Reading

Reading Section

In the Reading section, you will answer 35-48 questions to demonstrate how well you understand academic and non-academic texts in English, There are three types of tasks.

Module 1

The clock will show you how much time you have to complete Module 1.

You can use Next and Back to move to the next question or return to previous questions within the same module.

You WILL NOT be able to return to Module 1 once you have begun Module 2.

Module 1

Fill in the missing letters in the paragraph

Questions 1-10 of 35

Geographical features such as mountains shape the landscape and climate of a region. Mountains c__ __ act a__ natural barr__ __ __ __. The Himalayas, f__ __ example, bl__ __ __ cold wi__ __ __ coming fr__ __Central Asia, kee__ __ __ __ the Indian subcontinent war__ . They al__ __cause orographic rainfall, where moist air rises, cools, and precipitates on the windward side, creating lush forests, while the leeward side remains dry. Mountain ranges like the Andes and the Rockies host unique flora and fauna adapted to high altitudes.

Fill in the missing letters in the paragraph

Questions 11-20 of 35

Terrestrial mammals exhibit a fascinating array of adaptations that help them survive and thrive in diverse environments. From com__ __ __ __ social inter__ __ __ __ __ __ __ that imp__ __ __ __ group sur__ __ __ __ to ingen__ __ __ __ __ __ designed lu__ __ __ that enh__ __ __ __ oxygen absor__ __ __ __ __ , these crea__ __ __ __ __ are bu__ __ __ for resilience. Some have evolved powerful limbs for digging deep burrows, while others have agile bodies perfect for scaling trees or sprinting across open plains. Their sharp senses and stealthy movements are often the result of a high-stakes evolutionary arms race between predator and prey.

21-22

Read a review.

The Review of Whispering Woods

This week’s University Cineclub offering, Whispering Woods by award-winning filmmaker Amara Patel, features Tomás Ruiz as Dr. Daniel Salazar, a botanist who endures an unexpected reunion while doing fieldwork in a remote forest.

Praised by critics, this film offers a compelling exploration of fantasy that challenges viewers’ perceptions.

What is suggested about the protagonist’s experience in the film?

He wins an award for scientific research.

He stumbles upon a mystery affecting a forest’s ecology.

He struggles to find his way out of a forest.

He encounters someone from his past.

Who is Tomás Ruiz?

A film director

A film actor

A character in a film

A film critic

23-25

Read an advertisement.

Math Tutoring Program

Struggling with calculus or statistics?

Join our free tutoring sessions at Brookhaven College!

Sessions run July 1–August 15
Tuesdays and Thursdays
4:00–5:30 p.m.

Open to all students.

Email mathhelp@brookhaven.edu to register.

Spaces fill quickly—don’t wait!

What problem is the program mainly designed to help students with?

Choosing which college math courses to take

Understanding difficult math topics through extra support

Preparing for careers that require advanced mathematics

Meeting graduation requirements more quickly

What can be inferred about the sessions that are offered?

They are open to first-year students only.

They will be held throughout the year.

They take place every day.

They can be attended by a limited number of students.

25-27

Read an article.

Harrison University recently launched a bike-sharing program to promote sustainable transportation and reduce parking congestion. Students can now rent bikes from racks located near residence halls, academic buildings, and the student center. The program offers free rentals for an hour and charges a small fee afterward, making it affordable for short trips across campus.

Each bike is equipped with a GPS tracker to ensure security and ease of locating. “This is about giving students greener options,” said transportation coordinator Alex Nguyen. “We sent out a survey last semester, and students were overwhelmingly in favor of the program. They see it as making a difference environmentally.”

The initiative was funded through a partnership with Benny’s Cyclery, which sells the bikes at a discount and provides maintenance. Early feedback has been positive, with students praising the convenience and environmental benefits. The university plans to expand the program next semester by adding electric bikes.

What is the main topic of the article?

The results of a recent student survey

A new transportation option at a university

The history of sustainability at Harrison University

A review of local bike shops near a college campus

What can be concluded about students at Harrison University?

They mostly live off campus.

They are not in favor of electric bikes.

They prefer riding bikes to class over walking.

They are concerned with protecting the environment.

What is suggested about Benny’s Cyclery?

It specializes in electric bikes.

It is located on Harrison University’s campus.

It will ensure that the shared bikes are in good condition.

It has a long-standing relationship with Harrison University.

28-30

Read a course syllabus.

Global Culinary Institute

Spring 2024

CULN 310 Advanced Techniques: Sous Vide

Course Description: This course explores the sous vide culinary method, a meticulous process in which vacuum-sealed pouches are placed in a water bath at a precisely controlled temperature. Students who successfully complete the course will be able to harness their knowledge of the biochemical interactions and thermal dynamics that underly the sous vide technique to achieve optimal flavor profiles and textural nuances. Successful students will also be able to demonstrate their understanding of the historical progression and contemporary adaptations of sous vide technology, engage with state-of-the-art sous vide equipment, and critically evaluate the applications of the sous vide technique in haute cuisine.

Prerequisites: CULN 110 (Foundational Culinary Arts) and CULN 153 (Introduction to Gastronomic Science). Enrollment is limited to Culinary Arts advanced track students.

Department: Culinary Arts

Schedule: MWF 2–5 P.M. Credits: Three (3)

Instructor: Marie Dubois, Certified Master Chef

What is indicated about the skills students will develop from taking the CULN 310 course?

They will gain expertise in general culinary management techniques.

They will become proficient in the use of a technically complex cooking technique.

They will learn to critique historical culinary trends as restaurant critics.

They will become experts in the practical applications of plant-based ingredients.

What is indicated about the eligibility criteria for enrolling in CULN 310?

Enrollment is open to all students with an interest in gastronomic science.

Admission requires an advanced understanding of the sous vide technique.

Candidates must have completed two introductory courses in the department.

Students are required to possess prior work experience in an industrial kitchen.

Which aspect of sous vide does the syllabus suggest will be a significant component of the course?

The financial implications of sous vide in restaurant operations

The cultural influences on the evolution of sous vide

The technological development of sous vide techniques over time

The ethical considerations of using sous vide techniques

31-35

Whale Strandings

Few wildlife phenomena are as perplexing as mass strandings of whales. Sometimes, hundreds of whales or dolphins beach themselves on shores, often with fatal results. Scientists have sought explanations for decades, but as of yet, little is understood. Several theories suggest possible reasons for the strandings. Some researchers believe that disruptions to Earth’s magnetic field may interfere with marine mammals’ navigational abilities, while others point to changes in oceanic environments, such as temperature fluctuations or pollution, as factors that might drive the animals off course.

Humans may play a more direct role, too. In recent years, there has been growing evidence linking naval sonar systems to whale strandings. The powerful sound waves emitted by these systems can cause disorientation, making it difficult for whales to navigate underwater. Startled by the noise, whales may panic and rapidly ascend to the surface, causing serious injuries. Because whales travel in pods, disorientation in one whale can draw others toward shore, increasing the risk of a mass stranding.

Efforts to prevent strandings have yielded mixed results. While some countries now regulate naval sonar near whale habitats, requiring ships to lower sound levels or avoid critical areas, strandings continue to occur, reminding us that the reasons behind such events are complex.

The word “perplexing” in the passage is closest in meaning to

rare

puzzling

disturbing

predictable

The passage suggests which of the following about scientists’ research into whale strandings?

It has produced explanations for strandings that point primarily to changing environmental conditions.

It has revealed that causes for strandings vary based on whale species and habitats.

It has proposed several explanations for strandings but has not found a conclusive understanding of the phenomenon.

It has been able to provide a clearer picture of whale navigation by utilizing naval sonar.

The passage suggests that whales’ ability to navigate

has declined over the last few decades

is enhanced when whales travel large pods

is partly dependent on their proximity to familiar coastal regions

may be sensitive to fluctuations in the planet’s magnetic field

The passage indicates all of the following about naval sonar EXCEPT:

It can prevent whales from forming pods.

It can produce reactions in whales that lead to physical harm.

It has been identified as a factor that may contribute to strandings.

It has been subject to governmental restrictions in certain locations.

The author mentions “critical areas” in order to

identify reasons that some countries have resisted the regulation of naval sonar

provide a specific example of how regulations aim to reduce threats to whales

explain why whale strandings are particularly common in some regions

suggest that certain marine habitats are more important than others

Module 2

Fill in the missing letters in the paragraph

Questions 1-10 of 15

In recent years, the search for extraterrestrial organisms has increasingly focused on water as an important clue. On Earth, water supports biological processes, and its detection on ice-covered moons such as Europa and Enceladus has attracted scien___ ___ ___ ___ ___ attention. Evid___ ___ ___ ___ suggests th___ ___ these i___ ___ moons con___ ___ ___ ___ oceans ke___ ___ liquid b__ tidal hea___ ___ ___ ___, a pro___ ___ ___ ___ in wh___ ___ ___ gravitational forces generated by nearby planets produce internal warmth. This energy source may create environments comparable to Earth’s deep-sea hydrothermal regions, where biological activity occurs without sunlight.

Questions 11-15 of 15

Diagnostic Tools: Current Challenges and Innovations

Diagnostic methodologies in clinical laboratory sciences are undergoing significant shifts. Traditional methods, such as blood tests and imaging techniques, have been standard for decades. However, emerging technologies like liquid biopsies (highly specialized forms of blood testing) and wearable devices are reshaping diagnostics by offering the potential for earlier and more continuous disease detection, though their complexity demands careful evaluation.

Tumors release cells and DNA fragments into the bloodstream, which liquid biopsies can detect through a simple blood draw—eliminating the need for surgical tissue sampling while still enabling the monitoring of tumor progression and genetic mutations. Yet, this innovative technique has drawbacks such as false positives, which can lead to unnecessary medical interventions. Meanwhile, wearable devices provide continuous monitoring of vital signs, supplying real-time data to clinicians. The integration of such devices into healthcare systems introduces challenges related to managing vast amounts of patient data and ensuring the reliability of the collected information.

The potential of these technologies is undeniable, but they are not without hurdles. Liquid biopsies and wearable devices illustrate the intersection of innovation and practicality in diagnostics. As they evolve, they present opportunities to redefine disease management, although rigorous validation is essential for clinical integration.

What can be inferred about emerging diagnostic methodologies?

They may be more effective at detecting diseases early than traditional methods.

They have already become standard practice in certain parts of the world.

Their complexities are comparable to those of traditional methods.

Their use for continuous disease detection eliminates the need for clinical oversight.

What problem associated with liquid biopsies is mentioned in the passage?

They are very costly to perform.

They can lead to unnecessary medical treatments.

The biopsies must be supplemented by surgical tissue sampling.

The results of the biopsies take a long time to process.

The passage suggests that wearable devices

will not likely be adopted by healthcare systems

produce large amounts of data to be monitored and stored

are uncomfortable and therefore unpopular with patients

have consistently yielded reliable information for clinicians

The word “rigorous” in the passage is closest in meaning to

general

preliminary

rapid

thorough

◼︎ Tumors release cells and DNA fragments into the bloodstream, which liquid biopsies can detect through a simple blood draw—eliminating the need for surgical tissue sampling while still enabling the monitoring of tumor progression and genetic mutations. ◼︎ Yet, this innovative technique has drawbacks such as false positives, which can lead to unnecessary medical interventions. ◼︎ Meanwhile, wearable devices provide continuous monitoring of vital signs, supplying real-time data to clinicians. ◼︎ The integration of such devices into healthcare systems introduces challenges related to managing vast amounts of patient data and ensuring the reliability of the collected information.

There are four locations [◼︎] in the passage that indicate where the following sentence could be added.'”

They are less expensive and less invasive for the patient than surgical biopsies.

Where would the sentence best fit? Select a location [◼︎] to add the sentence to the passage.”

Listening

Module 1

Q1：

Yes, but I’m not sure where their offices are.

It probably sounds best right in front of the stage.

No, but I’ll need to update my schedule.

We should just use the ones we already have.

Q2：

In 30 minutes.

The train is faster.

I’ll take a taxi.

At the next stop.

Q3：

Not a bad idea for a weekend trip.

It’s okay, I think the professor will like it.

Don’t worry, I’ll keep it somewhere safe.

We can go there tomorrow.

Q4：

It might be smart to stay here for a bit.

The lab demonstration was very informative.

They left the waiting room.

Next time don’t forget to lock the door.

Q5：

We should probably number the pages.

I think that might clarify things.

We still need to buy the textbook.

It doesn’t need to be centered.

Q6：

I stayed up late last night to finish it.

Not really—I don’t know which topic to choose.

Because I keep forgetting the author’s name.

Isn’t it in the same classroom as the lecture?

Q7：

Yes, the shop closes early on Fridays.

I’ll mark my calendar.

I had to work over the weekend.

Sure, the weather is nice today.

Q8：

Yes, I forgot my notes at the library.

Should we take those seats in the front row?

Yes, let’s include examples in the presentation.

When does the new semester start?

Q9：

No problem, it wasn’t hard to find the place.

Yes, more students need to register for this course.

I decided not to go, sorry.

Weren’t you going to join the club?

Q10：

No, it was the next street.

Was she a greeter there?

That works for me.

Maybe yesterday’s schedule.

Q11：

The lab is on the second floor.

Science is very interesting.

Barely, I submitted it at the last minute.

My lab partner is absent.

Q12：

Yes, sometimes I do.

You should update it before you run into problems.

The new version has been out for just a month or so I think.

I’m having trouble getting used to the new one, honestly.

Conversation, Announcement, and Academic Talk

You will listen only one time and then answer questions.

In an actual test, the clock will indicate how much time you have to answer.

13-14

Q13：

Why does the woman suggest meeting on Friday instead of Thursday?

She is busy with work on Thursday.

She needs more time to prepare for the discussion.

She does not want to come to campus on Thursday.

The café is not open on Thursday.

Q14：

What does the woman suggest about her move?

She has not finished unpacking.

She does not like her new apartment.

She is moving this weekend.

Her new dorm is close to the library.

15-16

Q15：

What does the woman need?

A place for community group meetings

More people to help with a charity event

A donation of running shoes

Contact information for local charity groups

Q16：

What does the man offer to do?

Put up posters around town

Contact an art supply store

Make posters about an event

17-18

Q17：

Who most likely is the man?

The woman’s assistant

The woman’s friend

A university professor

A university bus driver

Q18：

Based on a survey, what do students generally think about campus buses?

They are overcrowded.

They are efficient.

They are unreliable.

They are expensive.

19-20

Q19：

What can be inferred about a planned event?

It will be the last time together for certain students.

It will be free to students in the senior class.

It will be the last river cruise sponsored by the university.

It will take place over the course of a few days.

Q20：

What does the speaker say about a meal?

It will include seafood.

It will be delicious.

It will be optional.

It will take place on a famous street.

21-22

Q21：

What is the main purpose of the announcement?

To introduce new courses

To provide instructions

To advertise a book

To notify about a problem

Q22：

According to the speaker, what will some course instructors do?

Contact the campus bookstore

Explain some requirements

Send out a list of textbooks

Provide reading materials by email

23-24

Q23：

What event is the announcement mainly about?

An outdoor camping trip

A rescheduled meeting

A football game

A film screening

Q24：

How does the speaker expect students to feel when they hear the announcement?

Excited

Disappointed

Doubtful

Surprised

25-28

Q25：

What does the speaker mainly discuss?

Why humans react strongly

When behavior differs

How to tell centipedes and millipedes apart

Whether centipedes and millipedes are related

Q26：

Why does the speaker mention vision?

To contrast the ways the animals sense danger

To identify a common trait

To point out the size of their eyes

To explain where their eyes are located

Q27：

What does the speaker imply about the terms centipede and millipede?

They are based on outdated research.

They falsely suggest that millipedes have more legs.

They are not translated correctly from Latin.

They do not indicate the actual number of legs.

Q28：

What does the speaker say about millipedes’ leg position?

It enables them to run quickly.

Their legs are positioned directly under their bodies.

Their legs change position in response to odors.

Their legs are positioned to grasp and bite.

29-32

Q29：

Who discovered the first gas emission crater in 2014?

A pilot

A scientist

A local resident

A gas extraction employee

Q30：

What feature of the gas emission crater is the speaker most impressed with?

Its size

Its shape

The temperature inside it

The variety of materials found near it

Q31：

Why most likely is the speaker concerned about the explosions?

They might cause more warming.

They might damage wide areas of permafrost.

They might discourage people from visiting Siberia.

They might be dangerous for pipelines.

Q32：

The speaker mentions empty cavities that fill with gas. What causes these cavities to form?

The building of pipelines

The loss of ice from frozen soil

The removal of oil from the ground

The pressure from underground gas

Module 2

Q1：

I’ll have some time right after lunch.

Yes, others were waiting to borrow it.

Of course I saw the new movie!

We loaded the heavy items first.

Q2：

The previous session covered audio.

Students were asked to sign in before the session started.

The class registration page said space was limited.

I learned a few shortcuts I didn’t know before.

Q3：

I can’t remember when I last saw them.

I’m pretty sure it’s available for download.

Well, they open really early every morning.

Not me—I couldn’t start my day without breakfast.

4-5

Q4：

What did the woman’s doctor recommend?

Eat less sugar

Drink less coffee

Get more exercise

Get more sleep

Q5：

How did the woman react to the doctor’s recommendation?

By asking for medicine

By disagreeing with her

By thanking her

By getting a new doctor

6-7

Q6：

Why has the man planted a garden?

To grow food that he can eat himself

To persuade his landlord to lower the rent

To grow flowers that he can sell

To brighten up the backyard

Q7：

What does the man ask the woman for help with?

Watering his garden when he is away

Preparing a meal using local ingredients

Selecting which flowers he should plant

Settling a conflict with his landlord

8-11

Q8：

What does the speaker mainly discuss?

A debate about the purpose of an ancient invention

A Greek mathematician who developed a way to locate water

An ancient tool that was rediscovered and adapted for modern use

An ancient invention that was used to move water upward

Q9：

Why does the speaker mention the Egyptians?

To explain the source of many significant ancient inventions

To identify an invention that Archimedes adapted for the ancient Greeks

To point out that the origin of the Archimedes screw is unknown

To illustrate the variety of cultures that used the Archimedes screw

Q10：

Why does the speaker mention furniture?

To point out the usefulness of tubes in building projects

To explain the process of assembling an Archimedes screw

To emphasize the large dimensions of an Archimedes screw

To illustrate the purpose of threads on traditional screws

Q11：

How was the Archimedes screw used in ancient Spain?

To remove water from mines

To pump water out of ships

To provide water for farmland

To assist wastewater treatment plants

12-15

Q12：

What is the talk mainly about?

The historical transformation of wooden musical instruments

The influence of early electronic instruments on synthesizers

The contemporary use of electrophones in modern music

The relationship between traditional and electronic music forms

Q13：

Why does the speaker mention the theremin?

To emphasize its role in orchestral arrangements

To argue that it is superior modern instruments

To highlight its innovative nature and unique sound

To challenge the acceptance of traditional musical practices

Q14：

What does the speaker imply about the ondes Martenot?

Its design was less complex than the theremin.

It is played with a method similar to violin techniques.

It played an important role in advancing synthesizer technology.

It was more popular than other electrophones.

Q15：

What does the speaker suggest about the long-term impact of electrophones?

Their contribution to music was short lived.

They were important in musical experimentation.

They were too difficult to play for most musicians

They were exclusively utilized in soundtracks to popular movies.

Writing

Writing Section

In the writing section, you will answer 12 questions to demonstrate how well you can write in English. There are three types of tasks.

Build a Sentence

Move the words in the boxes to create grammatical sentences.

A clock will show you how much time you have to complete this task.

Write an Email

You will read some information and use the information to write an email.

You will have 7 minutes to write the email.

You have been selected to represent your university at an international conference. You need to inform your professor, Dr. Lee, about this opportunity and request permission to miss class during the conference.

Write an email to Dr. Lee. In your email, do the following:

Inform Dr. Lee about the opportunity, including conference topic and location.
Request permission to miss class and suggest ways to make up for missed classes.
Ask for suggestions on how to prepare for the conference.

Write as much as you can and in complete sentences.

Your Response:

To: Dr. Lee

Subject: Attending International Conference

Write for an Academic Discussion

Professor Gupta

Reducing carbon emissions is essential to slowing climate change. Two major strategies are often debated. One is investing in renewable energy sources like wind and solar to replace fossil fuels. Another is improving energy efficiency in buildings, such as using better insulation and appliances that use less electricity. Think about your own experience with energy use and the future you want to see. Which strategy do you believe is more effective? Explain your opinion using clear examples.

Andrew

Renewable energy is a more effective strategy because it replaces fossil fuels with clean sources like wind and solar. These technologies produce no carbon emissions during operation and can power entire communities. Their expansion supports long-term environmental goals and reduces dependence on nonrenewable resources that harm the atmosphere and climate.

Claire

I think improving energy efficiency is more effective. If we use appliances that need less energy and keep homes better insulated, we waste less power. This works right away and can be done by anyone. Wasting less electricity lowers emissions without needing large infrastructure changes.