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The origins of lion dance are believed to date back over a thousand years in China. Traditionally (perform) during the Chinese New Year and significant occasions, this art form is intended to ward off evil spirits and invite good fortune. time, lion dance has emerged as a cultural bridge (connect) diverse cultures, through a shared appreciation for its (artist) beauty and symbolic significance.

The story of Kelvin Tran, participant in the 2024 World Chinese King of Lion Dance Championship, reflects the journey of cultural exchange. Tran grew up in a Sydney neighborhood lion dancing is popular. At the age of eight, a family friend introduced him to the practice, marking his crucial step into the world of lion dance. It was his great enthusiasm eventually made Tran co-found a lion dance team in 2018. "Our membership has grown to over 70 people, reflects not only an increase in numbers but also the deepening of relationships among members," he noted. "I wouldn't just call them friends; I call them family," Tran emphasized, highlighting how lion dance helps build and strengthen community ties in Australia.

Despite not (award) the "Lion Dance King", Tran was satisfied with his team had achieved. "Competing at such a significant competition is very special and incredibly meaningful to us," Tran said.

You can enrich the lives of neighbor's and passers-by by creating3. Over the years, I've grown many different herbs (香草)，in pots and containers at the edge of my driveway.4 walk by and stop to take a few for their dinner plans, and later they may5 give me a serving of the6 product. The herb idea has led to many7 as well as Christmas gifts.

I also began a newspaper8 out the front years ago. After reading the papers myself, I put them out on a little table with a(n)9, "Help yourself to a newspaper." Many come for the papers. I've even heard people10 at what time my papers will be out on the table.

Every Christmas evening, my "corner person" friend would create a magical11 window in his neighborhood, which includes a slide show of the season's favorite music videos. As people walk by his corner in the12, their lives are brightened by this creative display of13.

Cities can bring people together, and the corner lot person14 this beautifully. Do you now15 to be a comer person? Let's meet at my corner to discuss further!

The improper disposal of it poses serious threats to the environment and human health because of the presence of harmful materials such as lead and mercury. It is due to their rapidly developing bodies, including their respiratory (呼吸的), immune and central nervous systems.

Luckily, many countries are turning to tackle the e-waste challenges. They commit to specializing in refurbishing (翻新) electronics, making them available to consumers at a lower cost. By doing so, valuable materials such as gold, silver, and copper can be extracted from electronic devices, reducing the need for mining new resources.

Meanwhile, individuals can also contribute to e-waste disposal by being mindful of their electronic consumption. Support electronic manufacturers committed to green technologies aiming for a sustainable cycle of production. Additionally, to ensure the safe and secure disposal of all sensitive information, prioritizing data security in e-waste disposal is necessary.

Do remember to reduce the environmental impacts of electronic products and share a greener and more sustainable future.

A. It is every small action that counts.

B. Prevention and management are needed.

C. Recycling efforts have also become a key component.

D. This includes buying quality products that last longer.

E. Children and pregnant women are especially vulnerable.

F. However, currently only 17.4% of it is recycled responsibly.

G. Only a small percentage of e-waste has been recycled globally.

In 2023, a research team from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) uncovered new findings regarding the composition and mixing techniques of Roman concrete. Traditionally, the presence of small lime clasts (碎屑) in the concrete was due to poor mixing, but that did not make sense to Admir Masic, a scientist of MIT. "If the Romans put so much effort into making an outstanding construction material, following all of the detailed recipes that had been optimized over the course of many centuries, why would they put so little effort into ensuring the production of a well-mixed final product? There has to be more to this story."

To investigate further, Masic and the team analyzed ancient concrete samples from Privernum, Italy, using advanced imaging techniques. Their findings challenge the conventional belief that slaked lime (熟石灰) was the primary ingredient. Instead, it appears that the Romans may have used quicklime (生石灰) mixed directly with pozzolana and water at high temperatures, a process termed "hot mixing." This method not only produced unique high-temperature compounds but also accelerated curing and setting time, facilitating quicker construction.

A significant advantage of this hot mixing process is the self-healing characteristics given by the lime clasts. When cracks develop, water seeps in and interacts with the clasts, which are larger in surface area than surrounding particles. This reaction generates calcium-rich solutions that harden into calcium carbonate, effectively sealing the cracks, This phenomenon has been observed in other ancient Roman structures, reconfirming the durability of their concrete.

The MIT team conducted experiments using both ancient and modern concrete recipes with quicklime, finding that the quicklime concrete completely healed within two weeks after cracking, while control samples without quicklime remained damaged. With these insights, researchers aim to develop more environmentally friendly and durable concrete options, potentially revolutionizing modern construction practices.

Which products will see lower prices?

Target's price reductions will hit 5,000 items in key departments, including groceries and household essentials. According to the company's press release, grocery items such as milk, meat, fresh produce, yogurt, and coffee will see decreased pricing. Additionally, Target will reduce prices on household essentials such as baby oil, paper towels and feeding bottles.

How much is Target lowering prices?

Target is not offering flat-rate or across-the-board price cuts, which means new pricing is specific to each item and not based on a certain percentage. According to the listed prices in Target stores and online, decreases will be between 20 cents and $1. For example, a bag of Good & Gather Roasted Nuts dropped from $6.89 to $5.99, and a package of Purina Cat Food went from $2.39 to $1.99.

Will this continue beyond summer?

While Target is advertising these price cuts as a means to help shoppers save this summer, these deals will continue after August. A Target representative has confirmed that these are the new everyday low prices, which will help out shoppers' wallets for many seasons to come.

What else do shoppers need to know?

While there are plenty of Target savings hacks (妙招), one of the best is taking advantage of Target Circle deals. Shoppers can save an extra 5% on their purchases if they pay using the Target Circle Card.

1. 活动的目的, 时间，地点和过程;

2. 表达期盼。

注意： 1. 词数80词左右;2. 开头和结尾已给出, 不计入总词数。

Dear Mr. Smith,

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Yours,

Li Hua

Ethnic costumes (民族服装) in China， (especial) those of the Dong people, are well-known their lively colors and detailed patterns. The Dong, located mainly in Guizhou, Hunan, Hubei, and Guangxi, have owned a rich heritage in arts and crafts, including (they) famous liangbu．

Liangbu is a special cloth, dyed (染) a deep blue from wild plants, and woven (织) with detailed patterns. It symbolizes the Dong's (wise), connection to nature, and adaptability to their cool, wet environment. (make) liangbu is not easy. The process starts with spinning cotton threads, then dyeing them. The finished cloth is beaten many times to make it strong and long-lasting for use in farming.

It's a valuable tradition was passed down from mothers to daughters. Yang Shenghua, a Dong villager, (learn) this craft from her mother at a young age. Women wear liangbu dresses with colorful flowers, while men's are much simpler.

Liangbu holds important cultural value. It's given as wedding gift from mothers to daughters, and grandmothers present woven baby carriers to new mothers. These (practice) strengthen family ties across generations.

Today, liangbu (recognize) as a national-level intangible cultural heritage, showing the Dong's ingenuity and craftsmanship. Its making is not just a skill, but a living testament to the Dong people's creativity, weaving together tradition and modernity.

On our first hike, our group ran ahead without us. Dad and I ended up1 the path to the top. This was the2 part of the climb, where we had to climb rocks. I was afraid not to have the path to tell us where to go. Mainly, I was afraid that Dad would3 the mountain when he went up to look for the best way for me to climb up. I was grateful for his4. He always made me feel like I was safe with him — even when he insisted that we should not5.

When we were close to the top, we6 some hikers. One of them crouched (蹲) down on a rock, holding onto branches of a bush. His face was7 and looked frozen, like a statue. Dad asked what was going on. The man8 told him that he was afraid of9. In my 7-year-old mind, I thought, "But, you're climbing a mountain!" Dad always helped people in trouble. He told the man to10 him while he led him to a place under that was11 by trees, with no view of the valley under. Dad told him to12 there for his group of hikers to come back and pick him up. Dad taught me sympathy and to help others in need whenever I can.

When we finally reached the top and13 our group, we sat on the highest point, looking at the exciting scenery. I was very14 because we hadn't stopped halfway. Dad taught me, "Don't give up, especially when you're almost there." This has been a valuable15 that has got me through some big challenges in my life.

It might mean overcoming language difficulties, finding your way through confusing public transportation systems, or making quick decisions. The decisions you make, from choosing destinations to exploring unfamiliar streets, are totally your own. In this process, you discover aspects of yourself that may have remained unknown in your daily life.

One of the most enriching aspects of solo travel is the opportunity to experience different cultures. Whether it's starting a conversation with a street vendor (摊贩) or sharing a meal with locals, solo travel provides a unique window into the cultural makeup of each destination.

Solo travel is a constant exercise in adaptability and problem-solving. From understanding foreign languages to managing unexpected changes in plans, you are regularly faced with problems that demand creative solutions.

Solo travel is a journey of self-reliance and independence. As you go through the headaches of planning and making a trip on your own, you surely build a deep sense of self-confidence. You have to rely on yourself to choose the next destination, manage your money and solve unexpected problems.

Solo travel is an exploration of the self, an opportunity for cultural immersion (浸润), and a spark for personal growth. The impact of solo travel extends beyond the length of your trip, leaving you with a set of skills, perspectives, and memories that will last a lifetime.

A. Solo travel forces you out of your comfort zone.

B. Being alone makes you more approachable to locals.

C. The challenges sometimes make you feel frustrated.

D. It's a journey of self-discovery, growth and transformation.

E. The decisions, both big and small, are entirely yours to make.

F. The lessons learned on the road translate into increased self-respect.

G. These problem-solving skills become valuable wealth in your everyday life.

In the 1960s, American psychologist David Premack developed a theory now known as Premack Principle. He explained that doing something you're more likely to do can be a reward for doing something you don't actually want to do. For instance, if you finish a task you're not interested in, like cleaning the bathroom, you can treat yourself to something you like, such as watching an episode of your favorite TV show. This way takes advantage of our natural need for fun to help us get through tasks we might not enjoy.

Recent studies keep showing that giving yourself rewards can help improve your work and happiness. For example, Woolley and Fishbach discovered that getting rewards right away can make you more motivated because it links the reward directly with the task. What's interesting is that it's not about how big the reward is but how quickly you get it that matters. Another study by Landry and others found it's not the reward itself but rather how the reward makes people feel that helps them do their best. This makes sense because rewards increase our dopamine (多巴胺) levels, which plays a key role in how our brains feel pleasure.

The idea of "giving ourselves little treats" is not just about enjoying something; it's proof of how positive reinforcement can change our behavior and make us feel better mentally. By carefully using the Premack Principle and rewarding ourselves, we can find more motivation to face challenges and lead a happier life. It's okay to recognize and celebrate our efforts, big or small. So, go ahead, give yourself that little treat. You've earned it.

Usually, what we mean when we say someone "has an accent" is that their accent is different from the local one, or that their pronunciations are different from our own. But this understanding of accents is limiting and could give rise to prejudice. Funnily enough, in the language study, every person speaks with an accent. It is the regular differences in how we produce sounds that decide our accents. Even if you don't hear it yourself, you speak with some kind of accent. In this sense, it's pointless to point out that someone "has an accent". We all do!

Every person speaks a dialect (方言), too. In the field of language study, a dialect is a version of a language that is characterized by its variations of structure, phrases and words. For instance, "You got eat or not?" (meaning "Have you eaten?") is an acceptable and understood question in Singapore Oral English. The fact that this expression would cause a standard American English speaker to stop for a while doesn't mean that Singapore Oral English is "wrong" or "ungrammatical". The sentence is well-formed and clearly communicative, according to native Singapore English speakers' solid system of grammar. Why should it be wrong just because it's different?

We need to move beyond a narrow understanding of accents and dialects — for the good of everyone. Lаnguаgе diffеrеnсеѕ lіkе thеѕе рrоvіdе іnѕіghtѕ (深刻见解) іntо реорlе'ѕ сulturаl ехреrіеnсеѕ аnd backgrounds. In a global age, the way one speaks is a distinct part of who they are. Most people would be happy to talk about the cultures behind their speech. We would learn more about the world we live in and make friends along the way.

Lewis said friends used to rib him that his colleagues in Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) were half his age. "Now they say they're a third my age." he said. But he is still keeping fit. RNLI lifeguards must complete a 400-metre pool swim in under 7.5 minutes. They have to do a 25-metre pool swim underwater, a 25-metre surface swim continuously in under 50 seconds and run 200 metres along the beach in under 40 seconds. The swimming fitness tests are still reasonably easy for Lewis. All winter he has been doing 3,000 metres of sea swimming each month with no wetsuit (防寒泳衣).

Lewis had ever suffered anxiety and depression. But he believes his training and the time spent on the beach relieved this. He now helps to train young lifeguards. Over the years, he has performed hundreds of rescues. He says giving advice that prevents people getting into trouble is better than carrying out exciting rescues. "I would love to go through the whole of summer without having to rescue anybody."

Olympic skateboarding

Who will follow in the footsteps of Momiji Nishiya, the first Olympic skateboarding champion, who was crowned at the last Games at the age of 13. The answer will be revealed in Paris this summer. Speed, technique, mastery of the board will be required to successfully perform the most beautiful tricks.

Olympic sports climbing

With its second time entering the Olympics, sports climbing has three branches: Speed, Bouldering (抱石攀岩) and Lead. Speed is all about the speed of climbing. Bouldering is all about climbing a boulder on a wall and Lead requires athletes to climb a difficult route 20 meters high.

Olympic surfing

The Olympics will be held in Paris, but what about Olympic surfing? There is one venue (场地) that is literally on the other side of the world. The 1ocation Teahupoo, on the island of Tahiti, is where Olympic surfing will take place. This island is part of French Polynesia, between Australia and South America.

Olympic breakdancing

Breakdancing is the new Olympic sport that will make its first appearance in Paris 2024. How to establish a grading system without taking away the artistic freedom at the same time? The points should be based on creativity and musicality, a gray area that depends a lot on feeling and thus has a 1ot of subjectivity to it.

Looking for a handy list of all sports? Click here! Throughout Paris there are all kinds of stadiums and arenas where sporting events are held. Not only Paris itself, but also the surrounding suburbs of the capital of France set the stage for the Olympic Games!

The senior year of high school was very busy for almost every student, and I was no exception. If I wasn't studying and worrying about my grades, I would take part in various after-class activities to make preparations for college.

Finally, as my senior year began to wind down, I got a part-time job at a café near my school. I had thought that the job would be easy and, for the most part, stress-free. I imagined myself pouring excellent coffee, making delicious cakes and becoming close friends with the regular customers.

What I hadn't counted on were the people with great orders that chose to use the drive-through window, or the women who felt that the coffee was much too creamy, or the men that wanted their iced coffee to be remade again and again until it reached a certain level of perfection. There were moments when I was annoyed with humans as a whole, simply because I couldn't seem to please anyone. Nevertheless, I kept at it.

On a rainy day, I spent my afternoon handing customers' orders and waiting as they slowly counted their pennies. I tried to smile as the customers complained about the rain, but it was difficult to smile as they sat in their temperature-controlled cars with the windows rolled up while I dealt with huge drops of water hanging from my visor (帽舌). On top of that, no one was tipping. Every time I looked into my nearly empty tip jar, I grew more frustrated.

Around four o'clock, one of my regular customers named Lucas came in looking depressed and defeated. My co-worker and I asked what the problem was and if we could help, but he wouldn't tell any details. He just said he felt like crawling (爬) into bed, pulling the sheets up over his head and staying there for a few years. I knew exactly how he felt.

Paragraph I:

I decided to do something to lighten his mood.

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Paragraph II:

Around seven o'clock the next evening, Lucas drove up to the window.

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内容包括：

1. 根据你的经验与推荐，可通过哪些途径了解中国的语言和文化；

注意：

1. 词数80左右；

2. 可适当增加细节，自圆其说，以使行文连贯。

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The powerful people-to-people bonds between China and Malaysia take many expressions considering the range of shared cultural and traditional values between the two nations.

The Malaysian people have taken great interest in the lion dance, a tradition that (emerge) over a thousand years ago in China and has many admirers in modern Malaysia.

Among them is Adzwin Puteri Faizal, young woman from Rawang in Selangor state, is a member of a troupe (剧团) under the locally renowned Yong Jun Lion Dance Association.

With smooth and (energy) movements, the 18-year-old Adzwin plays the role of the lion's tail and moves with her partner, using classic springs on poles, gracefully leaping and steadily balancing.

"When the master performed at our school for the first time, I was attracted. It looked so cool," she says. Having been part of the troupe for the past five years, Adzwin improved her skills and built up her experience in the art form along with her (teammate) comprising Malaysians of other ethnic groups (age) 10 to 18.

The lion dance in Malaysia shares its roots the Chinese lion dance, specifically from the southern lion dance style. It arrived in Malaysia with Chinese immigrants and took root.

Initially, the lion dance (perform) during Chinese festivals and celebrations, but with the blending of Malaysia's ethnicities and cultures, it gradually crossed ethnic and religious boundaries, (become) a beloved cultural activity for all communities. Its cultural value is (wide) recognized by the public.

One day, the class went on a trip to the forest. Koogimo, as usual, was left alone, observing the beauty of nature. The others, however, were3 with their games. Suddenly, their teacher realized they were lost.4 came over the children, except for Koogimo who was calm. Koogimo5 that they follow the stream, applying his knowledge from books. With the teacher's approval, they followed his lead, their6 in him growing. His classmates watched in awe (敬畏) as Koogimo7 them through the forest with confidence. They began to see him in a new8, appreciating his intelligence and courage.

Finally, they reached the edge of the forest. The children9, hugging Koogimo, their savior (救世主). From that day, they never took him for granted again. Koogimo was happy, not because he was the hero, but because he had been finally10 by his classmates. This journey had11 him from an outcast (被排斥的人) to a friend.

When Koogimo returned home, his parents were waiting for him. They had heard about his act and were12 of him. Their little boy had become a hero. Koogimo's parents hugged him tightly, their eyes filled with joy. They knew their son was intelligent and13, and now, everyone else knew it too.

The next day at school, things were different. Koogimo was no longer14 but admired. His classmates respected him and sought his company. Koogimo, with his courage and intelligence, had taught his classmates the true15 of friendship. He had not only become their hero, but also their friend.

Trees play an important role in improving the quality and health of our lives, our homes, and our planet. But that stillness is not synonymous (同义的) with laziness. Trees are rarely lazy. In fact, they are workhorses of the environment as the impact of their hard work carries miles farther than the ground in which they stand.

Globally, trees are the most scalable and cost-effective tool in the fight against climate change. Trees clean the air and absorb carbon dioxide. For example, ring-tailed lemurs (环尾狐猴) are considered one of the most endangered creatures on the planet. A big reason is that half of the forests they depend on in Madagascar off the East coast of Africa were cut down. Lemurs aren't alone when it comes to a dependency on trees.

Where there's a need, trees can help fill it. In some communities, trees are an important food source. In others, they're a symbol of resilience (恢复力) following a damaging tragedy. When planted near streams and rivers, they clean the water. That's right, when planted in the right place, a tree can help you bring down energy costs for your home.

So as springtime arrives once again, take a moment and appreciate all a tree can be.

A. Yet, it's still easy for us to ignore them.

B. Rooted to a single spot, they appear still.

C. They foster biodiversity and support critical habitats.

D. We know there's never been a more important time for trees.

E. And a bonus for homeowners: trees can even save your money.

F. Trees are home to 80% of all animals, plants, and insects that live on land.

G. Being around trees can improve a person's mental health and creativity.