Strategy 1, Part 1, Paraphrasing Individual and/or Groups of Words, Short Answer Exercise
When paraphrasing, it is a good first step to look at groups of words and think about how they can be replaced by individual words or phrases.
Paraphrase the words in parentheses ( ) by writing ONE or TWO words that have the same meaning in the blank spaces. (Do not rewrite the entire sentence.)
It is (not unusual) for students’ mobile phones to ring during lessons.
The film star was (very angry) that the reporters wouldn’t leave him alone.
Many parents send their children to expensive (pre-primary educational facilities).
His accent was so strong that his speech was (impossible to understand). (Not sure? Type 'impossible to understand - synonyms' in Google and see what comes up.)
Hong Kong is frequently struck during the summers by (massive tropical storms).
Many Americans have been (gripped with fear of) terrorist attacks since September 11.
Life in Hong Kong happens (at a fast pace), so many people find it hard to relax.
Causeway Bay is (a beehive of activity) on holidays as thousands of people like to shop there in their free time.
MTR trains are not affected by traffic because they travel (below street level).
It is sometimes (like a refrigerator) in the classrooms because the air con is set too high.
Most of the applicants are not (in possession of the skills needed) for the job.