Ниже я предлагаю вам пример типичного формата задания TOEFL по чтению: отрывок текста в академическом стиле, за которым следуют вопросы на понимание прочитанного, нацеленные на проверку ваших способностей понимать ключевые детали, слова и выражения в контексте и смысл излагаемого.
Пример текста для чтения:
The Benefits of Bilingualism
Research into bilingualism has revealed that the ability to speak two or more languages has many cognitive benefits. One significant advantage is improved problem-solving skills. Bilingual individuals often perform better on tasks that require switching between different sets of rules, possibly because they are used to managing two linguistic systems at once.
In addition to problem-solving, bilinguals are known for enhanced multitasking abilities. Studies have shown that juggling multiple languages helps develop greater cognitive flexibility, allowing bilingual individuals to switch between tasks more efficiently than monolinguals. This flexibility extends beyond language use and benefits other areas, such as attention control.
Another benefit of bilingualism is its positive effect on memory. Because bilingual individuals must continually practice retrieving words and structures from both languages, their memory function is sharpened. This regular exercise strengthens the brain’s overall memory capacity, particularly in working memory, which is crucial for both academic and everyday tasks.
Lastly, bilingualism is associated with a delay in the onset of cognitive decline. Research has suggested that bilingual individuals tend to show symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease later than their monolingual counterparts. This finding supports the idea that managing two languages throughout life helps build cognitive reserve, which can delay the effects of brain aging.
In conclusion, the cognitive benefits of bilingualism extend across problem-solving, multitasking, memory, and long-term brain health. These advantages suggest that learning a second language is not just a cultural or practical skill but also a way to enhance overall cognitive function.
Примеры вопросов:
1. According to the passage, what is one way that bilingualism benefits problem-solving skills?
A. Bilinguals can process new information faster than monolinguals.
B. Bilinguals switch between linguistic systems, improving rule-switching abilities.
C. Bilinguals memorize vocabulary more efficiently than monolinguals.
D. Bilinguals can delay cognitive decline.
Answer: B. Bilinguals switch between linguistic systems, improving rule-switching abilities.
2. The author mentions multitasking to illustrate which of the following points?
A. Bilinguals have stronger memory.
B. Bilinguals have improved attention control.
C. Bilingualism delays dementia.
D. Bilingualism affects academic performance.
Answer: B. Bilinguals have improved attention control.
3. The word «retrieving» in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to:
A. learning
B. recalling
C. improving
D. forgetting
Answer: B. recalling
4. Based on the passage, how does bilingualism affect memory?
A. It helps bilinguals learn new information faster.
B. It strengthens working memory through frequent language use.
C. It improves short-term memory but not long-term memory.
D. It prevents memory loss.
Answer: B. It strengthens working memory through frequent language use.