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1、If you want to avoid boarding an Amtrak train or a Brightline train to go on more scenic train journeys, here's what you need to know.
Rockies to Red Rocks
Rocky Mountaineer offers luxury railcar service, and its most notable American route is the Rockies to Red Rocks journey. Starting in Denver and finishing in Moab, this route takes you through breathtaking landscapes, including the towering Rocky Mountains and beautiful canyons (峡谷). It offers an unforgettable experience, highlighting the rugged (崎岖的) beauty of the American Southwest.
Cape Cod Central Railroad
This fun train journey takes you across the Cape Cod region, specializing in lunch, brunch, and dinner journeys. All trains come with various classes, letting you choose the tickets that suit your budget.
Grand Canyon Railway
If you want an unbeatable entrance into the Grand Canyon, go on the Grand Canyon Railway. It's been in operation since 1901. You can choose from six different tiers when you buy your ticket based on comfort and service levels. If views are your focus, go with the Observation Dome.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
Built by the Denver & Rio Grande Railway for silver and gold transport, the approximately 45-mile route from Durango to Silverton is a national historic landmark and shows the scenic San Juan Mountains. Passengers ride vintage (老式的) steam trains, with both open and enclosed carriages, experiencing the charm of a bygone era. Ideal for families, history buffs, and nature lovers, the trip is enhanced by guided tours explaining the railway's mining heritage.
(1)、What is the significant feature of Rockies to Red Rocks?A、It starts in a rocky mountain. B、It operates only in the beautiful canyons. C、It shows the rugged beauty of the American Southwest. D、It is the most famous route of American train journeys.(2)、Which is the best choice for those wanting a special dinner journey?A、Rockies to Red Rocks. B、Cape Cod Central Railroad. C、Grand Canyon Railway. D、Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.(3)、Why is Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad a national historic landmark?A、It is ideal for families and nature lovers. B、It offers special events and themed rides. C、It shows the history of vintage steam trains. D、It reflects a mining history and surprising landscapes. -
2、阅读下面短文,根据所给情节进行续写,使之构成一个完整的故事。
I frowned at myself in the dressing-room mirror. I was wearing white tights, a white leotard (紧身连衣裤) , and a white cap that hid most of my hair. I was one of 10 snowflakes in my dance school's Winter Wonderland show.
"Grandma, I really don't feel like being in the show," I said. Grandma Lani looked at me gently, "Why, mo'opuna?" Mo'opuna means "grandchild" in Hawaiian. Grandma Lani has always lived in Hawaii. "You love to dance." I used to love to dance. Then Ms. Tuttle gave the part of the Snow Queen to Christine Abrams. Christine got to wear a blue leotard and a feathery skirt that drifted out like a cloud every time she twirled. And she got to do a dance once all by herself. The snowflakes just had to run and spin to look like a snowstorm. I sighed. "I don't like our dance. And no one would notice if I weren't there. There are so many of us," "I would notice," she reassured me softly.
As Christine walked toward us, Grandma paused and smiled at her. "What a beautiful costume!" Christine glided away, her skirt waving behind her. I hung my head. Grandma took my hand, "What's bothering my Avery?" "And you won't be able to tell me apart from the other snowflakes," I whispered.
Grandma was about to speak. Then something outside the window caught her eye. She grabbed my hand and my coat and pulled me out of the dressing room and through the doors to the outside. It was snowing. Grandma held her breath and I suddenly thought of something, "Grandma, have you ever seen snow before?" "No, mo'opuna. In Hawaii, it snows only on the very tops of mountains."
I had seen snow lots of times, but now I tried to see it differently, as if it was new. I saw snowflakes twisting through the air in different directions, sparkling and shining at us. So many snowflakes came together to create something magical. "Aloha," Grandma whispered to the sky. Aloha can mean many things, including "love", " hello", and "good-bye". "I don't know when I'll see something like that again," "I do," I said.
注意:
(1)续写词数应为150个左右;
(2)请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
Back in the dressing room, I knew something within me had quietly changed.
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As the curtain fell, I heard Grandma's applause rising above the rest.
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3、你将参加英语课上的"一分钟演讲"活动。请你针对部分同学在教学楼随意玩球的现象写一篇演讲稿,内容包括:(1)介绍具体情况;(2)呼吁文明活动。
注意:
(1)写作词数应为80左右;
(2)请按如下格式在答题纸的相应位置作答。
Say No to Playing Balls in Teaching Buildings
Good morning, everyone!
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Thank you!
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4、阅读下面短文,在空白处填入1个适当的单词或括号内单词的正确形式。
The third UNESCO High-Level Forum for Museums, held in Hangzhou on April 23rd, (draw) over 190 museum curators and experts from more than 60 countries. The event focused on AI's revolutionary effect on the museum industry. AI tools, (tailor) for relic detection, help museums better catalog relics and identify invisible damages in artifacts. However, Gabor Zsigmond, (direct) of the Hungarian National Museum, stressed that human proofreading of AI outputs remained crucial in the AI era.
Participants discussed AI could bring to exhibition planning. Given a theme, AI can select exhibits and construct frameworks using (exist) content. May Khuen Chung, leader of the National Museum of Singapore, mentioned museums' ability to analyze databases customize content to individual preferences, which reflected AI's practical value. Despite AI's advantages, concerns over copyright issues and ethical problems were raised and taken account. Additionally, Britt Romstad noted the need to build more equity into digital spaces.
After the forum, attendees visited the Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City, UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gehane Nabil, impressed by prehistoric stone tools, said the commonalities between Chinese and Egyptian civilizations were (true) remarkable. These shared elements, she added, would become the (link) that unite human beings.
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5、Every dream lost in the dark longs for a ray of light — and for Lily, that light came from a stranger.
Months earlier, Lily stared at her glowing laptop,1 deeply. Her novel centered on Kate had remained2 at 10,000 words for a month; not a single new word came to her. In a moment of overwhelming3, she closed the laptop sharply. She murmured, "I'm fooling myself. I'll never be a4."
Writing was her lifelong passion, but to support her family and pursue a steady livelihood, she5 her writing ambition and took up teaching. For thirty years, she fostered students' imagination, while her own literary passion slowly6. Yet when she finally embarked on writing the novel, the complete absence of7 crushed her last hope.
One day, after hours of another8 writing, she walked outside to refresh her mind. Her mind still clouded and her phone now dead, she found herself9 — just then Patrick Kincaid kindly offered her a ride. Sensing her low mood, he encouraged her to share her10. Lily confessed she was struggling to11 Kate's story, unable to find her creative rhythm. He smiled gently, "Stop forcing Kate's plot — let your heart guide your words."
His words stirred something deep within her. That night, she wrote12, weaving threads of her own life into Kate's journey. Six weeks later, she completed the first13. With Patrick's encouragement, she perfected the manuscript, found a literary agent, and had the book14. On its title page, she wrote, "For dreamers in the dark — and the ones who brought them15."
Dreams never fade away; they just wait for a spark to bloom, and now, she was the spark.
(1)A 、sighing B 、complaining C 、yawning D 、regretting(2)A 、completed B 、set C 、stuck D 、aimed(3)A 、panic B 、defeat C 、resolution D 、embarrassment(4)A 、teacher B 、agent C 、novelist D 、guide(5)A 、went after B 、set aside C 、held onto D 、lived out(6)A 、rose B 、awoke C 、erupted D 、faded(7)A 、inspiration B 、support C 、courage D 、patience(8)A 、productive B 、effortless C 、continuous D 、fruitless(9)A 、at a distance B 、on the go C 、at a loss D 、in a rush(10)A 、troubles B 、opinions C 、fear D 、novel(11)A 、polish B 、shape C 、revise D 、adapt(12)A 、freely B 、anxiously C 、restlessly D 、cautiously(13)A 、scene B 、outline C 、chapter D 、draft(14)A 、translated B 、promoted C 、released D 、delivered(15)A 、peace B 、honor C 、dignity D 、light -
6、What Do Our Dreams Tell Us?
Dreams are an integral part of healthy sleep. The average person spends roughly two hours dreaming each night. Yet even with this significant time, the phenomenon remains mysterious.
What role do dreams play? Dream researcher Alan Siegel calls dreams an entrance to our inner selves — they help process emotions and tackle tough problems we struggle with while awake. Meanwhile, expert Robert Stickgold argues that dreams spring from memory. It lets us absorb lessons, heal from hurt, and grow wiser through experience. Put simply, their research shows that dreams are the brain's innate way to work through our inner struggles and make sense of our memories.
Certain dream themes feel universal across cultures. Whether tumbling from a great height or tripping down stairs, these dreams often spark intense fear. A sense of helplessness lingers too. They tend to symbolize lost control or hidden insecurity. In contrast, flying dreams are deeply uplifting. Soaring through the air, weightless and free — it fills dreamers with joy. Such dreams usually reflect a yearning for freedom or independence.
Dreaming of exams is another widespread experience. These dreams often come from anxiety — about being unprepared, rushed, or judged in real life. Even negative pre-exam dreams can boost actual test performance. After all, the brain processes stress ahead of time. Similarly, dreams of getting lost are frequent. Wandering unfamiliar streets, missing a train, or struggling to find a destination — these reflect uncertainty and confusion. They often mirror life's transition periods: career changes, relationship shifts, or personal growth.
Dreams are deeply personal. You're the best interpreter of your own dreams. Paying attention to their themes and the feelings they stir can unlock profound insights. These insights help you better understand your inner world and build greater self-awareness.
A. Falling is one of the most common.
B. Interestingly, there exists a silver lining.
C. It also brings a strong sense of empowerment.
D. Such mental activities simply sort unconnected ideas.
E. Replaying past events, big and small, is nature's clever design.
F. In these times, it's normal to feel adrift or unsure of our next steps.
G. Transition periods usually disappear when confusion fades in dreams.
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7、For decades, horror enthusiasts have been broadly perceived as cold, unfeeling individuals who get pleasure from witnessing suffering. Critics and even some academics have labeled them as adrenaline (肾上腺素) addicts lacking empathy, suggesting that their interest in films like Saw stems from psychological deficiency. However, recent research challenges these long-held assumptions, proposing a more detailed and complex understanding of why people are drawn to horror.
The claim that horror fans must lack empathy has been supported by some early studies. Yet, a closer examination reveals methodological flaws: mixing up the enjoyment of cruelty with a general interest in horror narratives. When such flawed studies are ruled out, the supposed link between low empathy and horror enjoyment disappears. And, recently, more reliable research confirms that horror fans show no less empathy or compassion than others; on some measures, they even score higher.
Another popular theory suggests that horror fans are simply chasing an adrenaline rush. While this may be true for some enthusiasts, newer studies unfold a more complex picture. Researchers have identified different types of fans: some are indeed "adrenaline junkies", but others, termed "white knucklers", use horror to confront and overcome personal fears. A third group, "dark copers", finds an emotional release in fictional horror, using it to process real-life difficulties.
Beyond these motivations, a key personality trait driving horror fandom is "morbid curiosity"—a natural desire to learn about threatening or death-related subjects. This curiosity may be beneficial. Studies indicate that individuals with higher morbid curiosity are often better prepared for real-life crises and show greater resilience during stressful times. Horror fans, it seems, may be practising emotional regulation when they play with their fears through scary entertainment.
The evidence paints a picture of horror fans being empathetic, curious and psychologically sophisticated. horror is a testament to human adaptability and our remarkable capacity to find meaning, connection and even growth in the face of our deepest fears. Recognising this not only helps us understand horror fans more accurately, but also illuminates something profound about human nature itself.
(1)、What does the underlined word "deficiency" mean in paragraph 1?A、Weakness. B、Strength. C、Curiosity. D、Misunderstanding.(2)、What led to the results of early studies?A、The limited sample size of participants. B、The confusion of vital key concepts. C、The ignorance of horror-cruelty connections. D、The adoption of outdated methodology.(3)、What can we infer about people with higher morbid curiosity?A、They may lack emotional regulation skills. B、They may be more adaptable to challenges. C、They may become more sensitive to adversity. D、They may be more exposed to real-life crises.(4)、What can be a suitable title for the text?A、Dismissing Myths: The Truth about horror Fans B、horror Films: Impact on Audience Empathy C、horror enthusiasts: Living Proof of Empathy Loss D、Morbid Curiosity: The Ultimate Goal of horror -
8、Near the Dominican Republic's coast, tiny lab-grown "coral babies" are attached to spider-like metal structures in underwater nurseries. This is the assisted coral fertilization program led by local marine protection group Fundemar, offering a glimmer of hope for the world's declining coral reefs.
The technology is critically important amid severe reef degradation. Seventy percent of the Dominican Republic's coral reefs now have less than 5% coral cover. Climate change not only kills corals directly through warming oceans but also significantly reduces the natural reproduction chances of surviving individuals. "What was once normal in coral reefs is no longer possible for many species," noted Andreina Valdez, a biologist at Fundemar.
Assisted fertilization fills this gap by artificially facilitating gamete fusion (配子融合) . The implementation follows a precise process. Each year, a few days after the full moon at dusk, corals release millions of eggs and sperm. Fundemar's team collects these gametes, performs artificial fertilization in the lab, and nurtures the larvae (幼体) until they are robust enough for transplantation to reefs. Though only 1% of the 2. 5 million embryos cultivated annually survive in the wild, this rate still outperforms natural reproduction on degraded reefs.
It holds distinct advantages over the non-sexual reproduction used in the past. Non-sexual reproduction involves transplanting fragments of healthy corals, which is faster but produces genetically identical clones vulnerable to mass disease outbreaks. In contrast, assisted sexual reproduction creates genetically diverse individuals, significantly lowering the risk of widespread die-offs. Originating in Australia, the technology has now expanded across the Caribbean, with projects in Mexico, Curaçao, Puerto Rico, Cuba, and Jamaica.
However, a fundamental challenge remains: climate change. UNESCO data shows oceans are warming twice as fast as 20 years ago, increasing coral bleaching risks. Expert Mark Eakin stated, "You can't conserve something if you don't have it. So these programs are helping to expand the population that's out there." Yet he urgently warns, "Without tackling the 800-pound gorilla of climate change, much restoration work could be wiped out." But, for Fundemar, current efforts matter, "We are investing immense effort to protect what we love, and we trust many around the world are doing the same. "
(1)、What is the purpose of the first paragraph?A、To explain the reason of coral decline. B、To advocate for coral protection. C、To present a coral conservation project. D、To highlight coral's economic value.(2)、What does the underlined phrase "this gap" in paragraph 3 refer to?A、The challenge of climate change. B、The lack of funding for marine research. C、The absence of underwater nurseries. D、The failure of natural coral reproduction.(3)、What is the primary advantage of assisted fertilization?A、Faster growth. B、Wide-spread application. C、Genetic diversity. D、Lower disease-resistance.(4)、What is Mark Eakin's attitude toward assisted fertilization?A、Entirely supportive. B、Clearly indifferent. C、Strongly opposed. D、Cautiously hopeful. -
9、It begins with a steady buzz, echoing through the towering forests of Alaska. It's a signal, but not one to be alarmed by. It's less "Duck and cover," more "Come and get it!"
So you step outside your house, where there are few roads and fewer neighbors, and see it. A single-engine plane flies low, just a few dozen feet above the ground. The plane's door whips open, and a black package is thrown out, plummeting (速降) to earth with a yellow tail hanging behind.
Congratulations, you've just been turkey bombed!
The "bomb" is a 15-pound frozen turkey stuffed into a trash bag, tied with yellow caution tape for easy visibility. Since 2021, Alaska native Esther Keim has been dropping them from the air to remote Alaskans who might otherwise be eating squirrel, moose or Spam for Thanksgiving dinner.
Thanksgiving falls at a tricky time of the year in this part of the country. It's a time when rivers, which often serve as highways in Alaska's remote areas, are too frozen for boats to travel but not frozen enough for cars. Their only option for reaching "civilization" is seven hours on a snowmobile. Or, if you're a pilot like Keim, you can take to the air.
Keim began her turkey-bombing flights after visiting her family in Skwentna, an isolated village. A neighbor mentioned how a squirrel he hunted barely fed his family of four. This reminded Keim of her childhood, when a family friend would drop a turkey — and sometimes a box of candy inside the package just for her — from his plane to her family every year. "I am gonna drop turkeys to remote Alaskans without road access," says Keim. "It wouldn't be a big deal, but it'd bring me a lot of joy to bless other people like we were blessed."
Now Keim is working to turn this personal effort into a non- profit called the Alaska Turkey Drop Project. The project has received enough donations from some individuals and local businesses, with others donating their time and goods. Every year, that noisy plane soaring through Alaska's sky brings not just turkeys, but a heartwarming reminder of connection in the wilderness.
(1)、What can be learned about the "bomb"?A、It's a dangerous explosive. B、It's sent to Alaskans for Christmas. C、It's a frozen turkey with yellow tape. D、It's dropped from a high- flying plane.(2)、Why is Thanksgiving a challenging time in remote Alaska?A、Pilots avoid snowy flights. B、Snowmobiles are only for short trips. C、All roads are blocked by snow. D、Half- frozen rivers are unfit for boats or cars.(3)、What inspired Keim to start the "bombing" flights?A、A demand for her nonprofit project. B、A suggestion from her family. C、Neighbor's hardship and childhood favor. D、Hunting squirrels with neighbors.(4)、Which of the following best describes Keim?A、Caring and inquiring. B、Sympathetic and innovative. C、Decisive and tolerant. D、Adventurous and ambitious. -
10、Inspired by The Economist's recent alternative summer reading list for CEOs, the 10Eighty, a leading HR consultancy firm, offers the following suggestions for summer reading.
The Undercover Economist
A favourite of the 10Eighty team is Tim Harford's The Undercover Economist — if you've ever wondered why the gap between the rich and the poor is so great, then this book is for you. Relatable and engaging, Harford highlights the relevance of economics to everyday life, from buying a coffee to sitting in a traffic jam. He exposes how coffee shops, supermarkets and airlines convince us to part with our money, shedding light on how to apply economic principles to everyday life.
Slow Productivity
10Eighty's researcher also recommends Slow Productivity by Cal Newport for the summer reading list. In the modern workplace workers feel pushed to the edge by continual meetings, overflowing inboxes, non-stop busywork, and office rules that laugh at autonomy and agency. Newport offers alternative strategies for knowledge workers to do the best work of their lives by taking a slower approach to work that matters.
Tom Sawyer
Few books are better at sparking eagerness to act than Mark Twain's Tom Sawyer. Forced to paint a fence white rather than play with his friends, naughty Tom finds a way to make it seem so appealing that the local kids want to do it — and end up paying Tom for the privilege. Business-school professors call it "psychic rewards".
What is your favorite from this summer reading list? Why not share your ideas with us below?
(1)、How does Tim Harford make economics accessible in The Undercover Economist?A、By analyzing economic theories in depth. B、By revealing how businesses fuel spending. C、By explaining the cause of the wealth gap. D、By connecting economic concepts to daily life.(2)、What does Cal Newport suggest knowledge workers do?A、Follow office rules strictly. B、Accelerate work pace. C、Slow down to tackle key tasks. D、Schedule frequent meetings.(3)、According to the passage, why is Tom Sawyer recommended for summer reading?A、It stimulates motivation effectively. B、It describes the life of a clever boy. C、It tells an exciting kids' adventure tale. D、It shows how to deal with naughty kids. -
11、阅读下面材料,根据其内容和所给段落开头语续写两段,使之构成一篇完整的短文。
Siya was excited to set off for her long-awaited holiday in Himachal. After working at a stretch for months, she couldn't wait to escape to the peaceful mountains. Her parents would be joining her too. The weather, the mountains and the peace, everything would be theirs for a whole month!
She reached a day earlier to settle into the guest house before her parents arrived. As she sat by the window, sipping her coffee and watching the mountains, the caretaker of the guest house arrived, worried. "Ma'am, there's been heavy snowfall in all parts of the state. So, the flights to Himachal have been canceled. It's going to be difficult for anyone to get through for the next few days," he said.
Siya's heart sank. She quickly grabbed her phone to call her mother when a message arrived: "Dear kiddo, our flight got cancelled because of the snow. We're stuck here for five more days. Stay safe, and we'll be there as soon as we can."
"Well, what now?" Siya muttered to herself, feeling disappointed. "I was looking forward to seeing them. What will I do alone for so long?!"
The next day, Siya spent her time at the guest house all by herself. The snow continued to fall heavily and the roads remained blocked. It was peaceful yet lonely. She spent her time reading books and watching snowflakes but felt downhearted about how her holiday had begun.
Then, on the second day, as she was lying on the couch of the living room, she heard a soft sound, like a tiny cry. She froze for a moment, wondering if her mind was playing tricks on her. She stood up and followed the sound to the porch (门廊).
注意:
1.写作词数应为150个左右;
2.请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
To her surprise, there was a wet, shaking baby cat on the porch.
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As her parents stepped inside, Siya spotted an adult cat in the doorway.
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12、阅读下面短文,在空白处填入1个适当的单词或括号内单词的正确形式。
A century ago, what had been the heart of China was reborn as something (complete) new. In 1925, the Forbidden City, once the exclusive domain of emperors, was transformed into the Palace Museum, a cultural institution dedicated to (safeguard) treasures that had long symbolized dynastic power. had for centuries stood as a walled-off (封闭的) seat of authority suddenly became open to the public. This was more than a change of function; it was a change of meaning. The Forbidden City became the (recognize) inheritance of a nation and ultimately, of the world.
Now, as the Palace Museum in Beijing celebrates its 100th anniversary, it is dynamic force shaping the future of culture. Its centennial ( 一 百 周 年 纪 念) is a (remind) that heritage is not static: It evolves, adapts and continues to inspire (generation). The 100th anniversary of the Palace Museum is not only a moment of national pride for China but also an occasion of global significance. It (mark) 100 years of transformation from the closed world of emperors to a vibrant public institution and from a national treasure house to an international platform. Its anniversary makes people reflect what heritage means in the 21st century. The Palace Museum shows that culture is not about looking backward in nostalgia (怀旧), about sustaining a living conversation between past and future and between nations and peoples.
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13、I decided at 10 that I was going to be a teacher because I had a burning desire for superpowers. As a boy, I could clearly see some of my teachers had extraordinary1 .
There was an English teacher in fifth grade who could magically transport us to different worlds by reading to us from books we would have2 never picked up. It was even shocking that my teacher could see the3. I was one of those who lacked confidence. Yet my teacher would notice me hidden in the corner,4 to speak, and the unspoken5 in her eyes suggested that she could see me through. I could still6 remember her lessons about the great masters of art. She did this7 her major was not art, nor geography. I wanted to be one of those all—seeing ones with superpowers that made children feel safe and8.
Being a teacher isn't the easiest or the most financially rewarding of jobs. And there are occupational risks—your knees can9 from years of carrying piles of notebooks up and down the school staircase, your voice can10 from too much talking. But despite all that, there are those choosing this11.
All my life, I've gone to work early each day with12 steps. Occasionally, I meet my former students. Their obvious love for me and fond memories of our time together are my13. Whenever I meet a brand new teacher14 to perfect his/her skills with a brave face on, I feel proud to15 the same group.
(1)A 、ideas B 、powers C 、experiences D 、needs(2)A 、therefore B 、however C 、otherwise D 、likewise(3)A 、unknown B 、unusual C 、impossible D 、invisible(4)A 、shy B 、miserable C 、annoyed D 、willing(5)A 、question B 、message C 、truth D 、criticism(6)A 、vaguely B 、only C 、vividly D 、early(7)A 、in that B 、as though C 、even though D 、now that(8)A 、praised B 、neglected C 、noticed D 、valued(9)A 、hurt B 、bend C 、shake D 、support(10)A 、turn B 、heal C 、reach D 、suffer(11)A 、path B 、major C 、course D 、topic(12)A 、hesitant B 、light C 、leaden D 、unsteady(13)A 、chances B 、souvenirs C 、rewards D 、compensations(14)A 、failing B 、demanding C 、pretending D 、struggling(15)A 、belong to B 、connect to C 、contribute to D 、adapt to -
14、Vertical (垂直的) farming can date back to as far as 2,500 years ago. The hanging gardens of Babylon are considered one of the first examples of vertical farming. About 1,500 years later, the Aztecs developed a form of hydroponic (水培的) farming. In the 1600s, French and Dutch farmers grew Mediterranean fruits on walls that maintained heat to help the fruits survive colder conditions.
Controlled environments for food production are not new. In 1999, Dickson Despommier and his graduate students explored the concept of vertical farming as a way to feed growing urban populations, leading to the broader use of the term in the 2010s and 2020s.
Vertical farming as a practice really didn't become popular in the United States until around 2020, but it has been used in countries like Japan and the Netherlands for decades, according to Koga, where greenhouses (the early form of vertical farming) in general are a much more integral part of their culture and food production.
Today, much of the work in creating more nutrient-rich food through vertical farming comes down to science. Currently, researchers are working to create seeds that are best suited for an indoor, controlled environment.
For instance, FFAR invested some $7.5 million in the PIP consortium to research varieties specific to indoor planting. "We've adapted plants through history," Reich told Built In. "We need to try to see if we can adapt plants specifically to indoor agriculture, to see if that makes it more economically practical for the future."
A. The research witnesses more than one sponsor.
B. This practice was copied by many other farmers.
C. They created floating boats to grow crops on waters.
D. Yet the term "vertical farming" caught on much later.
E. The older industry shapes vertical farming's operations.
F. Conventional methods adjust seeds for weather and soil.
G. Thus, vertical farming is adopted to reduce greenhouse gases.
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15、The youngest members of society — children and teenagers — are growing up in a digitalized world, where they are increasingly dependent on electronic devices. Many children engage with screens as early as babyhood and early childhood. Instead of interacting with playmates, children often find themselves buried in single-player gaming. Even family dinners are now frequently dominated by screens rather than meaningful interactions.
Developmental psychologists warn that this phenomenon could have long-term effects. "Children need in-person interactions to build empathy (共情) and emotional regulation," said Dr. Daniel, a clinical psychiatrist. "Without those formative experiences, they're at risk of becoming adults who struggle to deal with relationships that involve complex social interactions and emotions." He described in his article America's Loneliness Epidemic: What Is to Be Done?
Studies indicate that prolonged contact with digital devices during critical developmental years can influence the growth of the prefrontal cortex (前额叶皮质), the part of the brain responsible for decision-making and empathy. These changes may leave children ill-equipped to navigate the complexities of adult relationships, creating a cycle of isolation. Teenagers are perhaps the most at-risk groups in the loneliness crisis. In the period of two decades, in-person social interaction among teens has dropped by 70%, replaced largely by digital communication. Social media platforms make it seem like people are connected, but they often make people feel worse about themselves and left out.
The damage to people's minds is really bad. Depression and anxiety rates among teenagers have increased, and studies by Dr. Vivek, link social media use to loneliness and confirm it. For teens, loneliness is not just an emotional state but a sign to life-threatening mental health crises. So it is essential to solve the problem of children's dependence on digital devices through various approaches. This includes establishing clear guidelines for screen time, encouraging activities that promote social development, and educating children about the importance of a balanced lifestyle. By doing so, we can create an environment that supports the overall well-being of children.
(1)、What phenomenon is described in the first paragraph?A、The over-reliance on digital device. B、The lack of habitual self-discipline. C、The improvement of family bonding. D、The rapid development of technology.(2)、What potential harm does this phenomenon do to teenagers according to Dr. Daniel?A、Weakening their problem-solving skills. B、Increasing their struggle for self-independence. C、Impacting the development of their social responsibility. D、Reducing their ability to handle complicated relationships.(3)、What's the trap of social media according to the passage?A、It feeds constant self-doubt. B、It sets off comparison anxiety. C、It creates an image of belonging. D、It forces people to share private data.(4)、What can be done to solve the mental health crises?A、Support digital exploration. B、Have real-life interaction. C、Encourage tech engagement. D、Receive specific training. -
16、"Hitting a green wave? It's the best feeling, especially when you're in a hurry," says actor Samuel Traum, unlocking his bike by a Copenhagen intersection crowded with cyclists. The Green Wave is a system started by the city 16 years ago: traffic lights on key routes are synchronized (同步) so that a cyclist riding about 20 km/h can catch green lights all the way. This system, designed to encourage bike travel, is now set to expand to 15 more routes.
Like many European cities, Copenhagen became a city of cars after World War II. But in the 1970s, people fought back with mass bike protests that pushed the city to build a wide network of cycle lanes (车道). A recent study found that if all cities had as many, global CO2 emissions from private cars could fall by 6%.
Still, even Copenhagen struggles to reduce car use. Cycle highways help people reach the city's end, but red lights slow them once they arrive. Planners hope the green waves will solve this. "It's so important to have the freedom on a bike to just ride along at a good speed," says Line Barfod, the mayor for technology and environment. "You can feel the city wants you — and supports you — going on a bike."
The new plan has faced little opposition. Yet at rush hour, some say the lanes are too crowded to enjoy the wave. Lars, who usually cycles too fast to ride the wave himself, thinks the city is reaching a difficult trade-off point. "We're at a point now where we need to choose between cars and cycles. If you give cycles more space, it will compromise the ability of drivers to access different spaces."
Copenhagen has approved a 602-million-kroner cycling package to improve the system, building the country's longest cycling bridge and upgrading lighting. The city has also set up 19 bicycle counters to study cyclists' speed and plans to adjust lights to match their flow. Experts say such measures represent a vision: moving people out of cars and onto bikes — to save energy, reduce pollution, and make cities more livable.
(1)、What do Samuel Traum's words reflect in paragraph 1?A、The danger caused by cycling. B、The convenience brought by the system. C、The importance of following traffic rules. D、The necessity of riding at a specific speed.(2)、What caused Copenhagen to build a wide network of cycle lanes?A、A plan to improve traffic in Europe. B、A study on reducing greenhouse gas. C、The order from the mayor after the war. D、The mass bike protests in the 1970s.(3)、What does the underlined word "compromise" in paragraph 4 mean?A、Assess. B、Strengthen. C、Ensure. D、Weaken.(4)、What is the last paragraph mainly about?A、Monitoring bike speed with devices. B、Building a landmark cycling bridge. C、Upgrading the green wave system. D、Adjusting traffic lights for cyclists. -
17、Sitting in the garden for my friend's birthday, I felt a buzz (振动) in my pocket. My heart raced with a mix of anxiety and hope when I saw the email sender's name. The email started off: "Dear Mr Green, thank you for your interest" and "the review process took longer than expected". It ended with "We are sorry to inform you…" and my vision blurred (模糊). The position — measuring soil quality in the Sahara Desert as part of an undergraduate research programme — had felt like the answer I had spent years looking for.
I had put so much time and emotional energy into applying, and I thought the rejection meant the end of the road for my science career.
So I was shocked when, not long after the email, Professor Mary Devon, who was running the programme, invited me to observe the work being done in her lab. I jumped at the chance, and a few weeks later I was equally shocked — and overjoyed — when she invited me to talk with her about potential projects I could pursue in her lab. What she proposed didn't seem as exciting as the original project I had applied to, but I was going to give it my all.
I found myself working with a robotics professor on techniques for collecting data from the desert remotely. That project, which I could complete from my sofa instead of in the burning heat of the desert, not only survived the lockdown but worked where traditional methods didn't. In the end, I had a new scientific interest to pursue.
When I applied to graduate school, I found three programmes promising to allow me to follow my desired research direction. And I applied with the same anxious excitement as before. When I was rejected from one that had seemed like a perfect fit, it was undoubtedly difficult. But this time I had the perspective to keep it from sending me into panic. It helped that in the end I was accepted into one of the other programmes I was also excited about.
Rather than setting plans in stone, I've learned that sometimes I need to take the opportunities that are offered, even if they don't sound perfect at the time, and make the most of them.
(1)、How did the author initially feel upon seeing the email?A、Quite curious and interested. B、Quite nervous and excited. C、Rather surprised and confused. D、Deeply disappointed and upset.(2)、What was the author's first reaction to the rejection?A、He decided to abandon his scientific dream. B、He immediately sought alternative programs. C、He felt it signaled the end of his career in science. D、He chose to observe the lab work without hesitation.(3)、What does the author imply about the project he eventually undertook?A、It proved to be effective and innovative. B、It was more exciting than the Sahara project. C、It was completed under the tough desert conditions. D、It was a perfect fit for his original research interest.(4)、What is the main life lesson the author learned from his experience?A、Only apply for programs that are a perfect fit. B、Seize and maximize the opportunities at hand. C、Rejections are unavoidable on the road to success. D、Always have a backup plan ready for any situation. -
18、Assignment: Submit a Video of Demonstration Speech
As the semester is drawing to a close, we kindly remind you to submit your Public Speaking course assignment on time.
Due: May 13 by 11:59 p.m.
Submit: a media recording or a file upload
Length of speech: 3~5 minutes. 2 points will be removed from your total per 30 seconds over 5 minutes, 4 points removed per 30 seconds under 3 minutes.Video recording should not be edited; otherwise, you will receive a score of zero.
Delivery Requirements: Your speech should be delivered in front of the camera. 1~2 note cards are allowed, with only a brief outline using keywords or phrases. Speeches should NOT be recited word-for-word.
Content Requirements: Inform the audience of how you can do something (e.g, "How to bake a loaf of bread"), rather than just describing how it is performed by others (e.g., "How Wonder Bread is made in the Wonder Bakery"). Use an actual item/model/diagram as an illustration.
Checklist:
Criteria (100 pts in total)
Aspects
Organizational Pattern
(30 pts)
1. Thesis / Purpose
2. Relevant and detailed evidence
3. Clear structure: Introduction-Body-Conclusion
Appropriate Language
(30 pts)
1. Grammar
2. Clarity (no unexplained specialized words)
3. Fluency (no verbal fillers like "you know""Uh""Er""Um")
Vocal Presentation
(20 pts)
1. Rate
2. Expressiveness
3. Changes in pitch(声调)
Nonverbal Support
(20 pts)
1. Eye contact with the audience
2. Appropriate gestures
3. Facial expressions
(1)、Which of the following will lead to point loss?A、Speaking without note cards. B、Showing detailed DIY process. C、Submitting the video on May 13. D、Editing a video within 5 minutes.(2)、What is expected according to the checklist?A、Talk in a loud voice. B、Organize a complex structure. C、Use as few gestures as possible. D、Speak fluently without verbal fillers.(3)、Who is the text probably intended for?A、Speech judges. B、College students. C、Video bloggers. D、Professional bakers. -
19、某社会研究机构连续六年 (2020-2025年) 跟踪调查了"中国青少年对传统文化与流行文化的兴趣变化趋势",请根据图表数据写一篇分析报告,内容包括:
1. 描述总体趋势及相互关系;
2. 分析产生这些变化的原因;
3. 探讨变化对青少年的影响。
注意:1. 词数100左右;
2. 可以适当增加细节,以使行文连贯。

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20、阅读下面短文,根据其内容写一篇60词左右的内容概要。
The way we think about learning and intelligence in educational settings is undergoing subtle but important changes. For many years, educational success was primarily measured through standardized tests and academic grades, which focused attention on a specific kind of logical and linguistic ability. This narrow focus, however, often overlooked other valuable forms of intelligence and ways of knowing that are crucial for a well-rounded life.
Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligence, proposed decades ago, suggested that human capability extends beyond verbal and mathematical skills to include spatial, musical, interpersonal, and intrapersonal intelligence, among others. While the theory has its critics regarding scientific validation, its cultural impact has been significant in prompting educators to consider a broader range of student strengths. In practice, this has led some schools to diversify their curricula and assessment methods to recognize and cultivate talents in arts, physical coordination, social leadership, and personal reflection.
Simultaneously, the concept of a "growth mindset," popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck, has gained considerable attention. This perspective emphasizes that intellectual abilities are not fixed traits but can be developed through effort, effective strategies, and guidance. Classrooms that foster this mindset encourage persistence through challenges, value the learning process over immediate perfection, and help students understand that struggle is often a part of developing new competencies. Research indicates that students who adopt this mindset show greater resilience and are more likely to take on challenging tasks.
These evolving ideas are gradually reshaping classroom culture, teacher-student interactions, and even parental expectations. The shift is not about lowering standards but about expanding the definition of success and creating educational environments where diverse learners can discover and develop their unique potential. This broader approach aims to prepare students not just for exams, but for the varied intellectual and personal demands they will encounter throughout their lives.
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