Exam Practice 2
1. A
2. C
3. C
4. A
5. D
6. a finger bowl
7. a special servant
8. the evening meal
9. wreath of flowers
10. ceremonial washing
Listening
1. 4 years
2. developing countries
3. water supply
4. education
5. city stadium
6. comfortable clothes
7. C
8. A
9. A
10. B
Speaking
One of the most charming towns I’ve ever visited is Kremenets, located in the Ternopil
region of western Ukraine.
In general, Kremenets is a quiet, picturesque town surrounded by green hills and steeped in
history. It has a peaceful, almost timeless atmosphere, and it feels very different from the
fast-paced rhythm of larger cities. The town is relatively small, but it’s full of character and
natural beauty.
One of the key features of Kremenets is the Kremenets Castle ruins, which sit atop a hill
overlooking the town. Climbing up there offers breathtaking views of the entire valley, and
the ruins themselves carry a strong sense of history. Another notable landmark is the Jesuit
College, a magnificent Baroque building that adds an elegant touch to the town’s skyline.
The Botanical Garden is also a local gem, especially in spring, when everything is in bloom.
What I enjoy most about Kremenets is the combination of nature and history. It’s a place
where you can truly relax, breathe fresh air, and reflect. There’s something special about
walking along its quiet streets, visiting the local market, and speaking with warm, hospitable
locals. It’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave.
Writing
In recent years, a growing number of people have attributed rising crime rates to the violent
content portrayed in television programs, computer, and video games. While there is some
evidence suggesting that constant exposure to aggressive media may influence behavior, I
believe that this is only one of many contributing factors and should not be regarded as the
primary cause of increased criminal activity.
On the one hand, there is no denying that violent media can desensitize individuals,
especially young viewers, to real-life aggression. For instance, video games that reward
players for killing opponents may blur the line between fantasy and reality, particularly for
impressionable minds. This might contribute to aggressive behavior or a lack of empathy in
some individuals. A number of psychological studies have found short-term increases in
aggression following exposure to violent content, lending some weight to the argument.
However, blaming the media alone oversimplifies a far more complex issue. Crime is
typically rooted in deeper socio-economic problems, such as poverty, lack of education,
unemployment, and family instability. In many cases, people resort to crime out of
desperation or due to a lack of opportunities, not because of what they watch or play.
Furthermore, millions of people consume violent media every day without engaging in
criminal activity, which suggests that individual background and environment play a far more
significant role.
In conclusion, while violent images in the media may have a minor influence on aggressive
behavior, they are not the primary cause of rising crime rates. A more holistic approach is
required to address the underlying social and economic factors that lead to criminal
behavior.