General Training Reading 2025-09 Test 4

General Training

Exam month: 2025-09

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

Lodging Packages

A. Acorn Lodge: Enjoy the magnificent scenery and abundant wildlife of the Shenandoah Mountains from our lovely log home which is perfect for a ski trip or weekend getaway. It has a 6-person hot tub and a spacious family room with HDTV and a ping pong table. Only minutes away is one of the golf courses, skiing, tubing, go-carts, bungee jumping, zip lines, adventure park, ropes course, bumper cars and water park.
B. Grand Pine Lodge: It is a 5,000 square feet white pine lodge offering year-round, beautiful views of the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains. The resort offers snow skiing, snow tubing, an indoor water park, an outdoor water park, go-carts, bungee jumping, golf courses, miniature golf as well as numerous shops, restaurants and pubs.
C. Massanutten Resort: A very relaxing home located 8 miles from Harrisonburg, Virginia. This 2400 square feet home features 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, a modern kitchen, living room and a large game room. Also offers snow skiing, snow tubing, an indoor water park, an outdoor water park, a stocked fishing area, go-carts, bungee jumping, 2 golf courses, miniature golf as well as numerous shops, restaurants and pubs.
D. Blue Ridge Overlook: At 2500 feet above sea level, the house includes 2 decks, a screened porch, a game room featuring pool and foosball and a living room featuring a stone fireplace that subdivides the room. 10% military discount on the rental fee when you reserve the home.
E. Owl Lodge: The cathedral ceilings and exposed wooden beams give you a sense of being at a rustic retreat. When the weather's right, fire up the grill on the back deck for a barbecue and dine in the great outdoors while soaking in the sights and sounds of the forest. Beer and wine lovers in your group will enjoy doing a brewery or vineyard tour.
F. Blue Ridge Lodge: Enjoy the 16x32 foot indoor swimming pool all year! Rain or shine, you'll always be entertained in this log house with a swimming pool indoors to relax, work out or play in. Enjoy the hot tub on the outside deck or relax by the wood fireplace.

Questions 1–7: Matching facilities to Lodging Packages

Read the text above and choose which of the linked sections would contain the following facility. Write the correct letter A-F.

  1. 1

    Splendid picturesque with no wild life

    • A. Acorn Lodge
    • B. Grand Pine Lodge
    • C. Massanutten Resort
    • D. Blue Ridge Overlook
    • E. Owl Lodge
    • F. Blue Ridge Lodge
  2. 2

    Indoor swimming pool

  3. 3

    Commercial wine making area

  4. 4

    A few more people than half in hot tub

  5. 5

    10 percent armed forces discount

  6. 6

    Accumulated fishing area for recreation

  7. 7

    Barbecue dinner with sounds of forest

Starting a Home-Based Baking Business

Starting a home-based baking business can be an enjoyable and profitable way to turn your passion into income. Many people begin small, baking for friends and family before expanding to a wider customer base. With a clear business plan and proper registration, a home baking enterprise can grow steadily.
Before beginning, it's important to check local laws and health regulations. Most councils require a permit or inspection to ensure hygiene standards are met. This usually involves having a clean kitchen, appropriate food storage, and knowledge of basic food safety. Once legally set up, the next step is to build a brand. A good name, a professional logo, and attractive packaging can make a strong impression on potential buyers. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are particularly useful for marketing baked goods. Posting high-quality pictures, customer reviews, and special offers can attract new clients. Managing orders and keeping track of ingredients is essential. Keeping a record of orders, inventory, and customer preferences helps maintain consistency. Some home bakers use spreadsheets, while others opt for baking business apps to stay organised.
Pricing should include not just ingredient costs, but also time, electricity, packaging, and delivery if offered. Many beginners make the mistake of undercharging, which can make the business unsustainable.
Finally, customer satisfaction should be a top priority. Responding to inquiries promptly, delivering on time, and maintaining product quality will build a loyal customer base. With patience and commitment, a home-based baking business can become a full-time career.

Questions 8–14: True/False/Not Given

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

    Many people start their baking business by selling through supermarkets.

  2. 9

    Local authorities may require a kitchen inspection before business approval.

  3. 10

    Instagram and Facebook are recommended tools for marketing.

  4. 11

    A baking app is compulsory for managing customer orders.

  5. 12

    Time and utility costs must be considered when setting product prices.

  6. 13

    Most customers expect free delivery of baked items.

  7. 14

    High product quality and good service encourage repeat customers.

How to Register a Small Business in the UK

Starting a small business in the UK involves several key steps to ensure compliance with national laws and regulations. Whether you're opening a bakery, providing IT services, or selling handmade products online, registration is essential.
The first step is choosing a business structure. The most common for small businesses is a sole trader, which is simple to set up and run. Other options include forming a partnership or registering as a limited company. Each structure has different tax obligations and legal responsibilities.
Once you've chosen a structure, you'll need to register your business with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). This can be done online and typically takes just a few minutes. Sole traders must register for self-assessment, which allows them to report their income and expenses annually.
Depending on your business type, you may need additional licenses. For instance, selling food may require a hygiene certificate and registration with your local council. Businesses that play background music in their shop may need a licence from the Performing Rights Society.
You should also set up a dedicated business bank account. While not legally required for sole traders, it's highly recommended for tracking expenses and keeping finances separate from personal funds.
Finally, consider getting business insurance. Public liability insurance is commonly needed, especially if clients visit your premises. If you employ staff, employer's liability insurance is mandatory. All these steps help protect your business, ensure legal compliance, and improve your credibility with customers and suppliers.

Questions 15–20: Short Answer

Answer the questions below. Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER for each answer.

  1. 15

    The most popular structure for small businesses is the ________.

  2. 16

    Business registration is done through ________ and Customs.

  3. 17

    Sole traders must register for ________ to report finances.

  4. 18

    Selling food may require a ________ and council registration.

  5. 19

    Businesses playing music need a licence from the ________.

  6. 20

    Employers must get ________ insurance by law.

How to Use a Public Charging Station for Electric Vehicles

With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), public charging stations are becoming increasingly common. Understanding how to use them is essential for any EV owner.
First, locate a charging station using your car's navigation system or a mobile app such as PlugShare or ChargePoint. These apps display available stations, charging speeds, and user reviews. Some stations are fast chargers that can top up an EV battery to 80% in about 30 minutes, while others may take several hours.
Once you arrive at a station, park in the designated spot. Most charging stations require either a contactless card or a smartphone app to start the process. Insert the connector into your vehicle and follow the on-screen instructions. The charging process will begin, and you can monitor it through the station's screen or your app.
It's polite to remain nearby or return before charging is complete, as other drivers may be waiting. Avoid leaving your car parked at a charging point after the battery is full—this is known as "charging bay hogging" and is frowned upon in the EV community.
Some public charging stations are free to use, especially those offered by shopping centres or local governments, but many require payment. Costs vary depending on charging speed and location. Payment is usually per kilowatt-hour (kWh) or per minute of charging time. Before leaving, always return the cable to its holder and make sure your vehicle is safely unplugged. Leaving the area tidy and accessible for the next user promotes courteous usage.

Questions 21–27: Short Answer

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

  1. 21

    You can find charging locations using apps like ________.

  2. 22

    A ________ can charge a battery up to 80% in half an hour.

  3. 23

    A ________ or app is needed to begin charging.

  4. 24

    It is considered rude to practise ________ after charging is complete.

  5. 25

    Many stations charge based on ________ or time used.

  6. 26

    Some public chargers are offered at shopping centres or local governments without a ________.

  7. 27

    Always return the ________ before leaving.

Volunteering Programs for Elderly Companionship

A. Loneliness among the elderly has become a significant social issue worldwide. Many older adults live alone, far from family or friends, which can lead to isolation and mental health challenges. To address this, numerous communities have established volunteering programs where individuals provide companionship and assistance to seniors, improving their quality of life.
B. These volunteering programs typically match volunteers with elderly participants based on shared interests or backgrounds. Volunteers visit regularly to chat, help with errands, or accompany seniors to appointments and social events. The consistency of visits helps build trust and reduces feelings of neglect.
C. Training is a crucial part of these programs. Volunteers receive guidance on communication skills, understanding age-related health conditions, and managing emergencies. This preparation ensures that volunteers can offer compassionate and informed support without overstepping their roles.
D. Besides one-on-one companionship, many programs organise group activities such as gardening clubs, art workshops, or gentle exercise classes. These social events foster community among elderly participants and encourage active lifestyles, which are beneficial for physical and mental well-being.
E. Funding for volunteering programs often comes from government grants, charitable foundations, and community fundraising. Despite financial constraints, many programs have expanded by recruiting more volunteers and collaborating with local healthcare providers and senior centres.
F. Challenges include overcoming the reluctance of some seniors to accept help, often due to pride or fear of becoming a burden. Volunteers and coordinators work to build rapport and respect autonomy, making sure assistance is offered sensitively and tailored to each individual's needs.
G. Ultimately, volunteering companionship programs demonstrate how simple human connection can make a profound difference. By fostering relationships and creating supportive networks, these programs help elderly individuals lead happier, more connected lives, contributing to healthier communities overall.

Questions 28–33: Matching information to paragraphs

Match the information below to the correct paragraph. Write the correct letter, A-G.

  1. 28

    How volunteers are prepared for their role.

    • A. Paragraph A
    • B. Paragraph B
    • C. Paragraph C
    • D. Paragraph D
    • E. Paragraph E
    • F. Paragraph F
    • G. Paragraph G
  2. 29

    Ways in which seniors and volunteers are paired.

  3. 30

    Reasons some elderly people resist receiving help.

  4. 31

    Sources of financial support for these programs.

  5. 32

    The importance of social activities for seniors.

  6. 33

    The overall benefit of companionship programs.

Questions 34–40: Short Answer

Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the passage.

  1. 34

    Many elderly people suffer from feelings of ________.

  2. 35

    Volunteers may assist seniors by helping with ________.

  3. 36

    Training covers communication and managing ________.

  4. 37

    Group activities include gardening or ________ classes.

  5. 38

    Program growth is helped by cooperation with ________.

  6. 39

    Some seniors refuse help due to ________ or fear.

  7. 40

    These programs contribute to building ________ communities.

Answer sheet

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Answer key

  1. 1. B

    Grand Pine Lodge (B) offers 'beautiful views' but does not mention wildlife, while Acorn Lodge (A) mentions 'abundant wildlife.' So B is correct because it is picturesque but has no wildlife listed.

  2. 2. F

    Blue Ridge Lodge (F) says, 'Enjoy the 16x32 foot indoor swimming pool all year,' making it the only option with an indoor pool.

  3. 3. E

    Owl Lodge (E) mentions, 'Beer and wine lovers... will enjoy doing a brewery or vineyard tour,' which means it is in a wine-making area.

  4. 4. A

    Acorn Lodge (A) has 'a 6-person hot tub,' which is a few more than half of 10, matching the clue about the hot tub size.

  5. 5. D

    Blue Ridge Overlook (D) offers a '10% military discount on the rental fee,' which matches the question.

  6. 6. C

    Massanutten Resort (C) offers 'a stocked fishing area,' which means a place for recreational fishing.

  7. 7. E

    Owl Lodge (E) says, 'fire up the grill on the back deck for a barbecue and dine in the great outdoors while soaking in the sights and sounds of the forest,' matching the clue.

  8. 8. FALSE

    The passage says many people start 'baking for friends and family before expanding,' not through supermarkets, so this is FALSE.

  9. 9. TRUE

    It says, 'Most councils require a permit or inspection to ensure hygiene standards are met,' so this is TRUE.

  10. 10. TRUE

    The passage says, 'Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are particularly useful for marketing baked goods,' so this is TRUE.

  11. 11. FALSE

    It says, 'Some home bakers use spreadsheets, while others opt for baking business apps,' showing an app is not compulsory, so this is FALSE.

  12. 12. TRUE

    The passage says, 'Pricing should include not just ingredient costs, but also time, electricity, packaging, and delivery if offered,' so this is TRUE.

  13. 13. NOT GIVEN

    There is no information about customers expecting free delivery, so the answer is NOT GIVEN.

  14. 14. TRUE

    It says, 'customer satisfaction should be a top priority... maintaining product quality will build a loyal customer base,' so this is TRUE.

  15. 15. sole trader

    The passage says, 'The most common for small businesses is a sole trader,' so the answer is 'sole trader.'

  16. 16. HM Revenue

    It says, 'register your business with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC),' so the answer is 'HM Revenue.'

  17. 17. self-assessment

    It says, 'Sole traders must register for self-assessment, which allows them to report their income and expenses annually,' so the answer is 'self-assessment.'

  18. 18. hygiene certificate

    The passage says, 'selling food may require a hygiene certificate and registration with your local council,' so the answer is 'hygiene certificate.'

  19. 19. Performing Rights Society

    It says, 'may need a licence from the Performing Rights Society,' so the answer is 'Performing Rights Society.'

  20. 20. employer's liability

    It says, 'If you employ staff, employer's liability insurance is mandatory,' so the answer is 'employer's liability.'

  21. 21. PlugShare / ChargePoint

    It says, 'locate a charging station using... a mobile app such as PlugShare or ChargePoint,' so the answer is 'PlugShare / ChargePoint.'

  22. 22. fast charger

    It says, 'Some stations are fast chargers that can top up an EV battery to 80% in about 30 minutes,' so the answer is 'fast charger.'

  23. 23. contactless card

    It says, 'Most charging stations require either a contactless card or a smartphone app to start the process,' so the answer is 'contactless card.'

  24. 24. charging bay hogging

    It says, 'Avoid leaving your car parked at a charging point after the battery is full—this is known as "charging bay hogging",' so the answer is 'charging bay hogging.'

  25. 25. kilowatt-hour (kWh)

    It says, 'Payment is usually per kilowatt-hour (kWh) or per minute of charging time,' so the answer is 'kilowatt-hour (kWh).'

  26. 26. fee

    It says, 'Some public charging stations are free to use, especially those offered by shopping centres or local governments,' so the answer is 'fee.'

  27. 27. cable

    It says, 'always return the cable to its holder,' so the answer is 'cable.'

  28. 28. C

    Paragraph C says, 'Training is a crucial part of these programs. Volunteers receive guidance on communication skills, understanding age-related health conditions, and managing emergencies.'

  29. 29. B

    Paragraph B says, 'programs typically match volunteers with elderly participants based on shared interests or backgrounds.'

  30. 30. F

    Paragraph F says, 'some seniors... due to pride or fear of becoming a burden,' which are reasons for resisting help.

  31. 31. E

    Paragraph E says, 'Funding... comes from government grants, charitable foundations, and community fundraising.'

  32. 32. D

    Paragraph D says, 'many programs organise group activities... These social events foster community among elderly participants and encourage active lifestyles.'

  33. 33. G

    Paragraph G says, 'these programs help elderly individuals lead happier, more connected lives, contributing to healthier communities overall.'

  34. 34. isolation

    Paragraph A says, 'Many older adults live alone, far from family or friends, which can lead to isolation and mental health challenges.'

  35. 35. errands

    Paragraph B says, 'Volunteers visit regularly to chat, help with errands, or accompany seniors to appointments.'

  36. 36. emergencies

    Paragraph C says, 'Volunteers receive guidance on communication skills... and managing emergencies.'

  37. 37. gentle exercise

    Paragraph D says, 'group activities such as gardening clubs, art workshops, or gentle exercise classes.'

  38. 38. local healthcare providers

    Paragraph E says, 'expanded by recruiting more volunteers and collaborating with local healthcare providers and senior centres.'

  39. 39. pride

    Paragraph F says, 'reluctance... due to pride or fear of becoming a burden.'

  40. 40. healthier

    Paragraph G says, 'these programs help elderly individuals lead happier, more connected lives, contributing to healthier communities overall.'

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General Training Reading 2025-09 Test 4 — IELTS General Training Reading Practice Test with Answers | Ieltsa