题目

阅读理解 Ants have the almost unique ability among animals to switch between individual and collective(集体的) action, according to new research which uncovers the mystery behind their impressive teamwork. The insects are able to transport objects such as food that are much larger than themselves by naturally understanding when to be part of the collective muscle and when to play an individual "scouting(侦察)" role for the group, researchers found. Experiments using the breakfast cereal showed how groups of a dozen or more ants working together could transport much bigger items by pushing in the same direction. But more importantly, when the group moves off course or heads for trouble, the ant who first realizes the problem transforms into a highly individualistic leader. This ant signals the need for a direction change by pulling at a different angle — and her colleagues instantly accept the decision and follow suit. "The individual ant has the idea of how to pass a thing that blocks their way but lacks the muscle power to move the load. The group is there to promote the leader's strength so that she can actually carry out her idea," said Ofer Feinermann, the study's lead author. But the lead ant will only carry the baton for a short period, typically shouting to others for 10 to 20 seconds, by which point another ant has become best placed to make leadership decisions. "As far as we can tell the scout is no different to the other ants, such as in creativity. No one designates(指派) her as the leader, and she designates herself because she has current knowledge about the correct direction," he added. Ants are among the very few creatures, besides humans, that can collectively carry loads far heavier than an individual member of their creatures. The study by the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel was published in the journal Nature Communications. （1） What does the new research mainly tell us? A . Ants usually work together to look for food. B . Ants usually turn to others for help when finding food. C . Ants are good at delivering food larger than themselves. D . Ants are able to work both individually and collectively. （2） When moving the load, _________. A . the scout usually works individually B . ants work together towards the same direction C . every ant wants to play a role of the leader D . ants elect a leader through a discussion （3） What does the underlined part "carry the baton" in Paragraph 6 mean? A . Act as a leader. B . Win the respect. C . Work very hard. D . Lose heart. （4） According to this passage, the leader of an ant group must have _________. A . a good sense of direction B . the strongest body C . the great creativity D . a good reputation 答案： D B A A

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