30 bài đọc hiểu thi tiếng anh b1 có đáp án

TEST 01
A month ago I had no idea that on a Saturday afternoon in November I’d be hanging 30 metres above the ground and
enjoying it. Now I looked down at the river far below me, and realised why people love rock-climbing.
My friend Matt and I had arrived at the Activity Centre on Friday evening. The accommodation wasn’t wonderful, but
we had everything we needed (beds, blankets, food), and we were pleased to be out of the city and in the fresh air.
On Saturday morning we met the other ten members of our group. Cameron had come along with two friends, Kevin
and Simon, while sisters Carole and Lynn had come with Amanda. We had come from various places and none of us
knew the area.
We knew we were going to spend the weekend outdoors, but none of us was sure exactly how. Half of us spent the
morning caving while the others went rock- climbing and then we changed at lunchtime. Matt and I went to the caves
first. Climbing out was harder than going in, but after a good deal of pushing, we were out at last - covered in mud but
pleased and excited by what we’d done.
1. What is the writer trying to do in the text?
a. advertise the Activity Centre
b. describe some people she met
c. explain how to do certain outdoor sports
d. say how she spent some free time
2. What can the reader learn from the text?
a. when to depend on other people at the Centre
b. how to apply for a place at the Centre
c. what sort of activities you can experience at the
Centre
d. which time of year is best to attend the Centre

3. How do you think the writer might describe her
weekend?
a. interesting
b. relaxing
c. frightening
d. unpleasant
4. What do we learn about the group?

a. Some of them had been there before.
b. They had already chosen their preferred activities.
c. Some of them already knew each other.
d. They came from the same city.

5. Which of the following advertisements describes the Activity Centre?
A. ACTIVITY CENTRE
B. ACTIVITY CENTRE Set in beautiful countryside.
Set in beautiful countryside.Accommodation and
Accommodation provided. Work with a group - we show
meals provided. Make up your own timetable – choose
you a range of outdoor activities that you didn’t realise
from a variety of activities (horse- riding, fishing, hillyou could do!
walking, sailing, mountain-biking).
C. ACTIVITY CENTRE

D. ACTIVITY CENTRE

Set in beautiful countryside. Enjoy the luxury of our
accommodation - each room has its own bathroom.
Work with a group, or have individual teaching.

Set in beautiful countryside. You can spend the day doing
outdoor activities and we will find your accommodation
with a local family.


R3 - Test 02 - R3 - TEST 02
Winter Driving
Winter is dangerous because it’s so difficult to know what is going to happen and accidents take place so easily. Fog

can be waiting to meet you over the top of a hill. Ice might be hiding beneath the melting snow, waiting to send you
off the road. The car coming towards you may suddenly slide across the road.
Rule Number One for driving on icy roads is to drive smoothly. Uneven movements can make a car suddenly very
difficult to control. So every time you either turn the wheel, touch the brakes or increase your speed, you must be as
gentle and slow as possible. Imagine you are driving with a full cup of hot coffee on the seat next to you. Drive so
that you wouldn’t spill it.
Rule Number Two is to pay attention to what might happen. The more ice there is, the further down the road you
have to look. Test how long it takes to stop by gently braking. Remember that you may be driving more quickly than
you think.
In general, allow double your normal stopping distance when the road is wet, three times this distance on snow, and
even more on ice. Try to stay in control of your car at all times and you will avoid trouble.
1. What is the writer trying to do in the text?

3. What does the writer think?

a. complain about bad winter driving
b. give information about winter weather
c. warn people against driving in winter
d. advise people about safe driving in winter

a. People should avoid driving in the snow.
b. Drivers should expect problems in winter.
c. People drive too fast in winter.
d. Winter drivers should use their brakes less.

2. Why would somebody read this text?

4. Why does the writer talk about a cup of coffee?

a. to find out about the weather

b. for information on driving lessons
c. to learn about better driving
d. to decide when to travel

a. to explain the importance of smooth movements
b. because he thinks refreshments are important for
drivers
c. because he wants drivers to be more relaxed
d. to show how it can be spilled

5. Which traffic sign shows the main idea of the text?


R3 - Test 03 - R3 - TEST 03
When I opened the first ‘Body Shop’ in 1976 my only object was to earn enough to feed my children. Today The
Body Shop’ is an international company rapidly growing all around the world. In the years since we began I have
learned a lot. Much of what I have learned will be found in this book, for I believe that we, as a company, have
something worth saying about how to run a successful business without giving up what we really believe in.
It’s not a normal business book, nor is it just about my life. The message is that to succeed in business you have to
be different. Business can be fun, a business can be run with love and it can do good. In business, as in life, I need
to enjoy myself, to have a feeling of family and to feel excited by the unexpected. I have always wanted the people
who work for The Body Shop’ to feel the same way.
Now this book sends these ideas of mine out into the world, makes them public. I’d like to think there are no limits
to our ‘family’, no limits to what can be done.
I find that an exciting thought. I hope you do, too.

1. What is the writer’s main purpose in writing this
text?
a. to tell the reader her life story
b. to introduce her ideas to the reader

c. to explain how international companies operate
d. to tell the reader how she brought up a family
2. What would someone learn from this text?
a. how to make a lot of money
b. how to write a book about business
c. what the writer’s family is like
d. what the writer’s book is about
3. How does the writer feel about the business she
runs?
a.She doesn’t care about success if her children are fed.

b. She just runs it for her own entertainment.
c. It is not like any other company.
d. It is likely to become even more successful.
4. What kind of workers does the writer like to
employ?
a. workers who can explain her ideas
b. workers who get on well with the public
c. workers who have the same attitudes as she does
d. workers who have their own families
5. What kind of person does the writer seem to be?
a. She seems to be someone with strong opinions.
b. She doesn’t seem to be very confident.
c. She is mainly interested in making money.
dShe sees running a business as just a job.


R3 - Test 04 - R3 - TEST 04
Some people have complained about this year’s collection, New Writing 3, although I cannot understand why. Surely
500 pages of original writing of this quality, for £6.99, is pretty amazing?

Fiction - both parts of novels and complete short stories - makes up most of the book. There are some enjoyable pieces
by famous writers, such as Candia McWilliam and Rose Tremain. It’s a strange fact that the less well-known people
seem to have written mainly about food. Take my advice about Jane Harris’s Those Nails - this piece should definitely
not be readjust after meals. It contains some very unpleasant scenes which could turn your stomach!
There is fine work from nineteen poets, including R. S. Thomas and John Burnside. There are pieces from novels-inprogress by Jim Crace and Jane Rogers. Finally, there is a little non-fiction, which includes a very funny article by
Alan Rusbridger on certain newspapers, and an extraordinary piece about herself from Ursula Owen. This is an
exceptional collection and I for one can’t wait to see what next year’s choice will include.
1. What is the writer trying to do in the text?

3. What does the writer think of New Writing 3?

a. give her opinions about a new book
b. give some information about new writers
c. give some advice to writers
d. give her opinion of newspaper journalists

a. It’s too long.
b. It’s very amusing.
c. It’s very good.
d. It’s too serious.

2. Why would somebody read the text?

4. How might you feel after reading Jane Harris’s
piece?

a. to find out more details about something
b. to learn what next year’s collection will contain
c. to find out about Alan Rusbridger’s new novel
d. to decide whether to complain about something

5. Which of the following describes New Writing 3?

a. hungry
b. excited
c. unhappy
d. sick


R3 - Test 05 - R3 - TEST 05
"The best age to start learnmg the violin is between three and six,’ says Margaret Porter, a violinist and music teacher.
‘It’s the time when you are learning about the world.’ Margaret, who lives in London, prefers to take pupils at three
and four, although she has made lots of exceptions for keen five-year-olds. When she started teaching the violin in
1972, her first class consisted of her children’s five- year-old school friends.
Margaret’s pupils have group lessons. Each group has about a dozen pupils and each lesson lasts an hour, once a
fortnight. In addition, each pupil has one individual lesson a week with her. Parents also have to attend the classes. It is
important that the parents take an active interest in the lessons.
From the earliest lessons pupils leam to play by ear. They do not even try to read music until they have been playing
for several years, and for a long time there is a big difference between their playing and reading of music. Margaret
says that her method is not supposed to produce great violinists, and always suggests that pupils who perform
particularly well should leave and study the violin using more traditional methods"
1. What is the writer trying to do in the text?
a. explain why Margaret likes teaching the violin
b. describe a different way of learning the violin
c. give advice on how to find a music teacher
d. explain why Margaret has a lot of pupils
2. Why should someone read the text?
a. to discover how Margaret learnt the violin
b. to learn why it is important to read music
c. to find out about Margaret’s teaching method
d. to learn why children should play the violin

3. What opinion does Margaret have about her best
pupils?
a. They ought to find another teacher.
b. They will become great violinists using her method.
c. They could try harder.
d. They take several years to learn to read music.
4. Margaret’s first pupils were
a. her children.
b. three- and four-year-olds.
c. her own friends.
d. her children’s friends.

5. Which of the following would Margaret include in an advertisement for her classes?
A. Learn to play the violin with your children - 2
lessons a week.

B. Watch your children learn to play the violin.

C. Group violin lessons for children - no more than 5
D. We’ll look after your children while you learn the violin.
per group.


R3 - Test 06 - R3 - TEST 06
Unusually, it gives young people much needed experience of life outside the classroom, as well as the opportunity
to study for their exams. The students, who are aged between 16 and 18 and come from all over the world, spend
the morning studying. In the afternoon they go out and do a really useful activity, such as helping on the farm,
looking after people with learning difficulties, or checking for pollution in rivers.
One of the great things about Atlantic College students is that they come from many different social backgrounds

and countries. As few can afford the fees of £20,000 over two years, grants are available. A quarter of the students
are British, and many of those can only attend because they receive government help.
‘I really admire the college for trying to encourage international understanding among young people’, as Barbara
Molenkamp, a student from the Netherlands, said. ‘You learn to live with people and respect them, even the ones
you don’t like. During the summer holidays my mother couldn’t believe how much less 1 argued with my sister.’
To sum up, Atlantic College gives its students an excellent education, using methods which really seem to work.
1. What is the writer trying to do in the text?

3. What is the writer’s opinion of Atlantic College?

a. give an opinion about a particular student
b. give an opinion about a special type of education
c. describe the activities the students do in their free
time
d. describe his own experience of education

a. It doesn’t allow students enough study time.
b. Its students are taught to like each other.
c. It doesn’t give good value for money.
d. Its way of teaching is successful.

2. What can a reader find out from this text?
a. how to become a student at Atlantic College
b. what kind of programme Atlantic College offers
c. what the British education system is like
d. how to get along better with other people

4. Since being at Atlantic College Barbara
a. has learnt a lot about other countries.
b. has become more confident than her sister.

c. finds it easier to get on with other people.
d. prefers her new friends to her family.

5. Which advertisement uses correct information about Atlantic College?
B.Courses for 16-18 year olds. Morning lessons and
A. Study at Atlantic College. Courses for 16afternoon activities.
18 year olds. Lessons all morning, sport in the
Help with fees available.
afternoon.
C. Study at Atlantic College. Classes on
international topics. Many free places
available. Students of all ages welcome.

D. Study at Atlantic College. Learn English in a beautiful
place. Lots of weekend activities. Help with fees available.


R3 - Test 07 - R3 - TEST 07
When I injured my back I had to take a break from my running career. I decided to introduce more women to the sport,
to show them how much fun it can be and to give them the confidence to get out and run.
I decided to start a running club for women in my area because I was annoyed by the attitude of many race organisers.
They complain about the lack of women in the sport but also use this as an excuse for not providing separate changing
facilities.
I put up posters and 40 women, young and old, fit and unfit, joined. All of them were attracted by the idea of losing
weight but I don’t think they had really thought about running before. When or if they did, they had a picture of
painful training. They didn’t think of chatting and smiling while running in beautiful places, like by a river.
At first they ran for only a minute - now they can rim for thirty minutes. They’ve also learned from other runners about
diet and keeping fit in general.
I wanted to do something for women’s running and I’ve had so much pleasure watch'ng their progress - almost as
much as they’ve had themselves.

1. What is the writer’s main aim in writing the text?
a. to describe her own running career
b. to complain about race organisers
c. to talk about women runners
d. to describe good running methods
2. What would a reader find out from the text?
a. the best kinds of places for running
b. how runners can avoid injuring themselves
c. the progress made by the women in the club
d. the teaching skills of the writer

3. What is the writer’s opinion of the runners she
trained?
a. They were too serious.
b. They needed encouraging.
c. They couldn’t develop their skills.
d. They were difficult to train.
4. The women joined the running club to
a. have a good time.
b. meet other people.
c. help them lose weight.
d. become top runners.

5. Which of the following would be the best title for the cl Jb poster?
A. Discover the pleasures of running

B. Riverside Running Club for Women

C. Athletics competitions:how to win

D. KEEP FIT BY TRAINING HARD


R3 - Test 08 - R3 - TEST 08
To: The Manager of Mezzo Mash Restaurant Dear Sir,
Last Tuesday evening I went with two friends to your restaurant for my 18th birthday. I’d booked the table for eight
o’clock anJ we arrived about ten minutes late, but that was not a problem. The waiter, who was very polite, showed
us to our table and we studied the menu. I ordered a fish pie and my friends ordered some salads. However, after
about fifteen minutes, the waiter informed us that there was no more fish pie. He apologised and suggested ordering
something else. I looked at the menu again and decided to have the same as my friends - a salad.
When the food came, it was very good. After we’d finished, we decided to order some desserts. The waiter said that,
unfortunately, it was too late. There wasn’t enough time for us to order desserts. He said he was very sorry but our
table was reserved by another group at nine thirty and we would have to leave.
We paid the bill and left feeling very disappointed. It spoilt my birthday. Nobody told us when we arrived that there
was a time limit. It was very unsatisfactory and I doubt that we’ll go to your restaurant again.
Yours faithfully,
Martin Cary
1. What is Martin Cary trying to do in the letter?
3. What does Martin think about their experience?

make an enquiry
cancel a booking

They got to the restaurant too late.

make a complaint

There was not much choice on the menu.

offer a suggestion

They won’t return to the restaurant.

2. What will the restaurant manager discover from
the letter?
One of his waiters behaved badly.

The food took too long to arrive.
4. Martin and his friends couldn’t have any dessert
because

Some customers had a bad experience.

someone had booked their table.

His food is unsatisfactory.

they had to be home by 9.30.

He charges too much for the meals

it was too expensive.
there was none left.

5. What did Martin’s friends say as they left the restaurant?
A. I didn’t like my salad.
I wish I’d had fish pie like you.

B. Never mind, let's go and get some
ice cream at Rick's

C. I hope you didn’t leave the waiter a tip he was so unfriendly.

D. It’s a pity there wasn’t enough
birthday cake.

A
B
C
D


R3 - Test 09 - R3 - TEST 09
John Fisher, a builder, and his wife Elizabeth wanted more living space, so they left their small flat for an old 40metre-high castle tower. They have spent five years turning it into a beautiful home with six floors, winning three
architectural prizes.
‘I love the space, and being private,’ Elizabeth says. ‘You feel separated from the world. If I’m in the kitchen, which
is 25 metres above the ground floor, and the doorbell rings, I don’t have to answer it because visitors can’t see I’m
in!’
‘There are 142 steps to the top, so if I go up and down five or six times a day, it’s very good exercise! But having to
carry heavy things to the top is terrible, so I never buy more than two bags of shopping from the supermarket at a
time. Apart from that, it’s a brilliant place to live.’
‘When we first saw the place, I asked my father’s advice about buying it, because we couldn’t decide. After paying
for it, we were a bit worried because it looked awful. But we really loved it, and knew how we wanted it to look.’
‘Living here can be difficult - yesterday I climbed a four-metre ladder to clean the windows. But when you stand on
the roof you can see all the way out to sea on a clear day, and that’s a wonderful experience. I’m really glad we
moved.’
1. What is the writer trying to do in the text?
describe how to turn an old tower into a house
recommend a particular builder
descr.be what it is like to live in a tower

explain how to win prizes for building work
2. From this text, a reader can find out
why visitors are not welcome at John and
Elizabeth’s house.
why Elizabeth exercises every day.
why Elizabeth asked her father to buy the tower.
why John and Elizabeth left their flat.

3. Which of the following best describes Elizabeth’s
feelings about the tower?
She wanted it as soon as she saw it.
She likes most things about it.
She has been worried since they paid for it.
She finds it unsuitable to live in.
4. What problem does Elizabeth have with living in
such a tall building?
Her visitors find it difficult to see if she is at home.
She feels separated from other people.
She cannot bring home lots of shopping at once.
It is impossible to clean any of the windows.

5. How will John and Elizabeth advertise their tower if they sell it?
A. FOR SALE
Tall building, formerly a
castle. High windows
give a good view.
Needs some
improvement.

B. FOR SALE

A house with a difference - a
castle tower, turned into a
lovely home.
Wonderful view.

C. FOR SALE
Prize-winning home, five years
old. Six rooms, all with sea
views.

D. FOR SALE
Castle tower, turned into six
small flats, close to
supermarket.

A

C

B

D


R3 - Test 10 - R3 - TEST 10
The shoemaker
Bill Bird is a shoemaker who cannot make shoes fast enough for his growing number of customers - and he charges
more than £300 for a pair! Customers travel hundreds of kilometres to his London shoe clinic or to his workshop in
the countryside to have their feet measured. He makes shoes for people with feet of unusual sizes: very large, very
small, very broad or very narrow. The shoes are at least as fashionable as those found in ordinary shops.

Mr Bird says: ‘My problem is that I cannot find skilled workers. Young people all seem to prefer to work with
computers these days. We will lose the necessary skills soon because there are fewer and fewer shoemakers
nowadays. I am 45, and now I want to teach young people everything I know about making shoes. It’s a good job,
and a lot of people want to buy beautiful shoes specially made for them.’
He started in the business 19 years ago and now he employs three other people. His customers pay about £500 for
their first pair of shoes. He says: ‘Our customers come because they want comfortable shoes which are exactly the
right size.’ Extra pairs of shoes cost between £320 and £450, as it takes one employee a whole week to make just
one shoe.
1. What is the writer trying to do in the text?

3. What is Mr Bird’s opinion of young people?

describe where Mr Bird finds his staff

They want too much money.

encourage people to wear comfortable shoes

They are difficult to train.

advertise a job selling expensive shoes

They prefer other jobs.

show Mr Bird’s worries about his trade

They don’t work hard enough.

2. What can readers find out from this text?

4. Customers choose Mr Bird because his shoes

how many customers M' Bird has

are the most fashionable.

how to make shoes like Mr Bird

fit perfectly.

how to get to Mr Bird’s London shop

look very unusual.

how much Mr Bird’s shoes cost

are traditional in design.

5. Which advertisement would Mr Bird put in a newspaper?
A. Wanted - experienced
shoemakers to work in large
shoe company in London.
Good rates of pay.

B. Wanted - young people to
train as shoemakers. Must
be able to use a computer.

C. Wanted - young people to
train as shoemakers. Good

job with small company.

D. Wanted - country workshop
needs people for unskilled
jobs working with shoes.

A
B
C
D


R3 - Test 11 - R3 - TEST 11
If you want to take the whole family on holiday, and keep everybody happy, then I have found just the place for you. I recently
went with a group of friends to stay at the Greenwood Holiday Village, which is open from May until October.
Built in the centre of a forest, Greenwood is a great place to sta> whatever the weather. Its main attraction for families is the
indoor World of Water, where young and old can have fun in the different pools. Some of these, however, are for serious
swimmers only.
For sporty people, the Country Club offers tennis, squash and badminton. If your children are too young to join in these sports,
there are activity clubs. Greenwood is a good place for families as it is traffic-free - you explore on foot or by bike. Some people
complained that this was inconvenient, but I was pleased to be out in the fresh air. For evening entertainment, there are shows and
cinemas.
Accommodation is in a variety of apartments of different sizes. These have up to four bedrooms, a kitchen and a bathroom, as well
as a dining area. Before going, I thought the apartments might not be big enough for all of us, but I was pleasantly surprised - it
was not too crowded at all.
I’ll definitely go back to Greenwood next year. Why don’t you give it a try? Visit their website for further information now!

1. What is the writer's main purpose in writirg this text?

3. What does the writer think about the holiday village?

to give her opinion of the holiday village

The apartments there are not big enough.

to describe what her family did at the holiday village

It is not convenient because you cannot use your car.

to give advice to a friend going to the holiday village

It can only be enjoyed in good weather.

to complain about the holiday village
2. From the text, the reader can find out

There is something there for all ages.
4. What does the writer say about the apartments?

the best way to get to the holiday village.

There is not much space between them.

the best time of vear to visit the holiday village.

Each one has its own bathroom.

what activities are available at the holiday village.

They all have four bedrooms.

how to reserve accommodation at the holiday village.

Not all of them have dining areas.

5. Which postcard would somebody send from the holiday village?
A. Dear Jane,
The children love the beach and
all the activities. We've got a
lovely 4 bedroom apartment.
Love,
Ann

B. Dear Jane,
As it's April, the weather isn't
good, but it doesn't matter as
there's a lovely swimming pool.
Love,
Ann

C. Dear Jane,
My parents love the swimming
pool, ar.d the children love
riding around the forest on
their bicycles.
Love,
Ann

D. Dear Jane,
We're a bit disappomred that

we have to drive everywhere,
but there's lots to see and do.
Love,
Ann

A
B
C
D


R3 - Test 12 - R3 - TEST 12
Orbis is an organisation which helps blind people everywhere. It has built an eye hospital inside an aeroplane and
flown it all over the world with an international medical team. Samantha Graham, a fourteen-year-old schoolgirl from
England, went with the plane to Mongolia. Samantha tells the story of Eukhtuul, a young Mongolian girl.
‘Last year, when Eukhtuul was walking home from school, she was attacked by boys with sticks and her eyes were
badly damaged. Dr Duffey, an Orbis doctor, said that without an operation she would never see again. I thought about
all the everyday things I do that she couldn’t, things like reading schoolbooks, watching television, seeing friends, and
I realised how lucky I am.’
‘The Orbis team agreed to operate on Eukhtuul and I was allowed to watch, together with some Mongolian medical
students. I prayed the operation would be successful. The next day I waited nervously with Eukhtuul wh'le Dr Duffey
removed her bandages. “In six months your sight will be back to normal,” he said. Eukhtuul smiled, her mother cried,
and I had to wipe away some tears, too!’
‘Now Eukhtuul wants to study hard to become a doctor. Her whole future has changed, thanks to a simple operation.
We should all think more about how much our sight means to us.’

1. What is the writer’s main purpose in writing this
text?

3. After meeting Eukhtuul, Samantha felt

grateful for her own sight.

to describe a dangerous trip

proud of the doctor’s skill.

to report a oatient’s cure

surprised by Eukhtuul’s courage.

to explain how sight can be lost
to warn against playing with stick

angry about Eukhtuul’s experience.
4. What is the result of Eukhtuul’s operation?

2. What can a reader learn about in this text?

She can already see perfectly again.

the life of schoolchildren in Mongolia

After some time she will see as well as before.

the difficulties for blind travellers
the international work of some eye doctors
the best way of studying medicine

She can see better but will never have normal eyes.
Before she recovers, she will need another

operation.

5. Which is the postcard Samantha wrote to an English friend?

A

B

C

D

A. I've visited a Mongolian hospital
and watched local doctors do an
operation.

B. You may have to fly a long way to have
the operation you need, but the journey will
be worth it.

C. I'm staying with my friend
Eukhtuul, while I'm sightseeing in
Mongolia.

D. Make sure you take care of your eyes
because they're more valuable than you
realise!


R3 - Test 13 - R3 - Test 13

Read the passage and then answer the questions below.
NEW TV STAR
Caroline Benson talks about her first TV role
‘I never expected to spend some of my first year at university filming The Finnegans. I’d only ever acted at school, but I’d loved
the book since I was eleven. My grandmother used to say I was just like Polly Finnegan and I always imagined myself playing her.
I’d taken a year off to go travelling before university. While I was in Chile, my mother emailed me to say there were plans to turn
the book into a TV drama. I knew I had to go for the part.
She was surprised at first, but sent my photograph to the director and persuaded him to meet me. I flew back and got the part.
The outdoor filming started a week into term, so I got permission from the university to be away for three weeks. Once I was back
at university, I got up at 6.00 am to write the essays I’d missed. I didn’t tell my university friends, but they found out and thought
it was great.
It was an amazing experience - I’m so lucky. After university, I definitely want to make acting my career. I’m not from an acting
family, though my grandfather was an opera singer. I’ve tried for other TV parts but haven’t received any offers yet.
I don’t know how I managed it all, because I had a fuil social life too. When filming finished,
I hardly knew what to do. I’ve since appeared in two college plays. Unfortunately, I haven’t been home much and now my first
year at university is over, I’m off to Greece for the summer with friends.’
1. In this text, Caroline Benson is
advising students to finish studying before taking up
acting.
describing how pleased she was about this opportunity to
act.

She was anxious about starting university.
3. What does Caroline say about her mother?
She encouraged Caroline to keep travelling.
She felt Caroline would be a good actor.

warning other young people that acting is a difficult
career.
explaining why she has always wanted to be an actor.

2. Why did Caroline decide to try for a part in The
Finnegans?
She thought the book would make a great TV drama.
She agreed with her grandmother that she should apply.
She felt she was perfect for the part of Polly.

She was sorry she had emailed Caroline.
She helped Caroline to get the part.
4. How did Caroline manage to find time to do the
filming?
She missed lectures and hoped nobody would notice.
She delayed going to university until filming was over.
She took time off and did her college work later.
She asked her friends to help with her essays.

5. Which of the following would Caroline write to a penfriend?
I’m going to continue with my studies, but hope to have the opportunity to do another TV programme s
Now I’ve finished both the filming and my first year at university, I plan to spend more time with my family.
I enjoyed filming the TV drama but I’ve missed having a social life – I don’t know what to do at weekends.
Acting is more difficult than I’d expected, but I’ve learned a lot from other members of my family who work in the business


R3 - Test 14 - R3 - Test 14
Read the passage and then answer the questions below.
MARIA MUTOLA
Former 800 metres Olympic champion
In 1988, Maria Mutola was playing football as the only girl in an all-boys team in a local competition in Mozambique.
'We won/ she said. 'At first no one thought it was a problem that I was a girl. But then the team we beat complained.'
The story appeared in a local newspaper and José Craveirinha, who had encouraged other African athletes, learnt about
Maria. He went to meet her and found her kicking a ball around outside the football club. He realised immediately that

she was fast. 'He talked to me about athletics. I had no idea what he meant. The only sport I knew about was football.
Then he bought me running shoes and took me training. It was such hard work and my legs really ached/ But José
visited her parents and persuaded them she could be successful and this would help end their poverty. They agreed to
let him take her away to train.
In 1991, she finally accepted an invitation to train in the United States. She had refused previously because she knew
she would miss her family. Her background was unlike those of the girls she met in the US. She explains, 'They were
good athletes but, while I worried about my parents having enough to eat, they worried about dresses and make-up.
They knew very little about me and even less about my problems. But I knew I was lucky to be there. The trainers
were brilliant and I learnt a lot.'
Today, Maria still runs and for most of the year she lives happily in South Africa with her mother.
1. What is the writer trying to do in the text?

3. When José first introduced Maria to athletics, she

persuade more Africans to take up athletics

didn’t know what was involved.

describe how Maria became a top athlete

was worried about being injured.

give information about Mozambique

was keen to learn everything he knew.

explain how Maria manages to stay fit

didn’t think her family would approve.

2. José Craveirinha found out about Maria when
he went to watch a local football competition.
she was blamed for her team losing a football
competition.
he saw an article about her role in a football match.
people complained about another member of her
football team.

4. does Maria say about the girls she met in the
United States?
They did not make full use of their abilities.
Their training programmes were less demanding
than hers.
They did not show enough respect for the trainers.
Their experiences of life were very different from
hers.

5. What would Maria say about her life?
José has made all my dreams possible. From the first day we met, 1 was certain I wanted to become a top athlete.
My life hasri’t always been easy but I’ve had many opportunities. Running is important to me and so
I regret becoming involved in athletics. It was horrible leaving Mozambique and my parents. I’d like to go back to
football.
The US has some wonderful training facilities, so I’m glad that I agree to go when I was offered the chance.


R3 - Test 15 - R3 - Test 15
GARETH ELLIS
Gareth Ellis, 13, is the youngest son of Alan, an engineer, and Kath, a nursery teacher. His older brothers work in
banking and computers, but Gareth’s dream was always to become a clown. Three years ago, Alan, Kath and Gareth
joined the circus. ‘People laugh when we tell them,’ says Kath. ‘But it’s true. Gareth has wanted to be a clown since

we took him to the circus when he was three.’
When Alan lost his job, he and Kath decided to see if they could find full-time circus jobs. They both got jobs with a
famous circus and Gareth began training to become a clown. He calls himself Bippo. They travel with the circus
during rhe summer and return home for the winter. Gareth’s brothers are old enough to look after the house while they
are away.
‘I can’t say it was easy,’ says Kath. ‘There was a lot to think about and organise. We only had a car and a very small
caravan to sleep in, and we were leaving behind our lovely house. The only thing Gareth missed was his long, hot
baths.’
‘People ask about my education,1 says Gareth, ‘but from the beginning, wherever we go, someone has always come to
teach me. I follow the same books as everyone back at school and I’ve got a computer. I’ve never fallen behind my
classmates.’
And the future? ‘It was a difficult decision,’ says Kath, ‘but there was no other way to teach Gareth about being a
clown. I’m happy to say it’s working, and we’re enjoying it.’ And Gareth? ‘I’m going to be the main clown in a circus
one day’, he says,
‘perhaps Bippu’s circus.’
1. What is the writer trying to do in the text?
describe how one family changed their lives
give details about how to join the circus
talk about the best way to educate a child
advise what to do when you lose your job
2. What would a reader learn about Gareth from the text?
He does not enjoy school work.
He has a definite aim in life.
He would like to be at home with his brothers.

3. Alan and Kath joined the circus because
they wanted to spend time travelling in the summer
they needed money in order to buy a bigger car.
their older sons needed their house for themselves.
their youngest son wanted to train as a performer.

4. When they first joined the circus, Kath
wanted to go back home.
did not have enough to do.
found things difficult.
was not able to sleep properly.

He wants to be the same as other boys.

5. Which postcard did Gareth write just after he joined the circus?

A

C

B

D


R3 - Test 16 - R3 - Test 16
LITTLE CHEFS
For one group of children aged between ten and fifteen, Saturdays are spent learning the art of serious cooking. Their
weekly lessons In small classes are so popular that there is a waiting list of 30 children who want to do the course.
Parents pay £280 for the course where their children can have fun and learn how to make good food.
Class member Bill, aged ten, says, 'I love my mum's cooking and now I can do it better than her. The teachers make us
laugh, especially when we sit down with them to share the food we've made.'
Flora is twelve, and she's having problems preparing onions. '1 love cooking. I did a meal for ten friends which they
really enjoyed. Then my mum suggested I take up a hobby, instead of doing nothing at weekends. I was happy staying
at home, so I wasn't too keen at first. I'm really glad I decided to come, though.'
Their teacher, Philippe, says, 'It's great fun. Children pay attention and remember things better than adults, although

the kitchen isn't always as tidy when they're cooking! As adults, we're always learning more about food. If parents
interest their children in cooking while they are young, they'll have enough skill to make food for themselves when
they leave home.'
1. What is the writer trying to do in the text?
warn parents not to expect too much from their
children
advertise schools that teach people how to cook
describe how some children spend their spare time
explain why parents want to learn more about
cooking
2. What can a reader find out from this text?
whicn dishes students prefer to cook on the course
why the classes are so successful
how much one lesson costs

3. Why did Flora join the course?
Her friends persuaded her to do it.
She wanted to learn to cook a big meal.
She felt bored at weekends, with nothing to do.
Her mother wanted her to develop an interest.
4. What does Philippe say about his young students?
They will be confident about cooking in the future.
They have a good memory but don’t always listen.
They keep the kitchen cleaner than adults do.
They teach their parents what they have learnt in
class.

when the next classes begin

5. What would one of Philippe’s students say to a friend?

We made onion soup yesterday. The course is great, although there are 30 people in my class.
I go every Saturday, and now I can cook as well as my mum. I’m ten, and I’m the oldest.
It’s great. No one’s over 15 and the food looks delicious. I just wish we could eat it together instead of taking it
home.
I was on a waiting list for ages, but now I’m on the course. Last week I cut up some onions - it was


R3 - Test 17 - R3 - Test 17
Read the passage and then answer the questions below.
ROCK BAND
Two years ago, our 14-year-old son, Ben, asked us for a set of drums for his birthday. At first, we were very much
against the idea because of the noise. ‘It’s better than watching television or playing computer games in my free time,’
Ben argued, ‘and it’ll keep me out of trouble.’
In the end we gave in. ‘All right,’ we said, ‘but you must consider the rest of the family and the neighbours when you
play.’
That was just the beginning. Because drums are not the easiest instruments to transport, the other members of Ben’s
band started appearing at our home with their guitars and other electrical equipment. And so, for several hours a week,
the house shakes to the noise of their instruments and their teenage singing.
At least Ben’s hobby has been good for our health: whenever the band start practising, my husband and I go out for a
long walk. And I must admit that, although their music may sound a little strange, they are a friendly and polite group
of young men. I cannot judge their musical skill - after all I didn’t expect my parents’ generation to like the same
music as I did when I was a teenager - but they do play regularly in local clubs for young people.
Our main worry is that they won’t spend enough time on their school work because of their musical activities, though
this hasn’t happened yet. I am always stressing to Ben how important his studies are. But one thing is certain - Ben
was right: it has kept him out of trouble and he is never bored.
1. What is the writer trying to do in this text?

3. Why do the band always practise at Ben’s house?

complain about her son’s friends

It is difficult for Ben to move his drums.

give advice to teenagers

The neighbours don’t mind the noise.

describe her son’s hobby

Ben’s parents enjoy listening to them.

compare herself with her parents

They can leave their equipment there.

2. Why did the writer give Ben the present he
wanted?
She wanted to reward him for working hard.
He already had too many computer games.
She knew he would use it sensibly.

4. What does the writer say about the band members?
Their influence on her son worries her.
Their taste in music is different from hers.
They play their instruments well.
They avoid any contact with her.

He persuaded her it would be a good idea.

5. What might the writer say to her son?

Your teacher has just phoned. He wants to know why you weren’t at school today.
When are you playing at the club next? Dad and I would love to come along again.
If you don’t know what to do with yourself, there’s a good programme on the television in a few minutes.
Are you sure you’ve finished your homework? It’s more important than band practice


R3 - Test 18 - R3 - Test 18
Read the passage and then answer the questions below.
CRAIGIE AITCHISON
The painter Craigie Aitchison was born in Scotland. He came to London intending to study law, but went to art school
instead. There he found the traditional drawing classes difficult, but still kept on painting.
In his late twenties he was given money by the Italian government to study art, and became interested in early Italian
artists, which shows in some of his work. He loved the greens and browns of the Italian fields and the clear light there,
and wanted to put this light into his paintings.
This led him to paint colours thinly one on top of another from light to dark, but he insists he's never sure what the
results will be. He says, 'It's a secret - because I don't know myself. I don't start by painting yellow, knowing I'm going
to put anything on top.' Like most talented people, Aitchison makes it sound easy. 'Anyone can do the colours - you
can buy them. I simply notice what you put the colours next to.'
Unlike some artists, he never does drawings before he starts a painting, as he feels that if he did, he might get bored
and not do the painting afterwards. Instead, Aitchison changes his paintings many times before they are finished. This
explains why his favourite models are people who don't ask to see their pictures while he's painting them. 'If I feel
they're worried and want to look at the painting, I can't do it.'
Since moving to London years ago, he has not felt part of the Scottish painting scene. He says he is not interested in
following any tradition, but just paints the way he can. However, his work still influences young British painters.
1. What is the writer trying to do in the text?
describe particular works by Craigie Aitchison
teach readers how to paint like Craigie Aitchison
introduce readers to the artist Craigie Aitchison
explain how Craigie Aitchison has made money
from painting

2. What can the reader learn about Aitchison from
the text?
He works in a different way from other artists.
He often gets bored with his paintings.
He improved his drawing by going to art school.
He did some paintings for the Italian government.

3. What does Aitchison say about his use of colour?
He likes starting with the darkest colours first.
He knows the colours he’s aiming for when he
begins.
He prefers to paint with yellows, greens, and
browns.
He understands how different colours work
together.
4. Aitchison prefers models who don’t
keep talking to him while he’s working.
ask him about his strange method of working.
worry about how long the work will take.
feel anxious to see the work as it’s developing.

5. What might a visitor at an exhibition say about Aitchison’s work?
I love his recent paintings of Scotland, which are very similar to a number of other Scottish painters
You can still see the influence of his trip to Italy in some of these pictures.
You can tell he spent a lot of time drawing the picture before he started painting.
I wonder if his law training helps him at all, especially in selling his work.


R3 - Test 19 - R3 - Test 19
Read the passage and then answer the questions below.

THE YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR
Kal Kaur Rai has always been interested in fashion and has just won the title of Young Achiever of the Year at the
Asian Business Awards. Ever since she was a child, she has drawn clothes and designed patterns. She never told her
hard-working parents, who own a supermarket, that she wanted to turn her hobby into a career. She thought they
expected her to go into a more established business, so she went to university to do a management degree.
After university, she moved to London and worked in an advertising agency, one naa to attend industry events but
couldn’t afford the designer clothes she liked. She started making skirts and tops for herself. When her friends saw her
clothes, they asked her to make things for them. She then found a small shop in London willing to take her designs on
a sale^or- return basis. They were very popular and nothing came back. This encouraged her to leave her advertising
job, take out a £20,000 loan and begin her own womenswear label.
Kal’s parents were not angry about her career change and said they would support her, which really pleased her. Her
clothes are now on sale in over 70 stores and her business has an income of over £500,000. Her clothes appear in
fashion magazines, she designs for pop stars and she has just gained public recognition by winning this award. Her
business has come a long way and she knows she is extremely lucky. ‘What I do is my hobby - and I get paid for it!
But remember, I’ve worked hard for this.’
1. What is the writer trying to do in the text?

university.

encourage fashion designers to make better
business plans

3. Kal decided to borrow £20,000 when

compare a job in fashion with other choices of
career
give details of recent changes in the fashion
industry
explain how a woman set up a fashion business
2. What does the reader learn about Kal’s parents?

They wanted Kal to help them run the family
business.
They did not realise that Kal wanted to work in
fashion.
They insisted Kal should continue with her job in
advertising.
They did not think Kal worked hard enough at

all her clothes in the London shop were sold.
her friends asked her to make clothes for them.
she lost her job at the advertising agency.
the fashion industry was in a period of growth.
This question must be answered.
4. What does Kal say about her career?
She plans to open more stores.
She believes that she deserves her success.
She particularly enjoys designing for famous
people.
She expects more people to buy her clothes after
the award.

5. What might Kal say now about her career?
"My management degree has N, helped me more than anything else. It’s so important that young people interested
in fashion can deal with money.
I’ve learnt so much working for other fashion designers. Without this experience, I couldn’t have started my own
business.
Running a fashion business is a dream come true and my parents being happy with my choice makes it e
Even when I was at university, my friends liked the clothes I made. This encouraged me to think about a career in
fashion.

R3 - Test 20 - R3 - Test 20
Read the passage and then answer the questions below.
BEING AN OLDER STUDENT
At 32, I have just finished my first year at university. As well as attending lectures regularly, I have had to learn to read
books quickly and write long essays.
I decided to go to university after fourteen years away from the classroom. As a secretary, although I was earning a
reasonable amount of money, I was bored doing something where I hardly had to think. I became more and more
depressed by the idea that I was stuck in the job. I was jealous of the students at the local university, who looked
happy, carefree and full of hope, and part of something that I wanted to explore further.
However, now that I've actually become a student I find it hard to mix with younger colleagues. They are always
mistaking me for a lecturer and asking me questions I can't answer. I also feel separated from the lecturers because,
although we are the same age, I know so much less than them. But I am glad of this opportunity to study because I
know you need a qualification to get a rewarding job, which is really important to me. Unlike most eighteen-year-olds,
I much prefer a weekend with my books to one out partying. Then there are the normal student benefits of long
holidays and theatre and cinema discounts. I often have doubts about what I'll do after university, but I hope that
continuing my education at this late date has been a wise choice.
1. What is the writer trying to do in the text?
help lecturers understand older students
explain her reasons for returning to study
suggest some good methods for studying
complain about the attitude of young students

3. How did the writer feel about her job as a
secretary?
Her salary wasn’t good enough.
It gave her the opportunity to study.
It didn’t make use of her brain.
Her colleagues made her depressed.

2. What can a reader find out about the writer from
this text?

4. In her spare time, the writer likes to

when she left school

go out to parties.

how long her university course is

earn some money.

where she will work in future

travel a lot.

what subject she is studying

do extra study.

5. Which of these sentences describes the writer?
She realizes the the value of a university degree
She gets on well with other students
She is confident about the future.
She finds university life easier than she expected.


R3 - Test 21 - R3 - Test 21
Read the text below and questions on the opposite page. For each question, mark the correct letter A, B, C or D on

your answer sheet.
It is well known that the building development company Cityspace wants to knock down the existing seafront sports
club in Layton and replace it with a leisure centre that will consist of a multi-screen cinema, restaurants and an
entertainment centre. But a local action group has promised to fight the £30 million redevelopment of the sports club,
which has provided family facilities for over 25 years.
The action group was set up three weeks after the project was announced. Members of the group argue that the new
centre will be too big and will totally change the way the town looks. They also dislike the removal of sports facilities
from the centre and the change to less healthy activities such as video games and films. Apart from the size of the
project, they say that the 550 parking spaces provided will be too few and parking will become more difficult as a
result.
Local hotel owners have welcomed the project, but the action group says that in general it will only have a bad effect
on the neighbourhood. According to one group member it will result in up to 4,000 people being around Layton
seafront late at night. ‘A
lot of old people and families live nearby,’ he explained. A meeting is being held tonight to discuss the plans.

1. What is the writer trying to do in the article?
A show why the new leisure centre is needed
B give her own opinion about the new leisure
centre

3. What does the action group think about the new
leisure centre?
A. It will not be right for the area.

C describe the arguments against the new leisure
centre

B. It will cost too much to build.

D suggest where the new leisure centre should be

built

D. It will provide too little entertainment.

2. What will the reader discover from the article?
A. how long it will take to complete the new leisure
centre

C. It will not attract enough people.
4. Which group of people is keen on having the new
leisure centre?
A. people who do a lot of sport

B. how many members the action group has

B. people working in the tourist industry

C. how much it will cost to join the new leisure
centre

C. people who come into Layton by car

D. how long the sports club has been in Layton

D people living near the seafront
5. What would be a good headline for the article?
A. Action Group changes its mind
B. Leisure plans under attack
C. Seafront invaded by crowds again
D. Good news for Cityspace

R3 - Test 22 - R3 - Test 22
Read the text and questions below. For each question, mark the correct letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet.
Imagine if everyone in your street suddenly came out into the road one day and started singing together. Singing
teacher Ruth Black believes it would make everyone so friendly that they would never walk past each other again
without saying hello.
Singing helps people live in peace together, she says. All over the world people have always sung together and in most
places they still do, but in England it is no longer traditional. Nowadays, says Ruth, people only sing together in
churches and football grounds, although it could be done anywhere. Everyone is able to sing, she says, but most of us
either think we can't or have forgotten what we learned as children.
However, as with everything musical, you need to practise and the same applies to your voice. Ruth believes that
singing itself brings other benefits. It encourages good breathing, for example. Through singing, people often become
more confident and also learn to control stress. But more than anything, it brings people together.
When Ruth first started singing, there was little opportunity to sing with others. Then, through a friend, she discovered
an excellent singing class and became so keen that she started running her own classes. These are held twice a month
for all singers, whatever their level, and are now enormously successful.
1. What is the writer trying to do in this article?
A. explain why singing has become less popular
everywhere

3. Ruth believes the main benefit of singing with
other people is that
A. you learn to breathe more easily.

B. describe a teacher’s ideas about the importance
of singing

B. you are able to improve your speaking.
C. you can get to know other people.

C. advertise a teacher’s singing classes
D. encourage children to learn to sing

D. you become a confident musician.
4. What made Ruth start her own class?

2. What can the reader find out from the article?
A. how singing is something anyone can do
B. where the best places to learn to sing are
C. why traditional singing has disappeared

A. She couldn’t find a suitable class.
B. She was asked to teach people she knew.
C. She wanted to improve her own teaching.
D. She enjoyed going to a singing class herself.

D. how to improve your singing voice

5. Which is the best advertisement for Ruth’s singing classes?
A. CALLING ALL SINGERS! Want an opportunity to sing with others? We need professional singers to joi
B. THE SOUND OF MUSIC Our class wants individual singers for neighbourhood street concert. Come and
C . SING WITH US Think you can’t sing? See how you improve with practice! Our popular class is for s
D. SONGS FOR ALL! Can you sing? Try our ‘Singing for Everyone’ class every week and find out! Make n


R3 - Test 23 - R3 - Test 23
Read the text and questions below. For each question, mark the correct letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet
When musician Colin Baker won five hundred thousand pounds in a competition, it seemed the answer to his dreams.
Almost immediately, he bought a house and made his own CD recording of some classical music. He intended to save

the rest of his money and retire, even though he was only in his late forties.
Then he saw a violin in a shop. It was of such high quality that even top professional players are rarely able to afford
one like it. ‘I’d never felt money was important until then,’ he explained. ‘Even with the money I’d won, I wasn’t sure
I could afford to buy the violin, so I started to leave the shop. Then I thought I’d just try it, and I fell in love with the
beautiful sound it made. I knew it was perfect both for live concerts and for recordings.’
Now all the money has gone. ‘My wife can’t have the study room I promised her, and I can’t retire,’ says Colin, ‘but it
doesn’t matter.’ His wife says, ‘I sometimes wish he was more responsible with money, but I’m still pleased for him.
I’ve always helped him in his career, as he’s helped me, by sharing everything. We weren’t unhappy with our jobs, so
we didn’t really need the money to escape, and although Colin considered retiring, I know he wouldn’t be happy doing
that - he loves music too much. I think he did the right thing.’
1. What is the writer trying to do in the text?
A advise musicians to enter competitions
B explain why someone spent a lot of money
C describe how someone got a CD recorded
D persuade people to prepare for retirement
2. What can a reader learn from the text?
A how one man’s dream ended unhappily
B how much was paid for a special violin
C how one couple support each other
D how much money musicians need for their music

3. What does Colin’s wife say about what he did?
A She wishes he had used the money differently.
B She feels she didn’t really benefit from the
money.
C She is sorry she has lost her study room.
D She accepts the decision that he made.
4. When Colin first found the violin, he thought
A he might not have enough money to buy it.
B he should not spend all of his money on it.

C he was not a good enough player to own it.
D he could not leave the shop without it.

5. What did a local newspaper say about Colin’s story?
A well-known record company has asked a local musician to record a CD after winning a competition .
B A local musician today announced he would spend every penny of the money he'd won in a competition
C A concert audience heard a local musician give a brilliant performance last night on the violin h
D A local musician has decided to continue his career in music in spite of winning some money in a c


R3 - Test 24 - R3 - Test 24
Read the text and questions below. For each question, mark the correct letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet.
Breaking the Ice Michael Sharp visits an outdoor pool
It's just before 7 a.m. and I’m at an outdoor swimming pool in London, where the temperature of the water is only 11
degrees above freezing! Amazingly, there are already eight people swimming.
I had intended to discover, by taking a swim myself, why anyone would want to swim in such cold water. However, in
the end, I decided to ask people instead. Peter Smith has been a swimmer here for three years, coming every morning
before work. ‘It’s wonderful on a cold winter morning,’ he says. ‘I thought it would make me healthier and I haven’t
been ill once since I started.'
All the swimmers here say the same thing. They all feel fitter. However, not everyone agrees with them. Some doctors
say it helps fight illness, while others say it could be dangerous, especially for your heart.
I asked Peter what they did on the days when the pool was frozen. That’s easy,’ he said. ‘There’s a place in the middle
where the ice is thin and easy to break. You have to avoid the sides where the ice is thicker. I did try to swim there
once just to see what it was like, but I found out that it was impossible to break through the ice.'
I would like to be able to say that I too dived happily into the water and swam a couple of hundred metres. But the
truth is, fearing the worst, I walked very carefully into the pool, stood there almost in shock and then got out again
after 30 seconds before I became a block of ice!
1. What is the writer trying to do in this text?
A explain why some people like swimming in the
cold

3. What does Peter Smith say about his morning
swim?
A It has helped him recover from a recent illness.

B prove an idea he has had about keeping fit

B He enjoys it when the pool is covered in ice.

C warn people not to go swimming in cold water

C It is the reason why he keeps well all year.

D advise people on ways to stay healthy

D He thinks it makes him work better.

2. What can a reader find out from this text?
A where to go swimming in London

4. What did the writer feel about swimming at the
pool?

B what happened to the writer at the pool
C how to keep warm in cold water
D how often the writer goes swimming

A It was as cold as he expected.
B He did not like the ice.
C It made him feel healthier.

D He enjoyed swimming up and down.

5. What do you think the writer would say to his friends?
A. My doctor has advised me not to go swimming there.
B. It’s amazing how the pool stays clear of ice all winter.
C. I really enjoyed my early morning swim at the outdoor pool
D. I was surprised at the number of people in the pool – they must be crazy


R3 - Test 25 - R3 - Test 25
Read the text and questions below. For each question, mark the correct letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet.
Open-air Theatre
In Britain, the ancient tradition of open-air performances is still alive and well. Cornwall has some of Britain’s oldest
working theatres, with I one open-air theatre actually built into a cliff, a I project only recently completed.
Two actors, Dave James and Muriel Thomas, came from London theatres to join a theatre company called Coastline.
They now I regularly perform in just such a theatre, by the sea. ‘One thing about performing I outside is we never
know what'll happen. For example, if a bird lands on stage, we I can’t act as if it’s not there - the audience are all
watching it. So we just bring the bird into the play, too. Once, about 30 dolphins came past, jumping out of the water I
and showing off. The audience were all chatting about them instead of watching the I play, so the actors just gave up
for a while and watched the dolphins, too.’
The weather can also be difficult. ‘Sometimes it’s been so bad,' says Muriel, 'that I we’ve asked the audience if they
really want to stay. But usually they sit with their coats and umbrellas and say, “Yes, please carry on!" They must feel
it isn’t much fun, but no one’s returned their ticket so far!'
Coastline’s director, John Bamack, works hard to introduce people to theatre. 'Many people think of theatres as clubs
where they don’t belong and are not welcome,’ he explains. ‘Sitting in the open air changes that feeling. The audience
are far more involved - they aren't sitting in the dark, at a distance like in normal theatres, and that improves the actors’
performances, too. I’m very proud of the work they’ve done so far.’
1. What is the writer trying to do in the text?
A follow the development of open-air theatre in
Britain

B describe how one open-air theatre was built
C explain what it’s like to work in an open-air
theatre
D warn readers about the disadvantages of
attending open-air performances
2. When plays are disturbed by local wildlife, the
actors
A change their performance to include it.
B carry on as though nothing had happened.
C stop and have a chat with the audience.
D cancel the rest of the performance.

3. What Is the audience’s attitude to bad weather
during performances?
A They worry about the actors getting wet.
B They say that it stops them enjoying the play.
C They accept it as they have come well-prepared.
D They feel they should have their money back.
4. What does John Barnack say about outdoor
theatre?
A He's afraid the atmosphere is more stressful for
actors
B He's happy that the audience feel comfortable
being there.
C He's worried that it creates an atmosphere similar
to a club.
D He welcomes the distance it creates between
actors and audience.

5. What would an actor from the Coastline company write in his or her diary?

A difficult performance today -it was pouring with rain. Luckily the audience couldn't see my face i
B The theatre looks so old it's hard to imagine they've just finished it. I'd prefer to be by the se
C. I'm glad I moved from the London theatre scene. But I don’t think our director is satisfied with
D I’m keeping a tradition going, and it tests my acting skills, as 1 never know what unexpected thin