IELTS Reading Sample Test
Practice sample reading module test for IELTS to ace the exam in the first attempt
IELTS Academic Reading Module
Passage 1: The History of the Internet
The internet, a global system of interconnected computer networks, has transformed the way we communicate, work, and access information. Its origins can be traced back to the 1960s, when the U.S. Department of Defense developed ARPANET, a project designed to create a robust communication system that could survive a nuclear attack. ARPANET allowed researchers to share information across computers at various universities and research institutions.
In the 1970s, the invention of Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) by Vint Cerf and Robert Kahn enabled computers across different networks to communicate with each other. By the 1980s, ARPANET had evolved into the modern internet. The creation of the World Wide Web by Tim Berners-Lee in 1989 revolutionized the internet further, making it user-friendly and widely accessible.
The internet continues to evolve, with innovations such as cloud computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), and 5G technology shaping its future. While it brings immense benefits, including instant communication and vast information access, concerns about privacy, security, and misinformation also arise.
Questions 1–5: True/False/Not Given
Do the following statements agree with the information in the passage? Write:
- True if the statement agrees with the information.
- False if the statement contradicts the information.
- Not Given if there is no information on this.
1. ARPANET was created by the U.S. military to ensure communication during a nuclear attack.
2. TCP/IP was invented in the 1980s.
3. Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide Web in 1999.
4. The World Wide Web made the internet easier for people to use.
5. The development of the Internet of Things (IoT) has increased security concerns.
Questions 6–8: Short-Answer Questions
Answer the following questions based on the information in the passage. Use NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS for each answer.
6. Which protocol enables communication between computers on different networks?
7. What project led to the development of the modern internet?
8. What year was the World Wide Web created?
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Passage 2: Renewable Energy Sources
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in renewable energy sources, which are essential in reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. Renewable energy refers to power derived from natural resources that are replenished constantly, such as sunlight, wind, and water. Among these, solar and wind energy are the most rapidly growing forms of renewable energy globally.
Solar energy is harnessed through photovoltaic cells, which convert sunlight directly into electricity. Wind energy, on the other hand, is generated by wind turbines, which capture the kinetic energy of wind and transform it into electrical energy. Hydropower, another significant source of renewable energy, relies on the movement of water through dams to produce electricity.
Despite the advantages of renewable energy, including its sustainability and potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, challenges remain. These include the high initial costs of setting up renewable energy infrastructure, the variability of renewable sources, and the need for technological advances to improve efficiency.
Questions 9–14: Multiple-Choice
Choose the correct answer, A, B, C, or D.
9. What is the primary advantage of renewable energy sources?
A. They are cheaper than fossil fuels.
B. They are sustainable and reduce emissions.
C. They are easier to install.
D. They produce more energy than traditional sources.
10. Solar energy is converted into electricity using:
A. Wind turbines.
B. Hydropower plants.
C. Photovoltaic cells.
D. Thermal collectors.
11. What is a challenge associated with renewable energy?
A. It is less sustainable than fossil fuels.
B. It can be unreliable due to weather.
C. It generates large amounts of waste.
D. It has a higher risk of accidents.
12. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a renewable energy source?
A. Solar energy.
B. Wind energy.
C. Biomass.
D. Hydropower.
13. Wind energy is produced by:
A. Water flowing through dams.
B. The movement of wind turbines.
C. Solar panels.
D. The burning of fossil fuels.
14. What is one benefit of hydropower?
A. It is cheaper than wind energy.
B. It produces no electricity.
C. It is powered by water movement.
D. It requires no infrastructure.
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Passage 3: The Psychology of Color
Color has a significant impact on human emotions and behavior. Psychologists have long studied the effects of different colors on mood and cognition, finding that colors can evoke a range of emotional responses. Warm colors such as red, orange, and yellow are often associated with excitement, energy, and warmth, while cool colors like blue, green, and purple are linked to calmness, relaxation, and serenity.
Red, for example, is a stimulating color that can increase heart rate and stimulate appetite, which is why it is often used in restaurant branding. In contrast, blue tends to have a calming effect and is frequently used in offices and hospitals to promote a sense of peace. Green, associated with nature, is believed to reduce stress and improve focus.
Cultural differences also play a role in how people perceive colors. In Western cultures, white is often linked with purity and weddings, while in some Eastern cultures, it is associated with mourning and funerals.
Questions 15–20: Matching Information
Match each color to its description below. Choose the correct letter (A–E) for each question.
A. Red
B. Blue
C. Green
D. Yellow
E. White
15. This color is linked to nature and reduces stress.
16. This color is often used in restaurants to stimulate appetite.
17. This color can promote calmness and serenity.
18. This color is frequently associated with weddings in Western cultures.
19. This color is warm and often associated with energy.
20. This color is linked to mourning in some cultures.
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Passage 4: Advances in Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the development of computer systems that can perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence. These include tasks such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making, and language translation. AI has evolved rapidly in recent years, driven by advances in machine learning and neural networks, which enable computers to "learn" from vast amounts of data.
One of the most promising applications of AI is in healthcare. AI algorithms can analyze medical data, detect patterns, and help doctors diagnose diseases with greater accuracy. For example, AI systems are being developed to detect cancer in medical imaging faster and more accurately than human radiologists.
However, the rapid development of AI has also raised ethical concerns. There are fears that AI could lead to job displacement, as machines become capable of performing tasks traditionally done by humans. Additionally, issues related to data privacy and the potential for bias in AI algorithms are subjects of ongoing debate.
Questions 21–26: Sentence Completion
Complete the sentences below using NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage.
21. AI systems are capable of performing tasks requiring __________.
22. AI can help doctors diagnose diseases by detecting __________ in data.
23. AI is particularly useful in analyzing __________ imaging.
24. AI has been driven by advancements in __________ networks.
25. One concern about AI is its potential impact on __________.
26. There are worries that AI algorithms might contain __________.
Questions 27–32: True/False/Not Given
Do the following statements agree with the information given in Passage 4? Write:
True if the statement agrees with the information.
False if the statement contradicts the information.
Not Given if there is no information on this.
AI can already perform all tasks better than humans in every industry.
Machine learning has helped AI systems improve by learning from large amounts of data.
AI is currently unable to assist in healthcare diagnostics.
AI systems have completely replaced radiologists in cancer detection.
Ethical concerns about AI primarily focus on data privacy.
AI's ability to perform human-like tasks was first developed in the 1990s.
Questions 33–36: Multiple-Choice
Choose the correct answer, A, B, C, or D.
What is a key technology that allows AI systems to learn and improve?
A. Medical imaging
B. Machine learning
C. Robotic systems
D. Ethical programmingWhich industry is mentioned as benefiting the most from AI advancements?
A. Education
B. Transportation
C. Healthcare
D. ManufacturingWhat concern is raised about AI’s impact on jobs?
A. AI will create more job opportunities.
B. AI might make certain jobs redundant.
C. AI cannot perform jobs that require creativity.
D. AI will only affect jobs in healthcare.One potential issue with AI algorithms is:
A. Their inability to process large amounts of data.
B. Their potential to contain biases.
C. Their high cost of implementation.
D. Their lack of practical applications.
Questions 37–40: Matching Headings
Choose the correct heading for each section of the passage from the list of headings below. Write the correct letter (A–F) next to each question.
List of Headings:
A. Ethical and privacy concerns surrounding AI
B. The evolution of AI and neural networks
C. Applications of AI in healthcare
D. The economic impact of AI
E. Early developments in AI technology
F. The future of AI in society
Paragraph 1 (Introduction to AI)
Paragraph 2 (AI in healthcare)
Paragraph 3 (Ethical concerns about AI)
Paragraph 4 (Potential job losses due to AI)
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Answer Key
Passage 1: The History of the Internet
1. True
2. False
3. False
4. True
5. Not Given
6. TCP/IP
7. ARPANET
8. 1989
Passage 2: Renewable Energy Sources
9. B
10. C
11. B
12. C
13. B
14. C
Passage 3: The Psychology of Color
15. C
16. A
17. B
18. E
19. D
20. E
Passage 4: Advances in Artificial Intelligence
21. human intelligence
22. patterns
23. medical
24. neural
25. jobs
26. bias
27.False
28.True
29.False
30.False
31.Not Given
32.False
Questions 33–36: Multiple-Choice
33.B
34.C
35.B
36.B
Questions 37–40: Matching Headings
37.B
38.C
39.A
40.D
IELTS General Training Reading Module
Passage 1: The Rise of Remote Work
In the last decade, remote work has become increasingly popular. Aided by advances in technology, especially high-speed internet and video conferencing software, employees in various sectors have found that they can work efficiently from home. Remote work has grown further due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with companies around the world forced to adopt flexible working practices.
While many employees have embraced remote work for the flexibility it offers, others have struggled to maintain productivity outside of an office environment. Distractions at home, lack of direct communication with colleagues, and blurred work-life boundaries are some of the challenges reported by remote workers.
Many companies now offer hybrid work models, allowing employees to split their time between working remotely and in the office. This model gives workers more control over their schedules, while still fostering collaboration in a traditional office setting.
Questions 1–6: True/False/Not Given
Do the following statements agree with the information in the passage? Write:
- True if the statement agrees with the information.
- False if the statement contradicts the information.
- Not Given if there is no information on this.
1. The rise of remote work is solely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
2. Technology such as video conferencing has made remote work easier.
3. Some workers find it difficult to be productive when working remotely.
4. Remote workers usually have fewer distractions at home than in the office.
5. Hybrid work models combine remote work with office work.
6. Companies have seen reduced collaboration due to hybrid work models.
Questions 7–8: Short-Answer Questions
Answer the following questions using NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS.
7. What type of work model involves a combination of office and remote work?
8. What is one major challenge for people working remotely?
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Passage 2: Choosing the Right Pet
Pets can provide companionship, reduce stress, and encourage physical activity. However, choosing the right pet requires careful consideration. Different pets have different needs in terms of space, time, and cost, so it is important to match a pet to your lifestyle.
Dogs, for example, require daily exercise, attention, and training, making them a good choice for active people with time to care for them. Cats, on the other hand, are more independent and often require less maintenance, though they still need attention and stimulation. Small pets such as hamsters or guinea pigs may be better for people with limited space.
It is also important to consider the long-term commitment of owning a pet. Many pets, such as dogs and cats, can live for over a decade, meaning they require consistent care and attention for many years. Additionally, owning a pet comes with financial responsibilities, including food, veterinary care, and other supplies.
Questions 9–14: Multiple-Choice
Choose the correct answer, A, B, C, or D.
9. Why is it important to choose a pet carefully?
A. Some pets are expensive.
B. Different pets have different needs.
C. Pets are easy to care for.
D. Pets don’t need much attention.
10. Which pet is best suited for an active person?
A. Hamster
B. Fish
C. Dog
D. Guinea pig
11. What is a benefit of owning a cat compared to a dog?
A. Cats require less exercise.
B. Cats live longer than dogs.
C. Cats are easier to train.
D. Cats are more social.
12. What type of pet might be suitable for someone with limited living space?
A. Dog
B. Cat
C. Hamster
D. Rabbit
13. What is a long-term consideration when owning a pet?
A. Pets are not expensive to care for.
B. Some pets can live for many years.
C. Pets require less attention as they age.
D. Pets don't need consistent care.
14. What is a financial responsibility of owning a pet?
A. Building a larger home
B. Buying new furniture
C. Paying for food and veterinary care
D. Increasing insurance coverage
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Passage 3: The History of Tea in Britain
Tea drinking has been a part of British culture for centuries, but it was not always a national habit. Tea was first introduced to Britain in the mid-17th century, when it was imported from China. Initially, tea was a luxury item enjoyed only by the wealthy, as it was expensive and difficult to obtain.
The popularity of tea grew in the 18th century, particularly among the upper classes, who held tea parties and gatherings. By the 19th century, with the expansion of the British Empire and the establishment of tea plantations in India, tea became more affordable and accessible to the general public. It soon became an integral part of daily life for people of all social classes.
The British custom of afternoon tea, involving tea served with sandwiches and cakes, is still a beloved tradition today, though it is less common in modern households. Nevertheless, tea remains a staple beverage, with millions of cups consumed daily across the UK.
Questions 15–21: Matching Information
Match each description below with the correct period in the history of tea. Choose from the following periods (A–C).
A. 17th century
B. 18th century
C. 19th century
15. Tea was first introduced to Britain.
16. Tea became more affordable for the general public.
17. The wealthy held tea parties.
18. Tea drinking became common across all social classes.
19. The British Empire established tea plantations in India.
20. Tea was considered a luxury item.
21. Afternoon tea became a popular custom.
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Passage 4: The Benefits of Regular Exercise
Exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, with numerous physical and mental health benefits. Regular exercise helps control weight, strengthens the cardiovascular system, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. It also improves mood by releasing endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that promote feelings of happiness and reduce stress.
The recommended amount of exercise for adults is at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week. This can include activities such as walking, cycling, or swimming. In addition to aerobic exercise, muscle-strengthening activities, like weightlifting or yoga, should be included at least two days a week.
Despite the well-known benefits of exercise, many people struggle to maintain a consistent routine. Common barriers include lack of time, motivation, and access to facilities. However, incorporating even small amounts of physical activity into daily routines can make a significant difference.
Questions 22–27: Sentence Completion
Complete the sentences below using NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage.
22. Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of __________.
23. Exercise improves mood by releasing __________.
24. Adults should aim for at least __________ minutes of moderate activity each week.
25. Muscle-strengthening activities should be done at least __________ days a week.
26. Many people do not exercise regularly due to a lack of __________.
27. Even small amounts of physical activity can have a __________.
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Questions 28–32: Multiple-Choice
Choose the correct answer, A, B, C, or D.
28. One benefit of regular exercise is:
A. It increases stress.
B. It controls weight.
C. It reduces muscle mass.
D. It lowers energy levels.
29. Which activity is NOT listed as an example of aerobic exercise?
A. Walking
B. Swimming
C. Cycling
D. Yoga
30. How often should adults engage in muscle-strengthening activities?
A. Every day
B. At least twice a week
C. Once a month
D. Three times a week
31. What is a common reason people fail to exercise regularly?
A. They don’t know how to exercise.
B. They find it too expensive.
C. They lack motivation or time.
D. They are allergic to exercise.
32. How can people make a difference to their health if they have limited time for exercise?
A. By doing intense workouts every day
B. By incorporating small amounts of physical activity into daily life
C. By hiring a personal trainer
D. By joining a gym immediately
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Questions 33–40: True/False/Not Given
Do the following statements agree with the information in the passage? Write:
- True if the statement agrees with the information.
- False if the statement contradicts the information.
- Not Given if there is no information on this.
33. Exercise can only help with physical health, not mental health.
34. Adults should engage in either moderate or vigorous exercise, not both.
35. Muscle-strengthening exercises should be done once a month for best results.
36. Weightlifting is an example of a muscle-strengthening activity.
37. Yoga can be considered an aerobic exercise.
38. Walking is a type of vigorous activity.
39. Regular exercise helps improve cardiovascular health.
40. Lack of access to exercise facilities is the main reason people don't exercise regularly.
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Answer Key
**Passage
1: The Rise of Remote Work**
1. False
2. True
3. True
4. False
5. True
6. Not Given
7. Hybrid model
8. Distractions
Passage 2: Choosing the Right Pet
9. B
10. C
11. A
12. C
13. B
14. C
Passage 3: The History of Tea in Britain
15. A
16. C
17. B
18. C
19. C
20. A
21. B
Passage 4: The Benefits of Regular Exercise
22. Chronic diseases
23. Endorphins
24. 150
25. Two
26. Time
27. Significant difference
28. B
29. D
30. B
31. C
32. B
33. False
34. False
35. False
36. True
37. False
38. False
39. True
40. Not Given
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The IELTS Reading Module (both Academic and General Training) is scored based on the number of correct answers out of 40 questions. Each correct answer earns one mark. The total number of correct answers is then converted into an IELTS band score, ranging from 1 to 9.
Here’s a typical way to calculate your IELTS Reading band score based on the number of correct answers:
