B1 Preliminary (PET) Practice Paper 16

Reading

More companies are adopting hybrid work policies, where employees spend some days in the office and others working from home. This shift has created both advantages and challenges for modern workers. Working from home offers flexibility and saves time on commuting. Many people find they can concentrate better without office distractions, and they appreciate the extra time with their families. However, some employees feel isolated and miss the social connections that come with working in a shared space. Managers have discovered that maintaining team communication requires more effort. Regular video meetings and instant messaging help keep everyone connected, but nothing completely replaces face-to-face interaction. Several companies now have "collaboration days" when all teams must come to the office together, which helps build stronger relationships. For businesses, hybrid work reduces office space costs but increases spending on technology and security. Employees report higher job satisfaction overall, though some struggle with work-life balance when their home becomes their workplace. Experts predict that hybrid work will become the standard in many industries, reshaping how we think about the traditional office.

1. According to the passage, what is one advantage of working from home?

A) It eliminates the need for video meetings B) It saves time on commuting C) It guarantees better relationships with colleagues D) It reduces technology costs for companies

2. Why do some companies organize 'collaboration days'?

A) To reduce costs by closing the office B) To avoid using instant messaging C) To help build stronger team relationships D) To eliminate the need for managers

3. What is mentioned as a challenge for managers in hybrid work environments?

A) Finding office space B) Maintaining team communication C) Reducing technology spending D) Eliminating social connections

4. What does the passage suggest about work-life balance for remote workers?

A) It is always perfect for everyone B) It is easier than office work C) Some employees struggle with it D) It is no longer important

5. What does the passage predict about hybrid work in the future?

A) It will disappear completely B) It will only exist in small companies C) It will become the standard in many industries D) It will replace all office-based jobs

Real-life notices

Read each notice. Which sentence (A, B or C) is closest in meaning?

PLEASE RETURN TRAYS TO THE COUNTER

A) Trays should stay on the table. B) Customers should bring their tray back to the counter when finished. C) Trays are not provided in this restaurant.

LIFT OUT OF ORDER — PLEASE USE STAIRS

A) The lift is working normally. B) You cannot use the lift, so use the stairs instead. C) The stairs are closed today.

DOORS CLOSE 2 MINUTES BEFORE DEPARTURE

A) The doors stay open until the train leaves. B) The doors shut a short time before the train leaves. C) The doors are always open.

PLEASE SWITCH OFF YOUR PHONE DURING THE PERFORMANCE

A) Phones should stay on quietly during the show. B) Phones must be turned off while the show is on. C) Phones are not allowed in the building at all.

WET FLOOR — PLEASE WALK CAREFULLY

A) The floor has just been cleaned and could be slippery. B) The floor is very dry today. C) You should run to avoid getting wet.

Use of English

Starting a new job can be exciting but also nerve-wracking. On your first day, ___1___ important to arrive early and make a good impression. Your manager will probably ___2___ you around the office and introduce you to your colleagues. It's helpful ___3___ take notes when learning new procedures, as you'll forget details otherwise. During the first week, don't hesitate ___4___ questions if you don't understand something. Your team members ___5___ usually happy to help, and showing interest demonstrates enthusiasm. Many companies organize induction training ___6___ new employees, which covers company policies and health and safety regulations. If you feel nervous, remember that ___7___ has felt the same way. Building confidence takes time, but maintaining a positive attitude helps you settle in quickly. By the end of your first month, you should feel more comfortable ___8___ your new role.

1. Gap 1: Choose the correct form

A) it's B) its C) it D) it is

2. Gap 2: Choose the correct verb form

A) show B) showing C) shows D) showed

3. Gap 3: Choose the correct preposition

A) to B) in C) at D) for

4. Gap 4: Choose the correct form

A) to ask B) asking C) ask D) asked

5. Gap 5: Choose the correct verb form

A) are B) will be C) is D) be

6. Gap 6: Choose the correct preposition

A) for B) to C) at D) in

7. Gap 7: Choose the correct pronoun

A) someone B) everyone C) anyone D) no one

8. Gap 8: Choose the correct preposition

A) at B) in C) with D) on

Writing

Write an email (120–150 words) to your new manager thanking them for welcoming you to the company. Mention something positive about your first week, ask about upcoming training or projects, and express your enthusiasm for the role.