SAT閱讀:Reading Comprehension Test8 參考答案

　　1.Correct Answer: B

　　Explanation:

　　The word ‘suggestive’ implies that it suggested things, or evoked ideas. This ties in with the use of the word ‘associations’ (line 43). The author goes on to describes several historical associations that the place has. Hence, answer B.

　　2.Correct Answer: E

　　Explanation:

　　On looking back we find that the word ‘old’ or ‘ancient’ would best replace ‘hoary’.

　　3.Correct Answer: A

　　Explanation:

　　The curious enquiry refers to finding out why ‘the cheerfullest of these occurrences’ did not take place in the amphitheatre. The cheerfullest occurrence referred to is the meeting of happy lovers.

　　4.Correct Answer: B

　　Explanation:

　　The daily ‘round’ refers to the normal course of life. Hence ‘routine’.

　　5.Correct Answer: C

　　Explanation:

　　The next sentence clearly states that the earthen circle shut out passers-by so that no appreciative words would reach the boys. Hence, answer C, which paraphrases appreciative words as ‘applaud’.

　　6.Correct Answer: B

　　Explanation:

　　This extract is obviously the introduction to a story. At the end of the extract we learn that Henchard had chosen this isolated spot to meet his wife. So the main point is to describe the atmosphere of the place for the meeting.

　　7.Correct Answer: D

　　Explanation:

　　The people of Casterbridge ‘turned a moment to gaze at the familiar spectacle as they passed by' (line 16). They looked at the remains, but only in passing, hence answer D.

　　8.Correct Answer: B

　　Explanation:

　　This incident is one ‘sinister’ event that took place there. The author is using this (and the others) to support his claim that the place has sinister associations. This is closest to the idea that the place had an ‘unsavory reputation’. (Unsavory = unpleasant)

　　9.Correct Answer: E

　　Explanation:

　　Ghostly apparitions (line 70), boxing matches (pugilistic encounters, line 53), hangings (line 47), and secret assignations (line 35) are all mentioned. The author does not make reference to theatrical performances, hence E is the right answer.

　　10.Correct Answer: B

　　Explanation:

　　The last sentence tells us that he has something to hide. (He had a reputation to protect, and did not want anyone to see her at his house.)

　　11.Correct Answer: A

　　Explanation:

　　Lines 55-59 tell us that the place is a "secluded arena, entirely visible to the outside world....". This confirms that it was safest from observation because no one could be seen from outside.

　　12.Correct Answer: C

　　Explanation:

　　Paragraph three best indicates the attitude of the residents to the Roman past. They were ‘unmoved’ (line 20), and found them ‘widely removed’ from the present. This is best conveyed by answer C.