questions list | article stringlengths 9 6.44k | id stringlengths 9 14 |
|---|---|---|
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "at least 5"
},
"options": [
"only 2",
"no more than 3",
"not more than 4",
"at least 5"
],
"question": "How many people are mentioned in this passage?",
"question_type": null
},
{
"answer": {
"... | prefix = st1 /China's economic growth 'hard to predict'
The worsening global economic situation makes it difficult for Chinato predict its growth for next year, a senior official said on Friday.
"How fast China's economy will grow next year is uncertain," Liu He, deputy director of the Office of the Central Leading Group on Finance and Economy Work, told China Daily.
"To a large _ , the rate will be decided by the external situation," Liu said during a discussion with Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt and other economists in Beijing.
This year, GDP is estimated to grow at 9.4 or 9.5 percent, down from 10.6 percent last year, he said. However, the impact of the current financial turbulence "on our economy is much less than on the rest of the world", he said.
Nicholas Stern, a former UK government advisor, also told China Daily it will take at least one or two years for the world to recover from the recession, which is now spreading from the US and the UK to the rest of the world.
"We don't know how long the recession will last, but it is unlikely to be short," he said.
Liu said China can use the downturn as an opportunity to restructure its economy, which has relied heavily on government investment, foreign trade and low-cost technology over the past years.
"When the economy is experiencing fast growth, companies are unwilling to upgrade their technologies," Liu said.
"The slowdown gives such firms the opportunity to enhance their competitive edge through better technologies."
From ChinaDaily 2008-10-25 | high22577.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "His working experience."
},
"options": [
"A Swedish novel.",
"His present partner.",
"A bookstore clerk.",
"His working experience."
],
"question": "What inspired Morioka to open such a bookstore?",
"questio... | Those accustomed to browsing through thousands of books in large bookstores may find Japan's Morioka Shoten a little strange. That's because this tiny bookstore that is located in Ginza, Tokyo sells only a single book at a time.
Opened in May 2015, Morioka Shoten is the brainchild of Yoshiyuki Morioka. He began his career as a bookstore clerk in Tokyo's Kanda district before branching out to open his own store. It was here while organizing book reading and signing that he realized that customers usually came into the store with one title in mind. Morioka began to wonder if a store could exist by selling multiple copies of just one single book. In November 2014, he partnered with Masamichi Toyama to establish a unique bookstore with the philosophy of "A Single Room with a Single Book".
The selections that are picked by Morioka change weekly and vary widely to attract customers with different interests. Recent choices include The True Deceiver, an award-winning Swedish novel by Tove Jansson, Hans Andersen's Fairy Tales, and a collection of Karl Blossfeldt's photography of plants. Morioka has also selected books written by a famous Japanese author Mimei Ogawa.
To highlight his only offering, Morioka often uses clever tricks. For example, when selling a book about flowers, the storekeeper decorated his shop with the ones that had been mentioned in the book. He also encourages authors to hold talks and discussions so they can connect with customers. Morioka says his goal is for the customers to experience being inside a book, not just a bookstore.
Risky as the idea might seem, things appear to be going well. The storekeeper says he has sold over 2,100 books. Things can get better given that his bookstore is becoming increasingly popular not just among the locals but also visitors form other countries. | high13972.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "Cooperation learning."
},
"options": [
"Passive listening.",
"Doing maths on papers.",
"Cooperation learning.",
"Learning other subjects."
],
"question": "What improves students' fluency and flexibility in the n... | 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. | high23669.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "are likely to sell well in the future."
},
"options": [
"can easily be filled up with gas.",
"are likely to sell well in the future.",
"are mainly used in the United States",
"won't be used in the London Olympics"
]... | There are two methods by whichhydrogen can be used to power cars. The first way is to use hydrogen to drive the engine, in much the same way as many cars use gas. The second method is to use the reaction of hydrogen with oxygen in a battery, making the car a kind of electric one.
The dream of producing hydrogen in the car while driving along byelectrolyzing water is a long way off, so we are still at the period of batteries and filling the tank with hydrogen gas. This is the difficulty for potential car users and producers. There are only sixteen hydrogen filling stations in Los Angeles and none in 99% of other cities worldwide.
Indeed, some of the big name automobile producers have pulled out of the race to put the first practical hydrogen car on the streets. Ford and GM have announced that they are pulling out in America and so has Renault in France.
However, the Japanese companies are pressing on. In fact, Honda introduced its first hydrogen fuel cell car in 1999. They are now producing second generation hydrogen car known as the FCX Clarity. Guess where they are available for sale? In only one city because of its filling stations.
Honda thinks that they could go into full-scale production of the FCX Clarity by 2020 if the world is prepared for _ by then.
Then there are hydrogen-powered buses in several European cities including Amsterdam, Barcelona, Hamburg, London, Luxembourg and Madrid. Lotus, the makers of London taxis, have announced that they propose to manufacture hydrogen-powered taxis in time for the London Olympics.
So, the hydrogen vehicle is out there and the numbers will be growing fairly soon. The buses go back to their bus station, where an electrolyzing machine changes water into fuel for them to fill up on and the same will be the case for many of London's taxis.
Unfortunately, getting fuel is not the only difficulty for the average motorist, a number of these vehicles cost about $300,000 each. | high779.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "it was great to get all the information in one place"
},
"options": [
"the careers seminars were very successful",
"meeting managers face to face was tense",
"it was an honor to be able to learn from experts",
"it was g... | If you need any help in planning your future, call in at the Education and Careers Expo , which opened at the City Convention and Exhibition Centre yesterday. Expo gives you a unique opportunity to meet leading industrialists and educators.
I spoke to several young people at Expo, and they all agreed how useful it was to have so much information under one roof.
Duncan Kelly intends to take a university course in design after he leaves school. He was collecting some of the free literature when I spoke to him. "I'm not in a hurry to make a choice at the moment. I want to get all the information before I make up my mind."
One feature of Expo is the careers seminars , at which expert speakers outline their respective fields. Barbara Watts is already at university, in the second year of a law degree. She's decided to keep on studying after she graduates. She attended a seminar on international law. "The speaker was really good at getting across his message," said Barbara. "It was very helpful."
But Expo isn't just for people who are still in education. It also offers help to those in employment, and to people who are considering retraining or a change of career.
One advantage of Expo in that you can meet many prospective employers face to face, and talk to them frankly about your plans. As Charles Li told me, "Normally I wouldn't dare to go and talk to the manager of a company. But today I have talked to several managers. It's easy to meet them here, in a relaxed environment." He left school after Junior High and went to work in a factory to earn a living. He's looking at changing his career and perhaps tidying to be an accountant.
The organizers expect over 200,000 young people to visit Expo, and there's no doubt that it's a bit of a squash . But the opportunities available here certainly make up for any discomfort. So, if you need any help with your future, come along to Expo. You don't need a ticket. It's open today, Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm, and entry is free to all. | high24106.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "4"
},
"options": [
"2",
"4",
"6",
"8"
],
"question": "It will probably take _ years to complete the ice highway.",
"question_type": "cloze_questions"
},
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
... | Six Americans are working on a new highway. But this highway won't have any traffic.It's an "ice highway" to the South Pole.
The team has just finished a second year of work on the 1,020-mile highway. "The road is the greatest single footprint of activity we've seen in the Antarctic ," said Alan Hemmings, an Australian environmentalist.
The highway will provide a new way for supplies to be trekked (, ) across the earth on tractor-pulled sleds . This method will use a lot less fuel than an aircraft, the current way that scientists and supplies reach the Amundsen-Scott Base, a U.S. research station in the South Pole. The highway will also allow for equipment that is too big for planes to carry to be brought to Antarctica.Even with these benefits, there is one disadvantage--a round trip on the road will be 30 days, compared to a few hours by plane.
Making this 20-foot-wide road isn't easy, and it takes a lot of time. The crew has been working on the road for two summers, when it's warmer and easier to work with the ice. It probably won't be completed until 2006.
Crevasses , or cracks, in the land often make the construction difficult. Crevasses are kind of like pot holes that form when surface ice is stretched.This can be very dangerous, especially when the crevasses are hidden under a layer of snow and can't be seen.
"Last year it took us three months to go three miles across a crevasse field, full of dangerous, hidden crevasses," said the project's manager, John Wright. Each year, more crevasses appear and they have to be filled with snow and ice so the road is safe for travel. The road will also be lined with green flags so travelers know where the safe surface is. | high7844.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "a fashionable cell phone"
},
"options": [
"a diamond necklace",
"a pair of fashionable shoes",
"a fashionable cell phone",
"a gold ring"
],
"question": "The following items can be sorted into a group according t... | Diamonds are no longer a girl's best friend, according to a new U.S. study that found three of four women would prefer a new plasma TV to a diamond necklace. The survey, specially by U.S. cable television's Oxygen Net-work that is operated by women found the technology gender gap has almost closed with most women buying new technology and using it easily.
Women were found on average to own 6.6 technology devices while men own 6.9, and four out of every five women felt comfortable using technology with 46 percent doing their own computer trouble--shooting "People have the thought that women are not as advanced as men when it comes to technology and I was surprised at the equivalence men and women now have in terms of technology," Geraldine Laybourne, chairman and chief executive of Oxygen Network said.
The Girls Gone Wired survey of 1,400 women and 700 men aged 15 to 49, which was conducted by market researcher TRU, found that given the choice, women would choose tech items rather than luxury items like jewelry or vacations.
The study found 77 percent of women surveyed would prefer a new plasma television to a diamond necklace and 56 percent would go for a new plasma TV over a weekend vacation in Florida. Even shoes lost out. The study found 86 percent would prefer a new digital video camera to a pair of designer shoes.
The study found over the next five years women see themselves increasing their activities in six tech areas: digital cameras, cell phones, e-mail, camera phones, text-messaging and instant messaging. Laybourne said this increasing use of technology among women was expected to continue. | high22211.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "Heat and cold damage corals in their own ways."
},
"options": [
"Corals are unable to adjust to temperature changes.",
"Cold temperature causes greater damage to corals.",
"Hot temperature helps coral reefs to grow quickly.",... | Around the world coral reefs are facing threats brought by climate change and great changes in sea temperatures. While ocean warming has been the primary focus for scientists and ocean policy managers, cold events can also whiten corals. A new study by scientists compared damaged to corals exposed to heat as well as cold stress. The results show that cool temperatures can cause more damage in the short term, but heat is more destructive in the long run.
Climate change is widely known to produce warming conditions in the oceans, but extreme cold-water events have become more frequent and serious as well. In 2010, for example, coral reefs around the world faced on of the coldest winters and one of the hottest summers on record.
During a unique experiment, corals under cold temperatures suffered greater damage in just days compared with heat treated corals. Yet the researchers found that corals were eventually able to adjust to the cold conditions, make their health stable and continue to grow. However, over the long term corals subjected to heat suffered more greatly than those in cold, with evidence of severe whitening and growth stoppage, which leads to death.
The coral's ability to adjust to cool temperatures surprised the researchers, who say the study's results show the complexities of monitoring coral health in response to different environmental factors .
"Global warming is associated with increases but also decreases of temperatures," said Deheyn, one of the researchers. "Not much has been known about the comparative effects of temperature decrease on corals. These results are important because they show that corals react differently to temperature differences, which is important for future management of coral reefs in the field of climate change." | high5935.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "where he was born"
},
"options": [
"where he was born",
"the way he speaks",
"the clothes he wears",
"the interests he has"
],
"question": "According to the passage, you cannot judge an Englishman's social class... | British society is considered to be divided into three main groups of classes--the Upper Class, the Middle Class, and the Lower or Working Class. This is known as the Class system and it is important to know something about it if you want to understand British people and society. Most British people grow up with a deep knowledge and understanding of the class system even if they are not very conscious of it. Most people know which class they belong to by the way they speak, their clothes, their interests or even the type of food they eat.
Social class is not only about behavior and attitudes. For example, although many upper class people are rich and may own a lot of land, having a lot of money does not make a person upper class. It is also important to come from a particular kind of family, have friends who are considered suitable, have been to a certain type of private school and speak with the right kind of accent. There are people who are poor but who do not think of themselves as working class, because their family background, education, political opinions, etc. are different from those of most working-class people. Many people do not like the class system but it is impossible to pretend that these differences do not exist or that British people do not sometimes form opinions in this way. | high19287.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "in one operation without any mistakes"
},
"options": [
"in one operation with few mistakes",
"in more than one operation without any mistakes",
"in more than one operation with slight mistakes",
"in one operation withou... | When Babbage was working atprefix = st1 /Cambridge, a new idea occurred to him. He wanted to construct a calculating machine to work out the solutions to maths problems not only with correctness but also with a speed beyond the power of any human mind. His machine could solve problems involving long rows of figures in one continuous operation .
In 1822 Babbage exhibited his invention and won a prize from the government. After that, he immediately started to work on a larger machine designed to solve more difficult problems. Although he received some money left by his father, the money was not enough to support his design. He wrote to the government about his plan and was givenPS2500 to start with, a sum worth much more in those days than it is now.
Babbage continued his work inLondonfor four years. Then his health broke down, and he had to take a long holiday abroad. When he returned toLondonin 1828, he was at the end of his resources. Many bills remained unpaid. His chief assistant and co-workers quarreled with him and left with many expensive tools. For one year no work was done. During this period, Babbage, whose mind was always active, suddenly thought of a completely new idea for the machine. He rushed to meet the government officials to explain his new idea. But this time, they were unwilling to help him. For eight years, they refused to say whether they wanted the machine or not, and their final answer was "No."
From 1828 to 1839, Babbage held the position of professor atCambridgevery successfully. But his greatest work was the unfinished calculating machine which stood covered in dust in his house. It was the beginning of the modern computer. | high21718.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "it is easier to operate"
},
"options": [
"it is moveable",
"it is easier to operate",
"it gives correct conclusion",
"it can only be used in public places."
],
"question": "Compared with a traditional polygraph,... | Offering a powerful new tool against terrorism, researchers have found a way to detect lies in the liar's blushing face. The technique, described in the journal Nature, uses a thermal camera to detect the sudden shift of blood flow in the face. The system performed as a traditional polygraph , the scientists report.
Pushed by technological advances and with fresh interest since Sept.11, the discovery is part of the development in the scientific study of detection. Although the lie remains a mysterious phenomenon, researchers in recent years have found a number of new methods that might take the place of the polygraph, from brain scans, to slight changes in eye movement, to sparks of electrical activity that signal a person has seen a victim or a crime scene before. The new finding says, when a person tells a lie, there is a sudden change of blood to the area around the eyes. Although the change is not ordinary visible, the blood warms the skin, causing bands of color1 to appear through a camera sensitive to heat.
One advantage of the camera can provide answers quickly, and doesn't require a highly trained expert to operate it or explain its results. In theory, this new technology could be used anywhere large numbers of people need to be quickly screened.
But some scientists say the technology would need to be improved before it is ready for use, for it is possible that there are other reactions that cause a sudden change in blood flow in the face and there is also the danger that people will learn to fool the machine, the same way they try to fool polygraph examiners by controlling their breathing or taking drugs to relax themselves. | high18199.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "rubbing salt in a wound"
},
"options": [
"salt of the earth",
"rubbing salt in a wound",
"a diet low in salt",
"worth his salt"
],
"question": "A beggar's bread was stolen last night.,which means _ .",
"qu... | You may think, salt is just a simple cooking element we shake on our food for a little extra taste. But salt is much more than that. Without salt our muscles would not move. Our nervous systems would not operate. Our hearts would not beat.
But do not think rubbing salt in a wound will help. Doing that would be painful and not heal the wound. To rub salt in a wound is an idiom that means to purposefully make a bad situation worse.
Early humans got the salt they needed to stay alive from the animals they killed. But advances in agriculture led to a diet low in salt. So, humans needed to find other sources. Those who lived near the ocean or other natural sources for salt were lucky. Those who did not had to trade for salt. In fact, people used salt as a method of payment in many parts of the ancient world. The word "salary" comes from the word "salt".
Salt also played an important part in population movement and world exploration. Explorers understood that if they could keep food fresh,they could travel longer distances. So they used salt to preserve food and explored the world.
Salt was so important that, according to food historians. it was traded pound-for-pound for gold. Today, people still use the expressions "to be worth one's salt" or "worth one's weight in salt". The expressions describe a person of value.
A person might also be called salt of the earth. That description means he or she is dependable and trustworthy. However, when you say "I think we should take what he said with a grain of salt" you mean you accept it but maintain a degree of doubt about its truth. | high11803.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "checking your answers with other students"
},
"options": [
"going over the notes you took in the last class",
"finishing reading some materials your teacher gave you in last class",
"taking some materials you will use in your... | In class, your teachers will talk about topics that you are studying. The information they provide will be important for you to know when you take tests. You must be able to take good written notes from what your teachers say.
Taking good notes is a three-stage process in which there are certain things you should do before class, during class and after class.
Review your notes from the previous class before you come to class. This will help remember what was covered and get you ready to understand new information your teacher provide. Complete all assigned readings before you come to class. Your teacher will expect that you have done this and will use and build upon this information. Bring all notetaking materials with you to class. Have several pens and pencils as well as your notebook.
Keep your attention focused on what your teacher is saying. Listen for "signal statements" that tell you that what your teacher is about to say is important to write in your notes. Write quickly so that you can include all the information in your notes. Place a "?" next to information you write in your notes that you are not sure of.
Rewrite your notes to make them more complete by changing short words into whole words, symbols into words and shortened sentences into longer sentences. Make your notes more _ by answering any questions you had when writing your notes in class. Use your textbook and reference sources to obtain the information you need to answer your questions. If necessary, ask your teacher or other students for help. Check with other students to be sure you did not leave out important information.
Having good class note will help you to be better prepared for tests. | high20406.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "Because she was not allowed to go to school."
},
"options": [
"Because she didn't learn to read on the first day of school.",
"Because there was too much work for her to do at school.",
"Because she had no time to play at sch... | "How was school, Ben?" I asked my grandson after he began kindergarten this year. "The work is too long... and there's not enough time to play," he replied.
I couldn't help but remember Ben's own mother, my daughter, Jane, and her reaction to the first day of school. Julie was also disappointed with the first day of school and so was her little sister. My three-year-old daughter announced angrily after her big sister got on the big yellow school bus, "I want to go 'sool' and you not let me!"
When Julie returned home that afternoon, I asked her the same question that I asked Ben, "How was school, Julie?" Julie replied, "I didn't learn to read today."
This year as the school bus passed my house, my mind went back to those school days again. I could almost smell the chalk dust in the air. I also wonder what the children these days manage to get chosen to do in order to get out of school for a few moments since there are no erasers to clean. It was fun to be "chosen" for eraser cleaning duty. This was a task finished by going outside and beating erasers together while sneezing and coughing. No wonder so many babies now have allergies , and it's simply because we all have chalk dust in our lungs!
On the first day of school, the expectation was so great that I would be ready long before it was time to leave for school. We didn't have backpacks because we had cigar boxes. We carried our small supplies inside a cigar box from one of the local stores. We saved the cigar boxes and used them from year to year until they fell apart.
The first day of school was exciting. It was a new beginning. The doors of knowledge had been opened. The first day of school is an event in our lives that most of us remember. It's a big step for a small child toward leaving babyhood and so "there isn't enough time to play". | high2082.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "got a special invitation"
},
"options": [
"would put out his new book",
"got a special invitation",
"wanted to meet his fans",
"wanted show off that he was an outstanding writer"
],
"question": "The writer wen... | There was an American writer who often told such a story to his friends and readers:
It was an exhibition of the artists' works organized by the Red Cross. I was invited as a special guest to take part in the exhibition. During this period, two cute girls of 16 or 17 years old came to me and asked for my signature .
"I haven't brought my pen. Is the pencil okay?" I asked. In fact I knew they wouldn't refuse. I just wanted to show a well-known writer's good manners to the common readers.
"Certainly," the young girls readily agreed. I could see they were very excited. Of course, their excitement also made me more pleased with myself. One of the girls handed her notebook to me. I took out my pencil, wrote a few words of encouragement, and signed my name. The girl read my signature, frowned , looked at me carefully and asked, "Aren't you Robert Charboss?"
"NO,"I told her proudly, "I'm the author of Alice Adams, the winner of two Pulitzer Prizes."
The young girl turned to another one, and said, "Mary, lend your eraser to me."
At the moment,
Since then, I always warn myself:Don't think too highly of yourself even though you are so outstanding . | high15495.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "unusual"
},
"options": [
"Toothless",
"hairless",
"unusual",
"small"
],
"question": "Which of the following words makes the sentence untrue? The baby was _ .",
"question_type": "summarization_questions"
... | There once lived in China a very foolish king and queen. One day the queen had a baby daughter. When they saw their baby, they both cried out, "My goodness! How small it is! It's hairless and toothless! It's a monster!" They sent for all the doctors in the country and ordered them to prepare some medicine for her.
"When she drinks your medicine, she must grow to the right size and have hair and teeth," the king said, "If you don't do this, you'll have a beating."
The doctors thought it impossible, but they dared not say anything against the king's order. Just then and old doctor stepped forward. "Oh, we shall certainly obey your order," he said, "but it takes time. We have to dig a mineral from the Kun Lun Mountains when the snow melts for the second time. The snow melts on those mountains only once in six years. So we need twelve years."
At last the king agreed and the doctors took away the little princess. On her twelfth birthday, they brought her back to her parents with long black hair and beautiful teeth. The king and queen were very happy and gave the doctors expensive presents. | high22239.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "They are equipped with whiteboards."
},
"options": [
"They are on Level 2.",
"They are equipped with whiteboards.",
"They have no Internet access.",
"They provide USB disks."
],
"question": "What do we know abou... | Bookable study rooms
The Library provides a variety of bookable group study rooms, some with presentationareas, for groups of between 6 and 12 students to use for team work.
Group study rooms
There are 10 Group Study Rooms on Level 30f Northampton Square Library.
*Rooms 3A, 3F, 3G, 3H, 3J and 3K are equipped with presentation area to help prepare group presentations.
*Rooms 3B, 3C, 3D and 3E are intended for group discussion and seminar work. These rooms are equipped with whiteboards. Whiteboard pens can be borrowed from the service desk on Level 2. Please do not use any other writing tools on the whiteboards.
Maximum booking period of 2 hours at one time.
Presentation areas provide:
*LED screen to practice presentation with group colleagues
*Network access on PC with wide range of software
USB port to plug in your own device or laptop
Assistive Technology Rooms
Assistive technology rooms are available for students by using ID cards to get access permission and can be booked for a maximum of 4 hours per person per day.
Rooms are equipped with the following software: Dragon, JAWS, Zoom Text, Kurzweil, Supernova, TextHelp and Inspiration. A scanner is provided for use with the assistive software packages. For further information click Guide to Library Services for Additional Needs. | high14953.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "the flower with its nice petals represents a symbol of perfection"
},
"options": [
"people like the flower just as they like the sun",
"the flower with its nice petals represents a symbol of perfection",
"people find the flow... | Chrysanthemums are to the fall what tulips are to the spring.
In ancient China, chrysanthemums (or 'mums' for short) were first planted thousands of
years ago. People chose the chrysanthemum as their Flower for October, a symbol of the rest and ease that followed the season's final harvest. Then they symbolized a scholar in retirement and were one of the four noble plants, along with bamboo, the plum flower, and orchid.
The Japanese hold the chrysanthemum as a symbol of the sun. They consider the orderly unfolding of its petals to be a symbol of perfection. They also think that a single chrysanthemum petal placed in the bottom of a wine glass encourages a long and healthy life. The Japanese even have a National Chrysanthemum Day on September 9, known as the Festival of Happiness.
In the United States during colonial times, its popularity grew such that mums now reign as "Queen of the Fall Flowers." Mums remain the most widely grown pot plant in the country and the largest commercially produced flowers. Chrysanthemums generally represent cheerfulness and rest. So they are welcomed throughout the British Isles and North America for any occasion, such as football games and parties. In other countries such as Italy, Belgium and Austria, however, their association with the dead makes chrysanthemums acceptable only for funerals and graves. | high21730.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "a newspaper article"
},
"options": [
"a letter",
"an advertisement",
"a personal diary",
"a newspaper article"
],
"question": "This article is most probably taken from _ .",
"question_type": "cloze_questio... | Parents whose children show a special interest in a particular sport feel very difficult to make a decision about their children's careers. Should they allow their children to train to become top sports men or women? For many children it means starting school work very young, and going out with friends and other interests have to _ . It's very difficult to explain to a young child why he or she has to train five hours a day, even at the weekend, when most of his or her friends are playing.
Another problem is of course money. In many countries money for training is available from government for the very best young sports men and women. If this help can not be given, it means that it is the parents who have to find the time and the money to support their child's development---and sports clothes, transport to competitions, special equipment, etc. can all be very expensive.
Many parents are worried that it is dangerous to start serious training in a sport at an early age. Some doctors agree that young muscles may be damaged by training before they are properly developed. Professional trainers, however, believe that it is only by training young that you can reach the top as a successful sports person. It is clear that very few people do reach the top, and both parents and children should be prepared for failure even after many years of training. | high17282.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "An Unusual Class"
},
"options": [
"The First Female Astronaut",
"Space Shuttle Endeavour",
"An Unusual Class",
"Barbara Morgan's Longlife Dream"
],
"question": "Which of the following would be the best title for... | Barbara Morgan's lifelong dream has always been to travel into space. On August 8,2007,her wish came true. The former teacher was one of seven crew members on the Space Shuttle Endeavour, which flew into space from NASA's Kennedy Space Station in Florida.
Morgan taught at a primary school in Boise from 19751998--with some time off for astronaut training. In 1985, she was chosen as a _ for Christa McAuliffe, who was to be the first teacher in space. On January 28,1986,the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded just 73 seconds after takeoff killing McAuliffe and the other six crewmembers.
After the Challenger accident,Morgan continued to teach. In 1998, she was asked to become an astronaut. Morgan's mission aboard Endeavour includes overseeing the move of 5000 pounds of goods from the shuttle to the International Space Station and operating the shuttle's robotic arm.
Morgan gave students an unusual class after she was in space. Morgan's outofthisworld class was broadcast live on NASA television. Her husband Clay Morgan said he couldn't help but smile as he watched her talk to students. "I'm just so proud of her and how she's going to do all this and do the work of an astronaut as well as a teacher," he said. "She just kept telling me how unbelievable it was to be in space and I think it's much better than she expected." One student asked Morgan how being a teacher compared to being an astronaut. "We explore, we discover and we share," she said. "The great thing about being a teacher is you get to do that with students, and the great thing about being an astronaut is you get to do it in space, these are both wonderful jobs."
The 25minute questionandanswer meeting also included the astronauts entertaining students by swallowing floating juice bubbles and playing with Pingpong balls. | high20348.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "The Hinckley Buzzard Festival"
},
"options": [
"The Hinckley Buzzard Festival",
"Buzzard, the Ugliest Bird",
"Why the Buzzard Has a Pink Head",
"The Return of\"The Garbage Can\""
],
"question": "A good title for... | Every spring scores of people flock to the Buzzard Festival at Hinckley, Ohio. They come to watch for buzzards. Most would be glad just to take a look at a buzzard. If they do see one of these" flying garbage cans", it will probably be circling high in the sky. From there it can watch the ground for signs of the waste and the dead animals on which it feeds.
The buzzard is the ugliest bird in the United States. In fact, it may well be the ugliest bird in the world. It has a small, bare, pink head. Its thick body is covered with dark, rough feathers.
In spite of its looks, the buzzard is important to the people of Hinckley. It is their first sign of spring. After a winter in the south, buzzards return to their homes in the north. In the Hinckley area, they always return on March 15. No one knows why. But they have come back to Hinckley Ridge on that day, sure as clocks work, for at least forty years.
The excitement starts in February. By the middle of March it has reached a high peak. Bets are placed. Prizes go to the person who sees the first buzzard. Radio stations and newspapers tell of the coming festival. And on the weekend after March 15 the people of Hinckley hold their Buzzard Festival.
The people come and look around. They chat. They eat their fill of pancakes and sausages. Then they drive past Buzzard's Roost on Hinckley Ridge.
A lot of them stop near the road at the stand set up to give information to visitors. There they can hear, from a recording, the main facts about the buzzard. They can see a stuffed buzzard. They can look at some pictures taken of buzzards in other years. With good luck and a strong pair of field glasses, they may sight one or two live buzzards high in the sky.
Buzzards may be ugly. They may be "flying garbage cans". But in Hinckley they are just as welcome as the swallows in Capistrano, California. It would be a sad spring indeed if the buzzards ever failed to come back to Hinckley Ridge. | high2914.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "the long jump"
},
"options": [
"the 50 yard dash",
"the long jump",
"the long-distance run",
"the high jump"
],
"question": "The author meant to compete in_.",
"question_type": "cloze_questions"
},
{
... | In high school I joined the girl athletic club. At our first track meet, I entered for the long jump, but was made an alternate for the 50 yard dash. I didn't like it, since I was better at long distance, but they assured me I would never have to run; they just ran out of alternate.
As I walked up to the start line, I saw my Dad on the sidelines. He was watching. Position, ready, set and off went the starting gun. Believe it or not, I closed my eyes and ran like I'd never run before.
I knew I didn't have a chance of winning. But I started to hear cheering and thought for a minute, was it possible? I opened my eyes and to my disappointment, everyone else was crossing the finish line, inches away from each other and I was only half the distance.
That moment felt like days. I felt so stupid. I just wanted to melt into the ground and disappeared. Worse than that, my Dad was watching and then I felt ashamed. I kept running hard as I could, crying all the way towards the finish line. It seemed no one noticed me as I crossed the finish line. I saw my Dad standing there looking at me. I was ashamed to look at him. He walked over to me and said, "I'm so proud of you." I was surprised, "For what? Everyone else finished before I even got halfway. I looked like a fool." "Because you didn't give up, not even when you realized what had happened. You gave it your all and finished." I laughed and cried at the same time.
I find I can face what seems impossible, even alone and afraid, and, that winning does not always come in as you expect. I give my best effort to all I do, win or lose. I don't give up in the middle of anything. | high11195.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "Five."
},
"options": [
"Four.",
"Five.",
"Six.",
"Seven."
],
"question": "How many countries are mentioned in this passage",
"question_type": null
},
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"ans... | Several European countries rang in the New Year in new ways.
The smoke -filled cafe became a thing of memory inprefix = st1 /France. Cigarettes were forbidden in all indoor locations such as dance clubs, restaurants, hotels, casinos and cafes from Jan. 1, 2008. President Nicolas Sarkozy gave the first traditional New Year's greeting of his presidency, with a "message of hope, faith in life and in the future".
In Russia, Vladimir Putin delivered the last New Year's Eve address of his eight - year presidency, boasting of economic improvements and claiming to have restored a sense of unity among Russians, who are likely to see him stay in power as Prime Minister after he steps down in a few months. In Moscow, thousands gathered in Red Square, watching a concert beneath the onion domes of St Basil's Cathedral, and fireworks above.
Along with the _ , old traditions were maintained.
More than a million people in New York's Times Square cheered at the 100th drop of a giant ball. A century ago the tradition began with a 700 - pound ball of wood and iron, lit with 100 25 - watt bulbs. This year's event featured an energy - efficient ball clothed in Waterford crystals , with 9,576 light - shining diodes that generated a lot of color1s.
InLondon, people gathered inTrafalgar Squareand along the banks of the River Thames to watch a firework display and hear Big Ben welcome the New Year with 12 resounding bongs.
In Sydney - one of the first cities to celebrate the New Year - one million people cheered as fireworks were launched from theHarborBridgeon New Year's Eve. | high23899.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "raise money to pay for the cloning"
},
"options": [
"encourage more people to clone their pets",
"draw people's attention to cloning",
"raise money to pay for the cloning",
"collect his dog's stem cells"
],
"que... | Peter Onruang, a Hollywood businessman, has paid $310,000 to clone his best friend Wolfie, a lovely dog. He said, "Wolfie was more than just a pet to me." Wolfie died two years ago, at the age of 15. But long before she and her sister Bubble passed away, Onruang had plans to bring them back to life. Onruang said, "I buried them at home. Each time I visit them, I say, 'Hi, I'm making a new body for you.'"
Finally, Onruang found the South Korean biotechnology company RNL Bio, which can and will clone animals. Onruang collected his dogs' stem cells , and then he started a website MyFriendAgain.com, so he could earn and save the $310,000 that the cloning would cost.
The new dogs should look identical to Wolfie and Bubble. When the cloning process is done, Onruang may end up with several clones of each dog. But Onruang admits he's still not sure that they will be exactly the same.
Scientists cloned the first animal, a sheep named Dolly, in 1996 in Scotland. That project has raised ethical questions about where science should draw the line. Another question is whether such technique will lead to a day when humans could be cloned.
"If I had an opportunity to clone myself, I would do it readily," Onruang said. "Because it's me, I'm raising myself. I have already known exactly my strengths and weaknesses. This person is going to be the new and improved me, and will live the life I've always wanted to live." | high8587.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "onceeveryyear"
},
"options": [
"fromtimetotime",
"onceeveryyear",
"everytwoyears",
"twiceayear"
],
"question": "TEENSGIVING is an event which is held _ .",
"question_type": "cloze_questions"
},
{
... | TEENSGIVING in SPRING 2010
Frequently Asked Questions
What is TEENSGIVING?
TEENSGIVING is an exciting yearly event where hundreds of New York City teens gather together annually for a remarkable day of community service. This year, TEENSGIVING in SRING 2010 participants will once again better New York City and impact thousands of lives!
When is TEENSGIVING in SPRING2010?
SUNDAY, APRIL 25, 2010
Where is TEENSGIVING?
All over New York City. Everyone will meet at the 92nd Street Y (92nd and Lexington) at 9:00 AM for the event kick-off. Then, all TEENSGIVING volunteers will disperse across the city to work with our partnering agencies where they will make a HUGE difference and have fun!
Who participates in TEENSGIVING?
Hundreds of teenagers from around the city. Teens come from the 92nd Street Y, various city schools, youth groups, and organizations in the area. In addition, many adult volunteers (aged 21 and older) will donate their time to TEENSGIVING in SPRING 2010.
What projects do participants do at the agencies?
Sample projects include painting park benches, planting gardens, visiting and playing with underprivileged children, assembling craft kits for children in hospitals, assisting at animal shelters, working at soup kitchens, delivering meals and celebrating with families at homeless shelters.
Do I get anything for participating in TEENSGIVING?
Yes! Everybody benefits! Teen volunteers will receive *6 hours* of community service credit, good towards honor society, high school graduation and college application requirements. Adult volunteers will be "thanked" with a light breakfast, a gift certificate for their troubles, and the satisfaction of helping our city's youth contribute to their community. In addition, all teen and adult volunteers will receive a cool TEENSGIVING in SPRING 2010 T-shirt.
This sounds awesome! How do I register for TEENSGIVING in SPRING2010? Interested teens and/or adults should e-mail the TEENSGIVING Coordinator Josh Hyman at jhyman@92Y.org(subjet:TEENSGIVING) to receive more information and to register for this fantastic event!
**Teens can also contact their school's Community Service Advisor**
TEENSGIVING is sponsored by the 92nd Street Y. | high989.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "making phone calls often affects others during a play"
},
"options": [
"people are often against the manager's advice during a play",
"it is forbidden for people to make a call during a play",
"making phone calls often affect... | Theater managers will often ask people to turn off their phones before a play or other live shows, but sometimes people forget. Broadway shows have come to a stop when a phone has rung in the audience. It is not uncommon to hear phones ring in movie theatres, libraries and even places of worship.
Can you think of anything more annoying than trying to watch a movie while the lady behind you tells the babysitter where to find the baby lotion . The right thing to do would be to take the call in the rest-room, and turn off the phone before returning to your seat.
When did every call become so urgent that we can't wait to answer it, no matter where we are, who we are with or what we are doing?
Why do cell phones bring out the worst manners in normally thoughtful people? Lew Friedland, a communications professor at the prefix = st1 /UniversityofWisconsin- Madison, told CNN Reporter Amy Cox that this lack of manners is because people might be unaware of what they are doing or of the other people around them. He said that this unconscious rudeness has caused even public space to be divided up into small private space. Places like bus stops are public spaces. But when we are there while someone has a private conversation on the phone, we feel like we are _ .What can we do? | high23641.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "Its population is growing very quickly."
},
"options": [
"Its population is growing very quickly.",
"All of them are almost the same size.",
"They eat other big fish and even sharks",
"Most of them have gathered in the ... | In 1985, a lionfish was caught off the coast of Florida. Now they can be found not only in the Atlantic Ocean but also in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. And they are continuing to move south. Lionfish are native to the Indian and western Pacific Oceans. So how did they end up in the Atlantic? Scientists believe some pet owners abandoned their unwanted lionfish and poured them into the sea. Little did they know the trouble their actions would cause.
The Atlantic Ocean turned out to be a comfortable home for lionfish. Their venomous spines protect them from sharks and other fish. Female lionfish can spawn every few days, producing as many as 2 million eggs per year. Other big fish would have competed with lionfish for food. Bet overfishing has removed many of these large fish. As a result, the fish have eaten so much that they have grown to be more then three times the size of their cousins in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. "They eat mostly fish," says Stephanie Green, a scientist at Oregon State University.
All that eating has caused great changes. Scientists have found that when lionfish are present somewhere, many other fish, which are small enough for them to eat, disappear. Some of the fish they eat are greatly missed in their habitats. For example, parrotfish eat certain plants off corals , which allows corals to grow better. But they are now disappearing due to lionfish.
Scientists say lionfish are here to stay. But there are ways to deal with the problem. The key, says Green, is to keep lionfish numbers in check. In Florida, drivers can now go though a special training program and get certified to catch lionfish in areas where fishing is not usually allowed. And a number of restaurants have added the fish to the menu. "It's going to be a long-term battle, but the missing sea species will come back someday," says Green. | high9699.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "the color red in British culture"
},
"options": [
"the metaphor of red in the English language",
"the preference for red animals in Britain",
"the history of red items in Britain",
"the color red in British culture"
... | IN China, red is known to be a lucky color. But you may be surprised to know that British culture is also full of the color red. It's true: Go to Britain and you will see red everywhere.
There are red postboxes on street corners and on the sides of buildings. The British red phone box is famous all over the world. The famous double-decker bus is red. Red is the color traditionally worn by British soldiers in battle , and there is red in the UK's Union Jack national flag. Britain even has a famous team of stunt jet fighters called "The Red Arrows".
To go with British culture's love of red, British nature also features many red animals. A beloved bird is the robin , which has a bright red breast . At Christmastime in winter, the bird is commonly found on the greetings cards people send each other. There is also quite a rare animal called the red squirrel . Foxes are red, and they used to be hunted by men in red outfits .
But is red considered lucky to British people? A good way to see how a culture looks at a color is to look at the way it uses it in language. The results may surprise you. Even though Britain has a lot of red on its high streets and in its countryside, red is used quite differently as a metaphor . If someone "sees red", they are angry. When a person is "red faced", they are out of breath or blushing . Red is also a political color: it means a left-winger (blue is the color of the political right). To be "in the red" is to be in debt (someone in credit is "in the black").
Look hard enough and you'll find the color red being used in all countries. For instance the "red heart" symbol is pretty universal. But whether the British realize it or not, red is everywhere in Britain. It does seem that the country is in love with the color. | high13782.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "Model No. MSM-12LL1"
},
"options": [
"Model No. 1530",
"Model No. MSM-12LL1",
"Hanging Decoration for Babies",
"Baby Pulling Toys"
],
"question": "If you want to buy toys to be put by children's bed, you may cho... | Soft Police Jumbo Set
Model No.:1530
Product Specifications:
This soft play set features soft toys that will not hurt your precious babies. It does not include any small parts or accessories that can be easily swallowed. It boosts your children's imagination and creativity. The colorful appearance of the items can surely attract kids. Suitable for children aged over 1.
Baby Toys
Model No.:MSM-12LL1
Product Specifications:
This set of soft toys is suitable for children of all ages. It features two sleeping mice, lying on each other, creating a warm and intimate image. One of the pieces is designed in a circular shape, which can serve as a baby's neck rest. Can be your children's bedside companion. Safe for children. Comfortable and soft to touch.
Hanging Decoration for Babies
Product Specifications:
The featured item is a hanging decoration for babies. It is usually hung on ceilings or above baby cots. Comes in separate pieces. Easy assembling. Rotating umbrella with music. Decorations consist of several stuffed toys. For babies of 0-12 months.
Baby Pulling Toys
Product Specifications:
This is a series of baby pulling to toys. They are decorated with stuffed mini dolls like bears, sheep and rabbits. When the babies pull strings, the toy is wound. When the pulling toy is released, the toy contracts back and produces different sounds. Made of polyester . Suitable for children of 1,2,3,4, or above.
Hello Kitty Doll with Swing Chair
Model No.:62558
Product Specifications:
38cm doll with swing chair. This foldable swing chair with the cutest Hello Kitty is perfect for all lovely infants under one. It has adorable printing that can surely appeal to babies. It is also strongly constructed and designed to ensure maximum safety. Made of high quality material.
Soft Dinosaur 5pcs Set
Model No.:1801
Product Specifications:
The soft and smooth texture offers a pleasure touch. Absence of small parts makes it safe for kids. Attractive to kids with the colorful appearance. Suitable for children aged over 1. An excellent and playful household decoration. | high12488.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "friendship has the power to prevent sad events"
},
"options": [
"bullying is the main cause of children's suicides",
"we should not expect too much from friendship",
"friendship has the power to prevent sad events",
"on... | Recently, we were given the opportunity to review a book written by a young author. When we received it, I noted how beautifully done it was. While often the case---we see beautifully written and illustrated books all the time---but how often do they come from a 10-year-old? Sewing a Friendship, written by a creative and talented young girl named Natalie Tinti, is such a book.
Developing friendships is an area that Natalie Tinti has researched in her own life. In her book, Sewing a Friendship, she tells what great things can happen if kids take a step toward friendship.
Tinti's characters in Sewing a Friendship have colorful and creative personalities. Jonsy Jipsy loves singing and belly dance. Sokron Blossom lives in a neat and tidy world and loves to read fashion magazines. Meeka likes brain games and Nina is happy with her life and the music it brings her.
All but one of the characters seems happy with their lives. One of the girls, Kiki Shaver, was sad to live in a small home with her aunt and uncle. She had no friend and didn't know how to make them. When four girls invites her into the circle of their friendship, it's no wonder that Kiki is hesitant and uneasy.
The story continues as the four girls invite and accept a " not so likeable" girl into their circle to win a fashion show. The girls feel a strong bond of friendship after the show. Kiki then understands that taking a step towards friendship is better than being alone. All the girls learn that by having the courage to include others, you can " sew a friendship".
Today, it seems that almost every news headline begins with a child's suicide---or murder---because of being bullied ,not having friends or family to discuss issues with and feelings of low self -respect. What's causing these senseless terrible events? If more kids would invite the outcasts into their circle of friends, lives would be saved as well as pointed in another direction.
Natalie Tinti finds her voice in Sewing a Friendship ---and shows a talent that's rare for such a young girl. Recommended reading for all young adult fans. | high9855.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "They will feel pleased."
},
"options": [
"They will be moved to tears.",
"They will be surprised.",
"They will feel pleased.",
"They will be upset."
],
"question": "How will most people feel when you try hard to... | Remembering names is an important social skill . Here are some ways to improve it.
Remember and repeat in conversation . When you hear a person's name , repeat it.
Immediately say it to yourself several times without moving your lips . you could also repeat the name in a way that sounds natural.
Ask the other person to recite and repeat . You can let other people help you remember their names. After you've been introduced to someone , ask that person to spell the name and pronounce it correctly for you . Most people will be glad by the effort that you're making to learn their names.
Admit that you don't know .You may tell them that you can't remember someone's name . Most of them will feel glad if you say, "I'm working to remember your names better . Yours is right on the tip of my tongue . What is it again?"
Use associations . Link each person yon meet with one thing you find interesting or unusual.
For example, you can remember in this way : "Vicki Cheng ----tall, black hair." To remember their names , you can write them on a small card as soon as possible.
Limit the number of new names you learn at one time. When meeting a group of people, you'd better remember just two or three names. Free yourself from remembering every one. Few of the people expect you to remember their names. Another way is to limit yourself to learning just first names. Last names can come later.
Go early . Consider going early to meetings , parties and classes . Sometimes just a few people show up on time . There're fewer names for you to remember. And as more people arrive , you can hear them being introduced to others . | high8593.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "translation"
},
"options": [
"diversity in global cultures",
"the theme song in the movie \"Red Sorghum\"",
"130 people attending the reception, Per Westerberg included",
"translation"
],
"question": "What, in M... | STOCKHOLM - Mo Yan, the 2012 Nobel Prize winner for literature, said on Friday that diversity in global cultures makes human beings' cultural life interesting.
Mo told a reception in the Chinese Embassy in Stockholm that it was a responsibility to protect the diversity in cultures while creating the diversity as well.
He said that translation played a very important role in bridging different cultures, adding that without the translators who had translated his books he couldn't have won the Nobel Prize.
"I think translation is much harder than writing itself," said Mo Yan, explaining that it only took 43 days to write the work Life and Death Are Wearing Me Out, while it took Swedish sinologist Anna Gustafsson Chen six years to translate the work.
Earlier in the day he visited a Swedish middle school, where about 20 Swedish students who were studying Chinese welcomed him by singing the theme song in the movie "Red Sorghum" which was based on his novel of the same name.
"Unlike the rough and husky voice in the movie, the Swedish students presented the song with a gentle and soft voice, making it rather a romantic song," Mo told the gathering at the Chinese Embassy.
He said he hoped that there were going to be some outstanding translators among the students, adding that meeting them made him "extraordinarily happy."
He said language was going to be "the most reliable way" for interaction between peoples because one had to know the language of a nation to understand the people's inner world and spiritual life.
Lan Lijun, Chinese Ambassador to Sweden, said that Chinese literature had stepped into the spotlight worldwide after Mo Yan had won the Nobel Prize, which would help contribute to the literature communication and dialogue between China and the rest of the world.
People in Sweden and other parts of the world were all welcome to know more about Chinese culture, he added.
There were about 130 people attending the reception, including Per Westerberg, speaker of the Swedish Parliament. | high23655.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "often imagined what college would be like"
},
"options": [
"considered going to college scary",
"didn't study hard to prepare for college",
"often asked college students about college",
"often imagined what college woul... | As a child, I always thought about what the college admissions process would look like for me. I dreamed of the day when I'd get my first acceptance letter, and go on to learn as much as I could about many things as possible.
However, as I got older, my fears of going to college _ . I'm a senior now, and the college admissions process isn't exactly what I dreamt of when I was 7 years old. There are deadlines to meet, majors to choose, and how am I going to pay for all of this ? My mind plays tricks on me, convincing that my roommate will hate me and that my classes will be horribly boring and that each day will begin at five in the morning. To be honest, while I have many reasons to be excited for the next journey in my educational pursuits, I'm also scared to death.
I've invested hours upon hours studying for AP tests, SATs and ACTs. My peers and I sacrificed our Friday night football games, school dances and field trips to do better in studies in school. But is it all worth it ? What if the promise of college ends up being disappointing rather than a relief ?
In a year from now, my whole life will change. I'll be a legal adult. My dorm might be in Paris, Los Angeles or Chicago. I'll be doing my own laundry, cooking my own food and paying for things on my own. I'll meet entirely new people and say goodbye to others. But isn't that also the joy of life ? I want to experience joy, heartbreak, first times and new adventures.
College freaks me out, but you know what scares me more ? I must leave my life inside a comfort zone. It's a big, bright and beautiful world, and I think it's finally time for me to walk in it with the confidence at this time, I'll be doing it right. | high13796.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "accepted"
},
"options": [
"avoided",
"criticized",
"accepted",
"encouraged"
],
"question": "The author believes that the loss of innocence in adulthood should be _ .",
"question_type": "cloze_questions"
... | The Loss of Innocence
Innocence is such a precious gift. It's explained as freedom from guilt or wrong doing. Just imagine never having to worry about anything and having a guilt-free mind. Some people wish to save this kind of innocence from being lost from childhood to adulthood.
What would the world be like if innocence were never lost? One way it would benefit humanity is the lack of hatred among the world. During youth, there may be an occasional argument, even a little physical fight, but nothing like firing a handgun at a fellow human being. And children are blind towards the racial differences of others. A kid will hang out with any other kid. It is the lack of innocence and the ignorance we learn from adults that influence children otherwise. Another benefit is the constant desire for fun and adventure. With very little if any time at all for fun, the adventurous mind is lost in time with the responsibilities placed upon adults. If innocence were kept alive, these ambitions would never depart from our lives.
However, other people actually hate the idea of innocence lasting for ever. They feel that the lack of organization and mental power of those with innocence would cause extremely destructive consequences to society in general. A large number of individuals would never have the urge to learn, work, and act upon the necessary needs for humanity to survive. Without a proper education which is usually provided by those who no longer live in a world of innocence, people would not have the desire to succeed, get a good job in life, or provide income for their families, which would hurt the lives of children.
The lack of a good education and career would also harm the economy. As long as innocence is kept alive, no one would be terribly angry at the lack of effort people put out in the workplace, resulting in a strong decline in production and quality of needed goods.
Maybe it is wrong in wanting to save innocence. It sure is a nice thought, though. Perhaps innocence was meant to be lost. It was god's will to make things the way they are, and there is a good purpose for everything. All that remains to be said about innocence is to enjoy it while it lasts. | high745.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "All of the above."
},
"options": [
"Because of psychological and physical sickness.",
"Because they feel hopeless and confused about their future.",
"Because of the emotional trouble.",
"All of the above."
],
"q... | In late March,Southwest University became the first school in China to open a 24-hour hotline providing suicide-prevention counseling.
College suicide is a heart-breaking and argumentative topic.Chinese college students have long been the focus of public attention:their youth,education and,most importantly, bright futures make them the envy of society.
However, in recent years,we've read more reports of student suicides.Perhaps that's simply because of society's attention with youth.But it could also signify the increasing troubled mental state of college students.
Many studies have sought to find out the causes of student suicides.Not surprisingly, the top factors usually include psychological and physical sickness,emotional trouble and peer pressure. Despair about their futures is also quickly becoming a leading factor:Many students say they feel hopeless and confused about the direction of their careers in a crowded job market.
Thankfully, more and more universities and colleges are providing counseling services to address students'mental and psychological problems.These at least offer some comfort to students facing tough job prospects and personal difficulties.
From appointing in-house student counselors to setting up hotlines and recruiting students to help their troubled peers.many universities are making efforts to fight student depression.There is no denying that much remains to be done,but such efforts are already working,helping students and saving lives.
However, the most important front in this battle lies with the students themselves.Whatever efforts school officials make,it is up to students to realize their problems and ask help.Unfortunately, many students considering suicide refuse to seek help.By shutting themselves away, they can easily fall into vicious cycles ,becoming ever more vulnerable to.personal difficulties and the pressures of the outside world.
While establishing better on-campus psychological education and outreach programs are a step forward,students themselves must actively reach out for help.These dangers are a reality for every student not only those who feel confused and depressed. | high16836.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "slightly improved new products are worth buying"
},
"options": [
"it is important to improve goods and services",
"development of technology makes our life more comfortable",
"it is reasonable that prices are going up all the... | As goods and services improved, people were persuaded to spend their money on changing from old to new, and found the change worth the expense.
When an airline equipped itself with jets, for example, its costs (and therefore air fare) would go up, but the new planes meant such an improvement that the higher cost was justified. A new car (or wireless, washing machine, electric kettle) made life so much more comfortable than the old one that the high cost of replacement was fully repaid.
Manufacturers still cry their goods as persuasively as ever, but are the improvements really worth paying for? In many fields, things have now reached such a high standard of performance that further progress is very limited and very, very expensive. Airlines, for example, go to enormous expense in buying the latest jets , in which vast research costs have been spent on ly small improvements. If we abandon these vast costs we might lose the chance of cutting minutes away from flying times; but wouldn't it be better to see airfares drop dramatically, as capital costs become ly insignificant? Again, in the context of a 70 m. p. h. Limit, with lines of cars traveling so close as to control each other's speeds, improvements in performance are actually irrelevant; improvements in handling are unnecessary, as most production cars grip the road perfectly, and comfort has now reached a very high level. Small improvements here are unlikely to be worth the thousands that anybody replacing an ordinary family car every two years may have spent on them. Let us instead have cars -- or wireless, electric kettles, washing machines, television sets -- which are made to last, and not to be replaced. Significant progress is obviously a good thing, but the insignificant progression from model-change to model-change is not. | high21042.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "Pay taxes."
},
"options": [
"Apply for a gun permit.",
"Apply for a new passport.",
"Apply for a loan.",
"Pay taxes."
],
"question": "When the government's shut down, what can the Americans do?",
"question_t... | 7 ways a government shutdown will affect your daily life
(CNN) -- Democrats and Republicans were unable to resolve their differences over Obamacare and now the government is shut down. The two previous shutdowns -- 1995 and early 1996 -- cost the country $1.4 billion. But what will the shutdown mean for you? Here are 7 ways the government shutdown will affect you.
7. Vacation all I ever wanted: Need to get away? Well, you can't. At least not to national parks. Or to national zoos. Or to national museums. They'll be closed. Were you thinking more along the lines of a trip to France? If you don't already have a passport, you might not get your blue book in time. The last time the government shut down, 200,000 applications for passports went unprocessed.
6. If you drive a car, I'll tax the street: You may be thinking, "No functioning government, no need to pay taxes." Think again. The Man would continue to collect taxes. U.S. bonds would still be issued. And other essential banking functions will go on.
5. Wait a minute, Mr. Postman: You know that whole "Neither snow, nor rain, nor heat, nor gloom of night" thing? Apparently, the U.S. Postal Service works through shutdowns as well. Sorry, you won't catch a break from the junk mail.
4. I want a new drug: Oh, the irony . Republicans still want to _ delay or otherwise withdraw gradually at Obamacare in exchange for funding the government. But the health care act at the center of this storm would continue its process during a shutdown. That is because its funds aren't dependent on the congressional budget process.
3. Pass the ammunition : Not so fast. A shutdown would affect the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Translation: That gun permit you wanted processed won't happen anytime soon if this goes on for a while.
2. Money (that's what I want): Well, if you owned a small business and needed a loan from the government, you would have to wait, depending on how long this lasts. If you were planning to buy a house and needed a federal loan, you would have to wait.
1. I'm proud to be an American: Perhaps the biggest hit would be to the collective psyche . America is the largest economy in the world and a beacon for how democracy ought to work. A recent CNN Research Corporation found that 51% would blame Republicans for the shutdown. The United States has operated without a budget since 2009 and has avoided a government shutdown with last-minute deals. Not only did the government run out of money on Tuesday, but the nation is set to hit its borrowing limit and potentially default on its debt in mid-October. Together, they serve as a double whammy . | high5909.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "Express thanks orally."
},
"options": [
"Focus on good things.",
"Prefer to feel good.",
"Express thanks orally.",
"Take many things for granted."
],
"question": "What do we usually do automatically according to... | Throughout our childhood our parents taught us to say "thank you" and it has become a habit -- something we say automatically , along with "please". And because of this we have forgotten just how important gratitude is and how essential it is in leading fulfilled lives.
Just for a minute, think of all the things you are grateful for, such as loving friends, good health, great holidays as well as everyday items such as a comfortable home, TV, and clean water. The list, in fact, could go on and on.
Now focus on events that have made you angry -- it's raining, the car won't start, and a colleague makes you annoyed. You start to feel unhappy, and that is something that certainly does not make you feel good!
In fact, we have the ability to choose how we feel -- it's just our perception of how things are. But for most of us, it just doesn't seem easy.
Let me give you an example: it's a rainy day, and immediately most people will start to complain, telling everyone who will listen what a miserable day it is, with the result that they end up feeling miserable themselves. But look at it another way and despite wet clothes and hair, both will dry perfectly well and no lasting harm has been done. And in addition to this, because of rain, we not only live in a green and beautiful landscape, we are also able to grow a lot of fruit and vegetables.
There really is no obvious reason for feeling miserable -- in fact there is a great deal to be grateful for. It all depends on what we think about things.
Realize what a difference having gratitude can make to your life. That's why gratitude is so special -- use it to feel good! | high16188.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "physical temperature affects our behavior and judgement"
},
"options": [
"physical temperature affects our behavior and judgement",
"those holding the hot pads preferred to reward themselves",
"the studies were based on the e... | An old English saying goes: Cold hands, warm heart, It is generally used to describe how a cool outlook often disguises a kind heart. However, Yale University researchers seem to disapprove of the old saying. They found how physically warm you are has a direct relation to ho how nice you are to people .
To test the theory the scientists carried out two studies involving a total of 94undergrauates.For the first they gave half the unwitting participants a glass of hot or cold coffee and then asked what they thought of a stranger after a brief meeting They found that holding a hot cup of coffee led people to judge the stranger to be a "warmer "person, in terms of generosity and kindness, compared to a group of people who held a cup of iced coffee.
In the second study the researchers had people , who thought they were evaluating a product, hold either hot pads or cold pads. Then they give the participants a choice of reward for reward for participating in the study: either a gift for a friend, or a reward for themselves. They study found that people who held the hot pad were more likely to choose the gift for a friend, and people who help the cold pads were more likely to choose the reward for themselves.
"It appears that the effect of physical temperature is not just on how we see others, it affects our own behavior as well," said Professor John Bargh, a psychologist who carried out the study. "Physical warmth can make us see others as warmer people, but also causes us to be warmer -more generous and trusting -as well."
The researchers believe the effect relates to childhood when emotional warmth given by a parent was often accompanied by the physical warmth of being held or hugged. | high21724.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "They often drink a lot and always get drunk at work."
},
"options": [
"They often deal with their work in a disorganized way.",
"They can't balance their work with family life well.",
"They often drink a lot and always get dr... | There's a big distinction between working hard and being a workaholic.
Working hard involves being organized, focused, getting a lot of work done, knowing when to stop, and having a life other than work. Workaholics, on the other hand, are often disorganized, always find reasons for working more, feel lost without work to do, hide from problems through work, don't know how or when to relax, bring work home from the office, can't communicate well with fellow workers and family members, and have unbalanced, one-dimensional lives.
Workaholics, like those who are constantly drunk, suffer from a controlling habit, usually defined as compelling behavior despite negative consequences. They are sometimes pushed into their habit by their work beliefs, by workaholic role models, and by a work system that automatically sanctions workaholism. Despite lip service to the contrary ("a balanced employee is a productive employee"), most employers want loyal employees who work longer hours, rewarding them with higher pay and better benefits. _ Certainly, they hazard their jobs by working normal hours. Americans tend to become trapped in a materialist work-and-spend cycle, that leads them to ratchet up their expectations.
According to some psychology counselors, workaholism can be both good and bad for us. It can fuel a sense of self-worth and accomplishment. And we get paid for it and praised for it, which produces good feelings we may not necessarily be able to attain in other parts of our lives. As a matter of fact, workaholism is a problem that has been evident since the Stone Age whenever people have sought to escape other parts of their lives through work. And psychology counselors have noticed three types of workaholics who generally share the same features. | high23133.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "a leader of the Britain Navy"
},
"options": [
"headmaster of Harrow School",
"a leader of the Britain Navy",
"a leader of the Conservative Party",
"Prime Minister of Britain"
],
"question": "Before World War I, ... | Churchill's full name was Winston Leonard Spencer Churchill. He was born in 1874. He was educated at Harrow School and the Royal Military College, Sandhurst.
In 1900 Churchill was elected a member of parliament .As First Lord of the Admiralty , in 1911, he was responsible for strengthening the British navy.
During World War I, he still remained a member of parliament, but he resigned from his post in the British navy, and became a soldier again, fighting in France. In 1917, however, he became Minister of Munitions . In this job, he encouraged the development and use of the tank, which was then a new weapon. After the war, Churchill held several government posts.
From 1931 to 1939, he was only a member of parliament. He had fallen into dislike because of his militant (war-loving) attitude. Even his closest friends discouraged him from seeking higher office. But when World War II started in 1939. Churchill returned to his former job as First Lord of the Admiralty.
In May 1940, he became Prime Minister. Throughout the war, Churchill showed great strength and energy. He worked for long periods with little sleep and traveled many thousands of miles. By the courage and determination expressed in his speeches, he inspired the people of Britain to keep on fighting. His speeches also gave hope to people in parts of Europe occupied by enemy forces.
In the general election at the end of the war, the Conservative Party, of which he was leader, was defeated. But he became Prime Minister again in 1951. He resigned as Prime Minister in 1955. However, he remained a member of parliament until 1964. Some time later, in 1965, he died. | high15481.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "explorer"
},
"options": [
"explorer",
"inventor",
"doctor",
"writer"
],
"question": "We can infer that Humboldt was probably a (n) _ .",
"question_type": "summarization_questions"
},
{
"answer": {... | Alexander von Humboldt was born in 1769 in Berlin, Germany. As a young boy, he wanted to learn about the world. Humboldt followed his dream. In 1799, he traveled with a friend to Central and South America.
On their trip, Humboldt and his friend saw and did many things. They sailed down the Amazon River. They watched dolphins play in the ocean. They explored the rain forest and climbed mountains and volcanoes. They were able to make the first maps of the northern part of South America.
Humboldt set a world record for mountain climbing. He also made a discovery. During his climb, Humboldt became very sick. He found out that the higher he climbed, the less oxygen there was in the air. This made it more difficult to breathe. Later, this became known as mountain sickness.
Science was another part of Humboldt's interests. He wanted to write about all of the new things he saw. He described the new plants, animals, and rocks which had never been seen by scientists before.
Humboldt also studied the way of life of the local people. He learned how the native people along the Amazon River used plants in their daily lives. For example, they used a strong poison from a vine to make poisoned arrows. The natives used these arrows for hunting their food.
The Amazon Indians also used a native plant to treat malaria , a serious illness. The plant grew wild, but after it was dug up, it was never replanted. Humboldt warned the natives that the plant was in danger of dying out. He looked for ways to preserve the plant and to make it grow strong.
Although Humboldt took many risks during his trip, he lived to be 90 years old. In his lifetime, he made many discoveries and shared them with the world. As a tribute to Humboldt, there are rivers and mountains named after him. | high14947.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "she has been working to be a pop star for over ten years"
},
"options": [
"she often performs on the shows all around the world",
"she has released a lot of albums since she was ten",
"she has been working to be a pop star fo... | Singer-songwriter Tori Kelly is close to a huge breakthrough. Her recent performances on the BET Awards shows have created a sensation in pop music. You couldn't call Kelly an overnight success. Sure she's only 22.
The Southern Californian girl first appeared in public on the talent show "Star Search" when she was only 10. But her real appearance came from posting videos on YouTube. Eventually Kelly made her way to "American Idol", and advanced through to Hollywood. But she did not make the Top 24. That loss encouraged her to write more of her own material, which eventually became part of her first album "Handmade Songs by Tori Kelly".
"Even just releasing music in general is an achievement. I get to put out a whole album of songs that I just put my whole heart into, and people are responding really well to it," she said. "It's like the best feeling in the world because these are songs about my life. So it's really cool to be able to do what I love."
"Handmade Songs" sold well enough to reach the top 10 in a number of music charts .She followed that success with live performances at clubs in Los Angeles. Recently, Kelly excited audiences at the Billboard Music Awards with her performance of her song "Nobody Love".
The singer-songwriter says that being within reach of her goal is amazing. "I think all the awards shows I have done so far have just been so _ l," she said. "Like, I always dreamed of being on different awards shows, sitting at home on my sofa and watching. I think as a kid I just always put myself on that stage, and the fact that it's actually happening, that I get to be a part of these shows is unbelievable."
Kelly released her full-length album "Unbreakable Smile" in June, 2015. Her single "Should've been us" is also rising on the Billboard Hot 100. | high12305.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "an educational book"
},
"options": [
"an educational book",
"a sport magazine",
"a traveling guide",
"a film website"
],
"question": "This passage is most probably taken from.",
"question_type": null
},
... | New Zealand Education
Compulsory Education
Compulsory education starts at age 5 and ends at age 16.
Class Size
The number of students in a class is 30 students.
Classrooms
Students from Years 5-8 stay in the same classroom for most subjects and move to other classrooms only for specific subjects. In Year 9, students take some courses With their homeroom class and some _ classes with students from different classes. Starting from Year 10, students no longer stay in the same classroom most of the time. They go to different classes according to their own choices and abilities.
Term Dates
A school year starts in January and ends in December. There are four terms in a year. Each term is about 10 weeks.
Class Schedule
School starts at around 8:30 and ends at 15:15. There are only five periods a day and a period is about an hour long. In the morning, around 10:30, there will be a 20-minute break when students usually have some snacks during this time. There is a lunch period at around 12:40 for about an hour.
Teachers
Teachers have to teach students of different year level at the same time. Most teachers teach students from at least three to four different year levels. Besides, quite a number of teachers teach more than one subject. This is because the fact that many courses are optional. | high14774.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "A, B, or C"
},
"options": [
"air",
"boat",
"swimming",
"A, B, or C"
],
"question": "From the lines we can see that people crossed the Channel by _ in the past.",
"question_type": "cloze_questions"
},
... | To swim across the English Channel takes at least nine hours. It's hard work and it makes you short of breath. To fly over the channel takes only twenty minutes as long as you're not held up at the airport, but it's an expensive way to travel. You can travel by hovercraft if you don't mind the noise and that takes forty minutes. Otherwise, you can go by boat, if you remember your sea-sickness pills. All these means of transport have their problems, and the weary traveler often dreams of being able to drive to France in his own car. "Not possible, you say. Well, wait a minute. People are once again considering the idea of a channel tunnel or bridge." This time, the great London Council is looking into the possibility of building a channel link straight to London. A bridge would cost far more than a tunnel, but you would be able to make a journey by rail or by car on a bridge, yet a tunnel would provide a rail link only. Why is this idea being discussed again? Is Britain realizing the need for links with Europe as a result of joining EEC?Well, perhaps, the main reason, though, is that a tunnel or bridge would reach the twenty square kilometers of London's discussed dockland . A link from London to the continent would stimulate trade and revitalize the port, and would make London a main trading center in Europe. With a link over the Channel, you could buy your fish and chips in England and be able to eat them in France while they are still warm! | high9100.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "Plants Recognize Their Siblings"
},
"options": [
"A Great Biology Researcher",
"Plants Recognize Their Siblings",
"Plants' Roots and Secretions",
"A Research on Plants"
],
"question": "Which of the following wou... | Plants may not have eyes and ears,but they can recognize their siblings ,and researchers at the University of Delaware have discovered how.The ID system lies in the roots and the chemical signals they secrete .
Canadian researchers published that sea rocket,a common seashore plant,can recognize its siblings.Susan Dudley observed that when siblings are grown next to each other in the soil,they "play nice" and don't send out more roots to compete.However,the moment one of the plants is thrown in with strangers,it begins competing with them by rapidly growing more roots to take up the water and mineral nutrients in the soil.
After reading Dudley's study,Bais decided to find the method behind the sibling recognition.Working in his laboratory,Bais and his doctoral student Meredith Biedrzycki set up a study with wild populations of Arabidopsis thaliana.In a series of experiments,young seedlings were exposed to liquid media containing the root secretions from siblings,from strangers,or only their own secretions.The length of the longest lateral root was measured.The exposure of plants to the root secretions of strangers induced greater lateral root formation than exposure of plants to sibling secretions.Strangers planted next to each other are often shorter,because so much of their energy is directed at root growth.Because siblings aren't competing against each other,their roots are often much shallower .
Biedrzycki did the _ laboratory research,observing more than 3,000 plants involved in the study every day for seven continuous days and documenting the root patterns."Arabidopsis roots are nearly translucent when they are young and were also twisted when I removed them from plates,"Biedrzycki notes."This manuscript is very important for my research since the focus of my thesis project is understanding the biochemical ways behind root secretions."
The research also may have implications for the home gardener."Often we'll put plants in the ground next to each other and when they don't do well,we blame the local garden center where we bought them or we attribute their failure to a germ,"Bais says."But maybe there's more to it than that." | high6233.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "parents"
},
"options": [
"parents",
"libraries",
"the Internet",
"educational companies"
],
"question": "Teaching materials for home schooling do NOT come from _ .",
"question_type": "cloze_questions"
}... | More than one million children in the United States do not go to school. Instead, they learn at home. Most often, their parents are their teachers. Educational companies, libraries and the Internet provide many families with teaching materials.
Parents choose home schooling for several reasons. Some choose it because of their religious beliefs. Others say it provides more time for the family to be together. They say the home offers a better place for learning. Some parents believe home schooling avoids learning. Some parents believe home schooling avoids problems of _ schools. Critics, however, say children need to attend school with other children.
All fifty American states and the District of Columbia permit home schooling. Some states do not require much preparation by parents or testing of children. Other states have more requirements for home schooling. Home schooling in the United States began when the country was established. In farm areas, people often lived far from a school. Widespread home schooling took place until about the middle of the nineteenth century. Then, in 1852, the state of Massachusetts passed the first law requiring children to attend school.
Over the years, the American public education system strengthened and grew. By the 1960s and 1970s, however, some Americans believed that traditional education was not helping their children. So a number of parents began home schooling.
Home schooling expert Linda Dobson says many people have helped the movement grow. She says many kinds of people have joined the movement. These include rich people and poor people. They represent many races, religions and political beliefs. Ms. Dobson says the number of home-schooled children has increased an estimated fifteen to twenty percent each year during the last fifteen years. | high10512.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "Ollie Gray"
},
"options": [
"Jack Berry",
"Ollie Gray",
"Evan Tucker",
"Harrison Paparatto"
],
"question": "Who first had the idea to organize the Garbage-Men band?",
"question_type": "factiod_questions"
}... | Five teens from Sarasota, Florida, are making music from garbage. The Garbage-Men band's instruments are made from recycled objects. The guitars are boxes. A horn is made from pipes. The keyboard is formed from old bottles.
The band started about two years ago. Jack Berry decided to make a playable, homemade guitar. After some trial-and-error, he ended up building it from a cereal box, a yardstick and toothpicks. After Jack showed his creation to his friend Ollie Gray, Ollie had the idea to form a band using other homemade instruments as a way to promote recycling. "We want to show people there is more to recycling than throwing things away in the bin ," Jack, 16, said, "You can actually reuse materials."
Ollie, 15, plays drums made from trash cans. Evan Tucker, 15 (bass guitar); Harrison Paparatto, 15 (horns and violin); and Austin Siegel, 15, (keyboard), round out the band.
The Garbage-Men plays at local events around Sarasota, including festivals, farmer's markets and community fundraisers. Typically, the teens will set up on the street and perform popular songs from the 1960s, including classic Beatles tunes and people's favorite "Wipe Out," by The Surfaris. In between sets, they talk about recycling the offer tips for how to help the environment. while they perform, Jack's little brother Trent, 11, gives out flyers about recycling and helps sell the band's CD and other merchandise.
The band donates the money from sales to charity. They have raised more than $2,500 for Heifer International. The organization gives farm animals, seeds and agricultural training to people in poor countries to help end poverty and hunger.
The band--all tenth graders--tries to play a gig for America's Got Talent. The teens hope to eventually take their show on the road by touring in other states. "Music is a really good way to get a good message across to people because it's really accessible," Jack says. Their instruments may be garbage, but their message isn't. | high21917.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "a laundry assistant"
},
"options": [
"a tutor",
"a music teacher",
"a laundry assistant",
"an artist"
],
"question": "To support the family, Delia worked as_.",
"question_type": "cloze_questions"
},
{
... | Joe came to New York from the Middle West, dreaming about painting. Delia came to New York from the South, dreaming about music. Joe and Delia met in a studio. Before long they were good friends and got married.
They had only a small flat to live in, but they were happy. They loved each other, and they were both interested in art. Everything was fine until one day they found they had spent all their money.
Delia decided to give music lessons. One afternoon she said to her husband:
"Joe, , I've found a pupil, a general's daughter. She is a sweet girl. I'm to give three lessons a week and get $5 a lesson."
But Joe was not glad.
"But how about me?" he said." Do you think I'm going to watch you work while I play with my art? No, I want to earn some money too."
"Joe, , you are silly," said Delia. "You must keep at your studies. We can live quite happily on $15 a week."
"Well, perhaps I can sell some of my pictures," said Joe.
Every day they parted in the morning and met in the evening. A week passed and Delia brought home fifteen dollars, but she looked a little tired.
"Clementina sometimes gets on my nerves. I'm afraid she doesn't practice enough. But the general is the nicest old man! I wish you could know him, Joe."
And then Joe took eighteen dollars out of his pocket.
"I've sold one of my pictures to a man from Peoria," he said, "and he has ordered another."
"I'm so glad," said Delia. "Thirty-three dollars! We never had so much to spend before. We'll have a good supper tonight."
Next week Joe came home and put another eighteen dollars on the table. In half an hour Delia came, her right hand in a bandage.
"What's the matter with your hand?" said Joe. Delia laughed and said:
"Oh, a funny thing happened! Clemantina gave me a plate of soup and spilled some of it on my hand. She was very sorry for it. And so was the old general. But why are you looking at me like that, Joe?"
"What time this afternoon did you burn your hand, Delia?"
"Five o'clock, I think. The iron-I mean the soup-was ready about five, Why?"
"Delia, come and sit here," said Joe. He drew her to the couch and sat beside her.
"What do you do every day, Delia? Do you really give music lesson? Tell me the truth."
She began to cry.
"I couldn't get any pupils," she said, "So I got a place in a laundry ironing shirts. This afternoon a girl accidentally set down an iron on my hand and I got a bad burn. But tell me, Joe, how did you guess that I wasn't giving music lessons?"
"It's very simple," said Joe. "I knew all about your bandages because I had to send them upstairs to a girl in the laundry who had an accident with a hot iron. You see, I work in the engine-room of the same laundry where you work."
"And your pictures? Did you sell any to that man from Peoria?"
"Well, _
And then they both laughed. | high2055.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "parents"
},
"options": [
"students",
"general readers",
"parents",
"oversea travelers"
],
"question": "The passage is mainly written for _ .",
"question_type": "cloze_questions"
},
{
"answer": {
... | Bring the Family?
Port Regis School is well situated for exploring the beautiful South and West of England Wales. Sibford School is located in Oxfordshire with easy access to London, Oxford and Stratfordupon-Avon. Each school has excellent hotels and guest houses nearby for parents who are dropping off or collecting children from school.
Please note:
*All students attending English Country Schools must live residentially on site.
*We do not recommend that parents live locally while their child is in school:experience suggests that this often upsets the child and disrupts progress.
Howard's House Country Hotel & Restaurant
About 15 minutes from Port Regis School, Howard's House is set in large gardens hidden away in the quietness of the lovely Nadder valley.
Plumber Manor
Plumber Manor is a comfortable Jacobean manor house built of local stone, situated about 20 minutes from Port Regis School. The 17th-century house is surrounded by lawns and is set in the tranquil Dorset countryside.
Woodville Farm Bed & Breakfast+Self-catering
Woodville Farm is family-run arable & livestock farm set in the Dorset countryside about 5 minutes from Port Regis School. Bed and Breakfast accommodation:one double bedroom & one twin bedroom both with bathrooms, tea & coffee making facilities, color1 television & hairdryer. There is also a self-catering 2-bedroom house nearby.
Stock Hill Country House Hotel and Restaurant
Stock Hill Country House Hotel and Restaurant is a late
Victorian mansion set in eleven acres of mature and beautiful wooden grounds on the borders of Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire. About 10 minutes from Port Regis School. | high19250.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "making watches."
},
"options": [
"making watches.",
"selling watches.",
"inventing watches.",
"the carriage watch"
],
"question": "Switzerland is famous for _ .",
"question_type": "cloze_questions"
},
... | Switzerland is famous for its watches. However, this country didn't invent the watch. It was the British who did it. Here is a story of how the watch was brought to Switzerland.
Many years ago, an Englishman was traveling to Italy, on his way he stopped in a small town in south Switzerland. This Englishman traveled in a carriage inside which there was a carriage watch. This was the earliest kind of watch. A native shop assistant happened to see the watch. He wondered what it was and asked the Englishman about it, "it is a carriage watch," said the man. "This machine tells the time but now it isn't working."
At once the shop assistant offered to try to repair it. So the traveler handed him the watch. The assistant was a very wise man. So it was not very surprising that he managed to repair it. He even remembered how it was made. As soon as the traveler had gone on his journey, he made a watch exactly the same type.
Thus the watch-making was started in Switzerland. Today Swiss watches are sold in stores all over the world. | high16163.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "to attract tourists to Paris"
},
"options": [
"to tell tourists the route to Paris",
"to show the price of traveling to Paris",
"to introduce the city of Paris",
"to attract tourists to Paris"
],
"question": "Th... | Springtime in Paris
Departures: May 5, 12, 19 and June 9
4 days for $129 per person
Paris in the Springtime was, is and always will be, something rather special. Why not experience it for yourself with this excellent break for four days? This attractive city has something to offer everyone and with prices at just $129. It's great value too.
Your break begins with executive coach transfer from regional pickup points and travel to Paris is via crosschannel ferry , arriving at your hotel in the evening. The Ibis is an excellent quality hotel with private facilities in all rooms: satellite TV, radio, telephone and alarm clock. It has a bar and a restaurant and is situated about two miles south of Notre Dame enabling you to explore Paris with ease.
The following day, after continental breakfast (included), the coach takes you on a comprehensive sightseeing tour of the city, during which you will see the Eiffel Tower, Champs Elysees, L'Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, in fact almost every famous landmark you will ever have heard of. You then leave Paris and take a short drive to the magnificent Palace of Versailles, the home of Louis XIV. The tour ends midafternoon back in Paris where you will have the remainder of the day at your leisure. In the evening there is a 'Paris By Night' tour showing you the beautiful buildings with bright lights.
Day three takes you to Montmartre, perhaps the most picturesque quarter of Paris and home of the Sacre Coeur and the Moulin Rouge. In the afternoon you are free to explore this beautiful city as you wish, perhaps a pleasure voyage on the River Seine, wander around the picturesque gardens or look through among the antique shops . In the evening you will have the opportunity to visit the best nightclub in the city, the splendid Patin. On the final day it's back to the UK via channel ferry.
Included in the price of $129 per person:
* Return executive coach travel to Paris;
* Return ferry crossings;
* Three nights accommodation in a twin bedded room in a Central Paris hotel with private facilities;
* Continental breakfast during your stay;
* Guided sightseeing tour of "Paris By Day" and "Paris By Night";
* Visit to Chateau of Versailles (admission not included);
* Tour on Montmartre;
* Services of an experienced bilingual tour guide at all times. | high4342.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "are not useful for making a living"
},
"options": [
"are not useful for making a living",
"are not challenging enough for students",
"don't meet the expectation of parents",
"don't fit in classroom teaching"
],
... | Our education system was invented. There were no public systems of education before the 19th century. They all came into being to meet the needs of industrialism. So the most useful subjects for work are at the top and you were probably driven away from what you did as a kid at school--things you liked--because you would never get a job doing that. Is that right? Don't do music. You're not going to be a musician. Don't do art. You're not going to be an artist. In addition, the whole system of public education around the world is a process of university entrance. And the consequence is that many highly talented, brilliant, creative people think they're not because the thing they were good at wasn't valued at school.
I think we can't afford to go on that way. In the next 30 years, more people worldwide will be graduating through education than since the beginning of the history. Suddenly, degrees aren't worth anything. When I was a student, if you had a degree, you had a job. But now you need a Master's degree where the previous job required a Bachelor, and now you need a Ph.D. for the other. It's a process of academic inflation , and it indicates the whole structure of education needs changing.
All the great teachers I've ever met and worked with are people who can inspire interest and curiosity and light up people's imaginations with the interests they themselves have for a particular field of work. I mean, teaching is not only a process of giving people direct instructions and information they have to memorize, it is much more than that.
I believe our only hope for the future is to rethink the fundamental principles on which we are educating our children. And our task is to educate their whole being so they can face the future. By the way, we may not see this future, but they will. And our job is to help them make something of it. | high19536.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "is reliable within one or two days"
},
"options": [
"is reliable within one or two days",
"is doubtful beyond 24 hours",
"becomes useless beyond two or three days",
"is still worthwhile in seven days"
],
"questi... | Beyond two or three days, the world's best weather forecasts are doubtful, and beyond six or seven they are worthless.
The Butterfly Effect is the reason. For small pieces of weather--to a global forecaster, small can mean thunderstorms and blizzards --any prediction becomes worse rapidly. Errors and uncertainties increase, from dust devils and storms up to continent-size eddies that only satellites can see.
The modern weather models work with net-like points sixty miles apart, and even so, some starting data have to be guessed, since ground stations and satellites cannot see everywhere. But suppose the earth could be covered with sensors placed one foot apart, rising at one-foot intervals all the way to the top of the atmosphere. Suppose every sensor gives perfectly accurate readings of temperature, pressure, humidity , and any other data a weatherman would want. Exactly at noon a powerful computer takes all the data and calculates what will happen at each point at 12.01, then 12.02, then 12.03... the computer will still be unable to predict whether Princeton will have sun or rain one month away. At noon the spaces between the sensors will hide fluctuations that the computer will not know about. By 12.01, those fluctuations will already have created small errors one foot away. Soon the errors will have added to the ten-foot scale, and so on up to the size of the globe. | high16605.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "she didn't put first thing first"
},
"options": [
"she didn't put first thing first",
"she was too busy",
"she was easy to get angry",
"she couldn't finish her work on time"
],
"question": "The writer wasn't sat... | "Keep your eyes on the ball." That is good advice when you are on the playing field, and good advice for everyday life. "Keep your mind on what's important," is the way I'd put it. But people are funny. They think too much about the details.
I had a secretary once. She was very hardworking. I ran a school and people used to call up to enroll for courses. Berry used to get angry at the phone. "If they keep on ringing, I'll never get my typing done!" she'd shout.
People just don't see the big picture. One evening, after leaving work, I was sitting next to a man on the train. I was feeling tired. My eyes fell on the paper he had spread out in front of him. You know how you feel to read over someone's shoulder?
I read the page and leaned back. I guessed I was waiting for him to turn it. After a while, I realized--he wasn't turning the page. He just kept on reading.
Now if you knew the page he was reading, you'd know that there weren't many words on the page to read anyway. The layout was mostly pictures. So I turned to the man and said," You know, you really read very slowly."
"What do you mean?" he asked. "Well," I told him, "I read the page in about a minute, and you have taken about ten. And you are still reading. You know," I went on "If you learned to read faster, you could get more reading done." He remained silent for a minute or two. "If I read too fast, my paper wouldn't last me to my station." | high10274.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "A farewell and retirement letter."
},
"options": [
"The attraction of tennis sport.",
"The first Grand Slam winner in China.",
"WTA tournament in China.",
"A farewell and retirement letter."
],
"question": "What... | China's first and only Grand Slam winner Li Na formally announced her retirement on Friday, leaving the Chinese tennis yearning for the next superstar. Following is part of her farewell and retirement letter:
For close to fifteen years, we've been a part of each other's lives. As a tennis player representing China on the global stage, I've trekked around the world playing hundreds of matches on the WTA tour, for China's Fed Cup team, at the National Games and at several Olympic Games. You've always been there for me, supporting me, cheering me on, and encouraging me to reach my potential. Representing China on the tennis court was an extraordinary privilege and a true honor. Having the unique opportunity to effectively bring more attention to the sport of tennis in China and all over Asia is something I will cherish forever. But in sport, just like in life, all great things must come to an end.2014 has become one of the most significant years in my career and my life. This year was full of amazing highlights, which included winning my second Grand Slam singles title at the Australian Open and sharing the extraordinary experience with my country, my team, my husband and my fans. It was also a year filled with difficult moments, such as having to deal with the inevitable - making the decision to end my professional tennis career.
The amazing moment in Australia was filled with joy, happiness and extraordinary sense of accomplishment. It took me several agonizing months to finally come to the decision that my chronic injuries will never again let me be the tennis player that I can be. Most people in the tennis world know that my career has been marked by my troubled right knee. The black brace I wear over it when I step on the court has become my tennis birth mark. After four knee surgeries and hundreds of shots injected into my knee weekly to ease swelling and pain, my body is begging me to stop the pounding. My previous three surgeries were on my right knee. My most recent knee surgery took place this July and was on my left knee. After a few weeks of post-surgery recovery, I tried to go through all the necessary steps to get back on the court. One of my goals was to recover as fast as I could in order to be ready for the first WTA tournament in my hometown of Wuhan. As hard as I tried to get back to being 100%, my body kept telling me that, at 32, I will not be able to compete at the top level ever again. | high18628.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "He learned about the author's sufferings online."
},
"options": [
"He was a writer of an online magazine.",
"He was also a poet at the University of Florida.",
"He offered the author a new house free of charge.",
"He le... | "Do you like doing things for people?" I asked a friend.
"Yes, most of the time," she replied.
"Most of the time?"
"Well, I love to do things that are unexpected. I like to do little things most people wouldn't think about doing," she said.
"But why did you say most of the time?"
"Well, sometimes after doing those little things people take advantage of you. I mean, they expect you to do it again. They ask you to do it. That's when I don't like it."
It was odd that I had this conversation. This just happened to me. I love to do little things. I will pay for a meal card for the people in the office every time we have a meeting there. Not a big thing. It's a little thing. $5.30 will pay for almost five lunches. Hey, big spender!
I also bought a bag of animal crackers for a friend at work. She was having a tough day and not very happy at all. I drove down to the Wal-Mart and picked up a huge bag for under $2.00. Her smile was worth it.
But one week she said, "Bob, we ran out of crackers. We love them so much." I didn't want to do it. I smiled and she persisted. I finally admitted, "It's different when I do it because I want to, but now you are trying to make me go to get them. It's not the same." But I bought it for her.
Unfortunately, a big fire in my family took away all the possessions we had. I didn't know what to do and how to do it. What happened to me then surprised me most. I once had my bike repaired, but the repairman said "no charge" on hearing my sufferings. A stranger called James Kennedy read some pieces I'd written about our sufferings for Slate, the online magazine, and wanted to give us a new house across the lake from New Orleans. I refused but I felt moved. Another poet at the University of Florida also wanted to let his house to me free of charge while he was on holiday. My mates gave us more money for us to rebuild my home. When you do something kind for others, do you always get rewarded? Yes, but not in the way you might expect. | high9666.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "speech draft"
},
"options": [
"self-introduction",
"short story",
"news report",
"speech draft"
],
"question": "The passage can be sorted as a _ .",
"question_type": "cloze_questions"
},
{
"answer"... | Schooling Matters
March 25, 2014 Chengdu Michelle Obama
You see, the truth is that I grew up like many of you. My mom, my dad, my brother and I, we lived in a tiny apartment in Chicago, which is one of the largest cities in America. My father worked at the local water plant...
While we certainly weren't rich, my parents had big dreams for me and my brother. They had only a high school education themselves, but they were determined to send us both to universities.
So they poured all of their love and all of their hope into us, and they worked hard. They saved every penny. And I know that wasn't easy for them, especially for my father. You see, my father had serious illness called multiple sclerosis . And as he got sicker, it got harder for him to walk, and it took him longer to get dressed in the morning.
But no matter how tired he felt, no matter how much pain he was in, my father hardly ever missed a day of work, because he was determined to give me and my brother a better life. And every day, like so many of you, I felt the weight of my parents' sacrifices on my shoulders. Every day, I wanted to make them proud.
So, while most American kids attend public schools near their homes, when it was time for me to attend high school, I took an exam and got into a special public high school where I could get a better education. But the school was very far from my home, so I had to get up early every morning and ride a bus for an hour, sometimes an hour and a half if the weather was bad. And every afternoon, I'd ride that same bus back home and then immediately start my homework, often studying late into the night - and sometimes I would wake up at 4:30 or 5:00 in the morning to study even more.
And it wasn't easy. But whenever I got tired or discouraged, I would just think about how hard my parents were working for me. And I would remember something my mother always told me - she said, "A good education is something that no one can take away from you." | high6555.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "are a generous and warm-hearted couple"
},
"options": [
"don't like spending time with others",
"sometimes quarrel with each other",
"live on the food they grow in their garden",
"are a generous and warm-hearted couple"... | I have a neighbor we call "Happy". I have never seen her angry at anything and never heard her say a harsh word to anyone or about anyone.
Happy and her husband Ben, 70, have a huge garden. They spent many happy hours together working on it. Most of the neighbors watched interestingly as Ben doubled the size of their garden. As the cost of food climbed faster than Ben's beans, we all wished we also had such a large garden. As the rest of us spent our dollars at the market, Happy could be seen picking beans in her back yard.
Last month, Happy and Ben invited most of the neighborhood over for an "all-day food feast". We were told to bring gloves and arrive very early in the morning. We didn't know what was about to take place.
By 9:00 am, there were nine of us in the garden picking tomatoes, beans, okra, and squash. By 10:00 am, there was lots of laughter. We shared a lot of stories. By five o'clock, everyone was a little drunk from the wine and beer. After dinner, we played games. As we were leaving, Happy and Ben handed each of us a shopping bag filled with the bounty of the day, already packaged and frozen. What a delightful gift!
Well, the point wasn't so much about the food. The true gift was a day of friends enjoying one another's company . None of it would have happened if it had been for Happy and Ben's garden. Now they have a blog about gardening in case we decided to plant a garden. And I am so proud of my tomato plants! | high7893.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "He is expert at behavioral science."
},
"options": [
"He is expert at behavioral science.",
"He is gifted in cost-benefit analysis.",
"He seldom takes his wife's advice.",
"He often runs the red traffic light."
],
... | When someone gives you advice, listen without judgment, try to find value in what you're hearing, and say: "Thank you". This wise advice is easy to understand yet hard to practice. I'll give you an example from my life when I totally _ in terms of practicing what I teach.
In my work I travel constantly. I always put off going to the airport until the last second. My wife, Lyda, was sitting next to me in the front seat. I was racing along and not paying much attention. Lyda cried out: "Look out! There is a red light up ahead. "
Being a trained behavioral science professional--who teaches others the value of encouraging advice--I naturally screamed at her: "I know there is a red light up ahead! Don't you think I can see?" When we arrived at the airport, Lyda didn't speak to me. I wondered why she seemed mad at me.
During the flight to prefix = st1 /New York, I did a cost-benefit analysis. I asked myself: "What was the cost of just listening when Lyda called out the warning? Zero." I then reasoned: "What was the potential benefit? What could have been saved?" Several potential benefits came to mind, including her life, my life, and the lives of other people.
I landed in New Yorkfeeling ashamed of myself. I immediately called Lyda and told her my cost-benefit story. I convinced her: "The next time you help me with my driving, I am just going to say, 'Thank you.'"
A few months passed, and I had long forgotten the incident. Again, I was racing off to the airport, when Lyda cried out: "Look out for the red light!" I was embarrassed, and then shouted: "Thank you!"
I'm a long way from perfect, but I'm getting better. My suggestion is that you get in the habit of asking the important people in your life how you can do things better. And be ready for an answer. Some people may tell you things like "Look out for the red light." When this happens, remember that there is possibly some potential benefit. Then just say: "Thank you." | high23866.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "Global warming."
},
"options": [
"The melting of glaciers.",
"Global warming.",
"The world's weather.",
"The earth's temperature."
],
"question": "What is mainly talked about in this passage?",
"question_typ... | Global warming is the process of earth's atmosphere heating up. Over the last 100 years, the average temperature of earth's atmosphere has gone up 1 Fahrenheit. The weather has not changed exactly the same way in every area of the planet. But scientists think that the rise in average temperature is already affecting the earth's climate.
Many scientists now believe that global warming is caused by cutting down trees, producing more trash, and polluting the environment which are some of the reasons why the temperature has gone up. Many scientists believe that the biggest causes of global warming are new human technologies that release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
The greenhouse effect is not new. Certain gases in the atmosphere, like carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide and methane, making it hard for heat energy to go into space. In the past, the climate didn't change much because nature produced just the right amount of greenhouse gases to deal with it.
Today, most scientists are pretty sure that the rising temperature can't be blamed on nature. Ever since the industrial revolution in the 1700s, humans have relied on machines for daily life. And many of those machines give off a lot of greenhouse gases. An increase in the release of greenhouse gases from human activities is throwing nature off balance.
The climate is a very complicated thing, but many scientists agree that the rising atmospheric temperature has already damaged the environment. Sheets of ice, called glaciers, are melting in Antarctica and other parts of the globe. As glaciers break off and melt into the oceans, they are adding warm water to the oceans and causing the sea level to rise.
Over the past 100 years, the sea level has risen 6-8 inches around the world. That means land along the coasts is beginning to disappear under water. Bigger and warmer oceans are also adding to other weather problems caused by pollution in the atmosphere. Some places have received more rain, others have had bigger storms and a few areas in the world have experienced unusual droughts. | high12463.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "Happy 1st Birthday"
},
"options": [
"We Love You",
"Happy 1st Birthday",
"One Year Old",
"Our One-Year-Old Son"
],
"question": "What would be the best title for the first advertisement?",
"question_type": nu... | Here are some advertisements taken from a newspaper.
(1) Dear Drew Carter,
Your first year on this earth has been a pleasure ride for all of us. We love you!
Love,
Dad and Mom and many friends.
(2)Lawlis-Clarke
The Doctors Virgil and Marjorie Lawlis are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter Diane Susan to Mr.Robert Brent Clarke,son of Mr.and Mrs.James Clarke of Herford,Texas.
A spring wedding is planned in Houston.
(3) Isbell-Foss
Mr.and Mrs.Davis K.Isbell announce the marriage of their daughter Dang to Mr.Stanley Foss,son of Mrs.John Sipe of Ada,Minnesota.
The wedding will be early April at Abiding Love Lutheran Church.
(4) Story-Kurio
Miss Stephanie Story and Mr.Warren Kurio were married February 5,at half past seven o'clock in the evening at Highland Park Presbyterian Church in Dallas,Texas.The bride is the daughter of Mr.and Mrs.Herbert Brule Story Jr.of Dallas.The groom is the son of Mr.and Mrs.Gerald Stanley Kurio of Austin. | high976.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "The application of 3-D printing in heart operations"
},
"options": [
"The application of 3-D printing in heart operations",
"The development of 3-D technology.",
"The difficulties of heart operations.",
"Heart operation... | Researchers are now using 3D printing to create models of the human heart to help heart specialists. The heart doctors can use the models to better help patients before an operation.
Dr. Bramlet, a children's heart expert at the University of Illinois College of Medicine, says the 3-D models show information he cannot get any other way.
"And so what we've done with the printed models? We've pulled it out of the screen so that you can actually hold it in your hand and evaluate the anatomy ."
A 3-D printer uses images from a digital display to create a physical model of a human heart. Matthew Bramlet says doctors can use the model to understand the anatomy.
Pictures from medical tests like CAT scan or MRI are sent to a 3-D printer to create a heart in a plaster form. The printer then constructs the heart, thin layer by thin layer. Dr. Bramlet says the model matches the real heart in every detail. "When we're done with the model and made our decision, we want to be able to go back to the source image and confirm those findings," he says.
Dr. Bramlet has built model hearts for different kinds of heart operations. All of the operations were successful. In his first case, digital images showed only one tiny hole in a baby's heart. But, the 3-D printed model showed several defects or problems that the baby was born with. Dr. Bramlet says those defects could not be seen easily in the images. The heart surgeon was able to change the type of surgery for the patient based on the 3-D model. He added that 3-D heart models saves time during heart operations.
Kathy Magliato is a heart surgeon at Saint John's Health Center in Los Angeles. She welcomes the new technology. She says it could help her make better decisions before she operates on the hearts of her patients.
"I can then take this very complicated structure before the operation and I can hold it in my hand and plan an operation around what I'm seeing, touching and feeling. That to me is what can potentially change the game in an operation and save lives."
Dr Bramlet continues to research the technology. He is working with the National Institutes of Health to build a 3-D library that includes heart models and images that others can use. | high9672.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "10, 200 yuan"
},
"options": [
"200 yuan",
"10, 000 yuan",
"$32",
"10, 200 yuan"
],
"question": "If a person smokes in a nightclub, the owner and the person will face fines of up to _",
"question_type": "clo... | BEIJING -Starting today,all indoor public places and many outdoor public places in Beijing are required to be 100-percent smoke-free, including primary and middle schools,seating areas of sports stadiums and hospitals that treat women or children.
Those who break the law will face fines of up to 200 yuan( $32),and owners of the establishment will be fined up to 10,000 yuan. The Beijing government is training several thousand inspectors to be responsible for inspecting and issuing fines,and thousands of community volunteers will also come to help. But it would he difficult to carry out the law in some areas where smoking is common,such as nightclubs
"Relying on punishment to control smoking is not enough. We hope that more cookers are willing to quit not because of strict rules, but because of their awareness of the harm caused by smoking"said Wang Benjin, deputy director of the Beijing Health Inspection Bureau.
China has more than 300 million smokers,and more than I million people die each year due to smoking-related diseases. Beijing is home to about 4. 2 million smokers, accounting for 23. 4 percent of people. _ smoke an average of 14.6 cigarettes per day, according to a survey conducted by the Beijing Center for Disease Control last year.
Just ahead of the regulation taking effect,Beijing MTR Corporation put up tobacco control posters on all trains on Subway Line 4 as part of the smoke-free campaign by the WHO
"Beijing was honored with the World No Tohacco Day Award for its leadership in adopting a tough new tobacco control law. The award is a wonderful gift to people of Beijing and a wonderful gift to children of Beijing on International Children's Day-the gift of air free from secondhand smoke,"said Shin Young-soo, regional director for the WHO. | high14006.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "He knew the tide was out on this particular morning."
},
"options": [
"He needed the sun to help dry the sand.",
"It gave plenty of time for the crowd to gather.",
"He knew the tide was out on this particular morning.",
... | The young man arrived on the Massachusetts beach early carrying a radio, a shovel , and a strange set of tools: a brick layer's trowel, a palette knife, spatulas, spoons, and a spray bottle.
He walked down near the water -- the tide was out -- and switched on the radio to listen to soft rock. Then he shoveled wet sand into a pile nearly four feet high and as many feet across. Then he created a square shape.
After that, he set to work with palette knife, spatulas, and spoons. He shaped a splendid tower, topped walls, fashioned beautiful bay windows, and carved out a big front gate.
The man knew his sand. He smoothly finished some surfaces and carved artistic designs on others. As the shapes began to dry, he gently kept them slightly wet with water from the spray bottle, in case they might break in the wind.
All this took hours. People gathered. At last he stood back, obviously satisfied with a castle worthy of the Austrian countryside or Disneyland.
Then he gathered his tools and radio and moved them up to drier sand. He had known for a while what many in the crowd still ignored: the tide was coming in. Not only had he practiced his art with confidence and style, he also had done so against a powerful, irresistible deadline.
As the crowd looked on, water came at the base of the castle. In minutes it was surrounded. Then the rising flood began to eat into the base, walls fell, the tower fell, and finally the gate fell. More minutes passed, and small waves erased bay windows -- soon no more than a small part was left.
Many in the crowd looked terribly sad; some voiced fear and discouragement. But the man remained calm. He had, after all, had a wonderful day, making beauty out of nothing, and watching it return to nothing as time and tide moved on. | high6541.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "they wish to escape from the cold,dark and rainy days back at home."
},
"options": [
"they want to see battlefields or religious shrines.",
"they are interested in different cultures.",
"they would like to take pictures in fr... | People travel for a lot of reasons.Some travelers go to see battlefields or religious shrines.Others are looking for culture,or simply want to have their photos taken in front of famous places.But most Europeans are willing to pay a lot of money and put up with a lot of inconveniences for the sun because they have so little of it.Residents of cities like London,Copenhagen,and Amsterdam spend a lot of their winter in the dark because the days are so short and much of the rest of the year is in the rain.Every summer,more than 25 million people travel to Mediterranean resorts and beaches for their vacation.They all come for the same reason: sun.
The huge crowds mean lots of money for the economies of Mediterranean countries.Italy's 30,000 hotels are booked every summer.And 13 million people camp out on French Beaches,parks,and roadsides.Spain's long sandy coastline attracts more people than anywhere else.37 million tourists visit yearly,or one tourist for every person living in Spain.
But there are signs that the area is getting more tourism than it can handle.The Mediterranean is already one of the most polluted seas on earth.And with increased tourism,it's getting worse.The French can't figure out what to do with all the garbage left by campers around St.Tropez.And in many places,swimming is dangerous because of pollution.
None of this,however,is damaging anyone's fun.The Mediterranean gets more popular every year with tourists.Obviously,they don't go there for clean water.They stand traffic jams and seem to like crowded beaches.They don't even mind the pollution.No matter how dirty the water is,the coastline still looks beautiful.And as long as the sun shines,it's still better than sitting in the cold rain in Berlin,London,or else. | high13769.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "in his own backyard"
},
"options": [
"in a minute",
"at the foot of a big mountain",
"in his own backyard",
"in a garage"
],
"question": "Joker found one of the biggest diamonds in the world _ .",
"questi... | 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. | high7887.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "Nearly 8 years."
},
"options": [
"Nearly 1 year.",
"Nearly 6 years.",
"Nearly 8 years.",
"Nearly 15 years."
],
"question": "How many years was the Kyoto Protocol negotiated before its coming into effect?",
"... | The Kyoto Protocol is a plan created by the United Nations for the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.The plan aims to reduce the amount of industrial gases released into the environment.Some scientists say carbon dioxide and other industrial gases are to blame for climate change around the world.The scientists say such gases build up in the atmosphere and trap heat below.They say this results in increasing temperatures and rising sea levels.
The plan is called the Kyoto Protocol because it was negotiated in Kyoto,Japan in December,1997.The goal of the agreement is to reduce the amount of emissions --industrial gases released to below the levels of 1990.
Nations responsible for at least 55%of the world's industrial carbon dioxide emissions had to approve the agreement before it could go into effect.The European Union and many other industrial nations quickly approved the Kyoto Protocol.They receive credit for their own emissions if they invest in cleaned technologies in developing nations.Developing nations do not have to meet the emissions requirements of the agreement.
The United States produced 36%of the world's carbon dioxide emissions in 1999.But the United States refused to approve the Kyoto Protocol.Before the Protocol was negotiated,the United States Senate voted that any treaty harmful to the economy of the United States could not be signed.President Bush has said that he supports the general idea of the treaty but will not send the treaty to the Senate for approval.Mr. Bush said that the agreement sets unfair differences between industrial and developing nations.He also said that the treaty could cause some Americans to lose their jobs.
After the United States rejected the Kyoto Protocol,approval by Russia was necessary for the agreement to come into effect.Russia approved the Protocol in November,2004 and the Kyoto Protocol went into effect on February 16th,2005.157 countries have approved the agreement. | high23872.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "28"
},
"options": [
"27",
"28",
"26",
"25"
],
"question": "How many elective courses had the school offered by last month?",
"question_type": "factiod_questions"
},
{
"answer": {
"answer_index"... | Liu Jiaoyang, 16, carefully winds a bobbin with thread, places it on her sewing machine and then presses her foot down to begin sewing.While she' s doing this, she pretends to guide fabric through the machine.Liu looks forward to the class when she can work on a piece of real cloth, and make a beautiful dress.
Each Tuesday afternoon, after the bell rings for the fourth period, Liu becomes a fashion designer.At the same time, the rest of the students at the High School Attached to Yunnan Normal University in Kunming are also having classes a little bit different from the usual ones.Some students dance, others create robots, and still others review films.These are just a few of the other 27 elective courses besides Liu's sewing class that the school began to offer last month.
"The fashion design class has become the bright point of my week.I learn how to choose colors and fabrics as well as sewing and sketching skills.It's all helping me to realize the dream of becoming a fashion designer I' ve had since I was a little girl, " Liu said.
Design is Liu' s favorite, but for other students the electives are interesting lessons which relieve the pressures of schoolwork.Some students, for example, are learning how to play bridge.Chen Xi,15, is one of them.She said, "Many people think that playing a card game like this in class is a waste of time.But in fact, bridge is a very challenging game that helps develop memory and math skills." | high12477.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "warn young people of the risk of taking the drug Ecstasy"
},
"options": [
"explain the bad effects of drugs on people's health",
"warn young people of the risk of taking the drug Ecstasy",
"persuade people out of such bad hab... | A single night of taking the drug Ecstasy can cause serious brain damage and speed up the start of Parkinson's disease , scientists say. Just two or three Ecstasy tablets can permanently destroy brain cells that affect movement and reasoning, according to American research that links the drug to Parkinson's for the first time.
A study by a team at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, involving squirrel monkeys and baboons found that both species suffered permanent damage to key cells, which are lost in Parkinson's, after receiving three low doses of Ecstasy at three-hour periods.
The study is particularly important because baboons are one of the best animal models for the human brain. George Ricaurte, who led the research, said that the widespread abuse of drug might have caused severe damage. "The most troubling result is that young adults using Ecstasy may be increasing their risk of developing Parkinsonism as they get older."
Alan Leshner, a former director of the US National Institute on Drug Abuse, said, "This study emphasizes the multi-aspect damage that Ecstasy causes to users. We've long known that repeated use damages brain cells. But this study shows that even very occasional use can have long-lasting effects on many different brain systems. It sends an important message to young people: don't experiment with your own brain."
Janet Betts, a mother whose teenage daughter Leah died after a single Ecstasy tablet in 1995, said, "This comes as no surprise. But people can't see the effects at first, and they say it won't happen to them. We'll see the symptoms later, just as we have with smoking." | high15318.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "The effect of climate change on migrating animals."
},
"options": [
"The effect of climate change on migrating animals.",
"How animals are adapting to changes in temperature.",
"The actions required to save migrating animals.... | The UN Environment Programme says that rising temperatures could mean the end for some migrating animals.
Migrating or mobile animals move through several environments as they travel away from the cold of winter to warmer areas. Birds may fly from one part of the world to another, perhaps stopping at feeding grounds on the way. Whales and turtles cover vast areas of ocean. The report says that changes in any one of the places which these animals use can cause serious harm. "Obviously these animals have developed their travelling patterns over thousands of years. But climate change is almost certain to be extreme over the next 25 to 50 years and it is extremely unlikely that these animals can change their habits fast enough," said the report author Dr Robert Hepworth.
Hardest hit by rising temperatures are turtles. Scientists have found that at higher temperatures, turtles produce far more female eggs than male ones. In parts of Malaysia, turtle birthing sites are producing only females, the report says. It also provides evidence that some turtles are more likely to develop cancer as the waters get warmer.
With birds, the main problem is climate-related damage to important areas at either end of the travels or at resting places along the way. About one-fifth of migrating birds are now in danger because of climate-related changes including rising sea levels, land loss and more violent storms, the report concludes.
Other animals picked out as particularly in danger include:
* the North Atlantic Right Whale, whose main food (tiny shrimp) is disturbed by the change in ocean flows and
* the White-Nose Dolphin, which is out-competed by other kinds of dolphins in warmer waters.
The report is not all bad news. Even with major climatic changes, protecting the environment can still help mobile animals to recover. "We need governments to start taking action at the national and international lever. "The clock is running." said Dr Hepworth. And some animals are already adapting, with the report mentioning whales that are changing their feeding behaviour, finding new feeding grounds and new foods to eat. | high962.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "Eight."
},
"options": [
"Sixteen.",
"Twelve.",
"Ten.",
"Eight."
],
"question": "How many people have died from shark attacks according to the passage?",
"question_type": null
},
{
"answer": {
"... | The smart phones that can take self-portraits or selfies have set us free. We can now document every moment of our life and instantly share it with the world through the Internet. However, some believe that it's also causing people to take unnecessary risks that sometimes prove to be deadly!
According to recent reports, the desire to take a breathtaking selfie has killed 12 people. Though that may not seem like a lot, it's 50% more than the death from shark attacks.
While the issues have been known for a while, they came to a head on September 21st, following the accidental death of Hideto Ueda at the Taj Mahal. It turns out that the 66-year-old Japanese and his companion were trying to take a selfie with the Royal Gate as the background when they fell down some stairs. While the friend escaped with a broken leg, Ueda was not as fortunate. He suffered a head injury and died soon after.
Other fatal accidents include a 21-year-old Russian woman who fell off a bridge while trying to capture an exciting self-portrait. Three Indian students suffered a similar fate after they were run over by a train while taking a selfie on the railway tracks.
The rising number of injuries is forcing officials to take measures. Russia has begun a nationwide awareness program to make its young citizens aware of the dangers of this safe hobby. The campaign's slogan is:"Even a million 'likes' on social media are not worth your life and well-being."
Though no other country has followed their lead, many are banning the selfie stick! In the last few months many museums, and theme parks including Disney, have banned its use. JR West became the first institution worldwide to ban the sticks both inside Japan's bullet trains as well as out on the railway platforms.
While these measures may help reduce the incidents, the only way to stop selfie-related injuries and deaths is to take responsibility -- not just for themselves but their friends. So next time you decide to take a selfie that appears a little risky, be sure to stop and ask yourself -- is it worth it? | high19522.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "appeal to Wikipedia users to make donations"
},
"options": [
"compare some top websites",
"explain how Wikipedia works",
"introduce a new website to the readers",
"appeal to Wikipedia users to make donations"
],
... | Dear Reader,
Today I'm going to ask you to support Wikipedia with a donation. Sounds unusual: Why does one of the world's five most popular websites ask for financial support from its users?
Wikipedia is built differently from almost every other top 50.We have a small number of paid staff, just twentythree. Wikipedia content is free to use by anyone for any purpose. Wikipedia is run by the nonprofit Wikipedia Foundation, which I founded in 2003.
Wikipedia's driven by a global community of more than 150,000 volunteers, all devoted to sharing knowledge freely. More than 275 million people come to our website every month to access information, free of charge and free of advertising.
Your donation helps us in several ways. Most importantly, you will help us cover the increasing cost of managing global traffic to one of the most popular websites on the Internet. Funds also help us improve the software that runs Wikipedia, making it easier to search, easier to read, and easier to write for. We're bent on growing the free knowledge movement worldwide, by employing new volunteers, and building strategic partnerships with institutes of culture and learning.
Wikipedia is different. It's the largest encyclopedia in history, all written by volunteers.
Like a national park or a school, we don't believe advertising should have a place in Wikipedia. We want to keep it free and strong, but we need the support of thousands of people like you, for your donation will help keep Wikipedia free for the whole world.
Thank you!
Jimmy Wales | high4356.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "animals raised freely on local farms"
},
"options": [
"animals raised freely on local farms",
"animals kept in tightly enclosed conditions",
"commercial farms providing fast food",
"commercial farms providing unpopular ... | Walking in a farmers' market often brings one to explore new food options, and now more locally-farmed protein choices are available to help bridge the gap between our meals and the farms from which they originated. More and more local small farms are popping up in opposition to factory farms.
Today's commercial farms do not fit the image that comes to mind while happily singing along to "Old MacDonald". Instead, most of the nation's food comes from CAFOs, Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations, where animals are kept in tightly enclosed conditions as they are fattened up and readied to be killed for food.
Fortunately, knowing exactly where one's food comes from has led to an increase in the availability of what is known as "grass-fed" beef. Technically, all cattle are grass-fed for at least a limited amount of time, but what makes the meat significant is that it is grass-finished, not force-fed corn, soy or grains. This change in diet makes all the difference since corn is not part of the cow's traditional diet, and therefore causes major health issues for it. To deal with the health issues, antibiotics are used and some of the antibiotics used to treat the cattle are similar to those given to humans, so they can decrease the effectiveness of medicine when a consumer is sick.
A healthier diet for the cattle leads the meat to lower in both fat and calories. And when cooking grass-fed beef, you'd better use a slightly lower temperature to make it more delicious. | high16611.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "Producer Vacancies, Kiss 100."
},
"options": [
"Producer Vacancies, Kiss 100.",
"Mrs Oglivie, Palmlace Limited.",
"The Enterprise Shopping Centre.",
"Wealden District Council."
],
"question": "Who should you get... | Wanted, Someone for a Kiss
We' re looking for producers to join us on the sound of London Kiss 100 FM. You' ll work on the station's music programmes. Music production experience in radio is necessary, along with rich knowledge of modern dance music. Please apply in writing to Producer Vacancies, Kiss 100.
Father Christmas
We're looking for a very special person, preferably over 40, to fill our Father Christmas suit.
Working days: Every Saturday from November 24 to December 15 and every day from December 17 to December 24 except Sundays, l0:30 - 16:00.
Excellent pay.
Please contact the Enterprise Shopping Centre, Station Parade, Eastbourne.
Accountants Assistant
When you join the team in our Revenue Administration Unit, you will be providing assistance within all parts of the Revenue Division, dealing with post and other general duties. If you are educated to GCSE grade C level we would like to talk to you. This position is equally suitable for a school leaver or for somebody who has office experience.
Wealden District Council
Software Trainer
If you are aged 24 -45 and have experience in teaching and training, you could be the person we are looking for. You should be good at the computer and have some experience in programme writing. You will be allowed to make your own decisions ,and to design courses as well as present them. Pay upwards of PS15,000 for the right person. Please apply by sending your CV to Mrs. R.. Oglivie, Palmlaee Limited. | high3439.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "One of his masterworks."
},
"options": [
"One of his masterworks.",
"A successful screen adaptation.",
"An artistic creation for the stage.",
"One of the beat TV programmes."
],
"question": "What is Dali's The P... | Salvador Dali (1904-1989) was one of the most popular of modern artists. The Pompidou Centre in Paris is showing its respect and admiration for the artist and his powerful personality with an exhibition bringing together over 200 paintings, sculptures, drawings and more. Among the works and masterworks on exhibition the visitor will find the best pieces, most importantly The Persistence of Memory. There is also L'Enigme sans Fin from 1938, works on paper, objects, and projects for stage and screen and selected parts from television programmes reflecting the artist's showman qualities.
The visitor will enter the World of Dali through an egg and is met with the beginning, the world of birth. The exhibition follows a path of time and subject with the visitor exiting through the brain.
The exhibition shows how Dali draws the viewer between two infinities . "From the infinity small to the infinity large, contraction and expansion coming in and out of focus: amazing Flemish accuracy and the showy Baroque of old painting that he used in his museum-theatre in Figueras," explains the Pompidou Centre.
The fine selection of the major works was done in close collaboration with the Museo Nacional Reina Sofia in Madrid, Spain, and with contributions from other institutions like the Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg. | high10260.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "he found lots of toys"
},
"options": [
"it needed to be cleaned",
"he found lots of toys",
"he brought lots of toys",
"he put away his toys"
],
"question": "when Jack moved into his bedroom, _ .",
"questio... | Young Jack moved to a new house. When entering his new bedroom, he saw that it was full of toys but it was tidy. That day he played all he liked, but went to bed without tidying up.
The next morning, when Jack got up, he found all the toys had been put back in their proper places. He was sure that no one had entered his bedroom, but the boy didn't pay much attention to it. The exact same thing happened that day, and the next day. But on the fourth day when he went to get his favourite toy, the toy jumped out of his hands and said, "I don't want to play with you!"
Jack felt surprised, but the same happened with every toy he touched. Finally, one toy said to him:
"We don't want to play with you. You always leave us so far away from our proper places. You don't know how _ it is for us to climb back up onto the shelves, or jump into the box. We feel most uncomfortable and unhappy. You don't know how uncomfortable and cold the floor is! We don't play with you any more if you don't promise to leave us in our proper places before you go to bed."
Jack remembered how comfortable he felt in his bed and how bad he felt when he had once slept in a chair. He realized how badly he had treated his friends, the toys. He asked for their forgiveness , and from that day on he always put his toys nicely in their proper places before he got into bed. | high2727.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "To attend a club meeting."
},
"options": [
"To walk her dog.",
"To see her doctor.",
"To attend a club meeting.",
"To play tennis with her friends."
],
"question": "What was Joanne supposed to do at 6:30?",
... | Joanne was stuck in a traffic jam in central Birmingham at 5:30 and at 6:30 she was expected to be chairing a meeting of the tennis club. At last, the traffic was moving. She swung quickly racing to her house. As she opened the door , she nearly tripped over Sheba.
"Hey, Sheba," she said, "I've got no time for you now, but I'll take you out as soon as I get back from tennis club." Then she noticed Sheba seemed to be coughing or choking. Obviously, she could hardly breathe. Immediately, Joanne realized she would have to take her to the vet .
When she got there, the vet was just about to close for the day. Seeing the state of Sheba, Dr. Sterne brought her quickly into his office.
"Listen, doctor, I'm really in a rush to get to a meeting, can I leave her with you, and go and get changed? I'll be back in ten minutes to pick her up, and then I'll take her on to the meeting with me. Is that OK?"
"Sure." said the doctor.
Joanne made the quick trip back to her house in a couple of minutes. As she was once more entering the hallway, the phone by the door began to ring.
"This is Dr. Sterne," said an anxious voice. "I want you to get out of that house immediately, "said the doctor's voice. "I'm coming round right away, and the police will be there any time now. Wait outside!"
At that moment, a police car screeched to a stop outside the house. Two policemen got out and ran into the house. Joanne was by now completely confused and very frightened. Then the doctor arrived.
"Where's Sheba? Is she OK?" shouted Joanne.
"She's fine, Joanne. I took out the thing which was choking her, and she's OK now. "
Just then, the two policemen reappeared from the house, half-carrying a white--faced man, who could hardly walk. There was blood all over him.
"My God, " said Joanne, "how did he get in there? And how did you know he was there?"
"I think he must be a burglar." said the doctor. "I knew he was there because when I finally removed what was stuck in Sheba's throat:it turned out to be three human fingers." | high2041.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "it flows all the time"
},
"options": [
"it has no plants in it",
"it pulls the sun and the moon",
"it flows all the time",
"it feeds all the time"
],
"question": "One of the values of seawater is that _ .",
... | Besides providing an ideal environment for sea plants and animals to live in, seawater has other values, one of which is that it constantly moves, and its movements produce energy.
The most obvious movements are waves and the tides. Winds causes the waves, and the gravitational pull of the moon and the son causes tides. In places like the Bay of Fundy in Canada, the difference between the high and low tide level can be as much as 40 feet.
France and Britain are now trying to use energy in the tides to produce electricity. Waves can produce electricity and some experiments are taking place to learn more about this. One of the most encouraging areas of research uses the difference between the temperature of seawater at the surface and deep down to produce electricity. | high21903.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "The influence of childhood experience on future lives."
},
"options": [
"New ways to make a TV program interesting.",
"The importance of TV programs to children.",
"Different ways to make childhood dreams come true.",
"... | Have you ever thought about what determines the way we are when we grow up? Remember the TV programSeven Up? It started following the lives of a group of children in 1973. We first meet them as wide-eyed seven-year-olds and catch up with them at seven-year intervals: nervous 14-year-olds, serious 21-year-olds and then grown-ups.
Some of the stories are inspiring, others sad, but what is interesting in almost all the cases is the way in which the children's early hopes and dreams are shown in their future lives. For example, at seven, Tony is a lively child who says he wants to become a sportsman or a taxi driver. When he grows up, he goes on to do both. How about Niki? She says, "I would like to find out about the moon." And she goes on to become a space scientist. As a child, soft-spoken Bruce says he wants to help "poor children" and ends up teaching in India.
But if the lives of all the children had followed this pattern, the program would be far less interesting than it actually was. It was the children whose childhood did not prepare them for what was to come that made the program so interesting. Where did their ideas come from about what they wanted to do when they grew up? Are children _ by what their parents do, by what they see on television or by what their teachers say? How great is the effect of a single important event? Many film directors, including Steven Spielberg, say that an early visit to the cinema was the turning point in their lives. Dr. Margaret McAllister, who has done a lot of research in this area, thinks that the major factors are parents, friends and their wider society. | high11618.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "meet their friends there"
},
"options": [
"meet their friends there",
"visit the Florida town",
"appreciate a place of interest",
"have supper together"
],
"question": "Driving along the scenic route, the author... | For years, my family has vacationed in the same Florida town. In fact, we just returned home after spending a week of spring break there with our three sons.
Many nights, we take the same scenic drive to dinner at a favorite restaurant. As we travel along Gulf Shore Boulevard, we admire a combination of small beach apartments, swanky high-rises and spectacular homes.
A few years ago, we noticed that whenever we drive this particular route, there are always two men sitting in front of the same third-floor window of a low-rise apartment building that overlooks the road. All that is visible from the road are their two silhouettes. Even during off-peak months, they've always been there. Over the years, we've had great fun speculating about who they are, whether they're having a drink, and if so, what they fancy, where they're from, and what they might be discussing. Our guesses have become a modern form of car bingo. Widowers? Retirees? Partners? We've run through the gamut of possibilities.[:ZXXK]
Eventually, I started beeping the horn as we passed. We'd wave. Our new friends would do likewise. There was something comforting in seeing them. In a world of constant change, it has been nice to look up and see that they are there, just as we remember from our last visit. And then last spring, we drove by and they were missing. The apartment was dark. No one was visible in the window. Strangely, we drove by and they were missing The apartment was dark. No one was visible in the window. Strangely, we grew worried about two people we'd never even met. Where did they go? A new round of the guessing game began.
On our last trip at Christmastime, we were relieved to see them once again. We were driving past about 6 p.m., and there they were at cocktail hour. I told my wife that I suspected they were gin drinkers and said we should buy them a bottle. She said that if I bought it, she'd deliver it. I said, "Tomorrow." | high4430.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "Floodline 0845 988 1188"
},
"options": [
"automatic messaging system",
"automated voice messaging system",
"the Flood Warning team in Kent",
"Floodline 0845 988 1188"
],
"question": "People can easily get inform... | Despite the high technology and investment in flood defences by the Environment Agency, there is no way to stop all flooding -- sooner or later nature will produce something that will beat even the strongest defences.
Warning people of this danger is very important if we are to prevent the great loss of life seen fifty-three years ago. Indeed if the Flood Warning System that currently exists had been around on that cold, stormy night in January 1953, many lives would have been spared.
The Environment Agency took over the role of flood warning in 1995 from the police who had to go door to door or sound alarms to get the news out. The service is being constantly improved and a combination of better technology and increased investment following the Easter Floods of 1998 has led to the creation of Floodline and an automatic messaging system that can warn thousands of people in very little time.
Floodline 0845 988 1188 offers information and advice 24 hours a day and if warnings are in place, callers can get information either from local updates or by using a quickdial code for their area.
The Flood Warning team in Kent has also sent letters to the people living close to the rivers or the sea and invited them to join the AVM (automated voice messaging) system. Anyone choosing to take up this free service will receive a recorded message directly to their home, business or _ telling them of the level of warning, giving them as much time as possible to carry out their flood plan and save items that cannot be replaced if lost or damaged, such as photographs or children's favorite toys. | high7139.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "There were more girl students suffering depression than boys."
},
"options": [
"depression is the third-leading cause of suicide.",
"There were over 2 million American teens suffering depression in the past two years.",
"The ... | More than 2 million US teenagers have suffered a serious bout of depression in the past year, according to a federal government survey released on Tuesday.
On average, 8.5 percent of adolescents aged 12 to 17 described having had a major depressive _ in the previous year, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reported.
But there were "striking differences" by sex, with 12.7 percent of girls and 4.6 percent of boys affected.
Depression is the leading cause of suicide, which in turn is the third-leading cause of death for 15- to 24-year-olds in the United States.
"The data Combined 2004 to 2006 data showed that rates of past year major depressive experience among youths aged 12 to 17 generally increased with increasing age," the researchers wrote.
Researchers at SAMHSA and RTI International in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, prepared the report using data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health.
More than 67,700 youths aged 12 to 17 answered questions about mood and depression. They were also asked to rate how depression affected them using the Sheehan Disability Scale , which measures impact on family, friends, chores at home, work and school.
Researchers defined a major depressive episode as two weeks or longer of depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure, and at least four other symptoms such as problems with sleep, energy, concentration or self-image.
Nearly half of the teenagers who had major depression said it severely damaged their ability to function in at least one of the areas on the disability scale.
"Fortunately, depression responds very well to early intervention and treatment," SAMHSA Administrator Terry Cline said in a statement. | high12311.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "make a warning sound"
},
"options": [
"make a warning sound",
"fasten the bicycle tightly",
"shake the bicycle quickly",
"call the police automatically"
],
"question": "When it senses movement, the RFID Bikealar... | If you want a little extra security against thieves stealing your bicycle, designer Dennis Siegel has designed a solution. The RFID Bikealarm is attached to the seat on a bicycle and gives off an alarm when it senses movement.
"The RFID Bikealarm is meant to be a useful add-on to mechanical bicycle locks because it greatly extends the range of protection with only a few components," Siegel explains on his website. "It is low-cost, durable and easy to use."
The Bikealarm was designed as part of Siegel's Bachelor's degree thesis at the University of the Arts Bremen in Germany. The device will scare off any would-be thieves the moment they begin to steal the bicycle to which it is attached. It is able to continuously sense the environment to distinguish between specific events, for instance a passing tram / car and a serious theft.
Siegel created a working model of an alarm that would sound when it sensed movement, but wasn't initially sure how it would be best attached to a bicycle. "I decided to mount it to the rails of the seat because it allows for comfortable interaction and the position is less obvious as it looks like a small repair kit," he says.
Siegel chose to use RFID technology rather than Bluetooth to keep the costs down. Siegel explains that the most difficult aspect of creating the alarm was to get the electronic circuit down to a small enough size.
The device runs off a kind of battery that can be charged by USB within 2 hours and lasts for a few days with normal use. As the Bikealarm is only at development stage, Siegel hasn't signed any agreements to put it on the market. | high14760.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "About seven years"
},
"options": [
"At least nine months",
"Nearly three years",
"Less than five years",
"About seven years"
],
"question": "How long did the research last?",
"question_type": "factiod_questi... | Everyone knows that regular bedtimes are important, especially for children. But a research by Yvonne Kelly of University College, London, shows that daughters, it seems, do benefit from regular bedtimes. Sons do not.
Dr Kelly and a team of colleagues examined the bedtimes and cognitive abilities of 11,178 children born in Britain between September 2000 and January 2002, who took part in a research project called the Millennium Cohort Study.
The bedtime information they used was collected during four visits interviewers made to the homes of those participating in the study. These happened when the children were nine months, three years, five years and seven years of age. Besides asking whether the children had set bedtimes on weekdays and if they always, usually, sometimes or never made them, interviewers collected information about family routines, economic circumstances and other matters--including whether children were read to before they went to sleep and whether they had a television in their bedroom. The children in question were also asked, at the ages of three, five and seven, to take standardised reading, mathematical tests, from which their IQs could be tested.
Dr Kelly's report shows that by the time children had reached the age of seven, not having had a regular bedtime did seem to affect their cognition. But that was true only if they were female. On the IQ scale, whose average value is 100 points, girls who had had regular bedtimes scored between eight and nine points more than those who did not. Boys were not completely unaffected. Irregular bedtimes left their IQs about six points below those of their contemporaries at the age of three. But the distinction disappeared by the time they were seven.
This difference between the sexes is puzzling. "I did not expect it, and more research is necessary." said Dr Kelly. | high17241.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "Our Time to Choose."
},
"options": [
"Our Time to Choose.",
"How to Use a Sewing Machine.",
"Three Students in the High School Attached to Yunnan Normal University.",
"The Most Popular Course in School."
],
"que... | Liu Jiaoyang,16,carefully winds a bobbin with thread, places it on her sewing machine and then presses her foot down to begin sewing. While she's doing this,she pretends to guide cloth through the machine.
Each Tuesday afternoon,after the bell rings for the fourth period, Liu becomes a fashion designer. At the same time,the rest of the students at the High School Attached to Yunnan Normal University in Kunming are also having classes a little bit different from the usual ones. Some students dance,others create robots,and still others review films. These are just a few of the 28 elective courses the school began to offer last month. "The fashion design class has become the bright point of my week. I learn how to choose color1s and cloth as well as sewing and sketching skills. It's all helping me to realize the dream of becoming a fashion designer I've had since I was a little girl," Liu said.
Design is Liu' s passion,but for other students the electives are more an opportunity to take a fun course that relieves the pressures of schoolwork. Some students,for example,are learning how to play bridge.
Chen Xiejiao,15,is one of them. "Many people think that playing a card game like this in class is a waste of time. But in fact,bridge is a very challenging game that helps develop memory and math skills," she said.
Li Ke,15, is studying robotics. "I hope to have built and designed my own robot by the end of the semester. It will be able to complete a task,like moving a bail from one place to another," he said . | high18172.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "Toyota is in trouble"
},
"options": [
"Toyota is in trouble",
"Toyota is under hearing",
"Toyota is finished",
"Toyota is still running"
],
"question": "The best title for this passage is _ .",
"question_t... | Toyoda said those changes were being made nearly around the clock,but during three hours of often tense questions and answers he repeated that there was no link to the vehicle's electronic systems.
Many drivers making complaints against Toyota and the government say their acceleration problems had nothing to do with floor mat interference or sticky gas pedals .Outside experts have suggested electronic problems.
House lawmakers expressed serious criticism on Toyoda,the grandson of the company's founder.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration(NHTSA)is seeking records on Toyota's recalls and is conducting its own review on whether electronics were behind the car faults.NHTSA also continues to look into steering complaints from drivers of the popular Corolla model.
Toyota has recalled 8.5 million cars,more than 6 million of them in the United States.
It may be a while before car buyers believe that Toyota really makes safe cars.
Toyota's January sales already fell 16 percent even as most other automakers jumped back from last year's bad results.Analyst Koji Endo of Advanced Research Japan in Tokyo said he expects February sales,due out next week,to be down 30 percent to 40. Toyota's sales problem could continue beyond that.
It will take some time to feel the full effect of this,he said. | high2069.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "Happy and surprised."
},
"options": [
"Excited and proud.",
"Happy and surprised.",
"Worried and cautious",
"Uncertain and shocked."
],
"question": "How did Mo Yan feel when he was told about the news?",
"qu... | Chinese writer Mo Yan has won the 2012 Nobel Prize in Literature, announced the Swedish Academy in Stockholm on Thursday.The win makes Mo Yan the first Chinese citizen to win the Nobel in its III-year history.Informed of his win today, the author, who was having dinner at home, was "overjoyed and scared".
Born in 1955 to parents who were farmers, Mo Yan-a pen name for Guan Moye,grew up in Gaomi in Shandong province in eastern China. At the age of 12, he left school to work, first in agriculture, later in a factory. In 1976 he joined the army and during this time began to study literature and writing.
He published his first book in 1981, but found literary success in 1987 with Hong Gaoliang Jiazu, which was successfully filmed in the same year, directed by famous Chinese director Zhang Yimou. In his writing, Mo Yan draws on his youthful experiences and on settings in the province of his birth and his works show the life of Chinese people as well as the country's unique culture and folk customs. Mo Yan is known as a prolific writer. In addition to his novels, he has published many short stories and essays on various topics. Despite his social criticism, he is seen in his homeland as one of the most famous contemporary authors. Dozens of his works have been translated into English, French, Japanese and many other languages.
The awarding ceremony will be held on December 10.The winner will win a medal, a personal diploma and a cash award of about $l million. | high3377.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "Winter."
},
"options": [
"Winter.",
"Fall.",
"Summer.",
"Spring."
],
"question": "What time of the year was it in this story?",
"question_type": "factiod_questions"
},
{
"answer": {
"answer_ind... | It was not yet eleven o'clock when a boat crossed the river with a single passenger who had obtained his transportation at that unusual hour by promising an extra fare.
While the youth stood on the landing-place searching in his pockets for money, the ferryman lifted a lantern, by the aid of which, together with the newly risen moon, he took a very accurate survey of the stranger's figure. He was a young man of barely eighteen years, evidently country bred , and now, as it seemed, on his first visit to town. He was wearing a rough gray coat, which was in good shape, but which had seen many winters before this one. The garments under his coat were well constructed of leather, and fitted tightly to a pair of muscular legs; his stockings of blue yarn must have been the work of a mother or sister, and on his head was a three-cornered hat, which in its better days had sheltered the grayer head of the lad's father. In his left hand was a walking stick, and his equipment was completed by a leather bag not so abundantly stocked as to inconvenience the strong shoulders on which it hung. Brown, curly hair, well-shaped-features, bright, cheerful eyes were nature's gifts, and worth all that art could have done for his adornment .
The youth, whose name was Robin, paid the boatman, and then walked forward into the town with a light step, as if he had not already traveled more than thirty miles that day. As he walked, he surveyed his surroundings as eagerly as if he were entering London or Madrid, instead of the little metropolis of a New England colony. | high11630.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "Opposed."
},
"options": [
"Supportive.",
"Opposed.",
"Indifferent.",
"Objective."
],
"question": "What attitude do people in developed countries have towards nuclear power program?",
"question_type": "factio... | The State Council declared Wednesday it would restart China's nuclear power program, ending the hiatus in nuclear construction since Japan's Fukushima nuclear disaster last year.
China has been the most courageous country in building nuclear power, with the largest number of plants currently under construction. Nuclear power is facing a tough time in developed countries. The Japanese public is demanding the closure of all the country's nuclear power plants. China is at the forefront of nuclear power development. But it has been forced into this position.
Rapid economic development coupled with improvements in people's life both demand more electricity. It is impossible to exploit fossil resources forever as the supply of coal, oil and natural gas is limited. China has no choice but to develop nuclear power.
China must be the safest user of nuclear power. It should become a leading country in developing nuclear power technologies and increasing the world's knowledge of nuclear power.
It needs to do at least two things. First, it needs to promote safety in nuclear power plants, based on the technologies of the West. The former Soviet Union, the US and Japan all had severe nuclear accidents, proving there are risks. China should try to remove these risks.
Second, China should establish effective communication mechanisms between the government, power plants and the public. It's wrong to think the government can control every aspect of nuclear power plant construction.
The opposition to nuclear power program in developed countries has prevented them from building new plants, but they already have many. These governments are reluctant to close these plants despite strong opposition, because they cannot find better substitutes.
Nuclear power only occupies 1.8 percent of China's current electricity grid , much lower than the proportion in many developed countries. China's nuclear power plan should introduce the advantages of the technologies of other countries and also be creative in providing security. Its space technology is not the most advanced, but its launch safety measures have proven to be among the best.
China's high-profile high-speed railway development has drawn a lot of controversy, as will the active attitude towards developing nuclear power. But China cannot just copy what the developed countries have done. The development of nuclear power must be unique to China and it must be a ground-breaking success. But now, the real test lies ahead. | high4418.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "Amy didn't stop at a crossroads and a truck hit their car."
},
"options": [
"Amy didn't know what to do when she saw the stop sign.",
"Amy didn't slow down so their car ran into a truck.",
"Amy didn't stop at a crossroads and... | Blameless
I was a freshman in college when I met the Whites. They were completely different from my own family, yet I felt at home with them immediately. Jane White and I became friends at school, and her family welcomed me like a long-lost cousin.
In my family, it was always important to place blame when anything bad happened.
"Who did this? "my mother would scream about a dirty kitchen.
"This is all your fault, Katharine, "my father would insist when the cat got out or the dishwasher broke.
From the time we were little, my sister, brothers and I told on each other. We set a place for blame at the dinner table.
But the Whites didn't worry about who had done what. They picked up the pieces and moved on with their lives. The beauty of this was driven home to me the summer Jane died.
In July, the White sisters and I decided to take a car trip from their home in Florida to New York. The two older sisters, Sarah and Jane, were college students, and the youngest, Amy, had recently turned sixteen. Proud of having a new driver's license ,Amy was excited about practicing her driving on the trip. She showed off her license to everyone she met.
The big sisters shared the driving of Sarah's new car during the first part of the trip, but when they reached less crowded areas, they let Amy take over. Somewhere in South Carolina, we pulled off the highway to eat. After lunch, Amy got behind the wheel. She came to a crossroads with a stop sign. Whether she was nervous or just didn't see the sign no one would ever know, but Amy continued into the crossroads without stopping. The driver of a large truck, unable to stop in time, ran into our car.
Jane was killed immediately.
I was slightly injured. The most difficult thing that I've ever done was to call the Whites to tell them about the accident and that Jane had died. Painful as it was for me to lose a good friend, I knew that it was far worse for them to lose a child.
When Mr. and Mrs. White arrived at the hospital, they found their two daughters sharing a room. Sarah had a few cuts on the head; Amy's leg was broken. They hugged us all and cried tears of sadness and of joy at seeing their daughters. They wiped away the girls' tears and made a few jokes at Amy as she learned to use her crutches .
To both of their daughters, and especially to Amy, over and over they simply said, "We're so glad that you're alive. "
I was astonished. No blame. No accusations.
Later, I asked the Whites why they never talked about the fact that Amy was driving and had run a stop sign.
Mrs. White said, "Jane's gone, and we miss her terribly. Nothing we say or do will ever bring her back. But Amy has her whole life ahead of her. How can she lead a full and happy life if she feels we blame her for her sister's death? "
They were right. Amy graduated from the University of California and got married several years ago. She works as a teacher of learning-disabled students. She's also a mother of two little girls of her own, the oldest named Jane. | high7111.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "2706630"
},
"options": [
"2706630",
"7364431",
"3562367",
"2785161"
],
"question": "If you want to go out for lunch on Tuesday you can call up the number _ .",
"question_type": "cloze_questions"
},
... | Address: 9020 Bridgeport Road
Open: Mon. to Fri. 7:00a.m. --- 2:30p.m.and 5:00 p.m. --- 9:00p.m.
Sat. 7:00a.m. --- 11:00a.m. and 5:00p.m.--- 9:30p.m.
Sun. 11:00a.m. --- 2:00p.m. and 5:00p.m.---9:30p.m.
NEW YORK MUSEUMTelephone: 364431
Address: Vanier Park, 1100 Chestnut St. New York America's largest museum specializing in American history and part of our native people.
Open: Mon. to Fri. 9:00a.m.---5:00p.m. (Monday free)
Sat. 9:00a.m.---1:00p.m.
LANSDOWNE PARK SHOPPING CENTERTELEPHONE: 3562367
Address: 5300 NO.3 Road
Open: Mon. Tues. and Sat. 9:30a.m. ---5:30p.m.
Wed. Thurs. and Fri. 9:30a.m. ---9:30p.m.
Sun. 11:00a.m. --- 5:00p.m.
SKYLINE HOTELTelephone: 2785161
Address: 3031 NO.3 Road ( at Sea island Way)
The Hangar Den: Wed. to Sun. Lunch from 10:30a.m.
Coffee Shop: Mon. --- Fri. 6:00a.m. ; Sat. 6:00a.m. and Sun. 7:00a.m.
Mon. --- Wed. to 10:00p.m.; Thurs. --- Sun. to 11:00p.m. | high15456.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "Make an unexpected thing happen in an expected situation"
},
"options": [
"Make an unexpected thing happen in an expected situation",
"Make different things happen at the same time.",
"Make a sad situation into a pleasant one... | What is it that makes people laugh? More than two thousand years ago the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle defined jokes as the pleasure that results from a feeling of triumph by showing we're better than someone else in a certain way. According to Aristotle and many other philosophers,all jokes depend mainly on showing _ in another person or group of persons -- that is,putting it clearly,on showing that they are worse off than ourselves. Jokes raise our good opinion of ourselves at someone else's expense.
Showing how much better than other people we are is only one reason we like jokes. Someone may also use a joke to express their anger or their cruelty or any other kind of action that is not acceptable to us. We feel free to laugh when we hear about someone sliding on a banana skin. The joke lets us express those attitudes which are usually unacceptable to society. This is probably the reason why some of the jokes,especially those involving cruelty,are so popular with certain people.
Besides,all jokes depend on our enjoyment of laughing at something that is strange and out of place because it's different from things which are happening around it. The same situation can be either sad or pleasant,depending entirely on how strange and out of place it is. If a girl in a bathing suit falls into a swimming pool,we don't laugh because nothing unusual has happened. But if a man in a smart suit falls in,the situation is at once unusual in a pleasant way and we laugh. A good joke-teller will always try to build up a situation in which one thing is expected until something unexpected suddenly happens,and so we laugh. | high12339.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 3,
"answer_text": "He had difficulty in communicating."
},
"options": [
"He didn't say a word at all.",
"He learned how to ride a horse.",
"He found his classmates unfriendly.",
"He had difficulty in communicating."
],
"question":... | I remember the first time I got on a horse. When I was a little boy aged two, my mom agreed to let me take a short ride and that was it! From then on, I drove my parents crazy Begging for a horse.
When I was four, I had Mutism, in which children stop speaking in certain social situations. I went days, weeks months without a sound at school. At most, I might quietly whisper to a friend. I suffered silently through school until I was ten when a psychologist had an idea. He asked me what I wanted more than anything else in the world. He explained I was going to be given an opportunity to work for that. And I was permitted to whisper the answer in my mother's ear, "A horse."
I was to get a pony, but I had to live up to my end of the bargain. I had a chart of weekly tasks I had to accomplish. I had to answer the phone five times per week, something I had never done before. I had to say one word to my teacher at school and the list went on. For a child with Mutism, saying one word to someone can be like climbing Mount Qomolangma. I did everything that was asked of me and the day came. His name was Sequoia, whom I fell in love with immediately. When I was in Sequoia's presence, I forgot all about my problems and felt strong and secure.
I am a fully participating member of society these days. My horses and I made it through a master's degree. I may have made it otherwise, but I'm not sure. I feel I owe my life to the horses and I try to give it back to them every day. They have given me the best gift I could ever imagine, my life. | high14990.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "His mother insisted on his cousin going with him."
},
"options": [
"His mother insisted on his cousin going with him.",
"His cousin made jokes on him in his grade school.",
"He quarreled with his cousin and had a headache.",
... | B It was a hot, humid day, and my brother Walt and I had decided that the only way to survive it would be to go swimming in a deep swimming hole across Mr.Blickez's pasture and through some woods.
The only problem with our plan was that this pasture was guarded by a huge, mean Hereford bull.Mr.Blickez had told us that Elsie was the meanest bull in the township, maybe even the county, and we believed him.But the hotter it got, the more we thought there was something fishy about his claim.For one thing, we remembered Mr.Blickez liked telling tall tales; for another, Elsie seemed like an odd name for a bull.
Finally, I talked Mom into asking permission for us to walk through the pasture, but then another problem surfaced.Mom said she would talk to Mr.Blickez if we would take our cousin Joanie along with us.Joanie was almost two years older than me and a head taller.If her teasing ever got around my grade school, it would be all over for me.In fact, I still had a headache from a quarrel with her that morning."I'm not going swimming with that dumb girl cousin." I told my mom.
"Either Joanie goes with, or you stay home alone," Mom said in her serious tone.I gave in and we set out.On our way across the pasture, Walt yelled suddenly.Elsie had approached him quietly and was licking his back.Joanie and I dove under the wire fence, but while I was on the ground I looked up and saw that Elsie wasn't a big mean bull after all.She was going to keep licking my brother's back as long as he stood still.
We had many good days growing up and visiting our secret swimming hole guarded by the so-called "big mean bull".And as it turned out, for a girl cousin, Joanie hasn't been too bad.She's been one of my best friends over the years. | high13027.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "Watson' s son"
},
"options": [
"Watson' s son",
"Mr Smith' s son",
"a teacher of Mr Smith's son",
"the son of Mr Smith's friend"
],
"question": "It can be inferred from the text that Champ is _ .",
"questi... | Watson entered Mr. Smith's office. The Boss was a hard man. He fired people who didn't do well without giving them a second chance.
"Watson," said Mr. Smith, "this past year your department hasn't earned money. We're going to _ that department. It's finished. I' m sorry, --but you'll have to go." "But, sir--if I just had a little more time. For the moment I need the job to keep my son at Riverside School."
"What's that!" said the Boss. "Riverside! I didn't know you had a boy there. That's an expensive school for a man with your salary."
"I know, sir. But he likes it there so much! He's a star trackman and the best boxer in the school. The boys call him Champ there."
The Boss sat perfectly still for a long time--a faraway look in his eyes. Then, suddenly, he said, "We've got to close your department, Watson. But you'll take over a new job in another department. It means longer hours--maybe more pay. Now get out. You're here for life."
Watson got out, with surprise in his face. Then the Boss took a letter from the top drawer of his desk. It was Herbie's last letter from Riverside School --written a few days before he died. He had read it over and over again with sick pain. The letter read: I can't say the boys here are any nicer to me than the others were. I guess it's the same everywhere when you're a cripple . But don't worry about me, Dad. They've got a good chemistry department here. And there's one boy here who is really great. He's a track star and boxing champ and just tops in chemistry. The boys call him Champ. He made them stop throwing my books around. And he knocked a boy down who hit me. He is the best friend I ever had. Dad, when I grow up, I want to do something for Champ. Something big--that he won't even know about.
Your son, Herbie | high1560.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 1,
"answer_text": "give our friends' information to others"
},
"options": [
"learn English",
"give our friends' information to others",
"chat with friends",
"look for jobs"
],
"question": "According to the passage, we shouldn't ... | The Internet has got into all the fields of our life. We can study and work on it. We can find a job on it. We can communicate on it. We can treat friends on it. We can buy and sell on it. We can do almost everything on the Internet, and almost anywhere at any time.
However, although the Internet provides services for us, it is silently getting our privacy to some degree. The services on most websites require our personal information. If we want to enjoy these services, we have to provide much of our information, including our names, sex, addresses, telephone numbers and sometimes bank accounts. Because weak network sometimes is unsafe, our information might be open, stolen or sold. Even sometimes _ will be used freely by others.
Considering the above mentioned, you must pay attention to the safety of your information when using the Internet. First, when you need Internet service, you should always look through those big legal websites. Second, if the service requires important personal information, you should think twice before you type it in. Third, store your own important card key and don't tell others easily. | high14748.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "(732)747-2266"
},
"options": [
"(973)595-7953",
"(877)978-3923",
"(732)747-2266",
"(973)566-6200"
],
"question": "Which of the following number can offer you more information if you show interest in John Lennon ... | Events in New Jersey (From April 11th-23rd)
Bloomfield Public Library, 90 Broad Street.(973)566-6200.
"Catch Me if You Can", starring Leonardo DiCaprio.Monday, April 11th
"The Invention of Lying", comedy.Thursday, April 14th, 8 p.m.
"Sideways", starring Paul Giamatti.April 18
"Phone Call From a Stranger", with Bette Davis.April 21
All are Free.
Studio Montclair, 33 Plymouth Street.(973)744-1818.
"Sustainability and the Artistic Vision", group show featuring artists who use sustainable materials.
Through April 23.
Mondays through Saturdays, 9 a.m.to 5 p.m., or by appointment.
The Community Theater, 100 South Street.(973)539-8008.
Russian National Ballet Theatre presents "Chopiniana" and "Romeo and Juliet".
April 15, at 8 p.m.
$27 to $57.
Essex County Environmental Center, 621 Eagle Rock Avenue.(973)228-8776.
"New Jersey Wood-turners", adults learn to create art from pieces of wood found in nature.
April 18 at 7 p.m.
$8; members, free.
Monmouth Museum, 765 Newman Springs Road.(732)747-2266.
"Give Peace a Chance: John Lennon and Yoko Ono's Bed-in for Peace Exhibition", featuring more than 40 large-format images by the photojournalist Gerry Deiter.
Through April 22.
$7; children under 2, free.
Tuesdays through Fridays, 10 a.m.to 4:30 p.m.
William Paterson University, 300 Pompton Road.(877)978-3923.
"The African Impact on the American Experience: Between Race and Culture", panel discussion moderated by Prof.Lawrence Mbogoni.
Tuesday, April 12 at 12:30 p.m.
American Labor Museum, 83 Norwood Street.(973)595-7953.
"The Line That Divides: _ Trade Corridor", exhibition of photographs, paintings and video by Pamela Calore.
Through April 23.
Wednesdays through Saturdays, 1 to 4 p.m., or by appointment.
$3 to $5; members and children under 12, free. | high6569.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 2,
"answer_text": "To get together for the family dinner."
},
"options": [
"To see her mother's quilts.",
"To help prepare for a show.",
"To get together for the family dinner.",
"To discuss her grandmother's life."
],
"question":... | I arrived at my mother's home for our Monday family dinner. The smells of food flew over from the kitchen. Mother was pulling out quilt after quilt from the boxes, proudly showing me their beauties. She was preparing for a quilt show at the Elmhurst Church. When we began to fold and put them back into the boxes, I noticed something at the bottom of one box. I pulled it out. "What is this?" I asked.
"Oh?" Mom said, "That's Mama's quilt."
I spread the quilt. It looked as if a group of school children had pieced it together; irregular designs, childish pictures, a _ line on the right.
"Grandmother made this?" I said, surprised. My grandmother was a master at making quilts. This certainly didn't look like any of the quilts she had made.
"Yes, right before she died. I brought it home with me last year and made some changes," she said. "I'm still working on it. See, this is what I've done so far."
I looked at it more closely. She had made straight a crooked line. At the center of the quilt, she had stitched a piece of cloth with these words:"My mother made many quilts. She didn't get all lines straight. But I think this is beautiful. I want to see it finished. Her last quilt."
"Oh, this is so nice, Mom," I said. It occurred to me that by completing my grandmother's quilt, my mother was honoring her own mother. I realized, too, that I held in my hands a family treasure. It started with the loving hands of one woman, and continued with the loving hands of another. | high13741.txt |
[
{
"answer": {
"answer_index": 0,
"answer_text": "Lonely."
},
"options": [
"Lonely.",
"Exciting.",
"Wild.",
"Busy"
],
"question": "What was the author's high school life like before she met Ms. Leibfried?",
"question_type": null
},
{
"answer": {
... | The other day, I received a most unexpected message in response to one of my essays:I am so proud of you and all you have accomplished. I shared your opinion ...
It was signed Margaret Leibfried, who was my English teacher -- a teacher who appeared at a vital point in my life and helped me believe that I could become a writer.
Thirty years ago, I entered high school as an introvert made all the more shy because I was the school's only nonwhite student. I always felt in danger of being swept away by a sea of tall white athletes. I spent a lot of time alone, reading and writing stories, hoping to escape being teased.
Ms. Leibfried taught American literature and composition grammar, which involved the usual memorizing vocabulary, but also, thrillingly, reading novels.
Thrilling to me, that is. Many of my classmates expressed dislike for novels because they were "not real." For once, I didn't care what they thought. Ms. Leibfried seemed to notice my interest in both reading and writing, and she took the time to make me feel less shy; she even offered me reading suggestions, like one of her favorite novels, "The Bell Jar."
That year's big project was a book report, to be read aloud to the class. However, Ms. Leibfried suggested I do something "a little different." Instead of a report, I chose a passage from "The Bell Jar" that I considered as the best to recite.
The morning of the presentations, I remember my hands sweating so badly as I walked to the front of the class that I kept my hands crossed, so I wouldn't wipe them on my blouse.
When I finished, to my surprise, the class applauded. "Marie has picked out a particularly sensitive piece of writing and delivered it beautifully," Ms. Leibfried said, smiling. I felt, maybe for the first time, confident. | high792.txt |
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