CELPIP Mock Test 1 - Questions and Answers

All 38 listening and 38 reading questions from this full mock test, with the correct answer and a full explanation for each one. Writing and speaking tasks are listed below the multiple-choice sections. To take this mock under real test conditions - with the official clock, locked sections and an automatic score - open the interactive mock tests page.

Listening - 38 questions (about 50 minutes)

Part 1 — Listening to Problem Solving

Recording - Part 1

Audio script

Female: Hi David, this is Priya Sharma. I just read through the inspection report you prepared for the house on Birch Lane, and I have a few questions before I send it to the seller.
Male: Of course, Priya. Let us go through it together. Overall, the house is in good shape for its age, but I flagged a few items.
Female: The biggest one for me is the furnace. The report says it is eighteen years old. Is that a problem?
Male: It is still heating properly, but eighteen years is near the end of a typical service life, which is usually fifteen to twenty years. I would plan to budget for a replacement within the next few years. It is not an immediate safety concern.
Female: What about the roof? You noted a few issues there.
Male: Three shingles are missing near the chimney, most likely from last winter's windstorms. It is a minor repair, not a full re-roof. A roofer can fix it in a single afternoon.
Female: And the electrical items in the kitchen?
Male: Two outlets are not GFCI protected. That is a quick fix for an electrician, and it is worth doing because the outlets sit close to the sink.
Female: I asked the seller to cover the roof and the outlets, and they agreed. They said no to the furnace because of the cost.
Male: That is reasonable. Most sellers agree to the smaller items.
Female: Once the repairs are done, can you go back for a re-inspection?
Male: Absolutely. I can do a follow-up visit next Tuesday morning at nine thirty.
Female: And will I get an updated report?
Male: Yes. I will add a short addendum to the original report within twenty-four hours of the visit.
Female: How much does the re-inspection cost?
Male: My standard rate is two hundred dollars, but since you are a returning client, I will take ten percent off, so the visit is one hundred and eighty dollars.
Female: That is generous. I will confirm the appointment by email.

Q1. Why does the woman call the inspector?

  1. A. To book an inspection for a new house
  2. B. To cancel an appointment
  3. C. To complain about the invoice
  4. D. To ask questions about the inspection report (correct answer)

Answer: D — The woman says she just read the inspection report he prepared and has a few questions before sending it to the seller.

Q2. How old is the furnace in the house?

  1. A. Eight years
  2. B. Fifteen years
  3. C. Eighteen years (correct answer)
  4. D. Twenty years

Answer: C — The inspector says the furnace is eighteen years old, which is near the end of its typical service life of fifteen to twenty years.

Q3. What is the main issue found with the roof?

  1. A. It needs a full re-roof
  2. B. The chimney is leaning
  3. C. Water leaks into the attic
  4. D. Three shingles are missing near the chimney (correct answer)

Answer: D — The inspector says three shingles are missing near the chimney and that a roofer can fix the problem in a single afternoon.

Q4. Which repairs will the seller pay for?

  1. A. The roof and the electrical outlets (correct answer)
  2. B. The furnace and the roof
  3. C. Only the furnace
  4. D. Only the electrical outlets

Answer: A — The woman says the seller agreed to cover the roof and the outlets but refused to pay for the furnace because of the cost.

Q5. When will the re-inspection take place?

  1. A. Next Tuesday at nine thirty in the morning (correct answer)
  2. B. Next Friday at noon
  3. C. Wednesday evening at six
  4. D. Saturday at ten in the morning

Answer: A — The inspector offers a follow-up visit next Tuesday morning at nine thirty, and the woman says she will confirm by email.

Q6. What discount does the inspector give the woman?

  1. A. Twenty percent
  2. B. Five percent
  3. C. Fifteen percent
  4. D. Ten percent (correct answer)

Answer: D — The inspector says he will take ten percent off his standard two hundred dollar rate because the woman is a returning client.

Part 2 — Listening to a Daily Life Conversation

Recording - Part 2

Audio script

Male: Hi, I am calling about the community garden on Maple Street. I would like to get a plot this year.
Female: Great timing. We added six new raised beds over the winter, so there are more spots than last season. Registration opens on May first.
Male: Do I sign up online?
Female: Either online through the community centre website or by phone. Both open at nine in the morning on registration day.
Male: What is the fee?
Female: A full raised bed is forty dollars for the season, and a half bed is twenty-five. We also offer a fifty percent discount for seniors and low-income households.
Male: Is there anything else I should know before registering?
Female: A few rules. Every new gardener must attend the orientation workshop on the first Saturday of May at ten in the morning. It covers the watering schedule, the compost bins, and the tool shed.
Male: I usually work Saturday mornings. Is the workshop mandatory?
Female: It is, unfortunately. There is a makeup session the following Wednesday evening if Saturday does not work for you.
Male: What about upkeep? I travel sometimes.
Female: Each gardener commits to four volunteer hours per season for the shared areas, such as the paths and the fence line. We track the hours on a board in the shed.
Male: And what if I plant late?
Female: You must have your plot planted within two weeks of receiving the key, or we reassign it to the next person on the waitlist. Twelve people are waiting right now.
Male: That sounds fair. I will mark May first on my calendar.

Q7. What is the man calling about?

  1. A. A repair at the community centre
  2. B. Volunteering in the tool shed
  3. C. Booking a workshop room
  4. D. Getting a plot at the community garden (correct answer)

Answer: D — The man says he is calling about the community garden on Maple Street because he would like to get a plot this year.

Q8. When does registration open?

  1. A. June first
  2. B. April fifteenth
  3. C. May first (correct answer)
  4. D. May fifteenth

Answer: C — The woman says registration opens on May first, online through the website or by phone, starting at nine in the morning.

Q9. How many new raised beds were added this year?

  1. A. Six (correct answer)
  2. B. Four
  3. C. Twelve
  4. D. Eight

Answer: A — The woman says six new raised beds were added over the winter, so there are more spots available than last season.

Q10. What is the fee for a full raised bed?

  1. A. Twenty-five dollars
  2. B. Fifty dollars
  3. C. Sixty dollars
  4. D. Forty dollars (correct answer)

Answer: D — The woman says a full raised bed costs forty dollars for the season while a half bed costs twenty-five dollars.

Q11. What does the orientation workshop cover?

  1. A. The watering schedule and compost bins (correct answer)
  2. B. How gardeners choose plot numbers
  3. C. When the annual fee is collected
  4. D. How the waitlist is closed

Answer: A — The woman says the mandatory workshop covers the watering schedule, the compost bins, and the tool shed.

Q12. How many volunteer hours are required each season?

  1. A. Ten
  2. B. Two
  3. C. Six
  4. D. Four (correct answer)

Answer: D — The woman explains that each gardener commits to four volunteer hours per season for shared areas such as the paths and fence line.

Q13. What happens if a gardener plants late?

  1. A. The plot is reassigned (correct answer)
  2. B. The fee doubles
  3. C. The key is taken away
  4. D. The waitlist grows

Answer: A — The woman says a plot must be planted within two weeks of receiving the key, otherwise it is reassigned to the next person on the waitlist.

Part 3 — Listening for Information

Recording - Part 3

Audio script

Female: This is a recorded message for everyone registered with the Lakeside Community Health Centre. We are pleased to announce a free blood pressure screening clinic for all adults aged forty and over.
Female: The clinic runs every Tuesday and Thursday from nine in the morning until noon throughout the month of June. No appointment is needed; this is a walk-in service, but please arrive ten minutes before you would like to be seen.
Female: The clinic is in Room 104 on the main floor. Use the north entrance and follow the blue signs.
Female: To get the most accurate reading, avoid coffee, tea, and smoking for thirty minutes before your check, and wear a short-sleeve top. Please bring a list of any medications you take along with your health card.
Female: The check itself takes about fifteen minutes: a nurse takes two readings a few minutes apart and compares them.
Female: If your reading is high, the nurse will explain the results and arrange a follow-up call within one week. You will also receive a booklet on heart-healthy eating and, if needed, a referral form for your family doctor.
Female: Please spread the word to friends and family, and we look forward to seeing you in June.

Q14. Who is the blood pressure clinic designed for?

  1. A. Children under twelve
  2. B. Pregnant women only
  3. C. College students only
  4. D. Adults aged forty and over (correct answer)

Answer: D — The recorded message says the free blood pressure screening clinic at the health centre is for all adults aged forty and over.

Q15. When is the clinic held?

  1. A. Every Tuesday and Thursday morning (correct answer)
  2. B. Every Monday and Wednesday morning
  3. C. Only on weekend afternoons
  4. D. Every Friday afternoon

Answer: A — The message says the clinic runs every Tuesday and Thursday from nine in the morning until noon during the month of June.

Q16. Where is the clinic located?

  1. A. On the second floor
  2. B. Near the east entrance
  3. C. In the parking wing
  4. D. In Room 104 on the main floor (correct answer)

Answer: D — The message says the clinic is in Room 104 on the main floor, reached through the north entrance by following the blue signs.

Q17. What should participants avoid for thirty minutes before the check?

  1. A. Eating a heavy meal
  2. B. Taking their medication
  3. C. Coffee, tea, and smoking (correct answer)
  4. D. Drinking any water

Answer: C — The message advises avoiding coffee, tea, and smoking for thirty minutes before the check so the reading is as accurate as possible.

Q18. What happens if a participant's reading is high?

  1. A. A follow-up call is arranged within a week (correct answer)
  2. B. They must go to the hospital
  3. C. The reading is ignored
  4. D. They are asked to return in a year

Answer: A — The message says a nurse explains the results and arranges a follow-up call within one week, with a booklet on heart-healthy eating.

Q19. Is an appointment required for the clinic?

  1. A. Yes, bookings open online
  2. B. Only in the mornings
  3. C. No, it is a walk-in service (correct answer)
  4. D. Yes, but only for new patients

Answer: C — The message says no appointment is needed because the clinic is a walk-in service, though people should arrive ten minutes early.

Part 4 — Listening to a News Item

Recording - Part 4

Audio script

Male: This is the midday news for Wednesday, June tenth. The city's public library has announced the return of its summer reading program for children aged five to twelve.
Male: The program runs from July first through August thirty-first, and registration opens on June fifteenth, free of charge, online or at any library branch.
Male: Last summer, eighteen hundred young readers took part, and the library hopes to reach two thousand this year.
Male: Each registered child receives a reading log and a sticker for every book they finish. Children who complete the program by the end of August receive a free book and a ballot for the grand prize draws, which include gift cards to a local bookshop and family passes to the aquatic centre.
Male: Weekly activities include story time on Tuesday mornings and a craft session every Friday at two o'clock, led by library staff.
Male: For families who cannot reach a branch, the travelling library van will visit five parks on weekday afternoons.
Male: Teens aged fourteen and older can volunteer to help run the sessions and earn community service hours, and the library is looking for sixty volunteers this season.
Male: The program is funded in part by the Friends of the Library, who donated fifteen hundred dollars this year. Registration is limited, so families are encouraged to sign up early.

Q20. What age group can join the summer reading program?

  1. A. Children aged three to six
  2. B. Children aged ten to sixteen
  3. C. Children aged five to twelve (correct answer)
  4. D. Children aged six to nine

Answer: C — The news says the summer reading program is for children aged five to twelve and runs from July first through August thirty-first.

Q21. When does registration for the summer reading program open?

  1. A. July first
  2. B. August thirty-first
  3. C. June fifteenth (correct answer)
  4. D. June tenth

Answer: C — The report says registration for the program opens on June fifteenth, free of charge, online or at any library branch.

Q22. What do children receive for finishing each book?

  1. A. A free book
  2. B. A gift card
  3. C. A bus pass
  4. D. A sticker (correct answer)

Answer: D — The news says each registered child receives a reading log and a sticker for every book they finish during the summer.

Q23. What do children who complete the program receive?

  1. A. A free book and a ballot for the prize draws (correct answer)
  2. B. A season pass to the aquatic centre
  3. C. A certificate and a t-shirt
  4. D. A discount at the bookshop

Answer: A — The report says finishers get a free book and a ballot for the grand prize draws, which include gift cards and family passes.

Q24. How many children took part in the program last summer?

  1. A. Two thousand
  2. B. Fifteen hundred
  3. C. Eighteen hundred (correct answer)
  4. D. Twelve hundred

Answer: C — The news says eighteen hundred young readers took part last summer and the library hopes to reach two thousand this year.

Q25. When do the craft sessions take place?

  1. A. Tuesday mornings
  2. B. Sunday afternoons
  3. C. Friday at two o'clock (correct answer)
  4. D. Saturday at noon

Answer: C — The report says a craft session is held every Friday at two o'clock, while story time happens on Tuesday mornings.

Q26. How can teenagers help with the program?

  1. A. By volunteering and earning service hours (correct answer)
  2. B. By donating books
  3. C. By writing the story times
  4. D. By driving the library van

Answer: A — The news says teens aged fourteen and older can volunteer to help run sessions and earn community service hours, with sixty volunteers needed.

Part 5 — Listening to a Discussion

Recording - Part 5

Audio script

Male: Did you check the snow report for Silver Peak? There are sixty-two centimetres at the summit and forty at the base, with twelve centimetres falling overnight.
Female: That is better than last weekend. Are all the lifts running?
Male: The main chairlift is open, but the east lift is still closed. They are waiting on a replacement cable part, and the notice says it should open next weekend if the part arrives.
Female: I heard the front-side runs are groomed. What about the back bowls?
Male: The report says the back bowls are open, but the avalanche risk is moderate, so stick to the markers and the groomed lines.
Male: I booked a beginner lesson at ten in the morning, so I will be on the bunny hill for the first half of the day.
Female: How much are day passes this weekend? I saw something about early-bird pricing.
Male: Thirty-eight dollars instead of the usual fifty, but only if you buy before Friday night, either at the ticket counter or online.
Female: And parking? Last year we circled the lot for an hour.
Male: The lots fill up by eight, so take the free shuttle from the town square. It runs every twenty minutes, so we should catch the seven-forty.
Female: I am in. The cafe reopened last week too, and they are serving hot chocolate again, which is my real reason for going.

Q27. How much snow is at the base of Silver Peak?

  1. A. Sixty-two centimetres
  2. B. Twelve centimetres
  3. C. Fifty centimetres
  4. D. Forty centimetres (correct answer)

Answer: D — The first speaker says the snow report shows forty centimetres at the base and sixty-two centimetres at the summit.

Q28. Why is the east lift still closed?

  1. A. The snow is too deep
  2. B. It is waiting on a replacement cable part (correct answer)
  3. C. The wind is too strong
  4. D. It is being repainted

Answer: B — The first speaker explains that the east lift is closed because they are waiting on a replacement cable part, with a possible reopening next weekend.

Q29. What is the avalanche risk in the back bowls?

  1. A. Low
  2. B. Moderate (correct answer)
  3. C. High
  4. D. Extreme

Answer: B — The first speaker says the report describes the avalanche risk in the back bowls as moderate, so skiers should stay on the markers.

Q30. What has the third speaker booked for Saturday?

  1. A. A rental package
  2. B. A beginner lesson at ten in the morning (correct answer)
  3. C. A seat on the shuttle
  4. D. A table at the cafe

Answer: B — The third speaker says he booked a beginner lesson at ten in the morning and will be on the bunny hill for the first half of the day.

Q31. What is the early-bird price for a day pass this weekend?

  1. A. Thirty-eight dollars (correct answer)
  2. B. Fifty dollars
  3. C. Forty-two dollars
  4. D. Twenty-five dollars

Answer: A — The first speaker says the early-bird day pass is thirty-eight dollars instead of the usual fifty, but only if bought before Friday night.

Q32. Why should the group take the shuttle from town?

  1. A. The road to the hill is closed
  2. B. The parking lots fill up by eight (correct answer)
  3. C. The shuttle is cheaper than parking
  4. D. The hill is far from town

Answer: B — The first speaker says the parking lots fill up by eight o'clock, so they should take the free shuttle from the town square every twenty minutes.

Part 6 — Listening to Viewpoints

Recording - Part 6

Audio script

Female: Some people think the new reservation system on the island ferry routes is a great idea, but I want to share my mixed feelings. Starting this summer, every sailing to the outer islands requires a reservation, even for walk-on passengers.
Female: I do like one part: you are guaranteed a spot, so no more lining up at dawn and hoping to squeeze onto the boat. That is a real improvement.
Female: Here is what bothers me, though. The booking fee is ten dollars per reservation, and it is charged even when you book online yourself, which used to be free. For a family of four, that is an extra forty dollars before you even buy a ticket.
Female: The booking window has also changed: you can now reserve sixty days ahead instead of thirty. That sounds generous, but it means regular travellers must plan their lives two months in advance.
Female: If your plans change, moving the reservation is free up to twenty-four hours before sailing; after that, it costs fifteen dollars.
Female: I learned this the hard way last week when I showed up for my usual sailing without a reservation. The boat was full, so I waited three hours for the next one.
Female: The one concession I appreciate is the loyalty perk: after ten bookings in a year, you get ten percent off the fare. That helps me, since I commute twice a week.
Female: Still, I would rather see the fee dropped for walk-on passengers. Guaranteed spots are great, but the fees and the long planning window make the system harder on regulars like me.

Q33. What change does the speaker describe?

  1. A. Ferries now run fewer sailings
  2. B. Reservations are required on all summer sailings (correct answer)
  3. C. Ticket prices have doubled
  4. D. The ferry terminal has moved

Answer: B — The speaker says every sailing to the outer islands now requires a reservation this summer, even for walk-on passengers.

Q34. What does the speaker like about the new system?

  1. A. The lower ticket prices
  2. B. Guaranteed spots on the boat (correct answer)
  3. C. Shorter trips
  4. D. Online check-in

Answer: B — The speaker says she likes that travellers are guaranteed a spot, so there is no more lining up and hoping to squeeze on.

Q35. How much is the booking fee?

  1. A. Five dollars
  2. B. Ten dollars (correct answer)
  3. C. Fifteen dollars
  4. D. Twenty dollars

Answer: B — The speaker says the booking fee is ten dollars per reservation, charged even for online bookings that used to be free.

Q36. How far ahead can travellers now make reservations?

  1. A. Thirty days
  2. B. Ninety days
  3. C. Sixty days (correct answer)
  4. D. Fourteen days

Answer: C — The speaker says travellers can now reserve sixty days ahead instead of the previous thirty-day window.

Q37. What happened to the speaker last week?

  1. A. Her ferry was cancelled
  2. B. She waited three hours for a full sailing (correct answer)
  3. C. She lost her reservation
  4. D. Her ticket was not accepted

Answer: B — The speaker says she arrived without a reservation, the boat was full, and she waited three hours for the next sailing.

Q38. What loyalty perk do frequent travellers receive?

  1. A. Free parking
  2. B. Ten percent off the fare after ten bookings (correct answer)
  3. C. A free passenger lounge
  4. D. Priority boarding

Answer: B — The speaker says after ten bookings in a year, travellers get ten percent off the fare, which helps her as a twice-weekly commuter.

Reading - 38 questions (about 57 minutes)

Part 1 — Reading Correspondence

First text

Dear Members of Cedar Grove Community Pool,

I am writing to let you know that the pool will close on Monday, September 14, for a major renovation. The work includes a new heating system, fully accessible change rooms, and a resurfaced main tank. We expect to reopen the doors on Monday, November 2, after the seven-week project is finished.

During the closure, your current pass remains valid at the Maple Heights Aquatic Centre at 210 Birch Avenue. Weekday lane swims run from 6:00 to 9:00 AM and from 12:00 to 8:00 PM, and weekend family swims run from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. All Saturday swim lesson classes for children will continue at Maple Heights for the duration of the closure.

If you prefer not to swim elsewhere, you may pause your membership at no cost. To pause, simply email us at info@cedargrovepool.ca with the subject line Pause. Memberships will restart automatically once the pool reopens, and no forms are required.

Sincerely,
Nora Fenwick
Aquatics Supervisor, Cedar Grove Community Pool

Q1. What is the main purpose of this notice?

  1. A. To advertise a new swimming program
  2. B. To cancel all pool memberships
  3. C. To announce a price increase
  4. D. To announce a temporary pool closure for renovations (correct answer)

Answer: D — The notice tells members that the pool will close on September 14 for a major renovation and explains what happens during the closure.

Q2. On what date does the pool close?

  1. A. Monday, November 2
  2. B. Saturday, September 12
  3. C. Friday, October 30
  4. D. Monday, September 14 (correct answer)

Answer: D — The notice states that the pool will close on Monday, September 14, when the renovation work begins.

Q3. Which of the following is part of the planned renovation?

  1. A. A larger parking lot
  2. B. A second storey
  3. C. A new cafeteria
  4. D. A new heating system (correct answer)

Answer: D — The notice lists a new heating system, fully accessible change rooms, and a resurfaced main tank as the planned improvements.

Q4. Where can members swim while the pool is closed?

  1. A. The outdoor lake
  2. B. Maple Heights Aquatic Centre (correct answer)
  3. C. The high school gym
  4. D. A private club downtown

Answer: B — The notice says members can use their current pass at the Maple Heights Aquatic Centre at 210 Birch Avenue during the closure.

Q5. What are the weekend family swim hours at Maple Heights?

  1. A. 6:00 to 9:00 AM
  2. B. 12:00 to 8:00 PM
  3. C. 1:00 to 4:00 PM (correct answer)
  4. D. 5:00 to 9:00 PM

Answer: C — The notice states that weekend family swims run from 1:00 to 4:00 PM, while the other times listed are weekday lane swims.

Q6. How can a member pause their membership at no cost?

  1. A. By phone call only
  2. B. By email with the subject line Pause (correct answer)
  3. C. By visiting the front desk
  4. D. By mail with a signed form

Answer: B — The notice says members simply email info@cedargrovepool.ca with the subject line Pause and no forms are required.

Second text - complete the blanks

Dear Ms. Fenwick,

Thank you for the notice about the {BLANK_1}. My daughter attends the Saturday swim {BLANK_2} class, so I am glad to hear it will continue at {BLANK_3} during the closure. We will also {BLANK_4} our family membership so we do not lose time while the pool is {BLANK_5}. Please let me know if you need anything else from us.

Best regards,
Mei Chen

Q7. Blank 1: choose the correct word

  1. A. fundraiser
  2. B. inspection
  3. C. expansion
  4. D. renovation (correct answer)

Answer: D — Passage A announces the pool renovation, so the reply thanks the office for the notice about the renovation.

Q8. Blank 2: choose the correct word

  1. A. team
  2. B. diving
  3. C. lesson (correct answer)
  4. D. exam

Answer: C — Passage A says all Saturday swim lesson classes for children continue at Maple Heights, so the daughter attends a lesson class.

Q9. Blank 3: choose the correct word

  1. A. the outdoor lake
  2. B. Maple Heights Aquatic Centre (correct answer)
  3. C. the beach
  4. D. the community gym

Answer: B — Passage A states that the Saturday swim classes are held at the Maple Heights Aquatic Centre during the closure.

Q10. Blank 4: choose the correct word

  1. A. renew
  2. B. pause (correct answer)
  3. C. upgrade
  4. D. transfer

Answer: B — Passage A offers members the option to pause their membership at no cost, which is what the writer wants for her family.

Q11. Blank 5: choose the correct word

  1. A. open
  2. B. heated
  3. C. booked
  4. D. closed (correct answer)

Answer: D — Passage A explains that the pool is closed for the seven-week renovation, so the pause lasts while the pool is closed.

Part 2 — Reading to Apply a Diagram

The table below shows the proposed fare changes reviewed by the Metro City transit board. The board approved every change except the airport express increase, which was deferred for one year. Ridership data show that weekend ridership rose by 12 percent after last year's discount, so the board cut the weekend day pass again. The senior monthly pass requires valid identification.

Fare type | Current Fare | Proposed Fare | Change
Adult single (cash) | $3.25 | $3.50 | +8%
Adult monthly pass | $112.00 | $116.00 | +4%
Senior monthly pass | $55.00 | $58.00 | +5%
Student monthly pass | $100.00 | $95.00 | -5%
Weekend day pass | $12.00 | $10.00 | -17%
Airport express fare | $5.50 | $7.00 | +27%

Q12. Which fare type shows the largest percentage increase?

  1. A. Adult monthly pass
  2. B. Senior monthly pass
  3. C. Airport express fare (correct answer)
  4. D. Adult single cash fare

Answer: C — The airport express fare rises from $5.50 to $7.00, an increase of about 27 percent, which is the largest change in the table.

Q13. What is the current price of an adult single cash fare?

  1. A. $3.50
  2. B. $3.75
  3. C. $4.00
  4. D. $3.25 (correct answer)

Answer: D — The table lists the current adult single cash fare as $3.25, with a proposed increase to $3.50.

Q14. Which fare type decreases by the largest percentage?

  1. A. Student monthly pass
  2. B. Weekend day pass (correct answer)
  3. C. Senior monthly pass
  4. D. Airport express fare

Answer: B — The weekend day pass falls from $12.00 to $10.00, a drop of about 17 percent, which is the largest decrease shown in the table.

Q15. What did the board decide about the proposed airport express increase?

  1. A. Approved it in full
  2. B. Deferred it for one year (correct answer)
  3. C. Removed the fare entirely
  4. D. Doubled the increase

Answer: B — The passage says the board approved every change except the airport express increase, which was deferred for one year.

Q16. What does the passage say seniors must do to receive the discounted monthly pass?

  1. A. Buy a yearly pass
  2. B. Travel only after 9 AM
  3. C. Show valid identification (correct answer)
  4. D. Register at a transit office

Answer: C — The passage states that the senior monthly pass requires valid identification from the rider.

Q17. Which fare type has the smallest approved increase?

  1. A. Adult single cash fare
  2. B. Weekend day pass
  3. C. Adult monthly pass (correct answer)
  4. D. Airport express fare

Answer: C — The adult monthly pass rises from $112.00 to $116.00, an increase of about 4 percent, which is the smallest approved increase.

Q18. Why did the board cut the weekend day pass price again?

  1. A. The pass was unpopular with riders
  2. B. Trains became too crowded
  3. C. Operating costs fell last year
  4. D. Weekend ridership rose 12 percent after the last discount (correct answer)

Answer: D — The passage credits last year's discount with raising weekend ridership by 12 percent, so the board cut the pass price again.

Q19. Which of the following is NOT part of the approved fare plan?

  1. A. The adult single fare rises to $3.50
  2. B. The weekend day pass drops to $10.00
  3. C. The airport express fare rises to $7.00 (correct answer)
  4. D. The student monthly pass falls to $95.00

Answer: C — The airport express increase was deferred for one year, so raising that fare to $7.00 was not approved as part of the plan.

Part 3 — Reading for Information

{'label': 'A', 'text': 'In late winter, syrup producers tap sugar maple trees to collect sap. A small hole is drilled in the trunk and a metal spout is inserted, so the clear, watery sap drips into hanging buckets or flows through plastic tubing. A single tap produces about forty litres of sap over the course of the season.'}

{'label': 'B', 'text': 'Because sap is more than ninety percent water, it must be boiled to concentrate the sugar. Producers pour the sap into a wide, shallow pan called an evaporator, where steam rises away as the liquid slowly thickens. The sap is boiled until it reaches sixty-six percent sugar content, and it takes about forty litres of sap to make one litre of syrup.'}

{'label': 'C', 'text': 'Once boiling is finished, the syrup is filtered and graded by colour and flavour. Light golden and amber syrups have a delicate, mild taste, while dark and very dark syrups are stronger and more pronounced. The grade is printed on every bottle so buyers know what to expect.'}

{'label': 'D', 'text': "The syrup is bottled while it is still hot and sealed right away so it stays fresh without added preservatives. Most producers sell their bottles at farmers markets, roadside stands, and grocery stores, and the province of Quebec supplies about seventy percent of the world's maple syrup."}

Q20. Sugar maple trees are tapped in late winter to collect sap.

  1. A. A (correct answer)
  2. B. B
  3. C. C
  4. D. D
  5. E. E

Answer: A — Paragraph A describes how producers tap sugar maple trees in late winter so that sap drips into buckets or tubing.

Q21. One tap can produce about forty litres of sap in a single season.

  1. A. A (correct answer)
  2. B. B
  3. C. C
  4. D. D
  5. E. E

Answer: A — Paragraph A states that a single tap produces about forty litres of sap over the course of the season.

Q22. Boiling removes water from the sap until the sugar content reaches sixty-six percent.

  1. A. A
  2. B. B (correct answer)
  3. C. C
  4. D. D
  5. E. E

Answer: B — Paragraph B explains that the sap is boiled until it reaches sixty-six percent sugar content while steam carries away the water.

Q23. It takes about forty litres of sap to make one litre of finished syrup.

  1. A. A
  2. B. B (correct answer)
  3. C. C
  4. D. D
  5. E. E

Answer: B — Paragraph B gives the ratio of about forty litres of sap needed to produce one litre of syrup.

Q24. Darker grades of syrup have a stronger flavour than golden grades.

  1. A. A
  2. B. B
  3. C. C (correct answer)
  4. D. D
  5. E. E

Answer: C — Paragraph C states that dark and very dark syrups are stronger, while golden and amber syrups have a delicate, mild taste.

Q25. The syrup grade is printed on every bottle so buyers know what to expect.

  1. A. A
  2. B. B
  3. C. C (correct answer)
  4. D. D
  5. E. E

Answer: C — Paragraph C says the grade is printed on every bottle so that buyers know what to expect from the syrup.

Q26. Quebec produces about seventy percent of the world's maple syrup.

  1. A. A
  2. B. B
  3. C. C
  4. D. D (correct answer)
  5. E. E

Answer: D — Paragraph D reports that the province of Quebec supplies about seventy percent of the world's maple syrup.

Q27. Bottles are sealed while the syrup is hot to keep it fresh without preservatives.

  1. A. A
  2. B. B
  3. C. C
  4. D. D (correct answer)
  5. E. E

Answer: D — Paragraph D says the syrup is bottled while still hot and sealed right away so it stays fresh without added preservatives.

Q28. A single maple tree can be tapped for sap every year without any harm.

  1. A. A
  2. B. B
  3. C. C
  4. D. D
  5. E. E (correct answer)

Answer: E — The passage never states how often a tree can be tapped or whether tapping harms the tree, so this claim is not supported.

Part 4 — Reading for Viewpoints

First text

Meadowbrook Public Library is considering whether to stop charging overdue fines. Branch manager Priya Nair argues in favour of going fine-free. She says fines push low-income families and children away from the library, and studies of fine-free libraries show that borrowing rises while returns stay steady. She also notes that fines make up less than three percent of the library budget, and that staff time spent chasing payments could be used for programs instead.

Councillor Dan Kovacs disagrees. He argues that fines teach borrowers responsibility, and that removing them would remove the incentive to return books on time, which would lengthen wait times for popular titles. He points out that the fine revenue pays for the summer reading program, so he suggests keeping fines but lowering them and adding a one-week grace period.

Q29. Why does Priya Nair support removing overdue fines?

  1. A. Fines push low-income families and children away from the library (correct answer)
  2. B. Fines are the library's largest source of income
  3. C. Fines reduce the amount of staff work
  4. D. Fines are collected by another agency

Answer: A — Priya argues that fines push low-income families and children away, while fine-free libraries see borrowing rise and returns stay steady.

Q30. What share of the library budget comes from fines?

  1. A. Less than three percent (correct answer)
  2. B. About ten percent
  3. C. More than half
  4. D. Exactly twenty percent

Answer: A — Priya notes that fines make up less than three percent of the library budget, so the lost revenue would be small.

Q31. What does Dan Kovacs fear would increase if fines were removed?

  1. A. Wait times for popular titles (correct answer)
  2. B. The cost of new books
  3. C. Staff salaries
  4. D. Building rents

Answer: A — Dan says that removing fines would remove the incentive to return books on time, which would lengthen wait times for popular titles.

Q32. What does Dan say the fine revenue pays for?

  1. A. The summer reading program (correct answer)
  2. B. New computers
  3. C. Parking lot repairs
  4. D. Staff training courses

Answer: A — Dan points out that the fine revenue pays for the library's summer reading program each year.

Q33. What compromise does Dan Kovacs suggest?

  1. A. Keep fines but lower them and add a one-week grace period (correct answer)
  2. B. Double the fines and hire more staff
  3. C. Ban borrowing for late users
  4. D. Move fine collection to the city budget

Answer: A — Rather than removing fines entirely, Dan suggests keeping them but lowering the amounts and adding a one-week grace period.

Reader comment

I agree with {BLANK_1} that fines push away the very families a library should serve, and no child should lose access because a book was returned late. But {BLANK_2} is right that the library depends on the revenue that pays for the {BLANK_3}. A sensible middle ground is to {BLANK_4} the fines, forgive them entirely for children, and give every borrower a {BLANK_5} of at least one week before any charge applies.

Q34. Blank 1: choose the correct word

  1. A. the publisher
  2. B. Priya Nair (correct answer)
  3. C. the mayor
  4. D. Dan Kovacs

Answer: B — The commenter agrees with the view that fines push families away, which is exactly the argument that Priya Nair makes in Passage A.

Q35. Blank 2: choose the correct word

  1. A. Dan Kovacs (correct answer)
  2. B. Priya Nair
  3. C. the treasurer
  4. D. the editor

Answer: A — Dan Kovacs is the one who warns that the library depends on the revenue that funds its programs.

Q36. Blank 3: choose the correct word

  1. A. summer reading program (correct answer)
  2. B. building fund
  3. C. book club
  4. D. parking garage

Answer: A — Passage A states that the fine revenue pays for the summer reading program, which is the program the commenter refers to here.

Q37. Blank 4: choose the correct word

  1. A. raise
  2. B. remove
  3. C. lower (correct answer)
  4. D. double

Answer: C — Dan suggests keeping fines but lowering them, so reducing the amounts is the middle ground the commenter describes.

Q38. Blank 5: choose the correct word

  1. A. penalty
  2. B. grace period (correct answer)
  3. C. discount
  4. D. reminder

Answer: B — Dan suggests adding a one-week grace period before any late charge applies, and the commenter repeats that idea here.

Writing — 2 tasks (about 56 minutes)

Task 1 — email

You are a hotel manager at the Blue Horizon Hotel. Write an email to a guest who wrote to complain about a SkyTrain delay that made them late for a meeting they had at your hotel. Apologize, explain that the hotel cannot control transit, but offer a small compensation (e.g., a free drink at the coffee shop) to show goodwill. Also, suggest they use the hotel's complimentary bike service next time.

Word limit: 150 / 200

Task 2 — response_to_survey

You work at a large hospital in Edmonton. Your employer is surveying staff to decide how to spend the next round of wellness funding. Option A: fund flexible scheduling and additional paid leave. Option B: fund on-site mental health counselling and a fitness subsidy. In your survey response, choose the option you think will help hospital staff more and explain why. Write about 150 words.

Word limit: 150 / 200

Speaking — 8 tasks (about 17 minutes)

Task 1 — giving_advice

A friend is moving to Vancouver and wants advice on getting around the city without a car. What advice would you give them about using public transit, cycling, or walking? Consider the SkyTrain, BC Ferries, and bike paths.

Preparation: 30s — Speaking: 90s

Task 2 — talking_about_personal_experience

Talk about a time you spent outdoors or participated in a recreational activity that was particularly memorable. Where did you go, what did you do, and why does it stand out in your memory?

Preparation: 30s — Speaking: 60s

Task 3 — describing_a_scene

Describe the scene in the picture in as much detail as possible. Talk about the setting, the people, what they are doing and the atmosphere.

Preparation: 30s — Speaking: 60s

Task 4 — making_predictions

Look at the same picture again. Predict what happens next in this scene and explain why you think so.

Preparation: 30s — Speaking: 60s

Task 5 — comparing_and_persuading

A university researcher is deciding between two research grants: one from a government agency and one from a private company. The government grant is for four years for a public health project, while the private grant is for two years for a commercial product. Compare the two and persuade the researcher to choose one. Two options are shown as pictures A and B. Choose the one you would recommend and persuade the other person to agree with you. Use the pictures to support your reasons. Both options are shown in one picture, labelled A and B. Choose the one you would recommend and persuade the other person to agree with you. Use the picture to support your reasons.

Preparation: 60s — Speaking: 60s

Task 6 — dealing_with_difficult_situation

You are a fisheries officer. A boat owner calls you, upset because a storm has damaged his fishing gear and he cannot afford repairs. How would you handle this situation? Explain what you would say and do.

Preparation: 60s — Speaking: 60s

Task 7 — expressing_opinions

Some people feel that Vancouver’s rainy weather is a drawback for tourism. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons and examples.

Preparation: 30s — Speaking: 90s

Task 8 — describing_unusual_situation

Describe what is unusual or unexpected in this picture. Say what is happening, why it stands out and what you would do in that situation.

Preparation: 30s — Speaking: 60s