SPECIAL SUBJECT 6: GERUNDS VS TO V-INF

PART A. THEORY
I. Choose to V-inf or V-ing to complete each blank
1. She agreed (pay) __________ the electricity bill the following week.
2. Hector detests (go) __________ to the opera.
3. Mortin admitted (steal) __________ the money from the safe.
4. Elizabeth didn't need (do) __________the final exams.
5. I regretted (forget) __________ to call my grandfather for his birthday.
6. Your aunt wished __________ (visit) Australia in Summer.
7. He didn’t advise (cheat) _________ in the exam. He advised us (revise) ________ our lessons carefully.
8. Please, avoid (touch) __________ the wires with wet hands.
9. Your friend seems (be) __________ very busy today.
10. We suggested (sell) __________ our apartment at the seaside.
11. She postponed (make) __________ a decision for the new shop.
12. Excuse me, do you mind (clean) __________ the table, please!
13. It was difficult to climb up the mountain but we kept (go) __________
14.I'm amazed because you didn't hesitate (accept) __________ that job.
15. The policeman pretended (keep) __________ my identity card.
16. Robert denied (kidnap) __________ the child.
17. The car is too expensive so I can’t afford (buy) __________ it.
18. Sonia didn't tolerate (share) __________ the bedroom with John.
19. The couple chose (spend) __________ their honeymoon in Canada.
20. I hate (wait) __________ for my girlfriend.
21. Barbara celebrated (win) __________ the TV contest.
22. George's father learnt (play) __________ the guitar in five years.
23. Miriam omitted (invite) __________ her old university colleagues.
24. My aunt claimed (be) __________ the owner of the red suitcase.
25. Tina pretended (borrow) __________ my computer.
26. All my friends wanted (go) __________ to the zoo in the afternoon.
27. The French tourist asked me how (get) __________ to the post office.
28. My neighbour enjoys (collect) __________ stamps and coins.
29. It was late so we hurried (catch) __________ the last bus.
30. Does she know what(do) __________ in case of a fire?
31. Why didn’t you stop (buy) __________ a newspaper on the way home? Actually, I stopped (subscribe)
__________ a long time ago.
32. When the lecturer arrived, they didn’t go on (talk) __________. Instead, they went on (study) _________.
33. I regret (tell) __________ you sthat your application has not been successful yet.
34. I remember (meet) __________ you once in my life.
35. I cannot stand her (complain) __________ the time. She should be accustomed to (sit) on this motorbike.
36. It’s no use (persuade) __________ him to change his mind. There’s no point in (do) __________ that.
37. I managed (carry) __________ out a research on genetically modified crops.
38. The house needs (decorate) __________ for the Christmas season.
39. Sorry, I forgot (write) __________ down his address in my notebook.
40. They don’t allow (smoke) ________ on the plane. And of course no one will allow you (bring) ________
any sharp items on board.
II. Choose an appropriate answer A, B, C or D
1. The television programmes we allow___ influence their learning
A. a children to watch B. our children to watch C. our children watch D. our children watching
2. They didn’t stop ___ until 11.30 pm when there was a power cut.
A. singing and dancing B. to sing and dance C. to sing and dancing D. singing and dance
3. When his wife arrived home after a hard day at work, he has ___ sitting on the sofa.
A. watched TV B. watch TV C. was watching TV D. watching TV
4. “You are lucky. You haven’t got a child ___ ,” said the woman.
A. for looking after B. looking after C. to look after D. look after
5. A cat suddenly ran across the street. Fortunately, he managed___ just in time.
A. to stop B. stopping C. to have stopped D. stopped
6. Phosphates ___ to most land in our country.
A. need added B. need to add C. need to be added D. need to adding
7. Whenever those two ladies meet, they stop___.
A. talking B. talk C. to talking D. to talk
8. It’s still raining. I’d rather___ home and watch football on TV.
A. to stay B. staying at C. stay D. stayed at
9. I think Ĩ hear someone ___ the back windows. Do you hear it, too?
A. trying open B. trying to open C. tried opening D. try opened
10. John hoped to finish___ two of his essays before the deadline.
A. written B. write C. to write D. writing
11. One of the least effective ways of storing information is learning ___
A. how repeat B. repeating C. to repeat D. repeat
12. Most of the participants can’t help ___ why the president spoke so angrily.
A. wonder B. wondering C. to wonder D. wondered
13. The woman meant ___ a newspaper but she didn’t see anyone ___ it.
A. to buy-to sell B. to buy – selling C. buying - selling D. buying - to sell
14. The spokesman began by ___ them where the mountain was, and went on ___ about its history.
A. telling-talking B. tell-talk C. told - talked D. to tell - to talk
15. I was very angry. My friend John refused ___ me a lift as he had promised.
A. give B. to give C. giving D. gave
16. The film wasn’t very good. The audience started ___ before it was over.
A. leaving B. to leave C. leave D. A and B are correct.
17. After walking for two hours the guide stopped to let the others ___ with them.
A. caught up B. to catch up C. catching up D. catch up
18. What do you remember ___ when you were a little boy?
A. do B. doing C. to do D. B and C are correct
19. Linda regrets___ to her mother’s advice. She was right.
A. not listen B. not to listen C. not listening D. to not listen
20. I can never forget ___ our team score the winning goal in the final game against Thailand.
A. watching B. to watch C. watch D. A and B are correct
21. My friend forgot___ a book back to the library, so she had to pay a fine.
A. take B. to take C. taking D. to be taken
22. Would you please remind her___ me tomorrow morning?
A. calling B. to call C. call D. to calling
23. John volunteered __ the food supply to the victims in the flood area.
A. take B. to take C. taking D. to be taken
24. My friend Mary is a blabbermouth! She can’t resist ___ everyone what she heard from me.
A. tell B. to tell C. telling D. to telling
25. The man finally admitted responsible for the accident last week.
A. to be B. for to be C. for being D. being
26. The union members discussed___ the next meeting until next week.
A. postponing B. to postpone C. postpone D. to postponing
27. I’ve been having a lot of trouble with my old car the last couple of months. I am thinking about___ a new one.
A. to buy B. buy C. buying D. being bought
28. Mary appeared___, but she wasn’t, she was only pretending.
A. to asleep B. to be asleep C. being asleep D. be asleep
29. Johnny is only nine, but he intends ___ a singer when he grows up.
A. be B. to be C. being D. B and C are correct
30. It was cold and snowy Iasi Sunday, so we postponed___ the botanical gardens until next Sunday.
A. visiting B. to visit C. visited D. being visited
31. I hope ___ all of my courses this term. So far my grades have been pretty good.
A. passing B. to pass C. pass D. being passed
32. My father continued___ his book even though the children were making a lot of noise.
A. read B. and reading C. and read D. reading
33. Linda can’t stand___ in a room with all of the windows closed.
A. sleep B. sleeping C. slept D. being slept
34. It is raining hard this week but Tom expects___ with his friends this weekend.
A. to go and fish B. to go fishing C. going fishing D. to go to fish
35. When my teacher is listening to someone who is speaking English very fast, he nods his head and pretends __.
A. understanding B. to understand C. understanding it D. to be understood
36. After the operation, the doctors wouldn’t let him___ out of bed for three days.
A. get B. to get C. getting D. gets
37. She always puts off___ the dinner dishes until the next morning.
A. to wash B. washing C. wash D. and washes
38. After Ann got a speeding ticket and had to pay a big fine, she decided___ over the speed limit on interstate
highways.
A. to stop driving B. to stop to drive C. stopping to drive D. stopping driving
39. Graduate students often spend their weekends___ data for their research.
A. gather B. to gather C. gathering D. to gathering
40. I can feel something___ up my leg. It must be an insect.
A. crawling B. crawl C. to crawl D. crawled
41. I meant ___ the car with petrol before we left.
A. filling B. fill C. to be filled D. to fill
42. It's not worth___ out now. It’s much too late.
A. to go B. go C. going D. gone
43. Language permits us___ our heritage through literature narratives.
A. preserve B. preserving C. to preserve D. to preserving
44. She dislikes___ by crowds of people.
A. to surround B. surrounded C. being surrounded D. be surrounded
45. Susan is in the kitchen looking for something___.
A. for eating B. to eating C. to eat D. eating
46. The other motorist drove right in front of me. I couldn’t avoid___ his car.
A. to hit B. hitting C. hit D. from hitting
47. There are people who can’t help___ when they see someone___ on a banana skin.
A. laugh-slip B. to laugh-slip C. laughing - slipping D. laughing - slip
48. There is only one student in the classroom___ his lesson.
A. prepare B. to prepare C. was preparing D. preparing
49. This examination will test your ability___ written English.
A. to understand B. of understanding C. understand D. understanding
50. Ann was very surprised to find the door unlocked. She remembered___ it before she left.
A. to lock B. locking C. lock D. she locks
PART B. USE OF ENGLISH
I. Read the text below and decide which answer (A, B, C or D) best fits each gap.
PASSAGE A. The name Rolls-Royce has been associated with high-quality cars for (0) a century. The first Rolls-
Royce was produced in 1905, as the result of the (1) ___ efforts of Charles Stewart Rolls and Frederick Henry
Royce. Rolls, an upper-class Londoner who was (2) ___ at Eton and Cambridge University, started a company in
1902 to sell motor-cars. Royce, an engineering genius, (3) ___ from a working-class background. He began his
apprenticeship in a railway workshop at the age of 14, but by the age of 21 he had (4) ___ up his own engineering
business. Royce designed several motor-cars, and his first experimental model (5) ___ in 1903 (6) ___ after that,
Charles Rolls and Henry Royce met, (7) ___ the Rolls-Royce manufacturing firm in 1904. Royce designed the
motor-cars and Rolls sold them. Rolls, who had (8) ___ himself a reputation as a keen racing motorist, also had a
passion for flying. In 1910, at the age of only 33, he sadly (9) ___ his death in a plane crash - in (10) ___ he was
the first Englishman to die in this way. Royce, however, continued work on their shared dream, and (11) ___ to
develop his first aero-engine in 1915. The Rolls-Royce Merlin aero-engine later powered British fighter aeroplanes
in World War II. On Royce’s death in 1933. the famous Rolls-Royce monogram was changed from red to black as a
(12) ___ of respect for the great man.
1. A connected B mixed C combined D collected
2. A educated B schooled C taught D trained
3. A grew B arrived C came D arose
4. A put B made C set D brought
5. A appeared B showed C presented D developed
6. A Early B Shortly C Briefly D Quickly
7. A shaping B forming C building D constructing
8. A earned B awarded C deserved D succeeded
9. A got B knew C found D met
10. A spite B case C order D fact
11. A kept up B went on C got by D saw through
12. A note B message C signal D sign
PASSAGE B. If you’ve never heard of e-volunteering, also known as virtual volunteering, you might be a bit
behind the (1)___ . The traditional idea of volunteering is common (2) ___ , for example, cleaning up around the
neighbourhood and lending a helping (3) ___ to those in need – both very important tasks. E-volunteering,
though, takes volunteering to the next (4) ___ . It involves working for the charities through the internet in your
(5) ___ time. These activities can take (6) ___ in a number of ways. You can write and edit for non-profit
organisations or do research for them, provide legal support, translate documents – any kind of online job in
which you know the (7) ___ . The difference is that you do it free of (8) ___ . It’s great for people who want to
volunteer but don’t have time or the opportunity to do it in the old-fashioned way.
1 A minutes B moments C days D times
2 A intelligence B ability C knowledge D outlook
3 A hand B ear C aid D lift
4 A point B level C height D degree
5 A spare B bonus C open D plus
6 A body B figure C form D shape
7 A cords B strings C wires D ropes
8 A rate B expense C charge D fee
PASSAGE C. Aylesbury is a (0) ___ market town (1) ___ modern shopping facilities include the recently opened
Friars Square shopping center. The market has been an (2) part of Aylesbury life since the early 13th century.
Nowadays, regular markets are held on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The town has a (3) ___ and varied
history, many clues to which can be seen in the (4) ___ area to the north of the market square. In this area (5)
___ the 15th century King's Head Public House which over the years has played host to many famous names.
These have included King Henry' VIII, who regularly visited the Inn whilst courting Anne Boleyn and Oliver
Cromwell, on his visit to Aylesbury in 1651. (6) ___ a National Trust property, the King's Head is at present
undergoing extensive refurbishments to (7) ___ the building to its former glory and is expected to reopen in the
autumn. Other (8) ___ buildings in the conservation area include the Saxon Church of St Mary and the
Buckinghamshire County Museum.
1. A. what B. which C. whose D. with
2. A. essential B. expensive C. unexpected D. impossible
3. A. poor B. perfect C. rich D. nearby
4. A. pollution B. conservation C. environment D. maintenance
5. A. lives B. happens C. stands D. shows
6. A. Since B. Now C. Even D. Despite
7. A. refresh B. recall C. restore D. remind
8. A. reliable B. annual C. excitable D. notable
II. Read the text below and think of the word which best fits each gap.
PASSAGE A. A new school of cookery has opened in France. “The Friends of French Cookery” has just started by
a group of grandmothers who are anxious to keep traditional food and cooking techniques alive. They are against
the modern-day use (1) __________ freezers, microwaves and TV dinners. None of these grandmothers have (2)
__________ any experience as professional cooks, and they run their school (3) __________ being paid. They
are motivated only by a desire to produce good quality, tasty food. They are especially keen to teach the younger
generation (4) __________ to cook traditional dishes, and to convince them that traditional food is better (5)
__________ convenience foods and take-aways. The grandmothers run cookery courses two or three times a
week, and the fee is about $20, (6) __________ includes tuition and lunch. Most of the recipes are traditional,
and some of (7) __________ have ancient legends attached (8) __________ them. Only seasonal ingredients
(9) __________ used. The courses are great fun, and tourists join (10) __________ with the locals (11)
__________ they work together to create a delicious meal. (12) __________ midday they all sit down at long
tables to eat a three-course lunch.
PASSAGE B.
Hi Henry,
In (1)__________ to your question about voluntary work, there are several programmes currently in full (2)
__________ . I’ll explain a few of them to you in a (3) __________ . One that may interest you is our weekly
neighbourhood clean-up, which in (4) __________ involves picking up litter on the streets. In (5) __________
to this programme, we also have tree planting, which we do once a (6) __________ . The next tree-planting
event is taking (7) __________ this Sunday and starts at 8 in the (8) __________ . This project in (9)
__________ has been very popular. We’ve also got programmes for community gardening, in which we plant a
few crops in local plots, done in (10) _________, which is usually spring or autumn. You don’t need to tell us in
(11) __________ that you’re going to participate. You can just turn up in (12) __________ . I look forward to
seeing you!
Best regards,
Jill Thomas
PASSAGE C. Taking (1) __________ in voluntary community work is something you can pride (2)
__________ on doing. Consider, though, what volunteers for international aid organisations go through to do
their work. There are people who work in the world’s poorest countries and help people against all (3)
__________ to get the health care they need. They frequently work around the (4) __________ for little pay.
Some might say the volunteers are fighting a losing (5) __________, because the conditions in many places are
terrible. Some may even say that once these people come to their (6) __________, they’ll and come home.
However, the volunteers would say that’s beside the (7) __________. They may find themselves in deep (8)
__________ at times, if the situation in a particular country becomes dangerous. The idea for them, though, is
to work (9) __________ and make lives better, one person at a time. It may seem like a drop in the (10)
__________, to help just one person, but they have to start somewhere. Through time, when a whole
community is helped, volunteers can take (11) __________ in knowing they’ve made a difference. So, if that’s
what you think voluntary work is all about, then you’ve hit the (12) __________ on the head.
PASSAGE D. When the girl returned, she was much calmer. Mike realized that (1) __________ must think she
had made herself look rather foolish and had (2) __________ more importance to the happening than it
deserved. Mike realised that the girl felt awkward, and that at Waterloo Station she would be glad to (3)
__________ good-bye to him and forget the event. When they (4) __________ the station, he took her to find
a taxi. The man who had frightened her must be (5) __________ in the crowd, and it was (6) __________ that
he might trouble her again. But they did not see him. The (7) __________ gave the driver an address in
Kensington and stepped into the taxi. Thank you," she said. “Thank you very much." The taxi moved off. Mike
stepped forward to wave, and (8) __________ nearly knocked down by another taxi, which was behind.
III. Fill in each blank with an appropriate word form
PASSAGE A. DEDICATE – CHILD – ATTEND – NOURISH – ENERGY – DETERMINE – FAIL –
COURAGE – PERFORM – PATIENT
To be successful in a sport requires a number of things including ambition and (1) __________ Without these
qualities, it is very difficult to compete at a high level. Most of the famous sportspeople we know today began
training during their (2) __________ in order to reach their peak while still comparatively young. Athletes
should pay careful (3) __________ to their diet, because (4) __________ food is essential for maintaining a
strong body which is less liable to suffer injury. Diet is also important because it must be adequate to support such
(5) __________ activity. It is also necessary to have the (6) __________ to succeed. Athletes will often
encounter temporary (7) __________ on their road to eventual success, and they must mentally prepare
themselves so that this type of (8) __________ doesn’t have too strong a negative effect on their future (9)
__________ Even if a sufficiently talented athlete puts in the time and effort required, they will also need (10)
__________ and perhaps a little luck, in order to succeed.
PASSAGE B. RELAX – PREDICT – FRUSTRATE - ANTICIPATE - WONDER – SPOIL –
CONFIDENCE – ACCOMMODATE – HOMESICK
Holidays are meant to be a time of (0) __________ and fun but unfortunately this isn't always the case. There
are some (1) __________ problems such as delayed flights and the usual (2) __________ of waiting at
airports. However, the (3) __________ of spending two or three (4) __________ weeks in the sun on an (5)
__________ island is enough to make most people think the delays are worth it. It's best to make a reservation
at a hotel so that you can leave home (6) __________ knowing that at least your (7) __________ is secure.
Finally, it's best to travel with a friend to avoid (8) __________
IV. Choose the correct word
1. The work has to be finished today at all expenses / costs.
2. He felt completely at ease / comfort with telling others what to do.
3. Susie spoke at great width / length about her charity.
4. We must leave at once / now.
5. She cancelled the appointment at very short note / notice.
6. He can be quite generous at times / occasions.
7. It was a great show by all accounts / stories.
8. Did you go to the fundraising event by any chance /luck ?
9. It was the best performance by afar / far.
10. She learned all the words by mind / heart.
11. He’s friendly by nature / character.
12. She caught him completely by fright / surprise.
13. Let’s play cards for a difference / change to pass the time.
14. They left the UK for good / better to move to Asia.
15. Just wait here for the time being / doing.
V. Write at, by for or on in each gap to complete the sentences.
1. He put the charity’s cash takings in a box ……………………………………………………… safekeeping.
2. They got the protesters to leave ……………………………………………………… force.
3. They must have finished building the community centre ……………………………………………………… now.
4. She couldn’t make the event ……………………………………………………… account of other plans.
5. Each volunteer was given a task to do with a partner who was chosen ……………………………………… random.
6. Let’s go to the volunteer meeting ……………………………………………………… foot.
7. He was so pleased with the community’s effort that he was ………………………………………… a loss of words.
8. The bus drivers were ……………………………………………………… strike, so we took a taxi.
9. The aid worker has lived in India all her life, but she’s British ……………………………………………………… birth.
 10. Their daughter had been volunteering in Colombia, so they hadn’t seen her ………………………………… ages.
VI. Choose the correct word to complete each sentence.
1 We’ll notify you on ___ of your application. 7 They’re building a refugee shelter on the ___
A agreement B support C approval A limits B bounds C outskirts
2 On ___ of all of us, thanks for your efforts. 8 I’m sure that was no accident and she did it on ___
A behalf B demand C behaviour A purpose B reason C point
3 I’ll come with you on __ that we leave early. 9 The fundraiser featured signed books & photos on__
A event B condition C situation A deal B purchase C sale
4 There are only 3 rescue workers on ___ 10 Today’s neighbourhood clean-up started on ___
A duty B work C task A schedule B agenda C programme
5 The difficult work had him on his ___ 11 She was on good ___ with other members
A knees B arms C legs A boundaries B limits C terms
6 The costumes which the actors wore were on ___ 12 The project was, on the ___, very successful
A advance B loan C borrow A top B total C whole
VII. Try to work out from the context the meaning of each underlined phrases. Make notes.
1. A good way to break the ice with someone is to walk up to them and introduce yourself. _____________
2. She was initially against the idea, but she changed her tune later. ________________________
3. He took the job because it was easy money. ________________________
4. He had to eat his words after the project became a success. ________________________
5. I know it’s difficult work, but you’ll just have to grin and bear it . ________________________
6. I can’t do anything about it. My hands are tied. ________________________
7. You can’t do your best at something if your heart’s not in it. ________________________
8. It’s high time we took a break and headed for the beach. ________________________
9. Does Robin still visit you every week?’ ‘No, he lives in St Albans now, ________________________
so he only comes now and again.’
10. Laura was very busy when I visited her. In fact, she more or less ________________________
asked me to leave.
11. There’s been nothing good on television for weeks. ________________________
Good programmes are few and far between.
12. Personally I don’t like the designs, but that’s neither here nor there ________________________
because we’re sure that they’ll sell well.
13. ‘Does Sheila work full-time at the supermarket?’ ‘No, only on and off ________________________
when they need extra staff.’
14. I’ve been looking for Cathy here; there and everywhere. ________________________
VIII. Choose an appropriate phrasal verb to fill in each blank
A. get through - hang up - hold on - count on someone - let someone down - think something over –
walk out on someone - get someone down - look up to someone - turn something down - call for someone
call something off - see someone off - take someone on - take someone up on something - carry on
cope with someone/ something - turn out - crop up - feel up to something
1. I’ve made you a good offer, so __________ (it) and let me have your decision tomorrow.
2. I was talking to Jeff on the phone when suddenly he__________. I’ve no idea why.
3. I’m very tired. Joan invited me to dinner at her house, but I don’t__________ (it). I shall go to bed early.
4. We didn’t like John when we first met him, but he has __________ to be a good friend to us. ’
5. Don’t let me disturb you. Please just __________ as if I weren’t here.
6. I’m sorry I’m late. Something urgent __________ at the office, so I couldn’t leave early.
7. ‘The children are getting very difficult to manage. Sometimes I simply can’t__________ (them).
8. I applied for a part-time job at the supermarket. They’re going to __________ (me).
9. I’ve been trying to phone my sister in Australia for over an hour, but I can’t__________
10. ‘I’m going to the library.’ ‘If you __________, I’ll get the car and drive you there.’
11. Liz promised to help Tony with the report, but she __________ (him) so he had to write it without her.
12. What made Pete __________ his family and his job? Where did he go and why?
13. Sue says "that her financial worries are beginning to __________ (her). She’s very depressed.
14. You can’t possibly say no to such a wonderful job offer. It’s too good to __________ .
15. We can't have a party with just five people. We’ll have to __________ (it).
16. What time is your train? I’ll come to the station to __________ (you).
17. Kate has made a great success of her life. We all __________ (her).
18. I’ll __________ (you) at seven this evening. Will you be ready by then?
19. I promised Rill that I would lend him some money. He’s __________ (me), so I can’t disappoint him.
20. Liz made me an offer of £350 for my car. I need the money, so I’m going to __________ (her) (it).
B. catch up with something - fall behind give up - keep at something - settle down to something - fall for someone
get at someone - take someone in - talk someone round - keep on - join in - look someone up - own up –
get on with something - pack something in - brush something aside - get out of something –
go along with something - push in - stick up for someone
1. You have almost solved the crossword puzzle. You mustn’t__________ now!
2. I was ill for two weeks, so I’ve__________ with my work.
3. I have a report to finish before I can__________ watching television.
4. It isn’t that woman’s turn. It’s yours. Don’t let her __________
5. I have already told Joe that I won’t go to Spain with him, but he’s still trying to __________ (me).
6. Simon__________ an Irish girl that he met on holiday. Three months later they were married!
7. This painting can’t possibly be an original. I think we’ve been__________
8. I’ve asked Jeff several times not to smoke in the bedroom, but he __________ doing it.
9. I wish the boss would stop __________ (me). I haven’t done anything wrong.
10. I’ve been working hard on the report. If I __________ (it), I shall finish it by this evening.
11. Terry doesn’t like his new job. He’s only had it for three months, but he has already decided to_________ (it).
12. Don’t waste time chatting! __________ your essay!
13. We’re moving to Liverpool next month. Remember to __________ (us) if you’re in the area.
14. You promised to make a speech at Jill’s wedding, so you can’t ________ (it) now. Jill would be disappointed.
15. The teacher asked the pupils who had broken the chair, but at first no one __________
16. ‘How did you get the black eye?’ ‘My friend was in a fight, so I __________ (him) and got hit too.
17. You say that Margaret’s suggestion is good, so does that mean you are going to __________ (it)?
18. Some students were sitting round a camp fire singing songs. They asked me to __________, so I did.
19. He ignored my request. He simply__________ (it) as if he hadn’t heard what I said.
20. I’ve been away from home for a month, so now I want to__________ the news. What’s been happening?
IX. Which is correct
1. Arrangements that are decided or final are said to be (safe and sound / home and dry / cut and dried)
2. A person in a cheerful mood may be described as being (hale and hearty/ alive and kicking/ bright and breezy)
3. A place that looks clean and tidy is said to be (fair and square / spick and span/ home and dry)
4. A casual, relaxed person may be described as being (free and easy/ meek and mild/ slow but sure)
5. A person who is no longer young but who is physically fit may be described as being (alive and kicking/ safe and
sound/ hale and hearty)
X. Complete the sentences with the correct idiom in the correct form
grin and bear it - chop and change - toss and turn - pick and choose - give and take - wait and see
1. If you book too late, the best hotels will be full, so you won’t be able to __________.
2. I really can’t tell you whether or not you have made the right decision. You’ll simply have to __________
3. I had a dreadful toothache on Christmas Day. There was no dentist available so I had to __________
4. The patient __________ for at least an hour before he finally fell into a deep sleep.
5. If Pauline wants her marriage to work, she’ll have to learn how to ______ Everyone has to make compromises.
6. Roy seems unable to decide on a suitable date. He’s __________ all the time.
XI. Substitute for the phrase in italics an idiom from the list with the same meaning.
blow by blow - on the up and up - all in all - bit by bit - again and again - by and by
1. I can’t write the whole report today. I’ll have to do it in small stages.
2. I’ve asked him repeatedly not to smoke in this room, but he doesn’t seem to care.
3. I was unhappy in my new job at first, but as. time went by I realized that it was the kind of challenge that I
needed.
4. ‘Did you hear about John Smith’s operation?’ ‘Yes, he gave me a detailed account - twice! ’
5. We didn’t win all the events, but considering everything our athletics team had a successful day.
6. ‘How’s your father after his operation?’ ‘Improving at last, I’m glad to say.’ on the up and up
PART C. READING
I. Choose the answer (A, B, C or D) which you think fits best according to the text.
PASSAGE A. I chose a small house on the edge of the city. It was an ideal place for me, because I wanted fresh
mountain air, space, privacy, a place where one could feel the presence of ancient gods and the spirits of nature.
The house was merely an empty shell, but I chose it because it was on the sunny side of the valley, high enough to
have a good view over the town, with sufficient breeze to diminish the occasionally stupefying heat. It took me a
good year to make the place inhabitable.
The first thing that I did was to dig out the well at the side of the house, which had caved in on itself and
was full of mud and rocks. I was helped in this by a Frenchman named Antoine, a man of considerable culture who
had chosen to live here because he was attached to the people, with whom he had arrived in the original
immigration. We repaired the walls and the roof of the house, and painted the rooms completely white so that
they became suddenly clean, bright, and spacious.
Antoine and I managed, at some danger to ourselves, to install electricity by connecting up a cable to the
faltering system invented by a teacher. This man was Professor Luis, who had set up a row of windmills to
generate power; this was perfectly adequate for lighting, but was somewhat feeble when high amperage was
required, so that the electric cooker that I had flown in by helicopter turned out to be more use as a storage
cupboard.
It often happens when setting up a house that one finds quite suddenly that there is an urgent need for
some item overlooked during the last expedition. The track down from my house was a deeply pitted one that
served as a watercourse each time that it rained, and although I have stabilised it since, it was to begin with only
negotiable on foot or by mule, or by Antoine’s ancient three-wheeled tractor. This tractor had been half-buried in
the mud of the flood at Chiriguana, but Senor Vivo’s father, who is in fact General Sosa, governor of Cesar, had it
dug out and brought in slung under a vast helicopter gunship, at his son’s request. It is commonly said in this
country that General Sosa is the only member of the military hierarchy who ever does anything useful.
There was, at the far end of the town, a tienda that sold goods brought in by mule-train from Ipasueno, and
so every few days I would find myself rattling and bumping my way to it on Antoine’s formidable old tractor. This
shop was owned by a middle-aged couple who left the running of it to their daughter, a girl of twenty or so years
whose name was Ena, as I discovered by overhearing the father asking of her the price of a bottle of Ron Cana.
Ena was small and strongly built; usually she wore a plain, faded blue dress, and her feet were always bare.
Sometimes I used to think that her head was very slightly too large for her, but she had an appealing and
serene face framed by her long black hair. She reminded me forcibly of a Greek girl with whom I had once been in
love, for she had the same smooth and soft olive skin, and big brown eyes beneath eyebrows almost heavy enough
to meet in the middle. On her forearms were the traces of soft black downy hair, which to be frank, is something
that has always driven me crazy, and her fingers were slim and elegant.
The best thing about her, however, was her elfin spirit; she had an air of quiet amusement, an innocent
devilry, that gave her the aura of having existed from all eternity, and of being able to see the funny side of
everything. I perceived that she had a streak of mischief in her. as was to be revealed when I discovered how it was
that she had kept me for so long in ignorance.
1. What attracted the writer to the house? 5. Why was General Sosa unlike other military
A where it was located officers?
B how big it was A He liked helping his relatives.
C the view it gave of the valley B He was in charge of the area.
D the condition it was in C He managed to get things done.
2. According to the writer, Antoine D He had his own private helicopter.
A had recently arrived. 6. How did the writer Find out what Ena’s name was?
 B liked to keep to himself. A Her father told him when he asked.
C was a foreigner. B Someone mentioned her name.
D painted for a living. C He heard a customer asking for her.
3. What impression does the writer give of the D Antoine gave him the information.
electricity supply? 7. What criticism of Ena does the writer make?
A It was too dangerous to use. A She never wore shoes.
B It didn’t always work properly. B She wasn’t interested in clothes.
C It only worked when it was windy. C Her eyebrows were too thick.
D It was a very reliable system. D Her head seemed to be too big.
4. The writer uses the phrase ‘served as a watercourse’ 8. What did the writer like best about Ena?
to show that the path A her sense of humour
A had many deep holes. B her physical appearance
B was difficult to walk on. C her innocent ignorance
C was sometimes flooded. D her resemblance to someone
D needed to be repaired.
PASSAGE B.
Today's university students have none of the fear of "Big Brother” that marked their parents' generation. In
fact, their fascination with the notion of watching and being watched has fuelled a dramatic shift in entertainment
programming and ushered in the era of Reality Television.
Mark Andrejevic, an assistant professor of communication studies, says a number of factors including
technology and economy paved the way for the rise of reality television, but none so much as a transformation of
Americans' attitudes towards surveillance.
As a graduate student at the University of Colorado in the mid- to late 1990s, he studied the ways in which
new technology allowed viewers to move from the role of passive media consumers to active participants. "I was
interested in the ways that the promise of participation also became a means of monitoring people." he says. "All
over the Internet people were providing information about themselves that could be used by marketers.
Being watched became more and more economically productive."
Andrejevic believes that the interactivity of the Internet paved the way for reality TV mania. He
interviewed producers of early reality programmes such as MTVs The Real World who said that they initially had
a hard time finding people willing to have their lives taped nearly 24 hours a day for several months. That was
1992. Now they hold auditions in college towns and thousands of young people form queues snaking for blocks
just for the chance to audition. There are now more people applying to The Real World each year than to
Harvard," Andrejevic says.
The key to that success is connected to people's increasing comfort with levels of surveillance that wore
once hated in American society. Andrejevic has attempted to think about the ways in which reality TV reconfigures
public attitudes about surveillance. He says: 'We're trained to make a split between private and public surveillance
- to be worried about government surveillance but not private, which is entertainment or gathering information to
serve us better. We’re moving into a period where that distinction starts to dissolve. Private surveillance is
becoming so pervasive that it's time to start worrying about it as a form of social control."
That viewers of reality programming don't worry about surveillance or social control is testament to the power of
television as a messenger. Andrejevic points out that "The cast members on these shows are constantly talking
about how great the experience is and how much they have grown personally because of it. It connotes honesty -
you can't hide anything about yourself if you're on camera all day every day. It becomes a form of therapy or
almost a kind of extreme sport - how long can you withstand allowing yourself to be videotaped?"
Viewers believe in the benefits cast members describe and crave that opportunity for themselves. In this
way, each programme becomes a kind of advertisement for itself. Millions of university students watched The Real
World and then began clamouring for the opportunity to participate. The same is true for newer programmes
including Survivor. American Idol. Fear Factor and the like.
 Andrejevic says he encourages his students to look beyond the characters and the surface glamour of
reality television and consider the broader issues of surveillance, privacy, democracy and technology that the
shows present.
"I try to cure my students of the habit of watching reality TV uncritically," he says. "The challenge of
teaching popular culture is that students are trained to separate the world of academics from the world of popular
culture. They tend not to think of that part of life using theories they have learned in class. There's a tendency with
students to say 'you're reading too much into it. But TV is so powerful in conveying messages about the world
precisely because people don't think it's doing that. There's something so vital about reality TV as a cultural form,"
he continues. "It's always changing, moving so fast, continuously reinventing itself. It reflects cultural trends. It's a
good place to examine and inspect our culture."
1. What does the phrase 'paved the way' mean in paragraph 2?
A. invented B. slowed down the progress of C got things ready for D. we’re influenced by
2. New technologies helped viewers to
A. passively enjoy the media. B be economically productive.
C. become active participants. D. consume more.
3. People consider public and private surveillance to be
A. different things. B. equally harmless C. carried out by the government. D. a cause for concern.
4. Which of the following is NOT something that makes participation in reality shows a good experience according
to the shows’ participants)?
A. It makes honesty unavoidable B. It can be a sort of therapy
C. It is an opportunity to advertise. D. It is like an extreme sport.
5. Students tend to
A. ignore what their studies have taught them when watching reality TV. B reed too much into reality TV.
C. see beyond the glamour of reality TV. D. not want to participate in reality shows themselves.
6. What is Andrejevic's attitude towards television?
A. It is a harmless and entertaining aspect of popular culture.
B. It is secretly controlled by the government.
C. It can provide an experience that everyone would benefit from.
D. It can teach us about our culture but we should use it cautiously.
II. You are going to read an article about a white-water rafting adventure. Seven sentences have
been removed from the article. Choose from the sentences A-H the one which fits each gap (9-15).
Even though I’m a writer for Outdoor Adventures Magazine, everyone at my office knows in actual fact I’m
a bit wary of anything remotely resembling an “outdoor adventure.” That’s why my boss likes to give me these
projects. He thinks I’m the perfect candidate because, like most people. I’m often afraid to try something new.
However, upon my return from an assignment I have usually not only conquered any fears I originally had, but
also become quite an enthusiast of the activity as well!
This month’s hair-raising adventure - white- water rafting - was no exception. The minute my boss told me
about it, I felt very nervous, (9) …………………… But now that I’ve completed the assignment, I’m happy to report
that I found it extremely enjoyable.
In order to get some information about white- water rafting, I called Nigel Dossett, who runs Scotland’s
foremost white-water rafting centre in Perth. The first thing he told me was that not all rafting trips are the same.
(10) …………………… It’s important for the public to be aware of this before booking a trip, in order to determine
how hard or easy a rafting course should be. The goal is to spend more time in the raft than in the water, so it’s
best to take it easy the first time out.
Upon my arrival at Nigel’s Extreme Raft World Centre, I saw that there were several dozen people there for
the day’s rafting activities. (11) …………………… We were then given a safety briefing about some of the dangers to
watch out for, such as boulders, fallen trees, sharp underwater rocks, waves and anything else that could block a
raft’s forward movement.
We were put into groups of six, plus a guide, based on skill and level of experience. (12) …………………… put
on my wetsuit, life jacket and crash helmet and climbed aboard, hoping he was right. With the first few strokes of
the paddle, I could feel excitement begin to replace my fear. The river caught us in a gentle flowing motion,
rocking and pulling us smoothly towards the first rapid.
Suddenly our guide shouted “Forward paddle!” and everyone started paddling excitedly. We steered
around boulders as huge waves crashed over us, soaking the entire boat. (13) …………………… It was remarkable
how much team spirit had sprung up immediately between the members of my boat.
We eventually stopped for lunch at a lovely spot on the river under a huge oak tree. (14) …………………… was
satisfying to see that such an exciting and fun sport could be enjoyed by such a wide variety of people.
My trip was much better than I had expected, and the scenery, the accommodation, the rushing river and the thrill
of the ride were all amazing, (15) …………………… I recommend it for anyone, from the fit to the couch potato, the
young to the old, and even for cowards like yours truly!
A Nigel began by explaining the differences in the difficulty levels and asked us to be honest about our paddling
experience.
B Without a doubt, white-water rafting is one of the most exciting outdoor adventures.
C Although we were drenched, everyone was laughing and yelling as we worked together to drive the raft forward.
D The thought of battling raging river rapids in a flimsy rubber boat was almost enough to make me call in sick.
E Chatting as we relaxed, I found that everyone’s background was different, including a stockbroker and a
housewife.
F It all depends on what each individual feels like doing on that particular day.
G I was in a medium difficulty group, and our guide assured us that the ride would be lots of fun without being too
dangerous.
H He said that rapids are broken down into different classifications - anything from very calm to very dangerous.
III. You are going to read a magazine article about one-day travel destinations. For questions 1-15,
choose from the people (A-E). The people may be chosen more than once.
PASSAGE A.
1……………………. admits that something is not to her taste?
2……………………. enjoys watching people living their everyday lives?
3……………………. mentions the fact that something is inexpensive?
4……………………. mentions a long tradition associated with the place she visits?
5……………………. suggests she spends a lot of money at her favourite destination?
6……………………. & 7. …………………… like an area where there are not a lot of other people?
8……………………. visits a place which gives her ideas related to her job?
9……………………. sometimes has company when she visits her favourite place?
10……………………. says she doesn’t visit as frequently as she would like?
11……………………. discovered her favourite destination purely by chance?
12 …………………… + 13. …………………… appreciate a lack of noise?
14…………………… + 15. …………………… mention how long it takes them to get there?
For Londoners with a busy lifestyle, it’s hard to get away even for a day, but Amanda Hyslop spoke to five different
women who regularly do exactly that.
A. Julia Finch is a busy lawyer who loves nature but doesn’t get nearly enough of it sitting in her London office all
day, so she often takes advantage of Wisley Garden, only an hour’s drive from Central London. “My favourite thing
is that there is always something new to see. The garden collection has been developing for more than 100 years
and far surpasses anything I’ve ever seen. It’s a lovely, peaceful place for a stroll, and it’s so vast that it doesn’t get
crowded. I get ideas for my own garden from the great demonstration gardens full of practical ideas and
techniques. I can even incorporate my other favourite hobby of photography by bringing my camera and clicking
away. It’s perfect for a great day out.”
B. Jessica Green is a hardworking student who needs a break from the books once in a while, and makes Brighton
her favourite one-day destination. “I love being by the sea, and it’s so close to London that whenever I feel like it, I
just jump on a train and in 55 minutes I’m there. Brighton evolved from a small fishing village into England’s most
famous seaside resort, and offers all the traditional attractions, including restaurants, nightlife, miles of sandy
beaches and two piers. I always cat at this great self- service restaurant, which is also modestly priced. My
favourite spot, though, is a small strip of sand under one of the piers, where I can just sit all alone and hear
nothing but the sea.”
C. Martha Roberts is an architect who enjoys her job so much that her work is also her hobby. “My favourite piece
of architecture to study in my free time is The Royal Pavilion in Brighton. I try to get some of my co-workers to go
with me, since it isn’t all that far from London, but they’re usually too busy. The Pavilion was built for King George
IV and if ever a building represented the concept of ‘over the top’, this is it. The pseudo Indian palace, with
Chinese-influenced interiors, is a riot of colour, expensive fabrics, crystal and gilt. It’s not the sort of style I would
ever like in my own house, but I do find inspiration for my work in everything I look at.”
D. Flora Evans, a market analyst, feels she deserves an expensive treat after a busy week, which is why she often
takes time to get away. “I go to Bath to visit my favourite luxury spa and enjoy the pools, which arc fed by Britain’s
only natural hot springs. Sitting in the pool, with only the soft, gentle sound of moving water, is the ideal way to
relax. And of course, a day of pampering is never complete without some shopping. Bath is one of the best
shopping destinations outside London, with many specialist shops and a number of antique shops tucked away in
the narrow streets. A good souvenir to buy is hand-blown glass, which takes its blue colour from the city’s hot
springs.”
E. Elizabeth Dosset, a sales assistant at a popular department store, happened upon her favourite destination by
accident. “I was on a trip to Stonehenge, but the site was closed and I ended up in the small market town of
Salisbury, just a short distance away. There are not many residents and not many visitors, either, which is perfect
since I need a break from all the people I deal with every day. I couldn't believe that a market still takes place
regularly in the town’s market place, just as it has done since the I3th century. My favourite thing to do is observe
the shopkeepers going about their business and see people running errands or just having some tea. The town is
so charming and quaint that I try to go at least once a month. I wish I could go more often, though.”
PASSAGE B.
1. ……………………. disliked almost everything about the film?
2. ……………………. says you must keep alert?
3. ……………………. refers to the film as a product of commercialism?
4. ……………………. indicates exactly when the film had its first release?
5. ……………………. had mixed feelings about the film?
6. ……………………. commented on the amazing special effects?
7. ……………………. says that the film is not able to make a point?
8. ……………………. thinks the film has an irresponsible story line?
9. ……………………. says the movie can appeal to different generations?
10. ……………………. thinks that secrets are part of the subject matter?
A. Every scene in Miller's Crossing is essential so that all the picces fall into place in the last shot. But there's
actually one very brief earlier scene that off-handedly sets up the entire picture. It seems like a throwaway, a
chance encounter, but so much information is packed into this brief exchange that the mind boggles in retrospect.
Don't blink or you'll miss it! In this perversely funny, moving and intelligent masterwork, everyone has his or her
secret reasons for whal they do. But the wisdom of Miller's Crossing is that it understands that the human heart
sometimes keeps those reasons a mystery - not only from others, but occasionally from itself as well.
One of the characters, Bernie, has blatantly chosen to violate the rules. Therefore, according to the gangster's
code, Bernie deserves to die. However, for personal reasons, permission for this to go ahead is not granted. And
that's when the gangsters' warped but precariously maintained moral/ethical structure begins to collapse.
Miller's Crossing is an indelible film about betrayal and self-destruction and perhaps the first great movie of the
'90s.
B. Pretty Woman sells itself as a contemporary' Hollywood fairy tale; and the fairy tale aspect of the picture
almost works, thanks to a few snappy one-liners and Garry Marshall's sitcom-style direction, which tries, but in
the end finally fails, to bleach out the movie's darker implications about America's culture of greed.
In this heavily processed and polished Disney product, it's not clear what has actually made the unconvincing
difference in the characters' lives: love or money. Finally, all the movie really says is that nothing else matters as
long as you look like you live in Beverly Hills, then people will respect you and it won't matter how you get your
money, just as long as you spend lots of it. Of course, it is beyond the scope, or intention, of the movie to sharpen
this into an ironic or satirical point. The bleak notion is just there on the screen, acknowledged and reinforced, but
never questioned.
C. To begin with, yes, this is the epic visual masterpiece that you've all been waiting for and it succeeds in
everything it tries to do, visually at least. The overall look is stunning beyond belief, the special effects are
impeccable. In allowing everything to be part of a greater whole, Director James Cameron truly created a world of
his own. To both the actors' and director's credit, the performances also came through extremely well. It’s amazing
how much of the actors' emotions you could see through their Avatar characters. Cameron got me to shed a tear
and sit on the edge of my seat, but the film isn't flawless, not by a long shot. This brings me to one of the things I
really didn't like about the movie; the plot. A white man comes in, learns the ways of a more primitive people, then
destroys their world, has a change of heart, and comes back and uses their own ignorance and belief system to
make himself a hero. Although this is an old story that we've seen many times before and I can't blame Cameron
for coming up with it, is this really a message we want to be spreading, and more so, promoting? What about
taking responsibility for yourself?
D. A tarnished NO TRESPASSING sign is the first thing we see in Orson Welles' Citizen Kane, an opening
sequence that's still as electrifying as any in the history of movies. The thrills of W'elles' breathtakingly exciting
debut film, from 1941, are many. For one thing, there's the exhilaration of watching the cocky 25-year-old director
genius explore the possibilities of the medium, playing with the properties of film as if he'd been doing it all his
life. Kune is as stunning and sophisticated as any movie ever made, yet it moves at a pace that can keep the MW
generation riveted to the screen. Then there's the thrill of watching the exuberant young actors, among the finest
ever to work in front of a movie camera, having the time of their lives. Their fresh performances still bristle with
spontaneity and an edge that few contemporary' actors can match. And, behind that NO TRESPASSING sign,
there's the thrill of the forbidden. Tor Citizen Kane takes us behind that barrier, erected to keep out the public, for
an intimate look at a great and powerful man who got everything he ever wanted and then lost it.
PART D. WRITING
I. Rewrite the sentences using the given words
1. Please don’t touch the exhibits. RATHER
I ________________________________________________________________________
2. It’s a good thing you gave me a lift or I would have been late for my interview. GIVEN
I would have been late for my interview ___________________________________________ me a lift.
3. Please do not drop litter in the park. REQUESTED
You __________________________________________________________ drop litter in the park.
4. He doesn’t get on with his colleagues. TERMS
He is not _________________________________________________________ with his colleagues.
5. Light travels faster than sound. TRAVEL
Sound ________________________________________________________________________
6. Our boss wouldn’t let us go home until we had done our work. MADE
Our boss _________________________________________________ our work before we went home.
7. I had never been to a theme park before. FIRST
It _____________________________________________________ I had ever been to a theme park.
II. Fill in each blank with the remaining sentence
1. As the manager is quite strict, we must do everything according to the rules. BOOK
We must do everything ____________________________________ because the manager is quite strict.
2. Michael’s car looks very clean. AS
Michael’s car looks __________________________________________________ whistle.
3. You must be honest about your mistake. CLEAN
You must __________________________________________________ about your mistake.
4. She’ll have to be punished for being late for work. MUSIC
She’ll have to __________________________________________________ for being late for work.
5. This photo might help you remember where you met them. JOG
This photo might ______________________________________________ of where you met them.
6. She asked me to watch her belongings. EYE
She asked me to __________________________________________________ her belongings.
7. They almost didn’t get away from the flood. NARROW
They had __________________________________________________ from the flood.
8. The teacher encouraged the students to be ambitious. AIM
The students were encouraged __________________________________________________ in life.
9. She made her children wash the dishes. WERE
Her children __________________________________________________ the dishes.
10. "Let's play chess", he said. PLAYING
He__________________________________________________ chess.
11. I'm sure they didn't show up here last night. SHOWN
They__________________________________________________ here last night.
12. Her parents don’t want her to smoke at home. OBJECT
Her parents__________________________________________________ at home.
13. The last time Tim went to France was four years ago. BEEN
Tim __________________________________________________ for four years.
14. The local council will build a new car park. BE
A new car park __________________________________________________ the local council.
III. Rewrite the sentences using the first given words
1. Alan worked too hard at the office, and this led to his illness.
Alan's illness ___________________________________________________________________
2. The northwest of Britain has more rain each year than the southeast.
The annual ____________________________________________________________________
3. The passengers don't realize how lucky they have been.
Little ________________________________________________________________________
4. Our hotel booking hasn't been confirmed.
We haven't received ______________________________________________________________
5. You're asking these questions because you didn't listen to what I told you earlier.
If you ________________________________________________________________________
6. I think you should buy a new pair of shoes and get rid of those trainers.
It’s __________________________________________________________________________
7. The only way you can become a good athlete is by training hard every day.
Only by _______________________________________________________________________
8. Attendance at the exhibition has been down this year.
The exhibition ___________________________________________________________________
9. You didn't attend yesterday's class so you can't do this exercise now.
Had you ______________________________________________________________________
10. I'd do anything to be able to travel to/the United States.
There's _______________________________________________________________________
11. Experts think that all dogs evolved from wolves.
All dogs ______________________________________________________________________
12. There weren't nearly as many people there as I had expected.
There were far _________________________________________________________________
13. Physics explains why water freezes and how the sun produces heat.
Not only _____________________________________________________________________
14. If it hadn't been for the storm, we would have arrived much earlier.
But for ______________________________________________________________________
15. The university didn't prepare to consider his application due to his lack of right qualifications.
Had he ______________________________________________________________________
16. Since she couldn't get through to the police, she ran next door for help.
Not being ____________________________________________________________________
17. You are not allowed to leave until you have finished your work.
You can ______________________________________________________________________
18. Without this treatment, the patient would have died.
If the patient ___________________________________________________________________
19. The noise next door did not stop until after midnight.
It was not ______________________________________________________________________
20. It's a pity my sister didn't insure her car.
My sister wishes __________________________________________________________________