IELTS Reading Practice Test #8

Introduction: This passage is closely modeled after the structure and difficulty of Cambridge IELTS 19. It reflects the same level of challenge and question types commonly found in IELTS reading assessments, including multiple-choice, matching headings, and short-answer questions.

IELTS Reading Practice Test Instructions: Aim to complete this passage and the corresponding questions in about 20 minutes. In the actual IELTS exam, you will have 60 minutes to complete three passages, so manage your time carefully.

The Art of Calligraphy

A. Calligraphy, the art of beautiful handwriting, has a storied history that transcends cultures and time periods. Originating in ancient China, calligraphy is often regarded as one of the highest forms of artistic expression. The earliest examples can be traced back to the Shang Dynasty (c. 1600–1046 BCE), where inscriptions on oracle bones reveal an intricate system of symbols and characters.

B. In China, calligraphy evolved alongside literature and painting, deeply influencing the aesthetics of these art forms. Scholars and artists dedicated their lives to mastering the brushstrokes, believing that calligraphy reflected the character and intellect of the writer. By the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), calligraphy had reached a pinnacle of refinement, with styles such as the “Regular Script” and “Running Script” gaining prominence.

C. The influence of calligraphy extended beyond China, reaching Japan and Korea. In Japan, calligraphy, or “shodō,” became an essential part of Zen Buddhism, with practitioners emphasizing the spiritual aspect of writing. The minimalist approach to brushwork aligns with Zen principles, where the process of creation holds equal importance to the final product.

D. Calligraphy is not only confined to East Asia; it has made significant contributions to the Western artistic tradition as well. The Renaissance period saw a revival of interest in handwriting, leading to the development of various scripts and styles. Master calligraphers such as Edward Johnston and Rudolf Koch became renowned for their contributions, emphasizing the beauty and precision of letterforms.

E. In contemporary times, calligraphy has experienced a resurgence, particularly with the rise of social media and digital platforms. Artists are now exploring new styles and techniques, blending traditional practices with modern design elements. Calligraphy workshops and classes have become popular, attracting individuals seeking to express their creativity and connect with a rich artistic heritage.

IELTS Reading Practice Tests [With Quizzes & Answers]

The IELTS Academic Reading section contains three academic passages and 40 questions to be completed in 60 minutes. It includes a range of question types such as multiple choice, matching headings, matching information, matching features, sentence completion, summary completion, short-answer questions, and True/False/Not Given. The section is designed to assess your understanding of main ideas, specific details, inferences, and the writer’s opinion or attitude.

The practice tests below are based on real exams from Cambridge IELTS 18, Cambridge IELTS 19, and Cambridge IELTS 20. Each one closely follows the original format, using authentic reading passages and official question types.

All tests are available as interactive quizzes with instant feedback and complete answer keys. These are meant to provide realistic practice and help you get used to the structure, timing, and difficulty level of the actual IELTS Reading section.

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