单选题 When I was preparing for my two-week vacation in southern Africa, I
Line realized that the continent would be like nothing I had ever seen. I wanted to
explore the urban streets as well as the savannah; it's always been my goal to
have experiences on vacation that most other tourists fail to find. When my plans
(5) were finalized, I left for Africa. The cultural differences were stunning, and made
for plenty of laughter and confusion, but always ended up bringing smiles to our
faces. What's funny now, though, more than ever, is how ridiculous I must have
seemed to the people of one village when I played with their dog. Apparently, the
role of dogs in America is nothing like it is in the third world.
(10) When I walk the streets of my hometown now, I often find myself staring at
all of the dogs and dog owners on the sidewalk. The way I see it, the American
dog lives for the thrill: a hug, a scratch behind the ears, a new chew toy, another
chance to fight against the leash it knows is only six feet long. Dog owners love
to believe their animal is smart, while people who've never owned a dog tend to
(15) believe the opposite. With a little training, the dogs don't bark, bite, or use the
sofa as a toilet, but they do provide years of unconditional affection and loyalty,
plus the occasional lame-brained escapade at which human onlookers can laugh.
I am convinced African dogs could clobber their American counterparts. The
relationship between a typical African and his dog is one of tangible mutualism.
(20) I say tangible because the African sees himself as the dominant creature not to
be bothered by the dog, but nevertheless responsible for providing for it. Hence,
no attempts at behavioral training are ever made on African dogs. Instead, the
African seizes power with a chunk of scrap meat and a bowl of water. The dog
soon learns to quit yapping and biting at the hand that feeds him. Never does
(25) the African speak to the animal. I'm not even sure such dogs get names. Their
behavior becomes interestingly balanced, however, much to the surprise of the
compassionate American dog lover.

单选题 The author of the passage is primarily concerned with presenting

【正确答案】 A

【答案解析】The main focus of the passage is on the differences between American dogs and dog owners, and African dogs and dog owners. According to the passage, the author thought that the cultural differences between him and the African people "were stunning," and then he goes on to describe one particular difference. This best supports answer choice A. The other answer choices are either too broad, or do not effectively describe the main point of the passage.

单选题 According to information provided by the passage, which of the following traits would the author most likely ascribe to African dog owners?

【正确答案】 C

【答案解析】The author states, "The relationship between a typical African and his dog is one of tangible mutualism. I say tangible because the African sees himself as the dominant creature not to be bothered by the dog, but nevertheless responsible for providing for it." There is nothing in the passage to suggest that African dog owners are either affectionate or abusive to their animals; rather, African dog owners are quite pragmatic, or practical, in their approach to interacting with their dogs. Likewise, the passage does not indicate that African dog owners are deceitful or antagonistic.