Questions 11–15
Open the passage through this link
Choose the correct letter a, b, c, or d
11. When reporters in New Zealand met Shirase, they were
a. concerned about the quality of his equipment.
b. impressed with the design of his ship.
c. certain he was unaware of the dangers ahead.
d. surprised by the bravery he demonstrated.
12. What are we told about the captain of the Kainan Maru in the fifth paragraph?
a. He had given Shirase some poor advice.
b. His skill at sailing saved the boat and crew.
c. He refused to listen to the warnings of others.
d. He was originally confident they could reach Antarctica.
13. After Shirase finally reached Antarctica he realised that
a. he was unsure of the direction he should follow.
b. he would have to give up on fulfilling his personal ambition.
c. he might not have enough food to get to the South Pole.
d. he still wanted to compete in the race against the other teams.
14. What is the writer doing in the seventh paragraph?
a. criticising a decision concerning scientific research.
b. explaining why a particular mistake had occurred.
c. describing the conditions that the expedition faced.
d. rejecting the idea that Shirase was poorly prepared.
15. What is the writer’s main point in the final paragraph?
a. Considering the problems Shirase had to deal with, his achievement was incredible.
b. In Japan, the reaction to Shirase’s adventure in Antarctica came as a surprise to him.
c. It was obvious that Amundsen would receive more attention as an explorer than Shirase.
d. Shirase had achieved more on the Antarctic expedition than even he had expected
Type answer number 11