【推荐1】Best Online Art Classes

Sparketh

Sparketh is an online learning program that focuses on self-paced art classes for 6- to 18-year-olds. Classes can be searched by skill level, as well as by subject and course type. Then, students can choose from general art, drawing, painting and baking classes. Membership costs about $25 a month, and you can get a 20% discount (折扣) a month if it’s paid for a year at a time.

The Kitchen Table Classroom

Offering classes and sources to kids, the Kitchen Table Classroom is an art and learning website created by a parent and art teacher. Users can choose projects from drawing, painting, paper arts, printmaking and 3D art. Many classes and activities are free, while others cost about $6 or more to download (下载) your works.

Nature’s Art Club

Classes are fit for all age groups and students who want to get training in both drawing and watercolor. Membership can be used by the whole family and costs about $15 a month or $120 a year. You can watch videos of some classes before deciding to go to the club.

The Art Studio NY

The Art Studio NY is a popular and well-known source of art classes in New York City. Live group lessons teach skills including drawing, painting, and mixed media art, and are fit for kids in kindergarten and first grade and for ages 5 to 13 and up. Kids’ courses cost about $99 to $480, depending on the age group and type of class.

1. How much would you spend on a one-year membership of Sparketh?

A．$50.	B．$150.
C．$240.	D．$300.

2. What is special about the Kitchen Table Classroom?

A．It offers free classes and activities.

B．It is designed for 6- to 18-year-olds.

C．Its classes are taught by famous artists.

D．Its classes mainly focus on drawing and watercolor.

3. Which of the following is especially suitable for a family of art lovers?

A．Sparketh.

B．The Art Studio NY.

C．Nature’s Art Club.

D．The Kitchen Table Classroom.

【推荐2】Teen Eco-Art Exhibition

Young artists share your artwork and viewpoints on our environment in the Teen Eco-Art Exhibition this Spring!

Submission is open to artiste from Grades 11-12 who reside in West Vancouver or attend a West Vancouver secondary school.

Submissions will be reviewed by a Selection Committee. Artwork will be assessed on creative use of materials and expression of the theme.

Submission criteria (标准)

•Artwork addressing environmental themes such as clean water, climate change, sustainability, conservation, pollution, etc.

•Artwork created primarily from sustainable, repurposed, recycled materials. Other media such as paint, photography, paper, etc. can be used in combination with repurposed materials.

•Size. Wall-mounled (固定在墙上的) artwork: no larger than 36''×36''. Sculpture: no larger than l'5''×1'5''×1'5''.

•Artwork should be exhibition ready. Wall-mounted artwork should have hanging wire, D-rings or hangers. Sculptures should be able to stand on their own.

Artist statement: clear and brief, 100-200 word statement regarding your art practice and the concept/ theme of the work being considered.

How to submit

Complete the submission form & upload the required materials.

Submission close

March 25, 6 pm.

Results

Artists will be notified by April 6.

Exhibition location

West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Dr.

Exhibition Dates

April 15-May 29.

If you have any questions please contact Gallery Coordinator Steven Snider at steven. wvcac@shaw. ca. We look forward to seeing your artwork!

1. What do we know about the event?

A．It is open to artists of all ages.

B．It welcomes half-finished art pieces.

C．It is looking for creative works from students.

D．It disapproves of works with artists’ statements.

2. What standard should the submission meet?

A．It should be larger than 36''×36''.

B．It should be able to stand on its own.

C．It should avoid repurposed materials.

D．It should highlight environmental problems.

3. When will the selected works be announced?

A．March 25.

B．April 6.

C．April 15.

D．May 29.

【推荐3】

Letter 1 Your article (November) mentioned a doctor's visit for “heat and compression” treatment. I bought an inexpensive microwavable moist-heat eye compress online and use it for several minutes at bedtime to help open the oil glands. Plus, the warmth and ritual help me relax and fall asleep. No more messy washcloth compresses for me! —Julie Evans Minneapolis, Minnesota

Letter 2 The Quality Inn in Kodak, Tennessee, turning into a shelter during a historic winter storm showed so much kindness that I read the story twice (November). For Sean Patel to open his hotel to locals in need during the storm and power outage, at Christmastime and for just $25 (the lowest price the corporate regulations would allow), was priceless. The town is a better place because of Patel and his staff. —Annette Wolfe Shelton, Connecticut

Letter 3 You suggested using toothpicks to raise a pot lid and prevent the pot from boiling over (October). I prevent boilovers by just laying a wooden spoon over the open pot. The spoon will pop most of the bubbles on contact — hasn't failed me yet! —Pam Snellgrove LaGrange, Georgia

Letter 4 The story about a snorkeler, Carter Viss, who lost his arm after getting hit by a speedboat (October) — and then forgiving the driver — was among the most compelling I've ever read. Here was a story of health and loss, sea and shore, healing and the hope to endure out of the darkness into the light. Simply marvelous! —Leander Jones Northport, Alabama

1. Which of the following highlights Letter 1?

A．We Found a Fix.	B．Dealing with Dry Eye.
C．Run Over by a Speedboat.	D．So Nice You Have to Read It Twice.

2. Who forgave the driver after an accident?

A．Annette Wolfe.	B．Pam Snellgrove.
C．Carter Viss.	D．Leander Jones.

3. What do these four letters have in common?

A．They are notes on past issues.	B．They give advice on how to read.
C．They are remarks on human virtues.	D．They offer information about health.

【推荐1】Martin was returning to work in his London office after spending two weeks with his brother in New York. He was coming back with a heavy heart. It was not just that it was the end of a wonderful holiday; it was not just that he invariably suffered badly from jet lag(时差); it was that Monday morning always began with a team meeting and , over the months, he had grown to hate them.

Martin was aware that colleagues approached these meetings with hidden agenda（会议议 程）; they indulged in(沉溺于）game playing ; and he knew that people were not being honest and open. The meetings themselves were bad enough---there was all the moaning afterwards at the meeting like “I could have improved on that idea, but I wasn’t going to say.”

As this morning’s meeting began, Martin prepared himself for the usual dullness and boredom. But, as the meeting progressed, he became aware of a strange background noise. At first, he thought that he was still hearing the engine noise from the aircraft that had brought him back to London. But as he concentrated on the noise, it became a little clearer.

He realized, to his amazement, that he could actually hear what they were thinking at the same time as they were speaking. What surprised him, even more than the acquisition of this strange power, was that he discovered that what people were saying was not really what they were thinking. They were not making clear their reservations. They were not supporting views which they thought might be popular. They were not contributing their new insights. They were not volunteering their new ideas.

Martin found it impossible not to respond to his new knowledge. So he started to make gentle interventions (干涉), based more on what he could hear his colleagues thinking than on what he could hear them saying. “So, John, are you really saying.....” “Susan, do you really think that?” “Tom, have you got an idea on how we could take this forward?” They looked at him, puzzled. In truth, he felt rather proud of his newly -acquired talent.

As the meeting progressed, it was clear to him that each member of the meeting was learning how to hear the thoughts of the others. The game playing started to fall away; people started to speak more directly; views became better understood; the atmosphere became more open and trusting.

The meeting ended. As people left the room, Martin found that he could still hear what they were thinking. “That was the best meeting we’ve ever had.” “All meetings should be like that,” “ In future, I’m going to say what I think.”

1. It is known from the first paragraph that Martin_____.

A．just came back from his business trip in New York

B．was found to suffer from a serious heart disease during the trip

C．had a good time during his fortnight’s stay in New York

D．didn’t like his work in his London office

2. Why did Martin hate his company’s team meeting?

A．Because it had to be held every Monday morning.

B．Because he was tired of hosting such a meeting

C．Because he couldn’t control the meeting that was out of order.

D．Because the meeting atmosphere wasn’t open and trusting.

3. The underlined part “his newly-acquired talent” in Paragraph 5 means that he could ______.

A．still hear the engine noise of the plane though he was back

B．clearly hear what the members of the meeting were saying

C．actually control the thoughts of the members of the meeting

D．express what the meeting members were thinking based on their words and their thoughts

4. What do we know about this Monday morning’s meeting from the passage?

A．Martin made people say what they were thinking immediately the meeting began.

B．Martin was angry at the dullness of the meeting at the beginning of the meeting..

C．Martin led people to express their real thoughts with the meeting progressing.

D．Many members of the meeting played games and told lies at the meeting all the time.

5. It is inferred from the last two paragraphs that towards the end of the meeting Martin would hear such words as “_______”

A．I was thinking of making a suggestion ---but I couldn’t be bothered.

B．I have got an idea on how we could take this forward. I think we should...

C．The usual people say the usual things, so I have no other new ideas.

D．I could have imagined on that idea, but I wasn’t going to say.

【推荐3】Generation Z is different. As a whole, Americans born between the late 1990s and early 2000s are less likely to have work or look for it: their labour- force-participation rate is 71%, compared with 75% for millennials (born between 1980 and the late 1990s) and 78% for Generation X (born in the decade or so to 1980) when each came of age. As a result, they make up a smaller share of the workforce. With graduation ceremonies behind them, the latest group of diploma-holders are entering the job market. What they want from employers is also not quite the same as in generations past.

Although Gen-Z employees felt more lonely and isolated than their older colleagues at the start of the pandemic, the ability to work remotely has brought new possibilities. The benefits go beyond working in your pyjamas. Many are taking calls from beach chairs and hammocks (吊床) in more comfortable places or fleeing big cities in search for cheaper or larger homes.

This has big implications. Industries with jobs that cannot be done from home are falling out of favour with recent graduates. A study by ManpowerGroup, an employment company, suggests an inverse relationship (反比关系) between talent shortages and flexible working policies. The sectors which are either less able to offer remote work or have been slower to embrace it- including construction, finance and manufacturing-have faced some of the biggest skills gaps for all types of job.

That in turn has accelerated a pre-existing trend of young employees trading Wall Street for Silicon Valley. Now technology bosses are more willing than their opposite numbers in finance to let employees work from home (or anywhere else). Annual rankings of employer desirability by Universum, a graduate-staffing consultancy, bear this out. In 2008 the list of best employers graded by American graduates was dominated by big banks and the Big Four consulting firms. By 2021 seven of the ten highest spots were occupied by tech and media giants.

1. What does the underlined word “diploma-holders" in the first paragraph refer to?

A．Employees.	B．Students.
C．Graduates.	D．Shareholders.

2. Why do Gen-Z employees prefer work remotely?

A．They want more holidays on the beach.

B．They love wearing pyjamas while working.

C．They want to work in a more flexible way.

D．They can’t afford the residents in big cities.

3. What does the study by ManpowerGroup suggest?

A．All walks of life are facing some of the biggest skills gaps.

B．Construction, finance and manufacturing can’t offer remote work.

C．Industries with flexible working policies may suffer talent shortages.

D．Industries with jobs that cannot be done from home are less popular.

4. Why does the author mention Wall Street and Silicon Valley?

A．To weigh up the pros and cons of the two industries.

B．To prove industries in technology are more appealing.

C．To predict the change of preference among employees.

D．To show Silicon Valley is a better place to settle down.

【推荐1】Your one-time support will help UNICEF make a difference to the lives of children in China.

Since 1979, UNICEF has been carrying out programmes in remote areas of China. These programmes provide support and assistance to children in need from several aspects: healthcare, nutrition, water and sanitation, education, child protection and welfare. More specifically, these programmes also look to address issues related to maternal and child health, child-friendly schools, and early childhood development. Your kind support will be used to help Chinese children to meet their most urgent needs through our projects.

Safeguard Adolescent Mental Health

It is estimated that at least 30 million children and adolescents aged under 17 in China struggle with emotional or behavioural problems. However, more than half couldn’t access mental health services that they need. Your donation will support the integration of adolescent mental health services into the primary health care system; help advocate for making psychological counselling services more affordable for all families; and empower adolescents with skills and knowledge to support their mental health.

Enhance Early Childhood Development

The years from pregnancy to a child turning 3 years old are critical and lay the foundation for lifelong health and learning. However, in China, nearly 17 million children under 5 years old are unable to reach their full potential, especially in rural areas of central and western regions. Your support will help provide community-based integrated early childhood services for families and young children, including guidance on health, nutrition, interaction, and play.

Prevent Child Overweight and Obesity

In 2020, the spread of overweight and obesity among children and adolescents aged 6-17 reached 19 per cent, almost double that of 2015. The situation has been worsened by unhealthy food environments, the availability of ultra-processed foods, and aggressive marketing. You can help create a healthy food environment for children and empower them to develop healthy eating habits and lifestyles that could have long-term benefits throughout their lives.

We accept monthly support, and you can also make a one-time support by bank transfer, postal transfer or Alipay. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us: Phone: 021 5113 2366

Fax: (86-10) 6532 7384

Email: contact.china@unicef.org

1. If you care about children under 5, you might support________

A．Safeguard Adolescent Mental Health

B．Prevent Child Overweight and Obesity

C．Enhance Early Childhood Development

D．All the projects mentioned

2. The projects are all concerned about children’s________

A．schooling

B．health

C．safety

D．habit

3. What is the main purpose of the passage?

A．To call for donation to the children in need.

B．To explain how to improve children’s life quality.

C．To introduce several projects concerning children.

D．To emphasize the importance of protecting children.

【推荐2】Palawan is a must for the global traveller, with its charming scenery, untouched rainforests and world-class resorts(度假胜地). Palawan’s beaches simply have no equal, and there are scores of islands for the travelers to explore.

Diving

Divers troop to Palawan, which lies at the very heart of the Coral Triangle biodiversity corridor(走廊). The highlight is Tubbataha Reefs National Park, which is accessible only by live-aboard boat from late March to mid-June.

Island hopping

Top of most visitors’ lists is boarding a trusty speed boat and setting off to explore Palawan’s 1780 islands. Why not take a multiday journey, camping on remote islands under the stars, far removed from other tourists?

Beaches

The best part about Palawan’s glorious beaches? Only a few are known to the masses. The rest are yours for the taking. EI Nido has a seemingly endless supply of sandy sights. North of EI Nido, a rough road leads to Nacpan Beach. Way up north, the Calamian Islands are often ringed 360-degrees by blindingly white sand.

Jungle adventures

Close to 50% of Palawan’s old-growth forest cover remains untouched, by far the most among Philippine provinces. Naturalists can explore the rainforests in search of animals and birdwatchers migrate from around the globe to spot unusual bird species. Additionally, determined hikers can scale numerous peaks.

Palawan has always had a responsible attitude towards its environment. Against the destruction of coastal ecosystems and illegal logging and fishing, several award-wining resorts are leading the way toward a more sustainable future, mixing native design and low-carbon elements to create living spaces that will last. Ecotourism will play a role in determining the future of the islands.

1. What can a tourist enjoy in Palawan?

A．Watching the migration of birds in the rainforests.

B．Visiting Tubbataha Reefs National Park in July.

C．Getting exposed to all the beaches.

D．Exploring the faraway islands.

2. Who may have less interest in Palawan?

A．Climbers.	B．Skiers.
C．Biologists.	D．Divers.

3. What should the local people do to maintain its continuous business?

A．Forbid fishing.	B．Protect ecosystems.
C．Log illegally.	D．Ignore the concept of low-carbon life.

【推荐3】We’ve rounded up some top Australian travel bloggers who have given you their tips on the best places to visit in Australia.

Sydney

Sydney is filled with beautiful beaches, fun activities and good food. One of the best ways to have a view of the beauty of Sydney is by taking a relaxing walk rather than taking other means of transportation, such as buses and boats. An amazing beach walk is from Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach. It offers extremely pleasant views of the area’s famous rocky, thin and sandy beaches.

Sunshine Coast

Sunshine Coast has become one of the most beautiful strips of coastland in Australia, with long white beaches lined with health-conscious cafes and trendy clothes shops. When you aren’t absorbing the sunshine on one of the many beaches, you can head out to the hinterland for a day of mountain hiking or discover the swimming holes and waterfalls.

Byron Bay

Byron Bay is one of Australia’s top tourist destinations. From countless waterfalls and swimming holes to mountains and bush walks, this small region hides so much beauty. I would suggest starting with a hike to the bottom of Minyon Falls for a swim, a hike to the top of Mt Warning for a sunrise, and then a hike to the Natural Arch.

Blue Mountains

If you’re looking for a dose of nature, the spot is for you. Make sure you have time to visit Wentworth Falls. Blue Mountains will offer walks with appealing views of the waterfall. These famous rock formations are the highlight of this picturesque postcard area. If you head to Echo Point, don’t miss the Science Railway—the steepest passenger railway in the world.

1. How can you best view Sydney according to the text?

A．By railway.

B．By bus.

C．On foot.

D．By boat.

2. How is Sunshine Coast different from Byron Bay and Blue Mountains?

A．It is suitable for hiking.

B．It is a good place to see waterfalls.

C．It has swimming holes and sandy beaches.

D．It has beaches full of coffee and clothes shops.

3. Where can the introduction to the scenic spots be found?

A．Ina novel.	B．On the website.
C．In a book review.	D．On the sports poster.

【推荐1】To look inside an ant nest is to meet with an alien civilization. The boiling mass of worker ants beneath an upturned stone is both strangely reminiscent of(联想到）human society and strikingly different. There is an organization that fascinates us and a long line of myrmecophiles (or ant lovers) leads back all the way to King Solomon who in fact advised people to “go to the ant, consider her ways and be wise". This was exactly the inspiration behind Planet Ant, a TV program showcasing what we know about the kingdom of ants, and what ants can teach us about the human world.

Like us, ants build structures, find food, defend their societies and manage waste, and-also like us-they must be well organized. For example, the leaf-cutting ants of Planet Ant have special waste disposal areas for storing harmful waste and a team of “waste-disposal ants" dedicated to keeping the nest clean. But ants achieve this familiar final result in a very different way to humans. Human societies have centralized control, In other words, someone tells us what to do. Ants,on the other hand, have decentralized control and neither the queen nor any other ant directs work. Ant workers are the final self-starters, following specific , but potentially flexible, rules in certain situations.

Chemical trails underpin much of this self-organization. Foragers(觅食者）lay a mix of chemicals known as pheromone(信息素）behind them as they walk. Other ants follow the trail and if they find food they reinforce it, laying more pheromone as they return to the nest. Stronger trails are more likely to be followed, so trails leading to food become progressively reinforced, while trails with no food at the end fade away.

This combination of positive feedback and evaporation(蒸发）produces an effective foraging system that is very good at finding the quickest routes to food. This simple guiding principle, and others like it, have provided some useful solutions to the complex problems faced by engineers, computer scientists and businesses.

1. Why does the author mention King Solomon in the first paragraph?

A．To provide a background.

B．To show admiration for him.

C．To stress the wisdom of ants.

D．To explain an abstract theory.

2. How do ants behave while performing tasks?

A．They get orders from their partners.

B．They choose o do only routine tasks.

C．They choose to do only routine tasks.

D．They follow their own senses and certain rules.

3. What does the underlined word “underpin” in paragraph 3 probably mean?

A．Decide.

B．Support.

C．Develop.

D．Calculate.

4. What information can we get about trail pheromone from the text?

A．It comes from the food resources.

B．It appears before ants' self-organization.

C．It leads the following ants to food.

D．It helps ants find their way back home.