Sailing the oceans
Summarize the main idea of each para and fill in the blanks.
Zheng He
Para 1: An ___________ to Zheng He’s first voyage
Para 2: __________ about his voyages
Paras 3-4: ____________ of his voyages
Christopher Columbus
Para 1: Background ___________ about Christopher Columbus
Para 2: __________ about his first voyage
Para 3: ____________ of his voyages
Read the passage and complete the table.
Zheng He’s voyage(s) Columbus’s voyage(s)
Time of departure
Places of departure
Places of arrival
Total number of voyages
Fleet size
Number of crew members
Significance *Develop and strengthen harmonious relations with other countries and regions * _______________________________ ________________________________ * _______________________________ ________________________________ * ________ the New World * ________ other explorers * Open a new chapter of _________________________ *Allow for __________________ ___________________________
Finish the summary of the passage (one word for each blank).
In the summer of 1405, Zheng He set out on his first voyage. From 1405 to 1433, Zheng He 1. ________ the Ming Dynasty on seven voyages. His fleet, 2.________ with china, silk, tea and other treasures as gifts for foreign rulers, visited more than 30 countries and regions.
Zheng He's seven voyages had a far-reaching impact on China and its neighbours. His efforts contributed to the 3. ________ and strengthening of harmonious relations with the countries and regions where he set foot, exposing foreigners 4. ________Chinese culture, and giving Chinese people a better understanding 5. ________ overseas lands. Zheng He's achievements are now widely acknowledged and he is considered to be one of China's most influential explorers.
Columbus insisted on finding a direct sea route to the East Indies by sailing across the Atlantic Ocean. 6. ________ all the challenges, Columbus succeeded in keeping everyone out of danger with his knowledge and courage. Finally, the crew spotted land in the distance. His voyages 7. ________ the beginning of the Age of Exploration 8. ________ witnessed many important geographical discoveries. The period also promoted an international exchange of ideas and cultures.