1.
Incomplete Sentences – Choose the one word or phrase that best completes the sentence.
2.
You watched a video of John Rice, President and CEO GE Global Growth and Operations, talking about GE's presence in Mexico. According to the video, answer the following questions.
3.
Read the following sentences and find the mistake:
4.
In the following sentences, select the most appropriate tense or verb form for each marked section.
5.
Select the correct answer.
6.
According to the manufacturer, the new generator is capable of ___________ the amount of power consumed by our facility by nearly ten percent.
Correct Answer
A. Reducing
Explanation
The correct answer is "Reducing" because it is the present participle form of the verb "reduce," which is used to show an ongoing action. In this context, the manufacturer claims that the new generator is capable of continuously decreasing or lowering the amount of power consumed by the facility by nearly ten percent.
7.
___________our production figures improve in the near future, we foresee having to hire more people between now and July.
Correct Answer
C. Unless
Explanation
Unless our production figures improve in the near future, we foresee having to hire more people between now and July. This means that if our production figures do not improve, we will have to hire more people.
8.
John was awarded a ________________ to study child psychology.
Correct Answer
D. Subsidy
Explanation
A subsidy is a financial aid or support given by the government or an organization to assist someone in pursuing their studies or research. In this case, John was awarded a subsidy specifically to study child psychology, indicating that he received financial assistance to cover the costs of his education in this field.
9.
Shares in telecommunication companies were marked _____ on the news that one of them had gone bankrupt
Correct Answer
A. Up
Explanation
The correct answer is "Up." When a telecommunication company goes bankrupt, it can create uncertainty and instability in the market. As a result, investors may sell off their shares in other telecommunication companies, causing their prices to decrease. However, in this case, the word "marked" suggests that the shares were affected or influenced by the news. Therefore, the correct answer is "Up," indicating that the shares in telecommunication companies were marked higher or increased in response to the news of one company going bankrupt.
10.
Richard has a very good salary at his new job. He __________ over U$ 25000 a year.
Correct Answer
D. Makes
Explanation
Richard's salary at his new job is very good, indicating that he earns a significant amount of money. The word "makes" is commonly used to describe earning or receiving a salary, making it the most suitable option among the given choices.
11.
It was a tragedy; many small houses and huts were _________________ when the river burst its banks.
Correct Answer
A. Washed away
Explanation
The correct answer is "Washed away." This phrase accurately describes the action of the river bursting its banks and causing the destruction of many small houses and huts. The term "washed away" implies that the structures were completely swept away by the force of the flooding, emphasizing the severity of the tragedy.
12.
The electrician twisted the wires together using a pair of _________________
Correct Answer
C. Pliers
Explanation
The correct answer is pliers. Pliers are a common tool used by electricians to twist wires together. They have a pair of jaws that can grip and manipulate objects, making them suitable for twisting wires. Chisels, hammers, and mallets are not appropriate tools for this task.
13.
A character ________ is a written statement of a person's good qualities, written by someone who knows the person well, which is sent to a future employee.
Correct Answer
A. Reference
Explanation
A character reference is a written statement of a person's good qualities, written by someone who knows the person well, which is sent to a future employer. This reference serves as a recommendation and provides insight into the person's character and abilities. It is typically requested during the hiring process to gain a better understanding of the candidate's suitability for the job.
14.
In today´s youth culture, books are seen as boring and old-fashioned ________ to a recent study which claims that children only spend fifteen minutes per day reading.
Correct Answer
D. According
Explanation
The correct answer is "According". This word is used to introduce information or evidence that supports or confirms a statement. In this case, it is used to introduce the information from a recent study that claims children only spend fifteen minutes per day reading, which supports the statement that books are seen as boring and old-fashioned in today's youth culture.
15.
Quarterly earnings are ___________ reported to the shareholders.
Correct Answer
C. Seldom
Explanation
Quarterly earnings are rarely reported to the shareholders.
16.
Regarding the Mexican economy, John Rice commented that “The best reason to do business in Mexico is..."
Correct Answer
A. …the quality of opportunity.
Explanation
The correct answer is "…the quality of opportunity." This answer suggests that the best reason to do business in Mexico is the potential for success and growth that the country offers. It implies that Mexico provides favorable conditions and prospects for business ventures, making it an attractive destination for investment. The phrase "quality of opportunity" implies that Mexico offers a conducive environment for businesses to thrive and succeed.
17.
John Rice mentioned the expectation that GE has regarding its businesses in the country which includes to:
Correct Answer
C. Grow in double digit rates
Explanation
The correct answer is "Grow in double digit rates". This means that GE expects its businesses in the country to experience growth at a rate of more than 10%. This indicates a strong expectation for significant and rapid growth in order to achieve their goals.
18.
According to the video of John Rice, which are the areas of opportunity that GE has in Mexico.
Correct Answer
D. Aviation - Healthcare - Rail
Explanation
The correct answer is Aviation - Healthcare - Rail. In the video, John Rice mentions that GE has opportunities in these areas in Mexico. This suggests that GE can focus on expanding its presence and business in the aviation, healthcare, and rail sectors in the Mexican market. By investing and developing these areas, GE can potentially capitalize on the growth and demand in these industries in Mexico.
19.
According to John Rice, Mexico will be a important market for GE and other companies because of the:
Correct Answer
D. Economy that grows 5% per year
Explanation
Mexico will be an important market for GE and other companies because of its economy that grows 5% per year. This indicates that Mexico's economy is experiencing significant growth, which presents opportunities for businesses to expand and thrive. With a growing economy, there is a higher demand for goods and services, creating a favorable market for companies to tap into. This growth also implies that there is a potential increase in consumer spending power, which can benefit businesses targeting the middle class. Overall, the 5% annual economic growth makes Mexico an attractive market for companies like GE.
20.
GE won´t _________ the opportunity of doing business in Mexico because of the __________ .
Correct Answer
D. Miss - security issues
Explanation
The correct answer is "Miss - security issues". This means that GE will not miss or lose out on the opportunity of doing business in Mexico because of security issues. Security issues pose a risk or threat to the business operations, but GE will not let that deter them from pursuing business opportunities in Mexico.
21.
I haven’t decided yet about whether to buy a new car or a second-hand one. But I will think about it. What is your opinion about it?
Correct Answer
A. I am thinking about it
Explanation
The correct answer is "I am thinking about it." This answer accurately reflects the speaker's current state of contemplation regarding whether to buy a new car or a second-hand one. The phrase "I am thinking about it" suggests that the speaker has not yet made a decision but is actively considering the options.
22.
Turn left by the crossroads when you reach it. Please let me know when you get there.
Correct Answer
D. By
Explanation
The word "By" in this context is used to indicate a specific point or time. In this sentence, it suggests that the person should turn left at the crossroads when they reach it. The speaker also requests to be informed when the person reaches the crossroads.
23.
We have postponed to tell anyone the news until after the World Cup.
Correct Answer
D. Tell
Explanation
The word "tell" is the correct answer because it is the verb that accurately describes the action of communicating or sharing information with someone. In the given sentence, it is mentioned that the news will be told or shared with someone after the World Cup. The other words "after" and "postponed" are used in the sentence to indicate the timing or delay of when the news will be shared, but they do not directly answer the question of what action will be taken. The word "the" is an article and does not provide any information about the action being performed.
24.
He stopped to see if he could picked up the trail. He is really curious.
Correct Answer
C. Picked
Explanation
The correct answer is "picked" because in the sentence, the subject stopped in order to see if he could pick up the trail. The word "picked" is the past tense of the verb "pick" and it indicates that the subject wanted to continue or resume following the trail. This suggests that the subject is curious and interested in finding out where the trail leads.
25.
Although he jumped aside, but the stone hit him.
Correct Answer
C. But
Explanation
The word "but" is used to contrast two ideas or actions. In this sentence, it is used to show a contradiction between the action of jumping aside and the result of still being hit by the stone. The conjunction "but" indicates that despite the person's attempt to avoid the stone by jumping aside, they were still unable to escape its impact.
26.
The train __________ to a halt at Central Station in NY, miles away from London, and it _________ apparent that the engine ____________. Everyone _________ their cases down from the luggage racks, and we ____________ on the platform in the freezing wind for hours until the next train _____________.
Correct Answer
B. Ground – became – had broken down – was getting – were waiting – was turning up
Explanation
The sentence describes a train coming to a halt at Central Station in NY, indicating a sudden stop. The word "became" is used to show the change in the train's state from moving to stationary. "Had broken down" is used to indicate that the engine had stopped working prior to the train coming to a halt. "Was getting" implies that it was becoming apparent to everyone on the train that the engine had broken down. "Were waiting" is used to describe the action of the people on the platform, indicating that they were waiting for something. "Was turning up" suggests that the next train was expected to arrive.
27.
We would like to inform all of you that it ______________ to adopt a flexi-time system for a trial period of three months. After this period ________________ all members of staff _______________ through their line managers, and feedback _______________.
Correct Answer
A. Has been decided – has elapsed – will be consulted – will be sough
Explanation
The correct answer is "has been decided – has elapsed – will be consulted – will be sought". This is because the sentence is written in the passive voice, indicating that the action is being done to the subject. "Has been decided" shows that the decision has already been made. "Has elapsed" indicates that the time period has already passed. "Will be consulted" and "will be sought" show that the staff members will be involved in the process and their opinions will be sought.
28.
Employees protesting at the planned closure of the Turbine factory have begun a protest outside the factory in Petropolis. It ____________ last week that the production at the factory – where over 5000 local people ___________ , ____________ to the existing Turbine plant in Cubatao next month.
Correct Answer
B. Was revealed – are employed – is being transferred
Explanation
The correct answer is "was revealed – are employed – is being transferred". This is because the sentence is in the past tense ("was revealed") and is describing an ongoing action ("are employed") that is currently happening ("is being transferred").
29.
Working at company rated as one of the best companies to work for ____ (make) you feel you are ahead of many, many employees who ____ (struggle) their way through the corporate world. Learning the so-called corporate behavior and getting the benefits of ___ (be) part of a market giant can add value to your career but ___ (be) conditional to how committed you are to this experience.
Correct Answer
A. Makes – are struggling – being – are
Explanation
Working at a company rated as one of the best companies to work for makes you feel you are ahead of many, many employees who are struggling their way through the corporate world. Learning the so-called corporate behavior and getting the benefits of being part of a market giant can add value to your career but is conditional to how committed you are to this experience.
30.
Contracts must be read _________________ before they are signed.
Correct Answer
A. Thoroughly
Explanation
Contracts must be read thoroughly before they are signed to ensure that all terms and conditions are fully understood and agreed upon. Reading a contract thoroughly means carefully examining each clause, provision, and detail to avoid any potential misunderstandings or legal issues in the future. By reading thoroughly, individuals can make informed decisions and negotiate any necessary changes or clarifications before signing the contract. This helps protect their rights and interests and minimizes the risk of entering into a binding agreement without complete knowledge of its implications.
31.
Eurorailing
Reading and Comprehension
Thanks to their extended summer vacations, students are in the enviable position of being able to travel around Europe by rail and see the sights on the cheap. This article points out some of the pros and cons of travelling by train.
The sense of freedom offered by rail travel is unrivalled by any other, except perhaps the less safe opinion of hitchhiking. Trains are also great way to meet local people and compared with other long-distance modes of transport, the greenest you can get. Rail travel allows you to explore the hidden corners of the continent, especially areas where rural lines are still open and trains are still the most common form of public transport. It's also a relaxing way to travel, whether you’re using it as a cheap bed for a night; or as a ring-side seat for a series stunning views.
The first step before you go is to choose one of the euro rail schemes available. After that, there are a few tips to bear in mind before you leave. Budgeting always causes headaches and it’s worth finding out which are the expensive and the cheap countries. It's sensible to take some cash, but you should take most of your money in traveller's cheques. Choose a well-known brand and buy small denominations.
Your most important piece of equipment is your backpack, and it's worth choosing one that's comfortable and light, sits just above your hips, and it's high rather than wide when full. A day-pack is useful for sightseeing, and a pair of comfortable walking shoes is vital, along with dark, hard wearing clothes. As a general rule, put out everything you want to take, and then halve it. Some things, however, should not be left behind. An alarm clock (so you don’t miss those early trains); a scarf to cover your shoulders or legs for visits to churches or mosques; photocopies of all your important documents, best packed separately or given to a travelling companion; toilet paper, soap and a universal plug, a Swiss army penknife, numerous plastic bags; a water bottle and a small first aid kit.
The fun really starts once you’re out there, of course – hunting for a hostel at 10:00 p.m., being ripped off by a taxi driver who claims there are no buses to your campsite or being turned away from a famous tourist attraction for wearing shorts. There are compensations for these frustrations (which make the best stories afterwards, anyway!), but many problems can be avoided if you’re aware of the potential pitfalls before you leave.
The golden rule is not to try to cram too much into the time available. Trying to see the whole of Europe in a month, by spending every night on a train and afternoon on each capital city will result in a unsatisfactory blur of shallow impressions. It is also a recipe for disaster, as you will be tired, grumpy and unreceptive for most of your trip. Instead, try to vary your route, mixing visits to cities with relaxing spells on the beach or in the countryside.
Each year a few unlucky travellers have their valuables stolen. The best way to prevent this is to carry them with you at all times, preferably in a money belt or a neck pouch. This is especially important on night trains, where most thefts occur. Another sensible precaution is not to sleep rough – you’re just asking for trouble. Watch out for conmen at stations: they’ll try to persuade you to accept a room, tempting you with glamorous pictures of a hotel which turns out to be awful and whose price will have doubled by the time you reach it. Far better to go and see accommodation yourself before accepting it. And if you're on a tight budget, it's always worth asking if they got anything cheaper.
These ideas are really just common sense, but it’s amazing how often they are overlooked. But the most important tip of all is – have fun!
The main purpose of this text is to:
Correct Answer
D. Give advice to students about rail travel.
Explanation
The text provides advice to students about rail travel, including tips on budgeting, choosing the right equipment, and avoiding potential problems. It also mentions the advantages of rail travel, such as the sense of freedom, the opportunity to meet locals, and the ability to explore hidden corners of Europe. However, the main focus of the text is on giving advice and tips to students who are planning to travel by rail.
32.
The writer advises the students to take:
Correct Answer
A. Money in more than one form
Explanation
The writer advises students to take money in more than one form because it provides financial security and flexibility during travel. Having multiple forms of money, such as cash, traveler's cheques, and a credit card, ensures that students have options in case one form is lost, stolen, or not accepted. It also allows them to access funds in different ways, depending on their needs and the availability of services at their travel destination. This advice helps students avoid being stranded without money and enables them to handle various financial situations effectively.
33.
According to the writer, the best thing about bad experience on holidays is that you:
Correct Answer
B. Forget about them later.
Explanation
The writer believes that the best thing about bad experiences on holidays is that you eventually forget about them. This implies that bad experiences are not worth dwelling on and that time heals the negative memories.
34.
When planning a route, the writer advises students to:
Correct Answer
D. See everything in a month.
Explanation
The writer advises students to see everything in a month. This suggests that the writer is encouraging students to make the most of their time and experience as many things as possible during their trip. By emphasizing the importance of seeing everything, the writer implies that students should not miss out on any opportunities for exploration and discovery. This advice aligns with the idea of maximizing the travel experience and making the most of the limited time available.
35.
This supermarket is trying to _______ young shoppers by offering fashionable clothes.
Correct Answer
B. Target
Explanation
The correct answer is "Target." In this context, the word "target" means to aim or focus on a specific group of people, in this case, young shoppers. The supermarket is trying to attract or appeal to young shoppers by offering fashionable clothes, indicating that they are intentionally directing their efforts towards this specific demographic.
36.
Some people are _________ to learn a foreign language.
Correct Answer
D. Reluctant
Explanation
The word "reluctant" means unwilling or hesitant to do something. In the context of the question, it suggests that some people are unwilling or hesitant to learn a foreign language. This implies that they may have a lack of interest, motivation, or confidence in learning a new language.
37.
The reason there are no buses is because the drivers are on __________ .
Correct Answer
D. Strike
Explanation
The reason there are no buses is because the drivers are on strike. A strike is a form of protest where workers refuse to work in order to demand better working conditions, higher wages, or other changes. In this case, the drivers are collectively refusing to work, causing the absence of buses.
38.
You should have ________ those shares when they were cheap.
Correct Answer
A. Bought up
Explanation
The correct answer is "Bought up." This phrase is used to express regret or a missed opportunity. In this context, it suggests that the speaker should have purchased the shares when they were inexpensive.
39.
The report is _________ to show better than expected results.
Correct Answer
A. Likely
Explanation
The word "likely" is the correct answer because it indicates that there is a high probability or chance that the report will show better than expected results. This implies that the results are expected to be positive or favorable. The other options do not convey the same level of probability or expectation.
40.
Thousands of ___________ are already signing up for this new telephone service.
Correct Answer
A. Individuals
Explanation
The correct answer is "Individuals" because the sentence is referring to people who are signing up for a new telephone service. "Subscribers" could also be a possible answer, but "individuals" is a more general term that encompasses a wider range of people who may be signing up for the service. "Applicants" and "interviewers" do not make sense in the context of signing up for a telephone service.
41.
_________ our production figures improve in the near future, we foresee having to hire more people between now and July.
Correct Answer
D. Unless
Explanation
The correct answer is "Unless." This is because the sentence is expressing a condition that needs to be met in order for the hiring of more people to occur. The word "unless" is used to introduce a condition that must be true for the outcome to happen. In this case, the condition is that the production figures improve in the near future.
42.
"Accounts receivable" is money owed to a company, __________, "accounts payable" is money owed by a company to creditors.
Correct Answer
D. Whereas
Explanation
The word "whereas" is used to introduce a contrast or comparison between two things. In this context, it is used to highlight the difference between "accounts receivable" and "accounts payable". "Accounts receivable" refers to the money that is owed to a company, while "accounts payable" refers to the money that a company owes to its creditors. The use of "whereas" helps to emphasize this distinction between the two concepts.
43.
"I would be grateful if you could" means:
Correct Answer
A. I'd appreciate your...
Explanation
The phrase "I would be grateful if you could" is used to express gratitude or thanks in advance for someone's help or assistance. It implies that the person is requesting a favor or seeking assistance from someone and would greatly appreciate their cooperation.
44.
Which phrase means "To lose your job" in a formal way?
Correct Answer
A. To be fired
Explanation
The phrase "To be fired" means to lose your job in a formal way. It implies that the employer has terminated your employment contract due to various reasons, such as poor performance or misconduct. This phrase is commonly used in professional settings to describe the act of being dismissed from a job position.
45.
When students pack for a rail holiday, the writer advises to
Correct Answer
D. Take less than they really want to
Explanation
The writer advises students to take less than they really want to when packing for a rail holiday. This suggests that the writer believes it is important to pack light and only bring the essentials. By taking less than they want to, students can avoid overpacking and ensure that they have enough space and weight allowance for their belongings. This approach can also make traveling more convenient and comfortable, as it reduces the burden of carrying heavy luggage.