（10）Being illiterate can have a big effect on people's lives. For example, a study in the UK showed that people who write and spell badly are seen as careless, immature and unreliable, and often unintelligent. So it is more difficult for them to find jobs, even when reading and writing are not necessary for the work.
（11）World-wide statistics show that literacy problems are associated with poverty and a lack of political power. More women than men are illiterate. Illiterate people have worse health, bigger families and are more likely to go to prison. So literacy campaigns must be a good thing. But don't forget that an illiterate person, or someone with a low level of literacy, isn't necessarily stupid or ignorant – and may not be unhappy at all. Knowledge and wisdom isn't only found in writing.
47. Why does the author give two examples in Para 2? A. To show that literacy is interpreted in different ways. B. To show that Father was more literate than Mother. C. To indicate how important reading and writing are. D. To compare the level of literacy between neighbours.
48. According to the author, the following are some of the defining features of literacy EXCETT________.
A. psyhchological B. functional C. social D. independent
49. Which of the following statements about reading and writing is CORRECT? A. Reading and writing have always been regarded as equally difficult. B. People had to read and write well in order to be allowed to vote. C. Reading often requires more immediate interaction than writing. D. Reading and writing have always been viewed as being connected. 50. What do the last two paragraphs mainly focus on ? A. Effects of illiteracy and employment problems. B. Effects of illiteracy and associated problems. C. Effects of illiteracy on one’s personality development. D. Effects of illiteracy on women’s career development.
Section B. Short answer questions. (Answer each question with no more than ten words)
Passage one.
51. what does This in Para. 2 refer to? It refers to the treasure hoard of Leprechauns.
52. Why did Fisher have to battle in the courts after he found the treasure (Para. 4)? Because he was sued over ownership of the treasure. Passage two.
53.Why did Mariam wear a new net blouse on Sunday afternoon? Because she wanted to attract Paul’s attention.
54. What is the meaning of the sentence “…he would spare neither himself nor anybody else” in Para. 5?
Everyone, including himself, would become the targets of his mockery. Passage three.
55. Explain the meaning of the last sentence of Para. 11 according to the context. Illiterate people may also have knowledge and wisdom.