Answers to Additional Hedging Language Exercises

2. 3  Model answers
   

1. 3a  Private companies tend to be . . .
   
2. 3b  Computer manuals can be . . .
   
3. 3c  Older students frequently perform better . . .
   
4. 3d  Exploring space could be . . .
   
5. 3e  English pronunciation is often . . .
   
6. 3f  Global warming may cause . . .
   
7. 3g  Science students tend to work harder . . .
   
8. 3h  Concrete is usually . . .
   

1. 4a  Charles was a rather insignificant king . . .
   
2. 4b  The survey was quite a comprehensive . . .
   
3. 4c  His second book had a rather hostile . . .
   
4. 4d  . . . arthritis drugs are fairly expensive.
   
5. 4e  The first-year students were quite fascinated . . .
   

6 Model answer
A team of American scientists may have found a way to reverse the ageing process. They fed diet supplements, usually found in health food shops, to elderly rats, which were then tested for memory and stamina. The animals tended to display more active behaviour after taking the supplements, and generally their memory improved. In addition, their appearance became rather more youthful and their appetite increased.

The researchers believe that this experiment is quite a clear indication of how the problems of old age may be overcome. They claim that in a few years’ time many people may be able to look forward to a fairly long and active retirement.