If you live in Europe or the Americas, you likely pick up a fork every day and give no thought to it. Using it probably seems as natural as breathing. Yet compared with the knife and the spoon, which appeared very early, the fork is a latecomer to the table.

Researches show that the fork was first used in Ancient Egypt, China and Greece. Since the 4th century BC, the fork managed to become common on the tables of upper society in Eastern Europe and by the 9th century, it travelled to the Middle East and started being used by the upper class under the name “barjyn”. This enabled the fork to slowly become popular in these areas.

In the 11th century, the fork came to Italy in the dowry of a princess (王妃的嫁妆) from the Middle East who married an Italian official. After seeing the princess use the fork, the church strongly criticized her, saying that the fork disrespected the practice of using the fingers. Then the fork disappeared from the table for nearly 300 years. It began to get acceptance in Italy by the late 16th century, because the upper-class Italians expressed renewed interest in cleanliness. However, most European countries accepted the fork only by the 18th century and United States didn’t welcome it until the early 19th century.

During its life, the fork has changed in terms of appearance. In its early use, the fork had only two tines (齿). As the centuries went on, its design slowly started taking on a modern look. The fork that we know today, which has four tines, was introduced in the 18th century in Germany. By the early 20th century, the invention of stainless steel(不锈钢)enabled the fork to be made more easily. Since then, the fork hasn’t changed much in design.

1.Which is a latecomer to the table, the knife, the spoon or the fork?

2.In what countries was the fork first used?

3.When did most European countries accept the fork?

4.What enabled the fork to be made more easily?

5.What’s the passage mainly about?

Studying is important to students. But it is always difficult to find enough time to study every subject you need. So a good plan helps you to make sure of your success in study.

Then, how to make a study plan? Well, you can begin with listing all the subjects you need to study and make sure what you need to do for each subject. Next, you should decide how much time you should spend on different subjects. Now, it is a good idea to study at the same time every day. In this way, you actually have a plan you can remember easily. While arranging(安排)time for each subject, you also need to make sure that you still have time for family, friends and rest. This is because you won’t be able to succeed in your studies unless you balance your personal life and your study.

Once the plan is made, the next thing you need to do is to follow it. One of the biggest challenges in following your study plan is that you will be tempted(诱惑)to avoid it and do something relaxing, or fun instead. Luckily, you can fight this temptation by taking breaks. But be sure not to take extra breaks or too long breaks as it can affect your plan. So at the start of your break, set an alarm clock to remind you when your break is over. Also, you need to use your break wisely. For example, go for a short walk, eat a small snack, or listen to some music.

To avoid forgetting to follow your plan, try to get into the habit of looking at your calendar every day. sometimes our plans are hard to follow because some important people in our lives distract(使分心)us from our goals. In order to avoid this, tell people in your life about your plan. Put up a copy of your study guide at home so you and your family can see it, and email a copy to your friends so they know when you have spare time.

根据短文内容,判断句子正(T)误(F)。

1.A good study plan is helpful in achieving your success in study.

2.Make a study plan of the most important subject you need to study.

3.Arrange time for family, friends and rest to balance your personal life and your study.

4.Follow your plan and study at the same time every day, or you will affect your plan.

5.Email your plan to your teachers so they know when you are free.

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