1] GCSE [FIRST STAGE-FIRST SESSION[ 2004

1. Read and then complete the notes:

In many countries now seat belts are compulsory for front seat passengers. Most doctors believe that seal belts save people from being seriously hurt in a crash, but there are some people who still think that it is more dangerous to wear a seat belt. They say that it may trap one in a burning car so that one is burnt to death. But, others say that without belts, they may be thrown out of a car in a crash.

1.   Some people say that seat belts are dangerous because ……….

2.   Most doctors think that seat belts …………………………………...

3.   Seat belts are compulsory ……………………………………………

2. Read the following text, and then answer the questions:

The ancient Greeks always asserted that a healthy mind in a healthy body is the key to a well-balanced life. Nowadays, many schools are decreasing the amount of time given to sports, and some schools are removing it altogether. Although academic subjects are certainly a very important part of the school curriculum, I am strongly opposed to the complete removal of sports.

Firstly, schools have a responsibility to educate children in all areas. For that reason, it is just as important to provide sports practice for the professional sportsmen and women of the future, as it is to provide academic training to those who will go on to university.

In addition, students these days spend long hours studying or working at their computers. Therefore, they need the opportunity to do some physical activity during the school day. This will not only help to increase level of fitness and make them healthier, it will also mean that they develop social skills and are able to concentrate on their studies for longer, and thus achieve better result.

In conclusion, I strongly believe that sports should remain a key part of the school curriculum. All children have the right to get a balanced education, and they should not be deprived of the opportunity to learn how to play sports.

A. Answer the following questions:

1.   Does the writer support or oppose the issue increasing sport time at school?

2.   In your opinion, how could practising sports at schools help students later in university and at work?

3.   Why is it important to practise sports during the school day?

4.   What should not children be deprived of?

B. Choose the correct answer from A, B, C or D:

5.   Which statements is not true …………………………….

A.  sports encourage team spirit

B.  sports give the change to be physically

C.  sports help students become more successful

D.  sports lead to overweight

6.   The ancient Greeks believe that …………………..

A.  there is a connection between intelligence and a strong body

B.  well-balanced food is important

C.  there is a negative effect of sports on the body

D.  studying is more important than sports

7.   The word "key" means ………………………………

A.  lock

B.  necessary

C.  clue

D.  guide