Hidden Kingdoms

C1 Advanced · Open Cloze · Cambridge Ready original exercise

For questions 1–8, read the text below and think of the word which best fits each gap. Use only one word in each gap. There is an example at the beginning.

Ask adults about their happiest childhood memories, and a surprising number will mention a den of (0) ___ own making. It might have been nothing more (1) ___ a blanket thrown over two chairs, or a shelter of branches at the bottom of the garden, but to the children (2) ___ built it, it was a kingdom. Researchers who study play believe dens matter for reasons that go well (3) ___ having fun. Building one calls for planning, cooperation and a good deal of trial and error. Above (4) ___ , it gives children a space that belongs to them alone, away from the watchful eyes of adults. In (5) ___ a space, they make their own rules and learn to settle disagreements without anyone stepping in. Sadly, children today are thought to spend far (6) ___ time playing outdoors than their parents did. Many parents, for (7) ___ safety understandably comes first, are reluctant to let their children out of sight. Yet some schools have begun to set aside corners of their grounds where pupils may build dens, (8) ___ long as they tidy up afterwards.

Hidden Kingdoms

Available as a free printable PDF worksheet with an optional answer key.

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