IELTS help for free
Back to reading tests homepage / reading home page
Test 7
Passage 1
Hiking as a Hobby
Hiking must be one of the most varied and rewarding of human activities, and it’s one that many psychologists find deeply fascinating. People all around the world venture into forests, hills, and mountains, often for hours or even days, enduring physical exertion and unpredictable weather. Why do they do it?
Some people take up hiking as a practical pursuit – this could be described as an instrumental reason: hiking as a means to an end. For instance, they might aim to improve their physical health or reach a fitness goal. The process of setting targets and achieving them, like summiting a challenging peak, can provide a powerful sense of accomplishment. With the rise of social media and tracking apps, more people are being drawn to the hobby, motivated by visible progress and shared achievements.
Many hikers also take up the activity for social reasons. Walking in groups, joining hiking clubs, or participating in organised treks gives them opportunities to meet others who share their interests. This is similar to joining a sports team or a book club – it creates community and connection through shared experience.
For others, the motivation lies in the thrill of discovering something extraordinary: a hidden waterfall, a rare bird species, or a stunning viewpoint. Some hikers spend their lives chasing these moments. Psychologically, this provides purpose and direction to life, turning each journey into a meaningful quest. But there is a risk too – if the goal is finally reached, it may leave a strange emptiness behind, now that the adventure is over.
Hiking also has strong educational value. It provides insight into geography, ecology, and even history. As hikers explore different regions, they gain an appreciation for the diversity of natural landscapes and ecosystems. In the 19th century, many early naturalists were avid walkers who collected specimens and recorded observations that deepened humanity’s understanding of the natural world.
In the past – and still today – a common form of hiking involved route-bagging: aiming to complete every trail in a specific area, or climb every peak above a certain height. This might involve careful planning using maps and guidebooks, keeping records, and ticking off completed routes. Modern hikers often use GPS apps to track their progress and exchange trail information online. As a result, many become extremely knowledgeable about terrain, safety, and weather conditions.
Some hikers develop a deeper interest in related topics. For example, someone might start studying trail-building methods, outdoor survival skills, or the local flora and fauna. A person who once walked only in their own region might end up learning about indigenous pathways, conservation efforts, or the geological history of the areas they explore.
Not all hikers, however, are driven by a thirst for knowledge. For some, hiking provides a sense of control and personal space. In a world that often feels overwhelming, the simplicity of walking in nature – where paths are clear and goals are defined – offers a form of emotional grounding. Planning a hike, packing gear, and following a route can be comforting routines in uncertain times.
Sometimes, what people choose to hike – whether a solitary mountain or a famous pilgrimage route – reveals something about their identity. Choosing a challenging trail, for instance, may express their desire to be seen as adventurous or resilient. And indeed, there are thousands of hikers who have completed legendary treks like the Appalachian Trail or Camino de Santiago, turning personal goals into lasting legacies.
Of course, like all hobbies, hiking offers pleasure. But what sets it apart is often the deep passion behind it. For many, hiking is not just enjoyable – it’s transformative. More than most other pastimes, it can absorb one’s full attention, provide inner peace, and create a powerful sense of fulfilment. To those who don’t hike, it may seem like a strenuous, even eccentric use of free time. But for those who do, it’s a path to connection – with nature, with others, and with themselves.
Summary Completion (5 questions)
Instructions: Complete the summary below using words from the passage.
Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.
Many people take up hiking for a variety of reasons. Some see it as a way to enhance (1) ___________, helping them reach fitness milestones or experience a sense of (2) ___________. Others are motivated by social opportunities, such as joining clubs or group treks, which help them build a (3) ___________ with others. For some hikers, the real reward is discovering hidden wonders like waterfalls or rare species, giving their lives a deeper (4) ___________. Additionally, hiking can be an educational activity, improving one’s understanding of topics such as the geographical landscape, (5) ___________ and past events.
Multiple Choice (5 questions)
Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.
6. What is one reason more people are taking up hiking now?
A. It requires no special equipment.
B. Social media encourages sharing achievements.
C. It is cheaper than joining a gym.
D. It is easy to master quickly.
7. According to the passage, what do some hikers risk feeling after reaching a major goal?
A. Exhaustion
B. Eagerness to start a new challenge
C. Disappointment
D. Emptiness
8. What does the passage suggest about early naturalists?
A. They were professional scientists.
B. They were mostly interested in climbing.
C. They walked to make collections and observations.
D. They avoided harsh terrain.
9. What does the writer say about hikers who utilize maps and routes?
A. They often become experts in survival training.
B. They compete to finish the most trails.
C. They become very knowledgeable over time.
D. They rarely rely on digital tools.
10. Which of the following is a psychological benefit of hiking, according to the passage?
A. Mastery of complex navigation skills
B. A feeling of emotional stability
C. A desire for fame
D. Improved memory
True / False / Not Given (3 questions)
Instructions:
-
TRUE – if the statement agrees with the passage
-
FALSE – if the statement contradicts the passage
-
NOT GIVEN – if there is no information on this
11. Hiking is more physically demanding than any other hobby.
12. Some hikers eventually become interested in trail construction.
13. Almost all hikers prefer to travel alone rather than in groups.
Click below to see the answers for this test 1.physical health - “For instance, they might aim to improve their physical health” 2.accomplishment - “...can provide a powerful sense of accomplishment” 3.connection - “...gives them opportunities to meet others... creates community and connection” 4.purpose - “...provides purpose and direction to life” 5.ecology - “It provides insight into geography, ecology, and even history” 6.Answer: B Explanation: “With the rise of social media and tracking apps, more people are being drawn to the hobby…” 7. Answer: D Explanation: “...they may feel empty, now that the goal that drove them on has gone.” 8.Answer: C Explanation: “many early naturalists were avid walkers who collected specimens and recorded observations …” 9.Answer: C Explanation: “As a result, many become extremely knowledgeable about terrain, safety, and weather...” 10.Answer: B Explanation: “...More than most other pastimes, it can absorb one’s full attention, provide inner peace, and create a powerful sense of fulfilment..” 11.Answer: NOT GIVEN Explanation: The passage discusses physical effort but makes no comparison with other hobbies. 12.Answer: TRUE Explanation: “...might start studying trail-building methods, outdoor survival skills…” 13. Answer: FALSE Explanation: The passage mentions hiking clubs and group treks as common social motivations.
Passage 2
Hydropower on the Mekong
Hydroelectric projects on the Mekong River are becoming a major source of renewable energy for Southeast Asia. While the long-term effects remain uncertain, these developments are poised to play a critical role in the region’s energy future.
A. Hydropower on the Mekong works by using the river’s flow to drive turbines and generate electricity. Unlike wind or solar, the river’s movement is relatively consistent, making it a reliable source of power. With increasing demand for clean energy, countries along the Mekong – including Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam – are investing heavily in dam construction. If these developments are well-managed, they could reduce the region’s dependence on coal and imported fossil fuels, and even position Laos, often called the “Battery of Southeast Asia,” as a major energy exporter.
B. Several hydropower sites have been identified along the Mekong and its tributaries, with the potential to generate thousands of megawatts of electricity. The Xayaburi Dam in northern Laos, for example, is one of the largest projects and is expected to provide a significant share of the country’s power. Other proposed or under-construction dams include Don Sahong, Pak Beng, and Pak Lay. These sites are strategically located to take advantage of strong river flow and steep gradients, particularly in the upper Mekong basin. Energy analysts suggest that the river could eventually supply up to 20% of Southeast Asia’s electricity needs.
C. Research institutions such as the Mekong River Commission (MRC) and universities in the region are closely studying the effects and feasibility of hydropower expansion. Engineers and scientists are working to improve turbine design, sediment flow management, and water usage efficiency. Pilot projects, often co-funded by international development agencies, are testing advanced dam technology in remote areas. One such project, near the Lao–Thai border, is evaluating the ecological and social impact of a new type of low-impact dam. Experts believe that within the next decade, improved designs will allow for more sustainable and effective energy generation without drastically altering river systems.
D. Hydropower turbines on the Mekong require careful planning and installation. Turbines must be large enough to produce adequate power but also small enough to avoid blocking fish migration and disrupting sediment transport. Modern turbines can operate in a range of water depths and flow speeds, making them adaptable to various locations along the river. Unlike large-scale dams of the past, many new projects are incorporating environmental safeguards such as fish ladders and sediment bypass systems. Transmission infrastructure is also being developed to carry the electricity to national grids or export points.
E. The Xayaburi project has been a focal point for both supporters and critics of Mekong hydropower. Proponents highlight the project’s ability to provide clean energy and boost economic growth. Critics, however, point to concerns about reduced fish stocks, disrupted agricultural cycles downstream, and the displacement of communities. While most of the electricity from Xayaburi is exported to Thailand, the environmental and social impacts are felt locally. Regional cooperation and transparency in decision-making are seen as key to balancing development with sustainability.
F. One of the ongoing technical challenges is sediment accumulation, which can reduce dam efficiency and disrupt natural erosion and deposition processes. Engineers are also working to ensure that turbines can handle floating debris, seasonal floods, and fluctuating river levels. Advances in monitoring systems and dam safety protocols are helping to address these risks. Despite these obstacles, many regional governments remain optimistic, citing growing energy demands and the limited availability of other large-scale renewable resources.
Questions 1–6: Choose the correct heading for each paragraph (A–F) from the list of headings below.
List of Headings:
i. Challenges in managing sediment and debris
ii. The role of research and pilot projects
iii. Technical features and adaptability of turbines
iv. Regional criticism and benefits of a major dam
v. The growing energy demand in Southeast Asia
vi. How Mekong hydropower works and its potential
vii. Government partnerships and private sector investment
viii. Strategic locations and energy capacity of dam sites
14. Paragraph A:
15. Paragraph B:
16. Paragraph C:
17. Paragraph D:
18. Paragraph E:
19. Paragraph F:
Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.
20. What is a key advantage of hydropower over wind and solar energy in Southeast Asia?
A. It is cheaper to install
B. It produces more electricity overall
C. It provides more consistent power
D. It is easier to export internationally
21. What is one purpose of fish ladders in modern dam designs?
A. To produce more electricity
B. To help fish migrate past dams
C. To remove sediment from turbines
D. To increase river flow speed
22. According to the passage, how are some pilot projects being supported?
A. Through private investment from Thailand
B. By funding from international development agencies
C. By regional universities and students
D. From exports of hydroelectric power
23. Why is the Xayaburi Dam a controversial project?
A. It failed to meet international safety standards
B. It caused widespread flooding in Vietnam
C. It disrupted local agriculture and fish stocks
D. It was built without government approval
Do the following statements agree with the information in the passage?
Write:
TRUE – if the statement agrees with the information
FALSE – if the statement contradicts the information
NOT GIVEN – if there is no information on this
24. The Mekong River supplies all of the energy Southeast Asia.
25. New turbines can operate at different depths and flow speeds.
26. Most of the electricity from the Xayaburi Dam is consumed in Laos.
Click below to see the answers for this test 14.vi. How Mekong hydropower works and its potential Paragraph A explains how hydropower functions and describes its benefits and potential for Southeast Asia. 15.viii. Strategic locations and energy capacity of dam sites Paragraph B describes where the dams are located and how much energy they can produce. 16.ii. The role of research and pilot projects Paragraph C discusses research institutions, pilot projects, and new technologies. 17.iii. Technical features and adaptability of turbines Paragraph D focuses on turbine size, operation, and environmentally friendly design. 18.iv. Regional criticism and benefits of a major dam Paragraph E examines both support for and criticism of the Xayaburi Dam. 19.i. Challenges in managing sediment and debris Paragraph F highlights technical issues such as sediment buildup and floating debris. 20.Answer: C Explanation: Paragraph A states that the river’s movement is “relatively consistent,” unlike wind or solar. 21.Answer: B Explanation: Paragraph D mentions fish ladders as an environmental safeguard to prevent blocking migration. 22.Answer: B Explanation: Paragraph C clearly states that pilot projects are “often co-funded by international development agencies.” 23.Answer: C Explanation: Paragraph E mentions reduced fish stocks, disrupted agriculture, and displacement of communities as criticisms. 24.FALSE Explanation: The passage says the river could supply up to 20% of Southeast Asia’s electricity – not that it currently does. 25.TRUE Explanation: Paragraph D explains that “modern turbines can operate in a range of water depths and flow speeds.” 26.FALSE Explanation: Paragraph E says most of the electricity from Xayaburi is exported to Thailand, not used domestically in Laos.
Passage 3
Motivational Factors and the Health Care Industry
A critical factor in the success of health care organizations is developing and maintaining high performance from their employees. But how can this be achieved? What Human Resource Management (HRM) strategies should health care institutions implement to attract and retain skilled professionals?
Some health care facilities strive to offer superior working conditions for their employees. This approach originally emerged in other sectors—particularly in creative and tech industries—where work-life balance and workplace enjoyment were prioritized. In contrast, the health care sector has traditionally overlooked these elements, failing to address fundamental employee needs such as supportive environments and manageable workloads.
Santos (1995) argues that succeeding in the modern, globalized health care environment requires investment in advanced HRM practices. Organizations must seek out staff with superior capabilities and skills compared to competitors. This investment, he suggests, can offer a strong competitive edge. Yet, despite this awareness, health care systems worldwide have often been slow to adopt progressive HRM strategies (Huang, 2003).
Huang further notes that most HRM approaches in health care do not focus on building positive relationships with employees or helping them realize their full potential. Even when workers report satisfaction in some areas of their job, overall morale and retention often remain low. One persistent challenge in the sector has been high employee turnover, frequently attributed to low wages, insufficient benefits, and stressful working environments (Nguyen et al., 2009).
Baker and Kim (2010) found that when managers show appreciation, encourage collaboration, and address workplace challenges, employees feel more committed to their jobs. Lin et al. (2015) summarized this idea well: “When staff are supported, they gain the confidence to perform better and the motivation to remain with the organization.” Therefore, improving working conditions can significantly boost motivation and staff retention in the health care sector.
Although some believe that employees' attitudes toward their jobs are based on personal bias or temperament, no strong evidence supports this view (Smith et al., 2001). In reality, most workers have legitimate concerns about issues like staffing policies, scheduling, and compensation (Ali, 2010).
These concerns are especially acute in high-pressure environments such as specialized clinics and hospitals. Providing high-quality care often demands sophisticated HR strategies. However, these are not always implemented. According to Patel and Singh (1994), while patient care receives most of the focus, the welfare of medical personnel is often neglected. This highlights a divide between how patients and staff are treated in many health care facilities.
Thus, it's essential that health care administrators adopt HRM practices that both inspire and retain qualified personnel. Understanding what drives motivation across roles and career stages—from junior nurses to senior surgeons—is vital (Gonzalez and Riley, 2001). Administrators need this insight to develop targeted strategies for improving employee satisfaction and long-term commitment.
Lindholm (1967) identified two key types of motivational needs. The first is extrinsic: factors external to the work itself, like job security, physical conditions, and workload. If these are lacking, employees may experience dissatisfaction. However, simply meeting these needs does not ensure job satisfaction—it only helps reduce dissatisfaction (Nguyen et al., 2009).
The second type involves intrinsic motivators such as achievement, recognition, and personal growth. These factors are more likely to promote genuine job satisfaction (Nguyen et al., 2009). Lindholm’s model stresses the need for balance between addressing dissatisfaction and fostering intrinsic satisfaction.
Researchers have also explored the role of enjoyment at work. For example, Martinez, Evans, and Schultz (2015) studied staff at a network of wellness clinics in Canada and found that team-building activities and social events improved morale and reduced turnover. However, they cautioned that such activities must align with both organizational goals and professional responsibilities. “Health care leaders must find a balance between allowing personal expression and maintaining high clinical standards,” they concluded.
Lastly, Reynolds (2009) proposed several organization-level strategies to retain skilled staff while helping them manage work-life balance. These include offering flexible schedules, supporting family-focused events, and promoting health and wellness initiatives. These practices are particularly relevant in the demanding field of health care, where emotional and physical strain is common.
Multiple Choice Questions (Choose ONE answer)
27. What is the main idea of the passage?
A) The development of patient care in modern health care
B) The importance of Human Resource Management (HRM) in health care staff motivation
C) The financial costs of running health care systems
D) How patient feedback influences employee satisfaction
28. According to Santos (1995), why should health care organizations invest in HRM?
A) To reduce the costs of patient treatment
B) To limit competition in the private sector
C) To gain a competitive advantage by hiring better staff
D) To comply with government regulations
29. Why has the health care sector traditionally ignored workplace improvement strategies?
A) Because it prioritizes patient outcomes over employee needs
B) Due to lack of funding from the government
C) Because most staff are already satisfied
D) Because staff turnover is considered normal
30. What issue does Patel and Singh (1994) highlight?
A) A shortage of patients in clinics
B) That hospitals neglect employee welfare
C) That guest satisfaction is no longer important
D) That salaries in health care are too high
31. What concern does Martinez et al. (2015) raise about workplace fun?
A) It should replace traditional training
B) It must not interfere with professional standards
C) It is only effective for junior staff
D) It should be offered only once per year
Gap Fill (NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS)
32. Huang criticizes HRM for not focusing on building _________ with employees.
33. According to the passage, dissatisfaction can occur when _______ and working conditions are poor.
34. Reynolds suggests promoting ________ and wellness as a retention strategy.
Short Answer Questions (NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS)
35. What does Lin et al. (2015) say supporting employees boosts?
36. What are the two types of motivation described by Lindholm?
37. How are specialized clinics described as?
True / False / Not Given
Do the following statements agree with the information given in the passage?
Write:
-
TRUE if the statement agrees with the information
-
FALSE if the statement contradicts the information
-
NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this
38. Fun activities at work lead to poor employee performance.
39. Smith et al. (2001) proved that negative job attitudes are caused by personality traits.
40. Gonzalez and Riley (2001) recommend using AI to analyze staff motivation.
Click below to see the answers for this test 27. Answer: B Explanation: The passage centers on HRM strategies to motivate and retain staff in the health care sector. 28. Answer: C Explanation: Santos claims HRM investment helps hire more skilled workers, giving a competitive edge. 29. Answer: A Explanation: The passage states that care and attention are usually focused on patients rather than on employee conditions. 30. Answer: B Explanation: Patel and Singh note a division between the experience provided to patients and that of staff, implying staff welfare is often overlooked. 31. Answer: B Explanation: The passage explains that fun activities must align with professional goals and responsibilities. 32. Answer: positive relationships Explanation: Huang argues HRM lacks focus on fostering positive relations with staff. 33. Answer: job security Explanation: Extrinsic factors like job security and poor working conditions lead to dissatisfaction. 34. Answer: health Explanation: Reynolds recommends health and wellness programs to retain staff. 35. Answer: motivation and staff retention Explanation: Therefore, improving working conditions can significantly boost motivation and staff retention in the health care sector. 36. Answer: Extrinsic, intrinsic Explanation: identified two key types of motivational needs. The first is extrinsic …… The second type involves intrinsic motivators 37. Answer: high-pressure environments Explanation: These concerns are especially acute in high-pressure environments such as specialized clinics and hospitals. 38. Answer: False Explanation: The passage says they may improve performance if managed correctly. 39. Answer: False Explanation: The passage says no evidence supports this idea. 40. Answer: Not Given Explanation: They are cited regarding understanding motivation across roles, but AI is not mentioned.