CEFR B2 English Reading Comprehension Flashcards

Read the passage: 'Climate scientists warn that urban areas are experiencing rising temperatures due to the heat island effect — a phenomenon where buildings and pavement absorb and re-emit solar heat. Unlike rural areas, cities have little vegetation to provide cooling shade.' What is the MAIN idea of this passage?

Answer: Cities are hotter than rural areas because of the heat island effect

The passage explains that cities are hotter than rural areas because buildings and pavement absorb heat and there is little vegetation, which is the heat island effect.

Read the passage: 'The term sustainable tourism refers to travel practices that minimize negative environmental impact while supporting local economies. Tourists who choose eco-friendly accommodation and local guides contribute to preserving natural habitats.' What does the word 'minimize' most likely mean in this context?

Answer: Reduce to the lowest possible level

'Minimize' means to reduce something to the smallest possible amount. The passage discusses reducing negative impact, not eliminating it entirely.

Read the passage: 'Remote work has transformed the modern office. Many companies now allow employees to work from home permanently, reducing commute times and office costs. However, some managers argue that in-person collaboration fosters creativity in ways that video calls cannot replicate.' What can be INFERRED about the author's view?

Answer: Both remote and in-person work have advantages and disadvantages

The passage presents benefits of remote work (reduced commute, lower costs) alongside a counterargument (in-person collaboration), suggesting a balanced view.

Read the passage: 'Antibiotics were once considered a miracle of modern medicine, capable of defeating bacterial infections that had previously killed millions. Today, overuse has led to antibiotic-resistant bacteria — a growing global health crisis.' According to the passage, what has caused antibiotic-resistant bacteria?

Answer: The overuse of antibiotics

The passage directly states that 'overuse has led to antibiotic-resistant bacteria.'

Read the passage: 'Public libraries have evolved far beyond their original role as book repositories. Today they offer free internet access, job training workshops, and community meeting spaces. For many people without home internet, the library is a vital digital lifeline.' What does 'digital lifeline' most likely mean?

Answer: An essential source of internet access for people who need it

A 'lifeline' is something essential for survival or success. Combined with 'digital,' it refers to internet access being critically important to those who rely on the library for it.

Read the passage: 'Scientists have discovered that playing a musical instrument strengthens neural connections in the brain. Children who learn music at an early age often demonstrate improved memory, language skills, and mathematical reasoning compared to those who do not.' What does the passage suggest about music education?

Answer: Music education may improve cognitive skills in children

The passage states that children who learn music show improved memory, language, and math skills, suggesting music education has cognitive benefits.

Read the passage: 'Fast fashion brands produce clothing at unprecedented speed and low cost, making trendy styles accessible to everyone. Critics, however, argue that this model encourages a throwaway culture, resulting in enormous textile waste that burdens landfills and pollutes waterways.' What is the PURPOSE of the word 'however' in this passage?

Answer: To introduce a contrasting or opposing viewpoint

'However' is a contrast signal word. It introduces the critics' opposing viewpoint after the positive aspects of fast fashion are described.