Reading Paragraphs in grammar

Reading:

READING

Directions:Read the document below. Then read the question. Click A, B, C, or D to select the best answer. Click on the arrow button to go to the next question.

Pros and Cons of GlobalBusiness Travel

Global business travel is a successful industry these days. Business air travelers make up a largepart of ticket sales on major carriers. These frequent fliers know how to book the best fares. They can work with flight schedules. They have ways to recover from jet lag. Many of them can even work well during flights. Laptops are now themost common piece of carry-on luggage.

There are good reasons for companies to have theiremployees travel overseas. Sending staff members to a new country means they can meet with clients face to face. They can generate fresh ideas and find answers to questions. They can also create ties in other countries. A dinner with a client can create a valuable bond. These relationships help firms expand their global networks.

But business travel has its downsides too. It costs money, and there's a

human toll as well. The problems include burnout and exposure to disease. Then there's the lost

time and lost luggage. Never mind the frayed nerves and hours spent waiting in airports.

What does the future hold for business travel? Airlines are nervous. Email and other electronic systems may soon make 15-hour trips for 3-hour meetings things of the past. The video conference could replace air travel as the main means of long-distance communication within the next decade. Companies will soon invest more in video equipment than

in airfares. It's not a certainty, but it is likely. Unpack your bags and open your laptop.In this article, carriers refer to __________.

(A) luggage handlers

(B) people who fly frequently

(C) people infected with disease

(D) airline companies

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The trend for the future, according to this article, will probably be __________.

(A) increased video communications

(B) more international air travel

(C) business travelers being nervous

(D) more in-person meetings with clients

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TO:FROM:RE:

Kristin Donner, President Louis Johnson, Personnel ManagerComputer Training

Next week the employees in the International Loan Department will receive training on the new computer system. Two trainers from the ABC Training Group will cometo our office next Wednesday.

I feel that managers should also attend the training. Theyneed to understand how to use the new system too. However,some of them said they don't have the time to come.

We must start using this new system now, and there is not a good time to do another training just for the managers. What do you suggest we do to make sure that everyone receives the training?

Please me as soon as you can. Please email any helpful ideas or other suggestions to me directly.

Thank you for considering this problem. I hope to hear from you this week.

What is the problem Louis Johnson has with the training?

(A) There are not enough people fortwo training sessions.

(B) The two trainers don't have time do the training on Wednesday.

(C) Some of the managers can't attend the training on Wednesday.













(D) The new computer system is too difficult to understand.

3 of 16 Next

Look at the word in the memo. Which phrase means the same thing as ?

(A) to agree with someone

(B) to call someone on the telephone

(C) to ask a question

(D) to give useful suggestions

READING


How to Get Reimbursed for Business Expenses

You will be paid back for any company expenses that you pay out of pocket. For instance, if you take a taxi to a meeting with a client, the CFO will approve a refund for the money you spend.

In order to get your money back for business expenses, you must follow these steps:

1. Fill out the Reimbursement Form (form series 236-A). Be sure to explain the expense in the box marked "Reason."

2. The Reimbursement Form must include your full name (printed), your signature, and the date.

3. Your manager must approve the expense. Ask your manager to sign and date the





Reimbursement Form on page 2. If your manager is on vacation, you may request a signature from your manager's supervisor.

4. Submit the Current Address Form (form series 967-B). This is an important step.

5. Write your Employee I.D. Number on both forms. Write it clearly.

6. Specify your department. 7. Compile and submit the original receipts

for your expenses. Sign and date them. 8. Make copies of the receipts and the forms. 9. Submit both forms and the receipts

together.

Failure to supply any of the required information or signatures can result in a delay in repayment. Allow six weeks for repayment. The money will be mailed to the address you provided on the Current Address Form.

If you have any questions about these directions, please contact the Bursar's office at extension 0812. We will be happy to answer your questions.In order to get reimbursed for expenses,an employee must __________.

(A) have a manager sign both forms(B) visit the Bursar's office

(C) submit two different forms

(D) approve all the expenses

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In these directions, the word them refers to __________.

(A) the photocopies

(B) the expenditures

(C) both forms

(D) the receipts

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16READING


Thank you for your fax of April 29.

Here is my new flight arrival information: AL #603 at SFO Airport on May 15 at 9 a.m. I wanted to arrive an hour earlier, but there were no direct flights from Boston to San Francisco at that time. The only reservations I could get at an earlier time required a 2-hour in Chicago. I didn't want to waste time waiting at the Chicago airport. Could you please arrange for me to pick up a rental car at the airport in San Francisco?

Also, please change the 10 a.m. tour time to 11 a.m. because of my later flight time. Thank you for making these changes to the schedule.

Joseph Kolb, our Production Manager, will be coming with me. I would like him to take a company tour with us. The tour should not last more than an hour because we have a 12:00 noon lunch meeting.

See you on the 15th.

Kind regards,

Ms. Natasha Gold

Look at the word in the fax. Which words or phrases mean the same

thing as ?

(A) a period of rest after a trip

(B) a short stay between the partsof a trip

(C) interruption of plane arrival and departure times

(D) a cancellation for mechanical problems

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How long will the tour be?

(A) more than an hour

(B) at 10 a.m.

(C) from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

(D) one hour or less

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READING


can help you! Our staff of computer experts






















can fix almost any type of computer you have.

Cost savingsYou can save as much as 25% the first year.

Fixed-price contractsCosts of computer repair and new computer equipment will not change.

Fast responseCall anytime. Our staff will come to your officewithin two hours of your call.

Discount on new softwareOur staff of technical experts will advise you on new software programs. can install the software, and we can offer you a very low price when you buy the software from us.

Don't wait! Call now at: (555) 121-1112

How quickly can the staff at Compfixbe at your workplace?

(A) immediately following your call

(B) in 3 hours or more

(C) any time

(D) in 2 hours or less

Look at the word advertisement. Who does the word refer to?

(A) the computer technicians

(B) management staff

(C) the software designers

(D) the office workers

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READING











by Jane Gilman

When I travel on business, Idon't want to waste timedeciding what to eat, where toeat, or how to get to arestaurant. The best idea isto ask about places to eatbefore you leave on your trip.Find out if friends, family,and co-workers know of any good restaurants in the city where you will be staying. Write down the names, addresses, and phone numbers of any restaurants that are recommended to you. Be sure to put this list in your wallet or purse so it's easy to find.

If you can't get any helpful before you go, you can always ask for advice at the hotel where you are staying. The person you should talk to for suggestionsis usually called the concierge. The concierge's job is to help guests make restaurant reservations, get tickets to theater or music events for them, or to suggest places for them to shop.

Talk to the concierge as early as you can. Tell the concierge what kind of food you want (I always ask fora good Italian restaurant, as most cities seem to haveone). In addition, tell the concierge what time you want to eat, how far you want to travel, and how much money you want to spend. This is a very fast and easy way to find good restaurants if you didn't get recommendations before leaving home.

Good luck and happy eating!

What is the best way to find a good restaurant?

(A) ask people about it before you travel

(B) ask the travel agents

(C) ask the front desk of your hotel







(D) ask at a good Italian restaurant

Look at the word in the article. Which words or phrases mean the same thing as in this article?

(A) restaurants or hotels

(B) tickets and places to shop

(C) money

(D) advice or suggestions

12 of 16 NextDirections:Read the document below. Then read the question. Click A, B, C, or D to select the best answer. Click on the arrow button to go to the next question.

The City of Roland Hills

Memorandum - DRAFT

TO: Mayor Jackson and City Council MembersFROM: Mary Smith, Chief City Accountant

Subject: Revision to loan agreement between the city and Sunnyside Mall

Proposal: Sunnyside Mall will provide the city with space for a teen recreation center. In exchange, Sunnyside Mall will not be required to pay back its loan from the city for last year's renovation.

Loan Agreement: The city and Sunnyside Mall entered into a loan agreement in August. The city loaned Sunnyside Mall $520,000. Terms included a 2.4% interest rate and no fees on a 20-year loan. Sunnyside Mall now agrees to provide mall space tothe city in exchange for forgiveness of this loan.

Reason for Revision: When the loan agreement was












signed, the city did not know it would need to rent space for an expansion to the existing City Teen Center (CTC). Space in Sunnyside Mall will give the city access to low-income youth on the city's north side. It will use the CTC expansion to provide recreation facilities and job training.

Financial Impact: The city and Sunnyside Mall agree that rent for the CTC expansion for one month is equal to one monthly loan payment of $4,000. This means that city revenues will decrease by $48,000 per year over the remainder ofthe loan agreement.

Recommendation: The City Manager or a member of our legal staff should draft a new agreement between the city and Sunnyside Mall stating that as long as the mall provides space for an expandedCTC, it will not have to make its monthly loan payments.

In the new agreement between the city and the mall, ______.(A) the city will receive space for the CTC and the mall will not have to pay back its loan from the city(B) the city will pay $4,000 per month for space to build an expansion for the CTC(C) Sunnyside Mall will rent space from the city for an expansion to theCityTeenCenter(D) Sunnyside Mall will save $4,000 per month, but the city will lose $48,000 per monthMy answer is A

In this passage, It refers to the __________.

(A) the mall

(B) the city

(C) the loan

(D) youth

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READING











Next month, the Geo Tech Mining Inc. headquarters will relocate to the Paris office. Two thirds of our business is in Europe now, and a full third of this European business is in France. Therefore, it is more convenient to have our main office where a majority of our clients will be able to meet with us much more easily.

However, I know that many New York employees do not want to move to Paris. When we move to Paris, some people willprobably quit and look for other jobs.

I don't want to lose our employees, but it is too expensive to keep both locations open. Do you have any ideas about what we could offer to our staff so that theywon't ? I really don't want them to leave the company. We want our best people on board when we move.

Thank you for your help with this serious problem. I hopeto hear from you as soon as possible.

Best regards,

Daniel Ferrier

Why is the Geo Tech Mining Inc. headquarters moving?

(A) to encourage European clients to visit New York

(B) to make it easier for employeesto fly to France

(C) to be closer to more of their business contacts

(D) to get a less expensive office












15 of 16 Next

Look at the words in the memo. Which phrase means the same thing as ?

(A) get on the next boat

(B) change staff

(C) get away from a troublesome situation

(D) ask for a position on the board

16 of 16 Next

Reading

READING

Directions:Read the document below. Then read the question. Click A, B, C, orD to select the best answer. Click on the arrow button to go to the next question.

Rico Rocha bought his two-bedroom hill cottage near the sea for what he thought was a very high price. Rocha paid$250,000 for the one-bathroom place, which needed a lot of fixing up.

Just two years later, Rocha feels pretty lucky. He thinkshe can sell his tiny home for close to $400,000.

"I can't believe it," Rocha said. "I feel like I've just made $150,000 by sitting on the couch in my living room."

Is Rocha crazy? Not in this real-estate market, respond local experts.













"Prices in the West Bedford region have increased across the board by an unbelievable 30 percent every year," sayslong-time real-estate broker Mimi Shue. "And in my opinion, there's no trend to show that the local market is slowing down."

Rocha and Shue are not alone. Real estate in West Bedfordhas historically increased no matter what is happening across the country. In this area, people are selling and buying homes based on their love of the city and its location, not logic.

Not everyone thinks that's a great idea.

"People in the region feel that a house is the best financial risk these days," reports Vijay Tandon, senior economist at the Schmidt Institute. "And the market scenario has made them believe that. But prices can't continue to increase forever."

Tandon thinks that prices in West Bedord are up to 20 percent higher than they should be.

The bottom line, he says, is "we don't know when, but themarket is likely to shift eventually--and people will gethurt. I just don't think it's going to last."According to the article, Mr. Tandon hasthe opinion that __________.

(A) Mr. Rocha is quite lucky

(B) prices could decrease 30 percent






(C) people could lose money

(D) real estate is the best risk

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In this article, eventually means ________.

(A) over a large part of West Bedford

(B) by a large amount, significantly

(C) permanently or forever

(D) sometime in the future

READING


To: Mr. Takeshi HiranoFrom: Jaime OrozcoSubject: a few questions

Dear Mr. Hirano,

I just wanted to coordinate my trip to Nagoya with you. I am scheduled to arrive at Narita Airport on Tuesday, the 14th. I know our meeting is not scheduled until the 16th, but I want to give myself sufficient time to recover from jet lag.

When I get to Narita, I will take the airport bus into Tokyo. ShouldI stay in Tokyo that night? If so, can you please recommend a comfortable hotel?

Also, can you please give me some advice about transportation to Nagoya? I usually rent a car when I travel, but my friend told me that it's preferable to travel by train in Japan. My friend also






said he missed a train in Tokyo because he couldn't locate the correct platform. So could you please advise me about which station and platform I should use? Do I have to make any transfers? Also, can someone from your office please meet me at the station in Nagoya?

I apologize for bothering you with these many detailed questions. This is my first trip to Japan and I don't speak or read Japanese, so I feel considerably nervous about traveling between Tokyo and Nagoya. Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Best wishes,

Jaime Orozco

In this email, recommend means __________.

(A) write a letter about

(B) make a suggestion

(C) repair something

(D) make a reservation for

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Mr. Orozco wants Mr. Hirano to __________.

(A) meet him at Narita Airport

(B) advise him about bus travel

(C) meet him at the Tokyo station

(D) advise him about train travel


















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READING


Women in the Business World:A Look into the Life of Helen Sinclair, CEO of

Net Graphicsby Ronald Marks

Women hold only 83 of the topjobs in corporate Americacompared to 2,184 men who havejobs as chairmen, vice chairmen,CEOs, presidents, or executivevice presidents. So what kind ofwoman makes it to the top?

Meet Helen Sinclair. She is oneof the most powerful CEOs in the business world. Ms. Sinclair speaks four languages, was educated at MIT's Sloan School, and just set up a $3 billion stock sale.

Her average weekly schedule is so full, most people would get tired just thinking about . This week, she's on a flight to Rome for lunch with an Italian graphic designer on Monday. On Tuesday, she is in Germany meeting with government officials who want to set up a Web site. By Wednesday, she will be on another plane to meet with a Japanese corporation thatmarkets products on the Internet. If she is lucky, shewill get to see her two children on Saturday.

"At first, it was difficult to leave my family so often. And it was also very hard to be a woman in my position. But I stayed positive, and as the company grew more successful, fewer people questioned my ability, as a woman, to do the job."

Sometimes, just sometimes, there is a happy ending!Look at the word in the article. What


or who does the word refer to?

(A) all the graphic designers, government officials and corporate lawyers

(B) Ms. Sinclair's typical job responsibilities from Monday to Friday

(C) the selling price of Net Graphic's stock

(D) Ms. Sinclair's powerful position within the corporation

Why is Ms. Sinclair "lucky" to see her children on the weekend?(A) She travels a lot.(B) She balances her work and family life easily.(C) She gets to fly home every Saturday.(D) They live in Italy.

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READING


Employee Relations Committee Meeting Summaryby Chris Gonzalez, Ombudsman

The Employee Relations Committee meeting was held on

















Thursday. The union representatives for the six area offices and the company managers from those same regions were present at the meeting. I sent out a copy of the agenda before the meeting. We discussed all the items on the agenda. I am writing this summary in my official roleas the company ombudsman.

The meeting went well. We discussed the employees’ concerns at length. Here is a list of the issues and the points of consensus that we reached. These are the ideas the committee would like to put forward:

Employees know that healthcare costs are rising. Management agrees to provide more day-care options for employees’ children if employees pay a higher percentage of healthcare costs.

Employees know that no merit raises are possible atthis time. Management agrees to a 3% cost-of-livingincrease across the board.

Management agrees to work with employees to developmore schedule options. These will include the 40-hour, 4-day work week. Job sharing might also be possible if two employees can work out a weekly schedule between them.

As ombudsman, my role is to promote understanding and fair decisions. I am happy with these suggestions. All present at the meeting worked hard to compromise, and thediscussions were calm and helpful. I am optimistic about the future of our company now and am hopeful about relations between employees and management.

I will prepare the formal minutes of the meeting next week. After you read them, please call me if you have anyquestions. I am always happy to talk with you.The person who wrote this report __________.

(A) is very worried about the company's future

(B) thinks that the union is being unreasonable

(C) represents one of the six










regional offices

(D) is pleased with the outcome of the meeting

7 of 16 Next

In the report above, the word minutesmeans __________.

(A) a unit of time (60 seconds)

(B) a written record of a meeting

(C) time passing in a meeting

(D) a written agenda for a meeting

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READING


Office Manager Needed Now!

Jetco Shipping Service needs an office manager for its New York office.

Responsibilities supervise ten staff members
















train new employees oversee maintenance of computer records and current

inventory facilitate staff meetings

Required Experience and Education A bachelor's degree in business or a related field from an

accredited four-year university A minimum of five years of management experience A minimum of two recommendations that demonstrate the

candidate's good judgment and knowledge of current laws related to supervising employees

Salary and Benefits competitive salary paid vacation and sick leave comprehensive medical and dental plan employee retirement plan health club membership

This position will require some travel, including visits to offices in Asia and South America. We encourage bilingual candidates with experience supervising a multicultural staff.

Jetco Shipping Service is a well-known firm in the shipping industry. It has a thirty-year history of success and a reputationfor quality. The new office manager must be team oriented. This job will be demanding but rewarding for an individual who thrives on challenges.

Email your cover letter and resume to jobs@jetco_shipping.com. Please include the names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses of at least two professional references. Email your application without delay. We will be hiring someone within the month.In the advertisement, the word It refersto __________.

(A) the shipping industry

(B) Jetco Shipping Service

(C) a history of success

(D) a competitive salary

According to the advertisement, the office









manager must ________.(A) be trained as a new office worker(B) have two years of university education(C) have international shipping experience(D) be willing to take business trips

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READING


These days there are many new theme parks worldwide. Shenzen in China has its cultural villages and Los Angeles has Universal Studios. There are now Disney themeparks in France, Japan, Hong Kong, Florida, and California. There are theme parks for people who want to see cartoon characters. There are theme parks for people who want to learn about history. There are theme parks for everyone.

But is every theme park right for you? Think about these


questions before you choose a park.

Who is going with you? Theme parks with cartoon characters are better for small children. Parks with exciting rides, like huge roller coasters, appeal to teenagers.

Why do you want to visit a theme park? Is it for a birthday or a graduation? Are you having a family reunion? Choose a theme park that fits your purpose.

What kind of attractions do you enjoy? Do you prefer water slides or 3-D movies? Do you like rides better thanshopping?

Finally, when will you visit the theme park? You should avoid hurricane season in Florida and the cloudy winter season near Paris. It's no fun to go to a theme park and stay inside all day because it's raining or cold.

Wherever you go, do some research first. You have a rightto expect good food, polite employees, and safe rides. Check the park's safety record. There should be no risk in visiting a theme park. Each theme park is unique. You can find one that's perfect for you.According to this article, when choosinga theme park it is best to __________.

(A) go to California or Florida for choices

(B) look for a park that is unique

(C) prepare for bad weather and smog

(D) look for a park that's good for you

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In this article, the word attraction













refers to __________.

(A) pulling something out of a situation

(B) something fun to see or do

(C) a romantic interest in a person

(D) the force from a magnet

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READING


A six-piece shaving set, perfect for home or travel--From WINDSOR, the number 1 name in men's fashion

Yours, with any MAGRUDER'S men's clothing purchase of $89.95 or more











Take home a set of travel-sized Windsor shaving favoritesfor men.

includes a sample of Windsor's newestaftershave scent, High Seas.

Limit one set per customer, while supplies last

The Windsor shaving set _____.

(A) now costs only $89.95 at MAGRUDER'S

(B) includes six aftershave samples

(C) is for sale at many department stores

(D) is free after you spend a certain amount

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Look at the word this in the advertisement. What does the word this refer to?













(A) the shaving set

(B) the aftershave

(C) your home

(D) MAGRUDER'S department store

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READING


In many countries around the world, the New Year's holiday is a time for getting together with friends and family to remember the past year and to wish for a successful new year. Each country celebrates with its own interesting customs and traditions such as parties, fireworks, bonfires,parades, and special holiday foods and drinks.

In Japan, the New Year’s celebrations continue for three days, from January 1 to January 3. Because the Japanese believe that the new year must be completely separate from the old year and should be the start of a new beginning, the house is completely cleaned, inside and outside, all business is finished, and all bills are paid before New Year’s Day. The Japanese eat special long noodles










on New Year’s Eve. The long noodles are for a long and healthy life and lots of luck for the future. On New Year’s Day, many Japanese eat a special soup called ozoni, made withrice cakes. It’s a Japanese custom to relax on New Year’s Day, and ozoni is perfect for the occasion. The rice cakes for the ozoni are made before New Year’s Day. They stay fresh, so nobody has to work to make the soup on New Year’s Day.

Italians celebrate holidays with food and rituals. So it’s no surprise that during New Year’s, people in Italy enjoy eating many special sweet cakes and foods, and they watch beautiful fireworks light up the sky. The Italians take the idea of cleaning the house further than the Japanese do. Italians throw old things out of their windows to help them forget everything that was bad about the past year and to wish for good luck and success in the new year.According to the article, which

statement is NOT true?

(A) People in Japan eat a soup madewith long noodles for good luckon New Year's Day.

(B) Italians celebrate New Year's by watching beautiful fireworksand eating desserts.









(C) Americans have parties on New Year's Eve and make a lot of noise at midnight.

(D) Americans celebrate New Year's by drinking eggnog.

15 of 16 Next

According to the article, what do Americans promise to do in the new year?

(A) to welcome friends and family into their homes for food and drink

(B) to finish all their business and pay their bills from the past year

(C) to make changes in their livesand do good things in the new year

(D) to throw old things out of thewindow for good luck and success

16 of 16 Next

Reading

READING

Directions:Read the document below. Then read the question. Click A, B, C, or


























D to select the best answer. Click on the arrow button to go to the next question.

Are you frustrated with the boring options for business dinners? Are you hesitant to take a client out to eat? Well, a new restaurant in town may be just what you are looking for! Andre's has been open only three months but it's already positioned as the "in" place to go for a special treat.

Named for its chef, Andre Dupont, the restaurant is decorated in the colors and images of the South Pacific. "I love the Orient and the tropics," comments Dupont, whois in charge of the menu as well as the decor and the artwork. In addition, he selects all the wines for the wine list.

The menu features a French-Asian blend of innovative dishes. You can start with a cocktail and a wide range ofappetizers, including seafood and

salads. I had the spinach salad with hot bacon dressing. For the entree, try one of the unique salmon dishes. Whether you prefer your fish sauteed, grilled, or steamed, all of the sauces can be created from mild to spicy, as you prefer.

For dessert, I suggest the Hawaiian strawberry pie, with fresh strawberries and bananas. "I like to experiment," says Dupont. "New food combinations are fun and exciting.It is my vision to combine traditional French seafood recipes with tropical fruits and the spices of Asia."

And at Andre's, a stylish meal doesn't have to be expensive. The prices are very reasonable. Andre's is always crowded, so be sure to call ahead to book a table.According to the review, at this restaurant, Andre Dupont __________.

(A) is the manager as well as the owner and decorator

(B) prefers to eat fish sauteed, grilled, or steamed

(C) combines some spices with bananas and strawberries

(D) likes to experiment with new combinations of food

1 of 16 Next

In this article, innovative means __________.

(A) traditional
















(B) tropical

(C) expensive

(D) original

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READING


James,

Mr. Lee will be arriving tomorrow at 7:45 a.m. on Asia Airlines. We have arranged for him to be picked up and driven to our office. He should get here around 8:30 a.m.or a little later. I will greet him when he arrives at the office.

We want him to have a tour of our production . Would you mind being the one to show him around? It should only take thirty minutes for this introductory tour.

After a short meeting with Mr. Turner, the Vice Presidentof Production, we would like to take Mr. Lee out for a very nice lunch. I was thinking of the Italian restaurant, Primo. Would you mind making a lunch reservation for five people at 1 p.m. tomorrow at this restaurant?

Call me if there is any problem with the reservation.

Thanks for your help,








Susan

Look at the word in the email. Which words or phrases mean the same thing as ?

(A) the production management workers

(B) the production machines

(C) all the work places and services in the production area

(D) the areas outside the production department

3 of 16 Next

How many people are going to lunch at Primo?

(A) four, including Mr. Lee

(B) three

(C) two, just Mr. Lee and Mr.Turner

(D) five

4 of 16 Next

READING
























Layoffs May Be Looming!

Are you feeling worried? Anxious? Even overwhelmed? Does your career seem limited? Are you concerned that you may be laid off? What if the rumors about a takeover are true?

Well, your worries may be justified. Statistics show thateven well-trained, senior workers can't count on guaranteed employment these days. The corporate world is volatile--even cut-throat. Downsizing is rampant. Says Mitch Jones, head of Future Alternatives, Inc., "Workforces everywhere are being reduced. Even skilled employees run the risk of losing their jobs, and possiblytheir careers, if they are not flexible."

Could this happen to you? If you are over 30, you are a prime target for being laid off. If you haven't been keeping your skills current, you also could be in seriousdanger.

What can you do if you're afraid that you may lose your job? The consensus among career counselors is that today's workers need to keep their skills up to date and have an emergency fund in a savings account. Clare DeBoutis head of Career Choices, an Atlanta firm that helps people make a new start after they've been laid off. She says, "It also helps to have an optimistic outlook about the future. Anything you can do to boost your skills and knowledge base will help you after a layoff."

Consider taking evening classes in a subject that interests you. And remember, in the long run, it's smart to pursue more than one career option. Don't limit your vision of the future to a narrow range of jobs. Think about what you'd like your next job to be!According to the article, employees should __________.

(A) be cut-throat on the job

(B) be flexible in job choices

(C) cash their paychecks

(D) pursue one career option

5 of 16 Next

In this article, the word this refers to__________.

(A) not being flexible at work

(B) workers losing their jobs

(C) continued employment

(D) getting a good education


















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READING


Annual Sales ReportWe had an excellent year at Dymo Industries. Total sales were US$550 million. This is an impressive growth of 10% compared to last year.

There are a few important reasons for the large increase in sales. All the international divisions performed very well. The new sales training helped many of us promote our new line of toys. In addition, the creation of new products opened more markets for us.

We continued last year to provide our customers with improved products. We all know that product

can lead to larger market shares. Therefore, we hope to continue increasing our sales by creating better products in the coming year.

I am pleased to end this report with further good news. Because of our dramatic rise in sales, employees will be receiving a yearly bonus of twice the amount given last year.

Congratulations on your great teamwork! We look forward to reporting on another successful year this time next year.

Which of the following is NOT a reason for Dymo Industries' increased sales?

(A) sales training

(B) a new international division






(C) new markets

(D) good performance

7 of 16 Next

Look at the word in the sales report. Which phrase or words meanthe same thing as ?

(A) increased numbers

(B) promotion

(C) customer satisfaction

(D) improvement

8 of 16 Next

READING


Tip Selects Chadwick and SonsTip of New York, the five-star restaurant owned by the Atlantic Gold Corporation, announced yesterday that Chadwick and Sons of New York, a division of the GlobeComGroup, is taking over the creative side of its branding















initiatives.

The Tip account had been handled by Reveres in Los Angeles, part of the Capades Group.

Tip's costs in this deal are thought to be close to US$500,000.

Tip considered four firms during a lengthy review that became quite competitive, according to Matthew St. Michael, Public Relations Director at Tip. Potential agencies included Reveres; Bell, Bond & Bar of New York; and Gold, Choi & Partners of London, part of the Gold Choi Creative Outlet division of TNT Partners.

"Our primary goal is to work toward reestablishing consistency in Tip's local and national branding," said Galina Felton, Vice President of Public Relations and Branding at Chadwick and Sons. "Tip is an icon of purity in the preparation

and presentation of fine foods. We will capitalize on that to reinforce their image of quality, excellent service, and luxury."

Ms. Chadwick said that clientele should remember eating at Tip as a "healthful and seductive experience. The new branding campaign will accomplish that goal," she said.

Chadwick and Sons holds accounts with more than 20 major restaurants in the New England and Mid-Atlantic regions.

Tip opened in 1967 and was owned privately by Chef Remi St. Jean until 1987, when it was sold to the Atlantic Gold Corporation for US$2.7 million. Rumors have circulated for years that Atlantic Gold intended to open new Tip restaurants in several major U.S. cities. The move to Chadwick and Sons is seen by some restaurant industry insiders as an obvious first step in that direction.According to the article, Chadwick and

Sons will __________.

(A) make the most of Tip's wealthy customers

(B) seduce Tip customers with creative pricing

(C) try to create the same image ofTip everywhere

(D) help Tip improve its food presentation practices

9 of 16 Next

In the article, that refers to __________.

(A) Tip's local and national branding

(B) an impression of a lifestyle ofluxury

(C) reestablishing local branding consistency

(D) being a symbol of purity in food service

10 of 16 Next

READING

Directions:Read the document below. Then read the question. Click A, B, C, orD to select the best answer. Click on the arrow button to go to



























the next question.

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Stock: Not a Dream Come TruePenelope Lopez

Why do we never learn? People continue to get hurt financially by not following simple investing advice from financial advisors. Take the case of investing only in stock. This unfortunate habit goes against the first basic rule of investing: spread your risk over many types of investments in order to avoid disaster during economic downturns.

The worst cases are those of ordinary people who believe that theycan research companies and pick a few that are going to do well. Even professional investment managers have trouble predicting which companies will prosper and which will stumble and fall. Investing in a few individual companies is like gambling. You may get lucky in the short term, but over your lifetime, you will havesome big losses.

A second stock trap that individual investors fall into is investing heavily in their own companies. Many employees are able to buy stock from their own companies at a discount. Instead of selling some of it to diversify their holdings, they keep the stock, believing that their companies will prosper. In many cases,the companies do poorly and employees lose their jobs and their investments.

What can you do to avoid these problems? In a word, diversify! Make a variety of investments, like real estate, mutual funds, andbonds. Don't keep more than 25 percent of your money invested in your company.

Mutual funds are a particularly attractive option. The big advantage of mutual funds is that the managers of the funds buy shares of a large range of companies. This means that if one or two of the companies have a bad year, or even go bankrupt, it doesn't hurt the fund very much. Some mutual funds have a mix of domestic and international stocks and bonds. Some invest in real estate or mortgages. Mutual funds are a far less risky option thaninvesting in individual stocks or in your company's stock. The professional fund managers are more aware of market conditions andcan react quickly to changing economic situations than individual investors.

Diversifying can save you a lot of agony down the road. What would be another good title for this article?

(A) Choosing a Financial Advisor

(B) Mutual Funds: Pros and Cons

(C) Why You Should Buy Your Company's Stock

(D) Diversifying: a Key Investment Strategy

11 of 16 Next

In this article, prosper means __________.

(A) go bankrupt or fail

(B) increase in value

(C) make a guess

(D) be very lucky




















12 of 16 Next

READING


Eighty-Year-Old EntrepreneurSome people believe that senior citizens should retire, enjoy their free time, make baby clothes for their grandchildren, and play mah-jong or checkers in the park.If you're eighty years old, you've certainly earned the right to relax and do nothing.

Well, don't tell that to Nathaniel Hendersen. This octogenarian has more energy than a team of adolescent soccer players. And he has been in on the ground floor ofmore than 200 important inventions in the plastics industry.

What's the secret of his success?

Janice Aldridge, head of Luxury Lifestyles, a customized office furnishings company based in Manhattan, says Hendersen's genius resides in his innovative designs. "Nathaniel is a pioneer in plastics," she reported. "He once told me that he loved imagining solutions to problems and challenges and then making them happen in his design studio."

Hendersen's long-time business partner, Olivier Despuits,would agree. He says Hendersen's contributions to plastics design stem from his unique ability to think outside the box. "Nathaniel is one of the most innovative, creative thinkers I have ever known. His designs for ergonomic keyboards transformed the industry almost overnight."


K.L. Wong is a venture capitalist who had the foresight to invest millions in Hendersen's ideas. From his corner office on the thirty-second floor, Wong gazes out the window and contemplates the far-reaching impact of Hendersen's inventions. "You asked me what makes Nathaniel so special. Look out there. He has influenced daily life in thousands of offices. Millions of employeesare using equipment for which Nathaniel holds the patent." It was Wong who supplied the infusion of seed capital that catapulted Hendersen's designs into the global spotlight.

What does Hendersen himself think? For him, fame and financial success are almost irrelevant. What matters to him is doing what he enjoys. "I love thinking freely!" heexclaims. "My talent is looking at a product that people use on the job and figuring out how to improve it. Fortunately for me," he adds, "that's a talent with wide applicability. And it's fun!"

With his white hair and bristling eyebrows, the diminutive Hendersen is more energetic than many people half his age. Whatever his secret, he is a vital self-starter whose mission in life is to solve problems through innovative designs. You certainly won't find thiscreative eighty-year-old playing checkers in the park. The author of this article probably believes that Nathaniel Hendersen __________.

(A) should take more time to rest and relax

(B) is proud of his fame and financial success

(C) has not significantly affectedoffice workers

(D) has made a good decision to keep working

13 of 16 Next

In this article, the word them refers to__________.

(A) solutions

(B) challenges

(C) problems

(D) designs

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Consumer Products Manufacturing, Inc.

Memo to: Bob Karran, Vice President of Legal AffairsFrom: Mary Johnson, Director of Human ResourcesRe: Next steps in the Healthways International contractDate: September 28

Bob,

I need to express some concerns I have about the contract we are negotiating with Healthways International. While I am quite excited about the possibilities for an expanded product line, I amalso a bit hesitant about the possible effects on our staffing in the proposed venture.

I understand that these discussions could result in a financial benefit for our company and an expanded product line. However, I don't want us to get carried away by the potential infusion of capital without thinking about our employees. What if the deal were to fall through after we've started preparing for increased production? We need to plan for all possible outcomes.

Likewise, we shouldn't go overboard in committing funds to plant development at this early stage in the negotiations. While it is important to build our infrastructure--and especially the assemblyline--we need to answer some critically important questions first.For example, if we switch over to more modern machinery to increase production for Healthways, would we have to hire and train a large number of new employees quickly? If the answer is yes and we can be certain about that, then we should pursue this opportunity actively but cautiously.

Basically, I'm saying that this undertaking may turn out to be very profitable for our company, but I want to make sure that my department is ready for any employee-related changes.

Can we meet Tuesday morning? I want us to be clear about our strategy for moving forward. If you and I have a chance to talk before we meet with the CEO of Healthways, we will have a more coordinated plan of action for talking to her. Please let me know what time is good for you. Thanks.

MaryThe person who wrote this memo __________.

(A) is currently working for Healthways International

(B) is opposed to working with Healthways International

(C) has no reservations about a contract with Healthways

(D) has some reservations about a contract with Healthways

15 of 16 Next

Mary raises the possibility that a contract with Healthways would mean that__________.

(A) the company would have to increase its production staff quickly

(B) the company would have to lay off a large number of employees

(C) many Healthways International employees would be laid off

(D) the company might be able to increase its global market share

16 of 16 Next

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READING

Directions:Read the document below. Then read the question. Click A, B, C, or D toselect the best answer. Click on the arrow button to go to the next question.

by Jan Smith

How much time do you spend onbusiness activities after work oron the weekend? Do you take time torelax and have fun? A recent surveyof 200 American managers revealedhow most of them spend their freetime. The survey results are basedon the number of managers thatlisted each activity.

The managers were asked to list thekinds of business and leisureactivities that they did at least once a week after work or on the weekend. The most common business activity (50%) was working on a computer at home. This was followed by going to dinner with business contacts (24%),telephoning business contacts (15%), and working on a jobreport (14%). A full 5 percent of managers didn't work athome in their free time.

On the other hand, a large percentage of these managers also took time for some . The survey revealed that over half (59%) listed spending time with friends and family as their leisure activity. Other leisure activities included reading books for fun (41%), listening to music (41%), and playing sports (30%).

The good news is that a large percentage of the managers spend their time doing leisure activities. While managershave traditionally taken their work home with them, the results of the survey indicate that this trend may be changing. Life for the average manager is no longer all work and no play.

Look at the word in the article. Which phrases mean the same thing as ?

(A) a sports activity that you doonly on the weekend

(B) an activity that you do for fun or relaxation

(C) an activity that involves thecreation of art

(D) a leisure activity that you do many times

1 of 16 Next

What do most managers spend their free time doing?

(A) working on the computer at their office

(B) staying at home with their family

(C) telephoning and having dinner with business contacts

(D) relaxing with their friends andfamily

2 of 16 Next

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Two years ago, my uncle Frank was the kind of person who never slowed down. At work or at play, he always pushed himself harder than anyone else. People say that he didn't know how to relax. He always got very impatient when he had to stand in line at a bank or a movie theater becausehe didn't like to waste time. When he was young, he was great at sports, not because he was a natural athlete but because he was so competitive. He simply hated losing! As anadult, he had the same aggressive attitude about his career.He became a highly successful lawyer through hard work and long hours. Then suddenly, at the age of 43, Uncle Frank hada heart attack. That was when I learned how dangerous a stress-related disease could be.

Everyone experiences stress. Stressful experiences are impossible to avoid. However,different people respond to stress in different ways. Most doctors say that you canreduce the harmful effects of stress by doingthe following things:

get regular exercise eat good food get plenty of sleep give yourself time to relax

Uncle Frank did none of these things. He was always at his desk, working. Because he was so busy, he usually didn't eat well or missedmeals completely. He took work home with him

and often worked until late at night. As a result, he couldn't control the effects of Thanks to Uncle Frank, I learned that reducing stress might be to living longer and avoiding many kinds of illness. Now I know how to control the bad effects of Look at the phrase the key in the

article. Which phrase below means thesame thing as the key?

(A) a tool used to open a door

(B) the best way

(C) something that causes stress

(D) a very competitive person

3 of 16 Next

What is the lesson that the writer learned about stress?

(A) Stress can help make you successful in your career.

(B) Healthy living will decrease the bad effects of stress.

(C) You should always avoid stressful situations.

(D) There is really no relationship between stress and health.























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READING


How to Record Your Personal Greeting

This is the message that callers will hear on your telephone answering machine. For example: This is George Smith. I'm not at home right now. Please leave a message at the tone and I'll return your call as soon as possible.

Press and hold down the RECORD button.

Speak your greeting clearly and in a strong voice into the microphone on the answering machine.

Take your finger off of the RECORD button immediately after you have completed your greeting. The message will automatically repeat so you can listen to it.

Press the # if you like your greeting. If you don't like , press the * to erase and start with Step 1 to record your personal message again.


When should you stop holding down the RECORD button?

(A) before you finish your message

(B) if you don't like your greetingwhen you are recording it

(C) as soon as you finish saying your personal greeting

(D) after your personal greeting isautomatically repeated

5 of 16 Next

Look at the word in Step 5. What doesrefer to?

(A) the # button

(B) the * button

(C) the RECORD button

(d) your Greeting

6 of 16 Next

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Protect Your Company's Information!High-Quality Shredders -- Two Models Available

Every day companies lose information--from their trash! Someone may be stealing your secrets from the documents you throw away.

You could be at risk as an individual too. Recently, identity theft has become a major problem. Someone can steal your bank account number or credit card number from the papers that you throw in the garbage.

Don't let this happen to you! If you have confidential documents that you don't need, destroy them! Using a good shredder on a daily basis ensures that your private information won't fall into the wrong hands.

We have two models in stock right now. Choose the one that's right for your needs.

The Melbourne Mini-Shredder Lightweight Shreds up to 6 pages of paper at a time Built-in basket for paper Hand guards Plastic frame One-year warranty

The Melbourne Maxi-Shredder Heavyweight Shreds up to 20 pages of paper at a time Shreds CDs, DVDs, and credit cards Built-in basket for paper Warning light for safety Hand guards Reinforced plastic frame Two-year warranty

These will go fast, so hurry down to Melbourne Office Supply to buy one today! All major credit cards are welcome. What is the purpose of shredders?

(A) to store confidential information

(B) to destroy private documents

(C) to ensure employees' health

(D) to communicate private information

9 of 16 Next

At the end of the advertisement, the word these refers to __________.

(A) all private documents

(B) the pages of paper
















(C) the two shredder models

(D) the hand guards

10 of 16 Next

READING


Meet Fred Stern--The Man with a New ManagementStyle

by Carla Lightner

Fred Stern is the president of the second largest bookpublishing company in the world, Global Books. These days, everyone is talking about him because he has a new way of managing his employees.






Stern believes that there shouldn't be such a big difference between company leaders and company employees. He wants his employees to feel free to talkwith him. In fact, Stern told us, "I read about 25 letters or email messages from my 5,000 employees every day. Sometimes, people call me on the phone to

. I listen carefully when they talk about problems or things that they feel unhappy about or don't like."

Don't you wish we could all have a boss like Fred Stern? Maybe other corporate leaders will see how successful he is and try to copy his new management style. Let's hope.

Which of the following is NOT a part of Fred Stern's management style?

(A) to answer telephone calls fromhis employees

(B) to read letters from his employees

(C) to create different jobs for his employees

(D) to listen to his employees' problems

11 of 16 Next

Look at the word in the magazine article. Which phrase means thesame thing as ?

(A) to talk about things that youare not pleased about

(B) to call someone on the telephone to make a





















suggestion

(C) to inform others about your work day

(D) to take care of a problem that someone else has

12 of 16 Next

READING


FROM LUXOR CAR COMPANY SEPT. 5 1996 03:05PM PO1

FAX

To: The Marianna Hotel (New York)

From: Elizabeth Gilbert, Luxor Car Company (Los Angeles)

Date: 9/5/96

Dear Marianna Hotel:

This fax is to confirm my room at your hotel for five nights--September 15 to September 20. I would like a








single room with a connection for my computer. I would also like a nonsmoking room.

The room price is at a special business rate of $180 per night. However, I may need to stay an extra night. Do you think is possible to arrange after I arrive?Will I still get the special price for the additional night?

I will arrive at the hotel at about 6 p.m. I hope to hear from you soon about adding the extra night after Iarrive.

Sincerely,

What did Elizabeth NOT ask for?

(A) a single room

(B) a computer connection in the room

(C) the price of staying another night

(D) to stay for five extra nights

13 of 16 Next

Look at the word in the memo. Whatdoes the word refer to?

(A) getting the special businessprice

(B) staying an extra night

(C) arranging things after she arrives




















(D) staying in a nonsmoking room

14 of 16 Next

READING


Metropolitan Bus Has Record Sales

Metropolitan Bus, Inc. reported yesterday that profits rose last year. The company is the country's main bus manufacturer.J.M. Lee, CEO of Metropolitan Bus, said today, "We are very proud of our workers. They have made the Metropolitan Bus brand popular with large bus companies. They build comfortableand reliable transportation for our customers." Lee adds, "Thecompany's sales team is also great. Everyone focuses on our customers' needs and provides excellent after-sales service. That's why profits rose last year. But teamwork is really the key. All of our employees work well together!"

Angela Corno is an engineer with Metropolitan Bus. She says that there have been some changes in production that have improved efficiency. These changes have helped the company's global business. "We sell our products worldwide," she said. "Our buses are not unique, but they are of very high quality. They are a

good value at a reasonable price. Other companies try to copy our products but don't succeed. It's a good company to work




for," says Corno.

Metropolitan Bus is also famous for its batteries and other automobile parts. Asia is the biggest market for Metropolitan Bus. However, some cities in Europe purchase Metropolitan Bus products too. This trend should continue. Mr. Lee said annual revenues will rise for the next three years. "We are talking with a major company in Latin America about a new contract," said Lee. "This deal involves very little risk. We know we canproduce what they need."

The CEO of Metropolitan Bus says that __________.(A) profits rose last year and will continue to rise(B) the company's advertising is now very efficient(C) the company produces innovative truck parts(D) the company is negotiating with a big company in Asia

Angela Corno says that Metropolitan Bus __________.

(A) copies other companies' products successfully

(B) makes unique batteries and other parts for buses

(C) sells products that are popularin many countries

(D) sells buses, batteries, and parts at high prices

16 of 16 Next

Reading














READING


How Employees Rank Their Jobsby Glen Conway

Today the economy is strongerthan it has been for severalyears and there are many jobopportunities in the labormarket. It is not surprisingthen that workers' expectationsand requirements are high asthey search for the perfect job.The position, salary, andconditions of a job must meetthe workers' .

In a recent survey commissioned by the Labor Department, fifty thousand employees throughout the country were asked to rank the desirability of 250 jobs in today's market. The criteria used to rank these jobs were environment, income, security, stress,and physical demands.

Four of the five top-ranked jobs were connected to thehigh-tech industry, namely Web site manager, computer systems analyst, software engineer, and computer programmer. Meanwhile, jobs involving difficult working conditions, like long hours, heavy lifting, oran element of danger, were ranked toward the bottom ofthe list; the bottom five were taxi-driver, dancer, cowboy, construction worker, and fisherman.

Some critics argue that other criteria should have been included in this list. However, the results of the survey indicate that more and more people see jobsrelated to computers and the Internet as the way to goin their employment search.

The article says that __________.

(A) people are interested only in computer- and Internet-related jobs

(B) the economy is responsible for the limited number of job opportunities

(C) experts agree on the criteria for ranking jobs

(D) many of the most popular jobs were high-tech

1 of 16 Next

Look at the word in the article. Which phrases mean the same thing as ?

(A) jobs related to the high-techindustry

(B) different working conditions

(C) things that people want in a workplace

(D) the criteria used for rankingjobs

2 of 16 Next

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M E M O R A N D U M

To: Angel Simon, Manager, Sales DepartmentFrom: Kim Sanders, Director, Production DepartmentRe: Notes from March 23 meetingDATE: March 24

Thank you for meeting with me yesterday. This memo documents our discussion and our ideas for addressing the company's current situation.

In the long run, we must be flexible in order to deal with the problems our company faces. But more immediately, we should show the CEO that we can workwith reduced staff to achieve our goals.

We have a great opportunity to produce a fine product even though the number of employees on our assembly line has been reduced. As we agreed yesterday, we want to increase our global reach while boosting our ability to provide our products locally. This is a key balance that we must continueto pursue.

We also agreed to meet again on Tuesday of next weekto discuss additional strategies for achieving thesegoals. When our two departments have discussed our ideas, we can schedule a meeting with the executive team to present our suggestions.

As you pointed out yesterday, we have experienced some significant layoffs as a result of the recent merger. Like you, I'm concerned that the remaining employees may feel overwhelmed because of their increased workloads. But I know I can count on you and your team to implement the new strategies for expanding our sales. I am optimistic about the future of our company. I am sure that, working together, we can come to a consensus about the next steps we should take.

Kim Sanders has written to Angel Simon to __________.

(A) tell Angel exactly what to do next in the assembly line

(B) express disapproval of Angel's ideas about the company

(C) encourage Angel to dismiss moreemployees very soon

(D) summarize the ideas that they discussed yesterday

3 of 16 Next

In this memo, the phrase count on means __________.

(A) rely on

(B) work with

(C) add up

(D) explain to

4 of 16 Next

READING

Directions:Read the document below. Then read the question. Click A, B, C, or D to select the best answer. Click on the arrow button























to go to the next question.

Money: The currency of Mexico is the peso. You can change money at banks or currency exchange booths. The currency exchange booths may offer better exchange rates than the banks and usuallystay open as long as the nearby stores do.

Climate: Mexico has two seasons: rainy and dry. The rainy season lasts from June until September. Remember, however, that Mexico is a very large country with many different regions, and you’ll need to check on the specific area you want to visit.

Health: One of the biggest health problems in Mexico is the water. Never drink or use water that isn’t bottled! This includes using ice cubes in your drink and brushing your teeth. Youshould always ask for purified water in restaurants and hotels.

Driving: An international driver’s license is not necessary in Mexico. The from your own country is OK as long as it’s up-to-date.

Tipping: Sometimes it’s difficult to know when to leave a tip in Mexico. Just to be safe, give a few pesos to anyone who provides you with a service--the person who carries your luggage, the hotel employee who delivers your meals from room service, etc. Taxi drivers are not tipped in Mexico, except in Mexico City. In restaurants, good service deserves at least a 10percent tip. Don’t forget to say Gracias, which is Spanish for "Thank you."

According to the brochure, which of the following statements is true?

(A) Banks always offer the best exchange rates.




(B) Few tourists visit in January since it's the rainy season.

(C) Never drink the water in Mexico, even the bottled water.

(D) You should give tips to MexicoCity taxi drivers.

5 of 16 Next

Look at the word one in the brochure. What does the word one refer to?

(A) rental car

(B) international driver's license

(C) driver's license

(D) local address

6 of 16 Next

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To: Charles VargaTanner & SmithBook Company(Washington, DC)

No. of pages incl. top sheet: 1

From: Peter Woods(New York)

Time/Date: 01:00pm3 December

Dear Mr. Varga:

We are sorry that your printer did not arrive last week. The big snowstorm in New York made it impossible for our driver to it. However, the weather is not so bad this week, so we can send your order on Friday, December 7. Please let us know if this is not a good day for you.

In addition, we will send you a free month's supply of paper because you had to wait an extra week. This is our way of saying we are truly sorry for any problems that the late delivery caused your company.

We look forward to continuing to do business with the Tanner & Smith Book Company in the future.

Sincerely,

Peter Woods

Look at the word in the memo. Which phrase means the same thing as

?

(A) come to work that day

(B) telephone the company

(C) take the product to an address

(D) drive in bad weather conditions










7 of 16 Next

Why will PrintSmart send paper to the Tanner & Smith Book Company?

(A) PrintSmart is sorry that the printer didn't arrive.

(B) PrintSmart made them wait an extra week for the paper.

(C) PrintSmart is sorry about the bad weather in New York.

(D) PrintSmart couldn't deliver the paper last week.

8 of 16 Next

READING


City Club MeetingPlease join us for the next meeting of the City Club. We will meet at noon on Friday, June 6, at theHungry Baker Lunch Room. The address is 490 King Street. Lunch will be at 12:30. There will be a choice of four menus.

The speaker will be Ms. Mae Smith. She is from the First Women's Bank. She will talk about new ideas for saving money. Her talk will begin at one o'clock.















Menu

Chef's Choicerib eye steakFrench fries

sweet pears and cream

Healthy Choicetossed green salad

cheese and fruit platerice with butter

Midday Mealspicy shrimp cocktail

beef stewfresh cole slaw

Friday Specialham and melon

fried chickenmashed potatoes

Dessert (choose one)spice cakeapple piefresh fruitice cream

Drinks (choose one)coffee hot teaiced tea

soft drinkslemonade

The cost for lunch (including an appetizer, main dish, side dish, drink, and dessert) is $30.00 per person, with $5.00 of this going to the club's general fund. We are saving money to plant new treesin the park.

Please call 555-1324 to make a reservation. We hope you can join us.

At this lunch meeting, someone who doesn't eat meat or fish should orderthe __________.

(A) Chef's Choice

(B) Healthy Choice

(C) Midday meal







(D) Friday Special

9 of 16 Next

The word this refers to __________.

(A) the dessert

(B) the lunch

(C) the cost

(D) the person

10 of 16 Next

READING


Pros and Cons of GlobalBusiness Travel













Global business travel is a successful industry these days. Business air travelers make up a large part of ticket sales on major carriers. These frequent fliers know how to book the best fares. They can work with flight schedules. They have ways to recover from jet lag. Many of them can even work well during flights. Laptops are now the most commonpiece of carry-on luggage.

There are good reasons for companies to have their employees travel overseas. Sending staff members to a new country means they can meet with clients face to face. They can generate fresh ideas and find answers to questions. They can also create ties in other countries. A dinner with a client can create avaluable bond. These relationships help firms expandtheir global networks.

But business travel has its downsides too. It costs money, and there's a

human toll as well. The problems include burnout andexposure to disease. Then there's the lost time and lost luggage. Never mind the frayed nerves and hoursspent waiting in airports.

What does the future hold for business travel? Airlines are nervous. Email and other electronic systems may soon make 15-hour trips for 3-hour meetings things of the past. The video conference could replace air travel as the main means of long-distance communication within the next decade. Companies will soon invest more in video equipment than

in airfares. It's not a certainty, but it is likely.Unpack your bags and open your laptop.In this article, carriers refers to __________.

(A) luggage handlers

(B) people who fly frequently

(C) people infected with disease

(D) airline companies

11 of 16 Next

The trend for the future, according to this article, will probably be __________.

(A) increased video communications

(B) more international air travel

(C) business travelers being nervous

(D) more in-person meetings with clients




















12 of 16 Next

READING


When Do You Need a Consultant?

Many companies hire consultants for short-term projects. But whenis it advantageous and cost-effective to do so? There are four situations when you should consider using a consultant.

First, if specific expertise is lacking in your own staff, hiringa consultant can help. Bringing someone in for a short time may be better than hiring new employees. It depends on the type of knowledge or skills you need, as well as the nature and length ofthe project.

Second, if your company's market or industry has changed, someonewith a broad perspective can help you adjust to altered circumstances. In this case, it is good to bring in a consultant with wide knowledge of your industry.

Third, if there is disagreement within your team, an experienced consultant can sometimes help untangle problems. Staff members who seem stubborn or unreasonable with their colleagues may be open to new ideas from an outside expert.

Fourth, if your firm is facing a temporarily increased workload, consider using a consultant to manage that work. A consultant cankeep you from having to pull key managers away from their own jobs to handle the new projects.

If you do choose to pursue the option of hiring a consultant, however, keep in mind that you'll get a better result if you clearly define your objectives ahead of time. What is it you wantthis person to do? If you are not clear about this at the outset,you run the risk of wasting time and money. You may also offend your own employees if they feel they could have done the job


better than the consultant. The author of this article believes thathiring a consultant is __________.

(A) almost always quite cost-effective

(B) rarely advantageous for companies

(C) worthwhile under some circumstances

(D) often not very cost-effective

13 of 16 Next

In the article, what does the word this refer to?

(A) hiring a consultant

(B) a much better result

(C) wasting time and money

(D) what your objectives are

14 of 16 Next

READING























As you know, we need to choose potential candidates for the position of Human Resource Director at the WorldSpeakSpain office. Because you have many contacts in the localbusiness community, I would like you to be the one responsible for recruiting. As you are looking for possible personnel to interview and hire, please feel free to spend the money you need for local job advertisements in the industry newspapers or magazines.

Do you think it would be a smart move to post the job position on the Internet? Here in New York, we have foundthis to be a productive and fast way to recruit talented people. It is especially convenient to receive and read resumes using the Internet. I don't know whether or not this would work in Spain.

Finally, remember that we really want to hire someone whohas excellent English-language skills. The Human ResourceDirector you hire will need to communicate and work with headquarters daily, so the ability to speak English well and to write various letters and reports is very important.

Good luck with the job search. I will contact you within the week.

Which reason below is NOT suggested by Mr. Johnson as a good reason to use the Internet?

(A) Using the Internet works wellin Spain.

(B) In New York, using the internet worked well.







(C) It is a fast way to recruit new employees.

(D) It is a convenient way to receive resumes.

15 of 16 Next

Why does Mr. Johnson want a Human Resource Director with excellent Englishskills?

(A) The director will be working in New York.

(B) The director will communicate often with people in New York.

(C) The director will need to write reports to Ms. Gonzalez.

(D) The director will be visiting headquarters daily.

16 of 16 Next

READING






















Next month, the Geo Tech Mining Inc. headquarters will relocate to the Paris office. Two thirds of our business is in Europe now, and a full third of this European business is in France. Therefore, it is more convenient to have our main office where a majority of our clients will be able to meet with us much more easily.

However, I know that many New York employees do not want to move to Paris. When we move to Paris, some people willprobably quit and look for other jobs.

I don't want to lose our employees, but it is too expensive to keep both locations open. Do you have any ideas about what we could offer to our staff so that theywon't ? I really don't want them to leave the company. We want our best people on board when we move.

Thank you for your help with this serious problem. I hopeto hear from you as soon as possible.

Best regards,

Daniel Ferrier

Why is the Geo Tech Mining Inc. headquarters moving?

(A) to encourage European clients to visit New York

(B) to make it easier for employeesto fly to France







(C) to be closer to more of their business contacts

(D) to get a less expensive office

3 of 16 Next

Look at the words memo. Which phrase means the same thing as ?

(A) get on the next boat

(B) change staff

(C) get away from a troublesome situation

(D) ask for a position on the board

4 of 16 Next

READING



















What Makes a Company Successful?by Elizabeth Franks

We asked fifteen of the mostinnovative and well-known leadersin business today about what madetheir companies so successful. Theyall agreed that a truly competitiveand fast-growing company must havethe following qualities.

Leadership: No one person todayis smart enough to be in totalcontrol of all the parts of acompany. The role of today'scompany leaders is to teach,encourage creativity, and helpproduce other leaders in each level of an organization.

Innovation: The ability to invent new products, processes, and possibilities is what innovation is all about. In an economy led by change and speed, every company needs leaders who can motivate workers to be innovative.

Learning: Competition today means that the knowledge an organization gathers is more important than the numberof branch offices it opens. If a company wants to grow quickly, it needs people who can keep learning quickly.

The industry leaders whom we spoke with stressed that it is not only the upper management, but also the employees,who help develop these essential qualities. must worktogether to build a successful business.

Why is learning an important part of a successful company?

(A) It will develop essential qualities in management personnel.

(B) It will give the employees ina company a chance to change jobs more quickly.

(C) It will help a company to open new branch offices.












(D) It will help a company to grow quickly in a competitiveworld.

5 of 16 Next

Look at the word in the article. What or who does refer to?

(A) those in management and the employees of the company

(B) the essential and successful qualities of business

(C) the various companies in business today

(D) the organization and its branch offices

6 of 16 Next

READING


To: Mariam de Grange



















From: Chris WangSubject: Interview for documentary

Hi! I just want to follow up on our plans to interview Jason Carrington for the documentary about craftsmanship. I think we can use some of the ideas below. Let me know what you think.

First of all, he is a very interesting character and my impression is that we could emphasize his distinctive workin the film. He is certainly on the cutting edge of furniture design, and he's also a very charismatic person.

His furniture is sleek and sophisticated. Carrington seemsto blend an unconventional approach with respect for Asianand Eastern European heritage in his designs. His skill and imagination flow from a certain nostalgia for the past, but he somehow manages to put a new twist on conventional concepts. He is not so much a revolutionary as a subtle innovator.

According to Carrington's Web site, there has been a dramatic rise in the popularity of his designs. The distribution of the products--especially the living room ensembles and executive office suite furnishings--is primarily in the luxury market, but he caters more to businesses than to individuals buying furniture for their homes. In fact, several multinational companies have commissioned Carrington to design furniture for their major global offices. He says his primary goal is to blendform and function, using locally grown or produced materials to provide a distinctive style that respects thehistorical heritage of a culture while looking toward its future.

I wouldn't say his furniture has universal appeal--it's too unconventional for some tastes--but he is a pacesetterin the design world. A champagne company recently had Carrington design four sofas to be used in a marketing campaign. He showed me the mock-ups: Each photo features awoman with a champagne glass. The models are dressed in gowns that draw on the style of the couches. The overall impression is one of elegant simplicity.

This guy definitely thinks outside the box. I think his state-of-the art designs will impress our viewers, but I'dlike to hear what you think before I schedule another appointment. In the meantime, he's sending us the permission-to-film contract this week. He wanted to have his attorney review the specifics first. According to this email, furniture designer Jason Carrington displays

__________.

(A) a strong commitment to traditional local designs

(B) a blend of traditional and modern elements

(C) universal appeal in the designof his office suites

(D) a totally futuristic design sense in his furniture

7 of 16 Next

In the email above, the wordpacesetter means that Carrington __________.

(A)

is on the cutting edge of design

(B)

is similar to other designers

(C)

is unpopular among designers

(D)

is commercially successful






































8 of 16 Next

READING


special to The Daily Business News

Failure Can Make YouStronger: A Look Into the

Life of Peter HillBy Joyce Robinson

Peter Hill isone of themost talkedabout men inSiliconValley.However, hewas notalways so successful. Hilllost so much money in 1975on his first business thathe had to sell it. It was the only way to stop the bank from taking away his home.

Today he is the vice president of Micronex, oneof the world's semiconductor superpowers.In fact, Micronex just exceeded revenue estimatesfor the third quarter by 12 percent when all the other semiconductor

Hill admits that in the beginning, his management style was difficult for some members of his team at Micronex. "I believe inconfrontation--getting in each other's faces, disagreeing a little. It'sa powerful tool if it doesn't get too personal and if it has a goal."

However, more than anything else, Hill believes in innovation. Heencourages his employees to dream up new ways to dothings every day. But he warns that innovation can't be scheduled like a meeting. "Sometimes I just don't have any idea how to approach a particular issue. Then suddenly, at


businesses in the Valley saw a decrease in revenues.

"Although I lost my first business, I learned a great deal about management, cash flow, andhow to talk to bankers," he recalls, with a smile. "But what I really learnedwas how to do things better."

3:00 in the morning, I wake up shouting, 'I've got it! I know what to do.'"

Which example does the writer use to indicate how successful Peter Hill's company is?

(A) Mr. Hill didn't have to borrowmoney from the bank

(B) Micronex increased revenues inthe third quarter, but other companies didn't.

(C) Mr. Hill sold his business fora 12 percent profit.

(D) Micronex had higher revenues during the first three quarters of the year.

9 of 16 Next

Look at the word in the newspaper article. What or who does refer to?

(A) innovations that are created by employees



















(B) employees at Micronex

(C) new ways to do things that Mr.Hill dreams up

(D) scheduled meetings

10 of 16 Next

READING


Dear Ms. Limman:

Thank you for your credit application. Credit CorporationInternational will be happy to establish a credit accountfor your company, L.M. Consolidated. We look forward to the beginning of a long relationship between our two companies.

We trust that you are now familiar with the basic introductory information you have received. Please see the additional enclosed information, which discusses the many services we offer. We believe you will find the 24-hour telephone and online assistance very beneficial. These are helpful services for someone like you who frequently travels internationally and needs to get information . You will be able to look at your credit information any time, day or night.

On the fifteenth of each month, we will send you a list of everything you bought through the last day of the month before. Any of these purchases will be discounted an additional 10 percent if you pay for them within 30









days from the date you receive the list.

Again, let me welcome you as a new customer. If you have any further questions, please contact me at any time. If I am not in the office for some reason, my assistant, Mr.Kautner, will be happy to help you.

Sincerely,

Account Representative

Why did Ms. Jaimez write this letter?

(A) to encourage Ms. Limman to apply for a credit account

(B) to get basic information about the credit company

(C) to offer Ms. Limman a new computer and a new telephone discount

(D) to inform Ms. Limman that L.M. Consolidated has been accepted for a credit account

11 of 16 Next

Look at the phrase inthe letter. Which phrase means the same thing as ?

(A) during international office hours

(B) only during the day

(C) any time during the day or night

(D) from 12 midnight to 12 noon


























12 of 16 Next

READING


Know What You’re WorthBrent Snodgrass

Money. When you're looking for a job, that's what you want. Nevertheless, these days--I'm sorry to say--money doesn't grow on corporate trees. You can't clamber up the corporate ladder with the attitude that each new employer is going to tack on 10% to your existing salary.

This means that, unless you can capitalize on yournumber-one product--yourself--you're out of luck.

Wake up and smell the coffee! You're going to haveto do some serious negotiating, and that takes some know-how.

"Salaries have been on a roller-coaster ride," acknowledged Abu Baquir, CEO at Martinson and Shrift Management Consultants. "It's very difficult to predict what a complete compensation package will include these days."

Job candidates can find out what they're worth by investigating, Baquir added. "The strategy is to find the salaries of your high-profile peers righton the Internet." There are several easily accessible Web sites that have sophisticated search engines. You type in your job title or


description and your region. The Web site will give you a range of possible salaries. If you knowpeople in your industry, you can also talk with them. They may be able to set up informational interviews with people who can tell you what to expect if you change jobs. The key is to do your research before you begin looking.

Once you've discovered what you're worth, it's time to start looking at job postings. Remember, though you want to be properly compensated, an enormous salary may not be the only alternative. Stop to think about the different compensation packages you might accept and what a company mightbe willing to offer.

One angle to consider is supplementing your expected salary with cash, stocks, or bonuses, according to Sara Greenwald, a career architect atJobBuild Magazine.

"Go into the salary negotiation expecting to adjust the equation and present alternate scenarios," Greenwald suggested. "For example, askfor 40% in salary and 60% in stocks and bonuses that will be based on your performance. Make the pitch that you'll show them what you're made of before they have to pay you."According to the article, employees who are considering moving to a new company should __________.

(A) compare companies and choose the one that offers the highest salary

(B) research compensation ranges for their job in a variety of companies

(C) think about compensation that is based solely on their job performance

(D) expect to make 10% more money
















when they start a new position

13 of 16 Next

At the beginning of the article, the word this refers to __________.

(A) less money available for salaries in corporations

(B) what compensation you want as a job candidate

(C) trying to find a new and better job these days

(D) taking advantage of your number-one product

Reading Section:

You will have 15 minutes to complete the 16 questions in this section. Once you have answered a question, you may notgo back to review or change your answer.

There are three types of reading questions: General Comprehension, Vocabulary, and Pronoun Reference. The questions are based on a variety of reading materials, including magazine articles, email messages, charts, and memos. Look at the examples below before you begin the test. If you want to skip the examples, click here to begin the reading section.

Example 1 - General Comprehension

In this type of question, read the passage and then answer the question about the information in the reading.

Directions: Read the document below. Then read the question. Click A, B, C, or D to select the best answer.














< td>

The Food and Travel Review

by Dorothy Gold

Trying to order anythingin a foreign language ata restaurant can bedifficult and confusing.Ordering a bottle of wineis worse because you haveto read a long list ofstrange names on the winemenu. The waiter isstanding there waiting to take your order, and yourbusiness client is looking thirsty.

Below are some suggestions to help you get the right kind of wine at a good price. are not intended to be a complete list, but they should getyou started.

Decide how much you want to spend. Don't letthe waiter sell you anything too expensive. The best buys on a wine list tend to fall between $18 and $35.

Decide on the food that you're going to order and discuss your choices with the winewaiter. If everyone is eating varied foods, order an light red wine that complements assorted dishes, a couple of different half bottles, or order individual wines by the glass. Remember that when a fewpeople want the same wine, it is cheaper to order a full bottle.

Enjoy your wine, and cheers!

Question #1 - General Comprehension

When should you order a full bottle of wine?

(A) when it is the cheapest wine on the menu

(B) when everyone is eating different kindsof food

(C) when more than one person wants the same wine

(D) when the waiter suggests it

Explanation: Choice C is correct. Thearticle states that it is cheaper to order a full bottle of wine when a few people want the same kind of wine.

Next Example

Question #3 - Pronoun Reference

Look at the word in the article. What does the word refer to in the previous sentence?

(A) suggestions

(B) good wines (C) the right

kinds (D) good prices

READINGREADING


What Makes a Company Successful?by Elizabeth Franks

We asked fifteen of the mostinnovative and well-known leadersin business today about what madetheir companies so successful. Theyall agreed that a truly competitiveand fast-growing company must havethe following qualities.

Leadership: No one person todayis smart enough to be in totalcontrol of all the parts of acompany. The role of today'scompany leaders is to teach,encourage creativity, and helpproduce other leaders in each level of an organization. Innovation: The ability to invent new products, processes, and possibilities is what innovation is all about. In an economy led by change and speed, every company needs leaders who can motivate workers to be innovative. Learning: Competition today means that the knowledge an organization gathers is more important than the numberof branch offices it opens. If a company wants to grow quickly, it needs people who can keep learning quickly.

The industry leaders whom we spoke with stressed that it is not only the upper management, but also the employees,who help develop these essential qualities. must worktogether to build a successful business.

Why is learning an important part of a successful

company?

(A) It will develop essential qualities in management personnel.

(B) It will give the employees in a company a chance to change jobs more quickly.

(C) It will help a company to open new branch offices.

(D) It will help a company to grow quickly in a competitive world.

Look at the word in the article. What or who does refer to?

(A) those in management and the employees of the company

(B) the essential and successful qualities of business

(C) the various companies in business today

(D) the organization and its branch offices

Reading
























As members of the marketing department, we have been given the task of writing the new company brochure. The purpose of this brochure is to appeal to potential employees. The brochure should present this company as a great place to work.

I think we should begin by listing all of the most attractive qualities of our company. We shouldn't be considering just the basic qualities, like good benefits and competitive salaries. Many other companies have thesequalities; we need something that makes us unique or different from them.

However, we must limit the list, since we can't include everything. Therefore, I've asked the human resources department to assist us by giving us a list of the few truly unique characteristics that they think the brochureought to stress.

After doing some brainstorming myself, I've come up with the following characteristics: job security, stock options for employees, physical fitness centers on site, and open communication. Do a little yourself, and after thinking about all the appealing qualities of our company, please email a limited list to me.

See you at the meeting this afternoon,

Arthur

How will the human resources department help?

(A) by producing a brochure that appeals to all companies

(B) by helping to characterize the basic qualities

(C) by identifying some special qualities

(D) by stressing the importance of the brochure

Look at the word in the email. Which phrase means the same thing as ?

(A) qualifying the characteristics













(B) providing services for potential employees

(C) contacting employees

(D) thinking about as many ideas as possible

Reading


special to The Daily Business News

Failure Can Make YouStronger: A Look Into the

Life of Peter HillBy Joyce Robinson

Peter Hill isone of themost talkedabout men inSiliconValley.However, hewas notalways so successful. Hilllost so much money in 1975on his first business thathe had to sell it. It was the only way to stop the bank from taking away his home.

Today he is the vice president of Micronex, oneof the world's semiconductor superpowers.

Hill admits that in the beginning, his management style was difficult for some members of his team at Micronex. "I believe inconfrontation--getting in each other's faces, disagreeing a little. It'sa powerful tool if it doesn't get too personal and if it has a goal."

However, more than anything else, Hill believes in innovation. Heencourages his employees to dream up new ways to dothings every day. But he warns that innovation can't be







In fact, Micronex just exceeded revenue estimatesfor the third quarter by 12 percent when all the other semiconductor businesses in the Valley saw a decrease in revenues.

"Although I lost my first business, I learned a great deal about management, cash flow, andhow to talk to bankers," he recalls, with a smile. "But what I really learnedwas how to do things better."

scheduled like a meeting. "Sometimes I just don't have any idea how to approach a particular issue. Then suddenly, at 3:00 in the morning, I wake up shouting, 'I've got it! I know what to do.'"

Which example does the writer use to indicate how successful Peter Hill's company is?

(A) Mr. Hill didn't have to borrow money from the bank

(B) Micronex increased revenues in the third quarter, but other companies didn't.

(C) Mr. Hill sold his business for a 12 percent profit.

(D) Micronex had higher revenues during the first three quarters ofthe year.

Look at the word in the newspaper article. What or who does refer to?

(A) innovations that are created by employees

(B) employees at Micronex

(C) new ways to do things that Mr. Hill dreams up

(D) scheduled meetings



















Reading


Ms. Lily KwanAnimation Plus Studios10 Downtown PlazaM6B 2B3 TorontoCanada

Dear Ms. Kwan,

Thank you very much for sending us your sketches. Our design team felt that your two main cartoon characters would be compatible withour marketing approach. In particular, the character of the witty skunk as the intelligent partner of the teenage superhero was immensely appealing. We think we can use the concept of their partnership in the advertising campaign for our new line of athletic shoes.

We would like to meet with you as soon as possible to see if we canset something in motion for the coming fiscal year. We think we could incorporate the skunk as a symbol of independence. His personality is very charismatic and we could pitch him as the visual image associated with the product line. In our assessment, the friendship between the skunk and the teenager is an incredibly powerful image that will appeal to the adolescent and pre-teen markets. The skunk's humorous attitude is a great complement to theteenage hero's seriousness.

I would appreciate it if you could come to London this month and stay for two or three days. Would that be feasible? Our design teamcan meet with you either Thursday and Friday, the fourteenth and fifteenth, or Monday and Tuesday, the eighteenth and nineteenth. Wewould, of course, cover all your expenses and pay your stated

consulting fee. Your accommodations would be at Hotel Excelsior, which is a pleasant jaunt from our headquarters.

Please let me know whether you will be able to join us on the datesI have proposed. We are very enthusiastic about our innovative lineand are delighted to be working with you.

Sincerely yours,

J.P. PetrakisProduct Development Unit

Mr. Petrakis wants Ms. Kwan to __________.

(A) create two new cartoon characters for marketing

(B) fly to London in order to work at the Excelsior Hotel

(C) fly to London to meet Olympic Attire's design team

(D) move to London in order to work for Olympic Attire

In this letter, the word partnership means a __________.

(A) legal marriage pact

(B) financial agreement

(C) legal arrangement

(D) stable relationship

READING

Directions:

















Read the document below. Then read the question. Click A, B, C, or D to select the best answer. Click on the arrow button to go to the next question.

A Quick Course on Job Interviews in theUnited States from The Job Finding Journal:

International Editionby Ronda Parks

There are many books availableabout job interviews, butunfortunately, there's very littletime to read them. To make yourbusy life easier, here is a quicklist of essential points. Keep

in mind next time you have ajob interview in the United States.

Be clear on what you want to ask about the companyand the job.

Plan to talk half the time and let the employer talk the other half of the time (or more).

Keep each answer to two minutes or less. Don't talk on and on.

Never say anything negative about a previous employer or previous place where you worked.

Take any evidence, such as a portfolio, you have of past accomplishments to show your potential employer. The artist's portfolio, for example, would include a collection of samples of his or her best artwork. Computer programmers would have printouts of programs they have written.

Always write a thank-you note the same day as the interview, and send it to the employer.

Remember that the person who gets the job is not always the one who has the best qualifications. The person who gets hired is often the one who knows the most about interviewing well.

Why should someone read this article?

(A) People who are prepared for interviews frequently get jobs.

(B) It explains the two-minute employer response.

(C) It makes a person's job qualifications clearer.

(D) Interviewers will also read this article.

Look at the word in the memo. What does the word refer to?

(A) the books available on the market for interviewing techniques

(B) helpful tips when speaking to potential employers

(C) the people who conduct the interview

(D) a portfolio of work done when going for an interview


Memo

From: President Hiram BeekerTo: All members of the Department of Information Technologyand ManagementSubject: Departmental Restructuring

It is with great regret that I announce the retirement of the department's dean, Dr. Martin Johnston. He has served























the department with great distinction for 25 years and we will always remember his vast contributions.

Based on suggestions from department members, we will be restructuring the Department of Information Technology and Management. Dr. Herbert Laveson, currently a senior professor of information management, will assume the post of dean. Dr. Laveson will now oversee the splitting of the department into two major divisions: the education branch, under its new director, Dr. M.S. Ahn; and a new research and development branch, under the internationally known researcher, Dr. C.S. Choudhury, whom we have recruited fromthe Institute of Technology of Bangalore. Dr. Choudhury's area of expertise is the development of new technological platforms that enable businesses to handle larger amounts of data more efficiently. Aiding businesses in their quest to handle information is an area which we hope will prove to be a lucrative source of funding for our educational mission.

Details of our new department structure are provided in thechart below. For the near future, we will maintain our existing structure in the education branch. In the coming year, however, Dr. Laveson will be soliciting recommendations for departmental evolution that will allow us to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Organizational Chart: University of the CascadesDepartment of Information Technology and Management

According to the memo and organizational chart, which people will be changing positions?

(A) Dr. Choudhury, Dr. Ahn, and Dr. Laveson

(B) Dr. Johnston, Dr. Beeker, and Dr. Wang

(C) Dr. Takacs, Dr. Lopez, and Dr. Laveson

(D) Dr. Wang, Dr. Takacs, and Dr. Lopez

Based on the memo and organizational chart, which of the following statements is true?

(A) Dr. Choudhury is currently a professor in the department.

(B) A new program has been created in the education branch.

(C) Dr. Laveson is replacing Dr. Johnston as department dean.

(D) The education branch will be working with businesses.

READING

Directions:Read the document below. Then read the question. Click A, B, C, or D to select the best answer. Click on the arrow button to go to thenext question.

Ripley'sBIGGEST SALE EVER!!

Save, SAVE, SAVE!

This sale is a gold mine! You can refurnish your entire office at considerable savings! We are shutting down our downtown branch and must liquidate our entire stock of office furniture now! For a limitedtime only, we have great prices on all your office furniture needs. Come see our huge selection of styles.

All Prices Reduced!Task Chairs Managers' Chairs









padded arms for comfort strong, aluminum swivel

base three traditional colors

(black, white, and tan) collapsible

padded leather or micro suede many classic colors to choose

from, including navy, brown, grey, and tan

high back for added comfort polished aluminum base for

strength

Executive Chairs Modern, Modular, L-shaped WorkStations Must Go TOO!

luxurious genuine leather, suitable for executive offices

high back and extra padded seat for relaxation

polished chrome base forstrength and style

sophisticated colors (ivory, ebony, burgundy,and walnut)

desks for office workers, receptionists, and administrative assistants

modular shelves for books, office supplies, and photos--enormous capacity

movable keyboard trays for ease of storage

locking drawers for security and privacy

We have many secretarial and receptionist desks in stock (walnut, blond oak, golden oak, and mahogany). There are also a limited number of executive wrap-around desks available (dark walnut, mahogany, and maple).

Call now and save! We will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for this sale. The store is still packed with office furniture, so don't miss it! According to the advertisement, Ripley'sis having a sale of office furniture because __________.

(A) the company is closing its downtown store

(B) Ripley's wants to buy a new







style of office furniture

(C) some liquid was spilled on the office furniture

(D) there are too many chairs butnot enough desks

The word "it" refers to ________.(A) the store's furniture(B) a price reduction(C) the downtown store(D) the store's big sale

9 of 16 Next

READING


subscribe sections

blog contact

Stock: Not a Dream Come TruePenelope Lopez








Why do we never learn? People continue to get hurt financially by not following simple investing advice from financial advisors. Take the case of investing only in stock. This unfortunate habit goes against the first basic rule of investing: spread your risk over many types of investments in order to avoid disaster during economic downturns.

The worst cases are those of ordinary people who believe that theycan research companies and pick a few that are going to do well. Even professional investment managers have trouble predicting which companies will prosper and which will stumble and fall. Investing in a few individual companies is like gambling. You may get lucky in the short term, but over your lifetime, you will havesome big losses.

A second stock trap that individual investors fall into is investing heavily in their own companies. Many employees are able to buy stock from their own companies at a discount. Instead of selling some of it to diversify their holdings, they keep the stock, believing that their companies will prosper. In many cases,the companies do poorly and employees lose their jobs and their investments.

What can you do to avoid these problems? In a word, diversify! Make a variety of investments, like real estate, mutual funds, andbonds. Don't keep more than 25 percent of your money invested in your company.

Mutual funds are a particularly attractive option. The big advantage of mutual funds is that the managers of the funds buy shares of a large range of companies. This means that if one or two of the companies have a bad year, or even go bankrupt, it doesn't hurt the fund very much. Some mutual funds have a mix of domestic and international stocks and bonds. Some invest in real estate or mortgages. Mutual funds are a far less risky option thaninvesting in individual stocks or in your company's stock. The professional fund managers are more aware of market conditions andcan react quickly to changing economic situations than individual investors.

Diversifying can save you a lot of agony down the road. What would be another good title for this article?

(A) Choosing a Financial Advisor

(B) Mutual Funds: Pros and Cons

(C) Why You Should Buy Your Company's Stock

(D) Diversifying: a Key Investment Strategy

11 of 16 Next

READING


A Quick Course on Job Interviews in theUnited States from The Job Finding Journal:

International Editionby Ronda Parks

There are many books availableabout job interviews, butunfortunately, there's very littletime to read them. To make yourbusy life easier, here is a quicklist of essential points. Keep

in mind next time you have ajob interview in the United States.












Be clear on what you want to ask about the companyand the job.

Plan to talk half the time and let the employer talk the other half of the time (or more).

Keep each answer to two minutes or less. Don't talk on and on.

Never say anything negative about a previous employer or previous place where you worked.

Take any evidence, such as a portfolio, you have of past accomplishments to show your potential employer. The artist's portfolio, for example, would include a collection of samples of his or her best artwork. Computer programmers would have printouts of programs they have written.

Always write a thank-you note the same day as the interview, and send it to the employer.

Remember that the person who gets the job is not always the one who has the best qualifications. The person who gets hired is often the one who knows the most about interviewing well.

Why should someone read this article?

(A) People who are prepared for interviews frequently get jobs.

(B) It explains the two-minute employer response.

(C) It makes a person's job qualifications clearer.

(D) Interviewers will also read thisarticle.

13 of 16 Next

Look at the word in the memo. What does the word refer to?

(A) the books available on the market for interviewing

















techniques

(B) helpful tips when speaking to potential employers

(C) the people who conduct the interview

(D) a portfolio of work done when going for an interview

14 of 16 Next

READING


Percentages For Success In Staff Trainingand Development

The following summarizes a variety of studies about the probability of success for different types of staff training and development activities. The chart is based on what elements are included in the training session. Success means that, after the training session, the staffperson actually uses the training as part of his/her job,with a high degree of skill.

Element Of Training andDevelopment

Percent of GroupLikely To BeSuccessful












Excellent presentation (speech, lecture, film, etc.)

0-10%

Five or more demonstrations by presenters

10%

Participants try out what was taught-- hands-on involvement during the session

10-20%

Simulations--participants act out make-believe work situations with immediate feedback

50%

Participants try out new skills onthe job; cooperate in feedback sessions, support groups, "peer coaching"

90-100%

What is the purpose of this chart?

(A) to give percentages of staff attending training sessions

(B) to list information about the different types of training anddevelopment

(C) to train and develop new employees

(D) to show which elements of training and development are the most effective

15 of 16 Next

What should employees do in order to ensure the most success?
















(A) test new skills at work

(B) test new skills during the training session

(C) test new skills five times or more

(D) test new skills when required by management

16 of 16 Next

July 14, 2000

Hi, Mom!Greetings from Korea! Wow! Korea is such an amazing place! The city of Seoul is really interesting, and I'm having a great time! Yesterday, I visited Kyung Bok Palace and a wonderful neighborhood called Insadong. There are many art galleries in this neighborhood, and shops that sell traditional handmade crafts. I bought you a present in Insadong. I think you will like it very much, but I'm not going to tell you what it is now, OK? I want to surprise you! I went camping with some friends in Sorak National Park for three days last week. Tomorrow, we are going to leave Seoul and go to an island called Cheju--everyone here says it's Korea's Hawaii. I'm going to go swimming first thing! ! Listen,Mom, I'm flying back into San Francisco on the 7th at 4:00 in the afternoon. Can you pick me up at the airport? I'll call you when I get to Cheju.

Love, Nancy

Where is Nancy now?

(A) in Seoul

(B) in Insadong

(C) in Sorak National Park

(D) in Cheju Island

postcard. Which sentence below means the same thing as ?

(A) I can't go swimming.













(B) I'm not waiting to go swimming.

(C) I'm excited to go swimming.

(D) I'm planning to go swimming.

Thank you for the telephone message about the meeting you had last week with the Zee Computer Company. Please fax a copy of the notes you took during this meeting to my office. I'd like to read them before our marketing strategy meeting tomorrow. will really help me to understand the problems the company is having with marketing. Don't worry about how they look! I can usually read anything you write.

I look forward to working with you on new ways to market the Zee Computer Company's products.

How does George know that Suzanne had a meeting with Zee Computer Company?

(A) He was at the meeting.

(B) He received a fax.

(C) He called Suzanne.

(D) Suzanne called him.

Look at the word in the memo. Which words or phrases mean the same thing as ?

(A) Suzanne and George

(B) the notes from the meeting

(C) the people at the computer company

(D) the telephone messages

The Claims Division has been moved to our new location in Connecticut. This move gave usthe chance to achieve the required reduction in personnel. We have cut back the staff from 15 to 8 employees.

We were able to meet the reduction goals due to the fact that two employees retired, since they were at the legal retirement age of 60. Furthermore, two more employees choseto take early retirement at 50 and 55 when we offered a good financial incentive. This monetary encouragement was equal to two years of their annual salary.

Of the remaining three, one worker took a year-long leave to have a baby, another left the company to return to university, and the third was fired for sharing company secrets. None of these workers will be replaced.

Therefore, I am happy to report that, with very few problems and very little financial loss, we have met our reduction goals in the Claims Division.

Next month, we will be working to meet new reduction goals in the Marketing Division as makes its planned move to the Connecticut location.

What is the main purpose of this report?

(A) to report that some workers are leavingthe company

(B) to report that many older employees have retired

(C) to report that there has been a cutbackin the number of workers

(D) to report that there has been a change of company location

Look at the word in the report. Who or what does refer to?

(A) the Claims Division in the Connecticut office

(B) goals for reducing the number of employees

(C) the Marketing Division

(D) the plans for moving to the Connecticut office

Percentages For Success In Staff Training and Development

The following summarizes a variety of studies about the probability of success for different types of staff training and development activities. The chart is based on whatelements are included in the training session. Success means that, after the training session, the staff person actually uses the training as part of his/her job, with a highdegree of skill.

Element Of Training andDevelopment

Percent of GroupLikely To BeSuccessful

Excellent presentation (speech, lecture, film, etc.)

0-10%

Five or more demonstrations by presenters

10%

Participants try out what was taught-- hands-on involvement during the session

10-20%

Simulations--participants act out make-believe work situations with immediate feedback

50%

Participants try out new skills onthe job; cooperate in feedback sessions, support groups, "peer coaching"

90-100%

What is the purpose of this chart?

(A) to give percentages of staff attending training sessions

(B) to list information about the differenttypes of training and development

(C) to train and develop new employees

(D) to show which elements of training and development are the most effective

What should employees do in order to ensure the most success?

(A) test new skills at work

(B) test new skills during the training session

(C) test new skills five times or more

(D) test new skills when required by management

Can you think of a better place to have a conference? Your employees can let their imaginations sail away on the blue waters, clean beaches, and soft winds. We will take special care of them from the time our shuttle bus picks them up at the airport to the day we send them home.

In addition to the natural beauty and relaxing environment, our modern conference facilities provide our guests with important equipment and services. include multi-system VCRs, movie projectors, computer presentation modules, electronic copier screens, excellent sound systems, and teleconferencing services. Hotel employees are available to help maintain and operate these systems at no extra charge.

Each room at our beachfront hotel gives your employees a view of the ocean. Each is equipped with computer desks and modem connections. The hotelis a five-minute drive from the many shopping areas in downtown Kihei.

When the work is finished, your employees can relax at one of our six restaurants, four bars, or our famous Hana Hula Nightclub located inside the hotel.

This is the perfect place to work and play.

Which item below is NOT offered at the Royal Luau Resort?

(A) rooms with a beautiful ocean view

(B) a well-known nightclub

(C) airport pick-up service

(D) a variety of places to shop

Look at the word in the advertisement. What does refer to?

(A) the conference

(B) the beauty of Maui, a calm environment, and additional rooms

(C) important equipment and services

(D) extra room service offered by hotel employees

READING


Confidential: Interim First-Quarter Marketing Report

As announced last week, the first quarter revenues for BoostQuik did not meet expectations. However, even though the initial reactions of consumers have not been as positive as wemight have wished, we will soon be able to capitalize on the endorsement of our energy/vitamin drink by three up-and-comingathletes--a female tennis player, a male cyclist, and a male soccer star--who will be featured in our advertising. (Note: Their names cannot be released until contract negotiations have been officially concluded.)

The tennis player is particularly charismatic and well-respected in our target market. Although the older-adult market is saturated with diet supplements, this campaign should enable us to reach a vast younger audience using her distinctive image. Her value as a status symbol has increased because of her success in several international competitions over the past year.

Several recent inquiries and orders from wholesale distributors suggest that second-quarter sales will be stronger. We should try to maintain that momentum through the third quarter, using television advertisements at major sporting events. The fitness industry is both booming and highly competitive at this time, so we must brainstorm some creative approaches for growing market share.

The marketing team brainstormed several strategies this morning and came up with four recommendations:

1. All three athletes should wear our company logo on theirclothing and consume BoostQuik publicly at sporting events.

2. The athletes' life stories and latest accomplishments should be featured on our Web site.

3. The athletes' pictures should be prominently displayed on all our packaging.

4. We should take out full-page ads in the leading tennis, soccer, and cycling magazines. Highlighting the benefitsof BoostQuik for these particular sports enthusiasts should help us gain wider name recognition.

Our primary marketing goal is to raise the visibility of BoostQuik in the fitness industry. For this reason, we suggestadding a fourth athlete, possibly a female gymnast, to our group of celebrity endorsements. We should hold off on selecting a gymnast, however, until after the annual world competition this summer. This will allow us to select a young athlete with star appeal. For the long term, it would also be very helpful if BoostQuik could become an official sponsor of

the Olympic Games. Implementation of this marketing strategy will greatly raise our profile in the energy/vitamin drink market and will lead to increased sales later this yearThis report indicates that sales of BoostQuik will increase because __________.

(A) the new marketing campaign will be effective

(B) the beveragewill be soldat TV sportsevents

(C) the beverage's effectiveness will be enhanced

(D) wholesale distributorshave startedusing it

In the report, the word this refers to __________.

(A) results of the world gymnastics competition

(B) raising the company's visibility of BoostQuik

(C) selecting a gymnast from the competition

(D) delaying the selection of a fourth athlete

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