IELTS Online Sample Test 4

Question 1

Match each statement with the correct person. Ants show two-way, interactive teaching behaviors.

Accepted Answer

Nigel Franks

Answer

Nigel Franks is a prominent researcher known for his work on ant behavior, particularly his studies on 'tandem running' in ants. He proposed that this behavior constitutes a form of two-way, interactive teaching, where a knowledgeable ant guides a naive ant to a food source, adjusting its pace based on the follower's learning. This makes him the correct person associated with this statement.

Question 2

Match each statement with the correct person. Ants show two-way, interactive teaching behaviors.

Accepted Answer

Nigel Franks

Answer

Nigel Franks's research extensively details how ants engage in 'tandem running,' a process where one ant leads another to a food source. He characterized this as a form of two-way, interactive teaching, where the leader adjusts its speed based on the follower's learning and communication. This specific finding is a cornerstone of his work on ant intelligence and communication.

Question 3

Match each statement with the correct person.   It is risky to say ants can teach other ants like human beings do.

Accepted Answer

Bennett Galef Jr.

Answer

Bennett Galef Jr. is known for his more cautious and rigorous approach to interpreting animal behavior, often emphasizing the need for clear criteria before attributing complex cognitive abilities like 'teaching' to animals. He would likely express skepticism or highlight the risks of anthropomorphizing animal actions by directly equating them with human teaching. His perspective often contrasts with researchers who might be more inclined to interpret animal behaviors as teaching.

Question 4

Match each statement with the correct person. Ant leadership makes finding food faster.

Accepted Answer

Nigel Franks

Answer

Nigel Franks's research on tandem running in ants demonstrated that this form of guided communication significantly improves the efficiency of finding food. The 'leader' ant effectively teaches the 'follower' the route, allowing the colony to exploit new food sources more quickly than if each ant searched independently. This leadership role directly contributes to faster food acquisition.

Question 5

Match each statement with the correct person. Communication between ants is not entirely teaching.

Accepted Answer

Marc Hauser

Answer

Marc Hauser, a cognitive scientist, has often explored the complexities of animal communication and cognition, distinguishing between various forms of information transfer. He might argue that while ants communicate effectively, not all such interactions meet the strict criteria for 'teaching,' which often implies an intention to impart knowledge and a cost to the teacher. His work encourages a nuanced view, suggesting that some communication might be information sharing rather than explicit teaching.

IELTS Practice Test

IELTS Practice Test

IELTS Online Sample Test 4