BLACK WIDOW SPIDER
The black widow spider’s notoriety is not without foundation. However, an element of exaggeration has led to certain ___ (1. CONCEPT) regarding its evil nature.
Firstly, this spider is not as dangerous as is often thought. While it is indeed one of the most ___ (2. VENOM) species of spider, its venom being fifteen times stronger than that of the prairie rattlesnake, its bite injects such as amount of venom by ___ (3. COMPARE) that it is unlikely to kill humans. In fact, ___ (4. FATAL) are rare.
Black widows bite only if they are touched or their web is threatened. Furthermore, only the adult female is poisonous. Those most at risk from the female are the spider’s natural pray-insects-and male black widow spiders. The latter are vulnerable as the female is ___ (5. SOLITUDE) by nature, and has been known to kill and eat the male after mating. Such ___ (6. OCCUR) are rare, but they explain how the spider got its name – and its reputation.
Nevertheless, the ___ (7. PLEASE) effects of this spider’s bite should not be ___ (8. ESTIMATE), and if you live in a temperate climate and have a fireplace in your home, it is advisable to take ___ (9. CAUTION). Black widow spiders often inhabit wood piles, so you should wear gloves when handling firewood. Furthermore, since black widow spiders are ___ (10. RESIST) to many insecticides, you should regularly clean out likely hiding places.
The noise of the typewriter really ____ me off. I just couldn’t concentrate.
The stranded climber would never have been rescued if his brother hadn’t had an ingenious plan. INGENUITY
® But .......................................................... plan, the stranded climber would never have been rescued.
David said that the accident was his fault. TOOK
® David .................................................................. the accident.
I have very ____ feelings about the plan – it might possibly work or it could be a disaster.
Although Joe kept on attempting to contact his cousin, he didn't manage to speak to her until the next day. ® Despite repeated ........................ TOUCH................... his cousin, Joe didn't manage to speak to her until the next day.
If he doesn’t get that job, who knows what he’ll do. KNOWING
® If he doesn’t get that job, ........................................................... what he’ll do.
He ___ his grandmother’s phone number with his girlfriend’s, which led to some embarrassment for him.
Because I hate ___ my shoes, I have bought a pair of shoes without any laces.
When it comes to computer games, Jack is a real expert. CONCERNED
® As far ............................................................................., Jack is a real expert.I certainly won’t change my mind about resigning. (question)
→ My changingLindsay’s excuses for being late are beginning to ___ rather thin.