Reading Focus Grade 8

BOOK II No.
1
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POPE PIUS XII AND THE HARLEM GLOBE TROTTERS

Pope Pius XII, who was born Eugene Pacelli, was a lover of sports. He was a football player when he was
yet a law student and he showed great enthusiasm, too, for other sports like basketball. He was particularly fond f
the Harlem Globe Trotters.
When the Harlem Globe Trotters were touring Europe playing with and entertaining G. I. troops, they
expressed a desire for an audience with the Pope. Pope Pius XII agreed to see them at the papal summer residence
in the country outside Rome. The Pope greeted his visitors warmly, and having heard of their fabulous basketball
technique, he asked them for a sample.
The team obliged and spread out on the marble floor of big audience chamber and did their razzle-dazzle
ball passing and fancy shooting routine. Humming the tune of their usual background theme song “Sweet George
Brown,” the Globe trotters swung into action.
Watching the Pontiff watch the game, Abe Saperstein, owner –manager of the team, saw a red slipper
with a gold cross on the toe, steal out from under the Pope‟s white cassock; Pope Pius XII was tapping out the
beat of the song, his head moving a little from side to side.
When the Trotters‟ routine was over, Abe asked Pope Pius if there was anything else he would like.
His Holiness smiled and answered,” Just once more, please.”
Then team complied, and again the red slippers kept perfect time to the tune of “Sweet Georgia Brown.”
This was one time that basketball was played out of court. And with an enthusiastic audience of one.
260 WORDS
Choose the letter of the correct answer: (POPE PIUS XII AND THE HARLEM GLOBE TROTTERS)
_________ 1. Pope Pius XII was a lover of ( a. sports b. birds c. animals d. beauty)
_________ 2. ...He was a ( a. basketball b. football c. tennis d. softball) player
when he was still a student.
_________ 3. He studied ( a. agriculture b. law c. medicine d. architecture)
_________ 4. The Harlem Globe Trotters were a group of (a. baseball b. softball
c. soccer d. basketball) players.
_________ 5. When they toured Europe, they expressed a desire to have (a. an audience
b. lunch c. an exhibition d. mass) with the Pope.
_________ 6. The Pope (a. did not like b. granted c. ignored d. laughed off)
their request.
_________ 7. The Globe Trotters showed the Pope a sample of their (a. dancing
b. song and dance routine c. marching d. ball passing and shooting
technique.
_________ 8. The Globe Trotters swung into action to the tune of (a. “Sweet Georgia
Brown” b. “Stout-hearted men” c. “Ave Maria” d. the National
Anthem.
_________ 9. This selection tells that the Pope (a. enjoyed b. did not appreciate
c. disliked d. hated) the Harlem Globe Trotters.
_________ 10. the Globe Trotters played to (a. a big audience b. the Pope alone
c. a few audience d. ten people).
BOOK II
No. 2
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ACUPUNCTURE
THE ANCIENT CHINESE ART OF HEALING
The early Chinese had an orderly and systematic method of curing diseases ─ a method still being used
today. Some call it magic. Others think of faith healing. Modern doctors scoff at it. Yet for about 5,000 years, the
Chinese have been using it as an effective method of treatment and the success of this ancient still amazes the
modern world.
Acupuncture is listed in the Chinese medical encyclopedia as an ancient art of healing: it is the art of
needle application directed to sensitive points on the surface of the skin which when stimulated will directly affect
one of the twelve internal organs. Needle manipulation will either drain excess energy away from an organ in need
of it.
According to the nature of the illness, one or more needles may be used at the same time. The skin is
pierced for varying lengths of time and then the pins are removed.
Result of acupuncture treatment are spectacular. Statistics of case studies show that the use of acupuncture
against nervous headache was 95 per cent effective; in disorders of the digestive system, it was 84 per cent
successful. However, it was entirely useless against skin ailments and cardiac disorders.
Before the influx of modern medicine, acupuncture was the most popular method of cure in China. Today,
it is again being revived and an institute of acupuncture has been set up in Peking. In Hongkong, the Chinese
Acupuncture Association has more than 500 registered practitioners, although the actual number of acupuncturist
in the colony is possibly twice as many. Only graduates of medical school who have taken a three-year special
course in acupuncture are qualified to practice the art.
Quite a number of Western trained doctors have gone to Hongkong to learn the skill of acupuncture. They
believed that a combination of modern medicine and Eastern cures would be better for all humanity.
330 WORDS
Answer with True or False: (ACUPUNCTURE: THE ANCIENT CHINESE ART OF HEALING)
1. Acupuncture, the ancient Chinese art of healing is still being used today. __________
2. It cures diseases by means of magic. __________
3. It is effective in diagnosing and curing almost all diseases. __________
4. Acupuncture makes use of needle application to sensitive parts
of the skin. __________
5. The needles are left inside the skin. __________
6. Acupuncture is very effective against nervous headache. __________
7. It is also very effective against skin ailments and cardiac disorders. __________
8. Acupuncture is practiced only in China. __________
9. Today acupuncture is being outlawed. __________
10. Western-trained doctors are now beginning to learn the skill of
Acupuncture. __________
BOOK II No. 3
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THE GORILLA IS A “PAPER TIGER”

The Gorilla is always pictured as a hulking monster of horror tales and nightmares. It is supposed to
delight in kidnapping young and winsome ladies, or tear up explorers limb from limb.
But studies by zoologists revealed that gorillas are among the gentlest and most peaceable animals in and
out of the jungle. They spend their lives looking for and feeding on tender plants and roots, taking long naps and
harmlessly enjoying their quiet life.
A lady investigator of the National Geographic magazine spent three years among wild gorillas in Central
Africa. Once, when five towering gargantuan approached to within five feet of her, she spread her arms wide and
shouted, “Whoa,” and all five gorillas scampered away. After a short while, the gorillas resumed their normal
behavior.
Gorillas can grow to a height of 6 feet or over, and can weigh between 400 to 500 lbs. a grown male
gorilla is 10 to 15 times as powerful as a strong man, but it prefers to use its immense power and menacing display
of anger in avoiding, not seeking trouble.
The gorilla performs a masterful bluffing act. It rips and hurls masses of underbrush, slaps its chest like
bongo drums, gives a cavernous show of teeth and horrific roars that scare even the elephants and the lions. But all
this is show. The leader of the gorilla tribe performs this act in order that the members of each tribe may safely go
on their way ─ it soon follows them having “frightened” off all enemies.
The only enemy of gorilla is man. Gorilla tribes do not fight other tribes. Nor do they fight within the tribe
even for mates. The female gorilla makes her selection of a mate, ad all the other mates accept her decision. The
gorilla has no other enemies. The lion, the tiger, even the elephants avoid him. Could we say that the gorilla is the
real King of the Jungle?
340 WORDS
Choose the letter of the correct answer: (THE GORILLA IS A “PAPER TIGER”)
_________ 1. Is the gorilla really a horrifying monster?
(a. Yes b. No. c. Maybe d. Does not tell)
_________ 2. What have zoologists found out about gorillas? (a. Gorillas are dangerous
b. Gorillas are gentle and peace loving c. Gorillas are hard to tame
d. Gorillas are man-eaters)
_________ 3. What do gorillas feed on? (a. smaller animals b. tender plants and roots
c. other gorillas d. people)
_________ 4. How are gorillas usually pictured? (a. gargantuan b. hairy men
c. monster d. male monkey)
_________ 5. Are gorillas stronger than men? (a. Yes b. No c. Maybe
d. Does not tell).
_________ 6. Do gorillas grow as tall as human beings? (a. Yes b. No c. Maybe
d. Does not tell).
_________ 7. Are other animals scared of the gorilla? (a. Yes b. No c. Maybe
d. Does not tell).
_________ 8. Which of the following is the only enemy of the gorilla? (a. lion b. tiger
c. elephant d. man).
_________ 9. What is true about gorillas? (a. Gorilla tribes fight other tribes.
b. Gorillas fight over anything c. Gorilla tribes do not fight other tribes
d. Gorillas have many jungle enemies.)
_________ 10. According to this selection, is the gorilla the real king of the jungle?
(a. Yes b. No c. Maybe d. Does not tell).
BOOK II No. 4
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THE DAY THE POLICE WENT ON STRIKE

Rallies, demonstrations and strikes are very common nowadays. A day does not pass without a rally or
demonstration taking place somewhere. Usually strikes are held to demand higher wage, better work conditions,
fair labor practices and other causes, real or fancied. They are staged against firms, business offices,
manufacturing plants and even banks. Today, students strike. Even teachers and doctors strike. Whenever there is
a strike, police agents are always ready to help avert any untoward incident that may occur.
But what if the Police Force of a city should go on strike?
Montreal, Canada‟s largest city and one of the most progressive in the world found what it was like to be
without police protection. On October 7, 1969, Montreal policemen went on strike. Before the day was over, two
men were killed, forty-eight wounded and countless civilians were injured in the riots. Seven banks were held up
and seventeen other robberies were made at gunpoint.
Even peaceful citizens went on a wild rampage of smashing window panes and looting stores. Traffic was
jammed. Vehicles passing or park along streets were held up by looters and were used to transport their loot.
Everybody was out; the rich, the poor, as well as the so called respectable middle class people. Even those
who were merely standing by looted stores when they saw the smashed windows. With no police around, there
was no fear of being caught.
Inhibition was totally abandoned. What was amazing was that the mob, the people who looted and
destroyed stores, was a good-natured one. It was not vicious. No explosive bombs were thrown, no personal
vendetta was taken.
In Montreal, there is a low rate of criminality. The residents have full trust and confidence in their local
and national administrators. There is no hunger nor employment. There is no wide gap between the rich and the
poor.
The strike taught a vivid lesson: take away police protection and you take away the people‟s respect for
law and order.
It happened in Canada. It could happen anywhere in the world. More or less, the results would be
disastrous.
350 WORDS
Choose the letter of the correct answer: (THE DAY THE POLICE WENT ON STRIKE)
1. This story happened in (a. Canada b. America c. the Philippines
d. Manila). ___________
2. (a. The people b. The policemen c. The laborers d. The teachers)
went on strike. ___________
3. Montreal is a (a. town b. city c. province d. state). ___________
4. (a. One b. Two c. Seven d. Forty-eight) were killed in the strike. ___________
5. (a. One b. Countless c. Seven d. Forty-eight) were injured in
the riots. ___________
6. (a. One b. Two c. Seven d. Forty-eight) banks were held up. ___________
7. Even peaceful citizens smashed and looted (a. markets b. houses
c. stores d. buildings). ___________
8. There was no police around. (a. True b. False c. Maybe
d. Does not tell). ___________
9. There were bombs thrown. (a. True b. False c. Maybe d. Does not tell) __________
10. This story could happen anywhere in the world. (a. True b. False
c. Maybe d. Sometimes). ___________
BOOK II No. 5
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STRIVE AND SUCCEED

Once there lived a couple in a far away town. They were very poor and they could hardly read or write.
However, they were industrious, shy and retiring like many of their class.
The husband found work tilling the field of a rich man who lived in the town and the woman, like most of
Filipino wives, washed clothes of the more affluent neighbors. By dint of hard work and thrift, the couple were
able to save a little money.
Soon, the wife was able to set up a small store in front of her nipa shack and began to sell vegetables,
dried fish and other small items needed by the neighborhood.
Little by little the tiny store grew. They improved their nipa shack and expanded the store.
Instead of selling only vegetables and sundry items, the store was filled with canned goods and even some
things found in a hardware. The husband left his work in the field and helped his wife in their growing store.
The couple got up early every morning. The wife took the early morning bus to town to do her marketing.
Now she could afford to have a boy go with her to carry the bags filled with things she had bought in town. On the
other hand, the husband opened the store for the early customers, some of whom took their breakfast in the kiosk
adjacent to the store. So before the wife arrived from the market, the husband had made quite a sale.
But in spite of their very busy schedule, the couple did not forget their most important duty. Every
Sunday, they would be seen going to the direction of the little church of the barrio. They never failed to attend
mass every Sunday. They always kneel in the front pew with bowed heads, praying very fervently and giving
thanks to God for the blessings they received day after day.
They were a happy contented couple and were even happier when they were blessed with a baby boy. As
passersby heard the laughter of the child, they, too, shared the happiness of the couple.
360 WORDS
Direction: Choose the letter of the best answer. (STRIVE AND SUCCEED)
1. What is the story about? a. a wealthy couple b. a poor couple c. a powerful couple d. a hopeless couple.
2. How did the husband earn a living? a. By tilling soil b. By selling c. By fishing d. By carving
3. How did the wife help the husband? a. By working as a maid b. By teaching c. By washing clothes d. By
selling
4. How did they save? a. By being thrifty b. By not spending anything c. By stealing d. By starving
5. What kind of a store did the wife put up? a. Grocery b. Sari-sari c. Meat d. Candy
6. What happened to their little store? a. It lost b. It prospered c. It was burned d. It was robbed
7. What did the husband do with his work in the fields?
a. He continued until he was old. b. He left it. c. He mocked it. d. He loved it more.
8. Did they have faith in God?
a. Yes b. No c. Maybe d. Does not tell
9. How did they show faith in God
a. They went to church regularly. b. They worshipped God openly.
c. They praised God. d. They gave alms to the poor.
10. What made their happiness complete?
a. A big beautiful house b. Peasant neighbors c. A baby d. Death
BOOK II No. 6
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MARIJUANA
Marijuana is a narcotic used for the unusual sensations it produces.
Marijuana is a dreaded word nowadays especially to parents who are afraid their children might fall prey
to its evil use.
It is habit-forming drug that over-excites users. Its use is prohibited by law; that is why it is often
smuggled and sold covertly. The drug is obtained from the flowering top and leaves of the hemp plant. This plant
is usually raised to obtain fibers for rope and other products. Since ancient times Indian hemps and similar plants
have been known and used for their narcotic effect.
Marijuana, when used as narcotic, is usually smoked as cigarettes. When smoked or eaten, it causes a state
resembling drunkenness. Very often it is associated with crime and other anti-social activities. A person under the
influence of this drug suffers severe mental derangement starting with over-gaiety, talkativeness and feelings of
grandeur. Hence, young people addicted to this drug lose self-control to the extent of indulging in sex orgies.
However, after the effect of the drug wears off, these feelings deteriorate into mental confusion, faulty speech and
delirium.
The greatest danger in the use of marijuana is that it leads its users into using even more violent and
dangerous drugs like heroin. Heroin is an excellent pain reliever and also produces a feeling of extreme well-
being. It causes nausea, vomiting, spasms of the intestines, reduced metabolism and extreme constriction of the
pupils of the eyes. Likewise, barbiturates are habit-forming if taken in large doses. When taken in large quantities,
it produces addiction and makes the user confused and stupor us.
Most nations in the world would have joined together in an attempt to ban the use and distribution of
marijuana. This is the reason why the raising of the hemp is strictly regulated in the United States.
It is a sad fact that large plantations of marijuana are found in some provinces. Thousands of our young
boys and girls are victims of pushers of this potent drug. Thus, drug addiction has become one of our national
problems. We can only hope and pray that something can be done to check the unscrupulous persons who traffic
in this evil drug.
366 WORDS
Direction: Choose the letter of the best answer. (MARIJUANA)

1. What is marijuana? a. Kind of drink b. Narcotic c. Alcoholic drink d. A pleasant tasting medicine
2. Why do parents dread marijuana?
a. It is expensive c. It is bought anywhere.
b. The children might fall prey to its evil use. d. It can solve almost any problem.
3. What does marijuana produced?
a. Pleasant feeling b. Intellectual superiority c. Drunkenness d. Inferiority complex
4. Does the law prohibit the use of marijuana? a. Yes b. No c. Does not tell d. Maybe
5. From what plant is it obtained? a. herbs b. vines c. hemps d. sugar cane
6. What does a person suffer when under the influence of this drug?
a. Mental derangement b. Superiority complex c. Inferiority complex d. Fever and cold
7. What happens when the effect of the drug wears off?
a. The user falls asleep. c. The user becomes stronger
b. The user forgets everything. d. The user deteriorates into mental confusion.
8. Is heroin more dangerous than marijuana? a. Yes b. No c. Maybe d. Does not tell
9. Is marijuana used only in the Philippines? a. Yes b. No c. Maybe d. Does not tell
10. Should the use of marijuana be checked? a. Yes b. No c. Maybe d. Cannot tell
BOOK II No. 7
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HOSPITALITY, FILIPINO STYLE

One of the most remarkable traits of the Filipinos is their hospitality. It is a pattern of national behavior
that unites them, yet sets them apart from other peoples.
The Filipino host has a zealot‟s eye for the needs and wishes of his guest; he spots them, anticipates them
and provides for them. A guest must want for nothing. Attention to a guest‟s needs and wants becomes part of the
host‟s personal duty. The guest is waited on hand and foot, with heart-deep sincerity.
The Philippines is perhaps the only country in the world where the host is indebted to his guest. The Filipino host
smothers his guests with attention. Invited guests, unbidden guests, friends of friends or perfect strangers, are
equally welcomed and regaled with very kind of attention. Outside of a small family party, every Filipino party is
a sort of open house where it is rude to inquire in advance if the invited guest is coming or not, or how many of
them there would be. A host is expected to provide for all contingencies: a guest may not come at all, or he may
be accompanied by several relatives and friends and friends of his friends completely unknown to the host.
Nothing pleases a Filipino host more than to be imposed upon.
The guests are showered with food, drink, flattery, constant attention and gifts to take home when they
leave. Food is ladled on the guest‟s plate to overflowing; drinks are served him until they ran out of his ears.
However, it is expected of a guest to taste everything served even those he had never seen before.
Sometimes it is best for a guest to take on a sampling of everything and leave them on his plate if he dislikes them.
The Filipino host believes that guests should never be left unattended. He feels a sense of guilt if the guest
is seemingly left unentertained and left alone by himself even for a short time, even if the guest prefers it that way.
The “open house” hospitality of Filipinos is put to a test when they celebrate special occasions like town
fiestas, baptisms, weddings or “passing the bar examination” and the like.
365 WORDS
Answer with True or False: (HOSPITALITY, FILIPINO STYLE)
_______ 1. Hospitality is a common trait of the Filipinos.

_______ 2. There is nothing wrong with the Filipino brand of hospitality.
_______ 3. The Filipino host provides almost everything for his guests.
_______ 4. Filipino hospitality is usually skin deep and insincere.
_______ 5. At a Filipino party, it is rude to inquire in advance if the invited guest is
coming or not.
________6. Only invited and expected guests are given full attention while unexpected
guess are.
________7. Filipino hosts delight in seeing their guests fill their plates to overflowing.
________8. Guests are expected to taste a sampling of everything that is served to them.
_______ 9. After having had their fill, guests usually go home with a “baon”
_______ 10. Town fiestas, baptisms and weddings are always big celebrations for Filipinos.
BOOK II No. 8
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NEWTON, THE PHYSICIST
Isaac Newton, was best known for his important discovery of the laws of gravity. He was a great natural
philosopher who proved that a beam of sunlight, or white light is composed of seven colors of the rainbow; red,
orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet. He proved it by allowing a beam of sunlight to pass through a small
hole into a darkened room and then through a prism.
Isaac Newton was born in Woolsthorpe, Lincolnshire, England on December 25, 1642. He did not like
farming and marketing so his mother sent him to school at Grantham.
As a boy, Isaac was much interested in making such tools as hammers, saws and hatchets, and such
machines as windmills and water clocks. He was also interested in making four-wheeled carriages. When he was
not building or inventing something, he was designing ships or working out mathematical diagrams using charcoal
on the walls of his room.
As Newton grew older, he was so preoccupied with his scientific experiments, that he slept only five or
six hours at night. He was often sick from overwork so was forced to rest.
Newton was very much interested in mathematics. He invented differential and integrated calculuses. He
published his great book on mathematics which laid the foundation of the science of physics. Because of his
poverty, he asked his astronomer-friend Edmund Halley to publish his book.
For his own scientific study, Newton improved the telescope. He also built a similar one for astronomers‟
use. It was the first to be used in the study of astronomy.
At the age of thirty, he was elected a fellow of the Royal Society and he served as President of the society
for the last twenty-four years of his life for he was reelected each year.
He was assigned Warden of the Mint and later Master of the Mint at the age of fifty-three. This greatly
helped improve his financial condition, thus ending his days of poverty. He held this position for the rest of his
life.
When he was sixty-three, he was knighted by Queen Anne. He was also elected as member of the French
Academy of Science which was a great honor indeed.
He died on March 20, 1727 and was buried in Westminster Abbey. He was honored as one of the greatest
men England had ever produced.
392 WORDS
Direction: Write C if the statement is correct; W if it is wrong. (NEWTON, THE PHYSICIST)
__________ 1. Isaac Newton was best known for hi discovery of gravity.
_________ 2. He proved that white light is composed of eight colors.
_________ 3. His first love was mathematics and he made his great book in mathematics.
_________ 4. His discovery of the telescope was the first of its kind and was used in the study of astronomy.
_________ 5. Because he was born of the rich family, he was able to publish his first book on mathematics.
_________ 6. Even as a boy, he was interested in designing and inventing.
_________ 7. As Newton grew older, he lost interest in researching and experimenting.
_________ 8. His financial condition was greatly improved when he was assigned Warden of the Mint.
_________ 9. He was also interested in farming and marketing.
_________ 10. When he died, he was honored as the greatest man England had ever produced.
BOOK II No. 9
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AFTER THE ASTRONAUTS, THE AQUANAUTS
Do you know what aquanauts are? They differ from the astronauts in the sense that while astronauts set
out to discover space, aquanauts set out to discover the under-seas.
The Japanese are undergoing a three-long series of experiments beginning with four Japanese aquanauts
who will live for a month in an undersea house at depths ranging from 30 to 100 meters. This test will take place
off the coast of Ito, on Western Izu.
This project is known as Project Seatopia. The aim of the Japanese is to find out how water living would
affect man ─ his body, his work, and his mind.
It took the Japanese Science and Technology Agency two years to build the aquanauts‟ house which costs
400,000 U.S. dollars and the support ship, 380,000 U.S. dollars.
The house, shaped like a cigar, is 10.9 meters long and weighs 65 tons. It has a pressure hull, ballast tanks,
access trunk and support structure. The materials used were especially chosen so as to avoid their giving off toxic
or poisonous fumes.
This house under the sea has facilities which include ventilation, insulation, gas control apparatus and
anti-humidity apparatus. It has also a laboratory, a bedroom, a shower room and lavatory. It is also equipped with
a high frequency telephone for talking to aquanauts on the surface.
These aquanauts, while living under the sea, will be observed by three TV cameras at the top of the
support vessel. The later is the steel pontoon which is 25 meters long and can hold 23 men at a time.
This pontoon has a decompression chamber and equipment. It will regulate the gas supply of the
aquanauts, their communications and air conditioning equipment. A medical staff composed of doctors and nurses
stay on the pontoon to keep a check on the health of the aquanauts.
After a one-month period, the aquanauts will surface up. They will be winched up in a seven-ton
personnel transfer capsule. It designed to shuttle between the habitat and the pontoon. Then the men will be
transferred to the decompression chamber.
What are the reasons for all these experiments? It will not be long before the world will be overcrowded
due to population explosion. Men are now investigating if someday men may possibly live under the sea, so after
the astronauts come the aquanauts. Someday, who knows, people may live in houses under the sea.
401 WORDS
Direction: Write the letter of the correct answer on your paper.
__________ 1. What are aquanauts? (a. spaceman b. undersea men c. airmen d. scuba divers)
__________ 2. Who underwent a three-year long series of experiments?
(a. Japanese b. Chinese c. Russians d. Americans)
__________ 3. Where did this test take place?
a. off the coast of Iceland c. off the coast of Ito
b. off the coast of North America d. off the Pacific coast )
__________ 4. What name was given to this project? (a. Soyuz II b. Seatopia c. Apollo XV d. Kohoutek )
__________ 5. How many years did it take to build the aquanaut‟s house ?
(a. threee years b. six years c. two years d. four years)
__________ 6. How was the aquanaut‟s house shaped?
(a. like a boat b. like a cigar c. like a spaceship d. like a globe)
___________7. How were tha aquanaut‟s observed while under the sea?
(a. by a TV camera b. by radar c. by radio d. by sonar )
___________8. How many men can the steel pontoon hold at a time?
(a. 25 men. b. 35 men c. 20 men d. 200 men )
__________9. Who stood by the to check the health of the aquanauts while under the sea?
(a. space men b. medical staff c. military staff d. quacks )
__________10. Why are experiments undersea living going on ?
(a. the world is getting to crowded b. the men are curious c. people are getting crazy )
BOOK II No. 10
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A LETTER TO THE FILIPINO PEOPLE
President Manuel L. Quezon, in his side bed, wrote some letters before he was operated on for kidney
trouble. He entrusted these letters to his aide, Major Manuel Nieto, whom he instructed to deliver to Mrs. Quezon
should he die. However, President Quezon survived the operation, hence the letters were never delivered to his
wife.
In 1947, three years after Quezon‟s death the contents of the letters, which will then almost forgotten,
were first revealed to the public. Mrs. Aurora Quezon could not fight back the tears when she read them. The first
was addressed to the Filipinos, the second to her and the third to his children.
The message of the first letter runs: To the Filipino People:
“I have served you, land that I love you, to the best that I can. You, in turn, have shown me in true and
sincere faith. I will never forget to the last beat of my heart what you have shown to me. I only feel sad that I shall
not be with you in the fortunate hour when you shall really be free but I know that you are almost free and have
but a short way to go.
“So that those who have died for this freedom would not have died in vain, so that you and your sons may
profit from that freedom that you are about to receive, my last words for you are:
“Value our honor, freedom and independence. Fight for them to the last.
“Always remember that you are one nation and your unity is the source of your strength, peace and
happiness.
“Do not listen to evil counsel, said in beautiful words by those who wish nothing but to better themselves.
“Regard America as the true ally of the Philippines and adopt the policy never to quarrel with her
“Beware of Japan. Let us deal with her fairly, but let us not permit ourselves to be under her. We shall not
profit from it.
“Be at peace with every nation, but from anyone else except America, accept nothing.
“Remember that we owe a debt of gratitude to Spain. The Spaniards have affection for us.
“Farewell, dear Motherland. Pray to God for me. And in Him place your hope. He is most powerful and
He is the origin and source of happiness. No nation will prosper and be happy that is without faith in God, or who
forgets him.
“God bless my native land.
407 WORDS
Directions: Answer the question correctly.
1. When did Quezon write this letter?

a. During his exile b. While he was sick c. While he lay dying d. Before death
2. To whom did he entrust the letter? a. To his wife b. To his son c. To his daughter d. To his aide
3. Why were the letters not delivered to his wife?
a. He survived the operation. b. He died. c. It got lost. d. It was stolen.
4. How many letters did he write? a. two b. three c. four d. many
5. To whom was the first letter addressed? a To his wife b. To his c. To the Filipinos d. To the poor
6. How did he served the people? a. The best way he can b. Not fully c. Excellently d. Poorly
7. What should the people value?
a. Color of the race b. Independence c. Dependence to America d. Natural resources of the country
8. What is the source of strength of a nation? a. Unity b. Bravely c. Patriotism d. Honesty
9. Who according to Quezon is the true ally of the Philippines? a. Japan b. Asian countries c. China d.
America
10. What should we maintain every nation? a. Peace b. War c. Economic trade d. Social conduct
BOOK II No. 11
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

ROMAN SPORTS
When the Roman Empire was ruled by the Caesars, the people had to pay high taxes. These taxes were
used for the numerous wars of conquests, for the construction of roads and luxurious palaces and for the expensive
parties and entertainments given by the Caesars. To keep their minds away from their hardships and sacrifices, the
common people were amused and entertained by the leaders.
Thus, Roman sports were held. Chariot-racing was the favorite sport. For this, huge amphitheaters were
built around big racing arenas. Famous army commanders riding their war chariots participated in these races.
Even emperors took part in them.
People started gathering in the stadium hours before the start of the races. Betting was rampant. Four
chariots, each drawn by two horses took part in a race. The crowd roared as the race started. The drivers cracked
their heavy whips, and the horses thundered around the track. Everything was fair in thee race. A driver can drive
his chariot into another, upset it or send it crashing into the wall. The opponent driver, thrown off the track can be
crushed by the chariot‟s wheels or by he hoofs of the horses. and the Romans loved it. The rougher the race was,
the better they liked it. The victors were treated as heroes.
Another sport was the fight among gladiators. The chariot race was a cruel; the gladiatorial fights were
even more so. Slaves, captives and condemned prisoners were forced to fight to death among themselves, using
swords, spears, or even bare hands. Once a fighter is wounded, he either dies or lives depending on the whims of
the crowd. If the crowd wants him to live in another day, they point their thumbs up. If they want him to die, they
point their thumbs down. Sometimes gladiators were made to fight wild beasts, too. One of the most famous of the
gladiators was a slave, Spartacus. Time and again, Spartacus fought and won gladiatorial fights at last he was
given his freedom as a reward.
The most blood-thirsty and gruesome sport was the persecution of Christians. Christian men, woman and
children were massed together in the arena unarmed. Hordes of animals-lions, wolves and hungry dogs—were let
loose upon them. Sometimes these Christians were made to face Roman soldiers and were shot down with arrows.
But the most cruel of all was that of tying them up on wooden crosses and setting the crosses on fire. The crucified
Christians were slowly roasted alive.
420 WORDS
Choose the letter of the correct answer: (ROMAN SPORTS)
__________ 1. When the Roman Empire was ruled by the Caesars, the people had to pay.
(a. low b. high c. no d. cheap) taxes.
___________ 2. The people were entertained by their leaders to
a. make them laugh c. amuse them
b. keeps their minds away from their hardships d. gain favors
___________ 3. Their favorite sport was (a. horse racing b. chariot racing c. boxing d. were built)
___________ 4. Huge (a. stadiums b. coliseums c. amphitheaters d. plazas) were built.
___________ 5 . a. Slaves b. army commanders and emperors c. poor people d. anybody
participated in those games.
___________6. The rougher the race was, the better the Roman liked it.
(a. true b. true c. false d. does not tell).
__________ 7. The gladiatorial fights were (a. more cruel b. better c. livelier d. easier) than the chariot race.
__________ 8. Spartacus was (a. an emperor b. a gladiator c. a king d. a chariot racer).
__________ 9.The persecution of Christians was the most
(a. gruesome b. liked c. applauded d. loved ) of the roman sports.
__________ 10.Crucified Christians were (a. roasted alive b. roasted dead
c. set free d. killed before being roasted ).
BOOK II No. 12
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________
PHILIPPINE PALMS
There are many kinds of palms in the Philippines. However, the most outstanding is the coconut which is
also known as the Tree of Life. It has many uses, therefore, it is a very good source of income. The water inside it
is sweet and delicious and can be made into a refreshing drink. I can also be made into vinegar and nata de coco.
Its meat is dried and made into copra which is one of the major exports of our country. Oil extracted from copra is
made into soap, cooking oil, candle, lubricating oil. Coconut meat is also made into bukayo. From the coconut
meat, meat can be squeezed and made into caramel and cooked with vegetables, chicken, forks, fruits and many
others. The coconut residue is fed to pigs and fowls and may also be used as fertilizer.
The coconut husk is utilized as cleaning material and as a hold for grafted trees and orchid plants. Coir
fiber from coconut husk is made into doormats, shoe brushes, bottle cleaners, mattresses, brooms, bags, seats, and
ropes. Brooms, bags and baskets are made from the midribs of the coconut leaves. The coconut leaves, branches
and trunk are utilized as building materials, bridges and others. Tuba, a native wine, is made from the sap of tree
called the Tree of Life.
Another kind of palm in our country is the nipa that grows in swamps near salty waters. The leaves of the
nipa are used as roofing and walling materials. Wine, sugar, alcohol, and vinegar are some products from the nipa
palm. The nipa fiber is in turn made into coarse baskets, brooms, mats, and bags.
The largest of the Philippine palms is the buri, which has very large, fan-shaped leaves. The fine strips of
buri fiber are made into buntal hats which are exported to other countries. The fiber is made into baskets, trays,
cigarette cases, ropes, and strings. He unopened buri leaves have coarse strips which are woven into sacks, mats,
and boat sails. Wine, sugar, alcohol, and vinegar are made from the sap of the buri palm. The ripe buri seeds are
made into beads, buttons, fancy pins, and rosaries.
Another palm, the anahaw, which is usually grown in gardens, grows tall and straight with fan-shaped
leaves. The leaves, when dried, are used for roofing. They are also sewn together and used as raincoats. Aside
from this, they are made into native hats and fans.
There are many other kinds of Philippine palms but these are the most common ones.
430 WORDS
Direction: Choose the correct answer for each blank and write it on your paper.
1. Outstanding among Philippine palms is the ____________. ( nipa, coconut, buri, anahaw)
2. The largest of Philippines palms is the _________________. (buri, coconut, nipa, anahaw)
3. The Tree of Life is another name for the ________________. (coconut, nipa, buri, banana)
4. Palms growing in places reached by salty water is the ________. ( buri, nipa, anahaw, abaca)
5. A coconut wine made from the sap of coconut trees is ___________. (soap, tuba, alcohol, basi)
6. Oil is extracted from ______________. (nipa, copra, milk, buri)
7. The fine strips of buri fiber is made into ____________. (rope, hats, brooms, mats)
8. The palm that is tall and straight and with fan-shaped leaves is the ________. (coconut, anahaw, buri,
abaca)
9. Ripe buri seeds are made into ________________.(beads, bukayo, bags, wine)
10. The anahaw leaves sewn together are used as ____________. (raincoats, clothes, trouser, umbrellas)
BOOK II No. 13
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________
THE BEAUTIFUL FILIPINA
In the Philippines today, the females are slightly out-numbered by the male. Of our entire population, 50.4
percent comprise the male, while 49.6 percent are the females. Why, then, should the Filipina attract attention-
constant attention, that is.
Since early times, the Filipina has been noted for her beauty. Her inherent shyness makes her different
from women of other countries. In our country, it has been the tradition that a beautiful Filipina is also a beautiful
person.
The Filipina, especially in the past decade, has won the rare distinction of being among the most beautiful
woman, not only in Asia, but in the world. A part fro the winning the title of the queen of the Pacific twice, and
copping second in the Miss Asia contest, the Filipina has won the crown of Miss International twice and Miss
Universe twice.
The Filipina, many foreigners will agree, has the shapeliest legs in Asia. A quick count will show that
roughly 8 out of 10 Filipinas sport beautiful legs.
Even before the coming of Magellan, the Filipina has been the queen of the house. The brave Filipino
warrior let his woman have her way in the house. Under the saya? No! For peace, domestic peace.
The Maria Clara of yesteryears whose password to beauty are her traits of modesty, religiousness and
virtue, looked pale and lusterless compared with women of other countries who depended upon cosmetics to
enhance their natural color and to satisfy their vanity.
A Filipina has courage, strength, daring, insight, industry compassion and loyalty. She may never have the
opportunity to participate in a beauty contest but she finds deep satisfaction of having a good husband and five or
more children. She depends on her resourcefulness to help in the upbringing of her children.
A Filipina does not aim to meet the challenge of high prices by scrimping and brooding. Instead, she
surrenders her small luxuries and cuts corners, always putting the welfare of her family ahead of herself.
The Filipina‟s participation in worthy national endeavors even before Magellan‟s days had become a fine
tradition. Bonifacio‟s wife joined him in his anti-Spanish activities. Diego Silang‟s wife, Gabriela, took up where
he left of when he died. So did many other Filipinas.
The Filipina has always been more than a crutch to her man. She has been his inspiration and sometimes
his alter ego.
With all this attributes, can anybody blame the Filipina for being attractive? Surely not, for she is truly a
beautiful Filipina.
430 WORDS
Direction: Answer True or False.
1. The Filipina has been noted for her beauty since early times. __________
2. It is expected that a beautiful Filipina is also a beautiful person. _________
3. The password of the Filipina are traits and religiousness. ________
4. Maria Clara looked pale and lusterness when compared with women of other countries who depend upon
cosmetics. ____________
5. A Filipina indulges in cosmetics to make her truly beautiful. ____________
6. A Filipina has courage, strength, daring and insight. _______
7. A Filipina aims to meet the high prices by slimming her waists and thighs. _________
8. The Filipina has won many beauty titles in the past decade.___________
9. A Filipina puts luxury first before family._________
10. She has been man‟s inspiration and his alter ego.________
BOOK II No. 14
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

EGYPT, HOME OF THE WONDERS OF THE ANCIENT WORLD
Egypt has long been considered the cradle of civilization. Its history dates as far back as 10,000 years ago.
While people of other of the globe were still in the primitive stage, the Egyptians were already building aqueducts
to irrigate their farms, palaces for their Pharaohs, and giant monuments for their dead rulers. No wonder them that
the wonders of the ancient world were found in Egypt. Many of them are still standing despite the centuries of
wars and destruction-living monuments to man‟s wisdom and creativity.
Perhaps the most indestructible of these monuments are the pyramids. The pyramids of Egypt have
aroused universal interest and curiosity and are regarded as one of seven wonders of the ancient world. They are
made mainly of rough Hawn limestone and large blocks of granite. The mechanical skill required to quarry this, to
raise them to such great heights and to adjust them to their proper places continues to astonish many.
Unfortunately, the machines the Egyptians used to build such magnificent feats of engineering are said to have
been lost in antiquity.
All in all, there are about 40 such pyramids, but the most remarkable are those in Gizeh. Of the pyramids
in Gizeh the most popular is that of Cheops or Khufu. It is the great pyramid. It is estimated to be at least 5,000
years old. It is said that it took 1,000 men working daily for 10 years to make a ramp 3,000 feet long to facilitate
the hauling of quarried stones from where the stones were quarried to the pyramid site. It took another 20 years for
the same of men to complete the pyramid itself.
The great pyramid covers and area of 12 acres. Its base is 750 feet on its side, its perpendicular height is
482 feet or about the height of a 45-storey building.
Two burial chambers are found inside the pyramids. Solid red granite stones reaching from floor to ceiling
are used in these burial chambers. These burial chambers were prepared for Khufu and his empress. There are 203
steps from the bottom to the top of the pyramid, the lower one is about 4½ feet to the next step. The higher steps
have a shorter distance apart.
Several other pyramids were also built by succeeding Pharaohs but they did not approach the size and
grandeur of the great pyramid. Many of the tombs have been opened and plundered during the modern times. The
opened graves yielded treasures.
The treasures of the pyramids are valuable in today‟s studies of past civilization in archaeological
education.
Choose the letter of the correct answer.
___________ 1. Egypt‟s history dates as far back as ( a. 10,000 b. 5,000 c. 500,000 d. 100 ) years ago.
___________ 2. The Egyptians built ( a. pipes b. sewage c. pumps d. aqueducts ) to irrigate their farms.
___________ 3. The most indestructible monument found in Egypt are the
( a. stones b. deserts c. pyramids d. statues).
___________ 4. They are made of ( a. steel b. limestone granite c. marble d. iron and aluminum).
___________ 5. All in all there are about( a. fifty b. a hundred c. forty d. a thousand) pyramids.
___________ 6. The pyramid of Cheops or Khufu is sometimes called
( a. big pyramid b. giant pyramid c. Gizeh pyramid d. great pyramid).
___________ 7. It took 1,000 men working daily for ( a. twenty b. ten c. five d. fifteen) years to complete the
pyramid.
___________ 8. The great pyramid had ( a. two b. three c. five d. many) burial chambers.
___________ 9. There are ( a. 100 b. 203 c. 200 d. 500) steps from the bottom to the top of the pyramid
which is as high as 45-storey building.
___________ 10. When the tombs of the pyramids were opened they yielded
( a. money b. treasuries c. nothing d. ash).
BOOK II No. 15
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

THE PANAMA CANAL
The Panama Canal is a Waterway connecting the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans. It cuts trough the
Isthmus of Panama, a narrow neck of land connecting the Central and Southern American continents. The opening
of the canal eased and passage of ships from one ocean to the other and has resulted in the improvement of world
trade.
According to treaties, the Canal “shall be free and opened to the vessels of comers and war of all nations,
and shall never be blockaded, nor shall any right of war be exercised nor any act of hostility committed within it.”
The right of sovereignty over the canal rests with the government of Panama. Panama however grants the United
States exclusive control and the use of a zone ten miles wide.
The Panama Canal is 51 miles in length from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. About thirty ships pass
through the Canal in a day. Each time a ship makes the transit from one mouth to the other, fifty million gallons of
water are needed to lift it over the high point in the Canal. To get water used in the passage of these vessels
through the Canal locks, a great dam, the Gatun Lake, was built.
Massive Canal locks and huge gates of steel were also made. There are forty-six pairs of gates, each with
two leaves. Each leaf is 7 feet thick, 65 feet wide from 74 to 82 feet high. The weight of the leaf of each gate is
enormous, but engineering cleverness enables mere 25-horsepower motor to swing them opened in two minutes.
The lower half of each gate is fitted with a water-tight compartment making it buoyant.
The lowest route the surveyors could find over the spine of the isthmus required the ships to go up 312
feet. Eight miles of this had to be cut down below rock bottom to 85 feet. A big cut therefore was made, the
biggest manmade cut on earth. To prevent landslides, a 140-foot high hill had to be completely leveled to sea
level.
When the building of a Canal through the Isthmus was first proposed to Charles V of Spain, his experts
reported that “all the gold in the world would not suffice for its construction.” It cost the United States government
some $380,000,000 on the original construction, after the French on two occasions had previously sunk a lot of
money in the project and miserably failed in both their attempts.
Today, the Panama Canal project is considered one of the seven wonders of the modern world.
430 WORDS
Choose the letter of the correct answer:
_________ 1. The Panama Canal is a waterway connecting the Atlantic Ocean and the
( a. Indian Ocean b. China Sea c. Carribean Sea d. Pacific Ocean ).
_________ 2. Its opening improved world ( a. understanding b. peace c. trade d. war ).
_________ 3. The sovereignty over the Canal rests on the
( a. U.S. Government b. Panama Government c. United Nations d. International Laws).
_________ 4. About ( a. 10 b. 50 c. 30 d. 100) ships pass thru thru canal everyday.
_________ 5. ( a. 10 b. 50 c. 30 d. 100) million gallons of water are needed to lift a ship over the high point
of the canal.
_________ 6. The Gatun Lake is a ( a. huge lake b. great dam c. big canal d. dike).
_________ 7. There are ( a. 50 b. 46 c. 40 d. 7 ) pairs of gates in the Panama Canal.
_________ 8. Water-tight compartment makes the gate ( a. sink b. buoyant c. open d. closed).
_________ 9. The construction of the canal was first proposed to
( a. U.S. Government b. Charles V of Spain c. Panama Government d. French Government).
_________ 10. Today, the Panama Canal is considered one of the seven wonders of the modern world.
( a. True b. False c. Maybe d. Does not tell).
BOOK II No. 16
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

THE PROPHECIES WHICH CAME TRUE
Josephine was the pretty daughter of Monsieur Tascher, a wealthy Frenchman who owned great estate in
Martinique, one of the larger islands in the Carribean Sea. Josephine has a slave girl named Adee. Because they
were of the same age they grew fond of each other as two sisters. Wherever Josephine went, Adee went too. They
played together, rode together and inseparable.
Josephine had a friend, Aimee Dubec de Rivera, daughter of another Frenchman. Josephine, Aimee and
Adee would often go on long walks through the valley and think for rare fruits and exotic flowers. One summer
day, they went farther than usual. They came to a hut built of palm and cane leaves. A great banyan tree spread its
branches above it. Under the shelter of this banyan tree, a very old native woman with purple-black eyes sat.
“Who is she?” Josephine asked Adee.
“She is a priestess who can tell fortunes by the stars and by reading palms, answered Adee.
The woman approached them and invited them to her house, “I have a message for you,” she said.
Josephine and Aimee hesitated but Adee said, “She will not hurt you.”
Josephine and Aimee went into the hut. “You did not come to be told of your fortunes,” said the old
woman. “But today, they shall be told to you. Do not be afraid for I have wonderful news for you. You will both
be queens: one will reign in France and the other in the palace of the Oriental Sultan.
The girls listened closely, but did not believe the prophecies. The priestess frowned and looking at
Josephine said slowly, “It is written in the stars that you will marry the greatest man the world has seen for
centuries. He is not yet in the world‟s eye. Wait twenty years and you will see.” The girls tried to laugh off the old
woman‟s words but they never forgot the prophecies.
Several years later, while Aimee was on a ship going to France, she was captured by pirates who took her
to Algiers. She was old as a slave to the Sultan. Later, the Sultan took her for his wife. Aimee became queen of
Algiers.
Josephine, now grown up, was taken to France by her father. There she fell in love with a young Corsican
officer named Napoleon Bonaparte and married him.
In the years that followed, the young general carved an empire for France and made himself the head of it.
He crowned himself, NAPOLEON, Emperor of France, and Josephine became an empress.
The old priestess’ prophecies had indeed come true!
435 WORDS
1. Josephine was the daughter of ( a. an Italian b. a Frenchman c. a Roman d. a Spaniard).

2. Martinique is an island in the ( a. Carribean Sea b. Pacific Ocean c. Indian Ocean d. China Sea).
3. Adee was (a. a slave girl b. Josephine‟s sister c. Josephine‟s best friend d. Josephine‟s aunt).
4. Aimee was ( a. a slave girl b. Josephine‟s sister c. Adee‟s sister).
5. A priestess is ( a. a female priest b. a fortune teller c. the wife of a priest d. the daughter of a priest
6. The priestess told Josephine and Aimee that they both will be (a. killed b. queens c. slaves d. poor).
7. Aimee became the (a. slave of the sultan b. queen of the Algiers c. wife of Napoleon d. wife of Solomon).
8. Josephine became the
(a. slave girl b. wife of the sultan of Algiers c. Queen of England d. wife of Napoleon Bonaparte ) .
9. The priestess‟ prophecies became true. ( a. True b. False c. Maybe d. Does not tell)
10. Prophecies ( a. sometimes b. never c. always d. often).
BOOK II No. 17
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

ALEXANDER GRAHAM BELL
Isn’t it wonderful to be able to someone living somewhere else far from you, or even across the seas?
We owe this to an American, Alexander Graham Bell, who invented the telephone. He was born in
Edinburgh, Scotland. He studied music and the art of speaking in the public.
When he was twenty-four years old, he went to Boston, Massachusetts to teach in the school for the deaf.
His father was a teacher of deaf-mutes. After teaching in three other schools, he opened a school of his own. Then
he married Mabel Hubbard, one of his pupils.
Very often, Bell had been interested in constructing an electrical device that would help deaf-mutes learn
to speak. He hoped to help deaf-mutes see the variations made by various human sounds and learn to imitate them.
By that time he knew so little about electricity that he had to study and experiment with electrical apparatus such
as magnets, batteries and coiled springs. Thomas Watson, a young mechanic, helped him greatly. The two worked
on a kind of device called telegraph instrument which could send a number of messages at one time over the wire.
The apparatus, crude though it was, consisted of two parts, a transmitter and a receiver connected by wires
attached to the battery. Each part of these was equipped with a vibrator. Watson and bell worked month after
month to transmit sounds through their instrument. On June 2, 18764, the two achieved success when Watson
accidentally had given the spring a fleck with his fingers to pry loose the joints and the electric-current had carried
the sound of the receiver and to Bell. Imagine their joy when they had discovered the basic principle of electrically
transmitted sound. Bell was granted a patent for the instrument in 1876. He gave his new invention the named
telephone which was derived from two Greek words “tele” which means “far off” and “phone” which means
“sound.”
Alexander Graham Bell lived for almost fifty years after he invented the telephone. But he did not stop
there. During the span of fifty years, he invented two other very important machines. One was the beginning of the
record player and the other was the photophone. The latter was a kind of radio which could convey sound by
means of a vibrating beam of light.
Today, the telephone is very much in use. It helps boost the economy of any country. It is a necessity in
homes, in business firms and government offices. It saves time and money. Lives, too, are saved by these
wonderful instrument.
433 WORDS
Direction: Write the letter of the correct answer on your paper.

_________ 1. Alexander Graham Bell was ( a. an inventor b. a discoverer c. a doctor).
_________ 2. He was born in ( a. the United States b. England c. Germany).
_________ 3. His father was a teacher of (a. deaf mutes b. crippled children c. blind children).
_________ 4. Bell studied ( a. chemistry b. science c. elocution and music).
_________ 5. He married Mabel Hubbard, one of his ( a. relatives b. pupils c. friends).
_________ 6. He was interested in constructing (a. an electrical device b. sounds c. an apparatus).
_________ 7. He was helped by a young mechanic named ( Edison b. Watson c. Columbus).
_________ 8. Bell named his invention ( a. telephone b. radio c. photophone).
_________ 9. Phone means ( a. near b. far off c. sound)
_________ 10. The telephone has become a ( a. danger b. necessity c. hindrance).
BOOK II No. 18
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

THE WORLD’S MOST FAMOUS TALKING BIRD
The Mynah bird is common in Asia. It can perfectly imitate a man‟s speech. It can simulate almost any
sound. It can reproduce the tone and inflection of its owner‟s voice.
While in the Malay Peninsula, Mr. Carveth Wells and his wife, Zetta rescued a baby Mynah when its
mother was slain by a snake. They named it “Raffles”. Raffles had black, shiny, iridescent feathers except for two
white patches at the tip of its wings. Its beak was bright orange. At two months, Raffles could say: “Hello, Joe.”
By the time he was three months old, he could repeat “Hello, Darling” with as much affection in its voice as Zetta
had.
Many people scoff at the thought that a Mynah can think. But it Raffles wanted a grape he would say,
“Have a grape.” If given something else, he would screech and repeat: “Have a grape,” Until the grape is given to
him. When the bath-tub faucet is turned on, Raffles would say, “Have a bath,” when the kitchen faucet is turned
on, he would say nothing.
When Raffles was six months old, he learned to whistle some songs like “The Star-Spangled Banner,”
“You‟re in the Army Now” and many others.
Raffles gained national recognition and made several radio appearances with top radio personalities. His
greatest appearance was as guest artist with the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra to celebrate the organizations
33rd birthday. About 12,000 persons jammed immense civic auditorium. There were apprehensions if Raffles
would perform in such strange surroundings. However, Raffles did not disappoint his owners. For five minutes,
Raffles held the audience spellbound with his performance. As a finale, he whistled the National Anthem, and
when he finished his performance, the applause was deafening.
One day, a wounded soldier‟s mother told Zetta of her son‟s desire to see Raffles. Zetta brought Raffles to
the hospital but when they entered the wounded soldier‟s room, she saw that a number of rubber tubes was coiled
around the bed attached to the patient. Zetta knew that Mynahs fear snakes or anything resembling them. But
raffles ignored the snake like tubes and flew directly to the dying soldier‟s bed.
Alighting gently on the dying boy‟s arm, Raffles endearingly exclaimed: “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
The doctor turned away, the nurses wept. But the mother‟s face was transformed with joy as she watched her son
look at Raffles. The boy died that night.
Raffles died when he was eight years old. Today, his body is immortalized in the American Museum of
natural History as the world‟s most famous talking bird.
435 WORDS
Choose the correct answer:

_________ 1. The story is about a ( a. parakeet b. parrot c. mynah bird d. canary).
_________ 2. The bird is common in ( a. America b. Asia c. Japan d. the Philippines).
_________ 3. It can perfectly imitate a man‟s speech. ( a. True b. False c. Maybe d. Sometimes)
_________ 4. Raffles was a ( a. snake b. bird c. boy d. soldier).
_________ 5. Raffles learned to whistle songs when he was six ( a. days b. weeks c. months d. years) old.
_________ 6. Raffles, with the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra, performed in
( a. a movie b. an auditorium c. a classroom d. a school play).
_________ 7. Mynahs are afraid of ( a. birds b. cats c. snakes d. people).
_________ 8. The rubber tubes coiled around the soldiers bed scared Raffles.
( a. Yes b. No c. Maybe d. Does not tell)
_________ 9. The soldier ( a. got well b. died c. laughed d. cried).
_________ 10. Today, Raffles body is in a ( a. box b. cave c. grave d. museum).
BOOK II No. 19
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

A TALE OF TWO CITIES
The ancient Greeks did not live under a single ruler. Each City, called a City-State, ruled itself completely
independent of one another. Each had it own army, made its own laws, fought one another, or joined together and
fought other city-states.
Two of these city-states were Athens and Sparta. Neighbors, yet they differ in their ideas, principles, and
views of living, as if they were poles apart.
Athenian boys live at home with there families they went to school where they learned many things. They
learned poetry and past history, and how to speak in public meetings. They learned to be soldiers, too. They also
learned how to have strong bodies, how to wrestle, run long distances, throw the discuss, the javelin or spear. The
best among the athletes represented the city in the Olympian games, which is the same as our modern Olympics.
The Athenians served in the army, too, when needed. But they did not live under the army rules for the greater
part of their life. They were citizens of a city and they helped make laws for it, sharing in making up its
government. Any citizen could propose a law and each one could vote upon the law which was passed only if the
majority of the citizens approved it.
In Sparta, all men were trained to be good soldier. At an early age, a boy is allowed to live with the group
of other boys under the supervision of an older man. The boys learned to do things which would make them strong
fighters. They learned to live on scant food, to sleep in the open even in cold nights, with little clothing. They
learned to experts in the use of the sword and the spear.
Even when married, a Spartan will live in the soldier‟s barracks until he reached the age of 30, after which
he could live with his wife and family, although he stayed with the soldiers during the day. Even the young girls
were so trained as to make them mothers of sturdy boys and future soldier.
The Spartan laws discouraged everything that would take their citizens‟ mind away from the soldier‟s life.
They had war as the chief aim of life, and living was planned accordingly. Even the games and sports were so
planned as to orient the Spartan for war.
To the Spartans, a great city meant great leaders and a great army; to the Athenians, a great city meant
great thinkers-men who could write as well as fight.
435 WORDS
Answer with True or False:

1. Athens and Sparta were cities of Greece. _____________
2. Athens and Sparta are neighbors yet they differ in many ways. _____________
3. Athenian boys lived at home with their families while Spartan boys were
allowed to live with groups of other boys. _____________
4. The Athenian Olympian games were the same as our modern day Olympic Games. _____________
5. All boys in Athens were trained to be good soldiers. _____________
6. Spartan boys were trained to live on little food, to sleep in the open field and with little clothing. ____________
7. Spartan men lived in the soldier‟s barracks until they reach the age of forty. _____________
8. Spartan laws allow boys to be soldiers by their own choosing. _____________
9. War was the chief aim of Spartan life. _____________
10. Athenians are better thinkers than Spartans. _____________
BOOK II No. 20
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

A LOST CIVILIZATION
A long, long time ago, thousands of years before there were cities in any place in the world, wandering
hunters from the Asian mainland crossed the narrow channel to Alaska. These people who were called Indians
slowly spread over the two American continents. Some of them remained hunters; the others became farmers and
built great cities. From these Indians descended a distinctive group called the Mayas.
The Mayas had cities long before any white man landed in the American continent. By about 7th Century,
A.D. they had built many cities in Central America. The ruins of these cities could be still found standing in the
jungles of Central America. The most famous of these cities was called “Chichen Itsa.” In it ruins were found
many beautiful buildings, terraces, temples, and a great plaza with many courts. The palaces and monasteries were
built for their nobles and priests. There was even and observatory for studying the stars and there movements and
other meteorological researches.
The priests carefully watched the movements of the stars. They made a calendar which was as accurate as
the one we use today. It was more accurate than the calendars used in Europe and Asia at that time.
The Mayas dressed in fined cloaks. They were gold ornaments. Most precious among their ornaments
were of Jade. Jades and rich plume feathers were worn only by the rich and the powerful nobles and priests.
They used a system of writing similar to the ancient Babylonians using character symbols because they
had no alphabet. They wrote books on there history, astronomy and religion. Many of these books, however, had
been lost. Only three are in existence today.
The Mayan engineers made fine roads similar to those built by Romans at the height of there power. They
used layers of Limestones to fill the roadway and gravel to fill in the crevices. They then covered the surface with
fine limestone which acted as sort of cement. A heavy road-roller hewn by hand out of hard stone was rolled over
the road over and over again. The rollers were so heavy. It took 15-20 men to work them over the roads. The roads
they made were very good. With little repairs they have been used until recent times
The farmers among the Mayas lived in villages outside the cities. They raised crops and built roads,
temples and palaces. They had no wheeled vehicles nor tamed beasts of burden. They used their own muscles to
carry heavy loads.
How amazing therefore that they did build magnificent roads and temples and palaces with their own
puny hands!
440 WORDS
Select the letter of the correct answer:

_________ 1. The Mayas descended from the ( a. Hindus b. Malays c. Indians d. Mangyans).
_________ 2. The Mayas built cities in ( a. Northern b. Southern c. Eastern d. Central ) America.
_________ 3. The ruins of these cities could still be found today. ( a. True b. False c. Maybe d. Does not tell)
_________ 4. “Chichan Itsa” was a ( a. building b. church c. school d. city).
_________ 5. The Mayas had a calendar which was ( a. as accurate as b. not as accurate as
c. different from d. the same as ) the present day calendar.
_________ 6. Jades were worn only by
a. the women c. everybody
b. the beautiful girls d. rich and powerful nobles and priests).
_________ 7. They used ( a. character symbols b. blocks c. letters d. the alphabet) as a system of writing.
_________ 8. There were Mayan engineers who built roads made of (a. limestone b. asphalt c. rocks d. sand).
_________ 9. These roads can still be used until recent times. ( a. True b. False c. Maybe d. Does not tell ).
_________ 10. The Mayas built everything with their bare hands.
( a. True b. False c. Maybe d. Does not tell)
BOOK II No. 21
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________
I REFUSE
The life story of Dr. Jose Rizal has been told and retold many, many times and almost all the intimate
details of his life are very well-known to us. But very little has been written of Jose Rizal‟s mother, Doña Teodora
Alonzo. Do many of us know for example, that she refused to accept a pension offered her by Philippine
Government?
Doña Teodora, the mother who gave our nation the “greatest Malayan,” is a heroine I her own right. She
suffered humiliation, imprisonment, indignities, and poverty at the hands of the Spanish authorities. Her lands and
other valuable properties were confiscated and she suffered imprisonment for just being Jose Rizal‟s mother. She
suffered more than any mother in Philippine history for raising and educating her son, Rizal.
The Rizal‟s family had been impoverished as a result of Dr. Rizal‟s struggles against Spanish tyranny.
Doña Teodora found herself in straightened circumstances years after the death of our hero. Therefore, she
rightfully deserved the pension offered her by our government.
In 1908, the Philippine Legislature, aware of Doña Teodora‟s need, unanimously agreed togrant her a life
pension as a token of the gratitude of the Filipino people. At that time, she was residing in the house of one of her
daughters in Manila. A delegation of lawmakers was appointed to advise her of the pension. The delegation
thanked her for the patriotic service to her country and people and told her that the government was giving her a
substantial pension which would make her comfortable and secure during her remaining years.
“A substantial pension is offered to you as a token of the nation‟s gratitude for your patriotism, Doña
Teodora,” the chairman of the delegation said.
Doña Teodora firmly but politely refused to accept the pension. “Our family is not patriotic because of
mercenary motives,” she told the group of delegation. “If the government has enough money to offer me a life
pension, it should give this money to the poor who deserves it more. I have my children and relatives to take care
of me,” Doña Teodora continued.
Thus, the mother of our greatest hero proved herself a worthy mother of a heroic son. What a contrast to
our present-day so-called “heroes” and “patriots” who not only clamor for pensions and backpays but also, to add
insult to injury, claim that they deserve them. Hear how they howl when action on their application is delayed.
They could not wait until their services are given just reward and recognition.
Doña Teodora‟s self-abnegation should serve as a lesson to our pension-hungry and so-called “heroes”
and “patriots” who mask their greed in the guise of patriotism.
460 WORDS
Choose the letter of the best answer:

1. What is the story about?
a. Doña Teodora‟s biography c. Jose Rizal‟s mother
b. Doña Teodora‟s adventure d. Doña Teodora‟s refusal to accept pensions.
2. Shall we consider her a heroine? a. Yes b. No c. Maybe d. Does not tell
3. Who offered Dona Teodora some pension?
a. Spanish government c. Philippine Veterans Board
b. American government d. Philippine government
4. Why did she suffer indignities and humilities?
a. She was Rizal‟s mother. c. She was rich.
b. She was revolution d. She was against the Spanish government.
5. Why was she offered a pension?
a. For her services c. She lost all her wealth.
b. For her sufferings as Rizal‟s mother d. She asked for it.
6. Did she accept the pension) a. Yes b. No c. Maybe d. Does not tell
7. To whom did she want the pension to be given?
a. To the other revolutionaries b. To the poor c. To her children d. To the foundation
8. If you were Doña Teodora, would you have done what she did? a. Yes b. No c.Maybe d. Does not tell
9. With whom did Doña Teodora stay?
a. With her children b. All alone by herself c. With other pensionadas d. With her friends
10. Was she a worthy mother of a heroic son?
BOOK II No. 22
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

THE ENCHANTED TRUNK
There once lived a fairy in a big balete tree near the mouth of a cave. She was known as Macaban. Unlike
other fairies, she was visible most of the time. She had brown eyes and curly hair. Her voice was sweet and was
always kind. She was very generous. She was always ready to help the unfortunate and she comforted them in
their sorrows. She gave food and clothing to the poor. During wedding, she would lend the bridegroom his
wedding attire, precious stones, gold tableware, kitchen utensils, which she kept in storerooms inside an
underground city. Anybody could borrow Macaban‟s things. The moment a borrower uttered his request at the
keyhole, the stone door would open at once to let him in and select the things he needed.
The goodness of Macaban was everywhere. The borrowers came not only from Inabangan but also from
neighboring towns.
One day, a dishonest couple came to borrow some wedding attire, jewels and tableware for their son‟s
wedding. They were allowed to enter the city storerooms to get the things they needed. Seing that nobody kept
watch, they picked up several precious objects and put them in their bags and pockets. When they went out of the
door, they promised the doorkeeper to return everything after the wedding but they did not tell of the jewels that
bulged in their pockets thinking that Macaban would never know.
After the wedding, the dishonest couple did not return the things they borrowed. Instead, they went
around the town and urged the people to destroy the home of Macaban and to drive the fairy away.
Macaban was angry at what the dishonest couple did to her so she thought of teaching them a lesson. She
called all the people to enter the city and select a gift for themselves. She gave them twenty minutes to select what
they liked best on condition that they must not stay more than the given time.
The honest people obeyed the command of Macaban for they stayed in the storeroom for only the time
allowed. On the other hand the dishonest couple went into the heart of the city collecting jewels and precious
stones. When the twenty minutes were over, Macaban wave her hand. Deep water rushed down the street
separating the high cliffs.
“Because you are dishonest, you must remain here forever,” Macaban cried. “You cannot cross the deep
water and escape from the many crocodiles.”
Until today, the keyhole, the mouth of the cave and the stone door can be seen by boat riders going up and
down the Inabangan River in Bohol. People say these were parts of the enchanted trunk of Macaban, a splendid
city underneath the mountain.
460 WORDS
Direction: Copy the letter of the correct answer.
1. The story tells about a kind ( a. fairy b. woman c. body ) __________

2. Unlike other fairies she was ( a. invisible b. visible c. beautiful ) __________
3. She lent her things to the people of the town that was why she was known
for her ( a. selfishness b. generosity c. unkindness) __________
4. The moment a borrower utters his request the keyhole would give a
( a. loud noise c. cracking noise c. explosion) __________
5. The goodness of ( a. Macaban b. Inabangan c. people) was known everywhere. __________
6. ( a. An honest b. a dishonest c. An unkind) couple came one day. __________
7. The borrowers ( a. retained b. sold c. returned) the things they borrowed. __________
8. Macaban was ( a. happy b. angry c. glad) with the dishonest couple. __________
9. The ( a. dishonest b. honest c. kind ) couple penetrated into the heart of the city. __________
10 The stone door can still be seen today by boat riders going up and down the
( a. Inabangan River b. Zamboanga River c. Agno River). __________
BOOK II No. 23
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

OUR NEIGHBOR, TAIWAN
North of the Philippines lies our closest neighbor. It is often called the Republic of Free China or
Nationalist China. In area it is about the size of the Mindanao.
Taiwan was once a poor, underdeveloped country—much poorer than the Philippines. Now, Taiwan is a
progressive place. There is no hunger and there is comparative political freedom.
Taiwan‟s 13 million people enjoy a high standard of living, second only to Japan in the Far East. It has a
favorable balanced of trade. Factories have been put up so fast that new ones are housed under bamboo shelters
while permanent buildings are under construction. Farming has been made progressive & modern. Peasants
wading in water-filled rice paddies behind water buffaloes have given way to prosperous farms with tractors and
other machines. Bamboo huts have disappeared, replaced by brick stone houses.
Taiwan has succeeded because of its people. The average Chinese is industrious and self-reliant. He is
also a willing helper to his neighbor when the latter needs help.
Taiwan has realized that if it were to prosper, being a basically agricultural country, agriculture must be
given primary attention. Instead of first thinking of steel mills, factories, jet airports, giant buildings and
magnificent homes as other underdeveloped countries do, Taiwan began with a program beginning at grass-
roots—improvement of farming and satisfying the people‟s hunger for land.
Taiwan instituted a well-organized land reform program with the aim of providing security and livelihood
for the tenants of big landholders. It opened the public land for purchase by tenant-farmers, payable from their
crop yield. Finally, large private landholdings were brought by the governments and sold to the tenants at
reasonable rates. No landlord could hold more than 7 acres of riceland. The former-owners of large tracts of land
were encouraged to invest in industrial and business enterprises
As a result of Taiwan‟s successful land program, land tenancy has almost completely disappeared. Almost
every inch of arable land has been tilled and made productive. The farmers have been able to increase productivity
by the use of modern farming methods and machinery.
Along industrial production, private enterprise was encouraged and developed. Government controls in
business were relaxed. Foreign investments were given healthy chance.
As a result, Taiwan is self-sufficient in the production of the country‟s immediate needs. They produce
enough clothing materials. They have an excess of cement a year. They have medical and pharmaceutical plants,
flour mills, motor cars and truck factories, chemical fertilizer plants and many other enterprises.
Educational and cultural development in Taiwan is also on a high level. One-third of the provincial and
municipal budget is spent on education. Illiteracy has been reduced to less than 10 per cent .97 per cent of school
age children are in school.
470 WORDS
_________ 1. Taiwan lies ( a. east b. north c. west d. south) of the Philippines.
_________ 2. It is ( a. as big as b. smaller than c. bigger than c. much bigger than) Mindanao.
_________ 3. Taiwan was once ( a. poorer than b. as rich as c. richer than d. as poor as ) the Philippines.
_________ 4. Taiwan‟s high standard of living is (a. better than b. the same as c. second only to d. as poor as )
Japan in the Far East.
_________ 5. Taiwan was successful because of (a. its government officials b. its architects
c. its people d. the help of other countries).
__________6. Taiwan is basically (a. an agricultural b. a commercial c. an industrial d. residential) country.
__________7. Taiwan gave primary attention to the
a. construction of roads and bridges c. improvement of farming
b. education of its people d. construction of homes and buildings
__________8. Farmers were able to increase productivity by
a. working harder c. doing more jobs than usual
b. using modern farming methods and machinery d. tilling greater farm areas
__________9. People in Taiwan give utmost importance to educational and cultural development.
(a. True b. False c. Maybe d. Does not tell)
__________10. Taiwan is a progressive country. (a. True b. False c. Maybe d. Does not tell)
BOOK II No. 24
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

MUTYA NG SAGING
It was night after supper. The children were gathered around Lolo Hugo waiting for his nightly treat, a
story. Lolo Hugo had a truckload of stories. He had never been at a loss for a story his grandchildren would love
so much to her. And very often, the children were left in wishful thinking after hearing his story.
“Tell us the story of Juan Tamad,” said four–year old Lito, sitting on his grandfather‟s lap.
“We heard that last night,” interrupted Imelda. “Tell us about the „aswang‟ or the „tikbalang‟ please,” she
continued. She always wanted to hear stories that were shivery and hair-raising. Imelda was Lolo Hugo‟s only
grandaughter.
“Tonight, I‟m going to tell you about the „Mutya ng Saging‟. You must listen very carefully because when
you grow up I would like you to look for it. If you find it, you will be very prosperous and happy all your life.”
Thus goes Lolo Hugo‟s story:
“The „Mutya ng Saging‟ (magic charm from the banana plant) is considered the strongest and the most
coveted charm of all. Only the patient and the stout-hearted could find it.
“The charm cannot be found in all banana plants. It is the one which grows apart from other banana
plants. It produces no young sucklings around it; not even weeds would grow within the shadow of its leaves.
Look for that plant when it is about to bear flower. You will notice that its purple heart is like that of any
other banana plant. But it will open only on a midnight when the moon is young. This banana tree will not bear
fruit because the heart will fall off when the charm is gone.
“So you will watch, night after night under this banana tree. At sometime before midnight when the heart
is about to open, the banana leaves will be flying about as if tossed by strong winds, although there is not even the
whisper of a wind. Weird animal shapes and shadows shall gather around the banana and frighten you away.
“Stay beneath the heart and be ready to catch the stone as it falls out. If it falls to the ground, it will sink
immediately to the center of the earth. When you catch the stone, swallow it fast because the weird creatures will
try to wrest it from you. They will bite your hands, tear your mouth, clutch your neck and choke you when you put
the stone into your mouth. You must fight these creatures until you have swallowed the stone. If you succeed, the
creatures, groaning and crying, will leave you alone and go back to where they came from.
“Henceforth, love will be yours for the choosing. You will have many friends, and life will come easy and
pleasant for as long as you live.”
470 WORDS
______1. The children were gathered to (a. watch T.V. b. listen to a story c.study d. play together).
______2. Lito wanted to listen to the story of (a. Ivanhoe b. Maria Makiling c. Juan Tamad d. “Aswangs”).
______3. Imelda always wanted to hear
(a. fairy tales b. adventure stories c. romantic stories d. hair-raising stories).
______4. The “Mutya ng Saging” is a (a. beautiful lady b. goddess c. charm d. witch).
______5. (a. Everybody b. Only the men c. Only the good boys d. Only the patient
and the stout-hearted could find the “Mutya ng Saging”.
______6. It can be found in the banana which grows
a. in the middle of the garden c. near the seashore
b. apart from other banana plants d. on the sidewalk).
______7. The heart of this banana plant will open
(a. in the morning b. in the afternoon c. near the seashore d. at midnight).
______8. Beneath the heart is a (a. fruit b. stone c. flower d. jewel).
______9. The charm must be (a. swallowed b. eaten c. thrown d. buried) at once.
______10. The story is a (a. fairy tale b. folktale c. true-story d. romantic story).
BOOK II No. 25
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

THE WINNING OF ATALANTA
Atalanta, a beautiful and fearless maiden, was the daughter of Scheneus, King of Boetia. What she was
most famous for was the fact that she had the fastest pair of feet in the whole world.
Because of her beauty she had many suitors, but proud Atalanta would not look with favor on any of
them.
She said, “I will marry only the man who is a faster runner than I.”
She told her suitors that whoever really wished to marry her would have to run a race against her. If they
failed, they would be put to death. Strange enough, many of her suitors tried. They lost the race and thus lost also
their lives.
Hippomenes, one of her suitors, watched every race and saw that he could never win against Atalanta.
Only a miracle would help him so he went to Venus, goddess of love and lovers, for help.
Venus took pity on him and gave him three golden apples from her garden in the island of Cyprus. She
whispered to him the secret of how to use the apples.
Happily, Hippomenes sought Atalanta and asked her permission to run a race with him. Atalanta looked at
the young man and her heart filled with pity with him. She tried to persuade him not to try for he might lose his
life.
“I shall gladly die, for without you, life will not be worth living,” Hippomenes said.
Finally, with great reluctance, Atalanta agreed to run a race with him.
“Venus, don‟t forsake me now,” he whispered as they took their places for the race.
Off they went. Hippomenes was fast but she gained on him and was about to overtake him when he threw
one of the golden apples on her path. The girl was attracted by the glitter so she paused one moment on her flight,
scooped up the apple from the ground and ran on.
Hippomenes was quite a distance away but fleet-footed Atalanta easily covered the gap between them.
Soon he heard the swift patter of her feet close behind.
“Venus, kind goddess, do not abandon me now,” and he tossed the second golden apple almost at the feet
of Atalanta. For the second time, Atalanta paused, scooped up the apple from the ground then ran on.
Hippomenes‟ lead did not do him much good for soon Atalanta was close again at his heels and was about
to pass him.
The goal was near! His heart beating with joy, Hippomenes threw the third golden apple and it rolled
along Atalanta‟s path. She paused only a brief second and ran again. But before she could catch up with
Hippomenes, the youngman, with one great bound, reached the goal and won the race.
They were married and lived happily and had many beautiful and brave descendants.
470 WORDS
Direction: Write C if the statement is correct; W if it is wrong.
_________ 1. Atalanta was a beautiful and fearless maiden.

_________ 2. She was the daughter of King Perseus of Persia.
_________ 3. Atalanta was known as the fleetest runner in the whole country.
_________ 4. She decided to marry the man who was faster runner than she was.
_________ 5. Because death was the penalty for those whom she defeated, nobody would like to raise with her.
_________ 6. Hippomenes knew that only a miracle could make him win the race against Atalanta.
_________ 7. Venus did not Hippomenes when he requested her to help him in his race with Atalanta.
_________ 8. Atalanta was not attracted by the golden apples thrown in her path.
_________ 9. Hippomenes would not have won the race were it not for the three golden apples.
_________ 10. Hippomenes and Atalanta were married and they lived happily ever after.
BOOK II No. 26
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________
THE SEA HORSE
Nature has many strange creatures, some of them huge, some of them small. One of these strange
creatures is the sea horse. This animal of the sea has the arching neck of a wild stallion, the swelling bosom of a
pigeon, the grasping tail of a monkey, and the power to change its color that belongs to a chameleon. It has eyes
that pivot independently of one another, so that while one looks back the other can look forward; or when one
looks up, the other can look down or around. To top this fantasy, the male is equipped with a kangaroo-style
pouch in its front, from which the little ones are born.
There are more than 40 species, ranging in length from one inch to one foot, and they can be found in the
warm seas all over the world. The sea horse is a master of camouflaging. It can change color to go with its
surroundings.
The sea horse‟s body is sheathed in a tough, capiz-like armor of bony plates. Because of this rigid armor,
it swims standing up by fluttering a tiny yellow, fanlike fin on its back, propelling itself in a stately manner.
Straight as a rod, it moves forward or backward, up or down, by manipulating that fin so fast hat movement is
hardly visible. Two membrane-like fins at the sides of its head wave ceaselessly.
The worst thing that can happen to a swimming sea horse is a puncture in its armor. A single puncture in
its armor could cause air to escape from its sealed armor and make the sea horse sink helplessly to the bottom.
There it remains until he has manufactured enough gas to fill up his tank.
The courtship of sea horses is strange in itself. The female produces from 500 to 600 eggs and deposits
them in the male‟s pouch. For the next 45 days, the father sea horse nourishes the nestling in his swelling
incubator pouch. At he end of this period, a baby sea horse, the size of a comma, swims out, followed by another.
This continues until the whole brood is ejected from the incubator. Each baby is an exact replica of its parents,
except that the body is transparent. Its tiny heart can be seen beating with the aid of a magnifying glass.
The sea horse feeds on plankton and minute plant and animal life. It would not feed on anything that is not
alive and moving. The sea horse itself is not fit to be eaten either by man or by fish.
Of what use is a sea horse? Studies made have not revealed any useful purpose in the sea horse. However,
everything in a nature has a need and a purpose. Perhaps, sea horses were made to keep the level of plankton
down so that the latter would not over run the sea!
480 WORDS
1. The seahorse has the arching neck of a (a. pigeon b. stallion c. monkey d. chameleon ).
2. Its eyes open (a. are fixed b. are immovable c. can pivot d. are enormous ).
3. The (a. female b. male c. baby d. grown up ) seahorse has a kangaroo- like pouch from
which the little ones are born.
4. The seahorse as a master of camouflaging means it can
a. change its position anytime c. change its color to go with its surrounding
b. hide from its enemies d. always win over its enemies
5. The seahorse swims (a. horizontally b. standing up c. sitting down d. lying down )
6. A puncture in the seahorse are more could make the seahorse ( a. float b. sink c. sick d. die)
7. A baby seahorse is a s big as the size of a ( a. fly b. microbe c. worm d. comma).
8. The baby seahorse is hatched in ( a. ten b. twenty c. forty-five d. one hundred ) days.
9. The kangaroo-like pouch in the males body serves as
a. an incubator b. nest c. temporary shelter d. hiding place
10. The seahorse has plenty of uses. ( a. true b. false c. maybe d. does not tell)
BOOK II No. 27
____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________
ABRAHAM LINCOLN
Many stories have been told of the boy who was born on a log cabin of very poor parents; of how he
learned to read by the light of the fireplace; and of how he walked long distances to borrow books. From humble
beginnings, he rose and became the 10th President of the United States. He was known as the Great Emancipator.
As a young man, he tended store for a neighbor. On one occasion he unintentionally short-changed a
customer. It was long after the customer had departed when he discovered his mistake. He walked miles and miles
to the customer‟s house just to return the change. That was how he earned the name “Honest Abe”.
Then he became President of the United States. When he was troubled by affairs of state, he took long
walks to clear his mind. On these walks he was usually dressed in his old clothes. With his long strides he often
outdistanced the men assigned to guard him.
At dusk of one winter day, he went on one of these walks. Snow had covered the roads making them
slippery. He was walking along an almost deserted street, when a carriage driving fast overtook him. Suddenly, a
dog ran across the street frightening the horses. They shied, driving the carriage to a deep ditch, its rear wheel
stuck in a deep, muddy ditch. The horses were unable to move the carriage no matter how they tried. The colored
driver and the footman kept urging the horses, but the carriage-wheel sank deeper. The passenger, apparently a
very wealthy and important man because of his elegant and rich garb, kept shouting at his men, waving his arms in
anger and frustration. He had an appointment to keep at the White House. The tall, bearded pedestrian
came to the scene, and at a glance saw what had happened. He approached the carriage on the side stuck in the
ditch, put his shoulders to the wheel and signaled the coachman to prod the horses. At first, the carriage would not
move. With another mighty heave of the tall pedestrian, the carriage finally moved out of the ditch. The coachman
leaped to his placed, the passenger sank to his seat, and the carriage drove on to the White House.
The passenger was just on time for his appointment. In the President‟s room, he sat, a little impatient. In
his country, he was an important man. In his wild country, he did not relish being kept waiting.
At last, a door opened. A tall, bearded man entered, his clothes splattered with mud and snow. He gravely
took the suddenly limp hand of the dumb-stricken visitor, then went around the desk and, mud and all, sat on the
chair of the President of the United States.
Etched on an old-fashioned inkstand on which the tall man dipped a quill pen was the name: A. Lincoln!
495 WORDS

______ 1. Abraham Lincoln was born in a log cabin of ( a. poor b. wealthy c. well-off d. prominent) parents.
______ 2. Walking long distances just to borrow books showed that Abraham was
( a. wasting time b. an avid reader c. trying to find an excuse for not reading d. very industrious ).
______ 3. After discovering that he had short-changed a customer, Abraham
a. just shrugged his shoulders c. laughed at the customer‟s negligence
b. was happier than ever d. walked miles to return the extra change
______ 4. He became the ( a. first b. last c. tenth d. fifth ) President of the United States of America.
______ 5. When troubled by State affairs, Abraham
a. wanted to quit his job c. did not care at all
b. passed the buck to others d. took long walks to clear his mind ).
______ 6. The incident in the story on (a. winter day b. a Christmas day c. an inaugural day d. a summer day).
______ 7. ( a. A car b. A carriage c. A limousine d. a station wagon ) fell into a ditch.
______ 8. The passenger was ( a. the president of the United States b. an important man
c. a poor man d. on his to the hospital ).
______ 9. He had an appointment with
a. the president of the United States c. his wife who was celebrating her birthday
b. a very good friend d. the people
______ 10. The man who sat on the chair of the president of the US was
a. late for his appointment c. funny looking with mustache
b. the man who helped move the carriage out of the ditch d. a shabbily- dressed beggar
BOOK II No. 28
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________
AFRICA, THE DARK CONTINENT
Whenever we think of Africa, we seem to picture a large continent covered with either huge deserts, high
plateau and mountains, and vast impenetrable jungles inhabited by black uncivilized people. We oftentimes
overlook the past, that Egypt which is part of Africa, was once the cradle of the first great civilization. Egypt had
built magnificent temples, palaces and the pyramids when most of Europe was still in a barbaric stage.
Africa has often been called the dark continent. The true Africa is a continent of vivid contracts. There are
many kinds of land forms and the climate is variable. There is the hot Sahara desert and the high plateau which
covers the area south of the Sahara. There are dense jungles, broad fertile plains and high snow-capped mountains.
As a result of these difference, many ways of living have developed in Africa‟s varied kinds of lands.
The areas north of the Sahara have been apart of the rich and colorful life of the Mediterranean world.
Sahara‟s great expanse is not entirely a waste of shifting sands. Only one-tenth of the desert is covered by sand.
The rest are plains, hills, mountains and thousands of oasis where date palms and other palms thrive. Egypt and
Ethiopia are regions which are productive, culturally and agriculturally. Theirs is a rich history.
Both the eastern and western coastal areas are fertile. Here are the sites of cities and other centers of
population. Southern Africa is a pleasant land and is one of the continents most prosperous areas. Central Africa‟s
Rivers have their source here. Central Africa is covered with dense jungles. So much rain falls that trees and
plants grow very fast. Thick bushes and tough vines twinning from tree make passage difficult, sometimes
impossible. The jungles are inhabited by pygmies who never mingle with other people. They depend on fruits,
roots and small animals which they kill with poisoned arrows. Elsewhere, the plateau are grasslands with only a
few trees. The grasslands with tall grasses are the homes of the elephant, the buffalo and the rhinoceros. The areas
where the grasses are not very tall are the roving areas of all kinds of deer, giraffes and zebras.
The African plateau are peopled by Negroes (Bantu) who have little contact with civilization. They are
very tall men; men seven feet in high are common sights. Many of them earn their living through primitive
farming, herding and hunting. They have a tribal form of government; each village has a headman, usually related
to the chief of the tribe. There are many warlike tribes in the heart of Central Africa.
The civilized people of Africa are mostly Moslems. The Moslem Arabs were the first people to have
commercial and cultural contact with Africa. Christian missionaries have made inroads in the establishments of
Christianity in many parts of Africa.
With this innovations, could we say then that Africa is no longer a dark continent?
500 WORDS
Choose the correct answer.
1. The cradle of the first great civilization was

( a. Africa b. Egypt c. Ethiopia d. Europe ).
2. Africa is a vast expanse of desert and jungle and no fertile plain.
(a. true b. false c. maybe d. does not tell )
3. Varied ways of living have developed in Africa because
a. it is a great big jungle c. its people are civilized
b. it has varied lands forms and variable climate d. of the kind of government it has
4. (a. Orchids b. cactus c. date palms d. pine trees ) grow in the oasis.
5. (a. Eastern b. Western c. Southern d. Central ) Africa is covered with dense jungles.
6. These jungles are inhabited by the ( a. pygmies b. Bantu c. witch doctors d. safari people ).
7. They use ( a. guns and riffles b. poisoned arrows c. magic potions d. traps ) in hunting and killing animals.
8. The African plateau are peopled by ( a.. pygmies b. Negroes c. witch doctors d. tourists).
9. The Negroes or Bantu have a ( a. democratic b. tribal c. monarchial d. socialistic) form of government.
10. The civilized people of Africa are mostly ( a. Catholics b. Pagans c. Muslims d. Christians).
BOOK II No. 29
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________
HOW THE UNITED NATIONS WAS ORGANIZED
The Second World War broke out in 1939 and lasted for seven years. Most of the countries all over the
world were involved in the war and the Philippines was no exception. She was drawn into this world war in 1941
when the Japanese attacked it simultaneously with Pearl Harbor. Later on, the Philippines were occupied by
enemy forces.
The countries attacked by either Germany or Japan and those who fought on the side of freedom began to
think of forming a world organization to maintain a just peace. We called these countries Allies. This great idea
was conceived by Franklin D. Roosevelt, President of the U.S.A., Winston Churchill, the Prime Minister of
England, and the leaders of other countries who were also interested in the idea.
The leaders met at different times and at different places to discuss how to win the war and how world
peace may be maintained after the war ended. In their conferences the leaders discussed the different ideas and
steps leading to a world organization. Agreements were signed by freedom-loving countries headed by the United
States. These agreements contained the ideas and the promises of the nations who signed their agreements to an
organization after the war.
Thus was born the United Nations Declaration, a short document signed by four world leaders on New
Years Day in 1942. The leaders were President Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, Maxim Litvinov of Soviet Russia
and T.V. Song of China. Twenty-two representatives of other nations added their signature on the document the
next day. The governments of the countries which signed this document promised to do all they could to end the
war. They agreed not to make a separate peace treaty with Japan and Germany. The governments of the different
signatories also declared their promise to carry out the ideas of the Atlantic Charter.
When a conference was called in San Francisco three years later to organize the United Nations
Organization, only those states which had by March 1945 declared war on Germany and Japan and had agreed to
the United Nations Declaration were invited to take part in the deliberations.
In the conference held in a mansion known as Dumbarton Oaks in Washington, capital of the United
States, work in forming a world organization was started. Representatives of China, Great Britain, The Union of
Soviet Socialist Republic and the United States attended this conference.
According to this conference, a body known as the Security Council would be responsible for preserving
World Peace. The countries of China, France, the U.S.S.R., the United Kingdom and the United States known as
the “Big Five” were to be permanently represented. The three leaders, Roosevelt, Churchill and Stalin, announced
that a conference of the United Nations would take place in San Francisco in the United States on April 25, 1945
to prepare a charter for a world organization.
It was at this San Francisco conference that the United Nations was finally organized.
500 WORDS
Read each sentence carefully. On your paper, copy the numbers of those sentences that show how the United
Nations was organized.
1. A Security Council was formed which would be responsible for the peace of the world. __________
2. The Second World War broke out in 1931. __________
3. Freedom loving countries were invited to form a world organization to maintain world peace. __________
4. The Philippines was drawn into the war in 1941. __________
5. Most countries of the world were involved in World War II. __________
6. A world organization was agreed upon by freedom-loving countries led by the United States. __________
7. The countries composed of the “Big Five” were to be permanently represented in the Security Council. _____
8. Germany and Japan were considered enemies by the allies. __________
9. The conferences discussed how to win the war and how to maintain world peace at war‟s end. __________
10. The United Nations was finally organized at the San Francisco conference. __________
BOOK II No. 30
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

THE GREATEST STORY EVER TOLD
There is one story which has not lost its magic for more than one thousand nine hundred seventy years.
This story has been told and retold and it has always been received with love and reverence, accompanied by an
inner glow and a feeling of close affinity with God. This is the story of the birth of Jesus.
Her lovely and gentle face lined with weariness from the long journey from Nazareth to Judea, Virgin
Mary with her husband Joseph, a carpenter, came to the city of David which was called Bethlehem. There had
gone out a decree from the Roman Emperor Augustus Caesar that all citizens should be registered and taxed each
in his own city. Being of the house of David, Joseph came with his wife to be taxed in Bethlehem. Mary, heavy
with child, could hardly speak in utter fatigue, and Joseph was worried for he could not find a place for his wife to
rest that night. The city was swarming with people who had come for the same purpose as Joseph and Mary. It
was late at night as Joseph knocked from door to door pleading for a room. “My wife is heavy with child,” he said
“and her time is drawing near.” But he invariably got the same answer, “We have no room.”
No room for them in the inn! Joseph begged an innkeeper to permit them to use the stable behind the inn.
It was in this slowly stable with oxen lowing around that the Child Jesus was born on a pile of straw.
As the shepherds watched their flocks that night, a glorious light shone upon them and the Angel of the
Lord appeared. “Behold! I bring you good tidings of great joy—for unto you are born this day, in the city of
David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
While the poor, ignorant shepherds, dressed in the rough clothes of their class were on their way to find
the Babe, three wise kings from the East came to seek for the Messiah. Therefore, the poor and the rich, the wise
and the ignorant all made their way to the stable in Bethlehem to pay homage to the Babe who was born that
night. They all came guided by a large and luminous star. Its light seemed to fall directly on the stable and another
light, even brighter and more wonderful seemed to glow from within. Upon entering the stable the shepherds saw
Mary bending over the manger where lay the Holy Child clad in swaddling clothes. The shepherds fell on their
knees and offered him their gifts, their lambs. When the three wise men came, they, too, fell on their knees in
awed worship and offered the Child rich gifts of gold, frankincense and myhrr.
“Behold! unto you are born a Savior.” Christ is born all over again whenever and wherever this is retold.
500 WORDS

1. What is considered the greatest story ever told?
a. The Creation b. The Birth of Jesus c. The Great Flood d. The Iliad
2. From where did Joseph and Mary come from?
a. Nazareth b. Bethlehem c. Palestine d. Samaria
3. Who was the emperor at that time? a. Herod b. Caesar c. David d. Saul
4. Why did Mary and Joseph come to Bethlehem?
a. to give birth to Jesus b. to register c. to stay there permanently
5. What was the line age of Joseph?
a. David‟s b. Caesar‟s c. Noah d. Abraham‟s
6. Was the innkeeper glad to give room for them?
7. Who told the shepherds of the coming of the Messiah?
a. Herod b. The Wise Men c. Joseph d. Angels
8. Where did the wise men come from?
a. The East b. The West c. The North d. The South
9. What guided the wise men to the stable?
a. a star b. a lantern c. a comet d. a meteor
10. Do you think people will eve get tired of the story of the first Christmas?
BOOK II No. 31
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________
WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE ONE?
What is a Boy Scout? He enjoys a hike over mountains, more than just walking on paved city street. He
likes to climb trees, swims like a fish and can tell east from west. He can make a camp for himself, can cut grass
for a bed, can build a fire without matches and can cook his dinner just over the glowing coals He knows which
food are good to eat and which are not The boy Scout feel safe in the open.
Here‟s a story of the difference between scout-trained boys and those who are not which was shown by
something that happened in the mountain province.
One Saturday, to groups of five boys each went hiking in the mountains. One group was composed of
Boys Scouts, the other was of ordinary boys. Both were aiming to go half way up the mountain. Suddenly a storm
came and for forty-eight hours the two groups of boys were cut off from the world. It was not known until the
following Sunday afternoon that the five boys who were not scouts had not returned. When a search party found
them, two of the boys were seen wandering dazedly in the woods while the other two were in semi-coma due to
hunger and cold. The fifth boy was dead.
“Why didn‟t you build a fire?” asked the searchers.
“We did not try because the wood and twigs were wet,” they said.
They explained that when the storm broke out, they decided to start for home. The fifth boy who was only
twelve years old was so exhausted that they tried to carry him but soon they had to leave him near the edge of the
woods to call for help. But when they found out that they were still far from the footpath to town they tried to
return to the place where they left the boy. They found out that they had lost their way to the edge of the woods. It
was late Sunday night when the searchers found the body.
On the other hand, how did our Boy Scouts act under the same circumstances? When the storm broke out
they were almost eight miles from the footpath. When the storm came upon them, the oldest boy who acted as
patrol leader led them to an old barn which they had passed along their way. They gathered wet weeds and twigs
which yielded easily to their know-how in building a fire. Very soon the five scouts were huddling together and
drying their wet clothes by the crackling fire. They opened their knapsacks, heated their food in their canteen cans
and soon they were eating a hearty warm meal.
They made their camp beds in the corner of the barn and in no time they were fast asleep. Next day when
the storm had passed, they started for home so that their parents would not worry about them. Down the path to
the town they met the searching party. Their families were happy to see the boys returned safe and sound.
417 WORDS
Direction: Write R if the statement is right; W if it is wrong.

1. A boy scout is ready to meet problems and strives to overcome them if possible.
2. He may not be able to distinguish east from west.
3. He can build a fire without matches.
4. A boy scout is scared of the open fields.
5. There is a great difference between scout trained boys and those who are not.
6. The scout – trained boys were not able to build a fire because the wood and twigs were wet.
7. The two boys who were not trained in scouting were in semi-coma due to hunger and cold.
8. The scout-trained boys shielded themselves from the storm by looking for a place where they may be
safe.
9. One of the scout-trained boys was found dead by the searching party.
10. All the scout-trained boys returned safely after the storm.
BOOK II No. 32
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________
THE GOOD SAMARITAN
Long ago, Jesus told his disciples and the people around him the story of the Good Samaritan. He wanted
to teach them the meaning of the word “neighbor”.
The Samaritan in this story was a man from Samaria, a district in Palestine.
“There was a man from Jerusalem,” Jesus began, “He was riding on his mule one morning on his way to
the walled city of Jericho. He had with him some money, a few if his best clothes and some foods to eat on the
way for the journey would be long.
„I‟ll buy my wife a pair of good sandals, a jewel box for my daughter and a new turban for my son,‟ the
man thought.
“But a group strong and dirty-looking robbers appeared from behind the palms. They were armed with
knives and heavy sticks. They cried, „Let us take his money.‟ the robbers jumped on the poor man.
„Please! cried the poor man. „What is the meaning of this?‟
“But before he could say anything more, the robbers knock him on the head, some struck his face then
they run away after snatching the purse that hung from his neck leaving the poor man half dead.
“Hours passed and the man who was now conscious could hardly move his arms and legs. Soon a priest
came down the road riding on a strong mule. The man waved his arms for help but the priest turned his mule to
the other side of the road.
„Perhaps he thought I was dead,‟ the man thought.
The man fell unconscious again and the sun continued to burn his wounds.
“After a while, a Levite member of an ancient Hebrew tribe, passed by the wounded man. Like the priest,
he passed on the other side of the road and did not take notice of the wounded man.
“A man from Samaria happened to be on his way to Jericho. He came to the dying man.
„I must help this man or he will die,‟ the Samaritan said to himself.
“He got down from his mule and applied oil to the wounds of the dying man. The he lifted the wounded
man and put him on his mule while he walked beside him. He drove the mule in the direction of Jericho.
“When he came to an inn, he asked for a room, where he took care of the wounded man.
“The next morning the wounded man was much better.
„Don‟t try anything,‟ the Samaritan said. „You had better sleep and rest for a few days.‟
He left the room and left some money to the innkeeper.
„Do you know this man?‟ asked the innkeeper.
„NO,‟ the Samaritan answered. „I don‟t know where he comes from. I found him wounded and dying by
the roadside. But that does not matter now. Just take this money and take care of him for me.‟
“Soon he was on his way to Jericho.” Jesus ended his story.
Jesus wanted all of us to know that the word “neighbor” does not mean only the person or persons who
live near us but also those who need help badly.
Direction: Write R if the statement is right; W if it is wrong.
1. This story is about the Good Samaritan as told by Jesus to his listeners and to his disciples.
2. The man was from Samaria, a district of Palestine.
3. The mule was the beast of burden in this story.
4. He was robbed by a Levite, a member of an ancient Hebrew tribe.
5. The robbers left the Samaritan half dead and robbed him of his purse.
6. A priest took pity on the wounded man and placed him on his mule.
7. Like the priest, the Levite helped the wounded man.
8. The man from Samaria brought the wounded man to an inn and tended his wounds.
9. He left him in the inn under the care of the innkeeper.
10. The word neighbor meant not only persons who live near us but also those who need help badly.
BOOK II No. 33
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________
THE ARMORED BANDITS OF THE INSECT WORLD
Have you ever examined a beetle? Few members of the insect world are better fitted for the roughness of
everyday life than these bold, hungry beetles. These insects are almost covered from head to foot with a strong
tough armor plate, which is really their skeleton worn on the outside. This is not only their advantage over others
for they possess nearly all natures‟ bags of tricks for their protection and support.
If a contest of strength and skill were held among insects, there is no doubt that the beetles would carry
off the prize for all-around excellence. Among them can be found strong jumpers, powerful flyers, fine climbers
and swift runners. Others excel in digging, boring, swimming, and diving. In their ranks can also be found
wrestlers, acrobats and weight lifters. They are the champions of the six-legged tribes.
However, beetles are very poor singers; very few of them possess a voice at all and most of them have
only a feeble note. As if to make up for this, some of them have extraordinary powers of giving off a bright light
like the fireflies. However, it is chiefly the armor of the beetles that distinguishes them from others. Most winged
insects have their four wings, like the butterflies, moths, bees, wasps, and others. In others, like the housefly and
other flies, the hind pair of wings is absent. On the other hand the front pair of wings of the beetles have turned
hard and thick, folding down over the back and forming the creator‟s armor plate. When the beetle wants to take
an airstrip, the wing covers which are not really used for flying are raised high to permit the delicate hind wings to
spread out. When it alights again, the hind wings fold up, the armored wings fall into place over them and one
would never know that the beetle was ever meant for anything except running, climbing and swimming.
The English term beetle comes from “betel” meaning the “biting one”. Because of their strong jaws they
are indeed great biters which some use for killing a living prey, some for devouring leaves of trees and plants,
others for gnawing timber, leather, cloth, or books, and still others for tearing apart the dead thing or refuse on
which they feed.
Beetles are honest fighters. They use no stings or poisoned fangs but grab boldly with their jaws and
claws. So even though beetles look fierce and dangerous you can pick them up without fear so long as you avoid
their pincers and don‟t mind the unpleasant odor they give off when they are frightened or angry. Because they are
not easily injured by handling, beetles make the most interesting pests especially for boys. Provided with their
natural surroundings and proper food, they can easily adjust themselves to a life in a cage and show off strange
habits freely.
As beetles can adjust themselves admirably to nearly all conditions of life in nearly all parts of the world,
the number of their species is believed to be greater than that of other insects in the group. Scientists have
classified more than 200,000 different kinds of beetles and more are added to the list every year.
439 WORDS
Direction: Copy the word or phrase that answers the question.

1. The story is about (a. wasps b. grasshoppers c. beetles d. crickets)
2. These insects are nearly covered from head to foot by
(a. tough armor plate b. soft covering c. skeleton d. spines)
3. In their ranks can be found
(a. a full voice b. soft voice c. champions of six-legged tribes d. real athletes)
4. These insects are very poor (a. singers b. wrestlers c. climbers d. eaters)
5. The name of this insect means (a. singing one b. biting one c. fighting one d. poor one)
6. The most distinguishing trait of this insect is
(a. his three wings b. two wings c. four wings d. hidden trail)
7. Some of these insects have extraordinary powers of giving off a
(a. bright light b. strong odor c. sweet odor d. signals)
8. Because of their strong jaws these insects are indeed
(a. strong fighters b. great biters c. great climbers d. wood eaters)
9. These insects are (a. honest fighters b. cowards c. brave fighters d. shy fighters).
10. These insects make insects make interesting
(a. specimens b. pets c. playthings especially to boys d. experiments).
BOOK II No. 34
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________
WHEN KNIGHTHOOD WAS IN FLOWER
In the first few centuries after the birth of Christ, England and most parts of Western Europe were divided
into many feudal states. These feudal states were governed by dues, earls, and counts, and were loosely bound
together into larger states ruled by kings.
The kings held courts with a retinue of selected men of arms called knights. The most noted knights in
romantic fiction were the knights of the Round Table of king Arthur‟s Court, the most famous of them being
Lancelot, Tristam, Galahad and Gawain. They were believed to have performed extraordinary deeds of daring and
valor, in defense of their king and in helping the needy.
The dukes, counts and earls also had certain knights in their households. They were chiefly fighting men,
who woe allegiance only to their liege. They learned to fight when they were boys and kept on fighting until old
age. However, not all boys could become knights. Only those who belong to noble families were thought fit for
knighthood: Certain traits were required of a boy aspiring for knighthood: high esteem and lofty devotion to
women, a love of daring adventure, and a thirst for glory.
The education of the knight begins at an early age. The young and noble stripling of about 12 years is sent
to the court of some dukes, counts or kings where he spends his time chiefly in attending to the ladies as a page.
He starts acquiring knightly manners, skills in the use of arms and in riding. After a few years, having acquired
proficiency in the use of arms, he becomes a squire and is attached to a knight. He serves the knight by cleaning
the knight‟s arms and armor, by taking care of his horses, and by bearing his shield. The rank of knighthood is
conferred upon him on or about his 21st birthday, except in cases of distinguished birth or great achievement.
The candidate for knighthood prepares himself by confessing, fasting, and attending religious rites. He
promises to be faithful to his liege, to protect ladies and orphans, never to utter slander, and to live in harmony
with his equals. Kneeling before his liege. He receives a slight blow on the shoulders with the flat of the sword of
his liege and is knighted with the words: “I dub thee Sir Knight”. Conferring knighthood is often done on the eve
of battles to stimulate the new knight into deeds of valor, or after combat to reward signal victory or valorous
deeds performed.
In times of peace, the knights showed their skills in tournaments. Tournaments were held for
entertainment and as preparation for the knights. One of the most exciting parts of a tournament was the jousting.
Two armored knights mounted on their horses at a signal charged at each other with blunted lances. The knight
who knocked his opponent off his horse was declared the winner. Sometimes they fought to death to settle
differences.
The knights honored their ladies in many ways. They protected them from harm or insult. They gave them
places of honor at tournaments and at the tables. They carried their colors, a scarf or a kerchief in battles or
tournaments. Truly, women held an exalted place of honor when knighthood was in flower.
Chivalry went hand in hand with knighthood. The end knighthood tolled the death knell of chivalry.
1. England and most parts of Western Europe were once divided into many
(a. states b. provinces c. feudal estates d. communities).
2. Kings held courts with a retinue of selected men of arms called
(a. dukes b. earls c. counts d. knights)
3. Every boy who desires so could be a knight. (a. Yes b. No c. Maybe d. Does not tell)
4. Only those who belonged to the (a. rich b. noble c. powerful d. learned ) families were thought
fit for knighthood.
5. A boy aspiring for knighthood must have (a. a lofty devotion to women b. high ambition for power
c. a high regard for himself d. aspirations to be a king).
6. The education of a knight begins (a. at birth b. at an early age c. when the boy reaches eighteen
d. when the boy is about to be married)
7. He is first sent to the court of some duke, count, or king and attends to the ladies as a
(a. page b. squire c. lad d. liege)
8. He receives full training in the use of arms as a (a. page b. squire c. lad d. liege).
9. Conferring knighthood is often done on the eve of (a. the knights‟ twenty-first birth day b. battle
c. Christmas d. the King‟s birthday)
10. Women were highly esteemed when knighthood was in flower.
BOOK II
No. 35
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________
THE LIFE OF JULIUS CAESAR
Julius Caesar is probably the greatest representative of the genius of ancient Rome, a man of consummate ability as a
general, a constructive statesman, a great orator, and an exemplary writer on political wars.
He was born in 100 B.C. of patrician ancestry, and although his family was closely associated with the rule of
senatorial oligarchy, he had been associated with the popular party since early youth. His first wife, Cornelia was the daughter
of the head of the Populares party which lost favor in the Senate. His marriage to Cornelia deprived Caesar of his property,
his position and almost cost him his life.
To avoid trouble with those who were in power in the powerful Senate, Julius Caesar went to Asia. As a staff officer,
he served with distinguished bravery. He returned to Rome in 78 B.C. He was appointed pontifex maximus ( Grand Priest) an
office of great prestige and prominence in a state in which religion and politics are of utmost importance. Then, he was made
governor of Rome.
Upon his second returned to Rome, he was elected Consul and together with Pompey and Crassius form the first
Triumvirate. With his consulship was attached his assignment to the Gallic provinces. In the course of this governorship, he
subjugated the Gauls and brought peace to the territory.
With the death of Crassius, Pompey sought solitary leadership in Rome. He was jealous of Caesar‟s military glory.
The Senate then resolved the crush Caesar and named Pompey as the sole Consul with practically the powers of a dictator.
Caesar acted with moderation, and even sent two of his legions to help Rome. But the Senate ordered Caesar to lay
down his command or else he would be declared a public enemy. Caesar was determined to keep his office. He crossed the
Rubicon river with the famous words: “The die is cast” into Italian Rome, and war began.
In the next year of his life, he displayed amazing energy and resourcefulness. In three months, without striking a
blow, he became master of all Italy, and Pompey barely escaped across the Adriatic. Next he crossd the Pyrenese into Spain
and in forty days destroyed the forces loyal to Pompey. This was his most brilliant campaign; All Spain rallied to him. On his
returned to Italy, with a force of only 20,000 infantry and 1,000 cavalry, he defeated Pompey who had 70,000 infantry and
7,000 cavalry. Pompey fled to Egypt where he died.
Caesar went to Egypt, defeated Ptolemy, the King, and sat Cleopatra on the thone. Then he went to Asia Minor, met
and defeated the army of King Nitradates, and sent his famous message to the Roman senate: “Vini, vidi, vici” (I came, I saw,
I conquered).
He returned to Rome as a conqueror. Caesar now set himself to the task of reforms. He had been made dictator for
life. With absolute power in his hands, he set about the reconstruction of the government. He made the Senate a more
representative body, increased the number of magistrates, prohibited farming by slave labor and laid the foundation for local
self-government of all Roman communities.
But Caesar had risen too high to escape hatred. A plan was hatched to assassinate him. On March 15, 44 B.C. (the
oracles had warned Caesar to beware of the Ides of March) Caesar was assassinated in the Senate Hall by Marcus Brutus, his
close friend and protégée.
570 WORDS
Select the letter of the correct answer:

1. Julius Caesar is considered (a. a moron b. an idiot c. a mental case d. a genius)
2. His (a. family lineage b. patrician ancestry c. association with the popular party
d. marriage to Cornelia) deprived Caesar of his property and position and almost cost him his life.
3. Caesar was born (a. before Christ b. after Christ
c. on the same day that Christ was born d. a little after Christ)
4. A ( a. senator b. staff-officer c. grand priest d. consul) is an office of great prestige and
prominence where religion and politics are of utmost importance.
5. With Pompey and Crassius, Caesar formed the first
(a. Triple Alliance b. Triumvirate c. Big Three d. Great Consuls)
6. Pompey was jealous of Caesar‟s (a. wife b. military glory c. friends d. wealth)
7. After Pompey‟s defeat by Caesar, Pompey fled to Egypt, where he
(a. re-established forces b. set his own military campaign c. died d. spent his vacation)
8. As dictator, Caesar prohibited farming by
(a. machinery b. slave labor c. plow d. scientific method)
9. Brutus, Caesar‟s assassin, was Caesar‟s close friend and protégée.
10. Caesar was always victorious in war. (a. True b. False c. Maybe d. Does not tell)
BOOK II
No. 36
_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________
FIGHT AGAINTS AIR AND WATER POLLUTION
Right now, we, people all over the world, worry much about the millions who may die in ten years time as
predicted by alarmists as a result of the increasing pollution of air and water. They added also that unless
something is than about this menace, doomsday will come within a decade.
In the Philippines, the government has been busy com-batting air and atmosphere pollution and it is
making a good job of it in spite of lock of funds.
So far, Filipinos have not experienced pain, death and sickness from pollution. If our National Water and
Air Pollution Central Construction will set up their own anti-pollution devices for others to follow, the chances are
we may never experience the afflictions due to air and water pollution. As of now, many firms have adopted their
own methods of preventing pollution. This anti-pollution conscious firms are the Lirag Textile Mills, Philippine
Tannery Corporation, P.I. Manufacturing Co., and the Globe Paper Mills. All of these factories are located in
Malabon, Rizal.
Some firms like Marcopper Mining Co., are building lagoons, tanks and other anti-pollution devices to
keep our waterways, lakes and rivers from toxic materials that kill our marine and obstruct the free flow of water.
One of the projects of the pollution control people is to determine the contribution of the motor vehicles to
air pollution in the Greater Manila area. Highly specialized instruments have been ordered by the Commission to
sample air through air sampling stations which will be set up in strategic area like the Rizal Park, Quiapo,
Divisoria, Sta. Cruz, Cubao, Bonifacio Circle and Baclaran.
Another project to be conducted is a study of the nature and amount of air pollutants contributed by
industries to air pollution in the Manila Metropolitan areas. The study is concerned in how industrial plans affect
the quality of air in Manila Metropolitan area. The actual identification and location of factories have already been
started and samplings of emissions are being undertaken everyday.
There are various projects on water and air pollution which are being undertaken but the job of clearing up
our rivers and streams of toxic materials is a big order. It has been discovered by the anti-pollution office, that
rivers in the Greater Manila area are polluted by the discharges of industrial firms the same is true with the rivers
in the Luzon area, in the Visayan area and three rivers in the Mindanao area. The most of obnoxious waste in the
Philippines, according to the NWAPCC, are those coming from breweries, sugar centrals, food processing plants,
slaughterhouses and coconut oil extractors. It is said that the materials from them have very high organic content.
Irrigation systems using polluted water have unfavorable effects on plants.
According to the findings of the Commission, twenty-seven rivers, three creeks, and a bay are polluted
due to untreated discharges from various industrial establishments.
Statistics also reveal that thirty tons of dust fall in every square mile of Manila every month.
Because of these factors of which only a few had been mentioned here, the Filipino people cannot expect
having clear air or clean waters; however, we cannot allow filth to go uncontrolled.
We are gratified to know from the pollution control people that the present levels of pollution in both air
and water in our country are we belong that of America, Australia and Japan. This knowledge is reassuring for our
country just starting to tackle the serious job of controlling air and water pollution.
590WORDS
Direction: Write whether the statement is true or false.

1. Only Filipinos worry much about the menace of air and water pollution.
2. There is truth in the prediction that dooms day will come to all of us after a decade if the problem of
pollution is not controlled.
3. Our government is not a bit bothered at this situation.
4.The National Water and Air Pollution Control Commission will set up anti-pollution devices for other
to follow.
5. Many firms have also adopted their own methods of preventing pollution.
6. Highly specialized instruments had been ordered by the Commission to sample air through air
sampling stations.
7. The project of clearing our rivers and streams air sampling stations.
8. Irrigation systems using polluted water have no effect on plants.
9. Statistics reveal that thirty tons of dust falls in every square inch of Manila every month thus making
the air polluted.
10. Present pollution of air and water in our country are way above that of America, Australia and Japan.

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BOOK II No.

POPE PIUS XII AND THE HARLEM GLOBE TROTTERS

His Holiness smiled and answered,” Just once more, please.”

_____________ ____________ _____________ ___________ ____________

THE GORILLA IS A “PAPER TIGER”

_____________ ____________ _____________ ___________ ____________

THE DAY THE POLICE WENT ON STRIKE

But what if the Police Force of a city should go on strike?

_____________ ____________ _____________ ___________ ____________

STRIVE AND SUCCEED

_____________ ____________ _____________ ___________ ____________

Direction: Choose the letter of the best answer. (MARIJUANA)

_____________ ____________ _____________ ___________ ____________

HOSPITALITY, FILIPINO STYLE

Answer with True or False: (HOSPITALITY, FILIPINO STYLE)

_______ 1. Hospitality is a common trait of the Filipinos.

NEWTON, THE PHYSICIST

Direction: Write C if the statement is correct; W if it is wrong. (NEWTON, THE PHYSICIST)

__________ 1. Isaac Newton was best known for hi discovery of gravity.

_________ 2. He proved that white light is composed of eight colors.

_________ 6. Even as a boy, he was interested in designing and inventing.

_________ 7. As Newton grew older, he lost interest in researching and experimenting.

_________ 9. He was also interested in farming and marketing.

_____________ ____________ _____________ ___________ ____________

AFTER THE ASTRONAUTS, THE AQUANAUTS

Direction: Write the letter of the correct answer on your paper.

_____________ ____________ _____________ ___________ ____________

A LETTER TO THE FILIPINO PEOPLE

Directions: Answer the question correctly.

1. When did Quezon write this letter?

_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

Choose the letter of the correct answer: (ROMAN SPORTS)

THE BEAUTIFUL FILIPINA

Direction: Answer True or False.

_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

EGYPT, HOME OF THE WONDERS OF THE ANCIENT WORLD

Choose the letter of the correct answer.

_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

THE PANAMA CANAL

Choose the letter of the correct answer:

_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

THE PROPHECIES WHICH CAME TRUE

Choose the letter of the correct answer:

1. Josephine was the daughter of ( a. an Italian b. a Frenchman c. a Roman d. a Spaniard).

_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

ALEXANDER GRAHAM BELL

Direction: Write the letter of the correct answer on your paper.

_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

THE WORLD’S MOST FAMOUS TALKING BIRD

Choose the correct answer:

_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

A TALE OF TWO CITIES

Answer with True or False:

_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

Select the letter of the correct answer:

Choose the letter of the best answer:

_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

THE ENCHANTED TRUNK

Direction: Copy the letter of the correct answer.

1. The story tells about a kind ( a. fairy b. woman c. body ) __________

_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

OUR NEIGHBOR, TAIWAN

_____________ ____________ _____________ __________ __________

Choose the letter of the correct answer:

_______ _ _ ________

_______ _ _ ________

_______ _ _ ________

_______ _ _ ________

_______ _ _ ________

_______ _ _ ________

_______ _ _ ________

_______ _ ______

_______ _ ______

_______ _ ______

_______ _ ______

_______ _ ______

_______ _ ______

_______ _ ______

_______ _ ______

_______ _ ______

_______ _ ______

_______ _ ______

_______ _ ______

_______ _ ______