Reading (60 minutes)

01

Four professionals were interviewed for a business magazine about working internationally. Read the texts and answer the questions below.

Amelia

"I spent two years working in Singapore for a multinational technology company. Initially, I found the transition difficult because the workplace culture differed significantly from what I was accustomed to. Meetings were conducted more formally and decisions often required greater consultation. Nevertheless, the experience broadened my perspective and improved my ability to collaborate across cultures. The assignment also accelerated my career progression, and I was promoted shortly after returning home. If the opportunity arose, I would gladly accept another overseas posting."

Viktor

"When I accepted a position in Brazil, my main motivation was professional development. I wanted exposure to larger projects and more complex challenges. Unfortunately, the economic situation changed unexpectedly, resulting in several projects being cancelled. Although I gained valuable experience, the role was not as rewarding as I had anticipated. Still, I learned how to adapt quickly to uncertain circumstances, which has proved useful throughout my career."

Serena

"I work remotely for a company headquartered in Canada, despite living thousands of kilometres away. Advances in technology have made this arrangement possible, but it requires considerable discipline. Communication can sometimes be challenging because of time zone differences. However, the flexibility allows me to maintain a better work-life balance than I enjoyed in previous positions. I believe remote international work will become increasingly common in the future."

Hassan

"After spending over a decade in domestic management roles, I was offered the chance to oversee operations across several European countries. The responsibility was daunting at first because each market presented unique regulatory and cultural challenges. Nevertheless, I found the role intellectually stimulating. Leading diverse teams taught me the importance of listening carefully before making decisions. Looking back, it was undoubtedly the most influential period of my professional life."

Who...

1. would accept a similar opportunity again?

A. Amelia
B. Viktor
C. Serena
D. Hassan

2. experienced unexpected external difficulties?

A. Amelia
B. Viktor
C. Serena
D. Hassan

3. believes a particular working model will become more widespread?

A. Amelia
B. Viktor
C. Serena
D. Hassan

4. received a promotion after an international experience?

A. Amelia
B. Viktor
C. Serena
D. Hassan

5. manages employees in different countries?

A. Amelia
B. Viktor
C. Serena
D. Hassan

6. values flexibility most highly?

A. Amelia
B. Viktor
C. Serena
D. Hassan

7. initially found the experience intimidating?

A. Amelia
B. Viktor
C. Serena
D. Hassan

02

Read the passage quickly. Choose a heading for each numbered paragraph (1–7) from the list at the end of the text. There is one more heading than you need.

The Rise of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become one of the most influential technological developments of the twenty-first century. Once confined to research laboratories, AI systems now affect countless aspects of daily life, from online shopping recommendations to medical diagnostics.

8. 1)

The concept of intelligent machines is far older than modern computers. Ancient myths frequently described artificial beings capable of human-like actions. In the twentieth century, advances in mathematics and computing transformed these imaginative ideas into scientific possibilities.

9. 2)

One of the earliest breakthroughs came during the 1950s, when researchers began exploring whether computers could imitate human reasoning. Although computing power was extremely limited, these pioneers established many of the principles that continue to influence AI research today.

10. 3)

Progress was not continuous. Periods of optimism were often followed by disappointment when technological limitations prevented researchers from achieving ambitious goals. Funding declined several times as expectations exceeded reality.

11. 4)

The emergence of powerful computers and vast digital datasets transformed the field. Machine learning systems became capable of identifying patterns with unprecedented accuracy, enabling rapid advances in numerous industries.

12. 5)

Healthcare has benefited considerably from these developments. AI systems can assist doctors by analysing medical images, identifying abnormalities, and supporting diagnosis. Although human expertise remains essential, technology increasingly complements professional judgement.

13. 6)

Despite these achievements, concerns persist regarding privacy, employment, and accountability. Critics argue that regulations have not kept pace with technological development and that stronger oversight may be required.

14. 7)

Looking ahead, experts disagree about the long-term impact of AI. Some predict transformative benefits across society, while others caution against unrealistic expectations. Most agree, however, that AI will continue shaping the future.

Headings

1. Ethical concerns and regulation

2. Early theoretical foundations

3. A history of setbacks

4. Future possibilities

5. Ancient origins of the idea

6. Practical applications in medicine

7. A technological turning point

8. Replacing human workers completely

03

Read the article on the left. Choose the correct option to fill each gap.

The Future of Urban Transport

Cities around the world are facing increasing pressure to improve transportation systems while simultaneously reducing environmental impact. Population growth, urbanisation and rising demand for mobility have created challenges that traditional infrastructure struggles to address.

Many experts argue that investment in public transport remains the most effective solution. Efficient rail and bus networks can significantly reduce traffic congestion while also lowering emissions. Consequently, governments are increasingly prioritising projects that encourage people to rely less on private vehicles and more on 15) ________.

Technological innovation is also playing a crucial role. Electric vehicles have become more affordable, and advances in battery technology continue to improve performance. As a result, manufacturers expect demand to 16) ________ over the coming decade.

In addition, city planners are exploring ways to integrate multiple transport options into a single network. Through smartphone applications, travellers can access information about buses, trains, bicycles and ride-sharing services in real time. This approach aims to create a more 17) ________ experience for passengers.

Nevertheless, challenges remain. Significant investment is required to modernise infrastructure, and policymakers must balance environmental objectives with economic realities. Furthermore, public acceptance will be essential if new initiatives are to 18) ________.

Despite these obstacles, researchers remain optimistic. They argue that a combination of technological innovation, strategic planning and public cooperation could help cities create transport systems that are both efficient and 19) ________.

Options

15.

A. shared transport services
B. international tourism
C. road construction

16.

A. decline sharply
B. increase substantially
C. remain unchanged

17.

A. fragmented
B. seamless
C. restrictive

18.

A. succeed
B. disappear
C. weaken

19.

A. outdated
B. sustainable
C. expensive

04

Read the two articles on the left about remote work. The articles were written by different authors. Choose the correct option to fill each gap.

Article 1

The rapid expansion of remote work has transformed professional life. Supporters argue that employees benefit from greater flexibility and autonomy, while organisations can reduce operational costs. These advantages became particularly apparent during periods when traditional office attendance was impossible.

However, critics contend that remote work may reduce collaboration and weaken workplace culture. According to this perspective, spontaneous interactions often generate innovative ideas that are difficult to replicate online. Consequently, the long-term effects remain 20) ________.

Many organisations have therefore adopted hybrid models. Proponents claim these arrangements combine flexibility with opportunities for direct collaboration. Nevertheless, debate continues regarding whether such models truly represent the optimal solution or merely a temporary 21) ________.

Article 2

Although remote work offers numerous advantages, research suggests that outcomes vary considerably between individuals. Some employees thrive when given independence, whereas others struggle with isolation and reduced structure. This has led researchers to conclude that there is no universally 22) ________ approach.

Interestingly, studies indicate that productivity frequently remains stable or even improves under remote arrangements. These findings challenge assumptions that employees require constant supervision to perform effectively. As a result, many managers have begun to 23) ________ traditional beliefs about workplace oversight.

Despite growing acceptance, some executives continue to favour office-based environments. They argue that organisational culture develops more naturally through regular face-to-face interaction. Others, however, suggest that successful cultures can emerge regardless of physical location, provided that leaders actively 24) ________ communication and engagement.

Ultimately, most experts agree that remote work is unlikely to disappear entirely. Instead, organisations will probably continue experimenting until they identify models that best 25) ________ their objectives and workforce needs.

Options

20.

A. predictable
B. uncertain
C. irrelevant

21.

A. compromise
B. failure
C. obstacle

22.

A. effective
B. accepted
C. superior

23.

A. reinforce
B. reconsider
C. ignore

24.

A. discourage
B. limit
C. foster

25.

A. undermine
B. satisfy
C. neglect