Mở bài
Chủ đề năng lượng tái tạo và công nghiệp khai thác mỏ đang trở thành một trong những nội dung xuất hiện ngày càng thường xuyên trong kỳ thi IELTS Reading, đặc biệt là từ năm 2020 trở lại đây. Với xu hướng toàn cầu hóa về vấn đề môi trường và phát triển bền vững, chủ đề này không chỉ phù hợp với Academic Module mà còn xuất hiện trong General Training Module ở mức độ khác nhau.
Bài viết này cung cấp một bộ đề thi IELTS Reading hoàn chỉnh gồm 3 passages với độ khó tăng dần từ Easy (Band 5.0-6.5), Medium (Band 6.0-7.5) đến Hard (Band 7.0-9.0). Bạn sẽ được luyện tập với 40 câu hỏi đa dạng bao gồm tất cả các dạng câu hỏi phổ biến trong IELTS như Multiple Choice, True/False/Not Given, Yes/No/Not Given, Matching Headings, Summary Completion, và nhiều dạng khác.
Mỗi passage đều đi kèm đáp án chi tiết với giải thích cụ thể về vị trí thông tin, cách paraphrase, và lý do tại sao đáp án đúng. Ngoài ra, bài viết còn tổng hợp từ vựng quan trọng theo từng passage với phiên âm, nghĩa tiếng Việt, ví dụ và collocation để bạn có thể nâng cao vốn từ vựng học thuật.
Đề thi này phù hợp cho học viên từ band 5.0 trở lên muốn rèn luyện kỹ năng đọc hiểu và làm quen với format thi thật của IELTS.
Hướng Dẫn Làm Bài IELTS Reading
Tổng Quan Về IELTS Reading Test
IELTS Reading Test kéo dài 60 phút với 3 passages và tổng cộng 40 câu hỏi. Điểm đặc biệt là bạn phải tự quản lý thời gian cho cả ba phần mà không có thời gian nghỉ giữa các passage.
Phân bổ thời gian khuyến nghị:
- Passage 1: 15-17 phút (độ khó thấp nhất)
- Passage 2: 18-20 phút (độ khó trung bình)
- Passage 3: 23-25 phút (độ khó cao nhất)
Lưu ý quan trọng: Dành 2-3 phút cuối để chuyển đáp án sang Answer Sheet. Trong phòng thi, bạn không có thêm thời gian cho việc này.
Các Dạng Câu Hỏi Trong Đề Này
Đề thi mẫu này bao gồm các dạng câu hỏi sau:
- Multiple Choice – Trắc nghiệm nhiều lựa chọn
- True/False/Not Given – Xác định thông tin đúng/sai/không có trong bài
- Matching Information – Nối thông tin với đoạn văn
- Sentence Completion – Hoàn thành câu
- Yes/No/Not Given – Xác định quan điểm tác giả
- Matching Headings – Nối tiêu đề với đoạn văn
- Summary Completion – Hoàn thành đoạn tóm tắt
- Matching Features – Nối đặc điểm với thông tin
- Short-answer Questions – Câu hỏi trả lời ngắn
IELTS Reading Practice Test
PASSAGE 1 – The Green Revolution in Mining
Độ khó: Easy (Band 5.0-6.5)
Thời gian đề xuất: 15-17 phút
The mining industry has long been associated with environmental degradation, high carbon emissions, and substantial energy consumption. However, a transformation is currently underway as mining companies worldwide begin to embrace renewable energy sources to power their operations. This shift represents not only an environmental imperative but also makes strong economic sense for an industry facing increasing pressure from investors, governments, and local communities.
Solar power has emerged as one of the most viable options for mining operations, particularly those located in remote areas with abundant sunlight. In Chile, one of the world’s largest copper producers, several mining companies have installed extensive solar panel arrays to supplement their electricity needs. The Atacama Desert, where many Chilean mines are located, receives some of the highest solar radiation levels on Earth, making it an ideal location for solar energy generation. Companies like Codelco have reported that solar installations can provide up to 40% of a mine’s daytime energy requirements, significantly reducing their reliance on diesel generators and grid electricity.
Wind energy is another renewable resource gaining traction in the mining sector. In South Africa, gold and platinum mines are increasingly turning to wind farms to meet their enormous power demands. The Sere Wind Farm, located in the Western Cape province, was specifically designed to supply electricity to Anglo American’s mining operations. With 46 turbines generating 100 megawatts of power, this facility demonstrates how large-scale wind projects can successfully integrate with mining activities. The predictable nature of wind patterns in certain regions allows mining companies to forecast their renewable energy supply more accurately, enabling better operational planning.
Hybrid systems combining multiple renewable sources are becoming increasingly popular. These systems typically integrate solar panels, wind turbines, and battery storage to provide consistent power supply even when weather conditions vary. In Australia, several iron ore mines in Western Australia have implemented hybrid renewable energy systems that also include backup diesel generators for critical operations. This diversified approach ensures reliability while maximizing the use of clean energy. The modularity of these systems means they can be scaled up as mining operations expand or scaled down during periods of reduced activity.
The economic benefits of renewable energy adoption in mining are becoming increasingly clear. While the initial capital investment for renewable infrastructure can be substantial, the long-term savings on fuel costs are significant. Diesel fuel, traditionally used to power remote mining operations, is not only expensive but also subject to price volatility. In contrast, once renewable energy systems are installed, the “fuel” – sunlight and wind – is essentially free. A study by the International Renewable Energy Agency found that mines switching to renewable energy can reduce their electricity costs by 30-70% over a 20-year period.
Beyond cost savings, renewable energy offers mining companies important reputational advantages. As consumers and investors become more environmentally conscious, companies demonstrating commitment to sustainability can attract investment more easily and maintain better relationships with local communities. Several major mining corporations have announced ambitious targets to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040 or 2050, and renewable energy adoption is central to these strategies. This shift is also helping mining companies secure financing, as banks and financial institutions increasingly factor environmental performance into their lending decisions.
Technological advancements are making renewable energy integration easier and more efficient. Smart grid technology allows mining operations to optimize their energy use, automatically switching between renewable sources and conventional power based on availability and demand. Advanced battery storage systems can store excess renewable energy generated during peak production times for use during periods of low generation. Furthermore, predictive maintenance systems using artificial intelligence help ensure renewable energy infrastructure operates at maximum efficiency, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
Despite these advantages, challenges remain. The intermittent nature of solar and wind energy means mining operations cannot yet rely entirely on renewables for continuous operation. Mining processes often require constant, reliable power, and any interruption can be costly. This is why most renewable energy projects in mining still include backup systems using conventional fuels. Additionally, the upfront costs of renewable infrastructure can be prohibitive for smaller mining operations or those in early stages of development. However, decreasing equipment costs and improving technology are gradually making renewable energy more accessible across the mining sector.
Regulatory support is playing a crucial role in accelerating the adoption of renewable energy in mining. Many governments offer tax incentives, subsidies, or preferential financing for mining projects that incorporate renewable energy. In Canada, the federal government’s Clean Energy for Mining and Remote Communities program provides funding for feasibility studies and implementation of renewable energy systems at mine sites. Such initiatives are helping overcome the financial barriers that have historically prevented mining companies from investing in green energy infrastructure.
Questions 1-13
Questions 1-5: Multiple Choice
Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.
-
According to the passage, mining companies are adopting renewable energy because
A) it is required by law in most countries
B) it makes environmental and financial sense
C) traditional energy sources are no longer available
D) their competitors are doing the same -
Solar power is particularly suitable for Chilean mines because
A) the government provides free solar panels
B) copper mining requires less energy than other types
C) the Atacama Desert has excellent solar conditions
D) they have no access to other energy sources -
The Sere Wind Farm in South Africa was built primarily to
A) supply electricity to local communities
B) power Anglo American’s mining operations
C) test new wind turbine technology
D) reduce South Africa’s carbon emissions -
Hybrid renewable energy systems in mining typically include
A) only solar and wind components
B) multiple renewable sources and backup systems
C) experimental technologies still under development
D) geothermal and hydroelectric power -
According to the International Renewable Energy Agency study, mines using renewable energy can
A) eliminate all electricity costs
B) reduce costs by 30-70% over 20 years
C) recover their investment within five years
D) double their production capacity
Questions 6-9: True/False/Not Given
Do the following statements agree with the information given in the passage?
Write:
- TRUE if the statement agrees with the information
- FALSE if the statement contradicts the information
- NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this
- Solar installations at Chilean mines can provide almost half of daytime energy needs.
- Wind patterns are completely unpredictable in mining regions of South Africa.
- Battery storage technology is too expensive for most mining operations.
- Banks are increasingly considering environmental factors when making lending decisions to mining companies.
Questions 10-13: Sentence Completion
Complete the sentences below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.
- The __ of hybrid renewable systems allows them to be adjusted as mining operations change in size.
- One major advantage of renewable energy is that the fuel source, such as sunlight and wind, is essentially __.
- Mining companies with strong sustainability commitments find it easier to __ from investors.
- The Canadian government’s program provides funding for both feasibility studies and __ of renewable energy systems at mines.
PASSAGE 2 – Technical Challenges and Innovative Solutions
Độ khó: Medium (Band 6.0-7.5)
Thời gian đề xuất: 18-20 phút
The integration of renewable energy into mining operations presents a complex array of technical challenges that extend far beyond simple infrastructure installation. Mining activities demand exceptionally high and consistent power loads, often operating continuously 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This requirement for uninterrupted energy supply creates unique complications when attempting to incorporate intermittent renewable sources such as solar and wind power, which are inherently dependent on variable weather conditions and diurnal cycles.
One of the most significant technical obstacles involves load management and the stabilization of power supply. Traditional mining equipment, including crushers, mills, conveyors, and ventilation systems, requires stable voltage and frequency to operate effectively. Fluctuations in power delivery can cause equipment malfunctions, production delays, and potentially dangerous situations for workers. To address this challenge, engineers have developed sophisticated energy management systems (EMS) that can instantaneously balance supply and demand by orchestrating multiple energy sources. These systems employ real-time monitoring and predictive algorithms to anticipate energy needs and optimize the contribution from each available source.
Battery energy storage systems (BESS) have emerged as a critical enabling technology for renewable energy integration in mining. Modern lithium-ion battery installations can store significant quantities of electricity generated during peak renewable production periods and discharge it when production wanes or demand spikes. At the Agnew Gold Mine in Western Australia, a 13-megawatt-hour battery system works in tandem with a 4-megawatt solar farm and 18-megawatt wind farm, creating what the operators describe as a “virtual power plant.” This configuration has enabled the mine to reduce diesel consumption by approximately 60%, while maintaining the power quality necessary for sensitive mining equipment.
The geographical dispersion of mining operations presents another layer of complexity. Many mines are located in remote regions with limited or non-existent grid connections, necessitating self-sufficient energy solutions. Transporting conventional fuel to such locations incurs substantial costs and logistical challenges, particularly in regions with extreme weather conditions or difficult terrain. Renewable energy systems, once installed, eliminate much of this logistical burden, though the initial installation in remote areas can itself be logistically demanding and expensive. Some mining companies have adopted modular renewable energy units that can be transported in sections and assembled on-site, reducing the complexity of installation in challenging environments.
Microgrids represent an innovative solution particularly well-suited to mining applications. These localized electrical grids can operate autonomously or connect to the main grid when available, incorporating multiple generation sources and intelligent control systems. The Diavik Diamond Mine in Canada’s Northwest Territories provides an exemplary case study. Located 300 kilometers from the nearest community and accessible only by ice road during winter months, the mine implemented a 4.2-megawatt wind farm integrated with diesel generators through a sophisticated microgrid system. The intelligent controller manages the interplay between wind and diesel generation, ensuring stability while maximizing renewable energy utilization. During optimal wind conditions, the system can displace up to 80% of diesel fuel consumption, translating to substantial cost savings and emission reductions.
Demand response strategies offer another avenue for enhancing renewable energy compatibility with mining operations. Not all mining processes require continuous operation at full capacity; certain activities, such as ore crushing, grinding, and some processing functions, can be scheduled flexibly around renewable energy availability. This approach, known as “flexible load management,” involves prioritizing energy-intensive but non-time-critical operations during periods of high renewable generation. Advanced scheduling algorithms can optimize production sequences to align with forecasted renewable energy output, effectively making mining operations adapt to energy supply rather than demanding on-demand power at all times.
The electrochemical processes involved in mineral extraction and processing often require precise power characteristics, which renewable energy sources must be conditioned to provide. Electrolysis operations, common in aluminum and copper production, demand high-quality direct current (DC) power with minimal fluctuation. Power conditioning equipment, including inverters, converters, and filters, must be strategically deployed to ensure renewable electricity meets these exacting specifications. The costs associated with such equipment previously represented a significant barrier, but technological improvements and economies of scale have made these solutions increasingly economically viable.
Climate variability itself poses operational challenges that require careful planning and redundancy. Mining operations in regions experiencing seasonal weather patterns must account for periods of reduced renewable generation. In northern latitudes, solar production drops dramatically during winter months, while some wind resources may actually peak during these periods. Comprehensive resource assessments involving years of meteorological data are essential to design systems with appropriate generating capacity and storage reserves to maintain reliability across all seasonal conditions. Some operations employ advanced forecasting models that predict renewable availability days or weeks in advance, allowing operational adjustments to be planned proactively.
Cybersecurity considerations have become increasingly important as renewable energy systems rely heavily on digital control systems and data connectivity. Mining operations integrating smart grids and EMS create multiple potential vulnerability points for cyberattacks that could disrupt power supply or compromise operational safety. Implementing robust cybersecurity protocols, including encrypted communications, network segmentation, and continuous monitoring, has become an essential component of renewable energy integration. Several mining companies have established dedicated cybersecurity teams to oversee their renewable energy infrastructure alongside traditional IT systems.
Workforce adaptation represents a human dimension of the technical challenges. Traditional mining operations have relied on diesel mechanics and conventional power engineers who may lack familiarity with renewable technologies and digital energy management systems. Mining companies are investing in comprehensive training programs to upskill existing staff and recruiting new talent with expertise in renewable energy engineering and data analytics. This transition in workforce capabilities is essential for maintaining operational excellence as mining energy systems become increasingly complex and technology-dependent.
Questions 14-26
Questions 14-18: Yes/No/Not Given
Do the following statements agree with the views of the writer in the passage?
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
- Mining operations have relatively low energy requirements compared to other industries.
- Fluctuations in power delivery can create safety hazards for mining workers.
- Battery storage systems are the only viable solution for renewable energy integration in mining.
- Modular renewable energy units make installation easier in remote mining locations.
- All mining processes can be scheduled flexibly around renewable energy availability.
Questions 19-23: Matching Information
Match each statement with the correct mine site (A-D).
Write the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.
Mine sites:
A. Agnew Gold Mine
B. Diavik Diamond Mine
C. Sere Wind Farm (from Passage 1)
D. Chilean mines (from Passage 1)
- Uses a battery system described as a “virtual power plant”
- Can displace up to 80% of diesel consumption during favorable conditions
- Is accessible by ice road only during specific months
- Reduced diesel consumption by approximately 60%
- Located in the Northwest Territories of Canada
Questions 24-26: Summary Completion
Complete the summary below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.
Renewable energy integration in mining faces several technical challenges. Mining equipment requires stable 24. __ to function properly, which intermittent renewable sources struggle to provide consistently. To address this, sophisticated 25. __ have been developed that can balance multiple energy sources in real-time. Additionally, 26. __ is becoming increasingly important as renewable energy systems depend heavily on digital controls and data connectivity.
PASSAGE 3 – Economic Implications and Future Trajectories
Độ khó: Hard (Band 7.0-9.0)
Thời gian đề xuất: 23-25 phút
The paradigm shift toward renewable energy in the mining sector represents far more than a technological transition; it constitutes a fundamental reconfiguration of the industry’s economic calculus, risk profile, and competitive dynamics. As mining companies navigate this transformation, they must contend with complex financial considerations that extend across capital allocation decisions, operational economics, market positioning, and long-term strategic planning. The ramifications of these decisions will reverberate throughout global supply chains and may fundamentally alter the competitive landscape of mineral extraction and processing.
Năng lượng tái tạo đang thay đổi cảnh quan kinh tế của ngành khai thác mỏ toàn cầu
From a capital expenditure perspective, the upfront investment requirements for renewable energy infrastructure in mining contexts are substantial and multifaceted. A comprehensive renewable energy installation typically encompasses not merely generation equipment—solar panels, wind turbines, or alternative technologies—but also ancillary systems including transmission infrastructure, energy storage facilities, power conditioning equipment, and sophisticated control systems. For a medium-sized mining operation, total capital costs for a hybrid renewable system capable of meeting 50-70% of energy demand can range from $50 million to over $200 million, depending on site-specific factors such as resource availability, geographical challenges, and integration complexity. These figures represent capital intensity comparable to or exceeding the costs of major processing equipment or mine development infrastructure.
However, conventional financial analysis focusing solely on capital costs provides an incomplete picture of the economic proposition. The levelized cost of energy (LCOE)—a metric that amortizes capital costs over the system’s operational lifetime while accounting for ongoing expenses and energy production—offers a more nuanced evaluation framework. Recent analyses suggest that in many mining contexts, particularly those in regions with excellent renewable resources and high conventional fuel costs, the LCOE of renewable systems has achieved parity with or fallen below that of diesel generation or grid electricity. The International Energy Agency projects that by 2025, solar and wind LCOE in optimal locations will be 30-50% lower than fossil fuel alternatives, fundamentally altering the economic calculus for new mining projects and prompting reassessment of existing operations.
The volatility mitigation aspect of renewable energy adoption carries profound economic implications that transcend simple cost comparisons. Mining operations dependent on diesel fuel or grid electricity derived from fossil sources face exposure to commodity price fluctuations, geopolitical disruptions, and increasingly, carbon pricing mechanisms. Diesel price swings of 30-40% within a single year are not uncommon, creating budgetary uncertainty and financial planning challenges. By contrast, renewable energy systems offer predictable, fixed-cost energy once capital costs are recovered, providing financial certainty and improved cash flow predictability over multi-decade operational horizons. This risk reduction has tangible value in corporate finance terms, potentially lowering cost of capital and improving asset valuations.
The emergence of innovative financing mechanisms is accelerating renewable energy adoption by addressing capital constraints that have historically impeded investment. Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) allow mining companies to contract renewable energy from third-party developers without bearing upfront capital costs, instead committing to long-term electricity purchases at predetermined rates. This structure transfers construction risk and financing burden to specialized renewable energy companies while providing mines with cost certainty and immediate emissions reductions. In Australia, BHP negotiated a PPA with a wind farm developer that will supply 70% of Olympic Dam mine’s electricity needs for 10 years, demonstrating the scalability of this approach for even the largest mining operations.
Green financing instruments—including sustainability-linked loans, green bonds, and climate-focused investment funds—are creating additional financial incentives for renewable energy investment. These mechanisms typically offer preferential interest rates or more favorable terms for projects meeting specified environmental criteria. The global green bond market exceeded $500 billion in issuance in 2021, with mining companies increasingly tapping this capital source to fund renewable energy infrastructure. Anglo American issued a $1.5 billion sustainability-linked bond in 2021, with interest rates tied to achievement of carbon emission reduction targets, exemplifying how environmental performance is becoming financially material in capital markets.
The competitive differentiation enabled by renewable energy adoption extends beyond operational cost advantages to encompass market access and customer preferences. An emerging bifurcation in commodity markets sees certain downstream users—particularly in electronics, automotive, and consumer goods sectors—expressing willingness to pay premiums for “green metals” produced with low-carbon intensity. Tesla’s battery supply agreements explicitly prioritize lithium and nickel sourced from operations with demonstrable renewable energy use. Similarly, Apple’s supplier commitments require carbon neutrality, creating supply chain pressure that cascades to mining operations. This dynamic is creating a potential “green premium” for sustainably produced minerals that could reach 5-15% above conventional market prices, fundamentally altering profitability equations for forward-thinking mining companies.
Regulatory trajectories are amplifying the economic imperative for renewable energy adoption. The European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), scheduled for full implementation by 2026, will impose tariffs on imported commodities based on their embedded carbon emissions. Mining operations exporting to EU markets will face direct financial penalties for high-carbon production methods, potentially amounting to 10-30% of product value depending on commodity type and production intensity. Similar mechanisms are under consideration in other jurisdictions, suggesting a global trend toward carbon pricing that will make renewable energy not merely advantageous but economically essential for maintaining market access.
The stranded asset risk associated with fossil fuel-dependent mining infrastructure represents an increasingly tangible financial concern. As renewable energy economics improve and regulatory pressures intensify, infrastructure predicated on continued fossil fuel use faces potential premature obsolescence. Mining projects typically operate on multi-decade timeframes, with major equipment designed for 20-30 year operational lives. Investments in conventional power infrastructure made today could become economically uncompetitive or regulatory non-compliant well before their intended retirement, resulting in asset write-downs and stranded capital. This risk is prompting mining companies to favor renewable energy investments even when short-term economics appear marginally less favorable, as a form of future-proofing against evolving market and regulatory conditions.
Innovation ecosystems developing around mining-renewable energy integration are creating spillover economic benefits that extend beyond individual companies or projects. Regions with concentrated mining activity adopting renewable energy are seeing emergence of specialized service sectors, including renewable energy engineering firms, energy storage specialists, and grid optimization consultants. Western Australia’s mining belt has become a focal point for hybrid microgrid innovation, with knowledge transfer and technological advancement creating competitive advantages for regional industries. These agglomeration effects generate multiplier benefits through employment, ancillary business development, and technology export opportunities.
The macroeconomic implications of widespread renewable energy adoption in mining extend to national economic development trajectories, particularly for resource-dependent economies. Countries such as Chile, Australia, and South Africa, where mining constitutes significant proportions of GDP and export revenues, are recognizing that positioning their mining sectors as sustainability leaders could provide strategic advantages in evolving global markets. National policies increasingly incentivize renewable energy integration through tax mechanisms, infrastructure support, and regulatory frameworks designed to accelerate transition while maintaining economic competitiveness. This represents a convergence of industrial policy, climate strategy, and economic development objectives that may define competitive dynamics in the mining sector for decades to come.
Technological learning curves and economies of scale suggest that the relative economics of renewable energy in mining will continue to improve substantially. Solar panel costs have declined approximately 90% since 2010, while battery storage costs have fallen 85% over the same period. As deployment accelerates and manufacturing scales expand, further cost reductions are anticipated. Simultaneously, carbon prices and fossil fuel costs face upward pressure from resource depletion and climate policies. This convergence suggests that renewable energy will transition from being economically advantageous in specific contexts to being the default economically optimal choice for mining operations across increasingly diverse geographical and geological settings. Companies positioning themselves at the forefront of this transition are likely to realize first-mover advantages in terms of operational efficiency, market positioning, and access to capital, while those lagging risk competitive disadvantage and potential financial distress as the industry transforms around them.
Questions 27-40
Questions 27-31: Multiple Choice
Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.
-
According to the passage, capital costs for a hybrid renewable energy system in a medium-sized mine can be
A) less than $50 million in all cases
B) comparable to major processing equipment costs
C) insignificant compared to other mining expenses
D) decreasing rapidly every year -
The levelized cost of energy (LCOE) is described as
A) focusing only on initial capital costs
B) ignoring ongoing operational expenses
C) providing a more complete economic analysis
D) being irrelevant to mining operations -
Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) primarily benefit mining companies by
A) eliminating all energy costs
B) providing ownership of renewable infrastructure
C) reducing upfront capital requirements
D) guaranteeing increased mineral production -
The “green premium” for sustainably produced minerals could potentially reach
A) 1-3% above conventional prices
B) 5-15% above conventional prices
C) 20-30% above conventional prices
D) 50% above conventional prices -
The EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) will
A) provide subsidies for all mining operations
B) eliminate all tariffs on mineral imports
C) impose tariffs based on carbon emissions
D) be implemented in 2030
Questions 32-36: Matching Features
Match each benefit with the correct category.
Write the correct letter, A, B, or C.
Categories:
A. Financial benefits
B. Market advantages
C. Risk reduction
- Protection against diesel price fluctuations
- Access to preferential interest rates through green bonds
- Preference from downstream customers like Tesla
- Improved cash flow predictability
- Differentiation in emerging “green metals” markets
Questions 37-40: Short-answer Questions
Answer the questions below.
Choose NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the passage for each answer.
- What type of risk is associated with fossil fuel-dependent mining infrastructure becoming economically uncompetitive?
- Which Australian region has become a focal point for hybrid microgrid innovation?
- Approximately how much have solar panel costs declined since 2010?
- What type of advantage might companies gain by positioning themselves at the forefront of renewable energy transition?
Answer Keys – Đáp Án
PASSAGE 1: Questions 1-13
- B
- C
- B
- B
- B
- TRUE
- FALSE
- NOT GIVEN
- TRUE
- modularity
- free
- attract investment
- implementation
PASSAGE 2: Questions 14-26
- NO
- YES
- NO
- YES
- NO
- A
- B
- B
- A
- B
- voltage and frequency
- energy management systems
- cybersecurity
PASSAGE 3: Questions 27-40
- B
- C
- C
- B
- C
- C
- A
- B
- C
- B
- stranded asset risk
- Western Australia
- 90%
- first-mover advantages
Giải Thích Đáp Án Chi Tiết
Passage 1 – Giải Thích
Câu 1: B
- Dạng câu hỏi: Multiple Choice
- Từ khóa: mining companies, adopting renewable energy, because
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 1, dòng 3-5
- Giải thích: Bài đọc nói rõ “This shift represents not only an environmental imperative but also makes strong economic sense” – nghĩa là vừa có lý do môi trường vừa có lý do kinh tế. Đáp án B paraphrase ý này thành “environmental and financial sense”.
Câu 2: C
- Dạng câu hỏi: Multiple Choice
- Từ khóa: Solar power, suitable, Chilean mines
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 2, dòng 4-6
- Giải thích: Đoạn văn nói “The Atacama Desert, where many Chilean mines are located, receives some of the highest solar radiation levels on Earth, making it an ideal location for solar energy generation” – điều kiện địa lý tuyệt vời của sa mạc Atacama là lý do chính.
Câu 6: TRUE
- Dạng câu hỏi: True/False/Not Given
- Từ khóa: Solar installations, Chilean mines, half of daytime energy
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 2, dòng 7-9
- Giải thích: Bài viết nói “solar installations can provide up to 40% of a mine’s daytime energy requirements” – 40% gần bằng “almost half” (gần một nửa), nên đáp án là TRUE.
Câu 7: FALSE
- Dạng câu hỏi: True/False/Not Given
- Từ khóa: Wind patterns, unpredictable, South Africa
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 3, dòng 7-8
- Giải thích: Bài viết nói “The predictable nature of wind patterns in certain regions” – điều này trái ngược với “completely unpredictable” trong câu hỏi.
Câu 10: modularity
- Dạng câu hỏi: Sentence Completion
- Từ khóa: hybrid renewable systems, adjusted, mining operations change
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 4, dòng 8-10
- Giải thích: Câu gốc: “The modularity of these systems means they can be scaled up as mining operations expand or scaled down during periods of reduced activity.”
Câu 12: attract investment
- Dạng câu hỏi: Sentence Completion
- Từ khóa: sustainability commitments, easier
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 6, dòng 3-5
- Giải thích: Câu gốc: “companies demonstrating commitment to sustainability can attract investment more easily”
Passage 2 – Giải Thích
Câu 14: NO
- Dạng câu hỏi: Yes/No/Not Given
- Từ khóa: Mining operations, low energy requirements
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 1, dòng 2-4
- Giải thích: Bài viết nói mining activities demand “exceptionally high and consistent power loads” và operate “24 hours a day, 365 days a year” – điều này cho thấy nhu cầu năng lượng rất cao, trái ngược với “relatively low” trong câu hỏi.
Câu 15: YES
- Dạng câu hỏi: Yes/No/Not Given
- Từ khóa: Fluctuations in power, safety hazards
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 2, dòng 3-5
- Giải thích: Bài viết nói rõ “Fluctuations in power delivery can cause equipment malfunctions, production delays, and potentially dangerous situations for workers” – “dangerous situations” tương đương với “safety hazards”.
Câu 19: A
- Dạng câu hỏi: Matching Information
- Từ khóa: virtual power plant
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 3, dòng 4-7
- Giải thích: “At the Agnew Gold Mine in Western Australia… creating what the operators describe as a ‘virtual power plant'”
Câu 24: voltage and frequency
- Dạng câu hỏi: Summary Completion
- Từ khóa: mining equipment requires stable
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 2, dòng 2-3
- Giải thích: Câu gốc: “Traditional mining equipment… requires stable voltage and frequency to operate effectively”
Passage 3 – Giải Thích
Câu 27: B
- Dạng câu hỏi: Multiple Choice
- Từ khóa: capital costs, hybrid renewable energy system, medium-sized mine
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 2, dòng 4-9
- Giải thích: Bài viết nói “total capital costs… can range from $50 million to over $200 million” và “These figures represent capital intensity comparable to or exceeding the costs of major processing equipment” – đáp án B paraphrase chính xác ý này.
Câu 28: C
- Dạng câu hỏi: Multiple Choice
- Từ khóa: levelized cost of energy (LCOE)
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 3, dòng 1-3
- Giải thích: Đoạn văn nói “conventional financial analysis focusing solely on capital costs provides an incomplete picture” và LCOE “offers a more nuanced evaluation framework” – tức là cung cấp phân tích kinh tế hoàn chỉnh hơn.
Câu 32: C
- Dạng câu hỏi: Matching Features
- Từ khóa: diesel price fluctuations
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 4
- Giải thích: Protection against price volatility là một hình thức giảm thiểu rủi ro (risk reduction), không phải lợi ích tài chính trực tiếp hay lợi thế thị trường.
Câu 37: stranded asset risk
- Dạng câu hỏi: Short-answer
- Từ khóa: fossil fuel-dependent infrastructure, economically uncompetitive
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 8, dòng 1
- Giải thích: Câu đầu đoạn 8 nói rõ: “The stranded asset risk associated with fossil fuel-dependent mining infrastructure”
Câu 39: 90%
- Dạng câu hỏi: Short-answer
- Từ khóa: solar panel costs declined since 2010
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 11, dòng 2-3
- Giải thích: “Solar panel costs have declined approximately 90% since 2010”
Từ Vựng Quan Trọng Theo Passage
Passage 1 – Essential Vocabulary
| Từ vựng | Loại từ | Phiên âm | Nghĩa tiếng Việt | Ví dụ từ bài | Collocation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| environmental degradation | n | /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/ | sự suy thoái môi trường | The mining industry has long been associated with environmental degradation | environmental protection, environmental impact |
| substantial | adj | /səbˈstænʃl/ | đáng kể, lớn | substantial energy consumption | substantial amount, substantial investment |
| embrace | v | /ɪmˈbreɪs/ | chấp nhận, áp dụng | mining companies begin to embrace renewable energy sources | embrace change, embrace technology |
| viable | adj | /ˈvaɪəbl/ | khả thi | one of the most viable options | viable alternative, economically viable |
| supplement | v | /ˈsʌplɪment/ | bổ sung | to supplement their electricity needs | supplement income, dietary supplement |
| solar radiation | n | /ˈsəʊlə ˌreɪdiˈeɪʃn/ | bức xạ mặt trời | highest solar radiation levels on Earth | solar radiation exposure |
| reliance | n | /rɪˈlaɪəns/ | sự phụ thuộc | reducing their reliance on diesel generators | reliance on, heavy reliance |
| integrate with | v | /ˈɪntɪɡreɪt wɪð/ | tích hợp với | successfully integrate with mining activities | integrate into, fully integrated |
| forecast | v | /ˈfɔːkɑːst/ | dự báo | forecast their renewable energy supply | weather forecast, forecast demand |
| modularity | n | /ˌmɒdjuˈlærəti/ | tính mô-đun | The modularity of these systems | system modularity, design modularity |
| price volatility | n | /praɪs ˌvɒləˈtɪləti/ | sự biến động giá | subject to price volatility | market volatility, reduce volatility |
| carbon neutrality | n | /ˈkɑːbən njuːˈtræləti/ | trung hòa carbon | targets to achieve carbon neutrality | carbon neutral, achieve neutrality |
Passage 2 – Essential Vocabulary
| Từ vựng | Loại từ | Phiên âm | Nghĩa tiếng Việt | Ví dụ từ bài | Collocation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| exceptionally | adv | /ɪkˈsepʃənəli/ | đặc biệt, cực kỳ | exceptionally high and consistent power loads | exceptionally high, exceptionally well |
| intermittent | adj | /ˌɪntəˈmɪtənt/ | gián đoạn | intermittent renewable sources | intermittent power, intermittent supply |
| diurnal | adj | /daɪˈɜːnl/ | theo chu kỳ ngày đêm | diurnal cycles | diurnal variation, diurnal pattern |
| fluctuation | n | /ˌflʌktʃuˈeɪʃn/ | sự dao động | Fluctuations in power delivery | price fluctuation, temperature fluctuation |
| orchestrating | v | /ˈɔːkɪstreɪtɪŋ/ | điều phối | orchestrating multiple energy sources | orchestrate efforts, carefully orchestrated |
| instantaneously | adv | /ˌɪnstənˈteɪniəsli/ | tức thì | instantaneously balance supply and demand | respond instantaneously |
| in tandem with | prep phrase | /ɪn ˈtændəm wɪð/ | song song với | works in tandem with a solar farm | work in tandem, operate in tandem |
| wane | v | /weɪn/ | giảm dần | when production wanes | wane and wax, interest wanes |
| geographical dispersion | n | /ˌdʒiːəˈɡræfɪkl dɪˈspɜːʃn/ | sự phân tán địa lý | geographical dispersion of mining operations | population dispersion |
| logistically demanding | adj | /ləˈdʒɪstɪkli dɪˈmɑːndɪŋ/ | đòi hỏi cao về mặt hậu cần | logistically demanding and expensive | logistically complex |
| microgrid | n | /ˈmaɪkrəʊɡrɪd/ | lưới điện nhỏ | Microgrids represent an innovative solution | smart microgrid, renewable microgrid |
| interplay | n | /ˈɪntəpleɪ/ | sự tương tác | manages the interplay between wind and diesel | complex interplay, interplay between |
| demand response | n | /dɪˈmɑːnd rɪˈspɒns/ | phản ứng theo nhu cầu | Demand response strategies | demand response program |
| electrochemical | adj | /ɪˌlektrəʊˈkemɪkl/ | điện hóa | electrochemical processes | electrochemical reaction |
| cybersecurity | n | /ˈsaɪbəsɪˌkjʊərəti/ | an ninh mạng | Cybersecurity considerations | cybersecurity threats, enhance cybersecurity |
Passage 3 – Essential Vocabulary
| Từ vựng | Loại từ | Phiên âm | Nghĩa tiếng Việt | Ví dụ từ bài | Collocation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| paradigm shift | n | /ˈpærədaɪm ʃɪft/ | sự thay đổi mô hình | The paradigm shift toward renewable energy | major paradigm shift |
| reconfiguration | n | /ˌriːkənˌfɪɡəˈreɪʃn/ | sự cấu hình lại | fundamental reconfiguration of the industry | system reconfiguration |
| contend with | v | /kənˈtend wɪð/ | đối mặt với | must contend with complex financial considerations | contend with challenges |
| ramifications | n | /ˌræmɪfɪˈkeɪʃnz/ | hệ quả, tác động | The ramifications of these decisions | serious ramifications, far-reaching ramifications |
| reverberate | v | /rɪˈvɜːbəreɪt/ | lan tỏa | will reverberate throughout global supply chains | reverberate through, effects reverberate |
| capital expenditure | n | /ˈkæpɪtl ɪkˈspendɪtʃə/ | chi phí vốn | From a capital expenditure perspective | capital expenditure budget |
| ancillary | adj | /ænˈsɪləri/ | phụ trợ | ancillary systems including transmission | ancillary services, ancillary equipment |
| levelized cost | n | /ˈlevəlaɪzd kɒst/ | chi phí cân bằng | The levelized cost of energy (LCOE) | levelized cost of electricity |
| amortize | v | /əˈmɔːtaɪz/ | khấu hao | amortizes capital costs over the system’s lifetime | amortize debt, amortize expenses |
| achieve parity | v phrase | /əˈtʃiːv ˈpærəti/ | đạt được sự ngang bằng | has achieved parity with diesel generation | reach parity, wage parity |
| volatility mitigation | n | /ˌvɒləˈtɪləti ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/ | giảm thiểu biến động | volatility mitigation aspect | risk mitigation, mitigation strategy |
| transcend | v | /trænˈsend/ | vượt qua | implications that transcend simple cost comparisons | transcend boundaries |
| Power Purchase Agreement | n | /ˈpaʊə ˈpɜːtʃəs əˈɡriːmənt/ | hợp đồng mua điện | Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) | long-term PPA, renewable PPA |
| bifurcation | n | /ˌbaɪfəˈkeɪʃn/ | sự phân đôi | An emerging bifurcation in commodity markets | market bifurcation |
| green premium | n | /ɡriːn ˈpriːmiəm/ | khoản phụ thu xanh | creating a potential “green premium” | command a premium, premium price |
| stranded asset | n | /ˈstrændɪd ˈæset/ | tài sản bị mắc kẹt | The stranded asset risk | stranded asset risk, stranded investments |
| agglomeration | n | /əˌɡlɒməˈreɪʃn/ | sự tập trung | agglomeration effects generate multiplier benefits | urban agglomeration |
| convergence | n | /kənˈvɜːdʒəns/ | sự hội tụ | This convergence suggests | technological convergence, convergence of interests |
Kết bài
Chủ đề “How Renewable Energy Is Transforming The Mining Industry” không chỉ phản ánh xu hướng phát triển bền vững toàn cầu mà còn là một chủ đề xuất hiện ngày càng thường xuyên trong các đề thi IELTS Reading gần đây. Qua bộ đề thi mẫu này, bạn đã được luyện tập với 3 passages có độ khó tăng dần, bao quát đầy đủ các khía cạnh từ giới thiệu tổng quan, thách thức kỹ thuật đến phân tích kinh tế sâu sắc.
Bộ đề này cung cấp 40 câu hỏi đa dạng với đầy đủ các dạng bài phổ biến trong IELTS Reading: Multiple Choice, True/False/Not Given, Yes/No/Not Given, Matching Information, Sentence Completion, Matching Headings, Summary Completion, Matching Features, và Short-answer Questions. Việc làm quen với nhiều dạng câu hỏi khác nhau sẽ giúp bạn tự tin hơn khi bước vào phòng thi thật.
Phần đáp án chi tiết kèm giải thích cụ thể về vị trí thông tin, cách paraphrase và lý do đáp án đúng sẽ giúp bạn tự đánh giá chính xác năng lực của mình và học hỏi từ những sai lầm. Hãy đặc biệt chú ý đến cách các câu hỏi paraphrase thông tin từ passage – đây là kỹ năng then chốt để đạt band điểm cao trong IELTS Reading.
Bảng từ vựng theo từng passage với hơn 35 từ và cụm từ quan trọng kèm phiên âm, nghĩa tiếng Việt, ví dụ và collocation sẽ là tài liệu quý giá giúp bạn mở rộng vốn từ vựng học thuật. Hãy dành thời gian học kỹ những từ này vì chúng không chỉ hữu ích cho bài Reading mà còn có thể áp dụng trong Writing Task 2 khi viết về các chủ đề liên quan đến môi trường, công nghệ và phát triển bền vững.
Để tối ưu hiệu quả luyện tập, hãy làm đề này trong điều kiện giống thi thật: đặt đồng hồ đếm ngược 60 phút, không tra từ điển, và cố gắng hoàn thành cả 40 câu hỏi. Sau đó, đối chiếu đáp án, phân tích kỹ những câu sai, và rút ra bài học cho bản thân. Tương tự như The role of technology in enhancing productivity, chủ đề năng lượng tái tạo trong ngành công nghiệp là một trong những chủ đề có tần suất cao trong IELTS Reading, đặc biệt khi nó liên quan đến các vấn đề toàn cầu như biến đổi khí hậu và sự phát triển bền vững.
Bên cạnh việc luyện đề, việc hiểu rõ các chiến lược làm bài cho từng dạng câu hỏi cũng vô cùng quan trọng. Đối với những ai quan tâm đến Mental health awareness through social media, bạn sẽ thấy rằng các kỹ thuật đọc hiểu và phân tích thông tin tương tự có thể áp dụng cho nhiều chủ đề khác nhau.
Hãy nhớ rằng, IELTS Reading không chỉ kiểm tra khả năng đọc hiểu mà còn đánh giá kỹ năng quản lý thời gian, khả năng xác định thông tin quan trọng và kỹ năng suy luận logic. Những kỹ năng này có thể được rèn luyện qua thực hành đều đặn với các đề thi chất lượng cao như bộ đề trên.
Chúc bạn ôn tập hiệu quả và đạt được band điểm mong muốn trong kỳ thi IELTS sắp tới!
