B1 English Reading Comprehension

Question 1

You read a notice at your local GP surgery: 'Due to high demand, appointments must be booked 48 hours in advance. Walk-in clinics are available on Saturdays from 9am to 12pm.' What does this notice tell you?

Accepted Answer

You need to book appointments at least two days ahead

Answer

The notice states appointments must be booked 48 hours (two days) in advance. Saturday walk-in clinics are an alternative, not the only option.

Question 2

A job advert states: 'The successful candidate will be expected to work on a rota basis, including occasional weekends and bank holidays. Enhanced pay applies to all unsocial hours.' What does 'unsocial hours' most likely refer to?

Accepted Answer

Working hours outside the standard Monday-to-Friday daytime schedule

Answer

In UK employment, 'unsocial hours' refers to work outside normal daytime hours, typically evenings, nights, weekends, and bank holidays. The advert confirms this by mentioning weekends and bank holidays.

Question 3

You receive a letter from your local council: 'Your Council Tax band has been reassessed following recent property improvements. You have 28 days to appeal this decision.' What should you do if you disagree?

Accepted Answer

Contact the council within 28 days to challenge the reassessment

Answer

The letter gives a clear 28-day window to appeal. If you disagree with the reassessment, you must act within this timeframe to formally challenge the decision.

Question 4

A sign in a car park reads: 'Maximum stay 3 hours. No return within 2 hours. Penalty Charge Notice: £70 (reduced to £35 if paid within 14 days).' If you park at 10am, when is the earliest you could return and park again?

Accepted Answer

3pm the same day

Answer

You must leave by 1pm (3-hour maximum from 10am). The 'no return within 2 hours' rule means you cannot park again until 2 hours after leaving, which is 3pm at the earliest.

Question 5

An email from your child's school reads: 'Please note that the school will be closed on Friday 21st March for an INSET day. Normal service resumes on Monday 24th March.' What is an INSET day?

Accepted Answer

A teacher training day when pupils do not attend

Answer

INSET (In-Service Education and Training) days are designated for teacher professional development. Pupils do not attend school on these days.

B1 English Practice Test

B1 English Practice Test

B1 English Reading Comprehension