EXORCISING RURAL WITCHCRAFT
under the influence of a fortune teller, a peasant woman in Shandong province tried to drive the evil spirits from a tumor on her mother’s back. She hit her mother on the head with a shovel, and the unfortunate woman was killed. In a small town in southern Guangdong province, peasants beat a girl to death because they believed she was possessed by a spirit that was making “the penises of young men grow smaller”.
Superstition is still very much a part of rural life in the People’s Republic of China. Much to the consternation of Peking officials and despite 36 years of Communist rule, occult practices continue to have a powerful influence in far-flung and isolated communities. Now the government is making yet another attempt to exorcise the problem through education and propaganda. “Superstition is a product of backward science and culture”, reads a poster in Peking’s Ditan Park. “There are no ghosts in this world. Ignorance
breeds superstitions”.
Many villagers believe otherwise. Peasants sometimes turn to wupos,
or witches, to cure common illnesses through expensive, and occasionally extreme, measures. A wupo may charge as much as $5, about a week’s earnings for an average peasant, to exorcise evil spirits and may even prescribe death: every year a few people follow such advice and commit ritual suicide to hasten their passage to heaven. Says Liu Anyi, a Peking intellectual, “It’s ironic. Our forefathers invented the printing press, and we have sent satellites into space. Yet many people remain ignorant”.
To “eradicate superstitions and popularise science”, the government last month issued 1,300 copies of a film called “The Tricks of Witch Doctors”. The press, meanwhile, is discrediting the continuing existence of superstition because it hinders the regime’s current modernisation programs. The provincial Guangming Daily recently declared that offering sacrifices to ancestors was a “feudal and patriarchal activity not permitted under the socialist system”.
As a warning to practitioners of the occult arts, the Ditan Park posters offer ‘confessions’ of reformed wupos. The secret, reveals one, “is feeling out the general situation by encouraging the customer to do the talking first, and by making equivocal and scary predictions”.
Economic improvement may be one of Communism’s best weapons against wupos and the demons they hope to exorcise, according to Peking Religion Scholar Ren Jiyu. Says he: “If people’s livelihood is improved and people-to-people relations are established on the basis of mutual concern and affection, there will no longer be the phenomenon of people oppressing and exploiting people”.
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Sunday, January 31, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
A BALM FOR STAGE FRIGHT
For many entertainers, stage fright is an enemy that only willpower and experience can conquer. But those who are severely afflicted often rely on alcohol or tranquillizes to suppress stage fright’s most severe symptoms, which include extreme nervousness, shortness of breath, a pounding heart and uncontrollably trembling hands.
Now, many entertainers have turned to an alternative. Called propranolol, it is a drug that doctors have prescribed since the 1960s for high blood pressure, heart conditions and migraine headaches. But its success in combatting stage fright has made it extremely popular among musicians. Said one member of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, who asked not to be identified: “If you have a solo performance to play, it can be very helpful”.
Marketed as INDERAL by Ayerst Laboratories of Montreal, propranolol works by preventing adrenalin, which the body produces naturally in frightening situations, from affecting the heart. Musicians say it is popular because it is non-addicting and, unlike either alcohol or tranquillizers, it does not impair judgment or co-ordination. But many are concerned that it could lead to psychological dependence. Declared another Toronto performer who said he uses it only in emergencies: “It is a powerful medicine. Students are beginning to use it, and that is unfortunate”.
Still, propranolol has proved so popular among musicians that its use
is spreading to other professionals who work under heavy stress. Some U.S. doctors have acknowledged using it during public speaking engagements. Said Michael Sole, a cardiologist at Toronto General Hospital who prescribes it legitimately for two surgeons with high blood pressure: “These surgeons have told me they feel more confidant in the operating room during difficult operations, but every drug has a price”.
For those with asthma, that price can include even more severe attacks.And long-term use by healthy people can lead to elevations in blood cholesterol, vivid nightmares and impotence. But most performers who had been occasionally incapacitated by stage fright remain unmoved by the drawbacks. For them, a dose of propranolol can be a professional lifesaver.
Reading Comprehension n. 7
1. Answer the following comprehension questions.
· What is the passage about?…………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· How does stage fright manifest itself in many performers?……………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What were the original intended purposes of the drug propranolol?………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· Why would the quoted speaker in line 10 ask not to be identified?……………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What are the supposed advantages of propranolol over the traditional remedies to fight stage fright?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What are the possible negative side-effects of the extended use of propranolol?……………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· What is the implicit warning/criticism in the expression “every drug has its price”? (26)…………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· Explain the meaning of the following words or phrases as they are used in the passage.
a) balm (title)………………………………………………………………
b) stage fright (1)…………………………………………………………..
c) will-power (1)…………………………………………………………..
d) it is non-addicting (15)………………………………………………….
e) it does not impair judgement (15)…………………………………………
f) psychological dependence (17)…………………………………………
g) its use is spreading (20)…………………………………………………
h) doctors have acknowledged (22)………………………………………..
i) unmoved by the drawbacks (30)…………………………………………
j) a professional lifesaver (31)…………………………………………….
2. What do the following words refer to? 34
that (1)…………………………………………… those (2)……………………………………..
which (3)………………………………………… it (7)…………………………………………..
its (8)…………………………………………….. who (10)………………………………………
which (13)……………………………………….. he (18)…………………………………………
that (19)…………………………………………... me (25)………………………………………..
they (25)………………………………………….. those (27)…………………………………….
them (30)………………………………………….
3. Translate the following linking words as they are used in the text. State the function of each linking word.
· but (2)…………………………………………………………..
· now (6)…………………………………………………………
· if (10)………………………………………………………….
· because (15)…………………………………………………..
· either….or (15)……………………………………………….
· still (20)………………………………………………………..
4. IRREGULAR VERBS …write the infinitive, past simple, past participle and translation of the following verbs.
INFINITIVE PAST SIMPLE PAST PARTICIPLE TRANSLATION
……………………………………………………………………made (9)……………………………………
…………………………………said (9)………………………………………………………………………..
have (10)………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
begin (19)………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
spread (21)………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………….told (25)……………………………………
feel (25)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
lead (28)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
35
5. MODALS ….translate each of the following modal constructions and state what each modal expresses,
e.g., ability, possibility, obligation, advice etc.
· only will-power and experience can conquer (1)………………………………………………………
· it can be very helpful (11)………………………………………………………………………………
· it could lead to psychological dependence (16)………………………………………………………..
· that price can include (27)…………………………………………………………………………….
· use by healthy people can lead to (28)………………………………………………………………..
· propranolol can be a professional lifesaver (31)………………………………………………………
6. “-ING-forms”…..note the use of the following ‘ing-forms’, and decide if they function as adjectives, or nouns
or as present participles with the verb ‘to be’. Translate these phrases.
· a pounding heart (4)……………………………………………………………………………
· uncontrollably trembling hands (5)……………………………………………………………..
· in combatting stage fright (8)…………………………………………………………………….
· it works by preventing adrenalin (13)…………………………………………………………….
· in frightening situations (14)………………………………………………………………………
· from affecting the heart (14)………………………………………………………………………
· it is non-addicting (15)…………………………………………………………………………….
· students are beginning (18)………………………………………………………………………..
· its use is spreading (20)……………………………………………………………………………..
· doctors have acknowledged using it (22)…………………………………………………………..
· public speaking engagements (22)…………………………………………………………………..
· in the operating room (25)……………………………………………………………………………
7. CLOZE ….fill each of the numbered spaces with an appropriate word taken from the box.
although basic around mind same
civilisations to have dating the
axle was surface were undoubtedly
The first invention of human beings was the wheel. ___________________(1) no wheel forms
are found in nature, __________________(2) the earliest ‘wheels’ were smooth logs which
_______________(3) used for moving weights over the earth’s ________________(4). No one
recorded who he or she ______________(5) or when it happened, but when _______________(6)
‘first inventor’ placed a wheel on an _______________(7), people began to roll from one place
_______________(8) another. Records of this type of wheel ________________(9) been found among
Egyptian relics _______________(10) back to 2000 B.C., and earlier Chinese ________________(11)
are credited with an independent invention of the __________________(12) mechanism. The wheel
so fascinated the human _______________(13) that people have spent centuries building machines
_________________(14) it. Yet, in over 40000 years, its _______________(15) design has remained
unchanged.
8. VOCABULARY….fill in the spaces with an appropriate Noun, Verb, Adjective or Adverb.
Entertainer
Fright
Afflicted
Rely
Shortness
Prescribe
Prevent
Psychological
Legitimately
Popular
Now, many entertainers have turned to an alternative. Called propranolol, it is a drug that doctors have prescribed since the 1960s for high blood pressure, heart conditions and migraine headaches. But its success in combatting stage fright has made it extremely popular among musicians. Said one member of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, who asked not to be identified: “If you have a solo performance to play, it can be very helpful”.
Marketed as INDERAL by Ayerst Laboratories of Montreal, propranolol works by preventing adrenalin, which the body produces naturally in frightening situations, from affecting the heart. Musicians say it is popular because it is non-addicting and, unlike either alcohol or tranquillizers, it does not impair judgment or co-ordination. But many are concerned that it could lead to psychological dependence. Declared another Toronto performer who said he uses it only in emergencies: “It is a powerful medicine. Students are beginning to use it, and that is unfortunate”.
Still, propranolol has proved so popular among musicians that its use
is spreading to other professionals who work under heavy stress. Some U.S. doctors have acknowledged using it during public speaking engagements. Said Michael Sole, a cardiologist at Toronto General Hospital who prescribes it legitimately for two surgeons with high blood pressure: “These surgeons have told me they feel more confidant in the operating room during difficult operations, but every drug has a price”.
For those with asthma, that price can include even more severe attacks.And long-term use by healthy people can lead to elevations in blood cholesterol, vivid nightmares and impotence. But most performers who had been occasionally incapacitated by stage fright remain unmoved by the drawbacks. For them, a dose of propranolol can be a professional lifesaver.
Reading Comprehension n. 7
1. Answer the following comprehension questions.
· What is the passage about?…………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· How does stage fright manifest itself in many performers?……………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What were the original intended purposes of the drug propranolol?………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· Why would the quoted speaker in line 10 ask not to be identified?……………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What are the supposed advantages of propranolol over the traditional remedies to fight stage fright?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What are the possible negative side-effects of the extended use of propranolol?……………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· What is the implicit warning/criticism in the expression “every drug has its price”? (26)…………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· Explain the meaning of the following words or phrases as they are used in the passage.
a) balm (title)………………………………………………………………
b) stage fright (1)…………………………………………………………..
c) will-power (1)…………………………………………………………..
d) it is non-addicting (15)………………………………………………….
e) it does not impair judgement (15)…………………………………………
f) psychological dependence (17)…………………………………………
g) its use is spreading (20)…………………………………………………
h) doctors have acknowledged (22)………………………………………..
i) unmoved by the drawbacks (30)…………………………………………
j) a professional lifesaver (31)…………………………………………….
2. What do the following words refer to? 34
that (1)…………………………………………… those (2)……………………………………..
which (3)………………………………………… it (7)…………………………………………..
its (8)…………………………………………….. who (10)………………………………………
which (13)……………………………………….. he (18)…………………………………………
that (19)…………………………………………... me (25)………………………………………..
they (25)………………………………………….. those (27)…………………………………….
them (30)………………………………………….
3. Translate the following linking words as they are used in the text. State the function of each linking word.
· but (2)…………………………………………………………..
· now (6)…………………………………………………………
· if (10)………………………………………………………….
· because (15)…………………………………………………..
· either….or (15)……………………………………………….
· still (20)………………………………………………………..
4. IRREGULAR VERBS …write the infinitive, past simple, past participle and translation of the following verbs.
INFINITIVE PAST SIMPLE PAST PARTICIPLE TRANSLATION
……………………………………………………………………made (9)……………………………………
…………………………………said (9)………………………………………………………………………..
have (10)………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
begin (19)………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
spread (21)………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………….told (25)……………………………………
feel (25)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
lead (28)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
35
5. MODALS ….translate each of the following modal constructions and state what each modal expresses,
e.g., ability, possibility, obligation, advice etc.
· only will-power and experience can conquer (1)………………………………………………………
· it can be very helpful (11)………………………………………………………………………………
· it could lead to psychological dependence (16)………………………………………………………..
· that price can include (27)…………………………………………………………………………….
· use by healthy people can lead to (28)………………………………………………………………..
· propranolol can be a professional lifesaver (31)………………………………………………………
6. “-ING-forms”…..note the use of the following ‘ing-forms’, and decide if they function as adjectives, or nouns
or as present participles with the verb ‘to be’. Translate these phrases.
· a pounding heart (4)……………………………………………………………………………
· uncontrollably trembling hands (5)……………………………………………………………..
· in combatting stage fright (8)…………………………………………………………………….
· it works by preventing adrenalin (13)…………………………………………………………….
· in frightening situations (14)………………………………………………………………………
· from affecting the heart (14)………………………………………………………………………
· it is non-addicting (15)…………………………………………………………………………….
· students are beginning (18)………………………………………………………………………..
· its use is spreading (20)……………………………………………………………………………..
· doctors have acknowledged using it (22)…………………………………………………………..
· public speaking engagements (22)…………………………………………………………………..
· in the operating room (25)……………………………………………………………………………
7. CLOZE ….fill each of the numbered spaces with an appropriate word taken from the box.
although basic around mind same
civilisations to have dating the
axle was surface were undoubtedly
The first invention of human beings was the wheel. ___________________(1) no wheel forms
are found in nature, __________________(2) the earliest ‘wheels’ were smooth logs which
_______________(3) used for moving weights over the earth’s ________________(4). No one
recorded who he or she ______________(5) or when it happened, but when _______________(6)
‘first inventor’ placed a wheel on an _______________(7), people began to roll from one place
_______________(8) another. Records of this type of wheel ________________(9) been found among
Egyptian relics _______________(10) back to 2000 B.C., and earlier Chinese ________________(11)
are credited with an independent invention of the __________________(12) mechanism. The wheel
so fascinated the human _______________(13) that people have spent centuries building machines
_________________(14) it. Yet, in over 40000 years, its _______________(15) design has remained
unchanged.
8. VOCABULARY….fill in the spaces with an appropriate Noun, Verb, Adjective or Adverb.
Entertainer
Fright
Afflicted
Rely
Shortness
Prescribe
Prevent
Psychological
Legitimately
Popular
Friday, January 29, 2010
Romantic love
Romantic love
Romantic love is a matter of intense concern to millions of people in the Western world at some time in their lives and, yet, to most of them it is as inexplicable as a religious experience. Love happens to you, it comes like a bolt from the blue, unbidden and unintended, and it is an area of life which, like your health, you cannot completely control.
Sociology has done little to change this way of thinking about what is, after all, a social phenomenon. Custom and socialization dictate the way in which love, hate and even grief and laughter are expressed, but they also dictate the situations which provoke such emotions, and for how long and how intensely they are to be experienced.
For the individual, however, deeply felt emotions are experienced as uniquely personal events, originating from within, as if in the grip of feelings beyond the realm of ideas or of conscious control. The very idea that social forces, rather than one’s uniquely personal needs and desires, might have shaped the form of one’s love seems like an infringement of personal liberty, an intrusion into that mysterious, private world, the irrational splendor of one’s finer feelings.
With such a mystical aura about it, it is not surprising that in former centuries love was a focus of magical activities. In the Middle Ages, love charms, philtres and aphrodisiacs were the stock in trade of ‘cunning’ men and women whose magical services were much in demand. Love was considered sufficiently important and unpredictable to attract the labours of not only English village wizards but, in the 16th and 17th centuries, also astrologers and even witch-hunters, since practicing witchcraft was a felony punishable by death. Astrologers could expect an incessant stream of servant girls asking about their future husbands, or wanting to know how to handle their current boy-friends, not to mention help in deciding whether to accept a proposal or not.
In a non-magical era, love still retains this elusive, irrational quality, still occupies the women’s magazine astrologer, but more importantly, still absorbs people who would otherwise declare themselves practical and scientific in their out-look, with little time for metaphysics.
Love belongs to public and private worlds: it is big business. Love
is the bread and butter of film scripts, paperbacks and popular newspapers;women’s magazines thrive on it; pop songs improvise on the eternaltheme; television commercials wrap cosmetics and chocolates, hair sprayand deodorants in its all-pervading image. Industry and advertising stalk the customer with love’s honeyed breath. Battered wives persist in violent marriages in the name of it, and the crime of passion still attracts the full force of the media. Love is a force in society; it is not to be ignored.
Reading Comprehension n. 11
1. Answer the following comprehension questions.
a) What is the passage about?…………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
b) What is the author’s attitude towards love?………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
c) Do most people think of love as a social force?……………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
d) What is the connection between love and commerce?……………………………………………………….
…………….…………………………………………………………………………………………………..
e) How does love feature in the media?…………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
f) Give at least three spheres of interest, activity or thoughts mentioned in the passage in which
love plays, or has played, an important role.
……………..……………………………………………………………………………………………………
g) Explain in your own words the meaning of the following words or phrases as used in the text:
· it comes like a bolt from the blue (4)………………………………………………………………….
· an incessant stream of servant girls (26)…………………………………………………………….
· in a non-magical era (30)……………………………………………………………………………..
· in their outlook (33)……………………………………………………………………………………
· the bread and butter (35)………………………………………………………………………………
· thrive on it (36)……………………………………………………………………………………….
2. What do the following words refer to?
their (2) ………………………………… it (3)……………………………………………….
which (5)…………………………………. this (6)……………………………………………..
which (8)………………………………….. they (9)…………………………………………….
which (9)……………………………………. such (9)…………………………………………….
they (10)……………………………………. it (18)……………………………………………
it (18)……………………………………… whose (21)…………………………………………
their (26)…………………………………. this (30)…………………………………………….
who (32)……………………………………. themselves (32)……………………………………
it (34)………………………………………. its (38)……………………………………………….
3. Translate the following linking words and state their function in the text.
· yet (2)………………………………………………………………………………………….
· as…..as (3)……………………………………………………………………………………..
· after all (7)………………………………………………………………………………………
· however (11)………………………………………………………………………………………
· as if (12)………………………………………………………………………………………..
· rather than (14)……………………………………………………………………………………
· not only…..but also (23)…………………………………………………………………………..
· since (24)………………………………………………………………………………………
· not to mention (28)……………………………………………………………………………….
· whether…..or not (28)………………………………………………………………………………..
· but more importantly (31)…………………………………………………………………………..
· otherwise (32)……………………………………………………………………………………………
4. MODALS…..translate the following modal constructions and state what each modal expresses, e.g. ability,
probability, advice, obligation etc.
a) you cannot completely control (5)……………………………………………………………………..
b) social forces might have shaped (15)………………………………………………………………….
c) astrologers could expect (25)………………………………………………………………………….
5. IRREGULAR VERBS…write the infinitive, past simple, past participle and translation of the following verbs.
Infinitive Past Simple Past Participle Translation
comes (4)………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………(un)bidden(4)……………………………………….
……………………………………………………………..done (6)……………………………………………
think (6)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………felt(11)……………………………………………
know(27)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
thrive(36)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
6. PASSIVES…….translate the following passive constructions.
a) (which is) unbidden and unintended (4)………………………………………………………….(note the
ellipsis)
b) love, hate, grief and laughter are expressed (8)…………………………………………………………………
c) they are to be experienced (10)………………………………………………………………………………..
d) deeply felt emotions are experienced (11)…………………………………………………………………….
e) love was considered (22)……………………………………………………………………………………..
f) it is not to be ignored(41)………………………………………………………………………………………
7. “-ING-forms” …note the following ‘ing-forms’ and decide if they function as Adjectives, or Nouns or as 58
Present Participles with the verb ‘to be’. Translate these phrases.
a) this way of thinking (6)………………………………………………………………………………………
b) originating from within (12)………………………………………………………………………………….
c) in the grip of feelings (12)…………………………………………………………………………………….
d) it is not surprising (18)………………………………………………………………………………………..
e) cunning men and women (21)………………………………………………………………………………..
f) since practising witchcraft (24)………………………………………………………………………………..
g) servant girls asking about (26)……………………………………………………………………………….
h) or wanting to know (27)………………………………………………………………………………………
i) help in deciding (28)………………………………………………………………………………………….
j) its all-pervading image (38)…………………………………………………………………………………..
k) industry and advertising (38)……………………………………………………………………………………
8. ELLIPSIS…..write in the implied pronoun and a form of the verb ‘to be’
a) a bolt from the blue (………………) unbidden and unintended (4)
b) (……………….) originating from within (12)
c) as if (……………………..) in the grip of feelings (12)
d) feelings (……………………..) beyond the realm (13)
e) a felony (………………………..) punishable by death (25)
f) girls (………………….) asking about their husbands or ( ………………..) wanting to know
9. CLOZE……..fill in the numbered spaces with an appropriate word taken from the box.
since Portugal anyone the
disease
officials and that may new
E.U. officials appealed to consumers not to panic as new evidence revealed that the bovine
spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), or ‘mad cow’ disease, _________________(1) be more widespread
than previously thought. _______________(2) cases of BSE emerged in Spain, Germany ___________(3)
Belgium, as well as in an Italian slaughterhouse ______________(4) supplies McDonald’s restaurants.
Meanwhile, U.S. _____________(5) moved to prevent new variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob _______________(6),
the human form of BSE, from entering _____________(7) blood supply. A government panel urged that
________________(8) who has lived or travelled in France, ________________(9) or Ireland
for an extended time ___________(10) 1980 be banned from donating blood.
59
10. VOCABULARY……fill in the spaces with a NOUN, VERB, ADJECTIVE or ADVERB
NOUN VERB ADJECTIVE ADVERB
Romantic love is a matter of intense concern to millions of people in the Western world at some time in their lives and, yet, to most of them it is as inexplicable as a religious experience. Love happens to you, it comes like a bolt from the blue, unbidden and unintended, and it is an area of life which, like your health, you cannot completely control.
Sociology has done little to change this way of thinking about what is, after all, a social phenomenon. Custom and socialization dictate the way in which love, hate and even grief and laughter are expressed, but they also dictate the situations which provoke such emotions, and for how long and how intensely they are to be experienced.
For the individual, however, deeply felt emotions are experienced as uniquely personal events, originating from within, as if in the grip of feelings beyond the realm of ideas or of conscious control. The very idea that social forces, rather than one’s uniquely personal needs and desires, might have shaped the form of one’s love seems like an infringement of personal liberty, an intrusion into that mysterious, private world, the irrational splendor of one’s finer feelings.
With such a mystical aura about it, it is not surprising that in former centuries love was a focus of magical activities. In the Middle Ages, love charms, philtres and aphrodisiacs were the stock in trade of ‘cunning’ men and women whose magical services were much in demand. Love was considered sufficiently important and unpredictable to attract the labours of not only English village wizards but, in the 16th and 17th centuries, also astrologers and even witch-hunters, since practicing witchcraft was a felony punishable by death. Astrologers could expect an incessant stream of servant girls asking about their future husbands, or wanting to know how to handle their current boy-friends, not to mention help in deciding whether to accept a proposal or not.
In a non-magical era, love still retains this elusive, irrational quality, still occupies the women’s magazine astrologer, but more importantly, still absorbs people who would otherwise declare themselves practical and scientific in their out-look, with little time for metaphysics.
Love belongs to public and private worlds: it is big business. Love
is the bread and butter of film scripts, paperbacks and popular newspapers;women’s magazines thrive on it; pop songs improvise on the eternaltheme; television commercials wrap cosmetics and chocolates, hair sprayand deodorants in its all-pervading image. Industry and advertising stalk the customer with love’s honeyed breath. Battered wives persist in violent marriages in the name of it, and the crime of passion still attracts the full force of the media. Love is a force in society; it is not to be ignored.
Reading Comprehension n. 11
1. Answer the following comprehension questions.
a) What is the passage about?…………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
b) What is the author’s attitude towards love?………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
c) Do most people think of love as a social force?……………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
d) What is the connection between love and commerce?……………………………………………………….
…………….…………………………………………………………………………………………………..
e) How does love feature in the media?…………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
f) Give at least three spheres of interest, activity or thoughts mentioned in the passage in which
love plays, or has played, an important role.
……………..……………………………………………………………………………………………………
g) Explain in your own words the meaning of the following words or phrases as used in the text:
· it comes like a bolt from the blue (4)………………………………………………………………….
· an incessant stream of servant girls (26)…………………………………………………………….
· in a non-magical era (30)……………………………………………………………………………..
· in their outlook (33)……………………………………………………………………………………
· the bread and butter (35)………………………………………………………………………………
· thrive on it (36)……………………………………………………………………………………….
2. What do the following words refer to?
their (2) ………………………………… it (3)……………………………………………….
which (5)…………………………………. this (6)……………………………………………..
which (8)………………………………….. they (9)…………………………………………….
which (9)……………………………………. such (9)…………………………………………….
they (10)……………………………………. it (18)……………………………………………
it (18)……………………………………… whose (21)…………………………………………
their (26)…………………………………. this (30)…………………………………………….
who (32)……………………………………. themselves (32)……………………………………
it (34)………………………………………. its (38)……………………………………………….
3. Translate the following linking words and state their function in the text.
· yet (2)………………………………………………………………………………………….
· as…..as (3)……………………………………………………………………………………..
· after all (7)………………………………………………………………………………………
· however (11)………………………………………………………………………………………
· as if (12)………………………………………………………………………………………..
· rather than (14)……………………………………………………………………………………
· not only…..but also (23)…………………………………………………………………………..
· since (24)………………………………………………………………………………………
· not to mention (28)……………………………………………………………………………….
· whether…..or not (28)………………………………………………………………………………..
· but more importantly (31)…………………………………………………………………………..
· otherwise (32)……………………………………………………………………………………………
4. MODALS…..translate the following modal constructions and state what each modal expresses, e.g. ability,
probability, advice, obligation etc.
a) you cannot completely control (5)……………………………………………………………………..
b) social forces might have shaped (15)………………………………………………………………….
c) astrologers could expect (25)………………………………………………………………………….
5. IRREGULAR VERBS…write the infinitive, past simple, past participle and translation of the following verbs.
Infinitive Past Simple Past Participle Translation
comes (4)………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………(un)bidden(4)……………………………………….
……………………………………………………………..done (6)……………………………………………
think (6)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………felt(11)……………………………………………
know(27)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
thrive(36)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
6. PASSIVES…….translate the following passive constructions.
a) (which is) unbidden and unintended (4)………………………………………………………….(note the
ellipsis)
b) love, hate, grief and laughter are expressed (8)…………………………………………………………………
c) they are to be experienced (10)………………………………………………………………………………..
d) deeply felt emotions are experienced (11)…………………………………………………………………….
e) love was considered (22)……………………………………………………………………………………..
f) it is not to be ignored(41)………………………………………………………………………………………
7. “-ING-forms” …note the following ‘ing-forms’ and decide if they function as Adjectives, or Nouns or as 58
Present Participles with the verb ‘to be’. Translate these phrases.
a) this way of thinking (6)………………………………………………………………………………………
b) originating from within (12)………………………………………………………………………………….
c) in the grip of feelings (12)…………………………………………………………………………………….
d) it is not surprising (18)………………………………………………………………………………………..
e) cunning men and women (21)………………………………………………………………………………..
f) since practising witchcraft (24)………………………………………………………………………………..
g) servant girls asking about (26)……………………………………………………………………………….
h) or wanting to know (27)………………………………………………………………………………………
i) help in deciding (28)………………………………………………………………………………………….
j) its all-pervading image (38)…………………………………………………………………………………..
k) industry and advertising (38)……………………………………………………………………………………
8. ELLIPSIS…..write in the implied pronoun and a form of the verb ‘to be’
a) a bolt from the blue (………………) unbidden and unintended (4)
b) (……………….) originating from within (12)
c) as if (……………………..) in the grip of feelings (12)
d) feelings (……………………..) beyond the realm (13)
e) a felony (………………………..) punishable by death (25)
f) girls (………………….) asking about their husbands or ( ………………..) wanting to know
9. CLOZE……..fill in the numbered spaces with an appropriate word taken from the box.
since Portugal anyone the
disease
officials and that may new
E.U. officials appealed to consumers not to panic as new evidence revealed that the bovine
spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), or ‘mad cow’ disease, _________________(1) be more widespread
than previously thought. _______________(2) cases of BSE emerged in Spain, Germany ___________(3)
Belgium, as well as in an Italian slaughterhouse ______________(4) supplies McDonald’s restaurants.
Meanwhile, U.S. _____________(5) moved to prevent new variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob _______________(6),
the human form of BSE, from entering _____________(7) blood supply. A government panel urged that
________________(8) who has lived or travelled in France, ________________(9) or Ireland
for an extended time ___________(10) 1980 be banned from donating blood.
59
10. VOCABULARY……fill in the spaces with a NOUN, VERB, ADJECTIVE or ADVERB
NOUN VERB ADJECTIVE ADVERB
Thursday, January 28, 2010
TRADE IN HONG KONG
TRADE IN HONG KONG
It is well known that trade in Hong Kong has flourished considerably during recent years, despite problems at home and abroad. While the influx of refugees has brought the government severe problems in housing, education and other fields, it has made available a large number of relatively inexpensive but very hard-working employees. However, the availability of cheap labour has also brought problems which affect the export trade.
Some foreign countries have objected to the unrestricted import of Hong Kong goods, particularly textiles, and have imposed tariff barriers or other restrictions. In a number of importing countries, allegations have been made that Hong Kong manufacturers have been ‘dumping’ goods at unfairly low prices. In some cases, reasonable restrictions have been imposed to protect industries in the importing countries. The cumulative effect has been to curtail exports from Hong Kongto some areas, especially to newly-developing countries trying to develop pioneer industries of their own.
Hong Kong is conveniently near the large potential markets of China, Japan and South East Asia, and trade with these areas has shown a steady improvement. But if Hong Kong is conveniently placed for Asian markets, she is at a disadvantage when trading with Africa, Europe and America. The cost of freight and insurance is another problem which industrialists have to face when they try to increase their exports to distant markets.
Within Hong Kong, a number of factors help the development of trade. The average employee works harder than his counterpart in some other countries, is highly adaptable and technically very skillful. There are highly developed banking, insurance and shipping systems which help the local manufacturer and exporter. These systems have evolved to maintain Hong Kong’s position as a basically tariff-free port, and they are easily able to deal with the complexities of modern trade. Income tax, too, is more favorable than in some of the countries with which Hong Kong must compete in the search for overseas markets. The incentive for worker, manufacturer and overseas investor is higher than in many other parts of the world.
A particular obstacle which local industrialists have to overcome or learn to live with is the shortage of land and the high price which must be paid for suitable manufacturing sites. The Government has carried out a systematic policy of land reclamation but this is an expensive and lengthy process. It cannot be expected to keep pace with the rapid development of industry, particularly when land is urgently needed for housing and other purposes.
Reading Comprehension n. 3 TRADE IN HONG KONG
1. Answer the following comprehension questions.
· What’s the passage about?……………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· What are 2 benefits and 2 problems which the flow of refugees has brought to Hong Kong?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What actions have some countries taken to protect their industries from Hong Kong imports?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What effect would Hong Kong’s geographical position have on her trade with
a) Indonesia…………………………………………………………………………………………….
b) Germany…………………………………………………………………………………………….
· What 2 problems do exporters in Hong Kong have when trading with distant markets?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· List 3 advantages within Hong Kong that help foreign trade………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· What are 2 disadvantages of working in Hong Kong?…………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· Explain the meaning of the following words or phrases as they are used in the text.
a) influx of refugees (2)…………………………………………………………………
b) textiles (8)……………………………………………………………………………
c) allegations have been made (9)………………………………………………………
d) dumping (10)…………………………………………………………………………
e) pioneer industries (13)………………………………………………………………
f) have to face (19)…………………………………………………………………….
g) counterpart (22)…………………………………………………………………….
h) have to overcome (31)……………………………………………………………….
i) learn to live with (31)………………………………………………………………..
j) to keep pace (35)………………………………………………………………………
2. What do the following words refer to?
it (1)…………………………………………….. it (4)………………………………………………
their (14)………………………………………. she (17)…………………………………………..
they (19)………………………………………. his (22)………………………………………….
they (26)………………………………………. which (27)………………………………………
this (34)………………………………………… it (34)…………………………………………..
3. Translate the following linking words as they are used in the text. State the function of each linking word,
e.g., to add information, to contrast, time, place, result etc.
· despite (2)……………………………………………………………
· while (2)……………………………………………………………..
· however (5)…………………………………………………………..
· when (19)……………………………………………………………..
· too (27)……………………………………………………………….
3a In paragraph 4, write an appropriate linking word to join the ideas expressed between
sentences 1 and 2………………………………. sentences 4 and 5……………………..
sentences 2 and 3………………………………. sentences 5 and 6……………………..
sentences 3 and 4
4. IRREGULAR VERBS …..write the infinitive, past simple, past participle and translation of the following verbs.
INFINITIVE PAST SIMPLE PAST PARTICIPLE TRANSLATION
……………………………………………………………..known (1)……………………………………
……………………………………………………………...brought (3)………………………………….
………………………………………………………………made (4)……………………………………
………………………………………………………………been (9)…………………………………….
………………………………………………………………shown (16)………………………………….
……………………………………………………………..overcome (31)……………………………….
…………………………………………………………………paid (32)……………………………………
keep (35)…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
5. MODALS…..translate the following modal constructions and state what each modal expresses,
e.g., ability, obligation, permission, advice, possibility etc.
· industrialists have to face (19)…………………………………………………………….
· they are able to (26) = can ………………………………………………………………
· Hong Kong must compete (28)…………………………………………………………….
· the high price which must be paid (32)……………………………………………………
· it cannot be expected (34)………………………………………………………………….
6. PASSIVES …..translate the following passive constructions.
· allegations have been made (9)…………………………………………………………..
· restrictions have been imposed (11)……………………………………………………….
· the high price which must be paid (32)…………………………………………………..
· it cannot be expected (34)…………………………………………………………………
· land is urgently needed (35)………………………………………………………………
7. CLOZE…..fill each of the numbered spaces with an appropriate word taken from the box.
needed but has the obstacle
cannot with suitable learn
A particular ______________(1) which local industrialists have to overcome or ___________(2)
to live with is the shortage of land and __________(3) high price which must be paid for
____________(4) manufacturing sites. The government _____________(5) carried out a systematic
policy of land reclamation _____________(6) this is an expensive and lengthy process. It __________(7)
be expected to keep pace _____________(8) the rapid development of industry, particularly when
land is urgently ______________(9) for housing and other projects.
CLOZE 2
there always an earned but
In not greatest England wrote
Charles Dickens is one of the ______________(1) novelists in the English language.
He _____________(2) about the real world of Victorian ________________(3) and many of his
characters were ______________(4) rich, middle-class ladies and gentlemen, ______________(5)
poor and hungry people. His family lived ___________(6) London. His father was a clerk in
____________(7) office. It was a good job, but he ____________(8) spent more money than he
_______________(9) and he was often in debt. _____________(10) were eight children in the
family, so life was hard.
It is well known that trade in Hong Kong has flourished considerably during recent years, despite problems at home and abroad. While the influx of refugees has brought the government severe problems in housing, education and other fields, it has made available a large number of relatively inexpensive but very hard-working employees. However, the availability of cheap labour has also brought problems which affect the export trade.
Some foreign countries have objected to the unrestricted import of Hong Kong goods, particularly textiles, and have imposed tariff barriers or other restrictions. In a number of importing countries, allegations have been made that Hong Kong manufacturers have been ‘dumping’ goods at unfairly low prices. In some cases, reasonable restrictions have been imposed to protect industries in the importing countries. The cumulative effect has been to curtail exports from Hong Kongto some areas, especially to newly-developing countries trying to develop pioneer industries of their own.
Hong Kong is conveniently near the large potential markets of China, Japan and South East Asia, and trade with these areas has shown a steady improvement. But if Hong Kong is conveniently placed for Asian markets, she is at a disadvantage when trading with Africa, Europe and America. The cost of freight and insurance is another problem which industrialists have to face when they try to increase their exports to distant markets.
Within Hong Kong, a number of factors help the development of trade. The average employee works harder than his counterpart in some other countries, is highly adaptable and technically very skillful. There are highly developed banking, insurance and shipping systems which help the local manufacturer and exporter. These systems have evolved to maintain Hong Kong’s position as a basically tariff-free port, and they are easily able to deal with the complexities of modern trade. Income tax, too, is more favorable than in some of the countries with which Hong Kong must compete in the search for overseas markets. The incentive for worker, manufacturer and overseas investor is higher than in many other parts of the world.
A particular obstacle which local industrialists have to overcome or learn to live with is the shortage of land and the high price which must be paid for suitable manufacturing sites. The Government has carried out a systematic policy of land reclamation but this is an expensive and lengthy process. It cannot be expected to keep pace with the rapid development of industry, particularly when land is urgently needed for housing and other purposes.
Reading Comprehension n. 3 TRADE IN HONG KONG
1. Answer the following comprehension questions.
· What’s the passage about?……………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· What are 2 benefits and 2 problems which the flow of refugees has brought to Hong Kong?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What actions have some countries taken to protect their industries from Hong Kong imports?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What effect would Hong Kong’s geographical position have on her trade with
a) Indonesia…………………………………………………………………………………………….
b) Germany…………………………………………………………………………………………….
· What 2 problems do exporters in Hong Kong have when trading with distant markets?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· List 3 advantages within Hong Kong that help foreign trade………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· What are 2 disadvantages of working in Hong Kong?…………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· Explain the meaning of the following words or phrases as they are used in the text.
a) influx of refugees (2)…………………………………………………………………
b) textiles (8)……………………………………………………………………………
c) allegations have been made (9)………………………………………………………
d) dumping (10)…………………………………………………………………………
e) pioneer industries (13)………………………………………………………………
f) have to face (19)…………………………………………………………………….
g) counterpart (22)…………………………………………………………………….
h) have to overcome (31)……………………………………………………………….
i) learn to live with (31)………………………………………………………………..
j) to keep pace (35)………………………………………………………………………
2. What do the following words refer to?
it (1)…………………………………………….. it (4)………………………………………………
their (14)………………………………………. she (17)…………………………………………..
they (19)………………………………………. his (22)………………………………………….
they (26)………………………………………. which (27)………………………………………
this (34)………………………………………… it (34)…………………………………………..
3. Translate the following linking words as they are used in the text. State the function of each linking word,
e.g., to add information, to contrast, time, place, result etc.
· despite (2)……………………………………………………………
· while (2)……………………………………………………………..
· however (5)…………………………………………………………..
· when (19)……………………………………………………………..
· too (27)……………………………………………………………….
3a In paragraph 4, write an appropriate linking word to join the ideas expressed between
sentences 1 and 2………………………………. sentences 4 and 5……………………..
sentences 2 and 3………………………………. sentences 5 and 6……………………..
sentences 3 and 4
4. IRREGULAR VERBS …..write the infinitive, past simple, past participle and translation of the following verbs.
INFINITIVE PAST SIMPLE PAST PARTICIPLE TRANSLATION
……………………………………………………………..known (1)……………………………………
……………………………………………………………...brought (3)………………………………….
………………………………………………………………made (4)……………………………………
………………………………………………………………been (9)…………………………………….
………………………………………………………………shown (16)………………………………….
……………………………………………………………..overcome (31)……………………………….
…………………………………………………………………paid (32)……………………………………
keep (35)…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
5. MODALS…..translate the following modal constructions and state what each modal expresses,
e.g., ability, obligation, permission, advice, possibility etc.
· industrialists have to face (19)…………………………………………………………….
· they are able to (26) = can ………………………………………………………………
· Hong Kong must compete (28)…………………………………………………………….
· the high price which must be paid (32)……………………………………………………
· it cannot be expected (34)………………………………………………………………….
6. PASSIVES …..translate the following passive constructions.
· allegations have been made (9)…………………………………………………………..
· restrictions have been imposed (11)……………………………………………………….
· the high price which must be paid (32)…………………………………………………..
· it cannot be expected (34)…………………………………………………………………
· land is urgently needed (35)………………………………………………………………
7. CLOZE…..fill each of the numbered spaces with an appropriate word taken from the box.
needed but has the obstacle
cannot with suitable learn
A particular ______________(1) which local industrialists have to overcome or ___________(2)
to live with is the shortage of land and __________(3) high price which must be paid for
____________(4) manufacturing sites. The government _____________(5) carried out a systematic
policy of land reclamation _____________(6) this is an expensive and lengthy process. It __________(7)
be expected to keep pace _____________(8) the rapid development of industry, particularly when
land is urgently ______________(9) for housing and other projects.
CLOZE 2
there always an earned but
In not greatest England wrote
Charles Dickens is one of the ______________(1) novelists in the English language.
He _____________(2) about the real world of Victorian ________________(3) and many of his
characters were ______________(4) rich, middle-class ladies and gentlemen, ______________(5)
poor and hungry people. His family lived ___________(6) London. His father was a clerk in
____________(7) office. It was a good job, but he ____________(8) spent more money than he
_______________(9) and he was often in debt. _____________(10) were eight children in the
family, so life was hard.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
CONSERVATION IN ANTARCTICA
Conservationists have launched a campaign to save Antarctica, the last
unspoilt wilderness on earth, from the potentially disastrous effects of drilling for oil. An international alliance of more than 30 groups in Britain, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, including Friends of the Earth and Greenpeace, plan a campaign of publicity, political lobbying and demonstrations to try to stop any exploitation of the continent.
Fourteen signatories of the 1959 Antarctic Treaty, including Britain,
Argentina, the U.S.A. and the Soviet Union, are currently trying to divide up exploration rights at a series of secret meetings. They hope to complete agreement by next year. It is believed that there are very rich oil deposits in the Weddell and Ross seas. Although conditions there are the most hostile on earth, there are no insuperable barriers to extracting the oil. The “club of 14” are drawing up conventions to protect wildlife, but there is no chance that these will satisfy the conservationists who want Antarctica declared a permanent wilderness area. This, they say, is the only certain way to prevent catastrophic damage to its delicate environment from an oil spill.
Despite its intense cold and dark nine-month winter, Antarctica supports an abundant wildlife. Although there are relatively few species, they occur in huge numbers. Its waters support the largest mammal on earth, the blue whale, as well as the threatened fin and humpback whales. Among its seals
are the Weddell seal, unique to the area, and the leopard seal, which eats penguins. The water’s edge teems with birds, including the world’s furthest- travelling migrant, the arctic tern. Antarctica’s bird and mammal life is especially vulnerable to oil damage because it is so dependant on one species – krill, a minute shrimp-like creature which lives in the sea. Because of its position at the bottom of the food chain, any serious damage to krill would threaten birds and larger animals.
As an unspoiled area, Antarctica is also an invaluable base for judging
the effects of pollution elsewhere in the world. Dr R.B. Heywood of the British Antarctic Survey, who has spent 22 years in the region, says: “The area is pristine. If you drive a vehicle over the lichen, the track will be there for hundreds of years because everything is so slow-moving.”
Dr Heywood believes that it is unrealistic to ask for Antarctica to be declared a wilderness area. “But we need firm international agreement that,however the area is to be exploited, it should be done with very careful management schemes”.
Reading Comprehension n. 6 CONSERVATION IN ANTARCTICA
1. Answer the following comprehension questions.
· What is the passage about?…………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· How is the international alliance trying to stop any exploitation of Antarctica?……………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· Are there a lot of different varieties of animals and birds living in Antarctica?………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· Why is krill important to the survival of wildlife in Antarctica?………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· Give at least 3 reasons stated in the passage for the importance of Antarctica………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· Translate the following words or phrases respecting their word class as used in the text.
a) have launched (1)………………………………………………….
b) drilling (3)…………………………………………………………
c) demonstrations (6)…………………………………………………
d) exploitation (6)……………………………………………………..
e) signatories (7)………………………………………………………
f) currently (8)………………………………………………………….
g) exploration rights (9)………………………………………………..
h) hostile (11)…………………………………………………………..
i) extracting the oil (12)………………………………………………..
j) drawing up conventions (13)…………………………………………
k) wildlife (13)………………………………………………………….
l) there is no chance (13)……………………………………………….
m) oil spill (16)…………………………………………………………
n) threatened (20)…………………………………………………………
o) teems with birds (22)………………………………………………….
p) The bottom of the food chain (26)……………………………………..
2. Complete the following sentences with the phrase which fits best. Circle the letter A, B, or C. 29
· Conservationists want to save Antarctica because
a) oil companies have already caused enough damage there.
b) they want to exploit it for their own purposes.
c) they fear that oil companies might cause future damage.
· The policy of the “club of 14” towards conservation in Antarctica is
a) to sign a formal agreement on the matter.
b) to promise not to have an oil spill.
c) to work in harmony with the conservationists.
· Antarctica’s wildlife is at risk because
a) it is so cold and dark there.
b) there are so few species.
c) krill is its only source of food
· Wildlife in Antarctica
a) is composed of many different kinds of animals.
b) is small in number but large in variety.
c) is large in number but small in variety
· Dr Heywood
a) wants an international agreement to exploit Antarctica.
b) wants Antarctica designated as a wilderness area.
c) accepts oil exploration only if there are controls to protect the environment.
3. What do the following words refer to?
they (9)………………………………………… it (10)……………………………………………
there (11)………………………………………. these (14)……………………………………….
this (15)………………………………………… its (16)…………………………………………..
they (18)……………………………………….. it (24)…………………………………………….
which (25)……………………………………… its (26)……………………………………………
it (33)…………………………………………… it (35)……………………………………………
4. Translate the following linking words as they are used in the text. State the function of each linking word,
e.g., to add information, to contrast, concession, result, reason etc.
· although (11)…………………………………………………………………
· despite (17)…………………………………………………………………..
· as well as (20)……………………………………………………………….
· because (24)………………………………………………………………….
· because of (25)………………………………………………………………
· however (35)…………………………………………………………………
4(a) In paragraph 3, choose an appropriate linking word to join the ideas expressed between 30
sentences 1 and 2 …………………………. sentences 2 and 3……………………
sentences 3 and 4………………………….. sentences 4 and 5……………………
sentences 5 and 6………………………….. sentences 6 and 7...............
5. CLOZE ….fill each of the numbered spaces with an appropriate word taken from the box.
torture relate dictator the abuses after not court
charges extradition ruled detractors request under
Britain’s highest _______________(1) has ruled that former Chilean ______________(2) General
Augusto Pinochet is ____________(3) entitled to blanket immunity from prosecution for human rights
______________(4). By a 6 – 1 vote, a House of Lords tribunal _______________(5) that Pinochet can be
prosecuted for three of the 32 ________________(6) contained in a Spanish arrest warrant seeking his
_________________(7) from the U.K. These three charges ______________(8) to alleged torture and
conspiracy to torture committed _____________(9) 1988, when Britain signed an international
_____________(10) convention which made it a crime ______________(11) British law to commit
torture anywhere. The Law Lords recommended that the British Government reconsider whether to
proceed with the extradition _______________(12) in light of ______________(13) diminished charges.
Pinochet supporters and _________________(14) both claimed the ruling was a victory.
Earth try of and
The for than save
Conservationists have launched a campaign to _________________(1) Antarctica, the last
unspoilt wilderness on _________________(2), from the potentially disastrous effects of drilling
________________(3) oil. An international alliance of more ______________(4) 30 groups in Britain,
the United States, Australia ________________(5) New Zealand, including Friends of ____________(6)
Earth and Greenpeace, plan a campaign ______________(7) publicity, political lobbying and demonstrations
to _________________(8) to stop any exploitation of the continent.
unspoilt wilderness on earth, from the potentially disastrous effects of drilling for oil. An international alliance of more than 30 groups in Britain, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, including Friends of the Earth and Greenpeace, plan a campaign of publicity, political lobbying and demonstrations to try to stop any exploitation of the continent.
Fourteen signatories of the 1959 Antarctic Treaty, including Britain,
Argentina, the U.S.A. and the Soviet Union, are currently trying to divide up exploration rights at a series of secret meetings. They hope to complete agreement by next year. It is believed that there are very rich oil deposits in the Weddell and Ross seas. Although conditions there are the most hostile on earth, there are no insuperable barriers to extracting the oil. The “club of 14” are drawing up conventions to protect wildlife, but there is no chance that these will satisfy the conservationists who want Antarctica declared a permanent wilderness area. This, they say, is the only certain way to prevent catastrophic damage to its delicate environment from an oil spill.
Despite its intense cold and dark nine-month winter, Antarctica supports an abundant wildlife. Although there are relatively few species, they occur in huge numbers. Its waters support the largest mammal on earth, the blue whale, as well as the threatened fin and humpback whales. Among its seals
are the Weddell seal, unique to the area, and the leopard seal, which eats penguins. The water’s edge teems with birds, including the world’s furthest- travelling migrant, the arctic tern. Antarctica’s bird and mammal life is especially vulnerable to oil damage because it is so dependant on one species – krill, a minute shrimp-like creature which lives in the sea. Because of its position at the bottom of the food chain, any serious damage to krill would threaten birds and larger animals.
As an unspoiled area, Antarctica is also an invaluable base for judging
the effects of pollution elsewhere in the world. Dr R.B. Heywood of the British Antarctic Survey, who has spent 22 years in the region, says: “The area is pristine. If you drive a vehicle over the lichen, the track will be there for hundreds of years because everything is so slow-moving.”
Dr Heywood believes that it is unrealistic to ask for Antarctica to be declared a wilderness area. “But we need firm international agreement that,however the area is to be exploited, it should be done with very careful management schemes”.
Reading Comprehension n. 6 CONSERVATION IN ANTARCTICA
1. Answer the following comprehension questions.
· What is the passage about?…………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· How is the international alliance trying to stop any exploitation of Antarctica?……………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· Are there a lot of different varieties of animals and birds living in Antarctica?………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· Why is krill important to the survival of wildlife in Antarctica?………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· Give at least 3 reasons stated in the passage for the importance of Antarctica………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· Translate the following words or phrases respecting their word class as used in the text.
a) have launched (1)………………………………………………….
b) drilling (3)…………………………………………………………
c) demonstrations (6)…………………………………………………
d) exploitation (6)……………………………………………………..
e) signatories (7)………………………………………………………
f) currently (8)………………………………………………………….
g) exploration rights (9)………………………………………………..
h) hostile (11)…………………………………………………………..
i) extracting the oil (12)………………………………………………..
j) drawing up conventions (13)…………………………………………
k) wildlife (13)………………………………………………………….
l) there is no chance (13)……………………………………………….
m) oil spill (16)…………………………………………………………
n) threatened (20)…………………………………………………………
o) teems with birds (22)………………………………………………….
p) The bottom of the food chain (26)……………………………………..
2. Complete the following sentences with the phrase which fits best. Circle the letter A, B, or C. 29
· Conservationists want to save Antarctica because
a) oil companies have already caused enough damage there.
b) they want to exploit it for their own purposes.
c) they fear that oil companies might cause future damage.
· The policy of the “club of 14” towards conservation in Antarctica is
a) to sign a formal agreement on the matter.
b) to promise not to have an oil spill.
c) to work in harmony with the conservationists.
· Antarctica’s wildlife is at risk because
a) it is so cold and dark there.
b) there are so few species.
c) krill is its only source of food
· Wildlife in Antarctica
a) is composed of many different kinds of animals.
b) is small in number but large in variety.
c) is large in number but small in variety
· Dr Heywood
a) wants an international agreement to exploit Antarctica.
b) wants Antarctica designated as a wilderness area.
c) accepts oil exploration only if there are controls to protect the environment.
3. What do the following words refer to?
they (9)………………………………………… it (10)……………………………………………
there (11)………………………………………. these (14)……………………………………….
this (15)………………………………………… its (16)…………………………………………..
they (18)……………………………………….. it (24)…………………………………………….
which (25)……………………………………… its (26)……………………………………………
it (33)…………………………………………… it (35)……………………………………………
4. Translate the following linking words as they are used in the text. State the function of each linking word,
e.g., to add information, to contrast, concession, result, reason etc.
· although (11)…………………………………………………………………
· despite (17)…………………………………………………………………..
· as well as (20)……………………………………………………………….
· because (24)………………………………………………………………….
· because of (25)………………………………………………………………
· however (35)…………………………………………………………………
4(a) In paragraph 3, choose an appropriate linking word to join the ideas expressed between 30
sentences 1 and 2 …………………………. sentences 2 and 3……………………
sentences 3 and 4………………………….. sentences 4 and 5……………………
sentences 5 and 6………………………….. sentences 6 and 7...............
5. CLOZE ….fill each of the numbered spaces with an appropriate word taken from the box.
torture relate dictator the abuses after not court
charges extradition ruled detractors request under
Britain’s highest _______________(1) has ruled that former Chilean ______________(2) General
Augusto Pinochet is ____________(3) entitled to blanket immunity from prosecution for human rights
______________(4). By a 6 – 1 vote, a House of Lords tribunal _______________(5) that Pinochet can be
prosecuted for three of the 32 ________________(6) contained in a Spanish arrest warrant seeking his
_________________(7) from the U.K. These three charges ______________(8) to alleged torture and
conspiracy to torture committed _____________(9) 1988, when Britain signed an international
_____________(10) convention which made it a crime ______________(11) British law to commit
torture anywhere. The Law Lords recommended that the British Government reconsider whether to
proceed with the extradition _______________(12) in light of ______________(13) diminished charges.
Pinochet supporters and _________________(14) both claimed the ruling was a victory.
Earth try of and
The for than save
Conservationists have launched a campaign to _________________(1) Antarctica, the last
unspoilt wilderness on _________________(2), from the potentially disastrous effects of drilling
________________(3) oil. An international alliance of more ______________(4) 30 groups in Britain,
the United States, Australia ________________(5) New Zealand, including Friends of ____________(6)
Earth and Greenpeace, plan a campaign ______________(7) publicity, political lobbying and demonstrations
to _________________(8) to stop any exploitation of the continent.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
SIBERIA.
More than 3,500 miles from Moscow, between the Arctic Circle and Mongolia,lies Siberia, a frozen land more than ten times the size of Italy but with only halfa million inhabitants. There the temperature can fall as low as seventy degrees centigrade below zero. The intense cold makes life immensely difficult and dangerous for anyone unaccustomed to it.
But Siberia is not a permanently frozen waste. Though parts of the region are colder than the North Pole itself, the temperature in summer may reach 40°C.When this happens, the topsoil thaws to a depth of about two meters and can support rich vegetation, though none of the trees grows to any great height as the roots have to spread sideways. The summer days are so long that the earth stores enough heat to bear a variety of flowers which blossom between the trees. It is almost impossible for anyone to enter the forests during this season because of the clouds of insects, especially mosquitoes.
A deep, permanently frozen layer of earth has acted as a natural refrigerator for millions of years, and the bodies of prehistoric animals are sometimes dug up and eaten by the wild dogs. In 1901, an expedition went to search for the remains of a prehistoric mammoth, reported to have been found in the area. The men found the mammoth frozen into the side of a mountain. Part of the head had been exposed by a fall of frozen rock, and bears and wolves had managed to tear off some of the flesh. Most of the frozen mammoth was in excellent condition, complete with flesh, skin and a thick covering of coarse hairs. The men were able to study the prehistoric food found on the creature’s tongue and teeth and in its stomach. Eventually the whole body was excavated and taken away for preservation and study.
It may be, too, that there are still living dinosaurs to be found. Far up in the mountains is the Lake of Labankur. No one has ever had the courage to take a boat out on it. Some time ago, a group of men made an expedition to examine it. They pushed in a reindeer, forced it to swim out towards the centre of the lake and saw it disappear abruptly. Then they sent a dog, which was also swallowed up. Suddenly a black monster emerged from the still waters of the lake, blew threateningly and
plunged back into the depths.
Reading Comprehension n.
1. Answer the following comprehension questions.
· Why is Siberia so sparsely populated?………………………………………………………………………
· Why do the roots of the trees spread sideways instead of going down
into the soil?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What difficulties does one face when entering the forests during a)
the summer, b) the winter?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· How did wolves manage to get at the head of the mammoth?
……………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· Explain why the mammoth’s flesh had not decomposed…………………………………………………
· What was the purpose of the experiments with the reindeer and the
dog?………………………………..
· Why was it necessary for the author to insert the word ‘natural’
before ‘refrigerator’ in line 14?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What evidence, if any, is there in the text concerning the existence
of dinosaurs in Siberia?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· Explain the meaning of the following words as they are used in the
passage.
a) unaccustomed (5)…………………………………………………………
b) support (9)……………………………………………………………….
c) rich (9)………………………………………………………………….
d) prehistoric (17)…………………………………………………………..
e) flesh (20)………………………………………………………………..
f) coarse (21)………………………………………………………………
g) abruptly (29)……………………………………………………………
h) swallowed up (29)……………………………………………………..
i) threateningly (30)………………………………………………………
18
2. What do the following words refer to?
there (5)………………………………………….. it (5)………………………………………….
itself (7)…………………………………………… which (11)…………………………………..
it (12)……………………………………………… this (12)………………………………………
its (22)……………………………………………. it (25)………………………………………..
it (27)………………………………………………. they (27)………………………………………
it (28)……………………………………………… which (29)…………………………………….
3. Translate the following linking words as they are used in the text.
State the function of each linking word,
e.g., to add information, to contrast, concession, reason etc.
· though (6)…………………………………………………………………………..
· when (8)……………………………………………………………………………
· because of (13)…………………………………………………………………….
· eventually (23)………………………………………………………………………
· too (25)……………………………………………………………………………..
· then (29)……………………………………………………………………………
4. MODALS …..translate each of the following modal constructions and
state what each modal expresses,
e.g., ability, possibility, obligation, permission, advice etc.
· the temperature can fall (3)…………………………………………………………………
· the temperature in summer may reach 40° (7)……………………………………………….
· the topsoil can support rich vegetation (8)……………………………………………………
· the roots have to spread sideways (10)………………………………………………………..
· ** bears and wolves had managed to tear off (19)……………………………………………..
· **the men were able to study (21)………………………………………………………………
· it may be (25)…………………………………………………………………………………..
5. IRREGULAR VERBS….write the infinitive, past simple, past participle
and translation of the following verbs.
INFINITIVE PAST SIMPLE PAST PARTICIPLE TRANSLATION
lie (2)………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
fall (3)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
make (4)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………frozen (6)…………………………………………
grow (9)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
spread (10)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
bear (11)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………….dug (15)…………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………..eaten (16)…………………………………
………………………………………………………………………found (17)…………………………………
tear (19)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
swim (28)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………….taken (23)…………………………………
……………………………..saw (28)…………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………….sent (29)…………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………….blew (30)……………………………………………………………………………
6. PASSIVES ….translate the following passive constructions.
· animals are sometimes dug up and eaten (15)………………………………………………………………
· a mammoth (which was) reported to have been found (17)
…………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· the head had been exposed (18)………………………………………………………………………………
· the body was excavated and taken away (23)………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· there are living dinosaurs to be found (25)
…………………………………………………………………..
· a dog, which was also swallowed up (29)……………………………………………………………………
7. CLOZE ….fill each of the numbered spaces with an appropriate word
taken from the box.
warning predict severe prepare obsolete
percentage late lower eyewitness characteristic
Modern weather technology can detect strong winds and rain, which are
_______________(1)
of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. In the past, an _______________
(2) radar system was used
to predict such storms. Under this old system, warnings often depended
on ________________(3) reports.
These reports gave people only about three minutes to ________________
(4) for the tornado. Today, more
than 100 new detection centres are in place in the United States. By
the ________________(5) 1990’s,
a total of 152 systems will be working throughout the country. In the
past, many ______________(6)
thunderstorms and tornadoes struck without ________________(7). Weather
forecasters could not
__________________(8) all of them. In fact, they did not predict 33
percent of all the storms. As a result
of the new technology, this __________________(9) has decreased to 13
percent. When all the new systems
are in place, this percentage will be even _________________(10).
7(a) CLOZE 2
by the it to decisions
will that maintain citizens shown
With the rejection of the Euro, Denmark has _______________(1) the true
value of democracy.
Its ______________(2) decided via a referendum that they preferred to
________________(3) their own
currency rather than adopt _______________(4) of the European Union.
Their vote _____________(5)
influence the long-awaited _______________(6) of Britain and Sweden and
contribute ______________(7)
reduced confidence in a number of Euro countries. _______________(8)
will also show all participating
nations _______________(9) value of a true referendum ________________
(10) the people, as opposed
to the decisions made by a bunch of international politicians.
8. VOCABULARY…fill in the spaces with an appropriate Noun, Verb,
Adjective and Adverb.
NOUN VERB ADJECTIVE ADVERB
INHABITANT
WASTE
HAPPEN
SUPPORT
HEIGHT
ENTER
CLOUD
EXPEDITION
REMAINS
HEAD
MANAGE
COVERING
CREATURE
EXPOSED
EXCAVATED
PRESERVATION
COURAGE
EMERGE
But Siberia is not a permanently frozen waste. Though parts of the region are colder than the North Pole itself, the temperature in summer may reach 40°C.When this happens, the topsoil thaws to a depth of about two meters and can support rich vegetation, though none of the trees grows to any great height as the roots have to spread sideways. The summer days are so long that the earth stores enough heat to bear a variety of flowers which blossom between the trees. It is almost impossible for anyone to enter the forests during this season because of the clouds of insects, especially mosquitoes.
A deep, permanently frozen layer of earth has acted as a natural refrigerator for millions of years, and the bodies of prehistoric animals are sometimes dug up and eaten by the wild dogs. In 1901, an expedition went to search for the remains of a prehistoric mammoth, reported to have been found in the area. The men found the mammoth frozen into the side of a mountain. Part of the head had been exposed by a fall of frozen rock, and bears and wolves had managed to tear off some of the flesh. Most of the frozen mammoth was in excellent condition, complete with flesh, skin and a thick covering of coarse hairs. The men were able to study the prehistoric food found on the creature’s tongue and teeth and in its stomach. Eventually the whole body was excavated and taken away for preservation and study.
It may be, too, that there are still living dinosaurs to be found. Far up in the mountains is the Lake of Labankur. No one has ever had the courage to take a boat out on it. Some time ago, a group of men made an expedition to examine it. They pushed in a reindeer, forced it to swim out towards the centre of the lake and saw it disappear abruptly. Then they sent a dog, which was also swallowed up. Suddenly a black monster emerged from the still waters of the lake, blew threateningly and
plunged back into the depths.
Reading Comprehension n.
1. Answer the following comprehension questions.
· Why is Siberia so sparsely populated?………………………………………………………………………
· Why do the roots of the trees spread sideways instead of going down
into the soil?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What difficulties does one face when entering the forests during a)
the summer, b) the winter?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· How did wolves manage to get at the head of the mammoth?
……………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· Explain why the mammoth’s flesh had not decomposed…………………………………………………
· What was the purpose of the experiments with the reindeer and the
dog?………………………………..
· Why was it necessary for the author to insert the word ‘natural’
before ‘refrigerator’ in line 14?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What evidence, if any, is there in the text concerning the existence
of dinosaurs in Siberia?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· Explain the meaning of the following words as they are used in the
passage.
a) unaccustomed (5)…………………………………………………………
b) support (9)……………………………………………………………….
c) rich (9)………………………………………………………………….
d) prehistoric (17)…………………………………………………………..
e) flesh (20)………………………………………………………………..
f) coarse (21)………………………………………………………………
g) abruptly (29)……………………………………………………………
h) swallowed up (29)……………………………………………………..
i) threateningly (30)………………………………………………………
18
2. What do the following words refer to?
there (5)………………………………………….. it (5)………………………………………….
itself (7)…………………………………………… which (11)…………………………………..
it (12)……………………………………………… this (12)………………………………………
its (22)……………………………………………. it (25)………………………………………..
it (27)………………………………………………. they (27)………………………………………
it (28)……………………………………………… which (29)…………………………………….
3. Translate the following linking words as they are used in the text.
State the function of each linking word,
e.g., to add information, to contrast, concession, reason etc.
· though (6)…………………………………………………………………………..
· when (8)……………………………………………………………………………
· because of (13)…………………………………………………………………….
· eventually (23)………………………………………………………………………
· too (25)……………………………………………………………………………..
· then (29)……………………………………………………………………………
4. MODALS …..translate each of the following modal constructions and
state what each modal expresses,
e.g., ability, possibility, obligation, permission, advice etc.
· the temperature can fall (3)…………………………………………………………………
· the temperature in summer may reach 40° (7)……………………………………………….
· the topsoil can support rich vegetation (8)……………………………………………………
· the roots have to spread sideways (10)………………………………………………………..
· ** bears and wolves had managed to tear off (19)……………………………………………..
· **the men were able to study (21)………………………………………………………………
· it may be (25)…………………………………………………………………………………..
5. IRREGULAR VERBS….write the infinitive, past simple, past participle
and translation of the following verbs.
INFINITIVE PAST SIMPLE PAST PARTICIPLE TRANSLATION
lie (2)………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
fall (3)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
make (4)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………frozen (6)…………………………………………
grow (9)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
spread (10)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
bear (11)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………….dug (15)…………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………..eaten (16)…………………………………
………………………………………………………………………found (17)…………………………………
tear (19)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
swim (28)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………….taken (23)…………………………………
……………………………..saw (28)…………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………….sent (29)…………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………….blew (30)……………………………………………………………………………
6. PASSIVES ….translate the following passive constructions.
· animals are sometimes dug up and eaten (15)………………………………………………………………
· a mammoth (which was) reported to have been found (17)
…………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· the head had been exposed (18)………………………………………………………………………………
· the body was excavated and taken away (23)………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· there are living dinosaurs to be found (25)
…………………………………………………………………..
· a dog, which was also swallowed up (29)……………………………………………………………………
7. CLOZE ….fill each of the numbered spaces with an appropriate word
taken from the box.
warning predict severe prepare obsolete
percentage late lower eyewitness characteristic
Modern weather technology can detect strong winds and rain, which are
_______________(1)
of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. In the past, an _______________
(2) radar system was used
to predict such storms. Under this old system, warnings often depended
on ________________(3) reports.
These reports gave people only about three minutes to ________________
(4) for the tornado. Today, more
than 100 new detection centres are in place in the United States. By
the ________________(5) 1990’s,
a total of 152 systems will be working throughout the country. In the
past, many ______________(6)
thunderstorms and tornadoes struck without ________________(7). Weather
forecasters could not
__________________(8) all of them. In fact, they did not predict 33
percent of all the storms. As a result
of the new technology, this __________________(9) has decreased to 13
percent. When all the new systems
are in place, this percentage will be even _________________(10).
7(a) CLOZE 2
by the it to decisions
will that maintain citizens shown
With the rejection of the Euro, Denmark has _______________(1) the true
value of democracy.
Its ______________(2) decided via a referendum that they preferred to
________________(3) their own
currency rather than adopt _______________(4) of the European Union.
Their vote _____________(5)
influence the long-awaited _______________(6) of Britain and Sweden and
contribute ______________(7)
reduced confidence in a number of Euro countries. _______________(8)
will also show all participating
nations _______________(9) value of a true referendum ________________
(10) the people, as opposed
to the decisions made by a bunch of international politicians.
8. VOCABULARY…fill in the spaces with an appropriate Noun, Verb,
Adjective and Adverb.
NOUN VERB ADJECTIVE ADVERB
INHABITANT
WASTE
HAPPEN
SUPPORT
HEIGHT
ENTER
CLOUD
EXPEDITION
REMAINS
HEAD
MANAGE
COVERING
CREATURE
EXPOSED
EXCAVATED
PRESERVATION
COURAGE
EMERGE
Friday, January 22, 2010
Sleep difficulties and recommendations
Sleep difficulties and recommendations
There have been times when, if you could put sleep in a cup, I would
have drunk it. If you too crave sleep the way some people crave chocolate,the chances are that you share your nights with a small child. According to a study by Naomi Richman, Consultant Psychiatrist at Great Ormond Street Hospital, up to 20% of 1-and 2-year olds wake regularly every night. The children themselves rarely suffer. They spring cheerfully to life each morning while their exhausted parents devise ruses to snatch a few more
moments rest.
The traditional child-care experts breed confusion rather than offer comfort. All are dogmatic and all have different advice: Hugh Jolly
recommends taking your baby into bed with you; Dr. Spock warns, “I think it is a sensible rule not to take the child into the parents’ bed for any reason”; Penelope Leach sides with Spock and suggests: “move the baby out of your room as soon as possible”. If the little horror cries at night, Spock says you should leave him to it; Leach recommends that you “go to him immediately”, and Jolly sits on the fence with the advice that it is all right to leave your baby crying at times.
It is hard to imagine another situation in which a problem causing such
a high level of stress is dismissed in so cavalier a fashion. However, there is one blessed exception to the “grin and bear it” school of child care. For some years now, the Department of Psychological Medicine at Great Ormond Street Hospital has been helping parents whose children have particularly bad sleep problems. Carol and John Warren were early beneficiaries of the compassionate guidance of psychologists working there. Their 2-year-old son Will had never slept for longer than three hours at a stretch. What’s more,
he would only go back to sleep if he was breast-fed, so Carol had to take the whole burden of night waking. “I was like a zombie by day”, she recalls.
They were asked to keep a detailed sleep chart for a few weeks. Then,
on the basis of their chart, specific suggestions were made to break the pattern: Will was to be moved into a separate room; Carol should stop breast-feeding altogether; John should take over completely at night, rocking him back to sleep to start with and then gradually phasing out the amount of attention given each time Will woke up and started to cry.
It took three months to complete the different steps they had set
themselves. The final break-through came when John went in and told
Will firmly to go back to sleep. After three nights of this, he stopped
bothering to wake up any more.
Reading Comprehension n. 12 SLEEP 61
1. Answer the following comprehension questions.
a) What is the passage about?………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
b) Why do you think the author says “if you could put sleep in a cup, I
would have drunk it”?………………..
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
c) Are the following statements TRUE or FALSE?
· The majority of children do not sleep all night. T / F
· Child-care experts don’t offer much help to sleepy parents. T / F
· Dr Spock believes that children should not sleep in their parents’
bed. T / F
· All three doctors agree on letting the baby cry at night. T / F
· Psychologists were not able to help the Warren family. T / F
d) Why did Carol and John ask for help?…………………………………………………………….……….
e) Give at least three things which the anxious parents were asked to
do…………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
f)Explain the meaning of the following words or phrases as used in the
text.
· up to 20% (5)………………………………………………………
· they spring cheerfully to life (6)……………………………………………….
· child-care experts breed confusion (10)………………………………………………
· Leach sides with Spock (13)……………………………………………………
· the little horror (14)……………………………………………………..
· Jolly sits on the fence (16)…………………………………………………….
· ‘grin and bear it’ (20)……………………………………………………..
· at a stretch (25)……………………………………………………..
· Carol had to take the whole burden (26)…………………………………………….
· gradually phasing out (32)………………………………………………
· the final breakthrough (35)………………………………………………
2. What do the following words refer to? 62
it (2)………………………………………….. they (6)……………………………………………..
their (7)……………………………………… all (10)………………………………………………
I (11)…………………………………………. it (12)………………………………………………….
him (15)…………………………………….. it (15)……………………………………………….
it (16)…………………………………………. it (18)…………………………………………….
which (18)…………………………………… whose (22)……………………………………………
there (24)……………………………………. he (26)……………………………………………..
I (27)………………………………………… they (28)………………………………………………
it (34)……………………………………….. this (36)……………………………………………….
3. Translate the following linking words and state their function in
the text.
if (1)…………………………………………………………………….
too (2)…………………………………………………………………..
while (7)…………………………………………………………………
rather than (9)……………………………………………………………
as….as (14)……………………………………………………………….
however (19)…………………………………………………………….
what’s more (25)………………………………………………………….
so (26)……………………………………………………………………..
then (28)…………………………………………………………………..
4. MODALS…..translate the following modal constructions and state what
each modal expresses, e.g. ability,
probability, obligation, advice etc.
· if you could put sleep in a cup (1)………………………………………………………………..
· you should leave him to it (15)………………………………………………………………….
· Carol had to take the whole burden (26)……………………………………………………….
· Carol should stop breast-feeding (30)………………………………………………………………
· John should take over completely at night (31)…………………………………………………….
· N.B……..Will was to be moved.(30) = Will had to be moved ( ‘BE + to’
expresses an order)
· N.B……..the chances are (3) …..expresses ‘probability’, i.e., it is
probable that….
5. Giving ADVICE…….note the following verbs from the text which express
ADVICE. 63
· Dr Spock warns (11)………..= he advises
· I think it is a sensible rule(11)……………… = it is my advice that
· Leach suggests (13)………………….= she advises
· Leach recommends (15)…………….= she advises
· They were asked to keep (28)……………..= they were advised to
· Specific suggestions were made(29)………..= they were given advice
· Carol should stop (30)………………= she was advised to stop
· John should take over (31)…………= he was advised to take over
6. IRREGULAR VERBS…….write the infinitive, past simple, past participle
and translation of the following verbs.
Infinitive Past Simple Past Participle Translation
wake (5)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
spring (6)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
breed (9)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
think (11)………………………………………………………………………………………………………
take (12)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
say (14)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
leave (15)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
go (15)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
sit (16)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
have (22)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………..slept (25)……………………………………
………………………………………………………………………fed (26)……………………………………
keep (28)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………….made(29)………………………………
break (29)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………….given (33)………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………..set (34)…………………………………..
…………………………..came (35)……………………………………………………………………………
7. CONDITIONALS ……translate the following conditional sentences and
state which conditional
each one is, i.e., zero, 1st, 2nd, or 3rd.
· If you could put sleep in a cup, I would have drunk it (1)
…………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· If you too crave sleep, the chances are that you share your nights
with a small child (2)………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………
· He would only go back to sleep if he was breast-fed (26)
…………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………….…
8. “-ING-forms”…note the following ‘ing-forms’ and decide if they
function as Adjectives, or Nouns, or
as Present Participles with the verb ‘to be’. Translate these phrases.
a) Jolly recommends taking your baby (11)……………………………………………………………………
b) to leave your baby crying at times (17)………………………………………………………………………
c) a problem causing such a high level of stress (18)
…………………………………………………………..
d) the Department ….has been helping parents (22)
……………………………………………………………
e) guidance of psychologists working there (24)
……………………………………………………………….
f) Carol had to take the whole burden of night waking (26)
……………………………………………………
g) rocking him back to sleep (31)……………………………………………………………………………….
h) gradually phasing out (32)…………………………………………………………………………………….
i) he stopped bothering to wake up (37)…………………………………………………………………………
9. Passives……translate the following passive constructions.
a) a problem is dismissed in so cavalier a fashion (19)
……………………………………………………
b) they were asked to keep (28)……………………………………………………………………………
c) suggestions were made (29)……………………………………………………………………………..
d) Will was to be moved (30)……………………………………………………………………………….
10. VOCABULARY ……match a word in column ‘A’ with its synonym in column
‘B’ 65
‘A’ ‘B’
times (1) thoughtless
crave (2) assisting
chances (3) advice
rarely(6) moments
devise (7) weight
ruse (7) agree
sensible (12) difficult
to side with (13) not often
sit on the fence (16) probability
hard (18) strongly desire
cavalier (19) invent
helping (22) trick
guidance (24) intelligent
burden (27) is undecided
CLOZE…..fill in the numbered spaces with an appropriate word taken from
the box.
former than when demand fired the to
thousands appear allegations scandals mired by
Protests broke out in Indonesia’s capital after President Abdurrahman
Wahid declined to
____________(1) before a parliamentary committee investigating
corruption _______________(2)
against him. Wahid, whose administration has been ____________(3) in a
series of financial and
political ____________(4), described the request as outrageous and
countered ______________(5)
inviting some members of the committee ____________(6) question him at
the presidential palace.
Police ______________(7) tear gas and warning shots against the
______________(8) of students who
converged on parliament to __________(9) Wahid’s resignation. A Muslim
cleric and _____________(10)
country’s first democratically elected leader in more ____________(11)
50 years, Wahid came to power
__________(12) student-led protests helped to topple the regime of
__________(13) dictator Suharto in 1998.
There have been times when, if you could put sleep in a cup, I would
have drunk it. If you too crave sleep the way some people crave chocolate,the chances are that you share your nights with a small child. According to a study by Naomi Richman, Consultant Psychiatrist at Great Ormond Street Hospital, up to 20% of 1-and 2-year olds wake regularly every night. The children themselves rarely suffer. They spring cheerfully to life each morning while their exhausted parents devise ruses to snatch a few more
moments rest.
The traditional child-care experts breed confusion rather than offer comfort. All are dogmatic and all have different advice: Hugh Jolly
recommends taking your baby into bed with you; Dr. Spock warns, “I think it is a sensible rule not to take the child into the parents’ bed for any reason”; Penelope Leach sides with Spock and suggests: “move the baby out of your room as soon as possible”. If the little horror cries at night, Spock says you should leave him to it; Leach recommends that you “go to him immediately”, and Jolly sits on the fence with the advice that it is all right to leave your baby crying at times.
It is hard to imagine another situation in which a problem causing such
a high level of stress is dismissed in so cavalier a fashion. However, there is one blessed exception to the “grin and bear it” school of child care. For some years now, the Department of Psychological Medicine at Great Ormond Street Hospital has been helping parents whose children have particularly bad sleep problems. Carol and John Warren were early beneficiaries of the compassionate guidance of psychologists working there. Their 2-year-old son Will had never slept for longer than three hours at a stretch. What’s more,
he would only go back to sleep if he was breast-fed, so Carol had to take the whole burden of night waking. “I was like a zombie by day”, she recalls.
They were asked to keep a detailed sleep chart for a few weeks. Then,
on the basis of their chart, specific suggestions were made to break the pattern: Will was to be moved into a separate room; Carol should stop breast-feeding altogether; John should take over completely at night, rocking him back to sleep to start with and then gradually phasing out the amount of attention given each time Will woke up and started to cry.
It took three months to complete the different steps they had set
themselves. The final break-through came when John went in and told
Will firmly to go back to sleep. After three nights of this, he stopped
bothering to wake up any more.
Reading Comprehension n. 12 SLEEP 61
1. Answer the following comprehension questions.
a) What is the passage about?………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
b) Why do you think the author says “if you could put sleep in a cup, I
would have drunk it”?………………..
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
c) Are the following statements TRUE or FALSE?
· The majority of children do not sleep all night. T / F
· Child-care experts don’t offer much help to sleepy parents. T / F
· Dr Spock believes that children should not sleep in their parents’
bed. T / F
· All three doctors agree on letting the baby cry at night. T / F
· Psychologists were not able to help the Warren family. T / F
d) Why did Carol and John ask for help?…………………………………………………………….……….
e) Give at least three things which the anxious parents were asked to
do…………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
f)Explain the meaning of the following words or phrases as used in the
text.
· up to 20% (5)………………………………………………………
· they spring cheerfully to life (6)……………………………………………….
· child-care experts breed confusion (10)………………………………………………
· Leach sides with Spock (13)……………………………………………………
· the little horror (14)……………………………………………………..
· Jolly sits on the fence (16)…………………………………………………….
· ‘grin and bear it’ (20)……………………………………………………..
· at a stretch (25)……………………………………………………..
· Carol had to take the whole burden (26)…………………………………………….
· gradually phasing out (32)………………………………………………
· the final breakthrough (35)………………………………………………
2. What do the following words refer to? 62
it (2)………………………………………….. they (6)……………………………………………..
their (7)……………………………………… all (10)………………………………………………
I (11)…………………………………………. it (12)………………………………………………….
him (15)…………………………………….. it (15)……………………………………………….
it (16)…………………………………………. it (18)…………………………………………….
which (18)…………………………………… whose (22)……………………………………………
there (24)……………………………………. he (26)……………………………………………..
I (27)………………………………………… they (28)………………………………………………
it (34)……………………………………….. this (36)……………………………………………….
3. Translate the following linking words and state their function in
the text.
if (1)…………………………………………………………………….
too (2)…………………………………………………………………..
while (7)…………………………………………………………………
rather than (9)……………………………………………………………
as….as (14)……………………………………………………………….
however (19)…………………………………………………………….
what’s more (25)………………………………………………………….
so (26)……………………………………………………………………..
then (28)…………………………………………………………………..
4. MODALS…..translate the following modal constructions and state what
each modal expresses, e.g. ability,
probability, obligation, advice etc.
· if you could put sleep in a cup (1)………………………………………………………………..
· you should leave him to it (15)………………………………………………………………….
· Carol had to take the whole burden (26)……………………………………………………….
· Carol should stop breast-feeding (30)………………………………………………………………
· John should take over completely at night (31)…………………………………………………….
· N.B……..Will was to be moved.(30) = Will had to be moved ( ‘BE + to’
expresses an order)
· N.B……..the chances are (3) …..expresses ‘probability’, i.e., it is
probable that….
5. Giving ADVICE…….note the following verbs from the text which express
ADVICE. 63
· Dr Spock warns (11)………..= he advises
· I think it is a sensible rule(11)……………… = it is my advice that
· Leach suggests (13)………………….= she advises
· Leach recommends (15)…………….= she advises
· They were asked to keep (28)……………..= they were advised to
· Specific suggestions were made(29)………..= they were given advice
· Carol should stop (30)………………= she was advised to stop
· John should take over (31)…………= he was advised to take over
6. IRREGULAR VERBS…….write the infinitive, past simple, past participle
and translation of the following verbs.
Infinitive Past Simple Past Participle Translation
wake (5)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
spring (6)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
breed (9)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
think (11)………………………………………………………………………………………………………
take (12)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
say (14)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
leave (15)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
go (15)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
sit (16)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
have (22)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………..slept (25)……………………………………
………………………………………………………………………fed (26)……………………………………
keep (28)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………….made(29)………………………………
break (29)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………….given (33)………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………..set (34)…………………………………..
…………………………..came (35)……………………………………………………………………………
7. CONDITIONALS ……translate the following conditional sentences and
state which conditional
each one is, i.e., zero, 1st, 2nd, or 3rd.
· If you could put sleep in a cup, I would have drunk it (1)
…………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· If you too crave sleep, the chances are that you share your nights
with a small child (2)………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………
· He would only go back to sleep if he was breast-fed (26)
…………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………….…
8. “-ING-forms”…note the following ‘ing-forms’ and decide if they
function as Adjectives, or Nouns, or
as Present Participles with the verb ‘to be’. Translate these phrases.
a) Jolly recommends taking your baby (11)……………………………………………………………………
b) to leave your baby crying at times (17)………………………………………………………………………
c) a problem causing such a high level of stress (18)
…………………………………………………………..
d) the Department ….has been helping parents (22)
……………………………………………………………
e) guidance of psychologists working there (24)
……………………………………………………………….
f) Carol had to take the whole burden of night waking (26)
……………………………………………………
g) rocking him back to sleep (31)……………………………………………………………………………….
h) gradually phasing out (32)…………………………………………………………………………………….
i) he stopped bothering to wake up (37)…………………………………………………………………………
9. Passives……translate the following passive constructions.
a) a problem is dismissed in so cavalier a fashion (19)
……………………………………………………
b) they were asked to keep (28)……………………………………………………………………………
c) suggestions were made (29)……………………………………………………………………………..
d) Will was to be moved (30)……………………………………………………………………………….
10. VOCABULARY ……match a word in column ‘A’ with its synonym in column
‘B’ 65
‘A’ ‘B’
times (1) thoughtless
crave (2) assisting
chances (3) advice
rarely(6) moments
devise (7) weight
ruse (7) agree
sensible (12) difficult
to side with (13) not often
sit on the fence (16) probability
hard (18) strongly desire
cavalier (19) invent
helping (22) trick
guidance (24) intelligent
burden (27) is undecided
CLOZE…..fill in the numbered spaces with an appropriate word taken from
the box.
former than when demand fired the to
thousands appear allegations scandals mired by
Protests broke out in Indonesia’s capital after President Abdurrahman
Wahid declined to
____________(1) before a parliamentary committee investigating
corruption _______________(2)
against him. Wahid, whose administration has been ____________(3) in a
series of financial and
political ____________(4), described the request as outrageous and
countered ______________(5)
inviting some members of the committee ____________(6) question him at
the presidential palace.
Police ______________(7) tear gas and warning shots against the
______________(8) of students who
converged on parliament to __________(9) Wahid’s resignation. A Muslim
cleric and _____________(10)
country’s first democratically elected leader in more ____________(11)
50 years, Wahid came to power
__________(12) student-led protests helped to topple the regime of
__________(13) dictator Suharto in 1998.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
THE GRAND MARCH TO LUXOR and excercises
Verdi would have loved the idea. In the ruins of the Temple of Luxor,
near the ancient city of Thebes where the pharaohs ruled, stages for a grand opera are being put into shape.There, in early May, a $10 million productionof “AIDA” will take place in the open air. Colossal figures of Ramses II will look down on Verdi’s monumental drama of love, war and betrayal. The background will be the river Nile. It will also be a fantastic spectacle – or a spectacular fiasco.
The impresario is Fawzi Mitwali, a wealthy Egyptian-born mineral-oil
wholesaler,who sees the show as sort of a Woodstock for the very rich. “I want to bring all people together, all opera lovers, into one big nation during the opera performance,”performance,” he says. About 40,000 tickets, at prices from $250 to $550, are being sold worldwide for a run that will last only 10 performances.King Hussein of Jordan, King Juan Carlos of Spain and, of course, the Prince and Princess of Wales have been invited. Six of the eight Concorde supersonic
15 jets currently in service are supposed to fly in to Luxor airport, and most of the Nile’s luxury cruise boats will be tied up along the banks to offer accommodations.
But this opera fan’s dream could turn into an archaeologist’s nightmare. Lanny Bell, director of an archaeological project in Luxor, shudders at the impact that thousands of opera fans,not to mention hundreds of lance carriers recruited 20 from the Egyptian army, might have on fragile structures already eroded by rising ground water and corrosive salt. Merely the vibrations of so many stamping feet could be a problem, he warns. “General damage can be anticipated,” he says
gloomily, “like from an earthquake.”
Then there are the logistical horrors. Luxor has only about half the first-class hotel rooms it needs to house the nightly audience of 4,000, and cruise boats may not be able to take up the slack. The Muslim holy month of Ramadan will have just begun, a period when all-day fasting and all-night feasting often bring Egypt to a virtual standstill. Luxor residents doubt there will be enough food, enough clean sheets, even enough jet fuel at the airport.
Mitwali scoffs at the sceptics. “I know it is difficult,” he says. “I only do difficult things.” He stresses that Egyptian officials are watching closely to make sure the monuments are not damaged. The Egyptians hope that the Luxor “AIDA” can restore an aura of glamour and confidence to their country after the terrorist incidents of recent years – notably the Achille Lauro hijacking – that scared rich foreigners away. So grand a project certainly deserves success, but it may be well to remember that “AIDA” itself ends tragically, with the Ethiopian princess and her Egyptian lover sealed in a cold, dark tomb.
1. Answer the following comprehension questions.
· What is the passage about?……………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· Explain what is meant by “who sees the show as a sort of Woodstock for the very rich”. (19)
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What is the central concern of archaeologist Lenny Bell?…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· What natural causes have already damaged the archaeological sites?………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· What problems can guests arriving in Luxor anticipate?…………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· Why is it so important to the Egyptians that the show is a huge success?…………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· What is the author implying in the last sentence of the passage? “So grand a project…..dark tomb.” (35-37)
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What is the main idea in paragraph 3?
a) potential archaeological damage
b) the problem of using the Egyptian army
c) earthquake damage
What is the main idea in paragraph 4
a) logistical problems
b) the shortage of hotels
c) the problem of the holy month of Ramadan
· Explain the meaning of the following words or phrases as they are used in the passage.
a) for a run (12)…………………………………………………………………………..
b) shudders (18)…………………………………………………………………………..
c) gloomily (23)………………………………………………………………………….
d) logistical (24)……………………………………………………………………………
e) to take up the slack (26)………………………………………………………………
f) all-day fasting (27)…………………………………………………………………..
g) a virtual standstill (28)………………………………………………………………..
h) scoffs at the sceptics (30)……………………………………………………………..
i) an aura of glamour (33)
What do the following words refer to?
there (3)…………………………………………… it (6)………………………………………………
who (9)……………………………………………. he (11)……………………………………………
it (25)……………………………………………… it (30)…………………………………………….
their (33)………………………………………….. it (35)…………………………………………….
itself (36)…………………………………………… her (37)…………………………………………..
In paragraph 4, there are no linking words joining the ideas in each of the sentences. Choose the most
appropriate linking word to join the following sentences.
a) between sentence 1 & 2 ----- but, for example, first, if
b) between sentence 2 & 3 ----- in addition, therefore, still, of course
c) between sentence 3 & 4 ----- however, finally, briefly, then
4. IRREGULAR VERBS …..write the infinitive, past simple, past participle and translation of the following verbs.
INFINITIVE PAST SIMPLE PAST PARTICIPLE TRANSLATION
……………………………………………………………….put (3)………………………………………
take (4)……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
see (9)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
say (11)………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………..sold (12)………………………………………
fly (15)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
take (26)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………begun (27)……………………………………..
bring (27)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
know (30)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
do (30)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
make (31)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
MODALS ….translate each of the following modal constructions and state what each modal expresses,
e.g., ability, possibility, obligation, permission, advice etc.
· the dream could turn into a nightmare (17)……………………………………………………………….
· the impact that fans might have on fragile structures (20)………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· vibrations could be a problem (22)………………………………………………………………………
· damage can be anticipated (22)………………………………………………………………………….
· cruise boats may not be able to take up the slack (25)…………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· AIDA can restore an aura of glamour (33)…………………………………………………………………
· it may be well to remember (35)………………………………………………………………………….
6. PASSIVES….re-write the following passive voice constructions using the active voice.
· stages are being put into shape (3)………………………………………………………………………
· tickets are being sold (12)………………………………………………………………………………
· the Prince and Princess of Wales have been invited (14)……………………………………………….
· cruise boats will be tied up (16)………………………………………………………………………….
· structures (which have been) eroded by water and salt (20)………………………………………………
· to make sure the monuments are not damaged (32)………………………………………………………
CLOZE ….fill each of the numbered spaces with an appropriate word taken from the box.
Verdi would have loved the idea. In _____________(1) ruins of the Temple of Luxor, ___________(2)
the ancient city of Thebes where the ______________(3) ruled, stages for a grand opera _____________(4)
being put into shape. There, in ____________(5) May, a $10 million production of Aida ______________(6)
take place in the open air. _______________(7) figures of Ramses II will look down ______________(8)
Verdi’s monumental drama of love, war ___________(9) betrayal. The background will be the river Nile.
It will also _____________(10) a fantastic spectacle – or a spectacular fiasco.
be and are near the on
colossal will early pharaohs
near the ancient city of Thebes where the pharaohs ruled, stages for a grand opera are being put into shape.There, in early May, a $10 million productionof “AIDA” will take place in the open air. Colossal figures of Ramses II will look down on Verdi’s monumental drama of love, war and betrayal. The background will be the river Nile. It will also be a fantastic spectacle – or a spectacular fiasco.
The impresario is Fawzi Mitwali, a wealthy Egyptian-born mineral-oil
wholesaler,who sees the show as sort of a Woodstock for the very rich. “I want to bring all people together, all opera lovers, into one big nation during the opera performance,”performance,” he says. About 40,000 tickets, at prices from $250 to $550, are being sold worldwide for a run that will last only 10 performances.King Hussein of Jordan, King Juan Carlos of Spain and, of course, the Prince and Princess of Wales have been invited. Six of the eight Concorde supersonic
15 jets currently in service are supposed to fly in to Luxor airport, and most of the Nile’s luxury cruise boats will be tied up along the banks to offer accommodations.
But this opera fan’s dream could turn into an archaeologist’s nightmare. Lanny Bell, director of an archaeological project in Luxor, shudders at the impact that thousands of opera fans,not to mention hundreds of lance carriers recruited 20 from the Egyptian army, might have on fragile structures already eroded by rising ground water and corrosive salt. Merely the vibrations of so many stamping feet could be a problem, he warns. “General damage can be anticipated,” he says
gloomily, “like from an earthquake.”
Then there are the logistical horrors. Luxor has only about half the first-class hotel rooms it needs to house the nightly audience of 4,000, and cruise boats may not be able to take up the slack. The Muslim holy month of Ramadan will have just begun, a period when all-day fasting and all-night feasting often bring Egypt to a virtual standstill. Luxor residents doubt there will be enough food, enough clean sheets, even enough jet fuel at the airport.
Mitwali scoffs at the sceptics. “I know it is difficult,” he says. “I only do difficult things.” He stresses that Egyptian officials are watching closely to make sure the monuments are not damaged. The Egyptians hope that the Luxor “AIDA” can restore an aura of glamour and confidence to their country after the terrorist incidents of recent years – notably the Achille Lauro hijacking – that scared rich foreigners away. So grand a project certainly deserves success, but it may be well to remember that “AIDA” itself ends tragically, with the Ethiopian princess and her Egyptian lover sealed in a cold, dark tomb.
1. Answer the following comprehension questions.
· What is the passage about?……………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· Explain what is meant by “who sees the show as a sort of Woodstock for the very rich”. (19)
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What is the central concern of archaeologist Lenny Bell?…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· What natural causes have already damaged the archaeological sites?………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· What problems can guests arriving in Luxor anticipate?…………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· Why is it so important to the Egyptians that the show is a huge success?…………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· What is the author implying in the last sentence of the passage? “So grand a project…..dark tomb.” (35-37)
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
· What is the main idea in paragraph 3?
a) potential archaeological damage
b) the problem of using the Egyptian army
c) earthquake damage
What is the main idea in paragraph 4
a) logistical problems
b) the shortage of hotels
c) the problem of the holy month of Ramadan
· Explain the meaning of the following words or phrases as they are used in the passage.
a) for a run (12)…………………………………………………………………………..
b) shudders (18)…………………………………………………………………………..
c) gloomily (23)………………………………………………………………………….
d) logistical (24)……………………………………………………………………………
e) to take up the slack (26)………………………………………………………………
f) all-day fasting (27)…………………………………………………………………..
g) a virtual standstill (28)………………………………………………………………..
h) scoffs at the sceptics (30)……………………………………………………………..
i) an aura of glamour (33)
What do the following words refer to?
there (3)…………………………………………… it (6)………………………………………………
who (9)……………………………………………. he (11)……………………………………………
it (25)……………………………………………… it (30)…………………………………………….
their (33)………………………………………….. it (35)…………………………………………….
itself (36)…………………………………………… her (37)…………………………………………..
In paragraph 4, there are no linking words joining the ideas in each of the sentences. Choose the most
appropriate linking word to join the following sentences.
a) between sentence 1 & 2 ----- but, for example, first, if
b) between sentence 2 & 3 ----- in addition, therefore, still, of course
c) between sentence 3 & 4 ----- however, finally, briefly, then
4. IRREGULAR VERBS …..write the infinitive, past simple, past participle and translation of the following verbs.
INFINITIVE PAST SIMPLE PAST PARTICIPLE TRANSLATION
……………………………………………………………….put (3)………………………………………
take (4)……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
see (9)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
say (11)………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………..sold (12)………………………………………
fly (15)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
take (26)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………begun (27)……………………………………..
bring (27)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
know (30)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
do (30)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
make (31)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
MODALS ….translate each of the following modal constructions and state what each modal expresses,
e.g., ability, possibility, obligation, permission, advice etc.
· the dream could turn into a nightmare (17)……………………………………………………………….
· the impact that fans might have on fragile structures (20)………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
· vibrations could be a problem (22)………………………………………………………………………
· damage can be anticipated (22)………………………………………………………………………….
· cruise boats may not be able to take up the slack (25)…………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
· AIDA can restore an aura of glamour (33)…………………………………………………………………
· it may be well to remember (35)………………………………………………………………………….
6. PASSIVES….re-write the following passive voice constructions using the active voice.
· stages are being put into shape (3)………………………………………………………………………
· tickets are being sold (12)………………………………………………………………………………
· the Prince and Princess of Wales have been invited (14)……………………………………………….
· cruise boats will be tied up (16)………………………………………………………………………….
· structures (which have been) eroded by water and salt (20)………………………………………………
· to make sure the monuments are not damaged (32)………………………………………………………
CLOZE ….fill each of the numbered spaces with an appropriate word taken from the box.
Verdi would have loved the idea. In _____________(1) ruins of the Temple of Luxor, ___________(2)
the ancient city of Thebes where the ______________(3) ruled, stages for a grand opera _____________(4)
being put into shape. There, in ____________(5) May, a $10 million production of Aida ______________(6)
take place in the open air. _______________(7) figures of Ramses II will look down ______________(8)
Verdi’s monumental drama of love, war ___________(9) betrayal. The background will be the river Nile.
It will also _____________(10) a fantastic spectacle – or a spectacular fiasco.
be and are near the on
colossal will early pharaohs
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