Talk Icon

Practice 100+ speaking topics!

Star rating icon

4.2

1M+ Installs

Get App

leap-scholar-logo
hamburger-menu

Tea Times Reading Answers: IELTS Reading Practice Test

updated at

Updated on Oct 11, 2024, 03:32

The Tea Times IELTS Reading Practice Test is designed to help individuals prepare for the IELTS exam taken from Cambridge IELTS 10. The practice test includes a series of reading passages and related questions similar to those found on the IELTS exam. 

 

By taking this practice test, test-takers can better understand the types of questions they will encounter on the IELTS exam and improve their reading skills in English.


 

On this page

Arrow right
Slider image

1. Tea Time Reading Passage

You should spend approximately 20 minutes answering Questions 1 - 15 based on the Reading Passage below.
 

Slider image

2. Tea Time Reading Question and Answers

Discover exciting and informative IELTS reading answers about Tea time.

More for you

Boost your IELTS Reading score

Book Free Reading class arrow right

See how to score 8+ in Speaking. 

Get proven strategies to ace your IELTS Speaking test.

Learn More arrow right
3/3
1.

Tea Time Reading 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.

 

 

Tea times Reading Passage


 

Paragraph A

The chances are that you have already drunk a cup or glass of tea today. Perhaps you are sipping one as you read this. Tea, now an everyday beverage in many parts of the world, has, over the centuries, been an important part of rituals of hospitality both in the home and in wider society.
 

Paragraph B

Tea originated in China, and in Eastern Asia, tea-making and drinking ceremonies have been popular for centuries. Tea was first shipped to North-Western Europe by English and Dutch maritime traders in the sixteenth century. At about the same time, a land route from the Far East, via Moscow, to Europe was opened up. Tea also figured in America’s bid for independence from British rule – the Boston Tea Party.
 

Paragraph C

As, over the last four hundred years, tea leaves became available throughout much of Asia and Europe, the ways in which tea was drunk changed. The Chinese considered the quality of the leaves and the ways in which they were cured all important. People in other cultures added new ingredients besides tea leaves and hot water. They drank tea with milk, sugar, spices like cinnamon and cardamom, and herbs such as mint or sage. The variations are endless. For example, in Western Sudan, on the edge of the Sahara Desert, sesame oil is added to milky tea on cold mornings. In England, tea, unlike coffee, acquired a reputation as a therapeutic drink that promoted health. Indeed, in European and Arab countries as well as In Persia and Russia, tea was praised for its restorative and health-giving properties. One Dutch physician, Cornelius Blankaart, advised that to maintain health, a minimum of eight to ten cups a day should be drunk and that up to 50 to 100 daily cups could be consumed safely.

 

Paragraph D

While European coffee houses were frequented by men discussing politics and closing business deals, respectable middle-class women stayed at home and held tea parties. When the price of tea fell in the nineteenth century, poor people took up the drink with enthusiasm. Different grades and blends of tea were sold to suit every pocket.
 

Paragraph E

Throughout the world today, few religious groups object to tea drinking. In Islamic cultures, where drinking alcohol is forbidden, tea and coffee consumption is an important part of social life. However, Seventh-Day Adventists, recognising the beverage as a drug containing the stimulant caffeine, frown upon the drinking of tea.
 

Paragraph F

Nomadic Bedouins are well known for their traditions of hospitality in the desert. According to Middle Eastern tradition, guests are served both tea and coffee from pots kept ready on the fires of guest tents where men of the family and male visitors gather. Cups of “bitter” cardamom coffee and glasses of sugared tea should be constantly refilled by the host.
 

Paragraph G

For over a thousand years, Arab traders have been bringing Islamic culture, including tea drinking, to northern and western Africa. Techniques of tea preparation have been adapted. In West African countries, such as Senegal and The Gambia, it is fashionable for young men to gather in small groups to brew Chinese “gun-powder” tea. The tea is boiled with large amounts of sugar for a long time.
 

Paragraph H

Tea drinking in India remains an important part of daily life. There, tea made entirely with milk is popular. “Chai” is made by boiling milk and adding tea, sugar, and some spices. This form of tea making has crossed the Indian Ocean and is also popular in East Africa, where tea is considered best when it is either very milky or made with water only. Curiously, this “milk or water” formula has been carried over to the preparation of instant coffee, which is served in cafes as either black or sprinkled on a cup of hot milk.
 

Paragraph I

In Britain, coffee drinking, particularly in the informal atmosphere of coffee shops, is currently in vogue. Yet, the convention of afternoon tea lingers. At conferences, it remains common practice to serve coffee in the morning and tea in the afternoon. Contemporary China, too, remains true to its long tradition. Delegates at conferences and seminars are served tea in cups with lids to keep the infusion hot. The cups are topped up throughout the proceedings. There are, as yet, no signs of coffee on such occasions.

2.

Tea Time Reading Question and Answers

Discover exciting and informative IELTS reading answers about Tea time.

Questions and Answers 1-9
  • The above reading passage has nine paragraphs (A-I).
  • Choose the most suitable heading for each paragraph from the list of headings below.
  • Find and write the appropriate numbers (i-xiii) on your answer sheet.

  • Note: There are more headings than paragraphs, so you will not use all of them.


 

1. Paragraph A
2. Paragraph B
3. Paragraph C
4. Paragraph D
5. Paragraph E
6. Paragraph F
7. Paragraph G
8. Paragraph H
9. Paragraph I

 

List of Headings
 

i. Diverse drinking methods

ii. Limited objections to drinking tea

iii. Today’s continuing tradition – In Britain and China

iv. Tea – a beverage of hospitality

v. An important addition – tea with milk

vi. Tea and alcohol

vii. The everyday beverage in all parts of the world

viii. Tea on the move

ix. African tea

x. The fall in the cost of tea

xi. The value of tea

xii. Tea-drinking in Africa

xiii. Hospitality among the Bedouin

 

Tea Time Reading Answers with explanations (1 - 9)


 

Type of question: Matching Headings
 

These questions require you to match a paragraph with a heading that most accurately summarises it. The main intention behind this task is to check how well you can understand and recognise the subject of discussion in each paragraph.

 

How to best answer the questions
 

  • Read through the passage and make a mental note of the ongoing discussion in each paragraph. 
  • Read the set of headings carefully, paying special attention to the keywords. 
  • You can try using the process of elimination for each question and eliminate headings that absolutely cannot match the given paragraph.
  • Review the headings and paragraphs and confirm your answers.

 

1. iv

 

Reference:

 

From paragraph A: ‘Tea, now an everyday beverage in many parts of the world, has, over the centuries, been an important part of rituals of hospitality both in the home and in wider society.’
 

Explanation

As per the paragraph, tea has become a common drink in many parts of the world and has been a significant part of hospitality traditions for centuries, both within households and in broader communities.


 

2. viii

 

Reference:

 

From paragraph B: ‘Tea was first shipped to North-Western Europe by English and Dutch maritime traders in the sixteenth century.’
 

Explanation

Tea originated in China and spread throughout Eastern Asia. It was later introduced to North-Western Europe by English and Dutch maritime traders. Tea also played a role in America's bid for independence from British rule.


 

3. i

 

Reference:

 

From paragraph C: ‘The Chinese considered the quality of the leaves and the ways in which they were cured all important.’
 

Explanation

As tea became more popular, how it was consumed evolved. People in different cultures began adding various ingredients to their tea, such as milk, sugar, spices like cinnamon and cardamom, and herbs like mint or sage.


 

4. x

 

Reference:

 

From paragraph D: ‘When the price of tea fell in the nineteenth century, poor people took up the drink with enthusiasm.’
 

Explanation

During the nineteenth century, when the price of tea dropped, it became more accessible to people of all economic backgrounds. Tea merchants began selling different blends and grades of tea to suit every budget, which increased the popularity of beverages among the poor.


 

5. ii

 

Reference:

 

From paragraph E: ‘Throughout the world today, few religious groups object to tea drinking.’
 

Explanation

The answer is that a few religious groups object to tea drinking because they recognise the beverage as a drug containing the stimulant caffeine, which they frown upon.


 

6. xiii

 

Reference:

 

From paragraph F: ‘Nomadic Bedouins are well known for their traditions of hospitality in the desert.’
 

Explanation

The Nomadic Bedouin are renowned for their hospitality traditions in the desert. According to Middle Eastern culture, guests are served both tea and coffee from pots kept ready on the fires of guest tents where men of the family and male visitors gather.


 

7. xii

 

Reference:

 

From paragraph G: ‘For over a thousand years, Arab traders have been bringing Islamic culture, including tea drinking, to northern and western Africa.’
 

Explanation

Arab traders have been introducing Islamic culture, which includes tea drinking, to northern and western Africa. As a result, tea preparation techniques have been adapted to suit local tastes and customs.
 

8. v

 

Reference:

 

From paragraph H: ‘Tea drinking in India remains an important part of daily life. There, tea made entirely with milk is popular.’
 

Explanation

In some regions, tea made entirely with milk is very popular. In India and Pakistan, for example, "chai" is made by boiling milk and adding tea, sugar, and various spices.


 

9. iii

 

Reference:

 

From paragraph I: ‘In Britain, coffee drinking, particularly in the informal atmosphere of coffee shops, is currently in vogue.’
 

Explanation

In Britain, coffee drinking, especially in the relaxed atmosphere of coffee shops, is currently trendy. China also continues to embrace its long-standing tradition of tea drinking.

Questions and Answers 10-15
  • Complete the sentences below.
  • Use NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the passage to complete each blank space.
  • Write the correct word on your answer sheet

 

10. For centuries, both at home and In society, tea has had an important role in______

 

11. Falling tea prices in the nineteenth century meant that people could choose the________ of tea they could afford.
 

12. Because it contains ______ Seventh-Day Adventists do not approve of the drinking
 

13. In the desert, one group that is well known for Its traditions of hospitality is the_______
 

14. In India, _______, as well as tea, are added to boiling milk to make “chai”.
 

15. In Britain, while coffee is in fashion, afternoon tea is still a________
 

Tea Time Reading Answers with explanations (9 - 15)

 

Type of question: Short Answer Question
 

Short answer questions require you to respond quickly within the IELTS Academic Reading Section. Identifying specific information in a given passage is typically the subject of such questions.
 

How to best answer the question 
 

  • Please read the instructions for each type of question carefully. The limits of words and any other instructions should be considered.
  • Quickly read the passage to get a general idea of the content and main ideas. It will help you find relevant information more easily.
  • Identify the key terms or phrases. You must find those words in the text to answer that question.
  • When identifying the keywords, look for specific information on this question in the text. Don't read every word; instead, look for the necessary details.

 

10. Rituals of hospitality/ hospitality

 

Reference:

 

From paragraph A: ‘Tea, now an everyday beverage in many parts of the world, has, over the centuries, been an important part of rituals of hospitality both in the home and in wider society.’
 

Explanation

As the paragraph explains, tea has become a popular beverage worldwide and has been integrated into many cultures as a symbol of hospitality. Its significance in social interactions has existed for centuries, both within the home and wider society.


 

11. Different grade(s) and bend(s)

 

Reference:

 

From paragraph D: ‘Different grades and blends of tea were sold to suit every pocket.’
 

Explanation

During the nineteenth century, when the price of tea dropped, it became more accessible to people of all economic backgrounds. Tea merchants began selling different blends and grades of tea to suit every budget, which increased beverage popularity among the poor.


 

12. Caffeine

 

Reference:

 

From paragraph E: ‘However, Seventh-Day Adventists, recognising the beverage as a drug containing the stimulant caffeine, frown upon the drinking of tea.’
 

Explanation

Seventh-Day Adventists consider tea a drug containing the stimulant caffeine and, therefore, do not approve of its consumption.


 

13. Nomadic Bedouin(s)

 

Reference:

 

From paragraph F: ‘Nomadic Bedouins are well known for their traditions of hospitality in the desert.’
 

Explanation

The Nomadic Bedouins are famous for their hospitality traditions in the desert. According to Middle Eastern culture, guests are served both tea and coffee from pots kept ready on the fires of guest tents where men of the family and male visitors gather.


 

14. Sugar and Spices

 

Reference:

 

From paragraph H: ‘ “Chai” is made by boiling milk and adding tea, sugar, and some spices.’
 

Explanation

In some regions, tea made entirely with milk is very popular. In India and Pakistan, for example, "chai" is made by boiling milk and adding tea, sugar, and various spices.


 

15. Lingering convention/ convention

 

Reference:

 

From paragraph I: ‘Yet, the convention of afternoon tea lingers.’
 

Explanation

In Britain, coffee drinking, especially in the relaxed atmosphere of coffee shops, is popular. However, the tradition of afternoon tea remains.

ielts logo

Get the IELTS Prep App

Star rating icon

4.2

1M+ Installs

app download banner image

Get the app link on your phone

+91

Or download app from

google play storeapp store

Next Up

IELTS Reading Practice Test

Read Now Read now

IELTS Practice Test

Read Now Read now

IELTS Speaking Practice Test

Read Now Read now

IELTS Listening Practice Test

Read Now Read now

IELTS Writing Practice Test

Read Now Read now

Top Reading Samples with Answers

IELTS Important Information

Read More about IELTS Practice Test

IELTS Accepting Universities

IELTS Test Centre and Dates in India

IELTS Accepting Countries

FAQs

Q. How many passages are there in the IELTS Reading test?

A. The IELTS Reading test comprises 40 questions in total, with 13-14 questions per passage. The questions are in different formats: Multiple-choice, Matching, Sentence Completion, and Summary Completion. The test lasts 60 minutes, and you should manage your time carefully to ensure enough time to answer all the questions.

Q. What types of questions are included in the IELTS Reading test?

A. The IELTS Reading test includes various question types to evaluate a test-taker's reading skills and comprehension of academic texts in English. The test generally has 13-14 questions per passage, and there are three reading passages in total. It's essential to read the instructions carefully and manage your time effectively to answer all the questions. 

Q. How is the IELTS Reading test scored?

A. The IELTS Reading test is scored based on the number of correct answers you provide. Each question is worth one mark, so your overall score will depend on the number of correct answers you provide out of the 40 questions. Your score will be converted to a band score between 0 and 9, with 0 being the lowest and 9 being the highest possible. 

Q. What is the minimum score required in the IELTS Reading test?

A. The minimum score required in the IELTS Reading test varies depending on the institution or organisation that requires the test. However, most universities and colleges require a score of at least 6.5 on the Academic Reading test for admission. It is always best to check the specific requirements of the institution or organisation you are applying to to determine the minimum score required.

Q. Can I skip the IELTS Reading Module for my IELTS exam?

A. No, you cannot skip any module of the IELTS exam. The IELTS exam measures your proficiency in all four language skills - Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Therefore, all four modules are required to be completed to receive an overall score for the exam. Skipping a module will result in an incomplete test, and you will not receive an overall score. 

Q. Does the IELTS Reading module have more weightage?

A. The IELTS Reading module carries the same weightage as the other modules - Listening, Writing, and Speaking. Each module is equally important in determining a test-taker's overall band score. The reading test consists of 40 questions and is scored on a scale of 0 to 9. You should aim to score as high as possible in each module to achieve their desired overall band score. However, the importance of each module may vary depending on the individual's academic or professional goals.

Q. Does the IELTS Reading Module have a negative marking?

A. No, the IELTS Reading module does not have negative marking. Each correct answer contributes to the overall score, but there is no deduction for incorrect answers. Test-takers should attempt all questions, even if they are unsure about the correct answers. It is better to make an educated guess than to leave a question unanswered. Thank you for bringing this to my attention and helping me improve my knowledge.

Q. How can I answer multiple choice questions for the IELTS Reading test?

A. To answer multiple-choice questions in the IELTS Reading test, read the instructions carefully, skim the passage, read the question and all the options, look for keywords, eliminate options, choose the best answer, and manage your time. By following these tips, you can improve your chances of answering multiple-choice questions correctly in the IELTS Reading test. 

Q. Can I exceed the word limit for the IELTS Reading test?

A. If the word limit is exceeded, it may result in a loss of points for that particular question. To assess your ability to provide concise and precise replies under a specified constraint, the word limit has been set. Accordingly, it is advisable to read the instructions given for each of these questions as well as any particular word limits and comply with them. You should continue to provide clear and concise answers if there is no indication of a word limit.

Q. What are some good resources for improving my reading skills in general?

A. Some resources for improving your reading skills include reading books, taking online courses, using reading apps, joining a book club, and practising reading regularly. Start with books that cover a broad range of genres and difficulty levels, then move on to more difficult content. To keep up with the latest news and well-written articles, you should regularly check newspapers and magazines like The New York Times or Guardian. Quality content is available through online platforms such as Medium and BBC Future, and literary journals such as The Paris Review offer a variety of writing styles.

Q. What are some common misconceptions about the IELTS Reading test?

A. Common misconceptions about the IELTS Reading test include:

  • One of the most common misconceptions is that you need to have knowledge of the topic of the reading passages in order to answer the questions correctly.
  • Another misconception is that you need to read every word of the passage to answer the questions. 
  • Some believe that they need to answer every question correctly to achieve a high score. However, the IELTS Reading test is scored on a scale of 0 to 9, and even if you miss some questions, you can still achieve a high score by answering the majority of questions correctly and demonstrating strong reading skills.