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What would be the best title for this passage? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
The lights dimmed,the musical hall grew quiet and out walked the conductor shiny and white and 4 feet and 3 inches tall.
ASIMO, a robot designed by Honda Motor Co., met its latest challenge Tuesday evening: Conducting the Detroit Symphony , in a performance of "The Impossible Dream" from "Man of La Mancha".
"Hello, everyone," ASIMO said to the audience in a childlike voice, then waved to the orchestra. As it conducted, it perfectly mimicked the actions of a conductor,
nodding its head at various sections and gesturing with one or both hands. ASIMO took a final bow to excited shouts from the audience. Later, cellist Yo-Yo Ma joined ASIMO onstage to receive an award for his efforts in music education.
Honda spokeswoman Alicia Jones says it is the first time ASIMO has conducted an orchestra, and it may be the first time any robot has conducted a live performance. But ASIMO has its limits. ASIMO's engineers programmed the robot to mimic Charles Burke, the Detroit Symphony's education director, as he conducted the piece in front of a pianist about six months ago. But it can't respond to the musicians.
"It's not a communicative device. It simply is programmed to do a set of gestures," said Leonard Slatkin, the orchestra's musical director. "If the orchestra decides to go faster, there's nothing the robot can do about it. Hopefully, I keep that under control."
But several musicians also said ASIMO was more realistic than they expected. "The movements are still a little stiff , but very humanlike, much better than I thought," Hutchinson said.
Question:
What would be the best title for this passage?
Choices:
A. Detroit Symphony gives a good performance
B. Honda robot conducts Detroit Symphony
C. "The Impossible Dream" from Detroit Symphony
D. Cooperation between Honda and Detroit Symphony | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high15476.txt | The lights dimmed,the musical hall grew quiet and out walked the conductor shiny and white and 4 feet and 3 inches tall.
ASIMO, a robot designed by Honda Motor Co., met its latest challenge Tuesday evening: Conducting the Detroit Symphony , in a performance of "The Impossible Dream" from "Man of La Mancha".
"Hello, everyone," ASIMO said to the audience in a childlike voice, then waved to the orchestra. As it conducted, it perfectly mimicked the actions of a conductor,
nodding its head at various sections and gesturing with one or both hands. ASIMO took a final bow to excited shouts from the audience. Later, cellist Yo-Yo Ma joined ASIMO onstage to receive an award for his efforts in music education.
Honda spokeswoman Alicia Jones says it is the first time ASIMO has conducted an orchestra, and it may be the first time any robot has conducted a live performance. But ASIMO has its limits. ASIMO's engineers programmed the robot to mimic Charles Burke, the Detroit Symphony's education director, as he conducted the piece in front of a pianist about six months ago. But it can't respond to the musicians.
"It's not a communicative device. It simply is programmed to do a set of gestures," said Leonard Slatkin, the orchestra's musical director. "If the orchestra decides to go faster, there's nothing the robot can do about it. Hopefully, I keep that under control."
But several musicians also said ASIMO was more realistic than they expected. "The movements are still a little stiff , but very humanlike, much better than I thought," Hutchinson said. | [
"Detroit Symphony gives a good performance",
"Honda robot conducts Detroit Symphony",
"\"The Impossible Dream\" from Detroit Symphony",
"Cooperation between Honda and Detroit Symphony"
] |
What can we learn about "Versed"? | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Rae Armantrout, who has been a poetry professor at the University of California San Diego(UCSD) for two decades, has won the 2010 Pulitzer Prize in the poetry category for her most recent book, "Versed".
"I'm delighted and amazed at how much media recognition that the Pulitzer brings, as compared to even the National Book Critics Award, which I was also surprised and delighted to win," said Armantrout.
"For a long time, my writing has been just below the media radar, and to have this kind of attention, suddenly, with my 10th book, is really surprising."
Armantrout, a native Californian, received her bachelor's degree at UC Berkeley, where she studied with noted poet Denise Levertov, and her master's in creative writing from San Francisco State University. She is a founding member of Language Poets, a group in American poetry that analyzes the way language is used and raises questions to make the reader think.
In March, she won the National Book Critics Circle Award for "Versed."
"This book has gotten more attention," Armantrout said, "but I don't feel as if it's better."
The first half of "Versed" focuses on the dark forces taking hold of the United States as it fought the war against Iraq. The second half looks at the dark forces casting a shadow over her own life after Armantrout was diagnosed with cancer in 2006.
Armantrout was shocked to learn she had won the Pulitzer but many of her colleagues were not. "Rae Armantrout is a unique voice in American poetry," said Seth Lerer, head of Arts and Humanities at UCSD.
"Versed", published by the Wesleyan University Press, did appear in a larger printing than her earlier works, which is about 2,700 copies. The new edition is scheduled to appear in May.
Question:
What can we learn about "Versed"?
Choices:
A. It consists of three parts.
B. It is mainly about the American army.
C. It is a book published two decades ago
D. It partly concerns the poet's own life. | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high2699.txt | Rae Armantrout, who has been a poetry professor at the University of California San Diego(UCSD) for two decades, has won the 2010 Pulitzer Prize in the poetry category for her most recent book, "Versed".
"I'm delighted and amazed at how much media recognition that the Pulitzer brings, as compared to even the National Book Critics Award, which I was also surprised and delighted to win," said Armantrout.
"For a long time, my writing has been just below the media radar, and to have this kind of attention, suddenly, with my 10th book, is really surprising."
Armantrout, a native Californian, received her bachelor's degree at UC Berkeley, where she studied with noted poet Denise Levertov, and her master's in creative writing from San Francisco State University. She is a founding member of Language Poets, a group in American poetry that analyzes the way language is used and raises questions to make the reader think.
In March, she won the National Book Critics Circle Award for "Versed."
"This book has gotten more attention," Armantrout said, "but I don't feel as if it's better."
The first half of "Versed" focuses on the dark forces taking hold of the United States as it fought the war against Iraq. The second half looks at the dark forces casting a shadow over her own life after Armantrout was diagnosed with cancer in 2006.
Armantrout was shocked to learn she had won the Pulitzer but many of her colleagues were not. "Rae Armantrout is a unique voice in American poetry," said Seth Lerer, head of Arts and Humanities at UCSD.
"Versed", published by the Wesleyan University Press, did appear in a larger printing than her earlier works, which is about 2,700 copies. The new edition is scheduled to appear in May. | [
"It consists of three parts.",
"It is mainly about the American army.",
"It is a book published two decades ago",
"It partly concerns the poet's own life."
] |
The new album not only shows their new musical style, but also _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
The Dixie Chicks used to be known as the biggest-selling female group in music history. Now they are known as one of the most disputed .
In 2003, Natalie Maines, the lead singer of the Dixie Chicks, was in the news. During a concert in London, she criticized President Bush for his political actions. She spoke less than two weeks before the invasion of Iraq. The Chicks did not realize the effect of those words. They soon lost their fans. They even received death threats. The comment changed the direction of their lives, music, and beliefs. Now, their new album Taking the Long Way shows their new musical direction. It is about acting and thinking freely. Maines openly sings about criticizing the president. She says she learned about herself by expressing her beliefs. The album also represents the Chicks' new musical style. In the past, they only sang songs influenced by country music. They did not always write their own music. Now, they are adding some rock sounds to their song collection, and they wrote every song on the album. Taking the Long Way quickly became the top-selling album in the country when it was released at the end of May. But many country music radio stations will not play music by the Dixie Chicks. Many people in the country music industry now oppose the band for criticizing the president. However, the Dixie Chicks continue to stress the importance of standing firmly and bravely for what they believe in --no matter what people may think or say.
Question:
The new album not only shows their new musical style, but also _ .
Choices:
A. gives an apology for their impoliteness to President Bush
B. criticizes their former fans who don't like their music any longer
C. represents their political views opposing the Bush Administration
D. expresses their beliefs about thinking and acting freely | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high18710.txt | The Dixie Chicks used to be known as the biggest-selling female group in music history. Now they are known as one of the most disputed .
In 2003, Natalie Maines, the lead singer of the Dixie Chicks, was in the news. During a concert in London, she criticized President Bush for his political actions. She spoke less than two weeks before the invasion of Iraq. The Chicks did not realize the effect of those words. They soon lost their fans. They even received death threats. The comment changed the direction of their lives, music, and beliefs. Now, their new album Taking the Long Way shows their new musical direction. It is about acting and thinking freely. Maines openly sings about criticizing the president. She says she learned about herself by expressing her beliefs. The album also represents the Chicks' new musical style. In the past, they only sang songs influenced by country music. They did not always write their own music. Now, they are adding some rock sounds to their song collection, and they wrote every song on the album. Taking the Long Way quickly became the top-selling album in the country when it was released at the end of May. But many country music radio stations will not play music by the Dixie Chicks. Many people in the country music industry now oppose the band for criticizing the president. However, the Dixie Chicks continue to stress the importance of standing firmly and bravely for what they believe in --no matter what people may think or say. | [
"gives an apology for their impoliteness to President Bush",
"criticizes their former fans who don't like their music any longer",
"represents their political views opposing the Bush Administration",
"expresses their beliefs about thinking and acting freely"
] |
What can we learn about the writer? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
A few days ago we - that's me and the husband - took a cab to the station. Chat with the driver fell to the wrong of cyclists, and the misunderstanding of the road rules. So far as the rules of the road go, there seems to be one basic principle: when you are driving a car you hate bikes, when you are riding a bike you hate cars (and I guess walkers hate everyone).
There is an obvious difference of viewpoint built in here. It wasn't until I started to drive a car (almost 20years after I had first rode a bike) that I actually realized that you could not see a cyclist at night without lights. In fact I now want to shout at late night cyclists without lights(like motortists once did at me): "You'll get killed, sunshine, I can't see you."
The problem is that cyclists do ride headlong into danger. It's not just not having lights. It's biking on pavements (and so threatening to injure a load of innocent walkers in the process) and biking down one-way streets the wrong way.
I admit that I do bike the wrong way down a one-way street sometimes. My feeble defense is that I try always to do it as if I know I was doing wrong. That is slowly, with an apologetic look on the face, and ready to get off at any minute. I can't bear the guys (usually, but not always it is guys) who do it as if they owned the place, and at high speed.
So cyclists are not entirely innocent. But they are among the disadvantaged groups, because the bottom line is that a car or a lorry can kill a cyclist and not the other way around.
Question:
What can we learn about the writer?
Choices:
A. She often took a cab with her husband.
B. She has been a motorist for over 20 years.
C. She used to ride a bike without lights at night.
D. She often biked the wrong way down a one way street. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high4351.txt | A few days ago we - that's me and the husband - took a cab to the station. Chat with the driver fell to the wrong of cyclists, and the misunderstanding of the road rules. So far as the rules of the road go, there seems to be one basic principle: when you are driving a car you hate bikes, when you are riding a bike you hate cars (and I guess walkers hate everyone).
There is an obvious difference of viewpoint built in here. It wasn't until I started to drive a car (almost 20years after I had first rode a bike) that I actually realized that you could not see a cyclist at night without lights. In fact I now want to shout at late night cyclists without lights(like motortists once did at me): "You'll get killed, sunshine, I can't see you."
The problem is that cyclists do ride headlong into danger. It's not just not having lights. It's biking on pavements (and so threatening to injure a load of innocent walkers in the process) and biking down one-way streets the wrong way.
I admit that I do bike the wrong way down a one-way street sometimes. My feeble defense is that I try always to do it as if I know I was doing wrong. That is slowly, with an apologetic look on the face, and ready to get off at any minute. I can't bear the guys (usually, but not always it is guys) who do it as if they owned the place, and at high speed.
So cyclists are not entirely innocent. But they are among the disadvantaged groups, because the bottom line is that a car or a lorry can kill a cyclist and not the other way around. | [
"She often took a cab with her husband.",
"She has been a motorist for over 20 years.",
"She used to ride a bike without lights at night.",
"She often biked the wrong way down a one way street."
] |
Which book doesn't involve the topic of change? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Here are some books published this year. The following introductions of these books may help you choose a book to your own taste.
Life Simplified
If you are looking for a book that will transform your life for good, Life Simplified is that book. If you are looking for a guide to inspire and lead you back to your inherent self, Life simplified will act as your compass. Life Simplified provides readers with a carefully mapped approach to create life changes. The reader will develop a sense of personal pride in their progress as each chapter is completed, motivating them further. The book is an absolute must read if you would like an uncomplicated method in positively improving your life.
Building the Best You
How can you become the person you've always dreamed of being? Personal transformation begins when you take stock of where you are and what you are doing right now...and work to change it. All you have to do is to answer some basic questions and take five minutes of "focus time" daily to get there. You are responding to questions like "What am I grateful for today?", "What challenged me?" and "How can I overcome that challenge?"
The Gifts of Imperfection
In this latest book, the writer Brown emphasizes that above all other ingredients of living an emotionally healthy life is the importance of loving ourselves. The point is to embrace life and oneself with all the imperfections, releasing the stress of overdoing and overworking. Brown offers exercises for readers to understand their own emotions and begin to develop the kind of resilience needed to refuse unrealistic expectations of others and ourselves.
The Strengths Book
You are remarkable. But do you always realize it? Realize your strengths and you will be realizing the best of you. Do you want to be confident, successful, and sustainably happy? Do you want to achieve your goals and enjoy better relationships? The Strengths Book reveals the sixty strengths that make us who we are. If you are a manager, a parent, a career changer, or even just you, remarkable as you are, The Strengths Book is for you. Discover your strengths--what you do best and love to do--and transform your life by realizing the best of you.
Question:
Which book doesn't involve the topic of change?
Choices:
A. Life Simplified.
B. Building the Best You.
C. The Gifts of Imperfection.
D. The Strengths Book. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high13522.txt | Here are some books published this year. The following introductions of these books may help you choose a book to your own taste.
Life Simplified
If you are looking for a book that will transform your life for good, Life Simplified is that book. If you are looking for a guide to inspire and lead you back to your inherent self, Life simplified will act as your compass. Life Simplified provides readers with a carefully mapped approach to create life changes. The reader will develop a sense of personal pride in their progress as each chapter is completed, motivating them further. The book is an absolute must read if you would like an uncomplicated method in positively improving your life.
Building the Best You
How can you become the person you've always dreamed of being? Personal transformation begins when you take stock of where you are and what you are doing right now...and work to change it. All you have to do is to answer some basic questions and take five minutes of "focus time" daily to get there. You are responding to questions like "What am I grateful for today?", "What challenged me?" and "How can I overcome that challenge?"
The Gifts of Imperfection
In this latest book, the writer Brown emphasizes that above all other ingredients of living an emotionally healthy life is the importance of loving ourselves. The point is to embrace life and oneself with all the imperfections, releasing the stress of overdoing and overworking. Brown offers exercises for readers to understand their own emotions and begin to develop the kind of resilience needed to refuse unrealistic expectations of others and ourselves.
The Strengths Book
You are remarkable. But do you always realize it? Realize your strengths and you will be realizing the best of you. Do you want to be confident, successful, and sustainably happy? Do you want to achieve your goals and enjoy better relationships? The Strengths Book reveals the sixty strengths that make us who we are. If you are a manager, a parent, a career changer, or even just you, remarkable as you are, The Strengths Book is for you. Discover your strengths--what you do best and love to do--and transform your life by realizing the best of you. | [
"Life Simplified.",
"Building the Best You.",
"The Gifts of Imperfection.",
"The Strengths Book."
] |
The owner of the diamond thought that if the diamond was cut successfully it might be worth _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Joker found one of the biggest diamonds in the world in his own back yard. He sold the stone to a diamond dealer for over three hundred thousand dollars. In New York, the diamond was resold. This time for almost eight hundred thousand dollars. The true value of a diamond is never known until it has been cut. Once cut successfully, its value can increase a thousand times. It's easy to understand why the owner of the Joker diamond went to the best diamond cutter he knew, Kaplan. The cutter studied the diamond for twelve whole months.
When he felt he was ready to start work, he discovered a flaw . He had to begin with his calculations all over again, or he might have made the stone useless. Six more months passed, and Kaplan finally said to the owner, "I m ready to start my work. There will be one excellent diamond that be comparable to any in the world, plus eleven small diamonds of first-class quality." Kaplan waited a few more days until be felt he was in the best physical and mental condition possible. He picked up his tools and held his breath as he made the first blow. The diamond split exactly as he promised.
Question:
The owner of the diamond thought that if the diamond was cut successfully it might be worth _ .
Choices:
A. $300,000
B. $500, 000
C. $300, 000,000
D. $800, 000, 000 | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high7887.txt | Joker found one of the biggest diamonds in the world in his own back yard. He sold the stone to a diamond dealer for over three hundred thousand dollars. In New York, the diamond was resold. This time for almost eight hundred thousand dollars. The true value of a diamond is never known until it has been cut. Once cut successfully, its value can increase a thousand times. It's easy to understand why the owner of the Joker diamond went to the best diamond cutter he knew, Kaplan. The cutter studied the diamond for twelve whole months.
When he felt he was ready to start work, he discovered a flaw . He had to begin with his calculations all over again, or he might have made the stone useless. Six more months passed, and Kaplan finally said to the owner, "I m ready to start my work. There will be one excellent diamond that be comparable to any in the world, plus eleven small diamonds of first-class quality." Kaplan waited a few more days until be felt he was in the best physical and mental condition possible. He picked up his tools and held his breath as he made the first blow. The diamond split exactly as he promised. | [
"$300,000",
"$500, 000",
"$300, 000,000",
"$800, 000, 000"
] |
Trent cries 2 tears for every three onions he chops. He needs to chop 4 onions per pot of soup. If he's making 6 pots of soup, how many tears does he cry? | First find how many onions total Trent needs to chop: 4 onions/pot * 6 pots = <<4*6=24>>24 onions
Then divide that number by three onions per 2 tears to find how many sets of two tears Trent cries: 24 onions / 3 onions = <<24/3=8>>8
Then multiply that number by the number of tears per set to find the total number of tears: 8 * 2 tears = <<8*2=16>>16 tears
#### 16 | Solve the following math problem and explain your reasoning step by step. | Trent cries 2 tears for every three onions he chops. He needs to chop 4 onions per pot of soup. If he's making 6 pots of soup, how many tears does he cry? | First find how many onions total Trent needs to chop: 4 onions/pot * 6 pots = <<4*6=24>>24 onions
Then divide that number by three onions per 2 tears to find how many sets of two tears Trent cries: 24 onions / 3 onions = <<24/3=8>>8
Then multiply that number by the number of tears per set to find the total number of tears: 8 * 2 tears = <<8*2=16>>16 tears
#### 16 | math | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null |
American girls make Wang Jun feel surprised because _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Hi, my name is Wang Jun. Do you want to know about my staying in America? Well, to tell you the truth, it is really an eye-opening experience here.
In China, I had English classes five times a week since Grade Five. But I didn't know textbook English could be so different from everyday English until I came to Hotchkiss School, Connecticut. When I first studied English, I was told to say "I'm fine." when people say "How are you?" But in the USA, I found that people say "I'm good." or "I'm tired."
One day, someone greeted me with "What's up?" It made me _ I thought for a moment and then smiled because I didn't know what to say.
Since then, I have learnt more and more differences between Chinese and American cultures. To my surprise, American girls spend a lot of time in the burning sun getting a tan . In China, girls try every possible way to keep their skin white.
American students are hard-working like Chinese students. In China, schoolwork is almost everything, so we study hard and that's it. But here, a "good" student not only gets good grades, but also does a lot for the public. That is to say, they get lots of knowledge at school and learn many life skills from social work.
Question:
American girls make Wang Jun feel surprised because _ .
Choices:
A. they work hard at school
B. they try to keep their skin white
C. they hope to get a tan
D. they do lots of social work | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle1573.txt | Hi, my name is Wang Jun. Do you want to know about my staying in America? Well, to tell you the truth, it is really an eye-opening experience here.
In China, I had English classes five times a week since Grade Five. But I didn't know textbook English could be so different from everyday English until I came to Hotchkiss School, Connecticut. When I first studied English, I was told to say "I'm fine." when people say "How are you?" But in the USA, I found that people say "I'm good." or "I'm tired."
One day, someone greeted me with "What's up?" It made me _ I thought for a moment and then smiled because I didn't know what to say.
Since then, I have learnt more and more differences between Chinese and American cultures. To my surprise, American girls spend a lot of time in the burning sun getting a tan . In China, girls try every possible way to keep their skin white.
American students are hard-working like Chinese students. In China, schoolwork is almost everything, so we study hard and that's it. But here, a "good" student not only gets good grades, but also does a lot for the public. That is to say, they get lots of knowledge at school and learn many life skills from social work. | [
"they work hard at school",
"they try to keep their skin white",
"they hope to get a tan",
"they do lots of social work"
] |
What is one way plants and animals are different? | null | Answer this science question and explain your reasoning. | What is one way plants and animals are different?
Choices:
A. Plants do not need minerals, and animals do.
B. Plants produce their own food, and animals do not.
C. Plants do not produce oxygen, and animals do.
D. Plants need sunlight, and animals do not. | Correct answer: B | science | Mercury_SC_LBS10271 | {
"text": [
"Plants do not need minerals, and animals do.",
"Plants produce their own food, and animals do not.",
"Plants do not produce oxygen, and animals do.",
"Plants need sunlight, and animals do not."
],
"label": [
"A",
"B",
"C",
"D"
]
} | B | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null |
The transmitted light strikes a photoelectric tube, which converts the light energy to? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | The transmitted light strikes a photoelectric tube, which converts the light energy to? | electricity | science | null | null | null | gas | heat | color | electricity | null | null | null | |
When the Russian leader put up his clasped hands after the meeting at the White House _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Nonverbal Communication
When you are in another country, it is important to know the language, but it is equally important to know how to communicate nonverbally. Before saying anything, people communicate nonverbally by making gestures. According to an investigation ,only 30 to 35 percent of our communication is verbal. When people don't know the language, the most common way to communicate is through gestures. However, many gestures have different meanings, or no meaning at all, in different parts of the world.
In the United States, for example, nodding your head up and down means "yes". In some parts of Greece and Turkey, however, this motion can mean "no". In Southeast Asia, nodding your head is a polite way of saying "I've heard you."
In ancient Rome, when the emperor wanted to spare someone's life, he would put his thumb up. Today in the United States, when someone puts his/her thumb up, it means "Everything is all right." However, in Sardinia and Greece, the gesture is insulting and should not be used there.
In the United States, raising your clasped hands above your head means "I'm the champion" or "I'm the winner". It is the sign that prizefighters make when they win a fight. When a leading Russian statesman made this gesture after a White House meeting, Americans misunderstood and thought he meant he was a winner. In Russia, however, it is a sign of friendship.
There are other nonverbal signals that people should be aware of when they go to another country, such as the distance to maintain between speakers. Americans stand closer to each other than English people. English people don't like touching somebody or being touched. Now in America, touch is important. For example friends touch each other on the arm. They often put an arm around a friend when they say "hello" or "goodbye".
Question:
When the Russian leader put up his clasped hands after the meeting at the White House _ .
Choices:
A. he meant Russia was the winner
B. he was insulting America
C. he made a show of friendship to America
D. he in fact meant nothing at all | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high14022.txt | Nonverbal Communication
When you are in another country, it is important to know the language, but it is equally important to know how to communicate nonverbally. Before saying anything, people communicate nonverbally by making gestures. According to an investigation ,only 30 to 35 percent of our communication is verbal. When people don't know the language, the most common way to communicate is through gestures. However, many gestures have different meanings, or no meaning at all, in different parts of the world.
In the United States, for example, nodding your head up and down means "yes". In some parts of Greece and Turkey, however, this motion can mean "no". In Southeast Asia, nodding your head is a polite way of saying "I've heard you."
In ancient Rome, when the emperor wanted to spare someone's life, he would put his thumb up. Today in the United States, when someone puts his/her thumb up, it means "Everything is all right." However, in Sardinia and Greece, the gesture is insulting and should not be used there.
In the United States, raising your clasped hands above your head means "I'm the champion" or "I'm the winner". It is the sign that prizefighters make when they win a fight. When a leading Russian statesman made this gesture after a White House meeting, Americans misunderstood and thought he meant he was a winner. In Russia, however, it is a sign of friendship.
There are other nonverbal signals that people should be aware of when they go to another country, such as the distance to maintain between speakers. Americans stand closer to each other than English people. English people don't like touching somebody or being touched. Now in America, touch is important. For example friends touch each other on the arm. They often put an arm around a friend when they say "hello" or "goodbye". | [
"he meant Russia was the winner",
"he was insulting America",
"he made a show of friendship to America",
"he in fact meant nothing at all"
] |
The "freshman 15"tells the fact that some freshmen _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
You put a great deal of effort into reaching the college of your choice. It' s time to get started. But what' s next? Beginning college can be an exciting but awkward time. Follow these tips to adjust to your new life rapidly and make the most of your college experience.
* To save time and money, use the college' s bus system. Taking the bus to school is quick, easy and free in most college towns. You won' t have to locate or afford a place to park either. It' s also a good way to be environmentally aware.
* Save pennies on books by waiting until class starts. You might not even need all of the recommended books. New textbooks cost an arm and a leg. Try buying used textbooks -- it' s a surefire way to save money and serves the purpose as well.
* Do never look at college life as an endless series of parties and social activities. But there is a whole lot more to college if you're serious about graduating. Having a good college experience is all about balancing work and fun.
* Be mindful of your diet. Make healthy food choices and watch what you eat. Avoid foods that are processed or high in sugar. The "freshman 15"is real. Many college students gain at least 15 pounds during their freshmen year.
* While electives can be helpful when figuring out your major, you shouldn't entirely rely on them. Clubs and other organizations exist around. Get involved. Make sure, though, that you still have time to study. Having too much on your plate can hurt your grades.
Question:
The "freshman 15"tells the fact that some freshmen _ .
Choices:
A. take relaxed attitudes to their diets
B. have little regular physical exercise
C. focus less on their academic work
D. attend limited activities on campus | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high19075.txt | You put a great deal of effort into reaching the college of your choice. It' s time to get started. But what' s next? Beginning college can be an exciting but awkward time. Follow these tips to adjust to your new life rapidly and make the most of your college experience.
* To save time and money, use the college' s bus system. Taking the bus to school is quick, easy and free in most college towns. You won' t have to locate or afford a place to park either. It' s also a good way to be environmentally aware.
* Save pennies on books by waiting until class starts. You might not even need all of the recommended books. New textbooks cost an arm and a leg. Try buying used textbooks -- it' s a surefire way to save money and serves the purpose as well.
* Do never look at college life as an endless series of parties and social activities. But there is a whole lot more to college if you're serious about graduating. Having a good college experience is all about balancing work and fun.
* Be mindful of your diet. Make healthy food choices and watch what you eat. Avoid foods that are processed or high in sugar. The "freshman 15"is real. Many college students gain at least 15 pounds during their freshmen year.
* While electives can be helpful when figuring out your major, you shouldn't entirely rely on them. Clubs and other organizations exist around. Get involved. Make sure, though, that you still have time to study. Having too much on your plate can hurt your grades. | [
"take relaxed attitudes to their diets",
"have little regular physical exercise",
"focus less on their academic work",
"attend limited activities on campus"
] |
What will the author most probably talk about next? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
The flag, the most common symbol of a nation in the modern world, is also one of the most ancient. With a clear symbolic meaning, the flag in the traditional form is still used today to mark buildings, ships and other vehicles related to a country.
The national flag as we know it today is in no way a primitive artifact. It is, rather, the product of thousands of years' development. Historians believe that it had two major ancestors, of which the earlier served to show wind direction.
Early human beings used very fragile houses and boats. Often strong winds would tear roofs from houses or cause high waves that endangered travelers. People's food supplies were similarly _ . Even after they had learned how to plant grains, they still needed help from nature to ensure good harvests. Therefore they feared and depended on the power of the wind, which could bring warmth from one direction and cold from another.
Using a simple piece of cloth tied to the top of a post to tell the direction of the wind was more dependable than earlier methods, such as watching the rising of smoke from a fire. The connection of the flag with heavenly power was therefore reasonable. Early human societies began to fix long pieces of cloth to the tops of totems before carrying them into battle. They believed that the power of the wind would be added to the good wishes of the gods and ancestors represented by the totems themselves.
These flags developed very slowly into modern flags. The first known flag of a nation or a ruler was unmarked. The king of China around 1000 B.C. was known to have a white flag carried ahead of him. This practice might have been learned from Egyptians even further in the past, but it was from China that it spread over trade routes through India, then across Arab lands, and finally to Europe, where it met up with the other ancestor of the national flag.
Question:
What will the author most probably talk about next?
Choices:
A. The role of China in the spread of the national flag.
B. The second ancestor of the national flag.
C. The use of modern flags in Europe.
D. The importance of modern flags | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high2164.txt | The flag, the most common symbol of a nation in the modern world, is also one of the most ancient. With a clear symbolic meaning, the flag in the traditional form is still used today to mark buildings, ships and other vehicles related to a country.
The national flag as we know it today is in no way a primitive artifact. It is, rather, the product of thousands of years' development. Historians believe that it had two major ancestors, of which the earlier served to show wind direction.
Early human beings used very fragile houses and boats. Often strong winds would tear roofs from houses or cause high waves that endangered travelers. People's food supplies were similarly _ . Even after they had learned how to plant grains, they still needed help from nature to ensure good harvests. Therefore they feared and depended on the power of the wind, which could bring warmth from one direction and cold from another.
Using a simple piece of cloth tied to the top of a post to tell the direction of the wind was more dependable than earlier methods, such as watching the rising of smoke from a fire. The connection of the flag with heavenly power was therefore reasonable. Early human societies began to fix long pieces of cloth to the tops of totems before carrying them into battle. They believed that the power of the wind would be added to the good wishes of the gods and ancestors represented by the totems themselves.
These flags developed very slowly into modern flags. The first known flag of a nation or a ruler was unmarked. The king of China around 1000 B.C. was known to have a white flag carried ahead of him. This practice might have been learned from Egyptians even further in the past, but it was from China that it spread over trade routes through India, then across Arab lands, and finally to Europe, where it met up with the other ancestor of the national flag. | [
"The role of China in the spread of the national flag.",
"The second ancestor of the national flag.",
"The use of modern flags in Europe.",
"The importance of modern flags"
] |
The elbow is an example of a what type of joint? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | The elbow is an example of a what type of joint? | hinge joint | science | null | null | null | frame joint | pipe joint | toe joint | hinge joint | Hinge Joints In hinge joints, the slightly rounded end of one bone fits into the slightly hollow end of the other bone. In this way, one bone moves while the other remains stationary, like the hinge of a door. The elbow is an example of a hinge joint. The knee is sometimes classified as a modified hinge joint (Figure 38.28). | null | null | null |
Where can you see this short passage? | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Paperback: 264 pages
Publisher:. Sams (March 29,2005)
ISBN: 0672327627
Product Dimensions: 8.4x5.5x0.6 inches
OVERVIEW
This book offers straightforward practical answers when you need fast results. By working through each 10-minute lesson, you'll learn what you need to begin to use the PHP scripting language to make your websites interactive and dynamic.
REVIEW
When I first laid eyes on this book and its title, Teach Yourself PHP in 10 minutes, my first thought was that I was going to see this! So I opened it up and figured I'd look through it for ten minutes and see what would hit me. Well, 10 minutes turned into 20, 20 into 30 and 30 into a valuable resource that sits on my desk.
Not only are the lessons within brief, but they are very easy to understand, well presented and very easy to understand for the beginner. Each lesson comes with tips to point out shortcuts, cautions to help you avoid common mistakes and notes to additional infomation. This book can be used in two ways, as a reference or as a complete tutorial on PHP basics. That alone is something that is very rare in teaching type books these days.
Some of the more valuable and informative lessons will take you into the areas of:
--Strings and variables
--Processing HTML forms
--Controlling and filtering data
--User authentication
--Cookies and sessions
--Security practices
--Configuring PHP and more!!!
The book is pretty basic for experienced PHP coders, but for new or intermediate users this book is worth more than the small $19.99 CAN suggested price. Although the cover suggests it covers PHP 5.0, the coding found within also applies to PHP 4.X
CONCLUSION
This book completely surprised me with its value and does indeed teach you in ten minutes what other books claim to do in 24 hours. Full marks to author Chris Newman for this handy guide.
Question:
Where can you see this short passage?
Choices:
A. In a section for ads in a website.
B. In a book shop.
C. In a science magazine.
D. In a fiction novel. | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high15059.txt | Paperback: 264 pages
Publisher:. Sams (March 29,2005)
ISBN: 0672327627
Product Dimensions: 8.4x5.5x0.6 inches
OVERVIEW
This book offers straightforward practical answers when you need fast results. By working through each 10-minute lesson, you'll learn what you need to begin to use the PHP scripting language to make your websites interactive and dynamic.
REVIEW
When I first laid eyes on this book and its title, Teach Yourself PHP in 10 minutes, my first thought was that I was going to see this! So I opened it up and figured I'd look through it for ten minutes and see what would hit me. Well, 10 minutes turned into 20, 20 into 30 and 30 into a valuable resource that sits on my desk.
Not only are the lessons within brief, but they are very easy to understand, well presented and very easy to understand for the beginner. Each lesson comes with tips to point out shortcuts, cautions to help you avoid common mistakes and notes to additional infomation. This book can be used in two ways, as a reference or as a complete tutorial on PHP basics. That alone is something that is very rare in teaching type books these days.
Some of the more valuable and informative lessons will take you into the areas of:
--Strings and variables
--Processing HTML forms
--Controlling and filtering data
--User authentication
--Cookies and sessions
--Security practices
--Configuring PHP and more!!!
The book is pretty basic for experienced PHP coders, but for new or intermediate users this book is worth more than the small $19.99 CAN suggested price. Although the cover suggests it covers PHP 5.0, the coding found within also applies to PHP 4.X
CONCLUSION
This book completely surprised me with its value and does indeed teach you in ten minutes what other books claim to do in 24 hours. Full marks to author Chris Newman for this handy guide. | [
"In a section for ads in a website.",
"In a book shop.",
"In a science magazine.",
"In a fiction novel."
] |
In an atom, what is determined by electron distribution in shells? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | In an atom, what is determined by electron distribution in shells? | chemical behavior | science | null | null | null | electromagnetism | covalence | ionic bonds | chemical behavior | null | null | null | |
Which of the following is NOT TRUE according to the passage? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
All parents tell their children little white lies from time to time. "Of course Father Christmas comes down the chimney!" "Eat your spinach -- you'll get as strong as Popeye.". . . and so on. However, there's one fib that's bigger than all the others. It's "I don't have a favorite child."
In his fascinating new book, The Sibling Effect: What Bonds Among Brothers and Sisters Reveal About Us, Jeffrey Kluger, a father of two daughters, aged eight and ten, claims that " 95 percent of parents in the world have a favorite child -- and the other 5 percent are lying."
Kluger may be exaggerating the figures for dramatic effect -- but despite every parent's vehement denial that they have a favorite child -- scientific research shows that he is not far off the truth.
According to one recent study by researchers from the University of California -- which followed 384 _ pairs and their parents for three years -- 65 percent of the mothers and 70 percent of fathers exhibited a preference for one child. As this was among families that knew they were being monitored, there's a strong possibility the true figures could be significantly higher.
Favoritism is certainly a controversial topic. When raised as a subject for discussion on parenting websites, it always arouses a stream of angry denials.
But interestingly, a lot of personal anecdotes appear from parents who say they were overshadowed by a favored sibling, or were, indeed, their mother or father's favorite. It seems everyone knows favoritism exists -- but nobody wants to put their hand up and say they're guilty of it themselves.
Another research, where siblings have been asked to say who their mother and father favor, suggests that mothers do tend to a show a preference for their first-born son, but fathers often dote on their youngest daughters.
Parents will often be drawn to the child who is easiest to get along with -- or the child that shares similar traits to them. For example, mum will have a special bond with her sensitive, arty son, while dad lavishes attention on his sporty daughter.
Professor Scott says being least favored in a family can color1 our behavior as adults. "Children who feel they are less loved within their family are more likely to develop low self-esteem, anxiety and depression."
But some experts believe being less favored can have positive consequences. Professor Scott agrees that favored children can sometimes find life difficult when they have to rub along in the real world.
Question:
Which of the following is NOT TRUE according to the passage?
Choices:
A. Some people were overshadowed by a favored sibling when they were young.
B. Most people will admit that they feel guilty of favoring one child over another.
C. Experts have different opinions about the consequences of being less favored.
D. The topic about favoritism on parenting websites always arouses angry denials. | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high21406.txt | All parents tell their children little white lies from time to time. "Of course Father Christmas comes down the chimney!" "Eat your spinach -- you'll get as strong as Popeye.". . . and so on. However, there's one fib that's bigger than all the others. It's "I don't have a favorite child."
In his fascinating new book, The Sibling Effect: What Bonds Among Brothers and Sisters Reveal About Us, Jeffrey Kluger, a father of two daughters, aged eight and ten, claims that " 95 percent of parents in the world have a favorite child -- and the other 5 percent are lying."
Kluger may be exaggerating the figures for dramatic effect -- but despite every parent's vehement denial that they have a favorite child -- scientific research shows that he is not far off the truth.
According to one recent study by researchers from the University of California -- which followed 384 _ pairs and their parents for three years -- 65 percent of the mothers and 70 percent of fathers exhibited a preference for one child. As this was among families that knew they were being monitored, there's a strong possibility the true figures could be significantly higher.
Favoritism is certainly a controversial topic. When raised as a subject for discussion on parenting websites, it always arouses a stream of angry denials.
But interestingly, a lot of personal anecdotes appear from parents who say they were overshadowed by a favored sibling, or were, indeed, their mother or father's favorite. It seems everyone knows favoritism exists -- but nobody wants to put their hand up and say they're guilty of it themselves.
Another research, where siblings have been asked to say who their mother and father favor, suggests that mothers do tend to a show a preference for their first-born son, but fathers often dote on their youngest daughters.
Parents will often be drawn to the child who is easiest to get along with -- or the child that shares similar traits to them. For example, mum will have a special bond with her sensitive, arty son, while dad lavishes attention on his sporty daughter.
Professor Scott says being least favored in a family can color1 our behavior as adults. "Children who feel they are less loved within their family are more likely to develop low self-esteem, anxiety and depression."
But some experts believe being less favored can have positive consequences. Professor Scott agrees that favored children can sometimes find life difficult when they have to rub along in the real world. | [
"Some people were overshadowed by a favored sibling when they were young.",
"Most people will admit that they feel guilty of favoring one child over another.",
"Experts have different opinions about the consequences of being less favored.",
"The topic about favoritism on parenting websites always arouses angry denials."
] |
The purpose of the text is to _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
The production of coffee beans is a huge, profitable business, but, unfortunately, full-sun production is taking over the industry and bringing about a lot of damage. The change in how coffee is grown from shade-grown production to full-sun production endangers the very existence of, certain animals and birds, and even disturbs the world's ecological balance.
On a local level, the damage of the forest required by full-sun fields affects the area's birds and animals. The shade of the forest trees provides a home for birds and other special that depend on the trees' flowers and fruits. Full-sun coffee growers destroy this forest home. As a result, many special are quickly dying out.
On a more global level, the destruction of the rainforest for full-sun coffee fields also threatens human life. Medical research often makes use of the forests' plant and animal life, and the destruction of such species could prevent researchers from finding cures for certain diseases. In addition, new coffee-growing techniques are poisoning the water locally, and eventually the world's groundwater.
Both locally and globally, the continued spread of full-sun coffee plantations could mean the destruction of the rainforest ecology. The loss of shade trees is already causing a slight change in the world's climate, and studies show that loss of oxygen-giving trees also leads to air pollution and global warming. Moreover, the new growing techniques are contributing to acidic soil conditions.
It is obvious that the way much coffee is grown affects many aspects many aspects of life, from the local environment to the global ecology. But consumers do have a choice. They can purchase shade-grown coffee whenever possible, although at a higher cost. The future health of the planet and mankind is surely worth more than an inexpensive cup of coffee.
Question:
The purpose of the text is to _ .
Choices:
A. entertain
B. advertise
C. instruct
D. persuade | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high10252.txt | The production of coffee beans is a huge, profitable business, but, unfortunately, full-sun production is taking over the industry and bringing about a lot of damage. The change in how coffee is grown from shade-grown production to full-sun production endangers the very existence of, certain animals and birds, and even disturbs the world's ecological balance.
On a local level, the damage of the forest required by full-sun fields affects the area's birds and animals. The shade of the forest trees provides a home for birds and other special that depend on the trees' flowers and fruits. Full-sun coffee growers destroy this forest home. As a result, many special are quickly dying out.
On a more global level, the destruction of the rainforest for full-sun coffee fields also threatens human life. Medical research often makes use of the forests' plant and animal life, and the destruction of such species could prevent researchers from finding cures for certain diseases. In addition, new coffee-growing techniques are poisoning the water locally, and eventually the world's groundwater.
Both locally and globally, the continued spread of full-sun coffee plantations could mean the destruction of the rainforest ecology. The loss of shade trees is already causing a slight change in the world's climate, and studies show that loss of oxygen-giving trees also leads to air pollution and global warming. Moreover, the new growing techniques are contributing to acidic soil conditions.
It is obvious that the way much coffee is grown affects many aspects many aspects of life, from the local environment to the global ecology. But consumers do have a choice. They can purchase shade-grown coffee whenever possible, although at a higher cost. The future health of the planet and mankind is surely worth more than an inexpensive cup of coffee. | [
"entertain",
"advertise",
"instruct",
"persuade"
] |
What Lan Harvey said shows the importance of _ . | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
The number of accidents involving pedestrians wearing headphones is on the rise , a report suggests, causing fresh warning from road safety groups in Britain .
A US-based study found a total of 116 reports of death or injury to pedestrians wearing headphones between 2004 and 2011 , jumping from 16 in 2005 to 47 in 2011 .
Most victims were men (68%) and under the age of 30 (67%) , with around one in ten of all cases (9%) under the age of 18 .Some 89% of the cases occurred in urban areas and more than half (55%) of the victims were struck by trains .
Eighty-one of the 116 accidents (70%) resulted in the person's death--- even though a warning was sounded in around a third of the cases .
The study concluded , " The use of headphone may be a safety risk to pedestrians , especially in environments with moving vehicles(cars) . Further research is needed to determine if and how headphone use threatens pedestrian safety ." British road safety groups warned pedestrians to be careful.
Floor Lieshout , director of Youth For Road Safety , said, " This study shows once more the importance of using all of our senses while we are near traffic . It is important that we find an attractive way to make youth learn about the risks of wearing headphones in traffic ."
Andrew Howard , who is the head of road safety at the Automobile Association , added that some pedestrians can be "so focused in their own little world they forget the world going on around them".That can include headphone wearers , Howard said, but also people talking on phones.
However , Howard said that more researches needed to be done.
Earlier studies have shown that people wearing headphones or talking on phones can suffer "inattentional blindness" which makes them isolated from the world around them .
Ian Harvey , at the charity Civic Voice , said that " to defeat isolation and to help build a civic society , people need to interact with each other .
He said , " A basis for any civilized society is communication--- Surfing the web , listening to MP3s , reading blogs or sending e-mail is not interacting with a person; it's interacting with a machine.
"If people feel socially isolated , they need to have more face-to-face interactions with other human beings and in time , will begin to feel happier and more connected to the world and place they live in ."
Question:
What Lan Harvey said shows the importance of _ .
Choices:
A. beating isolation
B. communication between people
C. building a civilized society
D. new technologies | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high4438.txt | The number of accidents involving pedestrians wearing headphones is on the rise , a report suggests, causing fresh warning from road safety groups in Britain .
A US-based study found a total of 116 reports of death or injury to pedestrians wearing headphones between 2004 and 2011 , jumping from 16 in 2005 to 47 in 2011 .
Most victims were men (68%) and under the age of 30 (67%) , with around one in ten of all cases (9%) under the age of 18 .Some 89% of the cases occurred in urban areas and more than half (55%) of the victims were struck by trains .
Eighty-one of the 116 accidents (70%) resulted in the person's death--- even though a warning was sounded in around a third of the cases .
The study concluded , " The use of headphone may be a safety risk to pedestrians , especially in environments with moving vehicles(cars) . Further research is needed to determine if and how headphone use threatens pedestrian safety ." British road safety groups warned pedestrians to be careful.
Floor Lieshout , director of Youth For Road Safety , said, " This study shows once more the importance of using all of our senses while we are near traffic . It is important that we find an attractive way to make youth learn about the risks of wearing headphones in traffic ."
Andrew Howard , who is the head of road safety at the Automobile Association , added that some pedestrians can be "so focused in their own little world they forget the world going on around them".That can include headphone wearers , Howard said, but also people talking on phones.
However , Howard said that more researches needed to be done.
Earlier studies have shown that people wearing headphones or talking on phones can suffer "inattentional blindness" which makes them isolated from the world around them .
Ian Harvey , at the charity Civic Voice , said that " to defeat isolation and to help build a civic society , people need to interact with each other .
He said , " A basis for any civilized society is communication--- Surfing the web , listening to MP3s , reading blogs or sending e-mail is not interacting with a person; it's interacting with a machine.
"If people feel socially isolated , they need to have more face-to-face interactions with other human beings and in time , will begin to feel happier and more connected to the world and place they live in ." | [
"beating isolation",
"communication between people",
"building a civilized society",
"new technologies"
] |
What do Guo Gaoqi and Yang Fan have in common? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Luo Gaoqi hopes to join the increasing number of Chinese students in the United States because he wants the experience of studying in a foreign land as it will help his future job at home. "I want to try Western education because people there think differently," said the 21-year-old who is in his final year of undergraduate studies. "I also hope to meet friends from different cultures. The social connections may help in the future."
The latest report from the US-based institute of International Education said China, for the first time, has become the top country of origin for international students in the United States.
For Yang Fan, a journalism student, said studying in the United States is a way to escape the competition for places in China's top universities.
"Due to limited education resources, only about 60 percent of high school graduates in China enter college, and a much lower rate enters the top-level ones. "A foreign degree will definitely help when I seek a job in China," Yang said.
Both Yang's and Luo's parents are supportive of them studying abroad. Neither of them is thinking of settling down in the United States after graduation.
"It is not realistic to do so. As a journalism student, there would be no advantage for me to work in the United States," Yang said. "But in China, with a US degree and good English, I may stand out against other students who have only studied in China."
China still needs to improve its environment for scientists and high-level talents, said Xiao Mingzheng, director of the Center for Human Resource Development and Management Research of Peking University, adding that, in particular, the country needs to improve its policies relating to research environments.
In June, the Chinese government published a plan concerning talent development for the next 10 years. In it, it has improved policies and increased budgets to attract talented students back home.
Question:
What do Guo Gaoqi and Yang Fan have in common?
Choices:
A. Their major is the same, which is journalism.
B. Both of them want to go back to China after graduation.
C. Their parents are against their decision.
D. They are forced to study in a foreign land by their parents. | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high2372.txt | Luo Gaoqi hopes to join the increasing number of Chinese students in the United States because he wants the experience of studying in a foreign land as it will help his future job at home. "I want to try Western education because people there think differently," said the 21-year-old who is in his final year of undergraduate studies. "I also hope to meet friends from different cultures. The social connections may help in the future."
The latest report from the US-based institute of International Education said China, for the first time, has become the top country of origin for international students in the United States.
For Yang Fan, a journalism student, said studying in the United States is a way to escape the competition for places in China's top universities.
"Due to limited education resources, only about 60 percent of high school graduates in China enter college, and a much lower rate enters the top-level ones. "A foreign degree will definitely help when I seek a job in China," Yang said.
Both Yang's and Luo's parents are supportive of them studying abroad. Neither of them is thinking of settling down in the United States after graduation.
"It is not realistic to do so. As a journalism student, there would be no advantage for me to work in the United States," Yang said. "But in China, with a US degree and good English, I may stand out against other students who have only studied in China."
China still needs to improve its environment for scientists and high-level talents, said Xiao Mingzheng, director of the Center for Human Resource Development and Management Research of Peking University, adding that, in particular, the country needs to improve its policies relating to research environments.
In June, the Chinese government published a plan concerning talent development for the next 10 years. In it, it has improved policies and increased budgets to attract talented students back home. | [
"Their major is the same, which is journalism.",
"Both of them want to go back to China after graduation.",
"Their parents are against their decision.",
"They are forced to study in a foreign land by their parents."
] |
Based on the story, what would probably happen in the future? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
"Whoosh!" The ball flew into the net and the game was finally over. This game had gone into overtime twice. Until the last goal was scored, no one had any idea which team would win.
Dave felt so bad because his team had lost. He liked playing soccer, but he liked winning even more. Now the two teams should have a picnic together. Dave did not want to eat lunch with the other team. The other team would probably brag by talking about how they won the game.
Dave went to the locker room to change out of his soccer clothes. There the coach talked to the team about what they had done well. They also talked about how they could improve. Then everybody walked outside towards the picnic table.
One of the players from the other team was standing near the picnic table. He handed Dave a paper plate. "Hi, I'm Miguel," he said.
"Hi," Dave replied, looking down at the ground.
"You played great," Miguel said. "I didn't think we were going to win."
Dave was surprised. Miguel was not bragging at all.
"Thanks," Dave said to Miguel. "You played great, too."
Dave felt happy. Dave promised himself that the next time his team won a game, he would not brag to the other team. It was wonderful to win, but it was even more important to be a good winner.
Question:
Based on the story, what would probably happen in the future?
Choices:
A. Miguel would brag the next time his team won.
B. Dave would not brag the next time his team won.
C. Dave's team would win the next soccer game.
D. Miguel's team would not play against Dave's team again. | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle3879.txt | "Whoosh!" The ball flew into the net and the game was finally over. This game had gone into overtime twice. Until the last goal was scored, no one had any idea which team would win.
Dave felt so bad because his team had lost. He liked playing soccer, but he liked winning even more. Now the two teams should have a picnic together. Dave did not want to eat lunch with the other team. The other team would probably brag by talking about how they won the game.
Dave went to the locker room to change out of his soccer clothes. There the coach talked to the team about what they had done well. They also talked about how they could improve. Then everybody walked outside towards the picnic table.
One of the players from the other team was standing near the picnic table. He handed Dave a paper plate. "Hi, I'm Miguel," he said.
"Hi," Dave replied, looking down at the ground.
"You played great," Miguel said. "I didn't think we were going to win."
Dave was surprised. Miguel was not bragging at all.
"Thanks," Dave said to Miguel. "You played great, too."
Dave felt happy. Dave promised himself that the next time his team won a game, he would not brag to the other team. It was wonderful to win, but it was even more important to be a good winner. | [
"Miguel would brag the next time his team won.",
"Dave would not brag the next time his team won.",
"Dave's team would win the next soccer game.",
"Miguel's team would not play against Dave's team again."
] |
What would be the best title for the passage? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Enrique Iglesias is a most successful singer! Born in 1975 in Madrid, Spain, Enrique is the child of the famous singer Julio Iglesias. Enrique's mother is a journalist. His parents divorced in 1978. Although Enrique lived with his mother, she sent him to live with his father because of concerns about her son's safety. Enrique wanted to be a singer secretly, he didn't wish his father to know that and didn't want to live under his shelter. He sought his dream on his own.
Enrique released his first album "Enrique Iglesias" in 1995. This album had a collection of rock ballads and five singles from it went straight to the top spots in Latin music. This album was followed by another "Vivir" in 1997. Three singles from this album occupied the top spots on the Latin charts yet again! Enrique also found himself nominated for the "Favorite Latin Artist" at the American Music Awards. By 1998, he had released his 3rdalbum, "Cosas Del Amor". This year Enrique won the "Favorite Latin Artist". "Bailamos" got him great fame. One of the songs in this album was also used in a movie. With the success of "Bailamos", Enrique now already had many loyal fans. The album, "Enrique", was released in 1999.
The year 2001 brought more success for him. His album, "Escape" had a few singles that reached the top spots. Enrique became a household name. This album is his biggest successful album so far. "Hero" and "Don't Turn Off the Lights" soon turned Enrique into a super star. His next release in 2002 was a Spanish album "Quizas". This album brought Enrique a "Latin Grammy Award" for the Best Pop Vocal Album. In 2007, he released another album "Insomniac" and the song "Do You Know" became an instantly popular song.
Question:
What would be the best title for the passage?
Choices:
A. Enrique Iglesias' lucky life
B. Biography of Enrique Iglesias
C. Enrique Iglesias' secret to success
D. Enrique Iglesias' wonderful singing skills | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high13364.txt | Enrique Iglesias is a most successful singer! Born in 1975 in Madrid, Spain, Enrique is the child of the famous singer Julio Iglesias. Enrique's mother is a journalist. His parents divorced in 1978. Although Enrique lived with his mother, she sent him to live with his father because of concerns about her son's safety. Enrique wanted to be a singer secretly, he didn't wish his father to know that and didn't want to live under his shelter. He sought his dream on his own.
Enrique released his first album "Enrique Iglesias" in 1995. This album had a collection of rock ballads and five singles from it went straight to the top spots in Latin music. This album was followed by another "Vivir" in 1997. Three singles from this album occupied the top spots on the Latin charts yet again! Enrique also found himself nominated for the "Favorite Latin Artist" at the American Music Awards. By 1998, he had released his 3rdalbum, "Cosas Del Amor". This year Enrique won the "Favorite Latin Artist". "Bailamos" got him great fame. One of the songs in this album was also used in a movie. With the success of "Bailamos", Enrique now already had many loyal fans. The album, "Enrique", was released in 1999.
The year 2001 brought more success for him. His album, "Escape" had a few singles that reached the top spots. Enrique became a household name. This album is his biggest successful album so far. "Hero" and "Don't Turn Off the Lights" soon turned Enrique into a super star. His next release in 2002 was a Spanish album "Quizas". This album brought Enrique a "Latin Grammy Award" for the Best Pop Vocal Album. In 2007, he released another album "Insomniac" and the song "Do You Know" became an instantly popular song. | [
"Enrique Iglesias' lucky life",
"Biography of Enrique Iglesias",
"Enrique Iglesias' secret to success",
"Enrique Iglesias' wonderful singing skills"
] |
In what state of matter is butter at room temperature? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | In what state of matter is butter at room temperature? | solid | science | null | null | null | liqued | gel | gas | solid | 6. Butter is a fat that is a solid at room temperature. What type of fatty acids does butter contain? How do you know?. | null | null | null |
According to the passage, the sloth will move about when _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
"A rolling stone gathers no moss ," but there is one living animal that does gather moss -- the three-toed sloth of South America. This slowest-moving member of the animal kingdom is so inactive that moss actually gathers on its body and turns it green -- strange as it seems!
Most of the sloth's life is spent motionless, hanging upside down from a limb . And that is the way its hair grows. Long and coarse, the strands from receptacles for the damp jungle algae turn the brown fur a mossy green. Actually this moss helps the animal survive because it serves as a perfect camouflage against the leafy trees and hides the sloth from the jungle's swift-moving hunters. The sloth would have little chance of survival on the ground. With long, curved claws hooded over the limb of a leafy tree, it spends the long hot hours during the day drowsing and eating. Inch by inch, it strips the leafy limbs bare and crawls slowly down the trunk to find a new dining spot, but only at night.
In addition to looking rather like a vegetable, the sloth is a strict vegetarian. Running out of its favorite leaf is about the only thing that will make a sloth move. Then its appetite may even force the animal into swimming a stream to reach a succulent . It will also force it into fighting to keep the tree all to itself. The sloth is lazy and prefers to be alone, but it will tolerate its own s!
Question:
According to the passage, the sloth will move about when _ .
Choices:
A. It senses a coming danger.
B. it is forced to swim in a hot day.
C. it is short of its favorite food.
D. it wants to keep the vegetable to itself. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high23020.txt | "A rolling stone gathers no moss ," but there is one living animal that does gather moss -- the three-toed sloth of South America. This slowest-moving member of the animal kingdom is so inactive that moss actually gathers on its body and turns it green -- strange as it seems!
Most of the sloth's life is spent motionless, hanging upside down from a limb . And that is the way its hair grows. Long and coarse, the strands from receptacles for the damp jungle algae turn the brown fur a mossy green. Actually this moss helps the animal survive because it serves as a perfect camouflage against the leafy trees and hides the sloth from the jungle's swift-moving hunters. The sloth would have little chance of survival on the ground. With long, curved claws hooded over the limb of a leafy tree, it spends the long hot hours during the day drowsing and eating. Inch by inch, it strips the leafy limbs bare and crawls slowly down the trunk to find a new dining spot, but only at night.
In addition to looking rather like a vegetable, the sloth is a strict vegetarian. Running out of its favorite leaf is about the only thing that will make a sloth move. Then its appetite may even force the animal into swimming a stream to reach a succulent . It will also force it into fighting to keep the tree all to itself. The sloth is lazy and prefers to be alone, but it will tolerate its own s! | [
"It senses a coming danger.",
"it is forced to swim in a hot day.",
"it is short of its favorite food.",
"it wants to keep the vegetable to itself."
] |
Tara has been planning to buy a laptop which costs $1000. A computer shop accepts payment in installments of $65 per month provided that a 20% down payment is made. If Tara wants to pay an additional $20 for the down payment, how much will her balance be after paying for 4 months? | Tara has to make a $1000 x 20/100 = $<<1000*20/100=200>>200 down payment.
Since Tara wants to pay $20 more for the down payment, her total down payment will be $200 + $20 = $<<200+20=220>>220.
So her remaining balance payable over a year is $1000 - $220 = $<<1000-220=780>>780.
Tara has to make a monthly payment of $780/year / 12 months/year = $<<780/12=65>>65/month.
The total cost of her payments for 4 months is $65/month x 4 months = $<<65*4=260>>260.
Therefore, Tara's balance after 4 months is $780 - $260 = $<<780-260=520>>520.
#### 520 | Solve the following math problem and explain your reasoning step by step. | Tara has been planning to buy a laptop which costs $1000. A computer shop accepts payment in installments of $65 per month provided that a 20% down payment is made. If Tara wants to pay an additional $20 for the down payment, how much will her balance be after paying for 4 months? | Tara has to make a $1000 x 20/100 = $<<1000*20/100=200>>200 down payment.
Since Tara wants to pay $20 more for the down payment, her total down payment will be $200 + $20 = $<<200+20=220>>220.
So her remaining balance payable over a year is $1000 - $220 = $<<1000-220=780>>780.
Tara has to make a monthly payment of $780/year / 12 months/year = $<<780/12=65>>65/month.
The total cost of her payments for 4 months is $65/month x 4 months = $<<65*4=260>>260.
Therefore, Tara's balance after 4 months is $780 - $260 = $<<780-260=520>>520.
#### 520 | math | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null |
The passage is mainly to _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Women, as all research suggests, are far more critical of their appearance than men. Most of them are likely to feel dissatisfied with their reflection in the mirror.
It is quite possible that men looking in the mirror are either pleased with what they see or indifferent. Research shows that men generally have a much more positive body-image than women---if anything, they may tend to over-estimate their attractiveness. Some men looking in the mirror may literally not see the flaws in their appearance.
Why are women so much more self-critical than men? Because women are judged more on their appearance than men, and standards of female beauty are considerably higher and more inflexible. Women are continually bombarded with images of the "ideal" face. And constant exposure to idealized images of female beauty on TV, magazines and billboards makes exceptional good looks seem normal and anything short of perfection seem abnormal and ugly. It has been estimated that young women now see more images of outstandingly beautiful women in one day than our mothers saw throughout their entire adolescence.
Also, most women trying to achieve the impossible standards of female beauty have in fact become progressively more unrealistic during the last century. In 1917, the physically perfect woman was about 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighed nearly 10 stone. Even 25 years ago, top models and beauty queens weighed only 8% less than the average women, now they weigh 23% less. The current media ideal for women is achievable by less than 5% of the female population---and that's just in terms of weight and size. If you want the ideal shape, face etc., it's probably more like 1%.
Question:
The passage is mainly to _ .
Choices:
A. compare different views on beauty between women and men
B. tell us that standards of female beauty are very high
C. explain why women are more critical of their appearance than men
D. show us that women pay more attention to their appearance than men | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high2048.txt | Women, as all research suggests, are far more critical of their appearance than men. Most of them are likely to feel dissatisfied with their reflection in the mirror.
It is quite possible that men looking in the mirror are either pleased with what they see or indifferent. Research shows that men generally have a much more positive body-image than women---if anything, they may tend to over-estimate their attractiveness. Some men looking in the mirror may literally not see the flaws in their appearance.
Why are women so much more self-critical than men? Because women are judged more on their appearance than men, and standards of female beauty are considerably higher and more inflexible. Women are continually bombarded with images of the "ideal" face. And constant exposure to idealized images of female beauty on TV, magazines and billboards makes exceptional good looks seem normal and anything short of perfection seem abnormal and ugly. It has been estimated that young women now see more images of outstandingly beautiful women in one day than our mothers saw throughout their entire adolescence.
Also, most women trying to achieve the impossible standards of female beauty have in fact become progressively more unrealistic during the last century. In 1917, the physically perfect woman was about 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighed nearly 10 stone. Even 25 years ago, top models and beauty queens weighed only 8% less than the average women, now they weigh 23% less. The current media ideal for women is achievable by less than 5% of the female population---and that's just in terms of weight and size. If you want the ideal shape, face etc., it's probably more like 1%. | [
"compare different views on beauty between women and men",
"tell us that standards of female beauty are very high",
"explain why women are more critical of their appearance than men",
"show us that women pay more attention to their appearance than men"
] |
According to Dr. Andy Field, if a child is afraid of a cat, parents should _ . | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Almost every child is scared of something, from monsters in the cupboard to dogs in the park. But the fact that such fears are common and normal doesn't mean they can be taken lightly. Kids experience fears and phobias much more strongly than adults. And the influence of the fear can be physical as well as psychological . It can build up so they almost seem scared of everything--a kind of childhood anxiety. Dr. Creswell says: "Your child may always seem to expect the worst to happen and lack confidence in his or her ability to deal with any challenge." So don't make the same old mistake of treating them as if they're silly for being a"scaredy cat". Handling the fears is essential.
Children can be born nervous and, if you have such a baby, you'll tend to prevent them from getting worried. So if they fear dogs, you'll keep them away from dogs, but in fact that can just confirm to the child that dogs are scary. What is worse, keeping your child away from what they fear can turn that feeling into a phobia. Instead, you should encourage them to get in touch with the thing they fear, in a safe and supportive environment. Dr. Andy Field, a researcher of childhood fears, says: "You shouldn't force, for example, a dog anxious child to go up to a dog. But you can approach it yourself, show them there is nothing to be afraid of, stroke( ) it, and talk about the dog being friendly. Once your child dares to stroke a dog-one that's good with children, of course---then you should encourage them to carry on until they feel calmer, and reward them for'being brave'."
Question:
According to Dr. Andy Field, if a child is afraid of a cat, parents should _ .
Choices:
A. tell the child not to be afraid of it
B. show the child how to approach it
C. keep the child away from it
D. ask the child to stroke it | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high3717.txt | Almost every child is scared of something, from monsters in the cupboard to dogs in the park. But the fact that such fears are common and normal doesn't mean they can be taken lightly. Kids experience fears and phobias much more strongly than adults. And the influence of the fear can be physical as well as psychological . It can build up so they almost seem scared of everything--a kind of childhood anxiety. Dr. Creswell says: "Your child may always seem to expect the worst to happen and lack confidence in his or her ability to deal with any challenge." So don't make the same old mistake of treating them as if they're silly for being a"scaredy cat". Handling the fears is essential.
Children can be born nervous and, if you have such a baby, you'll tend to prevent them from getting worried. So if they fear dogs, you'll keep them away from dogs, but in fact that can just confirm to the child that dogs are scary. What is worse, keeping your child away from what they fear can turn that feeling into a phobia. Instead, you should encourage them to get in touch with the thing they fear, in a safe and supportive environment. Dr. Andy Field, a researcher of childhood fears, says: "You shouldn't force, for example, a dog anxious child to go up to a dog. But you can approach it yourself, show them there is nothing to be afraid of, stroke( ) it, and talk about the dog being friendly. Once your child dares to stroke a dog-one that's good with children, of course---then you should encourage them to carry on until they feel calmer, and reward them for'being brave'." | [
"tell the child not to be afraid of it",
"show the child how to approach it",
"keep the child away from it",
"ask the child to stroke it"
] |
The classroom with multi-touch desks can help students _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Researchers designing the 'classroom of the future' have found that multi-touch, multi-user desks can improve skills in mathematics.
New results from a 3-year project working with over 400 pupils, mostly 8-10 year olds, show that cooperation learning increases both fluency and flexibility in maths.It also shows that using an interactive 'smart' desk can have Benefits over doing mathematics on paper.
Using multi-touch desks in the new classroom, the children were able to work together in new ways to solve problems using inventive solutions.Seeing what your friends are doing, and being able to fully participate in group activities, offers new ways of working in class, the researchers say.The 'Star Trek classroom' could also help learning and teaching in other subjects.
Lead researcher, Professor Liz Burd, said: "Our aim was to encourage far higher levels Of active student engagement, where knowledge is obtained by sharing, problem-solving and creating, rather than by passive listening.This classroom enables both active engagement and equal access."
"We found our tables encouraged students to cooperate more effectively.We were delighted to observe groups of students improving their understanding of mathematical concepts.Such cooperation just did not happen when students used paper-based approaches."
The teacher plays a key role in the classroom and can send tasks to different tables to individuals and groups.The teacher can also send one group's answers on to the next group to work on and add to, or to the board for a class discussion.A live feedback of the desks goes directly to the teacher who can come quickly to help an individual while allowing the group work to continue.
Such a classroom may be some way off being a regular feature of schools across the.World due to the costs in setting it up.However, in just 3 years the project team have noted major improvements in the technology, and a reduction in costs.
Question:
The classroom with multi-touch desks can help students _ .
Choices:
A. deal with the feedback
B. explain maths concepts
C. solve problems inventively
D. send tasks to other groups | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high23669.txt | Researchers designing the 'classroom of the future' have found that multi-touch, multi-user desks can improve skills in mathematics.
New results from a 3-year project working with over 400 pupils, mostly 8-10 year olds, show that cooperation learning increases both fluency and flexibility in maths.It also shows that using an interactive 'smart' desk can have Benefits over doing mathematics on paper.
Using multi-touch desks in the new classroom, the children were able to work together in new ways to solve problems using inventive solutions.Seeing what your friends are doing, and being able to fully participate in group activities, offers new ways of working in class, the researchers say.The 'Star Trek classroom' could also help learning and teaching in other subjects.
Lead researcher, Professor Liz Burd, said: "Our aim was to encourage far higher levels Of active student engagement, where knowledge is obtained by sharing, problem-solving and creating, rather than by passive listening.This classroom enables both active engagement and equal access."
"We found our tables encouraged students to cooperate more effectively.We were delighted to observe groups of students improving their understanding of mathematical concepts.Such cooperation just did not happen when students used paper-based approaches."
The teacher plays a key role in the classroom and can send tasks to different tables to individuals and groups.The teacher can also send one group's answers on to the next group to work on and add to, or to the board for a class discussion.A live feedback of the desks goes directly to the teacher who can come quickly to help an individual while allowing the group work to continue.
Such a classroom may be some way off being a regular feature of schools across the.World due to the costs in setting it up.However, in just 3 years the project team have noted major improvements in the technology, and a reduction in costs. | [
"deal with the feedback",
"explain maths concepts",
"solve problems inventively",
"send tasks to other groups"
] |
Which of the following sentences is TRUE? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
A driver stopped his car on a street side to have a rest. When he sat in the seat and closed his eyes, a pedestrian came up and knocked at his window to ask the time. The driver opened his eyes and looked at his watch, "It is 8 o'clock." He said. Then he went to sleep again. But soon he woke up because a second pedestrian was knocking at the window, "Sir, do you have the time?" he asked. The driver looked at his watch again and told the man it was 8:30.
If it happened again, he could not have a good rest. So he wrote a short note and put it on the window for all the people to see. It said, " _ "
Again the man sat in the seat and slept. A few minutes later a third pedestrian came along and began knocking at the window. "Hey, sir," she said, "It's 8:45."
Question:
Which of the following sentences is TRUE?
Choices:
A. The driver slept well in his car.
B. The driver had a good rest in his car.
C. The third pedestrian was kind-hearted but the driver wouldn't think so.
D. The driver would be happy when the third pedestrian told him the time. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle5633.txt | A driver stopped his car on a street side to have a rest. When he sat in the seat and closed his eyes, a pedestrian came up and knocked at his window to ask the time. The driver opened his eyes and looked at his watch, "It is 8 o'clock." He said. Then he went to sleep again. But soon he woke up because a second pedestrian was knocking at the window, "Sir, do you have the time?" he asked. The driver looked at his watch again and told the man it was 8:30.
If it happened again, he could not have a good rest. So he wrote a short note and put it on the window for all the people to see. It said, " _ "
Again the man sat in the seat and slept. A few minutes later a third pedestrian came along and began knocking at the window. "Hey, sir," she said, "It's 8:45." | [
"The driver slept well in his car.",
"The driver had a good rest in his car.",
"The third pedestrian was kind-hearted but the driver wouldn't think so.",
"The driver would be happy when the third pedestrian told him the time."
] |
Terese thinks that running various distances throughout the week can make one healthy. On Monday, she runs 4.2 miles; Tuesday, 3.8 miles; Wednesday, 3.6 miles; and on Thursday, 4.4 miles. Determine the average distance Terese runs on each of the days she runs. | The total distance Terese runs is 4.2 + 3.8+4.4 +3.6 = <<4.2+3.8+4.4+3.6=16>>16 miles.
Therefore, she runs with an average distance of 16 /4 = <<16/4=4>>4 miles.
#### 4 | Solve the following math problem and explain your reasoning step by step. | Terese thinks that running various distances throughout the week can make one healthy. On Monday, she runs 4.2 miles; Tuesday, 3.8 miles; Wednesday, 3.6 miles; and on Thursday, 4.4 miles. Determine the average distance Terese runs on each of the days she runs. | The total distance Terese runs is 4.2 + 3.8+4.4 +3.6 = <<4.2+3.8+4.4+3.6=16>>16 miles.
Therefore, she runs with an average distance of 16 /4 = <<16/4=4>>4 miles.
#### 4 | math | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null |
All alkanes are composed of carbon and hydrogen atoms, and have similar bonds, structures, and formulas; noncyclic alkanes all have a formula of cnh2n+2. the number of carbon atoms present in an alkane has what? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | All alkanes are composed of carbon and hydrogen atoms, and have similar bonds, structures, and formulas; noncyclic alkanes all have a formula of cnh2n+2. the number of carbon atoms present in an alkane has what? | no limit | science | null | null | null | such limit | done limit | crippling limit | no limit | All alkanes are composed of carbon and hydrogen atoms, and have similar bonds, structures, and formulas; noncyclic alkanes all have a formula of CnH2n+2. The number of carbon atoms present in an alkane has no limit. Greater numbers of atoms in the molecules will lead to stronger intermolecular attractions (dispersion forces) and correspondingly different physical properties of the molecules. Properties such as melting point and boiling point (Table 20.1) usually change smoothly and predictably as the number of carbon and hydrogen atoms in the molecules change. Properties of Some Alkanes[3] Alkane. | null | null | null |
What Obama emphasized in his first speech were _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
WASHINGTON - Barack Obama swept to victory as the first black president in the US history Tuesday night in an electoral college landslide that overcame racial barriers as old as America itself. "Change has come," he told a huge group of cheering supporters.
In his first speech as victor, Obama catalogued the challenges ahead. "The greatest of a lifetime," he said, "two wars, a planet in danger, the worst financial crisis in a century."
He added, "There are many who won't agree with every decision or policy I make as president, and we know that government can't solve every problem. But I will always be honest with you about the challenges we face."
The son of a black father from Kenya and a white mother from Kansas, the Democratic senator from Illinois sealed his historic triumph by defeating Republican Sen. John McCain in a string of wins in hard-fought battleground states -- Ohio, Florida, Virginia, Iowa and more.
In his speech, Obama invoked the words of Lincoln and echoed John F. Kennedy.
"So let us summon a new spirit of patriotism, of service and responsibility where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder," he said.
He and his running mate, Joseph Biden of Delaware, will take their oaths of office as president and vice president on Jan. 20, 2009.
Obama will move into the Oval Office as leader of a country that is almost certainly in recession , and fighting two long wars, one in Iraq, the other in Afghanistan.
Obama has said his first order of presidential business will be to tackle the economy. He has also pledged to withdraw most US combat troops from Iraq within 16 months.
Question:
What Obama emphasized in his first speech were _ .
Choices:
A. dangers
B. wars
C. challenges
D. financial problems | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high21108.txt | WASHINGTON - Barack Obama swept to victory as the first black president in the US history Tuesday night in an electoral college landslide that overcame racial barriers as old as America itself. "Change has come," he told a huge group of cheering supporters.
In his first speech as victor, Obama catalogued the challenges ahead. "The greatest of a lifetime," he said, "two wars, a planet in danger, the worst financial crisis in a century."
He added, "There are many who won't agree with every decision or policy I make as president, and we know that government can't solve every problem. But I will always be honest with you about the challenges we face."
The son of a black father from Kenya and a white mother from Kansas, the Democratic senator from Illinois sealed his historic triumph by defeating Republican Sen. John McCain in a string of wins in hard-fought battleground states -- Ohio, Florida, Virginia, Iowa and more.
In his speech, Obama invoked the words of Lincoln and echoed John F. Kennedy.
"So let us summon a new spirit of patriotism, of service and responsibility where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder," he said.
He and his running mate, Joseph Biden of Delaware, will take their oaths of office as president and vice president on Jan. 20, 2009.
Obama will move into the Oval Office as leader of a country that is almost certainly in recession , and fighting two long wars, one in Iraq, the other in Afghanistan.
Obama has said his first order of presidential business will be to tackle the economy. He has also pledged to withdraw most US combat troops from Iraq within 16 months. | [
"dangers",
"wars",
"challenges",
"financial problems"
] |
Yesterday, Vincent bought fifteen packs of stickers. Today, he bought ten more packs of stickers than yesterday. How many packs of stickers does Vincent have altogether? | Today, Vincent bought 15 + 10 = <<15+10=25>>25 packs of stickers.
Therefore, Vincent has 15 + 25= <<15+25=40>>40 packs of stickers.
#### 40 | Solve the following math problem and explain your reasoning step by step. | Yesterday, Vincent bought fifteen packs of stickers. Today, he bought ten more packs of stickers than yesterday. How many packs of stickers does Vincent have altogether? | Today, Vincent bought 15 + 10 = <<15+10=25>>25 packs of stickers.
Therefore, Vincent has 15 + 25= <<15+25=40>>40 packs of stickers.
#### 40 | math | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null |
Storm surge is very high water located in the low pressure eye of what? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | Storm surge is very high water located in the low pressure eye of what? | hurricanes | science | null | null | null | tornados | earthquakes | eruptions | hurricanes | So much rain falling so fast causes some of the damage from a hurricane. But a lot of the damage is caused by storm surge. Storm surge is very high water located in the low pressure eye of the hurricane. The very low pressure of the eye allows the water level to rise above normal sea level. Storm surge can cause flooding when it reaches land ( Figure below ). High winds do a great deal of damage in hurricanes. High winds can also create very big waves. If the large waves are atop a storm surge, the high water can flood the shore. If the storm happens to occur at high tide, the water will rise even higher. | null | null | null |
Hiv is a retrovirus, which means it reverse transcribes its rna genome into what? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | Hiv is a retrovirus, which means it reverse transcribes its rna genome into what? | dna | science | null | null | null | amino acid chains | atp | ribosomes | dna | Figure 17.5 Viruses can be complex in shape or relatively simple. This figure shows three relatively complex virions: the bacteriophage T4, with its DNA-containing head group and tail fibers that attach to host cells; adenovirus, which uses spikes from its capsid to bind to the host cells; and HIV, which uses glycoproteins embedded in its envelope to do so. Notice that HIV has proteins called matrix proteins, internal to the envelope, which help stabilize virion shape. HIV is a retrovirus, which means it reverse transcribes its RNA genome into DNA, which is then spliced into the host’s DNA. (credit “bacteriophage, adenovirus”: modification of work by NCBI, NIH; credit “HIV retrovirus”: modification of work by NIAID, NIH). | null | null | null |
Since 1990, the number of the children who died before 5 in the world has dropped by about _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
In recent years, the world has made progress in reducing deaths among children under the age of five. A new report says an estimated 6.9 million children worldwide died before their fifth birthday. That compares to about twelve million in1990.
The report says child _ rates have fallen in all areas. It says the number of deaths is down by at least 50 percent in eastern, western and southeastern Asia. The number also fell in North Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean.
Ties Boerma is head of the WHO's Department of Health Statistics and Informatics. He says most child deaths happen in just a few areas.
TIES BOERMA: "Sub-Saharan Africa and southern Asia face the greatest challenges in child survival. More than eighty percent of child deaths in the world occur in these two regions. About half of child deaths occur in just five countries--India, which actually takes twenty-four percent of the global total; Nigeria, eleven percent; the Democratic Republic of Congo, seven percent; Pakistan, five percent and China, four percent of under-five deaths in the world."
Ties Boerma notes that, in developed countries, one child in one hundred fifty-two dies before his or her fifth birthday. But south of the Sahara Desert, one out of nine children dies before the age of five. In Asia, the mortality rate is one in sixteen.
The report lists the top five causes of death among children under five worldwide. They are pneumonia, diarrhea, malaria and problems both before and during birth.
Tessa Wardlaw is with the U-N Children's Fund. She is pleased with the progress being made in Sub-Saharan Africa. The area has the highest under-five mortality rate in the world. But she says the rate of decline in child deaths has more than doubled in Africa.
TESSA WARDLAW: "We welcome the widespread progress in child survival, but we importantly want to stress that there's a lot of work that remains to be done. There's unfinished business and the fact is that today on average, around nineteen thousand children are still dying every day from largely preventable causes."
The World Health Organization says one way to solve these problems is to make sure health care services are available to women. In this way, medical problems can be avoided or treated when identified.
Question:
Since 1990, the number of the children who died before 5 in the world has dropped by about _ .
Choices:
A. 6,900,000
B. 12,000,000
C. 1,200,000
D. 5,100,000 | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high4115.txt | In recent years, the world has made progress in reducing deaths among children under the age of five. A new report says an estimated 6.9 million children worldwide died before their fifth birthday. That compares to about twelve million in1990.
The report says child _ rates have fallen in all areas. It says the number of deaths is down by at least 50 percent in eastern, western and southeastern Asia. The number also fell in North Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean.
Ties Boerma is head of the WHO's Department of Health Statistics and Informatics. He says most child deaths happen in just a few areas.
TIES BOERMA: "Sub-Saharan Africa and southern Asia face the greatest challenges in child survival. More than eighty percent of child deaths in the world occur in these two regions. About half of child deaths occur in just five countries--India, which actually takes twenty-four percent of the global total; Nigeria, eleven percent; the Democratic Republic of Congo, seven percent; Pakistan, five percent and China, four percent of under-five deaths in the world."
Ties Boerma notes that, in developed countries, one child in one hundred fifty-two dies before his or her fifth birthday. But south of the Sahara Desert, one out of nine children dies before the age of five. In Asia, the mortality rate is one in sixteen.
The report lists the top five causes of death among children under five worldwide. They are pneumonia, diarrhea, malaria and problems both before and during birth.
Tessa Wardlaw is with the U-N Children's Fund. She is pleased with the progress being made in Sub-Saharan Africa. The area has the highest under-five mortality rate in the world. But she says the rate of decline in child deaths has more than doubled in Africa.
TESSA WARDLAW: "We welcome the widespread progress in child survival, but we importantly want to stress that there's a lot of work that remains to be done. There's unfinished business and the fact is that today on average, around nineteen thousand children are still dying every day from largely preventable causes."
The World Health Organization says one way to solve these problems is to make sure health care services are available to women. In this way, medical problems can be avoided or treated when identified. | [
"6,900,000",
"12,000,000",
"1,200,000",
"5,100,000"
] |
In the eyes of the author, what was the rain like? | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Each time I see a balloon, my mind flies back to a memory of when I was a six - year - old girl. It was a rainy Sunday and my father had recently died. I asked my mom if Dad had gone to heaven. "Yes, honey. Of course." she said."Can we write him a letter?"
She paused, the longest pause of my short life, and answered, "Yes."My heart jumped. "How? Does the mailman go there?" I asked.
"No, but I have an idea." Mom drove to a party store and returned with a red balloon. I asked her what it was for."Just wait, honey. You'll see." Mom told me to write my letter. Eagerly, I got my favorite pen, and poured out my six - year - old heart in the form of blue ink. I wrote about my day, what I learned at school, how Mom was doing, and even about what happened in a story I had read. For a few minutes it was as if Dad were still alive. I gave the letter to Mom. She read it over, and a smile crossed her face.She made a hole in the corner of the letter where she looped the balloon string. We went out-side and she gave me the balloon. It was still raining."Okay, on the count of three, let go. One, two, three."The balloon, carrying my letter, darted upward against the rain. We watched until it was swallowed by the mass of clouds.Later I realized, like the balloon, that Dad had never let his sickness get him down. He was strong. No matter what he suffered, he'd persevere, dart up, and finally transcend this cold world and his sick body. He rose into sky and became something beautiful. I watched until the balloon disappeared into the gray and white and I prayed that his strength was passed on. I prayed to be a balloon.
Question:
In the eyes of the author, what was the rain like?
Choices:
A. An incurable disease
B. An unforgettable memory.
C. The failures her father experienced
D. The hard time her father had. | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high5283.txt | Each time I see a balloon, my mind flies back to a memory of when I was a six - year - old girl. It was a rainy Sunday and my father had recently died. I asked my mom if Dad had gone to heaven. "Yes, honey. Of course." she said."Can we write him a letter?"
She paused, the longest pause of my short life, and answered, "Yes."My heart jumped. "How? Does the mailman go there?" I asked.
"No, but I have an idea." Mom drove to a party store and returned with a red balloon. I asked her what it was for."Just wait, honey. You'll see." Mom told me to write my letter. Eagerly, I got my favorite pen, and poured out my six - year - old heart in the form of blue ink. I wrote about my day, what I learned at school, how Mom was doing, and even about what happened in a story I had read. For a few minutes it was as if Dad were still alive. I gave the letter to Mom. She read it over, and a smile crossed her face.She made a hole in the corner of the letter where she looped the balloon string. We went out-side and she gave me the balloon. It was still raining."Okay, on the count of three, let go. One, two, three."The balloon, carrying my letter, darted upward against the rain. We watched until it was swallowed by the mass of clouds.Later I realized, like the balloon, that Dad had never let his sickness get him down. He was strong. No matter what he suffered, he'd persevere, dart up, and finally transcend this cold world and his sick body. He rose into sky and became something beautiful. I watched until the balloon disappeared into the gray and white and I prayed that his strength was passed on. I prayed to be a balloon. | [
"An incurable disease",
"An unforgettable memory.",
"The failures her father experienced",
"The hard time her father had."
] |
The author wrote about John's experience of the civil war in order to show his following characters except _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
John Wesley Powell(1834--1902)Was a famous explorer of the American West.When he Was young,his mother put him under the guidance of George Crookham,a self-taught scientist,from whom he received a wide,but informal,education.Young John learned many things about the natural sciences.But his father preferred him to study religion.The argument continued for three years.Then John decided to leave home to seek further education.He soon discovered that he knew more about science than any teacher he met.He realized that the only good scientific education in the country came from colleges in the east,like Harvard and Yale.But he Was too poor to go to them,SO he got work as a school teacher in Illinois.Whenever possible,he went on scientific trips of his own.
In 1861,civil war broke out in the United States.John joined the Union forces of the North.At the battle of Shiloh Powell lost his right arm.Despite his disability, he began his famous exploration of the Colorado River on May 24 1869.
It Was one of the greatest trips of discovery in the history of America.Never before had any white men traveled to that area.The trip Was far more dangerous than expected.The rivers were filled with rocky areas and waterfalls.Sometimes,the boats overturned or broke into pieces against big rocks.All along the way, Powell measured distances,temperatures,heights,depths and currents.He examined soils,rocks and plant life.Powell'S explorations led to the creation of US Geological Survey, which became responsible for all mapping and scientific programs of American lands.
Powell's scientific studies of western lands shaped his ideas of how those lands should be used.He suggested programs to control both crop farming and cattle raising.He Was especially concerned about water supplies.Many of his ideas were rejected at first and were not signed into law until years after his death because they were far ahead of his time.
Question:
The author wrote about John's experience of the civil war in order to show his following characters except _ .
Choices:
A. his courage
B. his determination
C. his bad fortune
D. his braveness | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high21937.txt | John Wesley Powell(1834--1902)Was a famous explorer of the American West.When he Was young,his mother put him under the guidance of George Crookham,a self-taught scientist,from whom he received a wide,but informal,education.Young John learned many things about the natural sciences.But his father preferred him to study religion.The argument continued for three years.Then John decided to leave home to seek further education.He soon discovered that he knew more about science than any teacher he met.He realized that the only good scientific education in the country came from colleges in the east,like Harvard and Yale.But he Was too poor to go to them,SO he got work as a school teacher in Illinois.Whenever possible,he went on scientific trips of his own.
In 1861,civil war broke out in the United States.John joined the Union forces of the North.At the battle of Shiloh Powell lost his right arm.Despite his disability, he began his famous exploration of the Colorado River on May 24 1869.
It Was one of the greatest trips of discovery in the history of America.Never before had any white men traveled to that area.The trip Was far more dangerous than expected.The rivers were filled with rocky areas and waterfalls.Sometimes,the boats overturned or broke into pieces against big rocks.All along the way, Powell measured distances,temperatures,heights,depths and currents.He examined soils,rocks and plant life.Powell'S explorations led to the creation of US Geological Survey, which became responsible for all mapping and scientific programs of American lands.
Powell's scientific studies of western lands shaped his ideas of how those lands should be used.He suggested programs to control both crop farming and cattle raising.He Was especially concerned about water supplies.Many of his ideas were rejected at first and were not signed into law until years after his death because they were far ahead of his time. | [
"his courage",
"his determination",
"his bad fortune",
"his braveness"
] |
With the help of highly developed 3-D printers, a way to get a sofa in 2116 is to _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
A new report shows what life might be like in 100 years from now. It describes skyscrapers that are much taller than today's buildings, underwater "bubble" cities and holidays in space. The report is from a company. It asked experts on space and architecture, as well as city planners, to give their ideas on the life in 2116. They said the way we live, work and play will be totally different to how we do these things today. The experts used the Internet as an example. They said that 25 years ago, people could not imagine how the Internet and smartphones would change our lives. The Internet has completely changed the way we communicate, learn and do daily things. The experts said the changes in the next century would be even more unbelievable.
Researchers questioned 2,000 adults about the prediction they thought were most likely to happen in the future. They predicted that in the future, few people will go to an office but will work from home and have work meetings online. People will have highly developed 3-D printers that will let you download a design for furniture or a food recipe and then "print" the sofa, table or pizza at home. There will also be less need for visits to the doctor. We will all have a home health instrument that will tell us what the problem is and give us treatment. We will also be going into space for holidays and to get resources that we have used up on Earth. A prediction that is missing is whether people will still need to study English.
,A, B, C, D,.
Question:
With the help of highly developed 3-D printers, a way to get a sofa in 2116 is to _ .
Choices:
A. buy one in a shop
B. ask somebody to make one
C. download a design and "print" one
D. design and make one by oneself | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle7883.txt | A new report shows what life might be like in 100 years from now. It describes skyscrapers that are much taller than today's buildings, underwater "bubble" cities and holidays in space. The report is from a company. It asked experts on space and architecture, as well as city planners, to give their ideas on the life in 2116. They said the way we live, work and play will be totally different to how we do these things today. The experts used the Internet as an example. They said that 25 years ago, people could not imagine how the Internet and smartphones would change our lives. The Internet has completely changed the way we communicate, learn and do daily things. The experts said the changes in the next century would be even more unbelievable.
Researchers questioned 2,000 adults about the prediction they thought were most likely to happen in the future. They predicted that in the future, few people will go to an office but will work from home and have work meetings online. People will have highly developed 3-D printers that will let you download a design for furniture or a food recipe and then "print" the sofa, table or pizza at home. There will also be less need for visits to the doctor. We will all have a home health instrument that will tell us what the problem is and give us treatment. We will also be going into space for holidays and to get resources that we have used up on Earth. A prediction that is missing is whether people will still need to study English.
,A, B, C, D,. | [
"buy one in a shop",
"ask somebody to make one",
"download a design and \"print\" one",
"design and make one by oneself"
] |
What do we know about Mr. Jones ? | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Busy as I am every day, I always open my computer and check my email. Most of the time I am simply doing finger exercises, another form of piano practice without beautiful tones. Sometimes, however, I receive a gift, reminding me of the gifts in my life. The following passage is one of those gifts.
Peter Jones is a 92-year-old, short, calm and proud man. Every morning he is fully dressed by eight o'clock, with his hair fashionably combed and face perfectly shaved even though hi is unable to see anything. He would move to a nursing home today. His wife of 70 years old has recently passed away, making the move necessary.
After hours of waiting patiently in the entrance hall of the nursing home, he smiled sweetly when told his room was ready. As he moved his walking stick skillfully to the elevator, the nurse provided a visual description of his tiny room. "I love it," he stated with enthusiasm. "Mr. Jones, you haven't been the room," said the nurse.
"That doesn't have anything to do with it," he replied. "Happiness is something you decide on ahead of time. Whether I like my room or not doesn't depend on how the furniture is arranged...it's how I arrange my mind. I have already decided to love _ It's a decision I make every morning when I wake up. I have a choice: I can spend the day in bed complaining of the difficulty I have with the parts of my body that no longer work, or get out of bed and be thankful for the ones that do."
Each day is a gift, and as long as we are alive. We'll focus on the new day and all the happy memories we've stored just as Mr. Jones does.
Question:
What do we know about Mr. Jones ?
Choices:
A. He is a blind but very neat.
B. His wife died many years ago.
C. He likes playing the piano.
D. His room in the nursing home is big. | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high5952.txt | Busy as I am every day, I always open my computer and check my email. Most of the time I am simply doing finger exercises, another form of piano practice without beautiful tones. Sometimes, however, I receive a gift, reminding me of the gifts in my life. The following passage is one of those gifts.
Peter Jones is a 92-year-old, short, calm and proud man. Every morning he is fully dressed by eight o'clock, with his hair fashionably combed and face perfectly shaved even though hi is unable to see anything. He would move to a nursing home today. His wife of 70 years old has recently passed away, making the move necessary.
After hours of waiting patiently in the entrance hall of the nursing home, he smiled sweetly when told his room was ready. As he moved his walking stick skillfully to the elevator, the nurse provided a visual description of his tiny room. "I love it," he stated with enthusiasm. "Mr. Jones, you haven't been the room," said the nurse.
"That doesn't have anything to do with it," he replied. "Happiness is something you decide on ahead of time. Whether I like my room or not doesn't depend on how the furniture is arranged...it's how I arrange my mind. I have already decided to love _ It's a decision I make every morning when I wake up. I have a choice: I can spend the day in bed complaining of the difficulty I have with the parts of my body that no longer work, or get out of bed and be thankful for the ones that do."
Each day is a gift, and as long as we are alive. We'll focus on the new day and all the happy memories we've stored just as Mr. Jones does. | [
"He is a blind but very neat.",
"His wife died many years ago.",
"He likes playing the piano.",
"His room in the nursing home is big."
] |
Haily wants to go to the salon and do her nails, cut her hair and do a facial cleaning. She doesn't want to spend much, so she called 3 salons to get their prices: Gustran Salon, Barbara's Shop, and The Fancy Salon. At Gustran Salon, the haircut is $45, the facial cleaning is $22 and the nails are $30. At Barbara's shop, the nails are $40, the haircut is $30 and the facial cleaning is $28. And, at the Fancy Salon, the facial cleaning is $30, the haircut is $34 and the nails are $20. How much would Haily spend at the cheapest salon? | So first, we should add the prices of all salons. At Gustran Salon, the total price is: $45 + $22 + $30 = $<<45+22+30=97>>97
The total price at Barbara's shop is: $40 + $30 + $28 = $<<40+30+28=98>>98
The total price at The Fancy Salon is: $30 + $34 + $20 = $<<30+34+20=84>>84
At Gustran salon she would spend $97, at Barbara's Shop she would spend $98, and at The Fancy Salon she would spend $84, so she would spend $84 at the cheapest salon.
#### 84 | Solve the following math problem and explain your reasoning step by step. | Haily wants to go to the salon and do her nails, cut her hair and do a facial cleaning. She doesn't want to spend much, so she called 3 salons to get their prices: Gustran Salon, Barbara's Shop, and The Fancy Salon. At Gustran Salon, the haircut is $45, the facial cleaning is $22 and the nails are $30. At Barbara's shop, the nails are $40, the haircut is $30 and the facial cleaning is $28. And, at the Fancy Salon, the facial cleaning is $30, the haircut is $34 and the nails are $20. How much would Haily spend at the cheapest salon? | So first, we should add the prices of all salons. At Gustran Salon, the total price is: $45 + $22 + $30 = $<<45+22+30=97>>97
The total price at Barbara's shop is: $40 + $30 + $28 = $<<40+30+28=98>>98
The total price at The Fancy Salon is: $30 + $34 + $20 = $<<30+34+20=84>>84
At Gustran salon she would spend $97, at Barbara's Shop she would spend $98, and at The Fancy Salon she would spend $84, so she would spend $84 at the cheapest salon.
#### 84 | math | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null |
What is the main idea of the passage? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
No matter how old your kids are, you can take steps to improve a healthy diet and to encourage good eating habits.
Tip One: Family Meals
Family meals are nice for both parents and kids. Children like to guess what they are going to have and parents get the chance to introduce new foods to children. Parents can also use the mealtime as a chance to talk with their kids about their life.
Tip Two: Healthy Snacks
Kids, especially younger ones, will eat mostly what can get at home. That's why it's important to have enough healthy snacks, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, yogurt and whole-grain biscuits.
Tip Three: Being a Good Example
The best way for you to encourage healthy eating is to eat well yourself. Kids will follow the lead of the adults they see every day. By eating fruits and vegetables and avoiding fast food and sweet drinks, you are sending the right message.
Tip Four: No Shouts about Food
Parents might find themselves shouting at children to get them to have healthy foods in front them. This in fact can make children dislike what they are asked to eat. You need to work a bit on different cooking methods .
Tip Five: Get Kids Included
Most Kids will enjoy making the decision about food. Talk to them about making choices and planning a healthy meal. It can help them to make good decisions on their own about the foods they want to eat.
,,A, B, C, D,. (2,10)
Question:
What is the main idea of the passage?
Choices:
A. To let kids eat anything they like.
B. To help kids become a wonderful cook.
C. To help kids have a good eating habit.
D. To set a good example of eating healthy food. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle5484.txt | No matter how old your kids are, you can take steps to improve a healthy diet and to encourage good eating habits.
Tip One: Family Meals
Family meals are nice for both parents and kids. Children like to guess what they are going to have and parents get the chance to introduce new foods to children. Parents can also use the mealtime as a chance to talk with their kids about their life.
Tip Two: Healthy Snacks
Kids, especially younger ones, will eat mostly what can get at home. That's why it's important to have enough healthy snacks, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, yogurt and whole-grain biscuits.
Tip Three: Being a Good Example
The best way for you to encourage healthy eating is to eat well yourself. Kids will follow the lead of the adults they see every day. By eating fruits and vegetables and avoiding fast food and sweet drinks, you are sending the right message.
Tip Four: No Shouts about Food
Parents might find themselves shouting at children to get them to have healthy foods in front them. This in fact can make children dislike what they are asked to eat. You need to work a bit on different cooking methods .
Tip Five: Get Kids Included
Most Kids will enjoy making the decision about food. Talk to them about making choices and planning a healthy meal. It can help them to make good decisions on their own about the foods they want to eat.
,,A, B, C, D,. (2,10) | [
"To let kids eat anything they like.",
"To help kids become a wonderful cook.",
"To help kids have a good eating habit.",
"To set a good example of eating healthy food."
] |
What is the simple sugar that living things us to store energy? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | What is the simple sugar that living things us to store energy? | glucose | science | null | null | null | chloride | nicotine | brown | glucose | simple sugar that all living things use to store and transport energy. | null | null | null |
Which of the following sentences can be the main idea of the passage? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Just two weeks ago, I was about to cross a busy road when I noticed an old grandpa with a heavy load on his head just a few meters from me. He looked very weak. A few minutes later, I realized I'd forgotten to cross the road. And he'd seen me looking at him.
I love my grandparents so much that whenever I see any old people I won't forget to smile at them. I couldn't let go of this grandpa, either. He came near me and handed me a note on which there was an address. I showed him the directions and said he would need a taxi as it was 3 pm on a hot summer's day. Anybody would faint dead in this weather and I didn't want him to walk all the way. But he looked disappointed.
I asked where he had come from. He replied weakly that he was from Chidambaram, about 240 kilometers from where we were. I was shocked because he looked like he could not even take 2 steps without falling. I called a taxi immediately and asked the driver to drop him at his place. The grandpa wasn't ready because he had no money. I paid for his journey and asked the driver to drop him off safely.
When I turned to look at the grandpa, who was leaving, tears filled my eyes and I didn't want to leave. Memories of my grandparents flashed in my mind, making me feel like crying. I said goodbye to the grandpa, and some happy tears dropped from his eyes.
Question:
Which of the following sentences can be the main idea of the passage?
Choices:
A. A friend in need is a friend indeed.
B. Where there is a will, there is a way.
C. Expend the respect of the aged in one's family to that of other families.
D. A fall into the pit, a gain in your wit. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high21911.txt | Just two weeks ago, I was about to cross a busy road when I noticed an old grandpa with a heavy load on his head just a few meters from me. He looked very weak. A few minutes later, I realized I'd forgotten to cross the road. And he'd seen me looking at him.
I love my grandparents so much that whenever I see any old people I won't forget to smile at them. I couldn't let go of this grandpa, either. He came near me and handed me a note on which there was an address. I showed him the directions and said he would need a taxi as it was 3 pm on a hot summer's day. Anybody would faint dead in this weather and I didn't want him to walk all the way. But he looked disappointed.
I asked where he had come from. He replied weakly that he was from Chidambaram, about 240 kilometers from where we were. I was shocked because he looked like he could not even take 2 steps without falling. I called a taxi immediately and asked the driver to drop him at his place. The grandpa wasn't ready because he had no money. I paid for his journey and asked the driver to drop him off safely.
When I turned to look at the grandpa, who was leaving, tears filled my eyes and I didn't want to leave. Memories of my grandparents flashed in my mind, making me feel like crying. I said goodbye to the grandpa, and some happy tears dropped from his eyes. | [
"A friend in need is a friend indeed.",
"Where there is a will, there is a way.",
"Expend the respect of the aged in one's family to that of other families.",
"A fall into the pit, a gain in your wit."
] |
Which of the following is TRUE according to the text? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
When people imagine a classroom, they usually think of older people teaching younger ones. But when it comes to learning about high-technology devices, the opposite can often be true. A training program called the 50 Plus Center in the eastern American city of Columbia, Maryland offers free technology classes to adults over 50.
The training program also offers many other kinds of lectures from Qigong and Tai Chi to yoga and Latin jam dance. There are a lot of exercise programs including playing cards and physical exercises where many people just relax and spend some time together.
Myra Stafford is 73 years old. She signed up for the class to learn how to use her iPad. She is learning quickly with the help of the young and she enjoys learning from them. She says she is more confident today than she was before. Working with young people makes her feel wonderful because they don't make her feel that she is old or dumb.
Eleven-year-old Zhion Perekins is a teacher of the technology class. He says some of the older adults know nothing about high-technology devices and they are very anxious, so patience is very important when working with them.
He gains more than just social skills from teaching older residents. He has learned a lot on how to communicate with people. He used to be a shy person, but now he has become outgoing.
There is a huge growing population over 60. The training program offers an opportunity for the old people to buy products online using high-technology devices. As senior citizens get more excited about what they want to buy, it is likely that they will go into the market and buy it, so that could lead to an increase in economy.
Question:
Which of the following is TRUE according to the text?
Choices:
A. Myra Stafford is not satisfied with the classes.
B. The training program may do good to economy.
C. Myra Stafford is too old to learn technology well.
D. More and more senior citizens will attend the classes. | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high10390.txt | When people imagine a classroom, they usually think of older people teaching younger ones. But when it comes to learning about high-technology devices, the opposite can often be true. A training program called the 50 Plus Center in the eastern American city of Columbia, Maryland offers free technology classes to adults over 50.
The training program also offers many other kinds of lectures from Qigong and Tai Chi to yoga and Latin jam dance. There are a lot of exercise programs including playing cards and physical exercises where many people just relax and spend some time together.
Myra Stafford is 73 years old. She signed up for the class to learn how to use her iPad. She is learning quickly with the help of the young and she enjoys learning from them. She says she is more confident today than she was before. Working with young people makes her feel wonderful because they don't make her feel that she is old or dumb.
Eleven-year-old Zhion Perekins is a teacher of the technology class. He says some of the older adults know nothing about high-technology devices and they are very anxious, so patience is very important when working with them.
He gains more than just social skills from teaching older residents. He has learned a lot on how to communicate with people. He used to be a shy person, but now he has become outgoing.
There is a huge growing population over 60. The training program offers an opportunity for the old people to buy products online using high-technology devices. As senior citizens get more excited about what they want to buy, it is likely that they will go into the market and buy it, so that could lead to an increase in economy. | [
"Myra Stafford is not satisfied with the classes.",
"The training program may do good to economy.",
"Myra Stafford is too old to learn technology well.",
"More and more senior citizens will attend the classes."
] |
What are major temperature zones primarily based on? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | What are major temperature zones primarily based on? | latitute | science | null | null | null | gps | altitude | longitude | latitute | Temperature falls from the equator to the poles. Therefore, major temperature zones are based on latitude . They include tropical, temperate, and arctic zones (see Figure below ). However, other factors besides latitude may also influence temperature. For example, land near the ocean may have cooler summers and warmer winters than land farther inland. This is because water gains and loses heat more slowly than does land, and the water temperature influences the temperature on the coast. Temperature also falls from lower to higher altitudes. That’s why tropical zone mountain tops may be capped with snow. | null | null | null |
What can we learn from the passage? | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
A girl became a volunteer in the activities of Deathbed Care, which meant visiting and taking care of a patient suffering from an incurable disease with days numbered.
The girl was assigned to look after an old man suffering from cancer whose children lived abroad. Their living conditions were not satisfactory while the old man had a lot of savings. She was expected to comfort him and keep up his spirits.
Every Saturday the girl came on time to keep him company, telling him stories. When he was having an intravenous drip , she would help massage his arms. The doctor found the patient much improved mentally. The old man began to involve himself actively in the medical treatment and he seldom shouted at others.
But something that happened made the doctor uneasy and puzzled. Each time the girl left, the old man would give her some money. The doctor did nothing to interfere , unwilling to offend the old man. A month later the old man showed evident signs of decline after suffering coma a few times.
When rescued from the latest coma, the old man told the doctor his last wish, "I have deep sympathy for the girl. Will you be kind enough to help her finish her studies?"
But the doctor knew that her family was welloff and she had no difficulty pursuing her studies. Sometimes she even came to the hospital in her father's car.
When the girl came at the weekend after the death of the old man, the doctor told her the bad news. She was very sad and burst into tears. Then she handed $ 500 to the doctor, saying, "The old man had all along thought I came to do the job because of poverty. He gave me money so that I could continue my schooling." Now he got the answer to the puzzle. In the last period of his life, the old man found it a real pleasure to be able to help a girl badly in need.
Question:
What can we learn from the passage?
Choices:
A. The doctor told the old man the truth.
B. The old man's children were wealthy.
C. The girl's father encouraged her to accept the money.
D. The girl didn't accompany the old man when he died. | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high4169.txt | A girl became a volunteer in the activities of Deathbed Care, which meant visiting and taking care of a patient suffering from an incurable disease with days numbered.
The girl was assigned to look after an old man suffering from cancer whose children lived abroad. Their living conditions were not satisfactory while the old man had a lot of savings. She was expected to comfort him and keep up his spirits.
Every Saturday the girl came on time to keep him company, telling him stories. When he was having an intravenous drip , she would help massage his arms. The doctor found the patient much improved mentally. The old man began to involve himself actively in the medical treatment and he seldom shouted at others.
But something that happened made the doctor uneasy and puzzled. Each time the girl left, the old man would give her some money. The doctor did nothing to interfere , unwilling to offend the old man. A month later the old man showed evident signs of decline after suffering coma a few times.
When rescued from the latest coma, the old man told the doctor his last wish, "I have deep sympathy for the girl. Will you be kind enough to help her finish her studies?"
But the doctor knew that her family was welloff and she had no difficulty pursuing her studies. Sometimes she even came to the hospital in her father's car.
When the girl came at the weekend after the death of the old man, the doctor told her the bad news. She was very sad and burst into tears. Then she handed $ 500 to the doctor, saying, "The old man had all along thought I came to do the job because of poverty. He gave me money so that I could continue my schooling." Now he got the answer to the puzzle. In the last period of his life, the old man found it a real pleasure to be able to help a girl badly in need. | [
"The doctor told the old man the truth.",
"The old man's children were wealthy.",
"The girl's father encouraged her to accept the money.",
"The girl didn't accompany the old man when he died."
] |
Clothes designers study what you wear on the street because _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Sheep always follow each other and never really think about where they are going. Perhaps fashion makes us into " _ ". Maybe we should find our own way and not follow the crowd. Everyone wants to wear top brand clothing. However, we should remember that clothes designers study what ordinary people wear on the street. Then they make clothes like ordinary people's for everyone. Therefore, fashion really starts with individual finding a new look. Then a company uses that look and then it becomes fashionable! That doesn't mean you will. That is to say, a model might look perfect in a shirt but that doesn't mean you will.
The same goes for mobile phones. Young people are always asking me when to change my mobile phones. Mobile phone companies are always putting new functions on their phones but do we really need all these extra functions? I use my phone to call people and to send messages to my friends. I don't need a camera, Internet surfing or a calendar on my phone. Again, if you buy the latest phone, it will only be the latest phone for a month or so. Then something new will come out and you'll be unfashionable again. You can't keep up with fashion all the time, so you don't need to follow the fashion.
Question:
Clothes designers study what you wear on the street because _ .
Choices:
A. they want to design fashion clothes
B. they like your clothes
C. they want to buy the clothes you wear
D. your clothes are ugly | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle6214.txt | Sheep always follow each other and never really think about where they are going. Perhaps fashion makes us into " _ ". Maybe we should find our own way and not follow the crowd. Everyone wants to wear top brand clothing. However, we should remember that clothes designers study what ordinary people wear on the street. Then they make clothes like ordinary people's for everyone. Therefore, fashion really starts with individual finding a new look. Then a company uses that look and then it becomes fashionable! That doesn't mean you will. That is to say, a model might look perfect in a shirt but that doesn't mean you will.
The same goes for mobile phones. Young people are always asking me when to change my mobile phones. Mobile phone companies are always putting new functions on their phones but do we really need all these extra functions? I use my phone to call people and to send messages to my friends. I don't need a camera, Internet surfing or a calendar on my phone. Again, if you buy the latest phone, it will only be the latest phone for a month or so. Then something new will come out and you'll be unfashionable again. You can't keep up with fashion all the time, so you don't need to follow the fashion. | [
"they want to design fashion clothes",
"they like your clothes",
"they want to buy the clothes you wear",
"your clothes are ugly"
] |
The color of pink had a calming effect, that is to say, the color affects _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Scientists are making new studies of color and its effects on our health. They have known for a long time that the color of a room or the color of the light in it can affect our feelings and emotions. Many prisons and hospitals have at least one room that is painted pink. Officials have found that light and color can produce physical changes in our bodies.
Professor Falfan worked with a group of 9 disabled children at school in Albert. Two of the children were blind. The other seven had normal sight. The scientists changed the color of the school room, then looked for changes in blood pressure, heart beat and breathing rate. The effects of color changes were the same for the blind children as for those with normal sight. Their blood pressure dropped from about 120 to 100. Similar changes were reported in heart-beat and the breathing. The children also were calmer and less excited. Then the colors of the room were returned to orange and white. Blood pressure, heart-beat and breathing rate went up and the children became excited again.
Professor Falfan said different colors produce different levels of light energy. He said the differences seem to affect chemicals in the brain that carry messages from nerve to nerve and from nerve to muscle.
Question:
The color of pink had a calming effect, that is to say, the color affects _ .
Choices:
A. the chemicals in the brain
B. the eyes
C. the skin
D. the muscle | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high2965.txt | Scientists are making new studies of color and its effects on our health. They have known for a long time that the color of a room or the color of the light in it can affect our feelings and emotions. Many prisons and hospitals have at least one room that is painted pink. Officials have found that light and color can produce physical changes in our bodies.
Professor Falfan worked with a group of 9 disabled children at school in Albert. Two of the children were blind. The other seven had normal sight. The scientists changed the color of the school room, then looked for changes in blood pressure, heart beat and breathing rate. The effects of color changes were the same for the blind children as for those with normal sight. Their blood pressure dropped from about 120 to 100. Similar changes were reported in heart-beat and the breathing. The children also were calmer and less excited. Then the colors of the room were returned to orange and white. Blood pressure, heart-beat and breathing rate went up and the children became excited again.
Professor Falfan said different colors produce different levels of light energy. He said the differences seem to affect chemicals in the brain that carry messages from nerve to nerve and from nerve to muscle. | [
"the chemicals in the brain",
"the eyes",
"the skin",
"the muscle"
] |
Which school does Peng Xianzhe study? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
One day Peng Xianzhe learned he would go to the Mashan School in Guizhou. The 16-year-old boy tried to imagine how serious the drought was for the students at that school. However, he realized it was more serious than he had imagined when he saw the sign "DON'T wash clothes with water,or you will be punished . "
Because of drought, the school has been short of water for a long time. Each student has only one bottle of water every day for washing and drinking. The drought has made the poor students much poorer.
Peng is a student from Beijing Chaoyang Foreign Language School. He took part in the school's Rain & Bow Project from April 2 to 10.
The project idea came from Peng's principal . One day, she heard a sad story about Li Guoxian, a poor girl in the Mashan School,who stopped going to school because of drought. The principal started this project to help the school. In one day, 3,000 students made over 10,000 donations of water,books and clothes.
Peng and other four students went to the Mashan School and gave the donations with five teachers. They visited poor families, made surveys and had classes at the school.
Ding Zhentao,16,was worried about the school's poor learning environment. "The blackboards and playground are too _ to use,"Ding said. "Besides, there really aren't enough teachers. A teacher has to teach both history and English, and even the cook is a class teacher. "
Although life isn't easy, students at the school have a positive attitude towards life and they are quite willing to learn. That's what moved 16-year-old Chen Shi most.
"They sang their songs together as usual before class every afternoon. After class, the students asked us to tell them things about Beijing and our studies," Chen said. "You can see the passion in them. I believe it will make a difference. Their futures will be bright. "
,.
Question:
Which school does Peng Xianzhe study?
Choices:
A. Mashan School.
B. Beijing Chaoyang Foreign Language School.
C. Project School.
D. Training School. | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle6209.txt | One day Peng Xianzhe learned he would go to the Mashan School in Guizhou. The 16-year-old boy tried to imagine how serious the drought was for the students at that school. However, he realized it was more serious than he had imagined when he saw the sign "DON'T wash clothes with water,or you will be punished . "
Because of drought, the school has been short of water for a long time. Each student has only one bottle of water every day for washing and drinking. The drought has made the poor students much poorer.
Peng is a student from Beijing Chaoyang Foreign Language School. He took part in the school's Rain & Bow Project from April 2 to 10.
The project idea came from Peng's principal . One day, she heard a sad story about Li Guoxian, a poor girl in the Mashan School,who stopped going to school because of drought. The principal started this project to help the school. In one day, 3,000 students made over 10,000 donations of water,books and clothes.
Peng and other four students went to the Mashan School and gave the donations with five teachers. They visited poor families, made surveys and had classes at the school.
Ding Zhentao,16,was worried about the school's poor learning environment. "The blackboards and playground are too _ to use,"Ding said. "Besides, there really aren't enough teachers. A teacher has to teach both history and English, and even the cook is a class teacher. "
Although life isn't easy, students at the school have a positive attitude towards life and they are quite willing to learn. That's what moved 16-year-old Chen Shi most.
"They sang their songs together as usual before class every afternoon. After class, the students asked us to tell them things about Beijing and our studies," Chen said. "You can see the passion in them. I believe it will make a difference. Their futures will be bright. "
,. | [
"Mashan School.",
"Beijing Chaoyang Foreign Language School.",
"Project School.",
"Training School."
] |
According to Sauna Cheryan, _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
After moving to the United States, immigrant groups trying to fit in tend to choose high-calorie, fatty foods in an attempt to appear more American, a new study finds. That's one reason why immigrants approach U.S. levels of obesity within 15 years of moving to America.
The researchers also did an experiment that measured whether or not the threat of appearing un-American influenced respondents' food choices.After being questioned about their ability to speak English,75 percent of Asian-Americans identified a typical American food as their favorite. Only 25 percent of Asian-Americans who had not been asked if they spoke English did the same.
When their American identity was called into question during a follow-up study, Asian-American participants also tended to choose typical American dishes, such as hamburgers and grilled cheese sandwiches, over more Asian fare. In that experiment, 55 Asian-Americans were asked to choose a meal from a local Asian or American restaurant. Some participants were told that only Americans could participate in the study. Those who chose the more typical American _ ended up consuming an extra 182 calories, including 12 grams of fat and seven grams of saturated fat .
"People who feel like they need to prove they belong in a culture will change their habits in an attempt to fit in," said Sapna Cheryan, an author of the study and assistant professor of psychology at the University of Washington. "If immigrants and their children choose unhealthy American foods over healthier traditional foods across their lives, this process of fitting in could lead to poorer health," Cheryan added.
Social pressures, the study concluded, are at the heart of the problem. "In American society today, being American is associated with being white. Americans who don't fit this image even if they were born here and speak English feel that pressure to prove that they're American," said Cheryan.
Question:
According to Sauna Cheryan, _ .
Choices:
A. what immigrants have done is ridiculous
B. American traditional foods are healthier
C. immigrants risk their health in order to fit in
D. American culture affects immigrants deeply | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high7108.txt | After moving to the United States, immigrant groups trying to fit in tend to choose high-calorie, fatty foods in an attempt to appear more American, a new study finds. That's one reason why immigrants approach U.S. levels of obesity within 15 years of moving to America.
The researchers also did an experiment that measured whether or not the threat of appearing un-American influenced respondents' food choices.After being questioned about their ability to speak English,75 percent of Asian-Americans identified a typical American food as their favorite. Only 25 percent of Asian-Americans who had not been asked if they spoke English did the same.
When their American identity was called into question during a follow-up study, Asian-American participants also tended to choose typical American dishes, such as hamburgers and grilled cheese sandwiches, over more Asian fare. In that experiment, 55 Asian-Americans were asked to choose a meal from a local Asian or American restaurant. Some participants were told that only Americans could participate in the study. Those who chose the more typical American _ ended up consuming an extra 182 calories, including 12 grams of fat and seven grams of saturated fat .
"People who feel like they need to prove they belong in a culture will change their habits in an attempt to fit in," said Sapna Cheryan, an author of the study and assistant professor of psychology at the University of Washington. "If immigrants and their children choose unhealthy American foods over healthier traditional foods across their lives, this process of fitting in could lead to poorer health," Cheryan added.
Social pressures, the study concluded, are at the heart of the problem. "In American society today, being American is associated with being white. Americans who don't fit this image even if they were born here and speak English feel that pressure to prove that they're American," said Cheryan. | [
"what immigrants have done is ridiculous",
"American traditional foods are healthier",
"immigrants risk their health in order to fit in",
"American culture affects immigrants deeply"
] |
Some of the children are angry with their parents in the passage because _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
I don't like my parents. They always tell me I should do this, and should not do that. It sometimes makes me angry," said Liu Dan, a middle school student in Beijing. Do you have the same problem? Perhaps your parents had the same problem when they were your age long ago. Why does it seem that some parents are not so friendly in their children's eyes?
One of the biggest things is when someone becomes a parent, he or she likes worrying things. They worry about everything about you from the time you were born. They do a lot for you, though something would make you angry, because they care about you and worry about you. They worry about your choice of friends, the food you eat, your work at school, how much sleep you get, etc. All these things are part of your life. They want you to grow up healthily and happily.
So how can you make things easier on yourself? It's easier than you think. Just make sure your parents know what you're doing. Get them to know your friends. Call them if you stay somewhere else later than usual. Say sorry to them when you make mistakes. Take responsibility for what you have done. Talk about your ideas with them. They may talk about theirs with you.
Most of all, try to think about why your parents do this or do that. They are still practicing being parents and need help you can give them. Someday, when you become a parent, they may be able to help you how to get on with your children.
Question:
Some of the children are angry with their parents in the passage because _ .
Choices:
A. the parents think they eat too much
B. the parents don't like the friends that their children have made
C. the children don't live with their parents
D. the children are limited by their parents | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high16335.txt | I don't like my parents. They always tell me I should do this, and should not do that. It sometimes makes me angry," said Liu Dan, a middle school student in Beijing. Do you have the same problem? Perhaps your parents had the same problem when they were your age long ago. Why does it seem that some parents are not so friendly in their children's eyes?
One of the biggest things is when someone becomes a parent, he or she likes worrying things. They worry about everything about you from the time you were born. They do a lot for you, though something would make you angry, because they care about you and worry about you. They worry about your choice of friends, the food you eat, your work at school, how much sleep you get, etc. All these things are part of your life. They want you to grow up healthily and happily.
So how can you make things easier on yourself? It's easier than you think. Just make sure your parents know what you're doing. Get them to know your friends. Call them if you stay somewhere else later than usual. Say sorry to them when you make mistakes. Take responsibility for what you have done. Talk about your ideas with them. They may talk about theirs with you.
Most of all, try to think about why your parents do this or do that. They are still practicing being parents and need help you can give them. Someday, when you become a parent, they may be able to help you how to get on with your children. | [
"the parents think they eat too much",
"the parents don't like the friends that their children have made",
"the children don't live with their parents",
"the children are limited by their parents"
] |
Scientists have searched for a long time in order to _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Scientists have searched for many years for a method to tell whether a volcano explosion will be small or large. Now, four scientists say they have discovered something in lava that will help do this. They did the research on Mount Unzen on the southern Japanese island of Kyushu.
Mount Unzen exploded in November, 1990. Since then, more explosions have killed 43 people and destroyed the homes of more than 2,000 others. The volcano is still active today.
The scientists say the lava of the volcano contains high level of an element ,which is a sign of the presence of the lava from deep in the earth, not from the surface. They say it shows that the lava coming directly from inside the earth is connected with huge explosions instead of smaller ones.
The scientists examined the lava from 18 explosions of Mount Unzen that took place during many thousands of years. They also studied the lava from other volcanoes in the area that are older than Mount Unzen. The lava studied came from both large and small explosions. The scientists found that large explosions contained more of the element than small ones. The scientists say if they had known this two years earlier, they could have warned the people living in the area near Mount Unzen and saved many lives.
Question:
Scientists have searched for a long time in order to _ .
Choices:
A. tell whether a volcano explosion will be small or large
B. tell whether a volcano explosion will be worthy or not
C. tell the number of active volcanoes in the world
D. find if there is any volcano in Japan | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high21605.txt | Scientists have searched for many years for a method to tell whether a volcano explosion will be small or large. Now, four scientists say they have discovered something in lava that will help do this. They did the research on Mount Unzen on the southern Japanese island of Kyushu.
Mount Unzen exploded in November, 1990. Since then, more explosions have killed 43 people and destroyed the homes of more than 2,000 others. The volcano is still active today.
The scientists say the lava of the volcano contains high level of an element ,which is a sign of the presence of the lava from deep in the earth, not from the surface. They say it shows that the lava coming directly from inside the earth is connected with huge explosions instead of smaller ones.
The scientists examined the lava from 18 explosions of Mount Unzen that took place during many thousands of years. They also studied the lava from other volcanoes in the area that are older than Mount Unzen. The lava studied came from both large and small explosions. The scientists found that large explosions contained more of the element than small ones. The scientists say if they had known this two years earlier, they could have warned the people living in the area near Mount Unzen and saved many lives. | [
"tell whether a volcano explosion will be small or large",
"tell whether a volcano explosion will be worthy or not",
"tell the number of active volcanoes in the world",
"find if there is any volcano in Japan"
] |
The author suggest layering your clothing probably because _ | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
In the winter months the temperature in most of Canada usually stays below 0degC. However, in some parts of Canada, such as southern British Columbia, the temperature rarely goes below 0degC. In most areas where people live, snow will be on the ground from mid-December to the middle of March. Though Canada's winter may be much colder and longer than you are used to, it can be very enjoyable. For many Canadians, being active in winter is an important part of enjoying life. There are many outdoor winter activities, including skiing, ice fishing, walking, and skating. Joining in one of these activities may help you appreciate winter and enjoy your time outside in the snow.
Dressing for winter.
During winter in Canada, you will need warm clothing. If possible, arrive with these items or be prepared to buy them soon after your arrival. You will need:
*A warm waterproof boots.
*A scarf for your neck.
*A hat that covers your ears.
*Gloves for your hands.
*Thick winter coats, pants and sweaters.
Layers keep you warm.
It's a good idea to layer your clothing by, for example, wearing a T-shirt and a sweater underneath a jacket. If you become too hot, it is always easier to remove a piece of clothing than to add another. On the West Coast, prepare to dress for cool rainy or snowy weather. You will need:
*A warm waterproof coat.
*Waterproof hats.
*An umbrella.
*Rain boots or snow boots.
Learn more about weather and seasons across Canada. You can also contact Related Links.com, for example, an immigrant-serving organization in the community where you live for more information about dressing for winter.
Question:
The author suggest layering your clothing probably because _
Choices:
A. it is cool to dress like that.
B. it is a rule to dress like that.
C. the weather there is changeable.
D. the weather is usually very hot. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high10143.txt | In the winter months the temperature in most of Canada usually stays below 0degC. However, in some parts of Canada, such as southern British Columbia, the temperature rarely goes below 0degC. In most areas where people live, snow will be on the ground from mid-December to the middle of March. Though Canada's winter may be much colder and longer than you are used to, it can be very enjoyable. For many Canadians, being active in winter is an important part of enjoying life. There are many outdoor winter activities, including skiing, ice fishing, walking, and skating. Joining in one of these activities may help you appreciate winter and enjoy your time outside in the snow.
Dressing for winter.
During winter in Canada, you will need warm clothing. If possible, arrive with these items or be prepared to buy them soon after your arrival. You will need:
*A warm waterproof boots.
*A scarf for your neck.
*A hat that covers your ears.
*Gloves for your hands.
*Thick winter coats, pants and sweaters.
Layers keep you warm.
It's a good idea to layer your clothing by, for example, wearing a T-shirt and a sweater underneath a jacket. If you become too hot, it is always easier to remove a piece of clothing than to add another. On the West Coast, prepare to dress for cool rainy or snowy weather. You will need:
*A warm waterproof coat.
*Waterproof hats.
*An umbrella.
*Rain boots or snow boots.
Learn more about weather and seasons across Canada. You can also contact Related Links.com, for example, an immigrant-serving organization in the community where you live for more information about dressing for winter. | [
"it is cool to dress like that.",
"it is a rule to dress like that.",
"the weather there is changeable.",
"the weather is usually very hot."
] |
After the accident, the boy _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
If you choose only to complain and escape from a misfortune, it will always follow you wherever you go.But if you decide to be strong, the hardship will turn out to be a fortune on which new hopes will arise.
In an accident, a boy lost.both his arms and his father-who was the main source of support for the family.Since then, he has had to depend on the arms of his younger brother.For the sake of taking care of him, his younger brother became his shadow, never leaving him alone for years.Except for writing with his toes, he was completely unable to do anything in his life.
As the two brothers grew up together, they had their share of problems and they would often quarrel.Then one day, his younger brother wanted to leave, living his own life, as many normal people do.So he was heart-broken and didn't know what to do.
A similar misfortune befell a girl, too.One night her mother, who suffered from chronic mental illness, disappeared.Her father went out to look for her mother, leaving her alone at home.She tried to prepare meals for her parents, only to overturn the kerosene light on the stove, resulting in afire which took her hands away.
Though her elder sister who was studying in another city, showed her willingness to take care of her, she was determined to be completely independent.At school, she always studied hard.Most of all she learned to be self-reliant.
One day, the boy and the girl were both invited to appear on a television interview program.The boy told the TV host about his uncertain future at being left on his own, whereas the girl was full of enthusiasm for her life.They both were asked to write something on a piece of paper with their toes.The boy wrote: My younger brother's arms are my arms; while the girl wrote: Broken wings, flying heart.
Question:
After the accident, the boy _ .
Choices:
A. decided to live with his brother
B. learnt to do things with his toes
C. made a living all by himself
D. depended wholly on his brother | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high23138.txt | If you choose only to complain and escape from a misfortune, it will always follow you wherever you go.But if you decide to be strong, the hardship will turn out to be a fortune on which new hopes will arise.
In an accident, a boy lost.both his arms and his father-who was the main source of support for the family.Since then, he has had to depend on the arms of his younger brother.For the sake of taking care of him, his younger brother became his shadow, never leaving him alone for years.Except for writing with his toes, he was completely unable to do anything in his life.
As the two brothers grew up together, they had their share of problems and they would often quarrel.Then one day, his younger brother wanted to leave, living his own life, as many normal people do.So he was heart-broken and didn't know what to do.
A similar misfortune befell a girl, too.One night her mother, who suffered from chronic mental illness, disappeared.Her father went out to look for her mother, leaving her alone at home.She tried to prepare meals for her parents, only to overturn the kerosene light on the stove, resulting in afire which took her hands away.
Though her elder sister who was studying in another city, showed her willingness to take care of her, she was determined to be completely independent.At school, she always studied hard.Most of all she learned to be self-reliant.
One day, the boy and the girl were both invited to appear on a television interview program.The boy told the TV host about his uncertain future at being left on his own, whereas the girl was full of enthusiasm for her life.They both were asked to write something on a piece of paper with their toes.The boy wrote: My younger brother's arms are my arms; while the girl wrote: Broken wings, flying heart. | [
"decided to live with his brother",
"learnt to do things with his toes",
"made a living all by himself",
"depended wholly on his brother"
] |
The ducks were _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Once there was a little girl in a village. She spent summers on her grandfather's farm. The year she was four, she knew some ducks. The ducks were white with orange feet. They lived in a little wooden house near the road. The little girl liked these ducks very much.
Every day they walked down the road to the pond . The ducks went into the water. The little girl sat on the bank and saw them swimming in the pond. The little girl talked to the ducks and they _ back to her.
Then one day the ducks were gone. No one would say anything about them. The little girl was afraid to ask where they were. One night everyone sat down for dinner. The food looked a little like chicken. The girl didn't want to eat. Can you guess why?
,,2B.
Question:
The ducks were _ .
Choices:
A. yellow and orange
B. yellow and white
C. white and orange feet
D. white and black | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle1408.txt | Once there was a little girl in a village. She spent summers on her grandfather's farm. The year she was four, she knew some ducks. The ducks were white with orange feet. They lived in a little wooden house near the road. The little girl liked these ducks very much.
Every day they walked down the road to the pond . The ducks went into the water. The little girl sat on the bank and saw them swimming in the pond. The little girl talked to the ducks and they _ back to her.
Then one day the ducks were gone. No one would say anything about them. The little girl was afraid to ask where they were. One night everyone sat down for dinner. The food looked a little like chicken. The girl didn't want to eat. Can you guess why?
,,2B. | [
"yellow and orange",
"yellow and white",
"white and orange feet",
"white and black"
] |
How was the weather that night? It was _ | D | 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:
How was the weather that night? It was _
Choices:
A. rainy
B. cloudy
C. sunny
D. snowy | Answer: D | 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?" | [
"rainy",
"cloudy",
"sunny",
"snowy"
] |
According to Timothy Bates, less women are in the smartest group because _ . | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Men have always believed that they are smarter than women. Now, a study has found that while this is certainly true, men also have to deal with the fact that they are also more stupid than the fairer sex.
In the study, scientists measured the IQ of 2500 brothers and sisters and they found an uneven number of men not only in the top two percent, but also in the bottom two percent.
The study's participants were tested on science, maths, English and mechanical abilities.
Though there were twice as many men as women in the smartest group, there were also twice as many men among the bottom.
The aggregate scores of men and women were similar.
One of the study's authors, psychology professor Timothy Bates, said that the phenomenon may be because men have always been expected to be high achievers and women have been restricted to spend more time taking care of their homes.
"The female developmental program may be tilted more towards ensuring survival and the safety of the middle ground.," the Daily Mail quoted Professor Bates, of Edinburgh University, as saying.
The research _ past results that men were more likely than women to receive first class University degrees or thirds and women secured the seconds.
It has been said that men are more ready to take risk when it comes to academics. Women have always found to be steadier in their learning.
A past study has shown that women are securing more firsts and seconds, while men are continuing to receive more thirds.
The argument for the change is that the increase of coursework at the cost of exams favors women's steady approach.
Question:
According to Timothy Bates, less women are in the smartest group because _ .
Choices:
A. they are born stupid
B. they have to spend more time to tale care of their homes than men
C. they don't like to take risk
D. they are not expected to be high achievers | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high3043.txt | Men have always believed that they are smarter than women. Now, a study has found that while this is certainly true, men also have to deal with the fact that they are also more stupid than the fairer sex.
In the study, scientists measured the IQ of 2500 brothers and sisters and they found an uneven number of men not only in the top two percent, but also in the bottom two percent.
The study's participants were tested on science, maths, English and mechanical abilities.
Though there were twice as many men as women in the smartest group, there were also twice as many men among the bottom.
The aggregate scores of men and women were similar.
One of the study's authors, psychology professor Timothy Bates, said that the phenomenon may be because men have always been expected to be high achievers and women have been restricted to spend more time taking care of their homes.
"The female developmental program may be tilted more towards ensuring survival and the safety of the middle ground.," the Daily Mail quoted Professor Bates, of Edinburgh University, as saying.
The research _ past results that men were more likely than women to receive first class University degrees or thirds and women secured the seconds.
It has been said that men are more ready to take risk when it comes to academics. Women have always found to be steadier in their learning.
A past study has shown that women are securing more firsts and seconds, while men are continuing to receive more thirds.
The argument for the change is that the increase of coursework at the cost of exams favors women's steady approach. | [
"they are born stupid",
"they have to spend more time to tale care of their homes than men",
"they don't like to take risk",
"they are not expected to be high achievers"
] |
Which compound has positively and negatively charged ends? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | Which compound has positively and negatively charged ends? | polar compound | science | null | null | null | real compound | tumultuous compound | non-polar compound | polar compound | Salt isn’t the only solute that dissolves in water. In fact, so many things dissolve in water that water is sometimes called the universal solvent. Water is such a good solvent because it is a very polar compound. A polar compound has positively and negatively charged ends. Solutes that are also charged are attracted to the oppositely charged ends of water molecules. This allows the water molecules to pull the solute particles apart. | null | null | null |
According to the passage, ground-level ozone can _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
The term "smog" was first used in London during the early 1900's to describe the combination of smoke and fog. What we typically call " smog" today is a mixture of pollutants but is primarily made up of ground-level ozone .
Ozone can be beneficial or harmful depending on where it stays. The ozone staying high above the Earth protects human health and the environment, but ground-level ozone is responsible for the choking, coughing, and painful eyes associated with smog. The ozone in smog also prevents plants growth and can cause widespread damage to crops and forest.
Major smog occurrences often are linked to heavy motor vehicle traffic, high temperatures, sunshine, and calm winds. Weather and geography affect the position and severity of smog. Because temperature regulates the length of time it takes for smog to form, smog can form faster and be more severe on a hot and sunny day. When warm air stays near the ground instead of rising and winds are calm, smog may stay trapped over your city for days. As traffic and other sources add more pollutants to the air, the smog gets worse. Smog is often more severe away from the pollution sources because the chemical reactions that cause smog occur in the atmosphere while the reacting chemicals are being moved by the wind.
Smog is a visible example of air pollution. You can look into the distance during the day to see how much smog there is in the air. In addition, most cities measure the concentrations of pollutants in the air and report the results to the public.
Environmental Protection Agency sets national standards for pollutants. Areas that fail to meet the standards for at least one air pollutant are called "nonattainment areas. " New measures are being taken by local governments across the country to reduce air pollution in nonattainment areas. These include: banning charcoal barbecues and wood burning in stoves or fireplaces when pollution levels are high; developing programs to encourage carpooling and voluntary "ozone actions" ; limiting traffic in overcrowded areas; expanding or improving public transportation systems; requiring employers to contribute to employee public transportation costs; assessing " smog fees" on cars according to the number of miles driven and vehicle emissions produced; and even buying and breaking up older " super-dirty" cars.
Question:
According to the passage, ground-level ozone can _ .
Choices:
A. damage the environment
B. benefit human health
C. protect crops and forest
D. limit the spread of smog | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high17694.txt | The term "smog" was first used in London during the early 1900's to describe the combination of smoke and fog. What we typically call " smog" today is a mixture of pollutants but is primarily made up of ground-level ozone .
Ozone can be beneficial or harmful depending on where it stays. The ozone staying high above the Earth protects human health and the environment, but ground-level ozone is responsible for the choking, coughing, and painful eyes associated with smog. The ozone in smog also prevents plants growth and can cause widespread damage to crops and forest.
Major smog occurrences often are linked to heavy motor vehicle traffic, high temperatures, sunshine, and calm winds. Weather and geography affect the position and severity of smog. Because temperature regulates the length of time it takes for smog to form, smog can form faster and be more severe on a hot and sunny day. When warm air stays near the ground instead of rising and winds are calm, smog may stay trapped over your city for days. As traffic and other sources add more pollutants to the air, the smog gets worse. Smog is often more severe away from the pollution sources because the chemical reactions that cause smog occur in the atmosphere while the reacting chemicals are being moved by the wind.
Smog is a visible example of air pollution. You can look into the distance during the day to see how much smog there is in the air. In addition, most cities measure the concentrations of pollutants in the air and report the results to the public.
Environmental Protection Agency sets national standards for pollutants. Areas that fail to meet the standards for at least one air pollutant are called "nonattainment areas. " New measures are being taken by local governments across the country to reduce air pollution in nonattainment areas. These include: banning charcoal barbecues and wood burning in stoves or fireplaces when pollution levels are high; developing programs to encourage carpooling and voluntary "ozone actions" ; limiting traffic in overcrowded areas; expanding or improving public transportation systems; requiring employers to contribute to employee public transportation costs; assessing " smog fees" on cars according to the number of miles driven and vehicle emissions produced; and even buying and breaking up older " super-dirty" cars. | [
"damage the environment",
"benefit human health",
"protect crops and forest",
"limit the spread of smog"
] |
What kind of man would you say the old man was? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
"That's right." said the old man. "Ninety-nine years old, and I haven't an enemy in the world. They're all dead."
"Well, sir." said the interviewer , "I hope very much to have the honour of interviewing you on your hundredth birthday."
The old man looked at the young man closely, and said, "I can't see why you shouldn't. you look fit and healthy to me!"
Question:
What kind of man would you say the old man was?
Choices:
A. He was silly.
B. He was unpleasant
C. He was very proud and sure of his health.
D. He was very impolite to young people. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high21700.txt | "That's right." said the old man. "Ninety-nine years old, and I haven't an enemy in the world. They're all dead."
"Well, sir." said the interviewer , "I hope very much to have the honour of interviewing you on your hundredth birthday."
The old man looked at the young man closely, and said, "I can't see why you shouldn't. you look fit and healthy to me!" | [
"He was silly.",
"He was unpleasant",
"He was very proud and sure of his health.",
"He was very impolite to young people."
] |
After inventing the world wide web,Tim BernersLee _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
The inventor of the world wide web,Tim BernersLee,has won an important award which comes with a prize bag of one million euros (PS671,000).The "Father of the Web" was named as the first winner of the Millennium Technology Prize by the Finnish Technology Award Foundation.He said he had just been "in the right place at the right time" and did not want his photo taken.
In 1991,he came up with a system to organize,link and browse Net pages which revolutionized the Internet.The British scientist was knighted for his pioneering work in 2003.
Sir Tim created his program while he was at the particle physics institute,Cern,in Geneva.The computer code he came up with let scientists easily share research findings across a computer network.In the early 1990s,it was called the "world wide web," and is still the basis of the web as we know it.
The famous man never went on to commercialize his work.Instead he worked on expanding the use of the Net as a channel for free expression and cooperation.
"The web is encouraging new types of social networks and opening up new ways for information management and business development.The web has significantly improved many people's ability to obtain information central to their lives,"said Pekka Tarjanne,chairman of the Millennium Technology Prize award committee.
Just under 80 people from 22 countries were nominated for the prize for their work in the areas of health,communication,new materials and the environment.
The Millennium Technology Prize was set up by the Finnish Technology Award Foundation,an independent body backed by the public and private money which aims to recognize outstanding creations.
Sir Tim currently heads up the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston,where he is now based as an academic.
Question:
After inventing the world wide web,Tim BernersLee _ .
Choices:
A. became the first person to receive the Millennium Technology Prize
B. became the first person to be knighted by the Queen of England
C. began to cooperate with many scientists in other areas
D. was given over one million pounds for his great contribution | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high6247.txt | The inventor of the world wide web,Tim BernersLee,has won an important award which comes with a prize bag of one million euros (PS671,000).The "Father of the Web" was named as the first winner of the Millennium Technology Prize by the Finnish Technology Award Foundation.He said he had just been "in the right place at the right time" and did not want his photo taken.
In 1991,he came up with a system to organize,link and browse Net pages which revolutionized the Internet.The British scientist was knighted for his pioneering work in 2003.
Sir Tim created his program while he was at the particle physics institute,Cern,in Geneva.The computer code he came up with let scientists easily share research findings across a computer network.In the early 1990s,it was called the "world wide web," and is still the basis of the web as we know it.
The famous man never went on to commercialize his work.Instead he worked on expanding the use of the Net as a channel for free expression and cooperation.
"The web is encouraging new types of social networks and opening up new ways for information management and business development.The web has significantly improved many people's ability to obtain information central to their lives,"said Pekka Tarjanne,chairman of the Millennium Technology Prize award committee.
Just under 80 people from 22 countries were nominated for the prize for their work in the areas of health,communication,new materials and the environment.
The Millennium Technology Prize was set up by the Finnish Technology Award Foundation,an independent body backed by the public and private money which aims to recognize outstanding creations.
Sir Tim currently heads up the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston,where he is now based as an academic. | [
"became the first person to receive the Millennium Technology Prize",
"became the first person to be knighted by the Queen of England",
"began to cooperate with many scientists in other areas",
"was given over one million pounds for his great contribution"
] |
What is the text mainly about? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Teaching and research are supported by the University's extensive collections--the Yale University Art Gallery, the Yale Center for British Art, the Peabody Museum of Natural History, and the Collection of Musical Instruments. All the collections are open to the public.
Yale University Art Gallery
The Yale University Art Gallery, founded in 1832, today houses a collection that has grown to rank with those of the major public art museums in the United States. Its two connected buildings house ancient, medieval, and Renaissance art, Near and Far Eastern art, archaeological material from the University's excavations , Pre-Columbian and African art, works of European and American masters from actually every period, and a rich collection of modern art. Across the street, the Yale Center for British Art, which was opened in 1977, holds the largest collection of British art and illustrated books anywhere outside the United Kingdom.
Peabody Museum of Natural History
Yale's Peabody Museum of Natural History, founded in 1866, contains one of the great scientific collections in North America. Among its holdings are the University's comprehensive mineralogical and ornithological collections, the second-largest repository of dinosaur artifacts in the United States, and the largest undamaged Apatosaurus (Brontosaurus ) in the world. The Peabody is truly a working museum, where public exhibition, research, conservation, teaching, and learning intersect .
Yale Center for British Art
Institutions like the Art Gallery, the Center for British Art, and the Peabody Museum hold only a portion of the treasures in the University's collections. From paintings by Picasso, to pterodactyl remains, to a 1689 tenor viol in the Collection of Musical Instruments, Yale's possessions are meant to be accessible to the communities they enrich.
Collection of Musical Instruments
Exhibitions are also frequently mounted at the following venues on campus: Art + Architecture Gallery (School of Architecture), Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Green Hall Gallery (School of Art), and Sterling Memorial Library, including the Arts of the Book Collection.
Question:
What is the text mainly about?
Choices:
A. Introduction to Yale University.
B. Introduction to collections in Yale.
C. Introduction to venues in Yale.
D. Introduction to art works in Yale. | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high15254.txt | Teaching and research are supported by the University's extensive collections--the Yale University Art Gallery, the Yale Center for British Art, the Peabody Museum of Natural History, and the Collection of Musical Instruments. All the collections are open to the public.
Yale University Art Gallery
The Yale University Art Gallery, founded in 1832, today houses a collection that has grown to rank with those of the major public art museums in the United States. Its two connected buildings house ancient, medieval, and Renaissance art, Near and Far Eastern art, archaeological material from the University's excavations , Pre-Columbian and African art, works of European and American masters from actually every period, and a rich collection of modern art. Across the street, the Yale Center for British Art, which was opened in 1977, holds the largest collection of British art and illustrated books anywhere outside the United Kingdom.
Peabody Museum of Natural History
Yale's Peabody Museum of Natural History, founded in 1866, contains one of the great scientific collections in North America. Among its holdings are the University's comprehensive mineralogical and ornithological collections, the second-largest repository of dinosaur artifacts in the United States, and the largest undamaged Apatosaurus (Brontosaurus ) in the world. The Peabody is truly a working museum, where public exhibition, research, conservation, teaching, and learning intersect .
Yale Center for British Art
Institutions like the Art Gallery, the Center for British Art, and the Peabody Museum hold only a portion of the treasures in the University's collections. From paintings by Picasso, to pterodactyl remains, to a 1689 tenor viol in the Collection of Musical Instruments, Yale's possessions are meant to be accessible to the communities they enrich.
Collection of Musical Instruments
Exhibitions are also frequently mounted at the following venues on campus: Art + Architecture Gallery (School of Architecture), Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Green Hall Gallery (School of Art), and Sterling Memorial Library, including the Arts of the Book Collection. | [
"Introduction to Yale University.",
"Introduction to collections in Yale.",
"Introduction to venues in Yale.",
"Introduction to art works in Yale."
] |
The British try to solve the problem of queuing by all the following EXCEPT _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
In 1837, the historian Carlyle made the first recorded use of the word " queue" .He
spoke of the French and their "habit of standing in a queue".Forty years later prefix = st1 /Pariswas the best
place to wait in line.
However, queuing became popular in Britain too.The Second World War was the golden age
of queuing, and people joined any line in the hope that it was a queue for something to buy.This
was the source of many Second World War jokes:
Shopkeeper to customer: Excuse me, miss, are you pregnant ?
Customer: Well, I wasn't when I joined the queue.
Today, according to research inAmerica, we (inBritain) can spend up to 5 years of our lives
queuing - as compared to twelve months looking for things we have lost.But things may be changing.
Many people no longer have the patience to stand in a queue.The law of the jungle has begun to operate at bus stops, with people using their arms to push others out of the way.
One way to make life easier is to introduce "queue management".Customers at supermarket
cheese counters can now take a ticket with a number which appears on a screen when it is their
turn.And while they wait for their number, they can do a bit of shopping.
In some booking offices there is also a system telling customers how long they may have to wait before they are served.
One of the latest technical progress is the use of an electronic scanner which
can read all the contents of your shopping basket or trolley in just a few seconds.If these become
popular, queuing in supermarkets may become a thing of the past.
But some people just like queuing.One man queued all night for Harrods famous January sale, and then returned home for breakfast at nine o' clock the next morning without going into the shop.
Question:
The British try to solve the problem of queuing by all the following EXCEPT _ .
Choices:
A. making a law to prevent queuing
B. telling the customers the waiting time
C. using numbered tickets to put the customers in order
D. checking the price of the goods customers buy with a scanner | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high21677.txt | In 1837, the historian Carlyle made the first recorded use of the word " queue" .He
spoke of the French and their "habit of standing in a queue".Forty years later prefix = st1 /Pariswas the best
place to wait in line.
However, queuing became popular in Britain too.The Second World War was the golden age
of queuing, and people joined any line in the hope that it was a queue for something to buy.This
was the source of many Second World War jokes:
Shopkeeper to customer: Excuse me, miss, are you pregnant ?
Customer: Well, I wasn't when I joined the queue.
Today, according to research inAmerica, we (inBritain) can spend up to 5 years of our lives
queuing - as compared to twelve months looking for things we have lost.But things may be changing.
Many people no longer have the patience to stand in a queue.The law of the jungle has begun to operate at bus stops, with people using their arms to push others out of the way.
One way to make life easier is to introduce "queue management".Customers at supermarket
cheese counters can now take a ticket with a number which appears on a screen when it is their
turn.And while they wait for their number, they can do a bit of shopping.
In some booking offices there is also a system telling customers how long they may have to wait before they are served.
One of the latest technical progress is the use of an electronic scanner which
can read all the contents of your shopping basket or trolley in just a few seconds.If these become
popular, queuing in supermarkets may become a thing of the past.
But some people just like queuing.One man queued all night for Harrods famous January sale, and then returned home for breakfast at nine o' clock the next morning without going into the shop. | [
"making a law to prevent queuing",
"telling the customers the waiting time",
"using numbered tickets to put the customers in order",
"checking the price of the goods customers buy with a scanner"
] |
This passage mainly tells us _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Walt Disney
As one of the most famous film production companies in the history of the business,Walt Disney now holds 15.3 percent of the US and Canadian market share. With highly successful movies like Pirates of the Caribbean,National Treasure,Meet the Robinsons and Enchanted,there's no doubt that Disney will continue to play a key role in the industry for years to come.
Paramount Pictures
With 15.5 percent of the US and Canadian market share,Paramount Pictures continues to be one of the most successful film production companies in the world. Star Trek,War of the Worlds,Mission:Impossible,Transformers and Tropic Thunder are just a few of the popular films produced by Paramount Pictures.
20th Century Fox
Also known as "Twentieth Century Fox",this highly successful movie production company makes up 11.9 percent of the US and Canadian market share. Some of the biggest and most successful movies from this empire include the X-Men series,Mr and Mrs Smith and Fantastic Four.
Warner Bros. Pictures
Including about 19.7 percent of the US and Canadian market share,Warner Bros. Pictures is the biggest player in the film industry. Owning the rights to major films like Harry Potter,Superman,Batman,The Matrix and Star Wars has made Warner Bros. Pictures the No.1 name in the business.
Universal Studios
12.2 percent of the US and Canadian market share belongs to Universal Studios,which continues to make millions for the film industry. With major _ like the Bourne series,the American Pie series,Knocked Up,American Gangster and The Incredible Hulk,it's very clear that Universal Studios knows what it takes to make money in this industry.
Columbia Pictures
Making up 12.9 percent of the US and Canadian market share,Columbia Pictures remains a big player in the business. Some of this company's recent successes include Casino Royale,The Da Vinci Code,the Spider Man series and Step Brothers.
Question:
This passage mainly tells us _ .
Choices:
A. some beautiful pictures of the US
B. some American popular movies
C. some famous Canadian companies
D. some film production companies | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high8180.txt | Walt Disney
As one of the most famous film production companies in the history of the business,Walt Disney now holds 15.3 percent of the US and Canadian market share. With highly successful movies like Pirates of the Caribbean,National Treasure,Meet the Robinsons and Enchanted,there's no doubt that Disney will continue to play a key role in the industry for years to come.
Paramount Pictures
With 15.5 percent of the US and Canadian market share,Paramount Pictures continues to be one of the most successful film production companies in the world. Star Trek,War of the Worlds,Mission:Impossible,Transformers and Tropic Thunder are just a few of the popular films produced by Paramount Pictures.
20th Century Fox
Also known as "Twentieth Century Fox",this highly successful movie production company makes up 11.9 percent of the US and Canadian market share. Some of the biggest and most successful movies from this empire include the X-Men series,Mr and Mrs Smith and Fantastic Four.
Warner Bros. Pictures
Including about 19.7 percent of the US and Canadian market share,Warner Bros. Pictures is the biggest player in the film industry. Owning the rights to major films like Harry Potter,Superman,Batman,The Matrix and Star Wars has made Warner Bros. Pictures the No.1 name in the business.
Universal Studios
12.2 percent of the US and Canadian market share belongs to Universal Studios,which continues to make millions for the film industry. With major _ like the Bourne series,the American Pie series,Knocked Up,American Gangster and The Incredible Hulk,it's very clear that Universal Studios knows what it takes to make money in this industry.
Columbia Pictures
Making up 12.9 percent of the US and Canadian market share,Columbia Pictures remains a big player in the business. Some of this company's recent successes include Casino Royale,The Da Vinci Code,the Spider Man series and Step Brothers. | [
"some beautiful pictures of the US",
"some American popular movies",
"some famous Canadian companies",
"some film production companies"
] |
Which of the following is WRONG? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Parts of Africa are covered by a dark cloud. But this is no rain cloud. It is a living cloud made of billions of locusts and they are eating everything in their path.
And now in order to fight against this disaster, a radio station in Senegal, West Africa, is offering listeners 5 kilograms of rice if they can catch and kill 50 kilograms of locusts. "We think this idea will get more people to take part in the fight against the locusts," said Abdoulaye Ba, from Sud-Fm, a radio station in one of Senegal's worst affected area.
This is West Africa's biggest locust disaster in 15 years. Now it is moving east and it leads to the loss of crops. When they move, they have babies, so their number is getting bigger. and will soon threaten Sudan in the northeast of Africa. Some say it may reach Asia.
Experts say many people in the areas will go hungry because of this disaster. What's worse, governments in the areas don't have enough things to fight the locusts.
Although leaders of 12 countries have agreed on a plan, it is not enough. 'We are now treating 6,000 hectares per day with pesticide , but we need to treat 20,000 hectares per day in order to have any hope of controlling this disaster,' said Mohamed Abdallahi Ould Babah, leader of locust control in Mauritania.
Question:
Which of the following is WRONG?
Choices:
A. Sud-Fm offered a reward to those people would join in catching and killing locusts.
B. Senegal is to the northwest of Sudan.
C. People in West Africa often go hungry.
D. 12 countries worked together but they didn't have enough pesticide. | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle2482.txt | Parts of Africa are covered by a dark cloud. But this is no rain cloud. It is a living cloud made of billions of locusts and they are eating everything in their path.
And now in order to fight against this disaster, a radio station in Senegal, West Africa, is offering listeners 5 kilograms of rice if they can catch and kill 50 kilograms of locusts. "We think this idea will get more people to take part in the fight against the locusts," said Abdoulaye Ba, from Sud-Fm, a radio station in one of Senegal's worst affected area.
This is West Africa's biggest locust disaster in 15 years. Now it is moving east and it leads to the loss of crops. When they move, they have babies, so their number is getting bigger. and will soon threaten Sudan in the northeast of Africa. Some say it may reach Asia.
Experts say many people in the areas will go hungry because of this disaster. What's worse, governments in the areas don't have enough things to fight the locusts.
Although leaders of 12 countries have agreed on a plan, it is not enough. 'We are now treating 6,000 hectares per day with pesticide , but we need to treat 20,000 hectares per day in order to have any hope of controlling this disaster,' said Mohamed Abdallahi Ould Babah, leader of locust control in Mauritania. | [
"Sud-Fm offered a reward to those people would join in catching and killing locusts.",
"Senegal is to the northwest of Sudan.",
"People in West Africa often go hungry.",
"12 countries worked together but they didn't have enough pesticide."
] |
Serena can buy _ skirt(s) for 130 yuan at the store. | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Lucy is a nice girl. She is twenty-six. She opens a clothes store. Its name is Lovely Clothes Store. The store is for girls, not for boys. The store has clothes in many colors. Do you want to have a look at the store?
Clothes Colors Price
T-shirts blue, green and white Y=25
Skirts red, green, yellow and black Y=45 \ Y=65
Sweaters yellow, blue and red Y=35 \ Y=55
Trousers orange, white and green Y=54 \ Y=84 \ Y=104
,.
Question:
Serena can buy _ skirt(s) for 130 yuan at the store.
Choices:
A. one
B. two
C. three
D. four | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle1389.txt | Lucy is a nice girl. She is twenty-six. She opens a clothes store. Its name is Lovely Clothes Store. The store is for girls, not for boys. The store has clothes in many colors. Do you want to have a look at the store?
Clothes Colors Price
T-shirts blue, green and white Y=25
Skirts red, green, yellow and black Y=45 \ Y=65
Sweaters yellow, blue and red Y=35 \ Y=55
Trousers orange, white and green Y=54 \ Y=84 \ Y=104
,. | [
"one",
"two",
"three",
"four"
] |
In what way did Willy go to attend the party held by his s and friends? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Willy, a merchant, returned home to his own country from a faraway continent, where he had succeeded making a small fortune by hard work. He found on arriving at the port that all his s were having a large party.
He was in such a happy mood and in the joy of the moment, he did not even bother changing his grey flannel suit which had become a little worn during the trip home.
When he entered the brilliantly lit room, his s and friends gave him a rather cold welcome because they had noticed his modest suit and immediately imagined that he had come back a poor man.
A young man who happened to be accompanying him was quite _ at this and said to Willy, "What a wonderful reception you have received from these people. They have not even the intention of shaking your hand after all these years that you have been away from home."
"Just wait and see!" whispered Willy, "They will soon change their looks!" Saying this he slipped a precious ring on his finger. All of a sudden the faces of all those present lit up and immediately Willy was surrounded by so many people that he didn't know what to do. A man shook his hand, a cousin threw his arms around him, and he had so many invitations from the people present that he thought he would be unable to make any other appointments for several years.
"Has this beautiful, precious ring of yours the power of magic people?" asked the young man.
"Oh, no!" replied Willy, "They see in this glittering diamond ring something that makes them think I am rich, and, unfortunately, they place wealth above everything else."
"What blind people!" exclaimed the young man. "It is not the ring that has drawn them to you but their desire for riches. Is it possible to appreciate more a piece of yellow metal surrounded by little stones than the goodness of my Lord? And indeed how foolish are people who place their trust in riches rather than in virtues !"
Question:
In what way did Willy go to attend the party held by his s and friends?
Choices:
A. In such a modest mood.
B. In travel-soiled clothes.
C. Wearing a precious jewel.
D. Without being accompanied. | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high20196.txt | Willy, a merchant, returned home to his own country from a faraway continent, where he had succeeded making a small fortune by hard work. He found on arriving at the port that all his s were having a large party.
He was in such a happy mood and in the joy of the moment, he did not even bother changing his grey flannel suit which had become a little worn during the trip home.
When he entered the brilliantly lit room, his s and friends gave him a rather cold welcome because they had noticed his modest suit and immediately imagined that he had come back a poor man.
A young man who happened to be accompanying him was quite _ at this and said to Willy, "What a wonderful reception you have received from these people. They have not even the intention of shaking your hand after all these years that you have been away from home."
"Just wait and see!" whispered Willy, "They will soon change their looks!" Saying this he slipped a precious ring on his finger. All of a sudden the faces of all those present lit up and immediately Willy was surrounded by so many people that he didn't know what to do. A man shook his hand, a cousin threw his arms around him, and he had so many invitations from the people present that he thought he would be unable to make any other appointments for several years.
"Has this beautiful, precious ring of yours the power of magic people?" asked the young man.
"Oh, no!" replied Willy, "They see in this glittering diamond ring something that makes them think I am rich, and, unfortunately, they place wealth above everything else."
"What blind people!" exclaimed the young man. "It is not the ring that has drawn them to you but their desire for riches. Is it possible to appreciate more a piece of yellow metal surrounded by little stones than the goodness of my Lord? And indeed how foolish are people who place their trust in riches rather than in virtues !" | [
"In such a modest mood.",
"In travel-soiled clothes.",
"Wearing a precious jewel.",
"Without being accompanied."
] |
The audience who enjoy the Gazillion Bubble Show will _ . | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
As a kid, Fan Yang was crazy about the beauty of bubbles . A waterfall at a river near his childhood home in Vietnam created hundreds of tiny bubbles. "I saw another world in bubbles, and I imagined how nice it would be if I could create a big bubble and be inside it," he says.
Many years later, Fan realized that dream. He has formed bubbles around hundreds of people, made large bubbles that his daughter can walk through, and even made square bubbles. Fan calls himself a "bubble artist" and "bubble scientist." "So far, I haven't met any other bubble scientist!" he says.
To achieve what he wanted, Fan worked hard for years. "After many years of failure, I finally came out with a bubble solution that made big bubbles with beautiful color1s." Five years later, after lots of more practice and experiments, he created the world's largest bubble which was 156 feet long.
Fan designed a program called the Gazillion Bubble Show. He has many performance tips to offer. He says it's good to make the audience feel tension so that they are surprised at the end of a trick. He also suggests doing performances that are fun to watch, so that the audience will stay interested the whole time
To perform his tricks, Fan uses bubbles equipment that he created himself. He wants to know that they're not limited by anything except their imaginations, and they can create whatever they want to help them follow their interests.
"To make art, you need time, love and hard work, which guided my life and made me successful. I am proud to say that I used something simple--- bubbles---and brought it to a completely new world."
Question:
The audience who enjoy the Gazillion Bubble Show will _ .
Choices:
A. feel relaxed all the time
B. always show great interest
C. play tricks on the performer
D. know how to make big bubbles | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high17988.txt | As a kid, Fan Yang was crazy about the beauty of bubbles . A waterfall at a river near his childhood home in Vietnam created hundreds of tiny bubbles. "I saw another world in bubbles, and I imagined how nice it would be if I could create a big bubble and be inside it," he says.
Many years later, Fan realized that dream. He has formed bubbles around hundreds of people, made large bubbles that his daughter can walk through, and even made square bubbles. Fan calls himself a "bubble artist" and "bubble scientist." "So far, I haven't met any other bubble scientist!" he says.
To achieve what he wanted, Fan worked hard for years. "After many years of failure, I finally came out with a bubble solution that made big bubbles with beautiful color1s." Five years later, after lots of more practice and experiments, he created the world's largest bubble which was 156 feet long.
Fan designed a program called the Gazillion Bubble Show. He has many performance tips to offer. He says it's good to make the audience feel tension so that they are surprised at the end of a trick. He also suggests doing performances that are fun to watch, so that the audience will stay interested the whole time
To perform his tricks, Fan uses bubbles equipment that he created himself. He wants to know that they're not limited by anything except their imaginations, and they can create whatever they want to help them follow their interests.
"To make art, you need time, love and hard work, which guided my life and made me successful. I am proud to say that I used something simple--- bubbles---and brought it to a completely new world." | [
"feel relaxed all the time",
"always show great interest",
"play tricks on the performer",
"know how to make big bubbles"
] |
Josh buys 3 packs of string cheese. Each piece of string cheese cost 10 cents. Each pack has 20 string cheeses in them. How many dollars did he pay? | Each pack cost 20*10=<<20*10=200>>200 cents
So each pack cost 200/100=$<<200/100=2>>2
That means he pays 2*3=$<<2*3=6>>6
#### 6 | Solve the following math problem and explain your reasoning step by step. | Josh buys 3 packs of string cheese. Each piece of string cheese cost 10 cents. Each pack has 20 string cheeses in them. How many dollars did he pay? | Each pack cost 20*10=<<20*10=200>>200 cents
So each pack cost 200/100=$<<200/100=2>>2
That means he pays 2*3=$<<2*3=6>>6
#### 6 | math | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null |
Some colleges and schools ban selling bottled water in order to _ . | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
As is known to us, Washington University in St. Louis became the first college in the United States to ban selling bottled water in 2009. Since then, more than a dozen small colleges and schools have done the same. The ban isn't because the schools don't want students to have easy access to water. Instead, the goal is to encourage students to bring reusable bottles to save money and, more importantly, to save the environment.
Many people believe that producing and using bottled water not only wastes money but also harms the environment. They say that bottled water is unnecessary because public water supplies in the U.S. are among the best in the world. These people believe that water fountains and reusable bottles with easy access to filling stations are a better choice.
But the makers of bottled water argue that plastic bottles make up a small part of the nation's total waste. They say it's unfair to single out their product when so many other items are packaged in plastic containers, and what's more, water is a healthy choice compared to some sodas and juices that are also sold at school.
What do you think: Should sales of bottled water be banned from schools? We want to hear your opinion. Write a 200-word response. Send it to tfkasks4you@timeforkids.com . Your response may be published in a future issue of Time For Kids. Please include your grade level
and contact information for your parent or teacher if you want your response to be published. The deadline for responding is August 31, 2012.
Question:
Some colleges and schools ban selling bottled water in order to _ .
Choices:
A. save water
B. encourage students to bring water from home
C. reduce pollution
D. keep students away from bottled water | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high16919.txt | As is known to us, Washington University in St. Louis became the first college in the United States to ban selling bottled water in 2009. Since then, more than a dozen small colleges and schools have done the same. The ban isn't because the schools don't want students to have easy access to water. Instead, the goal is to encourage students to bring reusable bottles to save money and, more importantly, to save the environment.
Many people believe that producing and using bottled water not only wastes money but also harms the environment. They say that bottled water is unnecessary because public water supplies in the U.S. are among the best in the world. These people believe that water fountains and reusable bottles with easy access to filling stations are a better choice.
But the makers of bottled water argue that plastic bottles make up a small part of the nation's total waste. They say it's unfair to single out their product when so many other items are packaged in plastic containers, and what's more, water is a healthy choice compared to some sodas and juices that are also sold at school.
What do you think: Should sales of bottled water be banned from schools? We want to hear your opinion. Write a 200-word response. Send it to tfkasks4you@timeforkids.com . Your response may be published in a future issue of Time For Kids. Please include your grade level
and contact information for your parent or teacher if you want your response to be published. The deadline for responding is August 31, 2012. | [
"save water",
"encourage students to bring water from home",
"reduce pollution",
"keep students away from bottled water"
] |
Nowadays, the owners of McDonald's restaurants pay for _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
There were two McDonalds--Mac and Dick--and they were brothers. In 1948, they owned a restaurant in California, they liked working in the restaurant, but they got tired of the customers ordering so many different things to eat.
"If we gave customers a smaller menu, we could make some of the food before they came, and they wouldn't have to wait so long for their meals," said one of the brothers. The other brother agreed and said, "And if we made the customers come to the counter, we wouldn't need any waiters or waitresses. We could also use plastic plates so there wouldn't be any washing-up."
These were such good ideas that McDonald brothers used them, and the customers were very pleased. They got their meals very quickly--in less than a minute--and they paid only 15 cents for hamburgers and 10 cents for fries. The first McDonald's restaurant had no seats for customers to sit on. This meant that people had to take their food away, and that no one had to clean up any tables after them.
Then a man called Ray Kroc came to the brothers and asked to buy their business. They agreed to sell it to him for$27 million. After that, people paid Ray Kroc to open their own restaurants using the McDonald's name and menu. Before long, there were McDonald's restaurants all over the United States, and nowadays, they are all over the world--even in China and Russia. The most successful McDonald's business is in Hong Kong of China. The Hong Kong McDonald's sells more hamburgers every day than any other McDonald's anywhere else in the world.
McDonald's restaurants are so successful because children love going to them. They like the food, and they like the toys and games they can get at McDonald's.
Question:
Nowadays, the owners of McDonald's restaurants pay for _ .
Choices:
A. the McDonald's name and menu
B. children to play games
C. people to take the food away
D. customers to eat quickly | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle479.txt | There were two McDonalds--Mac and Dick--and they were brothers. In 1948, they owned a restaurant in California, they liked working in the restaurant, but they got tired of the customers ordering so many different things to eat.
"If we gave customers a smaller menu, we could make some of the food before they came, and they wouldn't have to wait so long for their meals," said one of the brothers. The other brother agreed and said, "And if we made the customers come to the counter, we wouldn't need any waiters or waitresses. We could also use plastic plates so there wouldn't be any washing-up."
These were such good ideas that McDonald brothers used them, and the customers were very pleased. They got their meals very quickly--in less than a minute--and they paid only 15 cents for hamburgers and 10 cents for fries. The first McDonald's restaurant had no seats for customers to sit on. This meant that people had to take their food away, and that no one had to clean up any tables after them.
Then a man called Ray Kroc came to the brothers and asked to buy their business. They agreed to sell it to him for$27 million. After that, people paid Ray Kroc to open their own restaurants using the McDonald's name and menu. Before long, there were McDonald's restaurants all over the United States, and nowadays, they are all over the world--even in China and Russia. The most successful McDonald's business is in Hong Kong of China. The Hong Kong McDonald's sells more hamburgers every day than any other McDonald's anywhere else in the world.
McDonald's restaurants are so successful because children love going to them. They like the food, and they like the toys and games they can get at McDonald's. | [
"the McDonald's name and menu",
"children to play games",
"people to take the food away",
"customers to eat quickly"
] |
When the writer was a child, he called his friend's father _ . | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Going to a friend's house is very exciting. You may spend time with a friend and get to see where he lives. So remember to be polite.
When to arrive
The first thing to remember is that when a friend invites you, you need to arrive on time. If your friend tells you to come "about 3:00", that means you can arrive before 3:05. But usually it is a good idea to arrive at the right time.
What to bring
Often it is also nice to bring something to your friend's house. This could be a box of chocolates for you two to share, or maybe a movie that you can watch together. You can also bring some flowers. A little gift is a nice way to show your friend that you are excited to be at his house.
How to greet
When you visit your friend's house, you may also meet his parents. You should tell them who you are and they may tell you their names. As a child, I went to visit my friend Paul. I called his parents by their first names John and Mary. But now I know it is more polite to call them Mr. or Mrs. Smith. This will show them more respect and then they may tell you to call them by their first names. Another way to show respect is to call them Madam or Sir.
It is a cool thing to visit a friend's house. Be polite to your friend and your friend's parents, and you will be welcome again!
Question:
When the writer was a child, he called his friend's father _ .
Choices:
A. Smith
B. John
C. Mary
D. Paul | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle6174.txt | Going to a friend's house is very exciting. You may spend time with a friend and get to see where he lives. So remember to be polite.
When to arrive
The first thing to remember is that when a friend invites you, you need to arrive on time. If your friend tells you to come "about 3:00", that means you can arrive before 3:05. But usually it is a good idea to arrive at the right time.
What to bring
Often it is also nice to bring something to your friend's house. This could be a box of chocolates for you two to share, or maybe a movie that you can watch together. You can also bring some flowers. A little gift is a nice way to show your friend that you are excited to be at his house.
How to greet
When you visit your friend's house, you may also meet his parents. You should tell them who you are and they may tell you their names. As a child, I went to visit my friend Paul. I called his parents by their first names John and Mary. But now I know it is more polite to call them Mr. or Mrs. Smith. This will show them more respect and then they may tell you to call them by their first names. Another way to show respect is to call them Madam or Sir.
It is a cool thing to visit a friend's house. Be polite to your friend and your friend's parents, and you will be welcome again! | [
"Smith",
"John",
"Mary",
"Paul"
] |
What does the passage mainly tell us? | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
A famous study was done in a school by a professor from a university. At the start of the school year, the teachers were given the names of five children. They were told that these five were the most excellent students in the class. But the fact was that these students were only average,and they were not the best students at all. Well, guess what? At the end of the year, all the five average students scored among the highest in the class.
What made these average students change so much to become top students?The only difference was the change in their teachers' attitude. Because the teachers believed that these five kids were the top students,they expected more from them. And so these five average students began to believe and expect more from themselves. So they worked harder to do as well as they could.
Do you know why? If you expect the best from people, they'll usually want to give you their best. A great leader said, "Treat a person just how he appears to be on the outside, and you'll make him even worse. But treat a person like he's already a success,and you'll help make him the best he can be."
Like the true story of 7-year-old Johnny, his teacher got so angry with him that one day she said,"Johnny,you're the naughtiest boy in this class. I'm sure you'll never change." The next year Johnny had a new teacher. And on the first day of class,she met with Johnny after school and said,"Johnny, I've heard a lot about you! But do you know that I don't believe a word of it." And every day after that, this new teacher treated Johnny as if he was one of the smartest students even when Johnny did naughty things. Later on, Johnny became a school leader. Because that's the power of our belief and attitude toward children.
Question:
What does the passage mainly tell us?
Choices:
A. Attitude and belief can change a person.
B. Only teachers can make you a top student.
C. A professor's study can help you score highest.
D. If you want to get more,you should have new teachers. | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle2937.txt | A famous study was done in a school by a professor from a university. At the start of the school year, the teachers were given the names of five children. They were told that these five were the most excellent students in the class. But the fact was that these students were only average,and they were not the best students at all. Well, guess what? At the end of the year, all the five average students scored among the highest in the class.
What made these average students change so much to become top students?The only difference was the change in their teachers' attitude. Because the teachers believed that these five kids were the top students,they expected more from them. And so these five average students began to believe and expect more from themselves. So they worked harder to do as well as they could.
Do you know why? If you expect the best from people, they'll usually want to give you their best. A great leader said, "Treat a person just how he appears to be on the outside, and you'll make him even worse. But treat a person like he's already a success,and you'll help make him the best he can be."
Like the true story of 7-year-old Johnny, his teacher got so angry with him that one day she said,"Johnny,you're the naughtiest boy in this class. I'm sure you'll never change." The next year Johnny had a new teacher. And on the first day of class,she met with Johnny after school and said,"Johnny, I've heard a lot about you! But do you know that I don't believe a word of it." And every day after that, this new teacher treated Johnny as if he was one of the smartest students even when Johnny did naughty things. Later on, Johnny became a school leader. Because that's the power of our belief and attitude toward children. | [
"Attitude and belief can change a person.",
"Only teachers can make you a top student.",
"A professor's study can help you score highest.",
"If you want to get more,you should have new teachers."
] |
What changed the man's mind? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
A man stopped his car at the door of a flower shop. He planned to order flowers and asked the shopkeeper to deliver them to his mother, who was far away in the man's hometown.
The man saw a little girl crying on the road when he was about to enter the shop. The man asked her: "Why are you crying?"
"I want to buy a rose for my mother, but I haven't got enough money," said the girl.
The man took the girl's hand and entered the flower shop. He first ordered the bouquet for his mother and bought a rose for the girl.
Walking out of the shop, the man asked the girl if she would like a ride home.
"Will you really drive me home?" she asked.
"Of course," the man replied.
"Then drive me to my mother. But the place where my mother lives is very far."
The man drove along the mountain road and finally came to the cemetery .
The little girl put the flower onto a new grave. In order to present a rose to her mother who had passed away a month before, she had gone on a very long journey.
The man drove the girl to her home and then returned to the flower shop. He cancelled the bouquet and bought a big bunch of fresh flowers instead. He drove directly to his mother's home, a five-hour drive from where he was. He would present the flowers to his mother in person.
Question:
What changed the man's mind?
Choices:
A. Roses in the shop.
B. The girl's behavior.
C. The girl's mother.
D. The shopkeeper. | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle8018.txt | A man stopped his car at the door of a flower shop. He planned to order flowers and asked the shopkeeper to deliver them to his mother, who was far away in the man's hometown.
The man saw a little girl crying on the road when he was about to enter the shop. The man asked her: "Why are you crying?"
"I want to buy a rose for my mother, but I haven't got enough money," said the girl.
The man took the girl's hand and entered the flower shop. He first ordered the bouquet for his mother and bought a rose for the girl.
Walking out of the shop, the man asked the girl if she would like a ride home.
"Will you really drive me home?" she asked.
"Of course," the man replied.
"Then drive me to my mother. But the place where my mother lives is very far."
The man drove along the mountain road and finally came to the cemetery .
The little girl put the flower onto a new grave. In order to present a rose to her mother who had passed away a month before, she had gone on a very long journey.
The man drove the girl to her home and then returned to the flower shop. He cancelled the bouquet and bought a big bunch of fresh flowers instead. He drove directly to his mother's home, a five-hour drive from where he was. He would present the flowers to his mother in person. | [
"Roses in the shop.",
"The girl's behavior.",
"The girl's mother.",
"The shopkeeper."
] |
The writer approached the manager to _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Yesterday I went to our local grocery store. I often go to their deli counter, and I understand that it can get a little confused for the workers. So normally none of them ever take the time to smile or seem overly friendly. But yesterday it was completely different. I was pleasantly surprised to be greeted with a very welcoming smile by the young man behind the counter. He never sighed heavily or slumped back and forth like he didn't want to be there. He was all by himself and quite a long line. But not once did he act concerned about it. He just did his job efficiently and acted very kind the entire time.
I was so impressed that I approached the manager. I explained to her that I often visit the deli counter and I have never been greeted with such kindness. She agreed with me that he was a wonderful person and she thanked me for sharing my feelings with her.
As I was walking away,I could hear her approaching the young man with,"I just got a wonderful compliment(praise) about you." I couldn't hear everything she was saying,but I knew that she did thank him. I couldn't help but smile!
Later I had to pass by the deli counter to get onions. There was no one there,except the diligent young man. He didn't say anything,he just smiled at me. I realized that I hadn't done a huge deed that day,but that small deed made a small difference to someone.I love seeing people smile. I just received my smile cards and I wish I had one with me that day. _ It's amazing how good I felt after that.
So,friends,the next time you are in a grocery store,retail store,restaurant,or anywhere that someone is working hard,letting them know in some way can mean so much. I hope you get a smile out of it like I did!
Question:
The writer approached the manager to _ .
Choices:
A. thank him
B. say hello to him
C. complain about the service
D. praise the young man | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high4693.txt | Yesterday I went to our local grocery store. I often go to their deli counter, and I understand that it can get a little confused for the workers. So normally none of them ever take the time to smile or seem overly friendly. But yesterday it was completely different. I was pleasantly surprised to be greeted with a very welcoming smile by the young man behind the counter. He never sighed heavily or slumped back and forth like he didn't want to be there. He was all by himself and quite a long line. But not once did he act concerned about it. He just did his job efficiently and acted very kind the entire time.
I was so impressed that I approached the manager. I explained to her that I often visit the deli counter and I have never been greeted with such kindness. She agreed with me that he was a wonderful person and she thanked me for sharing my feelings with her.
As I was walking away,I could hear her approaching the young man with,"I just got a wonderful compliment(praise) about you." I couldn't hear everything she was saying,but I knew that she did thank him. I couldn't help but smile!
Later I had to pass by the deli counter to get onions. There was no one there,except the diligent young man. He didn't say anything,he just smiled at me. I realized that I hadn't done a huge deed that day,but that small deed made a small difference to someone.I love seeing people smile. I just received my smile cards and I wish I had one with me that day. _ It's amazing how good I felt after that.
So,friends,the next time you are in a grocery store,retail store,restaurant,or anywhere that someone is working hard,letting them know in some way can mean so much. I hope you get a smile out of it like I did! | [
"thank him",
"say hello to him",
"complain about the service",
"praise the young man"
] |
Last summer, Zach Bonner _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
A 13-year-old boy traveled to Washington, D.C. to raise money for homeless kids.
Zach Bonner was pretty tired. Instead of going to camp last summer, Zach decided to walk 668 miles from Atlanta to Washington, D.C. He hoped more people would help homeless kids. His journey to help others began six years ago. Zach walked from his home in Tampa to Tallahassee. Then, in 2008, Zach Bonner went on a 270-mile walk from Tallahassee to Atlanta. In 2010, he did it again, from Tampa to Los Angeles.
Last summer, Zach traveled 12 miles every day on foot. Along the way, he collected more than 1000 letters about homeless children. He hoped to give the letters to President Obama. Zach says he wants his walk to make a difference.
More than 1 million children in the U.S. have nowhere to live. During his journey, Zach spent 24 hours with some homeless children so he could learn the difficulties they face.
When Zach walked the last mile of his long journey, more than 500 supporters, including 300 homeless kids, joined Zach. They went with him down the National Mall. "It was a long walk," Zach says, "but it was meaningful."
Although the journey is difficult and tiring, Zach won't give up. "When homeless kids get tired of being homeless, they don't get to stop. So why should I stop when I get tired of walking?"
Question:
Last summer, Zach Bonner _ .
Choices:
A. went to camp
B. learnt to face difficulties
C. wrote letters to President Obama
D. walked from Atlanta to Washington | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle3973.txt | A 13-year-old boy traveled to Washington, D.C. to raise money for homeless kids.
Zach Bonner was pretty tired. Instead of going to camp last summer, Zach decided to walk 668 miles from Atlanta to Washington, D.C. He hoped more people would help homeless kids. His journey to help others began six years ago. Zach walked from his home in Tampa to Tallahassee. Then, in 2008, Zach Bonner went on a 270-mile walk from Tallahassee to Atlanta. In 2010, he did it again, from Tampa to Los Angeles.
Last summer, Zach traveled 12 miles every day on foot. Along the way, he collected more than 1000 letters about homeless children. He hoped to give the letters to President Obama. Zach says he wants his walk to make a difference.
More than 1 million children in the U.S. have nowhere to live. During his journey, Zach spent 24 hours with some homeless children so he could learn the difficulties they face.
When Zach walked the last mile of his long journey, more than 500 supporters, including 300 homeless kids, joined Zach. They went with him down the National Mall. "It was a long walk," Zach says, "but it was meaningful."
Although the journey is difficult and tiring, Zach won't give up. "When homeless kids get tired of being homeless, they don't get to stop. So why should I stop when I get tired of walking?" | [
"went to camp",
"learnt to face difficulties",
"wrote letters to President Obama",
"walked from Atlanta to Washington"
] |
The purpose of the study is to _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Whether you live in Seattle or the Sahara desert, the time has come to invest in a good raincoat or umbrella, a new study suggests.
As global temperatures continue to rise, more "extreme rain" events--intense, cats-and-dogs downpours--can be expected, said thestudy, published Monday in the journalNature Climate Change. And that, scientists said, means an increased flood risk, particularly for the world's driest areas. The study challenges the idea that global warming is causingdry areas to become drierand wet areas wetter.
"In both wet and dry regions, we see these great increases in heavy precipitation ," lead author Markus Donat, a climate scientist at the University of New South Wales, told Nature.
Donat and his team collected data from 1951 to 2010 on extreme precipitation events from 11, 000 weather stations around the world, Nature reported.
In that time, the number of days with "extreme precipitation" increased 1 percent to 2 percent per decade.
"We found a strong relationship between global warming and an increase in rainfall, particularly in areas outside of the tropics," Donatsaid in a statement.
"Importantly, this research suggests we will see these extreme rainfall events increases at regional levels in dry areas, not just as an average across the globe," Donat added.
Peter Stott, a senior climate scientist at Met Office, told Climate Central that the study's findings are important, because more violent rainfall and flooding will "challenge our capability to adaptto a rapidly changing climate."
As Nature reported, the research aligns witha 2015 study that found global warming has led to a sharp increase in record-breaking precipitation events. Donat told Nature that his study should come as a warning to world governments.
Question:
The purpose of the study is to _ .
Choices:
A. encourage investors to start business in Seattle or the Sahara desert
B. persuade people to take a raincoat or an umbrella with them
C. challenge the previous findings of research on climate
D. warn world governments to focus on global warming | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high13157.txt | Whether you live in Seattle or the Sahara desert, the time has come to invest in a good raincoat or umbrella, a new study suggests.
As global temperatures continue to rise, more "extreme rain" events--intense, cats-and-dogs downpours--can be expected, said thestudy, published Monday in the journalNature Climate Change. And that, scientists said, means an increased flood risk, particularly for the world's driest areas. The study challenges the idea that global warming is causingdry areas to become drierand wet areas wetter.
"In both wet and dry regions, we see these great increases in heavy precipitation ," lead author Markus Donat, a climate scientist at the University of New South Wales, told Nature.
Donat and his team collected data from 1951 to 2010 on extreme precipitation events from 11, 000 weather stations around the world, Nature reported.
In that time, the number of days with "extreme precipitation" increased 1 percent to 2 percent per decade.
"We found a strong relationship between global warming and an increase in rainfall, particularly in areas outside of the tropics," Donatsaid in a statement.
"Importantly, this research suggests we will see these extreme rainfall events increases at regional levels in dry areas, not just as an average across the globe," Donat added.
Peter Stott, a senior climate scientist at Met Office, told Climate Central that the study's findings are important, because more violent rainfall and flooding will "challenge our capability to adaptto a rapidly changing climate."
As Nature reported, the research aligns witha 2015 study that found global warming has led to a sharp increase in record-breaking precipitation events. Donat told Nature that his study should come as a warning to world governments. | [
"encourage investors to start business in Seattle or the Sahara desert",
"persuade people to take a raincoat or an umbrella with them",
"challenge the previous findings of research on climate",
"warn world governments to focus on global warming"
] |
Who killed the crocodile in the end? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
On a hot summer day, a little boy decided to go for a swim in the lake behind his house.
In a hurry to swim in the cool water, he ran out of the back door, leaving behind his shoes, socks, and shirt as he went. He flew into the water, not noticing
that in the middle of the lake, a crocodile was swimming to the bank. His mother in the house saw the two as they got closer and closer. She quickly ran to the lake, shouting to her son as loudly as she could.
Hearing her voice, the little boy swam quickly to his mother, but he was too slow. Just as he reached her, the crocodile reached him, too.
The mother caught her little boy by the arms just as the crocodile caught his legs. There was a tug of war between the two. The crocodile was much stronger than the mother, but the mother didn't give up. A farmer happened to drive by. He heard her shouts, and then tried his best to kill the crocodile.
After spending weeks in the hospital, the little boy felt well. His legs were scarred by the animal and on his arms there were deep scars, too. His mother's hands had deeper scars because she wouldn't let go.
The newspaper reporter interviewed the boy. He asked the boy if he would show him his scars. The boy said to the reporter proudly, "Look at my arms. I have great scars on my arms. I have them because my mom wouldn't let go."
Question:
Who killed the crocodile in the end?
Choices:
A. The boy.
B. A farmer.
C. The boy's mother.
D. The boy's father. | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle3840.txt | On a hot summer day, a little boy decided to go for a swim in the lake behind his house.
In a hurry to swim in the cool water, he ran out of the back door, leaving behind his shoes, socks, and shirt as he went. He flew into the water, not noticing
that in the middle of the lake, a crocodile was swimming to the bank. His mother in the house saw the two as they got closer and closer. She quickly ran to the lake, shouting to her son as loudly as she could.
Hearing her voice, the little boy swam quickly to his mother, but he was too slow. Just as he reached her, the crocodile reached him, too.
The mother caught her little boy by the arms just as the crocodile caught his legs. There was a tug of war between the two. The crocodile was much stronger than the mother, but the mother didn't give up. A farmer happened to drive by. He heard her shouts, and then tried his best to kill the crocodile.
After spending weeks in the hospital, the little boy felt well. His legs were scarred by the animal and on his arms there were deep scars, too. His mother's hands had deeper scars because she wouldn't let go.
The newspaper reporter interviewed the boy. He asked the boy if he would show him his scars. The boy said to the reporter proudly, "Look at my arms. I have great scars on my arms. I have them because my mom wouldn't let go." | [
"The boy.",
"A farmer.",
"The boy's mother.",
"The boy's father."
] |
On what type of land does runoff cause more erosion? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | On what type of land does runoff cause more erosion? | bare | science | null | null | null | mountainous | grassy | metallic | bare | Runoff causes more erosion if the land is bare. Plants help hold the soil in place. The runoff water pictured below ( Figure below ) is brown because it eroded soil from a bare, sloping field. Can you find evidence of erosion by runoff where you live? What should you look for?. | null | null | null |
If a group of 30 students with ID visit Wonderful Museum, how much should they pay for the admission? | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Wonderful Museum
Hours
Monday - Thursday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sunday: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
Closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
The Museum Shop is open during regular museum hours.
The Museum Library
Monday -Friday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
The Skyliner Restaurant
Monday - Saturday: during regular museum hours
Sunday: 11:30 am - 5:00 pm
Admission
Adults:$7.00
The aged and students with ID: $6.00
Wonderful Museum offers a 50% discount to groups of 20 or more.
Question:
If a group of 30 students with ID visit Wonderful Museum, how much should they pay for the admission?
Choices:
A. $105.
B. $90.
C. $210.
D. $180. | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high13865.txt | Wonderful Museum
Hours
Monday - Thursday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sunday: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
Closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
The Museum Shop is open during regular museum hours.
The Museum Library
Monday -Friday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
The Skyliner Restaurant
Monday - Saturday: during regular museum hours
Sunday: 11:30 am - 5:00 pm
Admission
Adults:$7.00
The aged and students with ID: $6.00
Wonderful Museum offers a 50% discount to groups of 20 or more. | [
"$105.",
"$90.",
"$210.",
"$180."
] |
Water is polar and has electrically charged ends, so it is attracted to the oppositely charged end of a phospholipid molecule, which is described by what term meaning "water-loving"? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | Water is polar and has electrically charged ends, so it is attracted to the oppositely charged end of a phospholipid molecule, which is described by what term meaning "water-loving"? | hydrophilic | science | null | null | null | cytosolic | aqueous | hydrophobic | hydrophilic | One end of each phospholipid molecule is polar, so it has a partial electric charge. Water is also polar and has electrically charged ends, so it is attracted to the oppositely charged end of a phospholipid molecule. This end of the phospholipid molecule is described as hydrophilic, which means “water loving. ”. | null | null | null |
Nearly all weather occurs in the lower part of what? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | Nearly all weather occurs in the lower part of what? | the atmosphere | science | null | null | null | the lithosphere | the mesosphere | the ionosphere | the atmosphere | All weather takes place in the atmosphere. Nearly all of it in the lower atmosphere. Weather refers to the conditions of the atmosphere at a given time and place. Climate is the average of weather over a long time. | null | null | null |
"Take the second on the right" means "You _ ." | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
"You are welcome to have dinner with me on Sunday," said John.
"But I don't know where your house is," said Henry.
"It's easy. You get off the bus. Then cross the road, and take the first turning on the left. Walk for five minutes. Then you will see a big tree. Take the second on the right after the tree. Walk about a hundred metres down this road. There is a big red house. Go past the big house about five hundred metres, and you will see a small yellow house beside a little tree. Open the door with your foot. "
"With my foot?" said Henry, "Why?" "Well, you won't come to my house empty-handed will you? " said John.
Question:
"Take the second on the right" means "You _ ."
Choices:
A. take the second bus on the right
B. must buy something secondly
C. take the second turning on the right
D. go ahead on the right | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle7317.txt | "You are welcome to have dinner with me on Sunday," said John.
"But I don't know where your house is," said Henry.
"It's easy. You get off the bus. Then cross the road, and take the first turning on the left. Walk for five minutes. Then you will see a big tree. Take the second on the right after the tree. Walk about a hundred metres down this road. There is a big red house. Go past the big house about five hundred metres, and you will see a small yellow house beside a little tree. Open the door with your foot. "
"With my foot?" said Henry, "Why?" "Well, you won't come to my house empty-handed will you? " said John. | [
"take the second bus on the right",
"must buy something secondly",
"take the second turning on the right",
"go ahead on the right"
] |
What can we infer from the description of the picnic? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
My school stood in a big square playground in southeastern South Dakota. One teacher taught all grades, first through eighth. Most grades had only two or three students.
Our school day started with the flag pledge . Then the teacher called one grade at a time to the recitation bench beside her desk. She'd check our work, explain the new lesson, and dismiss us to go back to our own desks and do our new work, all in less than ten minutes per grade.
At noon we ate lunches we had brought. Our lunches consisted of homemade sandwiches and if we were lucky, dessert. My favorite dessert was a fresh pear, and a piece of Mom's delicious sour cream chocolate cake.
The annual Christmas program was the most exciting part of the year. We hurried through our lessons during December to allow time to practise poems, songs, and plays.
A few days before the performance, the school board members borrowed equipment from the town and set up a stage across one side of the classroom. We hung bed sheets for curtains.
On the evening of the performance, petrol lanterns hanging along the walls cast a warm, though not very bright, light over the gathering crowd. We could hardly contain our excitement as we looked from behind the curtains to wave at our parents.
On a spring Sunday in a new term, just before the last day of the school term, everyone in the neighborhood gathered for a picnic. Our moms set fried chicken, bowls of salads, and desserts on the teacher's desk and the library table. After the dinner, we played games. One of the school board members brought big buckets of ice cream in the afternoon to top off the picnic. How we looked forward to that treat!
I was just nineteen years old when I started my first teaching position in a country school with thirteen students. I felt excited, nervous and happy as I prepared my lunch bucket the first morning of the term. I can't remember what kind of sandwiches I packed, but I do remember I put in a fresh pear and a piece of chocolate cake for dessert!
Question:
What can we infer from the description of the picnic?
Choices:
A. The teacher performed many jobs.
B. The students liked hanging lanterns.
C. The local people supported the school.
D. School board members were not expected to attend it. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high14524.txt | My school stood in a big square playground in southeastern South Dakota. One teacher taught all grades, first through eighth. Most grades had only two or three students.
Our school day started with the flag pledge . Then the teacher called one grade at a time to the recitation bench beside her desk. She'd check our work, explain the new lesson, and dismiss us to go back to our own desks and do our new work, all in less than ten minutes per grade.
At noon we ate lunches we had brought. Our lunches consisted of homemade sandwiches and if we were lucky, dessert. My favorite dessert was a fresh pear, and a piece of Mom's delicious sour cream chocolate cake.
The annual Christmas program was the most exciting part of the year. We hurried through our lessons during December to allow time to practise poems, songs, and plays.
A few days before the performance, the school board members borrowed equipment from the town and set up a stage across one side of the classroom. We hung bed sheets for curtains.
On the evening of the performance, petrol lanterns hanging along the walls cast a warm, though not very bright, light over the gathering crowd. We could hardly contain our excitement as we looked from behind the curtains to wave at our parents.
On a spring Sunday in a new term, just before the last day of the school term, everyone in the neighborhood gathered for a picnic. Our moms set fried chicken, bowls of salads, and desserts on the teacher's desk and the library table. After the dinner, we played games. One of the school board members brought big buckets of ice cream in the afternoon to top off the picnic. How we looked forward to that treat!
I was just nineteen years old when I started my first teaching position in a country school with thirteen students. I felt excited, nervous and happy as I prepared my lunch bucket the first morning of the term. I can't remember what kind of sandwiches I packed, but I do remember I put in a fresh pear and a piece of chocolate cake for dessert! | [
"The teacher performed many jobs.",
"The students liked hanging lanterns.",
"The local people supported the school.",
"School board members were not expected to attend it."
] |
From the passage, we can learn that. | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Our boat floated on between walls of forest. It was too thick for us to get a view of the land we were passing through, though we knew from the map that our river must be passing through chains of hills from time to time. Nowhere did we find a place where we could have landed: although the jungle did not actually spread right down into the river, banks of soft mud prevented us from going ashore. In any case, what would we have gained by landing? The country was full of snakes and other dangerous creatures and the jungle was so thick that one would be able to advance slowly, cutting one's way with knives the whole way. So we stayed in the boat, hoping that when we reached the sea, a friendly fisherman would pick us up and take us to civilization.
As for water, there was a choice. We could drink the muddy river water, or die of thirst. We drank the water. Men who have just escaped from what appeared to be certain death lost all worries about such small things as diseases caused by dirty water. In fact, none of us suffered from any illness as a result.
One day we passed another village, but fortunately nobody saw us. We did not wish to risk being taken prisoners a second time: we might not be so lucky as to escape in a stolen boat again.
Question:
From the passage, we can learn that.
Choices:
A. they were in an uninhabited area
B. they were on a journey home happily
C. the country was a civilized society
D. the country was a tropical jungle coutry | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high11915.txt | Our boat floated on between walls of forest. It was too thick for us to get a view of the land we were passing through, though we knew from the map that our river must be passing through chains of hills from time to time. Nowhere did we find a place where we could have landed: although the jungle did not actually spread right down into the river, banks of soft mud prevented us from going ashore. In any case, what would we have gained by landing? The country was full of snakes and other dangerous creatures and the jungle was so thick that one would be able to advance slowly, cutting one's way with knives the whole way. So we stayed in the boat, hoping that when we reached the sea, a friendly fisherman would pick us up and take us to civilization.
As for water, there was a choice. We could drink the muddy river water, or die of thirst. We drank the water. Men who have just escaped from what appeared to be certain death lost all worries about such small things as diseases caused by dirty water. In fact, none of us suffered from any illness as a result.
One day we passed another village, but fortunately nobody saw us. We did not wish to risk being taken prisoners a second time: we might not be so lucky as to escape in a stolen boat again. | [
"they were in an uninhabited area",
"they were on a journey home happily",
"the country was a civilized society",
"the country was a tropical jungle coutry"
] |
The most densely-populated city in the world is _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Japan is an island country in the Pacific Ocean. As the Japanese students already know, four main islands and more than 3,000 small ones stretch from north to south for about 1,300 miles. As for the climate of the country, well, it's hot and humid in summer, but it is quite cold and wet in Japan during winter. Typhoons, which are violent tropical storms, often threaten Japan during the fall. That's, of course, during the harvest season.
The population of Japan is about 110,5 million. It may seem hard to believe, but the average population density of the country is about 678 persons per square mile.
About two thirds of the entire population lives in Japan's cities. The other one third lives in the suburbs or in the countryside. No other country in southern or eastern Asia has such a large urban, or city population. Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, is the most density-populated city in the world. At last count there were more than 11.5 million people living in Tokyo.
Question:
The most densely-populated city in the world is _ .
Choices:
A. New York
B. Shanghai
C. London
D. the capital of Japan | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high8626.txt | Japan is an island country in the Pacific Ocean. As the Japanese students already know, four main islands and more than 3,000 small ones stretch from north to south for about 1,300 miles. As for the climate of the country, well, it's hot and humid in summer, but it is quite cold and wet in Japan during winter. Typhoons, which are violent tropical storms, often threaten Japan during the fall. That's, of course, during the harvest season.
The population of Japan is about 110,5 million. It may seem hard to believe, but the average population density of the country is about 678 persons per square mile.
About two thirds of the entire population lives in Japan's cities. The other one third lives in the suburbs or in the countryside. No other country in southern or eastern Asia has such a large urban, or city population. Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, is the most density-populated city in the world. At last count there were more than 11.5 million people living in Tokyo. | [
"New York",
"Shanghai",
"London",
"the capital of Japan"
] |
Why did the poor man often feel hungry? | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
A poor man worked for a rich man. The rich man made the poor man works all day, but didn't give him enough food. So the poor man often felt hungry.
One day, when the poor man was having breakfast, the rich man came in and said to the poor man, "It's very _ to come back for the other meals. So I want you to have your breakfast, lunch and dinner together now before you go to the fields." "How can I eat three meals at breakfast time?" the poor man answered but he said, "All right." He finished his meals and went out. Two hours later, the rich man went out for a walk, he saw the poor man sleeping under a tree. He was very angry and said, "Why don't you work in the fields?" the poor man sat up and said with a smile, "I have already had my dinner and you know very well that after dinner it is time to go to sleep."
Question:
Why did the poor man often feel hungry?
Choices:
A. The rich man didn't give him enough food.
B. His parents didn't give him enough food.
C. He ate only one meal a day.
D. He was poor and lazy. | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle7458.txt | A poor man worked for a rich man. The rich man made the poor man works all day, but didn't give him enough food. So the poor man often felt hungry.
One day, when the poor man was having breakfast, the rich man came in and said to the poor man, "It's very _ to come back for the other meals. So I want you to have your breakfast, lunch and dinner together now before you go to the fields." "How can I eat three meals at breakfast time?" the poor man answered but he said, "All right." He finished his meals and went out. Two hours later, the rich man went out for a walk, he saw the poor man sleeping under a tree. He was very angry and said, "Why don't you work in the fields?" the poor man sat up and said with a smile, "I have already had my dinner and you know very well that after dinner it is time to go to sleep." | [
"The rich man didn't give him enough food.",
"His parents didn't give him enough food.",
"He ate only one meal a day.",
"He was poor and lazy."
] |
What does Charlie mean by "high-five for Toyota"? | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Charlie Vansant, a college student of Athens, Ohio who reported that his car was stolen, got a surprise when he learned a woman had mistaken it for her daughter's car and taken it-using her key.
Kate Anderson became an accidental car thief when picking up her daughter's car near an Ohio University building last week. Anderson spotted the Toyota Camry and used her daughter's key to unlock the car, start the engine and drive home-without realizing that the car wasn't her daughter's.
When Charlie Vansant left class a short time later, he found only an empty parking spot. He first assumed the car had been _ , but when the police couldn't find a record of it, they took a theft report.
The morning after Anderson took the car, her daughter discovered the Camry in the driveway wasn't hers. Anderson said she was able to find Vansant's name on paperwork in the glove compartment and look up his phone number on the website for the university.
When Anderson told Charlie the car was in her driveway, "It sounded real suspicious at first, as she wanted to hold the thing for ransom ," said Vansant. He eventually went to the house with a police officer, where he was reunited with his car. According to the police report, the case was closed "because of mistaken car identity", Anderson wasn't charged.
Vansant seemed to blame the car company more than the "thief". "Her key fit not only my lock, but my ignition as well - so high-five for Toyota. I guess." he said.
Question:
What does Charlie mean by "high-five for Toyota"?
Choices:
A. He is blaming Toyota for the poor quality of car keys.
B. He should thank Toyota for returning his car.
C. He wants to celebrate with Toyota for getting his car back.
D. He thinks highly of Toyota for producing large quantities of cars. | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high7214.txt | Charlie Vansant, a college student of Athens, Ohio who reported that his car was stolen, got a surprise when he learned a woman had mistaken it for her daughter's car and taken it-using her key.
Kate Anderson became an accidental car thief when picking up her daughter's car near an Ohio University building last week. Anderson spotted the Toyota Camry and used her daughter's key to unlock the car, start the engine and drive home-without realizing that the car wasn't her daughter's.
When Charlie Vansant left class a short time later, he found only an empty parking spot. He first assumed the car had been _ , but when the police couldn't find a record of it, they took a theft report.
The morning after Anderson took the car, her daughter discovered the Camry in the driveway wasn't hers. Anderson said she was able to find Vansant's name on paperwork in the glove compartment and look up his phone number on the website for the university.
When Anderson told Charlie the car was in her driveway, "It sounded real suspicious at first, as she wanted to hold the thing for ransom ," said Vansant. He eventually went to the house with a police officer, where he was reunited with his car. According to the police report, the case was closed "because of mistaken car identity", Anderson wasn't charged.
Vansant seemed to blame the car company more than the "thief". "Her key fit not only my lock, but my ignition as well - so high-five for Toyota. I guess." he said. | [
"He is blaming Toyota for the poor quality of car keys.",
"He should thank Toyota for returning his car.",
"He wants to celebrate with Toyota for getting his car back.",
"He thinks highly of Toyota for producing large quantities of cars."
] |
Where should computers be put? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
We live in the computer age. People use computers to do much of their work, such as playing games, listening to music, shopping and so on. But few people know how to take care of them. Please remember the following when you use your computer:
1.Keep your computer in a dry cool room. Too much heat is bad for computers.
2. Do not smoke near your computer. Smoking is also bad for them.
3. Do not drink or eat near computers. A little water and pieces of food in the keyboard are also bad for a computer.
4. Keep your screen clean and do not have it too bright. They are bad for your eyes. Make sure the screen is not too far or too near your eyes when you use a computer.
Question:
Where should computers be put?
Choices:
A. Five.
B. Seven.
C. Thirty-five.
D. Forty. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle3164.txt | We live in the computer age. People use computers to do much of their work, such as playing games, listening to music, shopping and so on. But few people know how to take care of them. Please remember the following when you use your computer:
1.Keep your computer in a dry cool room. Too much heat is bad for computers.
2. Do not smoke near your computer. Smoking is also bad for them.
3. Do not drink or eat near computers. A little water and pieces of food in the keyboard are also bad for a computer.
4. Keep your screen clean and do not have it too bright. They are bad for your eyes. Make sure the screen is not too far or too near your eyes when you use a computer. | [
"Five.",
"Seven.",
"Thirty-five.",
"Forty."
] |
The writer mainly wants to tell us that _ . | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
The Internet brings us many advantages.
With the Internet, people can send and receive emails. On the Internet, people can skim over news. Using the Telnet, the user anywhere on the Internet can log into any other machine on which he has an account. It is possible to use the FTP program to copy files from one machine on the Internet to another.
But the Internet also brings us troubles.
Internet use seems to cause a fall in psychological health, according to research at Carnegie Mellon University. Even people who spent just a few hours a week on the Internet experienced more depression and loneliness than those who logged on less often, the twoyear study showed. And it wasn't that people who were already feeling bad spent more time on the Internet, but that using the Net actually seemed to cause the bad feelings.
Researchers are puzzled over the results, which were completely opposite to what they had expected. They expected that the Net would prove socially healthier than television, since the Net allows users to choose their information and to communicate with others.The fact that Internet use reduces time used for family and friends may be the reason for the drop in health, researchers said. Faceless, bodiless"virtual" communication may be less psychologically satisfying than actual conversations, and the relationships formed through it may not be so deep. Another possibility is that exposure to the wider world through the Net makes users less satisfied with their lives.
"But _ it's _ important _ to _ remember _ this _ is _ not _ about _ the _ technology; _ it's _ about _ how _ it _ is _ used,"said one of the researchers. "It really points to the need for considering social factors when you design new inventions."
Question:
The writer mainly wants to tell us that _ .
Choices:
A. the Internet can bring people many advantages
B. the Internet use may cause psychological problems
C. the Internet users are not satisfied with their lives
D. we shouldn't use the Internet | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high17612.txt | The Internet brings us many advantages.
With the Internet, people can send and receive emails. On the Internet, people can skim over news. Using the Telnet, the user anywhere on the Internet can log into any other machine on which he has an account. It is possible to use the FTP program to copy files from one machine on the Internet to another.
But the Internet also brings us troubles.
Internet use seems to cause a fall in psychological health, according to research at Carnegie Mellon University. Even people who spent just a few hours a week on the Internet experienced more depression and loneliness than those who logged on less often, the twoyear study showed. And it wasn't that people who were already feeling bad spent more time on the Internet, but that using the Net actually seemed to cause the bad feelings.
Researchers are puzzled over the results, which were completely opposite to what they had expected. They expected that the Net would prove socially healthier than television, since the Net allows users to choose their information and to communicate with others.The fact that Internet use reduces time used for family and friends may be the reason for the drop in health, researchers said. Faceless, bodiless"virtual" communication may be less psychologically satisfying than actual conversations, and the relationships formed through it may not be so deep. Another possibility is that exposure to the wider world through the Net makes users less satisfied with their lives.
"But _ it's _ important _ to _ remember _ this _ is _ not _ about _ the _ technology; _ it's _ about _ how _ it _ is _ used,"said one of the researchers. "It really points to the need for considering social factors when you design new inventions." | [
"the Internet can bring people many advantages",
"the Internet use may cause psychological problems",
"the Internet users are not satisfied with their lives",
"we shouldn't use the Internet"
] |
Mary is in _ now. | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Mary is an American girl. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Smith find work in China. So they live in Wuhan now. Mr. Smith works in a big shop. Mrs. Smith teaches English in a middle school. Mary goes to that school on weekdays. On Sundays she goes shopping with her mother. She likes dumplings very much. Every time they'd like many dumplings. It's 6:30 in the evening now. Mrs.Smith is cooking. Mr. Smith is helping her with the housework. What's Mary doing? She is doing her homework carefully.
Question:
Mary is in _ now.
Choices:
A. America
B. England
C. Chinese
D. Wuhan | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle8006.txt | Mary is an American girl. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Smith find work in China. So they live in Wuhan now. Mr. Smith works in a big shop. Mrs. Smith teaches English in a middle school. Mary goes to that school on weekdays. On Sundays she goes shopping with her mother. She likes dumplings very much. Every time they'd like many dumplings. It's 6:30 in the evening now. Mrs.Smith is cooking. Mr. Smith is helping her with the housework. What's Mary doing? She is doing her homework carefully. | [
"America",
"England",
"Chinese",
"Wuhan"
] |
If you want to know something about the Coyotes at 8 Barn view, you'd better call _ . | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
New Year's Eve is a time to celebrate and enter the new year with a smile on your face. This year, there're plenty of local activities for all ages and interests, so the smiles will come easily.
BLUE CONCERT
Blues band the Coyotes is playing at the Dance Barn,at 8 Barn View in Sudden Valley, The show will start at 9 p. m. and benefit the charity Bikers Fighting Cancer. Tickets cost $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Call 224-2308 for more information.
NEW YEAR'S LAUGHS
Ring in the New Year and laugh out the old one at the Upfront Theatre Comic improvisers will hit on all the highlights of the year with The Last Laugh of 2008. The 9 p. m. show will cost $15 and is open to all ages. The 11 P. m. show is open to 21 and older and costs $18, which includes a champagne toast. Call 733-8855 for more information.
MAZE
For a fun activity earlier in the evening,walk the labyrinth at the Leopold Crystal Bellroom. Wander through the maze, based on the French Chartres Cathedral, for free from 4 to 9 p. m. Call 752-0048 for more information.
COUNTRY DANCING
At the Bellingham Eagles Hall, live local music will help get the dance started at 8 p. m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for students and free for kids 12 and younger. For more information, call 676-1554.
Question:
If you want to know something about the Coyotes at 8 Barn view, you'd better call _ .
Choices:
A. 676-1554
B. 733-8855
C. 752-0048
D. 224-2308 | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high15178.txt | New Year's Eve is a time to celebrate and enter the new year with a smile on your face. This year, there're plenty of local activities for all ages and interests, so the smiles will come easily.
BLUE CONCERT
Blues band the Coyotes is playing at the Dance Barn,at 8 Barn View in Sudden Valley, The show will start at 9 p. m. and benefit the charity Bikers Fighting Cancer. Tickets cost $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Call 224-2308 for more information.
NEW YEAR'S LAUGHS
Ring in the New Year and laugh out the old one at the Upfront Theatre Comic improvisers will hit on all the highlights of the year with The Last Laugh of 2008. The 9 p. m. show will cost $15 and is open to all ages. The 11 P. m. show is open to 21 and older and costs $18, which includes a champagne toast. Call 733-8855 for more information.
MAZE
For a fun activity earlier in the evening,walk the labyrinth at the Leopold Crystal Bellroom. Wander through the maze, based on the French Chartres Cathedral, for free from 4 to 9 p. m. Call 752-0048 for more information.
COUNTRY DANCING
At the Bellingham Eagles Hall, live local music will help get the dance started at 8 p. m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for students and free for kids 12 and younger. For more information, call 676-1554. | [
"676-1554",
"733-8855",
"752-0048",
"224-2308"
] |
What can be inferred from the passage ? | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
A group of Mississippi hunters who shot and killed an alligator weighting 910 pounds on Sunday, were amazed when they discovered that the animal already bore injuries caused by musket from the Civil War era. A total of 9 bullets was found, and the various tests and analysis have confirmed that they were indeed fired at the animal in the 19th Century.
Nine of the wounds on the animal are believed to have been caused by Enfield Pattern 1853 muskets. These old injuries were concentrated around the animals tail and hind legs, suggesting that the alligator could have possibly been used as a target for shooting practice by Confederate troops.
The huge animal also bore five other bullet wounds from three different calibers of hunting guns, as well as many dents and scars, which shows that it survived many firearm injuries in the past. It did not however, survive the six 50-caliber bullets fired at him by the group of amateur hunters from Jackson, who were finally able to take it down.
The bullets were confirmed as true musket from between 1850 and 1870. This incredible animal brings a whole new view on this large animal native to the southeastern United States. American alligators have been known for years to live well over 50 years and were thought capable of possibly living as long as 70 or 80 years, but this one was estimated to have been 185 years old at the time of its death.
Others like turtles, have been known, to have lifespans of over 150 years, but it is the first of crocodile of such an old age ever found. It is also one of the biggest alligators ever killed in the United States. The heaviest ever recorded, weighing in at an unbelievable 1,011.5 lbs, was pulled out of a river in Alabama in August of this yea.
Question:
What can be inferred from the passage ?
Choices:
A. People's understanding of American alligators may be changed
B. Rivers in Alabama must be full of such huge alligators
C. American alligators are in danger of dying out.
D. The six 50-caliber bullet is the most powerful one. | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high14705.txt | A group of Mississippi hunters who shot and killed an alligator weighting 910 pounds on Sunday, were amazed when they discovered that the animal already bore injuries caused by musket from the Civil War era. A total of 9 bullets was found, and the various tests and analysis have confirmed that they were indeed fired at the animal in the 19th Century.
Nine of the wounds on the animal are believed to have been caused by Enfield Pattern 1853 muskets. These old injuries were concentrated around the animals tail and hind legs, suggesting that the alligator could have possibly been used as a target for shooting practice by Confederate troops.
The huge animal also bore five other bullet wounds from three different calibers of hunting guns, as well as many dents and scars, which shows that it survived many firearm injuries in the past. It did not however, survive the six 50-caliber bullets fired at him by the group of amateur hunters from Jackson, who were finally able to take it down.
The bullets were confirmed as true musket from between 1850 and 1870. This incredible animal brings a whole new view on this large animal native to the southeastern United States. American alligators have been known for years to live well over 50 years and were thought capable of possibly living as long as 70 or 80 years, but this one was estimated to have been 185 years old at the time of its death.
Others like turtles, have been known, to have lifespans of over 150 years, but it is the first of crocodile of such an old age ever found. It is also one of the biggest alligators ever killed in the United States. The heaviest ever recorded, weighing in at an unbelievable 1,011.5 lbs, was pulled out of a river in Alabama in August of this yea. | [
"People's understanding of American alligators may be changed",
"Rivers in Alabama must be full of such huge alligators",
"American alligators are in danger of dying out.",
"The six 50-caliber bullet is the most powerful one."
] |
How did Pete spend his holiday in the past? | C | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Last week I visited my friend Pete in the new home where he lives with his wife and daughter. Pete used to spend his holidays travelling the world, visiting the pyramids in Egypt or scuba diving in the Caribbean. Nowadays he prefers to spend his holidays and weekends making his house look more beautiful. Like hundreds of thousands of other British people, he has discovered the joy of DIY (Do It Yourself), which means if there are any things that need fixing around the house, he will try to do the job himself.
As he showed me the new kitchen he put together by himself and the newly painted walls, I asked Pete where he got his inspiration from. He told me that his favorite source of ideas was a DIY program on TV.
This got me thinking about the great popularity of DIY programs in the UK. Each major channel has at least one home or garden improving show and there's even a satellite channel completely about the subject.
I guess it is not really surprising that DIY programs are so popular. Two common sayings in Britain- 'an Englishman's home is his castle' and 'there's no place like home'-show how important our houses are to us. With the present economic downturn, many people can't afford to buy a bigger house so they are looking at how they can make their house better without spending a lot of money. DIY is the perfect choice.
But be careful! I read a report that said over 230,000 people were injured while doing home improvements in the UK in just one year, including 41,000 who fell off ladders and 5,800 who were seriously hurt by hammers. So I won't be going down to the hardware store.
Question:
How did Pete spend his holiday in the past?
Choices:
A. Visiting his friends.
B. Diving.
C. Travelling around the world.
D. Making his house beautiful. | Answer: C | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high10744.txt | Last week I visited my friend Pete in the new home where he lives with his wife and daughter. Pete used to spend his holidays travelling the world, visiting the pyramids in Egypt or scuba diving in the Caribbean. Nowadays he prefers to spend his holidays and weekends making his house look more beautiful. Like hundreds of thousands of other British people, he has discovered the joy of DIY (Do It Yourself), which means if there are any things that need fixing around the house, he will try to do the job himself.
As he showed me the new kitchen he put together by himself and the newly painted walls, I asked Pete where he got his inspiration from. He told me that his favorite source of ideas was a DIY program on TV.
This got me thinking about the great popularity of DIY programs in the UK. Each major channel has at least one home or garden improving show and there's even a satellite channel completely about the subject.
I guess it is not really surprising that DIY programs are so popular. Two common sayings in Britain- 'an Englishman's home is his castle' and 'there's no place like home'-show how important our houses are to us. With the present economic downturn, many people can't afford to buy a bigger house so they are looking at how they can make their house better without spending a lot of money. DIY is the perfect choice.
But be careful! I read a report that said over 230,000 people were injured while doing home improvements in the UK in just one year, including 41,000 who fell off ladders and 5,800 who were seriously hurt by hammers. So I won't be going down to the hardware store. | [
"Visiting his friends.",
"Diving.",
"Travelling around the world.",
"Making his house beautiful."
] |
Many deleterious alleles have such severe effects that a homozygous embryo spontaneously aborts long before what? | null | Answer the following science question clearly and accurately. | Many deleterious alleles have such severe effects that a homozygous embryo spontaneously aborts long before what? | birth | science | null | null | null | LIfe | baby | couple | birth | null | null | null | |
According to Google,the new system "Latitude" can _ . | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Millions of people will be able to track each and every move by friends and family through their mobile phones,thanks to a new feature launched by Google yesterday.
The new system named "Latitude" uses a map to show exactly where a loved one is at any time, sometimes discovering their location to a few meters.Worried parents will be able to check up on where their children have got to after school, friends can meet for a quick drink if they see they are nearby and wives will be able to see if their husbands really are working late at the office.
The feature was made available immediately on millions of mobile phones that can access the web,such as the BlackBerry.Within weeks Google hopes to launch a new one that wilt also work on computers as well.
"Once you've shared your location,you can hide it from all of your friends at once,or you can turn off Google Latitude completely at any time." said a Google spokesman."You can adjust your privacy settings in Latitude so that you share as much or as little about your location as you want,with whom you want."
Google said that the company had tested the product with thousands of people to make sure that it was safe for the customers,but experts were not so sure.Simon Davies,director of Privacy International,said Latitude would open up a "privacy minefield ".
"It's about the little white lies.You might be avoiding going to work, and now your boss might be able to see that you're at Twickenham instead of at home."said Ian Angell, an information expert at the London School of Economics."You've already got mobile phone technology where husbands and wives track each other in secret.Now Google is so widely used that it will only worsen the situation."
Question:
According to Google,the new system "Latitude" can _ .
Choices:
A. prove that the partner has told a lie about working late
B. tell the parents the locations of their children after school
C. provide the friends with the most suitable pub for a drink
D. help people find what their loved ones are doing at any time | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high23603.txt | Millions of people will be able to track each and every move by friends and family through their mobile phones,thanks to a new feature launched by Google yesterday.
The new system named "Latitude" uses a map to show exactly where a loved one is at any time, sometimes discovering their location to a few meters.Worried parents will be able to check up on where their children have got to after school, friends can meet for a quick drink if they see they are nearby and wives will be able to see if their husbands really are working late at the office.
The feature was made available immediately on millions of mobile phones that can access the web,such as the BlackBerry.Within weeks Google hopes to launch a new one that wilt also work on computers as well.
"Once you've shared your location,you can hide it from all of your friends at once,or you can turn off Google Latitude completely at any time." said a Google spokesman."You can adjust your privacy settings in Latitude so that you share as much or as little about your location as you want,with whom you want."
Google said that the company had tested the product with thousands of people to make sure that it was safe for the customers,but experts were not so sure.Simon Davies,director of Privacy International,said Latitude would open up a "privacy minefield ".
"It's about the little white lies.You might be avoiding going to work, and now your boss might be able to see that you're at Twickenham instead of at home."said Ian Angell, an information expert at the London School of Economics."You've already got mobile phone technology where husbands and wives track each other in secret.Now Google is so widely used that it will only worsen the situation." | [
"prove that the partner has told a lie about working late",
"tell the parents the locations of their children after school",
"provide the friends with the most suitable pub for a drink",
"help people find what their loved ones are doing at any time"
] |
The thing(s) emphasized in her talk was (were) _ . | A | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
I found out one time that doing a favor for someone could get you into a lot of trouble. I was in the eighth grade at the time, and we were having a final test. During the test, the girl sitting next to me whispered something, but I didn't understand. So I leaned over her way and found out that she was trying to ask me if I had an extra pen. She showed me that hers was out of ink and would not write. I happened to have an extra one, so I took it out of my pocket and put it on her desk.
Later, after the test papers had been turned in, the teacher asked me to stay in the room when all the other students were dismissed . As soon as we were alone she began to talk to me about what it meant to grow up; she talked about how important it was to stand on your own two feet and be responsible for your own acts. For a long time, she talked about honesty and emphasized the fact that when people do something dishonest, they are really cheating themselves. She made me promise that I would think seriously about all the things she had said, and then she told me I could leave. I walked out of the room wondering why she had chosen to talk to me about all those things.
Later on, I found out that she thought I had cheated on the test. When she saw me lean over to talk to the girl next to me, it looked as if I was copying answers from the girl's test paper. I tried to explain about the pen, but all she could say was it seemed very very strange to her that I hadn't talked of anything about the pen the day she talked to me right after the test. Even if I tried to explain that I was just doing the girl a favor by letting her use my pen, I am sure she continued to believe that I had cheated on the test.
Question:
The thing(s) emphasized in her talk was (were) _ .
Choices:
A. honesty
B. sense of duty
C. seriousness
D. all of the above | Answer: A | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high111.txt | I found out one time that doing a favor for someone could get you into a lot of trouble. I was in the eighth grade at the time, and we were having a final test. During the test, the girl sitting next to me whispered something, but I didn't understand. So I leaned over her way and found out that she was trying to ask me if I had an extra pen. She showed me that hers was out of ink and would not write. I happened to have an extra one, so I took it out of my pocket and put it on her desk.
Later, after the test papers had been turned in, the teacher asked me to stay in the room when all the other students were dismissed . As soon as we were alone she began to talk to me about what it meant to grow up; she talked about how important it was to stand on your own two feet and be responsible for your own acts. For a long time, she talked about honesty and emphasized the fact that when people do something dishonest, they are really cheating themselves. She made me promise that I would think seriously about all the things she had said, and then she told me I could leave. I walked out of the room wondering why she had chosen to talk to me about all those things.
Later on, I found out that she thought I had cheated on the test. When she saw me lean over to talk to the girl next to me, it looked as if I was copying answers from the girl's test paper. I tried to explain about the pen, but all she could say was it seemed very very strange to her that I hadn't talked of anything about the pen the day she talked to me right after the test. Even if I tried to explain that I was just doing the girl a favor by letting her use my pen, I am sure she continued to believe that I had cheated on the test. | [
"honesty",
"sense of duty",
"seriousness",
"all of the above"
] |
Who is in favor of the merger of Microsoft and Yahoo? | D | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
News that Microsoft was making a $44.6 billion bid to buy Yahoo was greeted with heated discussion by many Internet users on Friday. Here are some responses:
Mark Galeassi of Kansas City, Missouri
This is the best move for both parties. Yahoo has the ideas and Microsoft has the money to finally market these ideas correctly. Microsoft and Yahoo are a perfect fit and the deal will be good for consumers.
Scott G of New Jersey
I was a Yahoo user for years along with Hotmail from Microsoft. Then Google came along: Google Earth, Google Toolbar and Gmail. Google is so innovative with everything they do. Yahoo and Microsoft... same old story... I don't think the merger will do anything for either company except improve the Yahoo shareholders' bank accounts.
Michael Glosser of Estero, Florida
Right now, Yahoo offers a lot of features and tools at no cost for all different levels of Internet users. Microsoft seeks nothing but profit. Undoubtedly, they'll do nothing other than find ways to start removing Yahoo's formerly non-priced features. Microsoft's greed will ruin the great thing that Yahoo currently is.
Toni Suarez of Hacienda Heights, California
Perhaps it would bring better high technology innovations to e-mail and help in researching and developing a better Internet!
Antonio Simmons of Parkville, Maryland
Microsoft purchasing Yahoo would be nothing more than an attempt from Microsoft to further impose upon the users their poor-quality software and obtain more wealth for the company. In my opinion, they will never be able to compete with Google because Yahoo and Microsoft's current search engines are too inferior to compete. Even if combined, they still lack.
Question:
Who is in favor of the merger of Microsoft and Yahoo?
Choices:
A. Antonio Simmons.
B. Michael Grosser.
C. Scott G.
D. Mark Galeassi. | Answer: D | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | high61.txt | News that Microsoft was making a $44.6 billion bid to buy Yahoo was greeted with heated discussion by many Internet users on Friday. Here are some responses:
Mark Galeassi of Kansas City, Missouri
This is the best move for both parties. Yahoo has the ideas and Microsoft has the money to finally market these ideas correctly. Microsoft and Yahoo are a perfect fit and the deal will be good for consumers.
Scott G of New Jersey
I was a Yahoo user for years along with Hotmail from Microsoft. Then Google came along: Google Earth, Google Toolbar and Gmail. Google is so innovative with everything they do. Yahoo and Microsoft... same old story... I don't think the merger will do anything for either company except improve the Yahoo shareholders' bank accounts.
Michael Glosser of Estero, Florida
Right now, Yahoo offers a lot of features and tools at no cost for all different levels of Internet users. Microsoft seeks nothing but profit. Undoubtedly, they'll do nothing other than find ways to start removing Yahoo's formerly non-priced features. Microsoft's greed will ruin the great thing that Yahoo currently is.
Toni Suarez of Hacienda Heights, California
Perhaps it would bring better high technology innovations to e-mail and help in researching and developing a better Internet!
Antonio Simmons of Parkville, Maryland
Microsoft purchasing Yahoo would be nothing more than an attempt from Microsoft to further impose upon the users their poor-quality software and obtain more wealth for the company. In my opinion, they will never be able to compete with Google because Yahoo and Microsoft's current search engines are too inferior to compete. Even if combined, they still lack. | [
"Antonio Simmons.",
"Michael Grosser.",
"Scott G.",
"Mark Galeassi."
] |
Exercise makes the _ move quickly and smoothly. | B | Read the passage and answer the question. | Passage:
Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.
This is an old English saying. Do you know it before? It says that we must go to bed early and get up early in the morning. Then we should be healthy. We should also be rich (wealthy) and clever (wise).
This is true. The body must have enough sleep to be healthy. Children of a young age should have ten hours' sleep every night. Children who don't have enough sleep can't do their work very well. They will not be wise and they may not become wealthy!
The body also needs exercise. Walking, running, jumping, swimming and playing games are all exercise. Exercise keeps the body strong.
Exercise also keeps the blood moving around inside the body. This is very important. Our blood takes food to all parts of our body. The head also needs blood. Exercise helps us to think better!
Question:
Exercise makes the _ move quickly and smoothly.
Choices:
A. body
B. blood
C. children
D. head | Answer: B | reading | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | null | middle2276.txt | Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.
This is an old English saying. Do you know it before? It says that we must go to bed early and get up early in the morning. Then we should be healthy. We should also be rich (wealthy) and clever (wise).
This is true. The body must have enough sleep to be healthy. Children of a young age should have ten hours' sleep every night. Children who don't have enough sleep can't do their work very well. They will not be wise and they may not become wealthy!
The body also needs exercise. Walking, running, jumping, swimming and playing games are all exercise. Exercise keeps the body strong.
Exercise also keeps the blood moving around inside the body. This is very important. Our blood takes food to all parts of our body. The head also needs blood. Exercise helps us to think better! | [
"body",
"blood",
"children",
"head"
] |
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