Part 5 · Multiple-choice cloze

The bicycle library

In one northern city, a group of volunteers has (21) ____ up a 'bicycle library'. It works in a similar way to a book library: members can borrow a bike for up to two weeks, and it is completely (22) ____ of charge.

The project started when the volunteers noticed how many old bikes were being thrown away. They collect these bikes, repair them and then (23) ____ them available to anyone who needs one. Most of the people who use the service are students or people who are (24) ____ of work.

The organisers say the library has (25) ____ more people to cycle to work and school, and it has also helped to reduce traffic in the city centre. Anyone who wants to (26) ____ part can visit the workshop on Saturday mornings.

Learning on the move

Millions of people now (21) ____ language-learning apps on their phones. The idea is simple: instead of sitting in a classroom, you practise for a few minutes whenever you have some free time, (22) ____ as on the bus or while you are waiting for a friend.

Many users say the apps have helped them (23) ____ progress quickly, especially with vocabulary. The games and points make learning feel like fun rather than hard work. However, teachers point (24) ____ that apps are less useful for speaking, because you rarely have a real conversation.

Experts suggest using an app as well as, not (25) ____ of, other ways of learning. Watching films, reading simple books and chatting with native speakers can all make a big (26) ____.

Volunteering at a festival

Every summer, thousands of young people work as volunteers at music festivals. In (21) ______ for a few hours' work each day, they get a free ticket for the whole weekend.

Volunteers do all kinds of jobs. Some (22) ____ care of the car parks, while others give information to visitors or help to keep the site clean. Most festivals ask volunteers to (23) ____ a short training course before the event.

Many volunteers say the experience is great fun. They make new friends and often (24) ____ to see their favourite bands. However, it can also be tiring, especially if the weather is bad. Organisers advise volunteers to bring warm clothes and good boots, (25) ____ case it rains.

For some, volunteering is also a useful first (26) ______ into the events industry.