2025 HKDSE English Language Practice Paper with Answers

Read the following excerpt from paragraph 3 of Text 1:

'While conventional wisdom dictates that prospective jobseekers should strictly adhere to standard chronological resumes, human resources director Fiona Leung contends that digital multimedia portfolios offer a far more dynamic window into an applicant's real-world problem-solving abilities.'

According to paragraph 3, Fiona Leung believes that digital multimedia portfolios...

Read the following excerpt from paragraph 5 of Text 1:

'The rollout of autonomous robotic couriers across downtown districts was initially hailed as an absolute panacea for urban logistics. Nevertheless, municipal planners quickly discovered that adverse weather events and stringent airspace regulations generated unforeseen operational bottlenecks, notably dampening initial public and commercial enthusiasm.'

In paragraph 5, what is the writer's main point regarding autonomous robotic couriers?

Read the excerpt from Text 1 below and answer the question that follows.

[Paragraph 4]
'The transition to asynchronous communication has fundamentally altered the corporate landscape. Rather than demanding instantaneous presence in physical cubicles, modern enterprises increasingly prioritize tangible output over mere visibility. However, this liberation from rigid office hours comes with an insidious drawback: the erosion of professional boundaries, leaving many employees marooned in an unending cycle of digital availability.'

According to paragraph 4, what is the primary drawback of modern flexible working arrangements?

Read the excerpt from Text 1 below and answer the question that follows.

[Paragraph 7]
'In modern athletic training, gut instinct is no longer the gold standard. High-performance academies now rely on biometric telemetry and kinematic algorithms to track fatigue levels in real time. While traditionalists lament the perceived dehumanization of coaching, statistical forecasting has undeniably slashed soft-tissue injury rates across professional leagues, proving that algorithmic vigilance is far from a frivolous gimmick.'

In paragraph 7, what is the writer's attitude towards the use of data analytics in sports?

Read the following extract from an article about workplace dynamics and answer the question below:

[Paragraph 3] While seasoned professionals often cling to established protocols, newcomers demonstrate remarkable agility in adopting novel workflow management tools. However, this apparent technological edge is frequently undermined by a deficiency in interpersonal diplomacy—a skill that takes decades to cultivate during high-stakes corporate negotiations.

According to paragraph 3, what is the primary limitation of newcomers in the workplace?

Read the following extract from a feature article on modern journalism and answer the question below:

[Paragraph 5] In an era dominated by instantaneous digital reporting, print journalism has been forced to recalibrate its core purpose. Rather than striving to be the first to break emerging stories, reputable broadsheets now anchor their value proposition in meticulous investigative depth and impartial contextual analysis.

According to paragraph 5, what is the current primary role of reputable print broadsheets?

Read the following excerpt from paragraph 3 of Text 1:

[3] When generative tools first permeated creative studios, many seasoned illustrators worried that automation would inevitably erode their craft. However, freelance designer Elena Vance viewed the transition differently. Rather than viewing the software as an existential threat, she treated algorithmic rendering as a digital apprentice that handled tedious layout adjustments, freeing her to devote significantly more time to world-building and conceptual storytelling.

According to paragraph 3, Elena Vance welcomed generative tools because they...

Read Text 1 below and answer the question.

Text 1
[1] Across warehouses, call centers, and logistics hubs worldwide, a silent revolution has taken place: the boss is no longer a person holding a clipboard, but an automated algorithm. Algorithmic management systems now allocate shifts, optimize travel routes, and continuously monitor worker productivity down to the second. Proponents argue that this transition eliminates human bias, streamlining operations and boosting operational efficiency across the board.
[2] However, many frontline workers tell a starkly different story. They describe feeling stripped of autonomy and reduced to mere cogs in a relentless digital machine. In these hyper-monitored environments, a five-minute bathroom break or a brief chat with a colleague can trigger an automated disciplinary flag for 'time off task'. The psychological toll of such unrelenting surveillance has led to unprecedented levels of burnout and workplace resentment.

According to paragraph 1, what are TWO advantages of algorithmic management claimed by its supporters?

Based on paragraph 2 of Text 1, what does the phrase 'reduced to mere cogs in a relentless digital machine' suggest about how workers feel about their role in the company? Explain in your own words.

Read the following excerpt from paragraph 3 of Text 1 and answer the questions below:

[3] While automated recruitment platforms promise to streamline candidate screening by sifting through thousands of video resumes within minutes, critics argue that these systems frequently penalize applicants for non-standard facial expressions or regional accents. Rather than eliminating human bias, the software merely codifies it under a veneer of objectivity.

(i) What does 'it' in paragraph 3 refer to? (0.5 mark)
(ii) According to paragraph 3, state TWO ways automated recruitment platforms may disadvantage certain job applicants. (1 mark)

Read the following excerpt from paragraph 5 of Text 1 and answer the questions below:

[5] To counter the disparities in modern athletic training, several grassroots academies have begun deploying low-cost motion-sensor wearables. These lightweight gadgets transmit biomechanical metrics directly to open-source coaching applications, allowing underprivileged athletes to access elite-level performance diagnostics that were once the exclusive domain of well-funded national squads.

(i) Find a phrase in paragraph 5 that means 'belonging solely to a privileged group'. (0.5 mark)
(ii) Based on paragraph 5, explain how low-cost wearables help underprivileged athletes improve their performance. (1 mark)

Read the excerpt from Text 1 below and answer the question: [Paragraph 3] As recruitment platforms increasingly pivot to automated video screening, job applicants often find themselves performing for an algorithm rather than engaging in authentic dialogue. Dr. Aris Thorne argues that this mechanical gatekeeping penalises non-native speakers and neurodivergent candidates whose facial cues deviate from normative datasets. 'We have outsourced empathy to statistical models,' Thorne cautions, 'and in doing so, we risk codifying historical workplace biases under the guise of technological neutrality.' According to paragraph 3, what does 'this mechanical gatekeeping' refer to, and why does Dr. Thorne consider it problematic?

Read the excerpt from Text 1 below and answer the question: [Paragraph 5] Elite endurance athletes are increasingly turning away from rigid biometric tracking in favour of intuitive pacing. While wearable telemetry promised to democratise optimal training strategies, many seasoned marathon runners report that constant haptic alerts induced severe cognitive fatigue and undermined their somatic awareness. Coach Elena Vance observes: 'When runners fixate on numerical thresholds rather than their internal physiological cues, they forfeit the mental resilience needed in the final kilometres of a race.' Based on paragraph 5, explain what Coach Vance means when she says runners 'forfeit the mental resilience needed'.

Read the following excerpt from Text 1 and answer the question below.

Text 1
[1] When long-distance runner Miriam Vance first strapped on a biometric monitor, she regarded the device with mild suspicion. 'I thought it would reduce the poetry of running to cold arithmetic,' she admitted in an interview. Yet within months, the wearable sensor became her constant companion, capturing stride cadence, lactate threshold shifts, and hydration levels in real time. Coaches no longer rely purely on intuition or post-race fatigue reports; instead, they dissect the digital breadcrumbs left by every stride.
[2] However, sports physiologist Dr Derek Lowe warns that such dependence creates a 'data crutch'. Athletes, he argues, risk muting their own somatic awareness—the innate ability to feel when muscles are on the verge of tearing or when a pace is unsustainable. By constantly outsourcing their body's internal signals to a vibrating wristband, competitors may find themselves helpless when technology falters on race day.

According to paragraph 2, what does the phrase 'data crutch' suggest about how athletes interact with biometric devices? Explain in your own words.

Read the following excerpt from Text 1 and answer the question below.

Text 1
[3] As corporate hierarchies flatten across creative industries, traditional ladder-climbing has been superseded by what talent strategist Clara Higgins terms 'the jungle gym approach'. In this framework, career growth is rarely linear. Professionals pivot laterally between departments, trading conventional vertical promotions for cross-disciplinary versatility. 'Tenure is no longer a golden ticket,' Higgins remarks. 'Employers now value agile thinkers who can synthesise insights across marketing, data analysis, and user experience.'
[4] This structural realignment, however, introduces unprecedented anxiety for early-career entrants. Without clear rungs on a defined ladder, measuring one's professional trajectory becomes inherently subjective. Many young graduates find themselves drifting across lateral roles without acquiring deep, specialised mastery, leaving them vulnerable when economic contractions force companies to trim versatile generalists in favour of indispensable technical experts.

According to paragraph 4, what is the main danger for young graduates adopting 'the jungle gym approach' during an economic downturn? Explain in your own words.

Read the following extract from Text 1 and answer parts (i) and (ii).

Text 1 (Extract)
[3] In today's rapidly evolving employment landscape, the concept of a 'portfolio career'—in which professionals curate multiple concurrent income streams rather than depending on a single full-time employer—is gaining widespread traction. While traditionalists often dismiss this trend as mere glorified freelancing, advocates maintain that it functions as a financial 'shock absorber' against sudden economic downturns and corporate restructuring.

(i) What metaphor does the writer use in paragraph 3 to describe how a portfolio career protects individuals from sudden financial difficulties? (0.5 mark)
(ii) Based on paragraph 3, explain what this metaphor means in your own words. (1 mark)

Read the following extract from Text 1 and answer parts (i) and (ii).

Text 1 (Extract)
[4] In the sporting realm, cognitive agility has become as prized as physical endurance. Modern elite athletes no longer rely solely on physical conditioning; they routinely engage in neuro-visual training to sharpen their spatial perception and split-second decision-making. When facing high-stakes situations on the pitch, players who have honed these faculties rarely succumb to 'analysis paralysis'—a debilitating state where an overabundance of sensory stimuli renders an athlete momentarily incapable of executing basic tactics.

(i) What phrase does the writer use in paragraph 4 to describe the mental deadlock that prevents athletes from acting under pressure? (0.5 mark)
(ii) According to paragraph 4, what causes this condition in athletes? (1 mark)

Read the extract from Text 1 below and complete the flow chart showing how an autonomous delivery robot operates. Write ONE word taken from the text in the blank.

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Text 1 (Paragraph 4)
"The journey of an autonomous delivery robot begins at the dispatch depot. First, warehouse operators load parcels into the robot's secure cargo bay. The navigation software then computes the optimal itinerary based on live traffic updates and topographical obstacles. Once en route, onboard optical sensors continuously detect dynamic hazards such as pedestrians or cyclists, prompting the vehicle to decelerate immediately. Finally, upon arrival at the destination, the customer inputs an authentication code to unlock the compartment and retrieve their package."
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Process of an Autonomous Delivery
1. Parcels are placed inside the robot's cargo bay.
2. Software determines the most efficient (i) ____________________ using live traffic data.
3. Onboard sensors spot hazards to slow down the vehicle.
4. Recipient enters an authentication code to collect the parcel.

Read the extract from Text 1 below and complete the flow chart showing the stages in textile recycling. Write ONE word taken from the text in the blank.

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Text 1 (Paragraph 6)
"In modern textile recycling facilities, discarded garments undergo a rigorous multi-stage transformation. Initially, sorters inspect incoming textiles to segregate synthetic fabrics from pure organic materials. The sorted garments are then transferred into mechanical shredders that dismantle the fabric weave into loose threads. Next, an industrial bath immerses the shredded fibres to extract artificial dyes and chemical residues. Finally, spinning machines re-twist the purified strands into raw yarn suitable for manufacturing fresh garments."
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Textile Recycling Stages
1. Sorters separate synthetic fabrics from organic materials.
2. Mechanical shredders break down the fabric (i) ____________________ into loose threads.
3. Fibres are immersed to remove chemical residues and dyes.
4. Purified strands are re-spun into yarn for new apparel.

Read the following extract from Text 1 and complete the flow chart below. Write ONE word taken from paragraph 4 in the blank. Your answer must be grammatically correct.

Text 1 [Paragraph 4]
In recent years, professional football clubs have adopted bio-mechanical sensor vests during training sessions to monitor fatigue. When an athlete begins sprinting, miniature telemetry chips embedded within the fabric continuously measure muscle vibrations. If abnormal micro-tears are detected, the system immediately transmits an alert to pitchside physiotherapists. Once this notification arrives, coaches adjust the player's training workload before soft-tissue strain can escalate into a severe tear. Finally, sports scientists analyze the accumulated data post-session to design a personalized recovery regime.

Flow chart: The Bio-mechanical Monitoring Process
1. Telemetry chips detect muscle vibrations during sprinting.
↓
2. The system transmits a pitchside (i) ________ upon discovering micro-tears.
↓
3. Coaches modify the player's workload.

Read the following extract from Text 1 and complete the flow chart below. Write ONE word taken from paragraph 4 in the blank. Your answer must be grammatically correct.

Text 1 [Paragraph 4]
In recent years, professional football clubs have adopted bio-mechanical sensor vests during training sessions to monitor fatigue. When an athlete begins sprinting, miniature telemetry chips embedded within the fabric continuously measure muscle vibrations. If abnormal micro-tears are detected, the system immediately transmits an alert to pitchside physiotherapists. Once this notification arrives, coaches adjust the player's training workload before soft-tissue strain can escalate into a severe tear. Finally, sports scientists analyze the accumulated data post-session to design a personalized recovery regime.

Flow chart: The Bio-mechanical Monitoring Process
1. Pitchside physiotherapists receive an alert.
↓
2. Coaches reduce the athlete's training (ii) ________ to prevent severe muscle tears.
↓
3. Sports scientists design a personalized recovery regime.

Read the extract from Text 1 below and complete the flow chart.

Text 1 (Extract)
[4] The custom fabrication begins with a high-definition optical scanner capturing the precise contours of the patient’s residual limb. Once the digital model is finalized, a robotic nozzle deposits microscopic droplets of biocompatible polymer in successive layers. After each application, a targeted ultraviolet laser beam instantly cures the polymer, solidifying the framework into a durable socket ready for clinical fitting.

Based on the information in paragraph 4, complete the flow chart below showing the fabrication process by writing ONE word taken from paragraph 4 in the blank.

Stage 1: Scanning
A scanner captures the patient's limb contours to create a digital model.
↓
Stage 2: Layering
A robotic nozzle dispenses microscopic droplets of polymer in layers.
↓
Stage 3: Curing
An ultraviolet laser beam cures the polymer, (i) ________________ the framework into a durable socket.

Read the following excerpt from paragraph 3 of Text 1 and determine whether the statement is True (T), False (F) or Not Given (NG).

Excerpt from Paragraph 3:
"While the initial construction of the solar-canopied arena exceeded budgetary forecasts by nearly fifteen percent, venue operators maintain that long-term operational savings will fully offset these upfront expenses within seven years. Furthermore, surplus electricity generated during non-event weekdays is fed directly into the municipal power grid to assist neighbouring public facilities."

Statement:
Venue management anticipates that future energy savings will compensate for the higher-than-expected building costs.

Read the following excerpt from paragraph 4 of Text 1 and determine whether the statement is True (T), False (F) or Not Given (NG).

Excerpt from Paragraph 4:
"Unlike traditional sports complexes that rely entirely on municipal reservoirs, the newly renovated arena incorporates a subterranean rainwater harvesting system capable of storing over 500,000 litres. This filtered runoff is utilized exclusively for pitch irrigation and cooling towers. Consequently, the facility has reduced its potable water consumption by forty percent, though several municipal engineers had originally expressed doubts regarding maintenance costs."

Statement:
The rainwater collected by the subterranean system is purified for spectators to drink inside the venue.

Read the following extract from paragraph 3 of Text 1 and determine whether the statement below is True (T), False (F), or Not Given (NG).

[3] In recent years, professional football clubs have increasingly turned to sensory-immersion simulators to fine-tune tactical decision-making without exposing players to physical collisions. While conventional wisdom once held that nothing could replicate the chaos of a live stadium match, trials conducted by the Northern Sports Institute revealed that youth academy players who spent two hours weekly in VR environments exhibited a 14% improvement in spatial awareness during actual weekend fixtures. Dr. Clara Vance, lead researcher of the project, emphasized that VR is designed to augment, rather than substitute for, grassroots pitch drills.

Statement: Before the recent trials, it was widely believed that simulated environments could not recreate the unpredictable nature of real stadium games.

Read the following extract from paragraph 3 of Text 1 and determine whether the statement below is True (T), False (F), or Not Given (NG).

[3] In recent years, professional football clubs have increasingly turned to sensory-immersion simulators to fine-tune tactical decision-making without exposing players to physical collisions. While conventional wisdom once held that nothing could replicate the chaos of a live stadium match, trials conducted by the Northern Sports Institute revealed that youth academy players who spent two hours weekly in VR environments exhibited a 14% improvement in spatial awareness during actual weekend fixtures. Dr. Clara Vance, lead researcher of the project, emphasized that VR is designed to augment, rather than substitute for, grassroots pitch drills.

Statement: Dr. Vance expects virtual training systems to entirely replace traditional on-pitch training drills for youth players.

Read the following extract from Text 1 and answer the question.

Text 1: The Evolution of Virtual Athletics

[1] Over the past decade, physical sports have increasingly intersected with digital innovation. What began as recreational gaming has evolved into structured virtual athletics, where indoor equipment communicates directly with multiplayer simulation software.

[2] For aspiring competitors, this digital shift democratises high-performance training. Athletes in remote regions can benchmark their metrics against elite professionals via real-time cloud leaderboards, bypassing geographic and financial hurdles.

[3] Nevertheless, sceptics caution that digitisation strips sports of core intangible elements. Purely simulated races cannot fully replicate atmospheric weather changes, tactile spatial negotiations, or the spontaneous camaraderie forged on a shared grass pitch.

[4] Despite these reservations, corporate sponsors and broadcasting networks have poured millions into hybrid arenas. These tournaments merge live biometric telemetry with digital avatars, attracting younger demographics who consume content predominantly online.

[5] Looking ahead, global governing bodies are developing standardized anti-cheating protocols and equipment calibration rules, paving the way for potential inclusion in major international multi-sport games.

Which paragraph in Text 1 contains the following idea?

The mitigation of geographical barriers for developing competitors

Paragraph _____

Read the following extract from Text 1 and answer the question.

Text 1: The Evolution of Virtual Athletics

[1] Over the past decade, physical sports have increasingly intersected with digital innovation. What began as recreational gaming has evolved into structured virtual athletics, where indoor equipment communicates directly with multiplayer simulation software.

[2] For aspiring competitors, this digital shift democratises high-performance training. Athletes in remote regions can benchmark their metrics against elite professionals via real-time cloud leaderboards, bypassing geographic and financial hurdles.

[3] Nevertheless, sceptics caution that digitisation strips sports of core intangible elements. Purely simulated races cannot fully replicate atmospheric weather changes, tactile spatial negotiations, or the spontaneous camaraderie forged on a shared grass pitch.

[4] Despite these reservations, corporate sponsors and broadcasting networks have poured millions into hybrid arenas. These tournaments merge live biometric telemetry with digital avatars, attracting younger demographics who consume content predominantly online.

[5] Looking ahead, global governing bodies are developing standardized anti-cheating protocols and equipment calibration rules, paving the way for potential inclusion in major international multi-sport games.

Which paragraph in Text 1 contains the following idea?

Institutional steps towards regulatory oversight and international prestige

Paragraph _____

Read the following extract from Text 1 about the growth of modern sports analytics and answer the question.

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Text 1 Extract:

[Paragraph 2] In the past, athletic talent identification relied heavily on the instinctive eye of veteran scouts. These seasoned evaluators traveled from town to town, trusting their gut feelings to spot potential stars. However, this traditional methodology was often clouded by cognitive biases and personal preferences, occasionally leading to costly misjudgments for major clubs.

[Paragraph 3] Today, high-resolution cameras and wearable biometrics capture thousands of data points per second, tracking everything from player acceleration to physiological fatigue. Data scientists now parse these metrics to quantify athletic performance with unprecedented precision, shifting the paradigm from subjective assessment to objective empirical evidence.

[Paragraph 4] Despite its undeniable accuracy, this data-driven revolution has sparked resistance among traditional managers who argue that spreadsheets cannot measure intangible qualities like resilience, leadership, or composure under pressure. They contend that reducing human athletes to mathematical models risks stripping away the heart and soul of competitive sports.

[Paragraph 5] To bridge this divide, progressive sports franchises are pioneering hybrid decision-making models. In these organizations, computational analysts work alongside veteran coaching staff, using algorithmic insights not to replace human intuition, but to refine tactical decisions and tailor individual training regimens.
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Match the following summary statement to the correct paragraph (2–5). Write the paragraph number (2, 3, 4, or 5) in the box provided.

Statement: Skepticism regarding the ability of numerical data to capture emotional and psychological attributes.

Read the following extract from Text 1 about the growth of modern sports analytics and answer the question.

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Text 1 Extract:

[Paragraph 2] In the past, athletic talent identification relied heavily on the instinctive eye of veteran scouts. These seasoned evaluators traveled from town to town, trusting their gut feelings to spot potential stars. However, this traditional methodology was often clouded by cognitive biases and personal preferences, occasionally leading to costly misjudgments for major clubs.

[Paragraph 3] Today, high-resolution cameras and wearable biometrics capture thousands of data points per second, tracking everything from player acceleration to physiological fatigue. Data scientists now parse these metrics to quantify athletic performance with unprecedented precision, shifting the paradigm from subjective assessment to objective empirical evidence.

[Paragraph 4] Despite its undeniable accuracy, this data-driven revolution has sparked resistance among traditional managers who argue that spreadsheets cannot measure intangible qualities like resilience, leadership, or composure under pressure. They contend that reducing human athletes to mathematical models risks stripping away the heart and soul of competitive sports.

[Paragraph 5] To bridge this divide, progressive sports franchises are pioneering hybrid decision-making models. In these organizations, computational analysts work alongside veteran coaching staff, using algorithmic insights not to replace human intuition, but to refine tactical decisions and tailor individual training regimens.
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Match the following summary statement to the correct paragraph (2–5). Write the paragraph number (2, 3, 4, or 5) in the box provided.

Statement: The integration of statistical modeling with experienced human judgment to optimize performance.

Read Text 1 (an article about technological developments in modern athletic performance).

Match the following idea to the correct paragraph (1–4) in Text 1.

Idea: Ethical concerns and privacy issues regarding round-the-clock biometric monitoring of athletes during their personal time.

Paragraph: ________

Read the following excerpt from paragraph 3 of Text 5:

"[3] While proponents of the algorithmic workplace celebrate the democratisation of freelance consulting, veteran career analysts caution against premature optimism. The gig economy's alluring promise of autonomy often masks an insidious precarity, where professionals are tethered to opaque rating metrics and unpredictable commission pipelines."

According to paragraph 3, why are career analysts hesitant to celebrate the growth of freelance consulting?

Read the following excerpt from paragraph 6 of Text 5:

"[6] Attempts to curtail synthetic disinformation via digital watermarking have thus far proven to be an exercise in futility. No sooner has a cryptographic signature been embedded into synthetic media than adversarial machine-learning models find ingenious ways to strip or scramble the provenance data, rendering verification protocols obsolete before they can achieve widespread adoption."

In paragraph 6, what does the writer mean by describing digital watermarking as 'an exercise in futility'?

In paragraph 3, what does the writer imply by describing modern corporate careers as 'a golden treadmill' (line 18)?

They...

According to paragraph 7, what is the writer's main criticism of algorithmic content curation on digital platforms?

Read the extract from paragraph 3 below:

'While conventional entry-level recruitment has long relied on traditional academic pedigree to filter candidates, modern firms are finding that algorithmic aptitude screening often levels the playing field for non-traditional applicants, rendering prestigious diplomas far less sacrosanct than they once were.'

According to the extract, algorithmic aptitude screening...

Read the extract from paragraph 7 below:

'The relentless influx of biometric metrics has transformed athletic preparation into an actuarial exercise. Yet, when every heartbeat, stride length, and recovery interval is quantified, some elite competitors report feeling stripped of instinctual flair, trapped in a digital panopticon where spontaneous improvisation is viewed with statistical suspicion.'

What is the writer's main concern regarding the heavy reliance on biometric tracking in elite sports?

Read the excerpt from Text 5, paragraph 3 below and answer the question.

[Paragraph 3]
"When recruitment algorithms parse thousands of resumes in seconds, human biases are not eliminated; rather, they are often encoded into proprietary scoring models. Candidates who are screened out rarely receive an explanation, trapped behind a clandestine system whose criteria remain shielded from public scrutiny and regulatory oversight."

Find a word in paragraph 3 that has a similar meaning to 'secret' or 'concealed'.

Read the excerpt from Text 5, paragraph 7 below and answer the question.

[Paragraph 7]
"Freelancers navigating volatile project pipelines cannot afford the luxury of stable corporate safety nets. Instead of lamenting unpredictable income cycles, seasoned independent contractors learn to bite the bullet, budgeting conservatively during fallow periods while actively upskilling to stay competitive."

Find an idiomatic phrase in paragraph 7 that means 'to face a difficult situation with courage and resolve'.

Read the excerpt from Text 5, Paragraph 3 below and answer the question.

[3] As automated algorithms take over routine data entry, junior analysts are no longer saddled with relentless number-crunching. Instead, modern firms expect fresh recruits to display cognitive dexterity—navigating ambiguous datasets and deriving strategic narratives with agility. Those who view artificial intelligence as an unmitigated threat to white-collar employment risk obsolescence, whereas those who cultivate versatile problem-solving skill sets will remain indispensable.

Find ONE word in paragraph 3 that means 'the state of being outdated or no longer of use'.

Read the excerpt from Text 5, Paragraph 6 below and answer the question.

[6] In the age of digital sensationalism, independent news outlets face a steep uphill battle. Besieged by algorithmic feeds that prioritize rage-inducing headlines, investigative journalists must resist the urge to pander to the lowest common denominator. Maintaining unyielding editorial integrity requires not only financial resilience but also a steadfast refusal to compromise nuanced reporting for ephemeral viral popularity.

Find a phrase in paragraph 6 that means 'gratify or appeal to the most basic, uncritical tastes'.

Read the excerpt from paragraph 3 of Text 5 below and answer the question.

[3] As automated algorithmic suites continue to permeate executive decision-making, conventional corporate hierarchies are undergoing unprecedented disruption. Many legacy firms that failed to pivot in time have found their core operational models rendered entirely obsolete, while agile start-ups have seized the vanguard of cross-sector innovation.

Find ONE word in paragraph 3 that means 'outdated and no longer useful'.

Read the excerpt from paragraph 5 of Text 5 below and answer the question.

[5] In this volatile economic climate, career mobility demands extreme cognitive dexterity. Professionals can no longer rely purely on static credentials; instead, continuous self-directed upskilling is indispensable to mitigate the risk of vocational displacement and nurture long-term resilience.

Find a two-word phrase in paragraph 5 that means 'mental agility'.

Read the excerpt from paragraph 4 of Text 5 below and answer the question.

[4] The rapid proliferation of algorithmic drafting tools has unsettled many veteran copy editors. While proponents herald unprecedented efficiency gains, critics lament that such mechanisation inevitably produces bland prose devoid of nuanced human sensibility, threatening to render the craft of nuanced storytelling obsolete.

Find a word in paragraph 4 that can be replaced by 'rapid increase or rapid reproduction'.

Read the excerpt from paragraph 7 of Text 5 below and answer the question.

[7] High-altitude endurance athletes often resort to rigorous altitude acclimation protocols. By training in oxygen-depleted environments, they stimulate erythropoietin secretion, which substantially augments red blood cell counts and fortifies stamina, providing a tangible competitive edge during marquee championships.

Find a word in paragraph 7 that has a similar meaning to 'increases'.

Read the following excerpt from paragraph 3 of Text 5:

'While veteran correspondents initially dismissed automated reporting tools as mere gimmicks, the rapid adoption of automated transcription and instant data-scraping software has fundamentally redefined entry-level newsroom roles. Junior reporters, once routinely assigned to mundane archival fact-checking and court-record transcription, are now expected to curate AI-synthesized dossiers and authenticate potentially manipulated audiovisual media.'

According to paragraph 3, identify TWO new responsibilities that junior reporters are now expected to perform instead of their traditional tasks.

Read the following excerpt from paragraph 6 of Text 5:

'Dr. Marianne Vance argues that the growing dependence on automated writing assistants produces an "epistemic echo chamber" in which emerging news leads become increasingly homogeneous. Rather than scouring unindexed grassroots archives, journalists lean on algorithmic forecasting tools to decide which investigative stories warrant pursuit. This reliance threatens to sever the crucial link between local investigative journalism and public accountability.'

What does 'This reliance' refer to?

Read the following extract from paragraph 3 of Text 5 and answer questions (i)–(iii).

[3] As the gig economy metastasizes into corporate consulting, white-collar freelancers find themselves navigating a precarious landscape. While early advocates championed autonomy and flexible hours, this illusion of sovereignty often conceals structural vulnerabilities. Without statutory severance, paid sick leave, or institutional backing, independent contractors bear all operational hazards. Sociologist Dr. Eleanor Vance terms this phenomenon 'gilded precarity'—a condition wherein professional prestige masks severe economic instability. For these workers, every unbilled hour represents lost income, compelling them to remain perpetually tethered to their devices.

(i) What does 'this illusion of sovereignty' refer to? (0.5 mark)
(ii) What does 'them' refer to? (0.5 mark)
(iii) According to Dr. Eleanor Vance, what is 'gilded precarity'? (0.5 mark)

Read the following extract from paragraph 6 of Text 5 and answer questions (i)–(iii).

[6] Algorithmic curation on streaming platforms has subtly transformed narrative pacing in contemporary screenwriting. Writers room veteran Marcus Thorne notes that screenwriters now consciously front-load narrative tension within the opening ninety seconds of a pilot episode. 'If the initial hook fails to captivate viewers instantly, the algorithm registers the abandonment and demotes the show’s visibility across user dashboards,' Thorne explains. Consequently, nuanced character exposition has been superseded by sensationalist cliffhangers. This algorithmic tyranny not only dictates structural cadence but also homogenizes creative risk, relegating slow-burn storytelling to an obsolete relic.

(i) What does 'This algorithmic tyranny' refer to? (0.5 mark)
(ii) What consequence occurs if a pilot episode fails to captivate viewers in its opening ninety seconds? (0.5 mark)
(iii) Find a phrase in paragraph 6 that means 'gradual, deliberate development of a plot or theme'. (0.5 mark)

Read the following excerpt from Text 5 (paragraph 4) regarding modern recruitment practices:

[4] ...As algorithmic talent curation becomes ubiquitous across multinational corporations, human resource directors often find themselves relegated to secondary evaluators. Dr Samantha Vance, a specialist in workplace dynamics at the Meridian Institute, contends that this uncritical reliance on predictive analytics breeds a false sense of meritocracy. 'When algorithms sift through thousands of digital resumes, they prioritize quantifiable credentials over interpersonal dexterity,' Vance remarks. 'This oversight not only disenfranchises non-traditional applicants but also deprives firms of genuine cognitive diversity.'

What do the following words / phrases in paragraph 4 refer to?

(i) 'this uncritical reliance'
(ii) 'they'
(iii) 'This oversight'

Read the excerpt from Text 5 below and answer the question.

[Paragraph 4]
Elite marathon preparation has increasingly pivoted towards algorithmic pacing models, relying on wearable biosensors and real-time telemetry. While advocates herald this as the democratization of athletic excellence, critics argue that excessive digital oversight erodes a runner's innate somatic awareness. Interestingly, a four-year longitudinal study conducted by the Scandinavian Institute of Human Kinetics revealed that runners who trained exclusively with unmediated sensory feedback protocols suffered higher rates of biomechanical burnout during competitive trials than those who combined biometric data with intuitive pacing.

Based on the information in Paragraph 4, decide whether the following statement is True (T), False (F) or Not Given (NG).

Statement: Athletes who rely entirely on bodily sensations during training are less prone to race-day exhaustion than those who combine telemetry with intuition.

(Select T, F, or NG)

Read the excerpt from Text 5 below and answer the question.

[Paragraph 7]
The emergence of algorithmic talent acquisition platforms in sports analytics has reshaped career trajectories for recent sports science graduates. Where entry-level coaching once demanded years of unpaid apprenticeship in collegiate athletic departments, high-frequency data modeling skills now command a distinct premium among prospective employers. However, the report cautions that despite the widespread adoption of automated scouting software, major athletic franchises continue to reserve ultimate recruitment deliberations for seasoned human scouts, citing the irreproducibility of tacit observational judgment.

Based on the information in Paragraph 7, decide whether the following statement is True (T), False (F) or Not Given (NG).

Statement: Sports science graduates with expertise in computational data analysis earn higher starting salaries than veteran collegiate coaches.

(Select T, F, or NG)

Read the following extract from Paragraph 3 of Text 5 and decide whether the statement below is True (T), False (F), or Not Given (NG).

Text 5 (Paragraph 3):
"While proponents herald algorithmic scheduling as an equalizer that eliminates managerial bias, empirical studies reveal a far more precarious reality. Automated surveillance tools track every keystroke and pause, penalizing workers for momentary lapses in output. Contrary to industry claims that remote freelancers enjoy unprecedented autonomy, the software essentially functions as an invisible digital supervisor, subtly dictating pace and breaks while insulating management from accountability."

Statement:
Remote freelancers have gained greater control over their daily work pace as a direct result of automated surveillance tools.

○ T (True)
○ F (False)
○ NG (Not Given)

Read the following extract from Paragraph 4 of Text 5 and decide whether the statement below is True (T), False (F), or Not Given (NG).

Text 5 (Paragraph 4):
"Furthermore, recent legislative efforts in the European Union aim to classify automated metric evaluations as high-risk systems, mandating human oversight before punitive measures—such as account suspension or wage deductions—can be executed. Tech conglomerates have voiced vehement opposition, arguing that mandatory human arbitration would introduce crippling delays and escalate operational overheads. Yet, consumer advocacy groups maintain that without stringent statutory guardrails, the asymmetric power dynamic between digital platforms and individual contractors will only widen."

Statement:
The European Union plans to impose heavy financial fines on digital platforms that refuse to implement human oversight.

○ T (True)
○ F (False)
○ NG (Not Given)

Read the excerpt from Text 5 below and answer the question.

Paragraph 7
The advent of algorithmic hiring was heralded as a breakthrough to eliminate human partiality, yet it frequently codifies historical biases. When automated screening tools evaluate resumes against profiles of past corporate high-achievers, underrepresented candidates are systematically penalized. Rather than fostering true meritocracy, these opaque mechanisms perpetuate entrenched inequities under the veneer of mathematical neutrality.

Based on the information in paragraph 7, complete the summary sentence below by writing ONE word in the blank. Your answer must be grammatically correct.

While algorithmic recruitment was introduced to eradicate human prejudice, it inadvertently reinforces inequality because automated systems regularly (i) ____________ underrepresented candidates during resume evaluation.

Read the excerpt from Text 5 below and answer the question.

Paragraph 9
Deepfake technology represents a profound epistemic threat, destabilizing our collective consensus on truth. As hyper-realistic synthetic media proliferates, human observers and verification mechanisms alike struggle to authenticate recordings. This erosion of digital trust not only impairs investigative journalism, but also renders democratic institutions exceedingly susceptible to targeted disinformation campaigns.

Based on the information in paragraph 9, complete the summary sentence below by writing ONE word in the blank. Your answer must be grammatically correct.

The unchecked spread of synthetic media undermines digital trust and leaves democratic institutions highly (i) ____________ to deliberate disinformation.

Read the excerpt from Text 5 below and answer the question.

[Paragraph 4]
Traditional newsrooms once relied on seasoned editors to scrutinise investigative pitches, filtering out sensationalist speculation before publication. However, as independent digital platforms proliferate, autonomous content creators are increasingly bypassing institutional oversight. While this decentralisation democratises public discourse, media analysts caution that the absence of rigorous fact-checking often amplifies misinformation. Without institutional buffers, digital journalists must cultivate their own professional integrity to retain audience trust.

Based on the information in paragraph 4, complete the summary below by writing ONE word taken from paragraph 4 in the blank. Your answer must be grammatically correct.

Summary:
While the growth of independent platforms facilitates public expression, the lack of editorial (i) ___________ allows inaccurate reporting to spread more readily.

Read the excerpt from Text 5 below and answer the question.

[Paragraph 6]
Automated reporting algorithms are capable of generating financial briefs and sports recaps within seconds, yet they remain fundamentally inept at interpreting nuanced human emotions. Industry leaders emphasise that algorithmic efficiency should not be mistaken for genuine analytical depth. Consequently, rather than rendering human journalists obsolete, technological tools are anticipated to augment investigative capabilities, enabling reporters to delve into intricate systemic issues rather than spending hours compiling mundane numerical data.

Based on the information in paragraph 6, complete the summary below by writing ONE word taken from paragraph 6 in the blank. Your answer must be grammatically correct.

Summary:
Instead of making human professionals entirely (ii) ___________, digital algorithms serve to assist reporters by handling routine data processing.

Read the following excerpt from Text 5 and complete the summary sentence.

Text 5
[4] When newsrooms first integrated automated writing software, editors maintained an unwavering optimism, heralding the algorithms as mere clerical aids that would liberate human reporters from repetitive data aggregation. However, as computational models grew increasingly sophisticated, this managerial perception underwent a radical realignment. Rather than simply functioning as subordinate tools of productivity, artificial intelligence began encroaching upon nuanced interpretive duties, prompting widespread anxiety that journalists were being systematically marginalized.

Question:
Based on the information in paragraph 4, complete the summary below by writing ONE word in the blank. Your answer must be taken from paragraph 4 and be grammatically correct.

Although initially expected to (i) ___________ reporters from tedious routines, automated tools gradually began taking over complex analytical responsibilities.

Read the excerpt from Text 5 below. Which person from the text would most likely make the following comment?

"Junior professionals will face the steepest hurdle in developing foundational expertise because automated tools are absorbing entry-level tasks."

---
Text 5 (Paragraphs 4–7)
[4] Dr Timothy Vance points out that generative algorithms are not eliminating entire professions overnight, but rather hollowing out junior rungs: "When routine drafting, coding, and preliminary data aggregation are handed over to software, the traditional apprenticeship model collapses. Novices simply lose the sandbox where core competencies are honed."
[5] Clara Morales argues from an artist's perspective: "Algorithms dilute authentic style into generic homogeneity; bespoke human craft will eventually command a luxury status among discerning clients."
[6] Julian Sterling asserts that productivity gains will unlock unprecedented creative freedom: "Rather than replacing workers, AI acts as an intellectual multiplier, allowing solitary designers to produce full-scale commercial campaigns."
[7] Fiona Gallagher observes shifting employer demands: "Hiring managers are no longer screening for technical proficiency alone; the premium has shifted toward interpersonal negotiation and strategic oversight."
---

Persons:
A. Dr Timothy Vance
B. Clara Morales
C. Julian Sterling
D. Fiona Gallagher

Write the correct letter (A–D) in the space provided.

Read the excerpt from Text 5 (paragraphs 4–7) below. Which person from the text would most likely make the following comment?

"In the evolving recruitment landscape, soft skills and high-level decision-making have eclipsed purely technical execution."

---
Text 5 (Paragraphs 4–7)
[4] Dr Timothy Vance points out that generative algorithms are not eliminating entire professions overnight, but rather hollowing out junior rungs: "When routine drafting, coding, and preliminary data aggregation are handed over to software, the traditional apprenticeship model collapses. Novices simply lose the sandbox where core competencies are honed."
[5] Clara Morales argues from an artist's perspective: "Algorithms dilute authentic style into generic homogeneity; bespoke human craft will eventually command a luxury status among discerning clients."
[6] Julian Sterling asserts that productivity gains will unlock unprecedented creative freedom: "Rather than replacing workers, AI acts as an intellectual multiplier, allowing solitary designers to produce full-scale commercial campaigns."
[7] Fiona Gallagher observes shifting employer demands: "Hiring managers are no longer screening for technical proficiency alone; the premium has shifted toward interpersonal negotiation and strategic oversight."
---

Persons:
A. Dr Timothy Vance
B. Clara Morales
C. Julian Sterling
D. Fiona Gallagher

Write the correct letter (A–D) in the space provided.

Read the extract from Text 5 below and answer the question that follows.

[Text 5: Paragraphs 3–6]
[3] Marcus Holloway, editor-in-chief of The Metro Chronicle, contends that automated reporting tools are an indispensable asset: "Without algorithmic aggregation, our regional desks could never keep pace with the sheer volume of local sports scores and municipal announcements."
[4] In contrast, veteran investigative reporter Julian Chen expresses deep skepticism: "Algorithms can crunch statistics at lightning speed, but they possess neither moral intuition nor the instinct to uncover malpractice. Relying on them for investigative work is an abdication of journalistic duty."
[5] Media ethicist Dr Elena Vance warns of subtle distortions: "When newsrooms outsource synthesis to machine learning models, they inadvertently inherit proprietary biases baked into training datasets, compromising fairness under the guise of scientific objectivity."
[6] Priya Sharma, director of a digital media think-tank, takes a pragmatic stance: "The real dilemma is not whether automation will replace journalists, but how news organizations upskill existing reporters to audit and interrogate algorithmic outputs effectively."

Match the following comment with the person who would most agree with it based on paragraphs 3–6. Write the correct letter (A, B, C, or D) in the space provided.

List of Persons:
A. Marcus Holloway
B. Julian Chen
C. Dr Elena Vance
D. Priya Sharma

Comment: "News outlets that rely on automated algorithms risk uncritically adopting hidden prejudices while presenting a false facade of absolute impartiality."

Read the extract from Text 5 below and answer the question that follows.

[Text 5: Paragraphs 3–6]
[3] Marcus Holloway, editor-in-chief of The Metro Chronicle, contends that automated reporting tools are an indispensable asset: "Without algorithmic aggregation, our regional desks could never keep pace with the sheer volume of local sports scores and municipal announcements."
[4] In contrast, veteran investigative reporter Julian Chen expresses deep skepticism: "Algorithms can crunch statistics at lightning speed, but they possess neither moral intuition nor the instinct to uncover malpractice. Relying on them for investigative work is an abdication of journalistic duty."
[5] Media ethicist Dr Elena Vance warns of subtle distortions: "When newsrooms outsource synthesis to machine learning models, they inadvertently inherit proprietary biases baked into training datasets, compromising fairness under the guise of scientific objectivity."
[6] Priya Sharma, director of a digital media think-tank, takes a pragmatic stance: "The real dilemma is not whether automation will replace journalists, but how news organizations upskill existing reporters to audit and interrogate algorithmic outputs effectively."

Match the following comment with the person who would most agree with it based on paragraphs 3–6. Write the correct letter (A, B, C, or D) in the space provided.

List of Persons:
A. Marcus Holloway
B. Julian Chen
C. Dr Elena Vance
D. Priya Sharma

Comment: "Automated software is essential because human staff are simply unable to manage the massive influx of routine local updates on their own."

Read the following extract from Text 5 (paragraphs 4–7) and answer the question below.

[4] Dr. Timothy Vance, an occupational economist at the Global Institute for Work, contends that predictive hiring algorithms are fundamentally flawed because they train on historical hiring data, merely perpetuating legacy inequalities under the veneer of mathematical neutrality.

[5] In contrast, Clara Morales, Head of Talent Acquisition at NexaCorp, argues that standardized automated metrics remove the subtle cognitive biases and subconscious favoritism inherent in human interview panels, thereby offering applicants from non-traditional educational backgrounds a fairer assessment.

[6] Workplace privacy advocate Sonia Lindqvist warns that persistent algorithmic surveillance and continuous digital performance tracking generate chronic hyper-vigilance among employees, forcing them to game productivity metrics at the expense of authentic team collaboration.

[7] Meanwhile, Chief Technology Officer Marcus Sterling maintains that automated workforce platforms are indispensable for rapidly identifying operational bottlenecks and reallocating organizational resources in real time.

---

Match the following comment with the person who expressed a similar view in the text:

"Continuous automated appraisal mechanisms foster an environment of constant anxiety that discourages genuine teamwork."

Write the person's full name in the space provided.

Read the following extract from Text 5 (paragraphs 4–7) and answer the question below.

[4] Dr. Timothy Vance, an occupational economist at the Global Institute for Work, contends that predictive hiring algorithms are fundamentally flawed because they train on historical hiring data, merely perpetuating legacy inequalities under the veneer of mathematical neutrality.

[5] In contrast, Clara Morales, Head of Talent Acquisition at NexaCorp, argues that standardized automated metrics remove the subtle cognitive biases and subconscious favoritism inherent in human interview panels, thereby offering applicants from non-traditional educational backgrounds a fairer assessment.

[6] Workplace privacy advocate Sonia Lindqvist warns that persistent algorithmic surveillance and continuous digital performance tracking generate chronic hyper-vigilance among employees, forcing them to game productivity metrics at the expense of authentic team collaboration.

[7] Meanwhile, Chief Technology Officer Marcus Sterling maintains that automated workforce platforms are indispensable for rapidly identifying operational bottlenecks and reallocating organizational resources in real time.

---

Match the following comment with the person who expressed a similar view in the text:

"Relying on artificial intelligence to screen applicants eliminates the implicit human partiality that often disadvantages unconventional job candidates."

Write the person's full name in the space provided.

You are the Chairperson of the Horizon Community Youth Art Club. You are writing an information leaflet to promote the club and encourage secondary school students in your district to join for the upcoming academic term.

Write the text for the promotional leaflet. You must include the following THREE headings:
• Discover Your Creative Spark
• Exciting Workshops and Activities
• How to Join Us

Write about 200 words in the space provided.

A recent survey revealed that an increasing number of companies in Hong Kong are exploring the 'four-day work week' model, where employees work compressed hours across four days to enjoy three consecutive days off. While advocates argue this enhances employee well-being and productivity, skeptics worry about operational disruption and increased daily work stress.

Write an article for your school's economics and business journal evaluating the potential benefits and challenges of adopting a four-day work week for local businesses. Suggest realistic measures companies can take to implement this policy smoothly, and conclude with your overall stance on whether Hong Kong should widely embrace this trend.

Write about 400 words.

Listen to Part 1 of the 'FitLife Today' podcast about pre-workout preparation.

Audio Transcript:
Host: Welcome back to FitLife Today. Dr Vance, what is the single most common hydration mistake recreational runners make before morning interval training?
Dr Vance: Well, most people simply gulp down plain water right before stepping onto the track. However, our clinical tests show that consuming liquids containing added electrolytes at least forty-five minutes beforehand is essential, as it allows sufficient time for cellular absorption.

---
Task 1: Pre-workout Hydration Factsheet

Complete the note below. Write ONE number or word in the blank.

* Optimal timing for consuming electrolyte drinks before interval training: (i) ________ minutes beforehand

Listen to Part 2 of the 'FitLife Today' podcast about common fitness mistakes.

Audio Transcript:
Host: What physical complication do athletes face if they only consume plain tap water right before a high-intensity sprint session?
Dr Vance: In our laboratory trials, athletes who drank only pure tap water immediately prior to sprinting frequently suffered from severe muscle cramps, primarily caused by the rapid dilution of essential sodium levels in the bloodstream.

---
Task 2: Risk Assessment Summary Table

Complete the table row below. Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS in the blank.

| Issue / Condition | Adverse Health Consequence |
| :--- | :--- |
| Drinking only plain tap water immediately prior to sprinting | Risk of developing severe (i) ________ |

You are listening to an episode of the health podcast FitLife Today. The host is interviewing sports physiologist Dr. Rachel Vance about preparing for the upcoming community 10km run.

Complete the table below based on the podcast. Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS in the blank.

Pre-Run Nutrition Guide
* Recommended food: Wholemeal toast with sliced bananas
* Ideal timing: 2 hours prior to running
* Primary benefit: To supply (1) ____________________ throughout the run

You are listening to the same episode of FitLife Today. Dr. Vance continues by explaining essential recovery habits immediately following a race.

Complete the note below based on the podcast. Write ONE WORD ONLY in the blank.

Post-Run Recovery Checklist
* Cool-down walk: Lowers heart rate gradually
* Electrolyte fluids: Rehydrates body and prevents muscle (2) ____________________

You are listening to an episode of the podcast Fitness Focus. Listen to the interview with sports scientist Dr Clara Vance and complete the note below.

Podcast Extract:
Host: Welcome back to Fitness Focus. Today, Dr Clara Vance is here to discuss Interval Walking Training, or IWT. Dr Vance, who is this training method primarily designed for?
Dr Vance: Well, while athletes sometimes use it for active recovery, IWT was initially developed for middle-aged and older adults who find high-impact running too stressful on their joints. It provides substantial cardiovascular benefits without the risk of knee injuries.

Task Note:
Target Group for IWT:
Initially developed for: (1) _________________________
(Write NO MORE THAN FOUR WORDS.)

You are listening to the continuation of the Fitness Focus podcast about Interval Walking Training (IWT). Complete the table below based on Dr Vance's explanation.

Podcast Extract:
Host: How should beginners monitor their intensity during fast intervals without using expensive smartwatches?
Dr Vance: A simple guideline is the 'talk test'. During the fast walking phase, your breathing should be heavy enough that you can only manage short phrases rather than full sentences. In contrast, during the slow walking recovery phase, you should easily be able to sing.

Task Table:
| Interval Phase | Target Intensity Indicator (The 'Talk Test') |
| :--- | :--- |
| Fast walking (high intensity) | Able to speak only in (2) _________________________ |
| Slow walking (recovery) | Able to sing easily |

(Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS.)

Listen to the podcast episode on athletic performance and complete the note sheet below.

Essential Minerals in Sports Drinks
* Primary mineral that helps athletes avoid muscle cramps: (i) [ _______ ]

Listen to the podcast episode on athletic performance and complete the note sheet below.

Post-Workout Recovery Window
* Optimal time frame to consume a carbohydrate recovery drink after intense exercise: within (ii) [ _______ ]

Listen to the podcast excerpt from Wellness Wave and complete the note sheet below.

---
Transcript Excerpt:
Host: Dr. Bradley, welcome to the show. Let's start with hydration. Many young runners only start gulping down water right when they hit the track. Is that effective?
Dr. Bradley: Not at all. That often leads to stomach cramps rather than proper cellular hydration. For optimal performance, you should begin sipping water roughly two hours before starting exercise. This gives your body adequate time to absorb fluids and regulate core temperature.
---

Pre-Workout Hydration Guidelines
* Optimal timing to begin fluid intake: (i) ____________________ before starting exercise

Listen to the next excerpt from Wellness Wave and complete the information table below.

---
Transcript Excerpt:
Host: What about nutrition before strenuous workouts like high-intensity interval training?
Dr. Bradley: For high-intensity interval training, you need complex carbohydrates paired with easily digestible sugars. A classic recommendation is wholemeal toast topped with sliced banana. What makes this combination so effective is that it delivers sustained energy release, preventing the mid-session fatigue and sudden blood sugar dips that many athletes experience.
---

Pre-Exercise Nutrition Summary

| Type of Activity | Recommended Snack | Key Benefit |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| High-intensity interval training (HIIT) | Wholemeal toast with sliced banana | Delivers (ii) ____________________ to prevent sudden fatigue |

You are listening to an episode of the FitLife Today podcast discussing different cardiovascular workout styles.

Complete the note below based on the podcast conversation.

Benefits of Low-Impact Steady-State (LISS) Cardio:
* Promotes cardiovascular endurance with a lower risk of (1) ____________________ on the knees and ankles.

You are listening to an episode of the FitLife Today podcast discussing different cardiovascular workout styles.

Complete the note below based on the podcast conversation.

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Guidelines:
* Beginners should limit their routine to no more than (2) ____________________ session(s) per week to avoid burnout.

Task 1: Listen to the podcast about health and fitness. Complete the notes below by writing ONE word in the blank.

Weekly Routine for Novice Runners
- Frequency: 3 days per week
- Duration per session: 30 to 45 minutes
- Warm-up type: (i) ____________ stretching (e.g. leg swings, walking lunges)

Task 1: Listen to the podcast about health and fitness. Complete the notes below by writing NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS in the blank.

Recommended Post-Workout Recovery Snack
- Ideal timing: Within 30 minutes after training
- Nutrient ratio: 3:1 ratio of carbohydrates to (ii) ____________

Listen to the podcast interview with Coach Marcus discussing hydration guidelines for distance runners. Complete the note below.

Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS.

* Optimal Pre-run Hydration Strategy:
Drink 500 ml of water approximately ____________________ before the race begins.

Listen to the podcast interview with Coach Marcus discussing post-exercise recovery routines. Complete the note below.

Write ONE word only.

* Muscle Soreness Relief:
Athletes should take an ice ____________________ within 30 minutes of high-intensity training to minimise inflammation.

Task 1: Fitness Podcast Notes

Listen to the podcast interview with sports scientist Dr Clara Evans discussing workout regimes. Complete the summary table below by filling in the missing word(s).

| Exercise Format | Recommended Frequency | Key Advantage |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) | 2–3 times weekly | Highly effective for boosting (1) ____________ rate for hours after training. |

Task 1: Fitness Podcast Notes

Listen to the podcast interview with sports scientist Dr Clara Evans discussing workout regimes. Complete the summary table below by filling in the missing word(s).

| Exercise Format | Potential Drawback | Recommended For |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| LISS (Low-Intensity Steady-State) | Requires longer time commitment | Beginners or individuals undergoing (2) ____________ from joint injuries. |

You are listening to an episode of the Wellness Wave podcast. The host, Marcus, is interviewing sports physiologist Dr Nathan Cole about interval training.

Transcript excerpt:
Marcus: Dr Cole, what makes high-intensity interval training so effective for athletes looking to boost their endurance?
Dr Cole: Well, Marcus, many runners assume they must jog for hours at a steady pace. However, clinical studies show that brief bursts of maximum effort followed by short rest periods increase your oxygen uptake much faster than traditional steady-state cardio.

Complete the note below based on the podcast. Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS in the blank.

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
* Key cardiovascular benefit: significantly improves (i) ____________________ compared to steady-state cardio.

You are listening to an episode of the fitness podcast Fit & Well. Listen to the interview with sports scientist Dr Karen Vance and complete the notes below. Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS for each blank.

Podcast Note Sheet: Exercise Strategies

* High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
- Primary benefit: Maximum calorie burn in minimum time
- Potential risk if warm-up is omitted: (i) ____________________

You are listening to an episode of the fitness podcast Fit & Well. Listen to the interview with sports scientist Dr Karen Vance and complete the notes below. Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS for each blank.

Podcast Note Sheet: Exercise Strategies

* Optimal Recovery Strategy
- Recommended active recovery activity: (ii) ____________________ between intense training days

Task 1

You are listening to an episode of the Daily Wellness podcast about functional fitness and strength training. Listen to the conversation between the host, Mark, and fitness expert Dr. Fiona Evans, and complete the table below.

### Comparison of Workout Approaches

| Training Approach | Primary Focus | Main Physical Benefit |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Traditional Weightlifting | Isolating specific muscle groups | Muscle hypertrophy / size |
| Functional Training | Multi-joint movement patterns | Improving (1) ____________________ and core stability |

Write ONE word or a short phrase to complete blank (1).

Task 1 (Continued)

Complete the summary notes on beginner guidelines based on the podcast.

### Beginner Guidelines for Functional Training

* Ideal Frequency: 2 to 3 sessions per week
* Rest Period: At least 48 hours between strenuous workouts
* Key Safety Advice: Always prioritize proper form over adding resistance to avoid (2) ____________________.

Write ONE word or a short phrase to complete blank (2).

Task 1: Notes on "FitLife Weekly" Podcast

Listen to Part 1 of the podcast in which the host interviews sports scientist Dr. Karen Evans about modern fitness methods. Complete the note sheet below by filling in the missing information.

---
Summary of Fitness Approaches

* High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT):
* Primary physiological benefit: Significantly boosts (1) _______________________ within six to eight weeks.

Task 1: Notes on "FitLife Weekly" Podcast (Continued)

Complete the table below regarding Dr. Evans' recommendations for beginner runners to avoid overuse injuries.

---
Injury Prevention Guidelines for Novice Runners

* The Progression Rule:
* Runners should avoid increasing their weekly mileage by more than (2) _______________________.

Task 2: Listen to the podcast FitPulse. Dr Ryan is comparing High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and Low-Intensity Steady-State (LISS) cardio.

Complete the feature grid for statement (i) below by identifying which workout type it applies to.

| Feature / Characteristic | HIIT only | LISS only | Both HIIT & LISS | Neither |
|:---|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|
| (i) Recommended for individuals seeking minimal joint impact and active recovery | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |

Write the correct category (e.g. HIIT only, LISS only, Both HIIT & LISS, or Neither) in the answer space.

Task 2: Listen to the podcast FitPulse. Dr Ryan is comparing High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and Low-Intensity Steady-State (LISS) cardio.

Complete the feature grid for statement (ii) below by identifying which workout type it applies to.

| Feature / Characteristic | HIIT only | LISS only | Both HIIT & LISS | Neither |
|:---|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|
| (ii) Triggers the 'afterburn effect' (elevated calorie burning hours after the session ends) | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |

Write the correct category (e.g. HIIT only, LISS only, Both HIIT & LISS, or Neither) in the answer space.

Task 3: Evaluation of Exercise Modalities

Listen to the podcast interview with sports scientist Dr. Karen Lin discussing two popular training methods: High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and Low-Intensity Steady-State (LISS).

Audio Transcript Excerpt:
Host: Dr. Lin, our listeners often ask about metabolic adaptations. Which routine actually creates a substantial post-workout 'afterburn effect'—what physiologists call excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC)?
Dr. Lin: That is distinctly characteristic of HIIT. Because of the repeated near-maximal bursts of exertion, your body is forced to consume substantially elevated amounts of oxygen for hours post-workout to restore metabolic homeostasis. LISS, while fantastic for building an aerobic base, produces virtually negligible EPOC once you step off the treadmill or bike.

Based on the conversation, indicate which training regime the feature below applies to:

Feature: Produces a significant excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC / 'afterburn effect')

Select the correct category:
- [ ] High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) only
- [ ] Low-Intensity Steady-State (LISS) only
- [ ] Both regimes
- [ ] Neither regime

Task 3: Evaluation of Exercise Modalities

Listen to the podcast interview with sports scientist Dr. Karen Lin discussing two popular training methods: High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and Low-Intensity Steady-State (LISS).

Audio Transcript Excerpt:
Host: What about cellular adaptations in the muscles? Do both methods improve vascularization in the same way?
Dr. Lin: Interestingly, yes. When researchers look at muscular tissue adaptations, LISS provides continuous blood flow that steadily stimulates new capillary growth. Meanwhile, HIIT triggers capillary network expansion through intense, localized oxygen depletion that stimulates growth factors. So both exercise regimes successfully stimulate capillary density development in skeletal muscle, improving overall oxygen delivery to working tissues.

Based on the conversation, indicate which training regime the feature below applies to:

Feature: Stimulates capillary network expansion and density in skeletal muscle

Select the correct category:
- [ ] High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) only
- [ ] Low-Intensity Steady-State (LISS) only
- [ ] Both regimes
- [ ] Neither regime

You are listening to an episode of the health and fitness podcast Move Well Today.

Listen to sports nutritionist Dr Samira Patel explaining pre-workout meal timing and complete the note below.

Pre-workout Nutrition Notes:
According to Dr Patel, how long before a morning run should a light, high-carbohydrate snack ideally be consumed?

You are listening to the continuation of the podcast Move Well Today.

Listen to Dr Samira Patel discussing proper hydration strategies for long-distance training and answer the question below.

According to Dr Patel, what physical symptom is the earliest warning sign that an athlete is overhydrating with plain water during endurance exercise?

Task 1: Tips for Beginner Runners

Listen to the excerpt from the health and fitness podcast 'Peak Performance Today', in which Coach Derek Vance gives advice on warm-up routines for 5K runners, and complete the note below.

Audio Transcript:
Maya: Derek, many beginners make mistakes right at the start of their workout. What is your top recommendation for the warm-up phase?
Coach Vance: The traditional practice of static stretching is outdated and can even cause strains. Instead, runners should focus on dynamic mobility exercises. Specifically, doing five minutes of high knees and leg swings is essential to properly activate the hamstrings and hip flexors before heading out.

---

Notes:
* Warm-up activity to activate key running muscles: (i) _________________________

Task 1: Tips for Beginner Runners

Listen to the excerpt from the health and fitness podcast 'Peak Performance Today', in which Coach Derek Vance explains post-workout nutrition, and complete the note below.

Audio Transcript:
Maya: What about nutrition after completing a training session? Should runners immediately turn to protein shakes?
Coach Vance: Not necessarily. While protein is helpful, replenishing depleted glycogen is the real priority. I always advise beginners to consume a small snack containing complex carbohydrates within forty-five minutes of finishing their run to optimize muscle recovery.

---

Notes:
* Post-run recovery tip: Eat a snack with complex carbohydrates within (ii) _________________________ of finishing.

Listen to the excerpt from the fitness podcast 'Active Living' and complete the note below.

Podcast Excerpt:
Chloe (Host): Welcome back to Active Living. Liam, many of our listeners struggle to warm up properly before their early morning workouts. What is your primary advice for them?
Liam (Fitness Coach): The biggest error people make is holding static poses when their body is still cold. Instead, you should always engage in dynamic stretching. It gently raises your core body temperature and actively increases blood flow to your muscles without decreasing power output.

Note-taking Sheet:
* Liam advises listeners to do (1) ____________________ stretching before early morning workouts.

Listen to the continuation of the fitness podcast 'Active Living' and complete the note below.

Podcast Excerpt:
Chloe (Host): What about hydration? We often see beginners carrying heavily sweetened sports drinks to the gym.
Liam (Fitness Coach): Yes, that is often unnecessary. For any workout lasting under an hour, regular tap or filtered water is completely fine. You only need electrolyte-infused sports drinks if you are engaging in continuous high-intensity training lasting for more than sixty minutes.

Note-taking Sheet:
* Condition for using electrolyte sports drinks: continuous high-intensity training lasting over (2) ____________________.

Listen to the following excerpt from the health and fitness podcast FitLife Today:

Dr. Janice Lee: "When choosing running shoes, beginners often make the mistake of buying them first thing in the morning. Your feet actually swell as you walk around during the day, so it is much better to shop for running shoes in the late afternoon to ensure a proper fit."

Based on the excerpt, complete the note below with ONE word or a short phrase.

Note Sheet: Footwear Advice
* Best time of day to purchase running shoes: [ ____________ ]

Listen to the following excerpt from the health and fitness podcast FitLife Today:

Dr. Janice Lee: "To prevent muscle strain and stay injury-free, never jump straight into a high-intensity run. You should always spend five to ten minutes doing dynamic stretching before you start any cardiovascular exercise."

Based on the excerpt, complete the note below with ONE word or a short phrase.

Note Sheet: Injury Prevention
* Recommended activity before starting a workout: [ ____________ ]

Task 1: Health & Fitness Podcast

Listen to the podcast extract below where Coach Clara discusses morning running habits.

[TRANSCRIPT]
Host: Clara, many beginners struggle with energy crashes during morning runs. What simple adjustment do you recommend?
Coach Clara: A lot of people head out on an empty stomach, which spikes cortisol and drains energy quickly. I always advise eating a small slice of whole-wheat toast with peanut butter thirty minutes before setting off. It provides slow-release complex carbohydrates that stabilize blood sugar levels throughout the run.

Complete the note below based on the podcast extract. Write NO MORE THAN FOUR WORDS.

Pre-run snack recommended by Coach Clara:
________________________________________

Task 2: Health & Fitness Podcast

Listen to the podcast extract below where Coach Clara discusses recovery after workouts.

[TRANSCRIPT]
Host: What about preventing muscle soreness and speeding up recovery after high-intensity training?
Coach Clara: Post-workout stretching is helpful, but the real key is sleep quality. When you enter deep slow-wave sleep, your pituitary gland releases human growth hormone to repair micro-tears in muscle tissue. That is why I tell all my athletes to avoid using digital screens for at least one hour before bed so melatonin production isn't disrupted.

Complete the note below based on the podcast extract. Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS.

Night-time habit to optimize muscle repair:
Avoid using ________________________________________ at least one hour before going to sleep.

Task 1: Tips for Starting a Running Routine

Listen to the extract from the podcast Active Living, in which fitness coach Liam discusses pacing for beginners. Complete the note below.

Pacing Strategy:
Beginners should use the 'talk test' and run at a speed where they can still ________________________________________ without gasping for breath.

Task 1: Tips for Starting a Running Routine

Listen to the extract from the podcast Active Living, in which fitness coach Liam discusses post-workout nutrition. Complete the note below.

Post-run Recovery:
Within 30 minutes of finishing a session, runners should have a light snack that combines carbohydrates with ________________________________________ to assist muscle repair.

You are listening to an episode of the health and fitness podcast Peak Performance. The host, Marcus, is interviewing sports physiologist Dr. Fiona Carter about effective muscle recovery strategies.

Listen to the excerpt and complete the note below.

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Transcript Excerpt:
* Marcus: So Fiona, after a grueling gym session or long run, timing is everything, right? What is the golden window for refuelling?
* Dr. Carter: Exactly, Marcus. Research consistently shows that to maximize glycogen replenishment and kickstart muscle repair, athletes should aim to consume a balanced snack with carbohydrates and protein within forty-five minutes of finishing a high-intensity workout.
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Tips for Post-Workout Recovery
* Optimal refuelling window:
- Consume carbohydrates and protein within (1) ________________________ after finishing high-intensity exercise.

You are listening to an episode of the health and fitness podcast Peak Performance. The host, Marcus, is interviewing sports physiologist Dr. Fiona Carter about effective muscle recovery strategies.

Listen to the excerpt and complete the note below.

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Transcript Excerpt:
* Marcus: That covers post-workout nutrition. Now, what about sleep? Many recreational runners try to get by on just five or six hours.
* Dr. Carter: That is a huge mistake. During deep, slow-wave sleep, the body naturally releases human growth hormone, which is absolutely vital for repairing micro-tears in muscle fibers and rebuilding tissue.
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Tips for Post-Workout Recovery
* Sleep and physical restoration:
- Aim for sufficient deep sleep because (2) ________________________ is secreted to repair damaged muscle fibers.

Situation: You are listening to an episode of the podcast Fit Forward about establishing effective morning exercise routines.

Audio Transcript:
Dr. Simmons: "...Many beginners make the mistake of jumping straight into intense sprints or doing static stretches while their muscles are still cold. If you want to avoid early morning stiffness and prime your joints, doing five minutes of dynamic stretching—like arm circles and leg swings—is by far the most effective approach."

Task: Complete the note below based on the podcast.

Pre-workout recommendation to avoid muscle stiffness:
___________________________________________________

Situation: You are listening to the continuation of the podcast Fit Forward discussing post-workout nutrition and hydration.

Audio Transcript:
Dr. Simmons: "...After a high-intensity session, water alone is often not enough because you lose vital minerals through sweat. I always advise athletes to consume drinks containing electrolytes, particularly sodium and potassium, within thirty minutes of finishing their workout to speed up recovery."

Task: Complete the note below by stating the main reason given by Dr. Simmons.

Why athletes need electrolyte drinks rather than plain water after intense exercise:
___________________________________________________

Listen to the excerpt from the podcast 'FitLife Today' in which fitness instructor Marcus discusses high-intensity home workouts.

Podcast Excerpt:
Rachel: Marcus, what is the single most common mistake beginners make when starting high-intensity interval training at home?
Marcus: Many people rush through the routine without pausing. It is crucial to take adequate rest intervals between high-intensity sets. If you do not give your body enough time to recover, your form deteriorates quickly and you increase your risk of injury.

Complete the note below based on the podcast. Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS for the blank.

Safety recommendation for high-intensity interval training:
Allow sufficient _______________ between exercise sets to maintain proper form.

Listen to the excerpt from the podcast 'FitLife Today' in which Marcus discusses workout hydration.

Podcast Excerpt:
Rachel: What about hydration? A lot of our listeners wonder whether commercial sports drinks are actually necessary during workouts.
Marcus: For standard workouts lasting under an hour, plain water is completely adequate. However, if you are training intensely in hot weather for more than sixty minutes, you should consume an electrolyte beverage to replace lost minerals and avoid severe fatigue.

Complete the note below based on the podcast. Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS for the blank.

Hydration guideline for vigorous sessions over 60 minutes:
Drink a(n) _______________ to replenish essential minerals lost through sweat.

Listen to the excerpt from the health and fitness podcast FitLife Weekly and complete the note below.

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Podcast Excerpt:
Host (Chloe): "A lot of our listeners find it tough to get out of bed early to exercise. Marcus, what is your top practical tip for them?"
Marcus: "The key is removing friction. Before going to sleep, lay out your gym clothes and trainers right by your bed. When you wake up half-asleep, this eliminates decision fatigue, so you don't spend valuable energy wondering what to wear or search for gear."
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Tips for Starting a Morning Workout Routine
* Laying out workout clothes and shoes the night before eliminates (i) ________________________ upon waking up.

Listen to the excerpt from the health and fitness podcast FitLife Weekly and complete the note below.

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Podcast Excerpt:
Host (Chloe): "What about nutrition before an early morning run? Should people eat a full breakfast?"
Marcus: "Definitely avoid heavy meals, which lead to stomach cramps and sluggishness. Instead, have a small snack consisting of easily digestible carbohydrates, such as a banana or a slice of toast with honey, roughly twenty to thirty minutes before heading out."
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Pre-Workout Fueling Guidelines
* 20–30 minutes before training, eat a small snack rich in (i) ________________________ (e.g. a banana or toast with honey).

Listen to the excerpt from the podcast Fit & Well Daily and complete the note below.

Topic: Pre-Run Nutrition Strategy
* Recommended timing for having a complex-carbohydrate meal before a morning long run:
At least ____________________ before running

Listen to the excerpt from the podcast Fit & Well Daily and complete the note below.

Topic: Hydration and Electrolyte Replacement
* Main purpose of adding a pinch of sea salt to drinking water during high-intensity training:
To ____________________

Marcus is interviewing Dr Samantha Cheng on the podcast The Active Hour about preparing for distance running.

Read the podcast excerpt below and complete the note taking tip. Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS in the blank.

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Podcast Transcript Excerpt:
Marcus: Many of our listeners who are training for their first 10K or half-marathon ask about post-run recovery meals. What is the single most important rule right after crossing the finish line or finishing a strenuous long run?
Dr Cheng: The most critical window is the first 30 to 45 minutes. You need to consume a snack with a balanced carb-to-protein ratio, but above all, to prevent muscle stiffness and dizziness, runners must replenish lost electrolytes immediately through coconut water or an isotonic drink rather than just drinking plain water.
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Post-Run Recovery Checklist:
* Immediately after a strenuous run, runners should _________________________ by drinking isotonic beverages or coconut water.

You are Alex Lee, an Assistant Project Officer at Green Haven Community Centre. You are preparing promotional materials for the upcoming 'Green Horizons Youth Design Competition'.

Read the Data File below and complete the draft poster by filling in the missing information for items (i) to (xv).

============================================================
DATA FILE
============================================================

[Document 1: Email from Project Supervisor]
To: Alex Lee
From: Brenda Wong
Date: 14 October 2024
Subject: Draft Poster for Green Horizons Youth Design Competition

Hi Alex,

Please finish up the promotional poster for the 'Green Horizons Youth Design Competition 2025'. Here are a few updates from this morning's briefing:
- The target audience is full-time secondary students aged 14 to 18 in Hong Kong.
- Participants must form teams of 3 to 4 members.
- The central theme of this year's contest is 'Smart Upcycling for Urban Living'.
- The submission deadline is Friday, 28 November 2024 by 5:00 p.m.
- The Grand Final Exhibition will take place at the Spark Innovation Hub in Kowloon Bay.
- Check the meeting minutes and Dr. Karen Tsang's confirmation note for the remaining details.

Thanks,
Brenda

------------------------------------------------------------
[Document 2: Extracts from Meeting Minutes - 12 October 2024]
- Entry Categories: Participants can choose between two main streams: (1) Household Functional Gadgets, and (2) Campus Waste Reduction Solutions.
- Submission Requirements: Each team must submit a digital concept proposal (maximum 6 pages in PDF format) and a 2-minute demonstration video.
- Entry Fee: Free of charge for all eligible local secondary schools.
- Prizes:
* Champion: HK$12,000 book vouchers and an eco-study trip to Singapore.
* 1st Runner-up: HK$8,000 book vouchers.
* 2nd Runner-up: HK$4,000 book vouchers.
* Most Creative Concept Award: HK$2,000 electronic store gift card.

------------------------------------------------------------
[Document 3: WhatsApp Chat Log between Alex Lee and Dr. Karen Tsang]
Alex [13 Oct 14:15]: Dear Dr. Tsang, we are thrilled you can join us as our Chief Adjudicator. Could you confirm the date and time of your pre-contest mentoring workshop?
Dr. Karen Tsang [13 Oct 14:22]: Delighted to help! The online mentoring workshop will be held on Saturday, 8 November 2024 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon via Zoom. I will share practical prototyping tips and judging criteria.
Alex [13 Oct 14:25]: That's perfect. Where should students submit their registration?
Dr. Karen Tsang [13 Oct 14:26]: Just remind them to register via the official portal at www.greenhaven.org.hk/greenhorizons.

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[Document 4: Sponsorship Memo]
Confirmed Venue for Grand Final: Exhibition Hall B, Spark Innovation Hub, Kowloon Bay
Grand Final Date: Saturday, 17 January 2025
Official Sponsor: EcoTech Energy Foundation

============================================================
QUESTION:
============================================================
Complete the poster below by writing the correct words or phrases in the spaces provided.

GREEN HAVEN COMMUNITY CENTRE PRESENTS:
GREEN HORIZONS YOUTH DESIGN COMPETITION 2025

1. Target Participants:
- Full-time secondary school students aged (i) [__________________]
- Team size: (ii) [__________________] members per team

2. Competition Theme:
- (iii) [__________________]

3. Competition Streams:
- Stream A: (iv) [__________________]
- Stream B: (v) [__________________]

4. Required Submission Materials:
- A digital concept proposal (max. (vi) [__________________] in (vii) [__________________] format)
- A (viii) [__________________] demonstration video

5. Pre-Contest Online Mentoring Workshop:
- Guest Speaker / Chief Adjudicator: (ix) [__________________]
- Date & Time: (x) [__________________] from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon
- Platform: (xi) [__________________]

6. Grand Final Details:
- Date: (xii) [__________________]
- Venue: Exhibition Hall B, (xiii) [__________________], Kowloon Bay

7. Champion Prize:
- HK$12,000 book vouchers plus an (xiv) [__________________]

8. Submission Deadline:
- (xv) [__________________] by 5:00 p.m.

You are Chris Wong, the Student Event Coordinator of the Careers Guidance Committee at Harbour View Secondary School. Your teacher advisor, Ms Fiona Cheng, has asked you to write a formal email to invite Ms Clara Tam, a veteran investigative photojournalist at Metro Chronicle, to be the keynote speaker at the upcoming Careers in Media & Communications Seminar.

Read the following extracts from your Data File and complete Task 6 below.

***

### DATA FILE EXTRACTS

Document 1: Email from Ms Fiona Cheng (Teacher Advisor)

To: Chris Wong <chriswong@hvss.edu.hk>
From: Fiona Cheng <fionacheng@hvss.edu.hk>
Date: 14 October 2024
Subject: Task for Careers in Media Seminar

Hi Chris,

Could you please draft a formal invitation email to Ms Clara Tam? Here are the key points to cover:
- Invite her to deliver the keynote talk at our Careers in Media & Communications Seminar.
- State the event details: Friday, 15 November 2024, from 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm in the School Auditorium (Level 2).
- Explain why our students specifically want to hear from her (mention her recent award for the 'Urban Heritage' photojournalism series and her extensive 15-year career).
- Specify the topic and required format: a 35-minute presentation on 'The Future of Visual Journalism in the Digital Era', followed by a 15-minute Q&A session with senior secondary students.
- Note that audiovisual equipment (wireless lapel mic, HD projector, and laptop) will be provided, but she should email us her slide deck three days prior.
- Request an RSVP by 28 October 2024 and provide my email for honorarium arrangements.

Please keep the tone polite, professional, and formal.

Thanks,
Ms Cheng

***

Document 2: Speaker Profile Excerpt (From Metro Chronicle Press Release)
* Name: Ms Clara Tam
* Title: Senior Visual Photojournalist, Metro Chronicle
* Key Achievements: Winner of the 2024 Asian Press Photography Award for 'Urban Heritage'; guest mentor for youth documentary programmes; 15 years of industry experience across print and digital media.

***

Task Instructions:
Write the formal invitation email to Ms Clara Tam using the information provided in the Data File. Write approximately 120–150 words in an appropriate formal style. Use the email template provided below.

```
To: Clara Tam
From: Chris Wong
Subject: [Write a suitable subject line]

Dear Ms Tam,

[Body of Email]

Yours sincerely,
Chris Wong
Student Event Coordinator
Careers Guidance Committee, Harbour View Secondary School
```

You are Chris Wong, a student intern at the Harbourfront Career Guidance Centre. You need to prepare a presentation script for your supervisor, Ms Sandra Lee, to introduce the upcoming 'Green Pathways Mentorship Scheme' during the morning assembly at Beacon Secondary School.

Read the following excerpts from your Data File and write the presentation script (approx. 120 words).

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### DATA FILE EXTRACTS

Document 1: Email from Ms Sandra Lee (Senior Project Officer)
To: Chris Wong
From: Sandra Lee
Date: 18 October 2024
Subject: Presentation Script for Beacon Secondary School Assembly

Hi Chris,

I need you to draft my presentation script for next Monday's morning assembly at Beacon Secondary School. Please keep it concise (around 120 words) and make sure you:
1. Welcome the students and state the primary objective of our new 'Green Pathways Mentorship Scheme'.
2. Highlight two main benefits for participants (pairings with certified environmental consultants, plus real-world site visits to solar farms).
3. State the eligibility criteria and the application deadline.
4. End with an encouraging call to action and mention where students can collect application forms.

Thanks,
Sandra

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Document 2: Information Sheet – Green Pathways Mentorship Scheme
- Target Audience: Secondary 4 to Secondary 6 students with an interest in sustainable business, clean energy, or urban planning.
- Scheme Objective: To equip youth with foundational skills and industry exposure for careers in sustainability and environmental technology.
- Key Features & Benefits:
- One-on-one professional guidance: Each participant is paired directly with an accredited environmental consultant for six months.
- Hands-on field experience: Exclusive guided visits to the regional solar energy farm and green building sites.
- Application Details:
- Application Deadline: 15 November 2024 (Friday), 5:00 p.m.
- Forms: Hard copies available at the School Careers Guidance Office (Room 204), or download online at www.hcgc.org.hk/greenpathways.

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TASK:
Write the presentation script for Ms Sandra Lee using the information in the Data File. Remember to maintain an engaging, professional, and encouraging tone suitable for a school assembly presentation.