IELTS 21 Feb IELTS Reading passage for practice
ACADEMIC READING PASSAGE 1
History of Dolls
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Dolls have existed for thousands of years and have served purposes far beyond simple entertainment. Archaeological discoveries suggest that early dolls were crafted from materials such as clay, wood and stone. In ancient Egypt, small figurines with movable limbs were found in children’s graves, indicating that dolls may have had both playful and symbolic significance. Similarly, in ancient Greece and Rome, young girls often dedicated their dolls to goddesses before marriage, marking the transition from childhood to adulthood.
During the Middle Ages in Europe, dolls were primarily handmade and often represented religious figures. These objects were not always toys but sometimes functioned as teaching tools to communicate moral or spiritual lessons. By the 16th century, however, dolls gradually became more associated with childhood amusement, especially among wealthy families.
The 18th and 19th centuries witnessed a transformation in doll production. With the Industrial Revolution, manufacturing techniques improved dramatically. Porcelain dolls became highly popular in France and Germany, admired for their delicate facial features and detailed clothing. However, these dolls were fragile and expensive, limiting ownership to upper-class households.
In the early 20th century, technological developments introduced more durable materials such as composition and later plastic. This allowed mass production, making dolls accessible to a broader population. The launch of iconic dolls in the mid-20th century, particularly those reflecting adult fashion trends, significantly influenced children’s perceptions of identity and beauty.
In recent decades, concerns have been raised about the cultural and psychological effects of dolls. Critics argue that unrealistic body proportions may shape harmful self-images among young users. As a response, manufacturers have diversified their product lines, introducing dolls of varying ethnicities, body types and abilities to reflect contemporary social values.
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Questions 1–7
TRUE / FALSE / NOT GIVEN
1. The earliest dolls were made exclusively for entertainment.
2. Some ancient dolls had religious significance.
3. Medieval dolls were mass-produced.
4. Porcelain dolls were affordable for most families.
5. Plastic contributed to wider availability of dolls.
6. Modern dolls have remained unchanged in design.
7. Manufacturers have ignored criticism about body image.
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Questions 8–13
Multiple Choice
8. Ancient Egyptian dolls were found mainly in
A. markets
B. graves
C. temples
D. schools
9. In ancient Greece, dolls were offered to
A. teachers
B. parents
C. goddesses
D. kings
10. During the Middle Ages, dolls were often used as
A. luxury gifts
B. political symbols
C. religious teaching tools
D. trading objects
11. Porcelain dolls were popular mainly because of their
A. durability
B. low price
C. realistic appearance
D. simple design
12. The introduction of plastic resulted in
A. fewer dolls being produced
B. higher prices
C. limited availability
D. mass production
13. In recent years, manufacturers have
A. reduced doll production
B. introduced more diversity
C. removed fashion influence
D. focused only on tradition
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ANSWER KEY + EXPLANATIONS
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1. FALSE
Text says dolls had symbolic significance, not only entertainment.
2. TRUE
They were dedicated to goddesses, showing religious importance.
3. FALSE
They were handmade, not mass-produced.
4. FALSE
They were expensive and limited to upper-class households.
5. TRUE
Plastic allowed mass production and broader access.
6. FALSE
Designs changed to include diversity.
7. FALSE
Manufacturers responded by diversifying dolls.
8. B
Text: found in children’s graves.
9. C
Dedicated to goddesses.
10. C
Used as teaching tools for moral or spiritual lessons.
11. C
Admired for delicate features and clothing detail.
12. D
Plastic enabled mass production.
13. B
They introduced dolls of varying ethnicities and body types.
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ACADEMIC READING PASSAGE 2
Buying Time
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In modern society, time is frequently described as a commodity. Expressions such as “saving time” and “wasting time” reveal how deeply economic language has shaped the way individuals perceive daily life. Unlike earlier agricultural communities, where work patterns were largely dictated by natural cycles, contemporary urban life operates according to strict schedules. As industrialisation progressed in the 18th and 19th centuries, time became standardised and measurable, enabling employers to regulate labour more precisely.
The introduction of mechanical clocks into factories marked a turning point in social organisation. Workers were no longer evaluated solely on productivity but also on punctuality and hours worked. This shift transformed time into something that could be bought and sold. Employers compensated workers for specific durations, while employees increasingly associated income with time invested. Consequently, the phrase “time is money” became more than a metaphor; it reflected a structural reality.
In recent decades, technological innovation has intensified this relationship. Digital tools promise efficiency, offering applications that organise calendars, automate tasks and accelerate communication. Paradoxically, however, many individuals report feeling busier than ever. Sociologists suggest that rather than freeing up leisure, time-saving technologies often raise expectations. When tasks can be completed more quickly, more responsibilities are added, leading to a cycle of continuous acceleration.
The concept of “buying time” has also emerged in consumer culture. Services such as food delivery, personal assistants and automated transport systems allow people to outsource routine tasks. While this may reduce immediate workload, critics argue that it reinforces socioeconomic inequality. Those with financial resources can delegate responsibilities, whereas others must trade their time directly for wages.
Ultimately, the commodification of time raises ethical and psychological questions. When every minute is evaluated in economic terms, opportunities for rest and reflection may be diminished. Scholars increasingly question whether constant productivity truly enhances wellbeing or merely perpetuates stress.
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Questions 14–19
Matching Headings (Choose correct heading A–G)
A. The historical standardisation of schedules
B. Technology and rising expectations
C. Ethical concerns about productivity
D. Agricultural work patterns
E. The economic value of labour time
F. Consumer outsourcing services
G. The psychological benefits of time pressure
14. Paragraph 1
15. Paragraph 2
16. Paragraph 3
17. Paragraph 4
18. Paragraph 5
19. Which paragraph mentions inequality?
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Questions 20–23
Summary Completion
Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the passage.
Time became measurable during the period of 20. ________, which allowed employers to control labour more effectively. Mechanical clocks enabled companies to assess not only output but also 21. ________. Although digital tools claim to improve 22. ________, many people feel increasingly busy. Some individuals can outsource daily responsibilities because they possess sufficient 23. ________.
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Questions 24–26
YES / NO / NOT GIVEN
24. Time was treated as a commodity in agricultural societies.
25. Technology has clearly reduced stress levels for most people.
26. All scholars believe productivity improves wellbeing.
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ANSWER KEY + EXPLANATIONS
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14. A
Paragraph 1 discusses standardised time and industrialisation.
15. E
Paragraph 2 explains time being bought and sold.
16. B
Paragraph 3 discusses digital tools increasing expectations.
17. F
Paragraph 4 discusses outsourcing services.
18. C
Paragraph 5 raises ethical and wellbeing concerns.
19. Paragraph 4
It mentions socioeconomic inequality.
20. industrialisation
Directly stated in paragraph 1.
21. punctuality
Paragraph 2 mentions workers evaluated on punctuality.
22. efficiency
Digital tools promise efficiency.
23. resources
Text: those with financial resources can delegate.
24. NO
Agricultural communities followed natural cycles, not commodified time.
25. NO
Text says people feel busier than ever.
26. NO
Text says scholars question whether productivity enhances wellbeing.
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ACADEMIC READING PASSAGE 3
Evaluating Language Strategies in Multinational Corporations
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As multinational corporations expand across borders, language management has become a central organisational concern. While early global enterprises relied heavily on local autonomy, modern firms increasingly adopt explicit language policies to coordinate communication across geographically dispersed offices. The adoption of a common corporate language, often English, is viewed by many executives as a practical solution to cross-border collaboration.
Proponents argue that a unified linguistic framework enhances efficiency. When internal documentation, meetings and digital communication operate within a shared medium, misunderstandings may be reduced and decision-making accelerated. Research conducted across European manufacturing firms indicates that shared language policies correlate with improved knowledge transfer between subsidiaries. Managers report fewer delays in project coordination and greater clarity in strategic implementation.
However, critics suggest that such policies generate unintended consequences. Employees who are less proficient in the designated corporate language may experience reduced participation in meetings and diminished confidence. Studies in Scandinavian firms demonstrate that staff members often avoid contributing complex ideas when operating in a second language. As a result, organisations may inadvertently silence valuable expertise.
Beyond internal dynamics, language strategy also influences corporate identity. Some multinational firms promote multilingualism rather than enforcing a single dominant tongue. Advocates of this approach argue that preserving linguistic diversity signals respect for local markets and strengthens employee engagement. Nevertheless, maintaining multiple working languages can increase translation costs and complicate administrative procedures.
Recent scholarship emphasises that no single model guarantees success. Instead, effective language management depends on organisational culture, industry demands and workforce composition. Companies operating in technology sectors may prioritise speed and standardisation, whereas firms embedded in culturally sensitive industries, such as media or education, may benefit from linguistic flexibility.
Ultimately, language policy reflects broader power structures within global corporations. The dominance of one language can reinforce hierarchical dynamics, privileging native speakers and marginalising others. Consequently, researchers advocate a balanced framework that combines operational efficiency with inclusivity.
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Questions 27–32
Multiple Choice
27. The main purpose of adopting a corporate language is to
A. reduce employee salaries
B. improve communication across branches
C. eliminate local offices
D. avoid translation entirely
28. Research in European firms showed improvement in
A. advertising campaigns
B. knowledge transfer
C. staff recruitment
D. customer satisfaction
29. Employees with lower proficiency often
A. dominate meetings
B. resign immediately
C. avoid expressing complex ideas
D. receive promotions
30. Promoting multilingualism is believed to
A. reduce cultural awareness
B. damage corporate identity
C. signal respect for local markets
D. eliminate administrative work
31. The success of a language policy depends mainly on
A. government regulation
B. employee age
C. organisational context
D. office location
32. The dominance of one language may
A. increase equality
B. reinforce hierarchy
C. reduce efficiency
D. eliminate diversity
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Questions 33–37
Matching Information (Write the correct paragraph A–F)
A. Paragraph 1
B. Paragraph 2
C. Paragraph 3
D. Paragraph 4
E. Paragraph 5
F. Paragraph 6
33. A reference to employees limiting their participation
34. A claim that language policies are not universally effective
35. Evidence linking shared language to better coordination
36. Mention of increased financial costs
37. Discussion of language and power imbalance
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Questions 38–40
Summary Completion
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS.
Many corporations choose English as a 38. ________ language to simplify collaboration. While this may enhance 39. ________, it can reduce confidence among non-native speakers. Scholars recommend a 40. ________ approach that values both efficiency and inclusivity.
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ANSWER KEY + EXPLANATIONS
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27. B
Paragraph 1: coordinate communication across dispersed offices.
28. B
Paragraph 2: improved knowledge transfer.
29. C
Paragraph 3: avoid contributing complex ideas.
30. C
Paragraph 4: signals respect for local markets.
31. C
Paragraph 5: depends on organisational culture and workforce.
32. B
Paragraph 6: reinforces hierarchical dynamics.
33. C
Paragraph 3: reduced participation.
34. E
Paragraph 5: no single model guarantees success.
35. B
Paragraph 2: correlation with improved knowledge transfer.
36. D
Paragraph 4: increase translation costs.
37. F
Paragraph 6: dominance reinforces hierarchy.
38. common corporate
Paragraph 1: common corporate language.
39. efficiency
Paragraph 2.
40. balanced framework
Paragraph 6: advocate a balanced framework.
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IELTS GENERAL TRAINING READING
SECTION 1
Questions 1–13
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Read the three notices below and answer Questions 1–13.
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TEXT A
COMMUNITY FITNESS CENTRE – MEMBERSHIP POLICY
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• All new members must complete a health declaration form.
• Membership fees must be paid monthly in advance.
• A minimum of two weeks’ written notice is required for cancellation.
• Personal training sessions must be booked 24 hours in advance.
• Members may suspend membership for medical reasons with a doctor’s certificate.
• Lockers are available but must be emptied daily.
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TEXT B
WEEKEND FARMERS’ MARKET – STALLHOLDER INFORMATION
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• Stall setup begins at 6:30 a.m. and must be completed by 8:00 a.m.
• Vendors must provide proof of food safety certification.
• Electricity access is available upon request for an additional fee.
• All waste must be removed by stallholders at the end of the day.
• Parking permits can be collected from the market office.
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TEXT C
CITY LIBRARY – DIGITAL BORROWING GUIDE
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• Library members may borrow up to five e-books at a time.
• Each digital loan lasts 14 days.
• Items are automatically returned on the due date.
• Late fees do not apply to digital materials.
• Technical assistance is available via email support.
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Questions 1–7
Choose the correct answer A, B or C.
1. To cancel gym membership, members must
A. visit in person
B. give written notice
C. pay an extra fee
2. Personal training sessions require booking
A. one day before
B. one week before
C. two days before
3. Market stallholders must show
A. identity documents
B. tax receipts
C. food safety certification
4. Electricity at the market
A. is free
B. costs extra
C. is unavailable
5. Digital books can be borrowed for
A. 7 days
B. 10 days
C. 14 days
6. Digital items
A. must be manually returned
B. are auto-returned
C. incur late fines
7. Gym lockers
A. are permanently assigned
B. must be cleared daily
C. require a deposit
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Questions 8–13
Which text (A, B or C) contains the following information?
8. Support is offered through email.
9. Extra payment is needed for certain facilities.
10. A medical document may be required.
11. Vendors must remove rubbish.
12. Borrowing limits are specified.
13. Specific starting time is mentioned.
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ANSWER KEY – SECTION 1
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1. B
2. A
3. C
4. B
5. C
6. B
7. B
8. C
9. B
10. A
11. B
12. C
13. B
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IELTS GENERAL TRAINING READING
SECTION 2
Questions 14–26
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Read the texts below and answer Questions 14–26.
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TEXT A
WORKPLACE HEALTH & SAFETY INDUCTION GUIDE
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All new employees must attend a compulsory safety induction before beginning their duties. The session includes emergency evacuation procedures, fire safety training and correct use of protective equipment.
Employees are required to wear identification badges at all times while on company premises. Any workplace injury, regardless of severity, must be reported immediately to a supervisor.
Protective clothing must be worn in designated high-risk areas. Failure to comply with safety regulations may result in disciplinary action.
Regular safety drills are conducted every six months. Participation is mandatory for all staff.
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TEXT B
STAFF LEAVE APPLICATION POLICY
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Employees wishing to take annual leave must submit a written request at least two weeks in advance. Leave approval depends on staffing requirements and business needs.
Emergency leave may be granted without prior notice, but supporting documentation may be requested upon return.
Sick leave exceeding three consecutive days requires a medical certificate.
Unused annual leave may be carried forward to the following year, subject to management approval.
Supervisors reserve the right to decline leave applications during peak operational periods.
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Questions 14–19
TRUE / FALSE / NOT GIVEN
14. Employees may start work before attending the safety induction.
15. Identification badges are optional in low-risk areas.
16. Minor injuries do not need to be reported.
17. Safety drills are held twice a year.
18. Annual leave requests must always be approved.
19. Medical proof is required for any sick leave.
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Questions 20–23
Choose the correct answer A, B or C.
20. Protective clothing is required
A. everywhere in the building
B. only in certain areas
C. only for managers
21. Emergency leave
A. always requires advance notice
B. never needs documentation
C. may require proof later
22. Annual leave approval depends on
A. employee age
B. business needs
C. salary level
23. Unused leave
A. expires immediately
B. can sometimes be carried forward
C. is automatically paid out
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Questions 24–26
Which text (A or B) contains the following information?
24. Consequences for breaking rules
25. Approval may be refused during busy times
26. Documentation required after returning to work
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ANSWER KEY – SECTION 2
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14. FALSE
Induction is compulsory before duties begin.
15. FALSE
Badges must be worn at all times.
16. FALSE
All injuries must be reported.
17. TRUE
Every six months = twice per year.
18. FALSE
Approval depends on staffing and business needs.
19. FALSE
Only sick leave exceeding three consecutive days requires a certificate.
20. B
Designated high-risk areas only.
21. C
Supporting documentation may be requested later.
22. B
Leave approval depends on business needs.
23. B
Can be carried forward with approval.
24. A
Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action.
25. B
Supervisors may decline during peak periods.
26. B
Emergency leave documentation may be requested upon return.
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IELTS GENERAL TRAINING READING
SECTION 3
Questions 27–40
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Read the article below and answer Questions 27–40.
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THE IMPACT OF REMOTE WORK ON EMPLOYEE PRODUCTIVITY
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Over the past decade, remote work has shifted from a rare employment arrangement to a mainstream practice. Advances in digital communication, cloud storage and project management platforms have enabled employees to perform tasks outside traditional office environments. While many organisations initially adopted remote systems out of necessity, numerous companies have retained flexible working models due to reported productivity benefits.
Supporters argue that working from home eliminates commuting time, reduces workplace distractions and allows employees to manage their schedules more efficiently. Studies indicate that many workers complete tasks more quickly when interruptions from colleagues are minimised. Furthermore, flexible hours enable individuals to align work responsibilities with peak concentration periods.
However, critics caution that remote work may blur the boundary between professional and personal life. Without clear separation, employees may struggle to disconnect, leading to longer working hours and potential burnout. Some managers also report difficulties in monitoring performance and maintaining team cohesion when communication is exclusively virtual.
Another concern relates to career progression. Employees who work remotely may receive fewer informal networking opportunities, which traditionally occur through spontaneous workplace interactions. As a result, visibility within the organisation may decline, potentially affecting promotion prospects.
Despite these challenges, many experts believe hybrid systems — combining remote and office-based work — offer a balanced solution. By integrating flexibility with face-to-face collaboration, organisations may maximise productivity while maintaining social connection and oversight.
Ultimately, the long-term effectiveness of remote work depends on company culture, management strategies and employee self-discipline. There is no universal model suitable for all industries, but careful implementation appears essential for sustained success.
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Questions 27–31
Choose the correct answer A, B, C or D.
27. Remote work became common mainly because of
A. employee protests
B. technological development
C. government law
D. office shortages
28. One benefit of working from home is
A. more meetings
B. reduced interruptions
C. increased supervision
D. fixed schedules
29. A major risk of remote work is
A. higher salaries
B. fewer deadlines
C. burnout
D. reduced technology use
30. Remote employees may face disadvantages in
A. commuting
B. productivity
C. networking
D. salary
31. Experts suggest hybrid systems because they
A. remove flexibility
B. combine advantages
C. reduce communication
D. increase travel time
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Questions 32–36
TRUE / FALSE / NOT GIVEN
32. All companies adopted remote work voluntarily.
33. Flexible hours can improve concentration for some workers.
34. Managers find it easier to supervise remote employees.
35. Informal workplace conversations can influence promotions.
36. Hybrid systems guarantee success in every industry.
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Questions 37–40
Summary Completion
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage.
Remote work reduces commuting time and workplace 37. ________. However, lack of clear separation between home and work may cause 38. ________. Remote employees might experience reduced organisational 39. ________. Successful long-term implementation depends on strong management and employee 40. ________.
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ANSWER KEY – SECTION 3
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27. B
Paragraph 1: advances in digital communication enabled remote work.
28. B
Paragraph 2: interruptions from colleagues are minimised.
29. C
Paragraph 3: potential burnout.
30. C
Paragraph 4: fewer networking opportunities.
31. B
Paragraph 5: hybrid offers balanced solution.
32. FALSE
Text says many adopted out of necessity, not voluntarily.
33. TRUE
Workers align tasks with peak concentration periods.
34. FALSE
Managers report difficulties monitoring performance.
35. TRUE
Informal networking may affect promotion prospects.
36. FALSE
No universal model suitable for all industries.
37. distractions
Paragraph 2: reduces workplace distractions.
38. burnout
Paragraph 3.
39. visibility
Paragraph 4: visibility within organisation may decline.
40. self-discipline
Final paragraph.
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