Week 1

Directions: You will read one passage, followed by ten questions about it. Choose the best
answer to each question.

Passage (Questions 1-10)

Many scientists believe our love of sugar may actually be an addiction. When we eat or drink
sugary foods, the sugar enters our blood and affects parts of our brain that make us feel
good. Then the good feeling goes away, leaving us wanting more. All tasty foods do this, but
sugar has a particularly strong effect. In this way, it is in fact an addictive drug which doctors
recommend we all cut down on.

“It seems like every time I study an illness and trace a path to the first cause, I find my way
back to sugar”, says scientist Richard Johnson. About one-third of adults worldwide have
high blood pressure, and up to 347 million have diabetes . Why? “Sugar, we believe, is one of
the culprits, if not the major culprit,” says Johnson. Our bodies are designed to survive on
very little sugar. Early humans often had very little food, so our bodies learned to be very
efficient in storing sugar as fat. In this way, we had energy stored for when there was no food.
However, most people today have more than enough, so the very thing that once saved us
may now be killing us.

So what is the solution? It’s obvious that we need to eat less sugar. The trouble is, in today’s
world, it’s extremely difficult to avoid. From breakfast cereals to after-dinner desserts, our
foods are increasingly filled with it. Some manufacturers even use sugar to replace taste in
foods that are advertised as ‘low in fat. But there are those who are fighting back against
sugar. Many schools are replacing sugary desserts with healthier options like fruit. Other
schools are growing their own food in gardens, or building facilities like walking tracks so that
students and others in the community can exercise.

Questions
Câu hỏi 1.1: What is this passage mainly about?
● Our addiction to sugar
● Illnesses caused by sugar
● Good sugar versus bad sugar
● Ways to avoid sugar
Câu hỏi 1.2: What is true according to the text?
● We only feel good when we eat or drink sugary foods.
● The good feeling that sugar creates lasts forever.
● We want to eat more sugar because of the feeling it creates.
 ● According to doctors, we should cut down on addictive drugs.
Câu hỏi 1.3: The word "illness" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to ____
● balance
● disease
● fitness
● nutrient
Câu hỏi 1.4: What is the percentage of adults with high blood pressure worldwide?
● About 75%
● About 50%
● About 30%
● About 25%
Câu hỏi 1.5: Why is the number of diabetes cases mentioned in paragraph 2?
● To prove the negative effects of sugar
● To emphasize the danger of the disease
● To suggest ways to avoid the disease
● To explain the need to eat sugar
Câu hỏi 1.6: The word "culprit" is closest in meaning to ____
● solution to the problem
● effect of sugar
● cause of the problem
● lack of sugar
Câu hỏi 1.7: What does the phrase "the very thing" refer to?
● The amount of sugar in our blood
● Having enough food to survive
● Our ability to store sugar
● Early human's lack of food
Câu hỏi 1.8: According to the passage, why is it so hard to avoid sugar?
● It gives us needed energy.
● It's in so many foods and drinks.
● We get used to eating it at school.
● We like candy too much.
Câu hỏi 1.9: Which of the following statements about sugar is NOT true?
● Our bodies are able to store sugar as fat.
● We need very little sugar to survive.
● Early humans ate more sugar than we do today.
● Most of us eat more sugar than we really need.
Câu hỏi 1.10: What is NOT mentioned as a way schools do to fight against sugar?
● Growing their own food in gardens
● Replacing sugar in food with fat
● Replacing sugary desserts with healthier options like fruit
● Building facilities like walking tracks for students to exercise

Our addiction to sugar

We want to eat more sugar because of the feeling it creates.
Disease
About 30%
To prove the negative effects of sugar
cause of the problem
Our ability to store sugar
It’s in so many foods and drinks
Early humans ate more sugar than we do today
Replacing sugar in food with fat
Week 2
Directions: You will read one passage, followed by ten questions about it. Choose the best
answer to each question.

Passage (Questions 1-10)

Global warming refers to the increase of the earth's average temperature due to increasing
amounts of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Carbon dioxide is the biggest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Scientists agree that
the burning of fossil fuels like oil and coal causes greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide
to escape into the air and act like a warm blanket over the earth.

There are already some changes happening because of global warming. Sea level is rising,
climate is changing, and some animals are moving to new homes because their natural
habitat is disappearing. If the warming gets worse, as scientists expect, there may be some
kinds of plants and animals that become extinct. Heat waves and droughts will increase,
leading to wildfires, and some areas may become too dry for farming. Warmer ocean
temperatures lead to more big storms which damage homes and cause floods. Sea levels
may rise so much that people have to move away from the coasts.

All humans contribute to global warming by burning fossil fuels when they drive a car, fly in an
airplane, heat or cool their houses and cut down trees to clear land. One way to reduce
greenhouse gases is to reduce deforestation, the cutting down of trees. Trees soak up
carbon dioxide from the air, so having lots of trees around is good for the atmosphere. We
can also plant more trees. The best way to help slow down global warming and is to put less
carbon into the air by using less fossil fuel - something that is easy to say, but hard to do! But
by driving less, turning down the heat and air conditioning, and using more solar, wind and
hydroelectric power, we can all reduce greenhouse gases and help fight global warming and
climate cha1nge.

The issue of global warming has been widely discussed at the highest governmental and
scientific levels recently. The issue is indeed very serious. It threatens with a lot of negative
consequences for nature and humans. We can only hope that the future generation will be
wiser and more inventive than us to successfully mitigate the effects of global warming. Our
children's and grandchildren's well-being is largely dependent on how well they understand
the problem and the ways to tackle it.

Questions
Câu hỏi 1.1: (1 Điểm) Greenhouse gas emissions are mostly caused by ______.
● carbon dioxide
● carbon monoxide
● oxygen
● nitrogen
Câu hỏi 1.2: (1 Điểm) Animals would become extinct because of global warming as
______.
● their natural habitat would change or disappear
● they would drown
● hunters would kill them
● droughts cause wildfires
Câu hỏi 1.3: (1 Điểm) Global warming causes sea levels to rise because ______.
● sea water is seriously polluted
● there is continual melting of the polar ice caps
● too many large ships are forced to launch
● heat waves are on the rise as a result of droughts
Câu hỏi 1.4: (1 Điểm) All of the following are the impacts of global warming EXCEPT?
● Carbon dioxide escapes into the air.
● Plants and animals may become extinct.
● Heat waves and droughts increase.
● More big storms and flood occur.
Câu hỏi 1.5: (1 Điểm) What is global warming?
● A rise in temperature in the earth's core
● Increasing amounts of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere
● When the average air temperature reaches 80° F
● The earth heating due to build-up of greenhouse gases
Câu hỏi 1.6: (1 Điểm) Deforestation can be defined as ______.
● the cutting down of trees
● a plantation to grow and process wood
● a station set up to measure CO2 in the forest
● the burning down of trees
Câu hỏi 1.7: (1 Điểm) The phrase “contributor to” in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning
to ______.
● name for
● cause of
● source of
● reason for
Câu hỏi 1.8: (1 Điểm) The word “which” in paragraph 2 refers to ______.
 ● ocean temperatures
● big storms
● sea levels
● heat waves
Câu hỏi 1.9: (1 Điểm) The word “that” in paragraph 3 refers to ______.
● reduce deforestation
● plant more trees
● help fight climate change
● put less carbon into the air
Câu hỏi 1.10: (1 Điểm) The word “mitigate” in paragraph 4 is closest in meaning to
______.
● protect
● improve
● ease
● provide

Carbon dioxide
Their natural habitat would change or disapear
There is continual melting of the polar ice caps
Carbon dioxide escapes into the air
The earth heating due to build-up of greenhouse gages
The cutting down of trees
Source of
Big storms
Put less carbon into the air
Ease
Week 3
Directions: You will read one passage, followed by ten questions about it. Choose the best
answer A, B, C or D to each question.

Passage (Questions 1-10)

Education is a fundamental aspect of personal and societal growth, reaching far beyond the
confines of classrooms. Its impact is profound, influencing individuals and communities in
various ways. One significant effect is the empowerment that education provides, equipping
individuals with essential tools for navigating life successfully. This goes beyond theoretical
knowledge, extending to the cultivation of practical skills crucial for real-world challenges.

Moreover, education plays a pivotal role in nurturing critical thinking skills. It encourages
individuals to question, analyze, and evaluate information, promoting a mindset that values
thoughtful consideration over rote memorization. This development of analytical skills
contributes not only to personal growth but also to the progress of the entire society.

The transformative nature of education is evident in its influence on socio-economic

conditions. Educated individuals often become active contributors to their communities,
fostering positive changes and societal progress. Education acts as a catalyst for breaking
down barriers, fostering inclusivity, and creating a more equitable society where
opportunities are not limited by socio-economic backgrounds.

In conclusion, investing in education is not merely a financial commitment but a strategic

investment in the collective future. It cultivates a well-rounded mindset that extends beyond
academic achievements, becoming a valuable asset in various aspects of life. Thus, education
emerges as the cornerstone of personal development, societal advancement, and the pursuit
of a harmonious global community.

Questions
Câu hỏi 1.1: (1 Điểm) What is one significant effect of education mentioned in the text?
● Limiting critical thinking
● Restricting practical skills
● Encouraging rote memorization
● Providing tools for navigating life
Câu hỏi 1.2: (1 Điểm) What does " profound " in paragraph 1 mean in the context of the
text?
● Basic
● Limited
 ● Negative
● Significant
Câu hỏi 1.3: (1 Điểm) According to the text, what does education's impact extend
beyond?
● Rote memorization
● Classroom boundaries
● Theoretical knowledge
● Socio-economic backgrounds
Câu hỏi 1.4: (1 Điểm) What role does education play in nurturing critical thinking skills?
● Discouraging questioning
● Encouraging rote memorization
● Limiting thoughtful consideration
● Pivotal role in fostering critical thinking
Câu hỏi 1.5: (1 Điểm) What does " catalyst " in paragraph 3 mean in the context of the
text?
● Barrier
● Catalyst
● Hindrance
● Catalyst for breaking down barriers
Câu hỏi 1.6: (1 Điểm) How does education influence socio-economic conditions?
● By fostering inclusivity
● By limiting opportunities
● By restricting societal progress
● By limiting contributions to communities
Câu hỏi 1.7: (1 Điểm) What is investing in education considered in the text?
● A financial burden
● financial commitment only
● A limitation on personal development
● A strategic investment in the collective future
Câu hỏi 1.8: (1 Điểm) What does " cultivates " in the last paragraph mean in the context
of the text?
● Limit
● Restrict
● Encourage
● Discourage
Câu hỏi 1.9: (1 Điểm) How does education contribute to societal progress?
 ● By limiting opportunities
● By promoting inclusivity
● By fostering positive changes
● By restricting critical thinking
Câu hỏi 1.10: (1 Điểm) What is described as the cornerstone of personal development,
societal advancement, and the pursuit of a harmonious global community?
● Barriers
● Education
● Analytical skills
● Rote memorization

Providing tools for nagivating life

Significant
Classroom boundaries
Pivotal role in fostering critical thinking
Catalyst for breaking down barries
By fostering inclusivity
A strategic investment in the collection future
Encourage
By fostering positive changes
Education
Week 4
Directions: You will read one passage, followed by ten questions about it. Choose the best
answer A, B, C or D to each question.

Passage: Active Vs. Passive Immunization (Questions

1–10)
Immunization is a crucial strategy in protecting individuals from infectious diseases. It can be
achieved through two primary approaches: active immunization and passive immunization.

Active immunization involves the administration of vaccines, which contain weakened,

inactivated, or parts of the pathogen. When a person receives a vaccine, the immune system
is stimulated to recognize these harmless antigens and mount a defense response. This
results in the production of specialized immune cells and antibodies that target the specific
pathogen. Active immunization is a powerful and effective method as it induces the body to
build its immunity, providing long-term protection against the targeted disease. Vaccines
have been instrumental in reducing the incidence of many deadly infectious diseases, leading
to substantial improvements in public health.

In contrast, passive immunization involves directly transferring pre-formed antibodies from

another individual or animal to the person needing immediate protection. These antibodies
are ready-made weapons against the targeted pathogen and provide immediate but short-
lived immunity. Passive immunization is particularly useful when immediate protection is
crucial, such as when a person is exposed to a deadly pathogen and needs rapid intervention.
It is also employed in certain medical conditions where the body cannot effectively produce
antibodies. However, passive immunity is temporary, and the transferred antibodies gradually
wane over time, leaving the individual susceptible to reinfection.

Both active and passive immunization strategies have their distinct advantages and
applications. Active immunization with vaccines is preferred for long-term protection, as it
allows the immune system to "learn" how to fight off the pathogen. On the other hand,
passive immunization is beneficial when immediate protection is required or when an
individual's immune system is compromised.

Questions
Câu hỏi 1.1: (1 Điểm)What is the primary goal of immunization, as mentioned in the
article?
● To weaken the immune system
● To stimulate the immune system
● To avoid infectious diseases
● To induce immediate immunity
Câu hỏi 1.2: (1 Điểm)How is active immunization achieved?
● By transferring pre-formed antibodies
● By exposing the person to a deadly pathogen
● By administering vaccines
● By avoiding any contact with pathogens
Câu hỏi 1.3: (1 Điểm)What is a key outcome of active immunization?
● Immediate but short-lived immunity
● Gradual waning of antibodies
● Long-term protection against the targeted disease
● Temporary immunity
Câu hỏi 1.4: (1 Điểm)Which of the following statements is NOT true, according to the
passage?
● In passive immunization, antibodies are not directly transferred from another individual
or animal
● The antibodies transferred in passive immunization do not provide immediate but short-
lived immunity
● Passive immunization is useful in all medical conditions
● Passive immunity is temporary
Câu hỏi 1.5: (1 Điểm)When is passive immunization particularly useful, according to the
article?
● When a person wants long-term protection
● When an individual's immune system is compromised
● When a person is exposed to a deadly pathogen
● When vaccines are not available
Câu hỏi 1.6: (1 Điểm)Why is active immunization considered a powerful and effective
method?
● It provides immediate but short-lived immunity
● It transfers pre-formed antibodies
● It induces the body to build its immunity
● It avoids the need for medical intervention
Câu hỏi 1.7: (1 Điểm)The word "antibodies" in paragraph 3 mostly means
● Targeted pathogens
● Essential components of the immune system
● Disadvantages of passive immunity
● Individuals or animals
Câu hỏi 1.8: (1 Điểm)The word "substantial" in paragraph 2 mostly means
● Insignificant
● Trivial
● Unimportant
● Considerable
Câu hỏi 1.9: (1 Điểm)The word "it" refers to
● Passive immunization
● Immediate intervention
● Active immunization with vaccines
● Transferring antibodies
Câu hỏi 1.10: (1 Điểm)The word "their" in paragraph 4 refers to
● Strategies
● Advantages
● Applications
● Vaccines
To avoid infectious diseases
By administering vaccines
Long-term protection against the targeted disease
The antibodies transferred in passive immunization do not provide immediate but short-lived
immunity
When a person is exposed to deadly pathogen
It includes the body to build its immunity
Essential components of the immune system
Considerable
Active immunization with vaccines
Strategies
Week 5
Directions: You will read one passage, followed by ten questions about it. Choose the best
answer A, B, C or D to each question.

Passage (Questions 1-10)

Most people currently realize the danger of using credit card numbers online. However, from
time to time, we all use passwords and government ID numbers on the Internet. We think we
are safe, but that may not be true! A new kind of attack is being used by dishonest people to
steal IDs and credit card numbers from innocent web surfers. This new kind of attack is called
“phishing”.

Phishing sounds the same as the word “fishing”, and it implies that a thief is trying to lure
people into giving away valuable information. Like real fishermen, phishers use bait in the
form of great online deals or services. For example, phishers might use fake emails and false
websites to con people into revealing credit card numbers, account usernames, and
passwords. They imitate well-known banks, online sellers, and credit card companies.
Successful phishers may convince as many as five percent of the people they contact to
respond and give away their personal financial information.

Is this really a big problem? Actually, tricking five percent of the online population is huge!
Currently, more than 350 million people have access to the Internet, and seventy-five percent
of those Internet users live in the wealthiest countries on Earth. It has been estimated that
phishers send more than three billion scam messages each lion scam messages each year.
Even by tricking only five percent of the people, phishers can make a lot of money.

Since there is so much money to make through this kind of scam, it has caught the interest of
more than just small-time crooks. Recently, police tracked down members of an organized
phishing group in Eastern Europe, who had stolen hundreds of thousands of dollars from
people online. The group created official-looking email messages requesting people to
update their personal information at an international bank’s website. However, the link to the
bank in the message actually sent people to the phishers’ fake website. To make matters
worse, further investigation revealed that this group had connections to a major crime gang
in Russia.

How can innocent people protect themselves? Above all, they have to learn to recognize
emails that have been sent by phishers. Always be wary of any email with urgent requests for
personal financial information. Phishers typically write upsetting or exciting, but fake
statements in their emails so that people will reply right away. Also, messages from phishers
will not address recipients by name because they don’t know who the recipients are yet. On
the other hand, valid messages from your bank companies you normally deal with will
typically include your personal name.

Questions
Câu hỏi 1.1: (1 Điểm) What is the main purpose of the reading text?
● To contrast phishers and hackers
● To explain what phishing is
● To outline three ways to recognize phishing scams
● To report a surprising phishing scam
Câu hỏi 1.2: (1 Điểm) To which activity is phishing compared?
● Catching fish
● Collecting things
● Looking for rare things
● Meeting friends online
Câu hỏi 1.3: (1 Điểm) The word " lure " in paragraph 2 mostly means ______.
● disattract
● entice
● avertise
● catch
Câu hỏi 1.4: (1 Điểm) The word " they " in paragraph 2 refers to ______.
● fake emails
● passwords
● people
● phishers
Câu hỏi 1.5: (1 Điểm) According to paragraph 3, why are only 5% of online users tricked
a big problem?
● Because these 5% of internet users are the wealthiest people among online population.
● Because the personal information these people are tricked is financial.
● Because the number of online population is myriad and three fourths of them live in rich
nation.
● Because the number of scam messages sent to these users is more than three billion.
Câu hỏi 1.6: (1 Điểm) The word " revealed " in paragraph 4 mostly means ______.
● showed
● determined
● concealed
● suppressed
Câu hỏi 1.7: (1 Điểm) What is implied about the people who get caught in phishing
scams?
● Few of them have jobs.
● Most of them live in wealthy countries.
● They are very young.
● They often buy things online.
Câu hỏi 1.8: (1 Điểm) According to the reading text, who was behind the Eastern
European phishing scam?
● A gang in Russia
● A bank employee
● Hackers in London
● Small-time crooks
Câu hỏi 1.9: (1 Điểm) Which would probably NOT be found in a phishing email message?
● A real bank's name
● An offer for a low sale price on a product
● The receiver's name
● An urgent request for information
Câu hỏi 1.10: (1 Điểm) Which of the following could best serve as the topic of the
passage?
● A new type of internet attack.
● Innocent web surfers and online risks.
● Valuable information shared on the internet.
● Password and government ID numbers on the Internet.
To explain what phishing is
Catching fish
Entice
Phishers
Because the number of online population is myriad and three fourths of them live in rich
nation
Showed
Most of them live in wealthy countries
A gang in Russia
The receiver’s name
A new type of internet attack
Week 6
Directions: You will read one passage, followed by ten questions about it. Choose the best
answer to each question.

Passage: KETCHUP (Questions 1-10)

The sauce that is today called ketchup (or catsup) in Western cultures is a tomato-based
sauce that is quite distinct from the Eastern ancestors of this product. A sauce called ke-
tsiap was in use in China at least as early as the seventeenth century, but the Chinese version
of the sauce was made of pickled fish, shellfish, and spices. The popularity of this Chinese
sauce spread to Singapore and Malaysia, where it was called cachup. The Indonesian sauce
ketjap derives its name from the same source as the Malaysian sauce but is made from very
different ingredients. The Indonesian ketjap is made of cooking black soy beans, fermenting
them, placing them in a salt brine for at least a week, cooking the resulting solution further,
and sweetening it heavily; this process results in a dark, thick, and sweet variation of soy
sauce.

Early in the eighteenth century, sailors from the British navy came across this exotic sauce
on voyages to Malaysia and Singapore and brought samples of it back to England on return
voyages. English chefs tried to recreate the sauce but were unable to do so exactly because
key ingredients were unknown or unavailable in England; chefs ended up substituting
ingredients such as mushrooms and walnuts in an attempt to recreate the special tastes of
the original Asian sauce. Variations of this sauce became quite the rage in eighteenth-
century England, appearing in a number of recipe books and featured as an exotic addition to
menus from the period.

The English version did not contain tomatoes, and it was not until the end of the eighteenth
century that tomatoes became a main ingredient, in the ketchup of the newly created United
States. It is quite notable that tomatoes were added to the sauce in that tomatoes had
previously been considered quite dangerous to health. The tomato had been cultivated by
the Aztecs, who had called it tomato; however, early botanists had recognized that the
tomato was a member of the Solanaceae family, which does include a number of poisonous
plants. The leaves of the tomato plant are poisonous, though of course the fruit is not.

[A] Thomas Jefferson, who cultivated the tomato in his gardens at Monticello and served
dishes containing tomatoes at lavish feasts, often receives credit for changing the reputation
of the tomato. [B] Soon after Jefferson had introduced the tomato to American society,
recipes combining the newly fashionable tomato with the equally fashionable and exotic
sauce known as ketchup began to appear. [C] By the middle of the nineteenth century, both
the tomato and tomato ketchup were staples of the American kitchen. [D]
Tomato ketchup, popular though it was, was quite time-consuming to prepare. In 1876, the
first mass-produced tomato ketchup, a product of German-American Henry Heinz, went on
sale and achieved immediate success. From tomato ketchup, Heinz branched out into a
number of other products, including various sauces, pickles, and relishes.

Questions
Câu hỏi 1.1: The word "ancestors" in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to ____.
● predecessors
● descendants
● creators
● ingredients
Câu hỏi 1.2: It is NOT stated in paragraph 1 that ____.
● the Chinese sauce was in existence in the seventeenth century
● the Malaysian sauce was similar to the Chinese sauce
● the Chinese sauce was made from seafood and spices
● the Indonesian sauce was similar to the Chinese sauce
Câu hỏi 1.3: The word "it" in paragraph 1 refers to ____.
● a salt brine
● a week
● the resulting solution
● this process
Câu hỏi 1.4: The expression "came across" in paragraph 2 could best be replaced by
____.
● traversed
● discovered
● transported
● described
Câu hỏi 1.5: What ingredient is not used to make Indonesian sauce?
● soy beans
● sugar
● salt
● mushrooms
Câu hỏi 1.6: It can be inferred from the second paragraph that mushrooms and walnuts
were ____.
● difficult to find in England
● not part of the original Asian recipe
● not native to England
 ● transported to England from Asia
Câu hỏi 1.7: The phrase "became quite the rage" in paragraph 2 means ____.
● became an anger
● became strange
● became popular
● became a protest
Câu hỏi 1.8: The author mentions "the English version" at the beginning of the third
paragraph in order to ____.
● indicate what will be discussed in the coming paragraph
● explain why tomatoes were considered dangerous
● make a reference to the topic of the previous paragraph
● provide an example of a sauce using tomatoes
Câu hỏi 1.9: According to the paragraph 3, the tomato plant ____.
● was considered poisonous plants
● is related to some poisonous plants
● has edible leaves
● has fruit that is sometimes quite poisonous
Câu hỏi 1.10: Where should the following sentence best fit? "It turned from very bad to
exceedingly good."
● [A]
● [B]
● [C]
● [D]
Predecessors
The Indonesian sauce was similar to the Chinese sauce
The resulting solution
Discovered
Mushrooms
Not part of the original Asian recipe
Became popular
Make a reference to the topic of the previous paragraph
Is related to some poisonous plants
B
Week 7
Directions: You will read one passage, followed by ten questions about it. Choose the best
answer to each question.

Passage (Questions 1-10)

In the 1970s, many people became concerned about energy. People had to face up to the
fact that they used too much energy, and energy sources were not going to last forever. One
architect, Michael Reynolds, decided to do something. He set out to design homes that were
cheaper to build and more energy efficient. In addition, he wanted to do something about all
the garbage. Finally, he came up with the idea of "earthships."

Although it sounds like a boat, an earthship is a house. However, unlike regular houses,
earthships are constructed from garbage and are built using only ten percent of the energy
needed to build a typical house. Moreover, after they are built, earthships use only ten
percent of the energy required to heat, light, and cool a regular home. Although earthships
sound unique, they can actually be built to look just like any other house.

One of the big benefits of earthships is that they are made from recycled materials. The main
construction material of an earthship is used tires that are filled with dirt. The dirt-filled tires
are then laid flat and stacked like bricks. Because the tires are round, there is lots of extra
space between the columns of tires. These spaces are filled with used cardboard. The tires
and cardboard form the outside walls of an earthship. The inside walls between rooms in the
earthship do not need to be as strong as the outside walls; therefore, they are made with old
cans, bottles, and cement that are eventually covered and painted to look just like walls in a
typical home.

Another benefit of an earthship is that it saves energy and natural resources. For example, an
earthship uses less water. Rain water, which is collected on the roof, is used for drinking and
bathing. Furthermore, earthships need much less energy for heating and cooling because
they are built into the ground, which keeps the temperature inside the house from getting too
hot or too cold. In the long run, this helps earthship owners lower their utility bills. As well, one
wall of an earthship usually faces south. Therefore, solar heat helps to warm the house, and
solar panels built on the roof generate electricity to run appliances in the house.

All of these features make earthships very environmentally friendly. That's one of the reasons
they have become popular throughout the world. Earthships have been built in Bolivia,
Australia, Mexico, Japan, Canada, England, Scotland, and all over the US. Maybe in the near
future, an earthship will be landing near you!
Questions
Câu hỏi 1.1: (1 Điểm) What is the main building material of earthships?
● Used tires
● Used cardboard
● Old cans and bottles
● Cement
Câu hỏi 1.2: (1 Điểm) Why do earthships need less energy to heat and cool them?
● They are more energy efficient.
● They recycle water.
● They are built into the ground.
● They are typically very small.
Câu hỏi 1.3: (1 Điểm) What is NOT true about earthships?
● They need less energy to become warmer.
● Earthships can look like a normal house.
● An earthship looks like a boat.
● The purpose of building earthships is to make an environmental-friendly design.
Câu hỏi 1.4: (1 Điểm) What is the word "stacked" in paragraph 4 closest in meaning to?
● Stored
● Increased
● Arranged
● Piled up
Câu hỏi 1.5: (1 Điểm) In an earthship, old boxes would be used to _______.
● recycle water
● build inside walls
● create fertilizer
● fill outside walls
Câu hỏi 1.6: (1 Điểm) What does "they" in paragraph 3 refer to?
● Tires
● Outside walls
● Rooms
● Inside walls
Câu hỏi 1.7: (1 Điểm) What kind of energy is used to power pieces of home equipment in
earthships?
● Solar energy
● Water energy
● Wind energy
 ● All of the above
Câu hỏi 1.8: (1 Điểm) What is the word "generate" in paragraph 4 closest in meaning to?
● Use up
● Produce
● Increase
● Empower
Câu hỏi 1.9: (1 Điểm) What can be inferred about earthships?
● People living there may pay less money on water and electricity.
● It is always warm in earthships.
● People use water and solar energy to use electricity in earthships.
● Water from the roof need filtering to be drunk.
Câu hỏi 1.10: (1 Điểm) According to the passage, why are earthships become more
common in different parts of the world?
● They are cheap to build.
● They are good for the environment.
● They look beautiful and unique.
● They are comfortable to live in.
Used tires
They are build into the ground
An earthship looks like a boat
Piled up
Fill outside walls
Inside walls
Solar energy
Produce
People living there may pay less money on water and electricity
They are good for the environment
Week 8
Directions: You will read one passage, followed by ten questions about it. Choose the best
answer A, B, C or D to each question.

Passage: DISTANCE LEARNING (Questions 1-10)

Nineteen-year-old Jamie Henderson hasn’t had what you’d call a typical student experience.
Despite wanting to read for a degree in Law, Jamie decided against the usual university route
and instead opted to study from home. ‘With course fees now so high in this country, I was
really put off by all the debt I would have when I came out of university,’ he says. Having
made this decision, Jamie was able to look into alternatives – which in the end turned out to
be a degree validated by a university through a distance learning provider. ‘It was a massive
weight off my mind and it was a perfect option for me,’ Jamie says. ‘It has allowed me to stay
near my friends and my family and still work part-time.’ Jamie has been able to take on two
part-time jobs – alongside his studies – but has also been free to undertake work experience
for a law firm, which has led to a full-time job offer before he has even completed his course.

Jonathan Smith, who is studying for a BA in Business, chose to study via a distance learning
course when already in full-time employment. ‘I’d studied History, Politics and Economics at
school but going to university wasn’t even a consideration for me,’ he explains. ‘My friends
were at home, I didn’t want to be burdened with debt and I wanted to get straight into a
career.’ Jonathan completed a Business and Administration Apprenticeship with the local
council. While working as a medical administrator, he studied for a diploma and after 12
months had valuable workplace experience. ‘I’d done so well at work that they kept me on.
But after six months getting settled into my new role, I was financially stable and ready to
progress my career with a degree. I didn’t want to give up what I’d achieved to go to
university, so distance learning was an appealing choice.’

Obviously, one of the downsides to a distance-learning course is that students miss out on
the experience of attending university, which means missing out on traditional lectures.
‘Reading feedback and instructions from a screen isn’t quite the same as talking to someone
face-to-face,’ Jamie says. ‘It’s also a lot of work to do on your own. I don’t have a close circle
of friends going through the same thing, so I can’t really ask my peers for help and advice.
However, I’ve found the online student forums helpful and the firm I’ve been working for have
offered advice and guidance when I’ve needed it.’ ‘I haven’t met as many new people as I
would have, had I moved away,’ says Jamie. ‘But I have met new people through work
instead. It’s just a different type of experience, which is just as rewarding and ultimately, in
my opinion, makes me more employable.’
For anyone considering a distance learning course, there are several other factors to be
considered, perhaps most importantly, motivation. ‘Distance learning isn’t an easy option,’
says Dr Philip Hallam, Chief Executive Officer of a distance and online learning provider. ‘It’s
going to be a substantial commitment, not only financially but also on your time. We need to
make sure that people have really thought it through and understand why they want a
degree. You will need to dig deep occasionally.’

Questions
Câu hỏi 1.1: (1 Điểm) Why did Jamie decide to do his degree from home?
● His friends were also studying by distance learning.
● He had already been offered a full-time job.
● He wanted to avoid owing a lot of money.
● He was unable to obtain a place at university.
Câu hỏi 1.2: (1 Điểm) What does the word "it" in paragraph 1 refer to?
● Jamie's mind
● A university
● A degree
● Distance learning
Câu hỏi 1.3: (1 Điểm) What is NOT the benefit of distance learning as mentioned by
Jamie?
● He can earn money while studying.
● He can go to the same university as his friends.
● He may have a higher chance of getting jobs after graduating.
● He doesn't have to live far away from his family.
Câu hỏi 1.4: (1 Điểm) Jonathan's reason for studying from home was that ______.
● he wanted to remain in his job.
● the job he was doing was badly paid.
● his preferred subject wasn't available at university.
● it was too late for him to apply to university.
Câu hỏi 1.5: (1 Điểm) What does Jonathan mean by saying: "I'd studied History, Politics
and Economics at school but going to university wasn't even a consideration for me"?
● He had learnt so much that he didn't need to go to university.
● He had a lot of knowledge about History, Politics and Economics.
● He didn't want to have higher education after leaving school.
● He could not go to university because he was not good at some subjects.
Câu hỏi 1.6: (1 Điểm) The word "appealing" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to
______.
 ● expensive
● cheap
● simple
● attractive
Câu hỏi 1.7: (1 Điểm) In paragraph 3, what does "my peers" refer to?
● Staff of Jamie's university
● His close friends
● Students on the online forums
● The employees at his firm
Câu hỏi 1.8: (1 Điểm) Jamie says that studying from home has NOT enabled him to
______.
● complete tasks and assignments by himself
● improve his chances of finding work in the future
● get to know more people than he would have done at university
● get on well with his colleagues
Câu hỏi 1.9: (1 Điểm) Dr Hallam recommends distance learning for students who ______.
● dislike having to work very hard
● have little time available for study
● cannot afford to go to university
● know exactly what it involves
Câu hỏi 1.10: (1 Điểm) The word "substantial" in paragraph 4 is closest in meaning to
______.
● considerable
● consistent
● intensive
● resilient
He wanted to avoid owing a lot of money
Distance learning
He can go to the same university as his friends
He wanted to remain his job
He didn’t want to have higher education after leaving school
Attractive
His close friends
Get to know more people than he would done at university
Know exactly what it involves
Considerable
Week 9
Directions: You will read one passage, followed by ten questions about it. Choose the best
answer to each question.

Passage: Architecture: Shaping Spaces and Societies

(Questions 1-10)
Architecture, as an art and science, plays a fundamental role in shaping the physical and
cultural landscapes of societies. Beyond the construction of buildings, it is a medium through
which humanity expresses its values, aspirations, and identity.

Historical Perspective: Throughout history, architecture has been a reflection of societal

progress and cultural evolution. From the grandeur of ancient civilizations, such as the
towering pyramids of Egypt or the majestic temples of Greece, to the intricate designs of
medieval cathedrals, each era's architectural achievements stand as a testament to human
ingenuity and creativity.

Functionality and Form: In the contemporary world, the intersection of functionality and form
is a hallmark of architectural excellence. Modern architects strive not only to create
aesthetically pleasing structures but also to ensure they serve their intended purposes
efficiently. The evolution of materials and construction techniques has allowed for innovative
designs that push the boundaries of what is possible.

Urban Planning and Social Impact: Architecture extends beyond individual structures to
influence the design of entire cities. Urban planning, a critical component of architectural
practice, shapes the way people interact with their environments. Thoughtful planning can
foster community engagement, promote sustainable living, and contribute to a high quality of
life. Conversely, poorly planned urban spaces may lead to social isolation, traffic congestion,
and environmental degradation.

Cultural Identity and Globalization: One of the intriguing aspects of architecture is its ability
to embody cultural identity. Indigenous architectural styles tell the stories of a community's
history, beliefs, and traditions. However, in an era of globalization, the influx of Western
architectural trends into diverse cultures raises questions about the preservation of local
identities. Striking a balance between embracing innovation and safeguarding cultural
heritage becomes a crucial consideration for architects and communities alike.

Sustainability Challenges: In the face of environmental challenges, sustainability has become

a focal point in contemporary architecture. The quest for eco-friendly designs involves
incorporating renewable energy sources, utilizing recycled materials, and designing buildings
that harmonize with their surroundings. The push for sustainable architecture reflects a
broader awareness of the impact of the built environment on the planet.

In essence, architecture is a multifaceted discipline that goes beyond the creation of physical
structures. It is an art form that weaves together history, functionality, cultural expression,
and environmental responsibility. As architects navigate the complexities of the modern
world, their designs have the power to shape not only the spaces we inhabit but also the
societies we build. In understanding the profound influence of architecture, we gain insight
into the ways in which our built environment reflects and shapes the human experience.

Questions
Câu hỏi 1.1: (1 Điểm) What is one example of ancient architecture mentioned in the
text?
● Skyscrapers in New York
● The Eiffel Tower in Paris
● The Pyramids of Egypt
● The Sydney Opera House
Câu hỏi 1.2: (1 Điểm) The word "ingenuity" in paragraph 2 is CLOSEST in meaning to
● unimaginativeness
● cleverness
● inefficiency
● mediocrity
Câu hỏi 1.3: (1 Điểm) According to the text, what is a hallmark of architectural
excellence in the modern world?
● Strict adherence to tradition
● Aesthetic appeal and functionality
● Exclusive use of ancient materials
● Minimal concern for efficiency
Câu hỏi 1.4: (1 Điểm) The word "Conversely" in paragraph 4 is CLOSEST in meaning to
● Similarly
● On other words
● In contrast
● Consequently
Câu hỏi 1.5: (1 Điểm) What does the text identify as a potential consequence of poorly
planned urban spaces?
● Increased community engagement
● Social isolation
● Enhanced environmental sustainability
● Efficient traffic flow
Câu hỏi 1.6: (1 Điểm) How does architecture influence cultural identity according to the
text?
● By erasing local traditions
● By embracing only Western trends
● By embodying history and beliefs
● By excluding innovative designs
Câu hỏi 1.7: (1 Điểm) What is a key focus of contemporary architecture in the face of
environmental challenges?
● Maximizing energy consumption
● Ignoring the impact on the planet
● Incorporating sustainable practices
● Promoting urban congestion
Câu hỏi 1.8: (1 Điểm) What does the word "it" in the last paragraph refer to?
● A building
● Architecture
● Sustainability
● Urban planning
Câu hỏi 1.9: (1 Điểm) According to the text, which of the following is NOT mentioned as
a positive aspect of architecture?
● Aesthetic appeal
● Ethical concerns
● Cultural identity
● Environmental responsibility
Câu hỏi 1.10: (1 Điểm) What is the main idea of the text?
● The negative impact of globalization on architecture
● The history of ancient architectural wonders
● The multifaceted nature of architecture and its impact on society
● The aesthetic appeal of contemporary skyscrapers
The Pyramids of Epgypt
Cleverness
Asthetic appeal and functionality
In contrast
Social isolation
By embodying history and beliefs
Incorporating sustainable practices
Architecture
Ethical concerns
The multifacted nature of architecture
Week 10
Directions: You will read one passage, followed by ten questions about it. Choose the best
answer to each question.

Passage (Questions 1-10)

The Barnley Village Committee is opposed to plans to build a 6,890-panel solar farm on a 1.5-
acre site adjacent to the village recreation ground, currently used for agriculture. Under the
proposed scheme, the area will be surrounded by an 8ft high fence. The panels themselves
will be about 7 feet high.

The committee has already lodged an appeal to the local authority against construction of
the solar farm. The councillors are due to meet on 13th March to vote whether or not plans
will go ahead. Local residents are invited to attend. Our objections will be presented before
the board, and a representative from the solar firm SunGen will put forward the case for the
development.

Residents are encouraged to voice their objections to the development. These must address
the aspects of the scheme that violate the current planning policy. However, you are
welcome to make your objections personal, by stating how the plans will affect you as a user
of the recreation ground. Some of the most common objections are listed below.

The extensive views of the village and recreation ground across the open country will be
blocked by the panels and high fencing. Furthermore, once the site has been built upon, it
may be considered brownfield, thus an acceptable site for housing or industrial development.
It does not, therefore, comply with the local policy which states that developments must not
have adverse effects on the appearance or character of the landscape.

The recreation ground has recently undergone major improvements including a perimeter
running track, new playground equipment and seating. [A] It is heavily used by families, sports
teams and dog walkers, and is regularly used for village events. [B] Cricketers are worried
that they may become liable for damage to solar panels. [C] If teams are forced to relocate,
this would adversely affect the character of the village, and may jeopardise participation in
the children's teams. [D] This goes against the National Planning Policy Framework which
requires developments to promote high quality public space and encourage the active and
continual use of public areas.

There has been no assessment of the extent to which noise from inverters and cooling fans
will affect local residents.

As the ground beneath the solar panels will be surfaced, there will be more additional run-off
of rainwater. The recreation ground already has problems with drainage, and these may be
exacerbated by this development. A formal flood risk assessment must be submitted.

The lighting and security systems have not been outlined, it is not clear how the area will be
made safe for children.

Questions
Câu hỏi 1.1: (1 Điểm) Which of the following statements best represents the main idea
of the passage?
● The Barnley Village Committee does not support the plans to build a solar farm near the
village recreation ground.
● The Barnley Village Committee is interested in the plans to build a farm near their village.
● The plans to build a solar farm benefit the nearby residents.
● The construction of the solar farm brings a complete change to the Barnley Village.
Câu hỏi 1.2: (1 Điểm) The solar farm would be built ____
● on the recreation ground
● on an area used for village events
● on a brownfield site
● in an agricultural field
Câu hỏi 1.3: (1 Điểm) The meeting with councillors ____
● will take place shortly
● has already taken place
● has been proposed, but not planned in detail
● has not been approved by the local authority
Câu hỏi 1.4: (1 Điểm) Which of the following is NOT true of the proposed solar farm?
● It will comprised of 6,890 panels.
● The height of the panels is 7 feet.
● The solar panels will be placed directly on the grass.
● It will be surrounded by a high fence.
Câu hỏi 1.5: (1 Điểm) People who want to object the development are advised ____
● not to write about their personal feelings
● to refer to the village’s planning policy
● to send a letter in the mail
● to write down their objections before the meeting with councillors
Câu hỏi 1.6: (1 Điểm) What does the word "These" in the 3rd paragraph refer to?
● objections
● residents
 ● plans
● developments
Câu hỏi 1.7: (1 Điểm) What is inferred about brownfield sites?
● It is easier to get permission to develop a brownfield site in the village.
● There are already too many brownfield sites in the village.
● A brownfield site is not a suitable location for a solar farm.
● Becoming a brownfield site is an advantage for the local landscape.
Câu hỏi 1.8: (1 Điểm) Teams may no longer play on the recreation ground because ____
● parents will be worried about their children’s safety
● spectators won’t want to watch matches at the recreation ground
● it is likely that they will have to relocate
● players will be worried about damaging the panels
Câu hỏi 1.9: (1 Điểm) Which of the following is NOT true of the recreation ground?
● It has recently received considerable investment.
● It is well-lit.
● It is the place for village events.
● It occasionally floods.
Câu hỏi 1.10: (1 Điểm) In which space (marked A, B, C and D in the passage) will the
following sentence fit? "Cricket and football teams often use the recreation ground
and it is not uncommon for balls to enter the field."
● [A]
● [B]
● [C]
● [D]
The Barnley Village Committee does not support the plans to build a solar farm near the
village recreation ground
In an agricultural field
Will take place shortly
The solar panels will be place directly on the grass
To refer to the village’s planning policy
Objections
It is easier to get permission to develop a brownfield site
Players will be worried about damaging the panels
It is well-lit
B
Week 11
Directions: You will read one passage, followed by ten questions about it. Choose the best
answer to each question.

Passage (Questions 1-10)

Whether graffiti, often associated with urban landscapes and often created without
permission, is considered art depends on the attitude and specific context in which it is
created.

Some people argue that graffiti should indeed be recognized as a valid form of art.
Proponents of this view highlight the immense skill and creativity demonstrated by many
graffiti artists. The intricate designs and vibrant colors present in some graffiti pieces show a
level of artistic talent that cannot be easily dismissed. Additionally, graffiti can be seen as a
form of self-expression and a way for artists to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and
perspectives with the public.

Furthermore, proponents argue that graffiti, much like any other art form, has the power to
stimulate thought and challenge societal norms. Some graffiti serves as a form of social or
political commentary, tackling issues such as inequality, injustice, or environmental concerns.
In this way, graffiti can act as a visual dialogue that engages the community and encourages
critical thinking. [A]

On the other hand, there are those who view graffiti primarily as vandalism and not as a valid
art form. Opponents often point to the illegal nature of many graffiti activities, with artists
trespassing on private property and defacing public spaces without permission. [B]

Additionally, critics argue that not all graffiti exhibits the level of skill and intent associated
with traditional art. Some graffiti may be simple images drawn hastily without a clear
message. In such cases, the argument against considering graffiti as art is based on the
perceived lack of artistic merit and thoughtful expression. [C]

However, it’s important to be aware that the line between art and vandalism is not always
clear-cut. Some graffiti pieces are in between the two, making it challenging to categorize
them definitively. Moreover, the viewpoint of graffiti as art or vandalism often depends on
individual perspectives and cultural contexts. [D]

In recent years, street art festivals and authorized mural projects have emerged as a way to
accept and celebrate graffiti in certain contexts. Cities around the world have considered
street art as a means of revitalizing urban spaces, encouraging a sense of community, and
promoting tourism. Artists who were once considered vandals are now being allowed to
create large-scale, legal murals that contribute positively to the visual landscape of the city.

Questions
Câu hỏi 1.1: (1 Điểm) What is the passage mainly about?
● Advantages and disadvantages of graffiti
● Opposing views on graffiti
● The power of graffiti in the art community
● Graffiti as a form of self-expression
Câu hỏi 1.2: (1 Điểm) The phrase "associated with" is closest in meaning to
● connected to
● restricted to
● devoted to
● addicted to
Câu hỏi 1.3: (1 Điểm) Which is NOT mentioned as a reason to consider graffiti as a valid
form of art?
● Artists' creativity
● Artists' designs
● Artists' thoughts
● Artists' skills
Câu hỏi 1.4: (1 Điểm) The word "tackling" is closest in meaning to
● causing
● raising
● facing
● solving
Câu hỏi 1.5: (1 Điểm) How can graffiti encourage critical thinking, according to
proponents?
● It stimulates thought.
● It fights against injustice.
● It protects the environment.
● (No fourth option provided in original)
Câu hỏi 1.6: (1 Điểm) One of the reasons why graffiti is viewed as vandalism is that
● it is not a valid art form.
● it is not private property.
● it spoils public spaces.
● it does harm to nature.
Câu hỏi 1.7: (1 Điểm) Which is true, according to paragraph 6?
 ● Cultural contexts make it difficult to decide whether graffiti is an art or vandalism.
● A clear-cut boundary is necessary to distinguish graffiti from other art forms.
● It's important to raise people's awareness about how graffiti becomes vandalism.
● There is not a clear-cut distinction between individual perspectives and cultural
contexts.
Câu hỏi 1.8: (1 Điểm) The word "them" in paragraph 6 refers to
● contexts
● perspectives
● pieces
● images
Câu hỏi 1.9: (1 Điểm) According to the last paragraph, what is NOT mentioned as
something street art can do to cities?
● encouraging a sense of community
● revitalizing urban spaces
● promoting tourism
● celebrating festivals
Câu hỏi 1.10: (1 Điểm) Where should the following sentence best fit? "The lack of
agreement from property owners is a significant factor that contributes to the
negative view of graffiti."
● A
● B
● C
● D
Opposing views on graffiti
Connected to
Artists’s though
Sovling
It stimulates thought
It spoils public spaces
Cultural contexts make it difficult to decide whether graffiti is an art or vandalism
Pieces
Celebrating festivals
B
Week 12
Directions: You will read one passage, followed by ten questions about it. Choose the best
answer A, B, C or D to each question.

Passage (Questions 1-10)

If your view of the world comes from watching the news and reading newspapers, you could
be forgiven for lying awake at night worrying about the future. Apparently, rising violence and
population rates mean humans are both killing each other in ever larger numbers and being
born at rates the world's resources can't sustain. To make matters worse, all the wealth is
concentrated on a handful of people in the world's richest countries. People in low-income
countries live in poverty while the West gets richer. [A] Depressing, isn't it?

But do the statistics support our negative world view or is the world actually improving? Let's
take global population first. It's around 7 billion now, in line with figures predicted by the
experts in UN in 1958. By the year 2100, they predict it will be around 11 billion. But did you
know that 11 billion is probably as high as that number will get? The rate of increase will slow
down in the second half of this century thanks to falling birth rates today.

Falling birth rates? Yes, that's right. In the last two centuries, improvements in technology and
health meant fewer children died young, fuelling rapid population growth. These large
families produced even more children who survived into adulthood and had their own
children. [B] But with the wider availability of contraception in the 1960s, the global average
number of babies per woman has declined from six babies per woman to as low as two.

The biggest factor in child mortality is poverty. And while it's still true that only 20 per cent of
the world takes about 74 per cent of the world's income, 60 per cent of the world now falls
into a middle-income group, with 11.6 per cent - the smallest amount of people in history -
still living in conditions of extreme poverty. If the majority of the world's people have money,
international aid could realistically achieve the UN target of eradicating poverty by 2030. As
poverty goes down, life expectancy goes up, birth rates go down because parents can expect
their existing children to survive, and the global population stabilises.

As for news stories that make us think the world is an increasingly violent place, there is
cause for some optimism too. Between the end of World War II and 1990, there were 30 wars
that killed more than 100,000 people. [C] However, terrorism has shot up in the last few
years and, since World War I, wars have killed many more civilians than soldiers. Even for
civilians, though, the statistics are not all bad. Although deaths are nine times more likely to
be a result of violent crime than political conflict, the global murder rate fell slightly, from 6
per 100,000 people in 2000 to about 5.3 in 2015.
Of course, none of this means the world is perfect, and whether you personally are affected
by war and poverty is often down to the lottery of where you're born. [D] Also, we still face
huge problems of our own making, particularly environmental ones like global warming, and
wealth and natural resources need to be distributed more fairly. But not all the news is bad
news, whatever the TV and newspapers might say.

Questions
Câu hỏi 1.1: (1 Điểm) What does the word 'apparently' in the first paragraph tell us
about the rise in violence we see in the news?
● The rise is obviously true.
● The rise seems to be true but evidence might show it isn't.
● The rise seems false, but evidence might show it's true.
● The rise is true with convincing evidence.
Câu hỏi 1.2: (1 Điểm) Which statement about population levels is correct?
● About two hundred years ago, the child mortality rate dropped significantly.
● The rate is growing steadily now.
● The rate will start to drop in the year 2100
● The child mortality rate dropped thanks to the availability of contraception.
Câu hỏi 1.3: (1 Điểm) What does 'they' in paragraph 2 refer to?
● figures
● experts
● statistics
● low-income countries
Câu hỏi 1.4: (1 Điểm) Which factor does NOT cause the falling of birth rates and child
mortality?
● The availability of contraception
● Improvements in healthcare
● Technological development
● Poverty
Câu hỏi 1.5: (1 Điểm) Which number shows the size of the richest group of people?
● 20%
● 11.6%
● 60%
● 5.3%
Câu hỏi 1.6: (1 Điểm) What is 'realistically' closest in meaning to?
● Practically
● Certainly
 ● Actually
● Effectively
Câu hỏi 1.7: (1 Điểm) One of the UN's targets for 2030 is to
● make the birth rates reduce
● end poverty
● increase life expectancy
● make population levels stable
Câu hỏi 1.8: (1 Điểm) What can be inferred from paragraph 5?
● People are more likely to be killed by soldiers
● People are more likely to be killed by politicians.
● People are more likely to be killed by criminals.
● People are more likely to be killed by civilians.
Câu hỏi 1.9: (1 Điểm) There is reason to be optimistic because
● you might win the lottery.
● wars and poverty are controlled.
● there are some positives despite what the newspapers report.
● we're making progress with environmental problems.
Câu hỏi 1.10: (1 Điểm) Where would the following sentence best fit? "Today there are
still civil wars, but countries are mostly coexisting more peacefully than in the past."
● A
● B
● C
● D
The rise seems to be true but evidence might show it isn’t
About two hundred years ago, the child mortality rate dropped significantly
Experts
Poverty
20%
Practically
End poverty
People are more likely to be killed by criminals
There are some positives despite what the newspapers report
C
Week 13
Directions: You will read one passage, followed by ten questions about it. Choose the best
answer A, B, C or D to each question.

Passage (Questions 1-10)

Antibiotics block the life cycle of bacteria that invade the human body. The first of these
antibiotics, penicillin, works by blocking the molecules that construct the cell walls of
particular bacteria. The bacteria, with incomplete cell walls, are not able to reproduce.

When penicillin was introduced during World War II, it was truly a "miracle drug." Until that
time, anyone who was cut or wounded stood a great risk of infection. Once penicillin became
available, the situation changed. Wounded soldiers, children with ear infections, and many
others began to benefit from the ability to block the growth of bacteria.

While human beings may have won that particular battle against bacteria, the war is far from
over. The reason is that in any bacterial population, there are bound to be a few bacteria that,
for one reason or another, are not affected by a particular antibiotic. For example, they may
have a slightly differently shaped enzyme that builds cell walls, so that penicillin will not fit
onto that particular shape of the enzyme. These bacteria will not be affected by that
particular drug.

For that small group, the antibiotic is a real godsend. It doesn't affect them, but it does wipe
out all of their competition. They are thus free to multiply, and, overtime, all of the bacteria
will have whatever properties that made those individuals resistant.

Traditionally, medical scientists have dealt with this phenomenon by developing a large
number of antibiotics, each of which intervenes in the bacterial life cycle in a slightly different
way. Consequently, if you happen to have a bacterium that is resistant to one antibiotic,
probably it will succumb to the action of another. You may, in fact, have had the experience
of going to a doctor with an infection, being given an antibiotic, and then finding that it didn't
work. In all likelihood, all your doctor had to do then was prescribe a different antibiotic and
everything was fine.

The problem is that as time has passed, more and more bacteria have become resistant to
antibiotics. In fact, currently, there is one strain of bacteria-Staphylococcus-that is resistant
to every commercially available antibiotic except one, and in 1996, a bacterium with lowered
resistance to that last antibiotic appeared in Japan.

The appearance of drug-resistant bacteria is not particularly surprising. In fact, it probably

should have been anticipated. Nevertheless, in the late 1980s, there was a general sense of
complacency among scientists on the antibiotic question. Little profit was to be made by
developing the one-hundred-and-first antibiotic. Drug companies concentrated their efforts
on other areas. Therefore, a gap developed between the production of new antibiotics and
the development of resistance among bacteria.

By the early 1990s, this gap was recognized and highlighted in several national news
magazines. More companies returned to develop new kinds of antibiotics, and currently, a
number are undergoing clinical trials. By early in the twenty-first century, some of these new
drugs will start to come on the market, and the problem will be "solved," at least for the
moment.

Additional research will focus on the processes by which cells repair the constant damage to
DNA, but the computer design of new drugs, the development of new antibiotics, and
techniques to combat bacteria should remain a top priority.

Questions
Câu hỏi 1.1: (1 Điểm) How do antibiotics treat infections?
● They interfere with the reproductive cycle of bacteria
● They construct cell walls to resist bacteria
● They inject enzymes that explode in affected cells
● They increase the mitosis of healthy cell
Câu hỏi 1.2: (1 Điểm) The word "them" in paragraph 4 refers to
● whatever properties
● resistant bacteria
● their competition
● those individuals
Câu hỏi 1.3: (1 Điểm) The word "anticipated" in paragraph 7 in the passage is closest in
meaning to
● predicted
● concealed
● investigated
● disregarded
Câu hỏi 1.4: (1 Điểm) Which of the following best expresses the main idea of this
passage?
● The "miracle drug" penicillin
● Drug-resistant bacteria
● Staphylococcus infections
● Gene therapy treatments
Câu hỏi 1.5: (1 Điểm) According to paragraph 4, why do some bacteria benefit from
antibiotics?
● The antibiotic eliminates competing bacteria, allowing resistant bacteria to reproduce
● The resistant bacteria compete with the antibiotic, and the bacteria become stronger
● The competition helps the resistant bacteria to multiply by reproducing with the resistant
type
● The properties of the antibiotic are acquired by the bacteria, making it resistant to the
competition
Câu hỏi 1.6: (1 Điểm) The word "complacency" in paragraph 7 is closest in meaning to
______
● consensus of agreement
● fear of consequences
● lack of concern
● awareness of potential
Câu hỏi 1.7: (1 Điểm) Which of the sentences below best expresses the information in
the highlighted statement in paragraph 3? (Note: Original text highlighting is missing,
assuming it refers to "in any bacterial population, there are bound to be a few bacteria
that... are not affected by a particular antibiotic.")
● Some antibiotics affect a population of bacteria more efficiently than others
● There are several reasons why some bacteria do not respond to most antibiotics
● The effect of antibiotics on bacteria is to bind them together into one population
● A small number of bacteria in any sample will probably be resistant to a specific
antibiotic
Câu hỏi 1.8: (1 Điểm) The author mentions all of the following reasons for drug resistant
bacteria to appear EXCEPT
● there was not enough profit incentive for companies to continue developing new
antibiotics
● statistically, some drug-resistant bacteria will occur naturally in any large population of
bacteria
● the newer antibiotics were not as strong and effective as the original penicillin-based
drugs
● competing bacteria are destroyed by antibiotics, allowing resistant bacteria to prosper
Câu hỏi 1.9: (1 Điểm) It can be inferred from the passage that
● research to develop new antibiotics will not be necessary in the future
● the scientific community was not surprised by the resistant strains of bacteria
● antibiotics are not very expensive when they are made available commercially
● it takes years for a new drug to be made available commercially for consumers
Câu hỏi 1.10: (1 Điểm) Which of the following statements is NOT a main idea of the
passage?
● Many strains of bacteria have become resistant to the antibiotics currently available
● Funding for the production of new antibiotics has been allocated to drug companies
● The first antibiotics were very effective in blocking the reproduction of bacteria
● New antibiotics are being developed to combat bacteria that resist the older antibiotics
They interfere with the reproductive cycle of bacteria
Resistant bacteria
Predicted
Drug-resistant bacteria
The antibiotic eliminates competing bacteria, allowing resistant to reproduce
Lack of concern
A small number of bacteria in any sample will probably be resistant to a specific antibiotic
The newer antibiotics were not as strong and effective as the original penicillin-based drugs
It takes years for a new drug to be made available commercially for consumers
Funding for the production of new antibiotics has been allocated to drug companies
Week 14
Directions: You will read one passage, followed by ten questions about it. Choose the best
answer to each question.

Passage (Questions 1-10)

Aging is a natural and inevitable aspect of the human experience, bringing with it a myriad of
physical, psychological, and social changes. As individuals progress through the various
stages of life, the aging process introduces unique challenges and opportunities for personal
growth.

Physiologically, aging is characterized by a gradual decline in organ function, muscle mass,

and bone density. Wrinkles and gray hair become visible markers of the passage of time.
However, the aging process is highly individual, influenced by genetic factors, lifestyle
choices, and environmental circumstances. While some changes are inevitable, maintaining
a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can positively impact the
aging trajectory.

Psychologically, aging often involves a reflection on life experiences, accomplishments, and

unfulfilled aspirations. Many individuals find a sense of wisdom and acceptance as they age,
appreciating the richness of their journey. However, there may also be challenges, such as
coping with loss, adjusting to changing roles, or facing the fear of mortality. Mental well-
being becomes a critical aspect of the aging process, emphasizing the importance of social
connections, intellectual stimulation, and activities that bring joy and purpose.

Socially, aging can lead to shifts in relationships and social dynamics. Retirement often marks
a significant transition, providing individuals with an opportunity to explore new interests or
dedicate time to longstanding passions. Maintaining a strong social support network
becomes crucial for emotional well-being, helping to combat feelings of isolation or
loneliness that can sometimes accompany aging.

One of the prevailing societal challenges associated with aging is the need for
comprehensive healthcare and support systems. As the global population ages, there is a
growing demand for age-friendly infrastructure, healthcare services, and policies that
address the unique needs of older individuals. This includes accessible transportation, age-
appropriate housing, and healthcare facilities equipped to manage the complex health issues
that may arise in later years.

Despite the challenges, aging can be viewed as a period of continued growth and
development. Many older individuals contribute significantly to their communities through
volunteer work, mentorship, and the sharing of accumulated knowledge. The concept of
"successful aging" emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, adapting to
change, and finding meaning and fulfillment in the later stages of life.

In essence, aging is a multifaceted journey that encompasses physical, psychological, and

social dimensions. Embracing the aging process involves recognizing the opportunities for
personal enrichment and societal contributions that can unfold in this unique phase of life. As
individuals, communities, and societies work together to address the evolving needs of an
aging population, the potential for a vibrant and fulfilling later life becomes increasingly
achievable.

Questions
Câu hỏi 1.1: (1 Điểm) What are some visible markers of the aging process mentioned in
the text?
● Gray hair and muscle gain
● Wrinkles and muscle mass decline
● Increased organ function and bone density
● Balanced diet and regular exercise
Câu hỏi 1.2: (1 Điểm) The word " inevitable " in paragraph 2 is CLOSEST in meaning to
_______.
● predictable
● optional
● unavoidable
● controllable
Câu hỏi 1.3: (1 Điểm) According to the text, what is NOT mentioned as a contributor to
the aging process?
● Genetic factors
● Lifestyle choices
● Environmental circumstances
● Lack of social connections
Câu hỏi 1.4: (1 Điểm) What challenge is mentioned in the text as a potential aspect of
aging?
● Increased social connections
● Coping with loss
● Wisdom and acceptance
● Balanced lifestyle
Câu hỏi 1.5: (1 Điểm) What is the primary purpose of retirement as mentioned in the
text?
 ● To combat loneliness
● To explore new interests
● To adapt to change
● To contribute to communities
Câu hỏi 1.6: (1 Điểm) Which phrase correctly completes the sentence? " Maintaining a
strong social support network becomes crucial ___ emotional well-being. "
● despite
● within
● for
● towards
Câu hỏi 1.7: (1 Điểm) What does the word " This " in paragraph 5 refer to?
● Age-friendly infrastructure
● Comprehensive healthcare and support system
● Growing demand for services
● Complex health issue in later years
Câu hỏi 1.8: (1 Điểm) What does the phrase " adapting to " in paragraph 6 mean?
● contributing to
● looking up to
● adjusting to
● leading to
Câu hỏi 1.9: (1 Điểm) Based on the information provided, what can be inferred about
the concept of " successful aging "?
● It involves avoiding change.
● It focuses on physical appearance.
● It emphasizes a positive outlook and adaptation.
● It disregards the importance of social connections.
Câu hỏi 1.10: (1 Điểm) What is the main idea of the passage?
● The challenges of aging
● The benefits of retirement
● The multifaceted nature of aging
● The societal impact of aging
Wrinkles and muscle mass decline
Unavoidable
Lack of social connections
Coping with loss
To explore new interests
For
Comprehensive healthcare and support system
It emphasizes a positive outlook and adaptation
The multifaceted nature of aging

Week 15
Directions: You will read one passage, followed by ten questions about it. Choose the best
answer to each question.

Passage (Questions 1-10)

Nowadays, most people realize that it's risky to use credit card numbers online. However,
from time to time, we all use passwords and government ID numbers on the Internet.

We think we are safe, but that may not be true! A new kind of attack is being used by
dishonest people to steal IDs and credit card numbers from innocent web surfers. This new
kind of attack is called "phishing." Phishing sounds the same as the word "fishing," and it
implies that a thief is trying to lure people into giving away valuable information. Like real
fishermen, phishers use bait in the form of great online deals or services. For example,
phishers might use fake emails and false websites to con people into revealing credit card
numbers, account usernames, and passwords. They imitate well-known banks, online sellers,
and credit card companies. Successful phishers may convince as many as five percent of the
people they contact to respond and give away their personal financial information.

Is this really a big problem? Actually, tricking five percent of the online population is huge!
Currently, more than 350 million people have access to the Internet, and seventy-five percent
of those Internet users live in the wealthiest countries on Earth. It has been estimated that
phishers send more than three billion scam messages each year. Even by tricking only five
percent of the people, phishers can make a lot of money.

Since there is so much money to make through this kind of scam, it has caught the interest of
more than just small-time crooks. Recently, police tracked down members of an organized
phishing group in Eastern Europe, who had stolen hundreds of thousands of dollars from
people online. The group created official-looking email messages requesting people to
update their personal information at an international bank's website. However, the link to the
bank in the message actually sent people to the phishers' fake website. To make matters
worse, further investigation revealed that this group had connections to a major crime gang
in Russia.

How can innocent people protect themselves? Above all, they have to learn to recognize
email that has been sent by a phisher. Always be wary of any email with urgent requests for
personal financial information. Phishers typically write upsetting or exciting, but fake,
statements in their emails so that people will reply right away.

Also, messages from phishers will not address recipients by name because they really don't
know who the recipients are yet. On the other hand, valid messages from your bank or other
companies you normally deal with will typically include your name.

Questions
Câu hỏi 1.1: (1 Điểm) What is the main idea of the passage?
● The risks of online transactions and their effects
● The prevalence and dangers of a type of online attacks
● The financial impact of phishing on small-time-crooks
● The importance of urgent responses to emails
Câu hỏi 1.2: (1 Điểm) To which activity is phishing compared?
● Catching fish
● Collecting things
● Looking for rare things
● Meeting friends online
Câu hỏi 1.3: (1 Điểm) The word " They " in paragraph 2 refers to ______.
● passwords
● websites
● phishers
● usernames
Câu hỏi 1.4: (1 Điểm) What can be inferred from paragraph 2?
● Phishers use a variety of tricky ways to deceive people.
● Real fishermen are similar to phishers in their approach to online scams.
● Successful phishers primarily use fake emails and false websites.
● Individuals are generally cautious and resistant to phishing attempts.
Câu hỏi 1.5: (1 Điểm) What percentage of the online population can be tricked by
successful phishers?
● 3%
● 5%
● 10%
● 15%
Câu hỏi 1.6: (1 Điểm) Why is tricking five percent of the online population considered a
big problem?
● It affects the wealthiest countries only.
 ● It negatively affects all people in the world.
● The scale of internet users is vast.
● Phishers send three billion scam messages annually.
Câu hỏi 1.7: (1 Điểm) The word " crooks " in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to ______.
● customers
● criminals
● bankers
● investigators
Câu hỏi 1.8: (1 Điểm) What should innocent people do to protect themselves from
phishing?
● Urgently responding to emails
● Ignoring emails with urgent requests
● Always providing personal financial information
● Responding to messages that do not include their name
Câu hỏi 1.9: (1 Điểm) It can be inferred that valid messages from banks typically include
the recipient's name to ______.
● make the messages more formal
● show appreciation to customers
● indicate the sender knows the recipient
● distinguish them from phishing attempts
Câu hỏi 1.10: (1 Điểm) What is the main purpose of the reading?
● To contrast phishers and hackers
● To explain what phishing is
● To outline three ways to recognize phishing scams
● To report a surprising phishing scam
The prevalence and dangers of a type of online attacks
Catching fish
Phishers
Phishers use variety of tricky ways to deceive people
5%
The scale of internet users is vast
Criminals
Ignoring emails with urgent requests
Distinguish them from phishing attempts
To explain what phishing is