Scientists are placing robotic dogs in the homes of lonely old people to test whether they can improve the quality of life for humans. Alan Beck, an expert(专家) in human-animal relationship, and Nancy Edwards, a professor of nursing, are leading the animal-assisted study on the effect of robotic dogs on old people’s depression (沮丧) , physical activity, and life satisfaction.

In the study, the robot, called AIBO, is placed for six weeks in the houses of some old people who live alone. Before placing AIBO in the home, scientists will collect baseline data(数据) for six weeks. These old people will keep a diary to note their feelings and activity before and after AIBO. Then, the scientists will review the data to test if it has produced any changes in the life of its owner.

“I talk to him all the time, and he responds to my voice,” says a seventy-year-old lady. “When I’m watching TV, he’ll stay in my arms until he wants down. He has his own mind.”

The AIBOs respond to certain orders. The scientists say they have some advantages over live dogs, especially for old people. Often the elderly are disabled and cannot care for an animal by walking it or playing with it. A robotic dog removes exercise and feeding concerns.

“At the beginning, it was believed that no one would relate(与……相关) to the robotic dog, because it was metal and not furry.” Beck says. “Hopefully, down the road, these robotic pets could become a more-valuable health helper. They will record their masters’ blood pressure, oxygen levels or heart rhythms(心律). AIBOs may even one day have games that can help stimulate(刺激) older people’s minds.”

1.The purpose of Beck and Edwards’ study is to _____________.

A. understand human-animal relationship

B. make lonely old people’s life better

C. find the causes of old people’s loneliness

D. improve the animal-assisted research

2. In the research, the old people are asked to _____________.

A. note the activities of AIBOs

B. keep AIBOs at home for 12 weeks

C. record their feelings and activity

D. study the collected information

3. What does the underlined word “removes” mean?

A. moves again B. is movable

C. doesn’t need D. need

4.The writer seems to suggest that the future robotic dogs may__________.

A. cure certain diseases B. keep old people active

C. change people’s ideas D. look more like real dogs

When the final bell rang I left the school. But 45 minutes later, I didn't know where I was. I couldn't call Thomas became he was at work, and my mom wouldn't be any help. I finally decided to knock (敲) at a door.

"How may I help you, dear?" an old woman asked.

"I'm new to town and I was walking home and I got lost. Could you please tell me the right direction? I live on Shay Street."

"Oh, you went the wrong way. Shay Street is about five miles in the other direction."

"Thank you very much." I turned to leave, but the old woman called out to me.

"You aren't planning on walking home, are you? Let me get my grandson to drive you home." She turned to call into the house. A few minutes later, a boy appeared at the door.

"Kale, bring this sweet girl home. She lives on Shay Street. And bring back some bread and cheese."

"Sure," he smiled.

The boy drove me home and left before I said "thank you". When I opened the door, Thomas was singing and making dinner in the kitchen. He was never home for dinner because of work.

"Hey, Thomas," I said happily, "what's the occasion (场合)?"

"Well, I wanted to hear all about your first day of the school."

1. Why did the writer knock at the door?

A. To ask for some food.

B. To ask for the direction.

C. To meet her new friend.

2.How did the writer go home at last?

A. On foot. B. By bus. C. By car.

3.Who might Thomas probably be?

A. The writer's brother.

B. The writer's teacher.

C. The writer's father.

4.Which of the following is NOT true according to the passage?

A. Kale was the old woman's son.

B. It was the writer's first day at school.

C. Thomas was usually busy at his work.

5.Which is the best title for the passage?

A. An Old Woman and a Nice Boy

B. My First Day at School

C. A Great Day for Me

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