General Training Reading 2025-09 Test 2

General Training

Exam month: 2025-09

Rebuilt from test-taker recalls — not official IELTS material. Audio and passages are recreations for practice.

Tropical Frogs

A. Goliath Frog - The goliath frog measures between 6.5 and 12.5 inches in length and weighs anywhere from about 1 to 7 pounds, making it the largest frog in the world. Tadpoles begin life the same size as the tadpoles of other frog species but grow to unusually large size within about three months. Goliath frogs also lack vocal sacs, instead using a sort of whistling sound for their mating call, and males typically are larger than females, a characteristic that is rare among frogs. The goliath frog inhabits rivers in the tropical forests of Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon. The species is endangered.
B. Amazon Milk Frog - With alternating bands and patches of dark brown and light grey to blue skin, the Amazon milk frog is a uniquely and beautifully colored species. The contrast between the colors is at its most vibrant in young frogs. As they age, the colors fade slightly, and their skin becomes increasingly granular in texture. Its toe pads are also specially adapted for an arboreal lifestyle. The Amazon milk frog is also known as the mission golden-eyed tree frog for the remarkable gold-and-black cross pattern in the iris of its eye.
C. Red-Eyed Tree Frog - Its bulging red eyes are its telltale feature, but it is also known for its neon-green body, accented with vertical blue and yellow stripes on the sides and bright orange or reddish feet. It is thought that when startled, the red-eyed tree frog flashes its exaggerated coloration, temporarily confusing its predators and thereby enabling its escape. The species has an impressive jumping ability, too, which earned it the nickname "monkey frog."
D. Blue Poison Dart Frog - It is unquestionably beautiful like a sapphire. And similar to a precious gemstone, this species of frog is one of nature's unique treasures, found only in the tropical forests of northern Brazil. It is further distinguished by its polka-dotted markings and hunched back. Every individual of the species has a unique pattern of black spots on its back and sides, a sort of fingerprint that can be used to identify it.

Questions 1-7

Look at the four descriptions of frogs. For which frog are the following statements true? Write the correct letter, A-D. NB You may use any letter more than once.

  1. 1

    The colour and skin texture changes with age.

  2. 2

    It has unique appearance and inhabits in a very limited area.

  3. 3

    It has relatively faster growth rate.

  4. 4

    It has unique identification feature on its body that distinguishes it.

  5. 5

    The size varies with gender.

  6. 6

    It can trick preys by flashing its colours.

  7. 7

    It can scale larger height at once.

GUIDELINES FOR HOME-BASED ONLINE WORKERS IN INDIA

Freelancing has become increasingly popular among full-time employees seeking to diversify their income or pursue their passions. However, balancing a side gig with a full-time job requires planning, discipline, and legal awareness.
Know Your Contract: Before taking on freelance work, it's crucial to review your current employment contract. Some employers have non-compete clauses or restrict freelance activities, especially if they overlap with your job's responsibilities or industry.
Time Management: Freelancing alongside a 9-to-5 job can be demanding. Experts recommend using weekends, early mornings, or evenings for freelance projects. Keeping a digital calendar, setting realistic deadlines, and avoiding burnout are key to long-term sustainability.
Choose the Right Freelance Work: Pick projects that are flexible and align with your interests. Popular choices include graphic design, content writing, language tutoring, or digital marketing. These can often be done remotely and scheduled outside regular work hours.
Financial Considerations: Freelancers must manage their own taxes, which may include filing self-assessment tax returns or registering as a sole trader. It's advisable to keep freelance income in a separate bank account to make tax reporting simpler.
Ethical and Legal Boundaries: Avoid using your employer's equipment, software, or client contacts for personal freelancing. This could lead to disciplinary action. Maintain transparency and integrity at all times.
Freelancing can be a fulfilling and profitable venture if handled professionally and ethically. With the right mindset, it is possible to achieve success in both careers.

Questions 8-14

Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text. TRUE - if the statement is true FALSE - if the statement is false NOT GIVEN - if the information is not given in the text

  1. 8

    Some companies forbid employees from freelancing.

  2. 9

    Freelancing during normal office hours is generally encouraged.

  3. 10

    Digital marketing is one of the more flexible freelancing options.

  4. 11

    Freelancers are required to file their own taxes.

  5. 12

    It is illegal to do freelance work at your workplace.

  6. 13

    Freelancers should use the same bank account for personal and freelance income.

  7. 14

    Freelancing can be both financially rewarding and personally satisfying.

FIRE SAFETY GUIDELINES AT SUNRISE CO-WORKING HUB

Sunrise Co-Working Hub is committed to providing a safe working environment. These fire safety procedures are applicable to all tenants, guests, and staff members.
Fire Drills and Training: All occupants must participate in monthly fire drills, usually held on the first Monday of each month at 11:00 AM. A fire safety video is also sent to every new member upon registration. Fire wardens wear bright yellow vests and are trained in evacuation and first aid.
Emergency Equipment: Fire extinguishers and smoke detectors are located on every floor. The kitchen areas have additional fire blankets. It is illegal to tamper with any equipment, and violations will result in immediate termination of membership.
Evacuation Process: In case of a fire alarm, members must leave the building immediately using the stairs. Elevators must not be used under any circumstances. Follow the green exit signs to the nearest safe point. The designated assembly area is the open parking lot at the front entrance.
Safety Rules
Keep all hallways and exits clear at all times.
Do not use candles or open flames within the premises.
Charging of electronic devices must only be done in marked power stations.
Report any faulty wiring or overloaded plugs to the facilities team immediately.

Questions 15-20

Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the text for each answer.

15. The fire drill is usually conducted on the first ________ of the month.
16. New members receive a fire safety ________.
17. Kitchen areas are provided with fire blankets and ________.
18. People must use the stairs and not the ________ during evacuation.
19. The official gathering location after evacuation is the ________.
20. Using open flames such as ________ is not permitted.

TRAINING POLICY FOR NEW EMPLOYEES AT HORIZON ECO-DELIVERY

Horizon Eco-Delivery is a sustainable delivery company operating across Indian metro cities. All newly hired riders and office staff are required to complete a mandatory induction and training process before beginning work.
Training Duration and Structure: The training spans five consecutive days, each covering different aspects of the job. The first two days focus on company values and environmental policies. The third day includes road safety and traffic rules for delivery riders, while office staff attend a session on client communication. The last two days are spent on hands-on training.
Certification and Assessment: At the end of training, every participant must pass a multiple-choice test with at least 75% marks. Certificates are provided to successful candidates and are required before any formal shift is assigned. If someone fails the test, they must repeat the assessment after two days.
Work Gear and Uniforms: All riders are provided with a green reflective jacket, ID badge, and branded helmet. Office staff must wear a company T-shirt and keep their badge visible at all times. Riders are expected to wear full gear during deliveries, especially at night.
Conduct and Attendance: Trainees must attend all sessions. Late arrivals beyond 15 minutes are marked absent for the day. Repeated absences may lead to removal from the training program. Questions or doubts must be raised directly with the training supervisor.

Questions 21-27

Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER for each answer

21. The company's training lasts for ________ days in total.
22. On the third day, delivery riders learn about ________.
23. Candidates must score at least ________ marks in the final test.
24. Unsuccessful candidates can retake the test after ________.
25. Office employees must wear a company T-shirt and a ________.
26. A rider must wear full uniform, especially during ________.
27. Employees must report their queries to the ________.

Retail Therapy: The Science Behind Shopping for Happiness

A Retail therapy refers to the practice of shopping to improve one's mood or alleviate stress. Many people indulge in buying new clothes, gadgets, or other items as a way to feel better emotionally. Although often criticized as an impulsive or frivolous behavior, research suggests that retail therapy can have genuine psychological benefits when done in moderation.
B Psychologists have studied how shopping affects mood and emotions. One study found that participants who made small purchases reported higher levels of happiness compared to those who did not shop at all. This positive effect was particularly strong when the purchases were for oneself rather than for others. The feeling of acquiring something new can stimulate the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine—a chemical associated with pleasure.
C However, retail therapy is not a cure-all for emotional problems. Experts warn that relying heavily on shopping to manage feelings can lead to compulsive buying disorder, a condition where individuals feel unable to control their shopping habits. This behavior often results in financial difficulties, increased stress, and feelings of guilt or regret.
D The reasons why people engage in retail therapy vary. For some, shopping provides a sense of control during uncertain times. Others use it as a distraction from negative emotions such as loneliness or sadness. Seasonal sales and promotional offers can also trigger shopping sprees, making it harder to resist the temptation.
E In addition to improving mood, retail therapy can serve social functions. Going shopping with friends or family can strengthen relationships and provide opportunities for social interaction. These experiences contribute to feelings of belonging and support, which are important for emotional well-being.
F Cultural attitudes towards retail therapy differ across societies. In some cultures, shopping is viewed as a pleasurable pastime and a normal way to unwind. In others, it is often seen as wasteful or excessive. Media and advertising play significant roles in shaping perceptions by portraying shopping as a key to happiness and success.
G To enjoy the benefits of retail therapy without negative consequences, experts recommend mindful shopping. This approach involves being aware of one's emotions, setting budgets, and distinguishing between needs and wants. Mindful shoppers are more likely to make deliberate choices and avoid impulse purchases, leading to greater satisfaction and less regret.

Questions 28-34

Match each paragraph A-G with the correct heading i-vii. Write the correct number i-vii. LIST OF HEADINGS i. The psychological benefits of shopping ii. Possible negative effects of retail therapy iii. Social and cultural aspects of shopping iv. Reasons why people shop to feel better v. How to shop wisely to avoid regret vi. Scientific studies on mood and buying vii. Cultural attitudes and media influence

  1. 28

    Section A

    • i. The psychological benefits of shopping
    • ii. Possible negative effects of retail therapy
    • iii. Social and cultural aspects of shopping
    • iv. Reasons why people shop to feel better
    • v. How to shop wisely to avoid regret
    • vi. Scientific studies on mood and buying
    • vii. Cultural attitudes and media influence
  2. 29

    Section B

  3. 30

    Section C

  4. 31

    Section D

  5. 32

    Section E

  6. 33

    Section F

  7. 34

    Section G

Questions 35-40

Choose ONE WORD ONLY for each answer.

  1. 35

    Retail therapy can enhance a person's ________.

  2. 36

    Shopping releases the chemical ________ in the brain.

  3. 37

    Compulsive buying can cause ________ difficulties.

  4. 38

    ________ and advertising affects how people view shopping.

  5. 39

    Setting a ________ is part of shopping mindfully.

  6. 40

    Shopping with others improves emotional ________.

Answer sheet

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Show answer key

Answer key

  1. 1. B

    The passage says the Amazon milk frog's 'colors fade slightly, and their skin becomes increasingly granular in texture' as they age, showing both color and texture change.

  2. 2. D

    The blue poison dart frog is described as 'one of nature's unique treasures, found only in the tropical forests of northern Brazil,' meaning it has a unique look and a very limited habitat.

  3. 3. A

    The goliath frog's tadpoles 'grow to unusually large size within about three months,' which means they grow faster than typical frogs.

  4. 4. D

    The blue poison dart frog has 'a unique pattern of black spots on its back and sides, a sort of fingerprint that can be used to identify it,' making it easy to distinguish.

  5. 5. A

    For the goliath frog, 'males typically are larger than females, a characteristic that is rare among frogs,' so size depends on gender.

  6. 6. C

    The red-eyed tree frog 'flashes its exaggerated coloration, temporarily confusing its predators,' which helps it escape, so it uses its colors to trick others.

  7. 7. C

    The red-eyed tree frog 'has an impressive jumping ability,' earning it the nickname 'monkey frog,' meaning it can jump high.

  8. 8. TRUE

    The passage says some employers 'have non-compete clauses or restrict freelance activities,' so some companies do forbid freelancing.

  9. 9. FALSE

    Freelancing is recommended for 'weekends, early mornings, or evenings,' not during normal office hours, so it is not encouraged during work time.

  10. 10. TRUE

    Digital marketing is listed as a 'popular choice' for flexible freelance work that 'can often be done remotely and scheduled outside regular work hours.'

  11. 11. TRUE

    Freelancers 'must manage their own taxes, which may include filing self-assessment tax returns,' so they are responsible for their own tax filing.

  12. 12. NOT GIVEN

    The passage warns not to use employer resources for freelancing but does not say it is illegal to freelance at your workplace, so the answer is not given.

  13. 13. FALSE

    It is 'advisable to keep freelance income in a separate bank account,' so using the same account is not recommended.

  14. 14. TRUE

    The passage says freelancing 'can be a fulfilling and profitable venture,' meaning it can be both financially and personally rewarding.

  15. 15. Monday

    Fire drills are 'usually held on the first Monday of each month at 11:00 AM.'

  16. 16. video

    A 'fire safety video is also sent to every new member upon registration.'

  17. 17. smoke detectors

    The kitchen areas have 'additional fire blankets' and fire extinguishers and smoke detectors are 'located on every floor,' so smoke detectors is correct.

  18. 18. elevators

    During evacuation, 'members must leave the building immediately using the stairs. Elevators must not be used under any circumstances.'

  19. 19. open parking lot

    The 'designated assembly area is the open parking lot at the front entrance.'

  20. 20. candles

    The safety rules say, 'Do not use candles or open flames within the premises.'

  21. 21. five consecutive

    The training 'spans five consecutive days, each covering different aspects of the job.'

  22. 22. road safety

    On the third day, 'the third day includes road safety and traffic rules for delivery riders.'

  23. 23. 75%

    Participants must pass a test 'with at least 75% marks.'

  24. 24. two days

    If someone fails the test, 'they must repeat the assessment after two days.'

  25. 25. badge

    Office staff must wear a 'company T-shirt and keep their badge visible at all times.'

  26. 26. night

    Riders are expected to wear full gear 'during deliveries, especially at night.'

  27. 27. training supervisor

    Questions or doubts must be raised 'directly with the training supervisor.'

  28. 28. i

    Section A is about 'shopping to improve one's mood or alleviate stress,' which matches 'the psychological benefits of shopping.'

  29. 29. vi

    Section B discusses studies on how shopping affects mood and emotions, matching 'scientific studies on mood and buying.'

  30. 30. ii

    Section C warns about 'compulsive buying disorder' and its problems, matching 'possible negative effects of retail therapy.'

  31. 31. iv

    Section D explains why people shop to feel better, such as gaining control or distraction, matching 'reasons why people shop to feel better.'

  32. 32. iii

    Section E talks about shopping with others and its social benefits, matching 'social and cultural aspects of shopping.'

  33. 33. vii

    Section F discusses how different cultures and media view shopping, matching 'cultural attitudes and media influence.'

  34. 34. v

    Section G gives advice on 'mindful shopping,' which is about 'how to shop wisely to avoid regret.'

  35. 35. mood

    Retail therapy is described as a way to 'improve one's mood or alleviate stress.'

  36. 36. dopamine

    Shopping can 'stimulate the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine—a chemical associated with pleasure.'

  37. 37. financial

    Compulsive buying disorder 'often results in financial difficulties.'

  38. 38. media

    'Media and advertising play significant roles in shaping perceptions' about shopping.

  39. 39. budget

    Mindful shopping involves 'setting budgets' to avoid impulse buying.

  40. 40. well-being

    Shopping with friends or family 'can strengthen relationships and provide opportunities for social interaction,' which helps emotional well-being.

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General Training Reading 2025-09 Test 2 — IELTS General Training Reading Practice Test with Answers | Ieltsa