Reading Explorer 2: Unit 7

What is the main idea of the first paragraph in 7A?

• Many local florists are disappearing due to competition from large companies in other countries.

• The international flower trade has grown a lot in recent years thanks to new technology.

• Most people don’t realize that the flowers they buy often come from far away.

• Two of the most popular types of rose plants are the hybrid tea and the floribunda.

Which of the following are true about the Netherlands?

• Although largest auction houses are successful, small independent growers face huge competition.

• It has predictable weather periods which are perfect for growing flowers.

• It has dominated the world flower market for 50 years.

• They invest a considerable of research on flowers there.

Which of the following are true about Ecuador?

• Scientists are looking for ways to strengthen the flowers.

• It has predictable weather periods which are perfect for growing flowers.

• It has had a flower industry for many decades.

• The local economy is benefiting from the international flower trade.

Which of the following are true about the US?

• Many independent flower companies are going out of business.

• The US uses high-tech cooling systems to export flowers around the world.

• It has had a flower industry for many decades.

• The local economy is benefiting from the international flower trade.

What is the purpose of the “From Colombia to the United States” section?

• to show how the international cut flower trade works

• to give reasons why Colombian roses are expensive

• to explain why Colombian roses always look fresh

• to convince us to buy ore flowers from international growers

Apart from airplanes, what other technology has helped the flower trade become increasingly international?

What phrase describes the length of time a cut flower can stay in good condition?

In the flower i ___________ , speed is important.

Getting fresh roses from Colombia to the United States in just a few days requires c _____________ effort.

Pickers first cut the roses in the early morning because the cool morning air p ___________ the roses from drying out.