CHILD PRODIGIES

1. What is the main idea of the passage?

• Parents should pressure their children to succeed

• Child prodigies are always successful adults

• Some children show amazing talents at a young age

• Playing board games improves intelligence

Answer explanation

The passage focuses on the special abilities of a young child and how his talent surprises others.

2. What surprised the adults about the boy mentioned in the passage?

• He could ride a bike before walking

• He spoke five languages

• He played an ancient board game extremely well

• He could solve math problems instantly

Answer explanation

The child showed unusual skill at the game “Go,” which amazed adults.

4. Why were the parents at a loss to explain their son’s ability?

• They had never taught him the game

• They thought he cheated

• They didn’t support his interest

• They believed the game was too easy

Answer explanation

The parents were shocked by his natural ability, which they didn’t expect.

5. Which of the following best defines the word innate as used in the text?

• Learned through practice

• Gained from school

• Natural or inborn

• Caused by peers

Answer explanation

Innate describes abilities a person is born with, not taught.

3. What is the tone of the passage?

• Angry

• Proud

• Disappointed

• Curious and admiring

Answer explanation

The author presents the child’s talents with wonder and fascination.

Why was the game of Go chosen as an example in the passage?

• Because it is a simple and common game for children

• Because it requires more math than strategic thinking

• Because it is a complex game that young children usually don’t excel at

• Because all prodigies play this game

Answer explanation

The passage uses Go as an example because it is a very complex, ancient strategy game, which highlights how unusual and impressive the child’s ability is.

What method did researchers use to study differences between prodigies’ brains and typical children’s brains?

• Interviewing teachers and parents

• Comparing school grades

• Using fMRI to observe brain activity

• Testing memory with pictures

Answer explanation

The passage clearly states that researchers used fMRI scans to study focus and task-switching abilities in the brains of prodigies.

Which traits are commonly found in child prodigies, according to the research?

• Emotional instability and poor self-control

• High curiosity, strong focus, and intense motivation

• Dislike of social interaction

• Dependence on formal instruction from teachers

Answer explanation

The passage describes child prodigies like Abigail as highly focused, eager to learn, and deeply driven — key characteristics that help them excel.

In the passage, Abigail Sin is mentioned as an example of what?

• A child who disliked music but still succeeded

• A musical prodigy strongly supported by her family

• A pianist who learned without formal education

• A music student who studied online

Answer explanation

Abigail is used as an example of a musical prodigy who developed her talent with both natural ability and strong support from her family.

What is the author’s purpose in presenting multiple perspectives (parents, researchers, real-life examples)?

• To prove that talent is entirely genetic

• To give a well-rounded view of the prodigy phenomenon

• To argue against the idea that prodigies need practice

• To create controversy about children’s education

Answer explanation

By including viewpoints from parents, researchers, and actual prodigies, the author aims to offer a balanced perspective on how both nature and nurture influence exceptional talent.