II. Read this passage carefully and then choose the best answers to the questions below by circling the corresponding letter A, B, C, or D. (1.0 point)
Although speech is the most advanced form of communication, there are many ways of communicating without using speech. Signals, signs, symbols, and gestures may be found in every known culture. The main function of a signal is to impinge upon the environment in such a way that it attracts attention, as for example, the dots and dashes of a telegraph circuit. Coded to refer to speech, the potential for communication is very great. Less adaptable to the codification of words, signs also contain meaning in and of themselves. A stop sign or a barber pole conveys meaning quickly and more difficult to describe than either signals or signs because of their intricate relationship with the receiver’s cultural perceptions. In some cultures, applauding in a theatre provides performers with an auditory symbol of approval. Gestures such as waving and handshaking also communicate certain cultural messages.
Although signals, signs, symbols, and gestures are very useful, they do have a major disadvantage. They usually do not allow ideas to be shared without the sender being directly adjacent to the receiver. As a result, means of communication intended to be used for long distances and extended periods are based on speech. Radio, television, and the telephone are only a few.
1. Which of the following would be the best title for the passage?
A. Signs, Signals, and Symbols B. Gestures
C. Communication D. Speech
2. What does the author say about speech?
A. That it is the only true form of communication.
B. That it is dependent upon the advances made by inventors.
C. That it is necessary for communication to occur.
D. That it is the most advanced form of communication.
3. Applauding was cited as an example of
A. a sign B. a signal C. a symbol D. a gesture
4. Why were the telephone, radio, and TV invented?
A. Because people were unable to understand signs, symbols, and signals.
B. Because people wanted to communicate across long distances.
C. Because people believed that signals, and symbols were obsolete.
D. Because people wanted new forms of entertainment.
5. It may be concluded from this passage that
A. signals, signs, symbols, and gestures are forms of communication.
B. symbols are very easy to define and interpret.
C. only some cultures have signals and symbols.
D. waving and handshaking are not related to culture.
