Reading and Use of English · Parts 1–4
Part 1 · Studying black bears
After years studying North America’s black bears in the (0) conventional way, wildlife biologist Luke Robertson felt no closer to understanding the creatures. He realised that he had to (1) their trust. Abandoning scientific detachment, he took the daring step of forming relationships with the animals, bringing them food to gain their acceptance.
The (2) this has given him into their behaviour has allowed him to dispel certain myths about bears. (3) to popular belief, he contends that bears do not (4) as much for fruit as previously supposed. He also (5) claims that they are ferocious. He says that people should not be (6) by behaviour such as swatting paws on the ground, as this is defensive, rather than aggressive.
However, Robertson is no sentimentalist. He is under no (7) about their feelings for him. Their interest in him does not (8) beyond the food he brings.
Part 2 · The origin of language
The truth is nobody really knows how language first began. Did we all start talking at around the same time (9) of the manner in which our brains had begun to develop?
Although evidence is limited, one theory is that humans have evolved in (10) a way that we are programmed for language from birth. In (11) words, language came about because of an evolutionary change in our brains.
Language (12) well be programmed into the brain but, (13) this, people still need stimulus from others. If (14) children are isolated from human contact before they learn to construct sentences, it is doubtful they will ever do so. This shows, if (15) else, that language is social, not something invented (16) isolation.
Part 3 · Training sports champions
What are the abilities that a professional sports person needs? To guarantee opponents can be (17) COME, speed, stamina and agility are essential. A rigorous and comprehensive (18) FIT regime and a nutritious diet are vital. Carbohydrates provide athletes with the (19) ENDURE they need. Pasta is more (20) BENEFIT than eggs or meat. Failure to follow a sensible diet can result in the (21) ABLE to maintain stamina. Regular training to increase muscular (22) STRONG is vital, and this is (23) TYPE done with weights. Good training can ensure the (24) SEVERE of injuries is minimised.
Part 4 · Key word transformations
Complete the second sentence using the word given. Use between three and six words.
Reading and Use of English · Parts 5–6
Part 5 · Introduction to a book about the history of colour
This book examines how the changing role of colour has been reflected in manuscripts, stained glass, clothing, painting and popular culture. Colour is natural, but also a complex cultural construct. Many authors search for universal truths in colour, but for the historian, such truths do not exist. Colour is first and foremost a social phenomenon.
The silence of historians on colour results from three problems. The first concerns documentation and preservation: colours from the past have been changed by time, are seen under different light, and have often been studied through black-and-white photographs. The second concerns methodology: historians must deal with physics, chemistry, materials, production techniques, iconography, ideology and symbolism. Researchers tend to select facts that support their ideas and forget contradictions. The third problem is philosophical: historians must avoid projecting modern definitions of colour onto the past.
The writer argues that the history of colour is much broader than the history of painting, and that its real interest lies beyond the artistic or scientific realms.
Part 6 · The Architecture of Happiness
A De Botton clarifies complex subjects and argues that architecture influences mood and behaviour. His message is simple but worthwhile: society should consider the psychological consequences of design.
B De Botton asks important questions, but seems to need earlier authors to support him. He ignores finance, planning laws and technical inventions, while architects now often work within a global building machine.
C De Botton makes bold and amusing judgements, but those seeking technical insights should be warned. Some revelations are not new, though the book is engaging and intelligent.
D De Botton asks whether buildings can speak to us and improve character. He writes with conviction, but his focus on happiness may not help resolve conflicts of taste.
Reading and Use of English · Parts 7–8
Part 7 · Scottish Wildcat
The text describes the Scottish wildcat, its physical differences from domestic cats, its historical decline, later recovery, current vulnerability, and research into whether wild-living cats have distinctive physical features. Six paragraphs have been removed.
Options A–G: A: Recruitment of gamekeepers to war reduced persecution. B: The wildcat watches for prey. C: Research results will be fascinating. D: Wildcats used woodland and open areas and were driven into mountains. E: Kittens accompany their mother on hunting trips. F: Research investigates whether the wildcat is distinct. G: The common image of a fierce wildcat is false.
Part 8 · Starting out on your career
Five career consultants give advice to graduates. Consultant A recommends asking selection panels for constructive feedback. Consultant B warns that employer feedback may not tell the whole story. Consultant C advises taking ownership of your career and considering sideways moves for deeper expertise. Consultant D stresses strategy, patience and the need to work towards a long-term goal. Consultant E explains that companies need time before a new employee becomes fully valuable.