Instructions

 You will answer 32 questions based on written and visual materials.

 For each question, choose the correct answer from the options marked A, B, C, or D.
 Use a grey lead pencil to fill in your answers on the OMR answer sheet.
 You have 32 minutes to complete this test.
 If you find a question difficult, move on and come back to it later if you have time.

Passage 1: The Mysterious Lake

The lake, hidden deep within the forest, had always been the subject of local legends. Some said
that under its still, dark waters, lay the ruins of an ancient city. Others whispered that at night, the
spirits of the city’s people would rise, their faint lights flickering across the surface like fireflies.
Ava, a young student of history, had grown up hearing these tales but never believed them. That
was until one summer evening, while exploring the forest, she stumbled upon the lake herself.

The sun was setting, casting a golden glow on the water. Ava stood still, staring at the serene
surface. Just as she was about to turn back, something caught her eye—a faint light moving
beneath the water. She blinked, thinking it must have been a trick of the light, but there it was
again, swirling slowly before disappearing. Her heart raced, and though every rational part of her
mind told her to leave, she found herself walking closer to the edge.

Questions:

1. The atmosphere in the first paragraph can best be described as:

o A. Joyful
o B. Mysterious
o C. Tense
o D. Humorous
2. In the second paragraph, Ava’s reaction to the light is primarily one of:
o A. Fear and confusion
o B. Curiosity and hesitation
o C. Anger and frustration
o D. Boredom and disinterest
3. The purpose of mentioning local legends in the passage is to:
o A. Provide background to Ava’s experience
o B. Dismiss the idea of an ancient city
o C. Show Ava’s passion for history
o D. Explain why Ava visits the lake
Passage 2: The Conservation of Sea Turtles

Sea turtles, among the oldest creatures on Earth, have been swimming in our oceans for over 100
million years. However, in recent decades, their populations have drastically declined due to
habitat loss, illegal poaching, and pollution. Conservation efforts are now in place to protect
these magnificent animals, including the establishment of marine reserves, public awareness
campaigns, and stricter laws on hunting.

An important part of sea turtle conservation involves safeguarding nesting sites. Female turtles
come ashore to lay their eggs on sandy beaches, often returning to the same spot where they were
born. But increased human activity has made these sites vulnerable. Light pollution from coastal
developments confuses hatchlings, which rely on the moon’s light to find their way to the sea.
Efforts to reduce artificial lighting and preserve these habitats have helped increase the survival
rates of hatchlings.

Questions:

4. The primary reason for the decline in sea turtle populations is:
o A. Predators in the ocean
o B. Natural disasters
o C. Human-related activities
o D. Increased light pollution
5. According to the passage, hatchlings use the moon’s light to:
o A. Navigate towards the sea
o B. Avoid predators
o C. Locate food sources
o D. Communicate with other turtles
6. Conservation efforts include all of the following except:
o A. Protecting nesting sites
o B. Raising public awareness
o C. Introducing artificial lighting
o D. Creating marine reserves

Passage 3: The Rise of Renewable Energy

The past decade has seen a remarkable shift towards renewable energy sources. Solar, wind, and
hydroelectric power have become more affordable and widely available. In countries like
Denmark and Germany, wind farms dot the landscape, while solar panels cover rooftops in
towns and cities across the world. These changes have been driven not only by environmental
concerns but also by economic factors. As fossil fuel prices rise, renewable energy has become a
more attractive option for both consumers and governments.
Despite these advances, challenges remain. One of the biggest issues is energy storage. Solar and
wind energy production is dependent on weather conditions, which means there can be periods
where little to no energy is generated. Innovations in battery storage are improving, but the
technology is not yet widely accessible. Nevertheless, the future of energy looks bright as
countries continue to invest in sustainable solutions.

Questions:

7. The primary motivation for the shift to renewable energy has been:
o A. Lower energy costs
o B. Environmental and economic concerns
o C. Political pressure from other countries
o D. The depletion of all fossil fuels
8. According to the passage, a key issue with renewable energy is:
o A. The harmful environmental effects
o B. The lack of widespread interest
o C. The high cost of solar panels
o D. The difficulty of storing energy
9. The overall tone of the passage is:
o A. Pessimistic
o B. Cautiously optimistic
o C. Critical of renewable energy
o D. Indifferent to future innovations

Visual Interpretation: Figure – Endangered Species Decline

The chart shows the population decline of three species: Tigers, Elephants, and Gorillas over a
50-year period. Tigers show a 65% decline, Elephants a 45% decline, and Gorillas a 70%
decline. Causes include habitat destruction, poaching, and climate change.
Questions:

10. Which species has seen the largest population decline?

 A. Tigers
 B. Elephants
 C. Gorillas
 D. Both Tigers and Gorillas equally
 11. According to the chart, what is the leading cause of the population decline for all species?

 A. Disease
 B. Habitat destruction
 C. Climate change
 D. Poaching

12. The chart most likely suggests that:

 A. Conservation efforts have failed completely

 B. Habitat destruction is a significant threat to wildlife
 C. Elephants are at greater risk than other species
 D. Climate change has had little impact on endangered species

Passage 1: The Evolution of Human Communication

Human communication has undergone tremendous evolution from primitive sounds and gestures
to sophisticated digital communication that transcends geographical boundaries. The earliest
forms of communication, consisting of grunts, body language, and basic signals, were
predominantly used by early humans to express emotions and survival needs such as hunger,
danger, and reproduction. These primitive signals later evolved into rudimentary spoken
languages, which became the cornerstone of early human societies.

The invention of written language, around 5,000 years ago, marked one of the most significant
milestones in human communication. Writing allowed information to be recorded and
transmitted across time and space, enabling civilizations to thrive. From the hieroglyphs of
Ancient Egypt to the cuneiform of Mesopotamia, written language was initially the preserve of
the elite. Over time, however, literacy spread, particularly with the advent of the printing press in
the 15th century. The printing revolution democratized access to knowledge, reshaping societies
across Europe, leading to the Enlightenment, and setting the stage for the Industrial Revolution.

Fast forward to the 20th and 21st centuries, and the communication landscape has been
transformed by technology. The advent of the telephone, radio, television, and, later, the internet,
created new avenues for information exchange. Mobile phones and social media platforms have
further revolutionized how individuals interact, creating a world where communication is instant,
global, and often superficial.

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) is now leading to another fundamental shift.
AI-driven tools are beginning to mimic human speech and even predict behavior patterns based
on communication data. These technologies are raising ethical questions about privacy, the
control of information, and the future role of human agency in decision-making processes.
Communication is no longer simply a human-to-human interaction; it involves humans,
machines, and complex networks of data.

As human communication continues to evolve, it is becoming clear that the boundaries between
humans and machines are blurring. In the future, it is possible that digital communication might
move beyond the written and spoken word, potentially incorporating brain-to-computer
interfaces, where thoughts are directly transmitted. As we move further into the digital age, the
implications for human society, culture, and relationships are profound and far-reaching.

Questions:

13. The passage suggests that the invention of written language was significant because it:
1. A. Allowed for the creation of spoken languages.
2. B. Made it possible to share information across different societies.
3. C. Limited access to knowledge to only the elite.
4. D. Enabled information to be recorded and passed on through generations.
14. According to the passage, the development of the printing press was a key factor in:
1. A. The spread of literacy and knowledge.
2. B. The decline of oral communication.
3. C. Enhancing communication within royal courts.
4. D. Slowing down the pace of the Industrial Revolution.
15. The author mentions "artificial intelligence (AI)" primarily to:
1. A. Argue that AI will completely replace human communication.
2. B. Introduce a new challenge in the ethics of modern communication.
3. C. Explain how AI has advanced beyond written language.
4. D. Suggest that AI will improve communication in the future.
16. Which of the following best captures the main argument of the passage?
1. A. Human communication has remained largely the same, only differing in form.
2. B. The evolution of human communication is deeply connected to technological
advancements.
3. C. The democratization of communication has undermined traditional societal
structures.
4. D. Digital communication will eventually return to more primitive forms like
gestures.
17. The phrase "blurring the boundaries between humans and machines" (line 19) is most
closely associated with:
1. A. The introduction of social media platforms.
2. B. The development of brain-to-computer interfaces.
3. C. The increasing use of AI in communication.
4. D. The decline in face-to-face communication.

Passage 2: The Complexity of Ecosystem Interactions

Ecosystems are dynamic, interconnected networks of living organisms and their physical
environments. The interactions between different species within an ecosystem play a critical role
in maintaining the balance and functionality of the entire system. One of the most complex
relationships in nature is the predator-prey dynamic, where the survival of predator species is
dependent on their ability to capture and consume prey. This interaction regulates population
sizes and contributes to the overall health of the ecosystem.

However, this delicate balance can be disrupted by external forces such as climate change,
human activities, and the introduction of invasive species. Climate change, in particular, has far-
reaching consequences for ecosystems. Rising global temperatures are altering habitats, forcing
species to migrate, adapt, or face extinction. For instance, polar bears, which rely on sea ice to
hunt seals, are losing their hunting grounds as the ice melts, leading to a dramatic decline in their
population. Similarly, coral reefs, which support a diverse range of marine life, are being
damaged by ocean acidification and increasing water temperatures.

Invasive species present another major threat to ecosystems. These are species that, either
intentionally or accidentally, are introduced into environments where they do not naturally occur.
In many cases, invasive species outcompete native species for resources, leading to declines in
biodiversity. The introduction of the Burmese python to the Florida Everglades is a well-known
example of this phenomenon. With no natural predators, the pythons have decimated populations
of small mammals, drastically altering the food chain and ecosystem dynamics in the region.

Human activities, particularly deforestation and urbanization, are also major drivers of
ecosystem imbalance. By destroying natural habitats to make way for agriculture, industries, and
urban development, humans are reducing the spaces in which animals can live and thrive. This
fragmentation of habitats can lead to isolated populations, reduced genetic diversity, and,
ultimately, species extinction. Deforestation in the Amazon rainforest, for instance, threatens
countless species and diminishes the region’s capacity to act as a global carbon sink.

It is clear that ecosystems are incredibly complex, and their health is closely linked to the
survival of species. As the planet continues to face unprecedented environmental changes,
protecting ecosystems should be a priority to ensure the long-term sustainability of life on Earth.

Questions:

18. The author uses the example of the Burmese python in the Everglades to illustrate:
1. A. The natural adaptation of species to new environments.
2. B. How invasive species can disrupt existing ecosystems.
3. C. The importance of maintaining food chains in ecosystems.
4. D. The role of humans in introducing predators into environments.
19. According to the passage, what is the relationship between predators and prey in an
ecosystem?
1. A. Predators control the population sizes of prey species.
2. B. Prey species determine the survival of predator species.
3. C. Predators help increase biodiversity by eliminating weak prey.
4. D. Predators and prey rarely interact in balanced ecosystems.
20. Which of the following is most likely to result from deforestation, according to the
passage?
 1. A. Increased biodiversity due to human intervention.
2. B. Higher population sizes for species with fewer predators.
3. C. Fragmentation of habitats and reduced genetic diversity.
4. D. Enhanced ability for species to migrate and adapt to new environments.
21. The passage implies that climate change is particularly dangerous for species that:
1. A. Are unable to adapt quickly enough to environmental changes.
2. B. Compete with invasive species for the same resources.
3. C. Rely on constant temperatures for reproduction.
4. D. Live in ecosystems unaffected by human activity.
22. The author’s tone in the passage can best be described as:
1. A. Alarmist and pessimistic
2. B. Concerned and urgent
3. C. Optimistic and hopeful
4. D. Neutral and detached

Passage 3: The Paradox of Globalization

Globalization, the process by which the world becomes increasingly interconnected through
economic, cultural, and political exchange, has shaped modern society in profound ways. Its
proponents argue that it has facilitated unprecedented levels of wealth creation, reduced poverty,
and enhanced cultural exchange. By enabling the free flow of goods, services, and ideas,
globalization has allowed developing nations to integrate into the global economy and improve
their standard of living.

However, the benefits of globalization are not equally distributed. Critics point to the widening
gap between rich and poor, both within and between countries. The outsourcing of
manufacturing jobs from developed nations to countries with cheaper labor has resulted in
significant job losses in certain sectors, while the wealth generated by multinational corporations
often fails to trickle down to the local populations. In many developing countries, globalization
has led to environmental degradation, as natural resources are exploited to fuel global demand.

Furthermore, the cultural implications of globalization are complex. While globalization has
fostered greater cultural understanding and collaboration, it has also led to the homogenization of
cultures. The spread of Western values and consumerism, through the global reach of media and
multinational brands, threatens to erode traditional cultures. Local languages, customs, and
practices are at risk of disappearing as Western culture becomes dominant.

Another paradox of globalization is its impact on political sovereignty. While it has facilitated
cooperation among nations, particularly through organizations like the United Nations and World
Trade Organization, it has also diminished the ability of individual states to control their
economic and social policies. Countries are increasingly beholden to the interests of international
markets, leaving national governments with less autonomy in managing their own affairs.

In the end, globalization is neither entirely positive nor entirely negative. It is a complex and
multifaceted process with both winners and losers. The challenge for policymakers in the 21st
century is to find ways to harness the benefits of globalization while mitigating its downsides,
ensuring that the global economy works for all, not just the privileged few.

Questions:

23. The passage presents globalization primarily as:

1. A. An unequivocally positive force.
2. B. A process that benefits multinational corporations the most.
3. C. A complex process with both positive and negative aspects.
4. D. A system that threatens global political stability.
24. The phrase “homogenization of cultures” in the third paragraph refers to:
1. A. The merging of different cultures into a single, unified culture.
2. B. The disappearance of Western culture in favor of local traditions.
3. C. The spread of diverse cultural practices around the world.
4. D. The replacement of local cultures by dominant global cultures.
25. One of the main criticisms of globalization mentioned in the passage is that:
1. A. It has eliminated poverty in many developing nations.
2. B. It has led to political instability in developed countries.
3. C. It has increased inequality within and between countries.
4. D. It has promoted the development of national industries.
26. According to the passage, one way globalization has affected political sovereignty is by:
1. A. Encouraging greater international cooperation.
2. B. Increasing the autonomy of national governments.
3. C. Reducing the influence of international organizations.
4. D. Limiting the ability of states to manage their own economies.
27. The author suggests that the primary challenge of globalization is to:
1. A. Reverse the effects of environmental degradation.
2. B. Ensure that the benefits of globalization are widely shared.
3. C. Eliminate the dominance of multinational corporations.
4. D. Protect traditional cultures from Western influence.

Passage 4: The Nature of Scientific Revolutions

In his groundbreaking work The Structure of Scientific Revolutions, philosopher Thomas Kuhn
introduced the concept of the paradigm shift, a fundamental change in the basic concepts and
experimental practices of a scientific discipline. According to Kuhn, science does not progress
through a linear accumulation of knowledge, but rather through a series of revolutions, where an
existing paradigm is replaced by a new one. These paradigm shifts are not just changes in
individual theories but shifts in the entire worldview of a scientific community.

Kuhn argued that normal science, the period during which scientists work within an accepted
paradigm, is primarily concerned with solving puzzles within the framework of that paradigm.
However, when anomalies—observations that cannot be explained by the existing paradigm—
accumulate, they eventually lead to a crisis. During this crisis, the scientific community becomes
open to new ideas, and a paradigm shift occurs when a new theory better explains the anomalies
and offers a new framework for research.

One of the most famous examples of a paradigm shift is the transition from Newtonian
mechanics to Einstein’s theory of relativity. Newton’s laws had been the foundation of physics
for over two centuries, but they could not explain certain phenomena, such as the behavior of
light and the orbit of Mercury. Einstein’s theory of relativity provided a new paradigm that
addressed these anomalies and fundamentally changed the way scientists understood space, time,
and gravity.

Kuhn’s ideas about scientific revolutions challenged the traditional view of science as a steady,
objective process of discovery. Instead, he highlighted the subjective and sociological elements
of scientific progress. He showed that the acceptance of a new paradigm often depends on factors
beyond empirical evidence, such as the persuasive power of its proponents and the willingness of
the scientific community to embrace change.

Although Kuhn’s theory has been influential, it has also been the subject of debate. Some critics
argue that he overemphasized the role of revolutions in science and underestimated the
importance of gradual, cumulative progress. Others contend that his focus on paradigms
oversimplifies the complexity of scientific discovery, which often involves multiple competing
theories and ongoing revisions.

Questions:

28. According to Kuhn’s theory, scientific progress is marked by:

1. A. Gradual and cumulative advancements.
2. B. A constant accumulation of objective knowledge.
3. C. Periods of normal science punctuated by paradigm shifts.
4. D. A steady replacement of old theories with new ones.
29. The term "paradigm shift" as used in the passage refers to:
1. A. The incremental changes in scientific theories over time.
2. B. A complete transformation in the foundational concepts of a scientific field.
3. C. The rejection of new ideas in favor of traditional scientific theories.
4. D. The gradual acceptance of anomalies within a current framework.
30. The transition from Newtonian mechanics to Einstein’s theory of relativity is cited as an
example of:
1. A. A scientific theory that has never been challenged.
2. B. A gradual improvement upon Newton’s laws.
3. C. A paradigm shift resulting from unexplained anomalies.
4. D. The superiority of modern science over historical models.
31. Kuhn’s view of scientific revolutions differs from traditional views in that he:
1. A. Argues that all scientific discoveries are the result of revolutions.
 2. B. Focuses on the social and subjective aspects of scientific change.
3. C. Suggests that scientific progress is entirely unpredictable.
4. D. Believes that revolutions in science occur every few decades.
32. One of the criticisms of Kuhn’s theory is that it:
1. A. Fails to recognize the importance of social factors in scientific progress.
2. B. Overemphasizes the significance of paradigm shifts in scientific discovery.
3. C. Does not adequately explain the role of anomalies in science.
4. D. Underestimates the resistance of scientists to new theories.

Passage 1: The Mysterious Lake

1. B. Mysterious
(The atmosphere is described with suspense and hints of something unknown in the lake.)
2. B. Curiosity and hesitation
(Ava feels both intrigued and hesitant about the light, reflecting her cautious curiosity.)
3. A. Provide background to Ava’s experience
(The legends are mentioned to set the scene for Ava’s discovery of the lake.)

Passage 2: The Conservation of Sea Turtles

4. C. Human-related activities
(The passage explicitly links human activities to the decline in sea turtle populations.)
5. A. Navigate towards the sea
(The passage explains how hatchlings use the moon’s light to guide them to the ocean.)
6. C. Introducing artificial lighting
(Efforts aim to reduce artificial lighting, not increase it, to protect the hatchlings.)

Passage 3: The Rise of Renewable Energy

7. B. Environmental and economic concerns

(The passage mentions both the environment and the rising cost of fossil fuels as
motivators.)
8. D. The difficulty of storing energy
(The issue of energy storage is highlighted as a challenge for renewable energy.)
9. B. Cautiously optimistic
(The passage acknowledges challenges but is hopeful about future innovations.)

Visual Interpretation: Endangered Species Decline

 10. C. Gorillas
(Gorillas show the largest population decline at 70%.)
11. B. Habitat destruction
(The passage indicates that human-related activities, particularly habitat destruction, are a
major cause.)
12. B. Habitat destruction is a significant threat to wildlife
(The overall message is that habitat destruction is a critical factor in population declines.)

Passage 4: The Paradox of Globalization

1. C. A complex process with both positive and negative aspects

(The passage acknowledges both benefits and downsides of globalization.)
2. D. The replacement of local cultures by dominant global cultures
(The passage discusses how Western consumerism is replacing traditional cultures.)
3. C. It has increased inequality within and between countries
(The passage points out the widening gap between rich and poor as a key issue.)
4. D. Limiting the ability of states to manage their own economies
(The passage explains that globalization can reduce the autonomy of national
governments.)
5. B. Ensure that the benefits of globalization are widely shared
(The author calls for policymakers to focus on making globalization work for everyone.)

Passage 5: The Nature of Scientific Revolutions

1. C. Periods of normal science punctuated by paradigm shifts

(Kuhn’s theory emphasizes shifts rather than steady accumulation of knowledge.)
2. B. A complete transformation in the foundational concepts of a scientific field
(A paradigm shift is described as a total change in the basic concepts of a discipline.)
3. C. A paradigm shift resulting from unexplained anomalies
(Einstein’s theory of relativity is an example of a paradigm shift caused by unexplained
anomalies.)
4. B. Focuses on the social and subjective aspects of scientific change
(Kuhn highlights the role of subjective and sociological factors in scientific revolutions.)
5. B. Overemphasizes the significance of paradigm shifts in scientific discovery
(Critics argue that Kuhn downplays the role of gradual progress in science.)