剑桥雅思4阅读解析test1

【最新2019】剑桥雅思四阅读TEST 1实例解读(Passage one)-范文word版本文部分内容来自网络整理，本司不为其真实性负责，如有异议或侵权请及时联系，本司将立即删除！== 本文为word格式，下载后可方便编辑和修改！ ==剑桥雅思四阅读TEST 1实例解读(Passage one)TEST 1 Passage one一.主要内容：这篇文章讲的主要是一个 study ， a study about childrensscientific knowledge and attitudes to rain forests 开展这个 study 的主要原因是 children harbor misconceptions about pure , curriculum science . And these ideas may be developed by children absorbing ideas through the popular media .。

并且 little formal information is available about children ideas in this area大概介绍了这个 study 的背景和目的之后，文章就开始涉及五个 open - form questions 。

第一个问题是要学生介绍 rainforest ;第二个问题是关于热带雨林的地理分布;第三个关于热带雨林的重要性;第四个关于热带雨林被破坏的原因;最后一个问题是有关保护热带雨林的重要性。

Study 的结果证明了孩子对热带雨林有误解，并且提出了 environmental education 对孩子的重要性。

二.习题解析True or false not given 的判断标准：1. true : 文章内完全有的; 可以推断的2. false ：和文章内容完全相反;或是和文章内容不一致3. not given ：从文章中找不到;也推断不出来解析 passage one 中此类题1. The plight of rainforests has largely been ignored by the media .。

雅思4英语作文test1答案In the IELTS writing test, candidates are often required to provide well-rounded arguments and perspectives on a given topic. This not only demonstrates their ability to express themselves effectively in English but also showcasestheir critical thinking skills. One such topic that may be presented in the test is the impact of technology on society. Technology has undoubtedlyrevolutionized the way we live, work, and communicate. From the advent of the internet to the rise of smartphones, technology has made our lives more convenient and connected than ever before. It has transformed industries, creating new opportunities for growth and innovation. However, this rapid advancement in technology has also raised concerns about its impact on society. One of the main concerns surrounding technology is its potential to isolate individuals and erode face-to-face communication. With the rise of social media and messaging apps, people are spending more time interacting online than in person. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and disconnection, as genuine human connections are often sacrificed for the sake of convenience. Additionally, the constant bombardment of information and notifications from technology can be overwhelming, leading to increased stress and anxiety. Furthermore, the widespread use of technology has also raised privacy and security concerns. With the amount of personal data being collected and shared online, individuals are at risk of having their privacy violated. Cybersecurity threats are on the rise, with hackers targeting sensitive information for malicious purposes. This can have serious consequences, such as identity theft and financial fraud, highlighting the need for stronger measures to protect personal data in the digital age. On the other hand, technology has also brought about positive changes in society. It has improved access to education and information, allowing people to learn and grow in ways that were not possible before. Online learning platforms have made education more accessible to individuals around the world, breaking down barriers to entry and promoting lifelong learning. Technology has also revolutionized healthcare, enabling remote consultations and the development of innovative medical treatments. Moreover, technology has played a crucial role in driving economic growth and creating new job opportunities. The digital economy has opened up a wide range of career pathsin fields such as software development, data analysis, and digital marketing. This has empowered individuals to pursue their passions and achieve financial independence, contributing to overall societal prosperity. Additionally, technology has facilitated global collaboration and communication, bridging cultural divides and fostering a more interconnected world. In conclusion, the impact of technology on society is multifaceted, with both positive and negative implications. While technology has undoubtedly transformed the way we live and work, it is essential to consider the potential drawbacks and challenges that come with its rapid advancement. By addressing issues such as privacy, cybersecurity, and social isolation, we can harness the benefits of technology while mitigating its negative effects. Ultimately, it is important for individuals and society as a whole to strike a balance between embracing technological innovation and preserving the values that make us human.。

雅思4英语作文test1答案As an AI language model, I am not capable of taking the IELTS test. However, I can provide a sample answer to the IELTS writing task 1 test 1 prompt, which is a diagram of the water cycle. The diagram shows the process of the water cycle, which is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. The water cycle consists of four main processes: evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and surface runoff. The first stage of the water cycle is evaporation, where water from the surface of the Earth, such as oceans, rivers, and lakes, is heated by the sun and turns into water vapor. This water vapor rises into the atmosphere, where it cools and condenses into clouds. The second stage is condensation, where water vapor in the atmosphere forms clouds. The clouds grow larger as more water vapor condenses onto them, and they eventually become too heavy to stay in the atmosphere. The third stage is precipitation, where the water droplets in the clouds become too heavy and fall to the Earth's surface as rain, snow, sleet, or hail. This precipitation can either be absorbed into the ground or flow into rivers, lakes, and oceans. The final stage is surface runoff, where the water that does not get absorbed into the ground flows over the surface of the Earth and into bodies of water. This process helps to replenish the water in rivers, lakes, and oceans, which then evaporates and starts the cycle again. From an environmental perspective, the water cycle is essential for maintaining the Earth's ecosystem. It provides water for plants and animals, helps to regulate the Earth's temperature, and plays a crucial role in weather patterns. However, human activities such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change can disrupt the water cycle and cause imbalances in the ecosystem. For example, deforestation can reduce the amount of water that is absorbed into the ground, leading to increased runoff and soil erosion. Pollution can contaminate water sources and harm aquatic life, while climate change can alter precipitation patterns and cause droughts or floods. In conclusion, the water cycle is a vital process that sustains life on Earth. It is crucial to protect and preserve the water cycle by reducing human impacts on the environment and promoting sustainable practices.。

雅思为各位考生推荐复习材料-剑桥雅思4Test1写作Task1范文-The table,需要拓展本单元阅读文章的考生，请点击：剑桥雅思阅读4Test1阅读passage1译文。

题目：The table below shows the proportion of different categories of families living in poverty in Australia in 1999.The information given by the table is about the percentage of different types of poverty-stricken households in Australia in the year of 1999.On average, 11% of all households, comprising almost two million people, were in this position. However, those consisting of one parent or a single adult had almost doubled this proportion of poor people, with 21% and 19% respectively.Couples generally tended to be better, with lower poverty levels for couples without children (7%) than those with children (12%). It is noticeable that for both types of household with children, higher than average proportion were living in poverty at this time. In contrast, older people were generally less likely to be poor, only 4% for aged couple, and 6% for single aged person respectively.Overall, the table suggests that households of single adults and those with children were more likely to be living in poverty than those consisting of couples.。

剑桥雅思4test3reading1阅读全文解析剑桥雅思4test3reading1阅读全文解析剑桥雅思4test3reading1阅读全文解析分享给大家。

本篇文章内容讲述的是“流浪儿童的小型企业贷款”，相当于是文化教育类文章，而且文章是以小标题的形式来介绍的，所以很好理解，答案定位也很轻松搞定。

而对于一开始备考雅思阅读的烤鸭们来说，首先，我们还是一起来认识一下本文的一些生词和高频词，这里有比较详细的词汇注解，大家在做题的时候可以参考一下。

1.decent(正派的，得体的)2. dearth(缺乏，饥馑)3.adequately(充分地，适当地)4.adventurous(爱冒险的，充满危险的)5.little or no(很少，几乎没有)6.protection(保护，防卫)7.exploitative (剥削的，利用的，开发资源的) 8. urban crime(城市犯罪)9.abuse(虐待) /doc/b711663371.html,bour-intensive(劳动密集型) 11.shining shoes擦鞋12.take pride in(以……为傲) 13.entrepreneurship(创业，企业家精神)14.innovative(革新的，创新的) 15.Courier Service(快递服务)16.entrepreneur(企业家，举办者) 17.abide by (遵守，信守)18. enforce(执行，强迫) 18.guardians(监护人，保护人)19.Small loans(小额贷款) 20.initially(最初的，开头的)21.fixed assets(固定资产) 22. impoverished(穷困的)23.provision(规定，条款;供应品)了解了词汇，小编还特意挑出4个长难句来为大家分析一下。

从语法到句式结构，再到句子翻译，其实还是很详细的啦。

本片文章我们将来谈谈：剑桥雅思4Test1阅读passage2答案解析。

后期，雅思还将会给大家带来剑桥雅思4Test1passage2阅读原文翻译哦。

更多真题解析，请戳：剑桥雅思4阅读解析。

真题下载，请戳：
文章结构
体裁：说明文
主要内容：本文主要介绍关于鲸目动物的感官功能及其形成原因的研究。

结构
第1段：关于鲸目动物的嗅觉和味觉。

第2段：关于鲸目动物的触觉。

第3段：关于鲸目动物的视觉。

第4段：关于鲸目动物的视觉的另一方面研究。

第5段：关于鲸目动物的视觉变异的成因。

第6段：关于鲸目动物的听觉及发音能力。

剑桥雅思4Test1阅读passage2答案解析
考题解析Questions15-21
题型归类：Table
做表格考题时，先仔细观察一下题目再解题会比较省力。

通常情况下，表格按文章描述顺序绘制，所以横行信息通常出现在一句话或者一段话中，竖列通常形式一致。

通过题目表格第一行黑体即可得知，表格描述各物种感官能力及特点，例如16、18、21题需填入动物名称。

题目解析：
Questions 22- 26
题型归类：Short Answer Questions
题目解析：。

上一篇文章，小编和大家分享了剑桥雅思阅读4Test1阅读passage1译文，本篇文章分享的是：剑桥雅思4Test1passage1阅读答案解析。

体裁：说明文主要内容：介绍一个项目，调查关于孩子对于热带雨林的看法，包括其调查原因、调查内容、以及调查结果。

结构第1段：常见的关于热带雨林的看法可能有偏差。

第2段：使孩子们关于雨林的看法成型的各个因素。

第3段：此项目研究的目的。

第4段：项目调查表中的第一、二个问题及孩子答案统计。

第5段：项目调查表中的第三个问题及孩子答案统计。

第6段：男生和女生在回答此问题时的不同观点及所占比例统计。

第7段：项目调查表中的第四个问题及孩子答案统计。

第8段：关于此问题孩子的误解及所占比例。

第9段：项目调查表中的最后一个问题及孩子答案统计。

第10段：本次研究调查证明有些想法在孩子头脑中已经先入为主。

第11段：关于本次研究调查的分析及意义。

剑桥雅思4Test1passage1阅读答案解析Questions 1-8题型归类：TRUE/ FALSE/ NOT GIVEN题目解析：Questions9-13题型归类：Matching题目解析：本题由五个问题构成，要求根据文章找出其答案。

在解答前面题目过程中可以得知，本文中讲的调查问卷由五个问题构成，故应加以注意。

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剑四阅读TEST 1PASSAGE 11. confront 勇敢正视、面对n. confrontationbe confronted witheg: Adults are frequently confronted with statements about the loss of tropical rainforests.→ encountereg: Whether we should offer assistance to those people when they encounter life-threatening situations.→ face→ meet2.illustrationeg: One graphic illustration is the estimate that rainforests are being destroyed at an alarming rate.→ example→ dra wing(易混)→ illusion n . 错觉, 幻象3.estimateeg: The police estimated the number of demonstrators at about 5,000.→ assess n . assessment adj. assessableeg: assess one’s performance assess the loss→ evaluate n . evaluationeg: Students’ evaluation of teachers’ performance helps improve teaching quality.→ calculate n . calculationeg: Scientists have calculated that the world’s population will double by the end of the century.4.equivalenteg: The rainforests are being destroyed at a rate equivalent to one thousand football fields every forty minutes.→ n . equality adj. equaleg: Even employed women did not achieve full equality with men.→ (反) n . inequal different5.endangereg: The children will have formed ideas about rainforests --- what endangersthem→ imperileg: The dumping of industrial and life rubbish into the sea has already greatly imperiled many species.→ hazard→ jeopardize jeopardize bilateral relationship→ at risk a t stake6.harbor 持有,怀有eg: Children harbor misconception about “ pure”.→ hold7.incorporate n . incorporationeg: These misconceptions become incorporated into a mutilfacet framework.→ combine→ consolidate→ merge→ unify8.accessibleaccessible evidence 现有证据accessible to reason通情达理eg: The component ideas are more accessible to modification.→ approachableeg: It is undeniable that the Internet has made learning opportunities more approachable to adults around the globe.9.modificationeg: The scheme was approved, with some minor modifications.→ alter adj . alterable n. alterationalter an attitude alter one’s mindeg: The stock price alters sharply.→ convert→ vary→ change10.absorb n. absorption absorbing 吸引人的,有趣的absorb all of one’s time be absorbed in studyabsorption of nourishmenteg: These ideas may be developed by children absorbing ideas through the popular media.→ assimilateeg: Food is first absorbed, then digested and finally assimilated by our bodies.→ suck upeg: Plants suck up moisture from the soil.11.refineeg: Children have their ideas tested and refined by teachers and peers.→ polish→ rectify12.displaceeg: The aim of the present study is to displace the misconceptions and to plan programmes in environmental studies.→ replaceeg: Cars have replaced horses as the normal means of transport.→ substituteeg: We substituted red balls for blue to see if the baby would notice.13. response v. respondeg: The commonest responses were continents or countries.→react n. reactioneg: Hydrogen reacts with oxygen to form water.→ replyeg: He replied to the protest.→ feedback14.consistent be consistent with inconsistent 不一致的eg: These observations are generally consistent with our previous studies of pupil’s views.→ corresponding→ accordant→ compatible 协调的,一致的,亲和的incompatible 不和谐的,不一致的的eg: Health and hard work can be compatible.→ harmonic15. intrinsic adj. 内在的,本质的,本身的Intrinsic valueeg: The intrinsic value of a coin is the value of the metal it is made of.16.destruction v. destruct→ damage→ ruin→ devastationeg: The acid rain is responsible for the rainforest destruction.17.embrace 持有,包括→ harbor→ contain→ hug→ include→ involveeg: In some cases, this response also embraced the misconception that rainforests to survive.。

雅思为各位考生推荐复习材料-剑 4 T4 阅读译文 P1-人类的运动极限没有尽头,需要本课程其他译文的同学，请点击：剑4 T3 阅读译文 P1-流浪儿童的小型企业贷款；剑4 T3 阅读译文 P2-火山——惊天动地大消息。

Passage1参考译文How much higher? How much faster?—Limits to human sporting performance are not yet in sight—多高?多快?——人类的运动极限没有尽头Since the early years of the twentieth century, when the International Athletic Federation began keeping records, there has been a steady improvement in how fast athletes run, how high they jump and how far they are able to hurl massive objects, themselves included, through space. For the so-called power events — that require a relatively brief, explosive release of energy, like the 100-metre sprint and the long jump — times and distances have improved ten to twenty per cent. In the endurance events the results have been more dramatic. At the 1908 Olympics, John Hayes of the U.S. team ran a marathon in a time of 2:55:18. In 1999, Morocco’s Khalid Khannouchi set a new world record of 2:05:42, almost thirty per cent faster.自从20世纪早期国际田联开始记录成绩以来，运动员奔跑的速度，跳的高度，投掷重物的距离都在稳步提髙。

剑桥雅思4阅读解析test1
《剑桥雅思4》是备考雅思考试的重要资料之一，其中的阅读部分对于提高阅读能力和解题技巧都非常有帮助。

在这本书的第一套阅读材料中，会有多篇文章，每篇文章后面都会有一些题目需要回答。

在解析这些题目时，我们可以从以下几个方面进行分析和讨论：
首先，我们可以从文章的主题和结构入手，分析文章的中心思想、段落结构和作者观点。

这有助于我们更好地理解文章的内容，从而更准确地回答相关问题。

其次，我们可以针对每个题目进行解析，包括定位题目所涉及的段落和具体信息，理解问题的要求，并寻找文章中的相关信息进行对比和推断，从而得出正确答案。

另外，我们还可以讨论一些阅读技巧和解题策略，比如如何快速定位信息、如何排除干扰选项、如何提高阅读速度等，这些都是提高阅读得分的关键。

此外，我们还可以分析一些常见题型，比如细节题、推断题、
主旨题等，针对不同类型的题目给出相应的解题方法和技巧。

总的来说，在解析《剑桥雅思4》阅读部分时，我们需要全面理解文章内容，准确把握题目要求，灵活运用解题技巧，这样才能更好地掌握解题的方法和技巧，提高阅读理解能力，为雅思考试取得更好的成绩做准备。

雅思4英语作文test1答案As an AI language model, I am unable to provide a Word format submission, but I can certainly offer a detailed response to the prompt in English. Here is my attempt at addressing the requirements provided: When it comes to the IELTS exam, particularly the writing section, it is crucial to understand the expectations and requirements in order to achieve a high score. The test assesses a candidate's ability to communicate effectively in written English, so it is essential to showcase a range of vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structures. Additionally, coherence and cohesion play a significant role in determining the overall quality of the response. One key aspect to consider is the structure of the essay. It is advisable to follow a traditional essay format, with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction should provide a clear overview of the topic and the writer's stance, while the body paragraphs should present supporting arguments and evidence. Finally, the conclusion should summarize the main points and reiterate the writer's position. In terms of content, it is important to address the prompt from multiple perspectives. This demonstrates a well-rounded understanding of the topic and allows for a more comprehensive discussion. For example, if the prompt asks about the impact of technology on society, one could explore both the positive and negative effects, as well as potential solutions to mitigate any drawbacks. Moreover, incorporating emotional elements in the essay can help to engage the reader and add depth to the discussion. By sharing personal anecdotes or expressing empathy towards different viewpoints, the writer can create a more compelling narrative that resonates with the audience. This human touch can make the essay more memorable and impactful. In conclusion, preparing for the IELTS writing test requires a combination of linguistic proficiency, structural awareness, and emotional intelligence. By following the guidelines and tips outlined above, candidates can enhance their writing skills and increase their chances of success on the exam. Remember to practice regularly, seek feedback from teachers or peers, and approach each essay with confidence and creativity. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!。

剑桥雅思4阅读真题解析1、定位原文：第1段第1句“Since the early years of the twentieth century,when the International Athletic Federation began keeping records,there has been a steady improvement in how fast athletes run,how high they jump and how far they are able to hurl massive objects,themselves included,through space.”解题思路：“自从20世纪早期国际田联开始记录成绩以来”，题干说现代官方运动员记录始于大约1900年。

2、定位原文：第1段第1句“Since the early years of the twentieth century,when the International Athletic Federation began keeping records,there has been a steady improvement in how fast athletes run,how high they jump and how far they are able to hurl massive objects,themselves included,through space.”3、定位原文：第1段第2至3句“For the so called power.In the endurance events the results have been more dramatic.”解题思路：题干说运动员的成绩提高幅度最大的项目是需要爆发力强的项目，而原文说的是在持久项目中，运动成绩提高得更多。

4、定位原文：第3段第1至2句“Identifying genetically talented individuals is only the first step.Michael Yessing,an emeritus professor of Sports Science at California StateUniversity at Fullerton,maintains that genetics only determines about one third of what an athlete can do.”解题思路：题干说的是基因在运动员的表现上起完全充分的作用。

雅思4英语作文test1答案Title: The Importance of English Proficiency in Today's Globalized World Introduction: English proficiency has become increasingly important in today's globalized world. As the lingua franca of international communication, it plays a crucial role in various aspects of life, including education, business, and travel. This essay will discuss the significance of English proficiency from multiple perspectives, highlighting its advantages and addressing potential challenges. Education Perspective: English proficiency is essential for students to access a wide range of educational opportunities. Many prestigious universities and academic institutions worldwide offer courses and programs in English, making it necessary for students to have a strong command of the language. Moreover, English proficiency enables students to access vast amounts of information available in English, including academic journals, research papers, and online resources. This not only enhances their learning experience but also broadens their knowledge and understanding of global issues. Career Perspective: English proficiency is highly valued by employers in today's job market. With multinational companies expanding their operations globally, the ability to communicate effectively in English has become a prerequisite for many job positions. Proficiency in English opens up a wider range of career opportunities, as it allows individuals to work in international settings or collaborate with colleagues from different countries. Additionally, English proficiency enhances one's ability to negotiate, present ideas, and build professional relationships, which are crucial skills in the modern workplace. Cultural Perspective: English proficiency promotes cultural exchange and understanding among people from different backgrounds. By being able to communicate in English, individuals can engage in meaningful conversations with people from various cultures, fostering mutual respect and appreciation. Itenables individuals to learn about different customs, traditions, and perspectives, ultimately breaking down barriers and promoting global harmony. Moreover, English proficiency facilitates the sharing of ideas, literature, and art across borders, enriching cultural diversity and promoting global cultural awareness. Travel Perspective: English proficiency is invaluable for travelers, as it allows them to navigate unfamiliar environments and communicate with locals. English is widelyspoken in many tourist destinations, making it easier for travelers to ask for directions, order food, and seek assistance when needed. Additionally, English proficiency enables travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture, interact with locals, and gain a deeper understanding of the destination. Whether forleisure or business purposes, English proficiency enhances the travel experience and enables individuals to connect with people from different parts of the world. Challenges and Solutions: While the importance of English proficiency is undeniable, there are challenges individuals may face in achieving it. Some may struggle with language barriers, lack of access to quality education, or limited opportunities for practice. However, these challenges can be overcome through various means. Governments and educational institutions can invest in language education programs, ensuring that individuals have access to quality English language instruction. Additionally, individuals can take advantage of online resources, language exchange programs, and immersive language learning experiences to improve their English proficiency. Conclusion: English proficiency is crucialin today's globalized world, offering numerous advantages from educational, career, cultural, and travel perspectives. It enables individuals to access educational opportunities, enhance their career prospects, foster cultural exchange, and navigate foreign environments. While challenges may exist, they can be overcome through concerted efforts from governments, educational institutions, and individuals themselves. Embracing the importance of English proficiency will undoubtedly contribute to personal growth, global understanding, and success in an increasingly interconnected world.。

雅思4英语作文test1答案In today's fast-paced world, the issue of the environment has become a major concern for many people. The increasing levels of pollution, deforestation, and climate change have led to a growing awareness of the need to protect our planet. As a result, many individuals and organizations have taken steps to address these challenges. In this essay, I will explore the various perspectives on this issue and discuss potential solutions to combat environmental problems. One of the key perspectives on the environment is the impact of human activities on the planet. The rapid industrialization and urbanization have led to an increase in pollution, which has had a detrimental effect on the air, water, and soil. The burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and the use of harmful chemicals have contributed to the deterioration of the environment. As a result, there is a growing recognition of the need to reduce our carbon footprint and adopt more sustainable practices. Another perspective on the environment is the importance of biodiversity and ecosystem preservation. The loss of species and habitats due to human activities has led to a decline in the natural balance of ecosystems. This has not only affected the environment but also has had a negative impact on human health and well-being. Therefore, there is a growing consensus on the need to protect and preserve the diversity of life on Earth. Furthermore, the issue of climate change has become a major concern for many people. The increase in global temperatures, extreme weather events, and rising sea levels are all attributed to human-induced climate change. This has led to a sense of urgency to take action to mitigate the impacts of climate change and transition to renewable energy sources. In response to these environmental challenges, there have been various initiatives and efforts to address the issue. Many countries have implemented policies and regulations to reduce emissions and promote sustainable development. Additionally, there has been a growing movement towards renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. Furthermore, there has been a growing awareness and advocacy for sustainable practices among individuals and organizations. Many people have taken steps to reduce their carbon footprint by adopting eco-friendly habits, such as recycling, reducing waste, and using public transportation. Additionally, there has been a push for businesses to adoptsustainable practices and corporate social responsibility to minimize their environmental impact. In conclusion, the issue of the environment is a complex and multifaceted challenge that requires a collective effort to address. It is essential to recognize the impact of human activities on the planet, the importance of biodiversity and ecosystem preservation, and the urgency to combat climate change. Through a combination of policy measures, technological advancements, and individual actions, we can work towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. It is crucial for everyone to play their part in protecting our planet for future generations.。

Reading: 2Student:What Do Whales FeelAn examination of the functioning of the senses in cetaceans, thegroup of mammals comprising whales, dolphins and porpoisesSome of the senses that we and other terrestrial mammals take for granted are either reduced or absent in cetaceans or fail to function well in water. For example, it appears from their brain structure that toothed species are unable to smell. Baleen species, on the other hand, appear to have some related brain structures but it is not known whether these are functional. It has been speculated that, as the blowholes evolved and migrated to the top of the head, the neural pathways serving sense of smell may have been nearly all sacrificed. Similarly, although at least some cetaceans have taste buds, the nerves serving these have degenerated or are rudimentary.The sense of touch has sometimes been described as weak too, but this view is probably mistaken. Trainers of captive dolphins and small whales often remark on their animals’ responsiveness to being touched or rubbed, and both captive and free ranging cetacean individuals of all species (particularly adults and calves, or members of the same subgroup) appear to make frequent contact. This contact may help to maintain order within a group, and stroking or touching are part of the courtship ritual in most species. The area around the blowhole is also particularly sensitive and captive animals often object strongly to being touched there.The sense of vision is developed to different degrees in different species. Baleen species studied at close quarters underwater –specifically a grey whale calf in captivity for a year, and free-ranging right whales and humpback whales studied and filmed off Argentina and Hawaii –have obviously tracked objects with vision underwater, and they can apparently see moderately well both in water and in air.However, the position of the eyes so restricts the field of vision in baleen whales that they probably do not have stereoscopic vision.On the other hand, the position of the eyes in most dolphins and porpoises suggests that they have stereoscopic vision forward and downward. Eye position in freshwater dolphins, which often swim on their side or upside down while feeding, suggests that what vision they have is stereoscopic forward and upward. By comparison, the bottlenose dolphin has extremely keen vision in water. Judging from the way it watches and tracks airborne flying fish, it can apparently see fairly well through the air–water interface as well. And although preliminary experimental evidence suggests that their in-air vision is poor, the accuracy with which dolphins leap high to take small fish out of a trainer’s hand provides anecdotal evidence to the contrary.Such variation can no doubt be explained with reference to the habitats in which individual species have developed. For example, vision is obviously more useful to species inhabiting clear open waters than to those living in turbid rivers and flooded plains. The South American boutu and Chinese beiji, for instance, appear to have very limited vision, and the Indian susus are blind, their eyes reduced to slits that probably allow them to sense only the direction and intensity of light.Although the senses of taste and smell appear to have deteriorated, and vision in water appears to be uncertain, such weaknesses are more than compensated for by cetaceans’ well-developed acoustic sense. Most species are highly vocal, although they vary in the range of sounds they produce, and many forage for food using echolocation. Large baleen whales primarily use the lower frequencies and are often limited in their repertoire. Notable exceptions are the nearly song-like choruses of bowhead whales in summer and the complex, haunting utterances of the humpback whales. Toothed species in general employ more of the frequency spectrum, and produce a wider variety of sounds, than baleen species (though the sperm whale apparently produces a monotonous series of high-energy clicks and little else). Some of the more complicated sounds are clearly communicative, although what role they may play in the social life and ‘culture’ of cetaceans has been more the subject of wild speculation than of solid science.。