• 1、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 a sunny afternoon, Emma was riding her bicycle along the quiet path that ran through the park near her home. The warm sun bathed everything in a golden light, and the gentle breeze carried the scent of blooming flowers. She felt at ease, enjoying the simple joy of cycling. Each successful maneuver around a curve filled her with a sense of accomplishment.

    Emma's bicycle held special meaning for her. It was a gift from her older brother, who had saved his allowance for months to surprise her on her birthday. He had taken her to several bike shops, carefully listening to her preferences without revealing the surprise. When she unwrapped the box and saw the shiny new bicycle, complete with a bell and streamers, she felt an overwhelming sense of love and gratitude. This wasn't just a toy; it was a symbol of her brother's care and their bond.

    Suddenly, a loud crash came from a nearby bush. Startled, Emma stopped and looked over. A young boy stumbled out, holding his arm and looking distressed. He had tripped while chasing after a ball. Without hesitation, Emma dismounted and rushed to his side. "Are you okay?" she asked, concern etched on her face.

    "I think I twisted my ankle," the boy replied, his voice trembling. His ankle was swollen, and he struggled to stand. Emma quickly assessed the situation. Just then, another boy appeared, running towards them. It was the one who had been playing with the ball. "I'm so sorry!" he exclaimed, clearly feeling guilty. "Can I help?"

    Emma smiled reassuringly. "Of course. Let's get him to the bench over there." Together, they gently helped the injured boy to a nearby bench. Emma used her water bottle to pour cool water on a cloth, which she placed on his ankle to reduce the swelling. The other boy, feeling responsible, offered to go find a park ranger or call for help.

    As they waited, the injured boy began to relax, grateful for their kindness. "Thanks for helping me," he said softly. Emma smiled. "That's what friends are for."

    注意:续写词数应为150左右。

    In that quiet moment, Emma was struck by an unexpected realization.

    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

    The three of them settled into a comfortable silence, but it didn't last long.

    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

  • 2、假设你是李华,你对学校的摄影俱乐部非常感兴趣,想要申请加入。请你给俱乐部负责人写一封信,表达你的兴趣和申请理由。信中应包括以下内容:

    1. 介绍你自己并说明你为什么对摄影感兴趣;2. 表达你希望加入俱乐部的愿望,并承诺积极参与活动。

    注意:1. 写作词数为80词左右;2. 开头和结尾已给出,不计入总词数。

    Dear Photography Club President,

    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

    Best regards,

    Li Hua

  • 3、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。

    YouTuber Zac Alsop (document) the process on his YouTube channel he used a paraglider (滑翔伞) to fly up into the clouds caught one to bring back down with him. Taking a camera with him, Alsop filmed himself paragliding into the clouds with a giant zip lock bag. (capture) one, he sealed up the bag and (safe) returned to the ground. Armed with a cloud, the YouTuber (task) with turning it into a piece of art.

    Naturally, the cloud in his bag wasn't fluffy anymore; it had transformed into water droplets. (recreate) the cloud's (appear), Alsop bought a fog machine typically used reptile habitats and placed it at the bottom of a glass box, concealing it under moss. When he turned it on, the machine began to cause the water to evaporate and turn into fog. Everyone thought it was an (amaze) story.

  • 4、Earlier this year, I was looking for part-time work. Moonmilk, a cake and ice cream shop nearby, was hiring, so I went in for a1 shift. While I2 just set out to earn some extra money during the summer, the bonds and memories I made there turned out to be more3 than any paycheck.

    Once, a man who works for the union of the local movie theater came in to place a(n)4. He wanted a cake to celebrate a5 he'd had in stopping the theater from being evicted (驱逐) by its landlord. Moonmilk's owner was touched by the story and6 payment for the cake. Later, the union leader — so moved by the gesture — delivered free movie tickets to Moonmilk staff. The older women customers are among my favorites. Their concern is7; they often wonder if I'm okay and tell me I look tired. One regular, always alone and smiling, is kind and generous, ordering methodically and always8 we have the best ice cream in the city. There's also the guy who comes in frequently to ask if we have the chocolate orange flavor that we only ever have at Christmas. I always have to say no, but his9 brings me joy, especially on days when I'm tired.

    As with any job, there are10 moments. My wrist often hurts from repeatedly scooping out ice cream, and it's always annoying when a group of people come in and take way too long to order, holding up all the others11.

    In the fall, my full-time job's schedule becomes more12 and I know I'll have to scale back my shifts. I'll miss the13 of the summer season and will14 my favorite customers less often. But the interactions and connections I've made will sustain me until at least next summer. Hopefully, the orange chocolate ice cream will have15 by then.

    (1)
    A 、visit B 、trial C 、travel D 、change
    (2)
    A 、immediately B 、abruptly C 、originally D 、accidentally
    (3)
    A 、familiar B 、uncertain C 、typical D 、invaluable
    (4)
    A 、order B 、bill C 、menu D 、label
    (5)
    A 、chance B 、festival C 、victory D 、birthday
    (6)
    A 、obtained B 、possessed C 、designed D 、refused
    (7)
    A 、imaginary B 、comforting C 、steady D 、reasonable
    (8)
    A 、promising B 、serving C 、declaring D 、informing
    (9)
    A 、persistence B 、assignment C 、exploration D 、management
    (10)
    A 、nervous B 、unpleasant C 、peaceful D 、regular
    (11)
    A 、forgiving B 、regretting C 、waiting D 、admiring
    (12)
    A 、embarrassing B 、remarkable C 、impressive D 、demanding
    (13)
    A 、busyness B 、balance C 、distance D 、loneliness
    (14)
    A 、break down B 、run into C 、care about D 、show off
    (15)
    A 、checked B 、examined C 、returned D 、delayed
  • 5、How frequently do you find yourself worrying about things beyond your control?. Why? There's no substantial reason for it. It only serves to generate unnecessary stress, both physically and mentally, and stops you from enjoying the present moment. Perhaps it's time to learn how to reduce your worrying a bit. Here are several strategies to help you manage your worries more effectively.

    Accept uncertainty and learn to thrive in it

    . You can never be entirely sure what the future holds. Embrace this uncertainty and find ways to flourish within it. Unexpectedly, it might open doors to thrilling opportunities you hadn't considered before. Pour your passion into what matters to you and strive diligently toward your aspirations. That's the best approach you can take..

    Distract yourself with another activity

    Really can't seem to get it out of your head?. This approach is most effective when you choose an activity that fully captures your attention, like pursuing a hobby or delving into a remarkable book. For instance, I find myself completely immersed when I'm with my horses — whether it's just grooming them or simply spending time in their company, it helps me forget about everything else.

    If you find that the above strategies aren't helping you manage your worries, try setting aside a specific time each day to focus on them. During this period, write down all your concerns in your worry journal and commit to stopping once the time is up. This allows you to externalize your worries, getting them out of your head and onto paper, which can be incredibly effective for clearing your mind.
     

    A. The charm of life lies in its unpredictability

    B. Reach out to a friend to discuss your concerns

    C. What happens next is in the hands of the world

    D. Chances are, it occurs several times daily, or even more

    E. Set aside a specific time for worrying and keep a worry journal

    F. Dive into an activity that's totally different and demands your concentration

    G. Talking about your worry will help you know about whether your worry is realistic

  • 6、Lately, it is getting harder and harder to find clothes that aren't laced with plastic. Like sugar in food, plastic comes in many forms with many different names. When you check a garment's fabric composition, it's not uncommon to be confronted by a list of scientific words. For example: polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride or polypropylene, which are all types of plastic. However, too few realize that unless you're paying close attention, most of your wardrobe contains a whole lot of plastic. Often it is invisible, like the microplastics shed by synthetic materials; while you may never see them, they have been found at the bottom of the ocean and in human blood.

    Despite our awareness of the perils of plastic, fashion's dependence on it persists. A recent report says between 1980 and 2014, production of polyester increased by nearly 900%. Two common plastics, polyester and nylon, account for 69% of all the materials used in clothing globally and that number is expected to increase to 75% by 2030.

    So why do we continue to use plastics? The main reason is, of course, cost. The market price for synthetic fibers is significantly less compared to natural fibers, creating a huge incentive for fashion brands to find ways to replace traditionally used natural fibers with synthetic ones. Moreover, making synthetic materials isn't dependent on seasons or farms affected by rainfall or heatwaves, as is the case with cotton and wool.

    You've likely seen a lot of brands promoting themselves as sustainable by using plastic bottles to make their clothes. But the problem is, our plastic-based textile economy has led to unsustainable overproduction of clothing that is unhealthy for our communities and our ecosystems. And plastic clothing is still going to impact our health and have a lasting effect on the environment. Textiles made from plastic fibers are responsible for microplastic fiber shedding at every stage of their lives: when they're worn, washed, and disposed of. These microplastics enter the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat. Plus, clothing made from plastic bottles can actually disrupt and shorten its life cycle. When a bottle is transformed into clothing, it often accelerates that bottle's journey to the landfill because we purchase and discard our clothing at such a rapid pace.

    While the hidden story of plastic in our clothes doesn't have the happiest of endings — yet! — we can each take measures. Reduce our overall consumption of clothing and textile products and extend the life of our favorite garment. Learning to mend can be a game-changer. When we do make textile purchases, buy and wear natural fiber products, especially those originating from land-based production systems that are working to restore and build ecosystem and soil health.

    (1)、What does the author imply about the presence of plastic in clothing?
    A、It is easily noticeable. B、It is beneficial for the environment. C、It is often hidden and not widely recognized. D、It is only present in certain types of garments.
    (2)、What is the primary reason for the fashion industry's continued reliance on plastic?
    A、The durability of plastic materials. B、The ease of recycling plastic textiles. C、The environmental benefits of using plastic. D、Synthetic fibers are more economical than their natural counterparts.
    (3)、Which of the following best describes the environmental impact of plastic-based textiles?
    A、They contribute positively to soil health. B、They reduce the amount of waste in landfills. C、They lead to microplastic pollution throughout the environment. D、They encourage sustainable farming practices.
    (4)、What measure does the author recommend to address the issue of plastic in clothing?
    A、Increasing the production of synthetic fibers. B、Promoting the use of more plastic-based textiles. C、Encouraging the fast-paced purchasing and discarding of clothes. D、Lowering our demand for new clothes and maximizing the longevity of existing items.
  • 7、People often vaguely refer to "the middle of nowhere", but as it turns out, scientists have actually figured out precisely where that point is. Point Nemo, the most remote location on Earth, is so far removed from civilization that the closest humans to that location at any given time are likely to be astronauts. Point Nemo is officially known as "the oceanic pole of inaccessibility", or the point in the ocean farthest from land. Located at 48°52.6'S 123°23.6'W, the spot is quite literally the middle of nowhere, surrounded by more than 1,000 miles of ocean in every direction. There are no human inhabitants anywhere near Point Nemo. And scientists chose to call the location "Nemo" because it is Latin for "no one" and as a reference to Jules Verne's submarine captain from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.

    The location is so isolated that the closest people to Point Nemo are not even on Earth. Astronauts aboard the International Space Station are around 258 miles from the Earth's surface at any given time. Since the inhabited area closest to Point Nemo is more than 1,000 miles away, the humans in space are far closer to the pole of inaccessibility than those on land.

    Not even the man who first calculated the precise location of Point Nemo has ever visited it. In 1992, Croatian survey engineer Hrvoje Lukatela set out to find the exact point in the Pacific that was farthest away from any land using a computer program. It is very possible that no human has ever passed through Point Nemo's exact coordinates. As for non-human inhabitants, there aren't very many of those around Point Nemo either. Point Nemo's coordinates fall within the South Pacific Gyre, an enormous rotating current that prevents nutrient-rich water from flowing into the area. Without any food sources, sustaining most life in this part of the ocean is impossible.

    Point Nemo does, however, have at least one other eerie claim to its name. Due to its remoteness and distance from shipping routes, the area around Point Nemo was chosen as a "spaceship graveyard". According to CNN, NASA first started using the region in 1971. Since then, more than 263 pieces of space junk have crashed into the area, including some of the world's greatest spacecraft, the Russian Mir space station and NASA's first space station, Skylab.

    (1)、Why is Point Nemo referred to as the "oceanic pole of inaccessibility"?
    A、It is the farthest point from any land. B、It is the deepest point in the ocean. C、It is located at the center of the Pacific Ocean. D、It is a place that only astronomers have ever visited.
    (2)、What can be learned about the isolation of Point Nemo?
    A、It is frequently visited by marine biologists. B、It is within reach of commercial shipping routes. C、The nearest humans to Point Nemo are often astronauts. D、There are several small islands nearby.
    (3)、Which of the following is True about the environmental conditions around Point Nemo?
    A、The area is rich in marine biodiversity due to its isolation. B、The strong currents of the South Pacific Gyre support a thriving ecosystem. C、The region is frequently visited by marine researchers for its unique ecosystem. D、The lack of nutrients makes it difficult for most marine life to survive in the area.
    (4)、What is the crucial aspect when choosing an area as a "spaceship graveyard"?
    A、Proximity to major coastal cities. B、Depth of the ocean at the chosen location. C、Distance from any landmass and human activity. D、Presence of strong ocean currents that could disperse debris.
  • 8、It's not just the athletes taking center stage at the Paralympics; the unsung heroes that ensure their success play a critical role too. Zhu Siwei, affectionately known as the ‘wheelchair doctor,' is one of those vital contributors, combining his technical skills with a deep-seated passion for adaptive sports.

    For Zhu, each malfunctioning wheelchair is like a body succumbing to a cold, a challenge that he has embraced throughout his 10-year career in wheelchair repair. At 33 years old, Zhu showcased his expertise on the world stage during this summer's Paris Paralympics, operating in the repair centers nestled within the Paralympic Village and competition venues.

    Operating as a linchpin of support, his role parallels the medical care that athletes receive. Ensuring that wheelchairs are functional and comfortable is paramount for athletes to compete effectively and to live their daily lives harmoniously. Zhu, along with a dedicated technical team, provided complimentary repairs to athletes and officials from around the world, ensuring their equipment was impeccably maintained. Every day presents its unique set of challenges, Zhu reflected. There are instances where a simple loose screw or a rust-stained part needs fixing, but other occasions require thorough examinations where repairs can span from thirty minutes to several hours.

    The intricacies of wheelchair functioning can significantly affect an athlete's performance. On the court, athletes depend entirely on their equipment; outside of competitions, these devices afford them mobility and comfort within the Paralympic Village, Zhu explained. Stationed amidst the flurry at the assistive device repair center, Zhu, alongside an array of technicians, remained steadfast in their commitment to excellence. Jennifer Duke, who managed the repair center's front desk, noted that the team was composed of around 180skilled technicians hailing from diverse countries, including Canada, France, and the Netherlands.

    (1)、According to the passage, what can be Zhu Siwei's approach to his work?
    A、Zhu views each malfunctioning wheelchair as an opportunity to demonstrate his technical skills. B、Zhu treats each broken wheelchair like a medical case, showing empathy and dedication in his repairs. C、Zhu focuses primarily on the speed of repairs rather than the quality of his work. D、Zhu sees the repair of wheelchairs as a routine task that requires minimal effort.
    (2)、What does the underlined word "paramount" in the third paragraph mean?
    A、secondary. B、insignificant. C、essential. D、optional.
    (3)、Based on the passage, what challenges does Zhu Siwei face in his daily work at the Paralympics?
    A、He must travel frequently between different competition venues. B、He deals with a wide range of issues, from simple repairs to complex examinations. C、He primarily focuses on repairing rust-stained parts. D、He works alone without the support of other technicians.
    (4)、What can be inferred about the importance of wheelchair functionality for Paralympic athletes?
    A、Athletes prefer using traditional sports equipment over wheelchairs. B、Wheelchair performance has a minimal impact on an athlete's success. C、Athletes rely on wheelchairs only for transportation outside of competitions. D、The condition of the wheelchair can significantly affect an athlete's performance.
  • 9、The world's most celebrated minds didn't have easy or obvious paths. Let's take a closer look at famous scientists who set inspiring examples during their lifetimes.

    Jane Goodall

    Jane Goodall is a famous expert on chimpanzees (黑猩猩). When she was 18, Goodall stopped schooling and worked three jobs — as a secretary, assistant film editor, and a waitress — just to pay for her first trip to Africa. In her early 20s, she arrived in Mombasa and worked for the well-known scientist Louis Leakey. Despite lacking a degree, she spent years observing chimpanzees in the wild before earning her PhD. Goodall's journey teaches us that hard work and determination can help us achieve our goals.

    Louis Pasteur

    Louis Pasteur was one of the most significant scientists of the 19th century. In his youth, he did not stand out academically and was more interested in art. However, he decided to pursue a career in science, applying to the top university, Ecole Normale Superieure. After initially finishing 15th in the entrance exam, he devoted another year to his studies and later ranked 4th. Pasteur's devotion highlights the importance of willpower in achieving success.

    Caroline Herschel

    Marie Curie may be the most famous female scientist, but she was far from the first. Caroline Herschel began her career as a singer but eventually became a brilliant astronomer. She was the first woman to discover a comet (彗星) and received many honors, including being the first woman paid for her scientific work. Herschel's story emphasizes the importance of following one's passion.

    Leonardo da Vinci

    Leonardo da Vinci was a knowledgeable person who was expert at various fields from art to science. His innovative ideas, such as drawings of flying machines and advanced engineering studies, remind us to maintain curiosity and explore diverse interests. Da Vinci's life encourages us not to limit ourselves and to remain open-minded in our pursuit of knowledge.

    (1)、According to the passage, what did Jane Goodall do before she started her research journey in Africa?
    A、She completed a university degree. B、She worked as an assistant to Louis Leakey. C、She took on three jobs simultaneously to fund her trip. D、She received funding from multiple research projects.
    (2)、What can be inferred about Louis Pasteur's early academic performance?
    A、He was the top student in his class. B、He struggled with science subjects. C、He showed no particular interest in studies. D、His initial academic performance was not outstanding.
    (3)、Based on the passage, what do the four scientists have in common?
    A、They all made significant contributions to the field of biology. B、Each of them faced challenges but ultimately achieved success through perseverance. C、They were all awarded prestigious honors for their scientific discoveries. D、All of them started their careers in a different field before turning to science.
  • 10、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。

    Once a year, Ursula Bannister climbs to High Rock Lookout, a viewpoint near Ashford, Washington. She usually hikes with someone along the 3.2-mile trail (山路). Last August, Bannister, then 49, went on her own, figuring she'd be fine because she's an experienced hiker.

    It was steep (陡峭的) so it was considered a hard hike, but because she had done it so many times, she wasn't nervous about it. She arrived at the trail at around 11 am and made her way to the lookout. As she headed back down, her foot got caught in a hole in the ground. She fell forward heavily.

    By the time she sat up, she found her foot pointed the wrong way. She knew right away she had broken her leg. With sharp pain, Bannister struggled to shout for help. Luckily, a stranger approached before long and called 911. The response from the other end of the phone was rather discouraging - they were told a professional search and rescue team would arrive in five hours.

    The sad story continued. Bannister asked this man if he had painkillers, because at that point, the pain was pretty bitter. Another negative reply came to her. Her heart was sinking deep.

    At this moment, two young men approached to see what was going on. Troy May, 20, an Air Force air man stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, had hiked up to the lookout that day with his friend Layton Allen. When they saw Bannister on the ground in enormous pain, they knew Bannister needed to be carried down without any further delay. They made an immediate offer: they could carry the injured woman to the foot of the hill.

    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。

    May eased Bannister onto his back and started hiking downward.

    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

    Three hours later, they reached the trail's end.

    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

  • 11、假定你是李华,是个摄影爱好者。上周,你参加了学校举办的以"中国传统节日"为主题的摄影比赛(photography competition)。请你写封邮件,将你的参赛经历与你的英国朋友 Jack分享,内容包括:

    1. 你的作品介绍;

    2. 参赛结果及感受。

    注意:

    1. 词数80左右;

    2. 请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。

    Dear Jack,

    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

    Yours,

    Li Hua

  • 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。

    The Naadam Festival is not just a celebration for Mongolian people, but also a deep-rooted expression of their cultural identity. At the heart of this festival are the traditional sports, which (practise) for centuries. These sports include wrestling, horse racing archery (射箭).

    Wrestling is perhaps (famous) of the three sports during Naadam. It's about strength and technique, as well as skill. Wrestlers colourful costumes represent the spirit of their ancestors, and the competition serves as a way to honor those people came before them.

    Horse racing is a must-learn skill for many families. Children learn to ride when they are three, and most of the riders during the Naadam Festival are under ten. The horses are seen as the symbols of strength and (free), and their success is a point of pride for their owners. The races (symbol) the nomadic (游牧的) lifestyle of centuries and draw crowds from all over the world every year.

    Archery (use) for hunting and war has been an important part of Mongolian life since ancient times. Today, it has evolved (演变) into a sport that shows flexibility and skill. The archery contests are open to male, female, young and old participants. The act of drawing a bow and (release) an arrow represents the harmony between man and nature.

    (evident), the traditional sports are far more than just games; they are a celebration of heritage that connects the past with the present.

  • 13、​​​​​​​At first, Manuel Vera, 74, who is retired from the local power company, just wanted to do something1 for his neighbors during the COVID-19 lockdown. So he posted to an online group in his neighborhood,2 to repair people's bikes for free. All he asked was to be3 with any new bike parts. He also asked neighbors to donate any bikes collecting4 in their garages and basements after kids had grown up or adults had5 their bikes to new models.

    6, in his tidy little backyard shelter, he got to work. Space was7, so Vera preferred to work alone. Vera fixed the donated bikes and moved them with great efforts to parks, food banks and churches. He camped out with his Free Bikes sign and waited for people to8. Then he talked with those interested and9 them up with the perfect bikes. His first giveaway saw six bikes go in under 30 minutes.

    Now neighbors know Vera as the Bike Dude, and they keep him busy with a steady10 of bikes, helmets and locks to redistribute. He is11 mentioned in Facebook's Buy Nothing group as well, when locals seek to either12 or offload sets of bikes.

    In addition to the adults and kids he meets at his Free Bikes events, eager customers come from local resettlement agencies and other non-profits. The groups provide Vera with the height, gender and age of a rider, and he13 a fitting bicycle to their door. He's14 to make the trip.

    So far, more than 700 riders have new15 powered by their feet to take them anywhere, thanks to the big-hearted Bike Dude.

    (1)
    A 、practical B 、ordinary C 、secret D 、complicated
    (2)
    A 、agreeing B 、demanding C 、asking D 、offering
    (3)
    A 、returned B 、repaired C 、repaid D 、replaced
    (4)
    A 、water B 、rain C 、dust D 、fog
    (5)
    A 、adapted B 、updated C 、applied D 、devoted
    (6)
    A 、Afterwards B 、Instead C 、However D 、Otherwise
    (7)
    A 、wide B 、far C 、flexible D 、tight
    (8)
    A 、watch out B 、come out C 、stop by D 、look up
    (9)
    A 、teamed B 、paired C 、mixed D 、passed
    (10)
    A 、supply B 、charge C 、production D 、creation
    (11)
    A 、merely B 、desperately C 、constantly D 、absolutely
    (12)
    A 、admire B 、acquire C 、win D 、preserve
    (13)
    A 、drags B 、pushes C 、drops D 、delivers
    (14)
    A 、delighted B 、anxious C 、determined D 、hesitant
    (15)
    A 、locks B 、wheels C 、gloves D 、helmets
  • 14、Add More Laughter to Your Life

    Laughter isn't just a quick moment of happiness.. All you need are small, fun choices to bring more humor into your day. Here's how to make laughter part of your everyday life.

    Laughter grows when you practice gratitude and stay positive. Try seeing challenges as chances to learn, and look for the good in tough situations. Every day, write down three funny or happy moments (even tiny ones!). Every individual can do something interesting. Keep things around you that make you smile - like silly decorations, funny quotes, or small practices like a daily meme (表情包) break.

    Do things you love

    . Make time for hobbies that make you feel like a kid again: dance to your favorite songs, play video games with friends, try painting, or join a comedy club. Fun activities help you relax and laugh more easily. Exercise (like sports, yoga, or even walking) also releases "happy chemicals" in your brain, putting you in a better mood for giggles (咯咯地笑). Treat these activities as important but not optional!

    Hang out with funny people

    Spend time with people who make you smile. Funny friends find humor in everyday moments — like cracking jokes, sharing funny stories, or laughing at silly things.. Plan fun hangouts: comedy movie nights, board games, or even just playing around at the park. These moments build happy memories you can look back on when life feels stressful.

    Don't take yourself too seriously

    It's okay to laugh at yourself! Embrace mistakes or awkward moments — they make great stories later. Share funny mistakes with friends instead of feeling embarrassed..

    Laughter is free, easy and always there to boost your mood. Remember: Laughter is like a muscle — the more you use it, the stronger it gets.

    A. Focus on the bright side

    B. Playful experiences create laughter

    C. Keep diary about your happy experiences

    D. They will offer you more chances to face the challenge

    E. The more you can smile at your own silly habits, the lighter life feels

    F. It's a superpower for boosting your mental, emotional and physical health

    G. The good atmosphere helps you stop overthinking and just enjoy the moment

  • 15、At a Berlin trade fair for sustainability, a new device caught Waltraud Berg's eye - a solar panel small enough to be easily installed (安装) on the side of a balcony (阳台) and then plugged into a wall socket (插座) to feed energy produced by the sun directly into her home.

    "I was absolutely thrilled to learn that such a thing even existed, that you can generate your own power and be more independent," said Ms. Berg, a retiree who installed several panels on the south-facing balcony of her apartment by herself.

    Each of the lightweight panels produces only enough electricity to charge a laptop or run a small refrigerator. But in homes across Germany, they are powering a quiet transformation. Electricity prices in Germany have now settled at around 25 euro cents per kilowatt-hour. But they remain among the highest in Europe. Recently, a few new passed laws have effectively prevented landlords from blocking solar panel installations and dropped some of the annoying registration requirements. More than 500, 000 of the systems have already been set up across Germany, and the new laws that relaxed rules around solar panel installation have contributed to a craze in use.

    Some of the solar panels sold in Germany are made by European companies, but most are produced in China, whose dominance (支配地位) of the global industry allows it to deliver solar panels at increasingly lower costs. Janik Nolden, who together with two friends founded Solago, a German company that sells rooftop solar panels and the plug-in versions, said most of the ones that he sells are produced in China, which makes better quality and less expensive panels than anything being produced in Europe.

    "We are seeing a continuous increase in solar installations in particular," said Klaus Müller, president of the Federal Network Agency. "Compared to the total capacity of last year, almost 10percent more solar capacity was added in 2024. Of that, two-thirds was installed on buildings, which includes balcony systems."

    (1)、Why was Waltraud Berg excited about the solar panels?
    A、Because they could help her save on electricity bills significantly. B、Because they allowed her to make her own electricity. C、Because they enabled her to grow plants on her balcony. D、Because they allowed her to share electricity with her neighbors.
    (2)、What can be inferred from paragraph 3?
    A、Landlords are forced to install solar panels. B、No upsetting install-restrictions exist. C、New laws are favored by consumers. D、Electricity prices will certainly remain at a high level.
    (3)、What do we know about the solar panels sold in Germany?
    A、All of the panels are made in China. B、The solar panels must be installed by professionals. C、The panels have no effect on the electricity prices in Germany. D、A lightweight panel generates enough power to charge a portable PC.
    (4)、What is the best title for the text?
    A、German's Love for Solar Energy B、China's Solar Panels in Germany C、Solar Panels Lighting up German Homes D、Balcony Systems are Simplified in German Homes
  • 16、Confidence is influential. A study by Matthias Brauer of the University of Mannheim and his co-authors analysed language used in letters from activist investors. It found that more confident letters were associated with more successful activist campaigns.

    Confidence wins status, too. In a study published in 2012 by Cameron Anderson of the University of California, students on an MBA course were asked to take an online survey before they started classes. The questionnaire asked participants to say if they recognized certain names, events and works of art unknown to them. The options included both real choices, such as Maximilien Robespierre and "Pygmalion", and made-up ones like Bonnie Prince Lorenzo and "Winermere Wild". Overconfident students who had picked more "invented" entries turned out to have the most influence on their classmates, and they were also the ones who were trusted the most, according to end-of-term ratings.

    As much as confidence brings rewards, however, it also brings danger. Work by Ulrike Malmendier of the University of California, has found that overconfident bosses are much more likely to undertake acquisitions (收购). Thus, their acquisitions are also more likely to destroy the value of the company. Another paper, by Guoli Chen of INSEAD and his co-authors, looked at the relationship between bosses' confidence and their earnings forecasts. The researchers found that bosses with inflated (膨胀的) levels of self-belief were slower to adjust their forecasts when they proved inaccurate. "Put simply," they concluded, "overconfident bosses who make mistakes continue to be wrong for longer."

    This messy picture is divided into two broad directions for managers to reflect on. First, puffed-up people need guardrails. A new paper by Priscilla Kraft of WHU, a German business school finds that overconfident bosses of American high-tech firms have a better record of making breakthrough innovations if they are managed by powerful and expert boards (董事会). Second, self-doubters need encouragement to fulfil their potential. That might come from managers, advisors or even themselves.

    (1)、Why did overconfident students have more influence on their classmates in the study in 2012?
    A、They were more active in class discussion. B、They had a better understanding of the survey. C、Their overconfidence made them more reliable. D、They made more correct options in the questionnaire.
    (2)、What's the potential risk for overconfident bosses according to Ulrike Malmendier?
    A、Bringing too many rewards. B、Leading to certain loss. C、Avoiding acquisitions. D、Expanding their business.
    (3)、What does the underlined sentence "puffed-up people need guardrails" in paragraph 4 mean?
    A、Overconfident people need proper management. B、Overconfident people should be encouraged. C、Overconfident people need more power. D、Overconfident people shoulder more responsibility.
    (4)、What can we know from the studies mentioned in the passage?
    A、Confidence always leads to positive outcomes. B、Self-doubters are more likely to succeed in the long run. C、The level of confidence has no relation to one's influence. D、Overconfidence can have both advantages and disadvantages.
  • 17、Productive artificial intelligence is increasingly making its presence felt in classrooms. It's not just students who are turning to AI for help; teachers are also getting involved. Many teachers are now using new AI grading tools, which offer students speedier feedback and more opportunities to practice. When applied correctly, AI assistants are believed to bring about benefits and remove prejudice from the evaluation of student work.

    Education-oriented (面向教育的) AI startups typically provide grading services mainly in writing-heavy subjects like English and history, and to some extent in math and science. These AI-based systems generate a score and offer negative comments on various elements such as topic sentences, persuasive arguments and more. Teachers have the option to use the AI-generated feedback as a guide or directly pass it on to students.

    However, not everyone is convinced that AI is suitable for grading. Some people hold the view that the technology isn't reliable enough for vital grading, which can have a significant impact on students' college admissions and other life-changing decisions. Critics point out that current AI tools can have shortcomings or be overly strict in grading. Alex Kotran, co-founder of the AI Education Project, emphasized, "It should not be used for grading. It will weaken public trust in the education system."

    To test how these graders function, a 12th-grade English paper from a Wall Street Journal colleague was put into three different AI tools. The paper, an essay about the oppression (压迫) of Ophelia in Shakespeare's "Hamlet" that originally received a 97% in 2013, got various scores. AutoMark gave it 97% at first and later 100%, while Class Companion rated it 62% and CoGrader judged it 85%. The results were confusing.

    In conclusion, AI grading tools offer both opportunities and challenges in the classroom. As AI technology continues to grow, it will be crucial to strike a balance between getting much of its benefits and preserving the human touch that is essential for effective teaching and learning.

    (1)、What are the favorable results brought by AI grading tools according to paragraph 1?
    A、Faster feedback and more chances to practice. B、Reduced workload for teachers and increased student activity. C、Improved student attendance and better classroom management. D、Enhanced student-teacher interaction and reduced homework.
    (2)、What subjects are primarily targeted by AI companies for grading services?
    A、Calculation-core subjects. B、Experiment-centre subjects. C、Politics-related subjects. D、Article-writing subjects.
    (3)、Why do some people oppose to use AI for critical grading?
    A、AI tools are too expensive for schools to afford. B、AI technology decreases public trust in the education system. C、AI grading will make teachers lose their jobs. D、AI tools make students become over-dependent on technology.
    (4)、What can we learn from paragraph 4?
    A、AI grading tools function perfectly. B、AI grading tools should be used with great caution. C、AI grading tools are reliable in the final assessment. D、AI grading tools will play a key role in education.
  • 18、Recently, some newly published books come to the readers. Following are some outstanding ones. Have a brief reading of the introduction, and choose the one to your taste.

    The Life Impossible By Matt Haig

    Filled with wonder and wild adventure, this book is a story of hope and the life-changing power of a new beginning. When retired math teacher Grace Winters is left a run-down house on an island by a long-lost friend, curiosity gets the better of her. She arrives in Ibiza with a one-way ticket, no guidebook and no plan. Among the foggy hills and golden beaches, Grace searches for answers about her friend's life, and how it ended. What she uncovers is stranger than she could have dreamed.

    Night Magic By Leigh Ann Henion

    In this book, New York Times bestselling nature writer Leigh Ann Henion invites us to leave our well-lit homes, step outside and embrace the dark as an extremely beautiful part of the world. The book is rich with insights about nocturnal (夜间活动的) animals and plants, like bats in Alabama and mushrooms in North Carolina. During her adventure, Henion encounters naturalists, biologists and others who've devoted their lives to studying creatures in the dark.

    Blood Test: A Comedy By Charles Baxter

    Blood Test: A Comedy is a humorous play that digs into the chaos and absurdity (荒诞) surrounding a routine medical check-up. The story begins with a mix-up with blood test results in a clinic waiting room, which leads to a series of misunderstandings and over-the-top reactions. As the characters search for the truth, the plot becomes complicated. With amusing dialogue, comical humor and a touch of heart, the book reminds us not to take life — or our health — too seriously.

    (1)、Why does Grace Winters go to the Mediterranean island in The Life Impossible?
    A、To start a new life there. B、To buy her friend's run-down house. C、To find out the truth about her friend. D、To meet her long-lost friend.
    (2)、Who might be interested in Night Magic?
    A、Nature enthusiasts. B、Magic lovers. C、Island explorers. D、Comedy fans.
    (3)、What does the author want to tell us in Blood Test: A Comedy?
    A、Live your life freely. B、Live your life to the full. C、Life is full of hope. D、Life is beyond dream.
  • 19、听下面一段独白,回答以下小题。
    (1)、When did Nehme enter the Lebanese Conservatorium (黎巴嫩音乐学院)?
    A、At the age of 3. B、At the age of 5. C、At the age of 7.
    (2)、What does the speaker say about the company Peter Music & More?
    A、It was set up in 2014. B、It produces one brand of instruments. C、It stores various instruments.
    (3)、What happened to Nehme 12 years ago?
    A、He encountered challenges in European workshops. B、He fell to the ground during a performance. C、He lost all his collections in a house fire.
    (4)、What is Nehme's current expectation?
    A、Hosting concerts home and abroad. B、Being able to play 46 different instruments. C、Establishing a museum for his instruments.
  • 20、听下面一段较长对话,回答以下小题。
    (1)、How long did the man do the volunteer work last year?
    A、Two months. B、Six months. C、A year.
    (2)、Why did the man choose to be a volunteer teacher?
    A、To follow his father's footsteps. B、To gain more teaching experience. C、To act as his teacher advised.
    (3)、What was the most challenging for the man in his volunteer experience?
    A、Cooking meals for students. B、Sending students home after school. C、Communicating with local residents.
    (4)、What has the woman learned from her volunteer experience?
    A、Never give up in the face of difficulties. B、Treasure everything she possesses. C、Take every chance to make progress.
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