IELTS GT Reading
Practice Passage
Passage
Public
Libraries in the Digital Age
Paragraph A
Public libraries have traditionally been
places where people borrow books, read newspapers, and study in quiet spaces.
In many towns, they are also important community centres, offering free access
to information and a safe environment for learning.
Paragraph B
With the rise of the internet and smartphones,
the role of libraries has started to change. Many people now search for
information online rather than visiting a library. As a result, some libraries
have faced declining visitor numbers and reduced government funding.
Paragraph C
To stay relevant, libraries are expanding
their services. Many now provide free Wi-Fi, access to computers, and even
e-books. Some libraries also host workshops, children’s story hours, and
cultural events. This makes them more than just book-lending institutions—they
are becoming hubs of digital and social engagement.
Paragraph D
Despite these changes, challenges remain.
Budget cuts limit how many new books and digital resources libraries can offer.
In addition, some communities still view libraries only as “book storage”
rather than dynamic learning centres. However, library supporters argue that
they remain essential in reducing inequality by giving everyone access to free
knowledge and technology.
Part A: Matching Headings
Match the
headings (i–vi) to the correct paragraphs (A–D).
Headings:
i. Libraries
adapting to modern needs
ii. Traditional role of libraries
iii. Problems caused by reduced funding
iv. Libraries as social and cultural spaces
v. Growth of online alternatives
vi. Importance of equal access
Paragraph
A: _______
Paragraph B: _______
Paragraph C: _______
Paragraph D: _______
Part B: True / False / Not Given
1. Libraries have always been used only for borrowing books.
2. The number of library visitors has
fallen in some places.
3. All libraries now provide e-books to
their users.
4. Some people still believe libraries
are mainly for storing books.
5. Supporters think libraries help
reduce social inequality.
Part C: Table Completion
Complete
the table below using NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage.
|
Library
Role |
Examples
Given in Passage |
|
Traditional
functions |
Borrowing
books, reading ________ |
|
Modern digital
services |
Free Wi-Fi,
access to ________ |
|
Community
activities |
Workshops,
________ story hours |
Sample 2
IELTS GT Reading
Practice Passage
Passage
Sustainable
Tourism Practices
Paragraph A
Tourism is one of the world’s largest
industries, providing jobs and income for millions of people. However, mass
tourism has caused environmental damage, overcrowding, and cultural disruption
in many popular destinations. As a result, there has been growing interest in
sustainable tourism, which aims to balance economic, environmental, and social
benefits.
Paragraph B
Sustainable tourism encourages travellers to
minimize their ecological footprint. This can include using public transport,
staying in eco-friendly accommodations, and supporting local businesses. Tour
operators are also adopting greener practices, such as reducing waste,
conserving water, and promoting local culture.
Paragraph C
Education plays a key role in sustainable
tourism. Visitors must understand the impact of their actions on local
communities and ecosystems. Governments, NGOs, and travel agencies often
provide guidelines and awareness campaigns to promote responsible behaviour
among tourists.
Paragraph D
Despite these efforts, challenges remain. Many
tourists are unaware of sustainable options or prioritize convenience over
environmental considerations. Some destinations struggle to implement policies
effectively due to limited funding or infrastructure. Nevertheless, experts
believe that sustainable tourism is crucial for preserving natural and cultural
heritage for future generations.
Part A: Matching Headings
Match the
headings (i–vi) to the correct paragraphs (A–D).
Headings:
i. Importance of tourist education
ii. Problems caused by mass tourism
iii. Challenges in implementing sustainability
iv. Economic benefits of tourism
v. Ways to reduce environmental impact
vi. Role of governments and NGOs
Paragraph
A: _______
Paragraph B: _______
Paragraph C: _______
Paragraph D: _______
Part B: True / False / Not Given
1.
Tourism provides employment for millions worldwide.
2. All tourists are aware of sustainable tourism practices.
3. Eco-friendly hotels help reduce tourists’ environmental impact.
4. Governments and NGOs promote awareness about responsible tourism.
5. Limited infrastructure is a challenge for sustainable tourism in some
areas.
Part C: Table Completion
Complete
the table below using NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage.
|
Sustainable Tourism Aspect |
Examples / Details from Passage |
|
Reducing
ecological footprint |
Using public
transport, staying in ________ accommodations |
|
Supporting
local economy |
Promoting
________ businesses |
|
Tourist
education |
Guidelines and
________ campaigns |
IELTS GT Reading
Practice Passage
Passage 3
The
Impact of Urban Gardening
Urban gardening, the practice of growing
plants within city environments, has been gaining popularity worldwide.
Traditionally associated with rural farming, gardening has found its place on
rooftops, balconies, and in community gardens within densely populated areas.
The trend is largely driven by concerns about food security, environmental
sustainability, and personal well-being.
Studies show that urban gardens contribute
significantly to reducing the urban heat effect. Vegetation cools the air,
provides shade, and reduces energy consumption in nearby buildings.
Additionally, these gardens absorb pollutants and improve air quality. For
communities, shared gardens also foster social cohesion, offering residents
opportunities to interact, learn, and collaborate.
Despite its advantages, urban gardening faces
challenges. Space is limited in most cities, making it difficult to grow crops
efficiently. Soil contamination is another concern; some urban soils contain
heavy metals that can harm plants and humans. Water availability can also
restrict gardening activities, especially in areas with low rainfall or
insufficient infrastructure for irrigation.
Governments and local authorities have started
to encourage urban gardening through initiatives such as free workshops,
subsidies for seeds and tools, and the creation of public garden spaces.
Experts suggest that, when combined with sustainable practices such as
composting and rainwater harvesting, urban gardening can play a crucial role in
creating healthier, greener, and more resilient cities.
Part A: Multiple Choice Questions
1.
Why has urban gardening become popular in cities?
a) It is more profitable than rural farming
b) It addresses food security, sustainability, and well-being
c) It eliminates the need for supermarkets
d) It requires no water
2.
How do urban gardens help reduce the urban heat effect?
a) By using artificial cooling systems
b) By reducing the number of cars
c) By providing shade, cooling air, and reducing energy use
d) By limiting population growth
3.
What is one social benefit of shared urban gardens?
a) They increase real estate prices
b) They promote social interaction and cooperation
c) They reduce the need for schools
d) They guarantee political support
Part B: Sentence Completion
4.
Urban
gardens absorb pollutants and improve __________ quality.
5.
Experts
suggest combining urban gardening with __________ and rainwater harvesting.
6.
Limited
__________ in cities makes efficient crop growth difficult.
Part C: Note Completion
Complete
the notes below using NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage.
Urban
Gardening Benefits:
- Reduces
urban heat effect by providing ________ and cooling air
- Improves air
quality by absorbing ________
- Encourages
social ________ through community gardens
Challenges:
- Limited
________ in cities
- Soil
contamination due to ________ metals
- Restricted
gardening because of insufficient ________
Government
Support:
- Free
workshops
- Subsidies
for ________ and tools
- Creation of
public ________
Part D: Yes / No / Not Given
Write
YES if the statement agrees with the passage, NO if it contradicts it, and NOT
GIVEN if there is no information.
1.
Urban
gardening can replace traditional rural farming entirely.
2.
Vegetation
in cities helps save energy.
3.
Water
scarcity does not affect urban gardening.
4.
Local
authorities provide subsidies to encourage gardening.
5.
Composting
is suggested as a sustainable practice alongside urban gardening.
Next Passage
Passage 1 – Urban Gardening
Urban
gardening, the practice of growing plants within city environments, has been
gaining popularity worldwide. Traditionally associated with rural farming,
gardening has found its place on rooftops, balconies, and in community gardens
within densely populated areas. The trend is largely driven by concerns about
food security, environmental sustainability, and personal well-being.
Studies
show that urban gardens contribute significantly to reducing the urban heat
effect. Vegetation cools the air, provides shade, and reduces energy
consumption in nearby buildings. Additionally, these gardens absorb pollutants
and improve air quality. For communities, shared gardens also foster social
cohesion, offering residents opportunities to interact, learn, and collaborate.
Despite
its advantages, urban gardening faces challenges. Space is limited in most
cities, making it difficult to grow crops efficiently. Soil contamination is
another concern; some urban soils contain heavy metals that can harm plants and
humans. Water availability can also restrict gardening activities, especially
in areas with low rainfall or insufficient infrastructure for irrigation.
Governments
and local authorities have started to encourage urban gardening through
initiatives such as free workshops, subsidies for seeds and tools, and the
creation of public garden spaces. Experts suggest that, when combined with
sustainable practices such as composting and rainwater harvesting, urban
gardening can play a crucial role in creating healthier, greener, and more
resilient cities.
Tasks – Passage 1:
Part A: Multiple Choice Questions
1.
Why has urban gardening become popular in cities?
a) It is more profitable than rural farming
b) It addresses food security, sustainability, and well-being
c) It eliminates the need for supermarkets
d) It requires no water
2.
How do urban gardens help reduce the urban
heat effect?
a) By using artificial cooling systems
b) By reducing the number of cars
c) By providing shade, cooling air, and reducing energy use
d) By limiting population growth
3.
What is one social benefit of shared urban
gardens?
a) They increase real estate prices
b) They promote social interaction and cooperation
c) They reduce the need for schools
d) They guarantee political support
Part B: Sentence Completion
4.
Urban gardens absorb pollutants and improve
__________ quality.
5.
Experts suggest combining urban gardening with
__________ and rainwater harvesting.
6.
Limited __________ in cities makes efficient
crop growth difficult.
Part C: Note Completion
Urban Gardening Benefits:
- Reduces
urban heat effect by providing ________ and cooling air
- Improves air
quality by absorbing ________
- Encourages
social ________ through community gardens
Challenges:
- Limited
________ in cities
- Soil
contamination due to ________ metals
- Restricted
gardening because of insufficient ________
Government Support:
- Free
workshops
- Subsidies
for ________ and tools
- Creation of
public ________
Part D: Yes / No / Not Given
1.
Urban gardening can replace traditional rural
farming entirely.
2.
Vegetation in cities helps save energy.
3.
Water scarcity does not affect urban
gardening.
4.
Local authorities provide subsidies to
encourage gardening.
5.
Composting is suggested as a sustainable
practice alongside urban gardening.
Passage 2 – Digital Payments
In
recent years, the use of digital payments has grown rapidly across the world.
Many people now prefer mobile wallets, QR codes, and online banking over
carrying cash. This shift is mainly due to convenience and security. Digital
systems allow instant transfers, reduce the risk of theft, and make
record-keeping easier for both individuals and businesses.
However,
not everyone has welcomed this change. Older generations often find digital
platforms confusing, while people in rural areas sometimes lack access to
stable internet connections. Additionally, cybercrime remains a serious
concern. Hackers and scammers continue to find new ways to steal money and
personal data.
Governments
are encouraging digital payments because they help reduce corruption and
increase transparency. Tax collection becomes more efficient when money moves
through electronic channels. Some countries have even introduced strict rules
to limit cash transactions. Despite challenges, experts believe the future will
be mostly cashless, especially in urban centres where digital infrastructure is
stronger.
Tasks – Passage 2:
Part A: Multiple Choice Questions
1.
What is one main reason people prefer digital
payments?
a) They do not require electricity
b) They provide instant and secure transfers
c) They are always cheaper than cash
d) They do not need internet connection
2.
Why do some older people avoid digital
platforms?
a) They prefer credit cards
b) They distrust banks
c) They find the technology confusing
d) They live mostly in rural areas
3.
According to the passage, governments support
digital payments mainly because:
a) They reduce corruption and improve transparency
b) They provide free internet for all citizens
c) They prevent international trade problems
d) They replace the need for banks
Part B: Sentence Completion
4.
Digital payments make record-keeping easier
for both __________ and __________.
5.
A serious concern related to digital payments
is __________.
6.
Experts believe the future will be mostly
__________, particularly in __________ centres.
Part C: Summary Completion
Digital
payments are becoming popular because they are __________ and secure. Although
many people have accepted this trend, older generations and those in __________
areas face difficulties. Moreover, __________ is still a problem. Governments
encourage cashless transactions as they make tax collection __________ and
reduce corruption.
Passage 3 – Sustainable Tourism
Tourism
is one of the world’s largest industries, providing jobs and income for
millions of people. However, mass tourism has caused environmental damage,
overcrowding, and cultural disruption in many popular destinations. As a
result, there has been growing interest in sustainable tourism, which aims to
balance economic, environmental, and social benefits.
Sustainable
tourism encourages travellers to minimize their ecological footprint. This can
include using public transport, staying in eco-friendly accommodations, and
supporting local businesses. Tour operators are also adopting greener
practices, such as reducing waste, conserving water, and promoting local
culture.
Education
plays a key role in sustainable tourism. Visitors must understand the impact of
their actions on local communities and ecosystems. Governments, NGOs, and
travel agencies often provide guidelines and awareness campaigns to promote
responsible behaviour among tourists.
Despite
these efforts, challenges remain. Many tourists are unaware of sustainable
options or prioritize convenience over environmental considerations. Some
destinations struggle to implement policies effectively due to limited funding
or infrastructure. Nevertheless, experts believe that sustainable tourism is
crucial for preserving natural and cultural heritage for future generations.
Tasks – Passage 3:
Part A: Matching Headings
Match
headings (i–vi) to the paragraphs (A–D).
Headings:
i. Importance of tourist education
ii. Problems caused by mass tourism
iii. Challenges in implementing sustainability
iv. Economic benefits of tourism
v. Ways to reduce environmental impact
vi. Role of governments and NGOs
Paragraph A: _______
Paragraph B: _______
Paragraph C: _______
Paragraph D: _______
Part B: True / False / Not Given
1.
Tourism provides employment for millions
worldwide.
2.
All tourists are aware of sustainable tourism
practices.
3.
Eco-friendly hotels help reduce tourists’
environmental impact.
4.
Governments and NGOs promote awareness about
responsible tourism.
5.
Limited infrastructure is a challenge for
sustainable tourism in some areas.
Part C: Table Completion
|
Sustainable Tourism Aspect |
Examples / Details from Passage |
|
Reducing
ecological footprint |
Using
public transport, staying in ________ accommodations |
|
Supporting
local economy |
Promoting
________ businesses |
|
Tourist
education |
Guidelines
and ________ campaigns |
Passage 4 – Flexible Working in
Offices
The
traditional nine-to-five office job is gradually being replaced by more
flexible work arrangements. Many companies now allow employees to work from
home, choose their own hours, or share responsibilities through part-time
contracts. This shift is mainly driven by technology, which enables instant
communication and collaboration across distances.
Flexible
working provides several benefits. Employees can save commuting time, balance
family responsibilities, and often feel less stressed. Companies also benefit,
as flexible schedules can improve productivity and reduce office costs.
However,
there are drawbacks. Remote workers sometimes feel isolated from their
colleagues, and communication can suffer without face-to-face interaction. Some
managers also worry that employees may become less disciplined when not
physically present in the office. To address these issues, many organizations
adopt a “hybrid” system, mixing office attendance with remote work.
Experts
believe that workplace flexibility will continue to grow, especially in
industries where technology plays a central role. Still, success depends on
finding the right balance between freedom and responsibility.
Tasks – Passage 4:
Part A: Multiple Choice Questions
1.
What is the main factor driving flexible work
arrangements?
2.
What is one benefit of flexible working for
companies?
3.
What is a drawback of remote work mentioned in
the passage?
Part B: Sentence Completion
4.
Flexible working allows employees to save
__________ and balance __________ responsibilities.
5.
Some managers are concerned that employees may
become less __________ when working remotely.
6.
Many organizations adopt a __________ system
that mixes office and remote work.
Part C: Yes / No / Not Given
1.
Flexible working is only possible in IT
industries.
2.
Remote working can make employees feel
isolated.
3.
All companies have adopted a hybrid system.
4.
Flexible working reduces office costs.
5.
Workplace flexibility requires balancing
freedom and responsibility.
Part D: Table Completion
|
Aspect of Flexible Work |
Example / Detail |
|
Benefits
for employees |
Save
commuting time, balance __________ |
|
Benefits
for companies |
Improve
productivity, reduce __________ |
|
Hybrid
system |
Mix
of __________ and remote work |
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