阅读理解
New coins are coming out all the time. And did you know that the United States Mint makes some
coins to collect rather than spend? One collecting kind is called "commemorative"-coins that honor
famous people, places, and events. If you have coins to spend, those are called "circulating" coins.
2008 American Bald Eagle Coins celebrated an American success story: the bald eagle (秃头鹰).
Congress passed an act to recognize the eagle, its importance as a national symbol,and its return from
near extinction (灭绝) in the lower 48 states. The series celebrated the eagle's recovery as well as the
35th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, which had helped in the recovery.
The Founding Fathers chose the bald eagle as the Great Seal of the United States at the Second
Continental Congress in 1782. Ever since, this bird has represented the spirit of freedom and democracy. The eagle also appears on the seals of many branches and departments of the United States
government.
The bald eagle is a major symbol of democracy, standing for American values like freedom, courage,
and strength. It has appeared in American art, music, history, literature, and culture. So, the bald eagle is
very important to the United States.
This once?endangered species, unique to North America, is now making a gradual comeback.
Classified as "endangered" in 1973 under the Endangered Species Act, this eagle was later moved to
the less endangered "threatened" list, thanks to the law, caring people and organizations.
The bald eagle will probably be removed from the "threatened species" list, but the eagle won't be
"out of the woods" just yet. Wildlife agencies will need to keep an eye on the eagle for at least 5 years
after it's taken off the list. Part of the surcharge (额外费用) on the bald eagle coins can be used to help
this work.
1. What does the text mainly talk about?
A. The United States Mint.
B. American commemorative coins.
C. The bald eagle coins and the bald eagle.
D. The living habits of the bald eagle.
2. According to the text, commemorative coins are_______.
A. mainly made to spend
B. used to remember the bald eagle
C. often in honor of famous people, places, and events
D. not popular with collectors
3. Which of the following is one of the reasons why 2008 American Bald Eagle Coins were made?
A. The Endangered Species Act being passed.
B. The request of many coin collectors.
C. The decision of the Founding Fathers.
D. The recovery of the bald eagle.
4. What can be inferred from the text?
A. The bald eagle has a great effect on Americans.
B. The bald eagle is unique to the United States.
C. The bald eagle is still near extinction.
D. The bald eagle will soon be out of people's sight.
