Table of Contents
BEST IELTS General Reading Test 516
IELTS GENERAL READING TEST 516 – PASSAGE – 1
IELTS GENERAL READING TEST – 516
READING PASSAGE – 1
Film Reviews
A Purple Rainbow: The Truth
Having actors playing popular rock band Purple Rainbow seemed like a bad idea, but in fact they’re impressive musicians themselves. Their fans in the film were actual fans of the group and transferred their enthusiasm to the actors very convincingly. I assumed there would be plenty of music, linked by weak dialogue, but I was wrong. And the support that band members gave to lead singer Jerry Cosgrove when tragedy entered his life had me close to tears, giving me a new appreciation of the band.
B Home Fires
I expected a standard, rather dull, story about domestic life, like the director’s last two films. Instead, Home Fires had me on the edge of my seat with excitement. It’s certainly worth a second viewing. Having said that, although it is apparently a film intended for all ages, many children would find the long discussions of relationship issues boring, and they contributed little or nothing to the film.
IELTS General Reading Test
C The Jeffersons
One of the most popular films of the past half century is Mary and Tom, and a remake of it seems unnecessary. Nevertheless, The Jeffersons has some delightful elements, particularly the acting of Yvonne Richards. She really brought the character she played to life, but sadly, neither she nor the other actors could make the script sound natural.
D Space Challenge 5
This film makes an important ethical point about treating other people with respect, but that is likely to be missed by many teenagers, the target audience, as it assumes familiarity with the world as it was 20 years ago. With change happening so fast these days, many of the references will leave them confused.
IELTS General Reading Test
E Uplands
Uplands could have been a delightful film: it has a charming story, witty dialogue, and is visually breathtaking. But the two lead actors are at their best in thrillers, not films like this one. James Petherick, who plays the hero, fails to gain the sympathy of the audience, who should be moved by the ups and downs in his life.
Questions 1-8
Look at the five film reviews, A-E. For which film review are the following statements true? Write the correct letter, A-E, in boxes 1-8 on your answer sheet. NB You may use any letter more than once.
1. The reviewer thinks some of the cast are unsuitable for their roles.
2. The dialogue in this film seems unrealistic.
3. The reviewer found this film unexpectedly emotional.
4. This film contains dialogue that is uninteresting for some viewers.
5. This film carries a moral message.
6. Non-actors take part in this film.
7. The reviewer thinks this film should be seen again.
8. This film mentions things that audience members won’t know about.
IELTS General Reading Test
Read the text below and answer Questions 9-14.
Sports events in New Zealand
A McLeans Island Run
This unique running and cycling event winds its way through the Canterbury countryside and finishes in Orana Park, where your spectators will include lions, tigers, gorillas and giraffes. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned professional, there’s a distance to suit you. Choose from the short, the sprint or the standard distance. You can race to help other people too – if you get some friends or workmates to take part, you’ll be in with a chance to win $25,000 to put towards a good cause of your choice.
B The Pioneer
The Pioneer is an awe-inspiring seven-day mountain bike race through New Zealand’s pristine Southern Alps. It is the first race of its kind to link together over 500 km of farm tracks, cycle trails, double track and single track riding in a very special part of the world where soaring mountain peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and high country await. If you’re looking for a mountain bike race to get you inspired, this is it!
IELTS General Reading Test
C Race Drive Experience
if you have ever wanted to experience the extreme thrill of driving a 6000cc race car, then this is definitely for you! You start off your Race Drive Experience by meeting the skilled team of racing drivers at the Motorsport Park Raceway, before being fully kitted out with one of our race suits and safety helmet. Then you are strapped into the passenger seat of one of our racing cars and taken on a demo drive, covering racing lines, braking points and race driving tricks. Finally you take the driver’s seat and can undertake your own high-speed laps of the circuit.
D Banks Peninsular Walking Festival
The Banks Peninsula Walking Festival offers guided walks all over the Banks Peninsula. The guides, all volunteers, are local people who love to share their passion for this special place with those from the wider community. Participants are guaranteed an enjoyable experience as they relax, get to know new people and absorb the stories and atmosphere of this fantastic land.
IELTS General Reading Test
Questions 9-14
Look at the four advertisements for sports events, A-D. For which event are the following statements true? Write the correct letter, A-D, in boxes 9-14 on your answer sheet. NB You may use any letter more than once.
9. You see spectacular scenery.
10. You are provided with special clothing.
11. You may be watched while you are doing the activity.
12. You watch someone else before doing the activity yourself.
13. You meet people who are expert at the activity.
14. You can raise money for a charity.
IELTS General Reading Test
IELTS General Reading Test
ANSWERS
1. E
2. C
3. A
4. B
5. D
6. A
7. B
8. D
9. B
10. C
11. A
12. C
13. C
14. A
IELTS General Reading Test