LISTENING/READING PRACTICE TESTS (CEFR)

Which planet can you see now with the Moon?
🌑🌑🌖🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕

#correctedVersion #task2 #writing

In many countries, the amount of household waste like food packaging is increasing.

What are the causes of this problem?

What measures could be taken to reduce it?

Household waste, particularly food packaging, has become a pressing global issue, with waste levels rising at an alarming rate. This problem is largely driven by the widespread use of single-use plastic containers and a general lack of awareness regarding sustainable packaging alternatives. To address these challenges, manufacturers should promote reusable packaging, and authorities must actively educate the public on the environmental and health consequences of excessive waste.

In recent decades, rapid human development has led to increased convenience in food consumption, but this progress has also resulted in significant environmental drawbacks. One of the most concerning issues is the overuse of disposable plastic packaging, which is commonly found in ready-made meals and takeaway food. Due to busy lifestyles, many individuals prioritize convenience over sustainability, opting for pre-packaged meals that generate excessive waste. To combat this, manufacturers should shift towards biodegradable and reusable packaging. For instance, cotton bags and reusable food containers could replace disposable plastic packaging, significantly reducing waste without compromising convenience.

Another contributing factor is the lack of public awareness regarding sustainable alternatives. Many consumers make purchasing decisions based on advertisements without considering the environmental impact of their choices. However, targeted educational campaigns can play a crucial role in changing consumer behavior. Short video programs, for example, could highlight the devastating effects of plastic pollution on marine life, showing images of animals harmed by discarded waste. Such initiatives would make individuals more conscious of their consumption habits, encouraging them to opt for eco-friendly packaging solutions.

In conclusion, while household waste, particularly food packaging, poses a significant challenge worldwide, practical solutions exist. Replacing disposable packaging with recyclable and biodegradable alternatives, combined with widespread public awareness campaigns, can help mitigate this issue. By implementing these measures, both manufacturers and consumers can contribute to a more sustainable future.

#парт2 #SpeakingPart2

I’d like to talk about my best friend, Alex, who is one of the most energetic people I’ve ever met. I first met him in university, and from the very beginning, I noticed his boundless energy and enthusiasm for everything he does.

Alex is always on the move. He wakes up early, exercises regularly, and participates in multiple activities throughout the day. He juggles his studies, sports, and even social events effortlessly. For example, he plays basketball in the morning, attends lectures during the day, and still finds time to go out with friends in the evening without showing any signs of fatigue.

What makes him stand out is his positive attitude and passion for life. He always looks motivated and spreads his energy to those around him. Whenever I feel tired or demotivated, a short conversation with him instantly boosts my mood. I believe his energy comes from his healthy lifestyle, strong determination, and optimistic mindset.

Overall, I truly admire Alex for his energy and enthusiasm. He has taught me that staying active and maintaining a positive outlook can help achieve success in many aspects of life. I hope to adopt some of his habits and become more energetic myself.

Advanced Phrases & Vocabulary to Use:

Boundless energy (limitless energy)

Juggles multiple tasks (manages different things at once)

Effortlessly (without difficulty)

Spreads his energy to others (inspires others with his enthusiasm)

Optimistic mindset (positive way of thinking)

Passion for life (strong enthusiasm for living)

Meaning:
To stay organized, be aware of what is happening, and remain in control of a situation.

Sentence Examples:

1. Despite her busy schedule, she always stays on top of things at work.

2. If you want to succeed in university, you need to stay on top of your assignments.

3. He checks his emails every morning to stay on top of things.

4. The manager holds weekly meetings to ensure the team stays on top of things.

5. With so many deadlines approaching, it's important to stay on top of things.

Live as if you were to live forever. Pray as if you were to die tomorrow.

#writing #task1 #map #correctedVersion

The pictures illustrate the changes made to Paradise Island, comparing its former layout with its current design.

Overall, the island has undergone a significant transformation, shifting from a predominantly natural, green area to a modern tourist destination. Key developments include the construction of a hotel complex, an open-air restaurant, and a cycle path, all of which have enhanced the island's facilities and accessibility.

In the past, the island was largely covered with trees, with a scientific research station located near a small pier on the western side. The beach, situated in the far northwest, was separate from the rest of the island’s features, while a pile of rocks occupied the northeast corner. The eastern side had a natural spring but no other notable infrastructure.

Currently, the island has been redesigned to accommodate tourists. The central area, previously dominated by palm trees, now houses a hotel complex with a swimming pool. An open restaurant and BBQ area have also been constructed in this part of the island, offering visitors diverse dining options. The beach area, although reduced in size, now permits swimming near the shore, while the rocks in the northeast have been preserved, complemented by the addition of a scenic viewing platform.

Other changes include a cycle path encircling the entire island and a new café on the far right side, near the natural spring. Furthermore, the pier has been extended to accommodate a cruise ship, replacing the smaller boat that was previously in use. These improvements reflect a shift towards a more tourist-friendly design.

#task2 #correctedVersion #AgreeDisagree #writing

High crime rates are a significant challenge for many societies, and some authorities rely on imprisonment as a solution to this issue. However, I strongly believe that providing better education is a far more effective and sustainable approach to reducing crime in the long term.

On the one hand, individuals who acquire a sufficient level of education are less likely to break the law or engage in criminal activities. Higher education provides individuals with the skills and qualifications needed for stable jobs and financial security, which significantly reduces the likelihood of criminal behavior. Educated individuals tend to focus on self-development and exploring opportunities in their chosen fields, leaving little room for illegal activities. For example, Scandinavian countries such as Norway, Sweden, and Denmark consistently report the lowest crime rates, largely due to their strong emphasis on education and scientific innovation.

Moreover, education fosters moral and ethical development, shaping individuals into responsible citizens. Social responsibility, critical thinking, and an understanding of the consequences of criminal actions help deter individuals from engaging in harmful activities. For instance, primary school curricula are often designed to educate children about the dangers of violence, the consequences of breaking the law, and the harsh realities of life in prison. Such programs raise awareness among teenagers and discourage them from pursuing a criminal lifestyle.

On the other hand, prisons are expensive to maintain and often fail to rehabilitate offenders effectively. Providing food, clothing, and accommodation for inmates requires significant government expenditure, which could otherwise be invested in improving education systems. Without adequate resources, prisons in many developing countries struggle to meet basic standards, leading to overcrowding, the spread of diseases, and other issues. Additionally, prison staff often experience psychological stress and physical health problems due to long working hours and a challenging environment. These factors contribute to the failure of the prison system to achieve its rehabilitative goals. Furthermore, a lack of proper training for prison staff undermines efforts to reintegrate offenders into society.

In conclusion, while prisons may serve as a short-term solution for addressing crime, they often fail to provide a sustainable answer to the problem. By improving the quality of education and allocating more funding to educational institutions, societies can nurture generations that follow the law and refrain from criminal behavior. Therefore, I strongly agree that education is a far more effective approach to combating crime than imprisonment.