Free IELTS Practice Test Questions: Weekly Test-7

The professionals at w3wiki have provided you with Free IELTS Practice Questions in reading and writing. To help you efficiently prepare for the IELTS exam, our team of knowledgeable educators and test-prep experts has carefully created these Free IELTS Practice Questions.

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DIRECTIONS: Each passage or pair of passages below is followed by several questions. After reading each passage or pair, choose the best answer to each question based on what is stated or implied in the passage or passages.

The Impact of Social Media on Modern Communication

Social media has fundamentally transformed the way people communicate in the 21st century. Platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram enable users to connect instantly with others across the globe, share information, and engage in public discourse. This shift has democratized information sharing, allowing voices from all walks of life to be heard.

However, the influence of social media is not entirely positive. The spread of misinformation, cyberbullying, and the addictive nature of these platforms are significant concerns. Despite these issues, social media remains an integral part of modern life, continually evolving to meet the needs of its users.

Questions:

1. According to the passage, how has social media transformed communication?

A) By limiting access to information.

B) By enabling instant global connections.

C) By reducing the need for face-to-face interaction.

D) By increasing the cost of communication.

Answer: B. Social media has enabled users to connect instantly with others across the globe, thus transforming communication.

2. What is one negative aspect of social media mentioned in the passage?

A) Increased cost.

B) Limited access.

C) Spread of misinformation.

D) Improved privacy.

Answer: C. The passage mentions the spread of misinformation as a significant concern associated with social media.

3. What does the passage imply about the future of social media?

A) It will be replaced by traditional media.

B) It will continue to evolve.

C) It will become less important.

D) It will lead to increased privacy.

Answer: B. The passage suggests that social media will continue to evolve to meet the needs of its users.

The Significance of Biodiversity in Ecosystems

Biodiversity, the variety of life in all its forms and levels, is essential for the stability and sustainability of ecosystems. High biodiversity ensures resilience against environmental changes and disturbances. Diverse ecosystems are better equipped to maintain productivity, nutrient cycling, and ecosystem services such as pollination, water purification, and climate regulation.

Conserving biodiversity involves protecting habitats, reducing pollution, and mitigating climate change. Efforts to preserve biodiversity can be seen in the establishment of protected areas, like national parks and wildlife reserves, which provide safe havens for endangered species and maintain natural habitats. Additionally, reducing deforestation and promoting sustainable land-use practices are crucial steps in conserving biodiversity.

Human activities, including urbanization, agriculture, and industrialization, pose significant threats to biodiversity. These activities can lead to habitat destruction, pollution, and the introduction of invasive species, all of which can reduce biodiversity. To combat these threats, it is essential for governments, organizations, and individuals to work together in promoting conservation efforts and implementing sustainable practices.

Questions

1. Which of the following are benefits of high biodiversity in ecosystems? (Choose TWO answers.)

A. Increased agricultural productivity

B. Improved resilience against environmental changes

C. Enhanced ecosystem services such as pollination and water purification

D. Reduced need for conservation efforts

2. What are some measures mentioned in the text to conserve biodiversity? (Choose TWO answers.)

A. Establishing protected areas

B. Increasing urbanization

C. Reducing deforestation

D. Expanding industrial activities

3. What are some of the human activities that pose threats to biodiversity according to the text? (Choose TWO answers.)

A. Urbanization

B. Wildlife conservation

C. Agriculture

D. Pollution reduction

Answers and Explanations

1. Correct Answers: B and C
   • Explanation: The passage states that high biodiversity ensures resilience against environmental changes (B) and enhances ecosystem services such as pollination, water purification, and climate regulation (C). These points highlight the importance of biodiversity in maintaining ecosystem stability and productivity.
2. Correct Answers: A and C
   • Explanation: The text mentions that conserving biodiversity involves protecting habitats, reducing pollution, and mitigating climate change. Specific measures include establishing protected areas like national parks and wildlife reserves (A) and reducing deforestation (C). These actions are crucial in preserving natural habitats and species.
3. Correct Answers: A and C
   • Explanation: The passage identifies human activities such as urbanization (A) and agriculture (C) as significant threats to biodiversity. These activities lead to habitat destruction, pollution, and the introduction of invasive species, all of which negatively impact biodiversity.

The Innovations of Nikola Tesla

Nikola Tesla, born in 1856 in Smiljan, Croatia, was an inventor and electrical engineer known for his contributions to the development of alternating current (AC) electrical systems. His innovations significantly advanced the electrical engineering field and laid the foundation for modern power distribution systems.

Tesla’s early education in engineering and physics took place in Austria and later in Prague. In 1884, he moved to the United States to work for Thomas Edison. However, due to differing opinions on electrical systems, Tesla left Edison’s company and partnered with George Westinghouse. Together, they promoted the adoption of AC over Edison’s direct current (DC), demonstrating its efficiency in power transmission over long distances.

One of Tesla’s remarkable achievements was the design of the first hydroelectric power plant at Niagara Falls, which began operation in 1895. This project proved the viability of AC power on a large scale and was a significant milestone in the electrification of the world.

Despite his genius, Tesla faced numerous financial difficulties and was often overshadowed by more commercially successful contemporaries. He continued to innovate until his death in 1943, leaving behind a legacy of over 300 patents and numerous contributions to electrical engineering, radio technology, and wireless communication.

Questions:

1. Nikola Tesla was born in Croatia and later moved to the United States to work for Thomas Edison.
2. Tesla and Edison shared the same views on electrical systems, leading to their long-term collaboration.
3. Tesla’s work on alternating current (AC) was supported by George Westinghouse.
4. The first hydroelectric power plant designed by Tesla was located at Niagara Falls and began operation in 1895.
5. Tesla’s financial success matched his innovative contributions throughout his life.

Answers:

1. True – Nikola Tesla was born in Croatia and later moved to the United States to work for Thomas Edison.
2. False – Tesla and Edison did not share the same views on electrical systems, leading to Tesla leaving Edison’s company.
3. True – Tesla’s work on alternating current (AC) was supported by George Westinghouse.
4. True – The first hydroelectric power plant designed by Tesla was located at Niagara Falls and began operation in 1895.
5. False – Tesla faced numerous financial difficulties and was often overshadowed by more commercially successful contemporaries.

The Evolution of Printing Technology

The development of printing technology revolutionized the dissemination of knowledge. The earliest known form of printing is woodblock printing, which originated in China around 220 CE. This technique involved carving an image or text into a block of wood, inking the block, and then pressing it onto paper or fabric.

The next major advancement came with the invention of movable type by Bi Sheng in China around 1040 CE. This method used individual characters made of clay, which could be rearranged and reused to print different texts. Although this innovation improved the efficiency of printing, it remained relatively unknown outside of East Asia for several centuries.

Printing technology took a significant leap forward with the invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in Germany around 1440 CE. Gutenberg’s press combined movable type with a screw press, enabling the mass production of books. This invention played a crucial role in the spread of the Renaissance and the Reformation, as it allowed for the rapid and wide dissemination of new ideas.

By the 19th century, printing technology had further advanced with the introduction of the steam-powered press. Invented by Friedrich Koenig in 1814, this press drastically increased the speed and volume of printing, making newspapers and books more accessible to the general public.

Questions: Look at the following items and the list of groups below. Match each item with the group which first invented or used them. Write the correct letter A-D in boxes 7-10 on your answer sheet. NB You may use any letter more than once.

1. Woodblock printing
2. Movable type
3. Printing press
4. Steam-powered press

First invented or used by:
A. The Chinese
B. Johannes Gutenberg
C. Bi Sheng
D. Friedrich Koenig

Answers:

1. Woodblock printing – A. The Chinese
2. Movable type – C. Bi Sheng
3. Printing press – B. Johannes Gutenberg
4. Steam-powered press – D. Friedrich Koenig

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Write at least 150 words. The bar chart shows the percentage of households with Internet access in three different countries (USA, UK, and Canada) from 2000 to 2020. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Task 1 – Analyze the chart below and perform the task as outlined:

The bar chart illustrates the percentage of households with Internet access in the USA, UK, and Canada over a 20-year period from 2000 to 2020.

Answer:

The bar chart provides information on the proportion of households with Internet access in three countries: the USA, UK, and Canada, from 2000 to 2020. It is evident that all three countries saw a substantial increase in Internet penetration over the two decades, with the UK showing the most significant growth.

In 2000, the USA had the highest percentage of households with Internet access at around 40%, followed by Canada at 30%, and the UK at approximately 25%. Over the next ten years, all three countries experienced considerable growth. By 2010, the percentage of Internet-connected households in the USA and Canada had risen to 70% and 65% respectively, while the UK saw a significant increase to 60%.

The trend continued upward from 2010 to 2020. By 2020, the UK had the highest percentage of households with Internet access at 95%, surpassing both the USA and Canada, which reached 85% and 90% respectively. The consistent rise in Internet access indicates an increasing reliance on digital connectivity in all three countries.

The chart illustrates a significant overall growth in Internet accessibility, with the UK experiencing the most dramatic increase, especially in the second decade. This trend reflects the growing importance of the Internet in daily life and its widespread adoption across different regions. The data suggests that by 2020, Internet access had become nearly ubiquitous in these countries, highlighting the digital transformation that occurred over the 20-year period.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.

Question: The widespread use of social media has significantly impacted our lives, influencing how we connect with others, obtain information, and spend our free time. While some argue that social media enhances communication and access to information, others believe it leads to negative consequences such as decreased face-to-face interactions and the spread of misinformation.

In your opinion, do the advantages of social media outweigh the disadvantages? Provide reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Answer:

Social media has undeniably transformed the way we communicate, gather information, and utilize our leisure time. This transformation has brought both positive and negative consequences. While social media provides numerous benefits, such as enhanced communication and easy access to information, it also presents challenges, including reduced face-to-face interactions and the proliferation of misinformation. In my opinion, the advantages of social media outweigh the disadvantages, but it is crucial to address and mitigate its negative impacts.

One of the most significant benefits of social media is its ability to connect people across vast distances. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram enable users to stay in touch with friends and family, regardless of geographic barriers. This has been particularly important during the COVID-19 pandemic, where social distancing measures have limited in-person interactions. For instance, many individuals have used social media to maintain their relationships, attend virtual events, and participate in online communities, thereby reducing feelings of isolation.

Additionally, social media serves as a powerful tool for information dissemination. News outlets, organizations, and individuals can share real-time updates and educational content with a global audience. This democratization of information allows people to stay informed about current events, social issues, and emerging trends. For example, movements like #MeToo and Black Lives Matter have gained momentum through social media, raising awareness and prompting social change.

However, the advantages of social media come with notable drawbacks. One significant concern is the decline in face-to-face interactions. Excessive use of social media can lead to a decrease in meaningful, in-person communication, which is essential for developing deep, personal relationships. To address this issue, individuals can set boundaries for their social media usage, such as designated “screen-free” times to focus on real-world interactions.

Another major disadvantage is the spread of misinformation. Social media platforms often struggle to regulate false information, which can lead to public confusion and mistrust. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous conspiracy theories and false health claims circulated on social media, complicating public health efforts. To combat this, social media companies should invest in better fact-checking systems and users should be encouraged to verify information from credible sources before sharing.

In conclusion, while social media has transformed communication and information sharing, its benefits outweigh its disadvantages. The ability to connect with others and access information instantly is invaluable. However, it is essential to recognize and mitigate the negative impacts, such as decreased face-to-face interactions and misinformation, to fully harness the potential of social media. By doing so, we can enjoy the advantages while minimizing the drawbacks.

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