1 . Daphne Soares, a biologist, made an amazing discovery about alligators (短吻鳄). The investigation of the sensory dots of alligators began when she was at university. Now she holds a research position at the University of Maryland.
The first time Daphne Soares got really close to an alligator was when she was helping to hold down an eight-foot alligator. When she got close to the alligator, she noticed that its face was covered with little black spots.
She started her study of the black dots when she went to the library. When she read the books and the scientific journals, she learned that people had noticed the dots. People thought that the dots were some kind of sense organ. However, no one really knew what the dots were for.
It was a complete accident when she found out what the dots were used for. She placed electrodes (电极) on nerves coming from some of the sensory dots. When the nerves were stimulated, they created a tiny electric current. Just then she heard a small sound over a audio speaker. She tried to see if the dots acted like eyes and temperature sensors, but nothing worked. One day she accidentally dropped a tool into an alligator’s tank. When she put her hand in the tank to get the tool out, she made small ripples (涟漪) in the water. When the ripples reached the alligator’s face, she heard a noise over the speaker. She then realized that the dots must be sensitive to the changes in pressure when they were hit by ripples of water.
After that, she is now studying blind cavefish. She is trying to learn whether they are blind from birth or lose their sight as they grow up.
1. What was Daphne Soares doing when she noticed the black dots?| A．Studying the sense organ. |
| B．Helping to keep a hold of an alligator. |
| C．Observing an alligator in a pond. |
| D．Reading scientific journal in the library. |
| A．She collected data online. |
| B．She did some field observations. |
| C．She sought help from professionals. |
| D．She did some scientific experiments. |
| A．The sense of feeling. | B．The sense of sight. |
| C．The sense of taste. | D．The sense of hearing. |
| A．A Born Biologist | B．The Types of Alligators |
| C．A Discovery About Alligators | D．Daphne Soares’ Stories |
Travel six hours northwest of Sydney, and you’ve reached the astronomy capital of Australia. Warrumbungle National Park is a nature and star-lover’s dream. This land is home to the Southern Hemisphere’s first Dark Sky Park, which means you’ll be treated to nights of no light pollution and out of this world stargazing. Besides, the Warrumbungles has several adventurous hikes. The Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk is considered one of the best in Australia!
Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National ParkKu-Ring-Gai Chase is the second oldest national park in Australia. We love this park for its proximity (邻近) to Sydney (a quick 45-minute drive from the city), significant Aboriginal (澳大利亚土著的) sites and breathtaking scenic views. There are many walks you can do here. You can also go kayaking (皮划艇), stopping at some of the secluded beaches that line the park.
Bouddi National ParkLocated on the Central Coast, Bouddi National Park is one for beautiful landscapes and beaches. Just 90 minutes from Sydney, Bouddi is a hidden treasure. The beautiful water makes this park an ideal destination during summer, but it also provides a fantastic point for whale watching over the winter. You can experience Bouddi National Park on a day trip. Pack your picnic goods and head on the 8.5 km (one-way) Bouddi Coastal Walk — it’ll give you a perfect taste of the best of what the park has to offer!
Dorrigo National ParkAs a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dorrigo National Park is one to explore! Located just shy of four hours from Byron Bay, the park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests and has been made over millions of years. You’d be right then to expect some of the most stunning waterfalls here. For one of the best experiences, head to the Skywalk lookout. This elevated walkway will take you right into the heart of the rainforest, providing soaring views 21 meters over the rainforest all the way to the coast.
1. If you were a fan of stargazing and hiking, which park would interest you most?| A．Bouddi National Park. | B．Dorrigo National Park. |
| C．Warrumbungle National Park. | D．Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park. |
| A．Going kayaking. | B．Watching whales. |
| C．Visiting Aboriginal sites. | D．Seeing breathtaking waterfalls. |
| A．It is the oldest national park in Australia. | B．It offers a perfect view of the Gondwana Rainforests. |
| C．It’s about four hours drive from Sydney. | D．It’s known for adventurous hikes along the coast. |
3 . “The silence is killing me,” I thought as I locked my phone, hoping a new message would light up the screen. After 27 messages, two phone calls and a voicemail, I’d just sent my final text to the person who
We met in our freshman year and, since we
Over the past few years, the concept of “drawing boundaries” has
The
Sometimes it can feel
| A．tried | B．used | C．happened | D．promised |
| A．signed up for | B．looked forward to | C．took advantage of | D．kept up with |
| A．gradually | B．barely | C．routinely | D．finally |
| A．suggested | B．regretted | C．delayed | D．stopped |
| A．unforgettable | B．special | C．boring | D．painful |
| A．fragile | B．romantic | C．close | D．formal |
| A．comment | B．explanation | C．apology | D．complaint |
| A．Otherwise | B．Instead | C．Meanwhile | D．Therefore |
| A．letter | B．excuse | C．experience | D．silence |
| A．exploded | B．disappeared | C．survived | D．changed |
| A．hardly | B．permanently | C．accidentally | D．consistently |
| A．harmony | B．change | C．separation | D．competition |
| A．caused | B．required | C．persuaded | D．expected |
| A．effects | B．benefits | C．origins | D．characteristics |
| A．reduce | B．express | C．create | D．share |
| A．open-minded | B．objective | C．optimistic | D．twisted |
| A．disturb | B．impress | C．hurt | D．support |
| A．easier | B．stronger | C．calmer | D．warmer |
| A．cooperation | B．guidance | C．self-care | D．friendship |
| A．reminds | B．robs | C．convinces | D．warns |
4 . ISSI Advanced Adventurer Course
●2 sessions of 8h
●The AAC starts on every Wednesday and Saturday, lasting 2 days
●Fees: $450
Exploration, Excitement, Experiences
That’s what the Advanced Adventurer course is all about. You don’t have to be “advanced” to take it — it’s designed to advance your diving, so you can start right after earning your Open Water Diver certification. The course helps build confidence and expand your scuba skills through different Adventure Dives.
Who should take this course?
Open Water Divers who are at least 12 years old are ready to step up and sign up for an Advanced Adventurer course. Divers under 18 may only participate in certain Adventures Dives — check with your SSI Instructor.
What will you learn?
You’ll plan your learning path with your instructor by choosing from a long list of Adventure Dives. There are two required dives — Deep and Underwater Navigation — and you choose the other three. During the Deep Adventure Dive, you learn bow to plan dives to deal with the physiological effects and challenges of deeper scuba diving. The Underwater Navigation Adventure Dive helps improve your navigation skills. The other knowledge and skills you get vary with your interest and the adventures you have — photography, fish identification, exploring wrecks and many more.
What scuba equipment will you use?
Beyond basic scuba equipment, you’ll need a compass and a dive knife. You may also use specialized equipment depending on the Adventure Dives you choose. Your SSI Instructor will explain the equipment that you need and ma suggest additional equipment.
1. On which of the following dates can you take the course?| A．From Friday to Saturday. | B．From Saturday to Sunday. |
| C．From Tuesday to Wednesday. | D．From Wednesday to Saturday. |
| A．Open Water Diver certification. | B．Expensive diving equipment |
| C．Advanced scuba skills. | D．Reaching adulthood. |
| A．2. | B．3. | C．5. | D．7. |
5 . Before war and time destroy more of our important cultural sites, we need to save them in 3-D digital libraries. Across 163 different countries, more than 1,000 natural and cultural historic places make up our most precious human heritage, which UNESCO calls World Heritage Sites.
We lose a little of that heritage every day. War, climate change and pollution have bad effects, as do wind and rain. The $4 million a year that UNESCO spends on preservation is not nearly enough to take care of even the four dozen sites considered to be at approaching risk of being lost forever. Now there’s a better choice. New digital conservation technologies let us hold on to them, at least virtually, through 3-D scanning, modelling and digital storage. Such projects can be accomplished through cooperation between governments, universities, industries and non-profit organizations.
To make a 3-D model, a laser (激光) scanner bounces light off an object and records the results. To reproduce every corner and opening, the scanner collects overlapping (重登的) images from all possible angles. A computer then sews them together into one large surface image and draws lines from one point to another to create a wireframe model. High-resolution digital cameras add colour and texture. When fully put together, the models can be viewed, printed or operated.
These scans do more than preserving a memory in a database. With highly accurate measurements, archaeologists (考古学家) can find hidden passages or reveal ancient engineering tricks. School kids can explore places they might otherwise never see. And when a site is destroyed, the scans can even be used to reconstruct what was there. That has already happened to one World Heritage Site, the Kasubi Tombs in Uganda. Built of wood in 1882, they were destroyed by fire in 2010 and rebuilt in 2014, based in large part on 3-D models made in 2009. More than 100 World Heritage Sites have already been preserved through 3-D models, and conservationists are racing to record as more as possible.
1. How does the author show the necessity for 3-D digital libraries in the first two paragraphs?| A．By listing the threats to our human heritage. |
| B．By introducing some damaged historical sites. |
| C．By quoting some experts’ views on heritage protection. |
| D．By explaining UNESCO’s research on World Heritage Sites. |
| A．The function of a laser scanner. |
| B．The process of making a 3-D model. |
| C．The reflection of light off an object. |
| D．The development of 3-D digital technology. |
| A．They are metal-framed. |
| B．They were once destroyed in an earthquake. |
| C．They were reconstructed thanks to 3-D models. |
| D．They are still in its original condition. |
| A．Never ignore the destructive power of war. |
| B．Take action to reduce pollution in historic places. |
| C．Invest more money to preserve World Heritage Sites. |
| D．Take advantage of 3-D technology to keep history. |
6 . Like everything else, London’s world-class museums closed in March, but one by one, most of them have announced their reopening. Visiting wilt be very different to the museum experience you’re used to, though: you’ll have to pre-book a timed entry slot(时段), you may have to follow a one-way route and face masks will be encouraged.
British Museum
What is it? Since it opened in 1759—the first ever national museum for the public—the British Museum has been displaying artwork of world heritage, including the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures.
Why go? The museum has over 8 million objects in its collection, 50, 000 of which are on display. That’s a lot of bang for your buck, considering entrance to the main areas is free.
National Gallery
What is it? A first-class and entirely free-to-enter artistic institution in the heart of Trafalgar Square. Founded in 1824, the National Gallery is home to more than 2, 000 paintings from artists such as da Vinci, Van Gogh, Turner, Picasso, Matisse and Cezanne.
Why go? To learn more about the world’s highly praised artworks and even try your hand at drawing in the galleries.
Design Museum
What is it? A fascinating museum that explores contemporary design and architecture. The Design Museum is bursting with free temporary exhibitions, pop-ups and bookable displays.
Why go? The museum’s new home in Kensington is an absolute design feat, and when you’ve finished your walkabout, take a tour to the nearby Holland Park Kyoto Garden for some well-deserved rest.
Imperial(帝国的)War Museum
What is it? A powerful museum shining a light on people’s experiences of conflict from the First World War to today. A few minutes’ walk from Waterloo, IWM is made up of permanent galleries, such as the ace Curiosities of War exhibit, and temporary displays, exploring recent conflicts and terrorist attacks.
Why go? For impressive and extensive collections, including the moving, and eye-opening permanent Holocaust exhibition (not recommended for children under 14).
1. What is a must for visitors to the museums?| A．Booking in advance. | B．Preparing a face mask. |
| C．Bringing enough money. | D．Arriving earlier than usual. |
| A．British Museum. | B．Design Museum. |
| C．National Gallery. | D．Imperial War Museum. |
| A．It has the largest collection. | B．Kids under 14 are not advised to visit it |
| C．You can have a good rest in it | D．You may meet some artists in it. |
7 . Every 40 days a language dies. This “catastrophic” loss is being intensified by the climate crisis; according to linguists. If nothing is done, conservative estimates suggest that half of all the 7000 languages currently spoken will be extinct by the end of the century.
Speakers of minority languages have experienced a long history of persecution (迫害) , with the result that by the 1920s half of all indigenous (土著的) languages in Australia, the US, South Africa and Argentina were extinct. The climate crisis is now considered the “final nail in the coffin” for many indigenous languages and the knowledge they represent.
“Languages are already endangered,” says Anastasia Richl, director of the Strathy language unit at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario. Huge factors are globalization and migration, as communities move to regions where their language is not spoken or valued, according to Richl. “It seems particularly cruel,” she says, “that most of the world’s languages are in parts of the world that are growing unpleasant to people.” Vanuatu, a South Pacific island nation measuring 12,189km2, has 110 languages, the highest density (密度) of languages on the planet. It is also one of the countries most at risk of sea level rise, she says. “Many small language communities are on islands and coastlines easily subject to hurricanes and sea level rise.” Others live on lands where rising temperature threatens traditional farming and fishing practices, leading to migration.
In response to the crisis, the UN launched the International Decade of Indigenous Languages in 2022. Promoting and conserving languages of indigenous communities is “not only important for them, but for all humanity”, said Csaba Korosi, the UN general assembly president, urging countries to allow access to education in indigenous languages.
1. What is the writer mainly concerned about?| A．The disappearance of languages. | B．The challenge of climate change. |
| C．The reaction to the language crisis. | D．The trend of the speedy globalization. |
| A．To explain the main reason for language density. |
| B．To show the common features of endangered languages. |
| C．To stress the impact of geographical position on migration. |
| D．To illustrate the situation of minority language communities. |
| A．Support migrants to access local education. |
| B．Discourage people from massive migration. |
| C．Improve the living conditions of minority groups. |
| D．Preserve the languages of indigenous communities. |
| A．Faced with Disasters: Communities Have to Leave |
| B．Lost for Words: Rising Seas Bring Threat of Catastrophe |
| C．Upset at Extinction: UN Urges International Cooperation |
| D．Involved in Action: Experts Seek Solutions to Climate Crisis |
8 . No one can resist (抗拒) the temptation of snacks. But at the same time, you may be underestimating (低估) how many calories a snack contains. What would happen if you had a bag of crisps (炸薯片) a day? Eating an extra packet of crisps a day could lead to a weight gain of 6. 35 kg after a year, The Times reported.
People underestimate the number of calories in their snacks, with experts warning that eating a bag of crisps every day could lead to a stone of weight gain in a year. A survey of around 2, 000 adults found that about three quarters underestimated the impact of what a small reduction could have. One in ten believed that cutting 200 calories a day would not affect weight. At the same time, many people didn’t seem to know exactly how many calories were in their snacks. When it came to snacks, people struggled, with 95 percent guessing that half a sharing bag of tortilla chips had 214 calories on average, almost half the true figure of 447.
Can’t we resist buying snacks? The food environment is to blame. Even though we all know snacking is bad for our health, we can’t help but fill our shopping carts with snacks. Don’t always blame yourself for poor self-control, and supermarket shelves also have to carry this “pot” half.
Hugo Harper, head of Nesta’s health team, said the pressure to resist high-calorie snacks should not be put on consumers (消费者) and that our food environment needed to be changed. He said，“Our environment has a real impact on what we eat, from advertisements and supermarket promotions to what’s available in our local corner shops. ”
Hugo added, “If we had fewer cues to snacks, or were pushed to buy fewer high calorie snacks, we should be able to see real change. ” New rules coming into force next month will restrict promotions on foods high in fat, sugar and salt in big shops.
1. Why does the author mention crisps in Paragraph 1?| A．To introduce the topic. |
| B．To list some reasons. |
| C．To make a comparison. |
| D．To raise a question. |
| A．One in ten people cut 200 calories a day. |
| B．Many people knew how many snacks they ate. |
| C．Most people lacked the awareness of snacks’ impact. |
| D．No one knew the fact that the snacks contained many calories. |
| A．Living conditions |
| B．The food environment. |
| C．Consumption ability. |
| D．Supermarket management. |
| A．A packet of crisps contains many calories. |
| B．People can resist the temptation of snacks. |
| C．Adults got involved in a consumption survey. |
| D．The harm of snacks is beyond your imagination. |
9 . There will be four concerts that are worth expecting this year. Tickets for each concert are just $59. 95 per person when you order all four events. Here is the complete show information for each concert.
Dean Z-The Ultimate Elvis
August 12-15, 2023
Ticket price: $65. 59
Dean Z is the ultimate Elvis! When Dean was three, “This Is Elvis” was being broadcast on television. He immediately jumped on the coffee table and started imitating Presley’s every move. His newest show, Dean Z-The Ultimate Elvis, is the high point of a life-long career paying tribute (致敬) to the man who will always be known as the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley!
December’ 63
August 19-22, 2023
Ticket price: $70. 39
The music of Frankie Valli And The Four Seasons comes to life in this unique concert experience. December’ 63 shows favorite songs from Frankie Valli that have been exciting audiences for decades. This recreation (重现) of a Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons concert will have you reaching for the high notes as our performers take you on a musical journey with stops at every phase of their careers!
Piano Men: Generations
August 26-29, 2023
Ticket price: $69. 95
Don’t miss the return of last season’s most popular concert! The amazing father and son team of Terry and Nick Davies celebrate the musical influences of Billy Joel and Elton John. Not only have Billy and Elton written and performed music that has been spread for four decades, but also seated themselves behind the piano! Join Terry and Nick and their incredible band on this journey through their long, successful careers.
Rockin’ Out With Steve Watts
September 9-19, 2023
Ticket price: $73. 69
Fireside favorite Steve Watts and members of the popular Fireside Band bring you a fast-paced, heart pounding concert of Rock and Roll classics to the Fireside stage for two weekends. Steve and the band will play some of his particular favorites from the 1960’s through today including such artists as Bruce Springsteen, David Bowie, The Beatles and many more!
1. How much will you pay for each concert when you order all four events?| A．$59. 95. |
| B．$65. 59 |
| C．$70. 39 |
| D．$69. 95 |
| A．Dean Z-The Ultimate Elvis. |
| B．December’ 63. |
| C．Piano Men: Generations. |
| D．Rockin’ Out With Steve Watts. |
| A．All the concerts will be held in August. |
| B．All the concerts will be broadcast on television. |
| C．All the performers will sing Rock and Roll. |
| D．All the concerts will have old songs worth remembering. |
10 . Marcus is a handsome and athletic kid. He plays tennis and
Marcus has known Conrad since primary school. They’ve always been
Finally, the doctors found a new
To Conrad’s delight, he gets a chance to join the cross country team. Conrad doesn’t win, not once, but Marcus is there,
| A．gives up | B．competes in | C．hears of | D．breaks through |
| A．able | B．lucky | C．eager | D．calm |
| A．bears | B．counts | C．forgets | D．escapes |
| A．accept | B．enjoy | C．lose | D．miss |
| A．strangers | B．enemies | C．friends | D．teachers |
| A．surprise | B．sadness | C．impatience | D．tiredness |
| A．promises | B．asks | C．drives | D．forces |
| A．long | B．noisy | C．boring | D．interesting |
| A．treatment | B．excuse | C．period | D．topic |
| A．goal | B．style | C．speed | D．skill |
| A．suitable | B．serious | C．small | D．comfortable |
| A．strength | B．show | C．shape | D．advantage |
| A．relaxing | B．beneficial | C．painful | D．meaningful |
| A．queuing | B．arguing | C．running | D．cheering |
| A．excitedly | B．curiously | C．anxiously | D．actively |
