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Practice Reading: Multiple Choice, Single Answer ID: #41945 History A
Instructions ›
Read the text from an educational newsletter about the history of the English language. Read the text and answer the multiple-choice question by selecting the correct response. Only one response is correct.
The English language has evolved significantly since its early origins. It began as Old English, spoken by the Anglo-Saxons who arrived in Britain around the 5th century. This form of English was heavily influenced by Norse languages, due to Viking invasions. The Norman Conquest of 1066 introduced a substantial amount of French into English, marking the beginning of the Middle English period. This era saw English absorbing vocabulary from Norman French, significantly diversifying its lexicon. By the late 15th century, the advent of the printing press helped standardise English, ushering in the Modern English period. Today, English is a global lingua franca, reflecting centuries of evolution and influence from various cultures.

What event marked the beginning of the Middle English period?

* Click on the correct answer

Result:

AI explanationShows the answer. Tap to open.
Option 4: "The Norman Conquest of 1066"

Explanation: This option is correct as the text explicitly states that the Norman Conquest of 1066 introduced a substantial amount of French into English, marking the beginning of the Middle English period. This event is directly linked to the evolution of the English language during that time.

Option 1: "The arrival of the Anglo-Saxons in Britain"

Explanation: This option is incorrect because the text states that the Anglo-Saxons arrived in Britain around the 5th century, which is before the Middle English period began. The text does not link their arrival to the start of this period.

Option 2: "The Viking invasions"

Explanation: This option is also incorrect. While the text mentions that Old English was influenced by Norse languages due to Viking invasions, it does not indicate that these invasions marked the beginning of the Middle English period.

Option 3: "The advent of the printing press"

Explanation: This option is incorrect because the advent of the printing press is mentioned as a factor that helped standardise English and usher in the Modern English period, which is after the Middle English period.

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