Free Language Practice Test 15

Excerpt From “An Autumn Remembrance”
by Stephanie Grayen

1. Dawn breaks on a crisp October day, unveiling the rustic charm of a small farmhouse nestled in a sleepy village. The heart of the home is a cozy kitchen with a hefty iron stove that has borne witness to many a family meal. A sturdy oak table takes center stage, while a nearby hearth glows warmly, two easy chairs beckoning with an unspoken invitation to comfort.
2. At the window stands an elderly man, his hair as silver as the frost outside. His once-tall frame is now stooped, but his eyes, a piercing blue, miss nothing. They twinkle as he declares, “Ah, the perfect day for apple pie!” His voice, a soft baritone, brings to mind the rustling of dry leaves.
3. He is speaking to me. Only ten years old, I am his grandson, but in this house, we are more like friends. Other family members come and go, their presence like the distant hum of bees, but it is my grandfather and I who truly share this space. He calls me ‘Scout’, after a character from his favorite book, a name that makes me puff up with pride.
4. “Felt it in my bones when I woke up,” he continues, his hands busy preparing the dough for our baking. “The leaves were dancing on the breeze and not a cloud in the sky. Scout, fetch the ladder. We’ve got apples to pick, and a pie that won’t bake itself.”
5. It is an annual ritual. When the leaves turn to shades of flame and the air smells of earth and rain, my grandfather announces with ceremonious glee: “It’s apple pie day! Fetch the ladder and don’t dally!”
6. The ladder is retrieved, and it’s wood smooth from years of handling. We venture out into the orchard, our steps in sync. The ladder creaks under his weight as he ascends, while I stand guard below. The basket fills with the fruits of our labor, red and golden orbs that promise sweetness.
7. Hours later, we return to the sanctuary of the kitchen, our basket brimming with apples. We share the labor of peeling and coring, the sweet scent of apple mingling with the spicy aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg. Each slice is a memory, a story from my grandfather’s lips, infusing the fruit with the taste of history. The room dims as evening approaches, the last rays of the sun casting our shadows on the walls, intertwined with the scent of baking that fills the air.
8. Our dinner is simple – homemade bread, cheese, and the last of the summer’s jam – but our conversation is rich with plans. Tomorrow, we bake. The kitchen will be alive with the fragrance of pies as we mix and stir and roll, laughter as much an ingredient as flour and butter.

Which statement expresses a theme from the excerpt?

Opinion: A Green Thumbprint on Urban Landscapes
by Alex Hammond, City Horticulturist City Times, August 15

Ignoring the benefits of native plants can lead to excessive expenditures. Non-native species often demand more frequent watering and care, especially as they adapt to an unfamiliar environment. This can strain not only city resources but also the delicate balance of local ecosystems. Moreover, native plants play a crucial role in providing habitats for local wildlife, including pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Without these crucial species, which thrive among indigenous vegetation, our urban landscape would suffer.

The use of native plants also supports natural growth patterns and seasonal cycles. Many of these plants have deep root systems that help prevent soil erosion and support water absorption during heavy rains, reducing the likelihood of flooding. Furthermore, these plants have evolved with fire regimes and pest cycles in the area, making them naturally resilient. It’s time to rethink our urban landscaping policies to not only save money but also protect the environment.

Response: Landscaping with Native Plants is Shortsighted
Robert T. Blameg
City Times August 17

I read Alex Hammond’s recent column with great dismay. Advocating for the use of native plants in urban landscaping is a narrow-minded approach that ignores several critical issues. Firstly, the aesthetic value of exotic plants, which can’t be matched by local varieties, attracts tourists and residents alike, providing a financial boost to the city. Secondly, the suggestion that native plants require less maintenance is misleading. What about the diseases and pests that have evolved alongside these plants? They can be just as problematic. And what about variety? By focusing solely on native species, we risk creating monotonous green spaces that lack the vibrant diversity that visitors and citizens enjoy. Moreover, native plants are not the ultimate solution to pest control or flooding—proper urban planning and architectural design are far more critical in managing these issues.

In his response to Alex Hammond’s article, “A Green Thumbprint on Urban Landscapes,” what criticism does Robert T. Blameg make about the use of native plants in urban landscaping?

Opinion: A Green Thumbprint on Urban Landscapes
by Alex Hammond, City Horticulturist City Times, August 15

Ignoring the benefits of native plants can lead to excessive expenditures. Non-native species often demand more frequent watering and care, especially as they adapt to an unfamiliar environment. This can strain not only city resources but also the delicate balance of local ecosystems. Moreover, native plants play a crucial role in providing habitats for local wildlife, including pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Without these crucial species, which thrive among indigenous vegetation, our urban landscape would suffer.

The use of native plants also supports natural growth patterns and seasonal cycles. Many of these plants have deep root systems that help prevent soil erosion and support water absorption during heavy rains, reducing the likelihood of flooding. Furthermore, these plants have evolved with fire regimes and pest cycles in the area, making them naturally resilient. It’s time to rethink our urban landscaping policies to not only save money but also protect the environment.

Response: Landscaping with Native Plants is Shortsighted
Robert T. Blameg
City Times August 17

I read Alex Hammond’s recent column with great dismay. Advocating for the use of native plants in urban landscaping is a narrow-minded approach that ignores several critical issues. Firstly, the aesthetic value of exotic plants, which can’t be matched by local varieties, attracts tourists and residents alike, providing a financial boost to the city. Secondly, the suggestion that native plants require less maintenance is misleading. What about the diseases and pests that have evolved alongside these plants? They can be just as problematic. And what about variety? By focusing solely on native species, we risk creating monotonous green spaces that lack the vibrant diversity that visitors and citizens enjoy. Moreover, native plants are not the ultimate solution to pest control or flooding—proper urban planning and architectural design are far more critical in managing these issues.

Which conclusion is supported by Blameg as the response to Hammond’s column?

“The Secret Garden of Eldertown”
by Clara Bennett

Eldertown had always been admired for its picturesque landscapes and charming Victorian architecture. But hidden behind the old mill, shrouded in mystery, lay the Secret Garden. Once a vibrant tapestry of blooming flowers and lush greenery, the garden had fallen into neglect. It became a mere shadow of its former glory, with overgrown weeds and crumbling statues.

Enter Thomas Reed, a retired botanist and lifelong resident of Eldertown. Thomas had cherished memories of the Secret Garden from his youth and believed in its potential to bring the community together. He envisioned the garden not only as a project of restoration but as a beacon of unity and peace. Gathering a group of volunteers from the town, Thomas set forth a plan to restore the Secret Garden. He believed that the restoration could rekindle a sense of pride and provide a natural retreat for all townsfolk.

The project faced initial resistance from some community members who saw it as a frivolous endeavor amidst more pressing urban challenges. However, Thomas’s unwavering commitment and the transformation he spearheaded gradually won over the skeptics. With each cleared path and replanted flowerbed, the Secret Garden began to blossom once again.

Months of dedicated work culminated in the grand reopening of the Secret Garden. Eldertown’s residents gathered to witness the unveiling of the revived garden, now teeming with life and beauty. It stood as a testament to what a community can achieve when united by a common goal. The Secret Garden of Eldertown had become more than a place of natural splendor; it had grown into a symbol of hope and collective accomplishment.

Which statement best summarizes the passage?

“The Secret Garden of Eldertown”
by Clara Bennett

Eldertown had always been admired for its picturesque landscapes and charming Victorian architecture. But hidden behind the old mill, shrouded in mystery, lay the Secret Garden. Once a vibrant tapestry of blooming flowers and lush greenery, the garden had fallen into neglect. It became a mere shadow of its former glory, with overgrown weeds and crumbling statues.

Enter Thomas Reed, a retired botanist and lifelong resident of Eldertown. Thomas had cherished memories of the Secret Garden from his youth and believed in its potential to bring the community together. He envisioned the garden not only as a project of restoration but as a beacon of unity and peace. Gathering a group of volunteers from the town, Thomas set forth a plan to restore the Secret Garden. He believed that the restoration could rekindle a sense of pride and provide a natural retreat for all townsfolk.

The project faced initial resistance from some community members who saw it as a frivolous endeavor amidst more pressing urban challenges. However, Thomas’s unwavering commitment and the transformation he spearheaded gradually won over the skeptics. With each cleared path and replanted flowerbed, the Secret Garden began to blossom once again.

Months of dedicated work culminated in the grand reopening of the Secret Garden. Eldertown’s residents gathered to witness the unveiling of the revived garden, now teeming with life and beauty. It stood as a testament to what a community can achieve when united by a common goal. The Secret Garden of Eldertown had become more than a place of natural splendor; it had grown into a symbol of hope and collective accomplishment.

What is the main idea of “The Secret Garden of Eldertown” by Clara Bennett?

Article 1: Protecting Pollinators: The Silent Crisis

by Dr. Rebecca Liu, Conservation Biologist

1. In recent years, scientists have raised alarms about the decline of pollinators, particularly bees. Pollinators play a vital role in the ecosystem by fertilizing plants, which leads to the production of fruits and seeds. Without them, many crops and wild plants would fail to reproduce. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that one-third of the food we eat depends on pollinators. Yet, despite their importance, pollinator populations are dwindling at alarming rates due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change.
2. Bees are not the only pollinators at risk. Butterflies, birds, bats, and even beetles contribute to pollination. However, bees, especially honeybees, receive the most attention because of their role in agriculture. Farmers rely on honeybees to pollinate crops such as almonds, apples, and blueberries. When honeybee colonies collapse, the agricultural sector feels the impact immediately.
3. Despite the importance of bees, other pollinators are often overlooked. For example, native bee species—such as bumblebees and mason bees—are just as effective at pollinating crops as honeybees, but they receive far less attention from conservation efforts. This bias toward honeybees can be compared to the concept of “charismatic megafauna” in wildlife conservation, where larger, more appealing animals like pandas and tigers receive more protection than less glamorous species.
4. To address this crisis, conservationists recommend planting native flowers to provide food for pollinators, reducing pesticide use, and protecting natural habitats. Additionally, more research is needed to understand the complex relationships between pollinators and their environments.

Article 2: The Cost of Conservation: Balancing Economics and Ecology

by Michael Sanchez, Environmental Economist

5. Conservation efforts often focus on preserving ecosystems, but they come with significant economic challenges. Protecting habitats requires funds, and those funds are often limited. Governments and organizations must make difficult decisions about where to allocate resources. Should funds go toward protecting endangered species, or should they be used to address other pressing societal issues like healthcare or education?
6. Critics of conservation programs argue that economic development should take precedence over environmental protection. Building roads, expanding cities, and promoting industries create jobs and stimulate the economy. However, these activities often lead to habitat destruction and species extinction, which can have long-term consequences for the planet.
7. Proponents of conservation counter that a healthy environment is essential for a healthy economy. For example, pollinators like bees contribute billions of dollars annually to agriculture by increasing crop yields. Similarly, protected natural areas can boost local economies through tourism. Studies have shown that the cost of inaction—failing to protect ecosystems—can be far greater than the upfront costs of conservation programs.
8. Finding a balance between economic growth and environmental protection is not easy. However, experts argue that it is possible to achieve both through sustainable practices. Governments can promote eco-friendly industries, offer incentives for conservation efforts, and invest in technologies that minimize environmental impact.

 In “Protecting Pollinators,” what is one reason Dr. Liu believes that native bee species deserve more attention?

A) They are the most endangered pollinators.
B) They are more efficient at pollinating crops than honeybees.
C) They contribute to pollination but are often overlooked.
D) They are easier to protect than other pollinators.

The passage below is incomplete. Choose the correct version of the sentence using formal standard English.

We have updated the company dress code policy.

……………………  a positive impression on clients and visitors.

Employees are encouraged to wear business attire that is comfortable and appropriate for the workplace.

The policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant to the company’s evolving needs.

Answer Options:

A) The new policy emphasizes present and make
B) The new policy emphasizes presents and making
C) The new policy emphasizes presenting and making
D) The new policy emphasizes presenting and make