Although the first printed books had appeared long before in China, the term “mass media” we use today was _________ the creation of print media, which started in Europe in the Middle Ages.

The lesson is difficult. We try hard. (HARDER)

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Read the text about urbanisation. Based on the information in the text, decide whether the following statements are true (T), false (F), or not given (NG). Tick the boxes.

Urbanisation programmes are being carried out in many parts of the world, especially in densely populated regions with limited land and resources. It is the natural outcome of economic development and industrialisation. It has brought a lot of benefits to our society. However, it also poses various problems for local authorities and town planners in the process of maintaining sustainable urbanisation, especially in developing countries.

When too many people cram into a small area, urban infrastructure can't be effective. There will be a lack of livable housing, energy and water supply. This will create overcrowded urban districts with no proper facilities.

Currently, fast urbanisation is taking place predominantly in developing countries where sustainable urbanisation has little relevance to people's lives. Their houses are just shabby slums with poor sanitation. Their children only manage to get basic education. Hence, the struggle for survival is their first priority rather than anything else. Only when the quality of their existence is improved, can they seek for other high values in their life.

Thus, sustainable urbanisation in different regions should start from different levels. For more developed regions, the focus could be on achieving a more sustainable urban life. But for less developed regions, urban development should really start with the provision of the basic human needs such as sufficient energy, clean water, housing with proper sanitation, and access to effective social infrastructure.

Question 27: Urbanisation is the natural product of economic development and industrialisation. _____

Question 28: The advantages of urbanisation outweigh its disadvantages. _____

Question 29: Slum dwellers in developing countries understand the meaning of sustainable urbanisation. ______

Question 30: The struggle for survival is the most important thing for poor people in developing countries. ______

Question 31: Different regions should deal with different tasks to achieve sustainable urbanisation. _____

The whole summer was sunny and warm, for a change. (WHICH)

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You haven’t explained exactly how the money disappeared. (ACCOUNTED)

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Read the following text and fill each gap with a word from the box.

     ancestors                      controversial               superstition                  rituals

     generations                  authorities                    proud                            expressions

While people's cultural identity is undoubtedly always protected and regarded as their most important characteristic, its expressions can sometimes be inappropriate, particularly in today's modern society. In the age of increased globalisation, some festivals include (21) _________ that are considered too old-fashioned and obviously need to be modified.

An example is the (22) ___________ pig-slaughter festival in a village in northern Viet Nam. There has been outrage in the country and other parts of the world as shocking photos and videos have shown the pigs getting tied down and sliced in half. According to ancient beliefs, this festival is celebrated to pray for good luck and fortune in the new year.

The pig-slaughter ceremony has taken place in the village for many centuries. The older (23) _________ insist on continuing this so-called ‘cultural’ practice and have argued that they are keeping the traditions of their (24)_______ alive. They also say it does not break the law and should be decided by the villagers.

Concerns about this backward festival have been raised not only by international animal rights groups, but also by the (25) _________.They have called on villagers to make certain adjustments to the ceremony. A government spokesperson has also expressed disapproval of cultural practices that are based on superstition and barbarian practices.

Ultimately, traditions will have to undergo changes as societies become more modern and develop new values and symbols. While it is important to preserve traditions and customs, communities should make sure that the rituals are in harmony with current social beliefs, strengthen their sense of belonging, and make people (26) _________of their cultural identity.

A country cannot be prosperous if it’s not quite independent. (ONLY)

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