Mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct option that best fits each of the numbered blanks. ⇱
ChihiraAico is an advanced humanoid robot designed by Toshiba, ___(1)___. She made her debut at the CEATEC electronics show in Japan in 2014, showcasing her ability to communicate and interact in ways that closely mimic human behavior. Her design combines cutting-edge robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) technology ___(2)___. ChihiraAico is capable of speaking multiple languages, engaging with people at exhibitions, and even providing directions at shopping malls and tourist centers.
___(3)___, ChihiraAico and robots like her are intended to bridge the gap between humans and machines, offering personalized services and enhancing customer experiences. She is equipped with sensors, voice recognition software, and realistic facial expressions ___(4)___. This enables her to respond naturally to questions, recognize emotional cues, and perform practical tasks like delivering information to visitors.
As AI technology continues to evolve, ___(5)___. In the future, humanoid robots may become indispensable helpers in various public and private sectors, bringing unprecedented levels of convenience and interaction to our lives.
(Adapted from https://www.therobotreport.com/)
Read the following leaflet and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks. ⇱
STAY SAFE ON FACEBOOK
Let’s protect your privacy & security
1. Privacy risks: Facebook collects a large ___(6)___ of personal information. This information is often used for targeted advertising but could also be accessed by unauthorized third parties. Always be ___(7)___ of what you share like your phone number, address, or financial information.
What you can do:
• Adjust your privacy ___(8)___ to limit who can see your posts and personal details.
• Think twice before sharing information that could be misused.
2. Security tips: Your Facebook account can be a target for hackers. Cybercriminals may attempt to steal your login information or infect your device with malware.
What you can do:
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): This adds an extra layer of security, making it harder for ___(9)___ to access your account.
• Use strong, unique passwords: ___(10)___ using the same password across multiple sites, make your Facebook password complex.
• Beware of scams: Don’t click on suspicious links or download files from unknown sources. Always ___(11)___ the sender’s identity before responding to messages.
(Adapted from https://beconnected.esafety.gov.au/)
Mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best arrangement of utterances or sentences to make a meaningful exchange or text in each of the following questions. ⇱
Dear Anna,
a. I’m grateful for the advice you gave me about the project; it was really helpful.
b. I’ll keep you updated on my progress and let you know how things go.
c. I’ve made significant improvements thanks to your suggestions.
d. Let’s catch up over coffee sometime next week if you're free.
e. Thanks again for always being supportive.
Best regards,
Emily
a. The city has undergone dramatic changes in the last few years, influencing the way residents interact with their environment.
b. New public transportation options have emerged, making it easier for people to commute and reducing carbon emissions.
c. However, with the rapid development, there have been concerns regarding traffic and pollution levels.
d. Community gardens and green spaces have been established, promoting a healthier lifestyle and environmental awareness.
e. Overall, the transformation has created a more vibrant and connected community.
a. John: Hi, David. Have you seen the new movie that came out last week?
b. John: It's a sci-fi thriller with a lot of action and a great storyline.
c. David: Hi, John. I haven't seen it yet. What's it about?
a. It is important to chew with your mouth closed and avoid talking with food in your mouth.
b. Table manners are essential for showing respect and consideration to others during a meal.
c. Additionally, remember to place your napkin on your lap and use it to gently wipe your mouth when necessary.
d. Wait until everyone has been served before you start eating, and remember to thank the host for the meal.
e. Lastly, if you need to excuse yourself from the table, politely ask for permission and quietly leave.
a. Tina: That sounds interesting! I think I'll join too. Do you know when the sign-up period ends?
b. Sarah: Yes, I heard they offer various sports like soccer, basketball, and swimming.
c. Tina: Hi Sarah, are you going to join the new sports club at school?
d. Tina: Good idea! Let's meet after school tomorrow and sign up together.
e. Sarah: I believe it ends next Friday. We should sign up as soon as possible to secure our spots.
Read the following passage about the future of energy and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions. ⇱
[I] As the world grapples with the finite nature of fossil fuel reserves and the detrimental impact of climate change, the future of energy undeniably lies in renewable sources. [II] Scientists and engineers are making substantial advancements in the development of technologies that more efficiently harness solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy. [III] Although the transition to these renewable sources presents significant challenges, it is also regarded as a pivotal step towards establishing a sustainable and resilient energy system. [IV]
One of the most promising advancements in renewable energy is the enhancement of solar panel efficiency. Progress in photovoltaic technology has led to the creation of panels that convert a higher proportion of sunlight into electricity. Likewise, wind turbines are becoming more and more efficient. They are capable of generating power even under low-wind conditions. These innovations are essential for making renewable energy more feasible and accessible to a broader population.
However, the transition to renewable energy is fraught with obstacles. The intermittent nature of sources like solar and wind necessitates reliable storage solutions to ensure a consistent power supply. Although battery technology has seen significant improvements, further advancements are imperative to meet growing demand. Moreover, the infrastructure for distributing renewable energy requires expansion and upgrading to accommodate these new power sources.
The economic impact of transitioning to renewable energy is another critical consideration. While the initial investment in renewable energy infrastructure can be substantial, the long-term benefits include reduced energy costs and job creation in the green energy sector. Governments and private enterprises are increasingly acknowledging the necessity of investing in renewable energy projects, which is crucial for fostering innovation and diminishing reliance on fossil fuels.
Ultimately, the future of energy hinges on our capacity to innovate and adapt. By continuing to invest in research and development, improving infrastructure, and addressing economic and technical challenges, we can transition towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy system.
(Adapted from the Ha Nam Provincial Gifted Student Exam, 2023–2024)
“The shift towards renewable energy is seen as a necessary response to the global energy crisis.”
“While the initial investment in renewable energy infrastructure can be substantial, the long-term benefits include reduced energy costs and job creation in the green energy sector.”
Read the following passage about urbanisation and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions. ⇱
URBANISATION: A GROWING PHENOMENON
Urbanisation is the process through which cities grow, and higher populations begin to inhabit urban areas. This phenomenon has accelerated significantly over the past few decades due to various factors. One of the primary drivers is the search for better employment opportunities. In rural areas, job prospects are often limited to agriculture and small-scale industries, which might not provide sufficient income. Consequently, people migrate to cities seeking better livelihoods and living standards.
Additionally, urban areas offer more advanced educational facilities and healthcare services compared to rural regions. Many families move to cities to provide their children with higher-quality education and greater future opportunities. Access to hospitals and specialized medical services also attracts people to urban centers, especially in countries where rural healthcare is underdeveloped.
However, rapid urbanisation brings about several challenges. Overcrowding in cities can lead to inadequate housing, strained infrastructure, and increased pollution. The expansion of urban areas often results in the loss of green spaces and agricultural land, impacting food production and the environment. Governments and city planners must address these issues to ensure sustainable urban growth.
Despite these challenges, urbanisation has several positive aspects. Cities are often cultural melting pots, where diverse groups of people interact, leading to vibrant communities and innovation. The concentration of resources and talents in urban areas can drive economic growth and technological advancements.
(Adapted from https://copilot.microsoft.com)
Read the following advertisement and mark the letter A, B, C and D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks. ⇱
LET’S JOIN MULTICULTURAL CAMP
Are you eager to join the upcoming multicultural camp? Residing in a multicultural camp significantly enhances our existence in myriad ways. It provides us with the opportunity to engage with ___(35)___ traditions, cuisines, languages, and perspectives. Interactions with individuals from ___(36)___ facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of the world around us. For example, celebrations ___(37)___ Diwali, Chinese New Year, and Thanksgiving serve not only to unite different cultures but also to impart knowledge regarding one another's customs.
In educational institutions and professional environments, multicultural settings foster creativity and innovation through the amalgamation of varied viewpoints. Nevertheless, it is paramount to approach others' cultures ___(38)___ open-mindedness and respect, as this attitude is essential for ___(39)___ harmony and unity within our communities. Embracing multiculturalism not only cultivates an appreciation for the distinctiveness of each culture but also contributes to the development of a more inclusive and vibrant community for all individuals ___(40)___.
(Adapted from https://copilot.microsoft.com)