Reading Comprehension (25 points)
Read the text and do the tasks below:
Building bridges to the world
After the 1948 disaster, over 700,000 Palestinians lost everything and were forced into a
Diaspora that spread round the planet. For many years afterwards, the Palestinian cause received
little attention or understanding from the world.
That changed dramatically in 1974, when the late national leader, President Yassir Arafat,
stepped onto the world’s political stage to speak to the United Nations. His famous words rang out:
‘Today, I have come bearing an olive branch and a freedom fighter’s gun. Do not let the olive branch
fall from my hand.’
This landmark speech showed the world two things: first that the Palestinian cause could not
be forgotten, and secondly that there really could be a peaceful way forward. Arafat’s words also
affected Palestinians deeply. They made many realise that it was necessary to build bridges between
Palestine and the West. This was the way to create international understanding and, one day, a free
and independent Palestine.
The years since the national leader President Arafat’s speech to the UN have not been easy, and
there have been many setbacks. Yet there are also reasons for optimism. In recent years, as a result
of the continuous diplomatic struggle of the present Palestinian leadership, under their representative
President Mahmoud Abbas, more and more countries have officially recognised Palestine as an
independent state, and in 2012 the United Nations General Assembly voted to upgrade the status of
the Palestinians to that of a ‘non-member observer state’. There is hope that at last, thanks to the
efforts of Palestinians around the world, the tide has finally turned.

Read the text and do the tasks below:
Money has long been a subject of debate when it comes to its role in happiness. While some argue
that money can buy happiness, others believe that true happiness comes from non-materialistic sources.
This text will explore the complex relationship between money and happiness.
1………………………………..: At its core, money serves to fulfill basic needs—food, shelter, and
health care. Research has shown that individuals who struggle to meet these basic needs often report
lower levels of happiness. Once these essential requirements are met, however, the direct connection
between additional income and happiness begins to decrease.
2. ………………………………..: Studies suggest that people often get more happiness from
experiences (travel, social events, hobbies) than from material possessions (cars, electronics). Investing
in experiences tends to strengthen social connections and create lasting memories, which contribute to
overall well-being .
3. ………………………………..: Money can also play a role in how individuals recognize their own
happiness relative to others. The phenomenon of social comparison can lead to dissatisfaction if one's
wealth or possessions are seen as lower compared to peers, despite having sufficient resources for a
comfortable life .
4. ………………………………..: Interestingly, spending money on others—whether through gifts,
charity, or helping friends in need—has been shown to significantly develop personal happiness. Acts
of kindness can create a sense of belonging and purpose, supporting the idea that happiness isn't just
linked to personal gain.
Relationship between money and happiness is complex. While money can provide a foundation
for happiness by ensuring basic needs are met, true satisfaction often comes from deeper connections,
achieving experiences, and acts of kindness. Finally, understanding the role of money in our lives can
help individuals make more informed decisions about how they set their resources for maximum
happiness.

Literature: (15 points)
Choose ONE of the two stories and answer its questions. اختر واحدة من القصتين وأجب عن أسئلتها
Romeo & Juliet (15 points)

From this section, answer two parts only أجب عن فرعين منها فقط (A,B,C) يتكون هذا السؤال من ثالثة فروع

King Lear (15 points)

From this section, answer two parts only أجب عن فرعين منها فقط (A,B,C) يتكون هذا السؤال من ثالثة فروع

Writing: (10 points)