Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best

answer to each of the following questions from 1 to 10.

How Technology is Making People Feel Lonely
[I] Technology has transformed the way people communicate, bringing both benefits and challenges. [II]
While smartphones, social media, and streaming services provide instant access to information and
entertainment, they can also contribute to loneliness by reducing real-life interactions. [III] Many people now
spend hours online, yet they often feel more disconnected than ever before. [IV]
One major factor is the way social media encourages comparisons. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook
allow users to share only the most exciting moments of their lives, leading others to feel as though they are
missing out. This sense of envy can create isolation, as people feel their lives are less interesting or fulfilling than
those of their peers. A 2022 study found that 60% of young adults who frequently use social media report
feelings of loneliness. Excessive social media use is linked to lower levels of happiness, as people focus more on
what they lack rather than appreciating their own experiences.
Another contributing factor is the shift from personal conversations to digital messaging. Texting has replaced
phone calls as the dominant form of communication, yet it lacks essential social cues such as tone of voice and
facial expressions. A 2023 survey revealed that only 2% of teenagers regularly use video calls, reducing their
opportunities for deep, meaningful interactions. Without face-to-face communication, friendships may feel less
personal, leading to emotional detachment and loneliness. As one researcher put it, "Texting is convenient, but it
doesn’t replace a real conversation."
Additionally, binge-watching has become a common habit, particularly among younger generations. Many
people spend hours watching Netflix or scrolling through TikTok, often at the expense of real-world interactions.
While enjoyable in the moment, this behavior can contribute to isolation and poor mental health. Studies show
that prolonged screen time is associated with increased anxiety and depression. In 2021, a report found that
adults who spent more than four hours per day on streaming services were twice as likely to experience
loneliness. Excessive digital consumption may lead people to neglect social activities, deepening their sense of
isolation.
However, technology itself is not the problem—it is how people use it. To maintain meaningful connections,
individuals should be mindful of their digital habits. Limiting social media use can help prevent unhealthy
comparisons, while choosing phone or video calls over texting can strengthen relationships. Setting time limits
on screen activities encourages more in-person interactions, promoting a healthier balance between online and
offline life. Technology should be a tool for connection, not a barrier to it. By making these small changes,
people can enjoy the benefits of technology without sacrificing their social well-being.
(Adapted from https://www.nytimes.com)
Question 1. Where in the passage does the following sentence best fit?
"Ironically, while digital platforms aim to enhance social interaction, they often leave people feeling
lonelier than before."
​ A. [II]​ B. [IV]​ C. [I]​ D. [III]
Question 2. The word contribute in paragraph 1 could best be replaced by ______.
​ A. lead to​ B. prevent​ C. focus on​ D. distract from
Question 3. According to paragraph 2, which of the following is NOT an effect of social media use?
​ A. It makes people compare their lives to others.​ B. It is linked to lower happiness levels.
​ C. It increases feelings of contentment.​ D. It causes people to feel left out.
Question 4. Which of the following best summarizes paragraph 3?
​ A. Texting has replaced phone calls, making conversations more convenient and efficient.
​ B. Social media has entirely eliminated the need for in-person interactions.
​ C. Digital messaging lacks important social signals, which can weaken relationships.
​ D. Video calls are an effective replacement for face-to-face conversations.
Question 5. The word neglect in paragraph 4 is OPPOSITE in meaning to ______.
​ A. maintain​ B. avoid​ C. decrease​ D. criticize
Question 6. The word it in paragraph 5 refers to ______.
​ A. loneliness​ B. technology​ C. entertainment​ D. interaction
Question 7. Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?
​ A. Social media users generally feel more connected and less lonely.
​ B. The way people use technology determines whether it helps or harms social relationships.
​ C. Streaming services encourage people to be more social.
​ D. Video calls are more popular among teenagers than texting.
 Question 8. Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 5?
​ A. Using technology correctly can strengthen relationships rather than weaken them.
​ B. The best way to maintain relationships is to avoid technology completely.
​ C. People must stop using technology if they want meaningful relationships.
​ D. Digital platforms always improve human connection.
Question 9. Which of the following can be inferred from the passage?
​ A. Video calls are more effective than face-to-face conversations.
​ B. People who limit social media use are more likely to feel socially connected.
​ C. Technology alone is responsible for loneliness.
​ D. Streaming services have no impact on mental health.
Question 10. Which of the following best summarises the passage?
A. While excessive engagement with digital platforms can lead to social isolation, individuals can counteract
this effect by making intentional choices, such as prioritizing face-to-face interactions and setting limits on
screen time.
B. The rise of social media, texting, and streaming services has irreversibly damaged human relationships,
making deep and meaningful connections nearly impossible in the digital age.
C. The negative effects of technology on mental health and social well-being are unavoidable, and the only
effective solution is to disconnect entirely from digital platforms.
D. Although social media and digital entertainment provide entertainment and convenience, they ultimately
cause more harm than good, as they prevent people from forming genuine relationships and engaging in
real-world socialization.
Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option
that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 11 to 15.
The Evolution of DeepSeek
DeepSeek, an advanced AI system, (11) _______ to push the boundaries of machine learning and
revolutionize data analysis. First introduced by a team of leading AI researchers, (12) _______. By processing
vast amounts of data, DeepSeek can identify complex patterns and generate predictive analyses that outperform
traditional algorithms, making it a powerful tool in AI-driven innovation.
One of the key organizations behind DeepSeek, (13) _______, continues to refine its capabilities. The system
has been particularly influential in scientific research, assisting in medical diagnostics, financial forecasting, and
environmental modeling.
DeepSeek was designed to address the growing demand for high-precision analytics in various industries. By
automating data interpretation, it allows businesses and researchers to make more informed decisions with
unprecedented accuracy. Equipped with sophisticated neural networks, DeepSeek processes sensory inputs
through advanced algorithms, mimicking aspects of human cognition. (14) _______.
Unlike traditional AI models, DeepSeek interacts seamlessly with users, responding dynamically to queries
and refining its outputs based on continuous learning. (15) _______.
Question 11.
​ A. of which the activation was launched in early 2023​
​ B. having been initially activated in early 2023
​ C. that had her first Valentine’s activation launched in early 2023​
​ D. was first activated in early 2023
Question 12.
​ A. enhancing learning capabilities across multiple fields was not the main purpose of its design.
​ B. deep learning capabilities have not been enhanced through its specialized design in multiple fields.
​ C. it was designed to enhance deep learning capabilities across multiple fields
​ D. learning capabilities in multiple fields were significantly reduced by its innovative design.
Question 13.
​ A. succeeded in achieving several breakthroughs in AI-driven automation through
​ B. which has pioneered several breakthroughs in AI-driven automation
​ C. of which several breakthroughs in AI-driven automation have been the result
​ D. whose several breakthroughs in AI-driven automation have contributed to
Question 14.
A. Recognizing language patterns, understanding images, and enabling real-time meaningful insights are
functions of this ability
 B. This ability enables it to understand language patterns, recognize images, and generate meaningful insights
in real-time
C. Meaningful insights in real-time generate this ability to recognize images and understand language Patterns
D. This ability allows images to recognize it, generate meaningful insights, and understand language patterns
in real-time
Question 15.
​ A. Human-AI collaboration marks these advancements toward a more significant step.
​ B. These advancements mark a significant step toward more intuitive human-AI collaboration.
​ C. A significant step toward human-AI collaboration marks these more intuitive advancements.
​ D. These advancements toward a significant step mark more intuitive human-AI collaboration.
Read the following leaflet and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that
best fits each of the numbered blanks from 16 to 21.
A flyer for a gym!
Achieve Your Fitness Goals with Best Body Fitness
Do not simply acquire a standard gym membership—become part of a fitness community that provides
genuine support. At Best Body Fitness, we offer guidance and assistance at (16) _______ stage of your journey.
Our Approach:
● Individualised Fitness Plan – Start with a free assessment, helping us (17) _______ a personalised training
program that matches your goals and abilities.
● Comprehensive Support – Gain (18) _______ through expert-led training, enjoy a flexible membership with
no extra fees, and take part in specialised classes and social events within a supportive community.
Why Choose Us?
● Convenient and Efficient Training – (19) _______ your schedule, you can train anytime with our 24/7
access, well-equipped facility, and central location offering easy transport and parking (20) _______.
A significant (21) _______ of individuals have chosen Best Body Fitness for its exceptional services. Visit us
today for a personal tour and embark on your fitness journey!
Question 16. A. every​ B. other​ C. another​ D. either
Question 17. A. fall out with​ B. cut down on​ C. come up with​ D. get on with
Question 18. A. reputation​ B. confidence​ C. recognition​ D. luxury
Question 19. A. Irrespective of​ B. On account of​ C. In view of​ D. Instead of
Question 20. A. values​ B. contracts​ C. options​ D. requests
Question 21. A. many​ B. number​ C. several​ D. amount
Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best
answer to each of the following questions from 22 to 29.
The New Yorker’s Changing Writing Rules
The New Yorker, a famous magazine known for its unique style, has recently updated some of its spelling and
punctuation rules. These changes help the magazine reflect modern language while still maintaining its distinct
identity. The updates include changing “Web site” to “website,” “in-box” to “inbox,” and “Internet” to “internet.”
The word “cellphone” will also be written as one word. These changes make the magazine’s writing more
up-to-date and easier to read.
Despite these updates, The New Yorker continues to follow some old traditions. One tradition is the use of the
dieresis, the two dots placed over vowels in words like “reëxamination.” While many people think this is
old-fashioned, others find it charming. The magazine also keeps its unique spellings like “teen-ager” and “per
cent,” even though these words are now written differently in most places. These choices show the magazine’s
commitment to its long-standing style.
Andrew Boynton, the magazine’s top editor, explained that the changes were made carefully. The editors did
not want to make quick decisions and then change them back. Instead, they took time to ensure the changes
would be permanent. They asked for input from other editors before deciding which changes were most
important and useful for the magazine’s readers.
Even though The New Yorker has strict rules, it is open to flexibility. Sometimes, writers break the rules,
and the magazine allows it. Boynton believes that good writing is more important than always following the
rules. The New Yorker wants to keep its unique voice while adapting to modern language and communication.
Question 22. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as one of the spelling changes in The New Yorker?
A. Writing “cellphone” as one word​ B. Changing “Web site” to “website”
C. Writing “Internet” with a lowercase “i” D. Removing the dieresis from words like “reëxamination”
Question 23. The word permanent in paragraph 3 is OPPOSITE in meaning to _______.
 ​ A. temporary​ B. fixed​ C. clear​ D. simple
Question 24. The word These in paragraph 1 refers to _______.
​ A. modern languages​ ​ B. traditions of The New Yorker
​ C. spelling and punctuation rules​ D. opinions of editors
Question 25. The word flexibility in paragraph 4 could best be replaced by _______.
​ A. strictness​ B. adaptability​ C. difficulty​ D. limitation
Question 26. Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 4?
​ A. The editors are unhappy when writers break the rules.​
​ B. Writers must follow all the rules of The New Yorker.
​ C. The magazine allows some flexibility in writing rules.​
​ D. The New Yorker does not have strict writing rules.
Question 27. Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?
​ A. The New Yorker has completely abandoned traditional writing rules.
​ B. Some readers find the magazine’s traditional style charming.
​ C. The magazine does not allow any exceptions to its writing rules.
​ D. The editors changed the rules without consulting anyone.
Question 28. In which paragraph does the writer mention a present cause-and-effect relationship?
​ A. Paragraph 3​ B. Paragraph 2​ C. Paragraph 1​ D. Paragraph 4
Question 29. In which paragraph does the writer discuss how The New Yorker balances tradition and change?
​ A. Paragraph 3​ B. Paragraph 2​ C. Paragraph 1​ D. Paragraph 4
Read the following advertisement and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the
option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 30 to 35.
Experience the Best of Sydney in 2025!
Sydney is (30) _______ big changes, bringing new attractions and (31) _______ upgrades to the city. Seafood
lovers can explore the Sydney Fish Market, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, now in a modern four-story
hall, (32) _______ to welcome twice as many visitors. Enjoy fresh oysters and prawns, served daily in a lively
waterfront setting. Getting around is easier with the Sydney Metro expansion, featuring new public art. At Martin
Place station, a pedestrian tunnel, transformed with sound and light, creates an immersive experience (33)
_______ visitors. For those who love luxury, the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, one of Australia’s first luxury
hotels, has received a $43 million makeover, offering world-class comfort. Art lovers can visit the Museum of
Contemporary Art, now home to a new upscale restaurant, boasting (34) _______. Sydney is making 2025
unforgettable for visitors (35) _______ its beauty, culture, and modern attractions - don’t miss out!
(Adapted from https://www.nytimes.com)
Question 30. A. taking​ B. getting​ C. making​ D. putting
Question 31. A. excitingly​ B. excitement​ C. exciting​ D. excited
Question 32. A. which designed​ B. was designed​ C. designing​ D. designed
Question 33. A. with​ B. to​ C. for​ D. of
Question 34. A. views stunning harbor​​ B. harbor stunning views
​ ​ C. stunning harbor views​ D. stunning views harbor
Question 35. A. to exploring​ B. explore​ C. exploring​ D. to explore
Mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best arrangement of utterances or
sentences to make a meaningful exchange or text in each of the following questions from 36 to 40.
Question 36. a. Linh: Hi, David! Long time no see. You look so confident!
b. Linh: Yes, I have. I’ve been improving my communication skills and learning more about business
strategies.
c. David: Hi, Linh! Thanks. You look really professional, too. Have you been working on any new projects
lately?
​ A. c – a – b​ B. c – b – a​ C. b – c – a​ D. a – c – b
Question 37. a. Anna: I’m going to start using eco-friendly products.
b. Anna: Some of them are, but they last longer and help protect the planet.
c. Anna: They help reduce plastic waste, and they are safer for the environment.
d. Ben: But aren’t they more expensive than regular products?
e. Ben: Why eco-friendly products?
​ A. d – e – a – b – c​ B. c – b – a – e – d​ C. d – b – a – e – c​ D. a – e – c – d – b
Question 38. Dear Hiring Manager,
 a. I was excited to learn about this opportunity, as I have a strong passion for digital marketing and experience
managing social media platforms.
b. Thanks so much for taking the time to review my application for the Marketing Assistant position at ABC
Company.
c. I would love the opportunity to discuss how my background and enthusiasm can contribute to your
marketing efforts.
Please let me know if there is any additional information you need.
d.Your company’s reputation for innovation and creativity truly inspires me, and I believe my skills align well
with your team’s goals.
e. I appreciate your time and consideration and look forward to the possibility of joining your team.
Best regards, Ben
​ A. a – d – b – c – e​ B. c – a – d – b – e​ C. b – a – d – c – e​ D. d – b – a – c – e
Question 39. a. While these technologies enhance self-paced learning, human teachers remain essential for
critical thinking and emotional support.
b. AI-powered platforms track student progress, provide real-time feedback, and suggest tailored study plans.
c. Additionally, AI-driven tutoring systems help students grasp complex concepts, reducing the need for
traditional one-on-one instruction.
d. In conclusion, AI is revolutionizing education, but its success depends on a balanced integration with
human expertise.
e. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming education by making learning more personalized and efficient.
​ A. b – c – e – a – d​ B. c – b – a – e – d​ C. e – a– c – b– d​ D. e – b – c – a – d
Question 40. a. In particular, careers in cybersecurity, renewable energy, and healthcare are in high demand
due to technological progress and global needs.
b. The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and automation is reshaping the job market, creating new
demands and opportunities.
c. Therefore, individuals with strong technology skills and problem-solving abilities will have a competitive
edge in the job market.
d. As a result, many traditional jobs may become less common, while emerging industries are experiencing
significant growth.
e. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce and big data is generating more remote work opportunities and new
roles in data analysis.
​ A. b – d – a – e – c​ B. a – c – b – e – d​ C. b – a – d – e – c​ D. d – a – e – c – b
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