Mock Test AU3 Spring 2024 – Station in the Valley

This is a simple mock test for the Freshman AU3 exam – you should use a simple pencil and paper to write down your answers. At the end of this 45-question test you will find the answers. 這是一個簡單的新生AU3考試模擬測驗——你應該使用簡單的鉛筆和紙寫下你的答案。在這45個問題的測驗結束後，你會找到答案。

Roads in Taiwan

Taiwan is a vibrant island nation known for its bustling cities, stunning landscapes, and intricate road networks. The road system in Taiwan is a critical component of its infrastructure, facilitating commerce, tourism, and daily commutes for millions of residents. This essay explores the development, challenges, and significance of Taiwan’s road networks.

Taiwan’s road infrastructure has evolved significantly over the past few decades. The island is crisscrossed by a network of highways, expressways, and local roads that connect urban centers with rural areas. The most prominent of these is the National Freeway No. 1, also known as the Sun Yat-sen Freeway, which stretches from Keelung in the north to Kaohsiung in the south. This major artery is a lifeline for transportation, enabling efficient movement of goods and people across the island.

Despite its extensive road network, Taiwan faces several challenges in maintaining and expanding its roads. One significant issue is the island’s mountainous terrain, which makes road construction and maintenance particularly challenging. Landslides and earthquakes are common, posing risks to road stability and safety. Additionally, the high population density in urban areas leads to traffic congestion, necessitating continual improvements and expansions to existing roads and the construction of new routes.

The government of Taiwan has been proactive in addressing these challenges through various initiatives. For example, the Freeway Bureau under the Ministry of Transportation and Communications is responsible for overseeing the construction, maintenance, and management of national highways. Recent projects have focused on enhancing road safety, improving traffic flow, and integrating smart technologies for better traffic management. These efforts are crucial in ensuring that Taiwan’s road network can meet the demands of its growing population and economy.

Moreover, Taiwan’s road network plays a vital role in its tourism industry. The island’s scenic routes, such as the Suhua Highway and the East Coast National Scenic Area, attract tourists from around the world. These roads offer breathtaking views of the coastline, mountains, and rural landscapes, providing an unforgettable experience for travelers. The government’s focus on maintaining and beautifying these routes underscores the importance of roads in promoting tourism and regional development.

In conclusion, Taiwan’s road network is a vital part of its infrastructure, supporting economic growth, tourism, and daily life. Despite the challenges posed by its terrain and population density, the government’s commitment to improving and maintaining the roads ensures that they continue to serve the needs of the nation. As Taiwan moves forward, its roads will remain a cornerstone of its development and prosperity.

Section A. Reading comprehension: Choose the most suitable answer to each question and mark 1, 2, 3, or 4 on your answer sheet.

1. The reading is mainly about _____.

(1) The economic impact of Taiwan’s road network

(2) Challenges in maintaining Taiwan’s roads

(3) The development and significance of Taiwan’s roads

(4) Government initiatives in Taiwan

2. The phrase “a lifeline for transportation” in the second paragraph suggests that National Freeway No. 1 _____.

(1) is under construction

(2) is crucial for travel across Taiwan

(3) is rarely used

(4) is expensive to maintain

3. The best heading for the third paragraph would be _____.

(1) Tourism and Taiwan’s Roads

(2) Road Safety Measures in Taiwan

(3) Challenges Facing Taiwan’s Road Network

(4) The Role of the Freeway Bureau

4. Which of these issues poses a challenge to Taiwan’s road network?

(1) High population density

(2) Limited government funding

(3) Lack of modern technology

(4) Proximity to the coast

5. Why is the Suhua Highway significant for Taiwan’s tourism?

(1) It connects major cities

(2) It offers scenic views

(3) It is the longest road in Taiwan

(4) It has many hotels and restaurants

Taking a Trip to Japan

Taking a trip to Japan can be an unforgettable experience. Japan, known for its rich cultural heritage and modern technological advancements, offers a unique blend of the traditional and contemporary. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, Japan has something to offer every traveler.

One of the first things to consider when planning a trip to Japan is the timing. The country experiences four distinct seasons, each with its own charm. Spring, with its famous cherry blossoms, is a popular time to visit. Autumn, with its vibrant foliage, is also a favorite. Summer can be hot and humid, but it is a great time for festivals and beach outings. Winter offers skiing opportunities in places like Hokkaido.

Travelers should also plan their itinerary based on their interests. History enthusiasts may want to explore ancient temples, castles, and shrines. Food lovers can indulge in Japan’s world-renowned cuisine, from sushi and ramen to street food. Nature lovers can visit national parks, hike mountains, and relax in hot springs.

Transportation in Japan is efficient and convenient. The Shinkansen, or bullet train, connects major cities at high speed, making it easy to travel long distances quickly. Public transportation in cities is also well-developed, with extensive subway and bus networks. Visitors can purchase a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited travel on JR trains for a certain period, which can be cost-effective for those planning to travel extensively.

Accommodation options in Japan range from traditional ryokan inns to modern hotels and budget-friendly hostels. Staying in a ryokan can be a unique experience, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese hospitality and culture. Many ryokans feature tatami mat rooms, communal baths, and kaiseki meals.

Language can be a barrier for some travelers, as not everyone in Japan speaks English. However, many signs in major tourist areas are in both Japanese and English, and translation apps can be helpful. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can enhance the travel experience and show respect for the local culture.

Overall, a trip to Japan can be a richly rewarding experience. With proper planning and an open mind, travelers can immerse themselves in Japan’s unique culture and create lasting memories.

Questions 6 through 9:

6. What is one reason spring is a popular time to visit Japan?

(1) The cooler weather

(2) The cherry blossoms

(3) The skiing opportunities

(4) The summer festivals

7. According to the passage, what might travelers interested in history want to explore in Japan?

(1) Modern hotels

(2) National parks

(3) Temples and castles

(4) Beaches

8. What can be inferred about the Shinkansen?

(1) It is only for local travel within cities.

(2) It is a slow means of transportation.

(3) It connects major cities quickly.

(4) It is a type of traditional Japanese accommodation.

9. According to the passage, what is a benefit of staying in a ryokan?

(1) Access to high-speed trains

(2) Experiencing traditional Japanese hospitality

(3) Participating in summer festivals

(4) Learning basic Japanese phrases

Making a Pizza

Making a pizza at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. It allows you to customize your pizza with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a delicious homemade meal. Here’s a simple guide to making a pizza from scratch.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)

3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon sugar

For the Sauce:

1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Pepperoni slices

Sliced mushrooms

Sliced bell peppers

Sliced onions

Fresh basil leaves

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.

Mix the ingredients until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, a little at a time.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

Prepare the Sauce:

In a medium bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Assemble the Pizza:

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion on a floured surface to your desired thickness.

Place the rolled-out dough on a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Spread a generous amount of sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.

Add your favorite toppings, such as pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and fresh basil.

Bake the Pizza:

Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your homemade pizza with friends and family!

Multiple Choice Questions:

10. According to the instructions, what is the first step in preparing the dough?

(1) Mix the flour and salt.

(2) Knead the dough on a floured surface.

(3) Dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water.

(4) Let the dough rise for 1-2 hours.

11. How long should the dough rise before it is ready to use?

(1) 30 minutes.

(2) 1-2 hours.

(3) 3-4 hours.

(4) Overnight.

12. What temperature should the oven be preheated to for baking the pizza?

(1) 350°F (175°C).

(2) 400°F (205°C).

(3) 425°F (220°C).

(4) 475°F (245°C).

13. Which ingredient is NOT mentioned as a possible topping for the pizza?

(1) Pineapple.

(2) Mushrooms.

(3) Bell peppers.

(4) Onions.

Email Questions:

Subject: Buffet Dining Event Update

Hi Everyone,

Apologies for the group email, but I need to ensure everyone is informed about our upcoming buffet dining event.

The list of attendees for the event is not entirely up-to-date, so I’m reaching out to all team members for confirmation.

We’ve arranged a delightful buffet dining experience, saving you the hassle of cooking. The event will take place at The Grand Buffet Hall on Saturday, May 15th. We’ll start serving at 6:30 PM, and the venue is just a short drive from our office. We anticipate a wonderful evening of delicious food and great company.

Accommodation has been arranged at the Grand Hotel, where each guest will have their own room. Some will have singles, while others will have doubles or twins. Unfortunately, I cannot accommodate specific requests for double rooms; it will be allocated randomly. Rest assured, all rooms will be comfortable and ensure a pleasant stay.

For transportation, we’ve organized a shuttle service to and from the venue, departing from our office at 6:00 PM and returning at 10:00 PM.

I’ll be finalizing arrangements on Friday morning (May 14th). If you have any concerns or queries, please reach out to me before then.

Best regards,

Alex Reynolds

Hi Alex,

I hope you’re doing well. My apologies for the delayed response. Unfortunately, I was tied up with urgent tasks last week and only just received your message.

Regarding the buffet dining event, I won’t be requiring transportation as I plan to drive myself. Furthermore, I won’t be returning to the hotel after the event, as I have other commitments.

Could you please arrange for a double room reservation for me at the Grand Hotel? I prefer sharing a room with a colleague.

Thank you for your understanding.

Best regards,

Sophia Nguyen

14. What is the purpose of the email?

(1) To inform everyone about a buffet dining event.

(2) To update the team about transportation arrangements.

(3) To request room reservations at the Grand Hotel.

(4) To apologize for a delay in response.

15. What time will the buffet dining event start?

(1) 5:30 PM

(2) 6:00 PM

(3) 6:30 PM

(4) 7:00 PM

16. Where will the buffet dining event take place?

(1) The Grand Buffet Hall

(2) The Grand Hotel

(3) The Office

(4) A Local Restaurant

17. What transportation option has been organized for the event?

(1) Personal chauffeur service

(2) Shuttle service

(3) Taxi vouchers

(4) Public transportation

18. Can you pass me _______ salt, please?