Running on Empty: IELTS Reading Passage With Questions & Answers

Introduction:

The IELTS Reading section demands a deep understanding and quick analysis of provided texts. "Running on Empty" explores the concept of depletion — be it energy resources, personal endurance, or global sustainability. This passage is tailored to mimic the style and challenge of an IELTS reading test, offering learners an opportunity to practice with material that tests comprehension, inference, and vocabulary skills.

Passage:

In today's fast-paced world, the phrase "Running on Empty" is increasingly relevant. It metaphorically captures the essence of various depletion issues we face, from dwindling natural resources to personal burnout. The term originally associated with vehicles running low on fuel, now aptly describes modern challenges.

The natural reserves of fossil fuels, which have powered human civilization's growth, are now facing alarming rates of depletion. Experts suggest that this could lead to an 'energy crisis' if sustainable alternatives are not developed and adopted at a larger scale.

Simultaneously, individuals are experiencing their version of 'running on empty' due to the stresses of contemporary life. The hustle culture glorifies overworking, often leading to burnout, a state where individuals feel emotionally, physically, and mentally drained.

As societies and individuals, the realization is dawning that to continue running, we must refuel and reconsider our consumption patterns. Whether switching to renewable energy sources or prioritizing mental health, the need for sustainable practices is clear.

Questions:

Q1. According to the passage, what is the primary cause leading to an 'energy crisis'?

A. Overpopulation

B. Depletion of natural resources

C. Global warming

D. Inadequate technology

Q2. Fill in the blank: The term 'Running on Empty' was originally used to describe vehicles _______.

A. breaking down

B. low on fuel

C. at high speeds

D. in traffic

Q3. True or False: The passage states that 'hustle culture' is beneficial for long-term productivity.

Q4. What is the passage suggesting societies and individuals must do to avoid 'running on empty'?

A. Work harder and longer hours

B. Refuel and reconsider consumption patterns

C. Ignore the signs of depletion

D. Increase the use of fossil fuels

Q5. Fill in the blank: Experts suggest that without the development and adoption of sustainable alternatives, we may face an _______.

A. energy crisis

B. technological revolution

C. increase in resources

D. economic boom

Q6. True or False: The phrase "Running on Empty" only applies to physical exhaustion.

Q7. According to the passage, what does the term 'burnout' signify?

A. A successful career

B. A state of emotional, physical, and mental depletion

C. A vehicle's engine failure

D. An increase in energy levels

Q8. What does the passage imply about the adoption of renewable energy sources?

A. It is happening too quickly

B. It is not necessary

C. It is essential for sustainability

D. It has been completed globally

Q9. Fill in the blank: Switching to renewable energy sources and prioritizing mental health are considered _______ practices.

A. outdated

B. unsustainable

C. sustainable

D. unnecessary

Q10. True or False: The passage infers that human civilization's growth has been powered by renewable energy resources.

Answers with Explanations:

A1. B. Depletion of natural resources

The passage explicitly identifies the depletion of natural resources as a primary factor leading to an impending energy crisis.

A2. B. low on fuel

The passage states that "Running on Empty" was initially a term used for vehicles running low on fuel, now symbolizing broader issues of depletion.

A3. False

The passage indicates that hustle culture often leads to burnout, suggesting it is counterproductive rather than beneficial.

A4. B. Refuel and reconsider consumption patterns

The passage concludes with the recommendation for societies and individuals to refuel and reconsider consumption patterns for sustainable living.

A5. A. energy crisis

The passage warns of an energy crisis resulting from the depletion of fossil fuels and the lack of sustainable alternatives.

A6. False

"Running on Empty" is used metaphorically in the passage to describe various forms of depletion, not limited to physical exhaustion.

A7. B. A state of emotional, physical, and mental depletion

Burnout is described in the passage as a state where individuals feel drained emotionally, physically, and mentally.

A8. C. It is essential for sustainability

The passage implies that developing and adopting renewable energy sources is crucial for sustainable practices and avoiding an energy crisis.

A9. C. sustainable

Adopting renewable energy and prioritizing mental health are considered sustainable practices, as mentioned in the passage.

A10. False

The passage refers to fossil fuels as the power source for human civilization's growth, not renewable energy resources.

Tips for Cracking the IELTS Reading Exam:

Tip 1: Skim the passage first to get a general idea of the content before diving into detailed questions.

Tip 2: Look for keywords in the questions that will help you locate the information in the passage quickly.

Tip 3: Don't overthink the true/false questions; stick to what is explicitly stated or implied in the text.

Tip 4: Practice reading a variety of texts to become familiar with different writing styles and vocabularies.

Tip 5: Manage your time wisely during the test; spend no more than one minute per question to allow time for review.