LISTENING/READING PRACTICE TESTS (CEFR)

- Statistically, over 7 million people die annually because of poor air quality, and many people are moving out of cities because of the air contamination.

- Fossil fuels are not renewable, and scientists expect oil reserves to be depleted by around 2052.

- in other words,
- thus,
- however,
- Statistically,
- at the moment,
- , but over the next few decades,
- on the other hand

- ... can help to accelerate the adoption of eco-friendly infrastructure
-
- This is the most important reason why the use of alternative energy, especially wind and solar power, should be promoted.

Degradation - the process of something being damaged or made worse

- Deforestation and industrial pollution are major contributors to environmental degradation.


2. Governments must implement strict regulations to prevent further environmental degradation.


3. The rapid expansion of urban areas has led to severe environmental degradation in many regions.


4. Climate change is both a cause and a consequence of environmental degradation.


5. Sustainable practices can help reduce environmental degradation and preserve natural resources for future generations.


6. Overuse of chemical fertilizers has resulted in soil depletion and environmental degradation.


7. Tourism, if not managed properly, can accelerate environmental degradation in fragile ecosystems.


8. Many species face extinction due to habitat loss caused by environmental degradation.


9. Environmental degradation poses a serious threat to public health and biodiversity.


10. Raising awareness about the effects of environmental degradation is crucial for driving positive change.

#myversion #task2 #writing

In some countries, many children are becoming overweight and unhealthy. Some people say it is governments' role to tackle this issue.

To what extend do you agree or disagree?

Problems related to obesity and health are common among the young people. There are individuals who claim that the government is responsible for these situations. Personally, I partly agree with this view, while there are certain responsibilities that parents and children have to do.

The government should implement strict legislations for fast-food outlets and other advertising organizations. Firstly, fast-food zones are ubiquitous these days and they often offer meals that do not contain nutritional ingredients which are beneficial for children. Therefore, the government should create laws and medical groups that have to control the amount of vitamins and other substances that junk foods include. As a result, instant meal stores would change their recipe which might include nutritious vegetables. Moreover, factories that mainly produce foods for young people use advertisements that are detrimental for children. They often say that only their products are adequate for children's daily food and they use different cartoon or film stars to attract little children's attention. In this way, children deny other fruits and vegetables but prefer artificial foods. To tackle this issue, states have to replace them with scenes that promote fresh fruits and home-grown products or make limitations that restrict harmful advertisements that might affect juniors' thoughts.

However, there are some actions that parents and children themselves have to take into consideration. For example, parents have to provide enough insights about harmful effects of instant foods and money to children to afford purchase nutritive meals. If parents give clear instructions about consequences of unhealthy lifestyle as well as, they have to be a role model in order to achieve a healthy generation then, their child might follow them. On the other hand, children should be physically active to be in good health and fit. They cannot gain in good shape only with healthy foods, but also they have to run, walk, push-up, and pull-up constantly.

In conclusion, I believe that to reduce obesity level and growth healthy generation, parents and state have to work in mutual cooperation. Government should foster to produce nutritional, natural foods and prevent youngsters from deceptive marketing views, while parents have to provide reliable concepts for their children.

#refinedVersion #writing #task2

Many young people from developed nations engage in voluntary work in teaching or construction in underprivileged countries. It is evident that developing nations often lack well-educated professionals, and individuals from affluent countries choose to work without pay for a certain period to gain practical experience. This arrangement offers mutual benefits for both the host countries and the volunteers.

It is common for individuals from wealthy nations to participate in voluntary programs in developing countries. One major reason is the shortage of qualified teachers and architects in these regions. To address this issue, many recent school or university graduates from developed countries volunteer abroad. During their unpaid work period, they assist young students in beginning their education and train inexperienced builders in modern construction techniques. For example, many European graduates take part in unpaid initiatives across impoverished African nations, helping improve local infrastructure and educational standards.

Both volunteers and developing nations benefit significantly from these programs. For young professionals, volunteering provides a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in their respective fields. Low-income countries serve as an ideal setting for them to apply theoretical knowledge and refine their skills. By participating in such projects, they implement various techniques learned during their studies, which, in turn, enhance their employment prospects. Furthermore, local communities in developing nations benefit from the contributions of these volunteers. For instance, students receive foundational education through short-term courses, while skilled builders introduce modern construction techniques, ultimately improving infrastructure and living standards.

In conclusion, engaging in voluntary projects allows young professionals to gain practical experience and enhance their expertise. Simultaneously, developing nations benefit from improved literacy rates, increased public health awareness, and access to advanced construction methods. Encouraging such initiatives can foster global cooperation and contribute to sustainable development.

#refinedVersion #writing #task2

In recent years, an increasing number of students in higher education institutions have preferred non-scientific subjects over science-based fields. The demanding nature of scientific disciplines and uncertainty regarding employment prospects make these fields less attractive to young people. As a result, there may be a shortage of professionals in areas such as chemistry, biology, and physics.

One of the primary reasons students avoid scientific subjects is the complexity of the curriculum. Fields such as chemistry, biology, and physics require mastering intricate concepts and investing significant time in problem-solving. Many young people find these subjects challenging and, therefore, choose easier alternatives. Furthermore, careers in science-oriented fields are often perceived as less financially rewarding. For instance, professionals such as scientists, teachers, and doctors typically receive moderate salaries despite the effort and years of study required. In today’s consumer-driven world, individuals aspire to a higher standard of living, which discourages them from pursuing careers that may not provide financial stability.

The decline in students choosing scientific majors has significant consequences. A shortage of well-trained professionals could hinder advancements in medicine, technology, and environmental sciences. If local universities fail to produce sufficient experts, governments may be forced to hire foreign specialists to fill these gaps. However, recruiting professionals from other countries requires substantial financial investment, which could place an additional burden on national budgets.

In conclusion, the challenges associated with studying scientific subjects, along with doubts about employment opportunities and financial security, deter many students from pursuing careers in these fields. As a result, a lack of qualified professionals may arise, forcing governments to rely on foreign expertise at high costs. To address this issue, authorities should implement policies that encourage students to enroll in science-related disciplines by offering financial incentives and better career opportunities.

#task2 #writing #refinedVersion

Societies give more value to sportspeople and entertainment personalities than to professionals such as doctors, nurses, and teachers.
What is the main reason for this?
Do you think it is a good or bad development?

In today’s world, sportspeople and social media influencers receive significantly more recognition and financial rewards than professionals in public service sectors such as healthcare and education. This trend is largely driven by media influence and the public’s fascination with wealth and luxury lifestyles. However, I believe this is a negative development that may discourage talented individuals from pursuing essential professions.

One of the key reasons behind this phenomenon is the widespread exposure that athletes, celebrities, and online influencers receive through television and digital platforms. For instance, professional footballers like Khusanov, who plays for Manchester City, are admired by millions due to their high earnings and extravagant lifestyles. Their success stories dominate social media, inspiring many young people to pursue careers in sports or entertainment rather than in medicine or education.

Additionally, social media platforms such as Instagram and YouTube play a crucial role in shaping societal perceptions of success. Bloggers frequently showcase their wealth, exotic travels, and luxurious possessions, which captivate audiences. As a result, people are drawn to professions that offer instant fame and financial rewards, rather than careers that require years of education and dedication. Meanwhile, doctors and teachers, who contribute significantly to society, often receive lower salaries and less public recognition.

This shift in societal values has serious consequences. Firstly, it could lead to a decline in the number of professionals in essential fields, potentially affecting public health and education systems. Secondly, it promotes a materialistic mindset where financial success is prioritized over meaningful contributions to society. If this trend continues, fewer individuals may be motivated to pursue careers in medicine, teaching, or scientific research, ultimately leading to skill shortages in these critical sectors.

In conclusion, the increasing preference for sports and entertainment personalities over public service professionals is mainly driven by media influence and the allure of wealth. However, this is a concerning trend that may result in a shortage of skilled professionals in essential sectors. Therefore, societies should work towards valuing contributions in all professions equally, ensuring that vital roles such as teaching and healthcare receive the respect and financial support they deserve.

- As for whether I'd like to do this job, I'd say probably not.

- a pillar of the community
- A self-made man → Someone who achieved success through hard work.

Example: He was a self-made man who started from the bottom and became the factory's principal.

- Wear many hats – To have many roles or responsibilities.
Example: Over the years, he wore many hats, from worker to supervisor and finally director.

1. Climb the ladder – To progress in a career or social status

Example from the answer: "He started at the bottom as a regular worker and, through sheer determination and hard work, climbed the ladder to become the director of the factory."
New example: "She climbed the corporate ladder quickly, becoming a manager within just five years."

2. Call the shots – To be in charge and make important decisions

Example from the answer: "By the time he became the director, he was calling the shots, ensuring that everything—from production quality to staff management—was running efficiently."
New example: "As the project leader, he calls the shots on every major decision."

3. Put in the hard yards – To work hard and make a lot of effort

Example from the answer: "He was actively involved, always putting in the hard yards to make the business successful."
New example: "If you want to excel in your career, you have to put in the hard yards and stay committed."

4. Lead by example – To show others how to behave or work by doing it yourself

Example from the answer: "What I admire most is that he led by example. He wasn’t just someone who gave orders; he was actively involved."
New example: "A great leader doesn’t just give instructions—they lead by example and inspire others."

5. A pillar of the community – A respected and important person in a community

Example from the answer: "He was a pillar of the community, providing jobs and opportunities to many people in the town."
New example: "The local doctor was a pillar of the community, known for his dedication to helping people."

6. Hands-on work – Practical work that involves direct involvement

Example from the answer: "Initially, he was involved in hands-on work, ensuring the production process ran smoothly."
New example: "I prefer hands-on work rather than sitting at a desk all day."

7. A labor of love – Work done out of passion rather than obligation

Example from the answer (could be added for enhancement): "For him, this wasn’t just a job; it was a labor of love."
New example: "Restoring the old house was a labor of love for him, not just a project."

performance can be altered by how people are managed

🏠❄️

#writing #task2

Despite the construction of numerous apartment buildings in cities, homeownership remains a significant challenge for young couples. Several factors contribute to this issue, including the high demand for housing and the increasing preference for luxurious homes, both of which make it difficult for young individuals to afford property. However, viable solutions exist, such as fostering collaboration between construction companies and local manufacturers, as well as implementing government-backed low-interest loans to alleviate this pressing concern.

In recent years, urban migration has surged, with a substantial number of individuals relocating to cities in search of better job opportunities. This rapid urbanization has led to a housing shortage, as cities struggle to accommodate the growing population. According to statistics, approximately 56% of the world’s population resides in urban areas, and this trend is expected to continue. Many people move to cities to secure well-paying jobs that are unavailable in rural regions, yet they often overlook the rising costs of housing. Additionally, a growing desire for a high standard of living further exacerbates the issue. Many young individuals aspire to own modern, high-end homes, which significantly increases the cost of apartments. This is primarily due to construction companies importing premium materials from foreign markets or relying on expensive raw materials, making homeownership less attainable.

To address this issue, governments should invest in developing industries and establishing businesses in rural areas, thereby creating employment opportunities for local residents. By enabling people to find stable jobs in their hometowns, the pressure on urban housing markets can be reduced, and individuals can afford to build homes in regions where land is more abundant and affordable. Furthermore, offering low or zero-interest loans to first-time homebuyers through government-backed financial institutions would ease the financial burden and make homeownership more accessible. Additionally, prioritizing the use of locally sourced materials in construction projects can help lower building costs, making housing more affordable for young buyers.

In conclusion, while housing affordability poses a challenge for young couples, strategic measures such as job creation in rural areas, financial assistance programs, and cost-effective construction methods can help mitigate the issue. By fostering collaboration between private companies and government entities, long-term solutions can be implemented to make homeownership more achievable for future generations.