English Reading Skills and Public Speaking Sample Practice Test 1 (Mid)

Read Passage A below and attempt tasks 1, 2, 3

Extreme Sports: Not About Risk Taking

Extreme sports have gained popularity in recent years, captivating

the attention of thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts worldwide .
From adrenaline-pumping activities like skydiving and bungee jumping to intense sports like rock climbing and
snowboarding, these daring pursuits have captured the imagination of thrill-seekers around the world. However,
there is a common misconception that extreme sports are solely about risk-taking, associating them with
recklessness and endangerment. This prevailing notion overlooks the profound essence of extreme sports, which
By delving
is rooted in personal growth, self-discovery, and the pursuit of overcoming challenges.
deeper into the world of extreme sports, we can uncover the underlying
motivations and transformative experiences that drive individuals to engage
in these exhilarating activities.
First of all, extreme sports provide opportunities for personal growth and self-development. By engaging in
these activities, individuals challenge themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally, leading to personal
transformation. Through extreme sports, people develop self-confidence, resilience, and determination. For
example, a skydiver faces the fear of jumping out of a plane, but by conquering this fear, they gain confidence in
their abilities, which carries over into other aspects of life. Extreme sports enable individuals to discover their
strengths, test their limits, and realize their potential.
Next, engaging in extreme sports requires individuals to confront their deepest fears head-on, fostering an
environment where personal growth and mental fortitude can flourish. When participants willingly expose
themselves to daunting situations, such as scaling towering cliffs or riding powerful ocean waves, they embark
on a journey of self-discovery and inner transformation. By facing their fears, extreme athletes develop an
unparalleled level of mental strength and resilience. The process of conquering these fears is not a reckless
pursuit but a deliberate and calculated endeavor that demands unwavering focus and emotional control. Extreme
sports become a crucible in which athletes learn to manage their anxieties, redirect their fear into a positive
driving force, and maintain composure under intense pressure. This process of overcoming fears extends beyond
the realm of extreme sports and permeates other areas of participants' lives.
Extreme sports are not solely about risk-taking; they are about pushing boundaries and challenging limits.
Participants continuously strive to surpass their previous achievements and break new ground. They constantly
seek to improve their performance, both physically and mentally. Extreme sports provide a platform for
individuals to test their limits, explore their potential, and set new benchmarks. The pursuit of excellence and the
desire to push boundaries drive extreme athletes to continually innovate and redefine what is considered
possible.
Contrary to popular belief, extreme sports emphasize skill and preparation rather than recklessness. Extreme
athletes undergo rigorous training and practice to develop the necessary skills and techniques required for their
chosen sport. They dedicate countless hours to mastering their craft, ensuring that they are prepared to face the
challenges that lie ahead. Experience and knowledge play crucial roles in minimizing risks in extreme sports.
The focus on skill and preparation demonstrates that these sports are not haphazard but rather a calculated
pursuit that balances the thrill of adventure with the importance of safety.
Extreme sports are not solely about risk-taking; they encompass much more. They provide individuals with
opportunities for personal growth, the ability to overcome fears, and the motivation to push boundaries. Extreme
sports highlight the importance of skill, preparation, and continuous improvement. By participating in these
activities, individuals cultivate resilience, confidence, and mental strength, which transcend the sporting arena
and positively impact their lives. It is vital to recognize the deeper significance of extreme sports and appreciate

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the valuable life lessons they offer. So, let us embrace the spirit of adventure, not as mere risk-takers, but as
individuals who seek personal growth, self-discovery, and the thrill of pushing beyond our limits.
1. Multiple-Choice Questions (i-ix): For each question or statement, tick () the correct option.
i. What is the prevailing notion about extreme sports?
 They are solely about risk-taking
 They are about personal growth
 They are about self-discovery
 They are about overcoming challenges

ii. What do extreme sports provide opportunities for?

 Personal growth and self-development
 Recklessness and endangerment
 Laziness and apathy
 Weakness and vulnerability

iii. What do individuals challenge through extreme sports?

 Themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally
 Others physically, mentally, and emotionally
 No one physically, mentally, or emotionally
 Animals physically, mentally, and emotionally

iv. What do individuals gain by conquering their fears through extreme sports?
 Confidence in their abilities
 Fear of their abilities
 Doubt in their abilities
 Insecurity in their abilities

v. What do extreme athletes learn to manage through the process of overcoming fears?
 Their anxieties
 Their happiness
 Their excitement
 Their boredom

vi. What do participants strive to do in extreme sports?

 Surpass their previous achievements and break new ground
 Repeat their previous achievements and stay in their comfort zone
 Avoid achieving anything new and remain stagnant
 Regress in their achievements and lose ground

vii. What do extreme athletes seek to improve?

 Their performance, both physically and mentally
 Their performance, neither physically nor mentally
 Their performance, only physically but not mentally
 Their performance, only mentally but not physically

viii. What is the focus on skill and preparation in extreme sports an indication of?
 That these sports are not haphazard but rather a calculated pursuit
 That these sports are haphazard and not a calculated pursuit
 That these sports require no skill or preparation
 That these sports require minimal skill or preparation

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ix. What transcends the sporting arena through participation in extreme sports?
 Resilience, confidence, and mental strength
 Weakness, vulnerability, and insecurity
 Fear, anxiety, and stress
 Laziness, apathy, and boredom

x. What should we embrace the spirit of adventure as?

 As individuals who seek personal growth, self-discovery, and the thrill of pushing beyond our limits
 As mere risk-takers
 As individuals who seek recklessness and endangerment
 As individuals who seek laziness and apathy
2. Complete the table below. Choose WORD(S) from Reading Passage 1 for each numbered slot (i-v).

Aspect of Extreme Sports Description Example Benefit

Misconception Solely about risk-taking - -
Essence i. - -

Opportunities provided Personal growth and self- - -

development
Development through Self-confidence, resilience, Skydiver faces fear of ii.
participation and determination jumping out of a
plane and gains
confidence in their
abilities
Mental strength Facing fears head-on - -
development
Platform provided for iii. - -

Emphasis on Skill and preparation - Balances thrill of

adventure with
importance of safety
Training undergone by Rigorous training and - iv.
athletes practice

Role of experience and Minimizing risks - -

knowledge
Cultivation through v. - Transcends sporting
participation arena and positively
impacts lives
Importance of recognition Deeper significance of - -
extreme sports

3.
From the statements (i-vii) below, select () only the THREE factors mentioned in the Reading Passage A. For each
(i) Only professional athletes can participate in extreme sports.
(ii) The popularity of extreme sports has risen in recent times.
(iii) Only people from certain countries can participate in extreme sports.
(iv) Only young individuals can participate in extreme sports.
(v) Extreme sports offer opportunities for individuals to grow and develop personally.
(vi) Only men can participate in extreme sports.
(vii) Extreme sports allow individuals to test their boundaries and discover their potential.

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Read Passage B below and attempt tasks 4, 5.
The Art and Science of Perfume Production
Perfumes have captivated human senses for centuries, evoking emotions, memories, and desires. The process of
creating perfumes involves a delicate balance between artistic creativity and scientific precision. Perfumers must
carefully select aromatic ingredients, employ various extraction techniques, formulate fragrance compositions,
and ensure quality control. The world of perfume production involves intricate artistry and scientific methods
employed to create captivating fragrances. The art and science of perfumery continue to captivate our senses,
leaving an indelible mark on our memories and experiences.
The journey of perfume creation begins with the selection of aromatic ingredients. Perfumers have a vast array
of choices, ranging from natural essences derived from plants and flowers to synthetic molecules. Each
ingredient carries its own unique scent profile, and perfumers meticulously blend these aromatic materials to
craft captivating fragrances. The process involves exploring scent combinations, experimenting with
proportions, and developing a fragrance profile that aligns with the perfumer's creative vision. To obtain
aromatic essences from natural ingredients, various extraction techniques are employed. Traditional methods
such as steam distillation and enfleurage have been used for centuries. Steam distillation involves the use of
heated steam to extract the volatile compounds from plant materials, while enfleurage captures fragrance
through fat absorption. Modern extraction techniques, such as solvent extraction and molecular distillation, have
also revolutionized the industry, offering greater efficiency and diversity in scent extraction. These processes are
followed by purification and refinement to ensure the quality and consistency of the obtained essences.
Next comes perfume formulation and composition. The art of perfume formulation lies in creating a harmonious
blend of fragrance notes. Perfumes are typically composed of base, middle, and top notes, each contributing to
the fragrance's overall character. Base notes provide depth and longevity, middle notes offer complexity and
balance, while top notes provide an initial burst of freshness. Perfumers carefully select ingredients that
complement each other, considering their volatility, strength, and compatibility. The proportions and ratios of
these ingredients are meticulously adjusted to achieve the desired intensity and longevity of the fragrance.
Ensuring the quality of perfumes is of utmost importance. Fragrances undergo rigorous testing to evaluate their
characteristics and stability. Odor strength, longevity, and projection are assessed to determine the fragrance's
performance. Stability tests are conducted to ensure that the fragrance remains intact under varying conditions.
Compatibility tests are also performed to ensure that the fragrance blends well with other ingredients. These
evaluations are often carried out by trained sensory panelists who rely on their expertise in organoleptic testing
to analyze and refine the fragrance formulation. In addition, the packaging of perfume plays a crucial role in
enhancing the overall experience for consumers. Perfume bottles and packaging are meticulously designed,
considering both aesthetics and functionality. The bottle design often reflects the brand identity and the essence
of the fragrance it contains. The packaging must also protect the fragrance from external factors that could affect
its quality. Additionally, marketing and branding strategies are employed to create a compelling narrative around
the perfume, communicating its unique story and enticing consumers.
The art and science of perfume production intertwine to create captivating fragrances that resonate with
individuals. Perfume creation involves a delicate balance between artistic expression and scientific precision.
From fragrance creation and extraction to formulation and quality control, every step in the process requires
expertise and attention to detail. Perfume production is not merely a matter of mixing scents but rather a
harmonious blend of artistry, chemistry, and sensory exploration. The intricate craftsmanship behind perfumes
showcases the rich tapestry of human creativity and the fusion of art and science in the quest for captivating
olfactory experiences.
4. Complete the process flowchart of the perfume production. For steps i, iii & v, use similar phrases as
ii, iv.

ii. Extraction and

iii.
Distillation of
Essences
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v.
5. Complete the sentences (i-x) below taking the word(s) from Reading Passage 2.

i. The creation of perfumes requires a fine balance between artistic expression and __________ accuracy.
ii. Perfumers must choose aromatic components carefully, use a variety of extraction methods, design
fragrance compositions, and maintain __________ standards.
iii. The first step in creating a perfume is selecting __________ components.
iv. Perfumers have a wide range of options, from natural essences obtained from plants and flowers to
__________ compounds.
v. A variety of __________ methods are used to extract aromatic essences from natural materials.
vi. Steam distillation and enfleurage are traditional methods that have been in use for __________.
vii. The industry has been transformed by modern extraction techniques such as solvent extraction and
molecular distillation, which provide greater efficiency and variety in scent __________.
viii. The skill of perfume formulation lies in blending fragrance notes in a harmonious manner.
ix. Base, middle, and top notes make up a typical perfume, each adding to the overall __________ of the
scent.
x. It is extremely important to ensure the __________ of perfumes.

Read Passage C below and attempt tasks 6, 7, 8, 9.

Undergraduate Students and Anxiety: Factors and Effect
I. The transition to undergraduate studies can be an exciting and transformative period in a person's life.
However, it is also a time when many students experience heightened levels of anxiety. The factors
contributing to anxiety among undergraduate students provides a comprehensive understanding of the
challenges faced by them and the subsequent effects on their academic, mental, and physical well-being. By
understanding these factors and effects, we can identify strategies to mitigate anxiety and promote a
healthier university experience.
II. One prominent factor contributing to anxiety among undergraduate students is academic pressure. The
heavy workload and high expectations placed upon students can be overwhelming. The fear of failure and
the constant pursuit of academic excellence can lead to increased stress and anxiety. Performance anxiety,
often fueled by the desire for academic success, further exacerbates the problem. Another significant factor
is social pressure. Undergraduate students navigate a complex social landscape where peer relationships
and social interactions play a crucial role. Social media platforms perpetuate a culture of comparison, where
students constantly compare themselves to their peers. This can create feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt,
and anxiety, as students strive to meet unrealistic social standards. The rising costs of tuition, textbooks,
and living expenses place a heavy burden on students and their families. The financial responsibilities that
come with pursuing higher education add an additional layer of stress, impacting students' well-being and
mental health. The fear of accumulating debt and the pressure to secure a stable job post-graduation can
create anxiety and uncertainty about the future. Financial worries can distract students from their studies, as
they are forced to allocate significant time and energy to finding financial resources and managing their
expenses. Furthermore, financial strain can limit students' access to essential resources and opportunities.

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 Students from lower-income backgrounds may face additional challenges in affording educational
materials, participating in extracurricular activities, or taking advantage of networking events.
III. Anxiety has significant effects on undergraduate students' academic performance. The inability to
concentrate and focus due to heightened anxiety levels can hinder learning and retention of information.
Moreover, persistent anxiety can lead to reduced motivation and a decline in academic performance,
perpetuating a vicious cycle of stress and underachievement. The mental and emotional toll of anxiety on
undergraduate students should not be underestimated. Heightened stress levels can lead to burnout,
emotional exhaustion, and increased vulnerability to mental health disorders. Anxiety can manifest as
depression, panic attacks, and generalized anxiety disorder, negatively impacting students' overall well-
being. Anxiety among undergraduate students also takes a toll on their physical health. Sleep disturbances,
such as insomnia or irregular sleep patterns, are common among anxious students. Fatigue becomes a
constant companion, affecting their energy levels and ability to engage fully in academic and personal
pursuits. Furthermore, prolonged anxiety weakens the immune system, making students more susceptible to
illness and further compromising their well-being.
IV. Fortunately, there are various coping mechanisms and support systems available to help undergraduate
students manage anxiety. Seeking professional help through counseling and therapy services can provide
valuable guidance and support. Additionally, students can develop resilience and self-care practices through
stress management techniques and adopting healthy lifestyle habits. Building social support networks and
engaging in social activities and clubs can also contribute to a sense of belonging and emotional well-being.
Addressing anxiety among undergraduate students requires a comprehensive approach. Academic
institutions play a crucial role in implementing mental health support programs, promoting a healthy
campus culture, and providing resources to students. Raising awareness and reducing stigma surrounding
mental health is vital, as it encourages open dialogue and creates a supportive environment. Furthermore,
personal responsibility and self-advocacy are essential. Encouraging students to seek help and support,
promoting self-awareness, and practicing self-care contribute to long-term solutions for managing anxiety.
V. Anxiety among undergraduate students is a pressing issue with profound effects on their academic, mental,
and physical well-being. Academic pressure, social pressure, and financial pressure contribute to increased
anxiety levels. This, in turn, negatively impacts students' academic performance, mental health, and
physical well-being. However, by recognizing these factors and effects, implementing coping mechanisms,
and establishing support systems, we can create an environment that fosters resilience, well-being, and
success for undergraduate students. It is imperative that we address this issue collectively and prioritize the
mental health of our future generation.
6. Do the following statements agree with the information given in Reading Passage C? Identify and
write ‘T’ for TRUE if the statement agrees with the information, write ‘F’ for FALSE if the statement
does not agree with the information and ‘N/G’ for NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this.
i. The fear of failure and the constant pursuit of academic excellence can lead to increased stress and
anxiety among undergraduate students.
ii. Social media platforms do not perpetuate a culture of comparison, where students constantly compare
themselves to their peers.
iii. The rising costs of tuition, textbooks, and living expenses do not place a heavy burden on students and
their families.
iv. Anxiety does not have significant effects on undergraduate students’ ability to concentrate and focus.
v. Heightened stress levels cannot lead to burnout, emotional exhaustion, and increased vulnerability to
mental health disorders among undergraduate students.
vi. Prolonged anxiety does not weaken the immune system, making students more susceptible to illness.
vii. Seeking professional help through counseling and therapy services cannot provide valuable guidance
and support to undergraduate students in managing anxiety.
viii.Building social support networks and engaging in social activities and clubs cannot contribute to a sense
of belonging and emotional well-being among undergraduate students.
ix. Academic institutions do not play a crucial role in implementing mental health support programs,
promoting a healthy campus culture, and providing resources to students in addressing anxiety among
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 undergraduate students.
x. The essay discusses the impact of extracurricular activities on undergraduate students’ anxiety levels.
xi. The essay mentions the role of physical exercise in managing anxiety among undergraduate students.
xii. The essay discusses the impact of romantic relationships on undergraduate students’ anxiety levels.

7. Complete the summary below using keywords/phrases from Reading Passage C.

Undergraduate students may experience i. ______________________ due to factors such as academic pressure,
social pressure, and financial pressure. These factors can negatively impact their academic performance, ii.
___________________, and physical well-being. However, there are various iii. _____________________ and
support systems available to help students manage anxiety, such as counseling, therapy services, stress
management techniques, healthy lifestyle habits, and social support networks. Addressing anxiety among
undergraduate students requires a iv. _______________________ involving academic institutions implementing
mental health support programs, v. __________________ a healthy campus culture, providing vi.
_______________________ to students, raising awareness, vii. ____________________ surrounding mental
health, and encouraging viii. _____________________ and self-advocacy. By recognizing these factors and
effects and implementing coping mechanisms and establishing support systems, we can create an environment
that fosters resilience, well-being, and success for undergraduate students.
8. Match the Causes (1, 2, 3, 4) in Column A with the Effects (i, ii, iii, iv). Write corresponding i/ii/ iii/ iv
to show the Cause-Effect pairs in Column C.

Column A Column B Column C

Causes Effects Answers
1. Learners from financially i. Sense of insecurity and
insolvent family background incompetency 1.______
2. Aspiration for educational ii. Barrier to study and
achievements retention of knowledge 2.______
3. Inefficiency to pay attention iii. Lack of access to study
due to higher degree of stress materials 3.______
4. Continuous comparison with iv. Constant performance
peers via community anxiety 4.______
correspondence
Now, write Four Meaningful Complete Sentences by using the cause-effect pairs that were matched by
using the following cause-effect expressions from the box below:
cause as a result of affect create impact consequently since

i. _____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
ii. _____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
iii. _____________________________________________________________________________________
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 _____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
iv. _____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
9. Write MAIN IDEA of each paragraph of the text in ONE COMPLETE SENTENCE.

Paragraph I: ______________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Paragraph II: ______________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Paragraph III: _____________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Paragraph IV: _____________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

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