An original Thinka practice paper modelled on the structure and difficulty of the May 2024 SL IB Diploma Programme Language ab initio paper. Not affiliated with or reproduced from IB.
Paper 1 Section A
Complete one task from a choice of three. Write 70 to 150 words using an appropriate text type.
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PastPaper.question 1 · Extended Response
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Your school has recently introduced a new mobile app to help students manage their homework and schedules. Write a text in which you: - Explain how the app works and its main features. - Describe how this app has changed your daily study routine. - Invite your cousin to share how they organize their homework. Choose the appropriate text type from the options below: - Email - Brochure - Official report. Write 70 to 150 words.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The correct text type to select is an Email, as the prompt specifies writing to a cousin. Here is a sample response within the word limit: 'Subject: Our new school app! Dear Sam, How are you? I want to tell you about a new mobile app that my school introduced last week. It is called MyStudyLife. On the app, we can see our daily schedule, homework deadlines, and exam dates in different colours. It is very easy to use! Before this app, I always forgot my homework. Now, I check my phone every afternoon and finish all my tasks on time. My daily routine is much more organized and I feel less stressed. How do you organize your school homework? Do you use an app too? Let me know soon! Best wishes, Alex' (113 words)
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The assessment is based on three criteria: Criterion A: Language (6 marks) - Evaluates the range and accuracy of vocabulary and grammatical structures. Vocabulary must be relevant to the topic of school and technology. Criterion B: Message (6 marks) - Evaluates how well and completely the three parts of the prompt are addressed. Deductions apply if any point is omitted or if the text is outside the 70-150 word limit. Criterion C: Conceptual understanding (3 marks) - Evaluates the choice of text type and register. The student must choose 'Email' and use appropriate conventions (subject line, informal opening/closing, friendly tone).
Paper 1 Section B
Complete one task from a choice of three. Write 70 to 150 words using an appropriate text type.
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PastPaper.question 1 · Extended Response
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You recently went on an eco-friendly holiday in the countryside. Write an email to a friend.
In your email, you should: - describe your holiday destination and activities, - explain why this holiday was eco-friendly, - invite your friend to join you on a similar trip in the future.
Write 70 to 150 words in English using an appropriate text type.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Subject: My eco-friendly holiday!
Dear Sam,
I hope you are well. Last week, I went on an amazing eco-friendly holiday to a small farm in the countryside.
I stayed in a wooden cabin and spent my days hiking in the forest and cycling around the lakes. The holiday was very eco-friendly because the cabin used solar power, and we ate fresh vegetables grown directly on the farm. We also recycled all our waste and did not use any cars during our stay.
It was a wonderful experience to connect with nature. You would love this place! Would you like to come with me next summer? Let me know what you think.
Best wishes, Alex
PastPaper.markingScheme
The assessment is based on the IB Language Ab Initio Paper 1 assessment criteria (Total 15 marks):
Criterion A: Language (6 marks) - 5-6 marks: Vocabulary is appropriate and varied. Grammatical structures are basic but mostly accurate. Spelling and punctuation are accurate. - 3-4 marks: Vocabulary is appropriate but limited. Basic grammatical structures are used with some errors that do not hinder communication. - 1-2 marks: Vocabulary is very limited. Frequent errors in grammar and spelling.
Criterion B: Message (6 marks) - 5-6 marks: All three aspects of the prompt are fully developed with relevant details (describing the destination/activities, explaining why it was eco-friendly, and inviting the friend). - 3-4 marks: The points are partially developed, or one point is omitted. - 1-2 marks: The response is brief, lacks development, or is mostly irrelevant.
Criterion C: Conceptual understanding (3 marks) - 3 marks: The student chooses the correct text type (email) and maintains an appropriate informal register. It includes essential conventions like a subject line, informal greeting, and sign-off. - 2 marks: The text type is recognizable but has some inconsistencies in register or conventions. - 1 mark: The text type is inappropriate or conventions are missing.
Paper 2 Reading Comprehension
Answer all questions based on the three accompanying texts in the text booklet.
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PastPaper.question 1 · Multiple Choice
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Based on the email from Pierre, what is his main complaint about his new smartphone?
*Pierre's email snippet:* "Dear Marc, I finally bought the brand-new smartphone we discussed. The screen resolution is absolutely stunning, and the camera takes incredibly sharp photos even at night. However, I am extremely disappointed by how often I have to charge it. It barely lasts half a day, which is very inconvenient when I am traveling."
A.The camera quality is poor.
B.The screen is too small.
C.The battery life is too short.
D.The price is too high.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
In the email snippet, Pierre explicitly notes: "However, I am extremely disappointed by how often I have to charge it. It barely lasts half a day..." This indicates that the battery life is too short.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting 'c'. Reject 'a', 'b', and 'd' as they are unsupported by the text.
PastPaper.question 2 · Multiple Choice
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According to the blog post about virtual reality (VR) in education, how do students feel about the new history VR app?
*Blog snippet:* "Our school recently introduced VR headsets in history classes. Instead of reading about ancient Rome, students can virtually walk through the Colosseum. Although some students reported initial dizziness, the vast majority found the experience highly engaging and felt it helped them understand historical scale much better than traditional textbooks."
A.They all felt unwell and preferred books.
B.They found it boring and difficult to use.
C.Most found it highly engaging and helpful.
D.They thought it was too expensive for the school.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text states that "the vast majority found the experience highly engaging and felt it helped them understand historical scale much better than traditional textbooks."
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting 'c'. Reject 'a', 'b', and 'd' as they are unsupported by the text.
PastPaper.question 3 · Multiple Choice
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Based on the school announcement, what is the primary purpose of the new 'Study Buddy' program?
*Announcement snippet:* "Starting next Monday, our school is launching the 'Study Buddy' initiative. This program pairs older students from Year 12 with Year 7 students who are struggling with transition and homework. The goal is not just to improve academic performance, but also to build a supportive community where younger students feel welcomed and guided."
A.To replace teacher-led homework clubs.
B.To help younger students transition and receive academic support from older peers.
C.To prepare Year 12 students for university entrance exams.
D.To organize competitive academic tournaments between different year groups.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The announcement states the program "pairs older students from Year 12 with Year 7 students who are struggling with transition and homework" to help them with transition, homework, and feeling welcomed.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting 'b'. Reject 'a', 'c', and 'd' as they are incorrect interpretations of the text.
PastPaper.question 4 · Multiple Choice
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According to the article about the new school curriculum, why are vocational courses being introduced?
*Article snippet:* "While traditional academic subjects remain core to our school's identity, next term we are introducing vocational options such as carpentry, basic coding, and culinary arts. This shift aims to provide students who prefer practical learning with hands-on skills that directly translate to immediate employment opportunities post-graduation."
A.To phase out traditional academic subjects entirely.
B.To offer hands-on skills for students who prefer practical learning.
C.To lower the cost of running the school.
D.To encourage all students to become professional chefs.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text explains that the shift "aims to provide students who prefer practical learning with hands-on skills that directly translate to immediate employment opportunities."
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting 'b'. Reject 'a', 'c', and 'd' as they are incorrect interpretations of the text.
PastPaper.question 5 · Multiple Choice
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Based on the travel brochure for the "Eco-Adventure in Costa Rica", what is unique about this tour?
*Brochure snippet:* "Unlike standard holiday packages that stay in large resort hotels, our Eco-Adventure stays exclusively in locally run eco-lodges. Guests will participate in forest restoration activities and enjoy meals prepared using only organic ingredients grown on-site, ensuring that your holiday actively supports the local community and environment."
A.It takes place in a large luxury resort.
B.It focuses on shopping in local city markets.
C.It uses eco-lodges and involves active environmental participation.
D.It is the cheapest holiday package available in South America.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text states that the tour "stays exclusively in locally run eco-lodges" and involves "forest restoration activities" that actively support the environment.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting 'c'. Reject 'a', 'b', and 'd' as they run contrary to the text.
PastPaper.question 6 · Multiple Choice
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Read the diary entry from Sarah's summer vacation in Kyoto. Why did she change her plans on Wednesday?
*Diary snippet:* "Wednesday was supposed to be our big hiking day up Mount Kurama. However, when we woke up, the sky was dark and a heavy downpour started. Instead of getting soaked on the mountain trail, we decided to visit the local textile museum and attend a traditional tea ceremony indoors. It turned out to be a wonderful cultural experience!"
A.She was too tired to go hiking.
B.The mountain trail was closed for maintenance.
C.It started raining heavily, so she chose indoor activities.
D.She forgot to book tickets for the hike in advance.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The diary entry notes that a "heavy downpour started" and instead of getting wet, they chose to do indoor activities like visiting a museum and attending a tea ceremony.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting 'c'. Reject 'a', 'b', and 'd' as they are not the reason mentioned for changing plans.
PastPaper.question 7 · Multiple Choice
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Based on the memorandum to all staff, what is the new policy regarding "flexible working hours"?
*Memo snippet:* "In our continuous effort to support work-life balance, the company is introducing a new core-hours policy. Employees may now start their workday anytime between 7:30 AM and 10:00 AM, provided they are present during the core hours of 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM and complete their mandatory 8 hours per day."
A.Employees can work whenever they want without any fixed hours.
B.Employees must work exactly from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day.
C.Employees can choose their start time between 7:30 AM and 10:00 AM but must be present during core hours.
D.Employees are required to work from home on weekends.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The policy allows employees to start anytime between 7:30 AM and 10:00 AM, but they must work the core hours (10:00 AM to 3:00 PM) and complete 8 hours in total.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting 'c'. Reject 'a', 'b', and 'd' as they misrepresent the policy rules outlined in the text.
PastPaper.question 8 · Multiple Choice
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Based on the text about long-distance friendships, what is suggested as the best way to maintain a strong bond?
*Text snippet:* "Moving to another country for university can test even the closest childhood friendships. While text messaging is quick, research suggests that scheduling regular, dedicated video calls once a week is far more effective. It allows friends to share visual expressions and feel more present in each other's lives, preventing the feeling of drifting apart."
A.Sending text messages continuously throughout the day.
B.Scheduling regular, dedicated video calls.
C.Writing formal letters once a month.
D.Waiting until summer holidays to communicate.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The passage highlights that "scheduling regular, dedicated video calls once a week is far more effective" than messaging in allowing friends to feel present in each other's lives.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting 'b'. Reject 'a', 'c', and 'd' as they do not represent the recommended best way in the passage.
PastPaper.question 9 · Multiple Choice
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According to Text A, why do the eco-lodges turn off or restrict electricity after 10 PM?
A.To save on rising energy costs and promote economical tourism.
B.To reduce the disturbance to local active night animals.
C.To encourage tourists to sleep earlier and participate in morning walks.
D.To prevent fire hazards caused by bamboo building materials.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Text A states that electricity is restricted after 10 PM 'to minimize the disturbance to local nocturnal fauna', which refers to night-active animals.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for option b. Do not award marks for any other option.
PastPaper.question 10 · Multiple Choice
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Based on Text A, how is a portion of the visitors' accommodation fee utilized?
A.To purchase organic food ingredients from local farms.
B.To build more eco-lodges made of sustainable bamboo.
C.To fund the replanting of trees in old farming areas.
D.To train local guides in ecological preservation.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Text A mentions that a portion of the fee directly funds the 'reforestation of former cattle pastures', which translates to replanting trees in old farming areas.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for option c. All other options are incorrect.
PastPaper.question 11 · Multiple Choice
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What positive outcome of virtual schooling is mentioned by the student in Text B?
A.Having more free time on Friday mornings to sleep in.
B.Developing self-reliance and better organizational skills.
C.Avoiding difficult group projects and physical exams.
D.Having direct, constant communication with classmates during lessons.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The student states that virtual classrooms forced them to 'develop self-discipline and organize our weekly tasks independently', which corresponds directly to developing self-reliance and better organizational skills.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for option b.
PastPaper.question 12 · Multiple Choice
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According to Text B, what is the primary benefit of the school's digital library portal?
A.It eliminates the need for physical textbooks altogether.
B.It helps teachers track student screen-time during study hours.
C.It enhances student research quality by centralizing diverse learning resources.
D.It provides free access to leisure audiobooks and educational games.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text notes that having all resources in one place has significantly improved the quality of research papers, indicating that centralizing resources enhanced research quality.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for option c.
PastPaper.question 13 · Multiple Choice
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According to Text C, how do supporters justify the use of AI-driven chatbots in the service industry?
A.They allow companies to completely eliminate human staff.
B.They enable human employees to focus on more complex, creative tasks.
C.They provide friendlier and more personalized customer service.
D.They reduce the energy consumption of physical call centers.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Supporters argue that AI-driven chatbots handle repetitive tasks, thereby 'freeing human workers to tackle more complex, creative problem-solving' as stated in Text C.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for option b.
PastPaper.question 14 · Multiple Choice
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What is the main objective of the 'digital literacy' initiatives mentioned in Text C?
A.To encourage older citizens to buy more smart devices.
B.To replace high school computer science curricula with vocational training.
C.To help older age groups adapt to an automated workforce through tech training.
D.To subsidize tech companies that hire workers over the age of fifty.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text explains that these subsidized courses teach older demographic groups digital tools to ensure that the transition to an automated workforce does not leave them behind.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for option c.
PastPaper.question 15 · Multiple Choice
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According to the survey in Text C, what is a negative consequence of hybrid remote work?
A.A decline in overall project completion rates.
B.A drop in employee job satisfaction levels.
C.Difficulties for managers trying to monitor staff.
D.The overlap of working and personal hours causing burnout.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The survey notes a drawback: the 'blurring boundary between professional hours and domestic life', which leads to burnout.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for option d.
PastPaper.question 16 · Multiple Choice
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How does the eco-lodge manage organic waste according to Text A?
A.It is shipped to a recycling facility in Liberia.
B.It is composted to feed the gardens of native plants.
C.It is incinerated to generate local electricity.
D.It is left in the national park for the nocturnal animals.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Text A explains that 'all organic waste is composted to nourish the native flora gardens', which refers to feeding native plants.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for option b.
PastPaper.question 17 · Multiple Choice
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Read the following blog post snippet:
'Last week, our school introduced a new app that blocks social media during class hours. While some students complained about losing connection with friends, most teachers noticed a significant rise in classroom participation and focus.'
According to the text, what was the primary positive outcome of the new app?
A.Students made more friends during class.
B.Teachers observed better classroom focus and participation.
C.Students reduced their overall screen time at home.
D.Parents received daily reports on school app usage.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text states that teachers noticed a significant rise in classroom participation and focus after the app was introduced, making option B the correct answer. Option A is incorrect as students complained. Options C and D are not mentioned.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting option b. Award 0 marks for any other selection.
PastPaper.question 18 · Multiple Choice
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Read the following email excerpt:
'Hi Grandma, I bought you a smart speaker. You don't need to type anything; just say "play music" or ask about the weather. It will help you stay active without having to look at small screens.'
Why is the smart speaker particularly suitable for the grandmother?
A.It is much cheaper than a standard television.
B.It automatically dials emergency services.
C.It is operated by voice commands rather than a screen.
D.It plays her favorite radio station at 8:00 AM.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text explains that the grandmother does not need to type or look at small screens because she can simply speak to the device. This matches option C. Options A, B, and D are not mentioned in the email.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting option c. Award 0 marks for any other selection.
PastPaper.question 19 · Multiple Choice
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Read the following school newsletter excerpt:
'Starting next term, the school library will offer peer-tutoring sessions every Tuesday afternoon. Senior students will assist juniors with mathematics and science homework free of charge. Registration is required by Friday.'
Who will be providing the academic help during these sessions?
A.Professional external tutors.
B.Mathematics and science teachers.
C.School librarians.
D.Students from older year groups.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text states that 'Senior students will assist juniors,' which means older students are helping younger ones. This matches option D. Options A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not represent peer tutoring.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting option d. Award 0 marks for any other selection.
PastPaper.question 20 · Multiple Choice
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Read the following diary entry excerpt:
'My exchange semester in Munich has been eye-opening. Unlike my school back home where we have continuous assessments, here my entire grade depends on one final oral presentation and a written exam at the end of the year.'
What is the main difference in grading that the student experienced in Munich?
A.There are no written examinations at all.
B.Grades are determined solely by weekly quizzes.
C.The final grade relies on an oral presentation and a final exam.
D.Students can choose how they want to be graded.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The student states that the entire grade depends on 'one final oral presentation and a written exam,' which corresponds to option C. Options A and B contradict the text, and option D is not mentioned.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting option c. Award 0 marks for any other selection.
PastPaper.question 21 · Multiple Choice
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Read the following travel brochure excerpt:
'Experience the quiet beauty of the Swiss Alps this spring. Our guided hiking tours avoid the crowded ski season, offering peaceful trails, local cheese-tasting workshops, and comfortable stays in traditional family-run chalets.'
What is highlighted as an advantage of visiting the Alps during spring?
A.The availability of cheap ski passes.
B.Discounted accommodation in luxury resorts.
C.Quieter hiking trails away from busy crowds.
D.Opportunities to learn local dialects.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The brochure highlights that the spring hiking tours 'avoid the crowded ski season, offering peaceful trails,' which matches option C. Options A, B, and D are not stated in the brochure.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting option c. Award 0 marks for any other selection.
PastPaper.question 22 · Multiple Choice
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Read the following travel blog entry:
'Instead of booking a traditional hotel, we decided to try "house-swapping" for our summer holiday in Spain. We stayed in a lovely apartment in Valencia for free, while the owners enjoyed our house in Vancouver.'
How did the writer arrange their accommodation in Spain?
A.They booked a budget hostel online.
B.They exchanged homes with a family from Valencia.
C.They rented a holiday villa through an agency.
D.They stayed with relatives who live in Spain.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The blog describes 'house-swapping' where the writer stayed in Valencia while the owners stayed in Vancouver. This matches option B. Options A, C, and D describe alternative methods not used here.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting option b. Award 0 marks for any other selection.
PastPaper.question 23 · Multiple Choice
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Read the following environmental article snippet:
'Our city council has introduced a "zero-plastic" policy for local markets. Vendors must now package all fruits and vegetables in reusable cloth bags or recycled paper. Customers bringing their own bags receive a ten percent discount.'
How are customers encouraged to participate in this environmental initiative?
A.By receiving free organic fruits.
B.By getting a discount on their purchases when using their own bags.
C.By entering a competition for the best bag design.
D.By attending free environmental workshops at the market.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text states that customers who bring their own bags receive a ten percent discount, making option B the correct choice. Options A, C, and D are not mentioned.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting option b. Award 0 marks for any other selection.
PastPaper.question 24 · Multiple Choice
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Read the following corporate announcement:
'To promote a healthy work-life balance, TechCorp is launching "Flexible Fridays." Employees can choose to work from home or compress their hours early in the week to finish their Friday shift by midday.'
What options does the 'Flexible Fridays' initiative offer to employees?
A.To work double overtime for extra weekend pay.
B.To take every Friday off without completing weekly tasks.
C.To work remotely or finish early on Friday by adjusting their schedule.
D.To choose their own project management style each Friday.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text explains that employees can choose to work from home or compress their hours early in the week to leave by midday on Fridays. This aligns with option C. Options A, B, and D are incorrect or not supported.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for selecting option c. Award 0 marks for any other selection.
PastPaper.question 25 · Multiple Choice
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Based on Text A, what is the main benefit of the digital tablets according to the history teacher, Mr. Dupont? [Text A: 'The introduction of digital tablets has revolutionized our history lessons,' says Mr. Dupont. 'While some parents worry about screen time, the real advantage is that students can now access interactive maps instantly, making historical events much easier to visualize. It has definitely reduced the time we spend looking for paper resources, though we still write in our physical notebooks.']
A.They completely replace physical writing in notebooks.
B.They help students visualize historical events through interactive maps.
C.They reduce the total screen time for students during lessons.
D.They eliminate the need for teachers to prepare history lessons lessons in advance-prepared formats .
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PastPaper.workedSolution
In Text A, Mr. Dupont states that 'the real advantage is that students can now access interactive maps instantly, making historical events much easier to visualize.' This matches option B.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (b). Award 0 marks for any other option or no response.
PastPaper.question 26 · Multiple Choice
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According to Text A, what concern do some parents have regarding the new classroom technology? [Text A: 'The introduction of digital tablets has revolutionized our history lessons,' says Mr. Dupont. 'While some parents worry about screen time, the real advantage is that students can now access interactive maps...']
A.The high cost of purchasing the tablets.
B.The difficulty of operating interactive digital maps.
C.The amount of time students spend looking at screens.
D.The lack of neatness in digital handwriting.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text explicitly states: 'While some parents worry about screen time...'. This directly corresponds to the amount of time students spend looking at screens (option C).
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (c). Award 0 marks for any other option.
PastPaper.question 27 · Multiple Choice
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Based on Text B, why did Clara choose the apprenticeship program over university? [Text B: Clara decided not to follow the traditional academic path. 'Many of my friends wanted a university degree, but I preferred learning by doing,' she explains. 'In this apprenticeship, I spend three days a week working in a professional kitchen and only two days in the classroom. This hands-on experience is exactly what I need to become a chef, and I am already earning a small wage.']
A.Because university degrees are no longer valued by modern employers.
B.Because her friends successfully pressured her into choosing culinary arts.
C.Because she preferred a hands-on learning approach and wanted to earn a wage.
D.Because she wanted to avoid classroom-based instruction entirely.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Clara mentions she 'preferred learning by doing' (hands-on learning) and that she is 'already earning a small wage.' This aligns perfectly with option C.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (c). Award 0 marks for any other option.
PastPaper.question 28 · Multiple Choice
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According to Text B, how is Clara's weekly schedule structured in her apprenticeship? [Text B: Clara decided not to follow the traditional academic path. 'Many of my friends wanted a university degree, but I preferred learning by doing,' she explains. 'In this apprenticeship, I spend three days a week working in a professional kitchen and only two days in the classroom...']
A.Three days working in a kitchen and two days in the classroom.
B.Five full days of practical work in a professional kitchen.
C.Three days in the classroom and two days working in a kitchen.
D.Four days of self-study and one day of practical assessment.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Clara states: 'I spend three days a week working in a professional kitchen and only two days in the classroom.' This corresponds to option A.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (a). Award 0 marks for any other option.
PastPaper.question 29 · Multiple Choice
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Based on Text C, what is the primary goal of the 'Green Holiday' initiative in the alpine village? [Text C: The alpine village of Altdorf has launched the 'Green Holiday' initiative. The goal is not to stop tourism, but to encourage visitors to respect the natural habitat. Visitors who arrive by train instead of car receive a free local transport pass. Local guesthouse owner, Martha, notes: 'We want tourists to enjoy our mountains, but they must help us protect our forests and keep the air clean.']
A.To ban all foreign tourists from visiting the alpine valley.
B.To encourage tourists to protect the environment and travel sustainably.
C.To charge tourists a heavy penalty fee for traveling by car.
D.To convert all local guesthouses into ecological research centers.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The primary goal is stated as encouraging visitors to respect the natural habitat, protect forests, and keep the air clean, particularly by promoting sustainable travel (train over car). This matches option B.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (b). Award 0 marks for any other option.
PastPaper.question 30 · Multiple Choice
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According to Text C, what benefit do tourists receive if they travel to Altdorf by train? [Text C: ...Visitors who arrive by train instead of car receive a free local transport pass. Local guesthouse owner, Martha, notes: 'We want tourists to enjoy our mountains, but they must help us protect our forests and keep the air clean.']
A.A free dinner voucher at Martha's guesthouse.
B.A discount on their return interstate train fare.
C.Free equipment rental for mountain hiking.
D.A complimentary local transport pass.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text states that visitors who arrive by train 'receive a free local transport pass.' This is equivalent to a complimentary local transport pass, which matches option D.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (d). Award 0 marks for any other option.
PastPaper.question 31 · Multiple Choice
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Based on Text D, what is the main purpose of creating the community garden in the central district? [Text D: To combat urban heat and promote local biodiversity, residents of the central district created a community garden. By planting native wildflowers and building small insect hotels, they have transformed a concrete lot into a green oasis. Organiser Leo says: 'It is a small step, but it brings neighbors together and provides a safe haven for bees and butterflies in the middle of the city.']
A.To reduce urban heat and support local plant and animal life.
B.To grow fresh organic vegetables to sell to large supermarket chains.
C.To clear old concrete lots to build modern apartment complexes.
D.To completely block vehicle traffic from entering the city center.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text begins with: 'To combat urban heat and promote local biodiversity, residents... created a community garden.' This matches option A.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (a). Award 0 marks for any other option.
PastPaper.question 32 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
According to Text E, what change has the company 'TechFlow' introduced to support its employees? [Text E: At TechFlow, a software development firm, management has introduced a flexible four-day work week. Instead of working traditional hours, employees can choose how to distribute their 32 weekly hours. Director Sarah Miller explains: 'Our team is less stressed and more focused. Productivity has actually increased because people feel trusted and have more time to spend with their families.']
A.Mandatory unpaid weekend shifts during busy periods.
B.A flexible four-day work week of 32 hours.
C.Fully automated software systems to replace junior workers.
D.An option to work up to 60 hours per week for extra pay.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text states that management 'has introduced a flexible four-day work week' where employees can choose how to distribute their '32 weekly hours.' This aligns with option B.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option (b). Award 0 marks for any other option.
PastPaper.question 33 · multiple_choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Based on Text A, what is one negative effect of the 'ClassNet' platform mentioned by some students? [Text A: The school has recently introduced a new digital platform called 'ClassNet'. Students can access their homework, view teacher feedback, and participate in discussion forums. While some students appreciate having all resources in one place, others feel overwhelmed by the constant screen time and notifications.]
A.It is extremely difficult to navigate.
B.There is too much screen time and constant notifications.
C.Teachers do not provide enough online feedback.
D.Homework files are often lost on the serverLocal server problems occur often.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text explicitly states that 'others feel overwhelmed by the constant screen time and notifications,' which corresponds directly to option B.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer (B). No marks are awarded for any other option.
PastPaper.question 34 · multiple_choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Based on Text B, what is the primary goal of integrating the 'friluftsliv' philosophy into the Swedish curriculum? [Text B: In Sweden, the 'friluftsliv' (open-air life) philosophy is integrated into the school curriculum. Even during cold winter months, students spend at least one hour a day outdoors learning about local ecosystems, developing survival skills, and participating in physical education. Educators believe this fosters a deep respect for nature from an early age.]
A.To prepare students for professional winter sports.
B.To encourage a deep respect for nature from an early age.
C.To reduce the hours spent on core academic subjects.
D.To teach students how to build winter shelters.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text mentions that 'Educators believe this fosters a deep respect for nature from an early age,' which is represented by option B.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer (B). No partial credit is given.
PastPaper.question 35 · multiple_choice
1 PastPaper.marks
According to Text C, how did Clara's choice of 'slow travel' impact her holiday? [Text C: Last summer, Clara decided to try 'slow travel' by taking trains instead of planes across Europe. She spent three weeks visiting only three cities: Lyon, Turin, and Geneva. This allowed her to connect with locals, practice her language skills, and significantly reduce her carbon footprint.]
A.She was able to visit over ten European countries.
B.She spent much less money compared to flying.
C.She could connect with locals and reduce her carbon footprint.
D.She encountered multiple train delays and missed her bookings.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The passage notes that slow travel 'allowed her to connect with locals, practice her language skills, and significantly reduce her carbon footprint,' which aligns with option C.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer (C). No marks are awarded for incorrect options.
PastPaper.question 36 · multiple_choice
1 PastPaper.marks
According to Text D, what ecological benefit do community gardens provide to urban areas? [Text D: Community gardens are flourishing in urban areas. Residents share responsibility for growing organic vegetables, which are then distributed to local families in need. Besides producing fresh food, these gardens act as green corridors that support urban biodiversity, attracting bees, butterflies, and native birds.]
A.They eliminate the need for importing organic food.
B.They support urban biodiversity by attracting bees, butterflies, and birds.
C.They lower the average temperature of the entire city.
D.They provide employment opportunities for young farmers.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text mentions that 'these gardens act as green corridors that support urban biodiversity, attracting bees, butterflies, and native birds.' This matches option B.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer (B). No marks are awarded for other choices.
PastPaper.question 37 · multiple_choice
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Based on Text E, how do Emma and her childhood friend maintain their personal relationship? [Text E: Maintaining friendships over long distances has become easier thanks to technology, but it still requires deliberate effort. Emma and her childhood friend, who moved to Canada, schedule a video call every first Sunday of the month. They also send handwritten postcards during holidays to keep their connection personal and tangible.]
A.By meeting in person twice every year.
B.By playing online multiplayer games every weekend.
C.By scheduling monthly video calls and sending holiday postcards.
D.By writing daily emails to share detailed life updates.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
The text states that they 'schedule a video call every first Sunday of the month' and 'send handwritten postcards during holidays,' which is correctly summarized by option C.