CELPIP Reading Practice Test 46: Free Full Test with Answers

In this test

Part 1: Reading Correspondence, “A parent emailing a local theater group about their child joining the upcoming holiday play production” (questions 1–11) · practise this part alone
Part 2: Reading to Apply a Diagram, “International Volunteer Programs Comparison” (questions 12–19) · practise this part alone
Part 3: Reading for Information, “The Intricate World of Violin Making: Craftsmanship and Tradition” (questions 20–28) · practise this part alone
Part 4: Reading for Viewpoints, “The Ethics of Gene Editing: Medical Breakthrough or Playing God?” (questions 29–38) · practise this part alone

Part 1: Reading Correspondence

Dear Ms. Thompson,

I am writing to inquire about the upcoming holiday production of 'The Nutcracker' at the Riverside Community Theater. My daughter Emma, who is 12 years old, is very interested in auditioning for a role in the play. She has been taking dance lessons for the past five years and recently participated in her school's spring musical, where she had a supporting role.

I attended last year's production with Emma, and she was absolutely mesmerized by the performance. Since then, she has been constantly practicing her ballet moves and even memorized some of the dialogue from the play. When we saw the announcement about this year's auditions on the community board, she couldn't contain her excitement.

However, I do have some questions about the commitment required. As Emma is still in middle school, I want to ensure that the rehearsal schedule won't interfere too much with her academic responsibilities. Could you please provide information about the rehearsal schedule, including how many days per week and the duration of each session? Also, I understand that parent volunteers are needed for various aspects of the production, and I would be happy to help with costumes, as I have experience in sewing and design.

Additionally, I noticed that the audition information packet mentions a production fee, but the amount wasn't specified. Could you please let me know the cost involved? Also, will the children need to provide their own costumes, or will these be supplied by the theater? Emma has some basic dance wear, but I want to make sure we're prepared for any additional requirements.

One more question: the announcement mentioned that all cast members must be available for the entire run of the show from December 15th to December 30th. Unfortunately, we have a family wedding to attend on December 18th. Would this absence disqualify Emma from participating, or is there some flexibility with the schedule, perhaps with an understudy system in place?

I appreciate your time in addressing these questions. Emma is very eager to be part of this production, and I want to make sure we understand all the requirements before making this commitment.

Best regards,Sarah Mitchell

Here is a response to the message. Complete the response by filling in the blanks. Select the best choice for each blank.

Dear Mrs. Mitchell, Thank you for your interest in our production of 'The Nutcracker'. We're delighted to hear that Emma is . Regarding rehearsals, we meet three times a week after school, and we try to be . The production fee is $250, which covers costumes and materials. We do ask that participants , but all special costumes are provided by the theater. As for the December 18th absence, while we prefer full attendance, we do have . However, this would depend on the role Emma is cast in. We encourage parent involvement and would be very grateful for your help with . Best regards, Linda Thompson

Part 2: Reading to Apply a Diagram

Wildlife Conservation

Location: South Africa
Duration: 4-12 weeks
Cost: $2,500 per month
Accommodation: Shared dormitory
Skills required: Basic animal handling
Language: English

Teaching English

Location: Thailand
Duration: 3-6 months
Cost: $1,800 per month
Accommodation: Homestay
Skills required: TEFL certification
Language: Basic Thai helpful

Marine Conservation

Location: Belize
Duration: 2-8 weeks
Cost: $3,000 per month
Accommodation: Beachfront cabins
Skills required: SCUBA certification
Language: English

Community Development

Location: Peru
Duration: 1-3 months
Cost: $1,500 per month
Accommodation: Local family homestay
Skills required: None specific
Language: Basic Spanish recommended

Choose the best option.

Sam and Alex are .

The main purpose of the email is to .

Sam's tone in the email is

Read the following email message. Complete the email by filling in the blanks. Select the best choice for each blank.

Subject: International Volunteer Opportunities

To: Alex Chen

From: Sam Taylor

Hi Alex,

I've done some research on international volunteer programs as we discussed. There are several interesting options, but they vary in terms of commitment and requirements. The wildlife conservation program in South Africa seems exciting, but it's of all the options. If you're looking for a longer-term commitment, the teaching program in Thailand might be suitable, plus it The marine conservation project in Belize looks amazing, but keep in mind that it The community development program in Peru appears to be the most in terms of skills needed, and it's also the I think it could be a great way to improve your Spanish too.

Let me know what you think!

Best,

Sam

Part 3: Reading for Information

Read the following passage:

Paragraph A

Violin making, also known as lutherie, is a centuries-old craft that combines artistry, science, and tradition. The process of creating a violin requires meticulous attention to detail, extensive knowledge of wood properties, and a deep understanding of acoustics. Violin makers, or luthiers, typically spend years honing their skills before they can produce instruments of the highest quality. The art of violin making reached its pinnacle in the 17th and 18th centuries in Cremona, Italy, where legendary luthiers like Antonio Stradivari and Giuseppe Guarneri created instruments that are still revered today.

Paragraph B

The creation of a violin begins with the selection of wood. Spruce is typically used for the top of the instrument, while maple is chosen for the back, sides, and neck. The wood must be carefully aged and dried to ensure stability and optimal sound quality. Luthiers often stockpile wood for years, allowing it to naturally age and develop the desired tonal qualities. The top and back plates of the violin are then carved to precise thicknesses, with variations of less than a millimeter potentially affecting the instrument's sound. The violin's distinctive f-holes are cut into the top plate, playing a crucial role in the instrument's acoustics.

Paragraph C

One of the most challenging aspects of violin making is the creation of the scroll, the decorative spiral at the end of the pegbox. Carving the scroll requires exceptional skill and artistry, and it often serves as a signature of the luthier's craftsmanship. The neck and fingerboard are then attached to the body, followed by the fitting of the bridge, which transmits the vibrations of the strings to the body of the instrument. The positioning of the bridge is critical for achieving the proper sound and playability.

Paragraph D

The final stages of violin making involve applying varnish to the instrument. This process not only enhances the violin's appearance but also affects its tonal qualities. The composition and application of varnish remain subjects of much debate and experimentation among luthiers. Some believe that the secret to the exceptional sound of Stradivarius violins lies in their varnish, though this theory remains unproven. After the varnish has cured, the violin is fitted with strings and fine-tuners, and then undergoes a period of adjustment and playing to reach its full tonal potential.

Paragraph E

Not given in any of the above paragraphs.

Decide which paragraph, A to D, has the information given in each statement below. Select E if the information is not given in any of the paragraphs.

The choice of wood is crucial in violin making.
Violin making reached its peak during a specific historical period.
The scroll of a violin is considered a challenging part to create.
Varnish application is a contentious topic among violin makers.
Modern technology has significantly altered traditional violin making techniques.
The positioning of certain parts affects the violin's sound quality.
Violin making requires a combination of artistic and scientific knowledge.
The aging process of wood influences the sound of the violin.
There is a specific country known for producing the best violins today.

Part 4: Reading for Viewpoints

Recent advancements in gene editing technology, particularly CRISPR-Cas9, have sparked a heated debate in the scientific community and beyond. While some hail it as a revolutionary tool that could eradicate genetic diseases, others worry about the ethical implications and potential misuse of such powerful technology.

Proponents of gene editing argue that it offers unprecedented opportunities to prevent and cure genetic disorders. Dr. Jennifer Lee, a geneticist at Stanford University, states, "With CRISPR, we have the potential to eliminate devastating hereditary conditions like cystic fibrosis or Huntington's disease. It's a game-changer for medical research and treatment."

However, critics raise concerns about the long-term consequences and ethical dilemmas associated with altering the human genome. Dr. Michael Chen, a bioethicist at Harvard University, warns, "We're treading on dangerous ground. Once we start editing genes, where do we draw the line? It could lead to designer babies and exacerbate existing social inequalities."

The debate intensified in 2018 when Chinese scientist He Jiankui announced he had created the world's first gene-edited babies. This controversial experiment was widely condemned by the scientific community and raised questions about the regulation of gene editing research.

Governments worldwide are grappling with how to regulate this emerging technology. Some countries, like the United Kingdom, have approved limited gene editing research, while others have imposed strict bans. The United States currently allows gene editing in laboratory settings but prohibits clinical applications in humans.

As the technology continues to advance, the ethical debate shows no signs of slowing down. Dr. Sarah Thompson, a professor of bioethics at MIT, emphasizes the need for a global consensus: "We need an international framework to guide the responsible use of gene editing. It's crucial that we harness its potential benefits while safeguarding against potential abuses."

Ultimately, the gene editing debate raises fundamental questions about the limits of scientific progress and human intervention in nature. As society grapples with these complex issues, the future of gene editing and its impact on humanity hangs in the balance.

The following is a comment by a reader. Complete the comment by choosing the best option to fill in each blank.

As someone who has followed the gene editing debate closely, I believe that While I understand the concerns about potential misuse, I think the benefits Just imagine a world where we could However, I do agree that strict regulations are necessary. We need to ensure that At the same time, we shouldn't let fear hold us back from scientific progress. I believe that with proper oversight and ethical guidelines, gene editing could

Choose the best option according to the information given.

This article is about

Dr. Jennifer Lee believes that gene editing

The experiment by He Jiankui

The United States' stance on gene editing

Dr. Sarah Thompson argues that

Answer key

Count your correct answers, then find your estimated CLB:

Show all 38 answers

What motivated Emma to audition for the play? C. Watching last year's performance
Sarah's main concern about the production is … B. the impact on Emma's studies
Sarah offers to help with … C. costume preparation
The production fee … B. hasn't been announced
Sarah mentions the family wedding because … A. it might prevent Emma from participating
Emma has been dancing for … C. five years
B. eager to audition
A. flexible with scheduling
B. provide basic dance wear
B. understudies available
C. costumes
C. friends.
B. provide information about volunteer programs.
B. informative and helpful.
B. the most expensive
C. provides valuable teaching experience.
A. requires specific certification.
B. flexible
C. least expensive option.
The choice of wood is crucial in violin making. B
Violin making reached its peak during a specific historical period. A
The scroll of a violin is considered a challenging part to create. C
Varnish application is a contentious topic among violin makers. D
Modern technology has significantly altered traditional violin making techniques. E
The positioning of certain parts affects the violin's sound quality. C
Violin making requires a combination of artistic and scientific knowledge. A
The aging process of wood influences the sound of the violin. B
There is a specific country known for producing the best violins today. E
B. the technology holds immense promise for humanity.
C. far outweigh the potential risks.
B. eliminate genetic diseases and reduce human suffering.
D. the technology is not misused or applied irresponsibly.
B. revolutionize medicine and improve countless lives.
B. the controversy surrounding gene editing technology.
C. could revolutionize medical treatments.
D. was criticized and raised ethical concerns.
C. permits research but not clinical applications in humans.
B. an international framework is needed for responsible use.

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