[I] In today’s interconnected world, multiculturalism has become increasingly prevalent as people from diverse cultural backgrounds live and work together in the same communities. [II] Multiculturalism fosters cultural diversity, promoting understanding and tolerance among individuals with different perspectives and traditions (Banks, 2015). [III] However, while multiculturalism brings many benefits, it also poses certain challenges that need to be addressed to achieve a harmonious society (Parekh, 2000). [IV]

        One of the key benefits of multiculturalism is the enrichment of society through diverse perspectives. Different cultural backgrounds contribute unique ideas, art forms, and traditions, which can lead to a more vibrant and innovative community. For instance, diverse viewpoints in the workplace often drive creativity and lead to better problem-solving solutions. Additionally, exposure to various cultures can increase people's awareness and acceptance of others, thus reducing discrimination and promoting social cohesion.

        However, a multicultural society is not without its challenges. Language barriers, for example, can hinder communication and understanding among individuals. Miscommunication due to language differences can lead to misunderstandings or even conflicts. Furthermore, people may feel divided by their cultural identities, which can create a sense of "us versus them." Some argue that without efforts to bridge cultural differences, multiculturalism might unintentionally lead to social fragmentation (Modood, 2007).

        To foster a successful multicultural society, it is essential to promote inclusive policies and encourage intercultural dialogue. Schools and workplaces can play a significant role by celebrating diversity and teaching cultural understanding. When people actively engage with different cultures, they are more likely to find common ground and develop mutual respect, which helps create a stronger, more unified community (Berry, 2011).

                                    (Adapted from Multiculturalism in Society by Banks, Parekh, and others)

Question 31. Where in paragraph I does the following sentence best fit?

People today can access a wider range of cultural experiences than ever before.

        A. [I]        B. [II]        C. [III]        D. [IV]

Question 32. The phrase "social cohesion" in paragraph 2 could be best replaced by ____.

        A. social conflict        B. social unity        C. cultural diversity        D. cultural competition

Question 33. The word "they" in paragraph 4 refers to ____.

        A. schools        B. workplaces        C. people        D. policies

Question 34. According to paragraph 2, which of the following is NOT an advantage of multiculturalism?

        A. Enhanced creativity                B. Increased awareness of other cultures
C. Encouragement of discrimination        D. Better problem-solving skills

Question 35. Which of the following best summarizes paragraph 3?

A. Multiculturalism strengthens communication and understanding without any challenges.
B. Multiculturalism creates a divide in society, making communication difficult.
C. Multiculturalism faces language and identity barriers that may lead to social fragmentation.
D. Multiculturalism allows seamless interaction across cultural and language differences.

Question 36. The word "fragmentation" in paragraph 3 is CLOSEST in meaning to ____.

        A. unity        B. division        C. cooperation        D. similarity

Question 37. Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?

A. A multicultural society guarantees equal understanding among all cultural groups.
B. Language differences in multicultural societies can sometimes cause misunderstandings.
C. Schools should avoid addressing cultural differences to maintain harmony.
D. Multiculturalism leads to isolation rather than promoting social connections.

Question 38. Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 4?

A. People engaging with different cultures can lessen cultural respect.
B. Schools and workplaces should limit exposure to diverse cultures.
C. Experiencing various cultures increases understanding and strengthens communities.
D. Multicultural societies struggle with finding mutual understanding among people.

Question 39. Which of the following can be inferred from the passage?

A. Multiculturalism eliminates all societal conflicts by promoting tolerance.
B. Without inclusive efforts, multicultural societies may experience social divides.
C. Multicultural societies lack creativity and diversity in problem-solving.
D. Multiculturalism hinders personal identity formation in most communities.

Question 40. Which of the following best summarizes the passage?

A. Multiculturalism enhances society by bringing diversity and creativity, though it requires proactive measures to address language and identity challenges.
B. Multiculturalism complicates communication and brings little benefit to modern society.
C. Multiculturalism limits individuals' understanding of other cultures and increases social tension.
D. A multicultural society promotes complete unity and eliminates social barriers.

        Cultural diversity refers to the presence of multiple cultural groups and their practices within a society. It encompasses various aspects such as language, traditions, beliefs, and values. Embracing cultural diversity can lead to a more inclusive and harmonious society, where individuals appreciate and respect differences. This diversity enriches communities by introducing new perspectives, fostering creativity, and promoting mutual understanding.

        One significant benefit of cultural diversity is the exchange of ideas and knowledge. When people from different cultural backgrounds interact, they share their unique experiences and insights. This exchange can lead to innovative solutions and improvements in various fields such as science, art, and business. Moreover, cultural diversity can enhance social cohesion by encouraging people to work together and learn from one another.

        Education plays a crucial role in promoting cultural diversity. Schools and universities can create inclusive environments by incorporating diverse perspectives into their curricula and encouraging students to engage with different cultures. By doing so, educational institutions help students develop a global mindset and prepare them for a multicultural world. Additionally, exposure to diverse cultures at a young age can reduce prejudices and promote tolerance.

        In the workplace, cultural diversity can boost productivity and creativity. Diverse teams bring together individuals with different skills, viewpoints, and problem-solving approaches. This variety can enhance decision-making processes and lead to more effective and innovative solutions. Companies that prioritize cultural diversity also tend to have a more positive work environment and higher employee satisfaction.

        Despite its benefits, cultural diversity also presents challenges. Misunderstandings and conflicts can arise when people from different cultural backgrounds interact. To address these challenges, it is essential to promote open communication and cultural competence. By fostering an inclusive culture, societies and organizations can maximize the benefits of cultural diversity while minimizing potential conflicts.

Question 23. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as an aspect of cultural diversity? 

        A. Language         B. Traditions         C. Technology         D. Values

Question 24. The word "encompasses" in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to: 

        A. excludes         B. includes         C. diminishes         D. separates

Question 25. The word "its" in paragraph 5 refers to: 

        A. cultural diversity                 B. interaction 

        C. exchange of ideas and knowledge         D. unique experiences

Question 26. The word "enhance" in paragraph 2 could be best replaced by: 

        A. worsen         B. enrich         C. ignore         D. simplify

Question 27. Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 3? 

        A. Education should avoid addressing cultural diversity. 

        B. Education plays no role in promoting cultural diversity. 

        C. Schools and universities should incorporate diverse perspectives. 

        D. Educational institutions should focus solely on local cultures.

Question 28. Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage? 

        A. Cultural diversity always leads to misunderstandings. 

        B. Cultural diversity has no impact on creativity. 

        C. Cultural diversity can reduce prejudices and promote tolerance. 

        D. Cultural diversity is irrelevant in the workplace.

Question 29. In which paragraph does the writer mention the role of cultural diversity in the workplace?

        A. Paragraph 1         B. Paragraph 2         C. Paragraph 3        D. Paragraph 4

Question 30. In which paragraph does the writer discuss the challenges of cultural diversity? 

        A. Paragraph 1         B. Paragraph 2         C. Paragraph 3         D. Paragraph 5

        In today’s rapidly changing world, lifelong learning has become more important than ever. (18) _________. To stay relevant and competitive in the job market, individuals must continuously acquire new skills and knowledge.

        One of the key benefits of lifelong learning is personal growth. (19) _________. By exploring new subjects and hobbies, individuals can expand their horizons and discover new passions.

        Lifelong learning can also lead to professional advancement. (20) _________. By staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies, individuals can increase their value to employers and advance their careers.

        However, lifelong learning can be challenging. (21) _________. Balancing work, family, and personal commitments can make it difficult to find time for learning.

        To make the most of lifelong learning, it is essential to set clear goals and create a personalized learning plan. (22) _________. By breaking down larger goals into smaller, achievable steps, individuals can stay motivated and make progress.

Question 18. 

        A. However, lifelong learning can be challenging.

        B. It is important to balance work and personal life.

        C. Technology has made it easier to access educational resources.

        D. Lifelong learning is essential for personal and professional growth.

Question 19. 

        A. Lifelong learning can lead to increased stress and anxiety.

        B. It is important to focus on one's career goals.

        C. By learning new things, individuals can boost their self-esteem and confidence.

        D. Lifelong learning can be expensive and time-consuming.

Question 20. 

        A. Lifelong learning can lead to job loss.

        B. By acquiring new skills, individuals can increase their employability.

        C. Lifelong learning is only for those who are unemployed.

        D. It is important to focus on traditional education.

Question 21. 

        A. It is important to set realistic goals.

        B. Lifelong learning can be expensive and time-consuming.

        C. Technology has made it easier to access educational resources.

        D. Lifelong learning is essential for personal and professional growth.

Question 22. 

        A. It is important to find a balance between work and learning.

        B. By breaking down larger goals into smaller, achievable steps, individuals can stay motivated and make progress.

        C. Lifelong learning can lead to increased stress and anxiety.

        D. It is important to focus on one's career goals.

Question 13. a. Tom: Hi, Anna! Yeah, I’ve been going to the gym regularly.

b. Anna: Hi, Tom! Have you been working out? You look great!
c. Anna: It shows! Keep it up, you’re doing awesome!

        A. a-b-c        B. b-a-c        C. a-c-b        D. c-b-a

Question 14.   a. Lucy: Great! Graphic design is such a creative field.

b. Mark: I’m thinking about switching my career to graphic design.
c. Lucy: That’s an interesting choice! Have you taken any courses?
d. Mark: Yes, I’ve started some online classes to build my skills.
e. Mark: I know, and I’m really excited to learn more about it.

        A. b-a-d-c-e        B. a-c-b-d-e        C. b-c-d-a-e        D. a-d-c-b-e

Question 15. Hi Ben,
                     a. I feel much stronger and more energized.

                      b. I’ve been following the workout routine you recommended, and it’s been amazing!
                     c. The exercises are challenging but effective.

                      d. Thanks again for helping me get started on this journey!
                     e. I appreciate your advice on staying consistent.
                     Best,
                      Michael

        A. b-a-d-e-c        B. a-d-c-b-e        C. a-b-d-c-e        D. b-a-c-e-d.

Question 16. a. This helps you focus on what matters most.
                     b. Make sure to allocate time for breaks to avoid burnout.
                     c. By the end of the day, you’ll feel more accomplished and less stressed.

d. Organizing your day can greatly improve productivity.
e. Start by listing the most urgent tasks in the morning.

        A. d-e-b-c-a        B. a-c-b-d-e        C. d-e-a-b-c.        D. b-a-c-d-e        

Question 17. a. Many people, especially students, have started using these resources.

b. The local library just opened a new section dedicated to environmental education.
c. This section includes books, documentaries, and interactive exhibits about climate change and conservation.
d. The goal is to raise awareness and encourage sustainable practices in the community.
e. It’s a great initiative that will benefit both current and future generations.

        A. b-c-a-d-e.        B. a-c-b-d-e        C. a-d-c-b-e        D. b-e-c-a-d        

Boosting Your Confidence

        Looking to improve your self-esteem and feel more confident in your daily life? Here’s how you can make positive changes!

Confidence Facts: Studies show that only 35% of people report feeling confident in their abilities, while others (7)_____ with self-doubt. Building confidence can help improve your performance at work and in social situations.

Tips to Boost Your Confidence:

• Set realistic goals! Start small and (8)_____ yourself when you reach milestones.
• Surround yourself with positivity! Seek (9)_____  supportive friends and colleagues to boost your self-esteem.
• Focus on your strengths! (10)_____ dwelling on mistakes, concentrate on what you do well.
• Practice self-care! Taking time for yourself can (11)_____ your mood and confidence levels.
• Keep learning! Gaining new skills helps (12)_____ a sense of accomplishment.

Question 7. A. struggle         B. succeed         C. excel         D. fight
Question 8. A. encourage         B. reward         C. push         D. remind
Question 9. A. up        B. out        C. in        D. about
Question 10. A. In case of         B. On account of         C. Instead of         D. Because of
Question 11. A. reduce        B. lift         C. harm         D. break
Question 12. A. offer         B. achieve         C. increase         D. create

MAKE MEMORIES WITH CUSTOM PHOTO BOOKS

        Are you tired of digital photos sitting on your phone or computer? Turn them into beautiful custom photo books with our easy-to-use platform. Our service (1)_____ you to upload, organize, and design your own photo book, creating a unique keepsake to treasure forever. You can (2)_____ between different layouts, themes, and covers to make your book truly special. With our high-quality printing, your memories will (3)_____ vibrant and long-lasting. Plus, our photo books make great gifts for family and friends. Don't (4)_____ your memories – capture them in a book you'll love to (5)_____ for years to come. Start designing today and (6)_____ 20% off your first order!

Question 1: A. offers        B. allows        C. tells        D. provides

Question 2: A. pick        B. show        C. decide        D. select

Question 3:A. look        B. say        C. ignore        D. negotiate

Question 4:A. regret        B. keep        C. miss        D. erase

Question 5:A. check        B. browse        C. flip        D. keep

Question 6:A. receive        B. offer        C. buy        D. convince

Mountain Lions Amid Wildfires: A Struggle for Survival

Beth Pratt, the California director for the National Wildlife Federation, has spent her career protecting Los Angeles’ mountain lions. These top predators live in a rocky area surrounded by fancy houses and many roads. When wildfires destroy vast stretches of open land, the survival options for these animals become critically limited. “This is the LA area—these mountain lions can’t just move into the Kardashians’ backyard,” Pratt says, her voice filled with concern for the animals in such a difficult situation.

(I) The chaparral vegetation, covering about 10% of California, is one of the world’s most flammable ecosystems. (II) In Los Angeles, suburban sprawl intrudes on these areas, blocking wildlife escape routes. (III)Fires strip the land of food and shelter, transforming vibrant ecosystems into barren landscapes. (IV) Pratt highlights the urgency of the situation, explaining how areas that once supported life are now “taken out of commission,” leaving many species to starve or struggle for survival.

The consequences extend beyond wildlife. Wildfires have caused devastating human losses, with 88,000 people evacuated and a rising death toll of 25. Meanwhile, the non-human world suffers equally, particularly endangered species with limited ranges. Red-legged frogs, reintroduced into Santa Monica streams in 2014, are among the most affected, with their habitats repeatedly destroyed. The Woolsey Fire of 2018 was followed by mudslides that wiped out much of the region's delicate ecosystem, and scientists fear similar outcomes this time. California newts, reptiles, and snakes are also at high risk, while mammals and birds, although more likely to escape, face challenges in finding food and shelter as the ecosystem bounces back.

Despite the devastation, hope remains. The chaparral is a fire-adapted ecosystem, and life often endures beneath the soil. Seeds can survive and germinate quickly, with grasses sprouting weeks after the first rain. Shrubs may take up to a decade to recover, depending on rainfall. Prof. Stefan Doerr, an expert on wildfires, emphasizes the resilience of this landscape, noting its evolutionary adaptation to high-intensity fires occurring every 30 to 100 years. While the aftermath looks bleak, these fires play a role in maintaining biodiversity, offering a glimmer of hope for recovery.

(Adapted from the Guardian.com)

Question 31: Which of the following is OPPOSITE in meaning to “critically” in Paragraph 1?

A. slightly                B. urgently                        C. severely                        D. carefully

Question 32: Where in the passage does the following sentence best fit in paragraph 2?

“Composed of grasslands, shrubs, and woody species that regenerate after intense wildfires, this habitat faces escalating threats.”

A.(I)                        B. (II)                                C. (III)                        D. (IV)

Question 34: Which of the following is NOT a factor threatening chaparral vegetation?

A. suburban sprawl        B. high-intensity fires                C. loss of food and shelter        D. excessive rainfall

Question 34: The phrase “taken out of commission” in paragraph 2 could best be replaced by:

A. set up                B. broken down                C. put forward                        D. taken after

Question 35: The word “their” in Paragraph 3 refers to:

A. mountain lions        B. red-legged frogs                C. endangered species                D. mammals and birds

Question 36: Which of the following best summarizes Paragraph 2?

A. Wildfires destroy chaparral vegetation, causing wildlife to flee to urban areas.

B. The chaparral ecosystem faces increasing threats from wildfires and human expansion.

C. Mountain lions struggle to survive due to suburban sprawl and lack of food.

D. Grasslands and shrubs are easily regenerated after intense wildfires.

Question 37: According to the passage, which of the following statements is TRUE?

A. Mountain lions frequently inhabit suburban backyards.

B. The Woolsey Fire of 2018 caused mudslides that devastated the ecosystem.

C. California’s chaparral ecosystem cannot recover after wildfires.

D. Wildfires have little impact on endangered species.

Question 38: Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 4: “Seeds can survive and germinate quickly, with grasses sprouting weeks after the first rain.”?

A. Seeds thrive under dry conditions and only sprout after wildfires.

B. Seeds endure fires and grow soon after the rains begin.

C. Grasses grow rapidly before the first rainfall, due to seed survival.

D. Wildfires prevent seeds from sprouting despite heavy rainfall.

Question 39: Which of the following can be inferred from the passage?

A. Human intervention is necessary for the chaparral ecosystem to recover after wildfires.
B. The chaparral’s ability to regenerate after fires depends on its evolutionary adaptations.
C. Suburban sprawl has a minimal impact on the long-term recovery of the chaparral.
D. Without wildfires, the chaparral ecosystem would lose its biodiversity entirely.

Question 40: Which of the following best summarizes the main point of the passage?

A. Wildfires are a natural part of the chaparral ecosystem, but suburban sprawl exacerbates their impact on wildlife and humans.

B. The chaparral vegetation in California is an invaluable resource that requires immediate human intervention to prevent destruction.

C. Mountain lions and other species are at greater risk from wildfires due to increasing suburbanization and declining biodiversity.

D. Despite the devastating effects of wildfires, the chaparral ecosystem’s resilience ensures a quick recovery.

Katê Festival

Cultural diversity is a vital aspect of any society, and festivals of ethnic groups play an essential role in preserving the cultural identity of a community. Embracing cultural values through festivals is an important way of staying connected with one community as well as its history and traditions, and a well-known Katê Festival of the Chăm people in Vietnam is an example to prove so.

The Katê Festival, also known as Mbăng Katê, is the biggest yearly festival for the Chăm people in Vietnam. It is a special time of year when they honour important figures in their history and the dead in their families. The Kate Festival takes place on the first day of the seventh month in the Chăm calendar, usually in September or October. It lasts for three days and takes place around three important ancient structures in Ninh Thuận Province: the Po Klaung Yăgrai Tower, the Po Romé Tower and the Po Inû Nagar Temple. All of these places are very important to Champa culture and history.

On the morning of the first day, Cham families take part in processions as they travel to the towers and temple, bringing gifts of fruit, meat and rice. In a special ceremony, the Cham people receive the costumes of the Goddess Po Nagar from the Raglai people, a cultural group with close connections to Champa culture. The Chăm carry the costumes to the temple to celebrate Po Nagar, then they open the gates. Inside the temple, they start bathing the statues of important figures and watching sacred dances. After those performances, people enjoy lively parties until the evening of the festival's second day.

On the last day, people make special offerings to their gods at community houses in their villages and pray for luck and good health for the coming year. Once this is over, there are traditional music performances, and then people do fun activities like playing football and participating in weaving competitions.

(Adapted from Bright 12)

Question 23: Which of the following is NOT mentioned as one of the key locations where the Katê Festival is celebrated?

A. Po Klaung Yăgrai Tower                        B. Po Romé Tower

C. Po Inû Nagar Temple                        D. Cham Museum in Da Nang

Question 24: The word “diversity” in paragraph 1 is OPPOSITE in meaning to:

A. variety                        B. similarity                        C. difference                        D. multiplicity

Question 25: The word “they” in paragraph 2 refers to:

A. The Chăm people                B. The Raglai people                C. The important figures        D. The costumes

Question 26: The word “lively” in paragraph 3 could be best replaced by:

A. cheerful                        B. noisy                        C. boring                        D. dull

Question 27: According to the passage, which of the following statements is TRUE?

A. The Katê Festival is only celebrated at the Po Inû Nagar Temple.

B. The festival is held at the beginning of the seventh month in the Gregorian calendar.

C. The Chăm people receive costumes from the Raglai people during the festival.

D. The last day of the festival is focused on sacred dances and bathing statues.

Question 28: Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 1?

"Cultural diversity is a vital aspect of any society, and festivals of ethnic groups play an essential role in preserving the cultural identity of a community."

A. Festivals are important for maintaining cultural identity and society’s diversity.

B. Societies depend on ethnic groups to preserve their own cultural diversity.

C. Cultural festivals are the only way to preserve a community’s identity.

D. Ethnic groups organize festivals to improve society’s cultural identity.

Question 29: In which paragraph does the passage describe how the festival begins?

A. Paragraph 1         B. Paragraph 2                 C. Paragraph 3         D. Paragraph 4

Question 30: In which paragraph does the passage mention activities that take place in villages on the last day of the festival?

A. Paragraph 1         B. Paragraph 2                 C. Paragraph 3         D. Paragraph 4

Question 13.        a. Sally: I’m good, too. Just been busy with work lately. It’s great to catch up with you!

b. Janna: Hi, Sally! I’ve been doing well, thanks. What about you?

c. Sally: Hey, Janna! Long time no see. How have you been?

        A. a - c – b                B. b - a – c                C. c - a – b                D. c - b - a

Question 14.        a. Stranger: Sure! It’s about a 10-minute walk from here. Just head straight down this road and turn left at the second traffic light.

b. Pete: Excuse me, could you show me the way to the nearest train station. I’m lost.
c. Pete: Thank you! And will I see any signs along the way?
d. Stranger: Yes, there are clear signs pointing to the station once you make that turn.
e. Pete: Got it. Thanks a lot for your help!

A. c - d - e - b – a        B. e - b - c- d - a        C. b - a - c - d – e        D. b - a - e - c - d

Question 15.        Dear Nhung,

a. I hope this email finds you well. I’m writing to let you know that I’ll be arriving in Hanoi next Monday and wanted to ask if you’ll be at home then.

b. Would it be possible for you to meet me at the airport?

c. Please let me know once you’ve received this email. I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon!

d. By the way, I was wondering if you could recommend some historical sites in northern Vietnam.

e. I am also planning to visit a few places there to gather materials for my Cultural Studies presentation.

Best regards,
Anna

A. a - b - d - e – c        B. e - b - c- d - a        C. d - e - a - b – c        D. b - a - e - c – d

Question 16.         a. Many people even spend more time connecting with other people on the internet than in real life.

b. I think the internet is important because it has changed our lives in many ways.

c. For example, the way we communicate has changed significantly.

d. We can communicate with each other instantly using the internet.

e. If you go to a busy café today, you will probably see most people are communicating with their phones and laptops instead of talking to the person next to them.

A. a-b-c-d-e                B. b-c-d-a-e                C. b-c-a-d-e                D. a-b-d-c-e

Question 17.        a. Through initiatives like loveitaly, a non-profit organization, donations are collected from people worldwide who care about Italy’s cultural legacy.

b. For instance, loveitaly successfully raised funds to restore an ancient site in Pompeii.

c. To address this, Italy has turned to crowdfunding as a method of raising funds for heritage preservation.

d. Preserving cultural heritage can be a significant challenge for many nations, particularly those with numerous heritage sites, like Italy.

e. This innovative approach has proven to be an effective way to preserve Italy’s heritage while involving global supporters.

A. d - b - c - e - a         B. d - e - c - a – b        C. d - b - e – a –c        D. d - c - a - b - e