I.

LISTENING (20 points)

Part 1. You will hear an interview in which a deep-sea map-maker called Sally Gorfon and a marine
biologist called Mark Tomkins are talking about making maps of the ocean floor. For questions 1-5,
choose the answer (A, B, C or D) which fits best according to what you hear (10 pointts)
1. How dis Sally feel when she had completed her first mapping expedition?
A. anxious about the prospect of spending more time at sea
B. unsure whether she had made a good impression
C. keen to begin making a reputation as a leader
D. excited at the prospect of making further discoveries
2. Mark compares the ocean floor to the planets in order to
A. emphasise how under-explored it is.
B. reassess its geographical features.
C. challenge assumptions about the practical difficulties of researching it.
D. speculate about the extent of the area it covers.
3. How does Sally feel about attitudes towards deep-sea exploration?
A. glad that its importance is recognised
B. frustrated that it's not regarded with more enthusiasm
C. optimistc about the possibility of gaining support for it
D. disappointed by public misunderstanding of it
4. They agree that corporate funding of science projects
A. appeals to an idealistic kind of entrepreneur.
B. is now more popular than sports sponsorship.
C. generates a lot of positive publicity for companies.
D. leads to more accurate results than government funding.
5. When talking about the territorial ambitions of some island nations, Mark reveals
A. irritation at their lack of scientific know-how.
B. support for their right to claim what's theirs.
C. scepticism about the legality of the process.
D. concern about the potential consequences.
Part 2. Complete the summary below. Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER
for each answer. (10 points)

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 SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
Sydney Opera House is famous for its roof’s architecture resembling (6)______. The opera house was
designed by Jorn Utzon from Denmark and it was built between 1959 and (7)______. The roof is covered
with more than 1 million roof tiles which were manufactured in (8)_____. Every evening the roof is lit up in
a (9)_____ spectacle. The opera house has a variety of performance halls and theatre and exhibition spaces.
More than (10)_____ shows are staged there every week. Every year, more than 8 million visitors visit this
Australian landmark.
II. PHONETICS (5 points)
Write the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the word whose stress pattern is different
from the other three of the group.
1. A. afloat B. superior C. passenger D. contribute
2. A. chemistry B. original C. tribute D. emphasis
Write the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the word whose underlined part is
pronounced differently from the rest.
3. A. drought B. moustache C. council D. plough
4. A. wicked B. naked C. ragged D. railed
5. A. carbon B. onion C. economy D. forget
III. LEXICO-GRAMMAR (25 points)
Part 1. Write the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct word or phrase that best
completes each of the following sentences. (15 points)
1. Several of the advertising hoardings had been ___________ by anti-exist slogans.
A. deleted B. mutilated C. erased D. defaced
2. The smoke ____________ from the burning tyres could be seen for miles.
A. bulging B. radiating C. billowing D. sweeping
3. The cat slept peacefully _____________ in the long grass.
A. nestled B. huddled C. snuggled D. cuddled
4. It was decided that the cost of the project would be ____________ and so it was abandoned.
A. repressive B. prohibitive C. restrictive D. exclusive
5. Pulling the contract out of the envelope, she ripped it to ___________.
A. smithereens B. tiny pieces C. shreds D. half
6. Employees of the company are forbidden to ____________ information about the secret formula.
A. betray B. divulge C. portray D. unveil
7. The fire ____________ for days until the monsoon rains put it out.
A. ignited B. scorched C. flashed D. raged
8. My mother had to take private pupils in order to ___________ her salary as a teacher.
A. augment B. expand C. complete D. inflate
9. In her writing, Elimor Wylie often dealt with her own personality as it was, rather than _________.
A. as was defines by others B as others defined it C. other's definition D. its definitions by others
10. It would be difficult for a man of his political affiliation, __________, to become a senator from the
south.
A. though charming and capable is he B. even with charm and so capable
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 C. charming and having capability D. how ever charming and capable
11. _______________ left before the deadline, it doesn't seem likely that John will accomplish the job.
A. Although such a short time B. It is such a short
C. With so short time D. With such a short time
12. _______ around stones that are sunwarmed, even the smallest of stones creates tiny currents of warm
air.
A. The cool air B. If the air is cool
C. That the air cools D. The cooler the air
13. Everything looks very positive for the com pany, _________ the current investors do not default on
their agreements.
A. assuming that B. whether C. whereas D. as if
14. _________ came_____ as the injured cat was so weak.
A. Afterwards/dying B. Death/X C. Soon/death D. Then/to die
15. Probably no man had more effect on the daily lives of most people in the United States _____.
A. as Henry Ford, a pione er in automobile production
B. rather t han Henry Ford, a pioneer in automobile production
C. than did Henry Ford, a pioneer in automobile production
D. more than Henry Ford, a pioneer in automobile production
Part 2. Read the following advertisement/ announcement and write the letter A, B, C, or D on your
answer sheet to indicate the correct word that best fits each of the numbered blanks. (10 points)

COMMUNITY APPEAL: JOIN THE GREEN EARTH INITIATIVE

In an effort to (16) ______ environmental awareness and combat climate change, the Green Earth
Initiative is calling for volunteers and donations. This program, organized by the Global Eco Foundation,
aims to plant one million trees worldwide by the end of next year.
Participants (17) ______ register online through our official website by December 1st to take part in tree-
planting events scheduled across various locations. Contributions in the form of funds, equipment, or time
are all (18) ______.
Volunteers are encouraged to (19) ______ their own communities to support this endeavor and share
updates on social media using the hashtag #GreenEarth2024. Every small action (20) ______ the larger
goal of restoring forests and ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.
For additional information, please visit our website or email us at info@greenearth.org.
16. A. promote B. advocate C. elevate D. support
17. A. must B. might C. can D. are
18. A. requested B. expected C. appreciated D. invited
19. A. inspire B. mobilize C. instruct D. cooperate
20. A. adds to B. contributes to C. leads to D. results in

Introducing EcoRide – Your Gateway to Smart and Sustainable Mobility!

Are you frustrated with congested streets and environmental concerns? Look no further! EcoRide presents
a transformative urban mobility solution, integrating innovation, sustainability, and (21) ______
functionality to redefine your travel experience.
What Makes EcoRide Special?
EcoRide offers a cutting-edge fleet of self-driving electric vehicles that prioritize comfort, safety, and
environmental (22) ______. This service is designed to meet the needs of a modern city while reducing its
ecological footprint.
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 Key Features:
• Clean Energy: All EcoRide vehicles are powered (23) ______ exclusively renewable energy
sources, paving the way for a carbon-neutral future.
• Instant Access: Simply book a ride via the app, and an EcoRide vehicle will arrive promptly,
saving you precious time.
• Route Optimization: With AI-driven technology, EcoRide (24) ______ traffic patterns and
adjusts in real time to ensure the fastest and most efficient routes.
• Transparent Pricing: Enjoy competitive rates without worrying about hidden (25) ______ or
unnecessary surcharges.
21. A. seamless B. enhanced C. state-of-the-art D. practical
22. A. consciousness B. preservation C. awareness D. sustainability
23. A. through B. by C. from D. with
24. A. assesses B. predicts C. evaluates D. adapts
25. A. costs B. expenses C. fees D. deductions
IV. LANGUAGE FUNCTION (10 points)
Write the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct arrangement of the sentences to
make a meaningful paragraph/letter in each of the following questions.
1.
a. Oh, I see. Are you looking for something formal or casual?
b. Thank you! By the way, do you also have something suitable for rainy weather?
c. That’s great! I’ve been struggling to find something that looks good and keeps me dry.
d. Noted. We have some versatile options that work for both. Let me show you a few styles.
e. Hmm, I think something versatile would be better. I need it for work but also for weekend outings.
f. Sure! We’ve just stocked up on waterproof jackets with a sleek design.
A. b-f-c-a-e-d B. a-e-d-f-b-c C. b-a-e-d-f-c D. a-d-e-f-b-c
2.
a: I think I’d like something with a modern touch. Do you have any recommendations?
b: Good choice! This collection combines trendy looks with excellent comfort. Would you like to try one
on?
c: Sure! Let me know what you think after you’ve tried it.
d: Hi, welcome! Are you looking for something specific today?
e: Absolutely! We’ve just received a new collection from an up-and-coming designer.
f: Thank you! I’ll head to the fitting room now.
A. d-a-e-b-f-c B. d-e-a-b-c-f C. d-a-e-b-c-f D. d-e-b-a-f-c
3.
a: I’m just browsing for now, but I might need some help later.
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b: Of course! Take your time, and feel free to let me know if you have any questions.
c: Hi there! Welcome to our store. How can I assist you today?
d: Actually, do you have any recommendations for a gift? I’m looking for something unique.
e: Certainly! We have a special section for unique gifts. Let me show you some options.
f: That sounds perfect! Thank you for your help.
A. c-a-b-d-e-f B. c-d-e-a-f-b C. c-a-d-b-e-f D. c-b-a-d-e-f
4.
a: I love this one! Does it come in any other colors?
b: Hi! I’m looking for a pair of comfortable running shoes.
c: Hi! Welcome to our store. What can I help you with today?
d: Of course! It’s available in black, blue, and gray. Which one do you prefer?
e: These look perfect. I’ll take a look at the black ones, please.
f: We have a great selection! Let me show you some of our most popular options.
A. c-b-f-a-d-e B. c-f-b-a-d-e C. c-b-f-d-a-e D. c-b-a-f-d-e
5.
a: I’ve been looking for something like this for a while. Does it come with a warranty?
b: Absolutely! It comes with a one-year warranty.
c: This is our newest model, and it has great reviews. Would you like to know more about its features?
d: Thank you! I think I’m ready to buy it now.
e: Welcome! Are you interested in any particular item today?
f: Yes, I’m thinking of getting this gadget. It looks really convenient.
A. e-c-f-a-b-d B. e-c-f-b-a-d C. e-c-a-f-b-d D. e-c-f-d-b-a
V. READING (80 points)
Part 1. Write the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct option that best fits each
of the numbered blanks
A desert is a special region where only certain kinds of plants and animals can survive. All deserts have very
little water. This means that only animals and plants that can (1) _____water for long periods of time can
exist in the desert.
Plants in the deserts are particularly (2) _____to the dry and hot environment. One well-known desert plant
is the cactus. (3) _____many desert plants, this plant has very tiny leaves. As plants lose most of their water
through their leaves, the small leaves of the cactus help to cut down water evaporation. There are some
desert plants that do not have leaves (4) _____.

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Some desert plants survive by avoiding the dry season (5) _____. During the dry season, this plant remains a
seed and does not (6) _____from the soil at all. When the rains come, this seed would grow very quickly
into a plant. It would bloom rapidly and then (7) _____its seeds before the dry season returns.
Desert animals have also learnt to adapt well to life in this region. The camel, for example, (8) _____well in
the desert because water can be (9) _____in its body. Other desert animals include rodents such as mice.
These animals need very little water as they can get all the water they (10) _____from their food.
1. A. do without B. keep off C. stay away D. give up
2. A. convenient B. adjusted C. regulated D. adapted
3. A. As B. Similar C. Like D. Just as
4. A. at all B. as well C. in all D. either
5. A. totally B. entirely C. altogether D. wholly
6. A. rise B. arise C. awake D. emerge
7. A. scatter B. throw C. fling D. cast
8. A. exists B. survives C. subsists D. remains
9. A. stocked B. kept C. stored D. contained
10. A. demand B. require C. request D. ask for
Part 2. Write the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct option that best fits each
of the numbered blanks.
Over the last few decades, the world has seen a significant increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme
weather events, such as heatwaves, hurricanes, and floods. Experts agree that climate change is the primary
factor contributing to these extreme events. The rising global temperatures, caused by an increase in
greenhouse gas emissions, are disrupting weather patterns and causing natural systems to behave
unpredictably. However, while the link between climate change and extreme weather events is widely
accepted, the exact nature of this relationship is still not fully understood. (11) ___________, scientists are
now able to study these phenomena in more detail, thanks to advances in technology and climate modeling.
Recent studies have revealed that certain regions of the world are more vulnerable to extreme weather than
others. For example, coastal areas are increasingly at risk of flooding due to rising sea levels caused by the
melting of polar ice caps. (12) ___________, countries with high poverty rates or underdeveloped
infrastructure are often the hardest hit by these disasters, as they lack the resources to adequately respond to
or recover from extreme events. This disparity highlights the importance of addressing climate change not
only as an environmental issue but also as a social and economic one. Governments and international
organizations must work together to ensure that vulnerable populations are protected and have the resources
to adapt to changing conditions. In addition to rising sea levels, there are concerns about the impact of
extreme temperatures on human health. Prolonged heatwaves, for instance, can cause dehydration,
heatstroke, and exacerbate existing health conditions such as cardiovascular disease. (13) ___________,
these health risks disproportionately affect older adults, children, and people living in poverty, as they are
more likely to live in areas with poor access to healthcare or cooling systems. There is also growing concern
about the ability of ecosystems to cope with the rapid changes brought about by climate change. (14)
___________, species that rely on specific climate conditions for survival may face extinction if those
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conditions no longer exist. The loss of biodiversity could have far-reaching consequences for food security,
as many species play critical roles in pollination, pest control, and the overall functioning of ecosystems.
(15) ___________, it is essential that action to mitigate the effects of climate change is taken now. The
window of opportunity to limit global warming and prevent catastrophic outcomes is rapidly closing, and
without immediate and sustained action, the consequences for both humanity and the planet could be
irreversible.
11.
A. Nevertheless, the complexity of climate systems means that some uncertainties remain.
B. While the general patterns are clear, predicting the timing and location of events remains difficult.
C. Although researchers are making strides, a definitive explanation for these occurrences has yet to emerge.
D. However, despite the advances, scientists still struggle to pinpoint exact causes for these extreme events.
12.
A. This trend suggests that more effective mitigation strategies should be put in place as soon as possible.
B. In contrast, more developed regions have shown greater resilience in the face of similar challenges.
C. The effects of extreme weather in these regions are still unclear, with many questioning the accuracy of
forecasts.
D. This is particularly concerning, as these countries also contribute the least to global carbon emissions.
13.
A. The rising number of heat-related illnesses is expected to challenge healthcare systems in the coming
decades.
B. While health risks from heatwaves are well known, their global impact is still difficult to quantify.
C. Governments have already made efforts to mitigate these risks, though they have yet to be fully effective.
D. New measures are being put in place to address these health threats, including widespread vaccination
campaigns.
14.
A. As a result, there is an urgent need to protect critical habitats and promote biodiversity.
B. Many species are adapting to new environments and may be able to thrive in the changing climate.
C. Conversely, the effects of climate change may help some species to expand their populations.
D. Although many species are migrating, the speed of climate change may outpace their ability to adapt.
15.
A. The longer we wait, the more difficult it will be to reverse the damage caused by climate change.
B. There is hope that, with coordinated global action, the worst effects can still be avoided.
C. Ignoring the issue will only delay the inevitable consequences of a changing climate.
D. Although the situation is dire, many experts remain optimistic that we can still make a difference.

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Part 3. Read the passage carefully and write the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the
correct answer to each of the following questions. (10 points)
Twenty-three million years ago, a giant carnivore larger than any modern-day lion or polar bear stalked
sub-Saharan Africa, according to the fossils of a previously undiscovered species that spent decades in a
museum drawer at the National Museum of Kenya. The fossils were originally found in Kenya decades
ago, but at that time researchers were searching for ancient apes, so the gs, fossils were put aside.
The skull of the fossil is comparable to that of a rhinoceros, and given its size and giant sharp teeth, the
carnivore was at the head of its food chain. Researchers estimate that it weighed 1.6 tons and could prey on
large herbivores akin to today's elephant and hippopotamus. Its canine teeth and molars would have been
able to tear flesh and crack bones easily.
The researchers dubbed the newly discovered species Simbakubwa kutokaafrika, which is
Swahili for "big lion coming from Africa." But it's not a close relative of lions, other big cats or even
mammalian carnivores that roam the Earth today. Instead, Simbakubwa was part of the hyaenodonts, an
extinct group of mammalian carnivores that lived in Africa.
After the extinction of dinosaurs, they enjoyed a 45 million-year reign as the key predators. Additionally,
tectonic plates shifted, allowing Simbakubwa to cross a landbridge into Eurasia and flourish on other
continents as well. And even though they lived for millions of years, they went extinct between 15 million
and 18 million years ago.
"We don't know exactly what drove hyaenodonts to extinction, but ecosystems were changing quickly as
the global climate became drier. The gigantic relatives of Simbakubwa were among the last hyaenodonts on
the planet," said Matthew Borths, study author and curator of the Division of Fossil
Primates at Duke University. Nancy Stevens, study co-author and professor in the Heritage College of
Osteopathic Medicine at Ohio University, noted in a statement that "This is a pivotal fossil, demonstrating
the significance of museum collections for understanding evolutionary history. Simbakubwa is a window
into a bygone era. As ecosystems shifted, a key predator disappeared, heralding Cenozoic faunal transitions
that eventually led to the evolution of the modern African fauna."
(Adapted from https://edition.cnn.com)
16. Which of the following does the passage primarily concern?
A. The characteristics of an ancient species called hyaenodonts.
B. The study of fossils and ancient dinosaurs in Kenya.
C. The discovery of an ancient carnivore's fossils in Africa.
D. The largest and oldest living carnivore.
17. What does the word "akin" in the second paragraph most likely mean?
A. hostile B. similar C. dangerous D. independent
18. What does the word "it" in the second paragraph refer to?
A. a rhinoceros B. the skull C. the food chain D. the carnivore

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19. Which of the following is TRUE about Simbakubwa?
A. They bear little relation to modern-day big cats or mammalian carnivores.
B. They reigned over many species including dinosaurs for 45 million years.
C. They originated in areas outside the continent of Africa.
D. They suffered from negative effects caused by the movement of tectonic plates.
20. What can be inferred from Matthew Borths' view in the last paragraph?
A. Drier global climate had almost no effect on ecosystems.
B. Shifting ecosystems probably contributed to the extinction of hyaenodonts.
C. Researchers have determined the exact reason why hyaenodonts went extinct.
D. The gigantic relatives of Simbakubwa were last seen in Africa.
Part 4. Read the following passage and write the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the
correct answer to each of the questions
On the surface, a desert appears to be one of the harshest environments on Earth, yet a remarkable variety of
plants have adapted to thrive in this dry climate. Despite their origins in different locations around the globe,
desert plants have developed similar strategies for surviving in arid environments. Some plants have adapted
in such a way that it is hard to tell them apart, even though they belong to very different biological families.
One useful way to classify, and thus better understand, desert plants is to examine the evolution of certain
survival strategies, which are shared across geographic and biological boundaries.
In general, the survival strategies of desert plants can be divided into two kinds: adaptation for quick
use of ephemeral resources (“maximum variance behavior”) and adaptation for the best use of poor but
more permanent resources (“minimum variance behavior”). The former strategy involves adaptation to
environmental changes, such as seasonal availability of water. This is observed in desert annuals and
perennials alike. Such plants tend to grow rapidly and produce many seeds under the right 8 conditions. The
latter strategy involves adaptation to the worst possible conditions, which can be seen in succulents, true
xerophytes, and grasses. These plants usually grow slowly, use water efficiently, and exhibit passive
cooling.
Water scarcity and heat are the key factors limiting the survival of desert plants. Plants that have
adapted to the worst possible conditions have evolved ways for quickly acquiring and storing water to
ensure their survival. [A] Depending on strategies and physical adaptations, they can be divided into either
succulents or drought-resistant plants. [B] For the most part, succulents have evolved extensive, shallow root
systems to quickly absorb water during brief periods of heavy rainfall. Water is then stored in the fleshy
tissue of their thick trunks or lobes as well as in the roots. The cactus is a good example of a succulent. To
retain water, succulents have waxy coaxings on their skin and a modified system of respiration. The stomata
(surface pores), through which the plant takes in carbon dioxide and releases oxygen, open only at night
when temperatures are cooler and less water from the plant will evaporate. [C] Unlike most other plants, a
succulent stores all or most of its chlorophyll, the chemical essential to photosynthesis, in its stem, skin, or
other outer tissues, rather than concentrating it in the leaves. Doing this places it in a strong, well-watered
part of the plant, rather than in an appendage susceptible to drying out and dropping off. [D]
Drought-resistant plants, or xerophytes, come in many forms including true xerophytes, deciduous
plants, and grasses. Xerophytic shrubs, such as the five species of creosote bush, are the most abundant type
of vegetation in most arid environments. They are able to withstand desiccation in severe droughts without
dying. Some have evolved small leaves with special coatings to reduce loss of water through evaporation.
Others have replaced leaves with thorns or spines. While succulent roots form shallow, dense webs,
xerophytes tend to develop deep root networks that pull water out of soil other desert plants cannot
9
reach. For example, the roots of the mesquite bush, said to have the deepest root systems among desert
plants, can reach depths of up to eighty feet.
Succulents and xerophytes, on one hand, have physically adapted to gather and retain water to survive
long periods of drought. Drought-avoiding plants, on the other hand, escape unfavorable conditions by
perishing. These include annuals and perennials. Because profuse seed development is crucial to the survival
of most annual species, they tend to produce far more flowers than other types of desert plants. The desert
marigold of the American southwest, for example, has adapted to seasonal changes in rainfall by growing
rapidly, bursting into a brilliant display of yellow flowers, and then dropping a cascade of seeds before
dying. In some cases, annuals complete their entire life cycle in a matter of a few weeks or months. Their
seeds may remain inactive for up to ten years while waiting for wetter conditions. Perennials, such as the
ocotillo, may go dormant during dry periods, spring to life when it rains, and then return to dormancy in a
process that may occur up to five times per year.
21. cording to paragraph 1, which of the following is true of desert plants?
A. They are hard to see in the harsh desert landscape.
B. They have evolved similar features, regardless of geographic origins.
C. They have evolved from different families that exchanged survival strategies.
D. They all look essentially the same.
22. The word “ephemeral” in the passage is closest in meaning to _______.
A. minimal B. yearly C. short-lived D. abundant
23. Which of the following square brackets [A], [B], [C], or [D] best indicates where in the paragraph the
sentence “All of these adaptations together make succulents particularly well suited to dry climates.”
can be inserted.
A. [A] B. [B] C. [C] D. [D]
24. Why does the author mention the action of stomata in the passage?
A. To explain how chlorophyll works
B. To emphasize a unique adaptation of succulents
C. To illustrate that cacti have no leaves
D. To describe the basic parts of a succulent
25. The word “Others” in the passage refers to _______.
A. grasses B. shrubs C. coatings D. leaves
26. Which of the following best expresses the essential information in the highlighted sentence in the
passage?
A. At the same time that xerophytes evolved their thick webs of low-lying roots, succulents formed thin
networks to reach surface water.

10
B. Both succulents and xerophytes form long, dense networks of roots in order to reach water within the soil
that non-desert plants could not reach.
C. Because of their long roots systems developed to reach water deep within the soil, xerophytes have
become more dominant in desert environments than succulents.
D. In contrast to xerophytes, which produce long root systems to tap water deep within the soil, succulents
develop a thick web of roots just below the soil surface.
27. According to paragraph 4, thorns on xerophytes _________.
A. are similar to blades of grass
B. can reach water very far underground
C. are what some plants have instead of leaves
D. help keep the plants from being eaten by animals
28. In what form do drought-avoiding annuals wait for wetter weather?
A. stems B. flowers C. roots D. seeds
29. The word “dormant” in the passage is closet in meaning to ________.
A. dry B. inactive C. dead D. weak
30. According to the author, all of the following are associated with plants that exhibit “minimum variance
behavior" EXCEPT ________.
A. slow growth B. modified respiration C. rapid seed production D. deep root systems
Part 5. Read the text and do the tasks that follow. (20 points)
The Reading Passage has seven paragraphs A-G. For questions 31-37, choose the most suitable
heading below for each paragraph.

Example answer List of Headings

Paragraph A: iii i. The positive correlation between climate and wealth
ii. Other factors besides climate that influence wealth
31. Paragraph B
iii. Inspiration from reading a book
32. Paragraph C iv. Other researchers’ results do not rule out exceptional cases
v. Different attributes between Eurasia and Africa
33. Paragraph D
vi. Low temperature benefits people and crops
34. Paragraph E vii. The importance of institution in traditional views
viii. The spread of crops in Europe, Asia and other places
35. Paragraph F
ix. The best way to use aid
36. Paragraph G x. Confusions and exceptions

Wealth in A Cold Climate

Latitude is crucial to a nation's economic strength.

11
A Dr William Masters was reading a book about mosquitoes when inspiration struck. “There was this
anecdote about the great yellow-fever epidemic that hit Philadelphia in 1793," Masters recalls. “This
epidemic decimated the city until the first frost came." The inclement weather froze out the insects, allowing
Philadelphia to recover.
B If weather could be the key to a city's fortunes. Masters thought, then why not to the historical
fortunes of nations? And could frost lie at the heart of one of the most enduring economic mysteries of all -
why are almost all the wealthy, industrialised nations to be found at latitudes above 40 degrees? After two
years of research, he thinks that he has found a piece of the puzzle. Masters, an agricultural economist from
Purdue University in Indiana, and Margaret McMillan at Tufts University, Boston, show that annual frosts
are among the factors that distinguish rich nations from poor ones. Their study is published this month in the
Journal of Economic Growth. The pair speculate that cold snaps have two main benefits - they freeze pests
that would otherwise destroy crops, and also freeze organisms, such as mosquitoes, that carry disease. The
result is agricultural abundance and a big workforce.
C The academics took two sets of information. The first was average income for countries, the second
climate data from the University of East Anglia. They found a curious tally between the sets. Countries
having five or more frosty days a month are uniformly rich, those with fewer than five are impoverished.
The authors speculate that the five-day figure is important; it could be the minimum time needed to kill pests
in the soil. Masters says: “For example, Finland is a small country that is growing quickly, but Bolivia is a
small country that isn't growing at all. Perhaps climate has something to do with that." In fact, limited frosts
bring huge benefits to farmers. The chills kill insects or render them inactive; cold weather slows the break-
up of plant and animal material in the soil, allowing it to become richer; and frosts ensure a build-up of
moisture in the ground for spring, reducing dependence on seasonal rains. There are exceptions to the “cold
equals rich" argument. There are well-heeled tropical places such as Hong Kong and Singapore, a result of
their superior trading positions. Likewise, not all European countries are moneyed - in the former
communist colonies, economic potential was crushed by politics.
D Masters stresses that climate will never be the overriding factor - the wealth of nations is too
complicated to be attributable to just one factor. Climate, he feels, somehow combines with other factors -
such as the presence of institutions, including governments, and access to trading routes - to determine
whether a country will do well. Traditionally, Masters says, economists thought that institutions had the
biggest effect on the economy, because they brought order to a country in the form of, for example, laws and
property rights. With order, so the thinking went, came affluence. “But there are some problems that even
countries with institutions have not been able to get around,” he says. “My feeling is that, as countries get
richer, they get better institutions. And the accumulation of wealth and improvement in governing
institutions are both helped by a favourable environment, including climate.”
E This does not mean, he insists, that tropical countries are beyond economic help and destined to remain
penniless. Instead, richer countries should change the way in which foreign aid is given. Instead of aid being
geared towards improving governance, it should be spent on technology to improve agriculture and to
combat disease. Masters cites one example: “There are regions in India that have been provided with
irrigation - agricultural productivity has gone up and there has been an improvement in health.” Supplying
vaccines against tropical diseases and developing crop varieties that can grow in the tropics would break the
poverty cycle.
F Other minds have applied themselves to the split between poor and rich nations, citing anthropological,
climatic and zoological reasons for why temperate nations are the most affluent. In 350BC, Aristotle

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observed that “those who live in a cold climate ... are full of spirit”. Jared Diamond, from the University of
California at Los Angeles, pointed out in his book Guns, Germs and Steel that Eurasia is broadly aligned
east-west, while Africa and the Americas are aligned north-south. So, in Europe, crops can spread quickly
across latitudes because climates are similar. One of the first domesticated crops, einkorn wheat, spread
quickly from the Middle East into Europe; it took twice as long for com to spread from Mexico to what is
now the eastern United States. This easy movement along similar latitudes in Eurasia would also have meant
a faster dissemination of other technologies such as the wheel and writing, Diamond speculates. The region
also boasted domesticated livestock, which could provide meat, wool and motive power in the fields.
Blessed with such natural advantages, Eurasia was bound to take off economically.
G John Gallup and Jeffrey Sachs, two US economists, have also pointed out striking correlations
between the geographical location of countries and their wealth. They note that tropical countries between
23.45 degrees north and south of the equator are nearly all poor. In an article for the Harvard International
Review, they concluded that “development surely seems to favour the temperate-zone economies, especially
those in the northern hemisphere, and those that have managed to avoid both socialism and the ravages of
war”. But Masters cautions against geographical determinism, the idea that tropical countries are beyond
hope: “Human health and agriculture can be made better through scientific and technological research," he
says, “so we shouldn’t be writing off these countries. Take Singapore: without air conditioning, it wouldn’t
be rich.”
Questions 37-40
Complete the summary below. Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each
answer. Write your answers in boxes 7-10 on your answer sheet.
Dr William Masters read a book saying that a(an) 37. _______which struck an American city hundreds of
years ago was terminated by a cold frost. And academics found that there is a connection between climate
and country’s wealth as in the rich but small country of Finland. Yet besides excellent surroundings and
climate, one country still needs to improve their 38. ______to achieve long prosperity.
Thanks to resembling weather conditions across latitude in the continent of 39. ______, crops such as
einkorn wheat is bound to spread faster than from South America to the North. Other researchers also noted
that even though geographical factors are important, tropical country such as 40. ______ still became rich
due to scientific advancement.
VI. WRITING (60 points)
Part 1. Write the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct arrangement of the
sentences to make a meaningful paragraph/letter in each of the following questions. (10 points)
1.
a. While some people see the rise of artificial intelligence as an exciting breakthrough, others are concerned
about its implications.
b. The rapid advancement of AI technology has led to debates about its potential impact on jobs and society.
c. It is crucial for governments and organizations to establish guidelines that ensure responsible and ethical
use of AI.
d. AI can help improve efficiency in various industries, but it may also displace many workers in the
process.
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e. This technology has the power to transform industries, from healthcare to transportation.
f. Addressing these challenges requires collaboration between technology developers, policymakers, and the
public.
A. a-d-e-b-c-f B. b-a-d-e-f-c C. a-b-e-d-f-c D. d-b-e-f-a-c
2.
a. In recent years, the concept of sustainability has gained significant attention.
b. Governments and organizations worldwide are implementing policies to combat climate change and
reduce carbon emissions.
c. However, individuals also have a crucial role to play in adopting sustainable practices in their daily lives.
d. This shift towards sustainability is driven by the urgent need to protect the environment for future
generations.
e. Simple actions like reducing waste, conserving water, and using energy-efficient appliances can make a
difference.
f. By working together, society can create a more sustainable future that benefits everyone.
A. d-a-b-c-e-f B. a-d-b-c-f-e C. b-d-a-c-f-e D. a-b-c-d-e-f
3.
a. Learning a new language opens up opportunities for personal and professional growth.
b. It helps individuals connect with people from different cultures and gain a broader perspective on the
world.
c. However, mastering a language requires dedication, practice, and patience.
d. In today's globalized world, bilingualism is an increasingly valuable skill.
e. Many people find it challenging to stay motivated when learning a new language.
f. With the right resources and support, anyone can overcome these challenges and become fluent.
A. d-a-b-c-e-f B. a-d-b-c-f-e C. d-a-b-e-c-f D. a-c-b-d-e-f
4.
a. Urbanization has significantly changed the way people live and work.
b. Cities offer better access to jobs, education, and healthcare, attracting millions of people each year.
c. However, rapid urban growth can also lead to challenges such as overcrowding and pollution.
d. Sustainable urban planning is essential to address these issues and improve the quality of life.
e. Governments must invest in public transportation, green spaces, and energy-efficient buildings.
f. By prioritizing these initiatives, cities can become more livable and resilient for future generations.
A. a-b-c-d-e-f B. b-a-c-d-e-f C. a-b-d-c-e-f D. c-a-b-d-e-f

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5.
a. The way we consume information has changed dramatically with the advent of digital technology.
b. Social media platforms have become primary sources of news, entertainment, and communication for
millions.
c. However, this shift has raised concerns about the accuracy and reliability of the information being shared.
d. The rapid dissemination of news online can lead to the spread of misinformation and sensationalism.
e. To combat these issues, it is important for individuals to develop critical thinking skills and verify
sources.
f. Digital literacy is now an essential skill in the modern age to navigate the complexities of the information
landscape.
A. a-b-d-c-e-f B. b-a-c-d-e-f C. a-b-e-d-c-f D. b-a-d-c-e-f
Part 2. Finish each of the following sentences in such a way that it means exactly the same as the original
one. Write your answers in the answer sheet. (10 points)
6. I only realized the full implications of what had happened until sometime later.
→ It wasn’t ....................................................................................................................................................
7. The judge said that it was only because of the woman's age he had not sent her to jail .
→ The judge said that had ..............................................................................................................................
8. The last time there was such an environmental catastrophe was a thousand years ago.
→ Not ........................................................................................................................................ proportions.
9. We weren 't surprised by his success.
→ It came.......................................................................................................................................................
10. He seems to find the way Mimi behaves more a source of amusement than embarrassment.
→ Far from ............................................................................................................................. amused by it.
Part 3. Rewrite the following sentences using the capitalised words in brackets in such a way that the
second sentence has the same meaning as the first one. Do not change the form of the given word. Write
your answers in the answer sheet. (10 points)
11. Hung may have been very rich, but he didn't think he was better than others. (DOWN)
→ Hung didn't _________________________ others although he may have been very rich.
12. I am certain that this syrup will have a good effect on your sore throat. (WONDERS)
→ I am certain that this syrup _______________________________________ your sore throat.
13. Because he was injured, he couldn't play in the next game. (PREVENTED)
→ His ______________________________________________________________________________in
the next game.
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14. We tried to make him understand our point, but he just wouldn't listen. (ACROSS)
→ We tried to ___________________________________________________________,but he just
wouldn't listen.
15. A true story formed the basis of Mary's new novel. (ON)
→ Mary's new novel __________________________________________________________a true story.
Part 4. Essay writing (30 points)
Some people think that mental strength is the most important factor for success in sports. However, some
others believe that it is more important to have strong and fit people.
Discuss both views and give your opinions.
Write at least 250 words.

-THE END-

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