1 . Turn on a light outside at night, and it won’t be long before lots of insects start gathering around it. This behavior has led to a popular comparison for attraction, “like a moth to a flame.” However, according to a new study published in the journal Nature Communications, it turns out that insects aren’t “attracted” to artificial lights, but rather confused by it.

The new finding is based on a theory about insect orientation (定位). Due to their small and lightweight bodies, insects experience less air resistance, allowing them to achieve higher accelerations (加速度), which in turn makes it challenging for them to sense up and down during flight. So, they typically rely on stable light sources like the moon and stars to orient themselves at night, keeping the sky at their backs to stay upright. However, the introduction of artificial lights confuses their natural sense of direction. The insects you see circling street lights, in other words, are probably lost.

To reach these conclusions, scientists used high-resolution cameras to film insects flying around artificial lights in Costa Rica. They also attached tiny sensors to insects and filmed motion-capture videos of them in flight. In this way, researchers can slow down the insects pace and study their movements in greater detail. The videos showed insects turning their backs toward sources of artificial light—even at the price of flipping over or crashing.

This can be dangerous for insects, as circling around artificial lights can put them at risk from enemies, exhaustion, and starvation, causing many to die before morning. Night artificial light is a major cause of insect population loss, which could severely impact crop pollination and food supplies for larger animals, including humans. “Insects have been flying around for 370 million years, and it’s just in the last 150 years that it’s really gone wrong for them,” says entomologist Samuel Fabian of Imperial College London. “If we don’t want to influence large amounts of insect populations, we should not have lights shining up into the sky.”

1. What have scientists found out about insects?

A．Artificial lights can disturb their sense of direction.

B．Their populations are in decline.

C．They often fly quickly during the night.

D．Their eyesight is well adapted to light changes.

2. How did the scientists conduct the experiment?

A．By detecting the living environment of insects.

B．By monitoring the insects’ brain activity during flight.

C．By making videos to study insects’ movements.

D．By building models to analyze insects’ motion patterns.

3. Why does the author mention Fabian’s words in the last paragraph?

A．To stress the importance of insects to food supplies.

B．To appeal to people to reduce light pollution.

C．To show the reasons for insects flying around lights.

D．To explain the effects of insects’ death on human life.

4. Which is the most suitable title for the text?

A．How Artificial Lights Impact the Ecosystem

B．What Leads to the Loss of Insect Populations

C．How Insects Orient Themselves in the Flight

D．Why Insects are Attracted to Lights at Night

2 . Jilin is not a place that was ever high up on my list of places that I wanted to go to in China, but after visiting it I can confidently say it should be at the top of yours.

My first stop was the Jingyuetan National Forest Park, situated in the southeast of Changchun city. The freshness and calmness of this park was idyllic, with pockets of people out for their afternoon run or just getting some alone time. I was taken to a cable lift that took me up to one of the highest points and got to toboggan (长雪橇) down the hill side, which I had done once before beside the Great Wall of China, but this time I was in among the trees and wilderness.

The forestry in Jilin is second to none, which was evident when I visited the Changchun Zoological and Botanical Gardens, featuring multiple parades and performances, but my favorite of all was the glowing lantern sculptures decorated around and in among the greenery.   I was fortunate enough to dress up in some of the performance costumes. I have attended a performing arts academy for many years, so I was over the moon when greeted by performers in Siping.

My last day in Jilin was a day of relaxation. I started the day by rafting down a local river, where butterflies adorned the trees like Christmas decorations. From here I made the journey to a rural forest to partake in the intangible cultural heritage protection project of ginseng picking. A master guided me into the forest in search of the root plant and showed me the correct way to unearth the roots. The practice can only be done during two months of the year and the rest is left for the ginseng to grow back. It can take many years for the ginseng to grow to a profitable size.

My expectations were blown up to the mountains in Jilin as the people here showed me all warmth and generosity, sharing their wonderful province with me. It is most definitely a place I’m itching to climb back into.

1. What’s the meaning of the underlined world “idyllic” in the second paragraph?

A．Crowded

B．Lonely

C．Peaceful

D．Wild

2. What does the author mean by saying “The forestry in Jilin is second to none” in paragraph 3?

A．You can’t miss the forestry.

B．The forestry ranks second.

C．Changchun Zoological and Botanical Gardens is the second largest park in Jilin.

D．He likes the Changchun Zoological and Botanical Gardens most.

3. What can we learn about the author?

A．He hasn’t been to other tourist attractions in China.

B．Jilin was a must place to visit for him.

C．He can pick ginseng at any time of a year.

D．He is a performing artist.

4. Where did this passage taken from?

A．A geography textbook.	B．A health care report
C．A travel magazine.	D．A science brochure

5 . When Howard Carter opened King Tut’s tomb (墓穴), it was full of gold and other valuables. When he and his team then attempted to remove King Tut’s mummy (木乃伊), they did a great deal of damage to the mummy while removing it.

Decades later, in 1968, experts conducted an examination of King Tut’s mummy using simple X-ray technology. Three important discoveries led to various theories about his death. First, the X-rays showed that bones in Tut’s chest were missing. Some guessed the damage was caused by a war injury or an accident. Plus, there was a small hole in the back of the skull (头骨), and pieces of bone inside it, causing many to believe that Tut was killed by a blow to the back of the head. Was he murdered by people wanting to take control of Egypt? Finally, a serious broken bone was discovered on Tut’s left leg. Tut was hurt a few hours before his death. This could have been the result of an accident. Could an infection from the injury have killed Tut?

In 2005, scientists under the direction of Zahi Hawass used new X-ray technology to study the mummy. They discovered that the damage to Tut’s chest was caused by Howard Carter, and the hole in Tut’s skull was made when the body was gotten ready for burial. While this ruled out the theory of murder, it still doesn’t tell us exactly how he died.

Then, in 2008, when Hawass and his team analyzed the DNA of the mummies and other tombs nearby, they made some shocking discoveries. They found Tut’s father and mother, who had similar DNA, were actually brother and sister. The DNA they passed on to Tut may have made it easy for him to catch a disease. Did an infection that started in his broken leg cause his death? No one knows for sure. But Hawass and his team hope they will someday have an answer to this age-old mystery.

1. Why was the examination of King Tut’s mummy conducted in 1968?

A．To determine the cause of Tut’s death.	B．To assess the condition of Tut’s coffin.
C．To discover the identity of Tut’s parents.	D．To study the treasures found in Tut’s tomb.

2. What do we know about the damage to Tut’s skull?

A．It was caused by an accident.	B．It was caused by a blow to kill.
C．It was caused by Howard Carter’s team.	D．It was caused during burial preparation.

3. The discovery of Tut’s parents implies that ______.

A．Tut’s broken leg had little to do with his DNA.

B．Tut’s DNA features might have been common.

C．Tut’s death was closely connected to their DNA.

D．Tut’s health was probably affected by their shared DNA.

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

A．To analyze the cultural significance of King Tut’s tomb.

B．To entertain readers with tales of ancient Egyptian royalty.

C．To inform readers about the discoveries surrounding King Tut’s death.

D．To persuade readers to follow further research into King Tut’s life and death.

6 . Nova Scotia is a beautiful province located on the eastern coast. It is known for its winding coastal landscapes, attractive fishing villages, and rich maritime (海的) history. Take a look at what you can do while there.

Explore the Cabot Trail:

This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of Nova Scotia’s rugged (有起伏的) coastline, winding through the Cape Breton Highlands. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, vast lookouts, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Exploring the Cabot Trail allows travelers to lose themselves in the natural beauty of Nova Scotia while experiencing its rich cultural heritage.

Visit Peggy’s Cove:

Peggy’s Cove is a quiet fishing village known for its typical lighthouse standing on rocks overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can wander through the village, admire the picture-like scenery, and take photographs of the coastline. The quietness and beauty of Peggy’s Cove make it a must-visit destination in Nova Scotia.

Discover Halifax’s Waterfront:

Halifax’s lively waterfront is a center of activity, offering a variety of attractions and experiences for visitors. From taking a walk along the boardwalk lined with shops and restaurants to exploring historic sites like the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The waterfront also serves as a starting point for boat tours, allowing travelers to explore the harbor.

1. What makes Peggy’s Cove a must-visit destination?

A．Its cuisine.

B．Its scenery.

C．Its culture.

D．Its people.

2. What can you do on Halifax’s waterfront?

A．Jog along its coastline.	B．Explore its mountains.
C．Take boat tours.	D．Spot wildlife.

3. Where can you find this passage?

A．In a travel magazine.	B．In an adventure journal.
C．In a geography textbook.	D．In a science report.

7 . What would happen to you if you fell into a black hole? Some physicists believe you would burn up the moment you entered one. Einstein’s general theory of relativity predicts that you would pass through, unaware that you were lost to the rest of the universe.

Black holes have a bottom, but you wouldn’t live to see it. Gravity, as you fell, would grow stronger. The pull on your feet, if you were falling feet first, would be so much greater than the pull on your head that you would be stretched until you were torn apart. But pieces of you would reach the bottom. From there, some physicists believe that those pieces that once were you could end up in another universe.

However, nobody has ever seen or will see a black hole. A black hole is invisible, a blank spot in space, but scientists are able to know its existence by the effect it has on things around it. For example, if an object comes close to a black hole, it should be possible to see the powerful gravity of the black hole trying to pull the object in. In fact, this is exactly what scientists are planning to do: to observe one while it eats a very large object.

The black hole at the center of the Milky Way galaxy is peaceful but is currently pulling a gas cloud toward itself fast. As the gas cloud begins to enter the black hole, telescopes will be able to take a picture of a black hole in action. This will be the best proof so far that black holes certainly exist.

A black hole is an eater. The nearer objects get to it, the hotter they become. Black holes also spin (旋转), and the extreme heat and spinning break up and expel large amounts of matter at extremely high temperatures. This heated matter flies through space, away from the hole at unbelievable speed. It can travel millions of light-years straight through a galaxy. The material then cools, comes together, and eventually forms new stars around the galaxy, thus the birth of new universes.

1. According to paragraph 2, what is the consequence of falling into a black hole?

A．Being reduced to pieces.	B．Being stretched into a single piece.
C．Being burned in another universe.	D．Being pulled to the bottom instantly.

2. Why does the author use the example in paragraph 3?

A．To prove that no one can see a black hole.

B．To show that black holes can in fact be detected.

C．To observe while a black hole eats a huge object.

D．To see the powerful gravity a black hole possesses.

3. What’s the meaning of the underlined word in the last paragraph?

A．Set up.

B．Take in.

C．Throw off.

D．Call for.

4. What’s the main idea of this passage?

A．What a black hole is and its various aspects.

B．Why a black hole is invisible and its final discovery.

C．How a black hole is formed and its unknown mysteries.

D．When a black hole bears a universe and its amazing origin.

8 . Before setting out on her journey, Shirley led an elegant and peaceful life in the quiet countryside. Little did she _________ the adventure that would beat her thoughts and lead her far from the _________ of home.

Regardless of her prior unwillingness, Shirley’s _________ with Sally, who suggested this trip, threw her into a category of adventures she had never imagined. Yet, despite the _________ that arose, from encounters with tigers to struggles with crocodiles (鳄鱼), Shirley remained somewhat _________ in her devotion to the journey.

Her ideal, to prove her _________ and find her place, became a (n) _________ driving force as she faced the challenges of the journey. Along the way, she _________ awesome wonders, from the fascination of the Kenyan safari (游猎) to the thunders of the misty Kilimanjaro. _________ her expectations, Shirley found herself bound to the fate of home, owing much to the friendship she had and the __________ she had discovered within herself. And when faced with the fear of mother nature, it was Shirley’s bravery that __________ her only companion, Sally.

As her journey __________ its end, Shirley realized how much she owed to the journey, not just the material treasures she had got, but the personal growth and self-discovery that came from __________ beyond her comfort zone. And so, with confidence and a heart of __________, Shirley started going back home, forever __________ by this unforgettable adventure.

1.

A．expect

B．imply

C．acknowledge

D．decide

2.

A．security

B．comfort

C．relief

D．fear

3.

A．combination

B．patience

C．association

D．familiarity

4.

A．sufferings

B．protests

C．conflicts

D．dangers

5.

A．determined

B．excited

C．satisfied

D．inspired

6.

A．advantage

B．point

C．cost

D．worth

7.

A．exceptional

B．initial

C．fundamental

D．common

8.

A．brought about

B．came across

C．cut through

D．set off

9.

A．Conquered by

B．Contrary to

C．Content with

D．Concerned about

10.

A．creativity

B．courage

C．curiosity

D．care

11.

A．controlled

B．persuaded

C．astonished

D．disappointed

12.

A．accessed

B．acquired

C．approached

D．achieved

13.

A．leaving

B．digging

C．coming

D．stepping

14.

A．recognition

B．gratitude

C．respect

D．dependence

15.

A．changed

B．excused

C．relaxed

D．freed

9 . Born with a disability in her right leg, Mei faced numerous challenges in her daily life. Regardless, Mei refused to let her disability define her.

From a young age, Mei harbored a deep passion for painting. With the support of her loving family, she transformed her wheelchair into a mobile easel (画架), allowing her to create art wherever she went. Every stroke (笔画) of her brush was like a witness to her growth.

As Mei grew older, her talent attracted the attention of the local community. Encouraged by their support, she decided to pursue her dreams of becoming a professional artist. However, Mei soon encountered doubt from others, even her childhood best friends, who questioned her ability to succeed in the art world.

Instead of backing up, Mei pressed on, expressing her frustration (沮丧) into her artwork. Her paintings were beautiful, reflecting the beauty she saw in the world around her. Through her art, Mei found a sense of purpose, proving to herself and others that disabilities could not put out the fire of creativity.

Eventually, Mei received an invitation to showcase her artwork at Guggenheim Museum in New York. Wild with joy, she was unsure if she was ready to face the judgement of the art world. With the support of her family and friends, Mei decided to seize the opportunity.

The show was a great success. Through Mei’s journey, she was able to reach thousands of other people with disabilities who would benefit from her experience. That’s why she is still pressing on and fighting—not because she’s broken, but because she not only has an opportunity to fully achieve her potentials as a disabled person but also the will to inspire everyone else around her.

1. What did Mei face when she decided to become an artist?

A．Apologies from her best friends.	B．Distrust in her ability to succeed.
C．Attention to her painting techniques.	D．Congratulations on her instant success.

2. How did Mei feel when she got invited by the Guggenheim Museum?

A．Saddened.

B．Astonished.

C．Uncertain.

D．Embarrassed.

3. Now that her show was a success, Mei pressed on because of her ______.

A．pursuit to be a professional	B．willingness to inspire others
C．power to transform disabilities	D．aim to make her experience known

4. What would be the best title of the passage?

A．A Challenging Life: Mei’s Story of Determination.

B．From Failure to Victory: Mei’s Valuable Life Lesson.

C．Rejecting Limits: Mei’s Story and Her Artistic Success.

D．Journey of Inspiration: Mei’s Determination to Help Others.

10 . Scientists have long believed that Mars was wet around three billion years ago and then lost much of its water. But a new study presents evidence of water activity from about 700 million years ago, posing a new puzzle about Mars and its history for scientists to crack in their future studies.

The new study is based on data from China’s Zhurong rover (“祝融号”火星车), part of the Tianwen-1 mission that touched down on the surface of Mars in May 2021. In particular, the scientists used data the rover gathered during its first 92 Martian days, at its landing site in Utopia Planitia. Yang Liu, a researcher from the Chinese Academy of Sciences(CAS), and his colleagues analyzed data from three different instruments on Zhurong. Those instruments studied minerals that suggest the presence of a large quantity of liquid water at the site about 700 million years ago, which scientists previously thought was dry.

“This is a very interesting result. We have very little recorded evidence of young liquid water systems on Mars. And for the ones we have, they were usually in the form of salt minerals,” says Dr. Scheller, a scientist at the California Institute of Technology. He explained Zhurong’s instruments spotted water molecules locked away in the rock, which was different from other young liquid water environments that have been observed.

“One of the major things we’ll have to find out and that I look forward to seeing from the Zhurong rover is how extensive these ‘young’ water-bearing minerals are,” Dr. Scheller said. “Are they common or uncommon in these ‘young’ rocks?” Zhurong has now covered about two kilometers during its more than 350 Martian days and has analyzed a range of features on its travels, meaning more new Martian insights are likely still to come from the rover.

NASA has so far sent its Mars rovers to ancient landing sites, dating back to more than 3.7 billion years ago. Zhurong is not just an extra set of wheels on Mars, but a powerful suite of instruments exploring a new, geologically young site to open new windows of opportunity for research on Mars.

1. What does the underlined word “crack” in paragraph 1 mean?

A．Keep.

B．Doubt.

C．Solve.

D．Create.

2. What does the new study show according to paragraph 2?

A．The inaccuracy of data gathered on Mars.

B．Functional limitations of instruments on Mars.

C．Main reasons for the failure of the Tianwen-1 mission.

D．The misconception of past thinking about Martian water.

3. Which of the following does Dr. Scheller convey?

A．The result has been recorded by many scientists.

B．Zhurong’s wide analyses will bring more surprises.

C．Salt minerals are younger than water-bear ing minerals.

D．Young water-bearing minerals are common in young rocks.

4. Which word can best describe Zhurong?

A．Ancient.

B．Common.

C．Alarming.

D．Promising.