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1、Homework has long been tied to school. But with the way of learning shifted, it's fair to ask: Is homework still relevant, or a leftover from a different time?
The idea of homework goes back a long way. Historians trace it to ancient Rome. Pliny the Younger, a teacher around AD 61-113, encouraged students to practice speaking at home. Homework evolved slowly over the centuries. In the U.S., it grew common in the early 20th century. In 1957, American schools piled on homework to raise academic demands. By the 1980s, it was seen as key to academic success.
For high schoolers, homework links to academic performance. But younger kids seem to gain little from traditional homework. Furthermore, students who are responsible and supported at home are most likely to complete assignments and benefit from them. For students from lower-income families who might lack internet access, homework can actually widen the achievement gap.
Then everything changed. As educators recognized the limitations of passive, one-size-fits-all tasks in encouraging genuine understanding and student engagement, traditional worksheets and reading logs gave way to project-based assignments or online lessons, clouding the line between homework and classwork. However, just assigning tasks wasn't enough.
So, what now? Keep, change, or get rid of it? It all comes down to how it's used. When it's just something to keep kids busy, it doesn't do much. But when thoughtful, clear, and actually fitting what a student needs, it has its place. In a world where information is instant, the purpose of homework needs a fresh look.
A. The concept, however, faded significantly during the Middle Ages.
B. The question of whether homework actually helps students is tricky.
C. The thing is, homework isn't automatically good or bad.
D. Furthermore, access to reliable internet became a critical factor.
E. It took on a more formal role during the Industrial Revolution.
F. Ask students what school's like, and you'll hear about tests, teachers and homework.
G. Without engagement, feedback, and support, homework lost its effectiveness.
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2、A research team from the University of California has developed a new type of fully biodegradable plastic derived from seaweed, offering a promising solution to the global plastic pollution crisis. The findings, published in a leading scientific journal in September 2025, demonstrate that this innovative material decomposes completely in natural environments within weeks, unlike conventional plastics that persist for centuries.
The research process involved extracting specific polymers from common brown seaweed and modifying them to create a durable yet flexible material. Laboratory tests confirmed that the new bioplastic possesses strength comparable to traditional plastic packaging. Most significantly, when exposed to soil or seawater, it breaks down into harmless organic matter through natural microbial activity. Field experiments showed complete decomposition within four to eight weeks, leaving no microplastic residues. The production method is also energy-efficient, requiring 30% less energy than conventional plastic manufacturing.
Dr. Emily Chen, the lead researcher, expressed cautious optimism about the potential impact. "This material could revolutionize packaging industries, particularly for food and consumer goods," she stated. However, she acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting that "scaling up production while maintaining cost competitiveness with established plastics remains a significant hurdle." Several major companies have already shown interest in adopting this technology, recognizing both its environmental benefits and growing consumer demand for sustainable products. The team is now focusing on optimizing the material for various commercial applications and conducting further tests to ensure its safety and durability meet industry standards.
(1)、What is the main advantage of the new bioplastic discussed in the passage?A、It breaks down completely in natural environments. B、It is cheaper to produce than traditional plastic. C、It is stronger than any existing plastic material. D、It can be produced from any type of plant.(2)、According to the passage, how does the new bioplastic break down?A、Through recycling processes in special facilities. B、By dissolving quickly in water. C、Through the natural action of microorganisms. D、By exposure to sunlight only.(3)、What can be inferred about the future of this bioplastic from Dr. Chen's comments?A、It will immediately replace all conventional plastics. B、Its production cost is currently lower than traditional plastic. C、There are still obstacles to its widespread adoption. D、It is only suitable for food packaging.(4)、What is the main purpose of the passage?A、To warn about the dangers of plastic pollution. B、To describe the process of seaweed farming. C、To explain the history of plastic development. D、To report on an environmentally friendly plastic alternative. -
3、Access to safe drinking water is a basic need for every household, yet traditional water treatment often fails to address tiny pollutants or user oversight. On September 18, 2025, a breakthrough emerged at the China Home Technology Expo in Guangzhou: "QingShui-1," a smart water purifier developed by South China University of Technology, which redefines home water safety with innovative technology.
Traditional purifiers struggle with two critical flaws: they cannot filter particles smaller than 0.01 micron, such as certain heavy metals, and users often forget to replace filter elements. The QingShui-1 team targeted these gaps with a multi-layer composite filter made of activated carbon and ceramic. Laboratory tests confirm it removes 99.8% of heavy metals and 99.5% of bacteria, trapping particles as small as 0.001 micron.
What sets it apart is smart connectivity. Linked to a WeChat mini-program, the device sends real-time alerts when the filter element nears expiration, and users can order replacements directly through the app. This solves the long-standing problem of delayed maintenance that undermines water safety.
Installation and usability were also prioritized. Its compact size fits under most kitchen sinks, and it connects to standard faucets in 5 minutes — no professional help needed. A month-long trial with 500 families in Guangzhou and Shanghai yielded positive feedback. "I used to stress about my baby's drinking water," said Ms. Chen, a participant. "Now I check quality on my phone anytime — it's such a relief."
Mass production is scheduled for December 2025, with a price 20% lower than imported alternatives. This innovation not only enhances household water safety but also makes advanced treatment technology accessible to ordinary families, reflecting China's practical approach to solving daily life challenges.
(1)、What is the main purpose of the QingShui-1 smart water purifier?A、To replace all imported water purifiers in the Chinese market. B、To introduce a new concept for home water safety by technological innovation. C、To showcase the research capabilities of South China University of Technology. D、To compete with traditional water purifiers in terms of pricing.(2)、What makes QingShui-1 superior to traditional water purifiers?A、It removes 99.8% of bacteria and filters 0.01-micron particles. B、It costs 20% less than all imported purifiers and works at high temps. C、It fits all kitchen sinks and needs no professional installation. D、It connects to phones for alerts and traps ultra-tiny pollutants.(3)、What can we infer from Ms. Chen's words?A、She no longer worries about her baby's drinking water safety. B、The purifier has improved her baby's drinking habits. C、She doubts the accuracy of the app's water quality data. D、She found the installation more complex than expected.(4)、Which is the most suitable title for the passage?A、WeChat Mini-Programs: A New Tool for Home Maintenance B、QingShui-1: A September 2025 Innovation in Home Water Safety C、Breakthroughs in China's 2025 Home Appliance Technology D、How to Choose a Cost-Effective Water Purifier for Families -
4、Eighteen-year-old Indian programmer Anika Sharma has created a low-cost AI tool that can assist in the early detection of eye diseases. Her project, named "EyeScan AI," was awarded the top prize at the International Science and Engineering Fair in August 2025, attracting attention from medical experts worldwide.
Anika's inspiration came from witnessing her grandfather struggle with diabetes-related vision loss, a condition that could have been managed with earlier diagnosis. With limited resources, she spent over a year teaching herself machine learning and collecting thousands of public medical images to train her model. The resulting software can analyze images of a person's retina taken with a smartphone adapter and identify early signs of diseases like diabetic retinopathy with an accuracy exceeding 90%. Its low cost is a key advantage, making it potentially accessible to rural clinics in developing regions.
"My goal is not to replace doctors, but to provide a tool that helps them, especially in areas with few specialists," Anika stated. Her computer science teacher, Mr. Patel, described her as incredibly resourceful, highlighting how she solved complex problems using free online courses and collaborative coding platforms. Anika has already begun working with a non-profit organization to pilot "EyeScan AI" in several community health centers. She believes that technology should bridge healthcare gaps, and she plans to continue her studies in both computer science and public health to further this mission.
(1)、What is the main function of Anika's "EyeScan AI" tool?A、To replace eye doctors in urban hospitals. B、To cure diabetes-related vision loss. C、To take high-quality photos of the retina. D、To help with the early detection of eye diseases.(2)、What is a key advantage of Anika's AI tool mentioned in the text?A、It is very expensive but highly accurate. B、It can operate without any internet connection. C、Its low price makes it accessible to underserved areas. D、It is the first AI tool ever used in medicine.(3)、What does the underlined word "resourceful" in Paragraph 4 most likely mean?A、having a lot of personal wealth B、good at finding ways to solve problems C、relying heavily on others for help D、knowledgeable about history(4)、What can we infer about Anika from the passage?A、She is motivated by a desire to address a real-world health problem. B、She had access to the best resources and teachers from the start. C、She plans to sell her software to large technology companies. D、She believes her tool will make medical specialists unnecessary. -
5、After two years of careful construction, Mountain View Park officially welcomes visitors in August 2025. This new urban green space in the heart of the city covers 50 acres and is designed for relaxation and outdoor activities for people of all ages. It aims to provide a natural escape without leaving the city limits.
The park features several unique areas. The "Skywalk" is a raised wooden path that offers stunning views of the entire city skyline. The "Butterfly Garden" is a peaceful zone filled with flowers that attract hundreds of colorful butterflies, creating a perfect spot for photography. For families with children, the "Adventure Playground" includes modern, safe equipment made from natural materials.
Visiting information is as follows:
Visiting time: from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily.
Admission is free for children under 3 years old. Tickets are priced at $10 for children aged 3 to 12, and $20 for adults. A family ticket for two adults and two children is available for $50. The best time to visit is on weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds. Guided tours are available at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. every Saturday.
(1)、What is the main purpose of Mountain View Park?A、To provide a natural escape for city residents. B、To host international sports events. C、To serve as a botanical research center. D、To replace other parks in the city.(2)、Which area of the park is recommended for photography?A、The Skywalk. B、The Adventure Playground. C、The Butterfly Garden. D、The City Skyline.(3)、How much should a couple with their 5-year-old twins pay to enter the park?A、$40. B、$50. C、$60. D、$70. -
6、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。
On the first morning of second grade, Jared remembered five things he didn't like about school; Jessica, lining up, maths, spelling, and reading aloud. Jared wanted to stay home, but his mom sent him anyway. He had to sit next to Jessica.
At reading time, Mrs. Thomas asked Jared to read. Reading aloud always made Jared nervous. As he picked up the book, his hands shook. Words were not clear. "He can't read," Jessica said, "I didn't call on you, did I?" asked Mrs. Thomas. "No, but I'll read." Jared made a face They were asked to stay outside the classroom for a time-out (暂停), During the period, Jessica whispered to him, "When Mom brings my kittens (小猫) to school, don't even think about touching them."
The four kittens arrived in a box covered with a piece of screen. Everyone except Jared held them. Jared had nothing to do but practice spelling. When he sharpened his pencil, he looked into the tiny box. "Don't want to touch my kittens!" Jessica shouted. "Stupid kittens," Jared said. After the second class, almost the whole class wanted to play with the kittens. Then Philip said, "Hey, where are the kittens?" The box was empty. "Oh no!" Jessica said, "Jared, did you take them?" Jared shook his head, thinking they must have pushed up the lid (盖子). "He said they were stupid." Jessica told Mrs. Thomas. "I didn't mean it" Jared's face turned red.
"Look at the radiator (散热器)!" Philip said. A Tiny gray face rose from under the radiator cover. "Kitty, kitty," Mrs. Thomas said. The face disappeared. "If we ignore them, maybe they'll come out. At least the heat isn't on." Instead of practicing spelling, Jared watched the radiator. Soon, two faces and a tiny head appeared. Alex yelled, "Kitten!" The kitten was out of sight again. Jessica cried.
注意:
1. 续写词数应为150左右;
2. 请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
Jared decided to help the kittens out, so he stood up from his desk.
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Jared lifted them into the box with Jessica watching with joy.
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7、假定你是李华,你的英国朋友Alex对你校下周将举行的校园汉服节(the Hanfu Festival)很感兴趣。请给他写一封邮件,内容包括:
1.活动时间、地点;
2.活动内容;
3.邀请参加。
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。
Dear Alex,
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Yours,
Li Hua
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8、When you are in a dangerous situation, don't. (恐慌) (根据汉语提示单词拼写)
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9、I hope this will (说服) you to change your mind. (根据汉语提示单词拼写)
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10、This region was once almost completely (占用) by forests. (根据汉语提示单词拼写)
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11、There is a variety of furniture in the market, which can satisfy most of the customers'(需求) (根据汉语提示单词拼写)
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12、Pompeii was a typical Roman city. It is believed that the city was (兴建) around the 7th century BCE. (根据汉语提示单词拼写)
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13、We need to e the effects of low gravity on animals and plants. (根据首字母单词拼写)
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14、It's difficult to guess what they will c from the evidence. (根据首字母单词拼写)
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15、The school has a all the lights to make sure the classrooms are well lit. (根据首字母单词拼写)
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16、When your wear a VR headset e with sensors and a screen, you are surrounded by three-D images, sounds and other sensory information. (根据首字母单词拼写)
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17、The new project could not only save time, but also greatly d road traffic.(根据首字母单词拼写)
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18、语法填空
For 23-year-old Zhao Xiangcai, college student in Tai'an, Shandong Province, climbing Taishan Mountain had always been a daunting task. This Spring Festival, his otherwise exhausting experience (transform) by a robotic exoskeleton device. "It felt like the robot was doing most of the work for me."
The robotic exoskeleton, weighing just 1.8 kilograms, has been developed by the Taishan Cultural Tourism Group in collaboration with Kenqing Technology, a company based in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province. It is designed (assist) users in climbing steep terrain with ease. The device, fits snugly around a user's waist and legs, integrates advanced ergonomics, power electronics and artificial intelligence algorithms to perceive movement and provide assistance based the terrain and the user's strides.
The robotic exoskeleton can function nonstop for more than five hours on a single charge, (cover) approximately 14 kilometers of steep terrain, making it an (idea) companion for those who want to enjoy the bliss of mountains excessive physical strain.
According a report by the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology, humanoid robots are poised to become the next major technology platform after personal computers, smartphones and new energy vehicles,(potential) forming a trillion-yuan-level market.
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19、I was born in a poor village in Uganda. I spent the1 days of my childhood there. My mother died when I was born. My father never cared about me, which2 me to leave when I was ten. For the next three years, I helped people do something and they provided me with shelter and food3. Luckily, a4 family paid for me to go to school. For the first time after leaving home, I felt5. Then, I attended school and got a job. I always6 to help children in need. Yet I7 felt I could do something more.
In 2016, I got passed to be a foster (收养) parent. By the end of 2019, ten kids had filled my house. In 2020, I got a call from a center for8 children. When asked if I could take Anthony, I9 it because ten kids were all I could do with.10, I was talked into taking Anthony just for the weekend. I didn't ask about his situation11.
Anthony arrived that night, "Can I call you Dad?" he asked.
"No." I needed to keep my12.
Monday morning a worker in the center came to13 Anthony. From their talk, I learned he had been14 three times, but nobody would take him in.
Looking at Anthony, I saw something that made me think of the15 boy I had once been. "I'll take him in," I said.
(1)A 、boring B 、busy C 、dark D 、ordinary(2)A 、forced B 、allowed C 、prepared D 、reminded(3)A 、in public B 、in advance C 、in person D 、in return(4)A 、kind B 、poor C 、traditional D 、small(5)A 、challenged B 、loved C 、trapped D 、praised(6)A 、failed B 、agreed C 、volunteered D 、pretended(7)A 、hardly B 、already C 、once D 、still(8)A 、troubled B 、homeless C 、deaf D 、slow(9)A 、refused B 、doubted C 、faced D 、forgot(10)A 、Therefore B 、However C 、Besides D 、Instead(11)A 、rudely B 、secretly C 、purposely D 、blindly(12)A 、promise B 、distance C 、balance D 、record(13)A 、cheer on B 、look after C 、pick up D 、chat with(14)A 、taken B 、rescued C 、invited D 、forgiven(15)A 、proud B 、outgoing C 、silly D 、helpless -
20、It is not always easy to keep a conversation going in English. You might not be sure about what to say. Or maybe you are afraid that your pronunciation is not good. So how can we continue a conversation in English?
Listen and follow up
First, remember the importance of listening. Listen to the other person attentively, so that you can ask a follow-up question. For example, let's say the other person tells you, "I just got back from a trip to Canada." Where did you go in Canada? What was your favorite place there?
How was the food there?
Avold simple "yes" or "no" questions
If you want to keep a conversation going, it's a good idea to ask questions that cannot be answered with a simple "yes" or "no". If the other person asks you a "yes" or "no" question, try to give a longer answer to help keep the conversation going.
For example, a friend might ask, "Hey, have you seen the new Star Wars movie?" You could just answer, "No, I haven't." You could answer: "No, but I plan to see it soon. How about you?"
Do not worry about your pronunciation. If your pronunciation is a little different, the other person will still understand your message if you try speaking slowly and clearly. When you are traveling in an English-speaking country and have some free time, be brave and speak in English with someone who does not look too busy.
A. Or, you could say more.
B. Be brave and practice often.
C. You can try the following ways.
D. Why did you choose the destination?
E. Then you may make a new friend.
F. Correct your pronunciation if possible.
G. You can continue with a question using where, what, why, or how.