2007 postgraduate entrance exam English Cloze Test and Reading Comprehension Matching Questions - (Latest Version)

Author: Hu Min
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-03-01
Features: Cloze tests are a crucial part of the postgraduate entrance examination English paper. Although they account for only 10% of the total score, the level they reflect determines the success or failure of the entire English exam. Generally, those who score high on cloze tests not only have a solid language foundation but also strong practical language skills. This is evident from the fact that cloze tests are also referred to as "English Knowledge Application." From another perspective, the postgraduate entrance English exam has undergone multiple reforms, yet cloze tests have not only been retained but also increased in quantity. This indicates that cloze tests are indeed an important examination format, and we should pay sufficient attention. However, based on historical exam results, the average score for cloze tests has always been unsatisfactory. This is partly because cloze tests themselves are inherently challenging, and partly because they remain a weak point for us. We either take them lightly, fear them, rely on luck, or strive for them tirelessly yet fail to find the correct learning method. Regardless of the situation, we should understand a fundamental principle: failing to master cloze tests significantly reduces the likelihood of postgraduate success. Are cloze tests truly insurmountable? The answer is clearly no, as they test nothing more than vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension of the passage—exactly the content we are supposed to learn: we memorize words every day, study grammar constantly, and read extensively at every moment. To say we don’t prioritize them would be unreasonable, and to say we don’t work hard would be unfair. Since we have invested time and effort, why are the results still unsatisfactory? The only explanation is that our methods are flawed, and our efficiency needs improvement.
When it comes to methods, we must abandon superficial and half-hearted learning approaches. We need to develop a fresh understanding of vocabulary and grammar—moving from single meanings and uses to multiple meanings and applications, from individual words and meanings to phrases and usage, from simple sentences to complex ones, and finally from sentences to passages. Regarding efficiency, we must break free from hasty and inconsistent work habits. We should strive for a level of learning where we can generalize from one example to many and handle difficult tasks with ease, while also mastering analysis, summarization, and active thinking while building a solid foundation.
The purpose of writing this book is to provide readers with some insights and methods to help them gradually find their way with cloze tests, thereby overcoming this challenging section. The book is primarily based on teaching materials used in postgraduate entrance examination tutoring classes, and many of the questions have been widely discussed with students. The questions and confusion of the students have been the driving force behind my in-depth research, and I would like to express my sincere gratitude to them. I hope this book will not only assist future learners but also continue to receive suggestions and feedback from students and peers, making it increasingly practical and perfect in the future.