Gaokao English: Reading Comprehension Flashcards

Read the passage and answer the question. Passage: The placebo effect demonstrates the power of the mind over the body. When patients receive an inactive substance — such as a sugar pill — but believe it is a real medication, they sometimes experience genuine improvements in symptoms. This occurs across a range of conditions, from pain to anxiety. Remarkably, research has shown that placebos can even work when patients know they are taking a placebo, suggesting the effect may involve learned automatic responses. What is most surprising about recent placebo research, according to the passage?

Answer: The placebo effect can occur even when patients know they are receiving a placebo.

The passage highlights as 'remarkable' that placebos work even when patients are fully aware they are taking one.

Read the passage and answer the question. Passage: The Industrial Revolution of the 18th and 19th centuries transformed society in fundamental ways. Mass production made goods cheaper and more widely available. Urbanization accelerated as people moved from rural areas to cities in search of factory work. However, working conditions were often harsh: long hours, low wages, and dangerous environments were common. This period ultimately gave rise to labor movements and reforms that shaped modern workers' rights. According to the passage, what was one consequence of industrialization?

Answer: Labor movements arose in response to poor working conditions.

The passage states that the harsh working conditions 'ultimately gave rise to labor movements and reforms' — a direct consequence.

Read the passage and answer the question. Passage: Mangrove forests grow along tropical coastlines and provide a range of ecosystem services. Their tangled root systems trap sediment and reduce coastal erosion. They serve as nurseries for fish and other marine species. During storms, mangroves absorb wave energy, protecting inland communities. Despite their value, large areas of mangrove forest have been cleared for shrimp farming and coastal development. Which word best replaces 'nurseries' in context?

Answer: shelters and breeding grounds

In ecological context, 'nurseries' refers to areas where young fish grow up, i.e., shelters and breeding grounds.

Read the passage and answer the question. Passage: Artificial intelligence is increasingly used in hiring processes. Some companies use algorithms to screen résumés and even conduct initial video interviews, scoring candidates on facial expressions and word choice. Supporters argue this removes human bias from hiring. Critics counter that the data these algorithms are trained on reflects historical biases, meaning the AI may systematically disadvantage certain groups. What is the critics' main concern about AI hiring tools?

Answer: AI trained on biased data may replicate or amplify existing biases.

Critics argue that because training data reflects historical biases, the AI reproduces those biases and disadvantages certain groups.

Read the passage and answer the question. Passage: Dark matter is one of the greatest mysteries in astrophysics. Although it cannot be seen or directly detected, scientists infer its existence from its gravitational effects on visible matter. Galaxies rotate faster than the visible mass alone can explain — an observation that suggests a large amount of unseen mass is present. Dark matter is estimated to make up about 27% of the universe's total mass-energy content. How do scientists know dark matter exists, according to the passage?

Answer: They infer it from unexplained gravitational effects on visible matter.

The passage states scientists infer dark matter's existence from its gravitational effects — not direct observation.

Read the passage and answer the question. Passage: Traditional festivals play a vital role in preserving cultural identity. They provide occasions for communities to come together, passing on customs, foods, music, and stories from one generation to the next. As globalization promotes cultural homogeneity, many local festivals face declining participation. Cultural experts argue that losing these traditions represents an irreversible erosion of human diversity. The phrase 'cultural homogeneity' most likely means:

Answer: A single dominant culture replacing diverse local cultures.

Homogeneity means sameness; in context, it contrasts with the diversity of local traditions being lost, suggesting one uniform culture.

Read the passage and answer the question. Passage: Competitive sports teach valuable life lessons beyond physical fitness. Athletes learn discipline through consistent training, resilience by coping with losses, and teamwork by cooperating toward shared goals. However, the pressure to win can create negative outcomes: anxiety, burnout, and in extreme cases, the use of performance-enhancing substances. Educators debate how to preserve the positive aspects of competition while minimizing these harmful effects. What does the author suggest about competitive sports?

Answer: They offer important life lessons but also carry risks that need to be managed.

The passage presents both benefits (discipline, resilience, teamwork) and harms (anxiety, burnout, doping), and educators are trying to balance them.