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General Training Reading Practice Test-2

 

Passage 1 – The Evolution of Online Education

In the early days of education, learning was mostly restricted to physical classrooms where teachers lectured, and students listened. For centuries, knowledge was transmitted face-to-face, often within limited communities. However, the desire to expand access to education gave birth to new methods of teaching. By the 19th century, correspondence courses began to appear. These courses allowed students to receive study materials through postal mail, complete assignments at home, and then return them to instructors for evaluation. Though slow, this system represented one of the earliest forms of distance learning and provided opportunities for people who lived far from universities or who could not attend regular classes.

With the invention of radio and later television, new dimensions were added to distance learning. Educational radio broadcasts and televised lectures became popular in the mid-20th century. Universities in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom experimented with programs that could reach thousands of learners simultaneously. One of the most famous examples was the British Open University, established in 1969, which used television and radio to deliver academic content to students across the nation. This marked a turning point, showing that large-scale distance education could be both credible and effective.

The arrival of personal computers and the internet in the late 20th century completely revolutionized distance learning. Suddenly, lectures could be recorded and shared digitally, assignments could be submitted online, and students could interact with teachers in real time. By the 1990s, many universities were experimenting with online platforms to supplement their classroom teaching. In the early 2000s, the term “e-learning” became widely known, as websites offered courses on a variety of topics ranging from computer programming to language learning. Unlike correspondence courses, online education allowed much faster communication between teacher and student, often eliminating the need for physical presence entirely.

The 2010s brought the rise of MOOCs—Massive Open Online Courses. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udemy allowed millions of students worldwide to enroll in courses offered by prestigious universities and industry experts. These courses often included video lectures, quizzes, discussion forums, and certificates of completion. MOOCs made it possible for someone in a small town in India to take a course in computer science from Stanford University or for a working mother in Brazil to learn digital marketing from Harvard professors. This democratization of education was celebrated as a major step toward global equality of opportunity.

However, online education has not been free from criticism. One major concern is the lack of personal interaction. While forums and video calls offer some connection, they cannot fully replace the social benefits of traditional classrooms. Many students report feelings of isolation when studying online. Additionally, the issue of self-discipline arises. Online learning requires a high degree of motivation and time management, which not all learners possess. As a result, dropout rates in online courses are often higher than in traditional settings. Employers, too, have sometimes been skeptical about the value of online certificates, questioning whether they truly represent deep learning or just superficial knowledge.

The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 acted as a stress test for online education. With schools and universities forced to close their doors, millions of students had no choice but to study online. Platforms like Zoom, Google Classroom, and Microsoft Teams became essential tools. While many students struggled with limited internet access and lack of quiet study spaces, others adapted quickly and even thrived. Teachers also faced challenges in modifying their teaching styles for online platforms. Yet, the pandemic accelerated the acceptance of online education worldwide, convincing even traditional institutions of its long-term potential.

Another advantage of online education is flexibility. Learners can access lectures at any time, allowing them to balance studies with work or family responsibilities. This flexibility is especially valuable for adult learners, who often cannot attend fixed class schedules. Moreover, online education has opened doors for people with disabilities. Those who face challenges traveling to campuses can now participate in classes from the comfort of their homes. Likewise, people in remote areas with limited access to physical institutions can pursue quality education online, provided they have internet access.

The future of online education looks promising. Advances in artificial intelligence and virtual reality are expected to make digital classrooms more interactive and engaging. Imagine a medical student practicing surgery in a virtual environment or a history student exploring a 3D recreation of ancient Rome. These technologies could overcome some of the limitations of traditional online education by creating immersive, hands-on experiences. Furthermore, the rise of adaptive learning systems—where software adjusts lessons based on a learner’s progress—may make studying more personalized and efficient.

Still, challenges remain. Issues of affordability, access, and digital literacy continue to divide learners. In many developing countries, reliable internet remains a luxury, meaning millions are still excluded from the benefits of online learning. There are also concerns about data privacy, as online platforms collect large amounts of personal information. Lastly, questions remain about the future role of teachers. Will technology replace them, or will it serve as a powerful tool to enhance human teaching?

Overall, online education has evolved from simple correspondence courses to global digital platforms that connect millions of learners. While not perfect, it represents one of the most significant transformations in the history of education. As technology advances and societies adapt, online learning is likely to remain a central pillar of how humans acquire knowledge in the 21st century.

 

Questions 1–13 (Passage 1)

Questions 1–5: True/False/Not Given
Do the following statements agree with the information in the passage?
Write: True / False / Not Given

1. Correspondence courses were introduced in the 19th century.
2. The British Open University used only textbooks for distance learning.
3. MOOCs became popular during the 2010s.
4. Online education always guarantees stronger personal interaction than classrooms.
5. Employers have always fully trusted online course certificates.

Questions 6–9: Matching Information
Match each development with the correct century or decade.

1. 19th century
   B. Mid-20th century
   C. 1990s
   D. 2010s

1. Correspondence learning through postal mail
2. Use of television and radio for lectures
3. Early adoption of online education with computers
4. The rise of massive online platforms like Coursera

Questions 10–13: Sentence Completion
Complete the sentences with NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS.

1. Many students feel ________ while studying online.
2. The COVID-19 pandemic forced schools to adopt ________.
3. Virtual reality may allow students to practice in ________ environments.
4. Online education remains challenging for people in countries with poor ________.

 

Passage 2 – Smart Cities and Urban Living (~1000 words)

Cities have always been at the heart of human civilization. From the ancient cities of Mesopotamia and Egypt to the modern megacities of today, urban areas have been centers of trade, culture, and innovation. However, the rapid pace of urbanization in the 21st century has created challenges never seen before. According to the United Nations, more than half of the world’s population now lives in urban areas, and by 2050, this figure is expected to rise to nearly 70 percent. This growth places enormous pressure on infrastructure, housing, transportation, and the environment. To address these issues, the concept of the “smart city” has emerged, combining technology, sustainability, and planning to create better living spaces for citizens.

At its core, a smart city is a place where digital technologies are integrated into traditional urban infrastructure to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance quality of life. For example, smart traffic systems use sensors and artificial intelligence to monitor congestion and adjust traffic signals in real time, reducing delays and fuel consumption. Similarly, smart grids distribute electricity more efficiently, lowering energy costs and making greater use of renewable sources. Waste management, too, has been transformed by technology. In many cities, bins are equipped with sensors that notify collection services when they are full, preventing overflow and reducing unnecessary trips.

Transportation is often the most visible feature of smart cities. Public transit systems are increasingly adopting digital payment solutions, GPS tracking, and predictive scheduling. In Singapore, for instance, commuters can access real-time bus and train information through mobile apps, making travel more convenient. Meanwhile, cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam are investing heavily in cycling infrastructure, recognizing bicycles as both eco-friendly and efficient modes of transport. In the future, autonomous vehicles and drone deliveries may become part of everyday urban life, further changing how people and goods move through cities.

Another key aspect of smart cities is sustainability. Urban centers are responsible for a large portion of global greenhouse gas emissions, making them critical in the fight against climate change. Smart cities use data to reduce energy consumption and encourage eco-friendly lifestyles. Buildings can be fitted with smart meters that help residents track their energy usage, while green roofs and walls reduce heat and improve air quality. Some cities are also experimenting with urban farming, using vertical gardens and hydroponic systems to grow food locally. This not only shortens supply chains but also reduces transportation-related emissions.

Water management is equally important. Many cities face the dual challenge of water scarcity and flooding. Smart water systems use sensors to detect leaks in pipelines, preventing waste. During heavy rainfall, advanced drainage systems and predictive weather models help cities manage floods more effectively. For instance, Rotterdam in the Netherlands has developed “water plazas”—public squares that double as reservoirs during storms. Such innovations demonstrate how technology and design can work hand in hand to make cities more resilient.

Smart governance is another defining feature of modern urban development. Cities are not just physical spaces but also communities where policies and public services must be delivered efficiently. Digital platforms now allow citizens to interact more directly with local governments. Mobile apps enable residents to report potholes, broken streetlights, or illegal dumping, ensuring quicker responses. Some cities even use online voting systems for community decisions, making governance more participatory and transparent.

However, building smart cities is not without challenges. One major concern is cost. Installing sensors, developing networks, and maintaining digital systems require large investments that not all governments can afford. There are also issues of privacy and data security. As cities collect more data from residents—about their movements, energy use, and even health—questions arise about how this data will be stored, used, and protected. Citizens worry that surveillance could increase, limiting personal freedoms.

Moreover, smart cities risk widening the gap between the rich and poor. High-tech solutions may benefit those who can afford them, while marginalized communities could be left behind. For example, access to reliable internet is essential for many smart services, yet millions around the world still lack it. Without careful planning, smart cities could unintentionally reinforce inequality rather than reduce it.

Despite these concerns, the global trend toward smarter urban development is undeniable. Countries such as South Korea, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates are investing heavily in futuristic cities designed from the ground up with technology in mind. Songdo in South Korea is one of the most famous examples, built with sensors embedded in almost every aspect of infrastructure, from traffic systems to waste management. Similarly, the UAE’s Masdar City aims to be one of the world’s most sustainable urban developments, with renewable energy at its core.

The future of smart cities will likely depend on finding a balance between technology, sustainability, and inclusiveness. Success will not be measured only by the number of sensors or apps but by whether these innovations improve people’s daily lives. Citizens must be at the heart of planning, ensuring that technology serves them rather than the other way around. As cities continue to expand, the smart city model provides a powerful vision of how urban life can be reshaped for the challenges of the 21st century.

 

Questions 14–26 (Passage 2)

Questions 14–18: True/False/Not Given
Write: True / False / Not Given

1. By 2050, nearly three-quarters of the world’s population is expected to live in urban areas.
2. Smart bins can signal collection services when they are full.
3. Copenhagen and Amsterdam are investing in new car-only roads to reduce pollution.
4. Rotterdam has developed water plazas to help control flooding.
5. Citizens can now directly vote for national elections through smart city platforms.

Questions 19–22: Matching Features
Match the innovation with the city or country mentioned.

1. Singapore
   B. Copenhagen
   C. Rotterdam
   D. South Korea

1. Real-time bus and train information
2. Cycling infrastructure development
3. Water plazas for storm management
4. A fully planned smart city like Songdo

Questions 23–26: Sentence Completion
Complete the sentences with NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS.

1. Smart cities help reduce ________ by encouraging eco-friendly lifestyles.
2. Smart meters allow residents to monitor their ________.
3. Some cities are experimenting with urban farming using ________ systems.
4. Masdar City in the UAE is designed around ________ energy.

 

Passage 3 – The Psychology of Happiness

Happiness has fascinated philosophers, poets, and scientists for centuries. From Aristotle’s notion of eudaimonia, which emphasized living a virtuous life, to modern psychology’s studies on positive emotions, human beings have always sought to understand what makes life fulfilling. Today, happiness is no longer just a philosophical question but also a subject of scientific research. Psychologists, neuroscientists, and even economists study happiness, measuring its causes and consequences to improve individual well-being and shape public policies.

At first glance, happiness might seem simple—it is the joy we feel when good things happen. Yet, researchers argue that happiness is a complex combination of emotions, life satisfaction, and purpose. Psychologists often distinguish between two forms of happiness: hedonic and eudaimonic. Hedonic happiness refers to pleasure and the absence of pain—like enjoying a delicious meal or receiving a compliment. Eudaimonic happiness, on the other hand, comes from living a meaningful life, contributing to society, and pursuing personal growth. Both are essential, but many argue that long-term happiness depends more on eudaimonic experiences.

Modern science has uncovered surprising insights about happiness. Studies show that external conditions, such as wealth and social status, have less impact on happiness than many believe. Beyond a certain point, increases in income do little to boost well-being. Instead, relationships, health, and a sense of belonging play much larger roles. For instance, the Harvard Study of Adult Development, one of the longest-running studies in the world, found that close relationships—not money or fame—are the strongest predictors of long-term happiness.

Neuroscience also provides clues. Brain imaging studies reveal that positive emotions are linked to activity in specific areas, such as the prefrontal cortex and the limbic system. The release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin contributes to feelings of joy and satisfaction. Interestingly, practices like mindfulness meditation can change brain activity, increasing resilience and emotional stability. This suggests that happiness is not fixed but can be cultivated through habits and training.

Cultural differences further shape how people define and experience happiness. In Western societies, happiness is often associated with individual achievement and personal freedom. In contrast, many Eastern cultures emphasize harmony, family, and collective well-being. For example, in Japan, the concept of “ikigai” describes a sense of purpose that arises from balancing what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. Such cultural perspectives highlight that happiness is not universal but shaped by social values and traditions.

Public policy has also begun to recognize the importance of happiness. Traditionally, governments measured progress through economic growth indicators like Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, critics argue that GDP does not capture people’s actual quality of life. In response, countries such as Bhutan have introduced the Gross National Happiness (GNH) index, which considers psychological well-being, cultural diversity, environmental conservation, and good governance. Similarly, the United Nations now publishes the World Happiness Report, ranking countries based on surveys of life satisfaction and social support.

Still, the pursuit of happiness has its paradoxes. Psychologists note that constantly striving to be happy can sometimes backfire, creating pressure and disappointment. People who obsessively chase happiness may become less satisfied, as they view every negative emotion as a failure. Instead, researchers suggest focusing on practices that naturally enhance well-being—such as gratitude, kindness, physical activity, and strong social connections. Happiness, in this view, is not a destination but a by-product of living well.

Technology adds another layer of complexity. Social media, for instance, offers opportunities to connect but also increases comparisons, often leading to dissatisfaction. Studies have shown that heavy use of social platforms can lower self-esteem and increase feelings of loneliness, particularly among young people. However, when used mindfully, technology can also spread positive messages, support networks, and access to mental health resources. The challenge is finding balance.

Finally, happiness has measurable benefits beyond personal joy. Research shows that happy people are generally healthier, with stronger immune systems and lower risks of chronic disease. They are also more productive, creative, and resilient in the workplace. Employers increasingly recognize that fostering well-being among staff is not only good for morale but also boosts overall performance. At a societal level, happier citizens are more engaged in their communities and more likely to contribute positively to democracy and social trust.

In conclusion, happiness is a rich and multifaceted subject, influenced by biology, culture, relationships, and choices. It is not merely the absence of suffering but the presence of meaning, connection, and growth. While circumstances play a role, individuals and societies can take active steps to nurture happiness. Whether through meditation, building relationships, shaping fairer policies, or simply appreciating small joys, the pursuit of happiness remains central to the human experience—and perhaps the key to building a more compassionate and sustainable world.

Questions 27–40 (Passage 3)

Questions 27–32: True/False/Not Given
Write: True / False / Not Given

1. Aristotle believed that happiness was mainly about personal wealth.
2. Hedonic happiness is connected to pleasure and avoiding pain.
3. The Harvard Study concluded that fame is the strongest predictor of long-term happiness.
4. Dopamine and serotonin play a role in generating positive emotions.
5. In Japan, the idea of ikigai is related to living without responsibilities.
6. Bhutan uses Gross National Happiness to measure progress.

Questions 33–36: Multiple Choice
Choose the correct letter: A, B, C, or D.

1. Which factor has the LEAST long-term effect on happiness?
   A. Relationships
   B. Income beyond basic needs
   C. Health
   D. Social belonging
2. What is one paradox of happiness?
   A. People are never satisfied with money.
   B. Constantly chasing happiness may reduce it.
   C. Happiness only exists in childhood.
   D. Technology guarantees happiness.
3. What is a common cultural difference in defining happiness?
   A. Western cultures link happiness to collective harmony.
   B. Eastern cultures always ignore personal goals.
   C. Western cultures emphasize personal freedom.
   D. All cultures define happiness in the same way.
4. According to research, happy people are more likely to be:
   A. Lonely and isolated
   B. Healthy and productive
   C. Wealthy and famous
   D. Unaffected by stress

Questions 37–40: Sentence Completion
Complete the sentences with NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS.

1. The World Happiness Report ranks countries based on ________.
2. Practices such as ________ can increase emotional resilience.
3. Heavy use of ________ may lower self-esteem among young people.
4. Happiness can be seen as a ________ of living well.

 

Answer Key

Passage 1 – Workplace Automation

1. False
2. Not Given
3. True
4. False
5. Not Given
6. True
7. D – They allow human workers to focus on more complex tasks.
8. B – Productivity improvements in some companies
9. C – Countries with flexible policies
10. A – Providing opportunities for training
11. Digital skills
12. Ethical challenges
13. Lifelong learning

Passage 2 – Smart Cities

1. True
2. False
3. Not Given
4. False
5. True
6. Not Given
7. C – Cities that use digital technologies
8. A – Inaccurate or insecure systems
9. D – Reduce inequality and build trust
10. Smart sensors
11. Human rights
12. Mobile applications
13. Environmental sustainability

Passage 3 – The Psychology of Happiness

1. False
2. True
3. False
4. True
5. False
6. True
7. B – Income beyond basic needs
8. B – Constantly chasing happiness may reduce it
9. C – Western cultures emphasize personal freedom
10. B – Healthy and productive
11. Surveys of life satisfaction
12. Mindfulness meditation
13. Social media
14. By-product