B2 First Use of English: test de práctica 1

Switching off

A growing number of people are choosing to (1)   a break from their phones, at least for a few days. Supporters of these ‘digital detox’ holidays (2)   that spending time offline helps them sleep better and feel less anxious. Some hotels now even ask guests to (3)   in their devices at reception when they arrive.

Not everyone is convinced, (4)  . Critics point out that a few days without notifications will hardly (5)   a difference if people go straight back to old habits afterwards. They argue that the real challenge is to (6)   a healthier balance in everyday life, rather than escaping technology completely.

What seems clear is that the idea has (7)   on. Bookings for screen-free retreats have risen steadily, and many travellers say they would happily pay extra for the peace of mind that (8)   with being unreachable.

Never too late

Many adults believe it is too late to learn a new language, but research suggests this is (9) entirely true. Although children often develop a better accent, adults tend to make faster progress at first, (10) they can rely on strategies and knowledge they already have.

The key, according (11) experts, is consistency. Studying for twenty minutes every day is far more effective (12) spending three hours on a Sunday. It also helps to find material you genuinely enjoy, (13) it is a podcast, a series or a novel.

Of course, there will be moments when you feel you are not improving at (14) . These plateaus are completely normal, and most learners go through them. The important thing is not to give (15) . As one teacher puts it, ‘Nobody has (16) regretted learning a language.’

Working from home

Since 2020, working from home has become a (17) REAL for millions of employees. For many, the biggest advantage is the (18) FLEXIBLE to organise their own time. Others value the (19) ABSENT of a long, tiring commute.

However, the arrangement is not without its (20) DRAW. Some workers report feeling (21) ISOLATE from their colleagues, and managers sometimes find it (22) DIFFICULTY to build a strong team spirit online. Experts recommend clear rules about (23) AVAILABLE, so that people are not expected to answer messages at any hour. With the right balance, they say, remote work can be both (24) PRODUCE and sustainable.