The Future of Artificial Intelligence

Paragraph A
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly evolved from a theoretical concept into a foundational force that is reshaping modern society. Defined as the capability of machines to simulate human intelligence, AI now enables computers to perform tasks that once required human cognition, such as understanding language, recognizing patterns, and making decisions. Over the past two decades, advancements in computational power, the growth of big data, and improvements in machine learning algorithms have significantly accelerated AI development. AI applications are no longer limited to research labs or science fiction—they are part of daily life. Smart assistants like Siri and Alexa, recommendation systems on streaming platforms, and autonomous features in vehicles are just a few examples of how AI integrates into human routines. As researchers continue to push boundaries, AI is expected to influence even more complex domains such as law, education, and creative industries.

Paragraph B
One of the most transformative fields where AI is making substantial progress is healthcare. Medical institutions and technology companies have partnered to create AI-powered diagnostic tools capable of analyzing X-rays, MRIs, and other scans with high precision. For instance, deep learning models have shown the ability to detect early stages of breast cancer or retinal diseases, sometimes identifying issues missed by experienced doctors. Moreover, AI is contributing to personalized medicine by analyzing patient data to recommend tailored treatment options. These systems can also monitor disease progression, predict outbreaks, and support mental health therapies through conversational agents. However, alongside the benefits come significant concerns. The use of patient data raises privacy issues, and the "black box" nature of certain AI models—where it is unclear how decisions are made—can limit trust among patients and professionals. Ethical frameworks are still being developed to regulate AI's growing influence in this sensitive sector.

Paragraph C
Despite the enthusiasm, AI's widespread adoption presents notable challenges. The most commonly cited concern is the impact on employment. As machines take over repetitive or data-driven tasks, jobs in industries such as manufacturing, customer service, transportation, and even journalism are under threat. While AI has the potential to create new roles, such as AI trainers and ethicists, there is no guarantee that displaced workers will have the resources or ability to reskill. Another issue is bias in AI systems. Algorithms trained on unrepresentative or historical data can unintentionally reinforce discrimination, particularly in areas like recruitment, lending, or law enforcement. Such outcomes can deepen existing social inequalities. Furthermore, the environmental impact of training large AI models—requiring vast energy resources—is increasingly being scrutinized. These risks highlight the need for ongoing evaluation and responsible design.

Paragraph D
To balance innovation with safety, global efforts are underway to regulate AI development and implementation. Policymakers, academics, and industry leaders are working together to draft legislation that ensures AI is used ethically and transparently. The European Union has taken a leading role by proposing regulations that categorize AI systems by risk level and impose strict requirements on high-risk applications, such as those in healthcare or law enforcement. Similarly, some technology firms have established internal ethics boards and are investing in "explainable AI" to help users understand how conclusions are reached. Additionally, international organizations have called for AI systems to align with human rights, fairness, and accountability principles. The ultimate goal is to ensure that AI augments human capabilities rather than undermining them—creating a future where machines support a more equitable and efficient world.

Matching Headings
Choose the correct heading (i–iv) for each paragraph. Only two options are used.

Options:
i. Risks and societal challenges of expanding AI
ii. AI’s transformative impact on healthcare
iii. The beginnings of artificial intelligence research
iv. Regulatory efforts to manage AI growth

Matching Information
Match the following groups with the correct information from the passage.

12. The European Union
13. Deep learning models
14. AI training processes

A)Require large amounts of energy
B)Can detect signs of illness before human doctors
C)Proposed a legal framework for high-risk AI systems
D)Are used to teach foreign languages in schools

Urban Farming and the Future of Food

Paragraph A
As global urban populations continue to grow, the challenge of ensuring food security in densely populated cities has become a pressing concern. Urban farming, also known as urban agriculture, is emerging as a sustainable and innovative solution. It refers to the cultivation of crops and the raising of animals within and around cities. This practice takes many forms—rooftop gardens, vertical farming systems, hydroponic setups in warehouses, and even aquaponic systems combining fish farming with plant cultivation. Urban farming not only brings fresh food closer to consumers but also reduces the need for long transportation routes, thus lowering carbon emissions and food spoilage.

Paragraph B
One of the most appealing aspects of urban agriculture is its potential to transform underutilized urban spaces into productive areas. Vacant lots, abandoned buildings, and even shipping containers have been repurposed to grow food in cities like New York, Tokyo, and Johannesburg. Moreover, new technologies are pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Vertical farming uses stacked layers in controlled environments to maximize output per square meter, while hydroponics allows for soil-free cultivation with nutrient-rich water. These systems can operate year-round, independent of climate, making them highly resilient to extreme weather events linked to climate change. However, critics argue that high start-up costs and technical expertise required may limit access to these solutions in lower-income neighborhoods.

Paragraph C
In addition to environmental benefits, urban farming can contribute to social and economic well-being. Community gardens, for example, can improve access to healthy food in areas known as "food deserts," where supermarkets are scarce. They also foster a sense of ownership, cooperation, and education among residents. Local food production can stimulate micro-economies, offering job opportunities and small business growth in areas suffering from unemployment. Schools and youth programs increasingly incorporate urban gardening as a hands-on educational tool, teaching students about biology, nutrition, and sustainability. Still, challenges remain: securing legal land rights, ensuring water availability, and meeting safety regulations are significant hurdles that many urban farmers face.

Paragraph D
Despite these obstacles, urban farming is gaining attention at the policy level. Governments in several countries have begun to support urban agriculture through incentives, zoning changes, and grant programs. For example, Singapore has introduced subsidies to encourage rooftop farms, while Canada’s national food policy includes funding for community food-growing initiatives. Additionally, urban agriculture aligns with several of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those focused on climate action, responsible consumption, and hunger reduction. As cities strive to become more self-reliant and eco-friendly, integrating farming into the urban fabric may become an essential part of future urban planning strategies.

Matching Headings

Choose the correct heading (i–iv) for each paragraph. Only two options are used.

Options:
i. Urban farming’s environmental and social benefits
ii. Technical innovations and limitations in urban agriculture
iii. Ancient agricultural practices in rural areas
iv. Political support and long-term strategies for city-based farming

Matching Information

Match each item (12–14) with the correct piece of information (A–D) from the passage.

Items:
12. Singapore
13. Hydroponics
14. Community gardens

Options:
A) Help urban residents work together and learn
B) Are used in schools for teaching
C) Allow plants to grow without soil
D) Offers financial help for rooftop food projects

The Rise of Remote Work

Paragraph A
Remote work, also known as telecommuting or working from home, has witnessed a dramatic increase in popularity over the past decade. While once considered a luxury or an exception for specific industries, remote work has evolved into a widespread and permanent feature of the modern workforce. The shift accelerated rapidly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced millions of employees across the globe to work from home. Companies, from small startups to multinational corporations, began to explore flexible work models, aided by technological platforms such as Zoom, Slack, and cloud-based tools that enable virtual collaboration. This shift has not only altered the way people work but has also raised new questions about productivity, mental health, and the future of urban office spaces.

Paragraph B
Several studies have examined the productivity of remote workers compared to those working in traditional office settings. Some research suggests that employees are more productive when working from home due to fewer distractions, increased autonomy, and saved commuting time. However, these benefits are not universal. Others report challenges such as isolation, blurred work-life boundaries, and difficulties in communication. The impact of remote work on employee mental health is complex: while some appreciate the flexibility, others feel disconnected and experience burnout. Furthermore, the lack of face-to-face interaction can hinder creativity and team dynamics, particularly in roles that require brainstorming and group decision-making.

Paragraph C
The shift to remote work has also led to significant changes in urban planning and real estate markets. As more people choose to work from home permanently or part-time, demand for large office spaces has declined in many major cities. This trend has prompted companies to adopt hybrid work models and downsize their physical office footprints. In some regions, property developers are repurposing former commercial buildings into residential or co-working spaces. At the same time, suburban and rural areas have seen an increase in housing demand, as people seek more space and a better quality of life while remaining digitally connected. This shift may lead to long-term demographic and economic transformations.

Paragraph D
As remote work continues to evolve, organizations are rethinking how to maintain engagement, performance, and collaboration. Investing in digital infrastructure, fostering inclusive online communication, and supporting employee well-being have become central to remote work strategies. Some companies have implemented "no-meeting days" to combat virtual fatigue, while others offer mental health resources or virtual team-building activities. Additionally, governments are considering regulations to protect remote workers' rights, such as the right to disconnect after work hours or access to ergonomic home equipment. As the nature of work changes, so too must the systems that support it.

Matching Headings

Choose the correct heading for each paragraph (A–D). Only 2 are used.

Headings:
i. Challenges of maintaining creativity and collaboration
ii. Urban development consequences of remote work
iii. History of internet-based communication
iv. Mental and emotional effects of working remotely