Task reminder: Read the passage, then select the one correct answer. No negative marking. Read the question first, then skim for the relevant paragraph.

1. Sample Text 1

The concept of emotional intelligence (EI) was popularised by psychologist Daniel Goleman in his 1995 book, which argued that EI — encompassing self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills — predicts professional success and personal fulfilment more reliably than IQ alone. Goleman’s claims generated both enthusiasm and controversy. Proponents point to evidence that emotionally intelligent leaders build more cohesive teams and navigate conflict more effectively. Sceptics, however, argue that EI measures overlap substantially with existing personality dimensions and that some definitions are so broad as to encompass almost any positive attribute, reducing the concept’s scientific utility.

Q. What is the main criticism of emotional intelligence as a concept?

A. It is impossible to measure accurately in laboratory conditions.
B. Its definitions are too broad and overlap with existing personality measures.
C. Daniel Goleman exaggerated the importance of IQ in predicting success.
D. Leaders with high EI are no more effective than those without it.

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2. Sample Text 2

Mangrove forests occupy the interface between land and sea along tropical and subtropical coastlines. Their dense, interlocking root systems stabilise sediments, filter pollutants, and provide nursery habitats for commercially important fish species. Mangroves also sequester carbon at rates several times higher than terrestrial forests, making them powerful allies in climate mitigation. Despite their ecological value, mangroves have been destroyed at alarming rates — primarily for aquaculture, coastal development, and timber — with estimates suggesting that over a third of global mangrove coverage has been lost since 1980.

Q. According to the passage, why are mangroves particularly valuable in the context of climate change?

A. They provide habitat for endangered fish species.
B. They stabilise coastlines against erosion.
C. They absorb carbon far more efficiently than land-based forests.
D. They filter agricultural pollutants from coastal waterways.

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3. Sample Text 3

The Anthropocene is a proposed geological epoch defined by the dominant influence of human activity on Earth’s geology and ecosystems. While geologists debate its formal adoption and precise starting date — candidates range from the Industrial Revolution to the first nuclear detonation in 1945 — the concept has proved influential beyond geology, reshaping how environmental scientists, philosophers, and policymakers think about humanity’s relationship to the planet. Critics of the term argue that it risks overstating human agency, obscuring the fact that environmental destruction is driven primarily by specific industrial and economic systems rather than humanity as a whole.

Q. What criticism of the Anthropocene concept is mentioned in the passage?

A. It has not been formally accepted by the geological community.
B. It incorrectly dates the beginning of human environmental impact.
C. It may imply all humans equally share responsibility for environmental destruction.
D. It is too scientific a concept for use in policy discussions.

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