📘 Reading Passage 1: Discovering the Ninth Planet – The Legacy of Clyde Tombaugh
A
In 1930, a 24-year-old farm boy from Kansas named Clyde Tombaugh made history by discovering Pluto, the ninth planet in our solar system at the time. Despite lacking a formal degree when he started, Tombaugh’s meticulous work at Lowell Observatory in Arizona cemented his legacy in astronomical history. His discovery was not a result of mere chance, but rather months of painstaking photographic comparisons using a blink comparator — a device allowing astronomers to detect movement of celestial objects across photographic plates.
B
The search for a ninth planet had been prompted by irregularities noticed in the orbits of Neptune and Uranus. Percival Lowell, a wealthy astronomer and founder of the observatory that bore his name, had predicted the existence of a mysterious "Planet X." After Lowell's death in 1916, the search continued sporadically until Tombaugh resumed it with renewed precision. His systematic approach, involving scanning the night sky with long-exposure photography, eventually led to the discovery of a faint, slowly moving object on 18 February 1930.
C
Pluto's discovery received massive public attention. The name was suggested by an 11-year-old girl from Oxford, Venetia Burney, and it was officially adopted by the astronomical community shortly thereafter. Pluto was initially celebrated as a major celestial body. However, due to its small size and unusual orbit, its planetary status was frequently debated. This debate intensified with advancements in telescopic technology, which revealed other similar-sized objects in the Kuiper Belt, a region beyond Neptune filled with icy bodies.
D
In 2006, over 75 years after Tombaugh’s discovery, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) reclassified Pluto as a “dwarf planet,” removing it from the list of major planets. Though this decision was controversial, many scientists supported the move, noting that Pluto did not meet all three criteria to qualify as a full-fledged planet. Interestingly, Tombaugh himself had passed away in 1997, but his ashes were launched aboard the New Horizons spacecraft, which flew past Pluto in 2015, capturing unprecedented close-up images and data of the distant world he had discovered.
E
Tombaugh’s contribution went far beyond Pluto. Throughout his career, he discovered numerous asteroids and contributed to the study of planetary surfaces. Despite his modest beginnings, he eventually earned degrees in astronomy and physics and taught at universities. His legacy continues not only in planetary science but also as a symbol of determination and curiosity. Today, many young astronomers cite his journey as their inspiration.
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📝 Questions 1–13
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🔹Questions 1–6: Complete the sentences below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER from the passage.
1. Clyde Tombaugh discovered Pluto in the year _____.
2. Tombaugh used a device called a _____ to examine photographic plates.
3. The search for Planet X was originally initiated by _____.
4. The name "Pluto" was proposed by a young girl from _____.
5. The discovery of Pluto was followed by the identification of similar objects in the _____.
6. Tombaugh’s ashes were sent into space aboard the _____ spacecraft.
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🔹Questions 7–10: Choose the correct letter A, B, C or D.
7. Why was the search for Planet X started?
A. Tombaugh predicted its existence
B. Lowell believed in another planet beyond Neptune
C. Pluto had already been seen through telescopes
D. It was known that Pluto caused Neptune’s orbit
8. What led to Pluto being classified as a dwarf planet?
A. It was smaller than Earth’s moon
B. It was too far from the Sun
C. It didn’t fulfill the planetary criteria
D. It was found to be a comet
9. What was significant about Venetia Burney?
A. She discovered Pluto with Tombaugh
B. She worked at the IAU
C. She suggested Pluto’s name
D. She launched the New Horizons probe
10. How did Tombaugh contribute to astronomy after discovering Pluto?
A. He became the director of NASA
B. He built telescopes for future missions
C. He discovered more celestial bodies
D. He published the planetary criteria for planets
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🔹Questions 11–13: Do the following statements agree with the information in the passage?
Write: TRUE / FALSE / NOT GIVEN
11. Tombaugh had a PhD in astronomy when he discovered Pluto.
12. Pluto was instantly accepted as a dwarf planet upon discovery.
13. The New Horizons mission collected data from Pluto.
Absolutely, here is Passage 2 in full IELTS academic reading style, modeled like the real IELTS exam, with:
A high-band academic passage on Twins Research
13 authentic IELTS-style questions
Answers + band 9-level explanations at the end
📘 Reading Passage 2: The Science of Twins – Nature, Nurture and Beyond
A
For decades, researchers have turned to twins to unlock the mysteries of human development. Twin studies provide one of the most powerful tools for separating the effects of genetics (nature) from the effects of environment (nurture). By comparing identical twins, who share 100% of their genes, to fraternal twins, who share roughly 50%, scientists can assess how much variation in traits like intelligence, personality, and health is influenced by heredity versus upbringing.
B
One of the most striking findings from twin research is the heritability of intelligence. Numerous studies, including those conducted by the Minnesota Twin Study, have shown that identical twins raised apart tend to have remarkably similar IQ scores. This suggests a significant genetic influence. However, environmental factors such as education, nutrition, and parental involvement still play a role, especially during early childhood.
C
Beyond cognitive ability, twin studies have explored mental health and behavioral traits. For example, the concordance rate — the likelihood that both twins exhibit the same trait — for conditions like schizophrenia is much higher among identical twins than fraternal ones. Interestingly, even when raised in the same household, twins can develop different psychological disorders, indicating that unique environmental factors and individual experiences also contribute significantly.
D
Modern technology, particularly genome mapping, has revolutionized twin studies. Researchers can now identify specific genes associated with diseases and personality traits, rather than simply noting correlations. Epigenetics, a new field, has revealed that identical twins may not remain genetically identical throughout life. Factors like diet, stress, and toxins can influence how genes are expressed, making one twin susceptible to a disease while the other remains unaffected.
E
Despite the immense value of twin research, it is not without criticism. Some argue that twin studies overlook socio-cultural influences that cannot be isolated easily. Others point to the ethical concerns involved in separating twins for research purposes. Moreover, the majority of twin studies have historically focused on populations in developed nations, limiting their applicability to a broader global context.
F
Nevertheless, twin studies remain a cornerstone of developmental psychology and medical genetics. They continue to provide compelling evidence that both genes and environment interact in complex ways to shape who we are. As technology advances and research broadens to more diverse populations, our understanding of human development will likely become even more nuanced.
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📝 Questions 14–26
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🔹Questions 14–19: Matching information
Match each statement with the correct paragraph (A–F).
Write the correct letter (A–F).
14. Describes how genetic differences may appear even in identical twins.
15. Refers to a long-term study that measured intelligence in twins.
16. Mentions that both genetic and environmental factors influence development.
17. Raises concerns about the limitations of twin studies.
18. Talks about differences in mental health between twins.
19. Explains how comparing types of twins helps scientists.
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🔹Questions 20–23: Choose the correct letter, A, B, C or D.
20. What is the concordance rate used to measure?
A. How long twins live
B. How often twins are born
C. Whether twins have the same trait
D. Whether twins are raised together or apart
21. What discovery has epigenetics made about twins?
A. Twins become more similar over time
B. Their genes are identical throughout life
C. One twin can age faster than the other
D. Gene expression can vary between them
22. Why might twin studies be questioned in terms of relevance?
A. They are based on rare genetic conditions
B. They focus only on twins with diseases
C. They mainly involve twins in developed countries
D. They ignore all environmental factors
23. What is one reason twins are valuable for research?
A. They are easy to study in laboratories
B. Their development patterns are unpredictable
C. They reveal the influence of either genes or environment
D. They rarely experience mental health issues
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🔹Questions 24–26: Do the following statements agree with the information in the passage?
Write: TRUE / FALSE / NOT GIVEN
24. Fraternal twins share less genetic material than identical twins.
25. The Minnesota Twin Study focused on twins from different ethnic backgrounds.
26. Identical twins raised together are more similar than those raised apart.
Fantastic! Here is the IELTS Reading Passage 3, exactly like the real exam — high-band, rich in academic tone, and crafted to test students on a wide range of IELTS question types.
📘 Passage 3: Changing Dynamics of Parenting in Britain
A
Parenting in Britain has undergone dramatic transformations over the past few decades. With the evolution of family structures, economic pressures, and shifting societal norms, the expectations placed on parents have expanded significantly. Gone are the days when parenting was perceived as a role confined to mothers; today, fathers, grandparents, and even institutions play a more active role in child-rearing. These changes have triggered debates on the balance between nurturing children and fostering independence.
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B
One notable shift has been in the increasing involvement of fathers. Traditionally, fathers were seen as breadwinners, with minimal participation in daily childcare. However, recent policies, including paternity leave and flexible working hours, have encouraged more hands-on fatherhood. Sociological studies have shown that children with actively involved fathers tend to perform better academically and emotionally. Still, many workplaces continue to penalise men who choose family responsibilities over work advancement.
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C
Another key change is the rise in dual-income households, which has necessitated greater reliance on external childcare. Nurseries, childminders, and after-school clubs have become integral to family life. While these services offer professional care, critics argue they cannot replace the emotional comfort of parental presence. The cost of childcare in the UK is among the highest in Europe, making it inaccessible for many working-class families.
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D
In parallel, parenting styles have evolved. A more child-centred approach is gaining prominence, emphasising open communication, emotional validation, and democratic decision-making. While this method is praised for nurturing confidence and empathy, some argue it leads to permissiveness and a lack of discipline. Others lament the decline of the so-called “tough love” approach once deemed essential for character development.
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E
Modern British parents also face mounting pressure from digital parenting. The widespread use of smartphones and social media among children has forced parents to monitor screen time, online behaviour, and digital safety. Parental controls, surveillance apps, and digital contracts are now common. However, some experts believe such measures may erode trust between parents and children, promoting secrecy rather than responsible use.
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F
Immigrant families in Britain add further complexity to the parenting landscape. Many hold on to traditional child-rearing values from their cultures while navigating the liberal norms of British society. This cultural clash can lead to intergenerational conflict, especially during adolescence. Yet, these families often bring strong community support systems, which can offset some of the challenges of modern parenting.
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G
Despite these changes, one thing remains constant: the desire of parents to give their children a better life. The methods may differ, but the intention is universal. As Britain continues to diversify and technology advances, parenting will likely become even more dynamic — blending the best of traditional wisdom with contemporary strategies.
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📝 Questions 27–40
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🔹Questions 27–31: Matching information
Match each statement with the correct paragraph (A–G).
Write the correct letter A–G.
27. Refers to the high price of childcare in Britain
28. Highlights the advantages of father involvement in child development
29. Mentions the risk of too much freedom in modern parenting styles
30. Discusses how immigrant parents manage differing cultural expectations
31. Suggests that technology may undermine trust between parents and children
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🔹Questions 32–35: Choose the correct letter, A, B, C or D.
32. What change has occurred regarding the role of fathers in the UK?
A. They now take over most household tasks
B. They are more likely to avoid parenting responsibilities
C. They are more engaged in day-to-day child care
D. Their participation has decreased due to work demands
33. What is a criticism of dual-income family setups?
A. They result in higher family savings
B. Parents are too focused on their careers
C. External childcare is emotionally inadequate
D. Children are forced to work part-time jobs
34. What is one concern with modern digital parenting?
A. Children become overly dependent on gadgets
B. Monitoring tools may harm parent-child trust
C. It makes children disinterested in learning
D. Parents are not digitally literate enough
35. How are immigrant families portrayed in the passage?
A. As struggling to adapt without support
B. As resisting modern British values
C. As integrating traditional and modern parenting practices
D. As avoiding British childcare services entirely
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🔹Questions 36–40: Do the following statements agree with the information in the passage?
Write: TRUE / FALSE / NOT GIVEN
36. Paternity leave has contributed to more active fatherhood in Britain.
37. Working-class families receive free childcare in the UK.
38. The “tough love” parenting method is more effective than modern styles.
39. Surveillance apps are becoming more common in parenting.
40. British parents now rely more on emotional support from extended families.
✅ Answer Key + Explanations
Q Answer Explanation
1 1930 Paragraph A: “made history by discovering Pluto… in 1930.”
2 blink comparator Paragraph A: “using a blink comparator — a device…”
3 Percival Lowell Paragraph B: “prompted by irregularities… Percival Lowell…”
4 Oxford Paragraph C: “an 11-year-old girl from Oxford, Venetia Burney…”
5 Kuiper Belt Paragraph C: “objects in the Kuiper Belt…”
6 New Horizons Paragraph D: “his ashes were launched aboard the New Horizons…”
7 B Paragraph B: “Percival Lowell… predicted the existence…”
8 C Paragraph D: “did not meet all three criteria…”
9 C Paragraph C: “The name was suggested by… Venetia Burney…”
10 C Paragraph E: “he discovered numerous asteroids…”
11 FALSE Paragraph A & E: “Despite lacking a formal degree…”
12 FALSE Paragraph C: “celebrated as a major celestial body… status was frequently debated.”
13 TRUE Paragraph D: “New Horizons… capturing… data of the distant world…”
✅ Answer Key + Explanations
Q Ans Explanation
14 D “Epigenetics… diet, stress… genes are expressed…” – Paragraph D
15 B “Minnesota Twin Study… similar IQ scores…” – Paragraph B
16 F “Evidence that both genes and environment interact…” – Paragraph F
17 E “Criticism… socio-cultural influences… ethical concerns…” – Paragraph E
18 C “Twins can develop different psychological disorders…” – Paragraph C
19 A “Comparing identical vs. fraternal twins…” – Paragraph A
20 C “Concordance rate… both twins exhibit the same trait…” – Paragraph C
21 D “Epigenetics… gene expression influenced by environment…” – Paragraph D
22 C “Studies focus on developed nations…” – Paragraph E
23 C “Powerful tools for separating effects of genetics and environment…” – Paragraph A
24 TRUE Paragraph A: “Fraternal twins… share roughly 50%” vs. “identical… 100%”
25 FALSE Paragraph B mentions the Minnesota Study, but not about ethnic backgrounds
26 NOT GIVEN No direct comparison is made between raised together vs. apart in terms of similarity
✅ Answers & Explanations
Q Ans Explanation
27 C “The cost of childcare in the UK is among the highest…” – Paragraph C
28 B “Children with involved fathers perform better…” – Paragraph B
29 D “Some argue it leads to permissiveness…” – Paragraph D
30 F “Navigating liberal British norms… intergenerational conflict…” – Paragraph F
31 E “May erode trust… promoting secrecy…” – Paragraph E
32 C “Fathers… more hands-on… paternity leave and flexible hours…” – Paragraph B
33 C “Critics argue [childcare] cannot replace… parental presence…” – Paragraph C
34 B “Some experts believe such measures may erode trust…” – Paragraph E
35 C “Blend traditional values… with liberal British norms…” – Paragraph F
36 TRUE “Paternity leave… encouraged more hands-on fatherhood…” – Paragraph B
37 FALSE “Childcare… among the highest… inaccessible for working-class families” – Paragraph C
38 NOT GIVEN “Some lament decline… tough love…” – Opinion mentioned but no comparison of effectiveness
39 TRUE “Parental controls, surveillance apps… are now common” – Paragraph E
40 NOT GIVEN No mention of emotional support from extended families
