Examen Resuelto Selectividad EVAU UCLM Inglés 2018

PROPUESTA A

I.READING COMPREHENSION

1. FALSE Evidence: "Since its conception in 1973, the Internet has grown at an astounding rate." Reasoning: This statement directly contradicts the claim that the internet has remained the same since 1973. The text emphasizes its growth, indicating change and development over time.

2. FALSE Evidence: "To many people, the Internet is so enjoyable that it is almost addictive." Reasoning: This statement is contrary to the text, the text specifies that only many people find the internet addictive, not most.

3. FALSE Evidence: "While lost in this so called 'Cyber Community' for long periods of time, people are neglecting other important activities like time with the family, socializing, work and health concerns." Reasoning: The text explicitly states that people are neglecting activities such as spending time with family, doing sports, and socializing due to excessive internet use. This contradicts the statement.

4. FALSE Evidence: "Recent studies are beginning to uncover evidence that would suggest that maybe some of us are not so adept at dealing with such highly developed technology." Reasoning: The text suggests that not everyone is adept at using the internet, as recent studies are revealing that some people struggle with this technology. This is the opposite of everyone being an expert.

II. LEXICON / PHONETICS

A. LEXICON

1. Amazing, surprising: Astounding Reasoning: "Astounding" means surprisingly impressive or notable, which aligns with the meaning of "amazing" and "surprising."

2. Lacking attention: Neglecting Reasoning: "Neglecting" means failing to care for properly, indicating a lack of attention.

3. Directed, carried out: Conducted Reasoning: "Conducted" in this context means organized and carried out, which is synonymous with "directed."

4. Reveal through investigation: Uncover Reasoning: "Uncover" means to discover something previously hidden or unknown, often through investigation.

B. PHONETICS

1. One word from the text that includes the sound / ᴐː / as in “form": Source Reasoning: The word "source" contains the / ᴐː / sound, similar to "form" or "more".

2. Two words from the text that include the sound /eɪ/ as in “way": They, Available Reasoning: Both "they" and "available" contain the /eɪ/ sound.

3. How is the “o” pronounced in “work”, /ɒ/, /ɔː/ or /ɜː/? : /ɜː/ Reasoning: The "o" in "work" is pronounced as /ɜː/, as in "her" or "bird".

III. USE OF ENGLISH

1. Seat belts must be worn by all passengers. Reasoning: This transformation changes the sentence from active to passive voice while maintaining the original meaning.

2. The film was so boring that we walked out of the cinema. Reasoning: This rephrasing uses the "so...that" structure to express the same idea as the original sentence.

3. The woman, whose ring was stolen from her house, is Alice Harris. Reasoning: This sentence uses a relative clause with "whose" to connect the information about the stolen ring to Alice Harris.

4. What about going to the theatre on Saturday? Reasoning: This is a common way to propose an activity using "What about" followed by a gerund.

5. If I had arrived early, I wouldn't have missed the plane. Reasoning: This uses the third conditional to express a hypothetical situation in the past.

   $$\\text{If} + \\text{past perfect}, \\text{would have} + \\text{past participle}$$

6. I wish I had bought that house. Reasoning: This uses the "I wish" structure with the past perfect to express regret about a past action.

   $$\\text{I wish} + \\text{past perfect}$$

IV. COMPOSITION

Is internet addictive?

The internet has become an indispensable part of modern life, offering unparalleled access to information, communication, and entertainment. However, its pervasive nature has raised concerns about its potential for addiction. While the internet offers numerous benefits, it is crucial to acknowledge the evidence suggesting that excessive use can lead to addictive behaviors.

One of the primary arguments for internet addiction stems from the psychological effects it can have on individuals. The internet provides a constant stream of stimulation, with social media platforms, online games, and streaming services designed to be engaging and captivating. This can lead to a phenomenon known as "flow," where users become so immersed in an activity that they lose track of time and neglect other responsibilities. Studies have shown that excessive internet use can trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, similar to the effects of substance abuse.

Furthermore, the internet can provide an escape from reality for individuals struggling with social anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. The anonymity and virtual nature of online interactions can be particularly appealing to those who find face-to-face communication challenging. However, this can lead to a vicious cycle, where individuals become increasingly reliant on the internet for social interaction and emotional support, further isolating themselves from the real world.

The impact of internet addiction can extend beyond psychological well-being, affecting physical health, relationships, and academic or professional performance. Excessive use can lead to sleep deprivation, eye strain, and sedentary behavior, increasing the risk of obesity and other health problems. It can also strain relationships with family and friends, as individuals prioritize online activities over real-life interactions. In academic and professional settings, internet addiction can lead to decreased productivity, poor concentration, and missed deadlines.

However, it is important to note that not everyone who uses the internet excessively is addicted. The key distinction lies in the loss of control and the negative consequences that result from overuse. While some individuals may spend long hours online for work or leisure without experiencing adverse effects, those with internet addiction find it difficult to regulate their use, even when it interferes with their daily lives.

In conclusion, while the internet is a powerful tool with numerous benefits, the evidence suggests that it can be addictive for some individuals. The constant stimulation, the potential for escape, and the impact on mental and physical well-being all contribute to the addictive nature of the internet. It is crucial for individuals to be aware of the signs of internet addiction and to seek help if they find themselves struggling to control their use. A balanced approach to internet usage, prioritizing real-life interactions and responsibilities, is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship with this powerful technology.

PROPUESTA B

I. READING COMPREHENSION

1. FALSE Evidence: "Very soon, he had sold all the canvas trousers he had made!" Reasoning: This statement directly contradicts the claim, as it states that Levi sold the trousers very quickly, not with extreme difficulty.

2. FALSE Evidence: "Nevertheless, original denim was almost white, and miners did not like the colour!" Reasoning: The text explicitly states that miners did not like the original denim color.

3. TRUE Evidence: "Levi's jeans were so popular, that his company got bigger and bigger; soon, other firms were making blue jeans too." Reasoning: This sentence indicates that Levi's company grew before other firms started making jeans.

4. TRUE Evidence: "Very few jeans are now made in the USA, because of the cost, but it is still possible to buy blue jeans that are made in San Francisco - if you have a lot of money to spend." Reasoning: The text states that very few jeans are made in the USA due to cost, implying that it is expensive to produce them there.

II. LEXICON / PHONETICS

A. LEXICON

1. Dense: Thick Reasoning: "Thick" in this context refers to the density of the canvas material.

2. Rigid. Not flexible: Stiff Reasoning: "Stiff" describes the lack of flexibility in the canvas material.

3. Drastic: Radical Reasoning: "Radical" is used to describe the new and drastic idea of adding metal rivets to the jeans.

4. Well liked: Popular Reasoning: "Popular" indicates that Levi's jeans were well-liked by many people.

B. PHONETICS

1. How is the “-ed” pronounced in “called”, /t/, /d/ or /id/? : /d/ Reasoning: The "-ed" in "called" is pronounced as /d/ because the preceding sound is voiced.

2. How is the “-s” pronounced in “miners”, /s/, /z/ or /iz/? : /z/ Reasoning: The "-s" in "miners" is pronounced as /z/ because the preceding sound is voiced.

3. How is the “i” pronounced in “decided”, /aɪ/, / i: / or / ɪ /? : /aɪ/ Reasoning: The "i" in "decided" is pronounced as /aɪ/ in the first syllable.

4. Write a word from the text that includes the same sound /eɪ/ as in “pay”: They Reasoning: The word "they" includes the same /eɪ/ sound as in "pay".

III. USE OF ENGLISH

1. She refused to eat pizza in that restaurant. Reasoning: This uses the structure "refused to" followed by the infinitive to express the same meaning.

2. The boy, who broke the window, ran away. Reasoning: This sentence uses a relative clause with "who" to connect the information about breaking the window to the boy.

3. John was given a present for his birthday. Reasoning: This transformation changes the sentence from active to passive voice while maintaining the original meaning.

4. I wish I hadn't told her. Reasoning: This uses the "I wish" structure with the past perfect to express regret about a past action.

   $$\\text{I wish} + \\text{past perfect}$$

5. Although she worked very hard, she didn't get the job. Reasoning: This replaces "Despite" with "Although" while keeping the same meaning.

6. How long have the teachers been working? Reasoning: This is the correct question format to ask for the duration of the teachers' work.

IV. COMPOSITION

Advantages and disadvantages of wearing casual clothes

The choice between casual and formal attire is a matter of personal preference, context, and social norms. Casual clothes, characterized by their comfort and informality, have gained widespread popularity in various settings, from workplaces to social gatherings. However, like any choice, wearing casual clothes comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

One of the primary advantages of casual wear is comfort. Casual clothes are typically made from soft, breathable fabrics that allow for ease of movement and a relaxed feel. This can be particularly beneficial in settings where physical activity is involved or in hot and humid climates. Comfort can lead to increased confidence and a more positive self-image, as individuals feel at ease in their attire.

Another advantage is the expression of individuality. Casual wear offers a wider range of styles, colors, and patterns, allowing individuals to express their unique personalities and tastes. This can be particularly important in creative industries or social settings where self-expression is valued. Casual clothes can also be more affordable than formal attire, making them accessible to a wider range of people.

Furthermore, casual clothes can contribute to a more relaxed and informal atmosphere. In workplaces, for example, a casual dress code can foster a sense of camaraderie and approachability among employees. It can also break down traditional hierarchies and create a more egalitarian environment. Similarly, in social settings, casual attire can make people feel more at ease and encourage more open and informal interactions.

However, there are also disadvantages to wearing casual clothes. One of the main drawbacks is the potential for misinterpretation. In certain professional or formal settings, casual attire may be perceived as unprofessional, disrespectful, or even sloppy. This can lead to negative judgments and hinder career advancement or social acceptance. It is crucial to be mindful of the context and dress code expectations to avoid any misunderstandings.

Another disadvantage is the potential for casual wear to blur the lines between professional and personal life. When individuals wear the same clothes to work, social events, and at home, it can become challenging to mentally switch between different roles and mindsets. This can lead to a lack of work-life balance and potentially impact productivity and well-being.

Moreover, some argue that casual clothes can contribute to a decline in standards of dress and etiquette. They suggest that the widespread adoption of casual attire has led to a more relaxed and less respectful attitude towards social norms and expectations. While this may be a matter of personal opinion, it highlights the importance of considering the potential impact of one's clothing choices on social interactions.

In conclusion, wearing casual clothes offers several advantages, including comfort, self-expression, and a relaxed atmosphere. However, it is essential to be aware of the potential disadvantages, such as misinterpretation, blurred boundaries between work and personal life, and the impact on social norms. Ultimately, the choice of whether to wear casual clothes depends on the specific context, personal preferences, and the desired impression one wishes to make. A balanced approach, considering both the advantages and disadvantages, can help individuals make informed decisions about their attire and navigate different social and professional settings effectively.