Part 2 READING PASSAGE 2

Working Holiday

Read the text below and answer Questions 15-20.

Job Programmes

Work and Travel USA 2009

International university students can work in the U.S. under the J-1 Visa programme as entry-level short-term employees. This programme is designed to help U.S. businesses meet their seasonal staffing needs while giving international students the chance to earn money, experience a new culture, and travel abroad in their summer break. You can work for up to 4 months during your university vacation, after which you are allowed to travel for up to an additional four weeks. Your stay in the US must not exceed 5 months.

Working Holiday Britain

During the summer most employers look for great numbers of extra staff, and a lot of them are happy to accept candidates from out of the country. Employment can range from hotels and catering to farm work. There are also positions available in childcare, conservation work and archaeological excavations. We offer accommodation in central London, weekend activities and sightseeing, an English language course, a discount card, a free telephone card, a free London guide and orientation about how to find a job in the UK.

Work and Travel in Singapore

If you have a deep desire to experience work adventure, then the island of Singapore, known to’ offer the best quality of life in Asia, holds the key to your fulfilment. This programme allows university students and recent graduates to come to Singapore to live and work for six months. Situated in the heart of Asia, Singapore resonates with a sophisticated global beat yet intrigues with its delightful Asian allure. With an English speaking working environment, living in the lion City is a seamless affair for any global talent. Imagine working in any job sector? Work & Travel Programme in Singapore makes it possible. So, come live and work here, while gaining valuable exposure, skills, and knowledge!

Working Holiday Canada

The Canadian working holiday programme allows young travellers to participate in short-term work/internships to supplement any travel expenses they may sustain while in Canada. The programme places participants into paid, entry-level jobs throughout Canada. Global Choices guarantees you a paid job, accommodation, bank account and work documents before you leave your country.

Working Holiday in Australia

Experience close contact with a local neighbourhood in Australia! With the working holiday in Australia programme vacationers can stay for an extended period by supplementing their travel funds through incidental employment. A working holiday visa allows you to stay and work in Australia for 12 months, although you may not work for more than 3 months with anyone employer.

Read the text below and answer Questions 21-27.

How to sit correctly

If you work in an office and use a computer, you can avoid injury by sitting in the right position and arranging your desk correctly. Follow these tips:

A. Support your back

A correctly adjusted chair will reduce the strain on your back. Get one that is easily adjustable so that you can change the height, back position and tilt. Have your knees level with your hips. You may need a footrest for this.

B. Adjust your seat

Be aware of the various adjustments that you can make to your chair. If someone else has used your desk you may have to re-adjust the chair. If it’s still uncomfortable, try another type of chair.

C. Rest your feet on floor

Your feet should be flat on the floor. If they’re not, ask if you can have a footrest, which lets you rest your feet at a level that’s comfortable to you. Don’t cross your legs, as this can cut off circulation and cause hip problems.

D. Place your screen at eye level

Position your monitor 12-30 inches (30-75cm) away from your eyes. A good guide is to place the monitor about an arm’s length away, with the top of the screen roughly at eye level. To achieve this you may need to get a stand for your monitor.

E. Avoid screen reflection

Your screen should be as glare-free as possible. If there’s glare on your screen, hold a mirror in front of it to identify the cause. Position the monitor to avoid reflection from overhead lighting and sunlight. If necessary, pull blinds across the windows and replace ceiling lighting with table lights. Adjusting the screen’s brightness or contrast can make it much easier to use.

F. Make objects accessible

Position frequently used objects, such as your telephone or stapler, within easy reach. Avoid repeatedly stretching or twisting to reach things.

G. Avoid phone strain

If you spend a lot of time on the phone, try exchanging your handset for a headset. Repeatedly cradling the phone between your ear and shoulder can strain the muscles in your neck.

H. Avoid wrist pain

Your wrists should be straight when using a keyboard. Keep your elbows vertical under your shoulder and right by your side. Position and use the mouse as close to you as possible. A mouse mat with a wrist pad may help to keep your wrist straight and avoid awkward bending.