In Search of Silence

C1 Advanced · Multiple Choice Cloze · Cambridge Ready original exercise

For questions 1–8, read the text below and decide which answer (A, B, C or D) best fits each gap. There is an example at the beginning.

makes

pays

takes

puts

up

on

in

off

attracted

pulled

dragged

gathered

drawback

setback

disadvantage

handicap

incessant

durable

abiding

lasting

marked

signed

noted

labelled

prone

inclined

liable

subject

taken

held

given

assumed

Noise is so much a part of modern life that we rarely (0) ___ it. Yet researchers have found that constant background sound (1) ___ a heavy toll on our health, raising stress levels and disturbing sleep even when we are not consciously aware of it. Spurred (2) ___ by these findings, a number of cities have begun to designate 'quiet zones' – parks, squares and stretches of riverbank where traffic is restricted and amplified music is banned. The scheme has (3) ___ some criticism. Local businesses argue that the restrictions put them at a (4) ___ compared with rivals elsewhere, while others question whether a city centre can ever be truly quiet, given the (5) ___ hum of traffic on surrounding roads. Supporters insist that the aim is not total silence but a (6) ___ reduction in noise, to a level at which birdsong and conversation can be heard. Early surveys suggest residents feel calmer and more (7) ___ to linger. Perhaps one day a little peace and quiet will be (8) ___ for granted.

In Search of Silence

regard

notice

witness

attend

Available as a free printable PDF worksheet with an optional answer key.

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