Contoh Soal Bahasa Inggris SBMPTN: Latihan Lengkap dan Strategi Jitu Raih Skor Tinggi!

1. Read the following passage and answer the question. The Amazon rainforest is the largest tropical rainforest in the world, covering an area of approximately 5.5 million square kilometers. It is home to an incredible diversity of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. The Amazon also plays a crucial role in regulating global climate patterns, producing a significant portion of the world’s oxygen and absorbing vast amounts of carbon dioxide. However, deforestation, primarily due to agricultural expansion and logging, poses a severe threat to this vital ecosystem. What is the main idea of the passage?

• The Amazon rainforest is solely important for producing oxygen.
• Deforestation is the only problem faced by tropical rainforests.
• The Amazon rainforest is a vital and diverse ecosystem facing severe threats from deforestation.
• Only unique plant species reside in the Amazon rainforest.

Answer: The Amazon rainforest is a vital and diverse ecosystem facing severe threats from deforestation.

Explanation: The passage primarily discusses the importance of the Amazon rainforest (largest, diverse, regulates climate) and then highlights the main threat it faces (deforestation).

2. Which of the following is grammatically correct?

• Although the rain, we decided to go for a walk.
• Despite of the rain, we decided to go for a walk.
• Even though the rain, we decided to go for a walk.
• Despite the rain, we decided to go for a walk.

Answer: Despite the rain, we decided to go for a walk.

Explanation: ‘Despite’ is followed by a noun or noun phrase. ‘Even though’ is followed by a clause. The correct usage here is ‘Despite the rain’.

3. The newly discovered planet is ______ to sustain life.

• considering
• thought
• thinking
• believing

Answer: thought

Explanation: The correct passive structure here is ‘is thought to be able to sustain life’ or simply ‘is thought to sustain life’, meaning people believe it can. ‘Believed’ would also work, but ‘thought’ is a strong contender given the options. ‘Considered’ would usually be followed by ‘as’ or ‘to be’.

4. The company decided to ______ its operations in Southeast Asia.

• expel
• expend
• exploit
• expand

Answer: expand

Explanation: ‘Expand’ means to make larger or more extensive, which fits the context of increasing operations. ‘Expel’ means to force out. ‘Expend’ means to spend or use up. ‘Exploit’ means to make full use of and derive benefit from, often in an unfair way.

5. Choose the sentence that uses correct parallel structure.

• She enjoys to hike, swimming, and cycling.
• She enjoys hiking, to swim, and cycle.
• She enjoys hiking, swimming, and cycling.
• She enjoys to hike, to swim, and cycling.

Answer: She enjoys hiking, swimming, and cycling.

Explanation: Parallel structure requires that items in a list have the same grammatical form. In option C, ‘hiking’, ‘swimming’, and ‘cycling’ are all gerunds, maintaining parallel structure. The other options mix gerunds with infinitives or other forms.

6. If I ______ you, I would take that job offer.

• am
• was
• were
• would be

Answer: were

Explanation: In conditional sentences (Type 2) expressing a hypothetical or unreal situation, ‘were’ is used for all persons (I, he, she, it) in the ‘if’ clause. This is known as the subjunctive mood.

7. The scientist ______ a groundbreaking discovery yesterday.

• has made
• had made
• makes
• made

Answer: made

Explanation: The phrase ‘yesterday’ indicates a specific point in the past, requiring the simple past tense. ‘Made’ is the simple past tense of ‘make’.

8. It is essential that every student ______ their assignments on time.

• submits
• submitted
• submit
• is submitting

Answer: submit

Explanation: This is an example of the subjunctive mood after expressions of necessity or importance (e.g., ‘it is essential that’). In such cases, the base form of the verb is used regardless of the subject’s number, hence ‘submit’ instead of ‘submits’.

9. The phenomenon of global warming ______ by many factors.

• causes
• is causing
• is caused
• are caused

Answer: is caused

Explanation: The subject ‘the phenomenon of global warming’ is singular and the sentence requires a passive voice because the phenomenon is being acted upon (it is ’caused’ by factors). Thus, ‘is caused’ is the correct form.

10. Choose the word that is closest in meaning to ‘ubiquitous’.

• rare
• unique
• widespread
• limited

Answer: widespread

Explanation: ‘Ubiquitous’ means present, appearing, or found everywhere. ‘Widespread’ is the closest synonym.

11. The more you practice, ______ you will become.

• the best
• better
• the better
• good

Answer: the better

Explanation: This is a correlative construction known as the ‘the…the…’ comparative. Both clauses must use a comparative form. ‘The better’ correctly completes the structure.

12. Neither John nor his brothers ______ at the party.

• was
• is
• were
• has been

Answer: were

Explanation: When ‘neither…nor’ connects two subjects, the verb agrees with the subject closest to it. In this case, ‘brothers’ (plural) is closest to the verb, so the plural verb ‘were’ is used.

13. The government’s new policy is ______ to reduce unemployment.

• intent
• intending
• intensely
• intended

Answer: intended

Explanation: ‘Intended’ means designed or planned for a particular purpose, which fits the context of a policy aiming to achieve a goal. ‘Intent’ is a noun. ‘Intending’ is a present participle, typically used in continuous tenses. ‘Intensely’ is an adverb.

14. He has been working on this project ______ three months.

• since
• from
• during
• for

Answer: for

Explanation: ‘For’ is used to indicate a duration of time (e.g., three months, two years). ‘Since’ is used to indicate a starting point in time (e.g., since January, since 2020).

15. Which sentence contains a dangling modifier?

• Having finished the assignment, I turned on the TV.
• After finishing the assignment, she turned on the TV.
• Having finished the assignment, the TV was turned on.
• Once the assignment was finished, we turned on the TV.

Answer: Having finished the assignment, the TV was turned on.

Explanation: In ‘Having finished the assignment, the TV was turned on,’ the introductory phrase ‘Having finished the assignment’ incorrectly modifies ‘the TV’. It implies the TV finished the assignment, not a person. The subject performing the action in the introductory phrase is missing or unclear.

16. The professor asked the students ______ to submit their essays.

• when were they
• when they were
• when are they
• when was they

Answer: when they were

Explanation: This is an indirect question. In indirect questions, the word order is subject + verb, not inverted like a direct question. ‘When they were’ correctly follows this rule.

17. It’s important to differentiate ______ fact and opinion.

• from
• with
• between
• among

Answer: between

Explanation: ‘Differentiate between’ is the correct idiom used to show a distinction between two or more things.

18. The concert was so popular that tickets were sold out ______ minutes.

• on
• at
• in
• for

Answer: in

Explanation: ‘In’ is used here to indicate that something happened within a certain period of time. ‘Within’ could also work, but ‘in’ is more common for ‘in X minutes’.

19. She is not only a talented musician ______ also a skilled painter.

• and
• or
• but
• nor

Answer: but

Explanation: ‘Not only…but also…’ is a common correlative conjunction used to connect two grammatically equal elements. ‘But’ is the missing word in this pair.

20. What does the idiom ‘to bite the bullet’ mean?

• To enjoy a meal quickly.
• To refuse to obey orders.
• To start a new project with enthusiasm.
• To endure a difficult or unpleasant situation.

Answer: To endure a difficult or unpleasant situation.

Explanation: ‘To bite the bullet’ means to face a difficult situation with courage and fortitude, accepting something unpleasant that cannot be avoided.

1. Explain the difference between ‘affect’ and ‘effect’.

Answer: ‘Affect’ is typically a verb meaning ‘to influence’ or ‘to impact’. ‘Effect’ is typically a noun meaning ‘a result’ or ‘a consequence’.

Explanation: This question tests common confusions in English vocabulary. ‘Affect’ is almost always a verb (e.g., The rain affected the game), while ‘effect’ is almost always a noun (e.g., The effect of the rain was a delayed game). There are rare exceptions, but this is the primary distinction.

2. Rewrite the following sentence in passive voice: ‘The students will complete the project by next week.’

Answer: The project will be completed by the students by next week.

Explanation: To change to passive voice, the object (‘the project’) becomes the subject, the verb (‘will complete’) changes to ‘will be + past participle’ (‘will be completed’), and the original subject (‘the students’) becomes the agent in a ‘by’ phrase (optional but included here).

3. What is the function of a topic sentence in a paragraph?

Answer: A topic sentence introduces the main idea or central point of the paragraph, guiding the reader and setting the stage for the details that follow.

Explanation: A topic sentence acts as a miniature thesis statement for its paragraph. It should be clear, concise, and provide a preview of the content within that specific paragraph, ensuring coherence and unity in writing.

4. Correct the error in the following sentence: ‘Everyone brought their own lunch.’

Answer: Everyone brought his or her own lunch. (Alternatively: All students brought their own lunch. Or: Everyone brought their own lunch. – if ‘their’ is accepted as gender-neutral singular pronoun usage, though ‘his or her’ is traditionally correct.)

Explanation: The error is in pronoun agreement. ‘Everyone’ is a singular indefinite pronoun, so it should be followed by a singular possessive pronoun (‘his’ or ‘her’ or ‘his or her’). While ‘their’ is increasingly accepted as a singular, gender-neutral pronoun in informal contexts, in formal writing or standardized tests, ‘his or her’ is often preferred. A simpler fix is to make the subject plural if possible.

5. Provide a synonym for ‘benevolent’.

Answer: Kind, compassionate, generous, charitable.

Explanation: ‘Benevolent’ means well meaning and kindly. Any word conveying kindness, generosity, or goodwill is an acceptable synonym.

1. Discuss the pros and cons of online learning compared to traditional classroom learning. Which method do you believe is more effective for most students and why?

Answer: Model Answer: Online learning offers flexibility, allowing students to learn at their own pace and often from any location, which is a significant advantage for those with work commitments or geographical limitations. It also provides access to a wider range of courses and resources. However, online learning can lack the immediate social interaction and direct feedback prevalent in traditional classrooms, potentially leading to feelings of isolation and requiring high self-discipline. Technical issues can also be a barrier. Traditional classroom learning, conversely, fosters stronger community building, encourages active participation through direct discussion, and provides structured environments that can benefit students who thrive with routine. Its drawbacks include less flexibility, potential commuting burdens, and sometimes larger class sizes which can limit individualized attention. For most students, I believe traditional classroom learning remains more effective. The structured environment, face-to-face interaction with peers and instructors, and immediate feedback mechanisms are crucial for developing critical thinking, social skills, and sustained engagement. While online learning has its merits, especially for self-motivated individuals or specific subjects, the holistic developmental benefits of a traditional classroom setting are often irreplaceable for a broader student population.

Explanation: This essay question requires students to analyze both sides of an educational debate (online vs. traditional learning) and then articulate a reasoned stance with supporting arguments. A strong answer will present balanced points for both methods before making a clear, justified conclusion.

2. Analyze the role of technology in modern society. How has it impacted communication, work, and daily life?

Answer: Model Answer: Technology has fundamentally reshaped modern society, profoundly impacting communication, work, and daily life. In communication, it has revolutionized how people connect, moving from traditional letters and landlines to instant global communication via smartphones, social media, and video conferencing. This has broken down geographical barriers, fostering immediate information exchange and closer personal and professional ties, though it also raises concerns about privacy and information overload. In the workplace, technology has driven automation, increased efficiency, and enabled remote work, transforming industries and creating new job sectors. While it has streamlined processes and boosted productivity, it also presents challenges like job displacement, the need for continuous skill adaptation, and the blurred lines between work and personal life. Daily life is similarly saturated with technological advancements, from smart home devices and online shopping to digital entertainment and navigation systems. These innovations offer unparalleled convenience and access to information but can also lead to dependency, reduce physical activity, and expose individuals to digital distractions. Ultimately, technology’s role is a dual-edged sword, offering immense opportunities for progress and convenience while simultaneously demanding careful consideration of its societal implications and ethical use.

Explanation: This essay requires an analytical discussion of technology’s broad impact. A good response will provide specific examples across the three specified areas (communication, work, daily life), demonstrating a nuanced understanding of both positive and negative consequences.

3. Write an argumentative essay arguing for or against the importance of learning a second language in today’s globalized world.

Answer: Model Answer: Argument for: Learning a second language in today’s globalized world is not merely an academic pursuit but a critical necessity for personal and professional development. Firstly, it enhances cognitive abilities, fostering better problem-solving skills, improved multitasking, and increased creativity, as numerous studies in neuroplasticity suggest. Secondly, linguistic proficiency opens doors to diverse cultures and perspectives, cultivating empathy, understanding, and global citizenship vital for navigating an interconnected world. This cultural immersion breaks down stereotypes and builds bridges between communities. Professionally, bilingual or multilingual individuals possess a distinct competitive advantage. They are highly sought after in international business, diplomacy, and various service industries, as they can facilitate cross-cultural communication and expand market reach. Furthermore, access to information is broadened, allowing direct engagement with foreign media, research, and literature without relying on translations. While initial efforts may be challenging, the long-term benefits of increased employability, enriched cultural experiences, and enhanced cognitive function unequivocally establish the profound importance of second language acquisition in the 21st century. The world is becoming smaller, and language is the key to unlocking its full potential.

Explanation: This essay requires students to take a clear stance (for or against) on a given topic and support it with logical arguments and evidence. The model answer presents arguments ‘for’ the importance of learning a second language, covering cognitive, cultural, and professional benefits.

4. Describe a significant environmental challenge facing the world today and propose potential solutions. Your answer should cover the nature of the challenge, its causes, and at least two distinct solution approaches.

Answer: Model Answer: A significant environmental challenge facing the world today is climate change, primarily driven by the excessive emission of greenhouse gases. This phenomenon is characterized by rising global temperatures, more frequent extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and ocean acidification, threatening ecosystems and human livelihoods globally. Its primary cause is anthropogenic activity, specifically the burning of fossil fuels for energy and transportation, industrial processes, deforestation, and certain agricultural practices. These activities release carbon dioxide, methane, and other gases that trap heat in the atmosphere. Two distinct solution approaches include transitioning to renewable energy sources and implementing large-scale carbon sequestration strategies. Firstly, a rapid and comprehensive global shift from fossil fuels to renewables like solar, wind, and geothermal energy is crucial. This involves significant investment in renewable infrastructure, policy incentives for green energy adoption, and phasing out subsidies for fossil fuels. Germany’s Energiewende is an example of a nation attempting this transition. Secondly, robust carbon sequestration efforts are essential. This encompasses both natural solutions like massive reforestation and afforestation projects, and technological solutions such as Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) technologies that capture CO2 directly from industrial sources or the atmosphere and store it underground. While challenging, these combined strategies offer a viable path to mitigate climate change and protect our planet for future generations.

Explanation: This essay prompts students to identify a specific environmental issue, explain its complexities, and offer concrete, distinct solutions. A strong answer will demonstrate a clear understanding of the chosen challenge, its roots, and realistic approaches to address it.

5. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of social media platforms in promoting social activism and political engagement.

Answer: Model Answer: Social media platforms have become powerful tools for social activism and political engagement, offering both significant advantages and notable disadvantages. On the advantage side, these platforms enable rapid dissemination of information, allowing activists to quickly raise awareness about issues, mobilize supporters, and organize protests or campaigns on a global scale. The ‘Arab Spring’ movements and recent global climate strikes are prime examples of social media’s power in catalyzing widespread participation. They provide a voice to marginalized groups, bypass traditional media gatekeepers, and facilitate direct communication between activists and the public or even policymakers. However, there are significant disadvantages. Social media can foster ‘slacktivism,’ where individuals engage in superficial actions (like liking or sharing posts) without genuine commitment to the cause. The spread of misinformation and disinformation, often amplified by algorithms, can polarize discussions, undermine legitimate movements, and confuse public opinion. Furthermore, surveillance by authorities and the potential for online harassment or doxing of activists pose serious risks. While social media undoubtedly lowers barriers to entry for activism and can amplify messages, its effectiveness is often hampered by its inherent vulnerabilities to echo chambers, ‘cancel culture,’ and the spread of untruths, requiring users to be critically discerning and movements to be strategically robust beyond mere online presence.

Explanation: This essay requires a balanced discussion of social media’s dual role in activism. A good response will provide specific examples for both advantages (e.g., rapid mobilization, voice for marginalized) and disadvantages (e.g., slacktivism, misinformation, surveillance), demonstrating a nuanced understanding.

1. Match the following phrasal verbs with their correct meanings.

Answer: 1. Look up – C. Find information in a reference work. 2. Put off – A. Postpone. 3. Call off – B. Cancel. 4. Run out of – D. Have no more of something.

Explanation: This question tests knowledge of common English phrasal verbs and their specific meanings. Each pairing is a direct definition.

2. Match the following literary terms with their definitions.

Answer: 1. Metaphor – D. A figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable. 2. Simile – B. A figure of speech involving the comparison of one thing with another thing of a different kind, used to make a description more emphatic or vivid, using ‘like’ or ‘as’. 3. Alliteration – A. The occurrence of the same letter or sound at the beginning of adjacent or closely connected words. 4. Personification – C. The attribution of a personal nature or human characteristics to something non-human, or the representation of an abstract quality in human form.

Explanation: This question assesses understanding of basic literary devices. Correctly matching each term to its definition demonstrates familiarity with these common concepts in English literature and language.