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expression and the preservation of cultural identity. Among the rich musical traditions of
Indonesia, Gamelan stands out as a distinguished form of percussion ensemble native to the
country. Comprising metallophones, xylophones, drums, and gongs, Gamelan produces
intricate rhythms and beautiful melodies that reflect the depth of Indonesia’s cultural heritage.
Gamelan’s significance extends beyond its musical prowess, permeating Indonesian society
with its cultural resonance. It serves as an integral component of traditional ceremonies,
cultural festivals, and performing arts, uniting communities and fostering a sense of collective
identity. Whether in the grandeur of a royal court or the intimacy of a village gathering,
Gamelan infuses rituals and celebrations with rhythm and harmony, symbolizing the shared
spirit and traditions of the Indonesian people.
Batik, an integral part of Indonesian culture, holds immense significance as it represents the
country’s history and artistic traditions. With a presence spanning centuries, batik has become
deeply rooted in Indonesian society, serving not only as clothing but also as a medium for
storytelling and showcasing the diverse cultures and traditions of different regions within
Indonesia.
To truly grasp the essence of traditional Indonesian batik, one must delve into its intricate
process. This begins with researching the history and cultural importance of batik, which
unveils its strong connection to Indonesian identity. Breaking down the process into various
steps, from design to dyeing, reveals the meticulous craftsmanship required at each stage. The
application of wax to create intricate patterns, followed by the delicate dyeing of the fabric,
showcases the skill and precision necessary to produce a masterpiece. By utilizing real-life
examples and visual aids, students can gain a deeper understanding of the materials, tools,
and techniques employed in the traditional art of batik-making.
6. Based on the passage, what is one of the purposes of batik in Indonesian society?
A. To serve as clothing for everyday use.
B. To create a medium for storytelling.
C. To showcase the dyeing techniques.
D. To break down the steps of the design process.
E. To demonstrate the cultural significance of textiles.
7. According to the passage, what does the process of creating batik involve?
A. Researching the history of batik.
B. Understanding the cultural importance of batik.
C. Applying wax to create intricate patterns.
D. Utilizing real-life examples.
E. Boiling the fabric before dyeing.
Celebrating another successful semester with the best classmates anyone could ask for!
What are you most looking forward to during the upcoming break?
A. Relaxing and catching up on sleep
B. Spending time with family and friends
TEXT 1
Indonesia’s cultural mosaic is renowned for its richness and diversity, and within this tapestry
lies a treasure trove of traditional dances, among which jaipongan stands out prominently.
With a staggering number of over 1.300 ethnic groups inhabiting the archipelago. Indonesia
boasts a plethora of unique cultural heritages, resulting in the existence of over 3,000 original
dance forms. These traditional dances, spanning different eras, genres, and types, serve as
vibrant reflections of the country’s myriad ethnicities and cultures.
Originating in West Java during the 1960s, jaipongan emerged under the creative genius of
Gugum Gumbira, an artist from Bandung. This dance form serves as an epitome of
Indonesian artistic richness, particularly within the West Java Province. Jaipongan is
characterized by its distinctive dance movements and music, heavily influenced by the
melodious tones of Sundanese gamelan instruments. With its intricate rhythms, break dance
maneuvers, and subtly suggestive gestures, jaipongan embodies a unique 16 or 32-beat
rhythm, marked by the resounding echo of a solitary gong, devoid of any discernible Western
influence.
Apart from its mesmerizing choreography and musical accompaniment, jaipongan boasts its
own array of traditional costumes. Dancers adorn themselves in elaborate and colorful attire,
a manifestation of West Java’s rich cultural legacy. These costumes often feature traditional
fabrics adorned with intricate patterns, complemented by accessories such as headdresses and
jewelry. The harmonious interplay between the vibrant costumes and the dynamic movements
of the dancers creates a visual spectacle that captivates audiences and celebrates the essence
of Indonesian cultural heritage.
16. In the passage, the author uses the phrase “treasure trove” to describe:
A. The diversity of Indonesia’s cultural heritages
B. The number of ethnic groups in Indonesia
C. The existence of over 3,000 original dance forms in Indonesia
D. The richness of Indonesian artistic traditions
E. The scarcity of traditional dances in Indonesia
17. According to the passage, what makes jaipongan a unique dance form in Indonesia?
A. It originated in West Java during the 1960s.
B. It is characterized by intricate rhythms and break dance maneuvers.
C. It is heavily influenced by Sundanese gamelan instruments.
D. It features costumes adorned with elaborate patterns and accessories.
E. It is rooted in Balinese traditional music and dance.
18. Based on the passage, which of the following best describes the relationship between
Jaipongan and Western influence?
A. Jaipongan incorporates elements of Western dance styles.
B. Jaipongan rejects any influence from Western dance traditions.
C. Jaipongan’s rhythm is distinctively Indonesian, free from Western influence.
D. Jaipongan’s music includes Western musical instruments.
E. Jaipongan was originally inspired by Western dance movements.
19. The author suggests that the costumes worn in jaipongan performances are significant
because they:
A. Reflect the cultural traditions of West Java
B. Create a visual spectacle for the audience
C. Enhance the choreography of the dance
D. Showcase Indonesia’s unique ethnicities and cultures
E. Symbolize the influence of Western fashion
20. According to the passage, how does jaipongan serve as a reflection of Indonesia’s ethnic
diversity?
A. Through its music influenced by Sundanese gamelan instruments
B. By incorporating traditional fabrics with intricate patterns in its costumes known for its
artistic richness
C. By originating in West Java, a province
D. By encompassing various dance forms from different eras and genres
E. By originating in East Java, a province known for its artistic richness
TEXT 2
When monkeypox cases in Europe began to decline this summer, researchers’ first question
was: Is it real? Some worried that people might not be getting tested because of receding
fears of the virus, coupled with strict isolation requirements for patients. “They might be
reluctant to be confirmed and be told not to go out at all,” says Catherine Smallwood,
monkeypox incident manager at the World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) Regional Office
for Europe.
But the decline is now unmistakable. WHO Europe, which reported more than 2000 cases per
week during the peak in July, is now counting about 100 cases weekly. In the Americas, the
other major epicenter of the outbreak, numbers have dropped by more than half (see graphic,
right). “We’re seeing a true decline,” Smallwood says.
Vaccines, behavior change among the most affected group men who have sex with men
(MSM) and immunity after natural infection are all playing a role in that decline, says Erik
Volz, an infectious disease modeler at Imperial College London, but how much each factor
has contributed is unclear. “This is something we’ve debated a lot internally.”
21. How does the decline in monkeypox cases this summer raise concerns among
researchers?
A. Researchers fear that people are not being tested for the virus due to decreased fear and
strict isolation requirements.
B. Researchers believe that people are getting tested but not receiving accurate results.
C. Researchers are concerned about the increasing number of monkeypox cases in Europe.
D. Researchers question the accuracy of the data reported by WHO Europe.
E.Researchers speculate that monkeypox cases are being underreported due to insufficient
testing and fear of isolation.
22. According to Catherine Smallwood, what is one possible reason why people might be
reluctant to get tested for monkeyрох?
A. People are misinformed about the symptoms of monkeypox.
B. People fear that they will be isolated and not allowed to go outside.
C. People do not believe that monkcypox is a real virus.
D. People are unaware of the procedures for getting tested for monkeypox.
E. People think that monkeypox testing is not accurate
23. Which region was the other major epicenter of the monkeypox outbreak besides Europe?
A. Asia
B. Africa
C. Americas
D. Australia.
E. Antarctica
24. How have vaccines, behavior change, and natural infection affected the decline in
monkeypox cases?
A. Vaccines and behavior change have played a significant role in the decline, while natural
infection has had little impact.
B. Natural infection has been the primary factor in the decline, while vaccines and behavior
change have had minimal effect.
C. Vaccines, behavior change, and natural infection have all contributed equally to the decline
in monkeypox cases.
D. The exact contribution of each factor is unclear and debated among researchers.
E. None of the above choices accurately describe the impact of vaccines, behavior change,
and natural infection on the decline in monkeypox cases
25. According to the passage, what organization is responsible for monitoring monkeypox
cases in Europe?
A. Imperial College London
B. World Health Organization (WHO)
C. European Center for Disease Prevention and Control
D. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC.
E. National Institutes of Health (NIH)