“Sesame Street” has been called “the longest street in the world”. That is because the television program by that name can now be seen in many parts of the world. That program became one of American exports soon after it went on the air in New York in 1969.
In the United States more than six million children watch the program regularly. The viewers include more than half the country’s pre-school children, from every kind of economic, racial (种族的), and geographical group.
Although some educators object (反对) to some parts of the program, parents praise (赞扬) it highly. Many teachers also consider it a great help, though some teachers find that problems come out when first graders who have learnt from “Sesame Street” are in the same class with children who have not watched the program.
Tests have shown that children from all racial, geographical, and economic backgrounds have benefited (受益) from watching it. Those who watch it five times a week learn more than occasional (偶尔的) viewers. In the US the program is shown at different hours during the week in order to increase the number of children who can watch it regularly.
The programs all use songs, stories, jokes and pictures to give children a basic understanding of numbers, letters and human relationships. But there are some differences. For example, the Spanish program, produced in Mexico City, devotes more time to teaching whole words than to teaching separate (单独的) letters.
Why has “Sesame Street” been so much more successful than other children’s shows? Many reasons have been suggested. People mention the educational theories (理论) of its creators, the support by the government and private businesses, and the skillful use of various TV tricks. Perhaps an equally important reason is that mothers watch it along with their children. This is partly because famous adult stars often appear on it. But the best reason for the success of the program may be that it makes every child watching it feel able to learn. The child finds himself learning, and he wants to learn more.
小题1:Which of the following statements is NOT true?
| A．It is shown at different hours during the week. |
| B．Famous adult stars often appear on it. |
| C．This program has been on for less than forty years. |
| D．Children learn and enjoy themselves while watching it. |
小题2:Why is “Sesame Street” so popular in the world?
| A．Because it is supported by the government and businesses. |
| B．Because it uses different kinds of skillful tricks. |
| C．Because mothers watch it along with their children. |
| D．Because it makes every child watching it feel able to learn. |
小题3:The best title for this passage can be _________.
| A．Sesame Street | B．Educating Children |
| C．TV Programs | D．A Great Success |
