An original Thinka practice paper modelled on the structure and difficulty of the May 2023 SL IB Diploma Programme Language ab initio paper. Not affiliated with or reproduced from IB.
Paper 1 Section A: Writing
Complete one task of 70 to 150 words. Use an appropriate text type and demonstrate accurate register and tone.
1 PastPaper.question · 15 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · Productive Writing
15 PastPaper.marks
You have just started a new part-time job on the weekends. Write an email to a friend describing your new job, explaining what your responsibilities are, and sharing how you feel about this experience so far.
Write 70 to 150 words. Choose an appropriate text type, register, and tone.
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
Sample Response (Email format):
Subject: My new part-time job!
Dear Sam,
I hope you are doing well. I want to tell you some exciting news! Last weekend, I started a new part-time job at a local café called 'The Daily Grind'.
I work every Saturday and Sunday from 9 AM to 2 PM. My main responsibilities are welcoming customers, taking orders, and serving cakes and coffee. Sometimes, I also help clean the tables.
So far, I am really enjoying this experience! The manager is very friendly, and my colleagues are extremely helpful. Even though my feet are quite tired at the end of the day, I am very happy to earn some of my own money.
What about you? Let's meet up soon!
Best wishes, Alex
(Word count: 122 words)
PastPaper.markingScheme
This task is assessed out of 15 marks using the following criteria:
### Criterion A: Language (6 marks) - **5-6 marks**: Vocabulary is appropriate and varied. Grammatical structures are basic but accurate and some complex structures are attempted. Register and tone are appropriate for an email to a friend. - **3-4 marks**: Vocabulary is generally appropriate but limited. Basic structures are mostly accurate but errors may occur. - **1-2 marks**: Command of language is limited. Vocabulary is highly restricted, and grammatical errors significantly hinder communication.
### Criterion B: Message (6 marks) - **5-6 marks**: The message is fully developed. The candidate successfully describes the job, outlines responsibilities, and shares their personal feelings. Ideas are logically organized. - **3-4 marks**: The message is partially developed. One or two points of the prompt may be underdeveloped or missing. - **1-2 marks**: The task is poorly addressed. The response lacks clarity and fails to address most of the required elements.
### Criterion C: Conceptual Understanding (3 marks) - **3 marks**: The student chooses the correct text type (email) and maintains an appropriate informal register and warm tone throughout. - **2 marks**: The text type is generally recognizable, but there are minor inconsistencies in register or tone. - **1 mark**: The choice of text type is inappropriate or the register is highly inconsistent.
Paper 1 Section B: Writing
Complete one task of 70 to 150 words. Use an appropriate text type and demonstrate accurate register and tone.
1 PastPaper.question · 15 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · Productive Writing
15 PastPaper.marks
Your school is launching a green campaign to protect the environment. Write a text to encourage your classmates to participate. In your text, you must: 1. Explain why protecting the environment is important. 2. Suggest at least two simple daily actions they can do at school. 3. Invite them to a planning meeting next week. Choose the most appropriate text type from the three options below: [Email to a friend, Blog post, Official report]. Write between 70 and 150 words.
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
Text Type Chosen: Blog post. Sample Response: 'Title: Go Green, School! Hey everyone! Our school is starting a new green campaign, and we need your help! Our planet is facing big environmental challenges, and protecting nature starts with us. Here are two easy things we can do every day at school: First, always use the correct recycling bins in the corridors for paper and plastic. Second, bring a reusable water bottle instead of buying single-use plastic cups. Let's talk about more ideas together! Come to our first campaign planning meeting next Tuesday at 3:30 PM in Room 102. See you there, Alex.' (96 words)
PastPaper.markingScheme
The task is assessed out of 15 marks using the official IB Language ab initio writing criteria: Criterion A: Language (6 marks) - Assess vocabulary, grammatical structures, and overall language accuracy. Criterion B: Message (6 marks) - Assess how clearly and fully the three required prompts are addressed: 2 marks for explaining why environmental protection is important; 2 marks for suggesting two specific daily actions; 2 marks for inviting classmates to next week's meeting. Criterion C: Conceptual understanding (3 marks) - Assess text type conventions and register. 'Blog post' is the most appropriate choice. An informal/peer-to-peer register is required. The text should feature a catchy title, direct address to readers, and a concluding sign-off.
Paper 2 Section A: Text A Reading
Read the text and answer questions 1 to 11 using short answers, sentence completion, and multiple-choice options.
12 PastPaper.question · 15 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · short answer
1 PastPaper.marks
Text: Every year in July, the town of Willow Creek hosts the annual Sunflower Festival. Visitors can buy local crafts, listen to traditional folk music, and participate in the pie-baking contest. Question: According to the text, what can visitors do at the festival besides buying crafts and listening to music?
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The text states that visitors can buy local crafts, listen to traditional folk music, and "participate in the pie-baking contest".
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award [1 mark] for "participate in the pie-baking contest" or "take part in the pie contest". Do not accept "buy crafts" or "listen to music".
PastPaper.question 2 · short answer
1 PastPaper.marks
Text: To prepare for the Winter Light Parade, volunteers spent three weeks stringing over ten thousand biodegradable LED bulbs along Main Street. Question: How long did the volunteers take to set up the lights for the parade?
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
According to the passage, the volunteers spent "three weeks" stringing the LED bulbs.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award [1 mark] for "three weeks" or "3 weeks". Reject other numbers such as "ten thousand".
PastPaper.question 3 · short answer
1 PastPaper.marks
Text: At Nexa Solutions, all new recruits must undergo a two-week safety training program before they are allowed to access the main laboratory. Question: What must new employees complete before entering the main laboratory?
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The passage mentions that all new recruits must undergo a "two-week safety training program" before they are allowed access.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award [1 mark] for "safety training program" or "safety training". Accept "two-week safety training".
PastPaper.question 4 · short answer
1 PastPaper.marks
Text: Mr. Davis announced that starting next Monday, the weekly staff meeting will be moved from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM to accommodate part-time employees. Question: Why was the weekly staff meeting rescheduled to the afternoon?
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The text specifies that the meeting time was changed "to accommodate part-time employees".
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award [1 mark] for "to accommodate part-time employees" or "for part-time staff". Reject "starting next Monday".
PastPaper.question 5 · short answer
1 PastPaper.marks
Text: While traditional dishes often rely on heavy cream, modern chefs in Paris are substituting almond milk to create lighter, healthier sauces. Question: What ingredient are modern Parisian chefs using to replace heavy cream?
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The passage notes that modern chefs are "substituting almond milk" instead of traditional heavy cream.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award [1 mark] for "almond milk". Reject "heavy cream".
PastPaper.question 6 · short answer
1 PastPaper.marks
Text: Greenwood Academy has introduced a new digital portfolio system, allowing students to upload their art projects directly for teacher feedback. Question: Which subjects' projects can students upload directly to the new digital portfolio system?
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The text states that the system allows students to upload "their art projects" directly.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award [1 mark] for "art" or "art projects". Reject general answers like "projects" without "art".
PastPaper.question 7 · short answer
1 PastPaper.marks
Text: Clara and her grandmother, Maria, maintain their close bond despite the distance by writing hand-written letters to each other every Sunday. Question: How often do Clara and Maria write letters to each other?
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The text specifies that Clara and Maria write letters "every Sunday" to maintain their bond.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award [1 mark] for "every Sunday" or "once a week on Sundays". Reject "on Sunday" (without every/weekly) or "frequently".
PastPaper.question 8 · short answer
1 PastPaper.marks
Text: During their eco-holiday in Costa Rica, the Taylor family avoided luxury resorts and chose to stay in small, locally-owned cabins in the rainforest. Question: Where did the Taylor family stay during their holiday in Costa Rica?
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The text states that they "chose to stay in small, locally-owned cabins in the rainforest" instead of luxury resorts.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award [1 mark] for "small, locally-owned cabins" or "cabins in the rainforest". Reject "luxury resorts".
PastPaper.question 9 · Short Answer
1 PastPaper.marks
Based on the text, what specific item must students bring to school in order to receive a free piece of fruit during 'Healthy Eating Week'?
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The text states that to encourage both environmental sustainability and healthy habits, the canteen rewards students who bring their own 'reusable water bottle' with a free piece of fruit.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award [1 mark] for: 'reusable water bottle' or 'reusable bottle'.
Accept: 'water bottle' / 'a reusable bottle'.
Reject: 'bottle' (on its own, as it is too vague) or 'fruit' (as this is the reward, not the item brought).
PastPaper.question 10 · multiple_choice
4 PastPaper.marks
Read the text below and answer the question. Text: In Spain, lunch (la comida) is the main meal of the day, usually eaten between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Many shops close during this time as people return home to eat with their families. A traditional Spanish lunch consists of three courses: a light starter (like salad or soup), a main dish (often fish or meat with potatoes), and a dessert (fruit or a sweet custard called flan), followed by espresso. This practice reflects the cultural value placed on family connection and slow, mindful eating rather than rushed convenience. Question: Based on the text, which of the following best describes the main purpose of the traditional Spanish lunch routine?
A.To encourage fast food consumption before returning to work quickly.
B.To foster family relationships and enjoy food without rushing.
C.To replace breakfast as the only major meal of the day.
D.To promote international cuisine in local Spanish households.
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The correct answer is B. The text explicitly states that this practice reflects 'the cultural value placed on family connection and slow, mindful eating rather than rushed convenience,' which directly corresponds to fostering family relationships and enjoying food without rushing. Other options contradict the text or are not mentioned.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award [4] marks for selecting the correct answer (b). Award [0] marks for any other option selected.
PastPaper.question 11 · multiple_choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the following text: 'The Sun Festival is celebrated every year in June to welcome the summer. People wear bright yellow and orange clothing and gather in the town square. Traditional music is played using drums and flutes, while families share a large meal of grilled corn and fresh fruits. The highlight of the festival is the evening parade, where children carry lanterns shaped like the sun to symbolize light and warmth.' According to the text, what do the lanterns carried by the children symbolize?
A.The arrival of traditional musicians
B.Light and warmth
C.Bright yellow and orange clothing
D.Grilled corn and fresh fruitsShared by families
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The text explicitly mentions that children carry lanterns shaped like the sun to 'symbolize light and warmth'. This corresponds to option B.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting option b. Award 0 marks for any other option selected.
PastPaper.question 12 · multiple_choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the following text: 'The Sun Festival is celebrated every year in June to welcome the summer. People wear bright yellow and orange clothing and gather in the town square. Traditional music is played using drums and flutes, while families share a large meal of grilled corn and fresh fruits. The highlight of the festival is the evening parade, where children carry lanterns shaped like the sun to symbolize light and warmth.' According to the text, what do the lanterns carried by the children symbolize?
A.The arrival of traditional musicians
B.Light and warmth
C.Bright yellow and orange clothing
D.Grilled corn and fresh fruits
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The text explicitly mentions that children carry lanterns shaped like the sun to 'symbolize light and warmth'. This corresponds to option B.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting option b. Award 0 marks for any other option selected.
Paper 2 Section B: Text B Reading
Read the text and answer questions 12 to 23 using heading/question matching, synonym identification, and multiple-choice options.
12 PastPaper.question · 12 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · Matching Gaps
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the text below and answer the question.
**The Mid-Autumn Festival** The Mid-Autumn Festival is a wonderful traditional celebration in East Asia. Here is how people celebrate it:
**Gap [12]** This special day occurs on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, when the moon is at its brightest and fullest. It is a time for family members to gather together, express gratitude for the harvest, and pray for good health and future happiness.
**Gap [13]** No celebration is complete without mooncakes! These round pastries are typically filled with sweet red bean or lotus seed paste, symbolizing completeness and family unity. Families also enjoy fresh autumn fruits like pomelos and pears.
**Gap [14]** As night falls, the streets light up. Children carry colourful, glowing paper lanterns shaped like animals or traditional shapes. Families sit outside in gardens or parks to appreciate the beautiful full moon together while drinking tea.
**List of Options:** A. Delicious festive treats B. The history and meaning of the day C. Evening activities and lanterns D. How to make a paper lantern E. Travelling during the winter holidays
Identify which option (A-E) matches **Gap [12]**.
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
Gap [12] introduces the date of the festival (15th day of the 8th lunar month), its purpose (family gathering and gratitude), and its spiritual significance (praying for good health). This aligns perfectly with Option B: 'The history and meaning of the day'.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct letter option B. Do not accept any other letters or descriptive text.
PastPaper.question 2 · Matching Gaps
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the text below and answer the question.
**The Mid-Autumn Festival** The Mid-Autumn Festival is a wonderful traditional celebration in East Asia. Here is how people celebrate it:
**Gap [12]** This special day occurs on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, when the moon is at its brightest and fullest. It is a time for family members to gather together, express gratitude for the harvest, and pray for good health and future happiness.
**Gap [13]** No celebration is complete without mooncakes! These round pastries are typically filled with sweet red bean or lotus seed paste, symbolizing completeness and family unity. Families also enjoy fresh autumn fruits like pomelos and pears.
**Gap [14]** As night falls, the streets light up. Children carry colourful, glowing paper lanterns shaped like animals or traditional shapes. Families sit outside in gardens or parks to appreciate the beautiful full moon together while drinking tea.
**List of Options:** A. Delicious festive treats B. The history and meaning of the day C. Evening activities and lanterns D. How to make a paper lantern E. Travelling during the winter holidays
Identify which option (A-E) matches **Gap [13]**.
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
Gap [13] focuses entirely on the food associated with the festival, specifically mentioning mooncakes, round pastries, sweet fillings, and autumn fruits. This corresponds to Option A: 'Delicious festive treats'.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct letter option A. Do not accept any other letters or descriptive text.
PastPaper.question 3 · Matching Gaps
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the text below and answer the question.
**The Mid-Autumn Festival** The Mid-Autumn Festival is a wonderful traditional celebration in East Asia. Here is how people celebrate it:
**Gap [12]** This special day occurs on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, when the moon is at its brightest and fullest. It is a time for family members to gather together, express gratitude for the harvest, and pray for good health and future happiness.
**Gap [13]** No celebration is complete without mooncakes! These round pastries are typically filled with sweet red bean or lotus seed paste, symbolizing completeness and family unity. Families also enjoy fresh autumn fruits like pomelos and pears.
**Gap [14]** As night falls, the streets light up. Children carry colourful, glowing paper lanterns shaped like animals or traditional shapes. Families sit outside in gardens or parks to appreciate the beautiful full moon together while drinking tea.
**List of Options:** A. Delicious festive treats B. The history and meaning of the day C. Evening activities and lanterns D. How to make a paper lantern E. Travelling during the winter holidays
Identify which option (A-E) matches **Gap [14]**.
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
Gap [14] describes what occurs as night falls, including children carrying paper lanterns and families sitting outside to view the full moon. This perfectly fits Option C: 'Evening activities and lanterns'.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct letter option C. Do not accept any other letters or descriptive text.
PastPaper.question 4 · Vocabulary Identification
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the following excerpt from Text B Paragraph 1 and find the word that means 'having the freedom or authority to make decisions independently': 'Many modern employers are offering remote work options, which gives employees much more autonomy in managing their daily schedules and balancing work with family life.'
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The word 'autonomy' corresponds to the definition provided, signifying independence in decision-making and scheduling.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the exact word 'autonomy'. Do not accept variations or partial spellings.
PastPaper.question 5 · Vocabulary Identification
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the following excerpt from Text B Paragraph 2 and find the word that means 'causing harm or damage': 'To improve physical well-being and sleep quality, specialists recommend avoiding screens before bed because blue light can be detrimental to your natural circadian rhythm.'
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The word 'detrimental' means causing harm or damage, fitting the context of blue light affecting sleep patterns.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the exact word 'detrimental'. Do not accept other words from the text.
PastPaper.question 6 · Vocabulary Identification
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the following excerpt from Text B Paragraph 3 and find the adjective that means 'completely clean, fresh, or in its original pure state': 'Many eco-tourists choose to visit pristine environments, which remain completely untouched by human industrialization and are preserved in their natural state.'
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The adjective 'pristine' is used in the text to describe environments that are clean, pure, and untouched.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the exact adjective 'pristine'. Do not accept nouns or other words.
PastPaper.question 7 · Vocabulary Identification
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the following excerpt from Text B Paragraph 4 and find the word that means 'specially made or customized for a particular user or purpose': 'The academy decided to design a bespoke curriculum, customized specifically to meet the unique learning needs and career goals of each individual student.'
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The word 'bespoke' is defined as custom-made or tailored to a particular user's specific requirements.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct word 'bespoke'. Do not accept 'customized' since it is the definition context.
PastPaper.question 8 · Vocabulary Identification
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the following excerpt from Text B Paragraph 5 and find the verb that means 'to provide with the food or other substances necessary for growth, health, and good condition': 'Eating a balanced diet rich in organic whole foods is crucial to nourish your body with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.'
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The verb 'nourish' means to provide the necessary substances for health and growth, which matches the context of eating whole foods.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the exact verb 'nourish'. Do not accept 'eating' or 'balanced'.
PastPaper.question 9 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the following text and answer the question:
'Last summer, instead of my usual trip to the sunny beaches of Spain, I decided to visit the Swiss Alps. While the coast offers great relaxation, I wanted to challenge myself with hiking and avoid the overcrowded seaside resorts during peak season.'
Based on the text, why did the author choose to visit the Swiss Alps instead of the beach?
A.They wanted to avoid crowds and seek a physical challenge.
B.They could not find any affordable flights to Spain.
C.They prefer cold weather over sunny beaches.
D.Their friends convinced them to try hiking.
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The author explicitly states they wanted to "challenge myself with hiking" (a physical challenge) and "avoid the overcrowded seaside resorts" (avoiding crowds). Option A matches both of these motivations.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer: A. Award 0 marks for any other response.
PastPaper.question 10 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the following text and answer the question:
'This term, our school is launching the "Language Buddy" initiative. Under this scheme, senior students who are fluent in a second language will meet once a week with junior students to practice conversation in an informal setting, helping them build confidence before their oral exams.'
What is the primary objective of the "Language Buddy" initiative?
A.To grade junior students on their oral skills.
B.To help junior students practice speaking and gain confidence.
C.To train senior students to become professional teachers.
D.To replace formal language lessons during the week.
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The text states that the initiative aims to help junior students "practice conversation in an informal setting, helping them build confidence." This directly aligns with Option B.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer: B. Award 0 marks for any other response.
PastPaper.question 11 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the following text and answer the question:
'Maintaining physical well-being in the digital age can be difficult. Experts suggest following the "20-20-20" rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This simple habit significantly reduces screen-induced fatigue and protects your eyesight.'
According to the text, what does the '20-20-20' rule require a person to do?
A.Take a 20-minute walk outside after every hour of screen time.
B.Look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
C.Close your eyes completely for 20 seconds twenty times a day.
D.Drink 20 ounces of water every 20 minutes while working.
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The text defines the rule as: "every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away." This corresponds exactly to Option B.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer: B. Award 0 marks for any other response.
PastPaper.question 12 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the following text and answer the question:
'As part of our commitment to work-life balance, starting next month, employees may work remotely on Fridays. However, to ensure smooth coordination, anyone wishing to do so must submit their weekly task schedule to their supervisor by Wednesday afternoon.'
What is required of employees who wish to work remotely on Fridays?
A.They must obtain written permission from the company director.
B.They have to work extra hours on Thursday evening.
C.They must submit their weekly task schedule by Wednesday afternoon.
D.They need to attend an online meeting on Friday morning.
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The text states that anyone wishing to work remotely on Fridays "must submit their weekly task schedule to their supervisor by Wednesday afternoon." This perfectly matches Option C.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer: C. Award 0 marks for any other response.
Paper 2 Section C: Text C Reading
Read the text and answer questions 24 to 37 using True/False with justification, pronoun reference, and cloze matching.
14 PastPaper.question · 14 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · True or False with justification
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the text below and answer the question that follows.
**Working from Home** Many companies now offer remote work. Sarah, a graphic designer, started working from home last year. At first, she found it difficult to separate her professional and personal life because her desk was in her bedroom. However, she recently rented a small co-working space down the street. Now, she walks there every morning at 8:30 AM, which helps her maintain a healthy routine. She says, "I love the flexibility of choosing my own hours, but having a physical separation between home and work is essential for my mental health." Although her company pays for her internet connection, Sarah has to cover the rent for the co-working space herself. Still, she believes it is worth every penny because her productivity has increased by fifty percent.
Based on the text above, determine whether the following statement is **True** or **False** and justify your answer using a direct quote from the text.
**Statement:** Sarah has always found it easy to separate her job from her personal life.
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The correct answer is **FALSE**.
**Justification from the text:** "At first, she found it difficult to separate her professional and personal life"
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark only if both the True/False choice and the justification are correct. - Acceptable justification: "At first, she found it difficult to separate her professional and personal life" (or a clearly matching exact quotation). - Do not award partial marks.
PastPaper.question 2 · True or False with justification
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the text below and answer the question that follows.
**Working from Home** Many companies now offer remote work. Sarah, a graphic designer, started working from home last year. At first, she found it difficult to separate her professional and personal life because her desk was in her bedroom. However, she recently rented a small co-working space down the street. Now, she walks there every morning at 8:30 AM, which helps her maintain a healthy routine. She says, "I love the flexibility of choosing my own hours, but having a physical separation between home and work is essential for my mental health." Although her company pays for her internet connection, Sarah has to cover the rent for the co-working space herself. Still, she believes it is worth every penny because her productivity has increased by fifty percent.
Based on the text above, determine whether the following statement is **True** or **False** and justify your answer using a direct quote from the text.
**Statement:** Sarah uses a vehicle to get to her co-working space every morning.
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The correct answer is **FALSE**.
**Justification from the text:** "she walks there every morning"
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark only if both the True/False choice and the justification are correct. - Acceptable justification: "she walks there every morning" (or "Now, she walks there every morning at 8:30 AM"). - Do not award partial marks.
PastPaper.question 3 · True or False with justification
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the text below and answer the question that follows.
**Working from Home** Many companies now offer remote work. Sarah, a graphic designer, started working from home last year. At first, she found it difficult to separate her professional and personal life because her desk was in her bedroom. However, she recently rented a small co-working space down the street. Now, she walks there every morning at 8:30 AM, which helps her maintain a healthy routine. She says, "I love the flexibility of choosing my own hours, but having a physical separation between home and work is essential for my mental health." Although her company pays for her internet connection, Sarah has to cover the rent for the co-working space herself. Still, she believes it is worth every penny because her productivity has increased by fifty percent.
Based on the text above, determine whether the following statement is **True** or **False** and justify your answer using a direct quote from the text.
**Statement:** Sarah's employer pays for the cost of renting her co-working space.
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The correct answer is **FALSE**.
**Justification from the text:** "Sarah has to cover the rent for the co-working space herself"
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark only if both the True/False choice and the justification are correct. - Acceptable justification: "Sarah has to cover the rent for the co-working space herself" (or "Although her company pays for her internet connection, Sarah has to cover the rent for the co-working space herself"). - Do not award partial marks.
PastPaper.question 4 · True or False with justification
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the text below and answer the question that follows.
**Working from Home** Many companies now offer remote work. Sarah, a graphic designer, started working from home last year. At first, she found it difficult to separate her professional and personal life because her desk was in her bedroom. However, she recently rented a small co-working space down the street. Now, she walks there every morning at 8:30 AM, which helps her maintain a healthy routine. She says, "I love the flexibility of choosing my own hours, but having a physical separation between home and work is essential for my mental health." Although her company pays for her internet connection, Sarah has to cover the rent for the co-working space herself. Still, she believes it is worth every penny because her productivity has increased by fifty percent.
Based on the text above, determine whether the following statement is **True** or **False** and justify your answer using a direct quote from the text.
**Statement:** Sarah's productivity has improved since she started using the co-working space.
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The correct answer is **TRUE**.
**Justification from the text:** "her productivity has increased by fifty percent"
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark only if both the True/False choice and the justification are correct. - Acceptable justification: "her productivity has increased by fifty percent" (or "she believes it is worth every penny because her productivity has increased by fifty percent"). - Do not award partial marks.
PastPaper.question 5 · multiple_choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Based on the text, why was Sophie's autumn visit to her grandparents particularly special this year?
A.She visited the countryside during her favorite season, autumn.
B.She decided to leave her busy life in the city permanently.
C.Her brother Lucas joined her after they had not met for two years.
D.Her grandparents traveled to the city to surprise her ... See more Details ..
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The text states that 'her brother Lucas also joined, which made the reunion even more special because they hadn't seen each other in two years.' This directly supports option C.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting the correct option C. Award 0 marks for any other option or no response.
PastPaper.question 6 · multiple_choice
1 PastPaper.marks
According to the text, which interns are placed in the creative department?
A.Interns who have previous work experience in digital media.
B.Interns who possess a background in design.
C.Interns who are interested in managing real client projects.
D.All interns who join the marketing firm's program.
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The text states that 'those with a background in design are placed in the creative department to assist with visual branding.' This matches option B.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting the correct option B. Award 0 marks for any other option or no response.
PastPaper.question 7 · short_answer
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the following sentence: 'My manager, Mrs. Dupont, met with the new interns yesterday. She gave them a tour of the office and explained their daily responsibilities.' Based on the text, who or what does the pronoun 'them' refer to?
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The pronoun 'them' serves as the direct object of the verb 'gave'. Looking at the previous sentence, 'Mrs. Dupont' (the manager) met with 'the new interns'. Therefore, 'them' refers to the new interns.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for any of the following correct answers: 'the new interns', 'the interns', 'new interns'. Do not accept 'manager' or 'responsibilities'.
PastPaper.question 8 · short_answer
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the following sentence: 'The local market is famous for its organic, locally produced cheese. Many international tourists travel from far away to buy it.' Based on the text, who or what does the pronoun 'it' refer to?
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The pronoun 'it' is the object of the verb 'to buy'. In the first sentence, the organic, locally produced cheese is mentioned as the famous product of the local market. Therefore, 'it' refers to the cheese.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for any of the following correct answers: 'the cheese', 'cheese', 'organic cheese', 'locally produced cheese'. Do not accept 'the local market' or 'tourists'.
PastPaper.question 9 · short_answer
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the following sentence: 'The students wanted to organize a study group before the exams. They asked the chemistry teacher, Mr. Davies, if he could reserve a classroom.' Based on the text, who or what does the pronoun 'he' refer to?
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The pronoun 'he' is the subject of the clause 'could reserve a classroom'. The students asked Mr. Davies (the chemistry teacher) if he could do this. Therefore, 'he' refers to Mr. Davies.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for 'Mr. Davies', 'the chemistry teacher', or 'Davies'. Do not accept 'the students' or 'a study group'.
PastPaper.question 10 · short_answer
1 PastPaper.marks
Read the following sentence: 'During the Spring Festival, families gather to prepare traditional dumplings. They enjoy spending this special time together in the kitchen.' Based on the text, who or what does the pronoun 'They' refer to?
PastPaper.showAnswersPastPaper.hideAnswers
PastPaper.workedSolution
The pronoun 'They' is the subject of the verb 'enjoy'. The first sentence states that 'families' gather to prepare food. The second sentence continues by describing who enjoys spending this time together. Thus, 'They' refers to 'families'.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for 'families' or 'the families'. Do not accept 'dumplings' or 'Spring Festival'.
PastPaper.question 11 · Cloze Matching Gaps
1 PastPaper.marks
Based on the text below, choose the correct word from the list to fill in **[Gap 24]**.
**Text:** Last summer, I started my first internship at a local marketing agency. On my first day, my supervisor welcomed me and showed me my **[Gap 24]**. I had to learn how to use the company's communication **[Gap 25]** to talk with my colleagues. Every morning, we had a short **[Gap 26]** to discuss our daily tasks. By the end of the month, I gained valuable **[Gap 27]** that will help me in my future career.
The context describes an intern arriving on their first day of work. The supervisor welcomes them and shows them their physical workspace. 'Desk' is the only logical singular noun from the word list that represents a personal workstation or space shown to an employee upon arrival.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer 'desk' (accept 'Desk'). Award 0 marks for any other response.
PastPaper.question 12 · Cloze Matching Gaps
1 PastPaper.marks
Based on the text below, choose the correct word from the list to fill in **[Gap 25]**.
**Text:** Last summer, I started my first internship at a local marketing agency. On my first day, my supervisor welcomed me and showed me my **[Gap 24]**. I had to learn how to use the company's communication **[Gap 25]** to talk with my colleagues. Every morning, we had a short **[Gap 26]** to discuss our daily tasks. By the end of the month, I gained valuable **[Gap 27]** that will help me in my future career.
The text mentions a system used 'to talk with my colleagues'. In a modern workspace, digital communication tools (like Slack or Teams) are categorized as communication 'software'. Therefore, 'software' is the most suitable noun.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer 'software' (accept 'Software'). Award 0 marks for any other response.
PastPaper.question 13 · Cloze Matching Gaps
1 PastPaper.marks
Based on the text below, choose the correct word from the list to fill in **[Gap 26]**.
**Text:** Last summer, I started my first internship at a local marketing agency. On my first day, my supervisor welcomed me and showed me my **[Gap 24]**. I had to learn how to use the company's communication **[Gap 25]** to talk with my colleagues. Every morning, we had a short **[Gap 26]** to discuss our daily tasks. By the end of the month, I gained valuable **[Gap 27]** that will help me in my future career.
The sentence refers to a daily scheduled collaborative session: 'Every morning, we had a short [Gap 26] to discuss our daily tasks.' A workplace assembly held to assign and coordinate tasks is referred to as a 'meeting'.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer 'meeting' (accept 'Meeting'). Award 0 marks for any other response.
PastPaper.question 14 · Cloze Matching Gaps
1 PastPaper.marks
Based on the text below, choose the correct word from the list to fill in **[Gap 27]**.
**Text:** Last summer, I started my first internship at a local marketing agency. On my first day, my supervisor welcomed me and showed me my **[Gap 24]**. I had to learn how to use the company's communication **[Gap 25]** to talk with my colleagues. Every morning, we had a short **[Gap 26]** to discuss our daily tasks. By the end of the month, I gained valuable **[Gap 27]** that will help me in my future career.
The final sentence discusses the long-term benefit of the internship for the intern's career path. The standard phrase 'gained valuable experience' fits perfectly in this context, as internships are designed to provide practical working experience.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer 'experience' (accept 'Experience'). Award 0 marks for any other response.