Week 7 Y6 English Trial Test

Read the extracts below then answer the questions that follow.

Extract A: The Image Within Me By W. Propsner

As I strolled through the forest on the dirt path that led to the pond where I fed the ducks, I could hear the crunch of the leaves as they dropped. I could see the footprints of a family of squirrels that ran along the walk in quest of pine nuts that had fallen into the path.

There, among a small mound of rocks, a green lizard waited for a fly to land close enough for his morning meal. A little fly landed within easy reach of the lizard’s quick reflexes, as if on cue. After consuming his breakfast, the lizard climbed down from the rocks and returned to his burrow.

The sights I witness on my morning treks to the pond always fill me with happiness, as I observe forest creatures living in harmony with nature.

When I approached the area where I would sit and feed the ducks corn and oats, I spotted a lone fox drinking water a few yards away. As soon as our eyes connected, the fox and I recognised one other. Because he has observed my visits to the pond for many years, he knows I will not hurt him. He regarded me briefly before continuing to sip from the pond. As he was finished, he looked at me and it appeared to me that he smiled before going into the trees. I thought to myself how handsome he was and that we would meet again.

I had placed a little wooden seat on the pond’s shore months earlier so I could sit there as I fed the ducks. The bench had acquired a weathered appearance from its time beside the water and under the summer sun. The sun would shift over the pond in the afternoon, leaving the bench in the shade till morning. I have frequently visited the pond in the late afternoon and observed couples sitting on my seat arm-in-arm and appreciating the tranquillity.

On days when I was by myself, I would sit on the bench and, after feeding the ducks, reflect on my environment. I would reflect on life in general while I viewed the expansive pond with its placid waters and lazily swimming ducks.

Then, from the depths of my subconscious, I would see myself sitting on the bench. It appeared as if I were a third party observing myself sitting on the bench. Observing me when I sat alone, It felt as though I were a complete stranger to myself and was seeing myself for the first time.

Then, when I sat on the bench, I would examine my hands, followed by my feet. I would say to myself, “I am present. “I am not my own reflection, but I am myself.” This sensation seemed to last for hours, yet I knew it was only a fraction of a second. That my mind had generated the optical illusion I was experiencing. Seeing me, this spirit was seated on a bench at the edge of the woods near a pond.

I stood up and headed home, thinking what an odd sensation it was. To be observing myself as if I were someone else. I had forgotten the vision I had of myself staring at myself after a few months.

Then, on a dull day, when I once more sat on the bench, feeding the ducks and watching the fox with his kits drink, I felt the same way.

This time I was within myself and observing myself from the inside out. I could see my hands and feet, and I was aware of my location, yet I was observing myself from within my soul. Somehow, I felt detached from my body and peaceful. I thought to myself, “This must be what heaven is like seeing yourself from within your spirit.” The sensation was delightful and lovely. I could feel my mind relaxing and my head becoming clearer and more focused.

Later that day, I believed my personality had altered. I felt different, yet I felt the same. It felt as though a burden had been removed from my soul. All of my emotions were very obvious. I described my experience to my pals as feeling as if I were inside my own body, observing myself from the inside out. A handful of my pals scoffed and referred to me as “silly,” but I was aware. Then, some of my friends were astonished and told me that they, too, had similar but less intense emotions.

After reading and examining my inner sensations, I understood what I had gone through. My mind viewed my spirit and informed me that all was okay in my world and that I had nothing to fear. Now that I had seen my own soul from the inside out, I realised my life’s mission. I was just required to have faith in the deity that had created me and to believe that my spirit and soul were safe. I saw myself and realised that I had a soul. And it was pleasant.

Extract B: A Soul Awakened by Nature’s Bounty

Luke woke up early on a Sunday morning, feeling restless and overwhelmed. He needed to clear his head, so he decided to take a walk to the nearby park. 

As he strolled down the street, he noticed the usual hustle and bustle of city life – cars honking, people rushing to work, and buildings towering over him. He continued walking until he reached the park entrance. The sun was just starting to rise, casting a warm orange glow across the sky. The birds were chirping, and the air was fresh and crisp. He felt a sense of peace wash over him as he took in a natural beauty surrounding him.

As he walked along the trail, he noticed a group of squirrels playing around a nearby tree. He stopped and watched them for a while, marvelling at their playful antics. Suddenly, he remembered he had brought some water with him, and he poured some into a small dish he had brought along, leaving it by the tree.

“Here you go, little guys. Enjoy,” Luke said, smiling at the squirrels. Continuing his walk, he encountered a few birds waddling along the trail. They looked thirsty, so he poured some water into another dish he had brought, watching as they eagerly drank from it.

“Looks like you guys needed a drink. Glad I could help,” Luke said to the birds. As he walked further, he saw a lone goose. He noticed that its wing was injured, and it couldn’t fly. Feeling a pang of sadness, Luke decided to approach the goose.

“Hey there, buddy. What’s wrong with your wing?” Luke asked gently. The goose honked softly, looking up at Luke with big, sad eyes. “It’s okay. I won’t hurt you. Let me see if I can help,” Luke said, approaching the goose slowly.

After a few moments, Luke managed to get the goose into a nearby carrier he had brought with him. He knew he had to get some help, and he made his way to the park ranger’s station.

“Excuse me, sir. I found this goose with an injured wing. Can you help?” Luke asked the ranger. The ranger took one look at the goose and nodded. “Of course. I’ll take it to our animal clinic and make sure it gets the care it needs. Thank you for bringing it to our attention.” Feeling relieved, Luke watched as the ranger took the goose and left to take care of it. He knew he had made a small difference in the world, and it gave him a sense of purpose.

Feeling drained but content, Luke made his way to a nearby bench and sat down. He closed his eyes and let out a deep breath, feeling a sense of peace wash over him. He opened his eyes and felt a sense of clarity wash over him as if he had finally understood his purpose in life. “I get it now. I’m meant to help others, to make a difference in the world. And it feels amazing,” Luke whispered to himself.

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

1. What is the main point of similarity between the speaker in extract A and Luke in extract B?

Read the extracts below then answer the questions that follow.

Extract A: The Image Within Me By W. Propsner

As I strolled through the forest on the dirt path that led to the pond where I fed the ducks, I could hear the crunch of the leaves as they dropped. I could see the footprints of a family of squirrels that ran along the walk in quest of pine nuts that had fallen into the path.

There, among a small mound of rocks, a green lizard waited for a fly to land close enough for his morning meal. A little fly landed within easy reach of the lizard’s quick reflexes, as if on cue. After consuming his breakfast, the lizard climbed down from the rocks and returned to his burrow.

The sights I witness on my morning treks to the pond always fill me with happiness, as I observe forest creatures living in harmony with nature.

When I approached the area where I would sit and feed the ducks corn and oats, I spotted a lone fox drinking water a few yards away. As soon as our eyes connected, the fox and I recognised one other. Because he has observed my visits to the pond for many years, he knows I will not hurt him. He regarded me briefly before continuing to sip from the pond. As he was finished, he looked at me and it appeared to me that he smiled before going into the trees. I thought to myself how handsome he was and that we would meet again.

I had placed a little wooden seat on the pond’s shore months earlier so I could sit there as I fed the ducks. The bench had acquired a weathered appearance from its time beside the water and under the summer sun. The sun would shift over the pond in the afternoon, leaving the bench in the shade till morning. I have frequently visited the pond in the late afternoon and observed couples sitting on my seat arm-in-arm and appreciating the tranquillity.

On days when I was by myself, I would sit on the bench and, after feeding the ducks, reflect on my environment. I would reflect on life in general while I viewed the expansive pond with its placid waters and lazily swimming ducks.

Then, from the depths of my subconscious, I would see myself sitting on the bench. It appeared as if I were a third party observing myself sitting on the bench. Observing me when I sat alone, It felt as though I were a complete stranger to myself and was seeing myself for the first time.

Then, when I sat on the bench, I would examine my hands, followed by my feet. I would say to myself, “I am present. “I am not my own reflection, but I am myself.” This sensation seemed to last for hours, yet I knew it was only a fraction of a second. That my mind had generated the optical illusion I was experiencing. Seeing me, this spirit was seated on a bench at the edge of the woods near a pond.

I stood up and headed home, thinking what an odd sensation it was. To be observing myself as if I were someone else. I had forgotten the vision I had of myself staring at myself after a few months.

Then, on a dull day, when I once more sat on the bench, feeding the ducks and watching the fox with his kits drink, I felt the same way.

This time I was within myself and observing myself from the inside out. I could see my hands and feet, and I was aware of my location, yet I was observing myself from within my soul. Somehow, I felt detached from my body and peaceful. I thought to myself, “This must be what heaven is like seeing yourself from within your spirit.” The sensation was delightful and lovely. I could feel my mind relaxing and my head becoming clearer and more focused.

Later that day, I believed my personality had altered. I felt different, yet I felt the same. It felt as though a burden had been removed from my soul. All of my emotions were very obvious. I described my experience to my pals as feeling as if I were inside my own body, observing myself from the inside out. A handful of my pals scoffed and referred to me as “silly,” but I was aware. Then, some of my friends were astonished and told me that they, too, had similar but less intense emotions.

After reading and examining my inner sensations, I understood what I had gone through. My mind viewed my spirit and informed me that all was okay in my world and that I had nothing to fear. Now that I had seen my own soul from the inside out, I realised my life’s mission. I was just required to have faith in the deity that had created me and to believe that my spirit and soul were safe. I saw myself and realised that I had a soul. And it was pleasant.

Extract B: A Soul Awakened by Nature’s Bounty

Luke woke up early on a Sunday morning, feeling restless and overwhelmed. He needed to clear his head, so he decided to take a walk to the nearby park. 

As he strolled down the street, he noticed the usual hustle and bustle of city life – cars honking, people rushing to work, and buildings towering over him. He continued walking until he reached the park entrance. The sun was just starting to rise, casting a warm orange glow across the sky. The birds were chirping, and the air was fresh and crisp. He felt a sense of peace wash over him as he took in a natural beauty surrounding him.

As he walked along the trail, he noticed a group of squirrels playing around a nearby tree. He stopped and watched them for a while, marvelling at their playful antics. Suddenly, he remembered he had brought some water with him, and he poured some into a small dish he had brought along, leaving it by the tree.

“Here you go, little guys. Enjoy,” Luke said, smiling at the squirrels. Continuing his walk, he encountered a few birds waddling along the trail. They looked thirsty, so he poured some water into another dish he had brought, watching as they eagerly drank from it.

“Looks like you guys needed a drink. Glad I could help,” Luke said to the birds. As he walked further, he saw a lone goose. He noticed that its wing was injured, and it couldn’t fly. Feeling a pang of sadness, Luke decided to approach the goose.

“Hey there, buddy. What’s wrong with your wing?” Luke asked gently. The goose honked softly, looking up at Luke with big, sad eyes. “It’s okay. I won’t hurt you. Let me see if I can help,” Luke said, approaching the goose slowly.

After a few moments, Luke managed to get the goose into a nearby carrier he had brought with him. He knew he had to get some help, and he made his way to the park ranger’s station.

“Excuse me, sir. I found this goose with an injured wing. Can you help?” Luke asked the ranger. The ranger took one look at the goose and nodded. “Of course. I’ll take it to our animal clinic and make sure it gets the care it needs. Thank you for bringing it to our attention.” Feeling relieved, Luke watched as the ranger took the goose and left to take care of it. He knew he had made a small difference in the world, and it gave him a sense of purpose.

Feeling drained but content, Luke made his way to a nearby bench and sat down. He closed his eyes and let out a deep breath, feeling a sense of peace wash over him. He opened his eyes and felt a sense of clarity wash over him as if he had finally understood his purpose in life. “I get it now. I’m meant to help others, to make a difference in the world. And it feels amazing,” Luke whispered to himself.

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

I. The animals represent a threat to the protagonists and add tension to the story.
II. The animals signify the connection between humans and the wilderness.
III. The animals are merely decorative elements that add colour and variety to the setting.
IV. The animals serve as a reminder that humans are not separate from the outdoors but are a part of it.
V. The animals can inspire feelings of joy, peace, and awe, leading to a deeper appreciation of the natural world.
VI. The animals are included in the story purely for entertainment value or to appeal to animal lovers.
VII. The animals highlight the importance of wildlife in human lives and the need to appreciate and protect it.

2.  The following are the significance of the animals encountered by the protagonists in the two extracts EXCEPT?

I. The animals represent a threat to the protagonists and add tension to the story.

II. The animals signify the connection between humans and the wilderness.

III. The animals are merely decorative elements that add colour and variety to the setting.

IV. The animals serve as a reminder that humans are not separate from the outdoors but are a part of it. 

V. The animals can inspire feelings of joy, peace, and awe, leading to a deeper appreciation of the natural world.

VI. The animals are included in the story purely for entertainment value or to appeal to animal lovers.

VII. The animals highlight the importance of wildlife in human lives and the need to appreciate and protect it.

Read the extracts below then answer the questions that follow.

Extract A: The Image Within Me By W. Propsner

As I strolled through the forest on the dirt path that led to the pond where I fed the ducks, I could hear the crunch of the leaves as they dropped. I could see the footprints of a family of squirrels that ran along the walk in quest of pine nuts that had fallen into the path.

There, among a small mound of rocks, a green lizard waited for a fly to land close enough for his morning meal. A little fly landed within easy reach of the lizard’s quick reflexes, as if on cue. After consuming his breakfast, the lizard climbed down from the rocks and returned to his burrow.

The sights I witness on my morning treks to the pond always fill me with happiness, as I observe forest creatures living in harmony with nature.

When I approached the area where I would sit and feed the ducks corn and oats, I spotted a lone fox drinking water a few yards away. As soon as our eyes connected, the fox and I recognised one other. Because he has observed my visits to the pond for many years, he knows I will not hurt him. He regarded me briefly before continuing to sip from the pond. As he was finished, he looked at me and it appeared to me that he smiled before going into the trees. I thought to myself how handsome he was and that we would meet again.

I had placed a little wooden seat on the pond’s shore months earlier so I could sit there as I fed the ducks. The bench had acquired a weathered appearance from its time beside the water and under the summer sun. The sun would shift over the pond in the afternoon, leaving the bench in the shade till morning. I have frequently visited the pond in the late afternoon and observed couples sitting on my seat arm-in-arm and appreciating the tranquillity.

On days when I was by myself, I would sit on the bench and, after feeding the ducks, reflect on my environment. I would reflect on life in general while I viewed the expansive pond with its placid waters and lazily swimming ducks.

Then, from the depths of my subconscious, I would see myself sitting on the bench. It appeared as if I were a third party observing myself sitting on the bench. Observing me when I sat alone, It felt as though I were a complete stranger to myself and was seeing myself for the first time.

Then, when I sat on the bench, I would examine my hands, followed by my feet. I would say to myself, “I am present. “I am not my own reflection, but I am myself.” This sensation seemed to last for hours, yet I knew it was only a fraction of a second. That my mind had generated the optical illusion I was experiencing. Seeing me, this spirit was seated on a bench at the edge of the woods near a pond.

I stood up and headed home, thinking what an odd sensation it was. To be observing myself as if I were someone else. I had forgotten the vision I had of myself staring at myself after a few months.

Then, on a dull day, when I once more sat on the bench, feeding the ducks and watching the fox with his kits drink, I felt the same way.

This time I was within myself and observing myself from the inside out. I could see my hands and feet, and I was aware of my location, yet I was observing myself from within my soul. Somehow, I felt detached from my body and peaceful. I thought to myself, “This must be what heaven is like seeing yourself from within your spirit.” The sensation was delightful and lovely. I could feel my mind relaxing and my head becoming clearer and more focused.

Later that day, I believed my personality had altered. I felt different, yet I felt the same. It felt as though a burden had been removed from my soul. All of my emotions were very obvious. I described my experience to my pals as feeling as if I were inside my own body, observing myself from the inside out. A handful of my pals scoffed and referred to me as “silly,” but I was aware. Then, some of my friends were astonished and told me that they, too, had similar but less intense emotions.

After reading and examining my inner sensations, I understood what I had gone through. My mind viewed my spirit and informed me that all was okay in my world and that I had nothing to fear. Now that I had seen my own soul from the inside out, I realised my life’s mission. I was just required to have faith in the deity that had created me and to believe that my spirit and soul were safe. I saw myself and realised that I had a soul. And it was pleasant.

Extract B: A Soul Awakened by Nature’s Bounty

Luke woke up early on a Sunday morning, feeling restless and overwhelmed. He needed to clear his head, so he decided to take a walk to the nearby park. 

As he strolled down the street, he noticed the usual hustle and bustle of city life – cars honking, people rushing to work, and buildings towering over him. He continued walking until he reached the park entrance. The sun was just starting to rise, casting a warm orange glow across the sky. The birds were chirping, and the air was fresh and crisp. He felt a sense of peace wash over him as he took in a natural beauty surrounding him.

As he walked along the trail, he noticed a group of squirrels playing around a nearby tree. He stopped and watched them for a while, marvelling at their playful antics. Suddenly, he remembered he had brought some water with him, and he poured some into a small dish he had brought along, leaving it by the tree.

“Here you go, little guys. Enjoy,” Luke said, smiling at the squirrels. Continuing his walk, he encountered a few birds waddling along the trail. They looked thirsty, so he poured some water into another dish he had brought, watching as they eagerly drank from it.

“Looks like you guys needed a drink. Glad I could help,” Luke said to the birds. As he walked further, he saw a lone goose. He noticed that its wing was injured, and it couldn’t fly. Feeling a pang of sadness, Luke decided to approach the goose.

“Hey there, buddy. What’s wrong with your wing?” Luke asked gently. The goose honked softly, looking up at Luke with big, sad eyes. “It’s okay. I won’t hurt you. Let me see if I can help,” Luke said, approaching the goose slowly.

After a few moments, Luke managed to get the goose into a nearby carrier he had brought with him. He knew he had to get some help, and he made his way to the park ranger’s station.

“Excuse me, sir. I found this goose with an injured wing. Can you help?” Luke asked the ranger. The ranger took one look at the goose and nodded. “Of course. I’ll take it to our animal clinic and make sure it gets the care it needs. Thank you for bringing it to our attention.” Feeling relieved, Luke watched as the ranger took the goose and left to take care of it. He knew he had made a small difference in the world, and it gave him a sense of purpose.

Feeling drained but content, Luke made his way to a nearby bench and sat down. He closed his eyes and let out a deep breath, feeling a sense of peace wash over him. He opened his eyes and felt a sense of clarity wash over him as if he had finally understood his purpose in life. “I get it now. I’m meant to help others, to make a difference in the world. And it feels amazing,” Luke whispered to himself.

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

3. In what ways do the two extracts differ in terms of their use of language and sensory details?

Read the extracts below then answer the questions that follow.

Extract A: The Image Within Me By W. Propsner

As I strolled through the forest on the dirt path that led to the pond where I fed the ducks, I could hear the crunch of the leaves as they dropped. I could see the footprints of a family of squirrels that ran along the walk in quest of pine nuts that had fallen into the path.

There, among a small mound of rocks, a green lizard waited for a fly to land close enough for his morning meal. A little fly landed within easy reach of the lizard’s quick reflexes, as if on cue. After consuming his breakfast, the lizard climbed down from the rocks and returned to his burrow.

The sights I witness on my morning treks to the pond always fill me with happiness, as I observe forest creatures living in harmony with nature.

When I approached the area where I would sit and feed the ducks corn and oats, I spotted a lone fox drinking water a few yards away. As soon as our eyes connected, the fox and I recognised one other. Because he has observed my visits to the pond for many years, he knows I will not hurt him. He regarded me briefly before continuing to sip from the pond. As he was finished, he looked at me and it appeared to me that he smiled before going into the trees. I thought to myself how handsome he was and that we would meet again.

I had placed a little wooden seat on the pond’s shore months earlier so I could sit there as I fed the ducks. The bench had acquired a weathered appearance from its time beside the water and under the summer sun. The sun would shift over the pond in the afternoon, leaving the bench in the shade till morning. I have frequently visited the pond in the late afternoon and observed couples sitting on my seat arm-in-arm and appreciating the tranquillity.

On days when I was by myself, I would sit on the bench and, after feeding the ducks, reflect on my environment. I would reflect on life in general while I viewed the expansive pond with its placid waters and lazily swimming ducks.

Then, from the depths of my subconscious, I would see myself sitting on the bench. It appeared as if I were a third party observing myself sitting on the bench. Observing me when I sat alone, It felt as though I were a complete stranger to myself and was seeing myself for the first time.

Then, when I sat on the bench, I would examine my hands, followed by my feet. I would say to myself, “I am present. “I am not my own reflection, but I am myself.” This sensation seemed to last for hours, yet I knew it was only a fraction of a second. That my mind had generated the optical illusion I was experiencing. Seeing me, this spirit was seated on a bench at the edge of the woods near a pond.

I stood up and headed home, thinking what an odd sensation it was. To be observing myself as if I were someone else. I had forgotten the vision I had of myself staring at myself after a few months.

Then, on a dull day, when I once more sat on the bench, feeding the ducks and watching the fox with his kits drink, I felt the same way.

This time I was within myself and observing myself from the inside out. I could see my hands and feet, and I was aware of my location, yet I was observing myself from within my soul. Somehow, I felt detached from my body and peaceful. I thought to myself, “This must be what heaven is like seeing yourself from within your spirit.” The sensation was delightful and lovely. I could feel my mind relaxing and my head becoming clearer and more focused.

Later that day, I believed my personality had altered. I felt different, yet I felt the same. It felt as though a burden had been removed from my soul. All of my emotions were very obvious. I described my experience to my pals as feeling as if I were inside my own body, observing myself from the inside out. A handful of my pals scoffed and referred to me as “silly,” but I was aware. Then, some of my friends were astonished and told me that they, too, had similar but less intense emotions.

After reading and examining my inner sensations, I understood what I had gone through. My mind viewed my spirit and informed me that all was okay in my world and that I had nothing to fear. Now that I had seen my own soul from the inside out, I realised my life’s mission. I was just required to have faith in the deity that had created me and to believe that my spirit and soul were safe. I saw myself and realised that I had a soul. And it was pleasant.

Extract B: A Soul Awakened by Nature’s Bounty

Luke woke up early on a Sunday morning, feeling restless and overwhelmed. He needed to clear his head, so he decided to take a walk to the nearby park. 

As he strolled down the street, he noticed the usual hustle and bustle of city life – cars honking, people rushing to work, and buildings towering over him. He continued walking until he reached the park entrance. The sun was just starting to rise, casting a warm orange glow across the sky. The birds were chirping, and the air was fresh and crisp. He felt a sense of peace wash over him as he took in a natural beauty surrounding him.

As he walked along the trail, he noticed a group of squirrels playing around a nearby tree. He stopped and watched them for a while, marvelling at their playful antics. Suddenly, he remembered he had brought some water with him, and he poured some into a small dish he had brought along, leaving it by the tree.

“Here you go, little guys. Enjoy,” Luke said, smiling at the squirrels. Continuing his walk, he encountered a few birds waddling along the trail. They looked thirsty, so he poured some water into another dish he had brought, watching as they eagerly drank from it.

“Looks like you guys needed a drink. Glad I could help,” Luke said to the birds. As he walked further, he saw a lone goose. He noticed that its wing was injured, and it couldn’t fly. Feeling a pang of sadness, Luke decided to approach the goose.

“Hey there, buddy. What’s wrong with your wing?” Luke asked gently. The goose honked softly, looking up at Luke with big, sad eyes. “It’s okay. I won’t hurt you. Let me see if I can help,” Luke said, approaching the goose slowly.

After a few moments, Luke managed to get the goose into a nearby carrier he had brought with him. He knew he had to get some help, and he made his way to the park ranger’s station.

“Excuse me, sir. I found this goose with an injured wing. Can you help?” Luke asked the ranger. The ranger took one look at the goose and nodded. “Of course. I’ll take it to our animal clinic and make sure it gets the care it needs. Thank you for bringing it to our attention.” Feeling relieved, Luke watched as the ranger took the goose and left to take care of it. He knew he had made a small difference in the world, and it gave him a sense of purpose.

Feeling drained but content, Luke made his way to a nearby bench and sat down. He closed his eyes and let out a deep breath, feeling a sense of peace wash over him. He opened his eyes and felt a sense of clarity wash over him as if he had finally understood his purpose in life. “I get it now. I’m meant to help others, to make a difference in the world. And it feels amazing,” Luke whispered to himself.

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

4. In what way do the two extracts differ in their portrayal of nature?

Read the extracts below then answer the questions that follow.

Extract A: The Image Within Me By W. Propsner

As I strolled through the forest on the dirt path that led to the pond where I fed the ducks, I could hear the crunch of the leaves as they dropped. I could see the footprints of a family of squirrels that ran along the walk in quest of pine nuts that had fallen into the path.

There, among a small mound of rocks, a green lizard waited for a fly to land close enough for his morning meal. A little fly landed within easy reach of the lizard’s quick reflexes, as if on cue. After consuming his breakfast, the lizard climbed down from the rocks and returned to his burrow.

The sights I witness on my morning treks to the pond always fill me with happiness, as I observe forest creatures living in harmony with nature.

When I approached the area where I would sit and feed the ducks corn and oats, I spotted a lone fox drinking water a few yards away. As soon as our eyes connected, the fox and I recognised one other. Because he has observed my visits to the pond for many years, he knows I will not hurt him. He regarded me briefly before continuing to sip from the pond. As he was finished, he looked at me and it appeared to me that he smiled before going into the trees. I thought to myself how handsome he was and that we would meet again.

I had placed a little wooden seat on the pond’s shore months earlier so I could sit there as I fed the ducks. The bench had acquired a weathered appearance from its time beside the water and under the summer sun. The sun would shift over the pond in the afternoon, leaving the bench in the shade till morning. I have frequently visited the pond in the late afternoon and observed couples sitting on my seat arm-in-arm and appreciating the tranquillity.

On days when I was by myself, I would sit on the bench and, after feeding the ducks, reflect on my environment. I would reflect on life in general while I viewed the expansive pond with its placid waters and lazily swimming ducks.

Then, from the depths of my subconscious, I would see myself sitting on the bench. It appeared as if I were a third party observing myself sitting on the bench. Observing me when I sat alone, It felt as though I were a complete stranger to myself and was seeing myself for the first time.

Then, when I sat on the bench, I would examine my hands, followed by my feet. I would say to myself, “I am present. “I am not my own reflection, but I am myself.” This sensation seemed to last for hours, yet I knew it was only a fraction of a second. That my mind had generated the optical illusion I was experiencing. Seeing me, this spirit was seated on a bench at the edge of the woods near a pond.

I stood up and headed home, thinking what an odd sensation it was. To be observing myself as if I were someone else. I had forgotten the vision I had of myself staring at myself after a few months.

Then, on a dull day, when I once more sat on the bench, feeding the ducks and watching the fox with his kits drink, I felt the same way.

This time I was within myself and observing myself from the inside out. I could see my hands and feet, and I was aware of my location, yet I was observing myself from within my soul. Somehow, I felt detached from my body and peaceful. I thought to myself, “This must be what heaven is like seeing yourself from within your spirit.” The sensation was delightful and lovely. I could feel my mind relaxing and my head becoming clearer and more focused.

Later that day, I believed my personality had altered. I felt different, yet I felt the same. It felt as though a burden had been removed from my soul. All of my emotions were very obvious. I described my experience to my pals as feeling as if I were inside my own body, observing myself from the inside out. A handful of my pals scoffed and referred to me as “silly,” but I was aware. Then, some of my friends were astonished and told me that they, too, had similar but less intense emotions.

After reading and examining my inner sensations, I understood what I had gone through. My mind viewed my spirit and informed me that all was okay in my world and that I had nothing to fear. Now that I had seen my own soul from the inside out, I realised my life’s mission. I was just required to have faith in the deity that had created me and to believe that my spirit and soul were safe. I saw myself and realised that I had a soul. And it was pleasant.

Extract B: A Soul Awakened by Nature’s Bounty

Luke woke up early on a Sunday morning, feeling restless and overwhelmed. He needed to clear his head, so he decided to take a walk to the nearby park. 

As he strolled down the street, he noticed the usual hustle and bustle of city life – cars honking, people rushing to work, and buildings towering over him. He continued walking until he reached the park entrance. The sun was just starting to rise, casting a warm orange glow across the sky. The birds were chirping, and the air was fresh and crisp. He felt a sense of peace wash over him as he took in a natural beauty surrounding him.

As he walked along the trail, he noticed a group of squirrels playing around a nearby tree. He stopped and watched them for a while, marvelling at their playful antics. Suddenly, he remembered he had brought some water with him, and he poured some into a small dish he had brought along, leaving it by the tree.

“Here you go, little guys. Enjoy,” Luke said, smiling at the squirrels. Continuing his walk, he encountered a few birds waddling along the trail. They looked thirsty, so he poured some water into another dish he had brought, watching as they eagerly drank from it.

“Looks like you guys needed a drink. Glad I could help,” Luke said to the birds. As he walked further, he saw a lone goose. He noticed that its wing was injured, and it couldn’t fly. Feeling a pang of sadness, Luke decided to approach the goose.

“Hey there, buddy. What’s wrong with your wing?” Luke asked gently. The goose honked softly, looking up at Luke with big, sad eyes. “It’s okay. I won’t hurt you. Let me see if I can help,” Luke said, approaching the goose slowly.

After a few moments, Luke managed to get the goose into a nearby carrier he had brought with him. He knew he had to get some help, and he made his way to the park ranger’s station.

“Excuse me, sir. I found this goose with an injured wing. Can you help?” Luke asked the ranger. The ranger took one look at the goose and nodded. “Of course. I’ll take it to our animal clinic and make sure it gets the care it needs. Thank you for bringing it to our attention.” Feeling relieved, Luke watched as the ranger took the goose and left to take care of it. He knew he had made a small difference in the world, and it gave him a sense of purpose.

Feeling drained but content, Luke made his way to a nearby bench and sat down. He closed his eyes and let out a deep breath, feeling a sense of peace wash over him. He opened his eyes and felt a sense of clarity wash over him as if he had finally understood his purpose in life. “I get it now. I’m meant to help others, to make a difference in the world. And it feels amazing,” Luke whispered to himself.

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

5.  In both extracts, how has the protagonists’ experience in nature impacted them in the end?

Read the extracts below then answer the questions that follow.

Extract A: The Image Within Me By W. Propsner

As I strolled through the forest on the dirt path that led to the pond where I fed the ducks, I could hear the crunch of the leaves as they dropped. I could see the footprints of a family of squirrels that ran along the walk in quest of pine nuts that had fallen into the path.

There, among a small mound of rocks, a green lizard waited for a fly to land close enough for his morning meal. A little fly landed within easy reach of the lizard’s quick reflexes, as if on cue. After consuming his breakfast, the lizard climbed down from the rocks and returned to his burrow.

The sights I witness on my morning treks to the pond always fill me with happiness, as I observe forest creatures living in harmony with nature.

When I approached the area where I would sit and feed the ducks corn and oats, I spotted a lone fox drinking water a few yards away. As soon as our eyes connected, the fox and I recognised one other. Because he has observed my visits to the pond for many years, he knows I will not hurt him. He regarded me briefly before continuing to sip from the pond. As he was finished, he looked at me and it appeared to me that he smiled before going into the trees. I thought to myself how handsome he was and that we would meet again.

I had placed a little wooden seat on the pond’s shore months earlier so I could sit there as I fed the ducks. The bench had acquired a weathered appearance from its time beside the water and under the summer sun. The sun would shift over the pond in the afternoon, leaving the bench in the shade till morning. I have frequently visited the pond in the late afternoon and observed couples sitting on my seat arm-in-arm and appreciating the tranquillity.

On days when I was by myself, I would sit on the bench and, after feeding the ducks, reflect on my environment. I would reflect on life in general while I viewed the expansive pond with its placid waters and lazily swimming ducks.

Then, from the depths of my subconscious, I would see myself sitting on the bench. It appeared as if I were a third party observing myself sitting on the bench. Observing me when I sat alone, It felt as though I were a complete stranger to myself and was seeing myself for the first time.

Then, when I sat on the bench, I would examine my hands, followed by my feet. I would say to myself, “I am present. “I am not my own reflection, but I am myself.” This sensation seemed to last for hours, yet I knew it was only a fraction of a second. That my mind had generated the optical illusion I was experiencing. Seeing me, this spirit was seated on a bench at the edge of the woods near a pond.

I stood up and headed home, thinking what an odd sensation it was. To be observing myself as if I were someone else. I had forgotten the vision I had of myself staring at myself after a few months.

Then, on a dull day, when I once more sat on the bench, feeding the ducks and watching the fox with his kits drink, I felt the same way.

This time I was within myself and observing myself from the inside out. I could see my hands and feet, and I was aware of my location, yet I was observing myself from within my soul. Somehow, I felt detached from my body and peaceful. I thought to myself, “This must be what heaven is like seeing yourself from within your spirit.” The sensation was delightful and lovely. I could feel my mind relaxing and my head becoming clearer and more focused.

Later that day, I believed my personality had altered. I felt different, yet I felt the same. It felt as though a burden had been removed from my soul. All of my emotions were very obvious. I described my experience to my pals as feeling as if I were inside my own body, observing myself from the inside out. A handful of my pals scoffed and referred to me as “silly,” but I was aware. Then, some of my friends were astonished and told me that they, too, had similar but less intense emotions.

After reading and examining my inner sensations, I understood what I had gone through. My mind viewed my spirit and informed me that all was okay in my world and that I had nothing to fear. Now that I had seen my own soul from the inside out, I realised my life’s mission. I was just required to have faith in the deity that had created me and to believe that my spirit and soul were safe. I saw myself and realised that I had a soul. And it was pleasant.

Extract B: A Soul Awakened by Nature’s Bounty

Luke woke up early on a Sunday morning, feeling restless and overwhelmed. He needed to clear his head, so he decided to take a walk to the nearby park. 

As he strolled down the street, he noticed the usual hustle and bustle of city life – cars honking, people rushing to work, and buildings towering over him. He continued walking until he reached the park entrance. The sun was just starting to rise, casting a warm orange glow across the sky. The birds were chirping, and the air was fresh and crisp. He felt a sense of peace wash over him as he took in a natural beauty surrounding him.

As he walked along the trail, he noticed a group of squirrels playing around a nearby tree. He stopped and watched them for a while, marvelling at their playful antics. Suddenly, he remembered he had brought some water with him, and he poured some into a small dish he had brought along, leaving it by the tree.

“Here you go, little guys. Enjoy,” Luke said, smiling at the squirrels. Continuing his walk, he encountered a few birds waddling along the trail. They looked thirsty, so he poured some water into another dish he had brought, watching as they eagerly drank from it.

“Looks like you guys needed a drink. Glad I could help,” Luke said to the birds. As he walked further, he saw a lone goose. He noticed that its wing was injured, and it couldn’t fly. Feeling a pang of sadness, Luke decided to approach the goose.

“Hey there, buddy. What’s wrong with your wing?” Luke asked gently. The goose honked softly, looking up at Luke with big, sad eyes. “It’s okay. I won’t hurt you. Let me see if I can help,” Luke said, approaching the goose slowly.

After a few moments, Luke managed to get the goose into a nearby carrier he had brought with him. He knew he had to get some help, and he made his way to the park ranger’s station.

“Excuse me, sir. I found this goose with an injured wing. Can you help?” Luke asked the ranger. The ranger took one look at the goose and nodded. “Of course. I’ll take it to our animal clinic and make sure it gets the care it needs. Thank you for bringing it to our attention.” Feeling relieved, Luke watched as the ranger took the goose and left to take care of it. He knew he had made a small difference in the world, and it gave him a sense of purpose.

Feeling drained but content, Luke made his way to a nearby bench and sat down. He closed his eyes and let out a deep breath, feeling a sense of peace wash over him. He opened his eyes and felt a sense of clarity wash over him as if he had finally understood his purpose in life. “I get it now. I’m meant to help others, to make a difference in the world. And it feels amazing,” Luke whispered to himself.

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

6.  What is the key takeaway of both extracts?

Read the poem below then answer the questions that follow. 

Cares by Charles Swain

Cares, Cares,—who is without them?

Troubles are plenty wherever we stray—

Pass round the glass and think nothing about them,

The more you make of them the longer they stay.

Tears, Tears,—who has not met them? 5

Sorrow’s the dew of life’s morning and night;

Pass round the goblet and try to forget them,

Speak of the bloom, but ne’er mention the blight.

Life—life,—who would desire it?

Who for its pleasures would suffer its pains? 10

Pass round the cure, for our spirits require it;

Hide with life’s roses the weight of life’s chains.

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

7.  According to the poem, what happens when you make too much of your “cares”?

Read the poem below then answer the questions that follow. 

Cares by Charles Swain

Cares, Cares,—who is without them?

Troubles are plenty wherever we stray—

Pass round the glass and think nothing about them,

The more you make of them the longer they stay.

Tears, Tears,—who has not met them? 5

Sorrow’s the dew of life’s morning and night;

Pass round the goblet and try to forget them,

Speak of the bloom, but ne’er mention the blight.

Life—life,—who would desire it?

Who for its pleasures would suffer its pains? 10

Pass round the cure, for our spirits require it;

Hide with life’s roses the weight of life’s chains.

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

8.  In line 6, what does the word “dew” symbolise?

Read the poem below then answer the questions that follow. 

Cares by Charles Swain

Cares, Cares,—who is without them?

Troubles are plenty wherever we stray—

Pass round the glass and think nothing about them,

The more you make of them the longer they stay.

Tears, Tears,—who has not met them? 5

Sorrow’s the dew of life’s morning and night;

Pass round the goblet and try to forget them,

Speak of the bloom, but ne’er mention the blight.

Life—life,—who would desire it?

Who for its pleasures would suffer its pains? 10

Pass round the cure, for our spirits require it;

Hide with life’s roses the weight of life’s chains.

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

9.  What is the implied message of the speaker in line 8?

Read the poem below then answer the questions that follow. 

Cares by Charles Swain

Cares, Cares,—who is without them?

Troubles are plenty wherever we stray—

Pass round the glass and think nothing about them,

The more you make of them the longer they stay.

Tears, Tears,—who has not met them? 5

Sorrow’s the dew of life’s morning and night;

Pass round the goblet and try to forget them,

Speak of the bloom, but ne’er mention the blight.

Life—life,—who would desire it?

Who for its pleasures would suffer its pains? 10

Pass round the cure, for our spirits require it;

Hide with life’s roses the weight of life’s chains.

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

10.  Lines 11-12 states passing a cure. What do these lines imply?

Read the poem below then answer the questions that follow. 

Cares by Charles Swain

Cares, Cares,—who is without them?

Troubles are plenty wherever we stray—

Pass round the glass and think nothing about them,

The more you make of them the longer they stay.

Tears, Tears,—who has not met them? 5

Sorrow’s the dew of life’s morning and night;

Pass round the goblet and try to forget them,

Speak of the bloom, but ne’er mention the blight.

Life—life,—who would desire it?

Who for its pleasures would suffer its pains? 10

Pass round the cure, for our spirits require it;

Hide with life’s roses the weight of life’s chains.

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

11.  What is the significance of the phrase “life’s roses” in the last line of the poem?

Read the poem below then answer the questions that follow. 

Cares by Charles Swain

Cares, Cares,—who is without them?

Troubles are plenty wherever we stray—

Pass round the glass and think nothing about them,

The more you make of them the longer they stay.

Tears, Tears,—who has not met them? 5

Sorrow’s the dew of life’s morning and night;

Pass round the goblet and try to forget them,

Speak of the bloom, but ne’er mention the blight.

Life—life,—who would desire it?

Who for its pleasures would suffer its pains? 10

Pass round the cure, for our spirits require it;

Hide with life’s roses the weight of life’s chains.

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

12.  What is the main message conveyed in the poem?

Read the article below then answer the questions that follow.

You Can Own a Piece of Forrest Fenn’s Treasure

A. Forrest Fenn, an art trader, announced in 2010 that he had buried a treasure someplace in the Rocky Mountains. Hundreds of thousands of people have spent years searching feverishly for the mysterious bronze chest containing rich coins, jewellery, and antiques. In June 2020, Jack Stuef, a 32-year-old medical student, discovered the chest in an unknown area, bringing the quest to a finale. Fenn died at the age of 90 three months later. Now, bits of Fenn’s famed treasure are up for grabs once more, but this time they will go to the highest bidder. Through December 12, Heritage Auctions is offering 476 artefacts that were originally hidden in a chest during an online auction.

B. After being stricken with renal cancer, Fenn, a former Air Force pilot who grew up in Temple, Texas, decided to launch the treasure search. He composed a cryptic 24-line poem in his self-published biography The Thrill of the Hunt in 2010 to provide hints regarding the location of the chest; he also occasionally shared hints online. Fenn estimated the value of the treasure to be approximately $2 million. The search was undertaken with vigour and, at times, at great personal risk. At least five people perished while seeking for the wealth, and one guy was sentenced to prison after he was captured in Yellowstone National Park digging up graves. Others spent their entire life savings or abandoned their jobs to locate the chest.

C. Authorities requested that Fenn call off the hunt due to the danger it caused to searchers, but he refused. “Life is too short to wear both a belt and braces,” Fenn told Jonah Engel Bromwich of The New York Times in 2017 after a second person perished in pursuit of the wealth. “We shouldn’t drain the pool if someone drowns in it; rather, we should train others to swim,” After Stuef discovered the chest, possibly in Yellowstone, Fenn stated on his blog that it was “under a canopy of stars in the thick, wooded foliage of the Rocky Mountains and has not moved since I concealed it more than ten years ago.” While Stuef did not immediately identify himself as the treasure’s discoverer, he later disclosed his identity to Daniel Barbarisi of Outside magazine.

D. According to a statement released by Heritage Auctions, Fenn met Stuef on June 11, 2020, and confirmed the authenticity of the artefact. Then, on September 19, 2022, Stuef sold the treasure to Tesouro Sagrado Holdings, LLC, which is currently auctioning the majority of the pieces. Stuef noted in a recent blog post, “Once my identity was exposed over two years ago, fans of the treasure hunt contacted me to express their desire to purchase a piece of the treasure to memorialise their own journeys hunting for it.” “I’m glad that those people finally have the option to do so today, with a vast selection of products to choose from.”

E. Treasure hunters can now acquire, among other goods, hundreds of rare coins, a 549-gram Alaskan gold nugget, a pair of scissors, a gold pectoral, and a frog necklace dating between 700 and 1000 B.C.E. A small, wax-sealed glass jar supposedly containing Fenn’s 20,000-word autobiography written in a little font is one of the more personal items up for auction. Fenn said in The Thrill of the Hunt that he included the document because “the lucky finder might be curious about the fool who abandoned such an extravagant stash… “The text is so small that a magnifying lens is required to read it.”

F. Regardless of where the parts of the treasure end up, the aura of mystery around them endures, which may have been precisely what Fenn intended. Could Fenn have foreseen what he had set in motion the day he concealed his chest? In his 2021 book Chasing the Thrill: Passion, Murder, and Glory in America’s Most Incredible Treasure Hunt, Barbarisi stated the following: “Had he known from the beginning that it would make people think, believe, and act? Was that all part of his big scheme? Or had he simply enjoyed playing games with the universe, rolling the dice to see what would happen?”

G. Essentially, Forrest Fenn’s treasure is about the human thirst for adventure, mystery, and the unknown, not only the search for a chest of wealth. In a world that can often feel overly familiar, it is a reminder that there are still places to discover and secrets to find. The treasure may no longer exist, but the memories and experiences of those who sought it will inspire future generations to seek their own thrills and pursue their own goals. In this regard, the actual treasure was never the chest of riches, but rather the adventure that drove so many individuals to chase it.

Answer the following questions by choosing the correct letter that matches the description.

Which paragraph…

__________ 13.  lists the various items that are available for purchase in a certain auction, including infrequent currencies and even an ornamental chain worn around the neck in the shape of a certain amphibian?

Read the article below then answer the questions that follow.

You Can Own a Piece of Forrest Fenn’s Treasure

A. Forrest Fenn, an art trader, announced in 2010 that he had buried a treasure someplace in the Rocky Mountains. Hundreds of thousands of people have spent years searching feverishly for the mysterious bronze chest containing rich coins, jewellery, and antiques. In June 2020, Jack Stuef, a 32-year-old medical student, discovered the chest in an unknown area, bringing the quest to a finale. Fenn died at the age of 90 three months later. Now, bits of Fenn’s famed treasure are up for grabs once more, but this time they will go to the highest bidder. Through December 12, Heritage Auctions is offering 476 artefacts that were originally hidden in a chest during an online auction.

B. After being stricken with renal cancer, Fenn, a former Air Force pilot who grew up in Temple, Texas, decided to launch the treasure search. He composed a cryptic 24-line poem in his self-published biography The Thrill of the Hunt in 2010 to provide hints regarding the location of the chest; he also occasionally shared hints online. Fenn estimated the value of the treasure to be approximately $2 million. The search was undertaken with vigour and, at times, at great personal risk. At least five people perished while seeking for the wealth, and one guy was sentenced to prison after he was captured in Yellowstone National Park digging up graves. Others spent their entire life savings or abandoned their jobs to locate the chest.

C. Authorities requested that Fenn call off the hunt due to the danger it caused to searchers, but he refused. “Life is too short to wear both a belt and braces,” Fenn told Jonah Engel Bromwich of The New York Times in 2017 after a second person perished in pursuit of the wealth. “We shouldn’t drain the pool if someone drowns in it; rather, we should train others to swim,” After Stuef discovered the chest, possibly in Yellowstone, Fenn stated on his blog that it was “under a canopy of stars in the thick, wooded foliage of the Rocky Mountains and has not moved since I concealed it more than ten years ago.” While Stuef did not immediately identify himself as the treasure’s discoverer, he later disclosed his identity to Daniel Barbarisi of Outside magazine.

D. According to a statement released by Heritage Auctions, Fenn met Stuef on June 11, 2020, and confirmed the authenticity of the artefact. Then, on September 19, 2022, Stuef sold the treasure to Tesouro Sagrado Holdings, LLC, which is currently auctioning the majority of the pieces. Stuef noted in a recent blog post, “Once my identity was exposed over two years ago, fans of the treasure hunt contacted me to express their desire to purchase a piece of the treasure to memorialise their own journeys hunting for it.” “I’m glad that those people finally have the option to do so today, with a vast selection of products to choose from.”

E. Treasure hunters can now acquire, among other goods, hundreds of rare coins, a 549-gram Alaskan gold nugget, a pair of scissors, a gold pectoral, and a frog necklace dating between 700 and 1000 B.C.E. A small, wax-sealed glass jar supposedly containing Fenn’s 20,000-word autobiography written in a little font is one of the more personal items up for auction. Fenn said in The Thrill of the Hunt that he included the document because “the lucky finder might be curious about the fool who abandoned such an extravagant stash… “The text is so small that a magnifying lens is required to read it.”

F. Regardless of where the parts of the treasure end up, the aura of mystery around them endures, which may have been precisely what Fenn intended. Could Fenn have foreseen what he had set in motion the day he concealed his chest? In his 2021 book Chasing the Thrill: Passion, Murder, and Glory in America’s Most Incredible Treasure Hunt, Barbarisi stated the following: “Had he known from the beginning that it would make people think, believe, and act? Was that all part of his big scheme? Or had he simply enjoyed playing games with the universe, rolling the dice to see what would happen?”

G. Essentially, Forrest Fenn’s treasure is about the human thirst for adventure, mystery, and the unknown, not only the search for a chest of wealth. In a world that can often feel overly familiar, it is a reminder that there are still places to discover and secrets to find. The treasure may no longer exist, but the memories and experiences of those who sought it will inspire future generations to seek their own thrills and pursue their own goals. In this regard, the actual treasure was never the chest of riches, but rather the adventure that drove so many individuals to chase it.

Answer the following questions by choosing the correct letter that matches the description.

Which paragraph…

__________ 14. includes information about the confirmation of the genuineness of the treasure chest discovered by a person engaged in journalism who took part in Fenn’s treasure hunt?

Read the article below then answer the questions that follow.

You Can Own a Piece of Forrest Fenn’s Treasure

A. Forrest Fenn, an art trader, announced in 2010 that he had buried a treasure someplace in the Rocky Mountains. Hundreds of thousands of people have spent years searching feverishly for the mysterious bronze chest containing rich coins, jewellery, and antiques. In June 2020, Jack Stuef, a 32-year-old medical student, discovered the chest in an unknown area, bringing the quest to a finale. Fenn died at the age of 90 three months later. Now, bits of Fenn’s famed treasure are up for grabs once more, but this time they will go to the highest bidder. Through December 12, Heritage Auctions is offering 476 artefacts that were originally hidden in a chest during an online auction.

B. After being stricken with renal cancer, Fenn, a former Air Force pilot who grew up in Temple, Texas, decided to launch the treasure search. He composed a cryptic 24-line poem in his self-published biography The Thrill of the Hunt in 2010 to provide hints regarding the location of the chest; he also occasionally shared hints online. Fenn estimated the value of the treasure to be approximately $2 million. The search was undertaken with vigour and, at times, at great personal risk. At least five people perished while seeking for the wealth, and one guy was sentenced to prison after he was captured in Yellowstone National Park digging up graves. Others spent their entire life savings or abandoned their jobs to locate the chest.

C. Authorities requested that Fenn call off the hunt due to the danger it caused to searchers, but he refused. “Life is too short to wear both a belt and braces,” Fenn told Jonah Engel Bromwich of The New York Times in 2017 after a second person perished in pursuit of the wealth. “We shouldn’t drain the pool if someone drowns in it; rather, we should train others to swim,” After Stuef discovered the chest, possibly in Yellowstone, Fenn stated on his blog that it was “under a canopy of stars in the thick, wooded foliage of the Rocky Mountains and has not moved since I concealed it more than ten years ago.” While Stuef did not immediately identify himself as the treasure’s discoverer, he later disclosed his identity to Daniel Barbarisi of Outside magazine.

D. According to a statement released by Heritage Auctions, Fenn met Stuef on June 11, 2020, and confirmed the authenticity of the artefact. Then, on September 19, 2022, Stuef sold the treasure to Tesouro Sagrado Holdings, LLC, which is currently auctioning the majority of the pieces. Stuef noted in a recent blog post, “Once my identity was exposed over two years ago, fans of the treasure hunt contacted me to express their desire to purchase a piece of the treasure to memorialise their own journeys hunting for it.” “I’m glad that those people finally have the option to do so today, with a vast selection of products to choose from.”

E. Treasure hunters can now acquire, among other goods, hundreds of rare coins, a 549-gram Alaskan gold nugget, a pair of scissors, a gold pectoral, and a frog necklace dating between 700 and 1000 B.C.E. A small, wax-sealed glass jar supposedly containing Fenn’s 20,000-word autobiography written in a little font is one of the more personal items up for auction. Fenn said in The Thrill of the Hunt that he included the document because “the lucky finder might be curious about the fool who abandoned such an extravagant stash… “The text is so small that a magnifying lens is required to read it.”

F. Regardless of where the parts of the treasure end up, the aura of mystery around them endures, which may have been precisely what Fenn intended. Could Fenn have foreseen what he had set in motion the day he concealed his chest? In his 2021 book Chasing the Thrill: Passion, Murder, and Glory in America’s Most Incredible Treasure Hunt, Barbarisi stated the following: “Had he known from the beginning that it would make people think, believe, and act? Was that all part of his big scheme? Or had he simply enjoyed playing games with the universe, rolling the dice to see what would happen?”

G. Essentially, Forrest Fenn’s treasure is about the human thirst for adventure, mystery, and the unknown, not only the search for a chest of wealth. In a world that can often feel overly familiar, it is a reminder that there are still places to discover and secrets to find. The treasure may no longer exist, but the memories and experiences of those who sought it will inspire future generations to seek their own thrills and pursue their own goals. In this regard, the actual treasure was never the chest of riches, but rather the adventure that drove so many individuals to chase it.

Answer the following questions by choosing the correct letter that matches the description.

Which paragraph…

__________ 15. discusses how the treasure hunt posed a threat to the seekers, prompting officials to request the owner of the treasure to abort the quest?

Read the article below then answer the questions that follow.

You Can Own a Piece of Forrest Fenn’s Treasure

A. Forrest Fenn, an art trader, announced in 2010 that he had buried a treasure someplace in the Rocky Mountains. Hundreds of thousands of people have spent years searching feverishly for the mysterious bronze chest containing rich coins, jewellery, and antiques. In June 2020, Jack Stuef, a 32-year-old medical student, discovered the chest in an unknown area, bringing the quest to a finale. Fenn died at the age of 90 three months later. Now, bits of Fenn’s famed treasure are up for grabs once more, but this time they will go to the highest bidder. Through December 12, Heritage Auctions is offering 476 artefacts that were originally hidden in a chest during an online auction.

B. After being stricken with renal cancer, Fenn, a former Air Force pilot who grew up in Temple, Texas, decided to launch the treasure search. He composed a cryptic 24-line poem in his self-published biography The Thrill of the Hunt in 2010 to provide hints regarding the location of the chest; he also occasionally shared hints online. Fenn estimated the value of the treasure to be approximately $2 million. The search was undertaken with vigour and, at times, at great personal risk. At least five people perished while seeking for the wealth, and one guy was sentenced to prison after he was captured in Yellowstone National Park digging up graves. Others spent their entire life savings or abandoned their jobs to locate the chest.

C. Authorities requested that Fenn call off the hunt due to the danger it caused to searchers, but he refused. “Life is too short to wear both a belt and braces,” Fenn told Jonah Engel Bromwich of The New York Times in 2017 after a second person perished in pursuit of the wealth. “We shouldn’t drain the pool if someone drowns in it; rather, we should train others to swim,” After Stuef discovered the chest, possibly in Yellowstone, Fenn stated on his blog that it was “under a canopy of stars in the thick, wooded foliage of the Rocky Mountains and has not moved since I concealed it more than ten years ago.” While Stuef did not immediately identify himself as the treasure’s discoverer, he later disclosed his identity to Daniel Barbarisi of Outside magazine.

D. According to a statement released by Heritage Auctions, Fenn met Stuef on June 11, 2020, and confirmed the authenticity of the artefact. Then, on September 19, 2022, Stuef sold the treasure to Tesouro Sagrado Holdings, LLC, which is currently auctioning the majority of the pieces. Stuef noted in a recent blog post, “Once my identity was exposed over two years ago, fans of the treasure hunt contacted me to express their desire to purchase a piece of the treasure to memorialise their own journeys hunting for it.” “I’m glad that those people finally have the option to do so today, with a vast selection of products to choose from.”

E. Treasure hunters can now acquire, among other goods, hundreds of rare coins, a 549-gram Alaskan gold nugget, a pair of scissors, a gold pectoral, and a frog necklace dating between 700 and 1000 B.C.E. A small, wax-sealed glass jar supposedly containing Fenn’s 20,000-word autobiography written in a little font is one of the more personal items up for auction. Fenn said in The Thrill of the Hunt that he included the document because “the lucky finder might be curious about the fool who abandoned such an extravagant stash… “The text is so small that a magnifying lens is required to read it.”

F. Regardless of where the parts of the treasure end up, the aura of mystery around them endures, which may have been precisely what Fenn intended. Could Fenn have foreseen what he had set in motion the day he concealed his chest? In his 2021 book Chasing the Thrill: Passion, Murder, and Glory in America’s Most Incredible Treasure Hunt, Barbarisi stated the following: “Had he known from the beginning that it would make people think, believe, and act? Was that all part of his big scheme? Or had he simply enjoyed playing games with the universe, rolling the dice to see what would happen?”

G. Essentially, Forrest Fenn’s treasure is about the human thirst for adventure, mystery, and the unknown, not only the search for a chest of wealth. In a world that can often feel overly familiar, it is a reminder that there are still places to discover and secrets to find. The treasure may no longer exist, but the memories and experiences of those who sought it will inspire future generations to seek their own thrills and pursue their own goals. In this regard, the actual treasure was never the chest of riches, but rather the adventure that drove so many individuals to chase it.

Answer the following questions by choosing the correct letter that matches the description.

Which paragraph…

__________ 16. talks about an art dealer declaring that he concealed a metallic brown-coloured crate in the vicinity of a specific mountain?

Read the article below then answer the questions that follow.

You Can Own a Piece of Forrest Fenn’s Treasure

A. Forrest Fenn, an art trader, announced in 2010 that he had buried a treasure someplace in the Rocky Mountains. Hundreds of thousands of people have spent years searching feverishly for the mysterious bronze chest containing rich coins, jewellery, and antiques. In June 2020, Jack Stuef, a 32-year-old medical student, discovered the chest in an unknown area, bringing the quest to a finale. Fenn died at the age of 90 three months later. Now, bits of Fenn’s famed treasure are up for grabs once more, but this time they will go to the highest bidder. Through December 12, Heritage Auctions is offering 476 artefacts that were originally hidden in a chest during an online auction.

B. After being stricken with renal cancer, Fenn, a former Air Force pilot who grew up in Temple, Texas, decided to launch the treasure search. He composed a cryptic 24-line poem in his self-published biography The Thrill of the Hunt in 2010 to provide hints regarding the location of the chest; he also occasionally shared hints online. Fenn estimated the value of the treasure to be approximately $2 million. The search was undertaken with vigour and, at times, at great personal risk. At least five people perished while seeking for the wealth, and one guy was sentenced to prison after he was captured in Yellowstone National Park digging up graves. Others spent their entire life savings or abandoned their jobs to locate the chest.

C. Authorities requested that Fenn call off the hunt due to the danger it caused to searchers, but he refused. “Life is too short to wear both a belt and braces,” Fenn told Jonah Engel Bromwich of The New York Times in 2017 after a second person perished in pursuit of the wealth. “We shouldn’t drain the pool if someone drowns in it; rather, we should train others to swim,” After Stuef discovered the chest, possibly in Yellowstone, Fenn stated on his blog that it was “under a canopy of stars in the thick, wooded foliage of the Rocky Mountains and has not moved since I concealed it more than ten years ago.” While Stuef did not immediately identify himself as the treasure’s discoverer, he later disclosed his identity to Daniel Barbarisi of Outside magazine.

D. According to a statement released by Heritage Auctions, Fenn met Stuef on June 11, 2020, and confirmed the authenticity of the artefact. Then, on September 19, 2022, Stuef sold the treasure to Tesouro Sagrado Holdings, LLC, which is currently auctioning the majority of the pieces. Stuef noted in a recent blog post, “Once my identity was exposed over two years ago, fans of the treasure hunt contacted me to express their desire to purchase a piece of the treasure to memorialise their own journeys hunting for it.” “I’m glad that those people finally have the option to do so today, with a vast selection of products to choose from.”

E. Treasure hunters can now acquire, among other goods, hundreds of rare coins, a 549-gram Alaskan gold nugget, a pair of scissors, a gold pectoral, and a frog necklace dating between 700 and 1000 B.C.E. A small, wax-sealed glass jar supposedly containing Fenn’s 20,000-word autobiography written in a little font is one of the more personal items up for auction. Fenn said in The Thrill of the Hunt that he included the document because “the lucky finder might be curious about the fool who abandoned such an extravagant stash… “The text is so small that a magnifying lens is required to read it.”

F. Regardless of where the parts of the treasure end up, the aura of mystery around them endures, which may have been precisely what Fenn intended. Could Fenn have foreseen what he had set in motion the day he concealed his chest? In his 2021 book Chasing the Thrill: Passion, Murder, and Glory in America’s Most Incredible Treasure Hunt, Barbarisi stated the following: “Had he known from the beginning that it would make people think, believe, and act? Was that all part of his big scheme? Or had he simply enjoyed playing games with the universe, rolling the dice to see what would happen?”

G. Essentially, Forrest Fenn’s treasure is about the human thirst for adventure, mystery, and the unknown, not only the search for a chest of wealth. In a world that can often feel overly familiar, it is a reminder that there are still places to discover and secrets to find. The treasure may no longer exist, but the memories and experiences of those who sought it will inspire future generations to seek their own thrills and pursue their own goals. In this regard, the actual treasure was never the chest of riches, but rather the adventure that drove so many individuals to chase it.

Answer the following questions by choosing the correct letter that matches the description.

Which paragraph…

__________ 17.  speculates whether the owner of the valuable crate had anticipated the impact of his actions when he first hid the crate?

Read the article below then answer the questions that follow.

You Can Own a Piece of Forrest Fenn’s Treasure

A. Forrest Fenn, an art trader, announced in 2010 that he had buried a treasure someplace in the Rocky Mountains. Hundreds of thousands of people have spent years searching feverishly for the mysterious bronze chest containing rich coins, jewellery, and antiques. In June 2020, Jack Stuef, a 32-year-old medical student, discovered the chest in an unknown area, bringing the quest to a finale. Fenn died at the age of 90 three months later. Now, bits of Fenn’s famed treasure are up for grabs once more, but this time they will go to the highest bidder. Through December 12, Heritage Auctions is offering 476 artefacts that were originally hidden in a chest during an online auction.

B. After being stricken with renal cancer, Fenn, a former Air Force pilot who grew up in Temple, Texas, decided to launch the treasure search. He composed a cryptic 24-line poem in his self-published biography The Thrill of the Hunt in 2010 to provide hints regarding the location of the chest; he also occasionally shared hints online. Fenn estimated the value of the treasure to be approximately $2 million. The search was undertaken with vigour and, at times, at great personal risk. At least five people perished while seeking for the wealth, and one guy was sentenced to prison after he was captured in Yellowstone National Park digging up graves. Others spent their entire life savings or abandoned their jobs to locate the chest.

C. Authorities requested that Fenn call off the hunt due to the danger it caused to searchers, but he refused. “Life is too short to wear both a belt and braces,” Fenn told Jonah Engel Bromwich of The New York Times in 2017 after a second person perished in pursuit of the wealth. “We shouldn’t drain the pool if someone drowns in it; rather, we should train others to swim,” After Stuef discovered the chest, possibly in Yellowstone, Fenn stated on his blog that it was “under a canopy of stars in the thick, wooded foliage of the Rocky Mountains and has not moved since I concealed it more than ten years ago.” While Stuef did not immediately identify himself as the treasure’s discoverer, he later disclosed his identity to Daniel Barbarisi of Outside magazine.

D. According to a statement released by Heritage Auctions, Fenn met Stuef on June 11, 2020, and confirmed the authenticity of the artefact. Then, on September 19, 2022, Stuef sold the treasure to Tesouro Sagrado Holdings, LLC, which is currently auctioning the majority of the pieces. Stuef noted in a recent blog post, “Once my identity was exposed over two years ago, fans of the treasure hunt contacted me to express their desire to purchase a piece of the treasure to memorialise their own journeys hunting for it.” “I’m glad that those people finally have the option to do so today, with a vast selection of products to choose from.”

E. Treasure hunters can now acquire, among other goods, hundreds of rare coins, a 549-gram Alaskan gold nugget, a pair of scissors, a gold pectoral, and a frog necklace dating between 700 and 1000 B.C.E. A small, wax-sealed glass jar supposedly containing Fenn’s 20,000-word autobiography written in a little font is one of the more personal items up for auction. Fenn said in The Thrill of the Hunt that he included the document because “the lucky finder might be curious about the fool who abandoned such an extravagant stash… “The text is so small that a magnifying lens is required to read it.”

F. Regardless of where the parts of the treasure end up, the aura of mystery around them endures, which may have been precisely what Fenn intended. Could Fenn have foreseen what he had set in motion the day he concealed his chest? In his 2021 book Chasing the Thrill: Passion, Murder, and Glory in America’s Most Incredible Treasure Hunt, Barbarisi stated the following: “Had he known from the beginning that it would make people think, believe, and act? Was that all part of his big scheme? Or had he simply enjoyed playing games with the universe, rolling the dice to see what would happen?”

G. Essentially, Forrest Fenn’s treasure is about the human thirst for adventure, mystery, and the unknown, not only the search for a chest of wealth. In a world that can often feel overly familiar, it is a reminder that there are still places to discover and secrets to find. The treasure may no longer exist, but the memories and experiences of those who sought it will inspire future generations to seek their own thrills and pursue their own goals. In this regard, the actual treasure was never the chest of riches, but rather the adventure that drove so many individuals to chase it.

Answer the following questions by choosing the correct letter that matches the description.

Which paragraph…

__________ 18.  mentions about the perilous and extreme lengths that some individuals took in their pursuit of the extravagant stash?

Read the extracts below then answer the questions that follow.

Answer the following questions by choosing the correct letter that matches the description. Take note that the letters can be repeated accordingly.

Which extract mentions about…

19. An educational degree that is frequently necessary for numerous employment or careers and can act as a means to more complex degrees?

Read the extracts below then answer the questions that follow.

Answer the following questions by choosing the correct letter that matches the description. Take note that the letters can be repeated accordingly.

Which extract mentions about…

20. An educational degree that can help students in furthering their careers or switching professions?

Read the extracts below then answer the questions that follow.

Answer the following questions by choosing the correct letter that matches the description. Take note that the letters can be repeated accordingly.

Which extract mentions about…

21. The maximum achievable type of educational degree that demonstrates exceptional proficiency and commitment to a specific field of expertise, leading to improved job fulfilment and potentially higher wages?

Read the extracts below then answer the questions that follow.

Answer the following questions by choosing the correct letter that matches the description. Take note that the letters can be repeated accordingly.

Which extract mentions about…

22. An educational degree that necessitates the completion of a program for a short amount of years with subject-specific courses, allowing for a baccalaureate progression or preliminary employment opportunities?

Read the extracts below then answer the questions that follow.

Answer the following questions by choosing the correct letter that matches the description. Take note that the letters can be repeated accordingly.

Which extract mentions about…

23. An educational degree that normally mandates learners to take part in an authentic study and compel learners to accomplish a certain kind of training targeted to their official licences?

Read the extracts below then answer the questions that follow.

Answer the following questions by choosing the correct letter that matches the description. Take note that the letters can be repeated accordingly.

Which extract mentions about…

24. An educational degree granted by an educational institution that provides higher education or specialised professional training and typically demands a quadrennial of continuous education?

Read the article below then answer the questions that follow.

Study Finds Risks Tied to Artificial Sweetener

The artificial sweetener erythritol has been associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, according to a study published in Nature Medicine. According to the study, erythritol is a sugar alcohol that occurs naturally in low concentrations in fruits and vegetables but is added in much higher concentrations to processed meals. It is a common ingredient in sugar replacement and reduced-sugar products. 

According to Clare Wilson of New Scientist, some people now have higher-than-normal quantities of erythritol in their blood, which may raise their risk of blood clots. Some researchers believe that variables other than erythritol may be involved, while others contend that artificial sweeteners are not as harmful as added sugars. Regardless, some academics encourage consumers to be conscious of the foods they consume.

Andrew Freeman, a cardiologist at the hospital National Jewish Health, tells Sandee LaMotte of CNN, “Clearly, further research is needed, but out of an abundance of caution, it may make sense to reduce erythritol in your diet for now.”

Lately, the prevalence of erythritol in food products has increased. NielsenIQ reported in 2022 that sales of goods containing the sweetener increased by 43% over the preceding two years. While regulatory agencies typically deem artificial sweeteners to be safe, little is known about their long-term health impacts, the authors of the study wrote.

Kimber Stanhope, a research nutritional biologist at the University of California, told Stat News’ Matthew Herper, “We have work to do on every single artificial sweetener.” It is ludicrous how little they have been examined.

In truth, artificial sweetener research was not the intended objective of the new study. The scientists searched for chemicals associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular health issues. Scientists analysed the blood of 1,157 individuals getting a cardiac risk assessment and followed them for three years, noting any heart attacks, strokes, or deaths. They discovered that erythritol was “near the very top of the list” of substances linked to these events, according to Stanley Hazen, co-author of the paper and medical scientist at the Cleveland Clinic.

To validate this result, scientists analysed the blood of 2,149 U.S. individuals and 833 European participants for elective cardiac assessment. After adjusting for other characteristics, the risk of heart attack or stroke over the next three years was approximately twice as high for persons in the top 25% of erythritol levels compared to those in the bottom 25%, as reported by New Scientist. Hazen told CNN that over 75% of the individuals in these two studies had cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure, and 20% had diabetes.

In the final research, eight participants with a low risk of heart attack or stroke consumed 30 grams of erythritol-containing foods and beverages. Their blood concentration of the sweetener increased one thousandfold and remained elevated for several hours. The researchers also conducted laboratory tests in which erythritol appeared to cause blood clotting and raise the risk of clotting in mice with genetic modifications. “For patients at risk for clotting, heart attack, and stroke, such as those with current cardiac illness or diabetes, I believe there is sufficient evidence to recommend avoiding erythritol until further studies are conducted,” Hazen told CNN.

The research did not prove that increased erythritol levels caused heart attacks and strokes; it just established a correlation between the two. Several specialists remark to Stat News that heart disease-causing factors may have resulted in elevated levels of erythritol, which is naturally produced by the body. Some scientists believe that despite the potential hazards of erythritol, it may be the lesser of two evils; ingesting products with added sugar may be worse for you than consuming low-sugar items. Karen Aspry, a clinical cardiologist at Brown University who was not involved in the study, told Stat News, “If you’re diabetic and you have an option between eating sugar and this, I would put my money on this.”

Others, however, advocate taking caution with erythritol until additional research is completed. Karsten Hiller, a scientist at the Braunschweig Institute of Technology in Germany, tells USA Today, “I would not propose that anyone utilise it based on our existing knowledge.”

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

25.  Why do you think academics advise consumers to be mindful of their food choices regarding artificial sweeteners?

Read the article below then answer the questions that follow.

Study Finds Risks Tied to Artificial Sweetener

The artificial sweetener erythritol has been associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, according to a study published in Nature Medicine. According to the study, erythritol is a sugar alcohol that occurs naturally in low concentrations in fruits and vegetables but is added in much higher concentrations to processed meals. It is a common ingredient in sugar replacement and reduced-sugar products. 

According to Clare Wilson of New Scientist, some people now have higher-than-normal quantities of erythritol in their blood, which may raise their risk of blood clots. Some researchers believe that variables other than erythritol may be involved, while others contend that artificial sweeteners are not as harmful as added sugars. Regardless, some academics encourage consumers to be conscious of the foods they consume.

Andrew Freeman, a cardiologist at the hospital National Jewish Health, tells Sandee LaMotte of CNN, “Clearly, further research is needed, but out of an abundance of caution, it may make sense to reduce erythritol in your diet for now.”

Lately, the prevalence of erythritol in food products has increased. NielsenIQ reported in 2022 that sales of goods containing the sweetener increased by 43% over the preceding two years. While regulatory agencies typically deem artificial sweeteners to be safe, little is known about their long-term health impacts, the authors of the study wrote.

Kimber Stanhope, a research nutritional biologist at the University of California, told Stat News’ Matthew Herper, “We have work to do on every single artificial sweetener.” It is ludicrous how little they have been examined.

In truth, artificial sweetener research was not the intended objective of the new study. The scientists searched for chemicals associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular health issues. Scientists analysed the blood of 1,157 individuals getting a cardiac risk assessment and followed them for three years, noting any heart attacks, strokes, or deaths. They discovered that erythritol was “near the very top of the list” of substances linked to these events, according to Stanley Hazen, co-author of the paper and medical scientist at the Cleveland Clinic.

To validate this result, scientists analysed the blood of 2,149 U.S. individuals and 833 European participants for elective cardiac assessment. After adjusting for other characteristics, the risk of heart attack or stroke over the next three years was approximately twice as high for persons in the top 25% of erythritol levels compared to those in the bottom 25%, as reported by New Scientist. Hazen told CNN that over 75% of the individuals in these two studies had cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure, and 20% had diabetes.

In the final research, eight participants with a low risk of heart attack or stroke consumed 30 grams of erythritol-containing foods and beverages. Their blood concentration of the sweetener increased one thousandfold and remained elevated for several hours. The researchers also conducted laboratory tests in which erythritol appeared to cause blood clotting and raise the risk of clotting in mice with genetic modifications. “For patients at risk for clotting, heart attack, and stroke, such as those with current cardiac illness or diabetes, I believe there is sufficient evidence to recommend avoiding erythritol until further studies are conducted,” Hazen told CNN.

The research did not prove that increased erythritol levels caused heart attacks and strokes; it just established a correlation between the two. Several specialists remark to Stat News that heart disease-causing factors may have resulted in elevated levels of erythritol, which is naturally produced by the body. Some scientists believe that despite the potential hazards of erythritol, it may be the lesser of two evils; ingesting products with added sugar may be worse for you than consuming low-sugar items. Karen Aspry, a clinical cardiologist at Brown University who was not involved in the study, told Stat News, “If you’re diabetic and you have an option between eating sugar and this, I would put my money on this.”

Others, however, advocate taking caution with erythritol until additional research is completed. Karsten Hiller, a scientist at the Braunschweig Institute of Technology in Germany, tells USA Today, “I would not propose that anyone utilise it based on our existing knowledge.”

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

26.  Before they found erythritol, the goal of the researchers was to look for chemicals that were linked to a higher risk of heart health problems. What does this tell you about the nature of research?

Read the article below then answer the questions that follow.

Study Finds Risks Tied to Artificial Sweetener

The artificial sweetener erythritol has been associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, according to a study published in Nature Medicine. According to the study, erythritol is a sugar alcohol that occurs naturally in low concentrations in fruits and vegetables but is added in much higher concentrations to processed meals. It is a common ingredient in sugar replacement and reduced-sugar products. 

According to Clare Wilson of New Scientist, some people now have higher-than-normal quantities of erythritol in their blood, which may raise their risk of blood clots. Some researchers believe that variables other than erythritol may be involved, while others contend that artificial sweeteners are not as harmful as added sugars. Regardless, some academics encourage consumers to be conscious of the foods they consume.

Andrew Freeman, a cardiologist at the hospital National Jewish Health, tells Sandee LaMotte of CNN, “Clearly, further research is needed, but out of an abundance of caution, it may make sense to reduce erythritol in your diet for now.”

Lately, the prevalence of erythritol in food products has increased. NielsenIQ reported in 2022 that sales of goods containing the sweetener increased by 43% over the preceding two years. While regulatory agencies typically deem artificial sweeteners to be safe, little is known about their long-term health impacts, the authors of the study wrote.

Kimber Stanhope, a research nutritional biologist at the University of California, told Stat News’ Matthew Herper, “We have work to do on every single artificial sweetener.” It is ludicrous how little they have been examined.

In truth, artificial sweetener research was not the intended objective of the new study. The scientists searched for chemicals associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular health issues. Scientists analysed the blood of 1,157 individuals getting a cardiac risk assessment and followed them for three years, noting any heart attacks, strokes, or deaths. They discovered that erythritol was “near the very top of the list” of substances linked to these events, according to Stanley Hazen, co-author of the paper and medical scientist at the Cleveland Clinic.

To validate this result, scientists analysed the blood of 2,149 U.S. individuals and 833 European participants for elective cardiac assessment. After adjusting for other characteristics, the risk of heart attack or stroke over the next three years was approximately twice as high for persons in the top 25% of erythritol levels compared to those in the bottom 25%, as reported by New Scientist. Hazen told CNN that over 75% of the individuals in these two studies had cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure, and 20% had diabetes.

In the final research, eight participants with a low risk of heart attack or stroke consumed 30 grams of erythritol-containing foods and beverages. Their blood concentration of the sweetener increased one thousandfold and remained elevated for several hours. The researchers also conducted laboratory tests in which erythritol appeared to cause blood clotting and raise the risk of clotting in mice with genetic modifications. “For patients at risk for clotting, heart attack, and stroke, such as those with current cardiac illness or diabetes, I believe there is sufficient evidence to recommend avoiding erythritol until further studies are conducted,” Hazen told CNN.

The research did not prove that increased erythritol levels caused heart attacks and strokes; it just established a correlation between the two. Several specialists remark to Stat News that heart disease-causing factors may have resulted in elevated levels of erythritol, which is naturally produced by the body. Some scientists believe that despite the potential hazards of erythritol, it may be the lesser of two evils; ingesting products with added sugar may be worse for you than consuming low-sugar items. Karen Aspry, a clinical cardiologist at Brown University who was not involved in the study, told Stat News, “If you’re diabetic and you have an option between eating sugar and this, I would put my money on this.”

Others, however, advocate taking caution with erythritol until additional research is completed. Karsten Hiller, a scientist at the Braunschweig Institute of Technology in Germany, tells USA Today, “I would not propose that anyone utilise it based on our existing knowledge.”

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

27.  The research established a correlation between increased erythritol levels and heart attacks and strokes but did not prove causation. With this, what is the best thing one can do in the meantime?

Read the article below then answer the questions that follow.

Study Finds Risks Tied to Artificial Sweetener

The artificial sweetener erythritol has been associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, according to a study published in Nature Medicine. According to the study, erythritol is a sugar alcohol that occurs naturally in low concentrations in fruits and vegetables but is added in much higher concentrations to processed meals. It is a common ingredient in sugar replacement and reduced-sugar products. 

According to Clare Wilson of New Scientist, some people now have higher-than-normal quantities of erythritol in their blood, which may raise their risk of blood clots. Some researchers believe that variables other than erythritol may be involved, while others contend that artificial sweeteners are not as harmful as added sugars. Regardless, some academics encourage consumers to be conscious of the foods they consume.

Andrew Freeman, a cardiologist at the hospital National Jewish Health, tells Sandee LaMotte of CNN, “Clearly, further research is needed, but out of an abundance of caution, it may make sense to reduce erythritol in your diet for now.”

Lately, the prevalence of erythritol in food products has increased. NielsenIQ reported in 2022 that sales of goods containing the sweetener increased by 43% over the preceding two years. While regulatory agencies typically deem artificial sweeteners to be safe, little is known about their long-term health impacts, the authors of the study wrote.

Kimber Stanhope, a research nutritional biologist at the University of California, told Stat News’ Matthew Herper, “We have work to do on every single artificial sweetener.” It is ludicrous how little they have been examined.

In truth, artificial sweetener research was not the intended objective of the new study. The scientists searched for chemicals associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular health issues. Scientists analysed the blood of 1,157 individuals getting a cardiac risk assessment and followed them for three years, noting any heart attacks, strokes, or deaths. They discovered that erythritol was “near the very top of the list” of substances linked to these events, according to Stanley Hazen, co-author of the paper and medical scientist at the Cleveland Clinic.

To validate this result, scientists analysed the blood of 2,149 U.S. individuals and 833 European participants for elective cardiac assessment. After adjusting for other characteristics, the risk of heart attack or stroke over the next three years was approximately twice as high for persons in the top 25% of erythritol levels compared to those in the bottom 25%, as reported by New Scientist. Hazen told CNN that over 75% of the individuals in these two studies had cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure, and 20% had diabetes.

In the final research, eight participants with a low risk of heart attack or stroke consumed 30 grams of erythritol-containing foods and beverages. Their blood concentration of the sweetener increased one thousandfold and remained elevated for several hours. The researchers also conducted laboratory tests in which erythritol appeared to cause blood clotting and raise the risk of clotting in mice with genetic modifications. “For patients at risk for clotting, heart attack, and stroke, such as those with current cardiac illness or diabetes, I believe there is sufficient evidence to recommend avoiding erythritol until further studies are conducted,” Hazen told CNN.

The research did not prove that increased erythritol levels caused heart attacks and strokes; it just established a correlation between the two. Several specialists remark to Stat News that heart disease-causing factors may have resulted in elevated levels of erythritol, which is naturally produced by the body. Some scientists believe that despite the potential hazards of erythritol, it may be the lesser of two evils; ingesting products with added sugar may be worse for you than consuming low-sugar items. Karen Aspry, a clinical cardiologist at Brown University who was not involved in the study, told Stat News, “If you’re diabetic and you have an option between eating sugar and this, I would put my money on this.”

Others, however, advocate taking caution with erythritol until additional research is completed. Karsten Hiller, a scientist at the Braunschweig Institute of Technology in Germany, tells USA Today, “I would not propose that anyone utilise it based on our existing knowledge.”

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

28.  Hiller, a scientist, shared that based on the current knowledge available, he would not recommend the use of erythritol to anyone. What does this say about him?

Read the article below then answer the questions that follow.

Study Finds Risks Tied to Artificial Sweetener

The artificial sweetener erythritol has been associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, according to a study published in Nature Medicine. According to the study, erythritol is a sugar alcohol that occurs naturally in low concentrations in fruits and vegetables but is added in much higher concentrations to processed meals. It is a common ingredient in sugar replacement and reduced-sugar products. 

According to Clare Wilson of New Scientist, some people now have higher-than-normal quantities of erythritol in their blood, which may raise their risk of blood clots. Some researchers believe that variables other than erythritol may be involved, while others contend that artificial sweeteners are not as harmful as added sugars. Regardless, some academics encourage consumers to be conscious of the foods they consume.

Andrew Freeman, a cardiologist at the hospital National Jewish Health, tells Sandee LaMotte of CNN, “Clearly, further research is needed, but out of an abundance of caution, it may make sense to reduce erythritol in your diet for now.”

Lately, the prevalence of erythritol in food products has increased. NielsenIQ reported in 2022 that sales of goods containing the sweetener increased by 43% over the preceding two years. While regulatory agencies typically deem artificial sweeteners to be safe, little is known about their long-term health impacts, the authors of the study wrote.

Kimber Stanhope, a research nutritional biologist at the University of California, told Stat News’ Matthew Herper, “We have work to do on every single artificial sweetener.” It is ludicrous how little they have been examined.

In truth, artificial sweetener research was not the intended objective of the new study. The scientists searched for chemicals associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular health issues. Scientists analysed the blood of 1,157 individuals getting a cardiac risk assessment and followed them for three years, noting any heart attacks, strokes, or deaths. They discovered that erythritol was “near the very top of the list” of substances linked to these events, according to Stanley Hazen, co-author of the paper and medical scientist at the Cleveland Clinic.

To validate this result, scientists analysed the blood of 2,149 U.S. individuals and 833 European participants for elective cardiac assessment. After adjusting for other characteristics, the risk of heart attack or stroke over the next three years was approximately twice as high for persons in the top 25% of erythritol levels compared to those in the bottom 25%, as reported by New Scientist. Hazen told CNN that over 75% of the individuals in these two studies had cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure, and 20% had diabetes.

In the final research, eight participants with a low risk of heart attack or stroke consumed 30 grams of erythritol-containing foods and beverages. Their blood concentration of the sweetener increased one thousandfold and remained elevated for several hours. The researchers also conducted laboratory tests in which erythritol appeared to cause blood clotting and raise the risk of clotting in mice with genetic modifications. “For patients at risk for clotting, heart attack, and stroke, such as those with current cardiac illness or diabetes, I believe there is sufficient evidence to recommend avoiding erythritol until further studies are conducted,” Hazen told CNN.

The research did not prove that increased erythritol levels caused heart attacks and strokes; it just established a correlation between the two. Several specialists remark to Stat News that heart disease-causing factors may have resulted in elevated levels of erythritol, which is naturally produced by the body. Some scientists believe that despite the potential hazards of erythritol, it may be the lesser of two evils; ingesting products with added sugar may be worse for you than consuming low-sugar items. Karen Aspry, a clinical cardiologist at Brown University who was not involved in the study, told Stat News, “If you’re diabetic and you have an option between eating sugar and this, I would put my money on this.”

Others, however, advocate taking caution with erythritol until additional research is completed. Karsten Hiller, a scientist at the Braunschweig Institute of Technology in Germany, tells USA Today, “I would not propose that anyone utilise it based on our existing knowledge.”

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

29.  Andrew Freeman stated that in the meantime, it may make sense to reduce erythritol in one’s diet. Which best describes what he is trying to communicate?

Read the article below then answer the questions that follow.

Study Finds Risks Tied to Artificial Sweetener

The artificial sweetener erythritol has been associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, according to a study published in Nature Medicine. According to the study, erythritol is a sugar alcohol that occurs naturally in low concentrations in fruits and vegetables but is added in much higher concentrations to processed meals. It is a common ingredient in sugar replacement and reduced-sugar products. 

According to Clare Wilson of New Scientist, some people now have higher-than-normal quantities of erythritol in their blood, which may raise their risk of blood clots. Some researchers believe that variables other than erythritol may be involved, while others contend that artificial sweeteners are not as harmful as added sugars. Regardless, some academics encourage consumers to be conscious of the foods they consume.

Andrew Freeman, a cardiologist at the hospital National Jewish Health, tells Sandee LaMotte of CNN, “Clearly, further research is needed, but out of an abundance of caution, it may make sense to reduce erythritol in your diet for now.”

Lately, the prevalence of erythritol in food products has increased. NielsenIQ reported in 2022 that sales of goods containing the sweetener increased by 43% over the preceding two years. While regulatory agencies typically deem artificial sweeteners to be safe, little is known about their long-term health impacts, the authors of the study wrote.

Kimber Stanhope, a research nutritional biologist at the University of California, told Stat News’ Matthew Herper, “We have work to do on every single artificial sweetener.” It is ludicrous how little they have been examined.

In truth, artificial sweetener research was not the intended objective of the new study. The scientists searched for chemicals associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular health issues. Scientists analysed the blood of 1,157 individuals getting a cardiac risk assessment and followed them for three years, noting any heart attacks, strokes, or deaths. They discovered that erythritol was “near the very top of the list” of substances linked to these events, according to Stanley Hazen, co-author of the paper and medical scientist at the Cleveland Clinic.

To validate this result, scientists analysed the blood of 2,149 U.S. individuals and 833 European participants for elective cardiac assessment. After adjusting for other characteristics, the risk of heart attack or stroke over the next three years was approximately twice as high for persons in the top 25% of erythritol levels compared to those in the bottom 25%, as reported by New Scientist. Hazen told CNN that over 75% of the individuals in these two studies had cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure, and 20% had diabetes.

In the final research, eight participants with a low risk of heart attack or stroke consumed 30 grams of erythritol-containing foods and beverages. Their blood concentration of the sweetener increased one thousandfold and remained elevated for several hours. The researchers also conducted laboratory tests in which erythritol appeared to cause blood clotting and raise the risk of clotting in mice with genetic modifications. “For patients at risk for clotting, heart attack, and stroke, such as those with current cardiac illness or diabetes, I believe there is sufficient evidence to recommend avoiding erythritol until further studies are conducted,” Hazen told CNN.

The research did not prove that increased erythritol levels caused heart attacks and strokes; it just established a correlation between the two. Several specialists remark to Stat News that heart disease-causing factors may have resulted in elevated levels of erythritol, which is naturally produced by the body. Some scientists believe that despite the potential hazards of erythritol, it may be the lesser of two evils; ingesting products with added sugar may be worse for you than consuming low-sugar items. Karen Aspry, a clinical cardiologist at Brown University who was not involved in the study, told Stat News, “If you’re diabetic and you have an option between eating sugar and this, I would put my money on this.”

Others, however, advocate taking caution with erythritol until additional research is completed. Karsten Hiller, a scientist at the Braunschweig Institute of Technology in Germany, tells USA Today, “I would not propose that anyone utilise it based on our existing knowledge.”

Answer the following questions by choosing the letter of the best answer.

30.  Which best describes the goal of the article?