Question 37 - Reading: Level M Practice Test for the TABE Test

The yo-yo is a popular toy made with a length of string tied at one end to an axle connecting two disks to create a flat spool. These disks are usually made of wood or plastic. The yo-yo is used by holding the free end of the string (usually by inserting one finger in a slip knot) and pulling at it so as to cause the spool to turn while it is hanging in mid-air, either winding or unwinding the string.

The earliest known yo-yo dates back to 500 BC and was made using terra cotta (clay) disks. A Greek vase painting from this date shows a boy playing yo-yo. Since then, yo-yos have entertained people of all ages. They gained widespread popularity in the US in the 1920s.

In the simplest play, the string is wound on the spool by hand. The yo-yo is then thrown downward so that it goes down and unwinds the string. It then climbs back up the string using its kinetic energy. The yo-yo is then grabbed, ready to be thrown again. Many other trick plays exist, most based on the basic “sleeper” trick. One of the most famous tricks on the yoyo is “walk the dog.” This is done by throwing a strong sleeper and allowing the yoyo to roll across the floor.