Directions: Read the text and choose the correct answer to each question.

The Football Game

Tom and Kevin love playing football. Every Friday, they go to the park with their friends to play a game. Last Friday was a special day because it was the last day of school before the summer holidays. They decided to have a football match to celebrate.

Tom's team wore blue shirts, and Kevin's team wore red shirts. The game started at 4 o'clock in the afternoon. Tom's team scored the first goal, but Kevin's team quickly tied the score. It was a close game, and both teams played well.

In the end, the game ended in a draw, with each team scoring two goals. They all cheered and clapped for each other. Tom and Kevin were glad because they had a great time playing football with their friends.

Directions: Read the text and choose the correct answer to each question.

A Day at the Beach

Last Saturday, Sahara went to the beach with her family. They arrived early in the morning to find a good spot. The sun was shining, and the weather was perfect. Sahara and her brother, Haitham, built a big sandcastle near the water. They used buckets and shovels to make it strong.

After that, they swam in the sea. The water was cool and refreshing. They played with a beach ball and had a lot of fun. Sahara's parents relaxed on the sand and read books. They brought a picnic lunch with sandwiches, fruit, and juice.

In the afternoon, Sahara and Haitham collected seashells. They found many beautiful shells in different colours and shapes. They put them in a bag to take home.

At the end of the day, they watched the sunset. The sky turned orange and pink, and it was very beautiful. They all agreed it was a perfect day at the beach.

Directions: Read the text and choose the correct answer to each question.

Media

John likes to stay informed about what is happening in the world. Every morning, he reads the newspaper. He enjoys reading about sports, weather, and local news. In the evening, John watches TV. His favourite TV shows are documentaries and news programs. John thinks it is important to know what is going on in the world, so he watches the news every day. Sometimes, John also listens to the radio when he is driving to work. He likes listening to podcasts and talk shows. John believes that the media helps people understand the world better..

Directions: Read the texts and choose the correct answer to each question.

1. The Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon Rainforest is often referred to as the "lungs of the Earth" because it produces a significant amount of the world's oxygen. Covering over 5.5 million square kilometres, it is home to an incredible diversity of species. However, the rainforest is under threat due to deforestation. Large areas are being cleared for agriculture, logging, and other purposes, which poses a serious risk to the environment.

Directions: Read the texts and choose the correct answer to each question.

2. Social Media

Social media has revolutionised the way people communicate and interact. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have made it easier to stay in touch with friends and family, share news, and even organise events. However, there are also concerns about privacy and the impact on mental health. Spending too much time on social media can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression.

Directions: Read the texts and choose the correct answer to each question.

3. The New Kid at School

Liam moved to a new town just before the start of his junior year of high school. He felt nervous about meeting new people and starting at a new school. On his first day, he walked into the cafeteria and looked around. The room was filled with groups of students talking and laughing. Liam felt like an outsider.

He decided to sit alone at a table in the corner. After a few minutes, a boy named Elias noticed him. Elias walked over with a smile and asked if he wanted to join him and his friends. Liam was relieved and agreed. Elias introduced him to his group, and they were all very welcoming.

Throughout the week, Liam got to know his new classmates better. He joined a study group with Elias and his friends, and he started to feel more comfortable at school. By the end of the month, Liam felt like he belonged. He was grateful to Elias for his kindness and for helping him find his place in the new school.

Directions: Read the texts and choose the correct answer to each question.

1. Internet Access

Despite the rapid advancements in technology, many rural areas still lack reliable internet access. This digital divide creates significant disadvantages for those living in these regions, affecting their ability to access information, complete online education, and compete in the job market. Efforts to bridge this gap have included governmental initiatives, private sector investments, and community-driven solutions. However, challenges such as high costs, difficult terrain, and low population density continue to hinder progress. While there are success stories of communities that have managed to build robust internet infrastructures, many still struggle with limited connectivity. As technology continues to evolve, it remains crucial to address these disparities to ensure equal opportunities for all.

Directions: Read the texts and choose the correct answer to each question.

2. The Importance of Sleep

In our fast-paced modern world, sleep often takes a back seat to other priorities. However, research increasingly shows that sleep is crucial for maintaining both physical and mental health. A consistent lack of sleep can lead to serious health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and a weakened immune system. Additionally, sleep is vital for cognitive processes such as memorisation and learning.

One study conducted by the National Sleep Foundation found that individuals who do not get enough sleep are more likely to experience mood swings, depression, and anxiety. Moreover, sleep deprivation can affect judgment and decision-making skills, which can have significant consequences in both our personal and professional lives.

Despite these findings, many people continue to sacrifice sleep in favour of other activities. The proliferation of digital devices has only exacerbated this issue, as the blue light emitted by screens can interfere with the natural sleep-wake cycle. Experts recommend establishing a regular sleep schedule and creating a restful environment to promote better sleep habits.

In conclusion, prioritizing sleep is essential for overall well-being. By understanding the importance of sleep and taking steps to improve sleep habits, individuals can enhance their health and quality of life.

Directions: Read the texts and choose the correct answer to each question.

3. A New Opportunity

Jason had always been passionate about football. At 17, he was known as one of the top players on his school team in Manchester. His dream was to earn a scholarship to play at a prestigious university. He trained every day after school and spent his weekends at the local football club to hone his skills.

One day, Jason’s father, who worked as a builder, came home with unexpected news. His company was offering him a chance to lead a major project in a city three hours away—Bristol. The job was a fantastic opportunity, but it meant that Jason’s family would need to move from Manchester.

When Jason’s parents shared the news, they hoped he would be excited about the new possibilities. Instead, Jason felt worried. Leaving his school, his football team, and his friends behind was daunting.

“I’m not sure about this, Dad,” Jason said, frowning. “What if I can’t find another football team in Bristol? What if the new school is too different from my current one?”

His father understood his concerns. “I know it’s a big change, Jason. But new experiences can open up new opportunities. You’re a talented player. I’m sure you’ll find a way to keep playing and maybe even discover new strengths.”

Over the following days, Jason began to imagine life in Bristol. He spoke to his football coach, his teammates, and even reached out to local football clubs in Bristol. He received encouraging responses and learned that the city had several well-regarded teams with strong youth programs.

On the last evening before the move, Jason had a heart-to-heart conversation with his younger sister, Emily, who was only 12. She had always looked up to him and admired his dedication to football.

“Jason, I think you should give Bristol a chance,” Emily said thoughtfully. “You love football, and this could be a great opportunity to play in new leagues and meet new people.”

Emily’s perspective helped Jason see the move in a new light. He realized he had been clinging to the familiar out of fear, rather than embracing the potential for growth and new experiences.

The next morning, Jason told his parents, “I’m ready for the move. I think Bristol could be a fantastic chance for me to develop both on and off the pitch.”

The transition was challenging, but Jason quickly found a new football team and adapted to his new school. He made new friends who shared his passion for the sport and enjoyed exploring his new city. Most importantly, Jason learned that sometimes, stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to rewarding and exciting experiences.

Directions: Read the texts and choose the correct answer to each question.

1. The English Language

The history of the English language is a tale of constant evolution, marked by the influences of numerous other languages. From the Norman Conquest, which introduced a plethora of French vocabulary, to the Renaissance, which saw an influx of Latin and Greek terms, English has continually adapted and expanded. This linguistic adaptability has enabled English to become the global lingua franca, capable of absorbing and integrating elements from diverse cultures.

Directions: Read the texts and choose the correct answer to each question.

2. The Importance of Cultural Heritage

Cultural heritage encompasses the legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society inherited from past generations. It includes buildings, monuments, landscapes, books, works of art, and artifacts. It also includes traditions, languages, and knowledge that are passed down through generations. Cultural heritage is a crucial component of a community's identity, contributing to a sense of belonging and continuity.

Preserving cultural heritage is not just about maintaining historical artifacts; it also involves safeguarding the cultural practices and expressions that define a community. This preservation ensures that future generations can experience and learn from the past, fostering an appreciation for their history and culture.

However, cultural heritage faces numerous threats, including urban development, natural disasters, and neglect. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the need to protect cultural heritage through both local and global initiatives. Organizations such as UNESCO have been instrumental in promoting the preservation of cultural sites and traditions worldwide.

Ultimately, the conservation of cultural heritage is a shared responsibility that requires the collaboration of governments, communities, and individuals. By valuing and protecting our cultural heritage, we can maintain the diversity and richness of human experience for future generations.

Directions: Read the texts and choose the correct answer to each question.

2. The Final Challenge

Ethan had always been an overachiever. At 18, he was in his final year at a prestigious boarding school in Surrey, where he excelled in both academics and sports. He was the captain of the rugby team, president of the debating society, and top of his class in nearly every subject. Everyone expected great things from Ethan, including himself.

However, as his final exams approached, Ethan began to feel an unfamiliar pressure. The weight of expectations—his parents’, his teachers’, and his own—was becoming overwhelming. His sleep was restless, and during the day, he found it hard to focus, a sharp contrast to his usual sharpness and determination.

One evening, after an intense rugby practice, Ethan’s coach, Mr. Harris, pulled him aside. “Ethan, you’ve been off your game lately,” Mr. Harris said, his voice filled with concern. “What’s going on?”

Ethan hesitated before answering. “I don’t know, Coach. It’s just... everything feels like it’s too much. The exams, the university applications, the pressure to perform. I’m trying, but I feel like I’m losing control.”

Mr. Harris nodded, his expression softening. “You know, Ethan, it’s okay to feel this way. The important thing is not to bottle it up. Sometimes, taking a step back and gaining perspective can help.”

That night, Ethan couldn’t stop thinking about his coach’s words. He had always been the one to push through difficulties without complaint, but now, he felt as though he was standing on the edge of a cliff, and one wrong step could send him over.

The next day, Ethan decided to take Mr. Harris’s advice. He took a break from his rigorous schedule and spent the weekend at home with his family. For the first time in months, he allowed himself to relax—no studying, no rugby, no responsibilities.

During a walk in the nearby woods, Ethan’s father, a successful lawyer who had always been a source of inspiration for Ethan, noticed the change in his son. “You seem more at ease today, Ethan,” his father said as they strolled along the wooded path.

Ethan took a deep breath, feeling the fresh air fill his lungs. “I’ve been struggling, Dad. The pressure of everything is getting to me, and I’m not sure how to handle it.”

His father stopped and turned to face him. “Ethan, I’ve always admired your drive and determination, but you need to remember that life isn’t just about achievements. It’s about balance. You don’t have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders.”

Those words struck a chord with Ethan. He realized that he had been so focused on succeeding that he had forgotten to take care of himself. The weekend spent with his family gave him the clarity he needed to face his challenges with a new perspective.

When Ethan returned to school, he felt different. The pressure was still there, but it no longer felt insurmountable. He restructured his study schedule, allowing time for breaks and relaxation, and he sought support from his friends and teachers rather than trying to manage everything on his own.

In the end, Ethan performed exceptionally well in his exams and received offers from several top universities. But more importantly, he learned that success is not just about reaching goals; it’s also about knowing when to step back and take care of your mental and emotional well-being.