Task 1. Read the text and mark the sentences True or False.
Earthquakes
From ancient times people were afraid of natural disasters. These unpredictable disasters killed thousands of people and destroyed dozens of cities. It was called «the punishment of the gods». All of this is about earthquakes. Today we can explain what an earthquake is, why it occurs and even define earthquake-prone areas. So, why do earthquakes happen? Scientists say that the reason is the movement of tectonic plates of the Earth, taking place because of volcanic eruptions or underground explosions. Over the past decade we have seen a number of seismic disasters in Japan, China, Chile, Thailand, Mexico and in other countries all over the world. In other words, the strongest earthquakes with disastrous consequences cannot be controlled by man, but they can be highly predicted. Nowadays there are many ways to reduce the damage to a minimum. We use special materials while constructing buildings or applying special architectural solutions as well as long-term or short-term forecasting of probable earthquakes. To conclude, today earthquakes are much less threatening than fifty years ago. They are no longer considered as the punishment of the heaven, just like a natural phenomenon like rain or fog.
0. Ancient times people were afraid of natural disasters. (True)
1. Modern people do NOT understand the nature of earthquakes.
2. Forecasting helps people reduce disastrous consequences.
3. Volcanic eruptions or underground explosions cause earthquakes.
4. People can prevent earthquakes.
5. While building, the architects are responsible for indestructible design.
6. Nowadays some people call natural disasters «the punishment of the gods».

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