the trains from the Piccadilly Line,
and after we had negotiated more puddles and some rubble and noticed how decaying the whole
place was, I think we were all glad to leave’
Your answers:
70. 71. 72. 73. 74. 75.
Part 4. For questions 76-85, read the passage and write A, B, C, or D in the corresponding
numbered boxes provided to indicate the correct answer which fits best according to what is
stated or implied in the text.
La Loie
1. In the late nineteenth century, Loie Fuller, a dancer from the United States (1862–1928), deemed
traditional theatrical dance artistically unsatisfying. Viewing herself as an artist rather than solely
an entertainer, she garnered attention from fellow artists.
Page 8 of 14 pages
2. Fuller pioneered a unique dance style that emphasized the interplay of lights and colors on her
billowing skirts or drapes. These were kept in constant motion primarily through the movements of
her arms, sometimes aided by wands hidden under her costumes. Unlike ballet, the dominant
theatrical dance form of the era, Fuller's approach prioritized visual effects over technical prowess,
likely due to her limited formal dance training. While she had previously worked as an actress,
storytelling and emotional expression through dance were secondary to her; instead, the focal
point of her performances was the captivating visual spectacle she created.
3. While Loie Fuller first showcased her artistry in the United States, her true acclaim blossomed in
Paris, particularly after her engagement with the Folies Bergère in 1892, where she swiftly
became known as "La Loie," captivating audiences across the city. Many of her performances
embodied natural elements or objects such as Fire, the Lily, and the Butterfly, aligning seamlessly
with the prevalent Art Nouveau movement characterized by nature-inspired imagery and flowing
graceful lines. Her dances not only resonated with the tastes of French poets and painters of the
era, who were drawn to the enigmatic quality of her work but also reflected their adherence to the
concept of "art for art's sake," emphasizing the intrinsic value of art itself rather than its moral or
educational implications, as well as their pursuit of harmonizing form and content.
4. Fuller's fascination with science led her to constantly experiment with emerging technologies such
as electrical lighting, colored gels, slide projections, and other stage innovations. She not only
devised and patented unique mirror arrangements but also formulated chemical dyes for her
flowing draperies. Her keen interest in the interplay of color and light mirrored the explorations of
fellow artists of her time, including the renowned painter Seurat, known for his Pointillist technique
of utilizing small dots of color to depict shapes and light. Among Fuller's notable inventions was
underlighting, where she would stand on frosted glass illuminated from below, a technique
prominently featured in her mesmerizing Fire Dance of 1895, set to Richard Wagner's "Ride of the
Valkyries." This innovative performance caught the attention of artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec,
who immortalized it in a lithograph.
5. As Fuller's technological prowess advanced, so did the sophistication of her dance performances.
(A) While initially giving little consideration to music, she later incorporated scores by esteemed
composers such as Gluck, Beethoven, Schubert, Chopin, and Wagner, eventually progressing to
the works of forward-thinking composers like Stravinsky, Fauré, Debussy, and Mussorgsky. (B)
Exploring more ambitious themes, she choreographed pieces like "The Sea," where dancers
manipulated vast expanses of silk with invisible movements, illuminated by colored lights. (C) Ever
embracing scientific and technological advancements, she forged a friendship with Marie and
Pierre Curie following their discovery of radium, inspiring her creation of a Radium Dance
simulating the phosphorescence of the element. (D) Venturing into the emerging realm of cinema,
Fuller both starred in and directed films, with René Clair, later a renowned French film director,
playing the lead role in her fairy-tale film "Le Lys de la Vie" (1919).
6. During the Paris Exposition in 1900, Fuller curated her own theater, showcasing not only her
innovative dances but also pantomimes performed by the Japanese actress Sada Yocco. Around
this time, she assembled an all-female dance company and established a school, although both
ventures did not outlast her. While she is primarily celebrated today for her groundbreaking
advancements in stage lighting, her influence extended to Isadora Duncan and Ruth St. Denis,
fellow American dancers exploring new dance forms. Fuller notably supported Duncan's debut in
Europe. St. Denis, inspired by Fuller's work, gleaned fresh insights into stagecraft and artistic
inspiration from Sada Yocco's performances during her visit to Fuller's theater at the Paris
Exposition. In 1924, St. Denis honored Fuller with the duet "Valse à la Loie."
76. What can be inferred from paragraph 1 about theatrical dance in the late 19th century?
A. It exerted influence beyond the realm of dance to encompass various artists.
B. It closely resembled theatrical dance practices from the early nineteenth century.
C. It prioritized entertainment over serving as a platform for serious artistic expression.
D. It represented a relatively recent artistic development within the United States.
77. According to paragraph 2, which of the following attributes is not associated with Fuller's style of dance?
A. Exploratory use of color
Page 9 of 14 pages
B. Elaborate and voluminous attire
C. Uninterrupted motion of her costumes
D. Technical prowess in movement
78. Which sentence most accurately conveys the main idea of the highlighted statement?
A. Fuller prioritized the visual aspects of dance over its narrative or emotional aspects.
B. Fuller employed visual effects to enhance the portrayal of stories and emotions in her
performances.
C. Fuller attributed the dramatic essence of her dance to her emotive storytelling approach.
D. Fuller's emphasis on visual effects stemmed from her prior experience as a theatrical actress.
79."Harmonizing" in the passage is closest in meaning to which of the following?
A. Synchronizing B. Aligning C. Conforming D. Unifying
80. According to paragraph 3, what contributed to the favorable reception of Fuller's work in Paris?
A. Parisian audiences were intrigued by artists and trends originating from the United States.
B. Renowned poets actively promoted Fuller's performances upon her arrival in Paris.
C. Fuller's artistic endeavors during this period closely imitated French artists working in various fields.
D. Fuller's choreography resonated with the existing artistic sensibilities prevalent in Paris.
81. According to paragraph 4, one notable aspect of Fuller's Fire Dance was its
A. utilization of colored gels to illuminate glass
B. application of dyes and paints to depict fire
C. method of illuminating the dancer from below
D. incorporation of draperies with small dots akin to Seurat's Pointillist technique
82. Why does the author mention Fuller's "The Sea"?
A. To highlight a dance of Fuller’s where music was not significant
B. To elaborate on why Fuller occasionally utilized music by progressive composers
C. To demonstrate a specific aspect of Fuller's artistic evolution
D. To showcase how Fuller’s scientific curiosity influenced her artistic endeavors
83. According to paragraph 6, what characterized Fuller’s theater at the Paris Exposition?
A. It showcased works beyond those created by Fuller.
B. It hosted presentations by notable male and female dancers alike.
C. It evolved into a renowned institution, preserving Fuller’s legacy.
D. It remained an active venue following Fuller’s passing.
84. Where in paragraph 5 does the following sentence best fit?
Despite her groundbreaking contributions to dance, Fuller's interests extended beyond the
realm of dance to include emerging artistic mediums.
A. (A) B. (B) C. (C) D. (D)
85. An introductory sentence for a brief summary of the passage is provided below. Which THREE
answer choices express the most important ideas in the passage to complete the summary.
Loie Fuller was an important and innovative dancer.
a. Fuller perceived a waning interest in theatrical dance among late nineteenth-century
audiences.
b. Fuller revolutionized dance by translating the works of poets and painters into captivating
performances.
c. Fuller's pioneering work had a significant impact on fellow dancers exploring experimental
forms of dance.
d. Fuller was a trailblazer in introducing numerous technical advancements to enhance the
staging of theatrical dance.
e. Throughout her career, Fuller evolved her artistry, crafting more intricate pieces and venturing
into new artistic mediums.
f. By the 1920s, Fuller's theater at the Paris Exposition emerged as the global hub for cutting-
edge dance innovation.
A. c, d, f B. b, c, d C. c, d, e D. a, b, f
Your answers:
76. 77. 78. 79. 80. 81. 82. 83. 84. 85.
Page 10 of 14 pages
Part 5. You are going to read an extract from an article about snowflakes. For questions 86-95,
choose from the sections (A-E). The sections may be chosen more than once. Write your
answers in the corresponding numbered boxes provided.
SNOWFLAKES
A. For a little over a century, in a somewhat staid and dull ceremony in Stockholm in January, the
Nobel prizes have been awarded to worthy scientists by the King of Sweden. But, as in all walks
of life, times change and science awards are no different. The new awards or “new Nobels”, as
they have been dubbed, are no longer the preserve of prestigious institutions like the Swedish
Academy. Instead, they are paid for by celebrity CEOs such as Mark Zuckerberg and other tech
millionaires, with multimillion-dollar prizes and ceremonies that are glamorous affairs reminiscent
of the Oscars. And this is something that scientists generally tend not to view in a particularly
positive light. British astronomer Martin Rees says that many scientists are undecided about the
new awards. He believes that these more recent awards are steered towards showcasing the
wealthy donors as much as the scientists themselves. He is not the only award cynic and others
have joined him in voicing concerns, including American physicist Frank Wilczek who wonders
about the virtues of awarding large prizes in the advancement of science.
B. There are indeed some serious concerns about all this. The most worrying of which centres
around the world view and associated power of the funders, be they individuals like Zuckerberg or
large global corporations. The problem is that these elite minorities are predominantly Western
with a specific shared world view of the value of knowledge, as well as the aspects of science that
are deserving of investment, be that time-based or financial. Many people are anxious that
younger researchers trying to cut their teeth in a world where funding is increasingly competitive
could easily adapt their research to the visions which may or may not have the interests of
humanity as a whole at their heart. Oversight is a key aspect of research in a way that is not seen
in business, especially the tech giants who prize innovation over all other things. This shift in the
motivations of those who are the guardians of science awards should raise alarm bells for us all.
C. The Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences is an excellent example of this. The list of donors reads
like a who’s-who of celebrity tech CEOs and the price tag attached to each prize is $ 3 million.
Most winners are highly regarded scientists with glittering careers and enviable publishing
records. These huge prizes tend to go to scientists who are already extremely well-funded, and it
could easily be argued that they are the least in need of such exorbitant sums. Furthermore, if
these new awards and their glamourous ceremonies are designed to bring a new breed of
celebrity science to public attention, they may be wasting their time. Quick You Tube search will
show that the world has plenty of celebrity scientists boasting millions of followers worldwide, such
as Brian Cox or Michio Kaku. Funding that aims to bring science to the general public should
probably be diverted to the people who have proven track records in engaging people in science.
D. Despite the skepticism surrounding these new science awards, benefits do exist. In order to
present a fair and balanced analysis of the positive impacts of such awards, these benefits should
be highlighted. In recent times a key criticism of the original Nobel prizes has been the fact that
they do not fully represent the way in which science is carried out in modern times. Nowadays
most scientific inventions and discoveries are collaborative. This means that they rely on the
cooperation and shared knowledge and expertise of dozens of scientists working in cross-cultural
teams across several academic communities around the globe, rather than individuals working in
isolation. Since the Nobel prizes can only be awarded to three people each year, many hard-
working scientists go unnoticed, receiving little or no recognition for their contributions to research
and discoveries that simply could not have happened without them. Contrary to this system, the
Breakthrough Prize and others have been designed to reward entire teams and are therefore
much wider in their scope and inclusivity.
E. However, there is a danger that these prizes could be seen as paying lip service to the principles
of inclusivity and diversity. Although there are some non-Western prizes such as the Tang Prize,
awarded to those working in Asian institutions, most winning teams are located in Western
nations, and global inclusivity remains a challenge. Scientists such as Bob O’Hara, who works at
a research centre in Frankfurt, warn of the widening gap between the rich and poor among the
scientific community. Instead of talking about awards and large financial prizes, he cites as a
concern the funding allocated to the search for treatments and cures for the diseases of the rich,
Page 11 of 14 pages
rather than those that are widespread amongst developing nations. Many scientists strongly
believe that the West must not just be allowed to dominate and marginalize other nations that
have much to offer in terms of knowledge and research potential. These glamorous new science
awards are a prime example of how scientists in developing nations might be able to benefit from
the prize money far more than their western counterparts might.
In which section are the following mentioned?
86. New awards could have a more significant impact if they were given to scientists who have a
greater need for financial investment.
87. Funding popular science communicators rather than prizes may be more worthwhile for society.
88. The new science awards are backed by a different type of elite.
89. Some scientists are unhappy about the unequal distribution of investment in science.
90. Scientists are suspicious of the principles underlying the new science awards.
91. New science awards have largely been funded by private rather than public enterprise.
92. The system of awarding scientists for their discoveries has not kept pace with changing scientific
practices.
93. The impact that generous financial incentives will have on the direction of future research.
94. The newer science awards are rooted in cooperation rather than individuality.
95. The likelihood of prize-winning scientists needing substantial financial funding is low.
Your answers:
86. 87. 88. 89. 90.
91. 92. 93. 94. 95.
SECTION D. WRITING (5.0 points)
Part [Link] the following extract and use your own words to summarise it. Your summary
should be between 120 and 150 words long.
The first recorded case of an airline passenger turning seriously violent during a flight, a
phenomenon now widely known as “air rage”, happened in 1947 on a flight from Havana to Miami. A
drunk man assaulted another passenger and bit a flight attendant. However, the man escaped
punishment because it was not then clear under whose legal control a crime committed on plane was,
the country where the plane was registered or the country where the crime was committed. In 1963,
at the Tokyo convention, it was decided that the laws of the country where the plane is registered take
[Link] frequency of air rage has expanded out of proportion to the growth of air travel.
Aside from discomfort and disruption, air rage poses some very real dangers to flying.
One of the major causes seems to be the passenger’s behavior or their personality. Fear of
flying and the feeling of powerlessness associated with flying can lead to irritable or aggressive
passengers. Also, alcohol consumed on a plane pressurized to 8000ft affects the drinker more quickly
and the effects are stronger. Smoking withdrawal, which some liken in severity to opiate withdrawal, is
another major cause of air rage incidents. Passengers caught smoking in the toilets occasionally
assault flight attendants and have been known to start fires. When conflicts occur in these conditions,
they can escalate into major incidents.
Some people feel that the physical environment of a plane can lead to air rage. Seats on most
airlines have become smaller in recent years as airlines try to increase profits. This leads to
uncomfortable and irritated passengers. Also, space for carry-on luggage is often very small. Because
up to 8% of checked-in luggage is lost, misdirected or stolen, passengers have been trying to fit larger
carry-on items into these small storage areas and this can lead to disputes that can escalate into air
rage. Airlines could also be to blame by raising passengers’ expectations too high with their marketing
and advertising. Many air rage incidents start when disappointed passengers demand to be reseated.
Finally, there is some evidence to show that low oxygen levels can raise aggression level and make
people feel more desperate. Airlines have lowered oxygen levels to save money. Now the level of
oxygen in the air that the pilots breathe is ten times higher than in cabin class.
Another reason that has been suggested is that society is getting ruder and less patient. The
increased congestion at airports, longer queues and increased delays have only added to this. In
addition, some air rage incidents have been linked to the demanding nature of high achieving business
people, who do not like people telling them what to do and resent the power that the cabin staff have
over them. For them, a flight attendant is a waiter or waitress who should do what the passenger wants.
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Part 2. Write an essay of about 350 words on the following topic:
“Information about current affairs in newspapers and in the media is often biased or inaccurate,
with the result that we have difficulty identifying the truth.”
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Do you think people should be
trained to use critical thinking when reading or listening to the news?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your knowledge or
experience.
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