A noted American psychologist once remarked that childhood is a magical period in one’s life. Indeed it is, for during 1 one undergoes a step-by-step transformation not only in 2 capacity, but also in physical and verbal skills. Each step 3 an increase in the difficulty of a child’s conceptual and learning abilities. During the early stages of childhood, from infancy to about five, the child learns simple skills including using the toilet, bathing and dressing himself 4 . At this stage, he also learns to be very observant, curious, 5 and creative. His ability to remember things also 6 at this stage. He remembers details that an adult may have difficulty in remembering. 7 , he learns elementary skills in problem-solving. At school, particular in 8 classes, the child is especially creative. Given a piece of paper and some colored pencils, he draws a variety of 9 from his surroundings as well as from his 10 circle. It is not surprising to see a child draw a monster to represent an abusive father, and an ___11__ to represent a loving and caring mother.
As he graduates to the later stages of childhood bordering on the 12 years, the child learns the complexity of human relations and socialization by 13 with his peers—his friends and schoolmates. He also learns to 14 with new life situations, including dates and part-time work. Given a tight schedule of schoolwork, the child learns to prepare his own schedules of work and play; the more practical and less serious ones manage to take time out of their 15 schedules of assignments, reports and tests and examinations to go with their friends on relaxation entertainment.
1. A. adolescence B. adulthood C. childhood D. infancy
2. A. spiritual B. magical C. practical D. mental
3. A. signals B. presents C. prevents D. signs
4. A. willingly B. excitedly C. confidently D. independently
5. A. optimistic B. imaginative C. able D. studious
6. A. increases B. develops C. declines D. strengthens
7. A. Gradually B. Fortunately C. Unexpectedly D. Undoubtedly
8. A. music B. chemistry C. art D. biology
9. A. pictures B. images C. reflections D. buildings
10. A. school B. family C. teacher D. friend
11. A. beauty B. actress C. witches D. angel
12. A. infancy B. adulthood C. teenage D. aged
13. A. competing B. fighting C. interacting D. learning
14. A. experiment B. agree C. withdraw D. concern
15. A. ambitious B. original C. daily D. busy