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Academic Reading Test 

Passage 1: The Disappearing Glaciers

Glaciers, vast bodies of ice slowly moving across land, have shaped the Earth’s surface for millions of years. From carving out valleys to regulating freshwater supplies, they play a critical role in the natural environment and human societies. However, climate change has accelerated their retreat at an alarming pace, raising profound questions about the future of global ecosystems and human survival.

Glaciers act as natural freshwater reservoirs. They store vast quantities of water in frozen form and release it gradually during warmer months. In countries like India, Pakistan, and China, rivers such as the Ganges, Indus, and Yangtze depend heavily on glacial melt. Millions of people rely on this steady supply for drinking water, agriculture, and hydroelectric power. Without glaciers, water flow would become irregular—heavy floods during summer and droughts in winter. This irregularity has already begun in parts of South America and Central Asia, where reduced glacial mass has disrupted traditional farming practices.

The retreat of glaciers is not merely a local concern; it has global repercussions. For example, melting in Greenland and Antarctica contributes to sea-level rise, threatening coastal communities worldwide. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), sea levels could rise by up to one meter by 2100 if current trends continue. This rise would submerge low-lying islands, displace millions of people, and create climate refugees on an unprecedented scale.

Another less visible impact of glacial melt is on global ocean currents. The influx of freshwater into oceans from melting ice disrupts the delicate balance of salinity. Currents such as the Gulf Stream, which regulate weather patterns across the Atlantic, are already slowing down. A weakened Gulf Stream could result in harsher winters in Europe, stronger hurricanes in North America, and unpredictable monsoons in South Asia. In this way, shrinking glaciers have far-reaching impacts well beyond their immediate surroundings.

The ecological consequences are equally profound. Glacial meltwater nourishes ecosystems that support a wide variety of flora and fauna. For instance, salmon populations in Alaska rely on cold, oxygen-rich water fed by glaciers. As glaciers shrink, streams warm up, reducing oxygen levels and threatening fish survival. This has a cascading effect, as bears, birds, and indigenous communities dependent on salmon suffer from dwindling food sources. Similar stories play out in the Andes, Himalayas, and Alps, where ecosystems finely tuned to cold conditions face collapse.

Despite these challenges, glaciers also serve as valuable scientific archives. Layers of ice trap tiny air bubbles, dust, and pollen grains, preserving a record of Earth’s atmosphere over hundreds of thousands of years. By drilling ice cores, scientists can reconstruct past climates and understand how human activity has altered natural cycles. For example, ice cores from Antarctica reveal a dramatic rise in greenhouse gases since the Industrial Revolution, linking human activity to global warming. The melting of glaciers, therefore, also means the loss of this irreplaceable library of Earth’s history.

Yet, not all is bleak. Some communities are developing innovative ways to adapt. In Ladakh, India, engineers have created “ice stupas”—artificial glaciers built to store winter water for summer use. Similarly, in Chile and Peru, farmers are reviving ancient water management systems that capture and store glacial runoff more efficiently. While these efforts cannot halt the global retreat of glaciers, they provide models of resilience and adaptation.

The question of whether humanity can save glaciers remains contentious. Some argue that only drastic reductions in greenhouse gas emissions can slow their retreat, while others believe that adaptation is the more realistic path forward. What is undeniable is that glaciers are disappearing at a rate never before seen in human history. Their loss is not just a scientific or environmental issue, but a humanitarian crisis that demands urgent global attention.

 

Questions for Passage 1 (13 Questions)

Questions 1–5: True / False / Not Given
Write TRUE if the statement agrees with the passage.
Write FALSE if the statement contradicts the passage.
Write NOT GIVEN if there is no information.

1. Glaciers release most of their water during the winter months.
2. The Ganges and Yangtze rivers depend on glacial melt for their flow.
3. Sea levels are already one meter higher than they were a century ago.
4. Melting glaciers can affect ocean currents.
5. Salmon populations in Alaska are increasing due to warmer waters.

 

Questions 6–9: Multiple Choice
Choose the correct letter A, B, C, or D.

1. What role do glaciers primarily play in human society?
   A. They generate rainfall
   B. They provide steady freshwater supplies
   C. They protect coastal cities
   D. They reduce hurricanes
2. What could happen if the Gulf Stream weakens?
   A. Europe may experience harsher winters
   B. South America will face droughts
   C. Asia will become colder overall
   D. Hurricanes will disappear
3. What do ice cores primarily reveal?
   A. Geological shifts in tectonic plates
   B. Patterns of human migration
   C. Past levels of atmospheric gases
   D. Sea-level fluctuations
4. Which community innovation is mentioned in the passage?
   A. Building artificial glaciers in Ladakh
   B. Constructing seawalls in Greenland
   C. Relocating villages in Alaska
   D. Planting mangroves in South America

 

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

1. The IPCC warns sea levels could rise by ______ by 2100.
2. Shrinking glaciers reduce ______ levels in streams, endangering fish.
3. Ice stupas in Ladakh are designed to store ______.
4. The author describes glaciers as a disappearing ______ of Earth’s history.

 

Passage 2: The Rise of the Sharing Economy

In the early years of the 21st century, a quiet revolution began to reshape the way people consume goods and services. This movement, often referred to as the “sharing economy,” has since grown into a global phenomenon that challenges traditional models of ownership and commerce. From booking a room through Airbnb to hailing a ride via Uber, millions of people around the world now participate in systems where access takes precedence over ownership.

At the heart of the sharing economy lies a simple idea: unused resources can be turned into valuable commodities. A spare bedroom, a parked car, or even an idle tool can generate income when made available to others. Online platforms serve as intermediaries, connecting individuals who have something to share with those who need it. This peer-to-peer model not only creates new opportunities for income but also promotes more efficient use of resources.

The sharing economy, however, is not entirely new. Cooperative systems and barter arrangements have existed for centuries. Farmers once shared equipment, neighbors lent tools, and travelers stayed in communal inns. What distinguishes the modern sharing economy is its reliance on digital technology. Smartphone apps, online payment systems, and real-time feedback mechanisms have made it easier than ever for strangers to transact with a sense of trust and accountability.

Proponents of the sharing economy argue that it democratizes access. In cities where public transportation is limited, ride-sharing provides affordable mobility. Short-term accommodation platforms allow budget travelers to stay in prime locations at lower costs. Equipment-sharing services enable small businesses to access expensive tools without large upfront investments. For many users, the sharing economy represents freedom, flexibility, and empowerment in a world where traditional employment and ownership models are increasingly strained.

The economic impact of this trend is significant. A 2020 report by PwC estimated that the global sharing economy could be worth $335 billion by 2025. This growth is fueled not only by consumer demand but also by the rise of “micro-entrepreneurs”—individuals who earn supplemental income through part-time participation. For instance, drivers on ride-sharing platforms often treat it as a side job, using their free time to generate extra revenue. Similarly, homeowners renting spare rooms can offset mortgage costs, creating financial resilience.

Nevertheless, the rise of the sharing economy has sparked controversy. Critics argue that it undermines labor rights and creates unfair competition. Traditional taxi drivers, for example, often face stricter licensing regulations and higher insurance costs, while ride-sharing drivers may operate with fewer restrictions. This imbalance has led to protests in many cities. Furthermore, the classification of workers as “independent contractors” rather than employees denies them benefits such as health insurance, paid leave, and job security.

Another major concern relates to regulation and safety. Hotels are subject to fire codes, hygiene inspections, and zoning laws, while hosts on home-sharing platforms may not face the same scrutiny. Incidents of theft, fraud, and even violent crime have been reported, raising questions about consumer protection. Governments around the world are struggling to adapt regulations to a rapidly changing marketplace, attempting to balance innovation with public safety and fairness.

The environmental impact of the sharing economy is complex. On one hand, greater resource efficiency can reduce waste: car-sharing means fewer vehicles on the road, and equipment-sharing minimizes unnecessary production. On the other hand, cheap and easy access may encourage overconsumption. For example, the availability of low-cost flights and accommodations has been linked to an increase in tourism that strains local environments. Thus, while the sharing economy promises sustainability, its real ecological footprint remains contested.

Social scientists also note broader cultural consequences. The shift from ownership to access challenges long-held notions of status and identity. In many societies, possessions such as cars or homes have traditionally signified wealth and stability. The sharing economy introduces a different model, where mobility, experiences, and networks of trust take precedence. Some scholars argue that this fosters community, while others worry it encourages precarious lifestyles lacking long-term security.

Despite its challenges, the sharing economy shows no signs of slowing down. Younger generations, in particular, seem more inclined to value access over ownership. Surveys suggest that Millennials and Generation Z are more comfortable sharing rides, homes, and even clothing compared to older cohorts. For them, the sharing economy is not merely a convenience but an extension of their digital lives, where platforms mediate everything from friendships to financial transactions.

The future of the sharing economy will likely depend on regulation, technology, and societal values. If governments can establish fair frameworks that protect workers and consumers without stifling innovation, the model may become an enduring part of global commerce. If not, it risks being undermined by scandals, inequalities, and backlash from traditional industries. Either way, the sharing economy has already reshaped the global marketplace, raising profound questions about what it means to own, work, and consume in the 21st century.

 

Questions for Passage 2 (14 Questions)

Questions 14–18: Matching Information
Match each statement (A–E) with the correct paragraph (i–viii).

1. Ride-sharing may provide mobility where public transport is weak.
   B. The concept of sharing is not unique to the modern age.
   C. Governments face difficulties adapting rules to this trend.
   D. The environmental consequences of the sharing economy are mixed.
   E. Younger generations are more open to sharing than older ones.

Paragraphs:
i. 2nd paragraph
ii. 3rd paragraph
iii. 4th paragraph
iv. 6th paragraph
v. 7th paragraph
vi. 8th paragraph
vii. 10th paragraph

 

Questions 19–22: Multiple Choice
Choose the correct letter A, B, C, or D.

1. What makes the modern sharing economy distinct from earlier forms of sharing?
   A. It is based on agriculture.
   B. It uses advanced digital platforms.
   C. It depends on barter systems.
   D. It eliminates the need for money.
2. According to PwC, what is the projected value of the sharing economy by 2025?
   A. $100 billion
   B. $200 billion
   C. $335 billion
   D. $500 billion
3. What problem do traditional taxi drivers face compared to ride-sharing drivers?
   A. Longer working hours
   B. More stringent regulations
   C. Lack of demand
   D. Poor navigation systems
4. What cultural shift is associated with the sharing economy?
   A. Status is increasingly defined by experiences rather than possessions.
   B. People now value permanent housing more than ever.
   C. Wealth is measured only by ownership of cars and homes.
   D. Consumers are abandoning digital platforms.

 

Questions 23–27: True / False / Not Given

1. Ride-sharing platforms allow people to earn a full-time salary.
2. Hotels and home-sharing hosts are regulated by identical safety laws.
3. Some sharing economy practices may encourage excessive tourism.
4. The sharing economy has already become the largest sector of the world economy.
5. Generations born after the year 2000 are particularly comfortable with sharing services.

 

Questions 28–29: Sentence Completion
Complete the sentences with NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS.

1. Many workers in the sharing economy are classified as ______ rather than employees.
2. The future success of the sharing economy may depend on ______ by governments.

 

Passage 3: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) has provoked both excitement and apprehension in recent years. From self-driving cars to advanced medical diagnostics, AI promises to revolutionize industries and redefine the very nature of human labor. Yet, as machines become increasingly capable of performing complex tasks once thought to require human intelligence, societies are confronted with fundamental questions: Will AI create more jobs than it eliminates, or are we heading toward mass technological unemployment?

Historically, fears of job displacement due to technological change are nothing new. During the Industrial Revolution, workers in textile factories feared that mechanical looms would render them obsolete. While many traditional jobs did vanish, new industries emerged, offering employment in areas previously unimaginable. Economists often cite this historical precedent to argue that AI, too, will ultimately generate new forms of work. For instance, the rise of the internet destroyed some retail and publishing jobs but created entirely new sectors such as digital marketing, cybersecurity, and app development.

AI, however, differs from previous technologies in one crucial aspect: its ability to learn and adapt autonomously. Unlike machines that merely replace human muscle power, AI systems replicate aspects of human cognition. They can analyze massive datasets, recognize patterns, and even make decisions with minimal human input. This raises the possibility that AI could replace not only manual labor but also white-collar professions such as law, accounting, and journalism. A study by Oxford University in 2013 estimated that nearly 47% of jobs in the United States were at risk of automation.

The consequences of such widespread automation are deeply contested. Optimists envision a future where machines handle routine tasks, freeing humans to pursue creative, strategic, or caring professions. They argue that AI could enable shorter workweeks, increased leisure time, and higher productivity. Pessimists, however, warn of deepening inequality, as the benefits of automation may accrue primarily to corporations and highly skilled workers who design and maintain AI systems. Low- and middle-skilled workers, by contrast, risk being left behind, exacerbating existing social divides.

Another pressing issue is the ethical dimension of AI in the workplace. For instance, algorithms are increasingly used in hiring decisions, often analyzing resumes and even video interviews. Critics argue that such systems may reinforce existing biases if trained on skewed data. Similarly, the deployment of AI-driven surveillance in warehouses and offices raises concerns about worker privacy and autonomy. If every movement is monitored and every keystroke logged, the workplace could become a site of unprecedented control.

Governments and policymakers are grappling with how best to respond. Some advocate for stronger regulation of AI to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability. Others emphasize the importance of education and reskilling programs to prepare workers for an AI-driven economy. Countries like Finland have already introduced national AI courses designed to make citizens more digitally literate. In contrast, critics argue that education alone may not be enough, and propose measures such as universal basic income (UBI) to cushion the impact of job displacement.

The role of AI in reshaping work also depends heavily on cultural attitudes. In some societies, technological adoption is embraced as progress, while in others it is resisted due to fears of social disruption. Japan, for instance, has invested heavily in robotics to address its aging population and labor shortages. By contrast, debates in Europe often focus more on ethical risks and labor protections. These cultural variations suggest that the future of AI and work may not follow a single global trajectory but diverge based on local values and priorities.

Despite divergent views, there is widespread agreement that the pace of AI development is accelerating. Advances in machine learning, natural language processing, and robotics are occurring at exponential rates. Unlike previous technologies that unfolded over decades, AI innovations can become widespread within just a few years. This rapid diffusion raises challenges for governments, businesses, and workers alike, as adaptation must occur faster than in any prior industrial transition.

Ultimately, the question is not whether AI will transform work, but how societies will manage that transformation. Will they harness AI to create a more equitable, sustainable future, or will they allow it to deepen inequalities and displace millions without support? The answer lies not in the technology itself but in the choices humanity makes—choices that will shape the world of work for generations to come.

 

Questions for Passage 3 (13 Questions)

Questions 30–34: True / False / Not Given

1. The Industrial Revolution resulted only in job destruction without creating new industries.
2. AI differs from past technologies because it can mimic human cognitive functions.
3. A 2013 Oxford study predicted nearly half of U.S. jobs were at risk of automation.
4. Optimists believe AI could reduce average working hours.
5. Surveillance technologies driven by AI may threaten worker privacy.

 

Questions 35–38: Multiple Choice
Choose the correct letter A, B, C, or D.

1. What concern do pessimists highlight regarding AI’s impact?
   A. It will increase leisure time for workers.
   B. It may deepen economic inequality.
   C. It will reduce global productivity.
   D. It will eliminate all forms of employment.
2. What solution has Finland implemented to prepare for an AI-driven economy?
   A. A national reskilling initiative
   B. Universal basic income
   C. Stricter AI surveillance rules
   D. Tax breaks for corporations
3. Which country has embraced robotics to address demographic challenges?
   A. United States
   B. Japan
   C. Germany
   D. China
4. Why is AI spreading faster than previous technologies?
   A. It requires fewer resources.
   B. It evolves at an exponential pace.
   C. It is less controversial.
   D. It is immune to regulation.

 

Questions 39–40: Matching Headings
Match the following headings (i–v) to the correct paragraphs (1–4).

Headings:
i. Ethical issues of AI in the workplace
ii. Lessons from past industrial changes
iii. Diverging cultural responses to AI adoption
iv. The rapid pace of technological diffusion
v. Uncertainty about future employment

Paragraphs:
39. Paragraph 2
40. Paragraph 5

 

 

IELTS Academic Reading – Answer Key

Passage 1: The Disappearing Glaciers (Q1–13)

True / False / Not Given

1. FALSE
2. TRUE
3. FALSE
4. TRUE
5. FALSE

Multiple Choice
6. B
7. A
8. C
9. A

Sentence Completion
10. one meter
11. oxygen
12. winter water
13. library

 

Passage 2: The Rise of the Sharing Economy (Q14–29)

Matching Information
14. A → iii
15. B → ii
16. C → v
17. D → vi
18. E → vii

Multiple Choice
19. B
20. C
21. B
22. A

True / False / Not Given
23. NOT GIVEN
24. FALSE
25. TRUE
26. FALSE
27. TRUE

Sentence Completion
28. independent contractors
29. regulation

 

Passage 3: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work (Q30–40)

True / False / Not Given
30. FALSE
31. TRUE
32. TRUE
33. TRUE
34. TRUE

Multiple Choice
35. B
36. A
37. B
38. B

Matching Headings
39. ii
40. i