[originaltext] Some people think that the best time to begin studying a forei

Some people think that the best time to begin studying a foreign language is in childhood, and that the younger you are, the easier it is to learn another language. There is little evidence, however, that children in language classrooms learn foreign languages any better than adults in similar classroom situations. In fact, adults have many advantages over children: better memories, more efficient ways of organizing information, better study habits, and greater ability to handle complex mental tasks. Adults are often better motivated than children: they see learning a foreign language as necessary for education or career. In addition, adults are particularly sensitive to correctness of grammar and appropriateness of vocabulary, two factors that receive much attention in most language classrooms.
   Age does have some disadvantages, however. For instance, adults usually want to learn a foreign language in a hurry, unlike children who can devote more time to language mastery. Also, adults have complex communication needs that extend beyond the ability to carry on a simple conversation. Adults need to be able to argue, persuade, express concern, object, explain, and present information about complex matters that pertain to their work or education. Because most adults do not like to appear foolish, they often deny themselves opportunities to practice for fear of making mistakes, not getting their message across, or appearing ridiculously incompetent.
   Questions 22 to 25 are based on the passage you have just heard.
   22. In studying a foreign language, which of the following is not one of the adults’ advantages?
   23. Compared with adults, what advantage do children have according to the passage?
   24. Why do adults deny themselves opportunities to practice a foreign language?
   25. What is the passage mainly about?