Question Focus: Detail question - comparing difficulty of learning English as a subject vs as a medium
Correct Answer: A
Passage Reference: In the past, learning English as a separate subject seemed relatively easy. The textbook selected and graded items of language which were put into context and then practiced intensively. New items were carefully controlled so that the student could cope quite easily.
Why this is correct: This statement is not supported. The passage clearly says learning English as a subject was relatively easy, not more difficult.
Paraphrasing: Passage: 'relatively easy' = Option: 'more difficult'
Tips: When you see a comparison, always check which side the writer says is easier or harder.
Key Vocabulary:
- relatively = fairly
- cope = manage
Question Focus: Detail question - difficulty of English as a medium of instruction
Correct Answer: B
Passage Reference: Now that English is used as a medium of instruction, however, all this has changed. Unknown items of grammar and vocabulary appear in texts which attempt to explain new and often difficult information. Difficulties with the language interact with difficulties as regards the subject matter.
Why this is correct: This is correct because the passage explains that when English is used as a medium of instruction, students face more difficulties with both language and subject content.
Paraphrasing: Passage: 'all this has changed' and 'difficulties with the language' = Option: 'more difficult part'
Tips: Look for contrast words like 'now' or 'however'. They often introduce the harder situation.
Key Vocabulary:
- medium of instruction = language used to teach
- interact = affect each other
Question Focus: Inference question - effect of language on understanding
Correct Answer: C
Passage Reference: Difficulties with the language interact with difficulties as regards the subject matter. The student's reading in his own subject slows down, and his comprehension becomes less secure.
Why this is correct: This is correct. The passage says language difficulties interact with subject difficulties and make comprehension less secure, which means language can block understanding.
Paraphrasing: Passage: 'comprehension becomes less secure' = Option: 'hinder understanding'
Tips: For inference questions, look for cause and effect relationships, not exact wording.
Key Vocabulary:
- hinder = block
- secure = confident
Question Focus: Contradiction check - ease vs difficulty
Correct Answer: D
Passage Reference: Now that English is used as a medium of instruction, however, all this has changed. Unknown items of grammar and vocabulary appear in texts which attempt to explain new and often difficult information. Difficulties with the language interact with difficulties as regards the subject matter. The student's reading in his own subject slows down, and his comprehension becomes less secure. He expresses himself slowly and often fails to convey his ideas exactly. He is disappointed to find that under pressure he makes a lot of unnecessary mistakes in areas where he knows the correct language forms. His social relations are difficult as he cannot find the right phrase quickly enough to keep a conversation going, so his language often betrays him into dullness, coldness, or worst of all, rudeness. Instead of the student being in control of the language, the language seems now to be in control of the student. All this can be very depressing and the student can start to feel anxious. Working in a foreign language is also very tiring, and the concentration and self-discipline required to correct one's mistake is very great indeed.
Why this is correct: This statement is wrong because the passage describes learning through English as tiring, depressing, and difficult, not easy. This is a Contradiction trap.
Paraphrasing: Passage: 'very tiring' and 'very depressing' = Option: 'easier part'
Tips: If an option says 'easy', check whether the passage uses negative feelings or problems instead.
Key Vocabulary:
- tiring = exhausting
- depressing = discouraging
Question Focus: Detail question - ease of learning English as a subject
Correct Answer: E
Passage Reference: In the past, learning English as a separate subject seemed relatively easy. The textbook selected and graded items of language which were put into context and then practiced intensively. New items were carefully controlled so that the student could cope quite easily.
Why this is correct: This is correct. The passage clearly states that learning English as a subject was relatively easy because the language was carefully controlled.
Paraphrasing: Passage: 'relatively easy' = Option: 'easier part'
Tips: Direct statements like this are strong evidence. Trust clear wording in the passage.
Key Vocabulary:
- controlled = limited
- graded = arranged by level
General Tips:
- For multiple-answer questions, check every option carefully. More than one can be correct.
- These questions follow passage order. Use the first paragraph to judge comparisons like easier vs harder.
- Do not use real-life opinions. Only choose ideas clearly supported by the passage.
- Watch for contrast words like 'however' and 'now'. They often signal a change in difficulty.
