IELTS Academic Reading Practice - Slightly Harder (Passage 1 & 2)

READING PASSAGE 1

Read the passage about regular exercise and answer Questions 1–4.

The Benefits of Regular Physical Exercise

In modern society, maintaining a healthy lifestyle has become increasingly important. Engaging in regular physical activity, such as swimming, cycling, or jogging, offers numerous benefits for both body and mind. Health experts recommend that teenagers and adults participate in at least thirty minutes of moderate exercise every day to maintain optimal cardiovascular health.

Beyond physical fitness, exercise plays a vital role in mental well-being. During physical exertion, the human brain releases natural chemicals called endorphins, which help reduce stress and improve mood. Students who exercise regularly often report higher energy levels during morning classes and better sleep quality at night, allowing them to concentrate more effectively on their academic tasks.

Furthermore, participating in team sports like basketball or football fosters social connections and cooperation. Playing together teaches young individuals how to communicate effectively under pressure, respect team rules, and support their peers. Overall, developing a consistent exercise routine early in life establishes a foundation for long-term health and personal happiness.

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Questions 1–4 (Single Choice: 5 Options A–E)

Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, D, or E.

1. How much moderate exercise do health experts recommend per day according to Paragraph 1?

A. At least fifteen minutes every morning.

B. At least thirty minutes every day.

C. Exactly one hour three times a week.

D. Two hours only on weekends.

E. Forty-five minutes before bedtime.

2. What chemical does the human brain release during physical exertion in Paragraph 2?

A. Vitamin D.

B. Endorphins.

C. Synthetic pigments.

D. Calcium compounds.

E. Oxygen molecules.

3. How does regular exercise benefit students academically according to Paragraph 2?

A. It automatically increases their test scores by twenty percent.

B. It eliminates the need to complete homework at night.

C. It provides higher morning energy levels and better sleep, improving concentration.

D. It replaces academic classes with sports sessions.

E. It guarantees free entry into university sports teams.

4. What social skill is specifically mentioned as being developed through team sports in Paragraph 3?

A. Communicating effectively under pressure and respecting team rules.

B. Designing custom sports uniforms for classmates.

C. Organizing large commercial sporting events.

D. Negotiating professional player contracts.

E. Repairing sports equipment independently.

READING PASSAGE 2

Read the passage about green initiatives in schools and answer Questions 5–8.

Green Initiatives in Modern Schools

Educational institutions around the world are increasingly adopting environmental protection programs to educate students about sustainability. Many schools have introduced comprehensive recycling schemes, placing separate bins in hallways for paper, plastic bottles, and organic food waste. By actively sorting trash every day, students develop an early awareness of environmental responsibility.

In addition to waste management, many campuses have created rooftop gardens or small green spaces. Students participate in planting vegetables and caring for seasonal flowers during science projects. These hands-on activities teach students about soil health, plant biology, and the importance of protecting local insect populations such as bees and butterflies.

Furthermore, schools are implementing energy-saving measures, such as installing solar panels on rooftops and replacing traditional lights with energy-efficient LED bulbs. Student environmental committees organize monthly campaigns to encourage turning off lights and computers when classrooms are empty. These collective efforts significantly reduce school electricity bills while reinforcing practical conservation habits.

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Questions 5–8 (Single Choice: 5 Options A–E)

Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, D, or E.

5. How do schools encourage daily waste sorting in Paragraph 1?

A. By charging fees for unseparated garbage bags.

B. By placing separate bins in hallways for paper, plastic, and food waste.

C. By banning all plastic bottles on school property.

D. By sending all waste directly to local incinerators.

E. By hiring commercial recycling companies to clean classrooms.

6. According to Paragraph 2, what do students learn about during rooftop garden activities?

A. How to build commercial greenhouses for profit.

B. Soil health, plant biology, and protecting local insects like bees.

C. Methods for harvesting rare tropical fruits.

D. How to cook organic meals for the school cafeteria.

E. Techniques for constructing wooden garden furniture.

7. Which energy-saving equipment is mentioned as being installed on school rooftops in Paragraph 3?

A. Wind turbines.

B. Solar panels.

C. Rainwater collection tanks.

D. Geothermal heat pumps.

E. Automated window shutters.

8. What is a key outcome of monthly student campaigns to turn off lights and computers?

A. It reduces school electricity bills while reinforcing practical conservation habits.

B. It provides funding for annual student field trips.

C. It guarantees a passing grade in science courses.

D. It replaces traditional textbooks with digital tablets.

E. It eliminates the need for school maintenance staff.