【推荐1】Njobati, a young woman from Cameroon, faced a challenging journey when she moved from her English-speaking area to a French-speaking area of the country to attend university. The sharp differences between these areas, once part of the British and French empires, made it difficult for her to fit in, which led her to examine her own identity - who she truly was.

To find help, she turned to her grandfather who also felt disconnected from his own culture. He expressed sadness about what the Nso had lost both culturally and materially, including. Ngonnso statue. Ngonnso was the founder of Nso dating back to the 14th Century, whose statue was an important cultural symbol for the Nso. However, it was taken by the Germans in 1902 and has been housed in Berlin’s Ethnological Museum ever since.

Inspired by her grandfather’s desire and saddened by the loss of culture, Njobati made a promise to bring back the statue. She believed it would not only achieve her grandfather’s wish but connect her with her Nso heritage again.

Njobati did many researches about the statue and former unsuccessful attempts. She realized that getting back the statue was actually about facing the colonial(殖民主义的) past. Njobati decided to try differently. To gather support online and offline, Njobati began a grassroots activity. She organized meetings in community halls and churches, met people one-on-one, and used the power of social media. Through Twitter, she established contact with the Ethnological Museum.

Njobati’s tireless efforts paid off. She was told that a decision about Ngonnso statue was coming, which was an important moment for her.

“Finally, this is happening. Not just for me, but for the Nso people, and for Cameroon,” She cried, “This also lends a hand to other communities that are looking for justice (公正) for stolen culture relics.”

1. What made Njobati decide to bring back the Ngonnso statue?

A．Her interest in colonial history.	B．Her grandfather’s identity problem.
C．Her desire to reconnect with Nso culture.	D．Her experience in attending university.

2. What did Njobati do to win support for her activity?

A．She did wide and complete researches.

B．She turned to her grandfather for help.

C．She contacted the Ethnological Museum directly.

D．She organized meetings and used social media.

3. What does “this” refer to in the last paragraph?

A．The fight for the statue.	B．The promise she made.
C．The grassroots activity.	D．The return of the statue.

4. What can be a suitable title for the passage?

A．A flight against colonialism.	B．A cultural fighter.
C．A promise for grandpa.	D．A stolen cultural symbol.

【推荐2】Mary has struggled to find the right words to convey her thoughts and feelings ever since she was a child. She was often told that she was “too quiet” or “too shy”, and as she grew older, she became increasingly aware of her inability to articulate herself. It wasn’t that she didn’t have anything to say — far from it. Mary’s mind was constantly racing with ideas and observations, but no matter how hard she tried, she just couldn’t seem to get the words out.

“Mary, I need to talk to you,” Mr. Thompson, the boss of Mary’s new company, said one day, his voice serious. Mary’s heart sank. “Don’t worry,” Mr. Thompson said, noticing Mary’s nervousness. “It’s not that kind of conversation. I just wanted to talk to you about something that’s been on my mind lately.”

He paused for a moment, collecting his thoughts. “I’ve noticed that you’ve been struggling a bit lately. It seems like you’re having a tough time communicating with customers. I hear that you’re good at writing. So why not join our Advertising Department? Besides, I have another suggestion…”

Mary kept nodding, unable to find the words to express her gratitude.

Following Mr. Thompson’s suggestion, Mary joined in a writing competition. She had always been a talented writer, and she knew that she had the potential to create something truly special. So she set to work, pouring her heart and soul into her essay. The words started flowing, and Mary found herself writing with a newfound sense of purpose and achievement.

The judges of the competition were amazed by Mary’s essay, and they selected it as the winner. Mary was excited, and she was grateful to have finally found the right way to do a good job.

1. What does the underlined word “articulate” probably mean in Paragraph 1?

A．Encourage.

B．Teach.

C．Behave.

D．Express.

2. Why did Mr. Thompson have a talk with Mary?

A．To offer her some help.	B．To give her a promotion.
C．To advise her to quit the job.	D．To tell her to mind her manners.

3. What was Mary’s feeling when creating her essay?

A．Embarrassed.

B．Confused.

C．Confident.

D．Nervous.

4. Which can best describe Mary’s experience?

A．Actions speak louder than words.

B．Lose at sunrise and gain at sunset.

C．All things are easy that are done willingly.

D．Efforts can make up for lack of intelligence.

【推荐1】All parents have sky-high hopes for their children. We want them to be confident and satisfied. What can parents do to help their kids grow up to lead happy lives? Experts advise:

    1    . A study found that students whose parents paid attention to their abilities were far more likely to do well in school-and in life-than students whose parents didn’t show such support. So celebrate your kids’ achievements, no matter how small they are.

Praise their efforts.     2    . Still, they are praised for trying their best. Ten-year-old April Cutler, for example, has had trouble with math since the second grade. “She usually gets C’s on her report card, but last year she was determined to get A’s and worked hard at it,” says her mom. “When the first grading period ended, April was disappointed when she got a B in math,” Lueille continues. “But my husband and I told her we were very proud that she’d improved. That inspired her to try even harder.     3    .”

Let them make decisions and mistakes.     4    . And allowing kids to make wrong decisions-so long as doing so won’t harm them-helps kids learn from their mistakes.

Encourage them to solve their own problems. As they grow, children need practice in communicating and standing up for themselves. One of the best places to learn these skills is at home.     5     the next time your child runs to tell you that her brother is blaming her.

A．Applaud their achievements

B．Step back and let them work it out

C．She got a B plus for the next period

D．Kids won’t always come out on top

E．Setting too high a goal makes kids feel discouraged

F．Give advice on how to help kids become mature

G．Making his/her own decisions builds his/her confidence

【推荐3】The Independent Project at the Monument Mountain Regional High School in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, is attracting huge interest in the education field. The program is a new concept that has developed a wide variety of students’ abilities and excited their interest in education and self-directed learning. They are a group of students that, instead of being educated through the normal school courses, have created their own subjects and project-based interactive learning.

The students are almost completely independent. They choose a goal that they want to achieve and work on for the whole year. These goals have included some impressive attempts such as writing a novel, writing a play, learning the piano and more. Along with these larger attempts, the students meet every day to ask questions about other subjects like natural sciences, social sciences, etc. Although most of them say that they don’t like math, they did eventually develop an interest in math through this independent learning technique.

The education program, which has attracted a huge variety of students, allows the students to learn and develop research skills and questioning techniques and allows them to truly be interested in the subjects they are diving into. They also teach each other what they have learned, which allows them to develop different ways of presenting and gathering material that they have researched.

I wish that I could have participated in such a project during my high school career, like writing a novel. I am currently studying English as well as education to pursue a teaching degree. I would love to adapt independent driven projects into a classroom in the future.

This project also raises some significant questions. Do we need to rethink the structure of the education system itself? Are too many students being simply fed through a conveyor belt(传送带) that we blindly see as working toward their education? I think that the education system needs some improvements, and different learning styles need to be addressed immediately.

Individual differences in learning are huge keys to the functioning of a classroom. This project takes the idea to a whole new level. This is an extremely important event in the development of the American education system and I think everyone needs to keep an eye out for more programs like this.

1. What can we learn about the Independent Project?

A．There is little involvement from teachers.

B．Normal school courses are also available.

C．The students meet every week to discuss their courses.

D．It was designed to improve the students’ interest in math.

2. By saying the underlined sentence in Paragraph 5, what does the author seems to imply ?

A．teachers are really important for students.

B．different learning styles should be encouraged.

C．the project works like a conveyor belt of information.

D．knowledge can be better conveyed in smaller classes.

3. What is the author’s attitude towards the Independent Project?

A．Suppotive.

B．Cautious.

C．Doubtful.

D．Objective.

4. What is the passage mainly about?

A．The benefits of interactive learning.	B．Individual differences in learning.
C．A group of independent students.	D．An unusual education program.

【推荐2】Age has never been a problem for 16-year-old Thessalonika Arzu-Embry. After all, she’s already got her master’s degree.

The North Chicago-area teen started homeschooling at the age of 4. She began having an influence on others soon after. When she was 6 years old, she was an inspirational speaker at an organization called Tabitha House Community Service, which is for people who were forced to leave their homes because of earthquake, flood and other natural disasters.

At the age of 11, she graduated from high school and then earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2013. She completed those classes online as she was traveling for church events and leadership meetings.

She doesn’t stop there, though. The teen plans to focus on aviation psychology (航空心理学) for her further study, a decision inspired by her father who is a pilot. She grew up around airplanes and took flights all the time. Her goal is to use it to help pilots deal with problems that could have deadly results once the plane takes off — a topic that has been in the news lately. For her, it’s a mix of two of her interests.

In her free time, Thessalonika enjoys playing tennis, swimming and being active in her youth group at church. She also has three self-published books, which are on her site. Jump the Education Barrier is written to help students finish college, and In the Future aims to help business owners with trends. Her third book The Genius Race is designed to help people to be talents in various areas of life.

1. Which of the following is TRUE about Thessalonika?

A．She majored in science and technology.

B．She gained her master’s degree at the age of 11.

C．When she was 6 years old, she started homeschooling.

D．In 2013 she got her bachelor’s degree through completing courses online.

2. What is her next plan according to the passage?

A．Major in aviation psychology.

B．Be active in her youth group at church.

C．Write another book to help people to be talents.

D．Deliver inspiring speeches for church events and leadership meetings.

3. Why does she write the book Jump the Education Barrier?

A．It aims to help people to be geniuses.

B．It is designed to arouse people’s awareness of psychology.

C．It is aimed to give students a hand to complete college.

D．The author hope to share her own experience with others.

4. What is the main idea of the text?

A．The secret to become a talent is to start schooling at an early age.

B．Thessalonika led a rather successful and meaningful life.

C．Homeschooling is a good way to educate children.

D．Three published books help people become masters in their fields.

【推荐3】A fellow speaker from California named Geri flew to Japan, in her favorite jeans and a casual jacket, to give her first speech. Fourteen hours later, four perfectly dressed Japanese gentlemen greeted her at Narita Airport. Smiling and bowing low, they handed her their business cards. With her bag in one hand, Geri took their cards with the other. She thanked them, glanced briefly at the cards, and put them into her jeans pocket quickly.

When the five of them arrived at the hotel, they invited Geri to tea in the lobby (大厅). While sipping tea, the gentlemen presented her with a small gift which she eagerly opened. She was thrilled with the gift and shouted excitedly, “Oh, it’s beautiful!”

At this point, the four Japanese gentlemen stood up and, bowing only very slightly, said “Sayonara” and left immediately. Poor Geri was left astonished. What did she do wrong?

Everything! Her jeans were the first gaffe. Even if you’re coming off a bicycle in Japan, you do not meet c1ients (客人) casually dressed. The second mistake was Geri’s handling of their business cards rudely. In Japan, the business card is one of the most important communicative tools. It is always presented and accepted respectfully with both hands. However, Geri put their cards away much too quickly. In Japan, people use business cards as a conversation starter. You chat about each other’s cards and work and do not put theirs away until they gently and respectfully place yours in safekeeping. Putting it carelessly into her jeans pocket was the ultimate disrespect.

Then, the fourth horror of horrors was that Geri should not have opened the gift in front of her clients. In a land where saving face is critical, it would be embarrassing to discover the gift they gave was not as nice as the one they received. What is worse, Geri hadn’t even given them a gift!

1. In the four Japanese gentlemen’s eyes, Geri took their cards _____________.

A．excitedly

B．embarrassingly

C．politely

D．disrespectfully

2. Why did the four Japanese gentlemen leave Geri suddenly?

A．Because they couldn’t bear Geri’s behavior any longer.

B．Because they had finished the task.

C．Because Geri had something more important to do.

D．Because Geri felt embarrassed.

3. What does the underlined word “gaffe” in Paragraph 3 probably mean?

A．ignorance.

B．sadness.

C．mistake.

D．carelessness.

4. What lesson can we draw from this story?

A．Honesty is the best policy.

B．Think twice before you take any action.

C．When in Rome, do as the Romans do.

D．Don't claim to know what you don't know.

【推荐1】Autism is a serious condition that affects people in different ways. People with autism often have problems understanding other people's thoughts and feelings, which makes it hard for them to show their ideas to others with words or through touch, facial expressions, and gestures. However, just like anyone else, they also have their own identities, and preferences.

During the mid-90s, a researcher named Barbara Strickland found that virtual reality (VR) could help people with autism with social skills. Although Barbara Strickland's studies were promising, headsets of VR, were often huge and uncomfortable, especially VR was too expensive.

But recently, VR technology has become the focus for the betterment of children with autism again. Let's explore how this technology can be used to educate children with autism.

Children with autism can be effectively engaged with their environment by the services of VR training providers. It can help improve learning among children and develop focus. Using virtual reality can also help children with autism prepare for speaking in public and build a sense of confidence in them.

People with autism developed social skills like emotional recognition, and they started to understand and respond to others during a conversation with the development of VR. A study by Didehbani (2016), Parsons& Cobb (2011) and Tzanavari (2015) states that there is evidence that suggests social skills learned in a virtual environment can be used in everyday life.

Although there has been much development around VR for autism over the years, an increased requirement of research on Virtual Reality-Head Mounting Display for a better theoretical foundation is needed. We are expecting to see more VR treatment across schools, homes, and offices as more training programs are developed, and in-depth studies are performed.

1. What problem do people with autism face?

A．Lack of their own preferences.	B．Focusing on their own feelings.
C．Disability to learn different gestures.	D．How to express themselves properly.

2. What made Barbara Strickland fail to develop VR for autism?

A．VR's high price.	B．VR's single style.
C．VR's mini headset.	D．VR's light weight.

3. How does the current VR technology help children with autism?

A．By offering them much focus.	B．By making them become talkative.
C．By preparing public speeches for them.	D．By improving their confidence in themselves.

4. What can we infer from the last paragraph?

A．VR for autism has a long way to go.	B．VR's theory requires to be published.
C．VR training programs need volunteers.	D．VR has enjoyed popularity in schools.

【推荐2】When an editor called to ask if I could photograph a story about fireflies in Mexico. I didn’t check my schedule before I said yes. I’d seen these insects light up the forests in Tlaxcala once before, and I jumped at the chance to go back.

While studying, I began exploring Mexico, crossing the country several times by bus. Now I work as a photojournalist in Mexico and along the border, documenting desperate situations that face everyday Mexicans. Though necessary and important, news stories don’t reflect the Mexico that I fell for and that is home to so many people I love. A task focused on the country’s natural beauty was a welcome reprieve for me.

I had three nights to film the magical scene in the forest. According to our guides, visitors are usually not allowed to photograph the fireflies because the presence of artificial light from electronics can affect their habits. As I started shooting, I adjusted my exposures constantly to account for the fading light. In order to get the composition that I wanted, I placed my tripod (三脚架) on a steep, rocky path and had to steady it during the long exposures. Normally this wouldn’t be a big deal, but the fireflies were very interested in the camera and, by extension, in me. I stood completely still while they were all over me-my arms, my hair, my face. From what I observed, peak (高峰时期的) firefly presence lasts for only about 20 minutes each night, so I had time for just a few tries.

On the last night everything came together. The weather cooperated. I had improved my method for focusing and composing photos in the dark with quick flashes from a powerful flashlight—and I’d grown accustomed to insects on my face.

I was rewarded with the image you see here. Each dot of light is one of several bursts that a firefly makes as it travels within a 30- second exposure. You can track the insects’ paths: Some make small circles, like those in the bottom center of the frame, while others move steadily in one direction or another.

1. How did the author feel about the editor’s request?

A．Nervous

B．Delighted

C．Confused

D．Regretful

2. Which of the following can best replace the underlined word “reprieve” in paragraph 2?

A．Relief

B．Return

C．Trend

D．Victory

3. What did the author intend to do during the first two nights?

A．Learn about the local travel rules.

B．Research the habit of the fireflies.

C．Communicate constantly with the guides.

D．Find the suitable spot and time to take photos.

4. What is the author’s purpose in writing the text?

A．To tell findings about fireflies.	B．To share the story behind a photo.
C．To record a travelling experience.	D．To show the author’s working conditions.

【推荐3】As Americans live longer and the job market stays competitive, fast-food chains are increasingly hiring from senior centers, churches and aging advocacy groups like AARP, Bloomberg reports. And it’s not just death rate and economic trends driving the change. Seniors have more polished social skills, but teens are stopped from growing up online with fewer real-world connections.

“I spend a lot of time with young kids. They can be very disrespectful,” 63-year-old Church’s Chicken manager Stevenson Williams tells Bloomberg of his teen co-workers. “You have to coach them and tell them this is your job, not the street,” Williams says. “Having ‘soft skills’ such as politeness often comes more easily to the seniors, who have had a lifetime of experience in the workforce to learn how to treat customers compared with young people.”

Employers thus get a more mature worker at no additional cost — but the reasons for seniors outpacing teen hires are many. The US Census Bureau reported this year that, by 2035, there will be more Americans over age 65 than there are children under age 18. Plus, fewer people in their prime (盛年) are working — thanks to the unaffordable child care that forces many parents to stay at home, according to a joint study by Princeton University.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts the number of American workers aged 65 to 74 will swell 4.5 percent by 2024, while the 16-to-24s will shrink 1.4 percent. By 2024, the BLS projects the labor force will grow to about 164 million people. That number includes about 41 million people aged 55 and older — about 13 million of those who are expected to be aged 65 and up.

So don’t be surprised to see even more service with a smile and silver hair in that drive-through lane.

1. What does the underlined part “the change” in Paragraph 1 refer to?

A．Americans live longer.

B．The job market gets competitive.

C．Senior centers are becoming more.

D．Fast-food chains hire more senior people.

2. Why are seniors the hot new fast-food employees according to Williams?

A．Teens are easy to quit.

B．They demand less pay.

C．Teens are hard to control and manage.

D．They are good at socializing.

3. Which of the following can be regarded as a “soft skill”?

A．Having high education.	B．Knowing customers’ needs.
C．Being skillful at computer.	D．Having lots of connections with real-world

4. Why do many parents stay at home according to Paragraph 3?

A．They find it hard to find a job.

B．They prefer to look after children.

C．They find it hard to pay for child care.

D．They are unwilling to work with senior citizens.