IELTS General Training Mock Test 1 - Reading

The local council has announced plans to expand the city library to meet the growing needs of the community. The current library, built in 1985, has become inadequate for the increasing number of visitors and the expanding collection of books and digital resources. The expansion project will include a new wing that will house a modern computer lab, additional study spaces, and a larger children's section. The council estimates that the project will cost approximately $2.5 million and will be completed by early 2025. Local residents have mixed reactions to the proposal. Some welcome the expansion as it will provide more space for community activities and improve access to educational resources. Others, however, are concerned about the potential disruption during construction and the impact on local traffic. The library currently serves over 50,000 visitors annually and lends more than 200,000 books each year. The expansion is expected to increase these numbers significantly, providing better facilities for students, researchers, and leisure readers alike.

Every workplace should have clear safety guidelines to protect employees and visitors. These guidelines help prevent accidents and ensure that everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency. First, all employees should receive training on how to use safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and emergency alarms. Regular drills should be conducted to practice evacuation procedures. It's also important to keep emergency exits clear and well-marked. Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times in designated areas. This includes helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and ear protection. Employees should inspect their PPE regularly and report any damage immediately. Hazard reporting is another crucial aspect of workplace safety. If workers notice any potential dangers, they should report them to their supervisor right away. This could include slippery floors, faulty equipment, or inadequate lighting. Early reporting can prevent accidents before they occur. Finally, maintaining a clean and organized workplace contributes significantly to safety. Clutter can hide hazards and make it difficult to move around safely. Regular cleaning schedules and proper storage solutions help keep the workplace safe for everyone.

Online shopping has transformed the retail industry in recent years. More and more consumers are choosing to shop from the comfort of their homes rather than visiting physical stores. This shift has brought both advantages and challenges for both consumers and retailers. One major advantage for shoppers is convenience. People can browse and purchase products 24 hours a day, seven days a week, without leaving their homes. They can compare prices from different retailers easily and read reviews from other customers before making decisions. Delivery options have also improved, with many retailers offering free shipping and fast delivery services. However, there are some drawbacks to online shopping. Customers cannot try on clothes or test products before buying, which can lead to returns and disappointment. There are also concerns about data security and privacy when providing payment information online. Additionally, some people miss the social aspect of shopping and the ability to get immediate assistance from sales staff. Retailers have had to adapt to these changes. Many physical stores have closed, while others have developed omnichannel strategies that combine online and offline shopping experiences. Some retailers now offer in-store pickup options for online orders, providing the best of both worlds. The future of retail seems to be heading towards a hybrid model where online and physical shopping complement each other rather than compete.