For many people, leisure time is an opportunity to get outdoors, have some fun and meet interesting people. Add two pieces of advanced 21st century technology -a Global Positioning System (GPS) device and the Internet -to get “geocaching (地理寻宝游戏)”.
The word “geocaching” comes from “geo”(earth) and “cache”(hidden storage). Geocachers log on to a website to find information about the location of a cache-usually a waterproof plastic box containing small items such as toys and CDs -along with a notebook where “finders” can enter comments and learn about the cache’s “owner”, the person who created and hid the cache. Finders may take any of the items in the cache but are expected to replace them with something of similar value. They then visit the website again and write a message to the owner.
Geocaching became possible on May 1,2000, when a satellite system developed by the United States Department of Defense was made public. Using an inexpensive GPS device, anyone on earth can send a signal to the satellites and receive information about their position. This is basically a high-tech version of orienteering (定向运动), the traditional pastime which uses maps and compasses instead of GPS to determine one's location.
Geocachers are a very considerate group. Owners carefully choose a cache's location to give finders an enjoyable experience, such as a beautiful view or a good campsite. They also consider the environmental impact of their cache since it could result in an increased number of visitors to an area. As for the contents of the caches, owners and finders must only use items that are suitable for the whole family, as caches are found by geocachers of all ages.
31. According to the passage, geocaching is _______.
A.an outdoor leisure activity |
B.a new type of technology |
C.a game used to teach geography |
D.a program to protect the environment |
32. How can finders learn about the cache owners?
A.By meeting them. |
B.By going to a website. |
C.From the notebook. |
D.From the satellite. |
33. Which of the following is NOT used in geocaching?
A.A GPS device. |
B.A compass. |
C.A waterproof plastic box. |
D.The Internet. |
34. What can be inferred according to the passage?
A.Most geocachers are adults. |
B.Any item can be placed in the caches. |
C.The caches should be put in a remote place. |
D.Geocachers try to avoid damaging the environment. |