Material 02 (2)

Material 02 Inglês

Prof° Todd Marshall

Curso: Fiscal

www.lfg.com.br/ www.cursoparaconcursos.com.br

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Main Principles to be Studied • Main Ideas • Directly Stated Information • Inference Questions Main Principles to be Studied – Thesis Statement strategy – Verb Tenses • Directly Stated Information – Vocabulary – Synonyms – Modal Verb usage • Inference Questions – True / False questions – Prepositions and Phrasal Verbs Directly Stated Information • Questions of directly stated information will contain a reference to the text within the question itself. • The key is to identify common terminology/synonyms that can lead to the section of the text where the answer can be found. • The answer will commonly contain synonyms from the text reference. Directly Stated Information • Key Aspect – VOCABULARY • To be successful in any testing process, the exam taker must have a high level of knowledge of vocabulary. • Understanding how to work with synonyms and paraphrasing is an important tool.

CPF: 043730179xx - Mariana Santana Prado Lima | LFG -- http://cursoparaconcursos.lfg.com.br/

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Synonyms and Paraphrasing • Linking Words: Name at least 5 other synonyms for the following linking words: BUT Synonyms • Linking Words: Options BUT Although Even though Though However Nevertheless Nonetheless In spite of Despite While Whereas By contrast Synonyms • Linking Words: What does each category represent? And: Linking Words of Addition But: Linking Words of Contrast So: Linking Words of Cause and Result These concepts will help in understanding the flow of ideas within the text. Synonyms For each of the following words or expressions, give an equal synonym: • Deforestation: slash and burn/destruction of forests • Endangered: at risk/almost extinct • Benefits: bonuses/paybacks/advantages • Teacher: professor/lecturer • Books: reading material/paperback/hardback • People: individuals/population/citizens • Free time: down time/leisure time • Media: communication vehicle/channel/means Synonyms


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For each of the following words or expressions, give an equal synonym: • Money: cash/currency/bread/dough • Study: learn/investigate/research • Human activity: mankind’s movement/actions • Where to live: residence/housing/address • Community: local area/region/neighborhood • Work: job/task/duty • Transport: hauling/shipping / / transmit/convey • Skill: ability/talent/knack Paraphrasing • To be successful answering questions, the exam taker must be able to re-write sentences in one’s own words. • This requires: Vocabulary + Grammar Structure Paraphrasing • Re-write the sentence in other words: A company has announced that it wishes to build a factory near your community. A multinational has expressed interest in founding an industry within the surrounding area. Paraphrasing • Re-write the sentence in other words: When people succeed, it is because of hard work. Luck has nothing to do with success. Triumph is due to diligent efforts. Luck does not figure in to the concept of accomplishment. Paraphrasing • Re-write the sentence in other words: Universities should give the same amount of money to their students’ sports activities as they give to their university libraries. Colleges should allocate an equal funding to sports departments as they allocate to their library system.


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Paraphrasing • Re-write the sentence in other words: The most important aspect of a job is the money a person earns. The key to one’s occupation is the income he/she brings home. Paraphrasing • Re-write the sentence in other words: A company is going to give some money either to support the arts or to protect the environment. The organization will likely make a donation either to back the arts or to preserve nature. Paraphrasing Identify the sentence that has the same meaning: Joe has no idea because he wasn’t in class either. a) Either Joe or his classmate must know the answer. b) Neither Joe nor his classmate knows the answer. c) Both were in class last week. d) Joe has a good idea of the answer. Paraphrasing Identify the sentence that has the same meaning: Joe has no idea because he wasn’t in class either. a) Either Joe or his classmate must know the answer. b) Neither Joe nor his classmate knows the answer. c) Both were in class last week. d) Joe has a good idea of the answer. Paraphrasing Identify the sentence that has the same meaning: Why Barbara is feeling happy nobody knows. a) Nobody knows why Barbara is unhappy. b) Nobody knows Barbara very well. c) It’s their feeling that Barbara knows. d) Barbara is content about something.


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Paraphrasing Identify the sentence that has the same meaning: Why Barbara is feeling happy nobody knows. a) Nobody knows why Barbara is unhappy. b) Nobody knows Barbara very well. c) It’s their feeling that Barbara knows. d) Barbara is content about something. Paraphrasing Identify the sentence that has the same meaning: I don’t get it! James hardly ever studies for tests! a) James did well on the test. b) James always studies hard for tests. c) James hasn’t gotten his grades yet. d) James is unhappy about his test scores. Paraphrasing Identify the sentence that has the same meaning: I don’t get it! James hardly ever studies for tests! a) James did well on the test. b) James always studies hard for tests. c) James hasn’t gotten his grades yet. d) James is unhappy about his test scores. Paraphrasing Identify the sentence that has the same meaning: The price of these pants was so good that Kate bought three pairs. a) Kate bought three pears at the market. b) The price was too low to pass up. c) Three pairs of pants were too expensive for Kate. d) Kate bought a bunch of clothes last weekend. Paraphrasing Identify the sentence that has the same meaning: The price of these pants was so good that Kate bought three pairs. a) Kate bought three pears at the market.


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b) The price was too low to pass up. c) Three pairs of pants were too expensive for Kate. d) Kate bought a bunch of clothes last weekend. Paraphrasing Identify the sentence that has the same meaning: It really doesn’t matter if the books are on sale or not; I’ll buy them anyway. a) The price is inconsequential. b) The price is key. c) The man thinks it is petty to buy books at these prices. d) The man refuses to buy the books on sale. Paraphrasing Identify the sentence that has the same meaning: It really doesn’t matter if the books are on sale or not; I’ll buy them anyway. a) The price is inconsequential. b) The price is key. c) The man thinks it is petty to buy books at these prices. d) The man refuses to buy the books on sale. Paraphrasing Identify the sentence that has the same meaning: What you are looking for can’t be found here. a) I couldn’t hear what you said. b) You should search for it somewhere else. c) What are you looking for here? d) I hear that you are looking for what I have. Paraphrasing Identify the sentence that has the same meaning: What you are looking for can’t be found here. a) I couldn’t hear what you said. b) You should search for it somewhere else. c) What are you looking for here? d) I hear that you are looking for what I have. Paraphrasing Identify the sentence that has the same meaning:


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It isn’t impossible to make a million dollars in the USA. a) It is impossible to earn a lot of money the United States. b) Some people actually go bankrupt in the USA. c) If you work diligently, you can become a millionaire in the United States. d) It isn’t impossible to forfeit millions of dollars there. Paraphrasing Identify the sentence that has the same meaning: It isn’t impossible to make a million dollars in the USA. a) It is impossible to earn a lot of money the United States. b) Some people actually go bankrupt in the USA. c) If you work diligently, you can become a millionaire in the United States. d) It isn’t impossible to forfeit millions of dollars there. INGLÊS (ESAF – AUDITOR FISCAL DA RECEITA FEDERAL – 2009) The long climb Source: www.economist.com The world economy is fitfully getting back to normal, but it will be a “new normal”. This phrase has caught on, even if people disagree about what it means. In the new normal, as defined by Pimco´s CEO, Mohamed El-Erian, growth will be subdued and unemployment will remain high. “The banking system will be a shadow of its former self,” and the securitization markets, which buy and sell marketable bundles of debt, will presumably be a shadow of a shadow. Finance will be costlier and investment weak, so the stock of physical capital, on which prosperity depends, will erode. The crisis invited a forceful government entry into several of capitalism´s inner sanctums, such as banking, American car making and the commercial-paper market. Mr. El-Erian worries that the state may overstay its welcome. In addition, national exchequers may start to feel some measure of the fiscal strain now hobbling California. America´s Treasury, in particular, must demonstrate that it is still a “responsible shepherd of other countries´ savings.” 21- In paragraph 1, growth in the new order is defined as a) both real and active. b) absolutely extraordinary. c) not very active or busy. d) sustainable and rapid. e) unpredictable. INGLÊS (ESAF – AUDITOR FISCAL DA RECEITA FEDERAL – 2009) The long climb Source: www.economist.com The world economy is fitfully getting back to normal, but it will be a “new


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normal”. This phrase has caught on, even if people disagree about what it means. In the new normal, as defined by Pimco´s CEO, Mohamed El-Erian, growth will be subdued and unemployment will remain high. “The banking system will be a shadow of its former self,” and the securitization markets, which buy and sell marketable bundles of debt, will presumably be a shadow of a shadow. Finance will be costlier and investment weak, so the stock of physical capital, on which prosperity depends, will erode. The crisis invited a forceful government entry into several of capitalism´s inner sanctums, such as banking, American car making and the commercial-paper market. Mr. El-Erian worries that the state may overstay its welcome. In addition, national exchequers may start to feel some measure of the fiscal strain now hobbling California. America´s Treasury, in particular, must demonstrate that it is still a “responsible shepherd of other countries´ savings.” 21- In paragraph 1, growth in the new order is defined as a) both real and active. b) absolutely extraordinary. c) not very active or busy. d) sustainable and rapid. e) unpredictable. INGLÊS (ESAF – AUDITOR FISCAL DA RECEITA FEDERAL – 2009) The long climb Source: www.economist.com The world economy is fitfully getting back to normal, but it will be a “new normal”. This phrase has caught on, even if people disagree about what it means. In the new normal, as defined by Pimco´s CEO, Mohamed El-Erian, growth will be subdued and unemployment will remain high. “The banking system will be a shadow of its former self,” and the securitization markets, which buy and sell marketable bundles of debt, will presumably be a shadow of a shadow. Finance will be costlier and investment weak, so the stock of physical capital, on which prosperity depends, will erode. The crisis invited a forceful government entry into several of capitalism´s inner sanctums, such as banking, American car making and the commercial-paper market. Mr. El-Erian worries that the state may overstay its welcome. In addition, national exchequers may start to feel some measure of the fiscal strain now hobbling California. America´s Treasury, in particular, must demonstrate that it is still a “responsible shepherd of other countries´ savings.” 22- In paragraph 1, finance is referred to as a) remaining low throughout the crisis. b) having been affected by the crisis. c) having eroded throughout the process. d) likely to be considered in a future analysis. e) likely not to be hit by this scenario. INGLÊS (ESAF – AUDITOR FISCAL DA RECEITA FEDERAL – 2009) The long climb Source: www.economist.com The world economy is fitfully getting back to normal, but it will be a “new normal”. This phrase has caught on, even if people disagree about what it means. In the new normal, as defined by Pimco´s CEO, Mohamed El-Erian, growth will be subdued and


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unemployment will remain high. “The banking system will be a shadow of its former self,” and the securitization markets, which buy and sell marketable bundles of debt, will presumably be a shadow of a shadow. Finance will be costlier and investment weak, so the stock of physical capital, on which prosperity depends, will erode. The crisis invited a forceful government entry into several of capitalism´s inner sanctums, such as banking, American car making and the commercial-paper market. Mr. El-Erian worries that the state may overstay its welcome. In addition, national exchequers may start to feel some measure of the fiscal strain now hobbling California. America´s Treasury, in particular, must demonstrate that it is still a “responsible shepherd of other countries´ savings.” 22- In paragraph 1, finance is referred to as a) remaining low throughout the crisis. b) having been affected by the crisis. c) having eroded throughout the process. d) likely to be considered in a future analysis. e) likely not to be hit by this scenario. INGLÊS (ESAF – AUDITOR FISCAL DA RECEITA FEDERAL – 2009) The long climb Source: www.economist.com The world economy is fitfully getting back to normal, but it will be a “new normal”. This phrase has caught on, even if people disagree about what it means. In the new normal, as defined by Pimco´s CEO, Mohamed El-Erian, growth will be subdued and unemployment will remain high. “The banking system will be a shadow of its former self,” and the securitization markets, which buy and sell marketable bundles of debt, will presumably be a shadow of a shadow. Finance will be costlier and investment weak, so the stock of physical capital, on which prosperity depends, will erode. The crisis invited a forceful government entry into several of capitalism´s inner sanctums, such as banking, American car making and the commercial-paper market. Mr. El-Erian worries that the state may overstay its welcome. In addition, national exchequers may start to feel some measure of the fiscal strain now hobbling California. America´s Treasury, in particular, must demonstrate that it is still a “responsible shepherd of other countries´ savings.” 23- In paragraph 2, the author mentions “the fiscal strain now hobbling California”. In other words, the fiscal a) policies which have been favouring California´s growth. b) pressure currently preventing California´s development. c) programmes successfully spoused by California. d) measures which have steadily gained acceptance. e) incentives recently promoted by the Californian government. INGLÊS (ESAF – AUDITOR FISCAL DA RECEITA FEDERAL – 2009) The long climb Source: www.economist.com The world economy is fitfully getting back to normal, but it will be a “new normal”. This phrase has caught on, even if people disagree about what it means. In the new normal, as defined by Pimco´s CEO, Mohamed El-Erian, growth will be subdued and unemployment will remain high. “The banking system will be a shadow of its former self,” and the securitization markets, which buy and sell marketable bundles of debt, will presumably be a shadow of a shadow. Finance will be costlier and investment


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weak, so the stock of physical capital, on which prosperity depends, will erode. The crisis invited a forceful government entry into several of capitalism´s inner sanctums, such as banking, American car making and the commercial-paper market. Mr. El-Erian worries that the state may overstay its welcome. In addition, national exchequers may start to feel some measure of the fiscal strain now hobbling California. America´s Treasury, in particular, must demonstrate that it is still a “responsible shepherd of other countries´ savings.” 23- In paragraph 2, the author mentions “the fiscal strain now hobbling California”. In other words, the fiscal a) policies which have been favouring California´s growth. b) pressure currently preventing California´s development. c) programmes successfully spoused by California. d) measures which have steadily gained acceptance. e) incentives recently promoted by the Californian government. INGLÊS (ESAF – AUDITOR FISCAL DO TRABALHO – 2006) The future of work Source: Newsweek Jan 30th, 2006 (Adapted) Many of the rich world’s notions about old age are dying. While the streamlining effects of international competition are focusing attention on the need to create and keep good jobs, those fears will eventually give way to worries about the growing shortage of young workers. One unavoidable solution: putting older people back to work, whether they like it or not. Indeed, cutting-edge European economies like those of Finland and Denmark have already raised their retirement ages, reversing the postwar trend toward ever-earlier retirement. Others are under severe pressure to follow suit, as both the European Commission and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) have recently warned their members that their future prosperity depends on a growing contribution from the elderly. This erosion of one of the cornerstones of the good life – relaxed golden years – has not gone unremarked. In the last year, Belgium, Italy and France have all been hit with massive protests against pension reforms that would, among other things, have raised the retirement age. 21- The author calls the readers’ attention to the a) growing lack of young staff. b) need to reduce young workers’ benefits. c) benefits of subsidizing early retirement. d) advantages of current retirement policies. e) drawbacks of extending the working life. INGLÊS (ESAF – AUDITOR FISCAL DO TRABALHO – 2006) The future of work Source: Newsweek Jan 30th, 2006 (Adapted) Many of the rich world’s notions about old age are dying. While the streamlining effects of international competition are focusing attention on the need to create and keep good jobs, those fears will eventually give way to worries about the growing shortage of young workers. One unavoidable solution: putting older people back to work, whether they like it or not. Indeed, cutting-edge European economies


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like those of Finland and Denmark have already raised their retirement ages, reversing the postwar trend toward ever-earlier retirement. Others are under severe pressure to follow suit, as both the European Commission and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) have recently warned their members that their future prosperity depends on a growing contribution from the elderly. This erosion of one of the cornerstones of the good life – relaxed golden years – has not gone unremarked. In the last year, Belgium, Italy and France have all been hit with massive protests against pension reforms that would, among other things, have raised the retirement age. 21- The author calls the readers’ attention to the a) growing lack of young staff. b) need to reduce young workers’ benefits. c) benefits of subsidizing early retirement. d) advantages of current retirement policies. e) drawbacks of extending the working life. INGLÊS (ESAF – AUDITOR FISCAL DO TRABALHO – 2006) The future of work Source: Newsweek Jan 30th, 2006 (Adapted) Many of the rich world’s notions about old age are dying. While the streamlining effects of international competition are focusing attention on the need to create and keep good jobs, those fears will eventually give way to worries about the growing shortage of young workers. One unavoidable solution: putting older people back to work, whether they like it or not. Indeed, cutting-edge European economies like those of Finland and Denmark have already raised their retirement ages, reversing the postwar trend toward ever-earlier retirement. Others are under severe pressure to follow suit, as both the European Commission and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) have recently warned their members that their future prosperity depends on a growing contribution from the elderly. This erosion of one of the cornerstones of the good life – relaxed golden years – has not gone unremarked. In the last year, Belgium, Italy and France have all been hit with massive protests against pension reforms that would, among other things, have raised the retirement age. 22- In relation to the retirement ages, two specific countries have a) reinforced them. b) recently decreased them. c) not extended them. d) drastically reduced them. e) increased them. INGLÊS (ESAF – AUDITOR FISCAL DO TRABALHO – 2006) The future of work Source: Newsweek Jan 30th, 2006 (Adapted) Many of the rich world’s notions about old age are dying. While the streamlining


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effects of international competition are focusing attention on the need to create and keep good jobs, those fears will eventually give way to worries about the growing shortage of young workers. One unavoidable solution: putting older people back to work, whether they like it or not. Indeed, cutting-edge European economies like those of Finland and Denmark have already raised their retirement ages, reversing the postwar trend toward ever-earlier retirement. Others are under severe pressure to follow suit, as both the European Commission and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) have recently warned their members that their future prosperity depends on a growing contribution from the elderly. This erosion of one of the cornerstones of the good life – relaxed golden years – has not gone unremarked. In the last year, Belgium, Italy and France have all been hit with massive protests against pension reforms that would, among other things, have raised the retirement age. 22- In relation to the retirement ages, two specific countries have a) reinforced them. b) recently decreased them. c) not extended them. d) drastically reduced them. e) increased them. INGLÊS (ESAF – AUDITOR FISCAL DO TRABALHO – 2006) The future of work Source: Newsweek Jan 30th, 2006 (Adapted) Many of the rich world’s notions about old age are dying. While the streamlining effects of international competition are focusing attention on the need to create and keep good jobs, those fears will eventually give way to worries about the growing shortage of young workers. One unavoidable solution: putting older people back to work, whether they like it or not. Indeed, cutting-edge European economies like those of Finland and Denmark have already raised their retirement ages, reversing the postwar trend toward ever-earlier retirement. Others are under severe pressure to follow suit, as both the European Commission and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) have recently warned their members that their future prosperity depends on a growing contribution from the elderly. This erosion of one of the cornerstones of the good life – relaxed golden years – has not gone unremarked. In the last year, Belgium, Italy and France have all been hit with massive protests against pension reforms that would, among other things, have raised the retirement age. 24- Finland and Denmark are described as “cutting-edge economies”, which means they are considered a) unconventional and revolutionary. b) extremely modern and advanced. c) wealthy, but outdated. d) rather traditional and conservative. e) affluent and traditional. INGLÊS (ESAF – AUDITOR FISCAL DO TRABALHO – 2006)


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The future of work Source: Newsweek Jan 30th, 2006 (Adapted) Many of the rich world’s notions about old age are dying. While the streamlining effects of international competition are focusing attention on the need to create and keep good jobs, those fears will eventually give way to worries about the growing shortage of young workers. One unavoidable solution: putting older people back to work, whether they like it or not. Indeed, cutting-edge European economies like those of Finland and Denmark have already raised their retirement ages, reversing the postwar trend toward ever-earlier retirement. Others are under severe pressure to follow suit, as both the European Commission and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) have recently warned their members that their future prosperity depends on a growing contribution from the elderly. This erosion of one of the cornerstones of the good life – relaxed golden years – has not gone unremarked. In the last year, Belgium, Italy and France have all been hit with massive protests against pension reforms that would, among other things, have raised the retirement age. 24- Finland and Denmark are described as “cutting-edge economies”, which means they are considered a) unconventional and revolutionary. b) extremely modern and advanced. c) wealthy, but outdated. d) rather traditional and conservative. e) affluent and traditional. Directly Stated Information • Key Aspect – MODAL VERBS • Represent the degree of certainty of a statement. • Key to interpreting the answer to multiple choice questions. • May be used a future idea (intention). Directly Stated Information Read the following piece from the Washington Post Violence in Iraq has dropped dramatically, with attacks down 83 percent nationwide during the first three weeks of the holy month of Ramadan, compared with the same period in 2007, according to US military figures. But Baghdad residents know the bloodshed isn't over. On Sunday, five bombs blew up in the city, killing 32 people. Um Abdullah, who would not give her full name, said she was on a street where one of the car


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bombs exploded, but escaped injury. "There is a kind of inner conflict," the teacher explained, describing her mix of hope and fear about venturing out. Ultimately, she decided to take the risk and bring her children, ages 5 to 13, to the park for the holiday, which marks the end of Ramadan. "We should go outside," she declared, "and live." Modal Verbs • Contemplate the following quote: We should go outside and live! � What is the underlying meaning of the modal verb should here? Modal Verbs • Contemplate the following quote: We should go outside and live! � What is the underlying meaning of the modal verb should here? Suggestion / Advice � How would the meaning change if we replace “should” with other modal verbs. Modal Verbs How would the meaning change? We should go outside and live! - may: possibility - could: possibility - need to: necessity - will: certainty - had better: strong suggestion Modal Verbs How would the meaning change? We should go outside and live! - might: possibility - have to: obligation - must: strong suggestion - ought to: suggestion - can: ability


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Modal Verbs • According to your definitions above, place each modal verb into its percentage of possibility: 100%__________ 98% __________ 95% (1) __________ (2) __________ 85% __________ 75% (1) __________ (2) __________ 65% __________ 50% (1) __________ (2) __________ (3) __________ Modal Verbs • According to your definitions above, place each modal verb into its percentage of possibility: 100% will 98% have to 95% (1) must (2) had better 85% need to 75% (1) should (2) ought to 65% can 50% (1) may (2) might (3) could Modal Verbs • Past Modals: modal + have + past participle • Most modal verbs have the same degree of certainty in the past; • All past modals represent a hypothesis that has never happened or can never happen. Modal Verbs • Past Modals: modal + have + past participle • One exception: When "could" is made negative, it is stronger in meaning than "must not". For example: That couldn't have been my brother; he's not even in the country. (absolutely no way this could happen) That must not have been my brother; he’s not even in the country. (strong evidence against) Modal Verbs • Now think about three of the most important events in Brazilian and World History:


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Discovery of Brazil Military Overthrow Lula’s Election 1. 2. 3. Modal Verbs Contemplate the following questions: • How might the World/Brazil be different if this event had never happened? • How might the World/Brazil have been different if this event had never happened? : Discovery of Brazil Military Overthrow Lula’s Election 1. 2. 3. Modal Verbs Possible Answers: 1. If Brazil had not been discovered by the Portuguese, Brazilians might speak Spanish today. 2. If the French Revolution had never occurred, the concept of democracy and fraternity might not be the reality of our day. 3. If Christ had never been born, Christianity might never have been founded. 4. If the Military Dictatorship had never happened, the Tropicalismo movement may never have occurred. Taxation Trends in the European Union Source: www.ec.europa.eu 2009 Edition (Adapted) This year´s edition of the Taxation Trends in the European Union appears at a time of upheaval. The effects of the global economic and financial crisis have hit the European Union (EU) with increasing force from the second half of 2008. Given that the last year for which detailed data are available is 2007, this year´s report cannot yet analyze the consequences of the recession on tax revenues. Nevertheless, the report takes stock of the


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tax policy measures taken by EU governments in response to the crisis up to spring 2009. The European Union is, taken as a whole, a high tax area. In 2007, the overall tax ratio, i.e. the sum of taxes and social security contributions in the 27 Member States amounted to 39.8% of GDP. This value is about 12 percentage points above those recorded in the United States and Japan. The high EU overall tax ratio is not new, dating back essentially to the last third of the 20th century. In those years, the role of the public sector became more extensive, leading to a strong upward trend in the tax ratio in the 1970s, and to a lesser extent also in the 1980s and early 1990s. 24- According to paragraph 1, the global economic and financial crisis a) has impacted on the EU. b) may still hit the European Union. c) has caused tax reductions in the EU. d) could have affected the EU. e) might bring about growth in the EU. Taxation Trends in the European Union Source: www.ec.europa.eu 2009 Edition (Adapted) This year´s edition of the Taxation Trends in the European Union appears at a time of upheaval. The effects of the global economic and financial crisis have hit the European Union (EU) with increasing force from the second half of 2008. Given that the last year for which detailed data are available is 2007, this year´s report cannot yet analyze the consequences of the recession on tax revenues. Nevertheless, the report takes stock of the tax policy measures taken by EU governments in response to the crisis up to spring 2009. The European Union is, taken as a whole, a high tax area. In 2007, the overall tax ratio, i.e. the sum of taxes and social security contributions in the 27 Member States amounted to 39.8% of GDP. This value is about 12 percentage points above those recorded in the United States and Japan. The high EU overall tax ratio is not new, dating back essentially to the last third of the 20th century. In those years, the role of the public sector became more extensive, leading to a strong upward trend in the tax ratio in the 1970s, and to a lesser extent also in the 1980s and early 1990s. 24- According to paragraph 1, the global economic and financial crisis a) has impacted on the EU. b) may still hit the European Union. c) has caused tax reductions in the EU. d) could have affected the EU.


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e) might bring about growth in the EU. Taxation Trends in the European Union Source: www.ec.europa.eu 2009 Edition (Adapted) This year´s edition of the Taxation Trends in the European Union appears at a time of upheaval. The effects of the global economic and financial crisis have hit the European Union (EU) with increasing force from the second half of 2008. Given that the last year for which detailed data are available is 2007, this year´s report cannot yet analyze the consequences of the recession on tax revenues. Nevertheless, the report takes stock of the tax policy measures taken by EU governments in response to the crisis up to spring 2009. The European Union is, taken as a whole, a high tax area. In 2007, the overall tax ratio, i.e. the sum of taxes and social security contributions in the 27 Member States amounted to 39.8% of GDP. This value is about 12 percentage points above those recorded in the United States and Japan. The high EU overall tax ratio is not new, dating back essentially to the last third of the 20th century. In those years, the role of the public sector became more extensive, leading to a strong upward trend in the tax ratio in the 1970s, and to a lesser extent also in the 1980s and early 1990s. 25- In relation to the EU´s overall tax ratio, it a) must hit 39.8% of GDP. b) is likely to reach 39.8% of GDP. c) is soon to be defined. d) exceeds half the GDP. e) equals to 39.8% of GDP. Taxation Trends in the European Union Source: www.ec.europa.eu 2009 Edition (Adapted) This year´s edition of the Taxation Trends in the European Union appears at a time of upheaval. The effects of the global economic and financial crisis have hit the European Union (EU) with increasing force from the second half of 2008. Given that the last year for which detailed data are available is 2007, this year´s report cannot yet analyze the consequences of the recession on tax revenues. Nevertheless, the report takes stock of the tax policy measures taken by EU governments in response to the crisis up to spring 2009. The European Union is, taken as a whole, a high tax area. In 2007, the overall tax ratio, i.e. the sum of taxes and social security contributions in the 27 Member States amounted to 39.8% of GDP. This value is about 12 percentage points above those recorded in the United States and Japan. The high EU overall tax ratio is not new, dating back essentially to the last third of the 20th century. In those years, the role of the public sector became more extensive, leading to a strong upward trend in the tax ratio in the 1970s, and to a lesser extent also in the 1980s and early 1990s. 25- In relation to the EU´s overall tax ratio, it a) must hit 39.8% of GDP. b) is likely to reach 39.8% of GDP. c) is soon to be defined. d) exceeds half the GDP. e) equals to 39.8% of GDP.


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Taxation Trends in the European Union Source: www.ec.europa.eu 2009 Edition (Adapted) This year´s edition of the Taxation Trends in the European Union appears at a time of upheaval. The effects of the global economic and financial crisis have hit the European Union (EU) with increasing force from the second half of 2008. Given that the last year for which detailed data are available is 2007, this year´s report cannot yet analyze the consequences of the recession on tax revenues. Nevertheless, the report takes stock of the tax policy measures taken by EU governments in response to the crisis up to spring 2009. The European Union is, taken as a whole, a high tax area. In 2007, the overall tax ratio, i.e. the sum of taxes and social security contributions in the 27 Member States amounted to 39.8% of GDP. This value is about 12 percentage points above those recorded in the United States and Japan. The high EU overall tax ratio is not new, dating back essentially to the last third of the 20th century. In those years, the role of the public sector became more extensive, leading to a strong upward trend in the tax ratio in the 1970s, and to a lesser extent also in the 1980s and early 1990s. 26- According to paragraph 3, the role played by the public sector a) widened. b) lessened. c) diminished. d) faded. e) decreased. Taxation Trends in the European Union Source: www.ec.europa.eu 2009 Edition (Adapted) This year´s edition of the Taxation Trends in the European Union appears at a time of upheaval. The effects of the global economic and financial crisis have hit the European Union (EU) with increasing force from the second half of 2008. Given that the last year for which detailed data are available is 2007, this year´s report cannot yet analyze the consequences of the recession on tax revenues. Nevertheless, the report takes stock of the tax policy measures taken by EU governments in response to the crisis up to spring 2009. The European Union is, taken as a whole, a high tax area. In 2007, the overall tax ratio, i.e. the sum of taxes and social security contributions in the 27 Member States amounted to 39.8% of GDP. This value is about 12 percentage points above those recorded in the United States and Japan. The high EU overall tax ratio is not new, dating back essentially to the last third of the 20th century. In those years, the role of the public sector became more extensive, leading to a strong upward trend in the tax ratio in the 1970s, and to a lesser extent also in the 1980s and early 1990s. 26- According to paragraph 3, the role played by the public sector a) widened. b) lessened. c) diminished. d) faded. e) decreased. Flight of the French Source: Newsweek (adapted) Sept 26th/Oct 3rd 2005


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The Belgians call them “fiscal refugees”, but these refugees wear Chanel. They are runaways from high taxes in France. Officially, France has lost, on average, one millionaire or billionaire tax payer per day for tax reasons since 1997, when the government started trying to track capital flight. Privately, economists say the number is much higher. “The statistic is stupid,” holds French economist Nicolas Baverez. “It’s as if, to count contraband, you only counted what people declared at the border.” While much of Europe has revised its tax codes, France’s fiscal inertia is virtually begging its rich to leave. Holding dear its commitment to égalité and fraternité, France has bucked the trend in the European Union, where most member states have dropped the wealth tax since the mid-1990s. France went the opposite way in 1997 by abolishing a cap that limited the wealth-tax bill, which kicks in at incomes over 720,000 euros to 85% of a taxpayer’s income. The result: some pay more taxes than they earn in income. 27- According to the author, France a) might change its fiscal system. b) must preserve its wealth tax. c) has not changed its fiscal policy. d) ought to slash its public spending. e) could lose from a tax reform. Flight of the French Source: Newsweek (adapted) Sept 26th/Oct 3rd 2005 The Belgians call them “fiscal refugees”, but these refugees wear Chanel. They are runaways from high taxes in France. Officially, France has lost, on average, one millionaire or billionaire tax payer per day for tax reasons since 1997, when the government started trying to track capital flight. Privately, economists say the number is much higher. “The statistic is stupid,” holds French economist Nicolas Baverez. “It’s as if, to count contraband, you only counted what people declared at the border.” While much of Europe has revised its tax codes, France’s fiscal inertia is virtually begging its rich to leave. Holding dear its commitment to égalité and fraternité, France has bucked the trend in the European Union, where most member states have dropped the wealth tax since the mid-1990s. France went the opposite way in 1997 by abolishing a cap that limited the wealth-tax bill, which kicks in at incomes over 720,000 euros to 85% of a taxpayer’s income. The result: some pay more taxes than they earn in income. 27- According to the author, France a) might change its fiscal system. b) must preserve its wealth tax. c) has not changed its fiscal policy. d) ought to slash its public spending. e) could lose from a tax reform. Q2: Margolis: Has Brazil´s success in navigating the economic crisis changed investors´views? Lula: There was no miracle. We had a strong domestic market. We had consumers who wanted to buy cars. We reduced part of the sales tax and asked the companies to offer consumers credit on affordable items. It´s the same


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case with refrigerators, stoves, washing machines, and with computers and the housing construction. 28- In his answer to question 2, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva says that a) the Brazilian domestic market was frail. b) a miracle did come about in Brazil. c) credit on affordable items was halved. d) part of the sales tax was lowered. e) consumers were not willing to spend. Q2: Margolis: Has Brazil´s success in navigating the economic crisis changed investors´views? Lula: There was no miracle. We had a strong domestic market. We had consumers who wanted to buy cars. We reduced part of the sales tax and asked the companies to offer consumers credit on affordable items. It´s the same case with refrigerators, stoves, washing machines, and with computers and the housing construction. 28- In his answer to question 2, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva says that a) the Brazilian domestic market was frail. b) a miracle did come about in Brazil. c) credit on affordable items was halved. d) part of the sales tax was lowered. e) consumers were not willing to spend. Q2: Margolis: Has Brazil´s success in navigating the economic crisis changed investors´views? Lula: There was no miracle. We had a strong domestic market. We had consumers who wanted to buy cars. We reduced part of the sales tax and asked the companies to offer consumers credit on affordable items. It´s the same case with refrigerators, stoves, washing machines, and with computers and the housing construction. 29- Brazil´s president refers to the country´s diversifi ed trade balance as having a) contributed to worsen the global economic crisis. b) resulted from trade with one sole strategic partner. c) been prevented by internal regulations. d) been considered as an unattainable goal. e) minimized the adverse effects of the world crisis. Q2: Margolis: Has Brazil´s success in navigating the economic crisis changed investors´views? Lula: There was no miracle. We had a strong domestic market. We had consumers who wanted to buy cars. We reduced part of the sales tax and asked the companies to offer consumers credit on affordable items. It´s the same case with refrigerators, stoves, washing machines, and with computers and the housing construction.


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29- Brazil´s president refers to the country´s diversifi ed trade balance as having a) contributed to worsen the global economic crisis. b) resulted from trade with one sole strategic partner. c) been prevented by internal regulations. d) been considered as an unattainable goal. e) minimized the adverse effects of the world crisis. Q3: Margolis: What are the lessons for other countries? Lula: The great lesson is that the state has an important role to play, and has great responsibility. We don´t want the state to manage business. But it can be an inducer of growth and can work in harmony with society. 30- In his answer to question 3, Brazil´s president a) emphasizes the role played by the private sector. b) criticizes initiatives derived from private ownership. c) sees the private sector as an inducer of growth. d) affirms the significance of the state. e) disregards duties attributed to the state. Q3: Margolis: What are the lessons for other countries? Lula: The great lesson is that the state has an important role to play, and has great responsibility. We don´t want the state to manage business. But it can be an inducer of growth and can work in harmony with society. 30- In his answer to question 3, Brazil´s president a) emphasizes the role played by the private sector. b) criticizes initiatives derived from private ownership. c) sees the private sector as an inducer of growth. d) affirms the significance of the state. e) disregards duties attributed to the state. A dip in the middle Source: The Economist (adapted) Sep 8th 2005 During the past 30 years, income tax has been subject to sweeping changes, notably the cut in the top rate from 98% to 40% under Margaret Thatcher between 1979 and 1988. Now another Conservative politician, George Osborne, is fl oating a radical reform to match that earlier exploit. The shadow chancellor announced on September 7th that he was setting up a commission to explore the possible introduction of a fl at income tax in Britain. 22- According to paragraph 2, Margaret Thatcher’s government brought in a) major alterations to British income tax rates.


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b) measures that made cosmetic changes only. c) a tax system that discourages hard work. d) proposals imitated by a shady politician. e) a substantial increase in top taxation rates. A dip in the middle Source: The Economist (adapted) Sep 8th 2005 During the past 30 years, income tax has been subject to sweeping changes, notably the cut in the top rate from 98% to 40% under Margaret Thatcher between 1979 and 1988. Now another Conservative politician, George Osborne, is fl oating a radical reform to match that earlier exploit. The shadow chancellor announced on September 7th that he was setting up a commission to explore the possible introduction of a fl at income tax in Britain. 22- According to paragraph 2, Margaret Thatcher’s government brought in a) major alterations to British income tax rates. b) measures that made cosmetic changes only. c) a tax system that discourages hard work. d) proposals imitated by a shady politician. e) a substantial increase in top taxation rates. Introducing a flat income tax into Britain would involve two main changes. At present, there are three marginal tax rates. These three rates would be replaced by a single rate, which would be considerably lower than the current top rate. At the same time there would be an increase in the tax- free personal allowance, currently worth 4,895 pounds. 23- The flat income tax a) is intended to hinder enterprise and hard work. b) would be below the present top rate. c) ought to please low-earners and high-fliers. d) must generate a cut in public spending. e) might be financed by increases in other taxes. Introducing a flat income tax into Britain would involve two main changes. At present, there are three marginal tax rates. These three rates would be replaced by a single rate, which would be considerably lower than the current top rate. At the same time there would be an increase in the tax- free personal allowance, currently worth 4,895 pounds. 23- The flat income tax a) is intended to hinder enterprise and hard work. b) would be below the present top rate.


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c) ought to please low-earners and high-fliers. d) must generate a cut in public spending. e) might be financed by increases in other taxes. Introducing a flat income tax into Britain would involve two main changes. At present, there are three marginal tax rates. These three rates would be replaced by a single rate, which would be considerably lower than the current top rate. At the same time there would be an increase in the tax- free personal allowance, currently worth 4,895 pounds. 24- In paragraph 3, the author notes that the present tax-free personal allowance would a) remain unchanged. b) be cut. c) rise. d) be abolished. e) be phased out. Introducing a flat income tax into Britain would involve two main changes. At present, there are three marginal tax rates. These three rates would be replaced by a single rate, which would be considerably lower than the current top rate. At the same time there would be an increase in the tax- free personal allowance, currently worth 4,895 pounds. 24- In paragraph 3, the author notes that the present tax-free personal allowance would a) remain unchanged. b) be cut. c) rise. d) be abolished. e) be phased out. End of Class 2


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