sábado, 2 de agosto de 2014

Reading test -Wanting it enough: why motivation is the key to language learning

We are using the article Guardian article Wanting it enough why motivation is the key to language learning for this week's reading test. We'll be practising the typical multiple-choice reading comprehension task.

Read Alison Mackey's article by clicking here or on the link above. Then go over questions 1-7 and choose the option a, b or c that best completes the sentence or answers the question. 0 is an example.

Example:
0 Which sentence is true, according to the text?
a) Learning a foreign language after childhood is virtually impossible.
b) Finding the right motivation is the best way to learn a foreign language.
c) Falling in love is the best way of learning a foreign language.

1 Having to pass a test in your academic or professional life…
a) is not a real motivating factor to learn a language.
b) is an intrinsically motivating factor for some people.
c) is a good reason as any other to learn a language.

2 Professors Robert Gardner and Wallace Lambert found out that…
a) intrinsic motivation and integrative motivation are the same thing.
b) motivation might not be enough to learn a new language.
c) practical reasons to learn also have powerful results in the learning process.

3 If we follow Professor Zoltán Dörnyei’s theory, our level of proficiency in a new language…
a) may get worse as time goes by.
b) will always get better.
c) will depend on the people you know.

4 Which sentence is true, according to the text?
a) Communication is a key factor in language learning.
b) Having high self-esteem is a key factor in language learning.
c) Students who devise a good training plan for their learning process are more likely to succeed.

5 Which sentence is true, according to the text?
a) Some people are lacking in natural ability to learn a language.
b) Some people’s feelings towards the new language make it hard for them to learn.
c) It is not uncommon for learners to sound like native speakers.

6 Which sentence is true, according to the text?
a) Students who poor memory can’t learn a language.
b) Aptitude skills on their own won’t bring success.
c) A teacher who caters for your interests and abilities is essential.

7 Which sentence is true, according to the text?
a) We are all genetically prepared to learn a new language well.
b) Learning a new language well is not within everybody’s reach.
c) The true reasons why some people learn a new language well are unknown.

Photograph: Michael Regan/The Fa/Getty Images

Key:
1C 2B 3A 4A 5A 6B 7B