IELTS Reading Test 10 (General)

READING SECTION-2

Questions 15-28

WHY STUDENTS CHOOSE HORIZON BUSINESS TRAINING INSTITUTE

Studying at Horizon Business Training Institute allows you to develop essential business skills while connecting with ambitious professionals from across the globe!

With flexible enrolment dates, Horizon courses begin every first Monday of the month, ensuring they fit perfectly into your personal or professional schedule. Whether you are a complete beginner or someone looking to enhance advanced skills, you can study for a period ranging from four weeks to an entire academic year. Horizon offers a variety of programmes, including short-term workshops and intensive diploma courses, with most classes running from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm.

If you enrol in a full-time programme, our advisors will guide you in selecting elective modules that align with your career objectives. Throughout the course, tutors will monitor your progress during regular one-on-one consultations, helping you achieve your learning goals and ensuring that you advance at a pace that suits you.

The reputation of Horizon largely rests on its excellent teaching staff. All instructors possess specialised qualifications in business education and have hands-on experience in the corporate world. Our recruitment process ensures that only passionate and highly skilled professionals join our teaching team.

At Horizon, teaching techniques are constantly updated to reflect the latest trends in business education. Our classrooms are equipped with modern facilities, including interactive whiteboards, digital resources, and simulation tools that enhance learning.

 On your first day at Horizon, you will undertake an initial assessment, allowing our Academic Coordinator to place you in the correct class level. Regular evaluations ensure you are on track, and as you meet your targets, you will progress to more advanced levels of study.

 Your tuition fees cover not only your studies but also your accommodation. Students are placed with carefully selected host families, who provide breakfast and dinner daily. This arrangement provides a comfortable living environment and an opportunity to practise conversational English in a real-life setting.

After successfully completing any Intensive, Diploma, or Summer programme, you will be awarded the Horizon Certificate of Completion. For programmes lasting eight weeks or longer, you will also receive a detailed Progress Report, which outlines your strengths in key business competencies, such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving — valuable evidence of your abilities for future employers or educational institutions.

Questions 15-20

Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text?

Write

TRUE-if the statement is true

FALSE-if the statement is false

NOT GIVEN-if the information is not given in the passage

15. Classes at Horizon Business Training Institute usually finish at 3:30 pm.

16. Students receive personal guidance to help select the best elective modules for their career goals.

17. All Horizon teachers have previous experience working in business environments.

18. Students are responsible for finding and paying for their own accommodation while studying at Horizon.

19. Horizon students take a test before starting classes to determine their study level.

20. Horizon Business Training Institute offers online courses for students who cannot attend in person.

THE FUTURE OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES

A

The concept of vehicles powered by electricity rather than traditional fossil fuels has existed for over a century, but it is only in recent decades that electric vehicles (EVs) have started to make significant headway in the automotive market. The surge in interest has been fuelled by concerns over air pollution, the finite nature of oil supplies, and the growing need to combat climate change. Governments around the world have responded with incentives such as subsidies for buyers, tax benefits, and investments in public charging infrastructure. Automakers, once cautious about electric technology, are now racing to develop new models to satisfy the increasing consumer demand.

B

Electric vehicles operate using rechargeable batteries that power an electric motor, rather than an internal combustion engine. These batteries are typically made from lithium-ion, a technology that has advanced rapidly in recent years. Improvements in energy density, charging speed, and overall longevity have addressed many early concerns about electric vehicles, such as their limited driving range and long charging times. Today, some high-end EVs are capable of travelling over 600 kilometres on a single charge, while rapid-charging stations can provide 80% battery capacity in under 30 minutes.

C

One of the major challenges in the widespread adoption of electric vehicles is the establishment of a reliable and accessible charging network. While urban centres often have numerous charging points, rural and remote areas are still underserved. This inconsistency leads to what is commonly referred to as ‘range anxiety’, the fear that a vehicle will run out of power far from a charging station. To combat this, governments and private companies alike are investing heavily in expanding the charging infrastructure, including ultra-fast chargers along major highways and the integration of charging points into everyday locations such as shopping centres and office car parks.

D

Electric vehicles are praised for their environmental benefits, particularly their role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, the environmental impact of EVs depends largely on how the electricity used to charge them is generated. In countries where electricity is produced mainly from renewable sources like wind, solar, or hydroelectric power, the overall carbon footprint of driving an EV can be remarkably low. Conversely, in regions where coal or gas-fired power plants dominate, the benefits are less pronounced. Nonetheless, even in the latter scenario, EVs still outperform conventional petrol or diesel vehicles in terms of emissions.

E

Another significant consideration is the production and disposal of EV batteries. The extraction of lithium, cobalt, and other metals used in batteries can result in environmental degradation and raise ethical concerns about labour practices in mining operations. Manufacturers are working to address these issues by improving the efficiency of resource extraction, developing recycling methods to reclaim valuable materials from used batteries, and even exploring alternative chemistries that rely on more abundant or sustainable materials.

F

The adoption of EVs is also reshaping industries and economies. Traditional car manufacturers are restructuring their factories to accommodate the production of electric models, while new companies specialising in electric mobility are entering the market. This shift is creating new job opportunities in battery manufacturing, software development for smart vehicles, and the installation of charging equipment. Moreover, EV technology is fostering innovation in related sectors such as energy storage, grid management, and renewable energy integration.

G

Electric vehicles are also advancing rapidly in terms of technology and user experience. Many EVs come equipped with state-of-the-art features such as regenerative braking, which recaptures energy during deceleration, and sophisticated driver-assistance systems that pave the way for future autonomous driving capabilities. Some models can be updated remotely via software, improving performance and adding features without the need for physical maintenance visits. These advancements are helping to position EVs not just as an environmentally friendly choice, but also as a technologically superior option.

H

Looking ahead, the future of electric vehicles appears bright. Industry experts predict that by 2040, the majority of new cars sold globally will be electric. As battery technology continues to improve and production costs decrease, EVs are expected to reach price parity with traditional vehicles, making them an even more attractive option for consumers. Combined with increasing government support and public awareness of environmental issues, the shift towards electric mobility seems inevitable. While challenges remain, the momentum behind electric vehicles is undeniable, heralding a new era of sustainable transportation for the planet.

Questions 21–28

The text has eight paragraphs, A–H.

Choose the correct heading for each paragraph from the list of headings below.

Write the correct number, i–x, in boxes 1–8 on your answer sheet.

List of Headings

i. Efforts to increase charging infrastructure

ii. The impact of EVs on employment and industries

iii. Improvements in battery performance

iv. Predicting a shift towards electric vehicles

v. How electric vehicles function

vi. Concerns about battery production and disposal

vii. Government support and industry competition

viii. Technological features of modern EVs

ix. Environmental benefits and limitations

x. Charging solutions for rural areas

21. Paragraph A

22. Paragraph B

23. Paragraph C

24. Paragraph D

25. Paragraph E

26. Paragraph F

27. Paragraph G

28. Paragraph H

READING SECTION-3

The Evolution of Renewable Energy Technologies

A) The shift towards renewable energy has been one of the most significant developments in global energy consumption in recent decades. As concerns about climate change and environmental degradation grow, countries and industries are investing heavily in renewable energy technologies to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power, offer sustainable alternatives that can meet the world's growing energy demands while also reducing harmful emissions. The evolution of these technologies has been driven by advancements in research, development, and innovation, which have made renewable energy more efficient, affordable, and accessible than ever before.

B) Solar energy is one of the most rapidly growing renewable energy sources. The technology behind solar panels has improved drastically over the years, with advancements in materials, efficiency, and design. Solar panels are now more affordable and effective at converting sunlight into electricity, making them an attractive option for both residential and commercial use. Furthermore, the integration of solar energy systems into existing infrastructure, such as rooftops and parking lots, has expanded the potential for solar power generation, allowing for decentralized energy production that reduces strain on the power grid.

C) Wind energy has also seen significant progress, particularly in the development of larger and more efficient wind turbines. Modern turbines are capable of generating more power from lower wind speeds, making wind energy a viable option in more regions than ever before. Offshore wind farms are particularly promising, as they take advantage of stronger and more consistent winds found at sea. The growth of wind energy has created new opportunities for rural economies, where many wind farms are located, providing jobs and economic growth in otherwise underserved areas.

D) Hydroelectric power, the oldest form of renewable energy, continues to play a major role in global energy production. Recent advancements in hydroelectric technologies have focused on improving efficiency and minimizing the environmental impact of large-scale dams. Smaller, more environmentally friendly hydropower projects, such as run-of-river systems, have been developed to reduce the ecological disruptions associated with traditional hydropower plants. Additionally, hydropower serves as an important energy storage system, as it allows for the generation of power on-demand, especially during peak energy usage hours.

E) Geothermal energy, derived from the heat stored within the Earth’s crust, is another renewable energy source that has gained traction in recent years. Geothermal power plants tap into this heat to generate electricity, offering a consistent and reliable source of energy that is not affected by weather patterns or seasonal changes. While geothermal energy is geographically limited to areas with significant geothermal activity, such as volcanic regions, new technologies are being developed to harness this resource in a more cost-effective manner, expanding its potential use worldwide.

F) One of the most exciting developments in renewable energy is the integration of multiple technologies into hybrid energy systems. For instance, combining solar and wind power with energy storage systems allows for a more reliable and stable energy supply, even when one source is not producing energy. Energy storage solutions, such as advanced batteries, help to store excess power generated during peak production times and release it when demand is high, smoothing out the intermittent nature of renewable energy. These hybrid systems have the potential to revolutionize the energy industry by making renewable power generation more reliable and scalable.

G) The push for renewable energy has also led to the development of smart grids, which utilize digital technology to monitor and manage the flow of electricity more efficiently. Smart grids enable better integration of renewable energy sources into the existing power grid, allowing for real-time adjustments in response to changing energy supply and demand. This innovation also facilitates the participation of individual consumers in energy generation through microgrids and distributed energy resources, empowering them to contribute to the sustainability of their communities.

H) Despite the progress made in renewable energy technologies, challenges remain in the widespread adoption of these sources. The intermittency of solar and wind power, the need for significant infrastructure investments, and the political and economic challenges surrounding fossil fuel subsidies are just a few of the barriers to a fully renewable-powered world. However, continued innovation, global collaboration, and policy support are crucial to overcoming these challenges and accelerating the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. As renewable energy technologies continue to evolve, they hold the promise of transforming the global energy landscape and mitigating the effects of climate change for generations to come.

Questions 29-32

The text has eight paragraphs, A–H. Which paragraph contains the following information? Choose the correct letter for questions 29–32.

29. Innovations and Environmental Considerations 

30. Harnessing Earth's Heat 

31. The Future of Renewable Energy 

32. The Global Shift to Renewable Energy 

Questions 33-37

Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? Answer True, False or Not given.

33. Solar energy has become more affordable and efficient due to technological advancements.

34. Wind energy relies solely on fossil fuels for power generation.

35. Geothermal energy is the most widely used form of renewable energy in urban areas.

36. True: Renewable energy helps reduce carbon emissions, fostering energy independence and sustainability.

37. Hybrid systems only rely on wind power to ensure a consistent energy supply

Questions 38-40

Complete the summary below. Choose NO MORE THAN TWO words from the text for each answer.

Wind and solar power have become more widely adopted due to improvements in 38. __________, which make these forms of energy more reliable and capable of providing consistent power generation. In addition to environmental benefits, renewable energy sources contribute to 39.__________ by creating jobs in industries like manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of renewable energy systems.

Geothermal energy is primarily found in regions with high geothermal activity, like 40.__________ , emerging technologies are being created to utilize this resource more affordably, increasing its global potential.

Answer

Section-1

1. TRUE: Text says: "The cost is 10 cents per page for black-and-white copies and 50 cents per page for colour copies."

2. FALSE : Text says: "Please do not attempt to use your own paper in the machines, as this may cause damage."

3. FALSE : Text says: "Machines are switched off 15 minutes before closing time to allow for maintenance."

4. FALSE : Text says: "Library staff can provide limited help, mainly for paper refills and clearing jams, but they are not able to operate the machines on behalf of users."

5. TRUE : Text says: "Any damage caused to the machines by misuse will result in a fine to cover repair costs."

6. NOT GIVEN : Text does not mention anything about bulk photocopying services being offered.

7. NOT GIVEN : The text does not mention any discounts for members or otherwise on photocopying services.

8. It is open for breakfast.

A (Bayside Cafe offers breakfast from 7:30 am to 10:30 am on weekdays.)

9. It is open every night for dinner.

NOT GIVEN (None of the advertisements specify that they are open every night for dinner.)

10. It is only open for lunch on weekdays.

NOT GIVEN (None of the advertisements specify lunch hours, only breakfast.)

11. It has recently returned to its previous location.

NOT GIVEN (There is no mention of any restaurant returning to a previous location.)

12. It welcomes families.

C (Harbor Delight Restaurant serves breakfast with healthy options, implying it caters to a variety of guests, likely including families.)

13. It caters for large groups.

NOT GIVEN (There is no mention of whether any of the restaurants cater to large groups.)

14. It only opens at weekends.

B (Sunset Grill is open only on weekends from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.)

Section-2

15. FALSE

Text says: "with most classes running from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm." (Not 3:30 pm.)

16. TRUE

Text says: "our advisors will guide you in selecting elective modules that align with your career objectives."

17. TRUE

Text says: "All instructors possess specialized qualifications in business education and have hands-on experience in the corporate world."

18. FALSE

Text says: "Your tuition fees cover not only your studies but also your accommodation."

19. TRUE

Text says: "On your first day at Horizon, you will undertake an initial assessment, allowing our Academic Coordinator to place you in the correct class level."

20. NOT GIVEN

The text does not mention anything about online courses — it only talks about in-person classes and facilities.

21. Paragraph A — vii. Government support and industry competition

22. Paragraph B — v. How electric vehicles function

23. Paragraph C — i. Efforts to increase charging infrastructure

24. Paragraph D — ix. Environmental benefits and limitations

25. Paragraph E — vi. Concerns about battery production and disposal

26. Paragraph F — ii. The impact of EVs on employment and industries

27. Paragraph G — viii. Technological features of modern EVs

28. Paragraph H — iv. Predicting a shift towards electric vehicles

Section-3

29.D

30.E

31.H

32.A

33.True

34.False

35.Not Given

36.True

37.False

38.Technology

39.Economic growth

40.Volcanic regions