question stringlengths 1 985 | answer stringlengths 1 1.23k ⌀ | instruction stringclasses 4 values | input stringlengths 14 6.73k | output stringlengths 1 1.23k | subject stringclasses 3 values | id stringlengths 8 22 ⌀ | choices dict | answerKey stringclasses 8 values | distractor3 stringlengths 1 63 ⌀ | distractor1 stringlengths 1 57 ⌀ | distractor2 stringlengths 1 62 ⌀ | correct_answer stringlengths 1 67 ⌀ | support stringlengths 0 3.56k ⌀ | example_id stringlengths 9 14 ⌀ | article stringlengths 9 6.44k ⌀ | options listlengths 4 4 ⌀ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Through what do they provide good ways for people? | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Environment California tries to protect the places we live, advance(;) the environmental values we share and do good things for our environment.
Environment California is a statewide, citizen-based environmental organization. We believe there's something special about California -something worth protecting for the future generations. Whether it's our Pacific coastline, or our 278 state parks, California's natural wonders make our life colorful in different ways.
Protecting our environment requires independent research, powerful advocacy and action. That's the idea behind Environment California. Together with thousands of supporters, we take the kind of action that is good for our environment.:Z. xx. k.Com]
Funded by supporters like you, we research the challenges that California's environment is facing and educate the public about what's in danger. Through our research reports, interviews with reporters, letters to the editors, blogs and more, we raise people's awareness of environmental issues and offer good solutions.
When decisions are being made about California's environment, our elected officials hear plenty from the oil companies, developers and other powerful groups. We make the case for our environment and help people like you make your voices heard through emails, letters, phone calls and more, all passed to the right people.
Question:
Through what do they provide good ways for people?
Choices:
A. Blogs.
B. Phone calls.
C. Emails.
D. Books. | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle7382.txt | Environment California tries to protect the places we live, advance(;) the environmental values we share and do good things for our environment.
Environment California is a statewide, citizen-based environmental organization. We believe there's something special about California -something worth protecting for the future generations. Whether it's our Pacific coastline, or our 278 state parks, California's natural wonders make our life colorful in different ways.
Protecting our environment requires independent research, powerful advocacy and action. That's the idea behind Environment California. Together with thousands of supporters, we take the kind of action that is good for our environment.:Z. xx. k.Com]
Funded by supporters like you, we research the challenges that California's environment is facing and educate the public about what's in danger. Through our research reports, interviews with reporters, letters to the editors, blogs and more, we raise people's awareness of environmental issues and offer good solutions.
When decisions are being made about California's environment, our elected officials hear plenty from the oil companies, developers and other powerful groups. We make the case for our environment and help people like you make your voices heard through emails, letters, phone calls and more, all passed to the right people. | [
"Blogs.",
"Phone calls.",
"Emails.",
"Books."
] |
What does the story mainly tell us? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Mr. White's family decided to repair their house. Mr. White bought the house two and a half years ago. Since his kids were growing up, he and his wife wanted to make some changes to the house.
They decided to knock down their living room wall to open up the space. When the wooden walls were moved, they were shocked to find a lizard stuck in the small space between the walls. The lizard's foot was stuck by a nail which was knocked into the wall from the other side several months ago. However, they wondered how the lizard had _ so long without moving from that place.
The family decided to wait for a while and see how the lizard survived several months without moving. While they were doing other things, they kept an eye on the lizard. The son, Ray, suddenly shouted, "Dad, look here!"
Another lizard appeared, carrying food to the stuck lizard's mouth. That was a real surprise! Everyone was touched that the lizard fed the other one for all this time.
Both lizards had never-ending hope for each other and carried their hearts with love and care. Why can't we humans always carry that kind of love in our hearts? Life is full of all kinds of difficulties. What we can do is to give our hand to the one in need and share our love. Sharing is caring.
Question:
What does the story mainly tell us?
Choices:
A. Learn to trust your friends.
B. Lizards can live without food.
C. Try to give love to people around us.
D. Animals are friendlier than humans. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle6608.txt | Mr. White's family decided to repair their house. Mr. White bought the house two and a half years ago. Since his kids were growing up, he and his wife wanted to make some changes to the house.
They decided to knock down their living room wall to open up the space. When the wooden walls were moved, they were shocked to find a lizard stuck in the small space between the walls. The lizard's foot was stuck by a nail which was knocked into the wall from the other side several months ago. However, they wondered how the lizard had _ so long without moving from that place.
The family decided to wait for a while and see how the lizard survived several months without moving. While they were doing other things, they kept an eye on the lizard. The son, Ray, suddenly shouted, "Dad, look here!"
Another lizard appeared, carrying food to the stuck lizard's mouth. That was a real surprise! Everyone was touched that the lizard fed the other one for all this time.
Both lizards had never-ending hope for each other and carried their hearts with love and care. Why can't we humans always carry that kind of love in our hearts? Life is full of all kinds of difficulties. What we can do is to give our hand to the one in need and share our love. Sharing is caring. | [
"Learn to trust your friends.",
"Lizards can live without food.",
"Try to give love to people around us.",
"Animals are friendlier than humans."
] |
Each year Dani gets 4 pairs of two pants each as pay winning the best Amazon buyer of the season. If he initially had 50 pants, calculate the number of pants he'll have in 5 years. | Since he receives four pairs of pants every year, and a pair has two pants, he gets 4*2 = <<4*2=8>>8 pants every year.
After five years, the total number of pants he'll receive is 5*8 = <<5*8=40>>40 pants.
If he initially had 50 pants, he'll have a total of 50+40 = <<50+40=90>>90 pants in five years.
#### 90 | Solve the following math problem and explain your reasoning step by step. | Each year Dani gets 4 pairs of two pants each as pay winning the best Amazon buyer of the season. If he initially had 50 pants, calculate the number of pants he'll have in 5 years. | Since he receives four pairs of pants every year, and a pair has two pants, he gets 4*2 = <<4*2=8>>8 pants every year.
After five years, the total number of pants he'll receive is 5*8 = <<5*8=40>>40 pants.
If he initially had 50 pants, he'll have a total of 50+40 = <<50+40=90>>90 pants in five years.
#### 90 | math | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null |
Hetrick's experience in the Navy _ . | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
The air bag is a piece of safety equipment in cars. It was first designed by John W. Hetrick in 1952. Like many inventions, he came up with the idea as a result of an event that had occurred in his life. He says:
"In the spring of 1952, my wife, my seven-year-old daughter, Joan, and I were out for a Sunday drive in our 1948 Chrysler Windsor. About three miles outside Newport we were watching for deer jumping across the road. Suddenly, there was a large rock in our path. I hit the brakes and we went into a ditch .
"As I applied the brakes, both my wife and I threw our hands up to keep our daughter from hitting the car. There was soft mud in the ditch, so the car wasn't damaged, and no one was hurt."
"During the ride home I couldn't stop thinking about the accident. I asked myself,'Why couldn't some object come out to stop you from striking the inside of the car?'As soon as I got home that night I drew some sketches . Each evening for the following two weeks, I'd add or reduce something from the sketches."
Hetrick applied an event he had observed while in the Navy to the design of the air bag. He was repairing a torpedo which had a cloth covering. When the compressed air that was in the torpedo was let out, the covering was suddenly filled with air and was shot to the ceiling.
With this knowledge, he developed his design until he was able to obtain a patent on the invention on August 5, 1952. The idea was similar to the air bag designs of today. Compressed air is stored in a container and when a traffic accident occurs and the car slows down at a rapid enough rate, the air will be released into the air bag. The idea was _ , but Hetrick's air bag never would have functioned properly. It was really a breakthrough, but it would require years and years of designing and testing by some top car designers before it could be used.
Question:
Hetrick's experience in the Navy _ .
Choices:
A. turned out to be dangerous
B. was helpful to his invention
C. involved designing torpedoes
D. inspired him to design an air bag | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high3824.txt | The air bag is a piece of safety equipment in cars. It was first designed by John W. Hetrick in 1952. Like many inventions, he came up with the idea as a result of an event that had occurred in his life. He says:
"In the spring of 1952, my wife, my seven-year-old daughter, Joan, and I were out for a Sunday drive in our 1948 Chrysler Windsor. About three miles outside Newport we were watching for deer jumping across the road. Suddenly, there was a large rock in our path. I hit the brakes and we went into a ditch .
"As I applied the brakes, both my wife and I threw our hands up to keep our daughter from hitting the car. There was soft mud in the ditch, so the car wasn't damaged, and no one was hurt."
"During the ride home I couldn't stop thinking about the accident. I asked myself,'Why couldn't some object come out to stop you from striking the inside of the car?'As soon as I got home that night I drew some sketches . Each evening for the following two weeks, I'd add or reduce something from the sketches."
Hetrick applied an event he had observed while in the Navy to the design of the air bag. He was repairing a torpedo which had a cloth covering. When the compressed air that was in the torpedo was let out, the covering was suddenly filled with air and was shot to the ceiling.
With this knowledge, he developed his design until he was able to obtain a patent on the invention on August 5, 1952. The idea was similar to the air bag designs of today. Compressed air is stored in a container and when a traffic accident occurs and the car slows down at a rapid enough rate, the air will be released into the air bag. The idea was _ , but Hetrick's air bag never would have functioned properly. It was really a breakthrough, but it would require years and years of designing and testing by some top car designers before it could be used. | [
"turned out to be dangerous",
"was helpful to his invention",
"involved designing torpedoes",
"inspired him to design an air bag"
] |
At what level of organization does damage compromise the function of the whole system? | null | Answer this science question and explain your reasoning. | At what level of organization does damage compromise the function of the whole system?
Choices:
A. a cell
B. an organ
C. a tissue
D. an organelle | Correct answer: B | science | Mercury_7228288 | {
"text": [
"a cell",
"an organ",
"a tissue",
"an organelle"
],
"label": [
"A",
"B",
"C",
"D"
]
} | B | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null |
According to the writer,the customer service department _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
We've all heard the old saying,"Sticks and stones can break my bones,but words can never hurt me." Don't you believe it?Words are powerful,and they can hurt--a lot. In fact,if you're not careful,you can even hurt yourself,by using the wrong word in your writing.
Recently a friend sent me a copy of an email she received from the customer service department of her credit card company,after she contacted them with a question about her account. She was happy with their positive response. But as I read the email,one line jumped out at me:"In lieu of good customer service..."
Did they really mean they were offering her a few extra reward points instead of good customer service?I doubt it. More likely,what the customer service department meant to say was,"Because good customer service is important to us..." followed by the details of what they were doing to make sure she remained a happy customer.
So why didn't the writer say that?I can only guess that perhaps the writer liked the phrase "in lieu of",thought it sounded more interesting than saying "because",and so used it--without bothering to check the true meaning.
Have you ever done that?Try to impress others with a big word,only to find out you've used the word incorrectly?It's just the opposite effect,isn't it?You may impress people all right,but it's not the impression you were going for.
When you write,remember to choose your words carefully. People may still disagree with what you say,but they won't be able to dismiss you because you made careless mistakes in how you said it.
Question:
According to the writer,the customer service department _ .
Choices:
A. didn't express what they really meant
B. didn't prefer to use familiar words to attract customers
C. didn't need to offer their customers extra reward points
D. succeeded in impressing their customers | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high8380.txt | We've all heard the old saying,"Sticks and stones can break my bones,but words can never hurt me." Don't you believe it?Words are powerful,and they can hurt--a lot. In fact,if you're not careful,you can even hurt yourself,by using the wrong word in your writing.
Recently a friend sent me a copy of an email she received from the customer service department of her credit card company,after she contacted them with a question about her account. She was happy with their positive response. But as I read the email,one line jumped out at me:"In lieu of good customer service..."
Did they really mean they were offering her a few extra reward points instead of good customer service?I doubt it. More likely,what the customer service department meant to say was,"Because good customer service is important to us..." followed by the details of what they were doing to make sure she remained a happy customer.
So why didn't the writer say that?I can only guess that perhaps the writer liked the phrase "in lieu of",thought it sounded more interesting than saying "because",and so used it--without bothering to check the true meaning.
Have you ever done that?Try to impress others with a big word,only to find out you've used the word incorrectly?It's just the opposite effect,isn't it?You may impress people all right,but it's not the impression you were going for.
When you write,remember to choose your words carefully. People may still disagree with what you say,but they won't be able to dismiss you because you made careless mistakes in how you said it. | [
"didn't express what they really meant",
"didn't prefer to use familiar words to attract customers",
"didn't need to offer their customers extra reward points",
"succeeded in impressing their customers"
] |
The frame size of a bike is important because _ . | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Whether you are fitness fan or plan to go eco-friendly, you have a countless number of bikes to choose from. Here are some tips on how to choose bikes for women.
Firstly, if you have decided to buy a bike, let me congratulate you! This is because you are kind to the environment. Before you go to a store to buy a bicycle, first know your need. Once the basic need is determined, then go into the small details like the frame size (Too small frames can increase the risk of the knee injuries while too large ones can be uncomfortable, so it has to be just right to suit your body frame.),brakes, chains, its efficiency and the technology employed. Don't forget the budget ! Experts say that you should be ready to spend at least 500 dollars, because anything less than that would not probably be the best. ks5u
There are a range of bikes to choose from. However, it's important to choose the correct one that fits a woman perfectly. This is because women usually tend to have a shorter torso and longer legs than men of the same height and so does the arm size vary. Moreover, the strength of the back needs to be considered too. Therefore, you have to find the best that suits your body type and gives you a comfortable ride.
Question:
The frame size of a bike is important because _ .
Choices:
A. it has a great influence on the efficiency of the bike
B. it is likely to cause injuries if it is not the right size
C. it is mainly determined by personal needs
D. it has a big influence on a woman's torso | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high23408.txt | Whether you are fitness fan or plan to go eco-friendly, you have a countless number of bikes to choose from. Here are some tips on how to choose bikes for women.
Firstly, if you have decided to buy a bike, let me congratulate you! This is because you are kind to the environment. Before you go to a store to buy a bicycle, first know your need. Once the basic need is determined, then go into the small details like the frame size (Too small frames can increase the risk of the knee injuries while too large ones can be uncomfortable, so it has to be just right to suit your body frame.),brakes, chains, its efficiency and the technology employed. Don't forget the budget ! Experts say that you should be ready to spend at least 500 dollars, because anything less than that would not probably be the best. ks5u
There are a range of bikes to choose from. However, it's important to choose the correct one that fits a woman perfectly. This is because women usually tend to have a shorter torso and longer legs than men of the same height and so does the arm size vary. Moreover, the strength of the back needs to be considered too. Therefore, you have to find the best that suits your body type and gives you a comfortable ride. | [
"it has a great influence on the efficiency of the bike",
"it is likely to cause injuries if it is not the right size",
"it is mainly determined by personal needs",
"it has a big influence on a woman's torso"
] |
Quantities have two parts: the number (how many) and what else? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | Quantities have two parts: the number (how many) and what else? | he unit | science | null | null | null | the credit | the motion | the member | he unit | Quantities have two parts: the number and the unit. The number tells “how many. ” It is important to be able to express numbers properly so that the quantities can be communicated properly. Standard notation is the straightforward expression of a number. Numbers such as 17, 101.5, and 0.00446 are expressed in standard notation. For relatively small numbers, standard notation is fine. However, for very large numbers, such as 306,000,000, or for very small numbers, such as 0.000000419, standard notation can be cumbersome because of the number of zeros needed to place nonzero numbers in the proper position. | null | null | null |
What is type of sugar is produced through photosynthesis? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | What is type of sugar is produced through photosynthesis? | glucose | science | null | null | null | glutamate | carbohydrates | insulin | glucose | The energy of the sun is first captured by producers ( Figure below ), organisms that can make their own food. Many producers make their own food through the process of photosynthesis . The "food" the producers make is the sugar, glucose . Producers make food for the rest of the ecosystem. As energy is not recycled, energy must consistently be captured by producers. This energy is then passed on to the organisms that eat the producers, and then to the organisms that eat those organisms, and so on. | null | null | null |
The letter before the P.S.was _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Sarah Williams went to a boarding school.Here is one of the letters she wrote to her parents from the school:
Wentworth Girls' school
Beachside
July 20th
Dearest Mom and Dad,
I'm afraid I have some very surprising news for you.I have been very naughty and the school headmaster is very angry with me.She is going to write to you.You must come and take me away from here.She does not want me in the school any longer.
The trouble started last night when I was smoking in bed.This is against the rules, of course.We are not supposed to smoke at all.
As I was smoking, I heard footsteps coming towards the room.I did not want a teacher to catch me smoking, so I threw the cigarette away.
Unfortunately, the cigarette fell into the waste-paper basket, which caught fire.
There was a curtain near the waste-paper basket which caught fire, too.Soon the whole room was burning.
The headmaster phoned the fire department.The school is a long way from the town and by the time the fire department arrived, the whole school was on fire.Many of the girls are in hospital.
The headmaster says that the fire was all my fault and you must pay for the damage.She will send you a bill for about a million dollars.
I'm very sorry about this.
Much love,
Sarah
P.S.None of the above is true, but I have failed my exams.I just want you to know how bad things could have been.
Question:
The letter before the P.S.was _ .
Choices:
A. mostly true
B. partly true
C. all true
D. completely untrue | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high16081.txt | Sarah Williams went to a boarding school.Here is one of the letters she wrote to her parents from the school:
Wentworth Girls' school
Beachside
July 20th
Dearest Mom and Dad,
I'm afraid I have some very surprising news for you.I have been very naughty and the school headmaster is very angry with me.She is going to write to you.You must come and take me away from here.She does not want me in the school any longer.
The trouble started last night when I was smoking in bed.This is against the rules, of course.We are not supposed to smoke at all.
As I was smoking, I heard footsteps coming towards the room.I did not want a teacher to catch me smoking, so I threw the cigarette away.
Unfortunately, the cigarette fell into the waste-paper basket, which caught fire.
There was a curtain near the waste-paper basket which caught fire, too.Soon the whole room was burning.
The headmaster phoned the fire department.The school is a long way from the town and by the time the fire department arrived, the whole school was on fire.Many of the girls are in hospital.
The headmaster says that the fire was all my fault and you must pay for the damage.She will send you a bill for about a million dollars.
I'm very sorry about this.
Much love,
Sarah
P.S.None of the above is true, but I have failed my exams.I just want you to know how bad things could have been. | [
"mostly true",
"partly true",
"all true",
"completely untrue"
] |
The "Style Lab" in Selfprovides readers with articles which _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Discover
News magazine of science devoted to the wonders and stories of modern science, written for the 41-45 ADBCA
Cover Price: $59.88
Price: $19.95 ($1.66/issue)
You Save : $39.93 (67%)
Issues : 12 issues/12 months
Self
Published by Conde Nast Publications Inc., Selfis a handbook devoted to women's overall physical and mental health. Every issue contains usable articles such as "Style Lab", in which wearable clothes are mixed and matched on non-models and the "Eat-Right Road Map", with tips on how to eat properly.
Cover Price: $ 35.86
Price: $15.00 ($2.5/issue)
You Save: $ 20.86(58%)
Issues: 6 issues/12 months
In Style
In Style is a guide to the lives and lifestyles of the world's famous people. The magazine covers the choices people make about their homes, their clothes and their free time activities. With photos and articles, it opens a door to these people's homes, families, parties and weddings, offering ideas about beauty, fitness and in general, lifestyles. Publisher: The Time Inc. Magazine Company.
Cover Price: $47.88
Price: $23.88($2.38/issue)
You Save: $24.00(50%)
Issues: 10 issues/12 months
Wired
This magazine is designed for leaders in the field of information engineering including top managers and professionals in the computer, business, design and education industries. Published by Conde Nast Publications Inc., Wiredoften carries articles on how technology changes people's lives.
Cover Price : $ 59.40
Price : $ 10.00 ($1.00/issue)
You Save: $49.40(84%)
Issues: 10 issues/12 months
Question:
The "Style Lab" in Selfprovides readers with articles which _ .
Choices:
A. offer advice to ordinary women on clothes
B. show how a woman can become famous
C. introduce places with the best food
D. discuss ways of training models | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high23371.txt | Discover
News magazine of science devoted to the wonders and stories of modern science, written for the 41-45 ADBCA
Cover Price: $59.88
Price: $19.95 ($1.66/issue)
You Save : $39.93 (67%)
Issues : 12 issues/12 months
Self
Published by Conde Nast Publications Inc., Selfis a handbook devoted to women's overall physical and mental health. Every issue contains usable articles such as "Style Lab", in which wearable clothes are mixed and matched on non-models and the "Eat-Right Road Map", with tips on how to eat properly.
Cover Price: $ 35.86
Price: $15.00 ($2.5/issue)
You Save: $ 20.86(58%)
Issues: 6 issues/12 months
In Style
In Style is a guide to the lives and lifestyles of the world's famous people. The magazine covers the choices people make about their homes, their clothes and their free time activities. With photos and articles, it opens a door to these people's homes, families, parties and weddings, offering ideas about beauty, fitness and in general, lifestyles. Publisher: The Time Inc. Magazine Company.
Cover Price: $47.88
Price: $23.88($2.38/issue)
You Save: $24.00(50%)
Issues: 10 issues/12 months
Wired
This magazine is designed for leaders in the field of information engineering including top managers and professionals in the computer, business, design and education industries. Published by Conde Nast Publications Inc., Wiredoften carries articles on how technology changes people's lives.
Cover Price : $ 59.40
Price : $ 10.00 ($1.00/issue)
You Save: $49.40(84%)
Issues: 10 issues/12 months | [
"offer advice to ordinary women on clothes",
"show how a woman can become famous",
"introduce places with the best food",
"discuss ways of training models"
] |
What is Sabanayagam's attitude toward the result of the experiment? | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Humans are well-equipped for life on Earth. But in space, it is different. Low or _ changes how the blood flows and causes motion sickness, muscle loss and tiredness. Weightlessness can also cause bone loss. But scientists are experimenting with little worms to better understand how space travel affects astronauts.
The millimeter-long worm is called C. elegans. The see-through worm is often used in medical studies because its life is only about two weeks long. Seventy percent of its DNA is the same as human DNA.
Sabanayagam is a scientist, who built a micro-gravity simulator to test how C. elegans would perform in the actual zero gravity of space.
Scientists put the worms into the simiulator full of water. After a week they take out the worms. They look for changes in the worms' epigenome,which are chemical markers that tell the DNA in the cells how to perform. The epigenome can be changed by the environment. And those changes pass from one generation of worms to the next.
"When the worms are in a liquid environment, some epigenomic marks remain even when we take the animal out of the liquid environment and put it back into normal ground conditions. So its offspring keeps this epigenomic memory of the parents' liquid environment or microgravity environment."
The information the scientists have gathered suggests that the epigenomic marks appear during the early part of a worm's life.
Mr. Sabanayagam says he thinks scientists can find genes in the human similar to those in the worms that responded to microgravity and scientists could possibly observe those genes closely when astronauts travel in space.
Sabanayagam expects C. elegans to visit the International Space Station within two years. He says he hopes information gathered from the worm studies can be used to develop simple, low-cost and quick tests to measure an astronaut's health.
Question:
What is Sabanayagam's attitude toward the result of the experiment?
Choices:
A. Hopeful and satisfied.
B. Doubtful and unsure.
C. Sad and disappointed.
D. Surprised and unbelievable. | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high9770.txt | Humans are well-equipped for life on Earth. But in space, it is different. Low or _ changes how the blood flows and causes motion sickness, muscle loss and tiredness. Weightlessness can also cause bone loss. But scientists are experimenting with little worms to better understand how space travel affects astronauts.
The millimeter-long worm is called C. elegans. The see-through worm is often used in medical studies because its life is only about two weeks long. Seventy percent of its DNA is the same as human DNA.
Sabanayagam is a scientist, who built a micro-gravity simulator to test how C. elegans would perform in the actual zero gravity of space.
Scientists put the worms into the simiulator full of water. After a week they take out the worms. They look for changes in the worms' epigenome,which are chemical markers that tell the DNA in the cells how to perform. The epigenome can be changed by the environment. And those changes pass from one generation of worms to the next.
"When the worms are in a liquid environment, some epigenomic marks remain even when we take the animal out of the liquid environment and put it back into normal ground conditions. So its offspring keeps this epigenomic memory of the parents' liquid environment or microgravity environment."
The information the scientists have gathered suggests that the epigenomic marks appear during the early part of a worm's life.
Mr. Sabanayagam says he thinks scientists can find genes in the human similar to those in the worms that responded to microgravity and scientists could possibly observe those genes closely when astronauts travel in space.
Sabanayagam expects C. elegans to visit the International Space Station within two years. He says he hopes information gathered from the worm studies can be used to develop simple, low-cost and quick tests to measure an astronaut's health. | [
"Hopeful and satisfied.",
"Doubtful and unsure.",
"Sad and disappointed.",
"Surprised and unbelievable."
] |
Which of the following statements is TRUE? | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Jason
What I like best is seeing Arsenal win and playing football. If I am feeling sad I will play a football game on my Play Station 2. The best day I have ever had was when I finished first in the 800-metre race at my secondary school. It was a school record, although I didn't know that at the time. My family makes me happy, too.
Antonio
My little sister makes me sad because she always tells tales on me to my mum. If I am having a bad day, food cheers me up. I like chili con carne and sweet chili crisps. It makes me happy because I want to be big and have lots of energy.
Usman
I haven't done anything very exciting in my life but one of my best achievements is that I got a good report from my school this year, because last year I got a bad one. People on TV make me laugh, particularly Eddie Murphy. If I am having a bad day I watch Basil Brush. I am good at making other people happy. I just talk and my friends start laughing -- they think I am silly.
Ashleigh
If I'm having a bad day, knowing that someone is there for me can make me happy. I wouldn't say I'm the best at making other people happy, but I know that just being a good friend to other people is important. The things I like doing are singing, dancing, hanging out with my friends and just being lively and funny.
Kinzey
The most exciting thing I have ever done in my life was when I went abseiling in Wales. But that was a one-off. The things I do all the time are playing football, watching movies and going places with my friends. I know it sounds bad, but what I find funny is when people hurt themselves. If I am having a bad day and I see someone having a worse day than me, that makes me feel better.
Question:
Which of the following statements is TRUE?
Choices:
A. Kinzey finds it bad when people hurt themselves.
B. Jason knew he had set a new school record when he finished first in the 800-metre race.
C. When Usman talks, his friends start laughing because they think he is humorous.
D. Antonio likes food because he wants to be big and have lots of energy. | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high15283.txt | Jason
What I like best is seeing Arsenal win and playing football. If I am feeling sad I will play a football game on my Play Station 2. The best day I have ever had was when I finished first in the 800-metre race at my secondary school. It was a school record, although I didn't know that at the time. My family makes me happy, too.
Antonio
My little sister makes me sad because she always tells tales on me to my mum. If I am having a bad day, food cheers me up. I like chili con carne and sweet chili crisps. It makes me happy because I want to be big and have lots of energy.
Usman
I haven't done anything very exciting in my life but one of my best achievements is that I got a good report from my school this year, because last year I got a bad one. People on TV make me laugh, particularly Eddie Murphy. If I am having a bad day I watch Basil Brush. I am good at making other people happy. I just talk and my friends start laughing -- they think I am silly.
Ashleigh
If I'm having a bad day, knowing that someone is there for me can make me happy. I wouldn't say I'm the best at making other people happy, but I know that just being a good friend to other people is important. The things I like doing are singing, dancing, hanging out with my friends and just being lively and funny.
Kinzey
The most exciting thing I have ever done in my life was when I went abseiling in Wales. But that was a one-off. The things I do all the time are playing football, watching movies and going places with my friends. I know it sounds bad, but what I find funny is when people hurt themselves. If I am having a bad day and I see someone having a worse day than me, that makes me feel better. | [
"Kinzey finds it bad when people hurt themselves.",
"Jason knew he had set a new school record when he finished first in the 800-metre race.",
"When Usman talks, his friends start laughing because they think he is humorous.",
"Antonio likes food because he wants to be big and have lots of energy."
] |
Eddie's BFF is _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
It is easy to say "to be Best Friends Forever (BFF)". However, a true BFF helps out when the other is in trouble, not just once or twice, but for a lifetime.
Milo is six years old. He has become Eddie's BFF. They are special because they are not humans, but dogs. Their owner, Angie Baker, brought them up. They spent many years playing together.
However, last year, Eddie suddenly started walking into dustbins and walls. Soon he lost his eyesight. When Milo felt something was wrong, he decided to act as Eddie's "guide" dog. He leads Eddie through the house. When they go for walks, he holds Eddie's leash .
Once, Milo had to spend a few nights at the hospital himself. Poor Eddie often bumped into walls and furniture. Ever worse, he got lost during walks. Angie realized how much Eddie depended on his friend. Luckily, Milo is now fine and back at his BFF's side, guiding him through life again.
Question:
Eddie's BFF is _ .
Choices:
A. Milo
B. Angie
C. Baker
D. himself | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle3093.txt | It is easy to say "to be Best Friends Forever (BFF)". However, a true BFF helps out when the other is in trouble, not just once or twice, but for a lifetime.
Milo is six years old. He has become Eddie's BFF. They are special because they are not humans, but dogs. Their owner, Angie Baker, brought them up. They spent many years playing together.
However, last year, Eddie suddenly started walking into dustbins and walls. Soon he lost his eyesight. When Milo felt something was wrong, he decided to act as Eddie's "guide" dog. He leads Eddie through the house. When they go for walks, he holds Eddie's leash .
Once, Milo had to spend a few nights at the hospital himself. Poor Eddie often bumped into walls and furniture. Ever worse, he got lost during walks. Angie realized how much Eddie depended on his friend. Luckily, Milo is now fine and back at his BFF's side, guiding him through life again. | [
"Milo",
"Angie",
"Baker",
"himself"
] |
Much of the pollution could be controlled if only . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
People all over the world today are beginning to hear and learn more and more about the problem of pollution.Pollution is caused either by man's release of completely new artificial substances into the environment,or by releasing greatly increased amounts of a natural substance,such as oil from oil tankers into the sea.
The whole industrial process which makes many of the goods and machines we need and use in our daily lives,is bound to create a number of waste products which upset the environmental balance,or the ecological balance as is also known.Many of these waste products can be prevented or disposed of.But while more and more new and complex goods are produced,there will be new,dangerous waste to be disposed of,for example,the waste products from nuclear power stations.Many people,therefore,see pollution as only part of a larger and more complex problem,that is,the whole process of industrial production and consumption of goods.Others again see the problem mainly in connection with agriculture,where new methods are helping farmers grow more and more on their land to feed our ever-increasing population.However,the land itself is gradually becoming worn out as it is being used,in some cases,too heavily,and artificial fertilizers can not restore the balance.
Whatever its underlying reasons are,there is no doubt that much of the pollution caused could be controlled if only companies,individuals and governments would make more efforts.In the home there is an obvious need to control litter and waste.Food comes wrapped up three or four times in packages that all have to be disposed of;drinks are increasingly sold in bottles or tins which can not be reused.This not only causes a litter problem,but also is a great waste of resources,in terms of glass,metals and paper.Advertising has helped this process by persuading many of us not only to buy things we neither want nor need,but also to throw away much of what we do buy.Pollution and waste combine to be a problem everyone can help to solve by cutting out unnecessary buying,excessive consumption and careless disposal of the products we use in our daily lives.
Question:
Much of the pollution could be controlled if only .
Choices:
A. people would pay more attention to the problem
B. governments would take effective measures
C. all sides concerned would make more efforts
D. farmers would use less artificial fertilizers | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high18691.txt | People all over the world today are beginning to hear and learn more and more about the problem of pollution.Pollution is caused either by man's release of completely new artificial substances into the environment,or by releasing greatly increased amounts of a natural substance,such as oil from oil tankers into the sea.
The whole industrial process which makes many of the goods and machines we need and use in our daily lives,is bound to create a number of waste products which upset the environmental balance,or the ecological balance as is also known.Many of these waste products can be prevented or disposed of.But while more and more new and complex goods are produced,there will be new,dangerous waste to be disposed of,for example,the waste products from nuclear power stations.Many people,therefore,see pollution as only part of a larger and more complex problem,that is,the whole process of industrial production and consumption of goods.Others again see the problem mainly in connection with agriculture,where new methods are helping farmers grow more and more on their land to feed our ever-increasing population.However,the land itself is gradually becoming worn out as it is being used,in some cases,too heavily,and artificial fertilizers can not restore the balance.
Whatever its underlying reasons are,there is no doubt that much of the pollution caused could be controlled if only companies,individuals and governments would make more efforts.In the home there is an obvious need to control litter and waste.Food comes wrapped up three or four times in packages that all have to be disposed of;drinks are increasingly sold in bottles or tins which can not be reused.This not only causes a litter problem,but also is a great waste of resources,in terms of glass,metals and paper.Advertising has helped this process by persuading many of us not only to buy things we neither want nor need,but also to throw away much of what we do buy.Pollution and waste combine to be a problem everyone can help to solve by cutting out unnecessary buying,excessive consumption and careless disposal of the products we use in our daily lives. | [
"people would pay more attention to the problem",
"governments would take effective measures",
"all sides concerned would make more efforts",
"farmers would use less artificial fertilizers"
] |
What is the text mainly about? | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
You might say that one reason Barack Obama is president of the US is because he knows how to give a good speech.
Since 2004, Obama has written and delivered thousands of speeches. These are usually praised for two reasons: he treats the audiences like intelligent adults, and he is able to express complicated ideas in a straightforward, natural way.
Before becoming president, Obama was a lawyer, a college professor, and a successful writer---his two memories have become best-sellers.
What's more, he has some secret weapons.
Teleprompter: Obama doesn't go anywhere without his Teleprompter. The textbook-sized panes of glass holding the president's prepared remarks follow him wherever he goes to speak.
Writing team: Obama has a team of people who write his speeches. The writers chat with Obama for hours about what he wants to say. They listen to recordings of past presidential addresses and seek advice from advisers. Obama usually edits and rewrites the drafts several times.
Tricks for lighthearted speeches:
Make fun of the guests: Obama starts his speech by gently teasing his guests. His opening lines grab the audience's attention while giving them an opportunity to relax and laugh at themselves and each other.
Make fun of yourself: A good rule for speechmakers: If you're going to make a joke about someone else, be sure to make one about yourself, too. Obama mocks his own poor choices for filling the position of Commerce Secretary, saying, "No president in history has ever named three Commerce Secretaries this quickly." In fact, his first two nominees for the position withdrew their names for different reasons. In a process that had otherwise gone smoothly, the Obama Administration was tripped up by the problem of filling the Commerce seat.
Question:
What is the text mainly about?
Choices:
A. What contributes to Obama's successful speeches.
B. How Obama plays tricks for a lighthearted speech.
C. How Obama can become a president.
D. What Obama has done to make himself successful. | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high22435.txt | You might say that one reason Barack Obama is president of the US is because he knows how to give a good speech.
Since 2004, Obama has written and delivered thousands of speeches. These are usually praised for two reasons: he treats the audiences like intelligent adults, and he is able to express complicated ideas in a straightforward, natural way.
Before becoming president, Obama was a lawyer, a college professor, and a successful writer---his two memories have become best-sellers.
What's more, he has some secret weapons.
Teleprompter: Obama doesn't go anywhere without his Teleprompter. The textbook-sized panes of glass holding the president's prepared remarks follow him wherever he goes to speak.
Writing team: Obama has a team of people who write his speeches. The writers chat with Obama for hours about what he wants to say. They listen to recordings of past presidential addresses and seek advice from advisers. Obama usually edits and rewrites the drafts several times.
Tricks for lighthearted speeches:
Make fun of the guests: Obama starts his speech by gently teasing his guests. His opening lines grab the audience's attention while giving them an opportunity to relax and laugh at themselves and each other.
Make fun of yourself: A good rule for speechmakers: If you're going to make a joke about someone else, be sure to make one about yourself, too. Obama mocks his own poor choices for filling the position of Commerce Secretary, saying, "No president in history has ever named three Commerce Secretaries this quickly." In fact, his first two nominees for the position withdrew their names for different reasons. In a process that had otherwise gone smoothly, the Obama Administration was tripped up by the problem of filling the Commerce seat. | [
"What contributes to Obama's successful speeches.",
"How Obama plays tricks for a lighthearted speech.",
"How Obama can become a president.",
"What Obama has done to make himself successful."
] |
When Katrina Poe began her work at the beginning, it was difficult because _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
As the only physician in a small local clinic and hospital, Katrina Poe sees dozens of patients on any given day. She's on call at the hospital in Kilmichael every day, and she gets little time with her sons, aged 3 and 3 months. But the country doctor doesn't complain about her job. It's the one she chose for herself 25 years ago while she was a fifth-grader in Kilmicahael.
The daughter of two workers in a town that had produced only two other doctors, Poe might not have been expected to go to college at all, let alone medical school. But it was a challenge at first, being the town's first female and first black doctor. She even had patients who refused to see her at first. But a lot of those patients who were unwilling in the beginning are now some of her most favorite patients and have accepted her, finally. Many patients, in fact, now refuse to seek health care elsewhere.
Though she's working at least 80 hours a week, Poe is sorry that she sometimes has to turn patients away. "I just can't see everybody," she says. "I'm seeing patients after hours, so it's just very busy."
In addition to her work at the hospital and clinic, Poe cares for all residents of the local nursing home and the local mental health facility during monthly visits. "This town and the little hospital are fortunate to have her," says Calvin Johnson, Poe's husband. He says it is without a doubt "the love and support of the people" that make living in Kilmichael worthwhile for the family.
In recognition of her services to rural medicine, the Texas-based physician staffing firm Staff Care Inc. named Poe, 35, the "2005 Country Doctor of the Year."
Question:
When Katrina Poe began her work at the beginning, it was difficult because _ .
Choices:
A. she was not accepted by the local people
B. she was poor in medical skills
C. there were few patients in the town
D. the town had other good hospitals | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high17654.txt | As the only physician in a small local clinic and hospital, Katrina Poe sees dozens of patients on any given day. She's on call at the hospital in Kilmichael every day, and she gets little time with her sons, aged 3 and 3 months. But the country doctor doesn't complain about her job. It's the one she chose for herself 25 years ago while she was a fifth-grader in Kilmicahael.
The daughter of two workers in a town that had produced only two other doctors, Poe might not have been expected to go to college at all, let alone medical school. But it was a challenge at first, being the town's first female and first black doctor. She even had patients who refused to see her at first. But a lot of those patients who were unwilling in the beginning are now some of her most favorite patients and have accepted her, finally. Many patients, in fact, now refuse to seek health care elsewhere.
Though she's working at least 80 hours a week, Poe is sorry that she sometimes has to turn patients away. "I just can't see everybody," she says. "I'm seeing patients after hours, so it's just very busy."
In addition to her work at the hospital and clinic, Poe cares for all residents of the local nursing home and the local mental health facility during monthly visits. "This town and the little hospital are fortunate to have her," says Calvin Johnson, Poe's husband. He says it is without a doubt "the love and support of the people" that make living in Kilmichael worthwhile for the family.
In recognition of her services to rural medicine, the Texas-based physician staffing firm Staff Care Inc. named Poe, 35, the "2005 Country Doctor of the Year." | [
"she was not accepted by the local people",
"she was poor in medical skills",
"there were few patients in the town",
"the town had other good hospitals"
] |
James gets a fleet of gas transportation vans. He gets 6 vans. 2 of them are 8000 gallons. 1 of them is 30% less than that. The remaining trucks are 50% larger than the 2 trucks. How many gallons can he transport? | His smaller truck is 8000*.3=<<8000*.3=2400>>2400 gallons smaller
So it can transport 8000-2400=<<8000-2400=5600>>5600 gallons
There are 6-2-1=<<6-2-1=3>>3 of the very large trucks
Those trucks are each 8000*.5=<<8000*.5=4000>>4000 gallons larger
So they can transport 8000+4000=<<8000+4000=12000>>12000 gallons
So in total they transport 3*12000=<<3*12000=36000>>36000
The 8000-gallon trucks can transport 8000*2=<<8000*2=16000>>16000 gallons
So in total he can transport 5600+16000+36000=<<5600+16000+36000=57600>>57600 gallons
#### 57600 | Solve the following math problem and explain your reasoning step by step. | James gets a fleet of gas transportation vans. He gets 6 vans. 2 of them are 8000 gallons. 1 of them is 30% less than that. The remaining trucks are 50% larger than the 2 trucks. How many gallons can he transport? | His smaller truck is 8000*.3=<<8000*.3=2400>>2400 gallons smaller
So it can transport 8000-2400=<<8000-2400=5600>>5600 gallons
There are 6-2-1=<<6-2-1=3>>3 of the very large trucks
Those trucks are each 8000*.5=<<8000*.5=4000>>4000 gallons larger
So they can transport 8000+4000=<<8000+4000=12000>>12000 gallons
So in total they transport 3*12000=<<3*12000=36000>>36000
The 8000-gallon trucks can transport 8000*2=<<8000*2=16000>>16000 gallons
So in total he can transport 5600+16000+36000=<<5600+16000+36000=57600>>57600 gallons
#### 57600 | math | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null |
To join Happy Homes, one should _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Volunteer Day schedule:
7:30 a.m.: Meet at the Community Center for breakfast.
8-8:30 a.m.: Visit with people from the many participating organizations. Choose which activity you'd like to help with for the day.
8:30-9 a.m.: Board the bus for your chosen activity, and ride with other volunteers to your activity site.
9-12:00 a.m.: Work as a volunteer.
12:00 a.m.-1 p.m.: Share lunch with your volunteer group. Don't forget to bring food for lunch from home!
1-3:30 p.m.: Continue your volunteer work.
3:30 p.m.: Board the bus that will take you back to the Community Center, where you will be able to talk with other volunteers and share your experiences.
See below for a list of volunteer opportunities for Volunteer Day so you can begin thinking about which activity you might want to join.
Happy Homes: it provides home repairs for needy people in the form of painting. It also provides painters to create beautiful paintings inside schools of community centers.
Elder Care: Elder Care sends volunteers into nursing homes to spend time with them, play board games with them, and talk with them.
City Parks Association: you can help plant flowers and bushes in city parks or pick up trash around the river banks. These activities are very active, so remember to be prepared with plenty of drinking water!
Love and Learning: it provides volunteers to help children with learning disabilities. Read books out loud to groups of children aged four to six, or read one-on-one with struggling readers aged seven to eight.
Question:
To join Happy Homes, one should _ .
Choices:
A. be very good at art.
B. enjoying talking with people.
C. be able to play board games.
D. like working with young children. | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high12276.txt | Volunteer Day schedule:
7:30 a.m.: Meet at the Community Center for breakfast.
8-8:30 a.m.: Visit with people from the many participating organizations. Choose which activity you'd like to help with for the day.
8:30-9 a.m.: Board the bus for your chosen activity, and ride with other volunteers to your activity site.
9-12:00 a.m.: Work as a volunteer.
12:00 a.m.-1 p.m.: Share lunch with your volunteer group. Don't forget to bring food for lunch from home!
1-3:30 p.m.: Continue your volunteer work.
3:30 p.m.: Board the bus that will take you back to the Community Center, where you will be able to talk with other volunteers and share your experiences.
See below for a list of volunteer opportunities for Volunteer Day so you can begin thinking about which activity you might want to join.
Happy Homes: it provides home repairs for needy people in the form of painting. It also provides painters to create beautiful paintings inside schools of community centers.
Elder Care: Elder Care sends volunteers into nursing homes to spend time with them, play board games with them, and talk with them.
City Parks Association: you can help plant flowers and bushes in city parks or pick up trash around the river banks. These activities are very active, so remember to be prepared with plenty of drinking water!
Love and Learning: it provides volunteers to help children with learning disabilities. Read books out loud to groups of children aged four to six, or read one-on-one with struggling readers aged seven to eight. | [
"be very good at art.",
"enjoying talking with people.",
"be able to play board games.",
"like working with young children."
] |
How does the author introduce the topic of the text? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
There's a whole lot of things that people fill their stomachs with. Some of them keep people alive. Some of them taste good to people. Some of them help people win pie-eating contests. Alcohol does none of these things. Why do people keep drinking it? And what does it do once it gets to their stomachs?
There are all kinds of alcohol molecules , but the one that people most often pour down their throat is ethanol . Ethanol is very tiny and it dissolves in water, so it gets into all sorts of places that it's not supposed to. Alcohol heads for the digestive system. Because it dissolves in water, it can get into the water in the bloodstream. Because ethanol, to a certain extent, can pass through cell membranes . It can go almost anywhere. It spreads through the muscles, and is sweated -- unmetabolized and whole -- through the skin. It gets into the heart. It even takes a walk through the brain, and this is the secret of its powers.
Alcohol depresses the nerves, and the nerves affect almost every area of the body. Enough alcohol makes people sleep, so people who become unconscious choke on their own vomit . Most worryingly, enough alcohol can shut down those parts of the brain just like any other parts. People become unconscious and their brains simply forget to breathe.
Alcohol is broken down in the liver. Alcohol doesn't destroy the liver, but products that the liver breaks the alcohol into do cause damage. A glass of wine per day can not do any harm. Instead, it can prevent heart attacks or can make someone functionally young. And it is kind of nice to know that sometimes, relaxation and cheer can be bottled. All that's needed is to take care how much alcohol is let into a person's brain.
Question:
How does the author introduce the topic of the text?
Choices:
A. By statement.
B. By question.
C. By arguing.
D. By explaining. | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high14277.txt | There's a whole lot of things that people fill their stomachs with. Some of them keep people alive. Some of them taste good to people. Some of them help people win pie-eating contests. Alcohol does none of these things. Why do people keep drinking it? And what does it do once it gets to their stomachs?
There are all kinds of alcohol molecules , but the one that people most often pour down their throat is ethanol . Ethanol is very tiny and it dissolves in water, so it gets into all sorts of places that it's not supposed to. Alcohol heads for the digestive system. Because it dissolves in water, it can get into the water in the bloodstream. Because ethanol, to a certain extent, can pass through cell membranes . It can go almost anywhere. It spreads through the muscles, and is sweated -- unmetabolized and whole -- through the skin. It gets into the heart. It even takes a walk through the brain, and this is the secret of its powers.
Alcohol depresses the nerves, and the nerves affect almost every area of the body. Enough alcohol makes people sleep, so people who become unconscious choke on their own vomit . Most worryingly, enough alcohol can shut down those parts of the brain just like any other parts. People become unconscious and their brains simply forget to breathe.
Alcohol is broken down in the liver. Alcohol doesn't destroy the liver, but products that the liver breaks the alcohol into do cause damage. A glass of wine per day can not do any harm. Instead, it can prevent heart attacks or can make someone functionally young. And it is kind of nice to know that sometimes, relaxation and cheer can be bottled. All that's needed is to take care how much alcohol is let into a person's brain. | [
"By statement.",
"By question.",
"By arguing.",
"By explaining."
] |
Sun-style Tai Chi can help people _ . | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Welcome to Our Clubs in Masonic Village
Art Club
The Art Club provides a place for aged people to paint, improve their artistic talents and show their works of art. Members can also sell items that they painted. The money raised goes toward providing painting supplies for club members. Anyone may join the Art Club, whether you already know how to paint or you want to learn how to better express your creativity. Painting supplies are provided by the club for free.
Time: Wednesdays, Thursdays & Sundays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Freemasons Cultural Center Art Studio.
Cost: $12 per year
Computer Club
This club is meant for aged people with little knowledge of computers. Various topics are discussed at each meeting about computers (such as the Internet, software and email) as well as related technologies. The club has a computer lab with high-speed Internet connection. Members of the club have free access to the computer lab.
Time: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Computer Resource Room on Level 2 of Smith North. Open general lab sessions are available for free.
Cost: $35 per year
Tai Chi for Arthritis
Arthritis is a common disease for old people. The joints in the patients' body often hurt badly. Tai Chi for Arthritis is designed to improve the quality of life of those people who are suffering from arthritis using Sun-style Tai Chi. This style includes quick-moving steps and exercises that may improve mobility, breathing and relaxation. The movements don't require deep bending.
Time: Wednesdays from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Irem Clubhouse.
Cost: $65 per year
Question:
Sun-style Tai Chi can help people _ .
Choices:
A. bend deeply
B. move freely
C. sleep well
D. improve memory | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high8452.txt | Welcome to Our Clubs in Masonic Village
Art Club
The Art Club provides a place for aged people to paint, improve their artistic talents and show their works of art. Members can also sell items that they painted. The money raised goes toward providing painting supplies for club members. Anyone may join the Art Club, whether you already know how to paint or you want to learn how to better express your creativity. Painting supplies are provided by the club for free.
Time: Wednesdays, Thursdays & Sundays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Freemasons Cultural Center Art Studio.
Cost: $12 per year
Computer Club
This club is meant for aged people with little knowledge of computers. Various topics are discussed at each meeting about computers (such as the Internet, software and email) as well as related technologies. The club has a computer lab with high-speed Internet connection. Members of the club have free access to the computer lab.
Time: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Computer Resource Room on Level 2 of Smith North. Open general lab sessions are available for free.
Cost: $35 per year
Tai Chi for Arthritis
Arthritis is a common disease for old people. The joints in the patients' body often hurt badly. Tai Chi for Arthritis is designed to improve the quality of life of those people who are suffering from arthritis using Sun-style Tai Chi. This style includes quick-moving steps and exercises that may improve mobility, breathing and relaxation. The movements don't require deep bending.
Time: Wednesdays from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Irem Clubhouse.
Cost: $65 per year | [
"bend deeply",
"move freely",
"sleep well",
"improve memory"
] |
What can we infer about the An daughters? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
When her five daughters were young, Helene An always told them that there was strength in unity . To show this, she held up one chopstick, representing oneperson. Then she easily broke it into two pieces. Next, she tied several chopsticks together, representing a family. She showed the girls it was hard to break the tied chopsticks. This lesson about family unity stayed with the daughters as they grew up.
Helene An and her family own a large restaurant business in California. However, when Helene and her husband Danny left their home in Vietnam in 1975, they didn't have much money. They moved their family to San Francisco. There they joined Danny's mother, Diana, who owned a small Italian sandwich shop. Soon afterwards, Helene and Diana changed the sandwich shop into a small Vietnamese restaurant. The five daughters helped in the restaurant when they were young. However, Helene did not want her daughters to always work in the family business because she thought it was too hard.
Eventually the girls all graduated from college and went away to work for themselves, but one by one, the daughters returned to work in the family business. They opened new restaurants in San Francisco and Los Angeles. Even though family members sometimes disagreed with each other, they worked together to make the business successful. Daughter Elisabeth explains, "Our mother taught us that to succeed we must have unity, and to have unity we must have peace. Without the strength of the family, there is no business."
Their expanding business became a large corporation in 1996, with three generations of Ans working together. Now the Ans' corporation makes more than $20 million each year. Although they began with a small restaurant, they had big dreams, and they worked together. Now they are a big success.
Question:
What can we infer about the An daughters?
Choices:
A. They did not finish their college education.
B. They could not bear to work in the family business.
C. They were influenced by what Helene taught them.
D. They were troubled by disagreement among family members. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high10234.txt | When her five daughters were young, Helene An always told them that there was strength in unity . To show this, she held up one chopstick, representing oneperson. Then she easily broke it into two pieces. Next, she tied several chopsticks together, representing a family. She showed the girls it was hard to break the tied chopsticks. This lesson about family unity stayed with the daughters as they grew up.
Helene An and her family own a large restaurant business in California. However, when Helene and her husband Danny left their home in Vietnam in 1975, they didn't have much money. They moved their family to San Francisco. There they joined Danny's mother, Diana, who owned a small Italian sandwich shop. Soon afterwards, Helene and Diana changed the sandwich shop into a small Vietnamese restaurant. The five daughters helped in the restaurant when they were young. However, Helene did not want her daughters to always work in the family business because she thought it was too hard.
Eventually the girls all graduated from college and went away to work for themselves, but one by one, the daughters returned to work in the family business. They opened new restaurants in San Francisco and Los Angeles. Even though family members sometimes disagreed with each other, they worked together to make the business successful. Daughter Elisabeth explains, "Our mother taught us that to succeed we must have unity, and to have unity we must have peace. Without the strength of the family, there is no business."
Their expanding business became a large corporation in 1996, with three generations of Ans working together. Now the Ans' corporation makes more than $20 million each year. Although they began with a small restaurant, they had big dreams, and they worked together. Now they are a big success. | [
"They did not finish their college education.",
"They could not bear to work in the family business.",
"They were influenced by what Helene taught them.",
"They were troubled by disagreement among family members."
] |
Where did the story happen? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
One Saturday evening, my husband and I went to have dinner at a restaurant. As we sat there eating and sharing conversation, I watched an old woman stop and look around. I looked over at my husband and said, "She must be lost."
I got up and caught up with her as she walked by our table and touched her lightly on the shoulder. "Ma'am, are you having trouble finding who you are dining with?" I asked.
She said yes. She was there with her daughter. I asked if her daughter was the only person she was there with, and she replied yes. "If you stay right here, I will find her and come back and take you to her--to save you some steps," I offered. She looked at me and said, "But you don't know who I am here with."
She was right. I explained that her daughter should be easy to find, because I thought she would be the only lady sitting by herself in the whole restaurant. She agreed...but just then a young man stopped me and asked, "Is she looking for her seat? They're sitting at a table right across from us."
I told him that she was and thanked him. I watched as they walked off together and kept my eyes on the old woman to make sure that she could see her daughter and all was well. I couldn't help but think that it must not be much different from being lost as a child. I wondered if I too would accept the help from strangers when I was as old as the lost woman.
Question:
Where did the story happen?
Choices:
A. In the street.
B. In a restaurant.
C. In a hotel
D. In a kitchen. | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle7539.txt | One Saturday evening, my husband and I went to have dinner at a restaurant. As we sat there eating and sharing conversation, I watched an old woman stop and look around. I looked over at my husband and said, "She must be lost."
I got up and caught up with her as she walked by our table and touched her lightly on the shoulder. "Ma'am, are you having trouble finding who you are dining with?" I asked.
She said yes. She was there with her daughter. I asked if her daughter was the only person she was there with, and she replied yes. "If you stay right here, I will find her and come back and take you to her--to save you some steps," I offered. She looked at me and said, "But you don't know who I am here with."
She was right. I explained that her daughter should be easy to find, because I thought she would be the only lady sitting by herself in the whole restaurant. She agreed...but just then a young man stopped me and asked, "Is she looking for her seat? They're sitting at a table right across from us."
I told him that she was and thanked him. I watched as they walked off together and kept my eyes on the old woman to make sure that she could see her daughter and all was well. I couldn't help but think that it must not be much different from being lost as a child. I wondered if I too would accept the help from strangers when I was as old as the lost woman. | [
"In the street.",
"In a restaurant.",
"In a hotel",
"In a kitchen."
] |
What will Anna do if she gets 5 million? | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
What will you do if you get 5 million ? Some people give some different answers.
Sally: I want to do business . If I am rich, I will do a lot of things for my family. For me nothing is more important than my family. I will buy a new house for them and travel around the world.
Joe: If I have 5 million, I will use the money to do everything I like. At first, I will use 2 million to open my own shop. And I will use another 2 million to buy some new houses. In the future, the houses which I buy will become more expensive,and I will sell them to other people. Finally, I will use 1 million to buy some presents for my family and my best friend.
Anna: If I have 5 million, I will put 3 million in the bank and spend 2 million. I will visit Paris, London and New York. I will eat delicious food, play games, and build a building with a swimming pool.
Jack: I will buy an island if I have 5 million. Then I will be the king of the island nad I will invite my friends to my island.
Question:
What will Anna do if she gets 5 million?
Choices:
A. Do business
B. Open a shop
C. Buy an island
D. Put three million in the bank and spend 2 million. | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle3469.txt | What will you do if you get 5 million ? Some people give some different answers.
Sally: I want to do business . If I am rich, I will do a lot of things for my family. For me nothing is more important than my family. I will buy a new house for them and travel around the world.
Joe: If I have 5 million, I will use the money to do everything I like. At first, I will use 2 million to open my own shop. And I will use another 2 million to buy some new houses. In the future, the houses which I buy will become more expensive,and I will sell them to other people. Finally, I will use 1 million to buy some presents for my family and my best friend.
Anna: If I have 5 million, I will put 3 million in the bank and spend 2 million. I will visit Paris, London and New York. I will eat delicious food, play games, and build a building with a swimming pool.
Jack: I will buy an island if I have 5 million. Then I will be the king of the island nad I will invite my friends to my island. | [
"Do business",
"Open a shop",
"Buy an island",
"Put three million in the bank and spend 2 million."
] |
The author thinks that hiking is especially valuable for _ . | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Hiking is not only one of the best forms of physical exercise, but it is also one of the best forms of mental relaxation. It is good for all ages and especially good as a family and group activity.
Since there are so many different kinds of hiking, it is not possible to give any general rules to follow. Short and frequent hikes, needing no planning or special equipment, are enjoyed by most people.
*Keep in shape by walking at a fast pace for at least 15 minutes every day. Climbing stairs instead of using a lift and running not too far are also good ways of keeping in shape.
*On any hike nothing is more important than good, comfortable shoes.
*The things you take might include matches in a waterproof box, a knife, compass, map first aid items and flashlight.
*Cameras may be taken, but don't load with too much.
*On longer hikes keep a comfortable, steady pace and take rest stops often.
*Drink only safe water. If in doubt, boil the water.
*Don't go along the busy roads. When you have to use a road, keep as far over on the left as possible.
*Leave word at home or some other place as to where you are going and when you plan to return.
*On almost any hike, a map is a good idea. If going into a strange place, a detailed map is most useful.
*Take along a field guide on flowers, birds, rocks, or other subjects depending upon your interests. This can add greatly to the enjoyment and educational value of your hike.
Question:
The author thinks that hiking is especially valuable for _ .
Choices:
A. single person
B. families
C. old people
D. everyone | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high22370.txt | Hiking is not only one of the best forms of physical exercise, but it is also one of the best forms of mental relaxation. It is good for all ages and especially good as a family and group activity.
Since there are so many different kinds of hiking, it is not possible to give any general rules to follow. Short and frequent hikes, needing no planning or special equipment, are enjoyed by most people.
*Keep in shape by walking at a fast pace for at least 15 minutes every day. Climbing stairs instead of using a lift and running not too far are also good ways of keeping in shape.
*On any hike nothing is more important than good, comfortable shoes.
*The things you take might include matches in a waterproof box, a knife, compass, map first aid items and flashlight.
*Cameras may be taken, but don't load with too much.
*On longer hikes keep a comfortable, steady pace and take rest stops often.
*Drink only safe water. If in doubt, boil the water.
*Don't go along the busy roads. When you have to use a road, keep as far over on the left as possible.
*Leave word at home or some other place as to where you are going and when you plan to return.
*On almost any hike, a map is a good idea. If going into a strange place, a detailed map is most useful.
*Take along a field guide on flowers, birds, rocks, or other subjects depending upon your interests. This can add greatly to the enjoyment and educational value of your hike. | [
"single person",
"families",
"old people",
"everyone"
] |
How many suggestions are there in the passage? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Spam mail is a fact of Internet life. Some of it carries bad things, but the main problem with spam is that it is unpleasant because it fills your mail box with pointless messages.
Most email programs have built-in filters that will discover unwanted messages and put them into a junk folder . You can make the filter learn what you consider to be spam or block certain senders.
Avoid letting your email address appear on websites--spammers search the Internet for email addresses. Be careful who you give your email address to, and if you need to send out several copies of an email, use blind copy instead to cover the other people's addresses.
Delete spam emails without opening them. Signs of possible spam are bad spelling in email headers, strange sender addresses, or emails sent at unusual hours. If you do open a spam mail, never reply to it or click on any pictures it may have.
If you receive an unexpected email pretending to come from your bank, credit card company or other suppliers, be very careful. If the email asks you to reply, don't do it! Instead, call up these places or visit their websites.
Consider setting up a second email address and keep one address for your personal use and another for your online communication.
Question:
How many suggestions are there in the passage?
Choices:
A. Three.
B. Four.
C. Five.
D. Six. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle5381.txt | Spam mail is a fact of Internet life. Some of it carries bad things, but the main problem with spam is that it is unpleasant because it fills your mail box with pointless messages.
Most email programs have built-in filters that will discover unwanted messages and put them into a junk folder . You can make the filter learn what you consider to be spam or block certain senders.
Avoid letting your email address appear on websites--spammers search the Internet for email addresses. Be careful who you give your email address to, and if you need to send out several copies of an email, use blind copy instead to cover the other people's addresses.
Delete spam emails without opening them. Signs of possible spam are bad spelling in email headers, strange sender addresses, or emails sent at unusual hours. If you do open a spam mail, never reply to it or click on any pictures it may have.
If you receive an unexpected email pretending to come from your bank, credit card company or other suppliers, be very careful. If the email asks you to reply, don't do it! Instead, call up these places or visit their websites.
Consider setting up a second email address and keep one address for your personal use and another for your online communication. | [
"Three.",
"Four.",
"Five.",
"Six."
] |
The head teller was found guilty of stealing _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
In many businesses, computers have largely replaced paperwork, because they are fast, flexible, and do not make mistakes. As one banker said, "Unlike humans, computers never have a bad day." And they are honest. Many banks advertise that their transactions are "untouched by human hands" and therefore safe from human temptation. Obviously, computers have no reason to steal money. But they also have no conscience, and the growing number of computer crimes shows they can be used to steal.
Computer criminals don't use guns. And even they are caught, it is hard to punish them because there are no witnesses and often no evidence. A computer cannot remember who used it: it simply does what it is told. The head teller at a New York City Bank used a computer to steal more than one and a half billion dollars in just four years. No one noticed this theft because he moved the money from one account to another. Each time a customer he had robbed questioned the balance in his account, the teller claimed a computer error, then replaced the missing money from someone else's account. This man was caught only because he was a gambler. When the police broke up an illegal gambling operation, his name was in the records.
Some employees use the computer's power to get revenge on employers they consider unfair. Recently, a large insurance company fired its computer-tape librarian for reasons that involved her personal rather than her professional life. She was given thirty days' notice. In those thirty days, she erased all the company's computerized records.
Most computer criminals have been minor employees. Now police wonder if this is "the tip of the iceberg". As one official says, "I have the feeling that there is more crime out there than we are catching. What we are seeing now is all so poorly done. I wonder what the real experts are doing--the ones who really know how a computer works."
Question:
The head teller was found guilty of stealing _ .
Choices:
A. when he was caught transmitting money from one account to another
B. when the police broke up the illegal gambling operation
C. afer he was questioned on the abnormal balance of an account
D. after the police examined the illegal gambling operation documents | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high7630.txt | In many businesses, computers have largely replaced paperwork, because they are fast, flexible, and do not make mistakes. As one banker said, "Unlike humans, computers never have a bad day." And they are honest. Many banks advertise that their transactions are "untouched by human hands" and therefore safe from human temptation. Obviously, computers have no reason to steal money. But they also have no conscience, and the growing number of computer crimes shows they can be used to steal.
Computer criminals don't use guns. And even they are caught, it is hard to punish them because there are no witnesses and often no evidence. A computer cannot remember who used it: it simply does what it is told. The head teller at a New York City Bank used a computer to steal more than one and a half billion dollars in just four years. No one noticed this theft because he moved the money from one account to another. Each time a customer he had robbed questioned the balance in his account, the teller claimed a computer error, then replaced the missing money from someone else's account. This man was caught only because he was a gambler. When the police broke up an illegal gambling operation, his name was in the records.
Some employees use the computer's power to get revenge on employers they consider unfair. Recently, a large insurance company fired its computer-tape librarian for reasons that involved her personal rather than her professional life. She was given thirty days' notice. In those thirty days, she erased all the company's computerized records.
Most computer criminals have been minor employees. Now police wonder if this is "the tip of the iceberg". As one official says, "I have the feeling that there is more crime out there than we are catching. What we are seeing now is all so poorly done. I wonder what the real experts are doing--the ones who really know how a computer works." | [
"when he was caught transmitting money from one account to another",
"when the police broke up the illegal gambling operation",
"afer he was questioned on the abnormal balance of an account",
"after the police examined the illegal gambling operation documents"
] |
Mike is _ years old. | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
My name is Frank White. I'm fifteen years old. I was born on May 13th, 1996. Mike is my good friend. His birthday is on May 15th. He is only 13 years old now. Every year on May 14th, we have a birthday party together in our school. We often have a pop concert . I play the guitar. He plays the drum. Many friends come to our party. We are very happy.
Question:
Mike is _ years old.
Choices:
A. 13
B. 14
C. 15
D. 16 | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle5948.txt | My name is Frank White. I'm fifteen years old. I was born on May 13th, 1996. Mike is my good friend. His birthday is on May 15th. He is only 13 years old now. Every year on May 14th, we have a birthday party together in our school. We often have a pop concert . I play the guitar. He plays the drum. Many friends come to our party. We are very happy. | [
"13",
"14",
"15",
"16"
] |
The passage tells us that the family became so obese mainly because_. | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
As Paige watched the other kids playing football in her local park she longed to join in. But at nearly nine stone (1stone equals 6.35 kilograms), the 11-year-old was too big to enjoy her favorite sport, she was well on her way to being another overweight member of her family. Mandy, her mum was 17th 10 lb and Anne, her grandma 15th 10 lb.
Mandy, 39, and Anne, 67, both have a sweet tooth and share a love of all things stodgy. Recent figures show that two-thirds of kids will be dangerously fat by 2050, and overweight kids often become obese adults and live shorter lives as they are at higher risk of everything from heart disease to cancer and type-2 diabetes. Mandy says she knew things had to change for her and her family. Mandy's mum Anne had an even greater motivation for wanting to slim down. Last autumn Paige went along to the Slimming World to keep her mum and grand ma company. In the first week on the Slimming World eating plan, Mandy lost a whopping 9.5lb. Mandy asked Paige to join in. They believed the Free2Go plan is balanced and nutritious and doesn't deprive Paige of anything.
Supporting and encouraging each other the whole time, Anne, Mandy and Paige all whittled away their waistlines. Mandy says: "My back problems have cleared up." Anne has also noticed a real difference in her health. She says: "I feel like I've got my old energy back." Paige is almost as delighted with her new wardrobe as she is about her foot balling skills. Mandy adds: "I'm just so proud of Paige. I felt awful because I knew her weight problems were a result of my bad eating habits. But when I see her now it's like she's a different person."
Question:
The passage tells us that the family became so obese mainly because_.
Choices:
A. they didn't like sports
B. they had bad eating habits
C. they didn't want to lose weight
D. they suffered from being fat | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high23355.txt | As Paige watched the other kids playing football in her local park she longed to join in. But at nearly nine stone (1stone equals 6.35 kilograms), the 11-year-old was too big to enjoy her favorite sport, she was well on her way to being another overweight member of her family. Mandy, her mum was 17th 10 lb and Anne, her grandma 15th 10 lb.
Mandy, 39, and Anne, 67, both have a sweet tooth and share a love of all things stodgy. Recent figures show that two-thirds of kids will be dangerously fat by 2050, and overweight kids often become obese adults and live shorter lives as they are at higher risk of everything from heart disease to cancer and type-2 diabetes. Mandy says she knew things had to change for her and her family. Mandy's mum Anne had an even greater motivation for wanting to slim down. Last autumn Paige went along to the Slimming World to keep her mum and grand ma company. In the first week on the Slimming World eating plan, Mandy lost a whopping 9.5lb. Mandy asked Paige to join in. They believed the Free2Go plan is balanced and nutritious and doesn't deprive Paige of anything.
Supporting and encouraging each other the whole time, Anne, Mandy and Paige all whittled away their waistlines. Mandy says: "My back problems have cleared up." Anne has also noticed a real difference in her health. She says: "I feel like I've got my old energy back." Paige is almost as delighted with her new wardrobe as she is about her foot balling skills. Mandy adds: "I'm just so proud of Paige. I felt awful because I knew her weight problems were a result of my bad eating habits. But when I see her now it's like she's a different person." | [
"they didn't like sports",
"they had bad eating habits",
"they didn't want to lose weight",
"they suffered from being fat"
] |
From the story, we know that_. | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
As a young child, I was quiet and shy. I was also sick for a long time. My parents worked, and I spent a lot of time at my grandparent's home. While my grandmother cleaned the house and cooked, my grandfather played with me.
I was six when my grandfather died. A few months before he died, he gave me a beautiful blue and white blanket . I loved the blanket very much because it made me think of my grandfather. But after a few years, the blanket didn't look very good. It had holes and was dirty. I didn't want to throw the blanket away, so my mother made the blanket into a book bag. I was proud of the book bag, and I used it to carry my books to school every day for a few years. Then the book bag was broken. I begged my mother to make something out of it. She made it into a pencil-box. After a few months, the pencil-box was broken, too. By then I could sew , and I made the pencil-box into a small wallet.
I used it for three years, but one day I lost it. I felt sad. My friends and family said, "Forget about it, Paul. You can't make something out of nothing."
I thought about it for a while. I decided my friends and family were wrong. There was a way to make something out of nothing. I wrote down the story of my grandfather's blanket.
Question:
From the story, we know that_.
Choices:
A. Paul's grandfather gave him a blanket
B. the blanket made Paul think of his mother
C. a few years later the blanket was still new
D. Paul's grandfather died when Paul was ten | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle2781.txt | As a young child, I was quiet and shy. I was also sick for a long time. My parents worked, and I spent a lot of time at my grandparent's home. While my grandmother cleaned the house and cooked, my grandfather played with me.
I was six when my grandfather died. A few months before he died, he gave me a beautiful blue and white blanket . I loved the blanket very much because it made me think of my grandfather. But after a few years, the blanket didn't look very good. It had holes and was dirty. I didn't want to throw the blanket away, so my mother made the blanket into a book bag. I was proud of the book bag, and I used it to carry my books to school every day for a few years. Then the book bag was broken. I begged my mother to make something out of it. She made it into a pencil-box. After a few months, the pencil-box was broken, too. By then I could sew , and I made the pencil-box into a small wallet.
I used it for three years, but one day I lost it. I felt sad. My friends and family said, "Forget about it, Paul. You can't make something out of nothing."
I thought about it for a while. I decided my friends and family were wrong. There was a way to make something out of nothing. I wrote down the story of my grandfather's blanket. | [
"Paul's grandfather gave him a blanket",
"the blanket made Paul think of his mother",
"a few years later the blanket was still new",
"Paul's grandfather died when Paul was ten"
] |
How did Tokyo people feel in the 1960s? | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
It's every child's dream:you find yourself in a sweet shop without owners and can finally eat as many candies as you like.
Tokyo's all-you-can-eat"cheap candy"bars make that childhood dreams come true,giving Japanese under stress a chance to relive the good old days when their biggest problem was deciding between fizzy sticks and sour plums .
The "cheap candy" bar in Tokyo's fashion Ebisu neighborhood is decorated like an old corner shop with dark wooden walls lined with glass jars full of Japanese childhood favorite food.Faded posters and a black-and-white TV bring back that special 1960s nostalgic feeling.
"This is good old Japan,something I haven't even seen myself because we've passed that period,"said 24-year-old Natsuko Kohashi,a consultant, as she sat with a glass of beer and a basket of sugary candies."People dream about this peaceful time,20 years after the war, when things were kind of slow but people had hope,"she said."The economy started to recover and everyone got richer."
Tokyo has many places which satisfy the needs of depressed office workers who have a desire for the years before the financial bubble of the 1980s,when stock markets and property prices went up quickly and then collapsed,leaving Japan in a depression for most of the next decade.
There are cafes where waitresses dressed as maids play childish games with customers,and theme parks that recreate school cafeterias and 1960s living rooms.
At another table at Ebisu's bar, a lively group of men and women in their 20s,some wearing suits,picked at a selection of sweets."I used to eat sweets as a child,"one of the men said."Now we are under great stress.When we were children,there was no stress,so we're comforting each other."
Question:
How did Tokyo people feel in the 1960s?
Choices:
A. Challenging
B. Doubtful
C. Terrible
D. Hopeful | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high22984.txt | It's every child's dream:you find yourself in a sweet shop without owners and can finally eat as many candies as you like.
Tokyo's all-you-can-eat"cheap candy"bars make that childhood dreams come true,giving Japanese under stress a chance to relive the good old days when their biggest problem was deciding between fizzy sticks and sour plums .
The "cheap candy" bar in Tokyo's fashion Ebisu neighborhood is decorated like an old corner shop with dark wooden walls lined with glass jars full of Japanese childhood favorite food.Faded posters and a black-and-white TV bring back that special 1960s nostalgic feeling.
"This is good old Japan,something I haven't even seen myself because we've passed that period,"said 24-year-old Natsuko Kohashi,a consultant, as she sat with a glass of beer and a basket of sugary candies."People dream about this peaceful time,20 years after the war, when things were kind of slow but people had hope,"she said."The economy started to recover and everyone got richer."
Tokyo has many places which satisfy the needs of depressed office workers who have a desire for the years before the financial bubble of the 1980s,when stock markets and property prices went up quickly and then collapsed,leaving Japan in a depression for most of the next decade.
There are cafes where waitresses dressed as maids play childish games with customers,and theme parks that recreate school cafeterias and 1960s living rooms.
At another table at Ebisu's bar, a lively group of men and women in their 20s,some wearing suits,picked at a selection of sweets."I used to eat sweets as a child,"one of the men said."Now we are under great stress.When we were children,there was no stress,so we're comforting each other." | [
"Challenging",
"Doubtful",
"Terrible",
"Hopeful"
] |
Which on of the following is true according to the passage? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
China has mapped out plans for its new launches in the Shenzhou program on the next flight. But one conclusion seems to have escaped most reports in the aerospace media.The flight of Shenzhou 7 could be timed to coincide with the Beijing Olympics. Plans for 2008 Summer Olympics call for the events to be held between the 8th and 24th of August in that year. It's reasonable to expect that China will use the event to display its achievements before the world, and human spaceflight is China's most significant recent breakthrough.
Shenzhou 7, China's next manned space mission, was originally advertised for 2007.This fit the pattern of staging a two-gap between crewed Shenzhou missions, which have previously launched in 2003 and 2005.But Chinese media statements have amended this to 2008.Chinese media have reported that the whole program is going well, more time is needed to work on spacesuit that will be used on this flight to stage China's first spacewalk. It's possible that Chinese engineers want to make best preparations for this complex mission.
China could intend to carry out the mission of Shenzhou 7 just as media attention is focused on the lead--up to the Olympics. The crew of the fight, and possibly China's other flown astronauts, could then take part in the opening ceremony. China has previously honnoured her space travelers in great celebrations, such as the Hong Kong event that saw Yang Liwei singing with Jacky Chan.
Question:
Which on of the following is true according to the passage?
Choices:
A. Yang Liwei--one the Chinese astronauts walked in space in 2003.
B. Yang Liwei--one the Chinese astronauts will be singing with Jacky Chan in space in 2008.
C. The spacesuit for the flight of Shenzhou 7 hasn't been prepared well.
D. China will send its second manned spacecraft in 2008. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high23617.txt | China has mapped out plans for its new launches in the Shenzhou program on the next flight. But one conclusion seems to have escaped most reports in the aerospace media.The flight of Shenzhou 7 could be timed to coincide with the Beijing Olympics. Plans for 2008 Summer Olympics call for the events to be held between the 8th and 24th of August in that year. It's reasonable to expect that China will use the event to display its achievements before the world, and human spaceflight is China's most significant recent breakthrough.
Shenzhou 7, China's next manned space mission, was originally advertised for 2007.This fit the pattern of staging a two-gap between crewed Shenzhou missions, which have previously launched in 2003 and 2005.But Chinese media statements have amended this to 2008.Chinese media have reported that the whole program is going well, more time is needed to work on spacesuit that will be used on this flight to stage China's first spacewalk. It's possible that Chinese engineers want to make best preparations for this complex mission.
China could intend to carry out the mission of Shenzhou 7 just as media attention is focused on the lead--up to the Olympics. The crew of the fight, and possibly China's other flown astronauts, could then take part in the opening ceremony. China has previously honnoured her space travelers in great celebrations, such as the Hong Kong event that saw Yang Liwei singing with Jacky Chan. | [
"Yang Liwei--one the Chinese astronauts walked in space in 2003.",
"Yang Liwei--one the Chinese astronauts will be singing with Jacky Chan in space in 2008.",
"The spacesuit for the flight of Shenzhou 7 hasn't been prepared well.",
"China will send its second manned spacecraft in 2008."
] |
Which statement most closely parallels the author's conclusion about knowledge of the past? | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
During my early twenties, to make my parents stop feeling angry, and simply to escape, I decided to live in my birthplace for a period of time, something I'd sworn I would never do. My parents were thrilled. They prayed that I'd come back triumphantly with a picture-perfect bridegroom. That was the furthest thing from my mind as I packed my faded jeans, tank tops, boots, and a photo of my freckle-faced then-boyfriend who was of Scottish descent.
The moment I landed in Seoul, I was aware of how much I felt like a misfit. All my life I had tried to blend into the dominant culture and couldn't. And finally, when I was in a place where everyone looked like me, I still stood out. I took it for granted that I'd feel a sense of freedom. I thought I'd blend into the landscape. This was not the case. People stared at me with curious eyes. I became conscious of my American-girl swaggering body movements and inappropriate dress.
Collecting my courage, I traveled to the demilitarized zone on my own. I touched the high barbed-wire fence that stretched across the belly of the peninsula , dividing Korea in half. I visited thousand-year-old temples and magnificent palace gates that had survived modernization and centuries of battle. I met with distant cousins who welcomed me with outstretched arms into their homes and related heroic tales about my mother and Halmoni (Grandmother) during the war. How Halmoni had led her young children out of north to the United Nation-backed south. How my mother, at the age of thirteen, saved the life of her baby sister.
I listened with such an overwhelming thirst that when I returned to the States a year and a half later, I began to ask my parents and Halmoni (who had immigrated to the States some time after we did) all about the past. The past was no longer a time gone by, a dead weight. I now saw that it held ancient treasures. And the more I dug and discovered, the more I felt myself being steered toward a future I had never imagined for myself. I began to write. I didn't even know I could write. My family helped me knit stories into a book using Halmoni's voice. As her powerful words moved through me I was able to reflect and meditate on the ridiculous life I had fashioned for myself. I could feel my sense of self rising. This sparked a newfound awareness and excitement. I became a spokeswoman on Korean culture, traveling to various college campuses across the country. "Be proud. Embrace your heritage." I said to young Korean American students wearing extra-large, trendy sportswear. But the whole time I was lecturing, I had very little understanding of what that self-concept meant. I was merely talking the talk. I hadn't yet fully embraced my own identity.
Question:
Which statement most closely parallels the author's conclusion about knowledge of the past?
Choices:
A. It is a treasure that should be guarded.
B. It is often most valued during early adulthood.
C. It can enhance appreciation of ancient cultures.
D. It can help individuals attain deeper self-concept. | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high14689.txt | During my early twenties, to make my parents stop feeling angry, and simply to escape, I decided to live in my birthplace for a period of time, something I'd sworn I would never do. My parents were thrilled. They prayed that I'd come back triumphantly with a picture-perfect bridegroom. That was the furthest thing from my mind as I packed my faded jeans, tank tops, boots, and a photo of my freckle-faced then-boyfriend who was of Scottish descent.
The moment I landed in Seoul, I was aware of how much I felt like a misfit. All my life I had tried to blend into the dominant culture and couldn't. And finally, when I was in a place where everyone looked like me, I still stood out. I took it for granted that I'd feel a sense of freedom. I thought I'd blend into the landscape. This was not the case. People stared at me with curious eyes. I became conscious of my American-girl swaggering body movements and inappropriate dress.
Collecting my courage, I traveled to the demilitarized zone on my own. I touched the high barbed-wire fence that stretched across the belly of the peninsula , dividing Korea in half. I visited thousand-year-old temples and magnificent palace gates that had survived modernization and centuries of battle. I met with distant cousins who welcomed me with outstretched arms into their homes and related heroic tales about my mother and Halmoni (Grandmother) during the war. How Halmoni had led her young children out of north to the United Nation-backed south. How my mother, at the age of thirteen, saved the life of her baby sister.
I listened with such an overwhelming thirst that when I returned to the States a year and a half later, I began to ask my parents and Halmoni (who had immigrated to the States some time after we did) all about the past. The past was no longer a time gone by, a dead weight. I now saw that it held ancient treasures. And the more I dug and discovered, the more I felt myself being steered toward a future I had never imagined for myself. I began to write. I didn't even know I could write. My family helped me knit stories into a book using Halmoni's voice. As her powerful words moved through me I was able to reflect and meditate on the ridiculous life I had fashioned for myself. I could feel my sense of self rising. This sparked a newfound awareness and excitement. I became a spokeswoman on Korean culture, traveling to various college campuses across the country. "Be proud. Embrace your heritage." I said to young Korean American students wearing extra-large, trendy sportswear. But the whole time I was lecturing, I had very little understanding of what that self-concept meant. I was merely talking the talk. I hadn't yet fully embraced my own identity. | [
"It is a treasure that should be guarded.",
"It is often most valued during early adulthood.",
"It can enhance appreciation of ancient cultures.",
"It can help individuals attain deeper self-concept."
] |
According go this passage, when is a dial telephone call cheapest? | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Are you thinking of writhing someone a letter? Call instead. It isn't that expensive, especially when you call during the evening, night, or weekend hours. In fact, you can made a ten-minute call anywhere in the continental United States for just $2.60.
For even greater saving, always dial direct ,that is ,without an operator's help .Rates on direct, that is ,without an operator's help. Rates on direct calls are lower after five o' clock in the evening and lowest after, and pay phone calls than direct calls.
Need to call out of the country? Now calls to many overseas places may be dialed direct. Check your telephone direction for overseas area codes.
Next time you have good news, or you just want to stay in touch, remember, a phone call means so much more than a letter. This has been a message from Southern Bell Telephone Company.
Question:
According go this passage, when is a dial telephone call cheapest?
Choices:
A. During weekend hours .
B. After 5 in the evening
C. during working hours.
D. After 11 at night | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high9676.txt | Are you thinking of writhing someone a letter? Call instead. It isn't that expensive, especially when you call during the evening, night, or weekend hours. In fact, you can made a ten-minute call anywhere in the continental United States for just $2.60.
For even greater saving, always dial direct ,that is ,without an operator's help .Rates on direct, that is ,without an operator's help. Rates on direct calls are lower after five o' clock in the evening and lowest after, and pay phone calls than direct calls.
Need to call out of the country? Now calls to many overseas places may be dialed direct. Check your telephone direction for overseas area codes.
Next time you have good news, or you just want to stay in touch, remember, a phone call means so much more than a letter. This has been a message from Southern Bell Telephone Company. | [
"During weekend hours .",
"After 5 in the evening",
"during working hours.",
"After 11 at night"
] |
The writer presents UK students' increasing interests in overseas study by _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
A recent study shows that a third of UK students aged between 16 and 30 are interested in overseas study. Among them, half wish to study at the undergraduate level.
UK students have increasing interest in studying or working in a European country through the EU's Erasmus Program, an EU student exchange program started in 1987. Recent Erasmus statistics show that nearly 15,600 UK students spent up to a year in another European country through the program during 2013-2014 school year, up 115 percent since 2007.
The figures reflect that more young people in the UK are realizing the value of receiving international experience. "The UK needs graduates who have the skills and confidence to compete worldwide, and can compete against foreign talent that may speak more languages and have wider international experience," said Rebecca Hughes, director of education at the British Council.
Most UK students would like to go to the United States, followed by Australia, France, Canada and Germany, the findings show, but 42 percent of those who took the questionnaire were interested in traveling outside of the English-speaking world.
Why do UK students want to go abroad? Among those who are interested in overseas study, nearly 50 percent want to have fun traveling and exploring different cultures, while 30 percent want to work for an international company and live overseas. About 15 percent said they wanted to go to the best university and get the best education offered worldwide. What's more, the high cost of UK university studies plays a role in over half of students' interest in overseas study.
Also, the study found the biggest schooling check to studying abroad was a lack of foreign language skills--chosen by over half of those who were not interested or had not made a decision about studying overseas. But the top non-schooling check for students was the great cost.
Question:
The writer presents UK students' increasing interests in overseas study by _ .
Choices:
A. giving examples
B. making surveys
C. having interviews
D. listing statistics | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle6665.txt | A recent study shows that a third of UK students aged between 16 and 30 are interested in overseas study. Among them, half wish to study at the undergraduate level.
UK students have increasing interest in studying or working in a European country through the EU's Erasmus Program, an EU student exchange program started in 1987. Recent Erasmus statistics show that nearly 15,600 UK students spent up to a year in another European country through the program during 2013-2014 school year, up 115 percent since 2007.
The figures reflect that more young people in the UK are realizing the value of receiving international experience. "The UK needs graduates who have the skills and confidence to compete worldwide, and can compete against foreign talent that may speak more languages and have wider international experience," said Rebecca Hughes, director of education at the British Council.
Most UK students would like to go to the United States, followed by Australia, France, Canada and Germany, the findings show, but 42 percent of those who took the questionnaire were interested in traveling outside of the English-speaking world.
Why do UK students want to go abroad? Among those who are interested in overseas study, nearly 50 percent want to have fun traveling and exploring different cultures, while 30 percent want to work for an international company and live overseas. About 15 percent said they wanted to go to the best university and get the best education offered worldwide. What's more, the high cost of UK university studies plays a role in over half of students' interest in overseas study.
Also, the study found the biggest schooling check to studying abroad was a lack of foreign language skills--chosen by over half of those who were not interested or had not made a decision about studying overseas. But the top non-schooling check for students was the great cost. | [
"giving examples",
"making surveys",
"having interviews",
"listing statistics"
] |
The researchers would agree that _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Should you stay at home to look after your child,or return to work?
Maybe you don't have the option.Combining work and motherhood is an issue faced by increasing numbers of women every day.
New research for the Institute for Economic and Social Research could solve this quandary once and for all.In short,it concludes that going back to work after the birth of a child can have a negative impact on the child's development--unless you have lots of money.
"Growing up in a family in which the mother chooses to work appears to have some adverse consequences for children's welfare," the research says.However,it adds that extra money brought in by both parents can reduce the negative effect.The negative effect is also less apparent in children of bettereducated mothers.
The research by John Ermisch and Marco Francesconi is especially downbeat about welfare to work programmes,and especially,the prospects for the children of some single parents.
"It is hard to see anything but gloomy prospects for the children of single parents (who are generally poor)," the researchers said.This is because in a common family where both parents work,extra money brought in by the mother's working would compensate for less time spent with the children.
In contrast,the researchers said the effects of paternal employment were far more modest,but this did not mean that fathers had no role in shaping their children's welfare.Money brought in by the father would be a major resource for helping children develop.
The research says,however,that before parents get too carried away by worrying about working,there are more important issues facing a child's development.Parents' personalities and emotional stability,parenting practices,and the friends and networks that children experience while growing up will be much bigger factors than whether their mothers work.
Question:
The researchers would agree that _ .
Choices:
A. mothers should keep a balance between work and family life
B. the more money mothers make,the worse their children will be
C. mothers should make as much money as they can
D. it would be better for mothers to be with children at home | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high6193.txt | Should you stay at home to look after your child,or return to work?
Maybe you don't have the option.Combining work and motherhood is an issue faced by increasing numbers of women every day.
New research for the Institute for Economic and Social Research could solve this quandary once and for all.In short,it concludes that going back to work after the birth of a child can have a negative impact on the child's development--unless you have lots of money.
"Growing up in a family in which the mother chooses to work appears to have some adverse consequences for children's welfare," the research says.However,it adds that extra money brought in by both parents can reduce the negative effect.The negative effect is also less apparent in children of bettereducated mothers.
The research by John Ermisch and Marco Francesconi is especially downbeat about welfare to work programmes,and especially,the prospects for the children of some single parents.
"It is hard to see anything but gloomy prospects for the children of single parents (who are generally poor)," the researchers said.This is because in a common family where both parents work,extra money brought in by the mother's working would compensate for less time spent with the children.
In contrast,the researchers said the effects of paternal employment were far more modest,but this did not mean that fathers had no role in shaping their children's welfare.Money brought in by the father would be a major resource for helping children develop.
The research says,however,that before parents get too carried away by worrying about working,there are more important issues facing a child's development.Parents' personalities and emotional stability,parenting practices,and the friends and networks that children experience while growing up will be much bigger factors than whether their mothers work. | [
"mothers should keep a balance between work and family life",
"the more money mothers make,the worse their children will be",
"mothers should make as much money as they can",
"it would be better for mothers to be with children at home"
] |
John bought a tennis racket. He also bought sneakers that cost $200 and a sports outfit that cost $250. He spent a total of $750 for all those items. What was the price of the racket? | Total amount spent for athletic shoes and sportswear is $200 + $250 = $<<200+250=450>>450.
The price of the racket is $750 - $450 = $<<750-450=300>>300.
#### 300 | Solve the following math problem and explain your reasoning step by step. | John bought a tennis racket. He also bought sneakers that cost $200 and a sports outfit that cost $250. He spent a total of $750 for all those items. What was the price of the racket? | Total amount spent for athletic shoes and sportswear is $200 + $250 = $<<200+250=450>>450.
The price of the racket is $750 - $450 = $<<750-450=300>>300.
#### 300 | math | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null |
Which of the following is TRUE? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
The standard Outward Bound course lasts for three or four weeks. During that time the students live in the wilderness and go through many physical activities of ever increasing difficulty.
The first few days are given to physical conditioning and to the teaching of basic skills such as first aid, map and compass reading, rope climbing, and other similar activities.
During the second part of the course students learn how to climb rocks and cliffs, how to use canoes and rafts in swift water, and in some schools how to sail, ski, climb mountains, and make long-distance hikes.
The first two parts of the course are done in groups. Members work together and help each other to overcome the increasing number of challenges. In the third part of the course, students are sent out alone for three days to survive in the wilderness with only a few necessities.
Who are the students of Outward Bound? They are both young people and adults, men and women. The minimum age is 16.5 years. There is no maximum age. About one-third of the 6,000 persons completing the course each year are women. Businessmen, housewives, university students, professors, doctors, and lawyers are among those taking part in the course.
In recent years special courses for the busy business managers have gained in popularity. These courses last from five to ten days rather than the usual three to four weeks of the normal course.
Not all students complete the Outward Bound course. In some cases the individual cannot meet the physical challenges. In its own words Outward Bound literature says: "Make no mistake, Outward Bound is not for everybody. The courses aren't easy and are not meant to be."
Most students who finish the course share a common experience. They are surprised at themselves that they finish the course and they feel great pride in doing the impossible! The Outward Bound experience makes them feel that they are better than they know!
Question:
Which of the following is TRUE?
Choices:
A. Around 6,000 people attend the course each year.
B. About 2,000 women attend the course each year.
C. About 2,000 women overcome the challenges each year.
D. Approximately 2,000 people overcome the challenges each year. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high7324.txt | The standard Outward Bound course lasts for three or four weeks. During that time the students live in the wilderness and go through many physical activities of ever increasing difficulty.
The first few days are given to physical conditioning and to the teaching of basic skills such as first aid, map and compass reading, rope climbing, and other similar activities.
During the second part of the course students learn how to climb rocks and cliffs, how to use canoes and rafts in swift water, and in some schools how to sail, ski, climb mountains, and make long-distance hikes.
The first two parts of the course are done in groups. Members work together and help each other to overcome the increasing number of challenges. In the third part of the course, students are sent out alone for three days to survive in the wilderness with only a few necessities.
Who are the students of Outward Bound? They are both young people and adults, men and women. The minimum age is 16.5 years. There is no maximum age. About one-third of the 6,000 persons completing the course each year are women. Businessmen, housewives, university students, professors, doctors, and lawyers are among those taking part in the course.
In recent years special courses for the busy business managers have gained in popularity. These courses last from five to ten days rather than the usual three to four weeks of the normal course.
Not all students complete the Outward Bound course. In some cases the individual cannot meet the physical challenges. In its own words Outward Bound literature says: "Make no mistake, Outward Bound is not for everybody. The courses aren't easy and are not meant to be."
Most students who finish the course share a common experience. They are surprised at themselves that they finish the course and they feel great pride in doing the impossible! The Outward Bound experience makes them feel that they are better than they know! | [
"Around 6,000 people attend the course each year.",
"About 2,000 women attend the course each year.",
"About 2,000 women overcome the challenges each year.",
"Approximately 2,000 people overcome the challenges each year."
] |
Which is WRONG ? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Look! The girl looks _ a Barbie doll . She has long blond hair. Her blue eyes are big, but her mouth and nose are small. She is a nice girl. Who is she?
Oh, she is Sally. She is from England. She is thirteen years old. Her mom and dad are English. Both of them are in Beijing now. Her mom is my English teacher. She and I are good friends. Well, green is Sally's favorite color, and she is in green. We are in the same school, but we are in different classes.
,.
Question:
Which is WRONG ?
Choices:
A. Sally's mouth is small.
B. Sally is an English girl.
C. Sally and I are in the same class.
D. Sally's hair is blond. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle4248.txt | Look! The girl looks _ a Barbie doll . She has long blond hair. Her blue eyes are big, but her mouth and nose are small. She is a nice girl. Who is she?
Oh, she is Sally. She is from England. She is thirteen years old. Her mom and dad are English. Both of them are in Beijing now. Her mom is my English teacher. She and I are good friends. Well, green is Sally's favorite color, and she is in green. We are in the same school, but we are in different classes.
,. | [
"Sally's mouth is small.",
"Sally is an English girl.",
"Sally and I are in the same class.",
"Sally's hair is blond."
] |
The most basic division of land plants is between what type of plants? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | The most basic division of land plants is between what type of plants? | nonvascular and vascular | science | null | null | null | succulents and conifers | perennial and annual | deciduous and evergreen | nonvascular and vascular | The scientific classification of modern land plants is under constant revision. Informally, land plants can be classified into the groups listed in Table below . The most basic division is between nonvascular and vascular plants. Vascular plants are further divided into those that reproduce without seeds and those that reproduce with seeds. Seed plants, in turn, are divided into those that produce seeds in cones and those that produce seeds in the ovaries of flowers. You can read more about each of these groups of plants in the next lesson. | null | null | null |
According to the Pygmalion Effect, if you want a man to finish a hard task in a short time, you should say, " _ ". | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
An experiment was carried out at British school into the performance of new pupils. At the start of the year, the pupils were each given a _ , ranging from "excellent prospect" to "unlikely to do well". These were totally untrue ratings and did not reflect how well the pupils had previously performed. However, these ratings were given to the teachers. At the end of the year, the experimenters compared the pupils' performance with the ratings. Despite their real abilities, there was an astonishingly high connection between performance and ratings. It seems that people perform as well as we expect them to.
The Self-fulfilling Effect is also known as the Pygmalion Effect. This comes from an old Greek story. The story was also the basis of George Bernard Shaw's play "Pygmalion", later turned into the musical "My Fair Lady". In Shaw's play, Professor Henry Higgins claims he can turn a Cockney flower girl, Eliza Doolittle into a duchess. But, as Eliza herself points out to Higgins' friend Pickering, it isn't what she learns or does that determines whether she will become a duchess, but how she's treated.
The implication of the Pygmalion Effect for leaders and managers is massive. It means that the performance of your team depends less on them than it does on you. The performance you get from people is no more or less than what you expect, which means you must always expect the best. As Goethe said, "Treat a man as he is and he will remain as he is. Treat a man as he can and should be and he will become as he can and should be."
Question:
According to the Pygmalion Effect, if you want a man to finish a hard task in a short time, you should say, " _ ".
Choices:
A. I'm sure you can make it
B. I will help you any time
C. It is as easy as pie
D. It doesn't matter if you fail | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high2197.txt | An experiment was carried out at British school into the performance of new pupils. At the start of the year, the pupils were each given a _ , ranging from "excellent prospect" to "unlikely to do well". These were totally untrue ratings and did not reflect how well the pupils had previously performed. However, these ratings were given to the teachers. At the end of the year, the experimenters compared the pupils' performance with the ratings. Despite their real abilities, there was an astonishingly high connection between performance and ratings. It seems that people perform as well as we expect them to.
The Self-fulfilling Effect is also known as the Pygmalion Effect. This comes from an old Greek story. The story was also the basis of George Bernard Shaw's play "Pygmalion", later turned into the musical "My Fair Lady". In Shaw's play, Professor Henry Higgins claims he can turn a Cockney flower girl, Eliza Doolittle into a duchess. But, as Eliza herself points out to Higgins' friend Pickering, it isn't what she learns or does that determines whether she will become a duchess, but how she's treated.
The implication of the Pygmalion Effect for leaders and managers is massive. It means that the performance of your team depends less on them than it does on you. The performance you get from people is no more or less than what you expect, which means you must always expect the best. As Goethe said, "Treat a man as he is and he will remain as he is. Treat a man as he can and should be and he will become as he can and should be." | [
"I'm sure you can make it",
"I will help you any time",
"It is as easy as pie",
"It doesn't matter if you fail"
] |
In 2006,the countries worldwide except spent about _ billion dollars on advertising. | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Advertising is a form of communication that typically attempts to persuade potential customers to purchase or to consume more of a particular brand of product or service. Many advertisements are designed to produce increased consumption of those products and services through the creation and reinforcement of "brand image" and "brand loyalty". For these purposes, advertisements sometimes fixes their persuasive message with fact-based information. Every major medium is used to deliver these messages, including television, radio, cinema, magazines, newspapers, video games, the Internet and billboards. Advertising is often placed by an advertising agency on behalf of a company or other organization.
Organizations that frequently spend large sums of money on advertising that sells what is not, strictly speaking, a product or service include political parties, interest groups, religious organizations, and military recruiters. Non-profit organizations are not typical advertising customers, and may rely on free modes of persuasion, such as public service announcements.
Advertising spending has increased greatly in recent years. In 2006, spending on advertising has been estimated at $155 billion in the United States and $385 billion worldwide , and the latter to be over $500 billion by 2010.
While advertising can be seen as necessary for economic growth, it is not without social costs. Unsolicited commercial email and other forms of spam have become so widespread as to have become a major trouble to users of these services, as well as being a financial burden on internet service providers. Advertising is increasingly invading public spaces, such as schools, which some critics argue is a form of child exploitation .
Question:
In 2006,the countries worldwide except spent about _ billion dollars on advertising.
Choices:
A. 500
B. 155
C. 385
D. 230 | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high18227.txt | Advertising is a form of communication that typically attempts to persuade potential customers to purchase or to consume more of a particular brand of product or service. Many advertisements are designed to produce increased consumption of those products and services through the creation and reinforcement of "brand image" and "brand loyalty". For these purposes, advertisements sometimes fixes their persuasive message with fact-based information. Every major medium is used to deliver these messages, including television, radio, cinema, magazines, newspapers, video games, the Internet and billboards. Advertising is often placed by an advertising agency on behalf of a company or other organization.
Organizations that frequently spend large sums of money on advertising that sells what is not, strictly speaking, a product or service include political parties, interest groups, religious organizations, and military recruiters. Non-profit organizations are not typical advertising customers, and may rely on free modes of persuasion, such as public service announcements.
Advertising spending has increased greatly in recent years. In 2006, spending on advertising has been estimated at $155 billion in the United States and $385 billion worldwide , and the latter to be over $500 billion by 2010.
While advertising can be seen as necessary for economic growth, it is not without social costs. Unsolicited commercial email and other forms of spam have become so widespread as to have become a major trouble to users of these services, as well as being a financial burden on internet service providers. Advertising is increasingly invading public spaces, such as schools, which some critics argue is a form of child exploitation . | [
"500",
"155",
"385",
"230"
] |
This passage is mainly about _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Your peers are people your age or close to it who have experiences and interests similar to yours. You and your friends make dozens of decisions every day, and you influence each other's choices and behavior. This is often _ --- it's human nature to listen to and learn from other people in your age group.
Sometimes, though, the stresses in your life can actually come from your peers. They may pressure you into doing something you're uncomfortable with, such as shoplifting, doing drugs or drinking, or taking dangerous risks when driving a car.
The pressure to conform can be powerful and hard to resist. A person might feel pressure to do something just because others are doing it. Peer pressure can influence a person to do something that is relatively harmless--- or something that has more serious consequences.
People may feel pressure to conform, so they fit in or are accepted, or so they don't feel awkward or uncomfortable. When people are unsure of what to do in a social situation, they naturally look to others for cues about what is and isn't acceptable.
The people who are most easily influenced will follow someone else's lead first. Then others may go along, too --- so it can be easy to think, "It must be OK. Everyone else is doing it. They must know what they're doing." Before you know it, many people are going along with the crowd --- perhaps on something they might not otherwise do.
Responding to peer pressure is part of human nature --- but some people are more likely to give in, and others are better able to resist and stand their ground.
It's not always easy to resist negative peer pressure. But when you do, it is easy to feel good about it afterwards. And you may even be a positive influence on your peers who feel the same way --- often it just takes one person to speak out or take a different action to change a situation.
Question:
This passage is mainly about _ .
Choices:
A. thoughts on peer pressure
B. different types of peer pressure
C. ways to deal with peer pressure
D. the influence of peer pressure on people | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high4562.txt | Your peers are people your age or close to it who have experiences and interests similar to yours. You and your friends make dozens of decisions every day, and you influence each other's choices and behavior. This is often _ --- it's human nature to listen to and learn from other people in your age group.
Sometimes, though, the stresses in your life can actually come from your peers. They may pressure you into doing something you're uncomfortable with, such as shoplifting, doing drugs or drinking, or taking dangerous risks when driving a car.
The pressure to conform can be powerful and hard to resist. A person might feel pressure to do something just because others are doing it. Peer pressure can influence a person to do something that is relatively harmless--- or something that has more serious consequences.
People may feel pressure to conform, so they fit in or are accepted, or so they don't feel awkward or uncomfortable. When people are unsure of what to do in a social situation, they naturally look to others for cues about what is and isn't acceptable.
The people who are most easily influenced will follow someone else's lead first. Then others may go along, too --- so it can be easy to think, "It must be OK. Everyone else is doing it. They must know what they're doing." Before you know it, many people are going along with the crowd --- perhaps on something they might not otherwise do.
Responding to peer pressure is part of human nature --- but some people are more likely to give in, and others are better able to resist and stand their ground.
It's not always easy to resist negative peer pressure. But when you do, it is easy to feel good about it afterwards. And you may even be a positive influence on your peers who feel the same way --- often it just takes one person to speak out or take a different action to change a situation. | [
"thoughts on peer pressure",
"different types of peer pressure",
"ways to deal with peer pressure",
"the influence of peer pressure on people"
] |
How many six-figure numbers are there on the blackboard at last? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Anybody can learn to count fast if he knows the secret of following trick.
Ask your friend to write any five-figure number on the blackboard. Then you write your five-figure number under it. You choose your figures so that each one with the figure above it will make nine.
Tell your friend to put a third five-figure number under your number. Then you write a fourth number in the same way. After he has written the fifth number, you draw a line under it and quickly write the sum. . You may even write it from left to right..
How do you do it ? You take away two from the fifth number and put two in front of your answer. Is it interesting?
Question:
How many six-figure numbers are there on the blackboard at last?
Choices:
A. Three
B. One
C. Five
D. Four | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle4831.txt | Anybody can learn to count fast if he knows the secret of following trick.
Ask your friend to write any five-figure number on the blackboard. Then you write your five-figure number under it. You choose your figures so that each one with the figure above it will make nine.
Tell your friend to put a third five-figure number under your number. Then you write a fourth number in the same way. After he has written the fifth number, you draw a line under it and quickly write the sum. . You may even write it from left to right..
How do you do it ? You take away two from the fifth number and put two in front of your answer. Is it interesting? | [
"Three",
"One",
"Five",
"Four"
] |
The example of the cartoon book characters is taken in the passage to _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Forgiving someone who has hurt you or let you down is never an easy thing. Several new studies, however, say that it could have a lot of health benefits. When you think of forgiveness, you probably don't think of it as being a health or medical problem. Studies from Stanford University, on the other hand, show that something like anger can change your well-being.
When cartoon book characters like the incredible Hulk get angry, they change colours and often gain special power. In the real world, anger is less obvious and may be more dangerous. That's why Professor Fred Luskin, founder of the Stanford Forgiveness Project and author of Forgive for Good, says holding on to anger and hatred can harm your physical and mental health. Two new studies seem to show the same idea.
The studies find that people who are able to forgive feel less stress, less back pain, and less depression . They also have fewer headaches, lower blood pressure, and fewer problems on sleeping.
So it doesn't matter if your anger is caused by the traffic or other things. Learning to let it go is important. Techniques such as deep breath or thought can help. Or just ask yourself if it's worth hurting yourself by staying angry with someone else.
Forgiveness does not mean that you simply accept what happened and say it's OK. Instead, it's a way of making peace with yourself about what happened in the past.
Question:
The example of the cartoon book characters is taken in the passage to _ .
Choices:
A. support the viewpoint that anger and hatred harm physical and mental health.
B. introduce a famous expert.
C. let the reader know the different colours of cartoon faces.
D. show how to control one's temper. | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high1666.txt | Forgiving someone who has hurt you or let you down is never an easy thing. Several new studies, however, say that it could have a lot of health benefits. When you think of forgiveness, you probably don't think of it as being a health or medical problem. Studies from Stanford University, on the other hand, show that something like anger can change your well-being.
When cartoon book characters like the incredible Hulk get angry, they change colours and often gain special power. In the real world, anger is less obvious and may be more dangerous. That's why Professor Fred Luskin, founder of the Stanford Forgiveness Project and author of Forgive for Good, says holding on to anger and hatred can harm your physical and mental health. Two new studies seem to show the same idea.
The studies find that people who are able to forgive feel less stress, less back pain, and less depression . They also have fewer headaches, lower blood pressure, and fewer problems on sleeping.
So it doesn't matter if your anger is caused by the traffic or other things. Learning to let it go is important. Techniques such as deep breath or thought can help. Or just ask yourself if it's worth hurting yourself by staying angry with someone else.
Forgiveness does not mean that you simply accept what happened and say it's OK. Instead, it's a way of making peace with yourself about what happened in the past. | [
"support the viewpoint that anger and hatred harm physical and mental health.",
"introduce a famous expert.",
"let the reader know the different colours of cartoon faces.",
"show how to control one's temper."
] |
The passage suggests that _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Have you ever heard the old saying, "Never judge a book by its cover."? This is a good rule to follow when trying to judge the intelligence of others. Some people have minds that shine only in certain situations. A young man with an unusual gift in writing may find himself speechless before a pretty girl when he speaks. He may not be able to find the right words. But don't make the mistake of thinking him stupid. With a pen and paper, he can express himself better than anybody else.
Other people may fool you into overestimating their intelligence by putting up a good front. A student who listens attentively and takes notes in class is bound to make a favorable impression on his teachers. But when it comes to exams, he may score near the bottom of the class.
In a word, you can't judge someone by appearance. The only way to determine a person's intelligence is to get to know him. Then you can see how he reacts to different situations. The more situations you see, the better your judgment is likely to be. So take your time. Don't judge a book by its cover.
Question:
The passage suggests that _ .
Choices:
A. a good writer may not be a good speaker
B. a good writer is always a good speaker
C. a speechless person always writes well
D. a good writer will find himself speechless | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high10948.txt | Have you ever heard the old saying, "Never judge a book by its cover."? This is a good rule to follow when trying to judge the intelligence of others. Some people have minds that shine only in certain situations. A young man with an unusual gift in writing may find himself speechless before a pretty girl when he speaks. He may not be able to find the right words. But don't make the mistake of thinking him stupid. With a pen and paper, he can express himself better than anybody else.
Other people may fool you into overestimating their intelligence by putting up a good front. A student who listens attentively and takes notes in class is bound to make a favorable impression on his teachers. But when it comes to exams, he may score near the bottom of the class.
In a word, you can't judge someone by appearance. The only way to determine a person's intelligence is to get to know him. Then you can see how he reacts to different situations. The more situations you see, the better your judgment is likely to be. So take your time. Don't judge a book by its cover. | [
"a good writer may not be a good speaker",
"a good writer is always a good speaker",
"a speechless person always writes well",
"a good writer will find himself speechless"
] |
Lydia has a small pool she uses to bathe her dogs. When full, the pool holds 60 gallons of water. She fills her pool using the garden hose, which provides water at the rate of 1.6 gallons per minute. Unfortunately, her pool has a small hole that leaks water at a rate of 0.1 gallons per minute. How long will it take for her to fill the pool, in minutes? | With a garden hose that fills at a rate of 1.6 gallons per minute, and a hole that leaks at 0.1 gallons per minute, the net fill rate becomes 1.6-0.1=<<1.6-0.1=1.5>>1.5 gallons per minute.
Therefore, to fill a 60-gallon pool, it will take 60/1.5=<<60/1.5=40>>40 minutes.
#### 40 | Solve the following math problem and explain your reasoning step by step. | Lydia has a small pool she uses to bathe her dogs. When full, the pool holds 60 gallons of water. She fills her pool using the garden hose, which provides water at the rate of 1.6 gallons per minute. Unfortunately, her pool has a small hole that leaks water at a rate of 0.1 gallons per minute. How long will it take for her to fill the pool, in minutes? | With a garden hose that fills at a rate of 1.6 gallons per minute, and a hole that leaks at 0.1 gallons per minute, the net fill rate becomes 1.6-0.1=<<1.6-0.1=1.5>>1.5 gallons per minute.
Therefore, to fill a 60-gallon pool, it will take 60/1.5=<<60/1.5=40>>40 minutes.
#### 40 | math | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null |
What's the main idea of the article? | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Learn to relax. Overwork is the main reason why so many students feel tired and stressed . Cut down some of the jobs you need to do each day so that you can only focus on the most important things. Leave time for activities that are relaxing and fun. This might mean reading a good book, listening to the music, going for a walk or taking a relaxing bath.
Get a good night's sleep. Getting enough sleep will help you keep your body and mind in the best form. If you stay up late and need to get up early for school the next day, you may not be able to concentrate on the things you need to do.
Exercise regularly and eat well. Don't rush through your meals. Eat less junk food or fast food. Eat healthy food instead.
Get to know pleasant people. Some people are _ , while others not. Choose optimistic people as your friends and spend more time with them and you'll be as happy as them.
Learn to be calm when you face any problem. Find out the best option from those that are in your mind. Knowing that you are able to solve problems is a good way to build up your self-confidence .
Have a happy attitude . Your attitude decides the way you see things. Is your cup half full or half empty? Learn to think more positively about the difficulties you face.
Question:
What's the main idea of the article?
Choices:
A. Don't work or study too hard.
B. What kind of relaxing activities can we do?
C. Getting enough sleep, exercising regularly and eating healthily are very important.
D. How to feel relaxed and happy under the stress of study and work. | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle6936.txt | Learn to relax. Overwork is the main reason why so many students feel tired and stressed . Cut down some of the jobs you need to do each day so that you can only focus on the most important things. Leave time for activities that are relaxing and fun. This might mean reading a good book, listening to the music, going for a walk or taking a relaxing bath.
Get a good night's sleep. Getting enough sleep will help you keep your body and mind in the best form. If you stay up late and need to get up early for school the next day, you may not be able to concentrate on the things you need to do.
Exercise regularly and eat well. Don't rush through your meals. Eat less junk food or fast food. Eat healthy food instead.
Get to know pleasant people. Some people are _ , while others not. Choose optimistic people as your friends and spend more time with them and you'll be as happy as them.
Learn to be calm when you face any problem. Find out the best option from those that are in your mind. Knowing that you are able to solve problems is a good way to build up your self-confidence .
Have a happy attitude . Your attitude decides the way you see things. Is your cup half full or half empty? Learn to think more positively about the difficulties you face. | [
"Don't work or study too hard.",
"What kind of relaxing activities can we do?",
"Getting enough sleep, exercising regularly and eating healthily are very important.",
"How to feel relaxed and happy under the stress of study and work."
] |
Cell membranes are described as selectively permeable. Four students were asked to explain what this means and provided the answers given below.Student 1: Cell membranes prevent all materials from entering the cell.Student 2: Cell membranes only provide structural support for the cell.Student 3: Cell membranes regulate which substances can enter and exit the cell.Student 4: Cell membranes allow water and water-soluble substances to enter the cell.Which student correctly identified the function of the selectively permeable membrane? | null | Answer this science question and explain your reasoning. | Cell membranes are described as selectively permeable. Four students were asked to explain what this means and provided the answers given below.Student 1: Cell membranes prevent all materials from entering the cell.Student 2: Cell membranes only provide structural support for the cell.Student 3: Cell membranes regulate which substances can enter and exit the cell.Student 4: Cell membranes allow water and water-soluble substances to enter the cell.Which student correctly identified the function of the selectively permeable membrane?
Choices:
A. Student 1
B. Student 2
C. Student 3
D. Student 4 | Correct answer: C | science | Mercury_7219905 | {
"text": [
"Student 1",
"Student 2",
"Student 3",
"Student 4"
],
"label": [
"A",
"B",
"C",
"D"
]
} | C | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null |
Is the yellow hat John's or Tom's? | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
There are four hats. They are red, yellow, green and white. They are Mike's, Bill's, Tom's and John's. Tom's hat is not yellow, green or red. John's hat is not green. And Mike's hat is not yellow or green. What color are their hats?
,.
Question:
Is the yellow hat John's or Tom's?
Choices:
A. It's John's.
B. It's Tom's.
C. It's Mike's.
D. It's Bill's. | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle6547.txt | There are four hats. They are red, yellow, green and white. They are Mike's, Bill's, Tom's and John's. Tom's hat is not yellow, green or red. John's hat is not green. And Mike's hat is not yellow or green. What color are their hats?
,. | [
"It's John's.",
"It's Tom's.",
"It's Mike's.",
"It's Bill's."
] |
As a graduate from university this year, you can probably get a job as _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
TOSHIBA ELEVATORS LTD is one of the leading elevator companies in the world with more than 120 branch companies around the globe. SHENYANG TOSHIBA ELEVATORS LTD in Shenyang produces high-quality elevators. We are offering the following positions:
* Plant Manager: Excellent Senior Engineer with experience in this field to manage our plant in Shenyang
* Senior Engineers (Mechanical and Electrical): For production and Engineering Department, good command of Internet
* Junior positions: For those who wish for success
* One purchaser : Preferably with experience in a mechanical engineering company and international markets
* Cost Accountant : 5 years experience in mechanical factory costing, good knowledge in Office 2000, CET level. For these senior level Positions, we expect preferably a university degree or an excellent job record. 3-5 years of experience on the job and good command of English. If you are ready to work with us, we will offer attractive salary packet and bright future.
SHENYANG TOSHIBA ELEVATORS LTD
Shenyang (024-82846556) Liaoning Province
TOWER DAIRY PRODUCT COMPANY LTD is a well-known food company in Suzhou. We're offering the following positions:
(1) Secretary
* University graduate
* Good at English speaking, writing&translating
* Good PC knowledge and typing skill
* Pleasant character with good personal skill
(2) Accountants
* College or university graduate
* Good command of English and PC operation
* Work experience
(3) Production Trainees
* College or university graduate
* Food engineering/machinery or chemistry
* Good command of English
* 1-2 years experience in food factory
* Leadership ability and PC knowledge
(4) Production workers
* Polytechnic school graduate
* Food technology or chemistry
* Knowledge of basic English
*1-2 years experience in food factory
TOWER DAIRY PRODUCT COMPANY LTD
Suzhou (0512-86734157) Jiangsu Province
Question:
As a graduate from university this year, you can probably get a job as _ .
Choices:
A. a cost accountant in TOSHIBA
B. a purchaser in TOSHIBA
C. a secretary in TOWER
D. an accountant in TOWER | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high23203.txt | TOSHIBA ELEVATORS LTD is one of the leading elevator companies in the world with more than 120 branch companies around the globe. SHENYANG TOSHIBA ELEVATORS LTD in Shenyang produces high-quality elevators. We are offering the following positions:
* Plant Manager: Excellent Senior Engineer with experience in this field to manage our plant in Shenyang
* Senior Engineers (Mechanical and Electrical): For production and Engineering Department, good command of Internet
* Junior positions: For those who wish for success
* One purchaser : Preferably with experience in a mechanical engineering company and international markets
* Cost Accountant : 5 years experience in mechanical factory costing, good knowledge in Office 2000, CET level. For these senior level Positions, we expect preferably a university degree or an excellent job record. 3-5 years of experience on the job and good command of English. If you are ready to work with us, we will offer attractive salary packet and bright future.
SHENYANG TOSHIBA ELEVATORS LTD
Shenyang (024-82846556) Liaoning Province
TOWER DAIRY PRODUCT COMPANY LTD is a well-known food company in Suzhou. We're offering the following positions:
(1) Secretary
* University graduate
* Good at English speaking, writing&translating
* Good PC knowledge and typing skill
* Pleasant character with good personal skill
(2) Accountants
* College or university graduate
* Good command of English and PC operation
* Work experience
(3) Production Trainees
* College or university graduate
* Food engineering/machinery or chemistry
* Good command of English
* 1-2 years experience in food factory
* Leadership ability and PC knowledge
(4) Production workers
* Polytechnic school graduate
* Food technology or chemistry
* Knowledge of basic English
*1-2 years experience in food factory
TOWER DAIRY PRODUCT COMPANY LTD
Suzhou (0512-86734157) Jiangsu Province | [
"a cost accountant in TOSHIBA",
"a purchaser in TOSHIBA",
"a secretary in TOWER",
"an accountant in TOWER"
] |
Could the thief find any money? _ | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Balzac was a great French writer. But he was very poor before he became famous. He lived in a dirty, wet room and was often worried about food. All his friends were very poor and they could not help him.
One night it was very cold. The wind blew and it was snowing heavily. Balzac went to bed early but couldn't fall asleep. He didn't get any food before he went to bed. He thought and thought, but he couldn't have a good idea. At midnight he saw a man climb in through the broken window. The man began to steal something on his bookshelf. Balzac got up quietly and said, "Don't waste time, my friend! I couldn't find any money in the daytime. How can you find some in the dark?"
Question:
Could the thief find any money? _
Choices:
A. Yes, he could.
B. No, he couldn't.
C. Maybe.
D. I don't know. | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle570.txt | Balzac was a great French writer. But he was very poor before he became famous. He lived in a dirty, wet room and was often worried about food. All his friends were very poor and they could not help him.
One night it was very cold. The wind blew and it was snowing heavily. Balzac went to bed early but couldn't fall asleep. He didn't get any food before he went to bed. He thought and thought, but he couldn't have a good idea. At midnight he saw a man climb in through the broken window. The man began to steal something on his bookshelf. Balzac got up quietly and said, "Don't waste time, my friend! I couldn't find any money in the daytime. How can you find some in the dark?" | [
"Yes, he could.",
"No, he couldn't.",
"Maybe.",
"I don't know."
] |
You are most likely to gain too much weight if _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Doctors say obesity,also known as severe overweight,is a complex condition.A doctor may advise medical interventions in addition to changes in behavior.But experts say the more successful weightloss plans include a wellbalanced diet and exercise.
People who want to avoid weight gain have to balance the number of calories they eat with the number of calories they use.To lose weight,you can reduce the number of calories you take in,or increase the number you use,or both.Experts at the National Institutes of Health say to lose weight,a person should do some moderate or intensive physical exercise most days of the week.This could include fast walking,sports or strength training.
A recent study looked at four of the most popular dieting plans in the United States.Researchers at Stanford University studied more than three hundred overweight women,mostly in their thirties or forties.Each woman went on one of the four plans:Atkins,The Zone,Ornish or LEARN.The women attended diet classes and received written information about the food plans.At the end of a year,the women on the Atkins diet had lost the most,more than four and a half kilograms on average.
Christopher Gardner led the study,reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association. He said the Atkins diet may be more successful because of its simple message to lower the intake of sugar.Also,he said the advice to increase protein in the diet leads to more satisfying meals.
But last week,another report suggested that only a small minority of people have longterm success in dieting.Researchers at the University of California found that most dieters regained their lost weight within five years.And often they gained back even more.But those who kept the weight off generally were the ones who exercised.
Question:
You are most likely to gain too much weight if _ .
Choices:
A. you eat the same number of calories as the number you use
B. you take in less calories than the number you use
C. you take in more calories than the number you use
D. you take exercise regularly on the weekdays | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high6435.txt | Doctors say obesity,also known as severe overweight,is a complex condition.A doctor may advise medical interventions in addition to changes in behavior.But experts say the more successful weightloss plans include a wellbalanced diet and exercise.
People who want to avoid weight gain have to balance the number of calories they eat with the number of calories they use.To lose weight,you can reduce the number of calories you take in,or increase the number you use,or both.Experts at the National Institutes of Health say to lose weight,a person should do some moderate or intensive physical exercise most days of the week.This could include fast walking,sports or strength training.
A recent study looked at four of the most popular dieting plans in the United States.Researchers at Stanford University studied more than three hundred overweight women,mostly in their thirties or forties.Each woman went on one of the four plans:Atkins,The Zone,Ornish or LEARN.The women attended diet classes and received written information about the food plans.At the end of a year,the women on the Atkins diet had lost the most,more than four and a half kilograms on average.
Christopher Gardner led the study,reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association. He said the Atkins diet may be more successful because of its simple message to lower the intake of sugar.Also,he said the advice to increase protein in the diet leads to more satisfying meals.
But last week,another report suggested that only a small minority of people have longterm success in dieting.Researchers at the University of California found that most dieters regained their lost weight within five years.And often they gained back even more.But those who kept the weight off generally were the ones who exercised. | [
"you eat the same number of calories as the number you use",
"you take in less calories than the number you use",
"you take in more calories than the number you use",
"you take exercise regularly on the weekdays"
] |
One purpose of the writer in writing the passage is _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
After successfully serving their term for 4 years, military service men and women are given the choice to stay in the military of return to civilian life.
For some, having to readjust to civilian life is one of the mist challenging assignments our returning soldiers and marines will ever to undertake. While people may think readjusting should be simple, they must take into consideration of all physical and mental stress our servicemen went through.
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder ,or PTSD, is a mental disorder that can occur following the experience or witnessing of life-threatening events such as military combat .
Most survivors of trauma return to normal given a little time. In the military, the marines are given a two-week course on how to return to civilian life.
Unfortunately, some will have stress reactions that do not go away on their own, or may even get worse over time. These individual may develop PTSD.
People who suffer from PTSD have difficulty sleeping because they are often reliving the experience through nightmares and flashbacks, and feel deserted or often stand off, and these symptoms can be severe enough an dlast long enough to significantly damage the person's daily life.
Fullerton College, like most colleges, has its own Veteran's Office. Ray Bustos has been running the office for 3 years. Bustos acts as a liaison for the school and the veteran students. He makes sure the veterans returning to school get the right benefits. There are various types of financial aid for soldiers and marines. He strongly encourages the use of the Veteran Affairs website.
The website is very informative and extremely helpful for veterans as well as for friends and s of veterans who want to learn more.
Question:
One purpose of the writer in writing the passage is _ .
Choices:
A. to introduce some methods to cure PTSD
B. to instruct PTSD patients to return to civilian life
C. to recommend a website to veterans and people concerned
D. to give military service men and women advice on civilian life | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high20119.txt | After successfully serving their term for 4 years, military service men and women are given the choice to stay in the military of return to civilian life.
For some, having to readjust to civilian life is one of the mist challenging assignments our returning soldiers and marines will ever to undertake. While people may think readjusting should be simple, they must take into consideration of all physical and mental stress our servicemen went through.
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder ,or PTSD, is a mental disorder that can occur following the experience or witnessing of life-threatening events such as military combat .
Most survivors of trauma return to normal given a little time. In the military, the marines are given a two-week course on how to return to civilian life.
Unfortunately, some will have stress reactions that do not go away on their own, or may even get worse over time. These individual may develop PTSD.
People who suffer from PTSD have difficulty sleeping because they are often reliving the experience through nightmares and flashbacks, and feel deserted or often stand off, and these symptoms can be severe enough an dlast long enough to significantly damage the person's daily life.
Fullerton College, like most colleges, has its own Veteran's Office. Ray Bustos has been running the office for 3 years. Bustos acts as a liaison for the school and the veteran students. He makes sure the veterans returning to school get the right benefits. There are various types of financial aid for soldiers and marines. He strongly encourages the use of the Veteran Affairs website.
The website is very informative and extremely helpful for veterans as well as for friends and s of veterans who want to learn more. | [
"to introduce some methods to cure PTSD",
"to instruct PTSD patients to return to civilian life",
"to recommend a website to veterans and people concerned",
"to give military service men and women advice on civilian life"
] |
If a young man plans to control his own life, it's better for him to _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
It is natural that young people are often uncomfortable when they are with their parents. They say that their parents don't understand them. They often think that their parents are out of touch with modern ways: that that they are too serious and too strict with their children; and they seldom give their children a free hand.
It is true that parents often find it difficult to win their children's trust and they are easy to forget how they themselves felt when young.
For example, young people like to act right away without much thinking. It is one of their ways to show that they have grown up and they can face any difficult situation. Older people worry more easily. Most of them plan things ahead, at least in their minds, and do not like their plans to be upset by something unexpected.
When you want your parents to let you do something, you will have better success, if you ask before you really start doing it.
Young people often make their parents angry with their choices in clothes, in entertainment and in music. But they do not mean to cause any trouble; it is just that they feel cut off from the older people's world, into which they have not yet been accepted. That's why young people want to make a new culture of their own. And if their parents like their music of entertainment or clothes or their ways of speech, this will make young people especially happy.
Sometimes you are so proud of yourself that you do not want your parents to say "yes" to what you do. All you want is to be left alone and do what you like. It is natural enough, after being a child for so many years, when you were completely under your parents' control.
If you plan to control your life, you'd better win your parents over and try to get them to understand you. If your parents see that you have a high sense of responsibility, they will certainly give you the right to do what you want to do.
Question:
If a young man plans to control his own life, it's better for him to _ .
Choices:
A. do everything according to his own wish
B. do everything the way his parents do
C. do everything under his parents' control
D. do everything with a high sense of responsibility | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high192.txt | It is natural that young people are often uncomfortable when they are with their parents. They say that their parents don't understand them. They often think that their parents are out of touch with modern ways: that that they are too serious and too strict with their children; and they seldom give their children a free hand.
It is true that parents often find it difficult to win their children's trust and they are easy to forget how they themselves felt when young.
For example, young people like to act right away without much thinking. It is one of their ways to show that they have grown up and they can face any difficult situation. Older people worry more easily. Most of them plan things ahead, at least in their minds, and do not like their plans to be upset by something unexpected.
When you want your parents to let you do something, you will have better success, if you ask before you really start doing it.
Young people often make their parents angry with their choices in clothes, in entertainment and in music. But they do not mean to cause any trouble; it is just that they feel cut off from the older people's world, into which they have not yet been accepted. That's why young people want to make a new culture of their own. And if their parents like their music of entertainment or clothes or their ways of speech, this will make young people especially happy.
Sometimes you are so proud of yourself that you do not want your parents to say "yes" to what you do. All you want is to be left alone and do what you like. It is natural enough, after being a child for so many years, when you were completely under your parents' control.
If you plan to control your life, you'd better win your parents over and try to get them to understand you. If your parents see that you have a high sense of responsibility, they will certainly give you the right to do what you want to do. | [
"do everything according to his own wish",
"do everything the way his parents do",
"do everything under his parents' control",
"do everything with a high sense of responsibility"
] |
A chef has served 58 adults, 35 fewer children than the number of adults, and twice as many seniors as children. What is the total number of guests served? | The chef has served 58 - 35 = <<58-35=23>>23 children.
The chef has served 23 x 2 = <<23*2=46>>46 seniors.
Therefore, the total number of guests that the chef has served is 58 + 23 + 46 = <<58+23+46=127>>127.
#### 127 | Solve the following math problem and explain your reasoning step by step. | A chef has served 58 adults, 35 fewer children than the number of adults, and twice as many seniors as children. What is the total number of guests served? | The chef has served 58 - 35 = <<58-35=23>>23 children.
The chef has served 23 x 2 = <<23*2=46>>46 seniors.
Therefore, the total number of guests that the chef has served is 58 + 23 + 46 = <<58+23+46=127>>127.
#### 127 | math | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null |
Pathogenic prokaryotes usually cause illness by producing what? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | Pathogenic prokaryotes usually cause illness by producing what? | poisons | science | null | null | null | organisms | ions | insects | poisons | null | null | null | |
Larry wants to be _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
I'm Larry. I'm really good at selling things. I also love helping people. But I'm not so good at solving problems. I think I'd like to be a salesman or detective .
I'm Anita. I really like doing things with my hands. I also enjoy working with wood. I don't enjoy working in the same place every day, and I hate being in noisy places. I think I'd like to be a factory worker or a carpenter .
I'm Jill. I'm good at explaining things and I really like children. I can't stand working long hours. I think I'd like to be a doctor or a teacher.
I'm Maria. I'm really interested in meeting people, and I enjoy wearing different clothes every day. I'm not so good at organizing my time and I can't stand computers. I am going to be a model.
I'm Jim. I enjoy helping people, but I can't stand working nights and weekends. I want to be a nurse or a social worker.
Question:
Larry wants to be _ .
Choices:
A. a worker or a teacher
B. a nurse or a doctor
C. a salesman or a detective
D. a model or a carpenter | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle6337.txt | I'm Larry. I'm really good at selling things. I also love helping people. But I'm not so good at solving problems. I think I'd like to be a salesman or detective .
I'm Anita. I really like doing things with my hands. I also enjoy working with wood. I don't enjoy working in the same place every day, and I hate being in noisy places. I think I'd like to be a factory worker or a carpenter .
I'm Jill. I'm good at explaining things and I really like children. I can't stand working long hours. I think I'd like to be a doctor or a teacher.
I'm Maria. I'm really interested in meeting people, and I enjoy wearing different clothes every day. I'm not so good at organizing my time and I can't stand computers. I am going to be a model.
I'm Jim. I enjoy helping people, but I can't stand working nights and weekends. I want to be a nurse or a social worker. | [
"a worker or a teacher",
"a nurse or a doctor",
"a salesman or a detective",
"a model or a carpenter"
] |
What's the main idea of the passage? | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Change is one of the common facts of life. Most of us have seen a number of changes in our own lives from simple things like fashion trends and entertainment to big changes in technology.
Language, too, has experienced change and continues to develop. The continuous change is what keeps languages alive.
Slang is a way in which languages can transform and are renewed. Slang is the use of informal words and expressions that are not considered standard in a language. Some consider slang to be witty and clever, adding spice to the informal written and spoken language. Walt Whitman described slang as "the start of imagination and humor, breathing into its nostrils the breath of life". However, others criticize its use, believing that it weakens the language.
The spoken English language of today's younger generation is filled with slang words and expressions. These lively words and phrases are an example of how language plants its own seeds of change that develop within social circumstances.
Sometimes slang is the use of a word that is already in the standard dictionary, for example, lift (to pick up or raise) is given a new meaning, such as "to steal"; or hunk (a large piece of something) has now become "a handsome man". Other times, slang is an invented word, such as chocoholic, which means "a person who loves chocolate". Other invented words are mula, which means "money" and airhead, which means "a person who is stupid".
Now, you'll understand your friends if they say something like, "I was such an airhead to think that I could get away with lifting a whole box of chocolates from the store just because I was all out of mula."
Question:
What's the main idea of the passage?
Choices:
A. An introduction to slang.
B. The change of language.
C. The use of slang.
D. The origin of slang. | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high23748.txt | Change is one of the common facts of life. Most of us have seen a number of changes in our own lives from simple things like fashion trends and entertainment to big changes in technology.
Language, too, has experienced change and continues to develop. The continuous change is what keeps languages alive.
Slang is a way in which languages can transform and are renewed. Slang is the use of informal words and expressions that are not considered standard in a language. Some consider slang to be witty and clever, adding spice to the informal written and spoken language. Walt Whitman described slang as "the start of imagination and humor, breathing into its nostrils the breath of life". However, others criticize its use, believing that it weakens the language.
The spoken English language of today's younger generation is filled with slang words and expressions. These lively words and phrases are an example of how language plants its own seeds of change that develop within social circumstances.
Sometimes slang is the use of a word that is already in the standard dictionary, for example, lift (to pick up or raise) is given a new meaning, such as "to steal"; or hunk (a large piece of something) has now become "a handsome man". Other times, slang is an invented word, such as chocoholic, which means "a person who loves chocolate". Other invented words are mula, which means "money" and airhead, which means "a person who is stupid".
Now, you'll understand your friends if they say something like, "I was such an airhead to think that I could get away with lifting a whole box of chocolates from the store just because I was all out of mula." | [
"An introduction to slang.",
"The change of language.",
"The use of slang.",
"The origin of slang."
] |
How many ways to stop the virus are mentioned in the passage? | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Last March, the H7N9 virus hit Shanghai, Anhui, Jiangsu, Zhejiang and so on. It seemed that most people who were infected with H7N9 had the common flu . Some people suffered from a fever or a cough.
Don't be afraid--it's not easy to be infected with the virus. Here is some advice to help you protect yourself when it comes.
Wash your hands. You need to wash your hands with soap and hot water before you eat, after you use the toilet, and after you touch animals, because your hands may carry viruses.
Cover your nose and mouth. When someone sneezes or coughs, flu viruses can travel as far as one meter through the air, so you'd better stand a proper distance while talking to someone who has a cold. And always cover your mouth and nose with a piece of paper when you sneeze or cough, and then clean your hands.
Wear a mask . Some doctors say that masks can stop the flu as much as 80%, but if
you don't wash your hands often, it's no use wearing a mask. And it's necessary to wear the mask in the groups of people.
Do sports often. Exercises will help make your body strong enough to resist the virus.
Question:
How many ways to stop the virus are mentioned in the passage?
Choices:
A. Three.
B. six
C. Five.
D. Four. | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high18222.txt | Last March, the H7N9 virus hit Shanghai, Anhui, Jiangsu, Zhejiang and so on. It seemed that most people who were infected with H7N9 had the common flu . Some people suffered from a fever or a cough.
Don't be afraid--it's not easy to be infected with the virus. Here is some advice to help you protect yourself when it comes.
Wash your hands. You need to wash your hands with soap and hot water before you eat, after you use the toilet, and after you touch animals, because your hands may carry viruses.
Cover your nose and mouth. When someone sneezes or coughs, flu viruses can travel as far as one meter through the air, so you'd better stand a proper distance while talking to someone who has a cold. And always cover your mouth and nose with a piece of paper when you sneeze or cough, and then clean your hands.
Wear a mask . Some doctors say that masks can stop the flu as much as 80%, but if
you don't wash your hands often, it's no use wearing a mask. And it's necessary to wear the mask in the groups of people.
Do sports often. Exercises will help make your body strong enough to resist the virus. | [
"Three.",
"six",
"Five.",
"Four."
] |
While making friends, children exclude those of social deficit model to _ . | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Washington: A research conducted at the University of Maryland looks at the numerous complex reasons as to why young children decide to include or exclude other kids from their group of friends.
It suggests that the kids' decision-making process is much more complex than previously believed.
"They take into account group information, ranging from cliques and networks, when deciding what makes a group work well. Sometimes kids are excluded because they lack social skills, but a lot of time it has nothing to do with that. Instead it has to do with what we refer to as 'group membership' such as gender, race, nation, and culture," says Professor Melanie Killen, the Associate Director of the Centre for Children Relationships and Culture at Maryland, who led the 4-year project.
Reporting their findings in the journal, the researcher said whatever was the reason, individuals who experienced long-term exclusion from the group of friends suffered from depression, anxiety and loneliness.
The study looked at two models to define how children make decisions regarding acceptance of other kids in their group -- the individual social _ model and the inter-group social cognition model. While the former says that children's rejection occurs due to social deficits like shyness, wariness or fearfulness, the latter says that it happens because of group dynamics, prejudice and exclusion.
It was also found that the age of children was also a factor that influenced their decisions regarding other kids' acceptance as friends.
"With age, kids become more aware of group dynamics, conventions, customs, and rituals. With this comes a greater concern about group functioning, which can lead to exclusion which can be negative from a social justice viewpoint," says Killen.
The researcher believes that her study may have many benefits, as it could provide insights into how to help when children are rejected by their peers.
Question:
While making friends, children exclude those of social deficit model to _ .
Choices:
A. keep their groups purer
B. make their groups more socially powerful
C. refuse other customs and cultures
D. prove their groups to be strict | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high15355.txt | Washington: A research conducted at the University of Maryland looks at the numerous complex reasons as to why young children decide to include or exclude other kids from their group of friends.
It suggests that the kids' decision-making process is much more complex than previously believed.
"They take into account group information, ranging from cliques and networks, when deciding what makes a group work well. Sometimes kids are excluded because they lack social skills, but a lot of time it has nothing to do with that. Instead it has to do with what we refer to as 'group membership' such as gender, race, nation, and culture," says Professor Melanie Killen, the Associate Director of the Centre for Children Relationships and Culture at Maryland, who led the 4-year project.
Reporting their findings in the journal, the researcher said whatever was the reason, individuals who experienced long-term exclusion from the group of friends suffered from depression, anxiety and loneliness.
The study looked at two models to define how children make decisions regarding acceptance of other kids in their group -- the individual social _ model and the inter-group social cognition model. While the former says that children's rejection occurs due to social deficits like shyness, wariness or fearfulness, the latter says that it happens because of group dynamics, prejudice and exclusion.
It was also found that the age of children was also a factor that influenced their decisions regarding other kids' acceptance as friends.
"With age, kids become more aware of group dynamics, conventions, customs, and rituals. With this comes a greater concern about group functioning, which can lead to exclusion which can be negative from a social justice viewpoint," says Killen.
The researcher believes that her study may have many benefits, as it could provide insights into how to help when children are rejected by their peers. | [
"keep their groups purer",
"make their groups more socially powerful",
"refuse other customs and cultures",
"prove their groups to be strict"
] |
This passage is mainly about _ . | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
One afternoon, after finishing shopping in a supermarket, my family and I went to the checkout. I suddenly thought we didn't need any of the junk, and we abandoned all of those, saving $300.
That got me thinking about all our pointless expenses in life. With a promise that we'd stop if it was killing us, I convinced the family to take the leap into frugality . The rules were that we would buy nothing for 30 days except absolutely essentials.
Our adventure began with a great start. By 9 a.m., my wife, Ruth, had already made cakes from old strawberries and picked flowers I didn't even know we had in the garden. I cleared the car by hand for the first time for years. I read and returned the neighbor's newspaper before he woke up. Total spending on the first day: $0.
As days turned into weeks, we became so proficient at living frugally. We started riding our bikes to save gas. My child's finger painting was recycled as gift wrap for the homemade presents. We started to use an Internet application like Skype for free phone calls and ask neighbors with gardens for extra vegetables and herbs.
In the end, we saved more than $2000 by not spending for a month. When we began, I imagined we would rush out the moment we were done and buy a lot of things in the supermarket, then maybe hit the mall or go to the movies.
Question:
This passage is mainly about _ .
Choices:
A. how a family managed their daily life
B. a family's no-buying try
C. a family's way of solving life problems
D. how a new idea came up | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high14761.txt | One afternoon, after finishing shopping in a supermarket, my family and I went to the checkout. I suddenly thought we didn't need any of the junk, and we abandoned all of those, saving $300.
That got me thinking about all our pointless expenses in life. With a promise that we'd stop if it was killing us, I convinced the family to take the leap into frugality . The rules were that we would buy nothing for 30 days except absolutely essentials.
Our adventure began with a great start. By 9 a.m., my wife, Ruth, had already made cakes from old strawberries and picked flowers I didn't even know we had in the garden. I cleared the car by hand for the first time for years. I read and returned the neighbor's newspaper before he woke up. Total spending on the first day: $0.
As days turned into weeks, we became so proficient at living frugally. We started riding our bikes to save gas. My child's finger painting was recycled as gift wrap for the homemade presents. We started to use an Internet application like Skype for free phone calls and ask neighbors with gardens for extra vegetables and herbs.
In the end, we saved more than $2000 by not spending for a month. When we began, I imagined we would rush out the moment we were done and buy a lot of things in the supermarket, then maybe hit the mall or go to the movies. | [
"how a family managed their daily life",
"a family's no-buying try",
"a family's way of solving life problems",
"how a new idea came up"
] |
When was paper first made in southern Europe? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
How much paper do you use every year? Maybe you can't answer this question quickly. In 1900 the world's use of paper was about one kilogram for each person in a year. Now some countries use 50 kilograms of paper for each person in a year. But countries like America, England and Sweden certainly use more paper than other countries.
Paper was first made in China about 2000 years ago. It was made from the hair-like parts of certain plants. Paper was not made in southern Europe until about the year 1100. In 1500, a German named Schaeffer found out that one could make the best paper from trees. After that the forest countries of Canada, Sweden, America, Finland became the most important ones in paper making.
When we think of paper, we think of newspapers, books and writing paper. But there are many other uses. Only half of the paper is used for books and things like that. Paper is very good for keeping you warm. Houses are often insulated(, ) with paper. You may see some men asleep on a large number of newspapers. They're insulating themselves from the cold. In Finland the temperature is sometimes -40 centigrade (C). The farmers wear paper boots in the snow. Nothing could be warmer.
Each year more and more things are made of paper. We have had paper cups and plates for a long time. But now we hear that chairs, tables and even beds can be made of paper. With paper boots and shoes, you can wear paper hats, paper dresses and paper raincoats. When you have used them away and buy new ones. People have made paper boats, but they haven't made paper planes or cars. Just wait they perhaps will.
Question:
When was paper first made in southern Europe?
Choices:
A. 2000 years ago
B. In 1100
C. In 1500
D. In 1900 | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high7702.txt | How much paper do you use every year? Maybe you can't answer this question quickly. In 1900 the world's use of paper was about one kilogram for each person in a year. Now some countries use 50 kilograms of paper for each person in a year. But countries like America, England and Sweden certainly use more paper than other countries.
Paper was first made in China about 2000 years ago. It was made from the hair-like parts of certain plants. Paper was not made in southern Europe until about the year 1100. In 1500, a German named Schaeffer found out that one could make the best paper from trees. After that the forest countries of Canada, Sweden, America, Finland became the most important ones in paper making.
When we think of paper, we think of newspapers, books and writing paper. But there are many other uses. Only half of the paper is used for books and things like that. Paper is very good for keeping you warm. Houses are often insulated(, ) with paper. You may see some men asleep on a large number of newspapers. They're insulating themselves from the cold. In Finland the temperature is sometimes -40 centigrade (C). The farmers wear paper boots in the snow. Nothing could be warmer.
Each year more and more things are made of paper. We have had paper cups and plates for a long time. But now we hear that chairs, tables and even beds can be made of paper. With paper boots and shoes, you can wear paper hats, paper dresses and paper raincoats. When you have used them away and buy new ones. People have made paper boats, but they haven't made paper planes or cars. Just wait they perhaps will. | [
"2000 years ago",
"In 1100",
"In 1500",
"In 1900"
] |
Micah drank 1.5 liters of water in the morning. Then she drank three times that much water in the afternoon. How many liters of water did she drink from the morning until the afternoon? | Micah drank 1.5 x 3 = <<1.5*3=4.5>>4.5 liters in the afternoon.
She drank a total of 1.5 + 4.5 = <<1.5+4.5=6>>6 liters of water.
#### 6 | Solve the following math problem and explain your reasoning step by step. | Micah drank 1.5 liters of water in the morning. Then she drank three times that much water in the afternoon. How many liters of water did she drink from the morning until the afternoon? | Micah drank 1.5 x 3 = <<1.5*3=4.5>>4.5 liters in the afternoon.
She drank a total of 1.5 + 4.5 = <<1.5+4.5=6>>6 liters of water.
#### 6 | math | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null |
According to this passage, which of the following is suggested about the good health habits? | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Good posture certainly shows good health. It also adds to a body's energy and beauty. The body is not handsome when the back is bent and neck thrusts forward. Bad posture suggests the impression that a person is tired,lacking in energy,bored,or weak. Tiredness may sometimes be the cause of bad posture. Most often,however,it is due to careless and poor health habits. Whatever it causes,bad posture affects one physically. The muscles are stretched and pulled into unnatural positions,which can lead to poor base of the body's various systems.
Nutrition is the study of how the body takes food and uses it. This science provides information about the kinds of food a person must eat to improve and maintain good health. Such knowledge helps him develop and form people habits to his problems of healthful living. People habits of nutrition can be developed by paying attention to:(1) the variety of food included in the diet;(2) the quality of each kind of food eaten. A diet,or the food regularly eaten,must contain all the necessary factors.
Many physicians believe that overweight is one of the greatest dangers to good health. This condition often leads to a shorter life. An overweight person is also easier to suffer disease, and various disorders of the digestive system. A person's weight directly has something to do with the amounts of food he eats.
All foods can make a person fat if too much is eaten. In reducing,the safe weight loss is about two pounds a week. The sensible way to lose weight is to decrease the gaining starchy foods,fats and sweets in the diet.
Question:
According to this passage, which of the following is suggested about the good health habits?
Choices:
A. Good way of holding your body.
B. Balanced food.
C. Right body weight.
D. All of the above. | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high1061.txt | Good posture certainly shows good health. It also adds to a body's energy and beauty. The body is not handsome when the back is bent and neck thrusts forward. Bad posture suggests the impression that a person is tired,lacking in energy,bored,or weak. Tiredness may sometimes be the cause of bad posture. Most often,however,it is due to careless and poor health habits. Whatever it causes,bad posture affects one physically. The muscles are stretched and pulled into unnatural positions,which can lead to poor base of the body's various systems.
Nutrition is the study of how the body takes food and uses it. This science provides information about the kinds of food a person must eat to improve and maintain good health. Such knowledge helps him develop and form people habits to his problems of healthful living. People habits of nutrition can be developed by paying attention to:(1) the variety of food included in the diet;(2) the quality of each kind of food eaten. A diet,or the food regularly eaten,must contain all the necessary factors.
Many physicians believe that overweight is one of the greatest dangers to good health. This condition often leads to a shorter life. An overweight person is also easier to suffer disease, and various disorders of the digestive system. A person's weight directly has something to do with the amounts of food he eats.
All foods can make a person fat if too much is eaten. In reducing,the safe weight loss is about two pounds a week. The sensible way to lose weight is to decrease the gaining starchy foods,fats and sweets in the diet. | [
"Good way of holding your body.",
"Balanced food.",
"Right body weight.",
"All of the above."
] |
If you want to learn more information about family-friendly activities, please visit _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Fiji is a beautiful country which consists of many islands. It's located in the South Pacific and it's famous for its beautiful scenery. Here are some family resorts for you.
Shangri-La's Fijian Resort &Spa, Yanuca Island (4.5stars)
Hitting the top spot once again is the worthy Shangri-La's Fijian Resort and Spa, Situated on its own private island, the resort is an easy 45 minutes by road from the airport. Idyllic island landscapes of tropical gardens and white sand beaches, with swimming right off shore, wait for the visitors. Kids stay and eat free, making the Shangri-la an affordable tropical stay.
www. shangri-la.com
The Naviti Resort, Coral Coast(4 stars)
Located on the famous Coral Coast, this resort is popular with Australian families looking for value and quality. Kids rule at the Rugg Rats Club while there are also specialized teenager activities that will keep them busy both on resort grounds and beyond. Meanwhile, the whole family will enjoy outstanding facilities including 9-hole golf course, swim-up bar, fully equipped gym and giant chess board.
www.warwicknaviti.com
Mana Island Resort&Spa, Mana Island (4 stars)
Learning about Fijian culture is a big part of the Vonu kids' Club at Mana Island, with activities including palm weaving, local games and shell collecting which are all part of the fun. Add to these two pools, a large playground, plenty of water sports.
www.manafiji.com
Sheraton Denarau Villas (5 stars)
Sheraton Denarau Villas are specially designed to suit families, with dining areas, kitchen and laundry facilities plus the convenience of full hotel facilities. These are family-friendly activities on offer including fish feeding, Iawn bowls, boating and a special children's program.
www. sheraton.com/denarauvillasoffers
Question:
If you want to learn more information about family-friendly activities, please visit _ .
Choices:
A. _
B. www.warwicknaviti.com
C. www.manafiji.com
D. _ | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high22613.txt | Fiji is a beautiful country which consists of many islands. It's located in the South Pacific and it's famous for its beautiful scenery. Here are some family resorts for you.
Shangri-La's Fijian Resort &Spa, Yanuca Island (4.5stars)
Hitting the top spot once again is the worthy Shangri-La's Fijian Resort and Spa, Situated on its own private island, the resort is an easy 45 minutes by road from the airport. Idyllic island landscapes of tropical gardens and white sand beaches, with swimming right off shore, wait for the visitors. Kids stay and eat free, making the Shangri-la an affordable tropical stay.
www. shangri-la.com
The Naviti Resort, Coral Coast(4 stars)
Located on the famous Coral Coast, this resort is popular with Australian families looking for value and quality. Kids rule at the Rugg Rats Club while there are also specialized teenager activities that will keep them busy both on resort grounds and beyond. Meanwhile, the whole family will enjoy outstanding facilities including 9-hole golf course, swim-up bar, fully equipped gym and giant chess board.
www.warwicknaviti.com
Mana Island Resort&Spa, Mana Island (4 stars)
Learning about Fijian culture is a big part of the Vonu kids' Club at Mana Island, with activities including palm weaving, local games and shell collecting which are all part of the fun. Add to these two pools, a large playground, plenty of water sports.
www.manafiji.com
Sheraton Denarau Villas (5 stars)
Sheraton Denarau Villas are specially designed to suit families, with dining areas, kitchen and laundry facilities plus the convenience of full hotel facilities. These are family-friendly activities on offer including fish feeding, Iawn bowls, boating and a special children's program.
www. sheraton.com/denarauvillasoffers | [
"_",
"www.warwicknaviti.com",
"www.manafiji.com",
"_"
] |
Wang Bing is _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
These days, more and more people begin to look after their health by exercising. What sport should we do then?
* Ping-pong
Wang Bing opened up a ping-pong room. He was very surprised that there were so many people coming on the first day of the new year. He added five more tables, but it still couldn't meet the need. "I am pleased to see so many people like playing ping-pong. It's a very good sport for health, " said Wang Bing.
* Basketball
Xia Wen works in a bookstore. He often goes to play basketball in the middle school near the bookstore. "Although the students are having their summer holidays, to my surprise, the playground is crowded with people," said Xia Wen.
Of course, there are some other sports that people can do to keep healthy. But it's certain that people who often exercise can work better.
Question:
Wang Bing is _ .
Choices:
A. the worker in the bookstore
B. a ping-pong player
C. a basketball player
D. the boss of the ping-pong room | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle904.txt | These days, more and more people begin to look after their health by exercising. What sport should we do then?
* Ping-pong
Wang Bing opened up a ping-pong room. He was very surprised that there were so many people coming on the first day of the new year. He added five more tables, but it still couldn't meet the need. "I am pleased to see so many people like playing ping-pong. It's a very good sport for health, " said Wang Bing.
* Basketball
Xia Wen works in a bookstore. He often goes to play basketball in the middle school near the bookstore. "Although the students are having their summer holidays, to my surprise, the playground is crowded with people," said Xia Wen.
Of course, there are some other sports that people can do to keep healthy. But it's certain that people who often exercise can work better. | [
"the worker in the bookstore",
"a ping-pong player",
"a basketball player",
"the boss of the ping-pong room"
] |
What advantage do women have over men in driving? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
It has always been said that women are not good drivers, because they simply don't have very good driving ability. On the other hand, most car accidents happen to men; very few happen to women.
From this, we can see that women are much more careful while driving. Another very interesting fact that we should point out is that in the past, women preferred to let their husbands be the only driver in the family rather than have a driving license. Somehow they were prevented from making this step in their lives, but nowadays there are many women that want to pass their driving tests from an early age.
However, we have to admit that men are more skillful drivers than women, but this does not mean that a woman cannot become a good driver by accumulating experience. So more and more teenagers and women around the age of thirty now want to pass their driving tests. While taking their driving lessons, they also have a number of special lessons with their parents or somebody in the family that has a driving license, this is just to improve their driving abilities and help them to pass the tests more easily.
To conclude, we can say that women are not such bad drivers. They just need more experience than men in order to be able to drive well. And on the other hand, there are a number of women that show better driving skills than the men around them.
Question:
What advantage do women have over men in driving?
Choices:
A. They have more skills.
B. They are much more careful
C. They know more traffic rules
D. They have more driving experience | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high1521.txt | It has always been said that women are not good drivers, because they simply don't have very good driving ability. On the other hand, most car accidents happen to men; very few happen to women.
From this, we can see that women are much more careful while driving. Another very interesting fact that we should point out is that in the past, women preferred to let their husbands be the only driver in the family rather than have a driving license. Somehow they were prevented from making this step in their lives, but nowadays there are many women that want to pass their driving tests from an early age.
However, we have to admit that men are more skillful drivers than women, but this does not mean that a woman cannot become a good driver by accumulating experience. So more and more teenagers and women around the age of thirty now want to pass their driving tests. While taking their driving lessons, they also have a number of special lessons with their parents or somebody in the family that has a driving license, this is just to improve their driving abilities and help them to pass the tests more easily.
To conclude, we can say that women are not such bad drivers. They just need more experience than men in order to be able to drive well. And on the other hand, there are a number of women that show better driving skills than the men around them. | [
"They have more skills.",
"They are much more careful",
"They know more traffic rules",
"They have more driving experience"
] |
The old woman took the peach home because _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Once upon a time an old man and woman lived in the mountains in Japan. Every day the old man went to the mountain and collected firewood, while the old woman went to the river and did the washing.
One day, she was doing the washing when a big peach came floating down the river towards her. As it was a big and juicy-looking fruit, she thought that her husband would be glad to eat it, so she took it home. When the old man came back for lunch and saw the nice peach, he was really happy. The old woman cut the big peach open with a knife! What a surprise! A lovely little boy was in the peach. The old man and woman had no children, so they were really grateful the gods sent them a boy in this peach. Since he was born in a peach they decided to call him Momotaro which means "peach-boy". The old woman cooked a meal for the little boy who ate as much as he could. The more he ate, the more he grew. Soon he became a tall and strong boy.
Day after day, all Momotaro did was sleep and eat. In the village the other boys went to the mountain and picked firewood while Monotaro was the only one doing nothing. This worried the old man and the old woman. The boys then invited him, "Momotaro, would you come with us? We're going to collect fire wood." But he answered, "I don't have a basket, so I can't go with you", and went back to sleep. On hearing this, the old woman got angry with Momotaro for being so lazy, so the next day he went to collect firewood with the other boys.
Question:
The old woman took the peach home because _ .
Choices:
A. she knew there was a little boy in it
B. she was grateful the god sent them a peach
C. she wanted her husband to eat the juicy-looking fruit
D. she wanted to give her husband a surprise | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle3276.txt | Once upon a time an old man and woman lived in the mountains in Japan. Every day the old man went to the mountain and collected firewood, while the old woman went to the river and did the washing.
One day, she was doing the washing when a big peach came floating down the river towards her. As it was a big and juicy-looking fruit, she thought that her husband would be glad to eat it, so she took it home. When the old man came back for lunch and saw the nice peach, he was really happy. The old woman cut the big peach open with a knife! What a surprise! A lovely little boy was in the peach. The old man and woman had no children, so they were really grateful the gods sent them a boy in this peach. Since he was born in a peach they decided to call him Momotaro which means "peach-boy". The old woman cooked a meal for the little boy who ate as much as he could. The more he ate, the more he grew. Soon he became a tall and strong boy.
Day after day, all Momotaro did was sleep and eat. In the village the other boys went to the mountain and picked firewood while Monotaro was the only one doing nothing. This worried the old man and the old woman. The boys then invited him, "Momotaro, would you come with us? We're going to collect fire wood." But he answered, "I don't have a basket, so I can't go with you", and went back to sleep. On hearing this, the old woman got angry with Momotaro for being so lazy, so the next day he went to collect firewood with the other boys. | [
"she knew there was a little boy in it",
"she was grateful the god sent them a peach",
"she wanted her husband to eat the juicy-looking fruit",
"she wanted to give her husband a surprise"
] |
What's the main idea of this passage? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
China is a nation with a rich culture in handwriting. "Even though the computer is widely used today, Chinese people should not forget the skill of writing with hands," said a Chinese government official .
Nowadays, the computer has become a very useful tool to help people to write. As people use computers more often than before, many people have forgotten how to write Chinese characters . People often make a lot of mistakes in writing.
At present, China is trying to help pupils and teachers to improve their writing with the help of information technology. With the technology, it is hoped that teachers can write their teaching contents on the blackboard and students can _ by writing, too.
The Chinese character test shows that nowadays, many college students' handwriting has become worse. Many college students do not know how to compose words or sentences in Chinese character in the right way. Not only kids, many adults also have met the same problem. They might be able to tell the general form of a certain character. However, if you ask them to spell out the character in detail , they can't. On the other hand, they can easily type out the character on a computer.
In the national language teaching course, we can solve this problem with the use of certain technologies. Actually, apart from technology, there is a lot that we can do. For example, we may ask students to finish their homework by writing with hands instead of typing.
Question:
What's the main idea of this passage?
Choices:
A. Computers are harmful(......) to our handwriting.
B. How we can write good Chinese characters.
C. Chinese people should not forget the skill of writing with hands.
D. Don't forget our mother language. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle2771.txt | China is a nation with a rich culture in handwriting. "Even though the computer is widely used today, Chinese people should not forget the skill of writing with hands," said a Chinese government official .
Nowadays, the computer has become a very useful tool to help people to write. As people use computers more often than before, many people have forgotten how to write Chinese characters . People often make a lot of mistakes in writing.
At present, China is trying to help pupils and teachers to improve their writing with the help of information technology. With the technology, it is hoped that teachers can write their teaching contents on the blackboard and students can _ by writing, too.
The Chinese character test shows that nowadays, many college students' handwriting has become worse. Many college students do not know how to compose words or sentences in Chinese character in the right way. Not only kids, many adults also have met the same problem. They might be able to tell the general form of a certain character. However, if you ask them to spell out the character in detail , they can't. On the other hand, they can easily type out the character on a computer.
In the national language teaching course, we can solve this problem with the use of certain technologies. Actually, apart from technology, there is a lot that we can do. For example, we may ask students to finish their homework by writing with hands instead of typing. | [
"Computers are harmful(......) to our handwriting.",
"How we can write good Chinese characters.",
"Chinese people should not forget the skill of writing with hands.",
"Don't forget our mother language."
] |
How much would you pay if you wanted to learn to take better pictures? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Cambridge University Botanic Garden
We run a lively programme of family events, life-long learning courses and much more throughout the year.
Improve your Digital Photography
This course led by award-winning photographer, Pete Murray, will show you how to take control of your camera. Using a proven "step by step approach" you will gain confidence in using your camera.
Date:29/09
Time:10 am--4 pm
Price:PS60
Event Category: Garden Photography
'Handbag' Baskets
New to the Botanic Garden, this course will give you the opportunity to make your very own beautiful 'handbag basket'from a design that local basketry maker, Debbie Hall, developed herself. They have proved very popular since she started teaching the technique.
Date: 07/10
Time: 10 am --4:30 pm
Price: PS120
Event Category: Weaving & Basketry
Trees and Shrubs for Autumn Color
Join Mark Crouch, a specialist in the care of trees, for this course on choosing trees and shrubs to create beautiful autumn displays for your garden. The day will include a talk in our classroom and a tour of the Botanic Garden to look at autumn color and interest across our tree and shrub collection.
Date: 17/10
Time: 10 am --4 pm
Price: PS50
Event Category: Gardens and Plants
Introduction to Botanical Subjects in Colored Pencil
If you are interested in beginning to use colored pencils to draw botanical subjects, then this is the course for you. Janie Pirie is one of the country's leading pencil artists and on this one-day course she will show you the basic techniques used when working with colored pencils.
Date: 16/10
Time: 10 am --4 pm
Price: PS40
Event Category: Botanical Art
Question:
How much would you pay if you wanted to learn to take better pictures?
Choices:
A. PS40.
B. PS50.
C. PS60.
D. PS120. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high14259.txt | Cambridge University Botanic Garden
We run a lively programme of family events, life-long learning courses and much more throughout the year.
Improve your Digital Photography
This course led by award-winning photographer, Pete Murray, will show you how to take control of your camera. Using a proven "step by step approach" you will gain confidence in using your camera.
Date:29/09
Time:10 am--4 pm
Price:PS60
Event Category: Garden Photography
'Handbag' Baskets
New to the Botanic Garden, this course will give you the opportunity to make your very own beautiful 'handbag basket'from a design that local basketry maker, Debbie Hall, developed herself. They have proved very popular since she started teaching the technique.
Date: 07/10
Time: 10 am --4:30 pm
Price: PS120
Event Category: Weaving & Basketry
Trees and Shrubs for Autumn Color
Join Mark Crouch, a specialist in the care of trees, for this course on choosing trees and shrubs to create beautiful autumn displays for your garden. The day will include a talk in our classroom and a tour of the Botanic Garden to look at autumn color and interest across our tree and shrub collection.
Date: 17/10
Time: 10 am --4 pm
Price: PS50
Event Category: Gardens and Plants
Introduction to Botanical Subjects in Colored Pencil
If you are interested in beginning to use colored pencils to draw botanical subjects, then this is the course for you. Janie Pirie is one of the country's leading pencil artists and on this one-day course she will show you the basic techniques used when working with colored pencils.
Date: 16/10
Time: 10 am --4 pm
Price: PS40
Event Category: Botanical Art | [
"PS40.",
"PS50.",
"PS60.",
"PS120."
] |
The writer applied for the job chiefly because _ . | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
The next day I sat down,with almost a hundred other candidates,for the intelligence test.I must have done all right because after about half an hour's wait I was sent into another room for a psychological test.This time there were only about fifty candidates.The interviewer sat at a desk.Candidates were signaled forward to occupy the seat opposite him when the previous occupant had been dismissed,after a greater or shorter time.Obviously the long interviews were the more successful ones.Some of the interviews were as short as five minutes.Mine was the only one that lasted a minute and a half.
I can remember the questions now:"Why did you leave your last job?""Why did you leave your job before that?""And the one before that?"I can't recall my answers,except that they were short at first and grew progressively shorter.His closing statement,I thought,evealed a lack of sensitivity which helped to explain why as a psychologist,he had risen no higher than the underground railway."You've failed the psychological test and we are unable to offer you a position."
Failing to get that job was my low point.Or so I thought,believing that the work was easy.Actually,such jobs--being a postman is another one I still desire--demand exactly the sort of elementary yet responsible awareness that the habitual dreamer is least qualified to give.But I was still far short of full self-understanding.I was also short of cash.
Question:
The writer applied for the job chiefly because _ .
Choices:
A. he wanted to work in the centre of London
B. he could no longer afford to live without one
C. he was not interested in any other available job
D. he had received some suitable training | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high11334.txt | The next day I sat down,with almost a hundred other candidates,for the intelligence test.I must have done all right because after about half an hour's wait I was sent into another room for a psychological test.This time there were only about fifty candidates.The interviewer sat at a desk.Candidates were signaled forward to occupy the seat opposite him when the previous occupant had been dismissed,after a greater or shorter time.Obviously the long interviews were the more successful ones.Some of the interviews were as short as five minutes.Mine was the only one that lasted a minute and a half.
I can remember the questions now:"Why did you leave your last job?""Why did you leave your job before that?""And the one before that?"I can't recall my answers,except that they were short at first and grew progressively shorter.His closing statement,I thought,evealed a lack of sensitivity which helped to explain why as a psychologist,he had risen no higher than the underground railway."You've failed the psychological test and we are unable to offer you a position."
Failing to get that job was my low point.Or so I thought,believing that the work was easy.Actually,such jobs--being a postman is another one I still desire--demand exactly the sort of elementary yet responsible awareness that the habitual dreamer is least qualified to give.But I was still far short of full self-understanding.I was also short of cash. | [
"he wanted to work in the centre of London",
"he could no longer afford to live without one",
"he was not interested in any other available job",
"he had received some suitable training"
] |
How did the author save bats? | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
When I was little, I'd see tons of bats flying around streetlights at night in my neighborhood in upstate New York. But I'll never forget the first time when I saw a bat up close. By the time I turned 7, though, I noticed something strange: All the bats in my neighborhood had disappeared, and I wondered why.
Then, three years ago, when I was 11 and visiting the state fair, I learned what had happened to my town's bats. A disease called "white nose syndrome" had killed 93 percent of New York State's bats. I was horrified. Then I wrote a letter to the host of an environmental program on the local radio station, asking if they could do a show on bats. They did!
But I still wanted to find a way to educate people face to face. I reached out to a teacher I had in elementary school and asked if I could make a presentation to her class. I described how bats help farmers by eating crop-damaging insects. It went over so well that other teachers started requesting me. Over the past three years, I've talked in front of everyone from 5-year-olds to senior citizens! Many people think that bats are blind, and that they always carry diseases, but none of that is true. The more I present, the more I notice that I am changing minds.
And while getting people to respect bats is pretty hard, getting them to respect me has been difficult too. When I first applied to host a booth at a local street fair, the managers thought I was too young. But I refused to take "no" for an answer. I continued to make my case, and they finally said yes! The best part is, I impressed them so much -- 100 visitors on my first day -- that they now invite me back every year.
Question:
How did the author save bats?
Choices:
A. By building a new home for them.
B. By volunteering to work in the wild.
C. By improving their living environment.
D. By educating people that they are beneficial. | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high19800.txt | When I was little, I'd see tons of bats flying around streetlights at night in my neighborhood in upstate New York. But I'll never forget the first time when I saw a bat up close. By the time I turned 7, though, I noticed something strange: All the bats in my neighborhood had disappeared, and I wondered why.
Then, three years ago, when I was 11 and visiting the state fair, I learned what had happened to my town's bats. A disease called "white nose syndrome" had killed 93 percent of New York State's bats. I was horrified. Then I wrote a letter to the host of an environmental program on the local radio station, asking if they could do a show on bats. They did!
But I still wanted to find a way to educate people face to face. I reached out to a teacher I had in elementary school and asked if I could make a presentation to her class. I described how bats help farmers by eating crop-damaging insects. It went over so well that other teachers started requesting me. Over the past three years, I've talked in front of everyone from 5-year-olds to senior citizens! Many people think that bats are blind, and that they always carry diseases, but none of that is true. The more I present, the more I notice that I am changing minds.
And while getting people to respect bats is pretty hard, getting them to respect me has been difficult too. When I first applied to host a booth at a local street fair, the managers thought I was too young. But I refused to take "no" for an answer. I continued to make my case, and they finally said yes! The best part is, I impressed them so much -- 100 visitors on my first day -- that they now invite me back every year. | [
"By building a new home for them.",
"By volunteering to work in the wild.",
"By improving their living environment.",
"By educating people that they are beneficial."
] |
According to the writer, most fashion designers are _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
It took me more than 10 years to realize that the world has no shortage of fashion designers who have the ability to make trendy and elegant garments, but that it is badly in need of, simply, clothes designers. My own definitions would set fashion and clothing greatly apart. It is a fact that, in the shopping malls, there are plenty of beautiful garments whose unpredictability makes our life color1ful and interesting. You are almost convinced: You can buy whatever you dare to think.
There is no doubt that fashion designers are usually with high qualifications. They study fashion trends, select color1s, and make sure the final production of their designs is done properly. However, as experience grew with age, my attraction to arts became ever stronger. I have a strong desire for clothing to stand as does paint to the painter, as does stone to the sculptor, as a simple and particular language of an individual creation, which draws the audience from an appreciation of the surface to deeper thoughts with the world of the soul. I believe that the most meaningful creative motives should arise through caring for other people, the great care of humanity--a concern for human feeling and spirituality. _ , but it is bigger than love, and it is unconditional. I believe the greatest works of art can touch the deepest and strongest parts of human feelings and the world of the spirit, and only these works can be the memories of history, preserving the most valuable feelings that have ever existed, and inspiring a greater awareness of ourselves.
I am not satisfied if people only appreciate clothing if it merely satisfies their desire. I believe clothing could be a specific creative language for communicating ideas and thoughts, for inspiring you and shaping your behavior. Those clothes fashioned out of necessity possess a power that can continue to exist across the ages. This is what I have tried to achieve, the clothing to return to its original simplicity, the clothing to help people regain the natural sense. The true fashion today should not follow the trends. It should instead uncover the extraordinary in the ordinary, for I believe the pleasure you get from the clothing is not its price, but its spirit.
Question:
According to the writer, most fashion designers are _ .
Choices:
A. lack of imagination
B. deep in thought
C. unproductive
D. trendy | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high20941.txt | It took me more than 10 years to realize that the world has no shortage of fashion designers who have the ability to make trendy and elegant garments, but that it is badly in need of, simply, clothes designers. My own definitions would set fashion and clothing greatly apart. It is a fact that, in the shopping malls, there are plenty of beautiful garments whose unpredictability makes our life color1ful and interesting. You are almost convinced: You can buy whatever you dare to think.
There is no doubt that fashion designers are usually with high qualifications. They study fashion trends, select color1s, and make sure the final production of their designs is done properly. However, as experience grew with age, my attraction to arts became ever stronger. I have a strong desire for clothing to stand as does paint to the painter, as does stone to the sculptor, as a simple and particular language of an individual creation, which draws the audience from an appreciation of the surface to deeper thoughts with the world of the soul. I believe that the most meaningful creative motives should arise through caring for other people, the great care of humanity--a concern for human feeling and spirituality. _ , but it is bigger than love, and it is unconditional. I believe the greatest works of art can touch the deepest and strongest parts of human feelings and the world of the spirit, and only these works can be the memories of history, preserving the most valuable feelings that have ever existed, and inspiring a greater awareness of ourselves.
I am not satisfied if people only appreciate clothing if it merely satisfies their desire. I believe clothing could be a specific creative language for communicating ideas and thoughts, for inspiring you and shaping your behavior. Those clothes fashioned out of necessity possess a power that can continue to exist across the ages. This is what I have tried to achieve, the clothing to return to its original simplicity, the clothing to help people regain the natural sense. The true fashion today should not follow the trends. It should instead uncover the extraordinary in the ordinary, for I believe the pleasure you get from the clothing is not its price, but its spirit. | [
"lack of imagination",
"deep in thought",
"unproductive",
"trendy"
] |
Which isn't right? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Johnson likes swimming in a small river near his house. But then his father goes to work in a big city and Johnson goes with his family. Their new house has a garden, but the garden is very small Johnson is not very happy.
"Is there a river near the house?"He asks his father on the first morning." No, there isn't. But there is a big park near here. And there's a pool in it. ""We are going there this afternoon. "says his father. Johnson is happy.
Johnson and his father go to the park in the afternoon. Johnson wants to walk near the pool. But he sees a sign. His father reads it to him: "Warning: This pool is dangerous.365 people fell into it. "Johanson looks into the pool carefully, then he says,"I can't see them.
Question:
Which isn't right?
Choices:
A. There isn't a small river near Johnson's house.
B. Johnson's father gets a new job in a big city.
C. Johanson is afraid to walk near the pool
D. Johnson goes to the big city with his father. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle7113.txt | Johnson likes swimming in a small river near his house. But then his father goes to work in a big city and Johnson goes with his family. Their new house has a garden, but the garden is very small Johnson is not very happy.
"Is there a river near the house?"He asks his father on the first morning." No, there isn't. But there is a big park near here. And there's a pool in it. ""We are going there this afternoon. "says his father. Johnson is happy.
Johnson and his father go to the park in the afternoon. Johnson wants to walk near the pool. But he sees a sign. His father reads it to him: "Warning: This pool is dangerous.365 people fell into it. "Johanson looks into the pool carefully, then he says,"I can't see them. | [
"There isn't a small river near Johnson's house.",
"Johnson's father gets a new job in a big city.",
"Johanson is afraid to walk near the pool",
"Johnson goes to the big city with his father."
] |
How many students are playing football now? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
It's seven fifty in the morning . The students are coming into the classroom.
A boy is opening the window. Some of the students are laughing and talking.
Some others are laughing to them. Some are reading books.Some are doing their homework.
Miss White is standing behind the teacher's desk. She is writing on the blackboard. Lucy and Lily are wearing their new dresses today. Mary is cleaning her desk. Jim is helping her. They all look happy.
What are John and Tom doing? Oh, dear! They are still playing football on the playground.
Question:
How many students are playing football now?
Choices:
A. Only one
B. Two
C. Many
D. We don't know. | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle6052.txt | It's seven fifty in the morning . The students are coming into the classroom.
A boy is opening the window. Some of the students are laughing and talking.
Some others are laughing to them. Some are reading books.Some are doing their homework.
Miss White is standing behind the teacher's desk. She is writing on the blackboard. Lucy and Lily are wearing their new dresses today. Mary is cleaning her desk. Jim is helping her. They all look happy.
What are John and Tom doing? Oh, dear! They are still playing football on the playground. | [
"Only one",
"Two",
"Many",
"We don't know."
] |
Why did the two girls hide behind their family members when they first met? | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
I can still remember the first day when I met my best friend. She had just moved into the neighborhood and her grandmother brought her down to meet me. I hid behind my mother and she hid behind her grandmother, scared to look at each other.
Soon, we lost the shyness and started playing with each other, bike riding to each other's house and having sleepovers. In 7thgrade she was going through family problems. However, every summer we would always sit at each other's house and watch movies on TV and talk about all the boys we liked.
It was last year when I noticed the problem. She suffered from clinical depression , and had to go to a hospital during the day. I was very sorry for her at first. But with the late night calls, and meeting each other halfway up the street at midnight, we still stayed in touch. I wanted to be there for her since her new best friend left her, and I knew I still cared about her like a sister.
Yesterday she came to me and said this. "I never knew what a best friend was until you were the only person that would stop me from cutting myself; the only person that ever made me feel better about myself and my problems. You didn't know this but I was trying to kill myself that very night you called me and I was crying. I owe you so much, and you didn't even know you were helping me. "
We both cried. And I guess a kind of lesson from my life so far is to never give up your friends. Even if they aren't as cool as others, or people think they are crazy, they need someone there. If you leave them, you will only be very sorry. So if friends need you, and you care for them, you should be always there for them.
Question:
Why did the two girls hide behind their family members when they first met?
Choices:
A. Because they were playing a game.
B. Because they didn't like each other.
C. Because they quarreled before.
D. Because they were both shy. | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high2647.txt | I can still remember the first day when I met my best friend. She had just moved into the neighborhood and her grandmother brought her down to meet me. I hid behind my mother and she hid behind her grandmother, scared to look at each other.
Soon, we lost the shyness and started playing with each other, bike riding to each other's house and having sleepovers. In 7thgrade she was going through family problems. However, every summer we would always sit at each other's house and watch movies on TV and talk about all the boys we liked.
It was last year when I noticed the problem. She suffered from clinical depression , and had to go to a hospital during the day. I was very sorry for her at first. But with the late night calls, and meeting each other halfway up the street at midnight, we still stayed in touch. I wanted to be there for her since her new best friend left her, and I knew I still cared about her like a sister.
Yesterday she came to me and said this. "I never knew what a best friend was until you were the only person that would stop me from cutting myself; the only person that ever made me feel better about myself and my problems. You didn't know this but I was trying to kill myself that very night you called me and I was crying. I owe you so much, and you didn't even know you were helping me. "
We both cried. And I guess a kind of lesson from my life so far is to never give up your friends. Even if they aren't as cool as others, or people think they are crazy, they need someone there. If you leave them, you will only be very sorry. So if friends need you, and you care for them, you should be always there for them. | [
"Because they were playing a game.",
"Because they didn't like each other.",
"Because they quarreled before.",
"Because they were both shy."
] |
Black is the _ name. | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
This is a photo of Mr. Black's family. The man with glasses is Mr. Black, the father. The woman is the mother. They have a son and a daughter. The son is behind(....) Jack and Kate are in the same school, but they are in different grades. Jack is in Grade Three and Kate is in Grade One. They are good students.
Question:
Black is the _ name.
Choices:
A. man's
B. woman's
C. boy's
D. family | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle6578.txt | This is a photo of Mr. Black's family. The man with glasses is Mr. Black, the father. The woman is the mother. They have a son and a daughter. The son is behind(....) Jack and Kate are in the same school, but they are in different grades. Jack is in Grade Three and Kate is in Grade One. They are good students. | [
"man's",
"woman's",
"boy's",
"family"
] |
China won _ gold medals in the women's short track speed skating. | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
When you see the girl for the first time, you may think she is a boy. She is very outgoing . Who is she? Wang Meng, the Chinese top skater.
On the evening of February 26th, 2010, Wang Meng first got to the finishing line in 1 minute and 29.213 seconds in the women's 1000 meters short track speed skating final at the Vancouer Olympic Winter Games . After she succeeded in the 500-meter and 3000-meter races, she won her third gold medal this time. With this one China won four gold medals in the women's short track speed skating. That helped China first win the team gold medal in Winter Olympics history.
Just before the final race Wang Meng caught a bad cold and coughed terribly. With the words of "You can, you can do!" she won at last. She said, "I really feel these three gold medals belong to my team, to China. It was with the help of my team that I won the prize."
Though Wang Meng is only twenty-four, she has been the most successful Chinese skater. Chinese are proud of her and her team. We hope she will be faster in Sochi Olympics in 2014.
Question:
China won _ gold medals in the women's short track speed skating.
Choices:
A. 2
B. 3
C. 4
D. 5 | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle198.txt | When you see the girl for the first time, you may think she is a boy. She is very outgoing . Who is she? Wang Meng, the Chinese top skater.
On the evening of February 26th, 2010, Wang Meng first got to the finishing line in 1 minute and 29.213 seconds in the women's 1000 meters short track speed skating final at the Vancouer Olympic Winter Games . After she succeeded in the 500-meter and 3000-meter races, she won her third gold medal this time. With this one China won four gold medals in the women's short track speed skating. That helped China first win the team gold medal in Winter Olympics history.
Just before the final race Wang Meng caught a bad cold and coughed terribly. With the words of "You can, you can do!" she won at last. She said, "I really feel these three gold medals belong to my team, to China. It was with the help of my team that I won the prize."
Though Wang Meng is only twenty-four, she has been the most successful Chinese skater. Chinese are proud of her and her team. We hope she will be faster in Sochi Olympics in 2014. | [
"2",
"3",
"4",
"5"
] |
When did the author know that Ed was found? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Last week when I was sitting in my office,I heard an elderly lady talking on the phone about her husband.Her husband's name was Ed.He dropped her off for her doctor's appointment and was going to park the car and wait for her.She was so upset that she started to cry.I knew I should take action.
The lady told me her name was Helen and she called the restaurant she and her husband were going to have lunch at after her appointment to see if he was waiting for her there.She explained that she thought her husband parked the car in the parking lot and waited for her in the car but she didn't find him there so she returned to see if he entered the medical building,but Ed was not there either.She regretted making her husband park the car alone since some signs of Alzheimer's had happened in his behavior.I asked a few nurses to help look for Ed inside and outside the medical building according to Helen's description.Then I offered to drive Helen to the restaurant to see if Ed was waiting for her there.
On arriving at the parking lot of the restaurant,Helen began to search for Ed's car but she failed,which suggested Ed wasn't there.We decided to have a talk with the manager before we returned to the hospital.On our way to the manager's office.I received a call from a nurse,who said they had found Ed.What a relief! But we still needed to go on searching since he forgot where he parked his car! Fortunately, we didn't have much difficulty finding it.
As I waved good-bye to the couple, I thought "This is true love in life.The love is not romantic but it stays with us all the time."
Question:
When did the author know that Ed was found?
Choices:
A. After the author and Helen returned from the restaurant.
B. While the author and Helen were on their way to the restaurant.
C. Before the author and Helen found the manager of the restaurant.
D. When the author and Helen arrived at the parking lot of the restaurant. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle7502.txt | Last week when I was sitting in my office,I heard an elderly lady talking on the phone about her husband.Her husband's name was Ed.He dropped her off for her doctor's appointment and was going to park the car and wait for her.She was so upset that she started to cry.I knew I should take action.
The lady told me her name was Helen and she called the restaurant she and her husband were going to have lunch at after her appointment to see if he was waiting for her there.She explained that she thought her husband parked the car in the parking lot and waited for her in the car but she didn't find him there so she returned to see if he entered the medical building,but Ed was not there either.She regretted making her husband park the car alone since some signs of Alzheimer's had happened in his behavior.I asked a few nurses to help look for Ed inside and outside the medical building according to Helen's description.Then I offered to drive Helen to the restaurant to see if Ed was waiting for her there.
On arriving at the parking lot of the restaurant,Helen began to search for Ed's car but she failed,which suggested Ed wasn't there.We decided to have a talk with the manager before we returned to the hospital.On our way to the manager's office.I received a call from a nurse,who said they had found Ed.What a relief! But we still needed to go on searching since he forgot where he parked his car! Fortunately, we didn't have much difficulty finding it.
As I waved good-bye to the couple, I thought "This is true love in life.The love is not romantic but it stays with us all the time." | [
"After the author and Helen returned from the restaurant.",
"While the author and Helen were on their way to the restaurant.",
"Before the author and Helen found the manager of the restaurant.",
"When the author and Helen arrived at the parking lot of the restaurant."
] |
What is the opinion of Professor Emmons? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Mom was right!If you say thank you,for even the smallest gift or slightest show of kindness,you'll feel happy.
Gratitude ,says Robert A.Emmons,a professor of psychology at the University of California,is an important element of happiness.In his recent book,Thanks!,Emmons uses the first major study on gratitude to prove mom's point.In acknowledging and developing this muchignored expression of thankfulness,he explains how people have benefited--even improved their health.
As one of the leading scholars of the positive psychology movement,he admits gratitude may be difficult to express.He advises you to begin by admitting that life is good and full of events and elements that make daily existence a wonder.Second,recognize that the source of life's goodness is more than just you.That source may be your mom,a friend,partner,child,colleague at work or play,or any combination of these.
Gratitude is always otherdirected,notes Emmons.You can be pleased or angry with yourself and feel guilty about doing something wrong,but you can never be grateful to or for yourself.
Expressing gratitude shouldn't be a reaction;it should be a state of mind.To feel grateful when life is a breeze and you have more than you need is easy.To feel grateful in time of crisis--anger,hatred and bitterness--is easier.Also,too many people are aware of life's blessings only after these are lost.The voices expressing gratitude from his studies of individuals are many.
It's crisis and chaos--danger,disease,disability and death--that bring many individuals to realize just how dependent they are on others.Yet it's the way each of us begins life and ends it.It's too bad that so many people waste those decades in between labouring under the illusion they are selfsufficient,says Emmons.
To enable and embrace gratitude,Emmons encourages the readers of Thanks! to keep a gratitude diary.He even provides easytofollow directions on how to practise and develop gratitude.
I'm not a reader or advocate of selfhelp books,but I am thankful for the reference I found in a newspaper article to the research Emmons was conducting on gratitude involving organ donors and recipients .The chance discovery led me to this book.
Mom implied that kindness seems to find its way back to the giver because life really is all about giving,receiving and repaying.So I'll pay attention to her professional advice and say:Thank you,professor Emmons.
Question:
What is the opinion of Professor Emmons?
Choices:
A. It is enough to thank others orally.
B. Whether you are thankful is always up to you.
C. Remember to be thankful anytime and anywhere.
D. It is easier to be thankful for yourself than for others. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high6236.txt | Mom was right!If you say thank you,for even the smallest gift or slightest show of kindness,you'll feel happy.
Gratitude ,says Robert A.Emmons,a professor of psychology at the University of California,is an important element of happiness.In his recent book,Thanks!,Emmons uses the first major study on gratitude to prove mom's point.In acknowledging and developing this muchignored expression of thankfulness,he explains how people have benefited--even improved their health.
As one of the leading scholars of the positive psychology movement,he admits gratitude may be difficult to express.He advises you to begin by admitting that life is good and full of events and elements that make daily existence a wonder.Second,recognize that the source of life's goodness is more than just you.That source may be your mom,a friend,partner,child,colleague at work or play,or any combination of these.
Gratitude is always otherdirected,notes Emmons.You can be pleased or angry with yourself and feel guilty about doing something wrong,but you can never be grateful to or for yourself.
Expressing gratitude shouldn't be a reaction;it should be a state of mind.To feel grateful when life is a breeze and you have more than you need is easy.To feel grateful in time of crisis--anger,hatred and bitterness--is easier.Also,too many people are aware of life's blessings only after these are lost.The voices expressing gratitude from his studies of individuals are many.
It's crisis and chaos--danger,disease,disability and death--that bring many individuals to realize just how dependent they are on others.Yet it's the way each of us begins life and ends it.It's too bad that so many people waste those decades in between labouring under the illusion they are selfsufficient,says Emmons.
To enable and embrace gratitude,Emmons encourages the readers of Thanks! to keep a gratitude diary.He even provides easytofollow directions on how to practise and develop gratitude.
I'm not a reader or advocate of selfhelp books,but I am thankful for the reference I found in a newspaper article to the research Emmons was conducting on gratitude involving organ donors and recipients .The chance discovery led me to this book.
Mom implied that kindness seems to find its way back to the giver because life really is all about giving,receiving and repaying.So I'll pay attention to her professional advice and say:Thank you,professor Emmons. | [
"It is enough to thank others orally.",
"Whether you are thankful is always up to you.",
"Remember to be thankful anytime and anywhere.",
"It is easier to be thankful for yourself than for others."
] |
Yu Qiuyu went to Germany to _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Yu Qiuyu is a famous writer. Once, he went to Germany to learn more about the life there. He found a room for renting . The owner was an old man. Yu looked around the room and found it very nice, so he decided to rent it.
The old man smiled, saying, "Don't worry, young man. You haven't lived here. I think you can try living here for a few days. Then you can decide whether to live for a long time or not." Yu thought it fair enough, and finally signed a contract of five days. The room was quite comfortable. The cleaners took away the trash every day. The hallway was always tidy and clean.
On the fifth day, when Yu wanted to talk with the old man about the long-time rent, he broke a glass carelessly. He was very nervous, feeling that the glass was expensive. However, when he told the old man on the phone, the old man said , "Don't worry. It's not a big deal. I'll bring one later." Yu swept the glass pieces into the trash bag together with other things, and put them outside of the door. A moment later, the old man came. After entering the room, he asked before Yu said anything, "Then where are the glass pieces?"
Yu answered quickly, "I put them outside." The old man went out at once. After looking at the trash bag, he came back to the room with a _ face. He said to Yu, "You can move out tomorrow, because I won't rent the room to you."
Yu couldn't believe his ears and asked, "Is it because I broke your favorite glass that you are upset?"
"No, it's because you didn't think of others."
Just then, the old man went out of the room with a pen and another trash bag. He poured out the trash that Yu had put in the bag. Then the old man picked up every piece of glass very carefully. After a long time, he put all the glass pieces into a trash bag, and wrote with the pen on the bag: "Dangerous! Glass pieces inside". And other trash was put into another bag, with "Safe" written on it.
Yu was looking at it. He didn't know what to say. His face burned with shame.
Question:
Yu Qiuyu went to Germany to _ .
Choices:
A. teach in a school
B. volunteer in a hospital
C. join a writing club
D. learn more about the life there | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle4284.txt | Yu Qiuyu is a famous writer. Once, he went to Germany to learn more about the life there. He found a room for renting . The owner was an old man. Yu looked around the room and found it very nice, so he decided to rent it.
The old man smiled, saying, "Don't worry, young man. You haven't lived here. I think you can try living here for a few days. Then you can decide whether to live for a long time or not." Yu thought it fair enough, and finally signed a contract of five days. The room was quite comfortable. The cleaners took away the trash every day. The hallway was always tidy and clean.
On the fifth day, when Yu wanted to talk with the old man about the long-time rent, he broke a glass carelessly. He was very nervous, feeling that the glass was expensive. However, when he told the old man on the phone, the old man said , "Don't worry. It's not a big deal. I'll bring one later." Yu swept the glass pieces into the trash bag together with other things, and put them outside of the door. A moment later, the old man came. After entering the room, he asked before Yu said anything, "Then where are the glass pieces?"
Yu answered quickly, "I put them outside." The old man went out at once. After looking at the trash bag, he came back to the room with a _ face. He said to Yu, "You can move out tomorrow, because I won't rent the room to you."
Yu couldn't believe his ears and asked, "Is it because I broke your favorite glass that you are upset?"
"No, it's because you didn't think of others."
Just then, the old man went out of the room with a pen and another trash bag. He poured out the trash that Yu had put in the bag. Then the old man picked up every piece of glass very carefully. After a long time, he put all the glass pieces into a trash bag, and wrote with the pen on the bag: "Dangerous! Glass pieces inside". And other trash was put into another bag, with "Safe" written on it.
Yu was looking at it. He didn't know what to say. His face burned with shame. | [
"teach in a school",
"volunteer in a hospital",
"join a writing club",
"learn more about the life there"
] |
What would be the best title of the text? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
For anyone still doubting the belief that our emotions influence our physical health, a new study from New Zealand should be able to settle the matter. It reports that the physical wounds of healthy seniors healed more quickly if they wrote about their most upsetting experiences.
This confirms the results of a 2010 study, and extends those findings to cover older adults--a group that is likely to suffer wounds (as from surgery), and one with less access to other ways of lowering tension (such as exercise).
Reported in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine, a research team led by the University of Auckland's Elizabeth Broadbent made a study featuring 50 healthy adults ranging in age from 64 to 97. They were asked to write for 20 minutes per day for three consecutive days.
Half were asked to write about the most upsetting experience in their life, describing their deepest thoughts, feelings, and emotions about the events, ideally not previously shared with others. The others were asked to write about their daily activities without mentioning emotions, opinions or beliefs.
Two weeks after the third day of writing, all participants received a standard 4mm skin biopsy on their inner arm. The very tiny wounds caused by the biopsy were photographed regularly over the following days to determine the rate at which they healed.
On the 11th day after the biopsy, the wounds completely healed on 76.2 percent of those who had done the expressive writing. That was true of only 42.1 percent of those who had written about everyday activities.
"The biological and psychological mechanisms behind this effect remain unclear," the researchers wrote, noting that those who had done the expressive writing did not report lower stress levels or fewer depressive symptoms than the others in the control group. Even if they weren't consciously aware of feeling more relaxed or positive, the expressive writing appeared to have caused some sort of bodily reaction--probably involving their immune systems--that _ their recovery.
Question:
What would be the best title of the text?
Choices:
A. Sharing with others can reduce stress.
B. Skin biopsies are likely to cause wounds.
C. Expressive writing heals physical wounds.
D. Upsetting experiences influence our emotions. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high13307.txt | For anyone still doubting the belief that our emotions influence our physical health, a new study from New Zealand should be able to settle the matter. It reports that the physical wounds of healthy seniors healed more quickly if they wrote about their most upsetting experiences.
This confirms the results of a 2010 study, and extends those findings to cover older adults--a group that is likely to suffer wounds (as from surgery), and one with less access to other ways of lowering tension (such as exercise).
Reported in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine, a research team led by the University of Auckland's Elizabeth Broadbent made a study featuring 50 healthy adults ranging in age from 64 to 97. They were asked to write for 20 minutes per day for three consecutive days.
Half were asked to write about the most upsetting experience in their life, describing their deepest thoughts, feelings, and emotions about the events, ideally not previously shared with others. The others were asked to write about their daily activities without mentioning emotions, opinions or beliefs.
Two weeks after the third day of writing, all participants received a standard 4mm skin biopsy on their inner arm. The very tiny wounds caused by the biopsy were photographed regularly over the following days to determine the rate at which they healed.
On the 11th day after the biopsy, the wounds completely healed on 76.2 percent of those who had done the expressive writing. That was true of only 42.1 percent of those who had written about everyday activities.
"The biological and psychological mechanisms behind this effect remain unclear," the researchers wrote, noting that those who had done the expressive writing did not report lower stress levels or fewer depressive symptoms than the others in the control group. Even if they weren't consciously aware of feeling more relaxed or positive, the expressive writing appeared to have caused some sort of bodily reaction--probably involving their immune systems--that _ their recovery. | [
"Sharing with others can reduce stress.",
"Skin biopsies are likely to cause wounds.",
"Expressive writing heals physical wounds.",
"Upsetting experiences influence our emotions."
] |
What is the term for disease-causing agents, such as bacteria and viruses? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | What is the term for disease-causing agents, such as bacteria and viruses? | pathogens | science | null | null | null | vaccines | spores | parasites | pathogens | The body’s first line of defense consists of different types of barriers that keep most pathogens out of the body. Pathogens are disease-causing agents, such as bacteria and viruses. These and other types of pathogens are described in Figure below . Regardless of the type of pathogen, however, the first line of defense is always the same. | null | null | null |
What is the most important characteristic of a homogeneous mixture? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | What is the most important characteristic of a homogeneous mixture? | uniform composition throughout | science | null | null | null | nonreactive | very reactive | high density | uniform composition throughout | A homogeneous mixture is a mixture in which the composition is uniform throughout the mixture. The salt water described above is homogeneous because the dissolved salt is evenly distributed throughout the entire salt water sample. Often it is easy to confuse a homogeneous mixture with a pure substance because they are both uniform. The difference is that the composition of the substance is always the same. The amount of salt in the salt water can vary from one sample to another. All solutions would be considered homogeneous because the dissolved material is present in the same amount throughout the solution. | null | null | null |
The author wrote a letter to the host in order to ask them to_. | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
When I was little, I'd see tons of bats flying around streetlights at night in my neighborhood in upstate New York. But I'll never forget the first time when I saw a bat up close. By the time I turned 7, though, I noticed something strange: All the bats in my neighborhood had disappeared, and I wondered why.
Then, three years ago, when I was 11 and visiting the state fair, I learned what had happened to my town's bats. A disease called "white nose syndrome" had killed 93 percent of New York State's bats. I was horrified. Then I wrote a letter to the host of an environmental program on the local radio station, asking if they could do a show on bats. They did!
But I still wanted to find a way to educate people face to face. I reached out to a teacher I had in elementary school and asked if I could make a presentation to her class. I described how bats help farmers by eating crop-damaging insects. It went over so well that other teachers started requesting me. Over the past three years, I've talked in front of everyone from 5-year-olds to senior citizens! Many people think that bats are blind, and that they always carry diseases, but none of that is true. The more I present, the more I notice that I am changing minds.
And while getting people to respect bats is pretty hard, getting them to respect me has been difficult too. When I first applied to host a booth at a local street fair, the managers thought I was too young. But I refused to take "no" for an answer. I continued to make my case, and they finally said yes! The best part is, I impressed them so much -- 100 visitors on my first day -- that they now invite me back every year.
Question:
The author wrote a letter to the host in order to ask them to_.
Choices:
A. donate some money to save bats
B. make a radio program about bats
C. announce new findings about bats
D. finish some questionnaires about the fair | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high19800.txt | When I was little, I'd see tons of bats flying around streetlights at night in my neighborhood in upstate New York. But I'll never forget the first time when I saw a bat up close. By the time I turned 7, though, I noticed something strange: All the bats in my neighborhood had disappeared, and I wondered why.
Then, three years ago, when I was 11 and visiting the state fair, I learned what had happened to my town's bats. A disease called "white nose syndrome" had killed 93 percent of New York State's bats. I was horrified. Then I wrote a letter to the host of an environmental program on the local radio station, asking if they could do a show on bats. They did!
But I still wanted to find a way to educate people face to face. I reached out to a teacher I had in elementary school and asked if I could make a presentation to her class. I described how bats help farmers by eating crop-damaging insects. It went over so well that other teachers started requesting me. Over the past three years, I've talked in front of everyone from 5-year-olds to senior citizens! Many people think that bats are blind, and that they always carry diseases, but none of that is true. The more I present, the more I notice that I am changing minds.
And while getting people to respect bats is pretty hard, getting them to respect me has been difficult too. When I first applied to host a booth at a local street fair, the managers thought I was too young. But I refused to take "no" for an answer. I continued to make my case, and they finally said yes! The best part is, I impressed them so much -- 100 visitors on my first day -- that they now invite me back every year. | [
"donate some money to save bats",
"make a radio program about bats",
"announce new findings about bats",
"finish some questionnaires about the fair"
] |
Chemical digestion in the small intestine cannot occur without the help of the pancreas and what bile-producing organ? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | Chemical digestion in the small intestine cannot occur without the help of the pancreas and what bile-producing organ? | liver | science | null | null | null | stomach | kidney | heart | liver | 23.6 Accessory Organs in Digestion: The Liver, Pancreas, and Gallbladder Chemical digestion in the small intestine cannot occur without the help of the liver and pancreas. The liver produces bile and delivers it to the common hepatic duct. Bile contains bile salts and phospholipids, which emulsify large lipid globules into tiny lipid droplets, a necessary step in lipid digestion and absorption. The gallbladder stores and concentrates bile, releasing it when it is needed by the small intestine. The pancreas produces the enzyme- and bicarbonate-rich pancreatic juice and delivers it to the small intestine through ducts. Pancreatic juice buffers the acidic gastric juice in chyme, inactivates pepsin from the stomach, and enables the optimal functioning of digestive enzymes in the small intestine. | null | null | null |
How many instruments do you know in the ad? | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Do You Want to Be an Artist?
Do you want to be an artist? Come to our club. We have guitar, violin, piano and drum lessons for just Y=240 each. You can also learn to sing or dance for just Y=180 each. If you like art, you can be satisfied, too. Art lessons are just Y=200 each.
Question:
How many instruments do you know in the ad?
Choices:
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4 | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle1220.txt | Do You Want to Be an Artist?
Do you want to be an artist? Come to our club. We have guitar, violin, piano and drum lessons for just Y=240 each. You can also learn to sing or dance for just Y=180 each. If you like art, you can be satisfied, too. Art lessons are just Y=200 each. | [
"1",
"2",
"3",
"4"
] |
From the passage we can learn that the writer is a person who | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
I grew up in one of the poorest areas in Bradford. I live in a three-bedroom house with six brothers and sisters. I studied very hard . I got the best results in the history of the school. Other students would be happy with receiving such results. Their parents would give them an MP5 player as a prize or take them for a trip. What about me? In fact it made me sad. It was because my application to Imperial College London didn't pass. It is my dream to study medicine there.
I know that nothing in life is easy. I won't give up. I will apply again the following year. While some students are traveling during the holiday, I am working hard. I help the doctors look after sick people in a hospital . I believe I must become a doctor one day.
Question:
From the passage we can learn that the writer is a person who
Choices:
A. has hope
B. is lucky
C. hates life
D. is shy | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle2444.txt | I grew up in one of the poorest areas in Bradford. I live in a three-bedroom house with six brothers and sisters. I studied very hard . I got the best results in the history of the school. Other students would be happy with receiving such results. Their parents would give them an MP5 player as a prize or take them for a trip. What about me? In fact it made me sad. It was because my application to Imperial College London didn't pass. It is my dream to study medicine there.
I know that nothing in life is easy. I won't give up. I will apply again the following year. While some students are traveling during the holiday, I am working hard. I help the doctors look after sick people in a hospital . I believe I must become a doctor one day. | [
"has hope",
"is lucky",
"hates life",
"is shy"
] |
What can be inferred from the text? | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
On February 3, a Laysan albatross , a large seabird, named Wisdom, which is 62 years old, hatched a healthy chick on a Pacific island near Hawaii,. It was the sixth year in a row this bird has hatched a chick. Wisdom's species normally lives only 12 to 40 years, while she is able to hatch healthy chicks into her 60s.
At breeding time, the Laysan albatross will dig out a shallow nest in the ground. The female then lays a single egg. Both she and her mate will take turns incubating the egg until it hatches. More than seven out of every 10 Laysan albatrosses' nests are on just one island -Midway Atoll. That's Wisdom's home.
But her species spends most of its time in the air. In fact, biologists observe that after learning to fly, these birds may not set foot on land for the next three to five years.
Albatrosses are powerful gliders , With their six-foot, nearly two-meter, wingspan, Laysan albatrosses can ride wind currents for hundreds of miles or more. Biologists now estimate that Wisdom has flown for an unusually large number of miles-between two million and three million. That is equivalent to traveling from Earth to the moon and back-four to six times! And in the months when these birds are not breeding, they stay in the air, and even sleep there.
Wild albatrosses often die long before they come close to Wisdom's age. Some are eaten. Others starve, get sick or suffer life-threatening injuries from people's fishing boats. Clearly, Wisdom is special. She may have raised as many as 35 chicks in her life.
Question:
What can be inferred from the text?
Choices:
A. Wisdom has outlived her species by at least two decades.
B. Most albatrosses sleep and breed on Midway Atoll.
C. Wisdom gives birth to babies every six years.
D. Albatrosses build their big nests on trees. | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high8354.txt | On February 3, a Laysan albatross , a large seabird, named Wisdom, which is 62 years old, hatched a healthy chick on a Pacific island near Hawaii,. It was the sixth year in a row this bird has hatched a chick. Wisdom's species normally lives only 12 to 40 years, while she is able to hatch healthy chicks into her 60s.
At breeding time, the Laysan albatross will dig out a shallow nest in the ground. The female then lays a single egg. Both she and her mate will take turns incubating the egg until it hatches. More than seven out of every 10 Laysan albatrosses' nests are on just one island -Midway Atoll. That's Wisdom's home.
But her species spends most of its time in the air. In fact, biologists observe that after learning to fly, these birds may not set foot on land for the next three to five years.
Albatrosses are powerful gliders , With their six-foot, nearly two-meter, wingspan, Laysan albatrosses can ride wind currents for hundreds of miles or more. Biologists now estimate that Wisdom has flown for an unusually large number of miles-between two million and three million. That is equivalent to traveling from Earth to the moon and back-four to six times! And in the months when these birds are not breeding, they stay in the air, and even sleep there.
Wild albatrosses often die long before they come close to Wisdom's age. Some are eaten. Others starve, get sick or suffer life-threatening injuries from people's fishing boats. Clearly, Wisdom is special. She may have raised as many as 35 chicks in her life. | [
"Wisdom has outlived her species by at least two decades.",
"Most albatrosses sleep and breed on Midway Atoll.",
"Wisdom gives birth to babies every six years.",
"Albatrosses build their big nests on trees."
] |
The writer felt happy that day because _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Years ago, I went to a special English class because it was the only school subject that I wasn't good at. I got excellent marks because of my fine memory . I could read and translate any text that I heard once but I couldn't make my own sentences. My face usually turned red when my teacher wanted me to answer questions in English. A few months later, I had to pass an exam. I couldn't _ the novel with my own words, so I decided to learn the book by heart. I told my teacher 10 pages of the book. When the teacher understood what was happening, she stopped me and said, "Gagik, you have a fine memory, but it's much easier to speak English."
That day on my way home, I met a foreigner. He couldn't find the way to his hotel. To my surprise, I spoke to him in English and helped him find his hotel. I found speaking English was not so difficult if I didn't think too much about making mistakes. I thought that was the secret of learning to speak English. How happy I was!
Question:
The writer felt happy that day because _ .
Choices:
A. he told his teacher 10 pages of the book
B. he made friends with a foreigner
C. he found the secret of learning to speak English
D. he helped the foreigner find his hotel | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle4136.txt | Years ago, I went to a special English class because it was the only school subject that I wasn't good at. I got excellent marks because of my fine memory . I could read and translate any text that I heard once but I couldn't make my own sentences. My face usually turned red when my teacher wanted me to answer questions in English. A few months later, I had to pass an exam. I couldn't _ the novel with my own words, so I decided to learn the book by heart. I told my teacher 10 pages of the book. When the teacher understood what was happening, she stopped me and said, "Gagik, you have a fine memory, but it's much easier to speak English."
That day on my way home, I met a foreigner. He couldn't find the way to his hotel. To my surprise, I spoke to him in English and helped him find his hotel. I found speaking English was not so difficult if I didn't think too much about making mistakes. I thought that was the secret of learning to speak English. How happy I was! | [
"he told his teacher 10 pages of the book",
"he made friends with a foreigner",
"he found the secret of learning to speak English",
"he helped the foreigner find his hotel"
] |
From the story we know _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
In a Police Mess , an officer wanted to get some fresh vegetables. He was so pleased with his mushrooms that he decided to share them. When their breakfast arrived the next day, each officer found some mushrooms on his plate.
"Try the dog with a piece first." Suggested one cautious officer who was afraid that the " mushrooms" might be poisonous.
The dog seemed to enjoy its mushrooms, and the officers then began to eat their meal, saying that the mushrooms tasted wonderful.
An hour later, however, there was great confusion when the gardener rushed in to announce that the dog was dead. Immediately, the officers jumped into their cars and rushed to the nearest hospital. Stomach pumps were used and the officers had a very unpleasant time getting rid of the remains of the mushrooms.
When they returned to the mess, they sat down and started to discuss the symptoms of the mushroom poisoning. The gardener was called in to give a full account of the way the poor dog had died. " Did it suffer much before death?" asked one of the officer, feeling very pleased that he had escaped a painful death himself. The gardener looked rather surprised , " No, " he said in a puzzled tone. " It was killed when a car ran over it."
, .
Question:
From the story we know _ .
Choices:
A. the dog died from an accident.
B. the dog died from the mushrooms it ate
C. the gardener killed the dog
D. one officer killed the dog | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle3937.txt | In a Police Mess , an officer wanted to get some fresh vegetables. He was so pleased with his mushrooms that he decided to share them. When their breakfast arrived the next day, each officer found some mushrooms on his plate.
"Try the dog with a piece first." Suggested one cautious officer who was afraid that the " mushrooms" might be poisonous.
The dog seemed to enjoy its mushrooms, and the officers then began to eat their meal, saying that the mushrooms tasted wonderful.
An hour later, however, there was great confusion when the gardener rushed in to announce that the dog was dead. Immediately, the officers jumped into their cars and rushed to the nearest hospital. Stomach pumps were used and the officers had a very unpleasant time getting rid of the remains of the mushrooms.
When they returned to the mess, they sat down and started to discuss the symptoms of the mushroom poisoning. The gardener was called in to give a full account of the way the poor dog had died. " Did it suffer much before death?" asked one of the officer, feeling very pleased that he had escaped a painful death himself. The gardener looked rather surprised , " No, " he said in a puzzled tone. " It was killed when a car ran over it."
, . | [
"the dog died from an accident.",
"the dog died from the mushrooms it ate",
"the gardener killed the dog",
"one officer killed the dog"
] |
It is the right time to make small talk when | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
In our daily life, it is necessary to make small talk in certain situations. It helps to fill time between people when it is completely quiet. You may not feel like talking with someone else or you are very shy at the beginning, but it is sometimes thought to be rude to say nothing.
People use small talk almost every day. It usually takes place when you meet someone you don't know at all or someone you're not familiar with. For example, waitresses and hairdressers often make small talk with their customers. If you happen to be outside when the mailman comes to your door, you might make small talk with him, too.
Most often, small talk happens in places where people are waiting for something. For example, you might talk with another person who is waiting for the bus to arrive. People also make small talk in a doctor's waiting room, or when they are waiting in a line to buy something. At the office, people make small talk in elevators or lunchrooms, especially if there is a line-up. Mingling is often required among people who don't know each other very well at a party. In other words, they are expected to walk around and talk with others.
The most common time for small talk to happen is the first time you see or meet someone on a given day. For example, if you see a co-worker in the lounge you might say hello and discuss the sports or weather. However, the next time you see each other you might just smile and say nothing. If there is very little noise, it might be the right time to start a pleasant conversation. If someone is reading a book at the bus stop, it is probably not a good idea to start a conversation. Another good time to make small talk is during a break in a meeting when there is nothing important going on. However, it is important to recognize the signal when the other person wants the conversation to stop.
Question:
It is the right time to make small talk when
Choices:
A. there is nothing important going on during a break in a meeting
B. the other person doesn't want to start a conversation
C. On the same day, you see a co-worker in the lounge again
D. someone is reading a book at the bus stop | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high13472.txt | In our daily life, it is necessary to make small talk in certain situations. It helps to fill time between people when it is completely quiet. You may not feel like talking with someone else or you are very shy at the beginning, but it is sometimes thought to be rude to say nothing.
People use small talk almost every day. It usually takes place when you meet someone you don't know at all or someone you're not familiar with. For example, waitresses and hairdressers often make small talk with their customers. If you happen to be outside when the mailman comes to your door, you might make small talk with him, too.
Most often, small talk happens in places where people are waiting for something. For example, you might talk with another person who is waiting for the bus to arrive. People also make small talk in a doctor's waiting room, or when they are waiting in a line to buy something. At the office, people make small talk in elevators or lunchrooms, especially if there is a line-up. Mingling is often required among people who don't know each other very well at a party. In other words, they are expected to walk around and talk with others.
The most common time for small talk to happen is the first time you see or meet someone on a given day. For example, if you see a co-worker in the lounge you might say hello and discuss the sports or weather. However, the next time you see each other you might just smile and say nothing. If there is very little noise, it might be the right time to start a pleasant conversation. If someone is reading a book at the bus stop, it is probably not a good idea to start a conversation. Another good time to make small talk is during a break in a meeting when there is nothing important going on. However, it is important to recognize the signal when the other person wants the conversation to stop. | [
"there is nothing important going on during a break in a meeting",
"the other person doesn't want to start a conversation",
"On the same day, you see a co-worker in the lounge again",
"someone is reading a book at the bus stop"
] |
Uncle Li and Uncle Wang were unhappy because _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Uncle Li and Uncle Wang are good friends. They live next to each other and their farms are both at the foot of the mountain. So they can help each other. But neither of them likes to use his head. They work hard but they are both poor. Most villagers have built new houses, but they still live in the low and broken houses. They never find out why.
Once Uncle Li went to town to buy some medicine for his wife. In the town he heard the apples in a city were expensive. He told Uncle Wang about it as soon as he went back. They decided to carry some apples to the city. They borrowed some money from their friends and bought nearly 1,000 kilograms of apples in the villages and carried them to the city on a tractor . Bad luck! A lot of apples were in the city when they arrived. A few days later they had to sell them at a low price. They felt unhappy and returned to their village.
"I can't understand why we sustained losses in business while others always profit " Uncle Li asked one day.
"The tractor was too small" Uncle Wang said without thinking. "We'll carry more apples on a truck next time!"
"I agree!" said Uncle Li. "How foolish we were!"
Question:
Uncle Li and Uncle Wang were unhappy because _ .
Choices:
A. they had sustained losses in business
B. they had lost some money in the city
C. something was wrong with the tractor
D. other people profited in the city | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle2221.txt | Uncle Li and Uncle Wang are good friends. They live next to each other and their farms are both at the foot of the mountain. So they can help each other. But neither of them likes to use his head. They work hard but they are both poor. Most villagers have built new houses, but they still live in the low and broken houses. They never find out why.
Once Uncle Li went to town to buy some medicine for his wife. In the town he heard the apples in a city were expensive. He told Uncle Wang about it as soon as he went back. They decided to carry some apples to the city. They borrowed some money from their friends and bought nearly 1,000 kilograms of apples in the villages and carried them to the city on a tractor . Bad luck! A lot of apples were in the city when they arrived. A few days later they had to sell them at a low price. They felt unhappy and returned to their village.
"I can't understand why we sustained losses in business while others always profit " Uncle Li asked one day.
"The tractor was too small" Uncle Wang said without thinking. "We'll carry more apples on a truck next time!"
"I agree!" said Uncle Li. "How foolish we were!" | [
"they had sustained losses in business",
"they had lost some money in the city",
"something was wrong with the tractor",
"other people profited in the city"
] |
Whose model will possibly help readers obtain health naturally ? | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Money and Happiness
A Guide to Living the good life
Author: Laura Rowley
Publisher: Wiley (March 1, 2005)
Laura Rowley makes us all understand the money-happiness connection in our own lives so that we spend our time and our efforts wisely. She offers insight that every reader can use to make smarter decisions that will lead to living a rich life in every possible definition of the term.
The Happiness Makeover
How to Teach Yourself to Be Happy and Enjoy Every Day
Author: M. J. Ryan
Publisher: Broadway (May 10, 2005)
Ryan's own desire to be happier first led her to study what is known about happiness from brain science, psychology, and the wisdom traditions of the world. The Happiness Makeover draws on this wide-ranging knowledge and presents a plan that will help you:
Clear away happiness hindrances like worry, fear, envy, and grudges
Discover happiness boosters like meaningful work, challenge, and gratitude
Learn to think optimistically (it is really possible!)
Find daily ways to truly enjoy, even relish, the moments of your life Happiness
The Science Behind Your Smile
Author: Daniel Nettle
Publisher: Oxford University Press (July 1, 2005)
This is the first book to look thoroughly at what happiness is and how it works. Nettle examines whether people are basically happy or unhappy, whether success can make us happy, why some people are happier than others, and much more.
Hormones , health, and Happiness
Author: Steven F. Hotze
Publisher: Forrest Publishing (April, 2005)
Dr Steven Hotze is leading a wellness revolution that advances a new model of health care. In Hormones, Health, and Happiness you are shown how to reach and maintain optional cell, tissue , and organ functioning so that you can enjoy a better quality of life.
Question:
Whose model will possibly help readers obtain health naturally ?
Choices:
A. Laura Rowley
B. Ryan's
C. Daniel Nettle's
D. Steven F. Hotze's | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high5062.txt | Money and Happiness
A Guide to Living the good life
Author: Laura Rowley
Publisher: Wiley (March 1, 2005)
Laura Rowley makes us all understand the money-happiness connection in our own lives so that we spend our time and our efforts wisely. She offers insight that every reader can use to make smarter decisions that will lead to living a rich life in every possible definition of the term.
The Happiness Makeover
How to Teach Yourself to Be Happy and Enjoy Every Day
Author: M. J. Ryan
Publisher: Broadway (May 10, 2005)
Ryan's own desire to be happier first led her to study what is known about happiness from brain science, psychology, and the wisdom traditions of the world. The Happiness Makeover draws on this wide-ranging knowledge and presents a plan that will help you:
Clear away happiness hindrances like worry, fear, envy, and grudges
Discover happiness boosters like meaningful work, challenge, and gratitude
Learn to think optimistically (it is really possible!)
Find daily ways to truly enjoy, even relish, the moments of your life Happiness
The Science Behind Your Smile
Author: Daniel Nettle
Publisher: Oxford University Press (July 1, 2005)
This is the first book to look thoroughly at what happiness is and how it works. Nettle examines whether people are basically happy or unhappy, whether success can make us happy, why some people are happier than others, and much more.
Hormones , health, and Happiness
Author: Steven F. Hotze
Publisher: Forrest Publishing (April, 2005)
Dr Steven Hotze is leading a wellness revolution that advances a new model of health care. In Hormones, Health, and Happiness you are shown how to reach and maintain optional cell, tissue , and organ functioning so that you can enjoy a better quality of life. | [
"Laura Rowley",
"Ryan's",
"Daniel Nettle's",
"Steven F. Hotze's"
] |
Based on the study, what will be done to improve students' reasoning ability? | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Science. And technology students in China and the US have a1ong way to go before they call develop a deep understanding of scientific reasoning, researchers have found.
As part of a research to compare science education in China and the US,LeiBao, a professor
from the Department of Physics of the Ohio State University, gave 5,760;freshmen in three US and four Chinese universities two tests to evaluate content knowledge and another to assess scientific reasoning
|Though Chinese students did better than theirprefix = st1 /UScounterparts in the first two tests that Emphasized on learning facts, both groups "scored ly poorly" on the third test, designed to assess their ability on systematically explore a problem, the results showed.
Lei Bao said that the finding challenges conventional wisdom,which holds that teaching science facts will improve students' reasoning ability."Our study shows that ,contrary to what many people would expect,even when students are thoroughly taught the facts,they don't necessarily develop the reasoning skills they need to succeed.''IBao said:'"Because students need both knowledge and reasoning, we need to explore teaching methods that target both."
'The current education systems and assessments of China and the US do not emphasize on deep understanding of scientific reasoning in the disciplines of science;technology, engineering and mathematics(STEM),the study concluded.
Bao explained that reasoning is good skill for everyone to possess-not just scientists and engineers:The general public also need good reasoning skills in order to correctly interpret scientific findings and think rationally.STEM students need to _ scientific reasoning in order to handle open-ended real-world tasks in their future careers in science and engineering.
How to boost scientific reasoning? The study suggests that educators must go beyond teaching science facts if they hope to boost students' reasoning ability.Bao points to inquiry-based leaning. where students work in groups,question teachers and design their own investigations.This teaching technique is growing in popularity worldwide.
Question:
Based on the study, what will be done to improve students' reasoning ability?
Choices:
A. To improve teaching techniques.
B. To better students' learning conditions.
C. To teach students more science facts.
D. To offer students more tests. | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high23227.txt | Science. And technology students in China and the US have a1ong way to go before they call develop a deep understanding of scientific reasoning, researchers have found.
As part of a research to compare science education in China and the US,LeiBao, a professor
from the Department of Physics of the Ohio State University, gave 5,760;freshmen in three US and four Chinese universities two tests to evaluate content knowledge and another to assess scientific reasoning
|Though Chinese students did better than theirprefix = st1 /UScounterparts in the first two tests that Emphasized on learning facts, both groups "scored ly poorly" on the third test, designed to assess their ability on systematically explore a problem, the results showed.
Lei Bao said that the finding challenges conventional wisdom,which holds that teaching science facts will improve students' reasoning ability."Our study shows that ,contrary to what many people would expect,even when students are thoroughly taught the facts,they don't necessarily develop the reasoning skills they need to succeed.''IBao said:'"Because students need both knowledge and reasoning, we need to explore teaching methods that target both."
'The current education systems and assessments of China and the US do not emphasize on deep understanding of scientific reasoning in the disciplines of science;technology, engineering and mathematics(STEM),the study concluded.
Bao explained that reasoning is good skill for everyone to possess-not just scientists and engineers:The general public also need good reasoning skills in order to correctly interpret scientific findings and think rationally.STEM students need to _ scientific reasoning in order to handle open-ended real-world tasks in their future careers in science and engineering.
How to boost scientific reasoning? The study suggests that educators must go beyond teaching science facts if they hope to boost students' reasoning ability.Bao points to inquiry-based leaning. where students work in groups,question teachers and design their own investigations.This teaching technique is growing in popularity worldwide. | [
"To improve teaching techniques.",
"To better students' learning conditions.",
"To teach students more science facts.",
"To offer students more tests."
] |
The writer wants to tell us _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
In today's world, English is the most wildly used language. It is our duty to learn English in the new situation of the reform and opening to the outside world. How can we master the English language ? I'd like to give you some good advice.
First, get interested in it. I enjoy listening to foreign friends talking when I was a child. At the same time I watched the English programme Follow Me on TV. From then on, I kept on learning English. The more I learned, the more progress I made.
Second, practice makes perfect. Many people study English very hard, but they are very shy to speak it in public, for they are afraid of making mistakes. _ A native English speaker makes mistakes sometimes, too.
Third, the beginners should be encouraged to pay attention to idioms. The English language has many idioms. For example, you should say " He is as strong as a cow."
Question:
The writer wants to tell us _ .
Choices:
A. the importance of learning English
B. the new situation of the reform and opening to the outside world
C. some good ideas on how to master English
D. the wide use of the English language | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high1214.txt | In today's world, English is the most wildly used language. It is our duty to learn English in the new situation of the reform and opening to the outside world. How can we master the English language ? I'd like to give you some good advice.
First, get interested in it. I enjoy listening to foreign friends talking when I was a child. At the same time I watched the English programme Follow Me on TV. From then on, I kept on learning English. The more I learned, the more progress I made.
Second, practice makes perfect. Many people study English very hard, but they are very shy to speak it in public, for they are afraid of making mistakes. _ A native English speaker makes mistakes sometimes, too.
Third, the beginners should be encouraged to pay attention to idioms. The English language has many idioms. For example, you should say " He is as strong as a cow." | [
"the importance of learning English",
"the new situation of the reform and opening to the outside world",
"some good ideas on how to master English",
"the wide use of the English language"
] |
The author writes the passage so that readers can _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Hello! The University of Hawaii is located just outside of downtown Honolulu in green Manoa valley. We invite you to visit and want to let you know about our learning programs, the richness of our culture, the beauty of our environment, the spirit of our students and teachers, advanced equipment and modern buildings. We look forward to seeing you come. The following information is given so that your visit will be as easy as possible.
You should get in touch with us ahead of time. You may directly contact the office of the College to schedule appointment service at 1-877-447-3233. To arrange a campus tour please hand in a request through our Online Campus Visit Request Form.
Tours are on weekdays:
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
9:00a.m. -- 9:30a.m.: Meet with a University Representative
9:30a.m. -- 11:30a.m.: General Campus Tour with a UHM (The University of Hawaii at Manoa) student
Tuesday & Thursday
1:00p.m. -- 1:30p.m.: Meet with a University Representative
1:30p.m. -- 3:30p.m.: General Campus Tour with a UHM student
You also can get in touch with us by:
Phone Number: 1 (877) 447-3233, or 1 (808) 956-6524
E-mail: visituhm@hawaii.edu
How do you get to UHM?
It is in Honolulu less than 3 miles away from Waikiki and about 9 miles from Honolulu International Airport.
By car: From Waikiki and from Honolulu International Airport
Taxi: Taxi fare to UHM is about $25.00, except baggage charges and a tip of 10 to 15 percent.
Public bus: Luggage is allowed on city buses. Bus stops are on the second floor of the airport. A one-way fare is $2.00 (in exact change).
Question:
The author writes the passage so that readers can _ .
Choices:
A. know about the beauty of the campus
B. know about the learning programs
C. know more about the university
D. visit the campus as easily as possible | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high11723.txt | Hello! The University of Hawaii is located just outside of downtown Honolulu in green Manoa valley. We invite you to visit and want to let you know about our learning programs, the richness of our culture, the beauty of our environment, the spirit of our students and teachers, advanced equipment and modern buildings. We look forward to seeing you come. The following information is given so that your visit will be as easy as possible.
You should get in touch with us ahead of time. You may directly contact the office of the College to schedule appointment service at 1-877-447-3233. To arrange a campus tour please hand in a request through our Online Campus Visit Request Form.
Tours are on weekdays:
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
9:00a.m. -- 9:30a.m.: Meet with a University Representative
9:30a.m. -- 11:30a.m.: General Campus Tour with a UHM (The University of Hawaii at Manoa) student
Tuesday & Thursday
1:00p.m. -- 1:30p.m.: Meet with a University Representative
1:30p.m. -- 3:30p.m.: General Campus Tour with a UHM student
You also can get in touch with us by:
Phone Number: 1 (877) 447-3233, or 1 (808) 956-6524
E-mail: visituhm@hawaii.edu
How do you get to UHM?
It is in Honolulu less than 3 miles away from Waikiki and about 9 miles from Honolulu International Airport.
By car: From Waikiki and from Honolulu International Airport
Taxi: Taxi fare to UHM is about $25.00, except baggage charges and a tip of 10 to 15 percent.
Public bus: Luggage is allowed on city buses. Bus stops are on the second floor of the airport. A one-way fare is $2.00 (in exact change). | [
"know about the beauty of the campus",
"know about the learning programs",
"know more about the university",
"visit the campus as easily as possible"
] |
We need "life skills" _ | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
There are many things we need to know that we do not learn at school. For example, if we want to use our money wisely, we need to shop carefully. We need to know how to compare the prices of things in different shops. We need to be able to compare the quality of different brands . We need to know how to make a choice when we shop.
Knowing how to make such choices is a "life skill", and we need these skills if we are to live useful and happy lives.
Some of these choices are small. For example, will I take an apple for lunch or a pear? Will I go to school by bus or on foot? Will I wear the red T-shirt or the blue one to the movies? Other choices are more important. For example, will I eat healthy food for lunch or will eat junk food because it is tastier? Will I work hard in all my classes or will I only work hard in the classes I enjoy? We make choices like this every day.
We have to realize that the choices we make can affect the rest of our lives. Just as importantly, our choices can also affect other people. The next time you decide to waste time in class, play a joke on someone or talk loudly at the movies, think about this: who else does your choice affect?
Question:
We need "life skills" _
Choices:
A. to know how to shop carefully
B. to compare brands and prices
C. to live useful and happy lives
D. to learn things at school | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle7274.txt | There are many things we need to know that we do not learn at school. For example, if we want to use our money wisely, we need to shop carefully. We need to know how to compare the prices of things in different shops. We need to be able to compare the quality of different brands . We need to know how to make a choice when we shop.
Knowing how to make such choices is a "life skill", and we need these skills if we are to live useful and happy lives.
Some of these choices are small. For example, will I take an apple for lunch or a pear? Will I go to school by bus or on foot? Will I wear the red T-shirt or the blue one to the movies? Other choices are more important. For example, will I eat healthy food for lunch or will eat junk food because it is tastier? Will I work hard in all my classes or will I only work hard in the classes I enjoy? We make choices like this every day.
We have to realize that the choices we make can affect the rest of our lives. Just as importantly, our choices can also affect other people. The next time you decide to waste time in class, play a joke on someone or talk loudly at the movies, think about this: who else does your choice affect? | [
"to know how to shop carefully",
"to compare brands and prices",
"to live useful and happy lives",
"to learn things at school"
] |
Why was the Francis Ouimet Fund set up to support Massachusetts kids only? | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
At the age of 11, Peter Lynch started caddying at Brae Burn Country Club in Newton, Mass. "It was better than a newspaper carrier, and much more profitable," the Fidelity vice chairman recalls. He kept it up during the summers for almost a decade. "You get to know the course and can give the golf players advice about how to approach various holes," he says. "Where else, at age 15 or 16, can you serve as a trusted adviser to high-powered people?"
One of those people was George Sullivan, then president of Fidelity's funds, who was so impressed with Lynch's smarts that he hired him in 1966. "There were about 75 applicants for 3 job openings," Lynch says now. "But I was the only one who had caddied for the president for 10 years."
In between caddying and managing money, Lynch went to Boston College on a scholarship from a program called the Francis Ouimet Fund. Named after the 1913 winner of the U.S. Open, the fund launched in 1949 which is open to Massachusetts kids only. Ouimet executive director Robert Donovan says, "Help with college is a logical extension of friendly relation between golfers and their favorite caddies, because there is a close tie to train up them to be excellent that happens between the players and the kids who carry their golf poles. And for the teens, caddying is all about being around successful role models."
It is obvious that caddies who are finally successful include all kinds of outstanding personnel, from actor Bill Murray, to New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman, to former GE chairman and CEO Jack Welch.
Of course, the great number of financial giants who caddied in their youth might be coincidence, but Dick Connolly thinks not. "Caddying life teaches you a lot about business, and about life," he says. "You learn to show up early and look people in the eye when you shake their hand, and you learn how to read people -- including who's likely to cheat and who isn't." Connolly is a longtime investment advisor at Morgan Stanley's Boston office, a former Ouimet scholarship student and, along with Peter Lynch and Roger Altman, one of the program's biggest supporters. He wants to share the most important lesson he learned on the links, so he says: "One golfer I caddied for told me that if you want to succeed in any field -- golf or business -- you have to spend a lot of lonely hours, either practicing or working, when you'd rather be partying with your friends. That's true, and it stuck with me."
Question:
Why was the Francis Ouimet Fund set up to support Massachusetts kids only?
Choices:
A. Because of the advice from the rich golf players.
B. Because of those giants with caddying experiences.
C. Because of the great success the caddies have achieved.
D. Because of the friendly relation between golfers and their caddies. | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high17358.txt | At the age of 11, Peter Lynch started caddying at Brae Burn Country Club in Newton, Mass. "It was better than a newspaper carrier, and much more profitable," the Fidelity vice chairman recalls. He kept it up during the summers for almost a decade. "You get to know the course and can give the golf players advice about how to approach various holes," he says. "Where else, at age 15 or 16, can you serve as a trusted adviser to high-powered people?"
One of those people was George Sullivan, then president of Fidelity's funds, who was so impressed with Lynch's smarts that he hired him in 1966. "There were about 75 applicants for 3 job openings," Lynch says now. "But I was the only one who had caddied for the president for 10 years."
In between caddying and managing money, Lynch went to Boston College on a scholarship from a program called the Francis Ouimet Fund. Named after the 1913 winner of the U.S. Open, the fund launched in 1949 which is open to Massachusetts kids only. Ouimet executive director Robert Donovan says, "Help with college is a logical extension of friendly relation between golfers and their favorite caddies, because there is a close tie to train up them to be excellent that happens between the players and the kids who carry their golf poles. And for the teens, caddying is all about being around successful role models."
It is obvious that caddies who are finally successful include all kinds of outstanding personnel, from actor Bill Murray, to New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman, to former GE chairman and CEO Jack Welch.
Of course, the great number of financial giants who caddied in their youth might be coincidence, but Dick Connolly thinks not. "Caddying life teaches you a lot about business, and about life," he says. "You learn to show up early and look people in the eye when you shake their hand, and you learn how to read people -- including who's likely to cheat and who isn't." Connolly is a longtime investment advisor at Morgan Stanley's Boston office, a former Ouimet scholarship student and, along with Peter Lynch and Roger Altman, one of the program's biggest supporters. He wants to share the most important lesson he learned on the links, so he says: "One golfer I caddied for told me that if you want to succeed in any field -- golf or business -- you have to spend a lot of lonely hours, either practicing or working, when you'd rather be partying with your friends. That's true, and it stuck with me." | [
"Because of the advice from the rich golf players.",
"Because of those giants with caddying experiences.",
"Because of the great success the caddies have achieved.",
"Because of the friendly relation between golfers and their caddies."
] |
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.