Passage 1: The Human Microbiome
You should spend about 20 minutes on Questions 1–13, which are based on the reading passage below.
For many years, the human body was thought to contain ten times more bacterial cells than human cells. While recent research suggests the ratio is closer to one-to-one, the influence of these microorganisms remains profound. Collectively, they are known as the microbiome, a term that describes the community of trillions of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes living on and inside the human body.
Academic Reading Practice Test 4 The Human Microbiome
The majority of these microorganisms reside in the gut, but they also inhabit the skin, mouth, and other organs. Far from being harmful invaders, many of these microbes perform essential functions. For example, gut bacteria help digest complex carbohydrates, produce certain vitamins, and protect against harmful pathogens.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the microbiome is its link to the immune system. Babies are born with an immature immune system that develops partly through exposure to microbes. Studies have shown that children growing up on farms or with pets tend to have a more diverse microbiome, which may lower their risk of allergies and autoimmune diseases.
Academic Reading Practice Test 4 The Human Microbiome
However, modern lifestyles may threaten this microbial diversity. The overuse of antibiotics, diets low in fibre, and highly sanitised environments can reduce the richness of the microbiome. Scientists worry that this could contribute to a rise in chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and inflammatory bowel conditions.
Microbiome research has also uncovered potential links between gut microbes and mental health. This connection, known as the gut-brain axis, suggests that bacteria in the digestive system can influence mood and behaviour through chemical signalling. Some studies have even found that people with depression or anxiety have different gut bacteria compared to those without these conditions.
Academic Reading Practice Test 4 The Human Microbiome
Given its significance, scientists are exploring ways to maintain or restore a healthy microbiome. Probiotics — live beneficial bacteria — are often promoted as one solution, but their effectiveness varies. A diet rich in plant-based fibres seems to be one of the most reliable ways to nourish beneficial microbes.
The field of microbiome research is still in its early stages, but it holds promise for future medical treatments. By understanding how these invisible communities interact with our bodies, we may find new ways to prevent or treat a wide range of diseases.
Academic Reading Practice Test 4 The Human Microbiome
Questions 1–5
Do the following statements agree with the information in the passage?
Write TRUE, FALSE or NOT GIVEN.
- There are ten times more bacterial cells than human cells in the body.
- Most microorganisms in the human body live in the gut.
- The human microbiome only includes bacteria.
- Babies’ immune systems mature partly through contact with microbes.
- Antibiotics can reduce microbiome diversity.
Questions 6–9
Complete the sentences below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.
- Gut bacteria help digest complex ________.
- Living with pets may reduce the risk of ________ diseases.
- The gut-brain axis refers to communication between the gut and the ________.
- One reliable way to support gut microbes is to eat more ________.
Questions 10–13
Choose the correct letter A, B, C or D.
- What is one role of gut bacteria?
A) They cause most human infections.
B) They digest food and fight harmful microbes.
C) They reduce fibre intake.
D) They produce antibiotics. - What effect can over-sanitised environments have?
A) They increase microbial diversity.
B) They help gut bacteria thrive.
C) They may reduce microbiome diversity.
D) They have no effect. - Why is the gut-brain axis important?
A) It controls digestion only.
B) It connects gut bacteria to mental health.
C) It prevents fibre absorption.
D) It increases the need for antibiotics. - What is the main idea of this passage?
A) All bacteria are dangerous to humans.
B) Microbiome research focuses only on children.
C) The human microbiome is vital for health.
D) Probiotics are the best cure for diseases.
Passage 2: The Fascinating World of Flowers
You should spend about 20 minutes on Questions 14–26, which are based on the reading passage below.
Flowers have long captivated humans with their beauty and scent, but they are more than just decorative. They play a vital role in the reproductive cycle of flowering plants, or angiosperms, which make up about 80% of all plant species.
The main function of a flower is to attract pollinators. Bright colours, patterns visible under ultraviolet light, and sweet nectar all serve to lure insects, birds, and even bats. In exchange for nectar, these creatures transfer pollen from one flower to another, fertilising the plant so it can produce seeds.
Pollination strategies vary widely. Some flowers are designed to attract a single type of pollinator, while others appeal to many. Orchids, for example, are famous for their specialised relationships with particular insect species. On the other hand, sunflowers attract bees, beetles, and butterflies.
Not all flowers rely on animals. Some plants, like grasses, use the wind to carry pollen. This is why grasses tend to have small, inconspicuous flowers that do not produce nectar or bright colours.
Humans have long exploited flowers for food, medicine, and cultural purposes. The cultivation of flowering plants has given rise to entire industries — from floriculture to perfume production. Certain flowers, like the saffron crocus, produce valuable spices. Others, like chamomile, are used for their calming properties in herbal teas.
However, flower biodiversity is under threat. Habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide use have led to a decline in pollinator populations. Without bees and other pollinators, many flowering plants would struggle to reproduce, jeopardising food crops that rely on insect pollination.
Conservation efforts include planting wildflower meadows, reducing pesticide use, and protecting habitats. Scientists are also researching how to breed plants that are more resilient to environmental changes.
In the end, flowers are not just symbols of beauty but are central to ecosystems, agriculture, and human culture. Protecting them and the creatures they depend on is crucial for a healthy planet.
Questions 14–17
Complete the summary below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.
Flowers attract (14) ________ like insects and birds by offering nectar and vivid colours. Some species, such as (15) ________, have highly specialised relationships with insects. Plants like (16) ________ do not rely on animals but instead use the (17) ________ for pollination.
Questions 18–22
Match each use of flowers with the correct description.
Write the correct letter, A–F.
A. Floriculture
B. Perfume production
C. Saffron crocus
D. Chamomile
E. Wind pollination
F. Wildflower meadows
- Growing and selling ornamental plants
- Produces an expensive spice
- Used for calming herbal teas
- Pollination method of grasses
- Helps protect pollinators
Questions 23–26
Choose the correct letter A, B, C or D.
- Why do flowers have bright colours and nectar?
A) To store seeds for winter.
B) To attract pollinators.
C) To protect themselves from predators.
D) To make wind pollination easier. - What threat do pollinators face?
A) They are not needed for food crops.
B) Climate change and pesticides reduce their numbers.
C) They damage flowers during pollination.
D) They only live in wildflower meadows. - How can humans help protect pollinators?
A) By planting more wildflowers.
B) By cutting down forests.
C) By increasing pesticide use.
D) By avoiding flowering plants. - What is the main message of this passage?
A) Flowers are only valuable for decoration.
B) Pollination is not important for food crops.
C) Flowers are essential for ecosystems and human life.
D) Wind pollination is the only natural method.
Passage 3: The Impact of Mobile Technology
You should spend about 20 minutes on Questions 27–40, which are based on the reading passage below.
Mobile technology has dramatically transformed the way people communicate, work, and access information. In just a few decades, mobile phones have evolved from bulky devices used only for calls to smartphones that serve as portable computers.
Smartphones now combine multiple technologies — cameras, GPS, internet connectivity, and apps — into a single device. This convergence has enabled new industries, from ride-sharing services to mobile banking, which rely on millions of people having internet access in their pockets.
One significant impact of mobile technology is the way it has changed social interaction. Instant messaging, social media, and video calls allow people to connect across great distances. However, critics argue that heavy smartphone use can reduce face-to-face interactions and contribute to problems such as digital addiction and declining mental well-being.
Mobile devices have also revolutionised education and healthcare. Students can access online resources, attend virtual classes, and collaborate globally. In healthcare, mobile apps help patients track medical conditions, book appointments, and consult doctors remotely.
Despite these benefits, mobile technology raises concerns. Privacy and data security are major issues, as smartphones collect large amounts of personal information. Data breaches and misuse of user data by companies have sparked debates about regulation.
Moreover, the environmental impact of mobile devices is significant. Producing smartphones requires rare minerals and large amounts of energy. Many devices have a short lifespan, contributing to electronic waste that often ends up in developing countries.
Companies and consumers are beginning to address these challenges. Some manufacturers are designing phones that are easier to repair or recycle. Users are encouraged to upgrade less frequently or recycle old devices responsibly.
Ultimately, mobile technology continues to evolve, offering immense benefits and new challenges. Its role in shaping modern society shows no signs of slowing down.
Questions 27–31
Do the following statements agree with the information in the passage?
Write TRUE, FALSE or NOT GIVEN.
- Mobile phones were originally small and lightweight.
- Smartphones have made new businesses possible.
- Mobile technology always improves mental health.
- Mobile apps can help people manage health issues.
- Rare minerals are needed to make smartphones.
Questions 32–36
Complete the summary below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.
Smartphones now include tools like cameras and (32) ________, which enable new industries. Critics say excessive use may reduce (33) ________ contact. Mobile devices help students study and patients access (34) ________. However, there are risks to (35) ________ and the environment. People should recycle devices to reduce (36) ________ waste.
Questions 37–40
Choose the correct letter A, B, C or D.
- How have smartphones affected work and communication?
A) They have made calls more expensive.
B) They have had no impact on new industries.
C) They have made global connection easier.
D) They have replaced all computers. - What problem is linked to heavy smartphone use?
A) Higher recycling rates
B) Improved face-to-face interaction
C) Digital addiction and less social contact
D) Better sleep quality - How are companies responding to environmental concerns?
A) By using more rare minerals
B) By encouraging longer phone lifespans
C) By increasing electronic waste
D) By making phones impossible to repair - What is the main idea of the passage?
A) Mobile technology is disappearing.
B) Mobile technology has benefits and challenges.
C) Smartphones are only used for calls.
D) The internet is not important for smartphones.
Answer Key
Passage 1: The Human Microbiome
Questions 1–5
(TRUE / FALSE / NOT GIVEN)
- FALSE — The “ten times more” claim was revised; the ratio is closer to one-to-one.
- TRUE — Most microorganisms live in the gut.
- FALSE — The microbiome includes bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes.
- TRUE — Babies’ immune systems mature through exposure to microbes.
- TRUE — Antibiotics can reduce the richness of the microbiome.
Questions 6–9
(Sentence completion)
6. carbohydrates
7. autoimmune
8. brain
9. fibre
Questions 10–13
(Multiple choice)
10. B — They digest food and protect against harmful microbes.
11. C — Modern lifestyles, including over-sanitisation, can reduce diversity.
12. B — The gut-brain axis links gut bacteria and mental health.
13. C — The main idea is that the human microbiome is vital for health.
Passage 2: The Fascinating World of Flowers
Questions 14–17 (Summary completion)
14. pollinators
15. orchids
16. grasses
17. wind
Questions 18–22 (Matching)
18. A — Floriculture: growing and selling ornamental plants
19. C — Saffron crocus: produces a valuable spice
20. D — Chamomile: used for calming herbal teas
21. E — Wind pollination: pollination method of grasses
22. F — Wildflower meadows: help protect pollinators
Questions 23–26 (Multiple choice)
23. B — Flowers attract pollinators with colours and nectar.
24. B — Climate change and pesticides threaten pollinators.
25. A — Planting wildflowers supports pollinators.
26. C — Flowers are essential for ecosystems and human life.
Passage 3: The Impact of Mobile Technology
Questions 27–31 (TRUE / FALSE / NOT GIVEN)
27. FALSE — Early mobile phones were bulky, not small and lightweight.
28. TRUE — Smartphones have enabled new businesses and industries.
29. FALSE — Heavy use can reduce mental well-being.
30. TRUE — Apps help people manage health conditions.
31. TRUE — Rare minerals are needed to make smartphones.
Questions 32–36 (Summary completion)
32. GPS
33. face-to-face
34. healthcare
35. privacy
36. electronic
Questions 37–40 (Multiple choice)
37. C — Smartphones have made global connection easier.
38. C — Heavy use can lead to digital addiction and less in-person contact.
39. B — Companies encourage longer lifespans and recycling.
40. B — The passage shows mobile tech has benefits and challenges.
