CLOZE REVISION 1

Circle A, B, C or D that best fits each blank in the following passages

And Dave is Wearing ...
Why is it that the average man has a(n) (1) ___ to buying clothes? In fact, shopping probably (2) ___ as high as visits to the
dentist or doing the washing up on the male 'Most Hated Chores' list. While a woman may sit happily (3) ___ through glossy
fashion magazines, then spend hours trying to (4) ___ her favourite top model, her male partner spends approximately five
minutes deciding what to wear, even less time putting it on, and is out of the front door before she has even (5) ___ her
underwear. Women seek out ways to look different, while men generally choose clothes which are as (6) ___ as possible. She
will be horrified if another woman is wearing the same dress at a party, whereas for him, finding someone else in the same
attire will simply confirm that he belongs and is not a freak.
1. A hatred B distaste C aversion D horror
2. A ranks B stands C places D aims
3. A roaming B turning C rifling D leafing
4. A emulate B envisage C visualise D embody
5. A dressed B worn C donned D adorned
6. A indescribable B nondescript C obscure D nonexistent

All Aboard!
An old, ostensibly obsolete Thames barge has gained an unexpected (1) ___ of life. A young couple have bought it and intend
to (2) ___ it into a floating home. This move (3) ___ a major change in the couple's lifestyle. 'We had been feeling (4) ___
boxed in by our small flat in the centre,' says Cathy Smythe, 'but with such (5) ___ house prices, the possibility of moving
anywhere else in the city seemed a million years away. Then someone jokingly mentioned houseboats, and that gave us the
idea.' A broker showed them various vessels and the Smythes saw potential in the barge. 'We (6) ___ for the Thames barge
because of its broadness,' explains David, Cathy's husband. 'It's actually very spacious below. And, of course, the price was
right!' Let's hope that life afloat lives up to their expectations.
1. A spark B lease C addition D loan
2. A convert B alter C transfer D adapt
3. A rates B marks C infers D announces
4. A exclusively B extensively C decidedly D drastically
5. A extortionate B opulent C stupendous D lavish
6. A chose B decided C agreed D opted

The Trouble with Numbers

I need help. I can't work, I can't sleep; the situation's getting out of (1) ___. Try as I (2) ___, I just can't resist opening the paper
every morning at the puzzle page. It's this Su Doku numbers game everyone's been (3) ___ about. Although it looks
straightforward at first (4) ___ it's fiendishly deceptive. You start with a simple-looking grid of nine rows by nine, split into nine
boxes with nine squares in each. The (5) ___ of the game is to fill in the grid so that every row, column and box contains the
numbers one to nine. You think, no problem, I'll just have a quick go. Five minutes and I'll (6) ___ this. But oh, no! You get
hooked. The tricky ones niggle you and you can't stop. I've been late for work twice this week. And now there's talk of them
adding the game to mobile phones!
1. A sorts B world C hand D mind
2. A could B might C can D should
3. A craving B longing C raging D raving
4. A glance B look C peep D glimpse
5. A task B object C exercise D goal
6. A break B win C crack D split

Rubik's Cube
One of the most recognisable fad icons of the 1980s has to be Rubik's cube - a three-dimensional toy made up of twenty-six
smaller interconnecting cubes, which can be (1) ___ either vertically or horizontally to form 'faces' of six different colours. The
cube was invented in the mid -1970s by Erno Rubik, a Hungarian engineer fascinated by geometrical (2) ___ although it wasn't
until the end of the decade that people began to show an interest in the toy. Then suddenly, almost overnight, the craze went
international. Demand for the cubes soon far (3) ___ the original production order of one million and pirated versions (4) ___
the market. It is estimated that over 100 million cubes had been sold by the end of 1982.
It has been calculated that Rubik's cube has over forty-three quintillion (that's 43 followed by 18 zeros) (5) ___, only one of
which will result in the cube displaying all six sides with the same colour. The official record for the fastest (6) ___ belongs to a
Japanese student who completed it in just under fifteen seconds.
1. A revolved B rotated C swivelled D spun
2. A conundrums B enigmas C riddles D puzzles
3. A expanded B extended C exceeded D excelled
4. A drowned B flooded C washed D soaked
5. A permutations B transformations C incarnations D conversions
6. A undoing B unravelling C unscrambling D unwinding
 Underfloor Heating Systems
Underfloor heating systems are becoming increasingly popular as an efficient and economical means of heating your home.
They are easy to (1) ___ into any new building or renovation, and can be installed in most homes with few restrictions on the
type of floor covering required. Because they (2) ___ at a much lower temperature than conventional heating, underfloor
heating systems (3) ___ far less fuel and are therefore also more eco-friendly. Another advantage is the absence of radiators,
which can be (4) ___ and take up a great deal of valuable space. What is more, underfloor heating systems are far more
effective than conventional radiators: heat is (5) ___ to the cooler air at floor level, where it is most needed. The now warm air
rises upwards towards the ceiling, resulting in a(n) (6) ___ distribution of heat across the whole room.
1. A fuse B assimilate C amalgamate D integrate
2. A activate B operate C stimulate D promote
3. A consume B devour C gulp D dispose
4. A blatant B outstanding C obtrusive D prominent
5. A drafted B transferred C carried D relocated
6. A standardised B level C uniform D unswerving

Strange Meeting
The moment Daniel Wilkins walked into her office that October morning, Cynthia was struck by a(n) (1) ___ feeling of deja vu -
she was sure she had seen him before, but she couldn't quite put her finger on where. She noted that he (2) ___ an almost
tangible air of self-assurance, but with her trained (3) ___ she could also see that he (4) ___ a heavy burden. On the phone
earlier that week, he had explained what he needed and she had conceded that she might be able to help him. But now, as he
settled himself into one of the leather armchairs in her office, she wondered if perhaps she was biting off more than she could
(5) ___ Cynthia listened attentively as Daniel told her a little about himself. While he was speaking, she stood by the window,
(6) ___ out at the blustery tops of the trees in the park, watching the starlings circle as they massed together for their long
migration. She had goosebumps on her arms, but they weren't from the cold.
1. A supernatural B unwieldy C mystic D uncanny
2. A absorbed B attracted C exuded D retained
3. A eye B view C sight D perception
4. A dragged B heaved C shouldered D weighed
5. A masticate B eat C swallow D chew
6. A gaping B gazing C glimpsing D gawking

Breaking the News

Where was he? Sally (1) ___ the living room anxiously, unable to keep still. How would he take the news? Would he be angry?
She doubted it, but then nor would he be over the (2) ___. He might be pleased at first, then worry about how they were going
to cope. How would they cope? She (3) ___ her hands in desperation. Why did it have to happen now, just when he was about
to (4) ___ on his PhD? She was supposed to work and support them both while he studied. Two years later and it would have
been wonderful! But now?
The key turned in the lock and she (5) ___ round, her heart thumping. 'Hi, love,' he said, as he came through the door. Then he
saw her face and stopped dead in his (6) ___ 'What's wrong?' There was nothing for it but to tell him. 'We're going to have a
baby,' she said simply.
1. A stalked B paced C wandered D marched
2. A meadow B hill C top D moon
3. A wrapped B shook C wrung D clasped
4. A endeavour B embark C depart D undertake
5. A swirled B rolled C coiled D spun
6. A steps B tracks C place D feet

Feng Shui
To those of you who are pragmatic and have your feet firmly (1) ___ on the ground, the Chinese art of feng shui may sound like
just another bohemian (2) ___ to be scoffed at.
In fact, if you (3) ___ with the philosophy, you will see that feng shui really does provide practical solutions to the problem of
clutter in your life by encouraging you to reconsider your relationship with your surroundings. You are probably reluctant to part
with mementos, yet this unwillingness (4) ___ creates a connection with the past that prevents you from moving on, and your
home atmosphere becomes (5) ___. By teaching you to clear away clutter and create a fresh atmosphere in your home, feng
shui brings a sense of harmony to your environment and so enhances your personal life. That (6) ___ you may then discover
that you are less sceptical of the philosophy behind it.
1. A attached B rooted C placed D planted
2. A fad B phase C habit D whim
3. A discard B dispel C despatch D dispense
4. A subconsciously B unwittingly C unerringly D indefinitely
5. A torpid B immobile C stale D inactive
6. A said B done C won D finished

Drawing: Talent or Skill?

To many people, the ability to draw seems inexplicable, an innate talent reserved only for the chosen few. For this reason
artists are usually revered, sometimes undeservedly so. That is not to (1) ___ their admirable ability, but they themselves do
little to dispel the mystery surrounding the skill of drawing. For skill it is: one which can be taught and learnt when you go (2)
___ it in the right way. If you ask an artist how she draws so well, she is (3) ___ to say, 'Well, I just look at something and draw
what I see.' This naturally does nothing to help the uninitiated and the mystery is (4) ___. Yet on reflection, the artist's words
define the process of drawing precisely, (5) ___ simplistically. For the secret of drawing lies in the artist's ability to see - not so
much what she sees, but how she sees it. It is the art teacher's job, then, to teach students how to change their way of looking
at things, and the student in turn must learn to adjust her (6) ___ of things.
1. A degrade B belittle C defame D besmear
2. A around B about C over D through
3. A prone B predisposed C loathe D liable
4. A perpetuated B continued C extended D disseminated
5. A even though B nevertheless C albeit D all the same
6. A conception B revelation C perception D vision

Sugar: the fuel of the future?

Brazil has a good track (0) ___ in research in many areas of science and technology. It is in the field of bioenergy, however,
that the country (1) ___ to make its biggest contribution. Brazil is the world's largest producer of sugar and since 1975 has been
fermenting sugar-cane juice into a substance called ethanol, which can be used as motor fuel. For many years, the programme
(2) ___ in virtual isolation from the rest of the world, using fairly low-tech methods. Recently, however, the government has
been investing (3) ___ in research aimed at improving all stages in the process from sugar-cane biology to engine efficiency.
Whilst the motivation for the investment is largely (4) ___ by energy needs rather than environmental concerns, the fuel’s green
(5) ___ are now also being emphasised. Net emissions of carbon dioxide from a car (6) ___ on sugar ethanol are just 20
percent of those from a petrol-fuelled vehicle. (7) ___ the bio-energy programme aims to achieve a significant increase in
supply without a corresponding rise in the amount of farmland (8) ___ to sugar cane.

0. A record B story C reputation D success

1. A stands B sets C rests D ranks
2. A took place B held forth C carried on D kept up
3. A highly B strongly C vastly D heavily
4. A driven B stemming C drawn D arising
5. A endorsements B credentials C testaments D referrals
6. A performing B working C running D burning
7. A Nonetheless B Furthermore C Otherwise D Instead
8. A occupied B applied C consigned D devoted

Should we worry about status?

In recent decades, there has been (0) ___ evidence that an individual's well-being is significantly affected by that person’s
place in the social pecking (1) ___. In other words, given that the world is (2) ___ up of winners and losers, counting ourselves
amongst the latter can open up an uncomfortable gap between the way things are and the way we’d like them to be.
Frequently, we think the solution (3) ___ in achieving more: if we managed to (4) ___ a better salary, house, body or whatever,
we’d be able to drop the competing game and feel contented. But this (5) ___ risks landing us on a treadmill from which it is
impossible to step off. There will always be people who, to our (6) ___ have achieved more than us and we’d constantly be
running to try and catch up with them. (7) ___ of slavishly following our instincts, however, we would do better to use our (8)
___ for reflection to help us decide for ourselves what gives meaning to our life and is therefore worth doing.
0. A mounting B rising C piling D building
1. A structure B layer C strata D order
2. A comprised B made C composed D done
3. A lies B stays C abides D sits
4. A secure B confirm C effect D fulfil
5. A policy B device C strategy D scheme
6. A opinion B view C mind D belief
7. A ahead B In spite C By means D Instead
8. A competence B capacity C ability D expertise

Touchscreen teething problems

The (0) ___ of touchscreen typing didn't suit everyone initially. Some people who had grown (1) ___ to using a conventional
keyboard, missed the physical feedback on whether they had hit the correct key or not. They found the touchscreen slow to
use, whilst the text they produced was (2) ___ with errors, a situation that was (3) ___ if the text was produced on the (4) ___
using a smartphone. Researchers at Maryland University found that many of these errors resulted from (5) ___ in each
individual's typing style. For example, a user might be (6) ___ to hitting the bottom of a key rather than the centre, increasing
the likelihood that they would also hit the key below by mistake, (7) ___ producing so-called 'fat finger’ errors. They also found
that if typing and walking simultaneously, there was a tendency for people to hit a different pan of the key if the tap coincided
with their foot striking the ground. The data produced by the team eventually allowed designers to (8) ___ these very human
characteristics into account in the next generation of touchscreen keyboards.
0. A advent B onset C input D upshot
1. A familiar B accustomed C comfortable D proficient
2. A strewn B caked C stashed D clogged
3. A amplified B deteriorated C exacerbated D incensed
4. A haste B transit C foot D move
5. A whims B kinks C glitches D quirks
6. A prone B apt C inclined D liable
7. A therein B otherwise C thereby D likewise
8. A hold B take C put D bring
OK?
The word OK is ubiquitous in modern English but its origins remain (0) ___ in mystery. Over the years, many theories have
been (1) ___ regarding its derivation but none of them is (2) ___ convincing. The first recorded written use of OK was in 1839,
when it appeared in a newspaper article in Boston, Massachusetts. There was a (3) ___ for wacky acronyms at the time, just as
today's text messages use things like 'LOL', and OK allegedly originated as a misspelling of All Correct. But (4) ___ many of
these acronyms flourished briefly and then gradually (5) ___ out of use, OK has proved to be remarkably (6) ___. It first
reached England in 1870, where it appeared in the words of a popular song, and today is in (7) ___ use across the English-
speaking world. As part of a phrase '... rules OK', it has been a mainstay of urban graffiti since the 1930s and in 1969 it had the
(8) ___ of being the first word spoken on the moon. In short it's a phenomenally useful word.
0. A shrouded B smothered C clothed D draped
1. A laid out B put forward C drawn u D brought about
2. A widely B mainly C wholly D largely
3. A hype B craze C rage D whim
4. A despite B albeit C whereas D providing
5. A slipped B faded C crept D strayed
6. A resolute B stalwart C steadfast D resilient
7. A staunch B relentless C durable D constant
8. A credit B pride C honour D acclaim
Fashions in sightseeing
The question of what (0) ___ an entertaining sightseeing excursion is just as (1) ___ to the whims of fashion as any other
leisure activity. A trip around the spectacular coastal scenery of western Scotland is now a (2) ___ attractive option but a
couple of centuries ago that same landscape was (3) ___ as a wild and scary wasteland.
Increasingly, in western Europe, safely decommissioned mines and other (4) ___ of the region’s industrial heritage are now
being reinvented as visitor attractions, whilst redundant factories and power stations get a new (5) ___ of life as shopping
centres and art galleries. This (6) ___ the question: if defunct industrial sites can attract tourists, then why not functioning ones?
The Yokohama Factory Scenery Night Cruise is just one of several industrial sightseeing tours now available in Japan. These
are part of an emerging niche tourist trade, (7) ___ by a craze amongst young urbanites to reconnect with the country's
industrial base. Seeing the oil refineries and steelworks at night, when lights and flares are more visible, apparently (8) ___ to
the aesthetic charm of the experience.
0. A makes B holds C gives D gets
1. A determined B subject C dependent D affected
2. A greatly B strongly C highly D widely
3.A referred B regarded C reputed D renowned
4. A legacies B remainders C inheritances D leftovers
5. A term B source C grant D lease
6. A begs B leads C rises D brings
7. A demanded B powered C pushed D fuelled
8. A boosts B improves C adds D enhances
Is a simple life better?
What have you been up to? When (0) ___ up with a friend, how do you tend to answer this very common enquiry? The
response often (1) ___ around such big events as career developments, memorable holidays or family celebrations. I'm often
struck, however, by the (2) ___ to which our real quality of life is affected more by smaller, simpler things. For me. seeing a new
seedling appear from a seed I've sown never (3) ___ to bring me great pleasure. What's more, many moments of joy come
unbidden - like a sudden cooling breeze on a hot day. This (4) ___ the question of what is more relevant to our wellbeing - the
big or the small? To suggest that someone should (5) ___ out happiness in simple pleasures if their career is on the (6) ___
would be absurd. Yet, we could (7) ___ have a row of ticks for all the big things and still feel miserable in our daily lives. Being
overwhelmingly (8) ___ towards achievement, for instance, can make the small and the simple disappear from our awareness.
0. A catching B making C chatting D keeping
1. A concentrates B revolves C focuses D deals
2. A amount B level C extent D quantity
3. A misses B disappoints C denies D fails
4. A rears B elicits C evokes D raises
5. A seek B find C look D search
6. A shambles B mess C creek D rocks
7. A barely B easily C hardly D mostly
8. A targeted B centred C oriented D determined
 Art on approval
For inexperienced collectors, the idea of (0) ___ over a large sum of cash for a piece of contemporary art is a daunting
prospect. It’s quite (1) ___ that the work will look out of place in a domestic setting, or that the buyer might simply (2) ___ of it.
In an ideal world, it would be possible to spot a piece with potential, size it up, (3) ___ a deposit and take it home on approval.
Only after living with it for a while would you (4) ___ into a formal commitment to buy. But many dealers are reluctant to allow
this arrangement because there is always the possibility that such a (5) ___ of trust will backfire drastically. In the late 1990s.
for example, some of the world's leading dealers were (6) ___ in by confidence tricksters. A bogus count asked to view some
pieces in situ in various lavishly (7) ___ apartments he owned. The generous hospitality he offered the dealers hoodwinked
them into leaving the works of art with him on extended loan. Both the count and the works of art (8) ___ disappeared without
trace.
0. A handing B paying C giving D passing
1. A reasonable B understandable C acceptable D conceivable
2. A bore B fatigue C tire D loathe
3. A put down B leave off C offer up D make over
4. A accept B enter C agree D engage
5. A matter B gesture C motion D token
6. A ripped B fooled C taken D tricked
7. A appointed B realised C arranged D organised
8. A imminently B punctually C accordingly D promptly
Improving athletics teaching in schools
The Elevating Athletics Fund is an (0) ___ sponsored by AVIVA, a major UK financial institution. It aims to ensure that all
children have a positive first experience of athletics, and hopes to make participation in a range of sports both attractive and
rewarding to all children. The fund was launched against the (1) ___ of research that revealed that 52 percent of teachers felt
inadequately prepared to teach basic athletics skills. The (2) ___ on which the work of the fund is based is that the fundamental
skills of athletics (3) ___ running, jumping and throwing, (4) ___ a good performance in many other sports and so should be
taught as enabling skills before a child goes on to sport-specific training. The fund is designed to make an (5) ___ at grassroots
level and so was set up with a (6) ___ to providing practical training and support for every single sports teacher in the UK. In
doing so, it hopes to raise the (7) ___ of athletics teaching in schools, and thereby bring sporting success within the (8) ___ of a
much wider cross-section of the population.
0. A initiative B exercise C operation D association
1. A backdrop B upshot C outcome D downside
2. A essence B reason C premise D substance
3. A exactly B namely C precisely D clearly
4. A underpin B subsidise C uphold D forecast
5. A influence B result C effect D impact
6. A mind B view C goal D wish
7. A prestige B image C profile D standing
8. A scope B range C reach D dream
How a small company grows
Although Gecko Headgear is a company that now (0) ___ in the design and manufacture of marine safety helmets, the
company started out making surfboards. Feeling a need to (1) ___ their product offering, they identified a (2) ___ in the niche
watersports market, for an innovative heat-retaining helmet. The idea soon (3) ___ a winner amongst surfers, but wanting to
expand its customer (4) ___ the company approached other potential users, including the Royal National Lifeboat Institution
(RNLI), quite a bold (5) ___ for a small company. The RNLI wanted its own version of the helmet, but Gecko found working with
such a big organisation a whole new ballgame. The RNLI helmet had to be adapted, tested and certified before it could go on
the market, so there was a need to (6) ___ investment capital by means of a bank loan. This paid off in the long run, however,
as the RNLI helmet was a big success. And since then, Gecko haven't (7) ___ on their laurels, as ten subsequent versions of
the helmet have been further refined in (8) ___ with customer feedback.
0. A specialises B concentrates C focuses D targets
1. A multiply B variegate C diversify D heighten
2. A space B gap C blank D hole
3. A resulted B showed C achieved D proved
4. A base B foundation C structure D net
5. A stroke B turn C move D bid
6. A earn B gain C build D raise
7. A rested B stayed C reclined D stuck
8. A accord B line C response D theme
The International Space Station
If you look to the heavens between sunset and moonrise in London, the brightest object you're likely to see will be a white
spark racing the wrong (0) ___ across the sky from west to east. (1) ___ it's not cloudy, the International Space Station (ISS),
humanity's toehold on the edge of the vast reaches of the cosmos, is easier to spot with the (2) ___ eye than Venus. Unlike the
cramped Apollo capsules, the ISS is like an artificial island in space: its 14 modules have more elbow (3) ___ than a typical
family house. Together with its 20 solar panels, it could (4) ___ the length of a football pitch. Since the year 2000. nearly two
hundred astronauts and mission specialists from 15 countries have (5) ___ the ISS home. Its success is encouraging since it
emerged as a compromise when the USA. Russia. Europe and Japan found they could not afford separate space stations, and
supporters love to (6) ___ it up as an example of international co-operation. But it has not been without its technical (7) ___ the
final components only being put into place in 2008, eight years (8) ___ schedule.
0. A way B orientation C direction D route
1. A Understanding B Assuming C Allowing D Supposing
2. A bare B single C naked D normal
3. A space B range C room D scope
4. A expand B spread C reach D stretch
5. A known B regarded C referred D called
6. A make B put C hold D stand
7. A hitches B catches C hindrances D checks
8. A outside B behind C beyond D without
A ‘GRAND’ RETURN TO STANDUP COMEDY
Comedians Pete Barnes and Dave Reid are (0) ___ into the spotlight once more. After a twelve-year (1) ___ in TV sitcoms, the
comic duo are (2) ___ up to appear live at the Grand Theatre. Leeds, on 15th August. ‘We’re delighted to be returning to the
stage after such a long lime and it seems fitting to be (3) ___ our comeback at the venue where we gave our debut
performance,’ says Dave. ‘We’ve (4) ___ a long way since then, and have added some great new material to our (5) ___ in
preparation for going on tour in the autumn.’
The duo will be performing alongside other big names in a one-off gala performance which aims to (6) ___ money for charity.
Pete and Dave have gone viral with a promotional sketch, to give people a taste of what to expect in the show. Look out for
Pete and Dave: The Traffic Warden’ on all the major networking sites. At least one member of the Royal family is (7) ___ to be
attending the show, which is bound to (8) ___ further interest. So, to be sure of a seat, buy your tickets early!
0. A stepping B tapping C slipping D popping
1. A stint B shift C turn D go
2. A lined B planned C booked D laid
3. A breaking B doing C holding D making
4. A reached B come C gained D got
5. A role B act C play D turn
6. A gather B attract C raise D achieve
7. A gossiped B suggested C alleged D rumoured
8. A enhance B induce C generate D initiate
The origins of dance therapy
Dance therapy gained professional (0) ___ during the 1940s It was the inspiration of Marian Chace, who began teaching dance
after her own dancing career (1) ___ to an end in 1930 She noticed that some of her students were more (2) ___ in the
emotions they experienced while dancing than in technique. Intrigued by this, Chace encouraged them to explore this aspect,
and (3) ___ developing classes that emphasized (4) ___ of expression through music (5) ___, local doctors started sending her
patients, including anti-social children and people with mobility problems. Later, Chace joined the staff at St Elizabeth's
Hospital, where she worked with emotionally troubled patients, some of whom were suffering from (6) ___ stress disorders.
Success for these patients meant being able to move rhythmically in (7) ___ with others in their class. Chace went on to study
Psychiatry, and the fact that the first dance therapy interns began learning and teaching dance therapy in the 1950s is (8) ___
to her tireless dedication.
0. A standing B status C level D mode
1. A got B reached C came D arrived
2. A absorbed B captivated C preoccupied D enthralled
3. A made off B set about C took up D turned over
4. A licence B freedom C openness D liberty
5. A Eventually B Frequently C Specifically D Effectively
6. A harsh B oppressive C austere D severe
7. Asymmetry B balance C unison D relation
8. A evidence B witness C proof D testimony
The JOY of words
Cressida Cowell is the author of the (0) ___ praised How To Train Your Dragon series of children’s books. She spent her own
childhood holidays on a remote island, where she was left very much to her own (1) ___. As a result, she became an avid
reader, entertaining herself with books and developing a fervent imagination. She even (2) ___ up her own secret languages.
Cowell believes that today's children still have a real ear for language, even though their attention (3) ___ may not be as great
as in her day, (4) ___ them less tolerant of long descriptive passages in stories. Her books are outlandish and exciting, with
vivid imagery, cliffhangers and eye catching illustrations. Dragons seem to (5) ___ to children of all nationalities, who also seem
to (6) ___ with her protagonist, Hiccup, quite easily. Hiccup’s a boy who battles his way through life’s problems, often against
the (7) ___.
Cowell is currently planning an illustrated book for teenagers. In her own words, she enjoys breaking the (8) ___ and finds that
kids are open-minded enough to accept this.
0. A widely B deeply C greatly D entirely
1. A entertainments B pastimes C hobbies D devices
2. A created B dreamt C imagined D invented
3. A period B time C span D length
4. A meaning B resulting C making D causing
5. A appeal B engage C entice D attract
6. A respond B warm C relate D identify
7. A odds B hardships C downsides D worries
8. A barrier B mould C boundary D limit
Lifestyle design
The term ‘lifestyle design' has been (0) ___ quite recently. It describes a way of radically re-evaluating lifestyle choices by
encouraging a (1) ___ away from the idea that a person's job will by (2) ___ determine where they live. Advocates of the idea
argue that the (3) ___ of laptops and WiFi has enabled certain types of people to (4) ___ free from the nine-to-five mould and
arrange their working timetable around family life. They gain, for example, the chance to get involved in activities they would (5)
___ miss out on because they were at work. The end result is a greatly enhanced quality of life for the whole family.
A group known as ‘location-independent professionals’, or LIPs have taken the concept a step further. Digital nomads, with no
(6) ___ abode, they travel to distant places, combining work with other life experiences. Work is conducted from internet cafes,
hotel rooms or camper vans (7) ___ with regular runs along the beach or sightseeing outings. An idyllic life, it would seem, but
perhaps less (8) ___ to raising a family.
0. A coined B made C given D born
1. A shift B change C route D swap
2. A compulsion B requirement C obligation D necessity
3. A onset B advent C release D upshot
4. A become B escape C break D emerge
5. A meanwhile B otherwise C instead D thereby
6. A definite B known C certain D fixed
7. A interspersed B interwoven C intersected D interrupted
8. A persuasive B incentive C conducive D supportive
The Tarahumara diet
Running (0) ___ naturally to a Tarahumara These fascinating people live in a remote region of northwest Mexico, an area
totally (1) ___ to normal means of transport. Even horses have difficulty (2) ___ parts of the unforgiving rocky terrain. As a
result, the Tarahumara (3) ___ to running as a way of getting around, sometimes covering distances of up to eighty miles a day
How do they do it? Studies suggest that alongside the physical conditioning, (4) ___ by their lifestyle, diet plays an important
role. The Tarahumara diet (5) ___ largely of complex carbohydrates, and is almost meat-free They generally rely on
cooperative agriculture to feed the community as a whole. Pinole, a powder made of toasted corn, is the staple food, along with
squash, beans and chilli. Fish and all wild plants growing nearby also (6) ___ prominently in their diet Indeed, the fact that the
Tarahumara experience a low incidence of blood pressure and heart problems (7) ___ weight to the argument that their diet is
perfectly in (8) ___ with their particular lifestyle
0. A comes B works C seems D gains
1. A inhospitable B unapproachable C inaccessible D unattainable
2. A negotiating B overcoming C embarking D undertaking
3. A opt B resort C rely D employ
4. A ordered B elicited C requested D induced
5. A contains B consumes C composes D consists
6. A feature B appear C occur D reveal
7. A provides B lends C gains D delivers
8. A adjustment B compatibility C harmony D consensus

Symphony Hall Set to Break Records

World-renowned Macklesville Symphony Hall is set for a record $15 million redevelopment amidst complaints from community
groups. The existing symphony hall was constructed only twenty years ago and at a (1) ___ of the cost of the new proposals.
However, the council has passed the new plans (2) ___ that the initiative to build a new hall will not only see a growth of
interest in classical music and the arts in general, especially from younger audiences, but also serve as a recognition (3) ___
what is now the second-best orchestra in the country.
However, complaints have arisen because of a lack of (4) ___ regarding the plans. Local groups feel like their views have fallen
on deaf ears and have even called this a (5) ___ misuse of public funds that cannot be justified in the current economic climate.
In response, the council has insisted that a large proportion of the money for the new hall comes from private (6) ___, although
they declined to state exact amounts. Further to this, the council sees its contribution as an investment towards the
regeneration of the inner city, as well as an (7) ___ part of their 'Vision for Macklesville’ ten-year plan. Despite these (8) ___,
there is no stopping the plans, with building work commencing in the start of October and continuing until next spring.
1. A fragment B proportion C fraction D breadth
2. A pleading B implying C referring D citing
3. A for B to C with D in
4. A conjecture B contention C controversy D consultation
5. A laudable B flagrant C shrouded D chronic
6. A delegates B brokers C subscribers D donors
7. A operative B indispensable C applicable D effectual
8. A commotions B brawls C disputes D contrasts
 The Benefits of Nostalgia
The other day, over coffee, my friend Angela confided her concerns about becoming overly nostalgic for her past. She’d never
struck me as a (1) ___ person, so I was naturally concerned. I decided to mention a fascinating video I’d watched online about
the subject. Apparently, doctors used to have the misguided (2) ___ that nostalgia was a mental illness. However, in the last
couple of decades psychologists have (3) ___ doubt on this. They’ve realised that it's actually a (4) ___ effective form of self-
treatment in times of anxiety or isolation. In the video, a psychologist described how people derive (5) ___ from reliving
pleasant past experiences. This is because the process releases positive chemicals in the brain that help build motivation for
the future.
So, equipped with my newfound facts, I launched into the conversation hoping to make Angela feel less miserable. She started
nodding enthusiastically, saying this explanation really (6) ___ the nail on the head. Her working environment had become
quite stressful, mainly due to some issues with the company's finances, and it was really beginning to take (7) ___ toll on her.
This was causing the nostalgic feelings, and the result was that she’d lost (8) ___ of the bigger picture of her life. Anyway, she
promised to watch the video herself and I hope it benefits her, too.
1. A bland B sentimental C pathetic D longing
2. A belief B conclusion C deduction D intuition
3. A cast B dropped C thrown D shed
4. A realistically B conclusively C remarkably D unanimously
5. A relief B comfort C caution D freedom
6. A tapped B struck C chopped D hit
7. A its B some Ca D all
8. A standard B sight C perspective D outlook
The Real Count of Monte Cristo?
Many people are familiar with the classic Alexander Dumas novel, The Count of Monte Cristo. The book tells the story of a man
who escapes after being falsely imprisoned and (1) ___ his sights on taking revenge on those who wronged him. However,
there has been much debate on whether the tale was purely a work of fiction or whether it had some (2) ___ of truth to it. Some
claim it was French geologist Deodat de Dolomieu, a cellmate of Dumas’ father for a brief period, who (3) ___ rise to the
famous tale of revenge. However, a far more convincing candidate for Dumas’ inspiration is a French shoemaker, Pierre
Picaud, who was wrongfully accused of being a spy by three of his friends, and, as a result, was (4) ___ and sentenced to
seven years in jail. After serving his time and receiving the inheritance of a fellow prisoner in a neighbouring cell, Picaud
returned to France under a false name and with great riches, bearing little resemblance to the (5) ___ shoemaker he once was.
He took the law (6) ___ his own hands in order to get revenge on his three friends, one of (7) ___ had married Picaud's fiancé.
He (8) ___ his old so-called friends and successfully exacted his revenge on all three, not unlike the plot of Dumas’ novel.
While the story seems incredible, it is truly evident that truth is stranger than fiction.
1. A takes B sets C trains D poses
2. A suspicion B component C wedge D element
3. A gave B took C brought D offered
4. A condemned B testified C pleaded D convicted
5. A scruffy B humble C mediocre D quaint
6. A upon B before C into D by
7. A which B who C them D whom
8. A tracked down B clung to C tipped off D went by
Thailand’s floating markets
For those of you yet to experience the wonders of the floating markets of Thailand, I can tell you that you’re in for a spectacular
(1) ___. Visits to these markets are made on a traditional narrow boat and, as you approach, your senses will be overwhelmed.
The sights, sounds and smells are amazing, and a (2) ___ display of produce is on offer. Floating markets were originally
constructed as a means to an (3) ___.
This was so that traders, keen to avoid the bustling streets of Bangkok, could easily transport their goods on the city's
waterways. Before long, these slender canals expanded to other cities around the country. Nowadays, these colourful markets
attract vast quantities of tourists and are a (4) ___ element of local economies. Getting the most out of your market trip involves
real commitment. The Damnoen Saduak market, for instance, gets very crowded, so (5) ___ an early start and aim to arrive no
later than 7am. Booking an organised tour is the most convenient thing to do, but bear (6) ___ mind that you should factor in
travelling time of about an hour. This could mean getting up at dawn. Also, tourists are expected to make at least one purchase
while at the market. This doesn’t necessarily mean (7) ___ out on expensive produce, but these markets are how many people
earn a living, so act like a responsible tourist and make a point (8) ___ buying something.
1. A satisfaction B comfort C treat D relief
2. A profound B quaint C dazzling D muddled
3. A end B action C odds D use
4. A paramount B structural C supporting D fundamental
5. A do B make C have D take
6. A in B on C at D to
7. A splashing B struggling C succumbing D straining
8. A for B of C from D over
Too hot to handle
“The spicier the better," a friend of mine boasted before he (1) ___ sweat through the inferno of a curry before him, drinking
copious amounts of water to, doubtlessly, numb the pain. We were out for a (2) ___ to eat at a local Indian restaurant, where,
for some bewildering reason, a ritual of ‘manliness’ has arisen amongst my (3) ___ of friends. That is, the amount of spice that
you can withstand is directly connected to the amount of manliness you embody.
To be quite frank, I wasn’t (4) ___ with any tolerance of spice. Even the most mildly spiced foods get me coughing and
spluttering, and desperately reaching for my water. I’d always taken this kind of boasting with a pinch of salt, assuming that the
ability to handle spice is (5) ___ and that I was powerless to counteract it. Yet, apparently, a tolerance to spice is something
that can be learned. This is why many people from India and Mexico seem to be able to consume much spicier foods than
those from, say, Scotland can. It’s simply (6) ___ to the fact that chilies are an integral part of their diet since childhood, hence
they become desensitised to the heat. Unfortunately for me, there was a profound lack of them in my Scottish diet growing up.
In (7) ___, I like to be able to taste all the flavours in my food, not just experience a burning sensation, so I suppose I had better
(8) ___ myself out of any more macho competitions!
1. A battled from B proceeded to C advanced through D suffered with
2. A mouth B fare C meal D bite
3. A circle B turn C crew D square
4. A endowed B constrained C embodied D replenished
5. A receptive B immune C innate D eccentric
6. A up B down C round D over
7. A retrospect B the clear C good taste D all honesty
8. A cast B number C rule D figure
Texting while driving: latest update
The local police are aiming to crack (1) ___ on mobile phone use in cars after twenty accidents this year have happened as a
result of texting and calling while driving. Until last year, (2) ___ was vague and the police have been (3) ___ towards drivers
who ignore the rules. Yet, after such a considerable rise in accidents that demonstrate a clear connection to careless driving,
police are now determined to take action. Anyone caught using their mobile phone will have (4) ___ pressed against them,
irrespective of the circumstances.
This comes (5) ___ complaints from local residents about dangerous driving, especially since the recent introduction of the new
one-way system through the city centre. The system was designed to (6) ___ congestion.
However, at a recent council meeting with representatives from local residents’ groups in attendance, people claim that, despite
the reduction in traffic jams, the Widmark Road area has become an accident black spot. They said that the new measures
have seen a rise in complacency in drivers, hence the mobile phone use. These residents’ groups have put the blame (7) ___
on the council and have requested urgent changes. They claim that, up until now the council and local police have (8) ___ their
backs on the problems, preferring instead to address less important issues such as parking fines. Let’s hope the crackdown
makes a difference.
1. A down B on C against D for
2. A ruling B instruction C formation D legislation
3. A lenient B unwilling C useless D appreciative
4. A complaints B forces C charges D laws
5. A prior to B amid C throughout D along
6. A handle B erode C favour D ease
7. A profoundly B squarely C invariably D merely
8. A turned B given C put D set
Making a habit stick
If only we had a penny for every time we’ve heard someone declare, “I’ve started a new exercise (1) ___ or "I’m cutting out junk
food," only to (2) ___ in the towel within weeks, we’d probably be millionaires. But, in all honestly, forming a new habit is no
mean (3) ___, in spite of the fact that our entire lives are permeated by daily habits. However, many scientists assert that the
reason our efforts to change are often in vain is simply because we’re going about it all wrong.
According to the experts, the most effective way to embark on a new habit, and stick to it, is to (4) ___ it into existing routines,
and in small steps rather than sweeping changes. If you set unrealistic expectations, then you won’t, in all (5) ___, sustain
them. So, for example, don't set about training for a marathon if you generally have trouble peeling yourself off the sofa. Your
best bet is to take (6) ___ steps, like doing some walking on-the-spot while waiting for the kettle to boil for your morning tea -
and this has the additional benefit of fitting in with an already formed habit - tea drinking! This will make it easier for you to be
(7) ___ which is the key to forming habits, as automation will take the place of willpower, and you’ll simply start going through
(8) ___ of your new habit subconsciously.
1. A reign B regime C drill D mandate
2. A relax B chip C throw D give
3. A deed B feat C coup D quest
4. A incorporate B initiate C infiltrate D imitate
5. A confidence B perspective C retrospect D probability
6. A discernible B favourable C incremental D arbitrary
7. A consistent B perpetual C ardent D persistent
8. A the roof B the motions C the waves D the flow
The rise of podcasts
Back in the early 2000s, when podcasting first took off, investors didn't believe that it would be that (1) ___ a form of
entertainment compared to what already existed in the market. How wrong they were! A quick online search for podcasts
nowadays will reveal an industry that is still going (2) ___ and which generates vast profits. There are around 2,000 episodes
released each week, covering a range of topics that would (3) ___ anyone’s mind in terms of its diversity. So, it’s clear that
podcasting is (4) ___ and very much here to stay.
The (5) ___ of podcasts lies in two key areas. Firstly, they are largely inexpensive to produce, and, secondly, vary little
technical expertise is required to get started. And these factors mean that they are able to (6) ___ audiences in a way that more
traditional forms of entertainment cannot. That’s not to say that all podcasts have small, like-minded groups of listeners - in fact,
far from it. According to recent research (7) ___ by a consulting company, the most popular podcasts can attract well over a
million listeners. However, professionals working in the podcast industry have issued a word of caution for those about to jump
(8) ___ the bandwagon: Analyse what's on offer at the moment. Then, ensure that what you offer is unique enough to appeal to
potential listeners scrolling through countless options on their smartphones.
1. A tangible B supplementary C accountable D lucrative
2. A strong B fast C forward D ahead
3. A rush B split C alarm D blow
4. A assertive B thriving C comparative D fertile
5. A grace B beauty C mercy D dignity
6. A signal B sympathise C target D imply
7. A addressed B conducted C urged D instructed
8. A on B to C in D with

The original child star

Child stars have had a bittersweet relationship with Hollywood. They often, through all the fame and glory, paint a sad picture of
a young life dominated by (1) ___ parents and a troubled childhood, and this stereotype is not without foundation. There have
been many children who have been thrust into the limelight and subsequently have (2) ___ foul of fame because their light has
faded too soon or the demands of being a star were too much to take.
One child actor who escaped this rather (3) ___ fate was Shirley Temple, who, back in the 1930s, was (4) ___ as the greatest
child actor of all time, and was a surefire box-office hit. However, despite being one of the most successful stars of the 1930s,
by the time she was a teenager she was all but (5) ___ up, making films that never recaptured the popularity of her earlier
work. To (6) ___ this off, her father had managed (or rather mismanaged) her, and she found herself with only $44 thousand of
the $3 million she had made from her childhood hits. Despite being unable to (7) ___ to becoming a successful adult actor, she
wouldn't be (8) ___ off, and overcame the end of her film stardom by embracing a completely different career as a politician
and US ambassador, although she apparently claimed that success in both careers came down to being a good actor!
1. A pushy B dubious C superficial D shrewd
2. A sunk B landed C stumbled D fallen
3. A bleak B flawed C dingy D pathetic
4. A cherished B saluted C hailed D glorified
5. A wiped B dried C burnt D washed
6. A lead B top C head D peak
7. A transition B transcend C transplant D transpose
8. A passed B written C called D faced
A Race to Space
Before getting married, I was really adventurous, travelling to all sorts of faraway destinations, but, despite my exotic trips, I’ve
always (1) ___ to go into space, the final frontier. Obviously, I am aware that this is a pipe dream - at $100,000 the proposed
flights are completely beyond my budget. And I’m unlikely to ever find myself with the financial means for such an
extravagance, (2) ___ a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
So, when I heard a news announcement for volunteers for a Mars project, I was beside myself with excitement, and, rather (3)
___ brought the subject up with my wife. Well, on reflection I ought to have (4) ___ the idea to myself. I’d expected her to be
reluctant for me to join a space programme because of the rigorous training required, but her reaction was totally unpredictable.
Rather than being fearful for my safety, she burst (5) ___ laughter at the thought of my application being taken seriously by the
Space Agency. “Darling,” she said. “I’ve got to (6) ___ it to you, your optimism is remarkable. As a somewhat overweight 50-
year-old marketing manager, I’m not convinced your profile matches the essential requirements of an astronaut."
Ignoring her negative attitude, I decided to submit my application without mentioning anything more about it because she'll be
(7) ___ the wiser if I don’t get a response. However, it won’t be a laughing (8) ___ if I get accepted!
1. A dared B minded C longed D raised
2. A albeit B regardless C scarcely D thereafter
3. A intrepidly B unavoidably C conclusively D wholeheartedly
4. A saved B held C kept D placed
5. A out of B into C onto D upon
6. A turn B pass C grant D hand
7. A any B none C least D enough
8. A matter B sense C affair D concern

The bicycle
The 'safety bicycle’ of the late 19th century (1) ___ a much closer resemblance to a modern bike than its predecessors. The
'Penny Farthing’, which gained its name due to its giant front, wheel, its rather tiny rear wheel, and their comparative sizes
being similar to the penny and farthing coins in the UK at the time, was for all (2) ___ and purposes a vehicle designed for
racing. A bravo rider would (3) ___ at the top of the 150cm-high front wheel.
This device had in turn (4) ___ Pierre Lallemont’s ‘Velocipede’, a vehicle that featured a rotary crank mechanism to turn the
wheels, according to his American patent in 1866. However, it still lacked a chain drive and a ‘true’ gearing system, and, rather
worryingly, any kind of brake.
(5) ___ the Penny Farthing had been ridden almost exclusively by daring young men, the safety bike could be used by anyone
and quite a scandal was (6) ___ up by one newspaper around the time of the bike's commercial launch when it reported on
young women riding the bikes, unchaperoned, around the city of New York. What is more - these trailblazing ladies had also
dared to wear trousers - a (7) ___ outrage in some parts of society. In fact, Susan B. Antony, a 19th-century women’s activist,
claimed that bicycling had done more to emancipate women than any one thing in the world. The bicycle has continued to be
an understated symbol of innovation and evolution, if nothing else (8) ___ the way to ease of movement for many, and in an
undoubtedly environmentally friendly way.
1. A takes B gives C bears D makes
2. A intends B intents C insights D intakes
3. A clamber B perch C climb D swing
4. A superseded B circumvented C overcome D overhauled
5. A However B Whereas C Whenever D Since
6. A stirred B twisted C mixed D shaken
7. A doubtless B veritable C factual D genuine
8. A beginning B starting C opening D launching
Power naps
The siesta has long been a characteristic of Spanish life. A short sleep in the middle of the day seems an (1) ___ concept, an
impossible luxury. Lately though, the expression ‘power nap' has become common in an International Anglo-Saxon word (2)
___ to describe, fundamentally, the same thing. Siestas, though, seem to be the territory of the relaxed Hispanics, long, sleepy
afternoons and even longer evenings. Power-naps, as the name might (3) ___ are the terrain of Silicon Valley execs, eager
students and go- getters. So what (4) ___ a siesta or power nap? It is generally agreed this must last between 10 and 25
minutes – any more and you might enter (5) ___ sleep, which is much more difficult to awake from quickly).
When it comes to power-naps there is no need to sleep in a bed, or even in a horizontal position. One might have one in the
busiest of situations - subway trains or an office - and they can take place at any time. Try it for yourself and you'll be amazed
by just how much it (6) ___ you up!
Siestas, on the other hand, usually take place after a (7) ___ lunch, in a bed or sofa, or the likes, and preferably in a cool, dark
environment. Everyone has their own favourite way of catching 40 (8) ___ and the fact is that power-nap practitioners report
feeling less tired and improved awareness as a result
1. A unconvincing B implausible C imported D inconclusive
2. A pool B puddle C bank D pot
3. A surmise B deduce C entail D imply
4. A constitutes B does C appoints D ordains
5. A profound B immersed C acute D deep
6. A hits B pulls C perks D lifts
7. A solid B hearty C strong D robust
8. A blinks B winks C minutes D instants
Plastic problems
Environmentalists are (1) ___ with governments across the length and (2) ___ of the planet to introduce legislation that will (3)
___ the huge amount to plastic used by us as a society - eight- million tonnes of which is disposed of every year in landfill sites
and the oceans without being recycled. The planet is literally being poisoned and suffocated by the human race. Some plastics
take thousands of years to (4) ___. Recently, birds' eggs in The Arctic have been found to contain plastic micro fibres, showing
(5) ___ that the material has entered the food chain of the planet’s inhabitants, with no telling of the long-term consequences.
(6) ___ action is required at a global governmental level. Consumers are being discouraged from using single-use plastics
through taxation on things like plastic bags. However, it is at an industrial level that the attractiveness of plastic as a cheap and
convenient means of packaging needs to be (7) ___. (8) ___ a sea change in attitudes and actions, we are surely heading for a
catastrophic environmental situation in the very near future, even if it is one that could be said to have a slow burn.
1. A beseeching B pleading C begging D imploring
2. A width B breadth C depth D height
3. A combat B counteract C hinder D resist
4. A break off B break up C break down D break out
5. A definitely B surety C conclusively D rightly
6. A Resolute B Harsh C Decisive D Definitive
7. A sent B addressed C directed D pitched
8. A Notwithstanding B Albeit C Nevertheless D Regarding
Hypertext Markup Language (HTML)
A derivative of SGML (Standard Generalized Markup Language), HTML, which (1) ___ Hypertext Markup Language was
originally developed in the early 1990s at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) laboratories, Switzerland,
by Tim Berners-Lee. the person (2) ___ with creating the internet.
Put simply, it brought the coding of content to the internet by defining the information structure of web pages, (3) ___ creating
the World Wide Web. Yet, unlike SGML, HTML is (4) ___ more with formatting than structure. In fact, HTML is just one
application of SGML containing comparatively fewer tags that are recognisable by all web browsers. By (5) ___ 'hypertext' links
within its structure, HTML includes a referential feature, (6) ___ the reader to move between HTML files, images, and other
multimedia programmes across the net.
A reason why (7) ___ markup such as HTML is necessary for presenting content in web pages is that the content must be
device-independent. For example, variables like line breaks and font size are ultimately (8) ___ by the width of a browser's
window or the viewing device's screen.
1. A stands for B sits for C appears for D answers for
2. A credited B invented C ascribed D recognised
3. A basically B ultimately C finally D conclusively
4. A concerned B concentrated C interested D affiliated
5. A entwining B embedding C ingraining D encompassing
6. A empowering B enabling C implementing D licensing
7. A correction B generic C mixed D collective
8 A decided B arbitrated C resolved D determined
Recording music at home
The release and (1) ___ Number 1 smash hit ‘Your Woman’ by one- man-band ‘White Town’ in 1997 undeniably proved that
you could actually write, record, release and achieve success as a musical (2) ___ industry. Using an 8-track recording device,
Jyoti Mishra recorded the song in his (3) ___ room in Derby, England. He played it to his girlfriend, who encouraged him to do
something with it. He could only afford to have five copies made, however, and so he sent one of them to Radio One, which
soon started playing it, and the song became the most requested track of the week. As a direct consequence, he (4) ___ a deal
with EMI. When it was released, it shot to Number 1 in the charts. Mishra (5) ___ refused to appear in a video or on British TV
to promote it, yet it sold 165,000 copies during the first week. Since the (6) ___ of powerful home computers, home recording of
music has become a very popular hobby for musical enthusiasts, as well as an outlet for (7) ___ producers. No longer are
expensive recording studios the only option for prospective music producers. (8) ___ a well-equipped home studio, a few
instruments and a whole lot of time, talent and energy are what you need if you want to write the next big hit!
1. A following B posterior C consecutive D subsequent
2. A cottage B bungalow C farm D house
3. A extra B spare C back up D empty
4. A landed B took off C pitched D hooked
5. A completely B point-blank C utterly D surely
6. A advent B evolution C revolution D formulation
7. A budding B developing C blooming D possible
8. A Furthermore B Nonetheless C Rather D Nevertheless
Doctor Who
Doctor Who is (1) ___ regarded as one of the UK's most successful TV shows. It ran from 1963 until 1989, then returned to
great (2) ___ in 2005. The Doctor is an adventurer who (3) ___ from his home planet with a stolen time machine. One (4) ___
of the show is that the Doctor regenerates instead of dying, giving the BBC a chance to change actor every few years. There
have now been thirteen Doctors. One of the show's iconic (5) ___ is the TARDIS, the Doctor’s time machine, which has two
oddities. First, it is bigger on the inside than it is on the outside. Second, it resembles an early 1960s police telephone box. (6)
___, they had made a dull blue box a national treasure. The Doctor’s most famous foes are the Daleks, evil pepper-pot shaped
robots whose battle-cry 'EX-TERMINATE!' is widely (7) ___ by school-children at playtime. The show’s continuing high ratings
means the BBC is (3) ___ to exterminate the Doctor any time soon.
1. A broadly B strongly C widely D highly
2. A acclaim B kudos C honour D commendation
3. A deserted B absconded C hightailed D broke
4. A strange B oddity C peculiarity D distinction
5. A characteristics B features C aspects D attributes
6. A Unwittingly B Erroneously C Meaninglessly D Thoughtlessly
7. A mimicked B mimed C made D fabricated
8. A improbable B unlikely C irresponsible D disliking
Clever Crows - the most intelligent birds?
Crows have yet again (1) ___ scientists with their remarkable problem-solving skills. A group of New Caledonian crows was
presented with a problem in which food was placed in a passageway too narrow for their beaks to access. However, four out of
eight birds (2) ___ put together two short sticks located nearby to make a longer fishing rod-type device to enable them to
reach the food. In the wild, crows have been known to also use leaves, rocks and even their own feathers to (3) ___ otherwise
impossible tasks. They even craft and use hooks to (4) ___ insects. How intelligence evolves was studied in one cleverly-
designed experiment when birds were (5) ___ to use a kind of vending machine to (6) ___ rewards. By studying the birds’
cognitive abilities, the researchers hope that their (7) ___ could help the development of Artificial Intelligence (Al) technology.
Presented with these tasks, (8) ___ anything crows would come upon in nature, scientists showed how the birds adapted their
own instinctual behaviour to complete the fabricated tests.
1. A confounded B fazed C perturbed D distracted
2. A freely B unconsciously C spontaneously D willingly
3.A facilitate B alleviate C abridge D promote
4. A arrest B corral C snare D seduce
5. A propelled B caused C induced D prompted
6. A accomplish B gain C reap D glean
7. A findings B acquisitions C attainments D fallout
8. A different B contrary C unlike D distinct
Producing and printing books
Book production at Cambridge University Press, the world’s oldest publisher and longest continual printer, has evolved with the
industry, adapting at its (1) ___ to successive technological shifts throughout a four-hundred- year manufacturing (2) ___.
Perhaps surprisingly, given such a (3) ___ period of time, there have been just two major changes to the process by which text
is prepared (4) ___ to being mechanically printed to paper.
Johannes Gutenburg's publishing innovation of 1450, by which the setting of individual characters of metal type in devices
called ‘braces' or ‘matrices' (5) ___ for the first time the (6) ___ of printed sheets of text, and remained until the second half of
the nineteenth century the fundamental production standard. The introduction of phototypesetting in the 1950s and the
increasing popularity (7) ___ the publishing industry of printing by offset lithography saw an end to almost half a millennium of
letterpress typesetting as the (8) ___ service offered by Cambridge University Press.
1. A forethought B forerunner C forefront D foremost
2. A legacy B estate C leftover D inheritance
3. A profound B vast C far-reaching D gigantic
4. A before B anterior C former D prior
5. A enabled B empowered C permitted D ensured
6. A discovery B introduction C evolution D proliferation
7. A across B over C under D upon
8. A fundamental B primary C underlying D elementary