Quiet Roads Ahead Reading Answers: IELTS Reading Practice Test with Answers

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Updated on Mar 28, 2025, 11:14

The IELTS Reading section assesses your ability to understand and analyse different types of texts within a limited time. You will encounter three passages, each followed by a set of questions such as matching headings, diagram labelling and matching sentence endings. The passages come from books, journals, magazines, and newspapers, covering a wide range of topics.
 

Quiet Roads Ahead reading answer passage explores advancements in road technology aimed at reducing traffic noise pollution. It discusses innovative materials, engineering solutions, and urban planning strategies designed to create quieter and more sustainable road networks.
 

Let’s look at the Quiet Roads Ahead reading answer passage, questions, and answers with explanations.

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1. Quiet Roads Ahead Reading Answer Passage

You should spend approximately 20 minutes answering Questions 1 – 13 based on the Quiet Roads Ahead Reading Answer Passage below.

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2. Quiet Roads Ahead Reading Answers with Sample Questions

Discover exciting and informative IELTS reading answers about Quiet Roads Ahead.

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3. Check Out Top 40 IELTS Reading Practice Test Questions with Answers

Below are some top free IELTS Reading Practice test online questions with detailed answers to enhance your IELTS preparation online. 

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1.

Quiet Roads Ahead Reading Answer Passage

General Information

  • Read Instructions: Understand each question before answering.
  • Manage Time: Spend about 20 minutes per passage.
  • Skim and Scan: Quickly get the main idea and find specific information.
  • Highlight Key Info: Underline essential words or phrases.
  • Answer All Questions: Attempt every question; no penalty for wrong answers.
  • Stay Focused: Avoid distractions and keep your attention on the task.
  • Check Spelling: Ensure correct spelling and grammar.
  • Transfer Answers Clearly: Write answers neatly on the answer sheet.
  • Don’t Dwell: Move on if stuck and return later.
  • Review: If time allows, review your answers.

 

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Quiet Roads Ahead Reading Answer Passage

 


Paragraph A. Road noise is becoming increasingly problematic. Automobile engineers have made great strides in reducing engine noise, but they have had less luck in other areas. More than half of the noise that automobiles make comes from the tyres rolling over the road, and as road construction and vehicle sales continue to rise, especially in Asia and the United States, this is becoming a worldwide problem.

 

Paragraph B. The World Health Organization warns that prolonged exposure to road traffic noise might cause health issues related to stress. In addition, road builders must shell out cash to establish sound barriers and install double glazing in residences where traffic noise is excessive. It's more challenging to sell a home in a neighbourhood with a lot of traffic and construction noise, and workers in those settings are less effective and productive overall.

 

Paragraph C. The Netherlands, one of the most populous countries in the world, is home to scientists who are already at work on methods for making roadways quieter. The Dutch government has set a five-year goal of reducing traffic noise by an average of six decibels across the country. The idea, which was developed by Dutch mechanical engineer Ard Kuijpers, is both revolutionary and extremely promising. He set out to improve the material's texture, hardness, and sound absorption.

 

Paragraph D. A tyre is more prone to vibrate and make noise over a rough surface. Heavy rollers are used by road crews to smooth down freshly laid asphalt, but Kuijpers has come up with a technique that he believes can result in the quietest road possible. It all comes down to a unique mould that's 3 meters broad and 50 meters long, which is his little secret. Rolling over the asphalt with a heavy roller, rail-mounted equipment spreads the hot asphalt mixture into the mould. As it cures, the 10-millimeter-thick sheet will have a surface smoother than anything that can be made using more traditional techniques.

 

Paragraph E. Then, he puts another layer beneath the asphalt to improve the road's performance by making it hardwearing while still being soft enough to dampen vibrations. A layer of rubber 30 millimetres thick, along with stones slightly larger than those in the preceding layer, makes up this. Kuijpers compares it to a "big mouse mat," which softens the pavement.

 

Paragraph F. Since the pores in the road surface are a specified size, the size of the stones used in the two layers is crucial. The upper layers are just around 4 or 5 millimetres across, whereas the lower layers are roughly 9 millimetres across. According to Kuijpers, the tread (the indentations or ridges on the surface of a tyre) can act as a sponge, soaking up any air that passes through it and, therefore, dampening any vibrations that might otherwise cause noise. Moreover, they facilitate water drainage, which can improve the road's safety in wet conditions.

 

Paragraph G. Despite the complexity of the production process, placing the surface is rather easy. It is rolled onto a drum that is 1.5 meters in diameter, like a carpet, as it leaves the mill. They unroll it and use bitumen to adhere it to the base on location. The white lines are added at the manufacturer as well.

 

Paragraph H. The actual building of the structure employs a far more advanced method of noise reduction. It's a concrete base with flask-shaped slots up to 10 mm wide and 30 mm deep, which are open at the top and sealed at the bottom to absorb noise. Similar to Helmholtz resonators, when sound waves of a certain frequency enter the top of a flask, they create resonances within, releasing their kinetic energy as heat in the surrounding concrete. Another crucial function served by the cavities is the removal of water that seeps through the upper surface. Waste will be flushed out, and the pores on the surface will remain clear, thanks to this circulation.

 

Paragraph I. By adjusting the diameters of his resonators, Kuijpers has complete command over the acoustic signals they absorb. Given that various automobiles emit noise at various frequencies, this could be extremely helpful. Noise from car tyres, for example, peaks at roughly 1000 Hz, whereas that from trucks drops to around 600 Hz. The frequencies absorbed by the concrete can be adjusted by altering the size of the Kuijpers resonators. The inside lane of a major highway is typically used by trucks; thus, resonators installed there could be adjusted to absorb sounds at roughly 600 hertz, while those installed in other lanes could handle noise at higher frequencies caused by cars.

 

Paragraph J. Kuijpers thinks he can reduce road noise by five decibels compared to the quietest roads available today. A one-hundred-meter stretch of his road has been tested on a highway near Apeldoorn, and the Dutch construction firm Heijmans is currently in talks with the Dutch government about selecting the site of the next roll-out road. The ultimate price tag will determine whether or not Kuijpers' design is a financial success. Those who are disturbed by road noise, however, can look forward to quieter times in the future.

 

Let’s explore the questions and answers of Quiet Roads Ahead reading answer passage.

2.

Quiet Roads Ahead Reading Answers with Sample Questions

Have you read the passage? Now, take the test and find Quiet Roads Ahead Reading answers! Try to answer these questions by yourself before you sneak a peek at the answers given below.

Questions and Answers 1-6
  • Reading Passage has ten paragraphs labelled A-J.
  • Which paragraph contains the following information?
  • Write the correct letter A-J in boxes 1-6 on your answer sheet.

 

1. Factors that should be taken into account when examining Kuijpers' proposal.

2. Here, we compile the various factors that contribute to road noise and try to explain them.

3. A presentation of how Kuijpers' road network material is transported.

4. A broad statement regarding how people typically use their cars on key roadways.

5. There are a number of monetary benefits to lowering road noise.

6. Demonstrating Kuijpers' road-making process.

 

Quiet Roads Ahead  Reading Answers with Explanations (1-6)

 

Type of question: Matching information

 

In this question type, you will be asked to match specific pieces of information, often dates, names, or events, from the reading passage with corresponding options provided in the question.

 

How to best answer: 
 

  • Read each statement carefully to understand the specific information being asked for.
  • Scan the passage for relevant dates or events in the reading passage that corresponds to each statement.
  • Eliminate incorrect options that do not match the information found in the passage.
  • Match the remaining options based on the information provided in the passage.
  • Verify your answers to ensure they match the information in the passage before finalising them.
     
1. Paragraph J

 

Reference: From Paragraph J: “The ultimate price tag will determine whether or not Kuijpers' design is a financial success. Those who are disturbed by road noise, however, can look forward to quieter times in the future.”

 

Explanation: This line highlights the financial aspect of Kuijpers' road design, suggesting that its success depends on cost. Since financial considerations are a crucial factor in evaluating the feasibility of his proposal, this makes “J” the correct answer.

 

2. Paragraph C

 

Reference: From Paragraph C: “The idea, which was developed by Dutch mechanical engineer Ard Kuijpers, is both revolutionary and extremely promising. He set out to improve the material's texture, hardness, and sound absorption.”

 

Explanation: This sentence outlines key factors that contribute to road noise and explains how Kuijpers' design aims to tackle them. The mention of texture, hardness, and sound absorption confirms that this paragraph compiles and explains the relevant factors, making “C” the correct answer.
 

3. Paragraph G

 

Reference: From Paragraph G: “It is rolled onto a drum that is 1.5 meters in diameter like a carpet as it leaves the mill. They unroll it and use bitumen to adhere it to the base on location.”

 

Explanation: This line describes how Kuijpers' road material is transported from the mill to its final location. The mention of rolling, unrolling, and applying bitumen confirms that this paragraph presents the method of transporting the material, making “G” the correct answer.
 

4. Paragraph I

 

Reference: From Paragraph I: “Noise from car tyres, for example, peaks at roughly 1000 Hz, whereas that from trucks drops to around 600 Hz. The frequencies absorbed by the concrete can be adjusted by altering the size of the Kuijpers resonators.”

 

Explanation: This sentence discusses how different vehicles produce noise at different frequencies and how Kuijpers' design can adjust to absorb these frequencies. The reference to key roadways and vehicle usage confirms that this paragraph provides a general statement on road use, making "I" the correct answer.

 

5. Paragraph B

 

Reference: From Paragraph B: “The World Health Organization warns that prolonged exposure to road traffic noise might cause health issues related to stress. In addition, road builders must shell out cash to establish sound barriers and install double glazing in residences where traffic noise is excessive. It's more challenging to sell a home in a neighbourhood with a lot of traffic and construction noise, and workers in those settings are less effective and productive overall.”

 

Explanation: This paragraph explains the economic impact of road noise reduction, mentioning the cost of sound barriers and double glazing. It also discusses the effect on property value and worker productivity, confirming that the monetary benefits of reducing noise are covered here, making “B” the correct answer.

 

6. Paragraph D

 

Reference: From Paragraph D: “Heavy rollers are used by road crews to smooth down freshly laid asphalt, but Kuijpers has come up with a technique that he believes can result in the quietest road possible. It all comes down to a unique mould that's 3 meters broad and 50 meters long, which is his little secret. Rolling over the asphalt with a heavy roller, rail-mounted equipment spreads the hot asphalt mixture into the mould.”

 

Explanation: This line outlines the process Kuijpers has developed to construct quieter roads. The mention of heavy rollers, special moulds, and rail-mounted equipment clearly demonstrates his road-making process, making "D" the correct answer.

 

To build a strong word bank that can help you approach the Reading section with clarity and confidence, go through the list of IELTS Reading Vocabulary!

Questions and Answers 7-9
  • Label the diagram below.
  • Choose NO MORE THAN ONE WORD AND/OR A NUMBER from the passage for each answer.
  • Write your answers in boxes 7-9 on your answer sheet.

 

Cross section of Kuijpers’ proposed noise-reducing road.


7. 33 - ______________

8. 34 - ______________

9. 35 - ______________
 

Quiet Roads Ahead  Reading Answers With Explanations (7-9)

 

Type of question: Diagram Completion

 

In this task, you are required to fill in missing information in diagrams, such as flowcharts, maps, or technical drawings. These questions assess your ability to interpret visual information and use contextual clues from the text.
 

How to best answer: 

 

  • Study the diagram carefully to understand its structure and what it represents.
  • Pay attention to any specific instructions or labels to know what needs to be filled in.
  • Use the provided text to find details that fit the missing parts of the diagram.
  • Look for contextual clues in the surrounding text to determine the correct information.
  • Review your completed diagram to ensure all information is accurate and logically fits.
  • Finalise your answers.
     
7. Asphalt

 

Reference: From Paragraph D: “Rolling over the asphalt with a heavy roller, rail-mounted equipment spreads the hot asphalt mixture into the mould.”

 

Explanation: This line highlights the process of spreading hot asphalt onto the road surface using rail-mounted equipment. Since asphalt is the material being rolled out and moulded, it is the correct answer.

 

8. 9

 

Reference: From Paragraph F: “The upper layers are just around 4 or 5 millimetres across, whereas the lower layers are roughly 9 millimetres across.”

 

Explanation: This sentence provides the exact measurement of the lower layer of the road. Since the diagram requires a number representing the thickness of this layer, "9" is the correct answer as it refers to the stone size in the lower layer.
 

9. Concrete

 

Reference: From Paragraph H: “It's a concrete base with flask-shaped slots up to 10 mm wide and 30 mm deep, which are open at the top and sealed at the bottom to absorb noise.”

 

Explanation: This line confirms that the base of the noise-reducing road is made of concrete. Since the question asks for the material used at the base, "concrete" is the correct answer as it provides structural support and noise absorption.

 

To build a strong word bank that can help you approach the Reading section with clarity and confidence, go through the list of IELTS Reading Vocabulary!

Questions and Answers 10-14
  • Complete the table below using the list of words A-K from the box below.
  • Write the correct letters in boxes 10-14 on your answer sheet.

 

Kujipers’ noise-reducing road: components and function

 

Layer Component Function
Upper and Lower Stones
  • reduce oscillations caused by (10)___________.
  • create pores that help (11)____________.
    		•
    Foundation Slots
  • convert to heat (12)__________.
  • help to remove (13)___________.
  • can be adapted to absorb different (14)________.
    		•

     

    A. resonators

    B. drainage

    C. airflow

    D. frequencies

    E. rubbish

    F. pores

    G. lanes

    H. dissipation

    I. sound energy

    J. the engine

    K. Sources
     

    Quiet Roads Ahead  Reading Answers With Explanations (10-14)
     

    Type of question: Table Completion

     

    Under this task, you are required to fill in missing information in a table based on the information provided in the passage. These questions typically appear as part of the matching information or summary completion tasks.

     

    How to best answer: 

     

    • Quickly skim the passage for the main idea and relevant details.
    • Note keywords or headings in the table to place missing information.
    • Read surrounding sentences carefully for specific details.
    • Use accurate and grammatically correct information from the passage.
    • Verify and finalise your answers.
       
    10. C - airflow

     

    Reference: From Paragraph F: “The upper layers are just around 4 or 5 millimetres across, whereas the lower layers are roughly 9 millimetres across. According to Kuijpers, the tread (the indentations or ridges on the surface of a tyre) can act as a sponge, soaking up any air that passes through it and therefore dampening any vibrations that might otherwise cause noise.”

     

    Explanation: This line highlights that the stones in the upper and lower layers help absorb air, reducing vibrations that could generate noise. Since oscillations result from vibrations, this makes "airflow" the correct answer.

     

    11. B - drainage

     

    Reference: From Paragraph F: “According to Kuijpers, the tread (the indentations or ridges on the surface of a tyre) can act as a sponge, soaking up any air that passes through it and therefore dampening any vibrations that might otherwise cause noise. Moreover, they facilitate water drainage, which can improve the road's safety in wet conditions.”

     

    Explanation: This statement confirms that the pores created by the stones allow water to drain effectively. As a result, this makes "drainage" the correct answer since the pores help remove excess water from the road.
     

    12. I - sound energy

     

    Reference: From Paragraph G: “Similar to Helmholtz resonators, when sound waves of a certain frequency enter the top of a flask, they create resonances within, releasing their kinetic energy as heat in the surrounding concrete.”

     

    Explanation: This line explains how the slots act like resonators that absorb sound energy and convert it into heat. Since dissipation refers to the process of energy being dispersed or converted, "sound energy" is the correct answer.
     

    13. E - rubbish

     

    Reference: From Paragraph G: “Another crucial function served by the cavities is the removal of water that seeps through the upper surface. Waste will be flushed out, and the pores on the surface will remain clear, thanks to this circulation.”

     

    Explanation: This passage suggests that the slots help remove waste along with water, preventing blockages in the road surface. Since "rubbish" refers to waste material, it is the correct answer.

     

    14. D - frequencies

     

    Reference: From Paragraph G: “It's a concrete base with flask-shaped slots up to 10 mm wide and 30 mm deep, which are open at the top and sealed at the bottom to absorb noise.”

     

    Explanation: This statement clarifies that by modifying the size of the resonators, different frequencies of noise can be absorbed. Since the question asks about adaptability to different frequencies, "frequencies" is the correct answer.

     

    To build a strong word bank that can help you approach the Reading section with clarity and confidence, go through the IELTS Academic Reading 2025!
    3.

    Check Out Top 40 IELTS Reading Practice Test Questions with Answers

    Below are some top 35+ free IELTS Reading Practice test online questions with detailed answers to enhance your IELTS preparation online. We have provided sample passages for each test type for your reference.
     

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    FAQs

    Q. What are common keywords in the Quiet Roads Ahead reading passage?

    Ans. Common keywords may include "traffic reduction," "urban planning," "noise pollution," "sustainable transport," and "public transport improvements." Identifying synonyms and paraphrases of these words in the passage can help locate answers quickly.

    Q. How to answer matching headings questions in the Quiet Roads Ahead reading passage?

    Ans. Read all the headings first and underline key ideas. Then, skim each paragraph to grasp the main idea and match it with the most relevant heading. Look for repeated themes or contrasting points to find the best fit.

    Q. What is a challenging aspect of Quiet Roads Ahead reading passage?

    Ans. The passage may include complex vocabulary, technical terms related to urban planning, or multiple viewpoints that require careful analysis. Additionally, identifying synonyms for key terms can be tricky.

    Q. Are Quiet Roads Ahead passages part of the IELTS Academic or General Reading?

    Ans. "Quiet Roads Ahead" is likely part of the IELTS Academic Reading test, as it discusses urban development and environmental concerns in a structured, analytical manner.

    Q. What is the IELTS Reading test format?

    Ans. The IELTS Reading test consists of three passages with increasing difficulty. It includes 40 questions of various types, such as multiple choice, matching headings, and True/False/Not Given.

    Q. How long is the IELTS Reading test?

    Ans. The IELTS Reading test lasts for 60 minutes. There is no extra time for transferring answers, so you must manage your time carefully.

    Q. Are the reading passages the same for the Academic and General Training versions?

    Ans. No, the Academic test has complex, analytical texts from books or journals, while the General Training test includes practical texts from advertisements, notices, and workplace materials.

    Q. How are the IELTS Reading scores calculated?

    Ans. Your score is based on the number of correct answers out of 40. This raw score is converted into a band score from 0 to 9. Academic and General Training Reading tests have different scoring conversions.

    Q. Can I write my answers in pen or pencil?

    Ans. You must write your answers in pencil for the IELTS Reading test. Answers written in pen will not be accepted.

    Q. What happens if I leave a question unanswered?

    Ans. You will not receive any marks for unanswered questions. However, there is no penalty for incorrect answers, so it’s best to guess rather than leave it blank.

    Q. How should I practice to improve my Reading score?

    Ans. Read a variety of texts, focus on skimming and scanning techniques, and practise with past IELTS Reading tests. Time yourself and review incorrect answers to understand mistakes.