IELTS Reading Test 5 (Academic)
READING PASSAGE 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on Questions 1–13, which are based on Reading Passage 1 below.
The Agricultural Revolution: A Turning Point in Human History
The Agricultural Revolution, also known as the Neolithic Revolution, marked a transformative period in human history, occurring approximately 10,000 years ago. This pivotal shift from a nomadic lifestyle of hunting and gathering to settled agricultural communities changed the trajectory of human civilization. The adoption of farming allowed humans to domesticate plants and animals, leading to the establishment of permanent settlements and the development of more complex societies. This revolution laid the groundwork for many aspects of modern life, including technology, trade, governance, and culture.
Early agricultural practices began independently in various regions, including the Fertile Crescent in the Middle East, the Indus Valley in South Asia, the Yellow River Basin in China, and the Americas. These regions became cradles of agriculture, cultivating staple crops like wheat, barley, rice, and maize. The domestication of animals, such as sheep, goats, cattle, and pigs, complemented these developments by providing meat, milk, and labor. Farming ensured a reliable food supply, reducing the uncertainties associated with hunting and gathering. This stability enabled population growth, as communities were no longer limited by the carrying capacity of their immediate environment.
The surplus of food generated by agriculture brought profound changes to social structures. As not everyone needed to be directly involved in food production, new roles and professions emerged. Artisans, traders, and religious leaders took on specialized roles, contributing to the diversification of labor. Settlements grew into villages, towns, and eventually cities, where complex societies with centralized authority began to develop. Leaders oversaw resource distribution, defense, and communal projects, giving rise to governance systems that would evolve into kingdoms and states.
Technological advancements accompanied these societal changes. Farming tools such as sickles, hoes, and plows were developed to improve agricultural efficiency. The invention of pottery allowed for better food storage, reducing waste and providing a buffer against scarcity. Irrigation systems, particularly in arid regions like Mesopotamia and Egypt, demonstrated human ingenuity in controlling water sources to enhance crop yields. These innovations increased productivity, enabling communities to sustain larger populations and undertake ambitious projects, including monumental architecture and urban planning.
However, the Agricultural Revolution was not without challenges. Sedentary lifestyles led to new health issues, including increased exposure to disease due to proximity to domesticated animals and dense populations. Reliance on a limited variety of crops made societies vulnerable to crop failures and famine. Social stratification also emerged, with unequal distribution of resources giving rise to wealth disparities and hierarchies. Women, who had played significant roles in early food gathering, often saw their status diminish in male-dominated agrarian societies.
Despite these challenges, the Agricultural Revolution remains one of the most significant turning points in human history. It fundamentally altered humanity's relationship with the environment, enabling the development of civilizations. Innovations in agriculture and governance spurred cultural achievements, laying the foundation for writing, trade networks, and organized religion. The changes set in motion during this period continue to influence human society today, making it a cornerstone in the story of our collective evolution.
Questions 1-8
In boxes 1-8 on your answer sheet, write
TRUE If the statement agrees with the information
FALSE If the statement contradicts the information
NOT GIVE If there is no information on this
The Agricultural Revolution occurred approximately 15,000 years ago.
Farming practices began independently in several regions around the world, including the Fertile Crescent and the Indus Valley.
The domestication of animals provided early societies with sources of labor as well as food.
The invention of farming tools like sickles and plows significantly reduced human labor.
Social hierarchies became more prominent after the Agricultural Revolution due to the unequal distribution of resources.
Women played an increasingly influential role in decision-making during the Agricultural Revolution.
Irrigation systems were first developed in Mesopotamia to maximize crop yields.
The Agricultural Revolution is considered one of the most significant events in human history.
Questions 9-13
Choose the write answer A,B,C or D
9. What was the primary change brought about by the Agricultural Revolution?
A. The discovery of fire.
B. The establishment of permanent settlements.
C. The invention of metal tools.
D. The use of animals for warfare.
10. Which of the following crops is NOT mentioned in the passage as a staple during the Agricultural Revolution?
A. Wheat.
B. Rice.
C. Potatoes.
D. Maize.
11. What was one significant technological advancement mentioned in the passage that improved farming efficiency?
A. The invention of writing systems.
B. The development of irrigation systems.
C. The creation of fortified city walls.
D. The invention of sailing ships.
12. How did the Agricultural Revolution impact the roles of individuals in society?
A. Everyone continued to hunt and gather for survival.
B. Specialization of labor emerged, with some becoming artisans or traders.
C. All individuals gained equal access to resources.
D. Leaders and rulers were no longer needed.
13. What challenge arose from the reliance on a limited variety of crops during the Agricultural Revolution?
A. Communities faced constant attacks from neighbouring regions.
B. Societies became vulnerable to crop failures and famine.
C. People lost interest in technological innovation.
D. The climate became unsuitable for farming.
READING PASSAGE 2
You should spend about 20 minutes on Questions 14–26, which are based on Reading Passage 2 below.
Reading Passage 2 has six paragraphs, A–F.
Choose the correct heading for paragraphs A–F from the list of headings below.
Write the correct number, i–ix, in boxes 14–19 on your answer sheet.
John Constable
A John Constable, born on June 11, 1776, in East Bergholt, Suffolk, England, is considered one of the most significant landscape painters of the 19th century. He is best known for his depictions of the English countryside, particularly the area surrounding his hometown. Although his work was not widely appreciated during his early career, Constable's paintings would go on to influence generations of artists and become some of the most beloved in British art history.
B Constable’s early life was marked by his father’s successful business in the wool industry, but John had little interest in following in his family’s footsteps. Instead, he pursued art and enrolled at the Royal Academy in London in 1799. Despite early struggles in his career, his passion for landscape painting flourished, and he became known for his distinctive style of capturing the natural beauty of rural England.
C In the 1810s, Constable began to develop his signature style of painting, often using vibrant, almost photographic realism to depict the skies, trees, and water of the English countryside. His most famous works from this period include The Hay Wain (1821), which depicts a cart being drawn through a river in front of a picturesque rural landscape. Although this painting initially failed to gain recognition, it eventually became one of the most iconic images in British art.
D Throughout his life, Constable faced financial difficulties and struggled to gain official recognition for his work. His style was initially criticized by many, particularly for its perceived lack of idealization in comparison to the more classical landscape painters of his time. However, his dedication to capturing the natural world, with its changing skies and atmospheric effects, gradually earned him the admiration of the public and art critics. By the 1820s, his work was finally receiving more attention, and he began to gain significant commissions, including portraits and landscapes for wealthy clients.
E In 1829, Constable's work was exhibited in Paris, where it caught the attention of French artists, including the renowned painter Eugène Delacroix. His innovative use of light and color had a profound influence on the development of the French Impressionist movement, particularly on painters like Claude Monet and Camille Pissarro. Constable’s ability to depict nature’s transient effects, such as the movement of clouds and light, became a key inspiration for these artists, leading to a broader international recognition of his work.
F Despite these later successes, Constable’s life was not without personal tragedies. His beloved wife, Maria, died in 1828, which left him devastated. The emotional toll of her passing affected both his personal life and his work. Constable continued to paint until his death on March 31, 1837, at the age of 60. Though he did not achieve widespread fame during his lifetime, his legacy has grown over the years, with his works now displayed in galleries worldwide, beloved for their portrayal of the English countryside in all its beauty.
Questions 14-19
List of headings
(i.)Struggles with Recognition and Financial Difficulties
(ii.) Influence on French Impressionists and International Recognition
(iii.)The Role of English Countryside in Constable’s Art
(iv.)Early Life and Pursuit of Art
(v.)Constable’s Artistic Philosophy and Approach to Nature
(vi.)Famous Works and Breakthrough Success
(vii.)Development of Landscape Painting Style
(viii.)Constable’s Reception and Legacy in Contemporary Art
(ix)Personal Tragedy and Emotional Impact on Work
14. Paragraph A
15. Paragraph B
16. Paragraph C
17. Paragraph D
18. Paragraph E
19. Paragraph F
Question 20-26
Do the following statements agree with the views of the writer in Reading Passage 2
In boxes 20–25 on your answer sheet, write
Yes - if the statement agrees with the views of the writer
No - if the statement contradicts the views of the writer
Not Given - if it is impossible to say what the writer thinks about this
John Constable’s artistic career was greatly influenced by his early training at prestigious art institutions in London.
Constable’s distinctive style of painting was initially met with widespread approval from the public and art critics.
The techniques and use of light in Constable’s landscapes played a key role in shaping the direction of the French Impressionist movement in the mid-19th century.
Although Constable faced considerable financial struggles, he was able to achieve financial stability through a series of lucrative commissions later in his career.
Constable’s work was initially rejected by the Royal Academy due to its unconventional style.
John Constable’s influence on French Impressionists was acknowledged during his lifetime by artists like Claude Monet.
The death of Constable’s wife, Maria, in 1828 had a profound emotional impact on him, which is reflected in his art during the later years of his life.
READING PASSAGE 3
You should spend about 20 minutes on Questions 27–40, which are based on Reading Passage 3 below.
Section-3
Ancient Language Development: The Evolution of Human Communication
The development of language is one of the most significant milestones in human history. It enabled early humans to communicate complex ideas, share knowledge, and form structured societies. Although the precise origins of language remain uncertain, linguistic and archaeological evidence suggests that human speech evolved gradually over thousands of years. This passage explores the theories of language emergence, early linguistic structures, and the impact of language development on human civilization.
Theories of Language Emergence
Linguists and anthropologists have proposed several theories regarding how language first developed. One of the leading hypotheses is the ‘Gestural Theory,’ which suggests that early humans initially relied on hand signals and body language before transitioning to vocal speech. This theory is supported by studies of primates, which demonstrate a capacity for gestural communication. Another prominent theory is the ‘Bow-wow Theory,’ which posits that language originated from humans imitating natural sounds, such as animal calls and environmental noises. Similarly, the ‘Ding-dong Theory’ argues that early humans associated specific sounds with particular objects or emotions, gradually refining their vocalizations into meaningful speech.
The ‘Social Interaction Theory’ provides a more holistic perspective, suggesting that language developed from the need for cooperation and social bonding. Early humans living in groups required efficient communication to coordinate hunting, warn against danger, and express emotions. Over time, vocalizations became more structured, evolving into the intricate language systems seen today. While no single theory fully explains the origin of language, a combination of these ideas likely contributed to its development.
Early Linguistic Structures
The earliest known human languages were simple and consisted of basic sounds and gestures. Over time, these sounds formed patterns that later developed into words and grammatical structures. Some of the earliest recorded languages, such as Sumerian and Egyptian, provide insights into early linguistic complexity. Cuneiform, developed by the Sumerians around 3100 BCE, is one of the oldest known writing systems. It consisted of pictographic symbols that evolved into phonetic representations, allowing for more precise communication. Similarly, Egyptian hieroglyphics, which emerged around the same period, combined pictorial symbols with phonetic elements.
Proto-languages, or ancestral languages, played a crucial role in linguistic evolution. Linguists have traced modern languages back to ancient language families, such as Proto-Indo-European, which is believed to be the ancestor of many contemporary European and South Asian languages. The evolution from these proto-languages to modern linguistic systems demonstrates how human speech has continuously adapted to cultural and environmental changes.
Impact of Language Development on Civilization
The advancement of language had a profound impact on human civilization. It facilitated the transmission of knowledge across generations, allowing early societies to preserve history, laws, and traditions. Written language, in particular, revolutionized communication by enabling the documentation of trade, governance, and religious beliefs.
Language also played a crucial role in the rise of literature and philosophy. The earliest written texts, such as the Epic of Gilgamesh and ancient Vedic scriptures, provide valuable insights into early human thought and cultural values. Furthermore, language enabled scientific and technological advancements by allowing people to share discoveries and collaborate on innovations.
In addition, linguistic diversity has shaped cultural identity and societal development. The spread of languages through migration and trade contributed to cultural exchange and the formation of new dialects. However, language extinction remains a significant concern, as globalization and modernization have led to the decline of many indigenous languages. Preserving linguistic diversity is essential for maintaining cultural heritage and understanding the complexities of human history.
19th-Century Scholars and the Study of Ancient Language
The 19th century saw significant advancements in the study of ancient languages, driven by pioneering linguists and scholars who sought to decipher historical scripts and trace the evolution of human speech. One of the most influential figures was Franz Bopp, a German linguist credited with founding the field of comparative linguistics. Bopp’s research on the grammatical structures of Indo-European languages helped establish the relationships between various ancient and modern languages, laying the groundwork for historical linguistics.
Another key scholar was Sir William Jones, an English philologist who, in the late 18th century and early 19th century, proposed the existence of a common ancestor for Sanskrit, Latin, and Greek. His work led to the identification of the Proto-Indo-European language family and inspired further linguistic research. Meanwhile, Jean-François Champollion made groundbreaking contributions to the decipherment of Egyptian hieroglyphics in 1822 by using the Rosetta Stone, enabling scholars to understand one of the world’s earliest writing systems.
Additionally, August Schleicher introduced the concept of language trees, illustrating how languages evolved from common ancestors in a branching pattern. His work influenced subsequent research in linguistic evolution and classification. These scholars and their contributions played a crucial role in unraveling the mysteries of ancient languages, enabling modern researchers to better understand linguistic history and the development of communication.
By examining ancient texts, inscriptions, and linguistic structures, these 19th-century scholars significantly advanced the field of historical linguistics. Their efforts not only helped decode ancient writing systems but also provided insights into human migration patterns, cultural exchanges, and the intellectual history of civilizations.
Question 27-32
Complete the sentences with NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS. Write your answers in boxes 27–32 on your answer sheet
The Sumerians developed --------------- around 3100 BCE, making it one of the oldest known writing systems.
Franz Bopp is credited with founding the field of ----------------, which helped establish relationships between various ancient and modern languages.
Sir William Jones proposed the existence of a common ancestor for Sanskrit, Latin, and Greek, leading to the identification of the ----------------- language family.
Jean-François Champollion made groundbreaking contributions to the ------------- of Egyptian hieroglyphics in 1822 by using the Rosetta Stone.
The ----------------- suggests that language developed from the need for cooperation and social bonding in early human societies.
August Schleicher introduced the concept of -----------------, illustrating how languages evolved from common ancestors in a branching pattern.
Question 33-37
Choose NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the passage for each answer.
The development of language is one of the most significant milestones in human history, enabling early humans to communicate complex ideas and form structured societies. Theories about the origin of language include the Gestural Theory, Bow-wow Theory, and Social Interaction Theory, suggesting that early humans used 33)…………….., imitated natural sounds, and relied on cooperation for communication. The earliest known languages, such as Sumerian and 34)……………., evolved into more complex systems, with cuneiform writing and 35)………………. as key examples of early writing systems. Proto-languages like Proto-Indo-European played a crucial role in linguistic evolution, influencing modern languages. In the 19th century, scholars such as 36)………………., who founded comparative linguistics, and Sir William Jones, who identified the Proto-Indo-European language family, made significant contributions. Jean-François Champollion deciphered Egyptian hieroglyphics with the Rosetta Stone, and 37) ……………………..August Schleicher introduced the concept of language trees, illustrating the branching pattern of language evolution.
Question 38-40
Select three statements that are correct according to the passage and write the corresponding letters on your answer sheet for questions 38 to 40.
A. Cuneiform, developed by the Sumerians around 3100 BCE, is one of the oldest known writing systems.
B. Jean-François Champollion deciphered Egyptian hieroglyphics in 1822 using the Rosetta Stone.
C.The Bow-wow Theory suggests that early humans developed language by associating sounds with specific emotions
D.August Schleicher introduced the concept of language trees, showing how languages evolved from common ancestors in a branching pattern.
E. Franz Bopp was the first scholar to discover the Rosetta Stone, which helped decipher hieroglyphics.
Answers
Section-1
False ( the Agricultural Revolution occurred approximately 10,000 years ago, not 15,000 years ago)
True (early agricultural practices began independently in regions like the Fertile Crescent and the Indus Valley, confirming the statement as accurate)
True (cattle and sheep were domesticated, providing meat, milk, and labor. )
Not Given (While the passage mentions the invention of farming tools like sickles and plows and their role in improving agricultural efficiency, it does not explicitly state that these tools significantly reduced human labor)
True (The passage states that unequal resource distribution during the Agricultural Revolution led to social stratification, confirming this statement)
False (The passage mentions that women, who had significant roles during the hunter-gatherer era, often saw their status diminish in male-dominated agrarian societies.
Not Given ( The passage mentions irrigation systems being developed in regions like Mesopotamia to improve agriculture, but it does not specify that Mesopotamia was the first region to develop such systems.)
True (The passage clearly describes the Agricultural Revolution as a "cornerstone in human development" and a transformative period )
B. The establishment of permanent settlements
C. Potatoes.
C. The development of irrigation systems.
C. Specialization of labor emerged, with some becoming artisans or traders.
C. Societies became vulnerable to crop failures and famine.
Section-2
(iv).Early Life and Pursuit of Art
(vii). Development of Landscape Painting Style
(vi). Famous Works and Breakthrough Success
(i). Struggles with Recognition and Financial Difficulties
(ii). Influence on French Impressionists and International Recognition
(ix). Personal Tragedy and Emotional Impact on Work
No – (He enrolled at the Royal Academy in 1799, but the passage does not suggest that his career was shaped by "prestigious" art institutions.)
No – (His style was initially criticized and not widely appreciated during his early career.)
Yes – (The passage mentions that French artists, including Delacroix, were influenced by Constable’s use of light and color.)
No – (The passage mentions that Constable struggled financially throughout his life, despite receiving commissions.)
Not Given – (The passage does not mention whether Constable's early works were formally rejected by the Royal Academy or why.)
Not Given –(The passage does not specify if Constable’s influence on Impressionists like Monet was recognized during his lifetime.)
Yes – (The passage describes how Maria’s death left Constable devastated, and this emotional toll affected his work.)
Section-3
cuneiform writing
comparative linguistics
Proto-Indo-European
Decipherment
Social Interaction Theory
language trees
hand signals
Egyptian
hieroglyphics
Franz Bopp
August Schleicher
A
B
D