Part 2

For questions 9-16, read the text below and think of the word which best fits each gap. Use only one word in each gap. There is an example at the beginning (0). In the exam, write your answers IN CAPITAL LETTERS on the separate answer sheet.

Example: OF

Purring Cats

People usually have many misconceptions about the real purpose 0 _____ purring. Contrary to popular belief, it is not limited 9 just showing comfort or satisfaction. It can also be used to ask for something, like food or attention. It even acts 10 a painkiller when the cat is giving birth, signalling its brain to release a hormone that lessens pain.

To understand why a cat purrs, it has to be observed together 11 its body language. Good indicators of ‘happy’ purring are half-closed eyes and a tail that does not move erratically. Many people wonder 12 cats show their love by purring. There is no definite answer to that, however, when your cat rubs its whiskers against you, it usually points 13 their affection.

To be fair, cats are not alone in their ability to purr. Animals 14 as rabbits, badgers or guinea pigs can do that as well. It is worth noting that lions are the 15 members of the feline family that do not purr. Like most species, cats vary greatly in their behaviour, so some are more eager to purr than 16 . Moreover, because of slight anatomic differences, some cats can be more vocal.

Click to download this FCE Use of English Part 2 Worksheet in PDF.

For this task: Answers with explanations