Task 2

Please read the excerpts from the texts and select the correct answer according to the given example.

Life in the USA

1. The American education system is a vast and diverse network comprising public, private, and charter schools. Public schools are funded by taxpayers and are free for residents of the zone they serve. Meanwhile, private schools charge tuition, often have rigorous entrance processes, and sometimes offer specialized curricular options. Charter schools, on the other hand, receive government funding but operate independently from the established state school system. Students attending charter schools benefit from unique curriculums and a variety of teaching methods not always available in public schools. However, admission to charter schools can be competitive, and they may not be accessible to every student.

From this text, we understand that:

Public schools have more diverse curriculums than charter schools. Charter schools receive governmental funding but function independently. Private schools do not charge any tuition fees.

2. The American healthcare system is known for its complexity and high costs. Health insurance, typically issued through a private company, is crucial for covering these expenses. Many individuals receive health insurance through their employers, although there are government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid for specific populations, like the elderly or low-income families. Despite having insurance, out-of-pocket expenses can still be significant for many. Without any insurance, a simple doctor’s visit or emergency procedure can lead to financial strain. The Affordable Care Act was introduced to make insurance more accessible and aimed to reduce the gap in healthcare availability.

From this text, we can infer that:

Employers do not contribute to employees’ insurance plans. Without insurance, healthcare expenses can be financially burdensome. Medicare and Medicaid are available for all citizens regardless of income.

3. In America's bustling cities, public transportation can be both a boon and a challenge. Cities like New York and Chicago boast extensive subway and bus systems that help millions commute daily. However, reliance on public transit varies vastly across the country. In cities like Los Angeles, the car remains king, and public transportation is less frequently utilized, partly due to urban sprawl. Environmental advocates encourage the development of better public transit networks to reduce carbon emissions and ease congestion. Cities are innovating with bike-share schemes and electric buses, seeking sustainable solutions for urban transportation demands.

According to the text, we learn that:

Environmentalists discourage any further development of urban transit systems. All American cities are heavily reliant on public transit systems. Public transportation usage varies significantly across different cities.

4. The American holiday of Thanksgiving, celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, marks a day of gratitude and togetherness. While historically rooted in a harvest festival shared by Pilgrims and Native Americans, it has evolved into a national holiday recognized by a significant meal, traditionally featuring turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. Families gather from various places, often traveling long distances to be with loved ones. Sporting events, particularly American football games, are a time-honored tradition during this holiday. The day also marks the unofficial beginning of the Christmas shopping season, with Black Friday sales commencing the subsequent day.

From this text, it is clear that:

Thanksgiving is both a historical and a modern family-centered holiday. The primary focus of Thanksgiving is Black Friday shopping. Thanksgiving is celebrated on different dates each year.

5. American cuisine is a vast tapestry reflecting its multicultural society. Popular dishes often blend traditions from various ethnicities. Pizza, although Italian in origin, has been Americanized with regional twists, like New York's thin crust or Chicago's deep dish. The hamburger, another iconic American dish, showcases influences from European immigrant foods. Besides these, the U.S. is known for Southern comfort food such as fried chicken and collard greens, heavily rooted in African American history. Food festivals across the country celebrate these diverse culinary contributions, offering a chance for people to experience the melting pot of flavors.

The text suggests that:

Pizza and hamburgers are purely American creations with no foreign ties. Southern comfort food primarily features spices from Latin America. American cuisine is a fusion of various cultural influences.

6. The United States is home to a wide range of climates and natural wonders. The West Coast is famed for its Mediterranean climate and stunning Pacific coastline, while the East Coast experiences four distinct seasons, exemplified by New York's snowy winters and vibrant falls. The Great Plains, characterized by vast flatlands, lie at the country's center. The Rocky Mountains offer skiing resorts and spectacular landscapes in the western states. National parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite preserve diverse ecosystems and attract millions of tourists every year, showcasing America's commitment to environmental conservation.

According to the passage, we learn that:

The Great Plains are known for their mountainous regions. The East Coast of the U.S. never experiences winter conditions. The U.S. has a variety of climates and natural attractions.

7. In the U.S., major league sports play a significant role in American culture. Baseball, known as America's pastime, captivates millions with its historic teams and renowned ballparks. Football exceeds in popularity, bringing families together every Sunday. Basketball, originating in the U.S., has grown into an international phenomenon with an increasing number of foreign players joining the NBA. Hockey, though most beloved in northern states, contributes to the sports tapestry. Each sport boasts a season finale that captures national attention, such as the Super Bowl or the World Series, turning games into cultural celebrations.

From the text, we can conclude that:

Hockey is the least known sport in the U.S. and rarely mentioned. Baseball, football, and basketball were all invented outside the U.S. Major sports in the U.S. are integral to its cultural identity.

8. The technological development in Silicon Valley stands as a pillar of U.S. innovation. Located in Northern California, it's home to thousands of startups and tech giants like Apple and Google. This area symbolizes technological advancement and entrepreneurial spirit. The concentration of expertise, venture capital, and education institutions, like Stanford University, has created an ecosystem that accelerates new ideas. Despite its success, Silicon Valley faces challenges such as high living costs and housing shortages which impact the workforce. Nevertheless, its influence reaches global technology markets, shaping the future of digital landscapes.

The text indicates that:

Silicon Valley is a hub of innovation but faces significant living cost challenges. The presence of tech companies does not influence education or startups. Silicon Valley is primarily known for agricultural innovations.

9. American literature offers a panorama of diverse genres and voices, reflecting the complexity of the nation’s history and identity. From Mark Twain's tales capturing the essence of the Mississippi River to Toni Morrison's profound explorations of African American lives and histories, writers interrogate social issues and celebrate unique experiences. Contemporary authors like John Green and Jhumpa Lahiri continue to draw international audiences, their works often adapted into films. Literary festivals held nationwide celebrate these authors, encouraging reading and engaging discussions on modern issues through literature.

The text reveals that:

American literature is celebrated for its diversity and social commentary. All American literature focuses on historical fiction set during the Civil War. Modern American authors rarely achieve international recognition.

10. In recent years, American residential architecture has seen a shift towards eco-friendly and sustainable living solutions. Tiny houses, known for their affordability and minimal environmental impact, offer an alternative to traditional homes. Solar panels and green roofs are becoming common additions, reducing energy bills and ecological footprints. Urban areas are adapting to sustainable practices too, with green spaces and sustainable building materials gaining popularity, contributing to healthier living environments. The movement towards sustainable architecture reflects a growing awareness of environmental issues and a commitment to ecological responsibility.

According to the passage, it is suggested that:

Solar panels are discouraged in urban areas for sustainability. Sustainable living is becoming more popular in American architecture. Traditional homes are being entirely replaced by tiny houses in America.