Part 2 (Questions 6-10)

For each question, choose the correct answer.

Artist Peter Fuller talks about his hobby

There’s a popular idea that artists are not supposed to be into sport, but mountain biking is a huge part of
my life. It gets me out of my studio, and into the countryside. But more importantly, racing along as fast as
you can leaves you no time to worry about anything that’s going on in your life. You’re too busy
concentrating on not crashing. The only things you pay attention to are the pain in your legs and the rocks on
the path in front of you.
I’m in my sixties now, but I started cycling when I was a kid. In the summer my friends and I would ride
our bikes into the woods and see who was brave enough to go down steep hills, or do big jumps. The bikes we
had then weren’t built for that, and often broke, so I used to draw pictures of bikes with big thick tyres that
would be strong enough for what we were doing. They looked just like modern mountain bikes. However, it
wasn’t until many years later that someone actually invented one. By the 1980s, they were everywhere.
At that time I was into skateboarding. I did that for a decade until falling off onto hard surfaces started to
hurt too much. Mountain biking seemed a fairly safe way to keep fit, so I took that up instead. I made a lot of
friends, and got involved in racing, which gave me a reason to train hard. I wanted to find out just how fit and
fast I could get, which turned out to be fairly quick. I even won a couple of local races.
In the end I stopped racing, mainly because I knew what it could mean to my career if I had a bad crash.
But I still like to do a three-hour mountain bike ride every week. And if I’m out cycling in the hills and see a
rider ahead, I have to beat them to the top. As I go past I imagine how surprised they would be if they knew
how old I am.

6 Peter enjoys mountain biking because

A It gives him the opportunity to enjoy the views.
B He can use the time to plan his work.
C He is able to stop thinking about his problems.
D It helps him to concentrate better.
7 What does Peter say about cycling during his childhood?
A He is sorry he didn’t take more care of his bike.
B His friends always had better quality bikes than he did.
C His bike wasn’t suitable for the activities he was doing.
D He was more interested in designing bikes than riding them.
8 Peter says he returned to cycling after several years
A Because he had become unfit.
B So that he could enter races.
C In order to meet new people.
D To replace an activity he had given up.
9 How does Peter feel about cycling now?
A He is proud that he is still so fast.
B He is keen to do less now that he is older.
C He regrets the fact that he can no longer compete.
D He wishes more people were involved in the sport.
10 What would be a good introduction to this article?
A Artist Peter Fuller takes mountain biking pretty seriously. Here he describes how it all began and
what he gets out of it.
 B For Peter Fuller, nothing matters more than mountain biking, not even his career. Here, in his
own words, he tells us why.
C After discovering mountain biking late in life, Peter Fuller gave up art for a while to concentrate
on getting as good as possible.
D In this article, Peter Fuller explains how he became an artist only as a result of his interest in
mountain biking.
Q6:C Q7:C Q8:D Q9:A Q10:B

Play to win
16-year-old Harry Moore writes about his hobby, tennis.
My parents have always loved tennis and they’re members of a tennis club. My older brother was really
good at it and they supported him – taking him to lessons all the time. So I guess when I announced that I
wanted to be a tennis champion when I grew up I just intended for them to notice me. My mother laughed.
She knew I couldn’t possibly be serious, I was just a 4-year-old kid!
Later, I joined the club’s junior coaching group and eventually took part in my first proper contest,
confident that my team would do well. We won, which was fantastic, but I wasn’t so successful. I didn’t even
want to be in the team photo because I didn’t feel I deserved to be. When my coach asked what happened in
my final match, I didn’t know what to say. I couldn’t believe I’d lost – I knew I was the better player. But
every time I attacked, the other player defended brilliantly. I couldn’t explain the result.
After that, I decided to listen more carefully to my coach because he had lots of tips. I realised that you
need the right attitude to be a winner. On court I have a plan but sometimes the other guy will do something
unexpected so I’ll change it. If I lose a point, I do my best to forget it and find a way to win the next one.
At tournaments, it’s impossible to avoid players who explode in anger. Lots of players can be negative –
including myself sometimes. Once I got so angry that I nearly broke my racket! But my coach has helped me
develop ways to control those feelings. After all, the judges have a hard job and you just have to accept their
decisions.
My coach demands that I train in the gym to make sure I’m strong right to the end of a tournament. I’m
getting good results: my shots are more accurate and I’m beginning to realise that with hard work there’s a
chance that I could be a champion one day.

6 Harry thinks he said that he was going to be a tennis champion in order to

A Please his parents.
B Get some attention.
C Annoys his older brother.
D Persuaded people that he was serious.
7 How did Harry feel after his first important competition?
A Confused about his defeat.
B Proud to be a member of the winning team.
C Ashamed of the way he treated another player.
D Amazed that he had got so far in the tournament.
8 What does Harry try to remember when he’s on the court?
A Don’t let the other player surprise you.
B Follow your game plan.
C Respect the other player.
D Don’t keep thinking about your mistakes.
9 What does Harry say about his behaviour in tournaments?
 A He broke his racket once when he was angry.
B He stays away from players who behave badly.
C He tries to keep calm during the game.
D He found it difficult to deal with one judge’s decisions.
10 What might a sports journalist write about Harry now?
A Harry has really grown up since his first tournament and discovered that tennis is a battle of
minds, not just rackets.
B Harry needs to believe in his own abilities and stop depending on good luck when he plays.
C Harry could be a great player but he needs to find a coach to take him all the way to the big
competitions.
D Harry looked exhausted when he finished his last match so maybe he should think about working
out.
Q6:B Q7:A Q8:D Q9:C Q10:C

Different Colours can affect us in many different ways; that’s according to Verity Allen. In her new series
‘Colour me Healthy’, Verity looks at the ways that colours can influence how hard we work and the choices
we make. They can even change our emotions and even influence how healthy we are.
‘Have you ever noticed how people always use the same colours for the same things?’ says Verity. ‘Our
toothpaste is always white or blue or maybe red. It’s never green. Why not? For some reason we think that
blue and white is clean, while we think of green products as being a bit disgusting. It’s the same for
businesses. We respect a company which writes its name in blue or black, but we don’t respect one that uses
pink or orange. People who design new products can use these ideas to influence what we buy.’
During this four-part series, Verity studies eight different colours, two colours in each programme. She
meets people who work in all aspects of the colour industry, from people who design food packets, to people
who name the colours of lipsticks. Some of the people she meets clearly have very little scientific knowledge
to support their ideas, such as the American ‘Colour Doctor’ who believes that serious diseases can be cured
by the use of coloured lights. However, she also interviews real scientists who are studying the effects of
green and red lights on mice, with some surprising results.
Overall, it’s an interesting show, and anyone who watches it will probably find out something new. But
because. Verity goes out of her way to be polite to everyone she meets on the series, it’s up to the viewers to
make their own decisions about how much they should believe.

6. What is the writer doing in the text?

A Giving in4 about how colours influence us
B Reporting what happens in a new television series
C Giving in4 about a television presenter
D Giving his opinion of a recent television show
7. Which of the following shows the probable content of the four shows?
A. Part 1 - Health; Part 2 - Products and Industry; Part 3 - Emotions; Part 4 - Decisions
B. Part 1 - Blue and Black; Part 2 - Red and Orange; Part 3 - White and Grey: Part 4 - Green and Yellow
C. Part 1 - Meeting Designers; Part 2 - Meeting People who Name Colours: Part 3 - Meeting Doctors: Part
4 - Meeting Scientists
D. Part 1 - Cleaning Products: Part 2 - Make-up; Part 3 - Clothes; Part 4 - Food
8. According to Verity, why is a knowledge of colour important?
A. It can help you to choose the best products.
 B. It can give you new ideas.
C. It can help you to change people's minds.
D. It can help you to sell products.
9. Who does the writer respect least?
A. Verity Allen
B. The people who name lipsticks
C. The Colour Doctor"
D. The scientists who work with mice
10. Which of the following would make a good title for the text?
A. Enjoy it, but don't believe everything
B. Another great show from Verity Allen! Five Stars!
C. Don't miss this if you work in Business
D. Watch this programme! It will make you healthy!

Q6:B Q7:B Q8:D Q9:C Q10:A

Cross-country skiing in Sweden

by Jenna Walton, aged 15
Last year, Mum and I wanted to try a winter sport called cross-country skiing - travelling on skis across
the countryside. And pictures of one area in Sweden, with people skiing along through forests on wonderful
white snow, persuaded us that the destination was a good choice. We hadn't done much skiing, though, so we
weren't sure how difficult cross-country skiing was, compared with skiing fast down steep mountains. But we
signed up to join a group of people, of all ages, plus a guide.
We'd read about the place we went to before we left, so we knew it was close to where Sweden ends and
Norway starts. And our family knew we couldn't text home, as there was no internet connection - and
actually, it was relaxing to be far from anywhere, or anyone. What we hadn't realised was that from there,
we'd be able to see amazing coloured lights in the sky, which appeared at certain times of year, called the
Northern Lights - what a sight!
On our first day there, I hated getting up in the dark, but it meant I saw the sun come up over the forest,
so I was glad I did. And sunshine was forecast for the week, I was delighted to hear! But the real problem was
my 15kg rucksack, full of food and clothes - I had no idea it would weigh that much. Anyway, we skied for
hours across mainly flat snow. Having special light skis was supposed to help us climb the few hills there
were - although I still couldn't do it!
Finally we stopped for the night. It wasn't until we'd reached our hut that our guide mentioned we'd just
crossed a frozen lake to get there - but nothing surprised us by that point! Anyway, he gave us all jobs to do -
cutting firewood and cooking food - and soon we were having dinner, made from whatever food we'd brought
- a strange mix, but it tasted delicious. And everywhere was so peaceful outside that none of us stayed awake
long.
Mum and I want to try another winter sports trip, maybe snowboarding. But we'll probably end up just as
exhausted as we were after this trip!

6. Jenna and her mum decided to go cross-country skiing in Sweden because

A. they wanted a change from mountain skiing holidays.
B. they'd heard the sport would be easier than skiing down hills.
C. they'd met a group of people who wanted to go, too.
D. they found a place there that they were keen to visit.
7. After their arrival, what did they discover about where they were staying?
A. It wasn't far from the border with another country.
B. They could get great views of a spectacular natural event.
C. It was at a point where they couldn't use technology.
D. They weren't near local people or their homes.
8. How did Jenna feel about the long trips through the snow on skis?
A. surprised she had to carry such a heavy bag
B. pleased about the weight of the skis she was given
C. glad that going uphill wasn't as hard as she'd thought
D. worried the good weather they were having wouldn't last
9. Regarding their accommodation, Jenna says everyone
A. had difficulties getting to sleep there.
B. was unhappy at the quality of the food.
C. had to help out with all the housework.
D. was shocked to hear details of their journey there.
10. What would Jenna text to a friend about her trip?
A. One reason we chose this trip was that we thought we'd be among loads of trees, which we love - but
that hasn't happened so far.
B. The people in our group were really friendly - but they were all Mum's age and older, really.
C. I'm not used to getting out of bed so early to do things! But it was worth it, as the sunrise was wonderful.
D. Mum and I have agreed that although the trip was great, we might attempt something less tiring on our
next winter holiday.
Q6:D Q7:B Q8:A Q9:C Q10:C

Our school newspaper

by Michael Williams
Some years ago, our head teacher, Mrs Waters, decided to start a school newspaper, and get as many
students as possible to take on the job of producing it - and parents, too. She felt the newspaper would help
them learn more about school life, through articles on things like sports achievements and arts projects, which
not all students know about if they're not taking part. Students took the whole thing very seriously - and we
now have a prize-winning newspaper!
Some of my friends joined the newspaper team immediately and enjoyed it. I'd always loved creative
writing and drawing cartoons, which I thought would be perfect in the newspaper, so I signed up. My dad,
who's a journalist, was pleased - he thought that even though I wasn't keen on a job like his, the newspaper
would be a great opportunity for me. And he was right - I loved it! Dad often came along to give advice,
which was popular with the students. It was difficult sometimes, if he was busy, but he learned a lot about the
school that way.
My first job was writing a report about a sports event - a writing style I'd never attempted before. But Dad
reminded me it was similar in some ways to writing a story - getting information in the right order. Once I'd
understood that, there was no stopping me - and after my first efforts, I developed quite a professional style,
which was brilliant. Sometimes the team couldn't use what I'd written, or my cartoons, for whatever reason,
but I didn't mind. And sometimes it was hard to finish stuff on time, but I usually got there.
I'm now one of the editors - we decide what goes into the newspaper, so our names no longer appear in
print. And it's stressful sometimes as we don't have much time, but we try to manage that properly. We also
correct mistakes in people's articles, which we all had to get used to, but we were soon doing it without
thinking - and in our own schoolwork, too. I still put off calling people outside school for comments on stuff,
 but I guess it's all good experience - at least, that's what Dad says!
11. Michael's head teacher wanted to start a student newspaper to
A. provide an activity for students not interested in sport or art.
B. make students feel more confident about taking part in something.
C. keep students better informed about what was happening at school.
D. give students the experience of being responsible for something.
12. Michael decided to join the newspaper because
A. he had ideas about some work he could do for it.
B. he was considering a career in journalism.
C. his friends had encouraged him to do so.
D. he liked the idea of being part of a team.
13. When Michael first started working on the newspaper, he was
A. disappointed when his stories sometimes weren't used.
B. delighted at the way his writing skills improved.
C. pleased to find he could make use of his art skills.
D. worried he'd be late completing some of his writing.
14. What does Michael say about his role on the newspaper now?
A. He feels uncomfortable about correcting other students' work.
B. He still needs to improve the way he manages his time.
C. He's happier to handle making telephone calls to others.
D. He's become better at making articles more accurate.
15. What would Michael's dad say about the newspaper?
A. I was surprised at how keen Michael was to get involved - he's never shown that much interest in writing
before.
B. I occasionally had problems finding the time to help out at Michael's school, but the students really
seemed to like my suggestion.
C. Michael would never admit it, but I know he's proud to see his name in the newspaper these days - and I
am, too!
D. It’s been great to finally find out about life at the school through reading the newspaper. I didn't really
know much about it before.
Q6:C Q7:A Q8:B Q9:D Q10:B

Rock Band
Two years ago, our 14-year-old son, Ben, asked us for a set of drums for his birthday. At first, we were
very much against the idea because of the noise, It's better than watching television or playing computer
games in my free time,' Ben argued, 'and it'll keep me out of trouble.' In the end we gave in. 'All right, we
said, 'but you must consider the rest of the family and the neighbours when you play.'
That was just the beginning. Because drums are not the easiest instruments to transport, the other
members of Ben's band started appearing at our home with their guitars and other electrical equipment.
And so, for several hours a week, the house shakes to the noise of their instruments and their teenage
singing.
At least Ben's hobby has been good for our health: whenever the band start practising, my husband
and go out for a long walk. And I must admit that, although theig music may sound a little strange, they are
a friendly and polite group of young men. I cannot judge their musical skill - after all I didn't expect my
 parents' generation to like the same music as I did when I was a teenager - but they do play regularly in local
clubs for young people.
Our main worry is that they won't spend enough time on their school work because of their musical
activities, though this hasn't happened yet. I am always stressing to Ben how important his studies are. But
one thing is certain - Ben was right: it has kept him out of trouble and he is never bored.

6. What is the writer trying to do in this text?

A. complain about her son's friends
B. give advice to teenagers
C. describe her son's hobby
D. compare herself with her parents
7. Why did the writer give Ben the present he wanted?
A. She wanted to reward him for working hard.
B. He already had too many computer games.
C. She knew he would use it sensibly:
D. He persuaded her it would be a good idea.
8. Why do the band always practise at Ben's house?
A. It is difficult for Ben to move his drums.
B. The neighbours don't mind the noise.
C. Ben's parents enjoy listening to them.
D. They can leave their equipment there.
9. What does the writer say about the band members?
A. Their influence on her son worries her.
B. Their taste in music is different from hers.
C. They play their instruments well.
D. They avoid any contact with her.
10. What might the writer say to her son?
A. Your teacher has just phoned. He wants to know why you weren't at school today.
B. When are you playing at the club next? Dad and I would love to come along again.
C. If you don't know what to do with yourself, there's a good programme on the television in a few
minutes.
D. Are you sure you've finished your homework? It's more important than band practice.

Q6:C Q7:D Q8:A Q9:B Q10:D

A hotel under the sea

Want to sleep under the sea? The company Planet Ocean has plans for an exciting underwater hotel,
which they hope to build in locations all over the world.
The hotel won't be large, with only 12 guest rooms, plus a restaurant. Guests will get to the hotel in a
lift- so no diving or getting wet! The hotel will float 10 metres under the ocean, although it will be attached
to the sea bed to prevent it from moving too far. Because it won't be very deep under the water, the sun
will shine down and provide light. Guests will get great close-up views of the fish and other sea creatures,
which won't be bothered by the hotel and so won't make any effort to avoid it.
The hotel's design, with walls made of clear plastic, means that when you are in your room, you will
see the sea in front of you, behind you, above and below you. You will almost get the feeling that you are
swimming in the ocean. The luxury rooms will have excellent facilities, including a shower, TV and even the
Internet. The restaurant will serve high quality meals. However, Planet Ocean want to encourage people to
 eat less fish, so you won't find any on the menu. The atmosphere will be completely silent though, so you
will have to imagine the sound of the ocean around you.
The hotel won't be cheap to build, and it won't be cheap to stay in. But the designers are especially
proud of the fact that it will be environmentally friendly. It will use electricity, of course, but it will produce
its own, and won't disturb ocean life at all. In fact, the designers hope some sea creatures will build their
homes on parts of the building, which will bring real benefits to the underwater world.

6. What is the writer doing in this text?

A. advertising a new kind of luxury hotel
B. warning people about environmental problems in the ocean
C. giving information about an underwater hotel
D. giving advice to travellers on which hotels to choose
7. What do we learn about the hotel?
A. A Guests will have to swim down to get to it.
B. B Its lights will shine into the sea so guests can see the fish.
C. C It will only have a small number of rooms.
D. D Fish and other sea creatures will be scared of it.
8. What can guests do in the hotel?
A. A swim out into the ocean
B. B watch the ocean life near the hotel
C. C enjoy a meal of freshly caught fish
D. D hear the ocean as they go to sleep
9. What is the best thing about the hotel, according to the designers?
A. It won't cost much to build
A. B It won't use much electricity.
B. C It won't cause any damage to the environment.
C. D Fish and other sea creatures won't come very close to it
10. What might a guest in this hotel say?
A. It's very expensive, but the facilities are quite basic and the windows are too small to see outside.
B. It's great to stay in such a beautiful hotel that is also good for the planet.
C. Seeing the fish up close is amazing, but it's a shame that the hotel disturbs sea life.
D. It's a great idea, and I love the fact that it can move around and travel to different locations.