Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Picking a university is a tense period of asking yourself which institution is most relevant. That's why university rankings play such a vital role in students searching for their next academic direction. Rankings are also an inescapable part of the reputation and brand image of universities. "No university website is complete without the claim to be in the top 100 for something or other," reported the BBC. The reason is simple: Rankings help them to attract students, staff and research investment.
Currently there are numbers of university rankings, and each has its own list of criteria. But the main categories are the same: academic reputation, graduates' performance and faculty resources.
However, experts point out the ranking process isn't entirely reliable. Mark Kantrowitz, a US financial aid researcher, said university rankings were mostly just for show. He wrote in The New York Times. "It may give your parents better bragging rights, but that's about it."
Moreover, it's not difficult to see the limitations of university rankings. Many rankings focus on the number of times research work is cited   by other researchers. _ helps British and US universities to dominate global rankings because English is the favored language of academia, John O'Leary, a member of the QS academic advisory board, told The Gunrdian. Also, rankings such as QS mainly focus on the qualities of the university rather than its students. "Any university ranking is likely to help students make better decisions about where to study, but the need to balance them with other more human factors is also important," said Phil Moss, an education and admissions consultant. "Advice from graduates or current students can be as valuable in providing a genuine insight into the experience or quality of a particular degree program. It can also add an element that rankings can never convey -- the actual emotion of a university experience."

<question>:
Why do universities consider rankings important?

<options>:
A Rankings make them more appealing.
B Rankings are students' only reference.
C Rankings can increase their academic level.
D Rankings help them complete their websites.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Picking a university is a tense period of asking yourself which institution is most relevant. That's why university rankings play such a vital role in students searching for their next academic direction. Rankings are also an inescapable part of the reputation and brand image of universities. "No university website is complete without the claim to be in the top 100 for something or other," reported the BBC. The reason is simple: Rankings help them to attract students, staff and research investment.
Currently there are numbers of university rankings, and each has its own list of criteria. But the main categories are the same: academic reputation, graduates' performance and faculty resources.
However, experts point out the ranking process isn't entirely reliable. Mark Kantrowitz, a US financial aid researcher, said university rankings were mostly just for show. He wrote in The New York Times. "It may give your parents better bragging rights, but that's about it."
Moreover, it's not difficult to see the limitations of university rankings. Many rankings focus on the number of times research work is cited   by other researchers. _ helps British and US universities to dominate global rankings because English is the favored language of academia, John O'Leary, a member of the QS academic advisory board, told The Gunrdian. Also, rankings such as QS mainly focus on the qualities of the university rather than its students. "Any university ranking is likely to help students make better decisions about where to study, but the need to balance them with other more human factors is also important," said Phil Moss, an education and admissions consultant. "Advice from graduates or current students can be as valuable in providing a genuine insight into the experience or quality of a particular degree program. It can also add an element that rankings can never convey -- the actual emotion of a university experience."

<question>:
According to John O'Leary, what helps British and US universities rank well?

<options>:
A The wide use of English in academia.
B Their outstanding qualities.
C Their graduates' excellent performance.
D The academia's favor to them.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Picking a university is a tense period of asking yourself which institution is most relevant. That's why university rankings play such a vital role in students searching for their next academic direction. Rankings are also an inescapable part of the reputation and brand image of universities. "No university website is complete without the claim to be in the top 100 for something or other," reported the BBC. The reason is simple: Rankings help them to attract students, staff and research investment.
Currently there are numbers of university rankings, and each has its own list of criteria. But the main categories are the same: academic reputation, graduates' performance and faculty resources.
However, experts point out the ranking process isn't entirely reliable. Mark Kantrowitz, a US financial aid researcher, said university rankings were mostly just for show. He wrote in The New York Times. "It may give your parents better bragging rights, but that's about it."
Moreover, it's not difficult to see the limitations of university rankings. Many rankings focus on the number of times research work is cited   by other researchers. _ helps British and US universities to dominate global rankings because English is the favored language of academia, John O'Leary, a member of the QS academic advisory board, told The Gunrdian. Also, rankings such as QS mainly focus on the qualities of the university rather than its students. "Any university ranking is likely to help students make better decisions about where to study, but the need to balance them with other more human factors is also important," said Phil Moss, an education and admissions consultant. "Advice from graduates or current students can be as valuable in providing a genuine insight into the experience or quality of a particular degree program. It can also add an element that rankings can never convey -- the actual emotion of a university experience."

<question>:
Besides ranking, what does Phil Moss suggest you should refer to if you're picking a university?

<options>:
A Investment in education.
B Guidance from professors.
C Information on websites.
D Suggestions from students.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Those who have suffered from _ know the sinking feeling of watching the clock tick.Now a new study in the Archives of Internal Medicine suggests that lying in bed awake may actually contribute to the problem of sleeplessness.
The study of 79 adults(average age 72)with insomnia aimed to determine whether brief behavioral interventions for insomnia would help.Traditional behavioral therapy requires at least half a dozen hour-long sessions with a therapist -- a costly commitment many patients either can't make or don't have access to.Other options include sleep-aiding medications or supplements.In the current study,the 39 participants in the behavioral therapy group received a 45- to 60-minute instructing session,plus a 30-minute follow-up session and two 20-minute phone calls.
Doctors offered the following behavioral interventions for improving sleep: reduce time in bed; get up at the same time every day,regardless of sleep duration; don't go to bed unless sleepy; and don't stay in bed unless asleep.
The other 40 participants in the study were given printed educational materials about insomnia,which included the same instructions given to the intervention group,but without the individualized sessions with a therapist.Two weeks later,the latter group also got a 10-minute follow-up phone call.
At the end of four weeks,the behavioral treatment group was significantly more likely to show improvements in sleep than the printed-materials group.By that time,55% of those who received behavioral treatment no longer met the criteria for insomnia,compared with 13% of the group that got educational brochures.
The good news comes at the same time as a report on the health effects of insomnia from the U.K.'s Mental Health Foundation.The report,Sleep Matters,suggests a link between insomnia and poor relationships,low energy levels and an inability to concentrate.Poor sleep has already been linked to depression,immune deficiency and heart disease.

<question>:
What is the disadvantage of traditional behavioral therapy?

<options>:
A It can't help.
B It costs a lot of money.
C It requires sessions with a therapist.
D It includes sleep-aiding medications.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Those who have suffered from _ know the sinking feeling of watching the clock tick.Now a new study in the Archives of Internal Medicine suggests that lying in bed awake may actually contribute to the problem of sleeplessness.
The study of 79 adults(average age 72)with insomnia aimed to determine whether brief behavioral interventions for insomnia would help.Traditional behavioral therapy requires at least half a dozen hour-long sessions with a therapist -- a costly commitment many patients either can't make or don't have access to.Other options include sleep-aiding medications or supplements.In the current study,the 39 participants in the behavioral therapy group received a 45- to 60-minute instructing session,plus a 30-minute follow-up session and two 20-minute phone calls.
Doctors offered the following behavioral interventions for improving sleep: reduce time in bed; get up at the same time every day,regardless of sleep duration; don't go to bed unless sleepy; and don't stay in bed unless asleep.
The other 40 participants in the study were given printed educational materials about insomnia,which included the same instructions given to the intervention group,but without the individualized sessions with a therapist.Two weeks later,the latter group also got a 10-minute follow-up phone call.
At the end of four weeks,the behavioral treatment group was significantly more likely to show improvements in sleep than the printed-materials group.By that time,55% of those who received behavioral treatment no longer met the criteria for insomnia,compared with 13% of the group that got educational brochures.
The good news comes at the same time as a report on the health effects of insomnia from the U.K.'s Mental Health Foundation.The report,Sleep Matters,suggests a link between insomnia and poor relationships,low energy levels and an inability to concentrate.Poor sleep has already been linked to depression,immune deficiency and heart disease.

<question>:
How to improve sleep according to the doctor?

<options>:
A Lying in bed awake.
B Get up early every day.
C Don't go to bed late at night.
D Don't stay in bed if you are not asleep.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Those who have suffered from _ know the sinking feeling of watching the clock tick.Now a new study in the Archives of Internal Medicine suggests that lying in bed awake may actually contribute to the problem of sleeplessness.
The study of 79 adults(average age 72)with insomnia aimed to determine whether brief behavioral interventions for insomnia would help.Traditional behavioral therapy requires at least half a dozen hour-long sessions with a therapist -- a costly commitment many patients either can't make or don't have access to.Other options include sleep-aiding medications or supplements.In the current study,the 39 participants in the behavioral therapy group received a 45- to 60-minute instructing session,plus a 30-minute follow-up session and two 20-minute phone calls.
Doctors offered the following behavioral interventions for improving sleep: reduce time in bed; get up at the same time every day,regardless of sleep duration; don't go to bed unless sleepy; and don't stay in bed unless asleep.
The other 40 participants in the study were given printed educational materials about insomnia,which included the same instructions given to the intervention group,but without the individualized sessions with a therapist.Two weeks later,the latter group also got a 10-minute follow-up phone call.
At the end of four weeks,the behavioral treatment group was significantly more likely to show improvements in sleep than the printed-materials group.By that time,55% of those who received behavioral treatment no longer met the criteria for insomnia,compared with 13% of the group that got educational brochures.
The good news comes at the same time as a report on the health effects of insomnia from the U.K.'s Mental Health Foundation.The report,Sleep Matters,suggests a link between insomnia and poor relationships,low energy levels and an inability to concentrate.Poor sleep has already been linked to depression,immune deficiency and heart disease.

<question>:
We can learn from the text that insomnia may cause the following results except  _  .

<options>:
A depression
B concentration
C immune deficiency
D heart disease

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Language is a major problem for the European Union (EU). The agreement or treaty   which created the organization that eventually became the EU, the Treaty of Rome, stated that each country's language must be treated equally. The original six countries had only three languages between them: French. German and Dutch/Flemish. However, there are now 15 countries in the EU, with a total of 12 languages. EU documents must be translated into all these languages, and at official meetings the speeches must be translated into all the languages by interpreters.
All this translating is very expensive and time-consuming  . it is said that nearly half of all employees of the EU are engaged in translating documents and speeches, and nearly half of the EU's administrative  costs are spent on this task. In the near future it is probably that several more countries, most of them having their own languages, will join the EU, thus making the situation even worse.
The problem is not just cost: there are practical difficulties as well. With 12 languages, there are 132 possible "translation situations" that might be needed. It is often' difficult to find people in the right place at the right time who can translate from (for example) Danish into Greek, or Dutch into Portuguese, at a high professional standard.
In practice the problem has been made less serious by the use of English in many contacts between EU officials, since almost all of them speak some English. However, any move to reduce the number of official languages (perhaps to four or five) would be a blow to the pride of the smaller countries. Another commonly suggested solution is to make English the official language for all EU business. However, powerful member countries like France and Germany are strongly against it.

<question>:
What's the main purpose of this passage?

<options>:
A To give a solution to a problem.
B To discuss a problem and show how serious it is.
C To criticize the European Union for inefficiency .
D To show that the problem cannot be solved.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Language is a major problem for the European Union (EU). The agreement or treaty   which created the organization that eventually became the EU, the Treaty of Rome, stated that each country's language must be treated equally. The original six countries had only three languages between them: French. German and Dutch/Flemish. However, there are now 15 countries in the EU, with a total of 12 languages. EU documents must be translated into all these languages, and at official meetings the speeches must be translated into all the languages by interpreters.
All this translating is very expensive and time-consuming  . it is said that nearly half of all employees of the EU are engaged in translating documents and speeches, and nearly half of the EU's administrative  costs are spent on this task. In the near future it is probably that several more countries, most of them having their own languages, will join the EU, thus making the situation even worse.
The problem is not just cost: there are practical difficulties as well. With 12 languages, there are 132 possible "translation situations" that might be needed. It is often' difficult to find people in the right place at the right time who can translate from (for example) Danish into Greek, or Dutch into Portuguese, at a high professional standard.
In practice the problem has been made less serious by the use of English in many contacts between EU officials, since almost all of them speak some English. However, any move to reduce the number of official languages (perhaps to four or five) would be a blow to the pride of the smaller countries. Another commonly suggested solution is to make English the official language for all EU business. However, powerful member countries like France and Germany are strongly against it.

<question>:
According to the writer, the use of English in contacts among EU officials has   _  .

<options>:
A angered the officials who don't speak English
B reduced the number of official languages
C made the problem less serious
D been opposed by powerful member countries

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Language is a major problem for the European Union (EU). The agreement or treaty   which created the organization that eventually became the EU, the Treaty of Rome, stated that each country's language must be treated equally. The original six countries had only three languages between them: French. German and Dutch/Flemish. However, there are now 15 countries in the EU, with a total of 12 languages. EU documents must be translated into all these languages, and at official meetings the speeches must be translated into all the languages by interpreters.
All this translating is very expensive and time-consuming  . it is said that nearly half of all employees of the EU are engaged in translating documents and speeches, and nearly half of the EU's administrative  costs are spent on this task. In the near future it is probably that several more countries, most of them having their own languages, will join the EU, thus making the situation even worse.
The problem is not just cost: there are practical difficulties as well. With 12 languages, there are 132 possible "translation situations" that might be needed. It is often' difficult to find people in the right place at the right time who can translate from (for example) Danish into Greek, or Dutch into Portuguese, at a high professional standard.
In practice the problem has been made less serious by the use of English in many contacts between EU officials, since almost all of them speak some English. However, any move to reduce the number of official languages (perhaps to four or five) would be a blow to the pride of the smaller countries. Another commonly suggested solution is to make English the official language for all EU business. However, powerful member countries like France and Germany are strongly against it.

<question>:
The writer suggests that if the number of official languages was reduced   _  .

<options>:
A the EU would not know which official languages to choose
B countries whose languages were not used officially would be unhappy
C only languages that are easy to translate would be used officially
D the smaller member countries would be pleased

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
A Japanese student called Mami told me about her own experiences in Britain. She spent 10 months in the UK last year, studying English at a language school. She really enjoyed her first two weeks in the UK. But soon she started to miss things of her own country. She found it hard to make friends,and got annoyed  about local people's behaviour.  Mami said,"After a few weeks I started to cry a lot. I felt homesick.I thought the weather was dark and too changeable,and that affected my mood as well."
To comfort herself Mami began to spend many hours on the Internet chatting with her friends back home. She spent a couple of weeks in the countryside in Kent. She went to a social club for British people who were interested in Japan and started to make some friends there. In addition,  she took a short course in calligraphy to get an opportunity of mixing with local people. A few months later,Mami's impression of the UK had greatly changed .She found that most of the British were friendly, witty and fun.
However,once Mami was back in Japan,she experienced "culture shock"again. She said,"I missed the friends I had made in England. My way of thinking had changed. Sometimes I was annoyed by the views of people in my country--for example,about the value of money and time. I thought people around me lived in such a small world." Mami noticed some changes in her behaviour:"I kept the habit of always carrying an umbrella with me, even on a fine day--my friends thought I was crazy!"

<question>:
The reason why Mami had the habit of carrying an umbrella was that   _  .

<options>:
A she liked umbrellas very much
B the umbrella reminded her of her life in the UK
C she had got used to the changeable weather in Britain
D it often rained in Japan those days

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
A Japanese student called Mami told me about her own experiences in Britain. She spent 10 months in the UK last year, studying English at a language school. She really enjoyed her first two weeks in the UK. But soon she started to miss things of her own country. She found it hard to make friends,and got annoyed  about local people's behaviour.  Mami said,"After a few weeks I started to cry a lot. I felt homesick.I thought the weather was dark and too changeable,and that affected my mood as well."
To comfort herself Mami began to spend many hours on the Internet chatting with her friends back home. She spent a couple of weeks in the countryside in Kent. She went to a social club for British people who were interested in Japan and started to make some friends there. In addition,  she took a short course in calligraphy to get an opportunity of mixing with local people. A few months later,Mami's impression of the UK had greatly changed .She found that most of the British were friendly, witty and fun.
However,once Mami was back in Japan,she experienced "culture shock"again. She said,"I missed the friends I had made in England. My way of thinking had changed. Sometimes I was annoyed by the views of people in my country--for example,about the value of money and time. I thought people around me lived in such a small world." Mami noticed some changes in her behaviour:"I kept the habit of always carrying an umbrella with me, even on a fine day--my friends thought I was crazy!"

<question>:
Why did Mami experience culture shock in Japan?

<options>:
A She didn't like Japanese culture any more.
B The Japanese behaviour had changed a lot.
C The world in Japan was too small for her.
D She had got used to British culture and life.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
A Japanese student called Mami told me about her own experiences in Britain. She spent 10 months in the UK last year, studying English at a language school. She really enjoyed her first two weeks in the UK. But soon she started to miss things of her own country. She found it hard to make friends,and got annoyed  about local people's behaviour.  Mami said,"After a few weeks I started to cry a lot. I felt homesick.I thought the weather was dark and too changeable,and that affected my mood as well."
To comfort herself Mami began to spend many hours on the Internet chatting with her friends back home. She spent a couple of weeks in the countryside in Kent. She went to a social club for British people who were interested in Japan and started to make some friends there. In addition,  she took a short course in calligraphy to get an opportunity of mixing with local people. A few months later,Mami's impression of the UK had greatly changed .She found that most of the British were friendly, witty and fun.
However,once Mami was back in Japan,she experienced "culture shock"again. She said,"I missed the friends I had made in England. My way of thinking had changed. Sometimes I was annoyed by the views of people in my country--for example,about the value of money and time. I thought people around me lived in such a small world." Mami noticed some changes in her behaviour:"I kept the habit of always carrying an umbrella with me, even on a fine day--my friends thought I was crazy!"

<question>:
The best title for the passage would be "  _   ".

<options>:
A Why not make friends with the British
B Cultural differences between Britain and Japan
C Culture shock experienced by a Japanese student
D How to prepare for culture shock

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Given Australia's size and the fact that early settlements were far apart, Australian society is remarkably homogeneous  . Its citizens are fundamentally prosperous and the way of life in the major cities and towns is much the same however many miles divide them. _ However, there is some difference in lifestyle between city dwellers and the country people. Almost 90 per cent of the population lives in the fast-paced cities along the coast and has little more than a passing familiarity with the desert. The major cities preserve pockets of colonial heritage, but the overall impression is modern, with new buildings reflecting the country's youth. In contrast, the rural communities tend to be slow-moving and conservative. For many years, Australia was said to have "ridden on the sheep's back", a reference to wool being the country's main money earner. However, the wool industry is no longer dominant. Much of Australia's relatively sound economy is now achieved from natural coal and wheat, and by being the largest diamond producer in the world. Newer industries such as tourism and wine making are also increasingly important. Australians are generally friendly and relaxed, with a self-deprecating sense of humor. On the whole, Australia is a society without hierarchies  , an attitude generally held to stem from its prisoner beginnings.
Yet, contrary to widespread belief, very few Australians have true prisoner origins. Within only one generation of the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788, Australia had become a nation of immigrants. Originally coming almost entirely from the British Isles, today one in three Australians comes from elsewhere. Australia's liberal postwar immigration policies led to an influx of survivors from war-torn Europe, most notably Greeks, Italians, Poles and Germans.
The emphasis has shifted in recent years and today the majority of new immigrants are from Southeast Asia. Today Australia is a 'blend of nations' and although some racism exists, _ has generally been a successful experiment and the country is justifiably proud to have one of the most harmonious multicultural communities in the world.

<question>:
Which of the following statements is TRUE according to the passage?

<options>:
A Most Australians have ancestors who were prisoners.
B The Australian economy is dependent on sheep exports.
C The majority of people living in Australia come from Europe.
D The pace of life is different in the city and in the country.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Given Australia's size and the fact that early settlements were far apart, Australian society is remarkably homogeneous  . Its citizens are fundamentally prosperous and the way of life in the major cities and towns is much the same however many miles divide them. _ However, there is some difference in lifestyle between city dwellers and the country people. Almost 90 per cent of the population lives in the fast-paced cities along the coast and has little more than a passing familiarity with the desert. The major cities preserve pockets of colonial heritage, but the overall impression is modern, with new buildings reflecting the country's youth. In contrast, the rural communities tend to be slow-moving and conservative. For many years, Australia was said to have "ridden on the sheep's back", a reference to wool being the country's main money earner. However, the wool industry is no longer dominant. Much of Australia's relatively sound economy is now achieved from natural coal and wheat, and by being the largest diamond producer in the world. Newer industries such as tourism and wine making are also increasingly important. Australians are generally friendly and relaxed, with a self-deprecating sense of humor. On the whole, Australia is a society without hierarchies  , an attitude generally held to stem from its prisoner beginnings.
Yet, contrary to widespread belief, very few Australians have true prisoner origins. Within only one generation of the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788, Australia had become a nation of immigrants. Originally coming almost entirely from the British Isles, today one in three Australians comes from elsewhere. Australia's liberal postwar immigration policies led to an influx of survivors from war-torn Europe, most notably Greeks, Italians, Poles and Germans.
The emphasis has shifted in recent years and today the majority of new immigrants are from Southeast Asia. Today Australia is a 'blend of nations' and although some racism exists, _ has generally been a successful experiment and the country is justifiably proud to have one of the most harmonious multicultural communities in the world.

<question>:
We can infer from the passage that   _  .

<options>:
A there are no signs of Australia's colonial past in its modern cities
B Australia's recent immigration policy encourages immigrants from Southeast Asia
C immigrants from Southeast Asia have brought racial problems
D "riding on sheep's back" resulted in slow development in rural communities

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Given Australia's size and the fact that early settlements were far apart, Australian society is remarkably homogeneous  . Its citizens are fundamentally prosperous and the way of life in the major cities and towns is much the same however many miles divide them. _ However, there is some difference in lifestyle between city dwellers and the country people. Almost 90 per cent of the population lives in the fast-paced cities along the coast and has little more than a passing familiarity with the desert. The major cities preserve pockets of colonial heritage, but the overall impression is modern, with new buildings reflecting the country's youth. In contrast, the rural communities tend to be slow-moving and conservative. For many years, Australia was said to have "ridden on the sheep's back", a reference to wool being the country's main money earner. However, the wool industry is no longer dominant. Much of Australia's relatively sound economy is now achieved from natural coal and wheat, and by being the largest diamond producer in the world. Newer industries such as tourism and wine making are also increasingly important. Australians are generally friendly and relaxed, with a self-deprecating sense of humor. On the whole, Australia is a society without hierarchies  , an attitude generally held to stem from its prisoner beginnings.
Yet, contrary to widespread belief, very few Australians have true prisoner origins. Within only one generation of the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788, Australia had become a nation of immigrants. Originally coming almost entirely from the British Isles, today one in three Australians comes from elsewhere. Australia's liberal postwar immigration policies led to an influx of survivors from war-torn Europe, most notably Greeks, Italians, Poles and Germans.
The emphasis has shifted in recent years and today the majority of new immigrants are from Southeast Asia. Today Australia is a 'blend of nations' and although some racism exists, _ has generally been a successful experiment and the country is justifiably proud to have one of the most harmonious multicultural communities in the world.

<question>:
This passage mainly focuses on Australia's   _  .

<options>:
A society
B economy
C racial problems
D history

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
My father wasn't a king, he was a taxi driver, but I am a prince-Prince Renato II, of the country Pontinha, an island fort on Funchal harbour. It's in Madeira,Portugal, where I grew up. It was discovered in 1419.
In 1903, the king of Portugal sold the land to a wealthy British family, the Blandys, who make Madeira wine. Fourteen years ago the family decided to sell it forjust EUR25,000, but nobody wanted to buy it either. I met Blandy at a party. and he asked if I'd like to buy the island. Of course I said yes,but I had no money-I was just an art teacher.I tried to find some business partners, who all thought I was crazy.So I sold some of my possessions,put my savings together and bought it.Of course, my family. my friends-all thought I was mad.
When the King originally sold the island,he signed a document, selling all the "possessions and the dominions"of the island.It means I can do what I want with it-I could start a restaurant, or a cinema but nobody thought someone would start a country.So that's what I did:I decided it would be my island, about the size of a one-bedroom house.
I have both a Portuguese passport and one for Pontinha (where my passport number is 0001).There are four citizens: me, my wife, my son and my daughter.I am the police, the gardener,everything.I am whatever I want to be-that's the dream,isn't it?If l want to have a national flag,it could be blue today,red tomorrow.I can change it any time.Of course,my power is only absolute here, where I am the true sovereign.
I don't live in my country full time, but I am often there.My family sometimes drops by, and other people come every day because the country is free for tourists to visit; I never close for bad weather.Sometimes I come here when I'm feeling lively,after a few drinks.
Madeira is surrounded by water,but for some reason we all have to pay to swim in the ocean now,at the swimming spots.However.I have my island,which means I can come swimming whenever I want-it's as if someone has given me the key to the waters.
Our lives are gone in a flash.All change in the world begins with something very small, and this is my country-just a small island.

<question>:
How did the author get the island?

<options>:
A It was a present from Blandy.
B The king sold it to him.
C He inherited from his father.
D He bought it from Blandy.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
My father wasn't a king, he was a taxi driver, but I am a prince-Prince Renato II, of the country Pontinha, an island fort on Funchal harbour. It's in Madeira,Portugal, where I grew up. It was discovered in 1419.
In 1903, the king of Portugal sold the land to a wealthy British family, the Blandys, who make Madeira wine. Fourteen years ago the family decided to sell it forjust EUR25,000, but nobody wanted to buy it either. I met Blandy at a party. and he asked if I'd like to buy the island. Of course I said yes,but I had no money-I was just an art teacher.I tried to find some business partners, who all thought I was crazy.So I sold some of my possessions,put my savings together and bought it.Of course, my family. my friends-all thought I was mad.
When the King originally sold the island,he signed a document, selling all the "possessions and the dominions"of the island.It means I can do what I want with it-I could start a restaurant, or a cinema but nobody thought someone would start a country.So that's what I did:I decided it would be my island, about the size of a one-bedroom house.
I have both a Portuguese passport and one for Pontinha (where my passport number is 0001).There are four citizens: me, my wife, my son and my daughter.I am the police, the gardener,everything.I am whatever I want to be-that's the dream,isn't it?If l want to have a national flag,it could be blue today,red tomorrow.I can change it any time.Of course,my power is only absolute here, where I am the true sovereign.
I don't live in my country full time, but I am often there.My family sometimes drops by, and other people come every day because the country is free for tourists to visit; I never close for bad weather.Sometimes I come here when I'm feeling lively,after a few drinks.
Madeira is surrounded by water,but for some reason we all have to pay to swim in the ocean now,at the swimming spots.However.I have my island,which means I can come swimming whenever I want-it's as if someone has given me the key to the waters.
Our lives are gone in a flash.All change in the world begins with something very small, and this is my country-just a small island.

<question>:
It can be learned from the passage that  _  .

<options>:
A the author made his living by driving
B the author's wife supported to buy the island
C blue and red are the main colors of his national flag
D people can travel around the island free of charge

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
My father wasn't a king, he was a taxi driver, but I am a prince-Prince Renato II, of the country Pontinha, an island fort on Funchal harbour. It's in Madeira,Portugal, where I grew up. It was discovered in 1419.
In 1903, the king of Portugal sold the land to a wealthy British family, the Blandys, who make Madeira wine. Fourteen years ago the family decided to sell it forjust EUR25,000, but nobody wanted to buy it either. I met Blandy at a party. and he asked if I'd like to buy the island. Of course I said yes,but I had no money-I was just an art teacher.I tried to find some business partners, who all thought I was crazy.So I sold some of my possessions,put my savings together and bought it.Of course, my family. my friends-all thought I was mad.
When the King originally sold the island,he signed a document, selling all the "possessions and the dominions"of the island.It means I can do what I want with it-I could start a restaurant, or a cinema but nobody thought someone would start a country.So that's what I did:I decided it would be my island, about the size of a one-bedroom house.
I have both a Portuguese passport and one for Pontinha (where my passport number is 0001).There are four citizens: me, my wife, my son and my daughter.I am the police, the gardener,everything.I am whatever I want to be-that's the dream,isn't it?If l want to have a national flag,it could be blue today,red tomorrow.I can change it any time.Of course,my power is only absolute here, where I am the true sovereign.
I don't live in my country full time, but I am often there.My family sometimes drops by, and other people come every day because the country is free for tourists to visit; I never close for bad weather.Sometimes I come here when I'm feeling lively,after a few drinks.
Madeira is surrounded by water,but for some reason we all have to pay to swim in the ocean now,at the swimming spots.However.I have my island,which means I can come swimming whenever I want-it's as if someone has given me the key to the waters.
Our lives are gone in a flash.All change in the world begins with something very small, and this is my country-just a small island.

<question>:
What did the author do with his island?

<options>:
A He set up a restaurant.
B He started a cinema.
C He founded his own country.
D He opened a swimming pool.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
My father wasn't a king, he was a taxi driver, but I am a prince-Prince Renato II, of the country Pontinha, an island fort on Funchal harbour. It's in Madeira,Portugal, where I grew up. It was discovered in 1419.
In 1903, the king of Portugal sold the land to a wealthy British family, the Blandys, who make Madeira wine. Fourteen years ago the family decided to sell it forjust EUR25,000, but nobody wanted to buy it either. I met Blandy at a party. and he asked if I'd like to buy the island. Of course I said yes,but I had no money-I was just an art teacher.I tried to find some business partners, who all thought I was crazy.So I sold some of my possessions,put my savings together and bought it.Of course, my family. my friends-all thought I was mad.
When the King originally sold the island,he signed a document, selling all the "possessions and the dominions"of the island.It means I can do what I want with it-I could start a restaurant, or a cinema but nobody thought someone would start a country.So that's what I did:I decided it would be my island, about the size of a one-bedroom house.
I have both a Portuguese passport and one for Pontinha (where my passport number is 0001).There are four citizens: me, my wife, my son and my daughter.I am the police, the gardener,everything.I am whatever I want to be-that's the dream,isn't it?If l want to have a national flag,it could be blue today,red tomorrow.I can change it any time.Of course,my power is only absolute here, where I am the true sovereign.
I don't live in my country full time, but I am often there.My family sometimes drops by, and other people come every day because the country is free for tourists to visit; I never close for bad weather.Sometimes I come here when I'm feeling lively,after a few drinks.
Madeira is surrounded by water,but for some reason we all have to pay to swim in the ocean now,at the swimming spots.However.I have my island,which means I can come swimming whenever I want-it's as if someone has given me the key to the waters.
Our lives are gone in a flash.All change in the world begins with something very small, and this is my country-just a small island.

<question>:
From his own experience, the author wanted to tell the readers that  _  .

<options>:
A you can change your life through small things
B you should buy your own country and become a king
C becoming a real ruler is of much fun
D life is too short, so enjoy it to the fullest

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
RichardSolo 1800 Rechargeable Battery
In just minutes a day, plug in and charge your iPhone quickly!
Just plug RichardSolo 1800 into your iPhone once or twice a day, for fifteen minutes, and keep your iPhone charged up. At your desk, or at dinner, plug RichardSolo into iPhone to instantly transfer charge. No more battery worries. RichardSolo will charge iPhone to full 1.5 times, and it is good for 3-5 years of recharges.
Use the iPhone while charging it. Even charge the RichardSolo 1800 and iPhone together at the same time. Take only one charger when traveling and wake up in the morning with the RichardSolo and the iPhone charged.
RichardSolo 1800 is largest in its class and holds its charge for months. Works with almost all iPhone cases.
Your satisfaction is guaranteed, with our 30-day return privilege. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll email you a pre-paid return label.
Actual customer comments:
To have your company exhibit such good service is unbelievably refreshing. -- P.S.
This is what I call great customer support. I wish more companies would figure this out these days. Thank you so much. -- D.C.
You have provided me one of the best services I have ever seen on any online/ telephone shopping. -- T.K.
You must have the fastest processing and shipping in the industry!! -- M.C.
This is the best customer service experience I have had in a long time. -- L.L.
I've read online about your amazing customer service, and I must say I'm now a true believer. -- B.L.

<question>:
How long does it take the battery to charge up an iPhone?

<options>:
A 15 minutes.
B 30 minutes.
C 1.5 hours.
D 3 hours.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
RichardSolo 1800 Rechargeable Battery
In just minutes a day, plug in and charge your iPhone quickly!
Just plug RichardSolo 1800 into your iPhone once or twice a day, for fifteen minutes, and keep your iPhone charged up. At your desk, or at dinner, plug RichardSolo into iPhone to instantly transfer charge. No more battery worries. RichardSolo will charge iPhone to full 1.5 times, and it is good for 3-5 years of recharges.
Use the iPhone while charging it. Even charge the RichardSolo 1800 and iPhone together at the same time. Take only one charger when traveling and wake up in the morning with the RichardSolo and the iPhone charged.
RichardSolo 1800 is largest in its class and holds its charge for months. Works with almost all iPhone cases.
Your satisfaction is guaranteed, with our 30-day return privilege. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll email you a pre-paid return label.
Actual customer comments:
To have your company exhibit such good service is unbelievably refreshing. -- P.S.
This is what I call great customer support. I wish more companies would figure this out these days. Thank you so much. -- D.C.
You have provided me one of the best services I have ever seen on any online/ telephone shopping. -- T.K.
You must have the fastest processing and shipping in the industry!! -- M.C.
This is the best customer service experience I have had in a long time. -- L.L.
I've read online about your amazing customer service, and I must say I'm now a true believer. -- B.L.

<question>:
What is special about the battery?

<options>:
A It is built in an iPhone.
B It is the smallest of its kind.
C It can also be used as a charger.
D It keeps power for about 30 days.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
RichardSolo 1800 Rechargeable Battery
In just minutes a day, plug in and charge your iPhone quickly!
Just plug RichardSolo 1800 into your iPhone once or twice a day, for fifteen minutes, and keep your iPhone charged up. At your desk, or at dinner, plug RichardSolo into iPhone to instantly transfer charge. No more battery worries. RichardSolo will charge iPhone to full 1.5 times, and it is good for 3-5 years of recharges.
Use the iPhone while charging it. Even charge the RichardSolo 1800 and iPhone together at the same time. Take only one charger when traveling and wake up in the morning with the RichardSolo and the iPhone charged.
RichardSolo 1800 is largest in its class and holds its charge for months. Works with almost all iPhone cases.
Your satisfaction is guaranteed, with our 30-day return privilege. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll email you a pre-paid return label.
Actual customer comments:
To have your company exhibit such good service is unbelievably refreshing. -- P.S.
This is what I call great customer support. I wish more companies would figure this out these days. Thank you so much. -- D.C.
You have provided me one of the best services I have ever seen on any online/ telephone shopping. -- T.K.
You must have the fastest processing and shipping in the industry!! -- M.C.
This is the best customer service experience I have had in a long time. -- L.L.
I've read online about your amazing customer service, and I must say I'm now a true believer. -- B.L.

<question>:
The customer comments on the battery are mainly about its   _  .

<options>:
A quality
B service
C function
D shopping

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
People seem to have a natural need for friends and with good reason. Friends increase your enjoyment of life and relieve feelings of loneliness. They even can help reduce stress and improve your health. Having good friends is especially helpful when you are going through any kind of hard time such as when you are experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, or depression.
When you are with good friends you feel good about yourself, and you are glad to be with them. A friend is someone who --
*you like, respect, and trust, and who likes, respects and trusts you
*doesn't always understand you, but accepts and likes you as you are, even as you grow and change
*allows you the space to change, grow, make decisions, and even make mistakes
*listens to you and shares with you both the good times and the bad times
*respects your need for secrets, so you can tell them anything
*lets you freely express your feelings and emotions without judging, teasing, or criticizing you
*accepts the limitations you have put on yourself and helps you to remove them
A person once said, "Friendship is a continuing source of bonding , releasing, and creating in yourself and with the other person. There is an emotional bond between the two people."
A good friend or supporter may or may not be the same age or the same sex as you, and may not have the same educational, cultural, or religious background, or share interests that are similar to yours. Friendships also have different depths. Some are closer to the heart and some more
, but they're all useful and good.

<question>:
Which of the following is NOT a function of a friend?

<options>:
A He brings you some happiness.
B He helps you feel less lonely.
C He helps you get over the difficulties.
D He helps you cheat on the exam.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
People seem to have a natural need for friends and with good reason. Friends increase your enjoyment of life and relieve feelings of loneliness. They even can help reduce stress and improve your health. Having good friends is especially helpful when you are going through any kind of hard time such as when you are experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, or depression.
When you are with good friends you feel good about yourself, and you are glad to be with them. A friend is someone who --
*you like, respect, and trust, and who likes, respects and trusts you
*doesn't always understand you, but accepts and likes you as you are, even as you grow and change
*allows you the space to change, grow, make decisions, and even make mistakes
*listens to you and shares with you both the good times and the bad times
*respects your need for secrets, so you can tell them anything
*lets you freely express your feelings and emotions without judging, teasing, or criticizing you
*accepts the limitations you have put on yourself and helps you to remove them
A person once said, "Friendship is a continuing source of bonding , releasing, and creating in yourself and with the other person. There is an emotional bond between the two people."
A good friend or supporter may or may not be the same age or the same sex as you, and may not have the same educational, cultural, or religious background, or share interests that are similar to yours. Friendships also have different depths. Some are closer to the heart and some more
, but they're all useful and good.

<question>:
Which is the best title for the passage?

<options>:
A A Friend in Need Is A Friend Indeed
B What Kind of Person A Friend Should Be
C To Be A Good Friend
D How to Get on with Your Friend

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Traffic jams seem a sure companion of national holidays. On May 1, there were constant traffic jams on highways leading out of the several metropolises, the longest, according to reports, was 55 kilometers. Some blame the jams on the two-year-old policy that allows cars with no more than seven seats to use the highways for free on public holidays, but a Beijing News editorial said this is not the real cause of the jams.
The growing automobile culture is doubtlessly among the causes. Data shows that China's production and sales of automobiles both went up by 20 million in 2013. But over the same period there has been no breakthrough in highway construction, and _
Growing tourism also leads to the jams. At the 2014 global summit of the World Travel and Tourism Council, which ended last week, it was reported that Chinese people spent almost 3 trillion yuan on tourism in 2013, which took up more than 90 percent of hotel income and more than 80 percent of air and railway use.
Worse, Chinese have to travel during the same periods. As employees' rights to paid leave often fail to be protected, many have no choice but to travel on the limited public holidays. From Oct 1 to 7, the so-called Golden Week, almost every tourist site will be full of visitors. Therefore it is wrong to blame the free-pass policy.
That does not mean the government should stand idle doing nothing. As traffic jams during the holidays are predictable, they could develop more public transport and strengthen legal supervision to ensure that every employee enjoys their entitlement to a paid vacation or offer free passes on other days to encourage people to travel on days other than public holidays. The measures might not prevent traffic jams, but they may at least ease the jams.

<question>:
How many factors are mentioned in the passage accounting for the traffic jam on the highway?

<options>:
A two
B three
C four
D five

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Traffic jams seem a sure companion of national holidays. On May 1, there were constant traffic jams on highways leading out of the several metropolises, the longest, according to reports, was 55 kilometers. Some blame the jams on the two-year-old policy that allows cars with no more than seven seats to use the highways for free on public holidays, but a Beijing News editorial said this is not the real cause of the jams.
The growing automobile culture is doubtlessly among the causes. Data shows that China's production and sales of automobiles both went up by 20 million in 2013. But over the same period there has been no breakthrough in highway construction, and _
Growing tourism also leads to the jams. At the 2014 global summit of the World Travel and Tourism Council, which ended last week, it was reported that Chinese people spent almost 3 trillion yuan on tourism in 2013, which took up more than 90 percent of hotel income and more than 80 percent of air and railway use.
Worse, Chinese have to travel during the same periods. As employees' rights to paid leave often fail to be protected, many have no choice but to travel on the limited public holidays. From Oct 1 to 7, the so-called Golden Week, almost every tourist site will be full of visitors. Therefore it is wrong to blame the free-pass policy.
That does not mean the government should stand idle doing nothing. As traffic jams during the holidays are predictable, they could develop more public transport and strengthen legal supervision to ensure that every employee enjoys their entitlement to a paid vacation or offer free passes on other days to encourage people to travel on days other than public holidays. The measures might not prevent traffic jams, but they may at least ease the jams.

<question>:
What can we infer from the passage?

<options>:
A Traffic jams often happen on highways on national holidays.
B People prefer to stay at home because of traffic jams.
C Chinese people spent over 3 trillion yuan on tourism in 2013.
D There is nothing the government can do to prevent traffic jams.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Traffic jams seem a sure companion of national holidays. On May 1, there were constant traffic jams on highways leading out of the several metropolises, the longest, according to reports, was 55 kilometers. Some blame the jams on the two-year-old policy that allows cars with no more than seven seats to use the highways for free on public holidays, but a Beijing News editorial said this is not the real cause of the jams.
The growing automobile culture is doubtlessly among the causes. Data shows that China's production and sales of automobiles both went up by 20 million in 2013. But over the same period there has been no breakthrough in highway construction, and _
Growing tourism also leads to the jams. At the 2014 global summit of the World Travel and Tourism Council, which ended last week, it was reported that Chinese people spent almost 3 trillion yuan on tourism in 2013, which took up more than 90 percent of hotel income and more than 80 percent of air and railway use.
Worse, Chinese have to travel during the same periods. As employees' rights to paid leave often fail to be protected, many have no choice but to travel on the limited public holidays. From Oct 1 to 7, the so-called Golden Week, almost every tourist site will be full of visitors. Therefore it is wrong to blame the free-pass policy.
That does not mean the government should stand idle doing nothing. As traffic jams during the holidays are predictable, they could develop more public transport and strengthen legal supervision to ensure that every employee enjoys their entitlement to a paid vacation or offer free passes on other days to encourage people to travel on days other than public holidays. The measures might not prevent traffic jams, but they may at least ease the jams.

<question>:
Which of the following ways can ease the jams according to the passage?

<options>:
A People drive private cars to spend holiday.
B People take trains to spend their holiday.
C Employees can have an expense-paid vacation.
D People make use of public holidays to enjoy themselves.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
The Arctic will soon be free from ice, experts say. The change is bound to take place, but the global warming and climate change are changing the earth's landscape   rapidly,causing panic worldwide.
Experts say that the Arctic sea ice is melting   quite faster than expected and it can affect not just the region, but Earth in general. A scientist even says that next year, or maybe the year after that, the Arctic will be free of ice.
Peter Wadhams, a scientist, said that the melting trend led to his statement. "Most people expect this year will see a record low in the Arctic's summer sea-ice cover. Next year or the year after that, I think it will be free of ice in summer and by that I mean the central Arctic will be ice-free," Peter Wadhams, director of the Scott Polar Institute in Cambridge, said in an interview withthe Guardian. "You will be able to cross over the North Pole by ship," Peter Wadhams added. He strongly believes that although some pieces of ice will remain, the Arctic basin may be free of sea ice in the next two years starting in the summer of 2017.
Wadhams' study says that melting sea ice will have a great influence on the planet since the sea ice is more capable of reflecting   sunlight compared to water that can only reflect 10% of the sunlight. Once the sea ice melts, the water can only reflect a small amount of sunlight. This means that the Earth will receive and absorb more sunlight, making the planet even hotter.
The year 2016 has already broken records of the hottest temperature ever recorded and the trend doesn't seem to show any decrease in global warming. "It doesn't look like the ice is healing and growing back," Tom Wagner, NASA's manager for cryosphere   research said in a statement.
Like Wadhams, scientists and researchers all over the world are lecturing around to educate people to help lighten global warming that has already changed the planet's landscape.

<question>:
What does the author think of global warming and climate change?

<options>:
A Indifferent.
B Anxious.
C Unbelievable.
D Misunderstood.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
The Arctic will soon be free from ice, experts say. The change is bound to take place, but the global warming and climate change are changing the earth's landscape   rapidly,causing panic worldwide.
Experts say that the Arctic sea ice is melting   quite faster than expected and it can affect not just the region, but Earth in general. A scientist even says that next year, or maybe the year after that, the Arctic will be free of ice.
Peter Wadhams, a scientist, said that the melting trend led to his statement. "Most people expect this year will see a record low in the Arctic's summer sea-ice cover. Next year or the year after that, I think it will be free of ice in summer and by that I mean the central Arctic will be ice-free," Peter Wadhams, director of the Scott Polar Institute in Cambridge, said in an interview withthe Guardian. "You will be able to cross over the North Pole by ship," Peter Wadhams added. He strongly believes that although some pieces of ice will remain, the Arctic basin may be free of sea ice in the next two years starting in the summer of 2017.
Wadhams' study says that melting sea ice will have a great influence on the planet since the sea ice is more capable of reflecting   sunlight compared to water that can only reflect 10% of the sunlight. Once the sea ice melts, the water can only reflect a small amount of sunlight. This means that the Earth will receive and absorb more sunlight, making the planet even hotter.
The year 2016 has already broken records of the hottest temperature ever recorded and the trend doesn't seem to show any decrease in global warming. "It doesn't look like the ice is healing and growing back," Tom Wagner, NASA's manager for cryosphere   research said in a statement.
Like Wadhams, scientists and researchers all over the world are lecturing around to educate people to help lighten global warming that has already changed the planet's landscape.

<question>:
Why would the Earth become even hotter if the sea ice melted? Because   _  .

<options>:
A more water will cover the earth
B there are more hours of daylight
C the water will reflect more sunlight
D more heat would be taken in by the earth

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
The Arctic will soon be free from ice, experts say. The change is bound to take place, but the global warming and climate change are changing the earth's landscape   rapidly,causing panic worldwide.
Experts say that the Arctic sea ice is melting   quite faster than expected and it can affect not just the region, but Earth in general. A scientist even says that next year, or maybe the year after that, the Arctic will be free of ice.
Peter Wadhams, a scientist, said that the melting trend led to his statement. "Most people expect this year will see a record low in the Arctic's summer sea-ice cover. Next year or the year after that, I think it will be free of ice in summer and by that I mean the central Arctic will be ice-free," Peter Wadhams, director of the Scott Polar Institute in Cambridge, said in an interview withthe Guardian. "You will be able to cross over the North Pole by ship," Peter Wadhams added. He strongly believes that although some pieces of ice will remain, the Arctic basin may be free of sea ice in the next two years starting in the summer of 2017.
Wadhams' study says that melting sea ice will have a great influence on the planet since the sea ice is more capable of reflecting   sunlight compared to water that can only reflect 10% of the sunlight. Once the sea ice melts, the water can only reflect a small amount of sunlight. This means that the Earth will receive and absorb more sunlight, making the planet even hotter.
The year 2016 has already broken records of the hottest temperature ever recorded and the trend doesn't seem to show any decrease in global warming. "It doesn't look like the ice is healing and growing back," Tom Wagner, NASA's manager for cryosphere   research said in a statement.
Like Wadhams, scientists and researchers all over the world are lecturing around to educate people to help lighten global warming that has already changed the planet's landscape.

<question>:
What is the passage mainly about?

<options>:
A According to some experts, the Arctic may be free from ice soon because of global warming and climate change.
B The Arctic melting sea ice will affect the planet greatly.
C The Arctic will be free from ice in two years.
D Global warming are changing the earth's landscape quickly.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
My grandfather grew up in war - torn Europe. When German soldiers occupied his hometown, the thriving city of Tarow, prefix = st1 /Poland, he refused to obey them and eventually joined the Soviet army to fight for his country's freedom. "Stand straight, stand tall," he told himself.
After the war, in 1947, he boarded a boat for Manhattan. He was hungry and suffering from seasickness. All alone in a new country, he was frightened about his future .Still, he marched head-on into the hustle and bustle of the streets ofNew York. Soon he met other European immigrants, each of them trying to find his or her own way .If they could do it ,why couldn't he? "Stand straight, stand tall," he would remind himself.
Thanks to the help of a loyal and trusting friend, my grandfather gained a jewelry booth on Canal Street,New York City.He once told me how nervous he was on that first day of work. He was not only trying to learn this tough new business, but also a new language.
To his surprise, the men in neighboring booths--who could have taken advantage of him--offered their help and advice. Within months, my grandfather was commanding his spot behind the counter, selling diamonds and cultured pearls as if he'd been doing it his whole life.
Stand straight and stand tall.
In later years , my grandfather would take both my mother and her sister down the aisle at their weddings. As he stood with each of them, he thought about their new beginnings, and of the adventures and journeys they would experience together .He also thought about the children who would one day carry on his family name.
I am so proud to be one of those children . Listening to my grandfather's remarkable experiences has changed the way I view my own life.

<question>:
Which is NOT true according to the passage?

<options>:
A My grandfather was a soldier during World War II.
B My grandfather went to Americaby sea.
C My grandfather had been doing a jewelry business his whole life.
D My grandfather ran his business successfully.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
My grandfather grew up in war - torn Europe. When German soldiers occupied his hometown, the thriving city of Tarow, prefix = st1 /Poland, he refused to obey them and eventually joined the Soviet army to fight for his country's freedom. "Stand straight, stand tall," he told himself.
After the war, in 1947, he boarded a boat for Manhattan. He was hungry and suffering from seasickness. All alone in a new country, he was frightened about his future .Still, he marched head-on into the hustle and bustle of the streets ofNew York. Soon he met other European immigrants, each of them trying to find his or her own way .If they could do it ,why couldn't he? "Stand straight, stand tall," he would remind himself.
Thanks to the help of a loyal and trusting friend, my grandfather gained a jewelry booth on Canal Street,New York City.He once told me how nervous he was on that first day of work. He was not only trying to learn this tough new business, but also a new language.
To his surprise, the men in neighboring booths--who could have taken advantage of him--offered their help and advice. Within months, my grandfather was commanding his spot behind the counter, selling diamonds and cultured pearls as if he'd been doing it his whole life.
Stand straight and stand tall.
In later years , my grandfather would take both my mother and her sister down the aisle at their weddings. As he stood with each of them, he thought about their new beginnings, and of the adventures and journeys they would experience together .He also thought about the children who would one day carry on his family name.
I am so proud to be one of those children . Listening to my grandfather's remarkable experiences has changed the way I view my own life.

<question>:
Grandpa probably inspired his grandchildren in time of trouble by saying "_".

<options>:
A A friend in need is a friend indeed
B God help those who help themselves
C Stand straight, stand tall
D Practice makes perfect

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
My grandfather grew up in war - torn Europe. When German soldiers occupied his hometown, the thriving city of Tarow, prefix = st1 /Poland, he refused to obey them and eventually joined the Soviet army to fight for his country's freedom. "Stand straight, stand tall," he told himself.
After the war, in 1947, he boarded a boat for Manhattan. He was hungry and suffering from seasickness. All alone in a new country, he was frightened about his future .Still, he marched head-on into the hustle and bustle of the streets ofNew York. Soon he met other European immigrants, each of them trying to find his or her own way .If they could do it ,why couldn't he? "Stand straight, stand tall," he would remind himself.
Thanks to the help of a loyal and trusting friend, my grandfather gained a jewelry booth on Canal Street,New York City.He once told me how nervous he was on that first day of work. He was not only trying to learn this tough new business, but also a new language.
To his surprise, the men in neighboring booths--who could have taken advantage of him--offered their help and advice. Within months, my grandfather was commanding his spot behind the counter, selling diamonds and cultured pearls as if he'd been doing it his whole life.
Stand straight and stand tall.
In later years , my grandfather would take both my mother and her sister down the aisle at their weddings. As he stood with each of them, he thought about their new beginnings, and of the adventures and journeys they would experience together .He also thought about the children who would one day carry on his family name.
I am so proud to be one of those children . Listening to my grandfather's remarkable experiences has changed the way I view my own life.

<question>:
It can be concluded that_.

<options>:
A Grandpa never lost heart in time of hardships
B Grandpa never threw doubt upon his fate
C Grandpa was born to be a businessman
D Grandpa didn't live up to his friend's expectations

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
If you still need to relax and want to head overseas, don't miss out some great deals on accommodation or air fares at some of the world's top off-peak travel hotspots. Whether you want to go to Europe or run away on a tropical escape, stretch that travel budget to take advantage of off-peak rates at some of the world's most-visited locales. Several destinations host spring festivals and other special events.
Here are four off-peak travel destinations to visit in 2013:
Portugal
With rich culture and history, Portugal continues to be one of the most affordable European destinations. Head to this beautiful capital city of Lisbon to attend the festivals and fairs, visit some 12th-century buildings, and stay at one of the newer hotels in the main city district. The Hotel Teatro is a four-star restaurant, and average nightly rates are under $150 a night.
Hotel Teatro
Porto, Portugal
+351  220  409  620
Aruba
Set your sights on Aruba for an unforgettable Caribbean holiday. You can get special offers from one of the larger beach resorts  here. Some of the chain hotels, including Marriott and Radisson, offer discounts on spa relaxations   . The Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino, & Spa is offering a Super Saver Spring Rate at just $309 per night.
Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa
Palm Beach, Aruba
800-967-9033
Oaxaca
Escape to southern Mexico to explore the historic colonial city and learn about the region's traditions, culture, and colorful history. Oaxaca holds several cultural festivals and is a great place to relax. You will be receiving a 50% discount with just $170 per night for a deluxe  single or double room if you stay in the Camino Real Oaxaca for more than 7 nights (7 included).
Camino Real Oaxaca
Centro, 68000
01 951 501 6100
Turkey
Another place to have some local culture and participate in some late spring festivals is Istanbul, Turkey. Stay at a destination that will put you within easy reach of famous sites like the Topkapi Palace. The Modern Sultan Hotel is a deluxe hotel located in the heart of the historic district. Average nightly rates for the bed and breakfast package are just under $120 per night.
Modern Sultan Hotel
Istanbul, Turkey
+90 212 520 00 53

<question>:
In the passage Portugal is described as a destination   _  .

<options>:
A for visitors interested in ancient buildings
B especially appealing to wealthy Europeans
C owning rich culture but lacking colorful festivals
D having the Hotel Teatro in the suburbs of Lisbon

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
If you still need to relax and want to head overseas, don't miss out some great deals on accommodation or air fares at some of the world's top off-peak travel hotspots. Whether you want to go to Europe or run away on a tropical escape, stretch that travel budget to take advantage of off-peak rates at some of the world's most-visited locales. Several destinations host spring festivals and other special events.
Here are four off-peak travel destinations to visit in 2013:
Portugal
With rich culture and history, Portugal continues to be one of the most affordable European destinations. Head to this beautiful capital city of Lisbon to attend the festivals and fairs, visit some 12th-century buildings, and stay at one of the newer hotels in the main city district. The Hotel Teatro is a four-star restaurant, and average nightly rates are under $150 a night.
Hotel Teatro
Porto, Portugal
+351  220  409  620
Aruba
Set your sights on Aruba for an unforgettable Caribbean holiday. You can get special offers from one of the larger beach resorts  here. Some of the chain hotels, including Marriott and Radisson, offer discounts on spa relaxations   . The Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino, & Spa is offering a Super Saver Spring Rate at just $309 per night.
Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa
Palm Beach, Aruba
800-967-9033
Oaxaca
Escape to southern Mexico to explore the historic colonial city and learn about the region's traditions, culture, and colorful history. Oaxaca holds several cultural festivals and is a great place to relax. You will be receiving a 50% discount with just $170 per night for a deluxe  single or double room if you stay in the Camino Real Oaxaca for more than 7 nights (7 included).
Camino Real Oaxaca
Centro, 68000
01 951 501 6100
Turkey
Another place to have some local culture and participate in some late spring festivals is Istanbul, Turkey. Stay at a destination that will put you within easy reach of famous sites like the Topkapi Palace. The Modern Sultan Hotel is a deluxe hotel located in the heart of the historic district. Average nightly rates for the bed and breakfast package are just under $120 per night.
Modern Sultan Hotel
Istanbul, Turkey
+90 212 520 00 53

<question>:
If you want to know more information about spas, you can call   _  .

<options>:
A 800-967-9033
B +351 220 409 620
C 01 951 501 6100
D +90 212 520 00 53

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
If you still need to relax and want to head overseas, don't miss out some great deals on accommodation or air fares at some of the world's top off-peak travel hotspots. Whether you want to go to Europe or run away on a tropical escape, stretch that travel budget to take advantage of off-peak rates at some of the world's most-visited locales. Several destinations host spring festivals and other special events.
Here are four off-peak travel destinations to visit in 2013:
Portugal
With rich culture and history, Portugal continues to be one of the most affordable European destinations. Head to this beautiful capital city of Lisbon to attend the festivals and fairs, visit some 12th-century buildings, and stay at one of the newer hotels in the main city district. The Hotel Teatro is a four-star restaurant, and average nightly rates are under $150 a night.
Hotel Teatro
Porto, Portugal
+351  220  409  620
Aruba
Set your sights on Aruba for an unforgettable Caribbean holiday. You can get special offers from one of the larger beach resorts  here. Some of the chain hotels, including Marriott and Radisson, offer discounts on spa relaxations   . The Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino, & Spa is offering a Super Saver Spring Rate at just $309 per night.
Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa
Palm Beach, Aruba
800-967-9033
Oaxaca
Escape to southern Mexico to explore the historic colonial city and learn about the region's traditions, culture, and colorful history. Oaxaca holds several cultural festivals and is a great place to relax. You will be receiving a 50% discount with just $170 per night for a deluxe  single or double room if you stay in the Camino Real Oaxaca for more than 7 nights (7 included).
Camino Real Oaxaca
Centro, 68000
01 951 501 6100
Turkey
Another place to have some local culture and participate in some late spring festivals is Istanbul, Turkey. Stay at a destination that will put you within easy reach of famous sites like the Topkapi Palace. The Modern Sultan Hotel is a deluxe hotel located in the heart of the historic district. Average nightly rates for the bed and breakfast package are just under $120 per night.
Modern Sultan Hotel
Istanbul, Turkey
+90 212 520 00 53

<question>:
According to the passage, nightly rates including breakfast is offered by   _  .

<options>:
A Hotel Teatro
B Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa
C Camino Real Oaxaca
D Modern Sultan Hotel

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
If you still need to relax and want to head overseas, don't miss out some great deals on accommodation or air fares at some of the world's top off-peak travel hotspots. Whether you want to go to Europe or run away on a tropical escape, stretch that travel budget to take advantage of off-peak rates at some of the world's most-visited locales. Several destinations host spring festivals and other special events.
Here are four off-peak travel destinations to visit in 2013:
Portugal
With rich culture and history, Portugal continues to be one of the most affordable European destinations. Head to this beautiful capital city of Lisbon to attend the festivals and fairs, visit some 12th-century buildings, and stay at one of the newer hotels in the main city district. The Hotel Teatro is a four-star restaurant, and average nightly rates are under $150 a night.
Hotel Teatro
Porto, Portugal
+351  220  409  620
Aruba
Set your sights on Aruba for an unforgettable Caribbean holiday. You can get special offers from one of the larger beach resorts  here. Some of the chain hotels, including Marriott and Radisson, offer discounts on spa relaxations   . The Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino, & Spa is offering a Super Saver Spring Rate at just $309 per night.
Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa
Palm Beach, Aruba
800-967-9033
Oaxaca
Escape to southern Mexico to explore the historic colonial city and learn about the region's traditions, culture, and colorful history. Oaxaca holds several cultural festivals and is a great place to relax. You will be receiving a 50% discount with just $170 per night for a deluxe  single or double room if you stay in the Camino Real Oaxaca for more than 7 nights (7 included).
Camino Real Oaxaca
Centro, 68000
01 951 501 6100
Turkey
Another place to have some local culture and participate in some late spring festivals is Istanbul, Turkey. Stay at a destination that will put you within easy reach of famous sites like the Topkapi Palace. The Modern Sultan Hotel is a deluxe hotel located in the heart of the historic district. Average nightly rates for the bed and breakfast package are just under $120 per night.
Modern Sultan Hotel
Istanbul, Turkey
+90 212 520 00 53

<question>:
What is the passage mainly about ?

<options>:
A Some off-peak places for relaxation.
B A way to travel on a budget.
C The world's most visited destinations.
D Comparing the four tourist destinations.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
The Leaning Tower of Pisa was straight like a pole when the construction began in 1173. It started to shift direction soon after construction because of poor foundation in addition to the loose layer of subsoil . At the beginning, it leaned to the southeast before the shaky foundation started to shift leaning towards the southwest. After the period of structural strengthening at the beginning of the 21stcentury, now the Leaning Tower of Pisa leans at an angle of 3.97 degrees.
In 1178, the shift in direction was observed for the first time when the construction had progressed further to the third floor. The tower was heavy for the three-meter foundation that was built on a weak area of land.
For compensating  the leaning position, the builders started to construct the upper floors with one side higher than the other one. This caused the tower to lean in the other direction. This unusual structure led to the tower being actually curved. In spite of these efforts, the tower kept on leaning.
The government of Italy started to plan prevention of the complete collapse of the tower in 1964. However, a request was put forward by the authorities to keep the leaning position because of the tourism industry of the region.
After nearly two decades of careful planning by engineers, historians and mathematicians, the stabilization efforts for the Leaning Tower of Pisa started in 1990. The tower was closed for the general public and the people living nearby moved away. For reducing the total weight of the tower, its seven bells which represented the seven musical notes were removed. The tower was reopened for the general public on December 15, 2001.
In May 2008, after removing another 70 metric tons of earth, the engineers announced that the tower had been finally stabilized and it would remain stable for at least 200 years.

<question>:
The Leaning Tower of Pisa began to lean probably because   _  .

<options>:
A it was too high like a pole
B its foundation shook badly
C the work of repair was delayed
D the soil of its foundation was too weak

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
The Leaning Tower of Pisa was straight like a pole when the construction began in 1173. It started to shift direction soon after construction because of poor foundation in addition to the loose layer of subsoil . At the beginning, it leaned to the southeast before the shaky foundation started to shift leaning towards the southwest. After the period of structural strengthening at the beginning of the 21stcentury, now the Leaning Tower of Pisa leans at an angle of 3.97 degrees.
In 1178, the shift in direction was observed for the first time when the construction had progressed further to the third floor. The tower was heavy for the three-meter foundation that was built on a weak area of land.
For compensating  the leaning position, the builders started to construct the upper floors with one side higher than the other one. This caused the tower to lean in the other direction. This unusual structure led to the tower being actually curved. In spite of these efforts, the tower kept on leaning.
The government of Italy started to plan prevention of the complete collapse of the tower in 1964. However, a request was put forward by the authorities to keep the leaning position because of the tourism industry of the region.
After nearly two decades of careful planning by engineers, historians and mathematicians, the stabilization efforts for the Leaning Tower of Pisa started in 1990. The tower was closed for the general public and the people living nearby moved away. For reducing the total weight of the tower, its seven bells which represented the seven musical notes were removed. The tower was reopened for the general public on December 15, 2001.
In May 2008, after removing another 70 metric tons of earth, the engineers announced that the tower had been finally stabilized and it would remain stable for at least 200 years.

<question>:
People noticed the Leaning Tower of Pisa shift its direction   _  .

<options>:
A as soon as it was constructed
B during the construction
C at the end of the construction
D as soon as it was completed

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
The Leaning Tower of Pisa was straight like a pole when the construction began in 1173. It started to shift direction soon after construction because of poor foundation in addition to the loose layer of subsoil . At the beginning, it leaned to the southeast before the shaky foundation started to shift leaning towards the southwest. After the period of structural strengthening at the beginning of the 21stcentury, now the Leaning Tower of Pisa leans at an angle of 3.97 degrees.
In 1178, the shift in direction was observed for the first time when the construction had progressed further to the third floor. The tower was heavy for the three-meter foundation that was built on a weak area of land.
For compensating  the leaning position, the builders started to construct the upper floors with one side higher than the other one. This caused the tower to lean in the other direction. This unusual structure led to the tower being actually curved. In spite of these efforts, the tower kept on leaning.
The government of Italy started to plan prevention of the complete collapse of the tower in 1964. However, a request was put forward by the authorities to keep the leaning position because of the tourism industry of the region.
After nearly two decades of careful planning by engineers, historians and mathematicians, the stabilization efforts for the Leaning Tower of Pisa started in 1990. The tower was closed for the general public and the people living nearby moved away. For reducing the total weight of the tower, its seven bells which represented the seven musical notes were removed. The tower was reopened for the general public on December 15, 2001.
In May 2008, after removing another 70 metric tons of earth, the engineers announced that the tower had been finally stabilized and it would remain stable for at least 200 years.

<question>:
Who preferred not to change the leaning position of the Leaning Tower of Pisa?

<options>:
A The authorities.
B The government.
C The engineers.
D The historians.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Seeing a volcano erupt is a wonderful experience, and you can really feel the heat by climbing to the top of Pacaya for a close-up view. There are guided tours every day up this highly active volcano from Antigua, giving travelers a chance to see Mother Nature at her most powerful.
Pacaya is an easy drive from Antigua, a beautiful city with many colorful houses along its old streets that are turned into art-works during its Holy Week festival. No matter when you come to Antigua, you won't miss the Pacaya-tour companies.
But climbing Pacaya is no easy job. It is 2,560 meters high, and reaching the peak takes two to three hours of almost one-step-forward and two-step-back movements. As you climb, you hear the dull sounds of eruptions high above. Steaming, hot remains from recent eruptions begin to line the path as you are near the active peak: the McKenney Cone  . Just as though you were going to walk over to the edge of the cone, the road turns to the left and up to the relative safety of the old, inactive peak.
Many tours are timed so that you arrive at the cone of the volcano in plenty of time for sunset and the full contrast between the erupting red lava and the darkening sky. On a good day the view from the peak is extremely exciting. The active mouth boils, sending red lava over its sides, and once in a while shoots hot streams up to 100 metres into the air.

<question>:
What is the main purpose of this passage?

<options>:
A To describe the beauty of Pacaya.
B To attract guided tours to Pacaya.
C To introduce the best time to visit Pacaya.
D To explain the power of nature at Pacaya.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Seeing a volcano erupt is a wonderful experience, and you can really feel the heat by climbing to the top of Pacaya for a close-up view. There are guided tours every day up this highly active volcano from Antigua, giving travelers a chance to see Mother Nature at her most powerful.
Pacaya is an easy drive from Antigua, a beautiful city with many colorful houses along its old streets that are turned into art-works during its Holy Week festival. No matter when you come to Antigua, you won't miss the Pacaya-tour companies.
But climbing Pacaya is no easy job. It is 2,560 meters high, and reaching the peak takes two to three hours of almost one-step-forward and two-step-back movements. As you climb, you hear the dull sounds of eruptions high above. Steaming, hot remains from recent eruptions begin to line the path as you are near the active peak: the McKenney Cone  . Just as though you were going to walk over to the edge of the cone, the road turns to the left and up to the relative safety of the old, inactive peak.
Many tours are timed so that you arrive at the cone of the volcano in plenty of time for sunset and the full contrast between the erupting red lava and the darkening sky. On a good day the view from the peak is extremely exciting. The active mouth boils, sending red lava over its sides, and once in a while shoots hot streams up to 100 metres into the air.

<question>:
Antigua is a city   _  .

<options>:
A where people can enjoy cultural festivals
B where the challenging Pacaya tours start
C that gives a close-up view of Pacaya
D that is famous for its tour companies

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Seeing a volcano erupt is a wonderful experience, and you can really feel the heat by climbing to the top of Pacaya for a close-up view. There are guided tours every day up this highly active volcano from Antigua, giving travelers a chance to see Mother Nature at her most powerful.
Pacaya is an easy drive from Antigua, a beautiful city with many colorful houses along its old streets that are turned into art-works during its Holy Week festival. No matter when you come to Antigua, you won't miss the Pacaya-tour companies.
But climbing Pacaya is no easy job. It is 2,560 meters high, and reaching the peak takes two to three hours of almost one-step-forward and two-step-back movements. As you climb, you hear the dull sounds of eruptions high above. Steaming, hot remains from recent eruptions begin to line the path as you are near the active peak: the McKenney Cone  . Just as though you were going to walk over to the edge of the cone, the road turns to the left and up to the relative safety of the old, inactive peak.
Many tours are timed so that you arrive at the cone of the volcano in plenty of time for sunset and the full contrast between the erupting red lava and the darkening sky. On a good day the view from the peak is extremely exciting. The active mouth boils, sending red lava over its sides, and once in a while shoots hot streams up to 100 metres into the air.

<question>:
Many tours are timed for people to   _  .

<options>:
A get down the mountain in time when night falls
B avoid the smell from the upwind direction of the cone
C enjoy the fantastic eruption against the darkening sky
D appreciate the scenery of the 2,560-metre-high mountain

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Swiss national Louis Palmer fulfilled a childhood dream when he set off from his mother country on July 3, travelling over deserts, cities and seas in 17 countries in a solar taxi to reach UN Climate Change Conference in Bali, Indonesia.
"In 1986, 1 was a 14-year-old boy. I was dreaming that when I will be an adult. I want to drive around the world, " he told reporters.
"Then it came to my mind, how can I travel around the world and enjoy the beauty of this world with a car that is polluting the world? Then I thought the perfect car would be a solar car. "
His car, which has become a major attraction at the gates of the summit of some 188 nations, was built in three years with scientific help from four universities and 15 Swiss companies. The car pulls a trailer with six square meters of solar panels which absorb the sun. The electricity is fed into the battery which powers the car, and can run for up to 100 kilometers a day.
"It's the first time in history that a car is driving around the world without a single drop of petrol, " said Palmer.
His epic solar journey is not his first adventure--he crossed Africa on a bicycle and North America in a light aircraft.
So far, Palmer has gone by land through Europe and the Middle East, then by sea to India and on to Indonesia. After covering much of Asia, Australia, North America and Africa, he will return to Switzerland to try and drum up support for the commercial possibilities of solar cars.
For the moment, he _ , with more curious customers waiting to take a ride in his unique automobile which, he said, "works like a Swiss clock. "

<question>:
Why did Louis Palmer take so long a journey in a "solar taxi"?

<options>:
A To attend the conference.
B To advertise the solar car.
C To realize his dream.
D To turn to the summit for help.

<answer>:


Read the following passage and questions, then choose the right answer from options, the answer should be one of A, B, C, D.

<passage>:
Swiss national Louis Palmer fulfilled a childhood dream when he set off from his mother country on July 3, travelling over deserts, cities and seas in 17 countries in a solar taxi to reach UN Climate Change Conference in Bali, Indonesia.
"In 1986, 1 was a 14-year-old boy. I was dreaming that when I will be an adult. I want to drive around the world, " he told reporters.
"Then it came to my mind, how can I travel around the world and enjoy the beauty of this world with a car that is polluting the world? Then I thought the perfect car would be a solar car. "
His car, which has become a major attraction at the gates of the summit of some 188 nations, was built in three years with scientific help from four universities and 15 Swiss companies. The car pulls a trailer with six square meters of solar panels which absorb the sun. The electricity is fed into the battery which powers the car, and can run for up to 100 kilometers a day.
"It's the first time in history that a car is driving around the world without a single drop of petrol, " said Palmer.
His epic solar journey is not his first adventure--he crossed Africa on a bicycle and North America in a light aircraft.
So far, Palmer has gone by land through Europe and the Middle East, then by sea to India and on to Indonesia. After covering much of Asia, Australia, North America and Africa, he will return to Switzerland to try and drum up support for the commercial possibilities of solar cars.
For the moment, he _ , with more curious customers waiting to take a ride in his unique automobile which, he said, "works like a Swiss clock. "

<question>:
So many visitors came to the car mainly because   _  .

<options>:
A it uses electricity as power
B it works as well as a Swiss clock
C it is the first solar car in the world
D they were eager to have a look at it

<answer>: