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Free Practice Questions for Cantabria PAU Foreign Language II — English

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Key Facts: Cantabria PAU Foreign Language II — English Exam

90 min

Official exam duration for PAU Foreign Language II (English) at UNICAN

University of Cantabria (UNICAN)

4.0 / 10

Minimum mark required in Access Phase to calculate overall PAU grade

UNICAN PAU Regulations 2026

EUR 71.09

Base registration fee for PAU Access Phase in Cantabria

Government of Cantabria / UNICAN

100

Practice questions available in this OpenExamPrep subject bank

OpenExamPrep

Master the Cantabria PAU English II exam (UNICAN 2026) with 100 practice questions covering reading comprehension, grammar, lexicon, rephrasing, and writing. This English-language MCQ bank is a study adaptation of the knowledge behind the official written exam, not a format simulation.

Sample Cantabria PAU Foreign Language II — English Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to review concepts for the Cantabria PAU Foreign Language II — English exam. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 100+ question experience with AI tutoring.

1Passage 1: Sustainable Heritage Preservation in Cantabria The Cave of Altamira, located in Santillana del Mar, Cantabria, features world-renowned Upper Paleolithic cave paintings. However, human presence alters the microclimate of the cave by introducing heat, moisture, and carbon dioxide, which accelerates the degradation of the delicate pigments. To mitigate these environmental risks, strict access restrictions were introduced, limiting visitation to micro-tours of five selected visitors per week under rigid monitoring protocols. While critics argue that such strict caps hinder public appreciation and tourism revenue, conservation scientists insist that unmonitored human access would irreparably compromise these ancient cultural treasures for future generations. What is the primary factor causing the degradation of ancient cave pigments in Altamira?
A.Microclimatic changes caused by human body heat, humidity, and carbon dioxide.
B.Inadequate artificial lighting installed during early excavations.
C.Geological shifts in the rock structure of Santillana del Mar.
D.Chemical reactions triggered by natural groundwater leaks.
Explanation: The text explicitly states that human presence alters the cave microclimate through heat, moisture, and carbon dioxide, which accelerates pigment degradation. The other options are not mentioned in the passage as primary factors.
2Passage 1: Sustainable Heritage Preservation in Cantabria The Cave of Altamira, located in Santillana del Mar, Cantabria, features world-renowned Upper Paleolithic cave paintings. However, human presence alters the microclimate of the cave by introducing heat, moisture, and carbon dioxide, which accelerates the degradation of the delicate pigments. To mitigate these environmental risks, strict access restrictions were introduced, limiting visitation to micro-tours of five selected visitors per week under rigid monitoring protocols. While critics argue that such strict caps hinder public appreciation and tourism revenue, conservation scientists insist that unmonitored human access would irreparably compromise these ancient cultural treasures for future generations. In the text, the word 'mitigate' is closest in meaning to:
A.intensity
B.alleviate
C.overlook
D.investigate
Explanation: 'Mitigate' means to make less severe, serious, or painful, which is synonymous with 'alleviate'. In context, strict access restrictions were introduced to reduce environmental risks.
3Passage 1: Sustainable Heritage Preservation in Cantabria The Cave of Altamira, located in Santillana del Mar, Cantabria, features world-renowned Upper Paleolithic cave paintings. However, human presence alters the microclimate of the cave by introducing heat, moisture, and carbon dioxide, which accelerates the degradation of the delicate pigments. To mitigate these environmental risks, strict access restrictions were introduced, limiting visitation to micro-tours of five selected visitors per week under rigid monitoring protocols. While critics argue that such strict caps hinder public appreciation and tourism revenue, conservation scientists insist that unmonitored human access would irreparably compromise these ancient cultural treasures for future generations. What can be inferred about the conservation scientists' perspective regarding public access to Altamira?
A.They prioritize economic revenue from tourism over long-term preservation.
B.They believe that technology can eliminate all microclimate risks permanently.
C.They view strict visitor limits as a necessary compromise to protect the cave's long-term integrity.
D.They advocate for closing the cave permanently to all human beings without exception.
Explanation: The text notes that scientists insist unmonitored human access would irreparably ruin the cave, supporting the micro-tour limit as a essential protective measure. They do not advocate permanent complete closure, nor do they put revenue first.
4Passage 1: Sustainable Heritage Preservation in Cantabria The Cave of Altamira, located in Santillana del Mar, Cantabria, features world-renowned Upper Paleolithic cave paintings. However, human presence alters the microclimate of the cave by introducing heat, moisture, and carbon dioxide, which accelerates the degradation of the delicate pigments. To mitigate these environmental risks, strict access restrictions were introduced, limiting visitation to micro-tours of five selected visitors per week under rigid monitoring protocols. While critics argue that such strict caps hinder public appreciation and tourism revenue, conservation scientists insist that unmonitored human access would irreparably compromise these ancient cultural treasures for future generations. According to the passage, how many visitors are currently permitted entry under the monitored micro-tour protocol?
A.Five visitors per day.
B.Fifty visitors per month.
C.Twenty-five visitors per week.
D.Five visitors per week.
Explanation: The passage explicitly specifies that access is restricted to 'micro-tours of five selected visitors per week under rigid monitoring protocols.'
5Passage 1: Sustainable Heritage Preservation in Cantabria The Cave of Altamira, located in Santillana del Mar, Cantabria, features world-renowned Upper Paleolithic cave paintings. However, human presence alters the microclimate of the cave by introducing heat, moisture, and carbon dioxide, which accelerates the degradation of the delicate pigments. To mitigate these environmental risks, strict access restrictions were introduced, limiting visitation to micro-tours of five selected visitors per week under rigid monitoring protocols. While critics argue that such strict caps hinder public appreciation and tourism revenue, conservation scientists insist that unmonitored human access would irreparably compromise these ancient cultural treasures for future generations. Which statement best describes the overall tone and structure of Passage 1?
A.An objective expository presentation contrasting tourism concerns with scientific conservation arguments.
B.An emotional critique condemning local authorities for financial negligence.
C.A promotional travel advertisement highlighting the accessibility of Cantabrian prehistoric art.
D.A speculative piece predicting the complete destruction of Altamira within five years.
Explanation: The passage presents factual information objectively, laying out the environmental threat, the visitor restrictions, and the contrasting opinions between tourism critics and conservation scientists.
6Passage 2: AI Integration in European Higher Education The rapid proliferation of artificial intelligence tools, such as generative large language models, has sparked a profound debate across European universities. Academic institutions are forced to reconsider traditional assessment methodologies, as standardized take-home essays can now be generated autonomously within seconds. While some educators advocate for outright prohibitions to safeguard academic integrity, progressive academics argue that universities must instead adapt by incorporating AI literacy into curricula. They contend that teaching students to critically evaluate AI outputs, verify sources, and understand algorithmic bias will equip graduates with essential competencies required in the modern workforce. What is the central problem facing European universities according to Passage 2?
A.A decline in international student enrollment following tuition fee increases.
B.The challenge posed by generative AI tools to traditional academic assessment methods.
C.A lack of financial funding for computer science research departments.
D.The complete replacement of university professors by automated digital tutors.
Explanation: The text states that the rapid proliferation of AI has forced institutions to reconsider traditional assessment methodologies like take-home essays.
7Passage 2: AI Integration in European Higher Education The rapid proliferation of artificial intelligence tools, such as generative large language models, has sparked a profound debate across European universities. Academic institutions are forced to reconsider traditional assessment methodologies, as standardized take-home essays can now be generated autonomously within seconds. While some educators advocate for outright prohibitions to safeguard academic integrity, progressive academics argue that universities must instead adapt by incorporating AI literacy into curricula. They contend that teaching students to critically evaluate AI outputs, verify sources, and understand algorithmic bias will equip graduates with essential competencies required in the modern workforce. As used in the passage, the word 'proliferation' most closely means:
A.sudden total disappearance
B.strict legal regulation
C.rapid increase or expansion
D.gradual financial devaluation
Explanation: 'Proliferation' refers to a rapid growth, spread, or increase in numbers, describing how quickly AI tools have spread across academia.
8Passage 2: AI Integration in European Higher Education The rapid proliferation of artificial intelligence tools, such as generative large language models, has sparked a profound debate across European universities. Academic institutions are forced to reconsider traditional assessment methodologies, as standardized take-home essays can now be generated autonomously within seconds. While some educators advocate for outright prohibitions to safeguard academic integrity, progressive academics argue that universities must instead adapt by incorporating AI literacy into curricula. They contend that teaching students to critically evaluate AI outputs, verify sources, and understand algorithmic bias will equip graduates with essential competencies required in the modern workforce. What do 'progressive academics' propose as the best response to AI in higher education?
A.Banning all personal computers and digital devices from examination rooms.
B.Replacing all written assignments with oral presentations exclusively.
C.Ignoring AI tools and maintaining legacy grading rubrics unchanged.
D.Teaching students critical AI literacy, source verification, and bias evaluation.
Explanation: The text specifies that progressive academics argue universities should incorporate AI literacy into curricula, teaching students to critically evaluate AI outputs, verify sources, and understand algorithmic bias.
9Passage 2: AI Integration in European Higher Education The rapid proliferation of artificial intelligence tools, such as generative large language models, has sparked a profound debate across European universities. Academic institutions are forced to reconsider traditional assessment methodologies, as standardized take-home essays can now be generated autonomously within seconds. While some educators advocate for outright prohibitions to safeguard academic integrity, progressive academics argue that universities must instead adapt by incorporating AI literacy into curricula. They contend that teaching students to critically evaluate AI outputs, verify sources, and understand algorithmic bias will equip graduates with essential competencies required in the modern workforce. Why have traditional take-home essays become particularly vulnerable under current developments?
A.Because students can use generative AI models to construct essays within seconds.
B.Because university libraries no longer store physical reference books.
C.Because European grading standards have eliminated essay assignments entirely.
D.Because internet access on university campuses has been restricted.
Explanation: The text notes that take-home essays can now be 'generated autonomously within seconds' by generative large language models.
10Passage 2: AI Integration in European Higher Education The rapid proliferation of artificial intelligence tools, such as generative large language models, has sparked a profound debate across European universities. Academic institutions are forced to reconsider traditional assessment methodologies, as standardized take-home essays can now be generated autonomously within seconds. While some educators advocate for outright prohibitions to safeguard academic integrity, progressive academics argue that universities must instead adapt by incorporating AI literacy into curricula. They contend that teaching students to critically evaluate AI outputs, verify sources, and understand algorithmic bias will equip graduates with essential competencies required in the modern workforce. It can be inferred from the passage that banning AI in universities may be problematic primarily because:
A.It will cause universities to lose their official accreditation instantly.
B.It prevents students from acquiring key technological skills needed in future careers.
C.It requires expensive software licenses that universities cannot afford.
D.It is opposed by international student unions across Northern Europe.
Explanation: Progressive academics argue that incorporating AI literacy equips graduates with 'essential competencies required in the modern workforce,' implying an outright ban hinders workforce readiness.

About the Cantabria PAU Foreign Language II — English Exam

The Cantabria PAU Foreign Language II (English) exam, administered by the University of Cantabria (UNICAN), evaluates B2 to early C1 CEFR English language skills for 2º Bachillerato students. This 100-question prep bank covers reading textual analysis, core syntax, phrasal verbs, sentence rephrasing, discourse connectors, and formal writing mechanics.

Exam sponsor: University of Cantabria (UNICAN) PAU Organising Commission. The requirements and fees below concern the certification or admission exam, separate from our free practice resources.

Assessment

The exam assesses B2-C1 English proficiency through reading comprehension, grammar transformations, vocabulary, textual cohesion rephrasing, and written production concepts.

Time Limit

90 minutes

Passing Score

Marked on a 0–10 scale. Minimum 4.0 required in Access Phase.

Exam / Certification Fees

EUR 71.09 base registration fee for PAU Access Phase.

Exam sponsor website

Fees, eligibility, and exam policies can change. Confirm them with the exam sponsor before applying or paying.

Our practice resources: topics covered

We aim to reflect publicly available exam outlines and topic information in our study resources. Coverage, format, and difficulty may differ from the actual exam, and we cannot guarantee that every detail is accurate or current. Confirm exam requirements, fees, and policies with the official exam sponsor.

20%

Reading Comprehension & Textual Analysis

Identifying main ideas, implicit inferences, context-based vocabulary, text structure, and author stance in authentic B2/C1 English texts.

20%

English Grammar, Morphology & Syntax

Mastery of complex tenses, passive voice, reported speech, conditional structures, modal verbs, and relative clauses.

20%

Vocabulary, Collocations & Idiomatic Expressions

Phrasal verbs, academic collocations, false friends, word formation, and idiomatic expressions.

20%

Discourse Markers, Textual Cohesion & Sentence Transformation

Cohesive connectors, sentence rephrasing, inversion, fronting, and structural transformations.

20%

Pragmatics, Register & Written Production Concepts

Formal vs informal register, essay organization, rhetorical devices, paragraph structure, and communicative purpose.

Preparing for the Cantabria PAU Foreign Language II — English Exam

What You Need to Know

  • Passing score: Marked on a 0–10 scale. Minimum 4.0 required in Access Phase.
  • Assessment: The exam assesses B2-C1 English proficiency through reading comprehension, grammar transformations, vocabulary, textual cohesion rephrasing, and written production concepts.
  • Time limit: 90 minutes
  • Exam / certification fees: EUR 71.09 base registration fee for PAU Access Phase. Official sources

Using Our Practice Resources

  • Work through all 100 available questions
  • Review every answer and explanation
  • Track weak areas and revisit them
  • Use our AI tutor for tough concepts

Cantabria PAU Foreign Language II — English: Suggested Study Strategy

1Practice rephrasing sentences using passive voice, reported speech, conditionals, and negative inversion to secure maximum marks in Use of English.
2Build a strong vocabulary bank of phrasal verbs, formal collocations, and common false friends (e.g., 'actually', 'sensible', 'assist').
3Read contemporary English journalism and scientific articles to improve reading speed, inferential reasoning, and contextual word recognition.
4Master formal discourse connectors (concession, result, addition) to write well-structured, cohesive 150–200 word essays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this practice bank in the same format as the real Cantabria PAU exam?

No, and it is important to know the difference. The official Cantabria PAU paper, organised by the University of Cantabria (UNICAN), is a 90-minute examination sat in Spanish (or in the target language for foreign-language papers) and built around open and semi-constructed written tasks that must be answered and justified in full. Under Real Decreto 534/2024, open and semi-constructed responses must account for at least 70% of every paper, so the real exam is not a multiple-choice test. This bank is an English-language multiple-choice study adaptation of the official 2º Bachillerato syllabus — not an official translation, not a past paper, and not a simulation of the exam format. Use it to drill the underlying knowledge and reasoning quickly, then practise the official written, oral, graphic, practical, or performance tasks separately, because that is what the examiners actually mark.

What is the base registration fee for the PAU exam in Cantabria?

The base registration fee for the PAU Access Phase at the University of Cantabria (UNICAN) is EUR 71.09.

What score is required to pass the PAU Access Phase in Cantabria?

The exam is marked on a 0–10 scale. A minimum mark of 4.0 is required in the Access Phase to calculate the overall university entrance mark (60% Bachillerato + 40% PAU >= 5.0).

What is the time limit for the Cantabria PAU English exam?

The official examination time limit is 90 minutes (1.5 hours).

Which institution organizes the PAU exam in Cantabria?

The examination is organized and administered by the University of Cantabria (UNICAN) PAU Organising Commission.