The hours we spend scrolling through our smartphones appear to be changing the shape of our skulls. This may be the reason why some people - especially the younger crowd - are developing a weird, bony spike just above their necks. This spike, known as an external occipital protuberance, appears at the lower end of the skull, and is sometimes so large, you can feel it by pressing your fingers on the base of your skull.
A study published in the Journal of Anatomy found that the spike was becoming more frequent - especially among 18 to 30-year-olds. David Shahar, the Australian health scientist who conducted the research, believes the development was triggered by prolonged use of smartphones or tablets. As people tilt their head forward to look at the screen, they put pressure on where the neck muscles meet the skull, so the body then develops more bone layers to be able to withstand it, said Shahar.
In the study, Shahar and a colleague looked at the radiographs of 218 young patients, aged 18 to 30, to determine how many had these spikes. In all, 41% of the group had an enlarged spike and 10% had an especially large spike measuring at least 0.7 inches (20 mm), the doctors found. In general, enlarged spikes were more common in males than in females. The largest spike belonged to a man, sticking out at 1.4 inches (35.7 mm).
Shahar believes that the spikes will continue to grow in size as people keep hunching over their handheld devices, but adds that they should not be very harmful and rarely cause serious medical issues. "But if you are experiencing discomfort, maybe you should try improving your posture," he said.
(Adapted from breakingnewsenglish.com)

The hours we spend scrolling through our smartphones appear to be changing the shape of our skulls. This may be the reason why some people - especially the younger crowd - are developing a weird, bony spike just above their necks. This spike, known as an external occipital protuberance, appears at the lower end of the skull, and is sometimes so large, you can feel it by pressing your fingers on the base of your skull.
A study published in the Journal of Anatomy found that the spike was becoming more frequent - especially among 18 to 30-year-olds. David Shahar, the Australian health scientist who conducted the research, believes the development was triggered by prolonged use of smartphones or tablets. As people tilt their head forward to look at the screen, they put pressure on where the neck muscles meet the skull, so the body then develops more bone layers to be able to withstand it, said Shahar.
In the study, Shahar and a colleague looked at the radiographs of 218 young patients, aged 18 to 30, to determine how many had these spikes. In all, 41% of the group had an enlarged spike and 10% had an especially large spike measuring at least 0.7 inches (20 mm), the doctors found. In general, enlarged spikes were more common in males than in females. The largest spike belonged to a man, sticking out at 1.4 inches (35.7 mm).
Shahar believes that the spikes will continue to grow in size as people keep hunching over their handheld devices, but adds that they should not be very harmful and rarely cause serious medical issues. "But if you are experiencing discomfort, maybe you should try improving your posture," he said.
(Adapted from breakingnewsenglish.com)

The hours we spend scrolling through our smartphones appear to be changing the shape of our skulls. This may be the reason why some people - especially the younger crowd - are developing a weird, bony spike just above their necks. This spike, known as an external occipital protuberance, appears at the lower end of the skull, and is sometimes so large, you can feel it by pressing your fingers on the base of your skull.
A study published in the Journal of Anatomy found that the spike was becoming more frequent - especially among 18 to 30-year-olds. David Shahar, the Australian health scientist who conducted the research, believes the development was triggered by prolonged use of smartphones or tablets. As people tilt their head forward to look at the screen, they put pressure on where the neck muscles meet the skull, so the body then develops more bone layers to be able to withstand it, said Shahar.
In the study, Shahar and a colleague looked at the radiographs of 218 young patients, aged 18 to 30, to determine how many had these spikes. In all, 41% of the group had an enlarged spike and 10% had an especially large spike measuring at least 0.7 inches (20 mm), the doctors found. In general, enlarged spikes were more common in males than in females. The largest spike belonged to a man, sticking out at 1.4 inches (35.7 mm).
Shahar believes that the spikes will continue to grow in size as people keep hunching over their handheld devices, but adds that they should not be very harmful and rarely cause serious medical issues. "But if you are experiencing discomfort, maybe you should try improving your posture," he said.
(Adapted from breakingnewsenglish.com)

Read the following advertisement and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 9 to 14.
ACTIVITY BREAKS AT BROOKE'S LEISURE CENTRE
If you are looking for a fun and rewarding job to do over the summer holidays, then we have just the answer! Brook's Leisure Centre is excited (9)________ that we are running activity weeks for groups of 11-13 year-olds. We need reliable and inspiring organizers who can ensure that all activities run smoothly and that the children (10)_______ here will have a great time.
Are you interested in and skilled (11)_______ a wide range of sports? Do you (12)_______experience in managing children? Do you have (13)________ during the week? If you answered "yes" to these questions, we want to hear from you! Please write to us, providing details of your experience, skills, and (14)_________ for an interview. Please also give the name of a referee.
Send your letter to: The Director, Brooke's Leisure Centre, Hill Park, Bournemouth.

Read the following advertisement and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 9 to 14.
ACTIVITY BREAKS AT BROOKE'S LEISURE CENTRE
If you are looking for a fun and rewarding job to do over the summer holidays, then we have just the answer! Brook's Leisure Centre is excited (9)________ that we are running activity weeks for groups of 11-13 year-olds. We need reliable and inspiring organizers who can ensure that all activities run smoothly and that the children (10)_______ here will have a great time.
Are you interested in and skilled (11)_______ a wide range of sports? Do you (12)_______experience in managing children? Do you have (13)________ during the week? If you answered "yes" to these questions, we want to hear from you! Please write to us, providing details of your experience, skills, and (14)_________ for an interview. Please also give the name of a referee.
Send your letter to: The Director, Brooke's Leisure Centre, Hill Park, Bournemouth.

Read the following advertisement and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 9 to 14.
ACTIVITY BREAKS AT BROOKE'S LEISURE CENTRE
If you are looking for a fun and rewarding job to do over the summer holidays, then we have just the answer! Brook's Leisure Centre is excited (9)________ that we are running activity weeks for groups of 11-13 year-olds. We need reliable and inspiring organizers who can ensure that all activities run smoothly and that the children (10)_______ here will have a great time.
Are you interested in and skilled (11)_______ a wide range of sports? Do you (12)_______experience in managing children? Do you have (13)________ during the week? If you answered "yes" to these questions, we want to hear from you! Please write to us, providing details of your experience, skills, and (14)_________ for an interview. Please also give the name of a referee.
Send your letter to: The Director, Brooke's Leisure Centre, Hill Park, Bournemouth.

Read the following advertisement and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 9 to 14.
ACTIVITY BREAKS AT BROOKE'S LEISURE CENTRE
If you are looking for a fun and rewarding job to do over the summer holidays, then we have just the answer! Brook's Leisure Centre is excited (9)________ that we are running activity weeks for groups of 11-13 year-olds. We need reliable and inspiring organizers who can ensure that all activities run smoothly and that the children (10)_______ here will have a great time.
Are you interested in and skilled (11)_______ a wide range of sports? Do you (12)_______experience in managing children? Do you have (13)________ during the week? If you answered "yes" to these questions, we want to hear from you! Please write to us, providing details of your experience, skills, and (14)_________ for an interview. Please also give the name of a referee.
Send your letter to: The Director, Brooke's Leisure Centre, Hill Park, Bournemouth.

Read the following advertisement and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 9 to 14.
ACTIVITY BREAKS AT BROOKE'S LEISURE CENTRE
If you are looking for a fun and rewarding job to do over the summer holidays, then we have just the answer! Brook's Leisure Centre is excited (9)________ that we are running activity weeks for groups of 11-13 year-olds. We need reliable and inspiring organizers who can ensure that all activities run smoothly and that the children (10)_______ here will have a great time.
Are you interested in and skilled (11)_______ a wide range of sports? Do you (12)_______experience in managing children? Do you have (13)________ during the week? If you answered "yes" to these questions, we want to hear from you! Please write to us, providing details of your experience, skills, and (14)_________ for an interview. Please also give the name of a referee.
Send your letter to: The Director, Brooke's Leisure Centre, Hill Park, Bournemouth.

Read the following advertisement and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 9 to 14.
ACTIVITY BREAKS AT BROOKE'S LEISURE CENTRE
If you are looking for a fun and rewarding job to do over the summer holidays, then we have just the answer! Brook's Leisure Centre is excited (9)________ that we are running activity weeks for groups of 11-13 year-olds. We need reliable and inspiring organizers who can ensure that all activities run smoothly and that the children (10)_______ here will have a great time.
Are you interested in and skilled (11)_______ a wide range of sports? Do you (12)_______experience in managing children? Do you have (13)________ during the week? If you answered "yes" to these questions, we want to hear from you! Please write to us, providing details of your experience, skills, and (14)_________ for an interview. Please also give the name of a referee.
Send your letter to: The Director, Brooke's Leisure Centre, Hill Park, Bournemouth.

Read the following leaflet and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 15 to 20.

NURTURING YOUR MIND AND SPIRIT

Taking care of our mental health is just as important as our physical health, which helps us (15)________ stress, build resilience, and lead fulfilling lives.

Facts and Figures
- Nature's Impact: Studies show that spending time outdoors can significantly reduce stress(16)_________. However, many people feel they lack access to green spaces.
- Screen Time Concerns: Excessive daily screen time is linked to increased anxiety and depression. (17)_________ spending too much time on the phone screen, why don't we go outside and get some fresh air?

Positive Actions You Can Take
- Make time for meaningful (18)_________ with family and friends. Connect with (19)__________ regularly help (20)________ your support network and combats feelings of isolation.

Read the following leaflet and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 15 to 20.

NURTURING YOUR MIND AND SPIRIT

Taking care of our mental health is just as important as our physical health, which helps us (15)________ stress, build resilience, and lead fulfilling lives.

Facts and Figures
- Nature's Impact: Studies show that spending time outdoors can significantly reduce stress(16)_________. However, many people feel they lack access to green spaces.
- Screen Time Concerns: Excessive daily screen time is linked to increased anxiety and depression. (17)_________ spending too much time on the phone screen, why don't we go outside and get some fresh air?

Positive Actions You Can Take
- Make time for meaningful (18)_________ with family and friends. Connect with (19)__________ regularly help (20)________ your support network and combats feelings of isolation.

Read the following leaflet and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 15 to 20.

NURTURING YOUR MIND AND SPIRIT

Taking care of our mental health is just as important as our physical health, which helps us (15)________ stress, build resilience, and lead fulfilling lives.

Facts and Figures
- Nature's Impact: Studies show that spending time outdoors can significantly reduce stress(16)_________. However, many people feel they lack access to green spaces.
- Screen Time Concerns: Excessive daily screen time is linked to increased anxiety and depression. (17)_________ spending too much time on the phone screen, why don't we go outside and get some fresh air?

Positive Actions You Can Take
- Make time for meaningful (18)_________ with family and friends. Connect with (19)__________ regularly help (20)________ your support network and combats feelings of isolation.

Read the following leaflet and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 15 to 20.

NURTURING YOUR MIND AND SPIRIT

Taking care of our mental health is just as important as our physical health, which helps us (15)________ stress, build resilience, and lead fulfilling lives.

Facts and Figures
- Nature's Impact: Studies show that spending time outdoors can significantly reduce stress(16)_________. However, many people feel they lack access to green spaces.
- Screen Time Concerns: Excessive daily screen time is linked to increased anxiety and depression. (17)_________ spending too much time on the phone screen, why don't we go outside and get some fresh air?

Positive Actions You Can Take
- Make time for meaningful (18)_________ with family and friends. Connect with (19)__________ regularly help (20)________ your support network and combats feelings of isolation.

Read the following leaflet and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 15 to 20.

NURTURING YOUR MIND AND SPIRIT

Taking care of our mental health is just as important as our physical health, which helps us (15)________ stress, build resilience, and lead fulfilling lives.

Facts and Figures
- Nature's Impact: Studies show that spending time outdoors can significantly reduce stress(16)_________. However, many people feel they lack access to green spaces.
- Screen Time Concerns: Excessive daily screen time is linked to increased anxiety and depression. (17)_________ spending too much time on the phone screen, why don't we go outside and get some fresh air?

Positive Actions You Can Take
- Make time for meaningful (18)_________ with family and friends. Connect with (19)__________ regularly help (20)________ your support network and combats feelings of isolation.

(I) The cause of tooth decay is acid, which is produced by bacteria in the mouth. (II) The rate at which bacteria in the mouth produce acid depends on the amount of plaque on the teeth, the composition of the microbial flora, and whether the bacteria of the plaque have been "primed" by frequent exposure to sugar. (III) To keep your teeth healthy, a regular dental hygiene program should be followed. (IV)

[Underlined sentence] Removing plaque with a toothbrush and dental floss temporarily reduces the numbers of harmful bacteria in the mouth, thereby lowering the risk of tooth decay. This practice also makes the surfaces of the teeth more accessible, which enables saliva to neutralize acid and remineralize lesions. If fluoride is present in drinking water when teeth are forming, some fluoride is incorporated into the enamel of the teeth, making [underlined word] them more resistant to attack by acid. Fluoride toothpaste seems to act in another way, by promoting the remineralization of early carious lesions.

In addition to a regular dental hygiene program, a good way to keep your teeth healthy is to reduce your intake of sweet food. The least cavity-causing way to eat sweets is to have them with meals and not between. The number of times you eat sweets rather than the total amount determines how much harmful acid the bacteria in your saliva produce. But the amount of sweets influences the quality of your saliva. Avoid, if you can, [underlined word] sticky sweets that stay in your mouth a long time. Also try to brush and floss your teeth after eating sugary foods. Even rinsing your mouth with water is effective.

Whenever possible, opt for foods with fiber, such as raw carrot sticks, apples, celery sticks, etc., that naturally [underlined phrase] scrape off plaque, acting as a toothbrush. Following these guidelines when consuming sweets and maintaining a thorough oral care routine can significantly reduce the risk of cavities and improve overall dental health.

(Adapted from https://www.verywellhealth.com/tooth-erosion)

(I) The cause of tooth decay is acid, which is produced by bacteria in the mouth. (II) The rate at which bacteria in the mouth produce acid depends on the amount of plaque on the teeth, the composition of the microbial flora, and whether the bacteria of the plaque have been "primed" by frequent exposure to sugar. (III) To keep your teeth healthy, a regular dental hygiene program should be followed. (IV)

[Underlined sentence] Removing plaque with a toothbrush and dental floss temporarily reduces the numbers of harmful bacteria in the mouth, thereby lowering the risk of tooth decay. This practice also makes the surfaces of the teeth more accessible, which enables saliva to neutralize acid and remineralize lesions. If fluoride is present in drinking water when teeth are forming, some fluoride is incorporated into the enamel of the teeth, making [underlined word] them more resistant to attack by acid. Fluoride toothpaste seems to act in another way, by promoting the remineralization of early carious lesions.

In addition to a regular dental hygiene program, a good way to keep your teeth healthy is to reduce your intake of sweet food. The least cavity-causing way to eat sweets is to have them with meals and not between. The number of times you eat sweets rather than the total amount determines how much harmful acid the bacteria in your saliva produce. But the amount of sweets influences the quality of your saliva. Avoid, if you can, [underlined word] sticky sweets that stay in your mouth a long time. Also try to brush and floss your teeth after eating sugary foods. Even rinsing your mouth with water is effective.

Whenever possible, opt for foods with fiber, such as raw carrot sticks, apples, celery sticks, etc., that naturally [underlined phrase] scrape off plaque, acting as a toothbrush. Following these guidelines when consuming sweets and maintaining a thorough oral care routine can significantly reduce the risk of cavities and improve overall dental health.

(Adapted from https://www.verywellhealth.com/tooth-erosion)

(I) The cause of tooth decay is acid, which is produced by bacteria in the mouth. (II) The rate at which bacteria in the mouth produce acid depends on the amount of plaque on the teeth, the composition of the microbial flora, and whether the bacteria of the plaque have been "primed" by frequent exposure to sugar. (III) To keep your teeth healthy, a regular dental hygiene program should be followed. (IV)

[Underlined sentence] Removing plaque with a toothbrush and dental floss temporarily reduces the numbers of harmful bacteria in the mouth, thereby lowering the risk of tooth decay. This practice also makes the surfaces of the teeth more accessible, which enables saliva to neutralize acid and remineralize lesions. If fluoride is present in drinking water when teeth are forming, some fluoride is incorporated into the enamel of the teeth, making [underlined word] them more resistant to attack by acid. Fluoride toothpaste seems to act in another way, by promoting the remineralization of early carious lesions.

In addition to a regular dental hygiene program, a good way to keep your teeth healthy is to reduce your intake of sweet food. The least cavity-causing way to eat sweets is to have them with meals and not between. The number of times you eat sweets rather than the total amount determines how much harmful acid the bacteria in your saliva produce. But the amount of sweets influences the quality of your saliva. Avoid, if you can, [underlined word] sticky sweets that stay in your mouth a long time. Also try to brush and floss your teeth after eating sugary foods. Even rinsing your mouth with water is effective.

Whenever possible, opt for foods with fiber, such as raw carrot sticks, apples, celery sticks, etc., that naturally [underlined phrase] scrape off plaque, acting as a toothbrush. Following these guidelines when consuming sweets and maintaining a thorough oral care routine can significantly reduce the risk of cavities and improve overall dental health.

(Adapted from https://www.verywellhealth.com/tooth-erosion)

Read the following passage about reading skill and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 36 to 40.

Reading is an essential skill that enhances our cognitive abilities in many ways. Firstly, it improves our language skills. When we read, we learn new words and understand how they are used in context, (36)________. This helps in improving our communication skills. Secondly, reading boosts our imagination and creativity. (37)_______ , it takes us to different worlds and situations we might not experience in real life. This stimulates our creativity and helps us think outside the box. Thirdly, regular reading enhances our concentration and focus, (38) ________. Additionally, reading provides us with knowledge about various subjects and cultures. It allows us to gain insights into (39)________.

This broadens our perspective and helps us become more empathetic and understanding. Finally, reading is a great way to relax and de-stress. It can be a form of escapism, where we can lose ourselves in a story and forget about our daily worries. In conclusion, reading is not just a leisure activity. It plays a significant role in our cognitive development, helping us to (40)_________. Therefore, it's important to cultivate a habit of reading from a young age.