1 . We are all busy talking about and using the Internet, but how many of us know the history of the Internet?
Many people are surprised when they find that the Internet was set up in the 1960s. At that time, computers were large and expensive. Computer networks didn’t work well. If one computer in the network broke down, then the whole network stopped. So a new network system had to be set up. It should be good enough to be used by many different computers. If part of the network was not working, information could be sent through another part. In this way, computer network system would keep on working all the time.
At first the Internet was only used by the government, but in the early 1970s, universities, hospitals and banks were allowed to use it, too. However, computers were still very expensive and the Internet was difficult to use. By the start of the 1990s, computers had become cheaper and easier to use. Scientists had also developed software that made “surfing” the Internet more convenient.
Today it is easy to get online and it is said that millions of people use the Internet every day. Sending email is more and more popular among students.
The Internet has now become one of the most important parts of people’s life．
1. The Internet has a history of around ______ years.| A．ten | B．twenty | C．fifty | D．seventy |
| A．break down the whole network |
| B．make itself keep on working all the time |
| C．make computers cheaper |
| D．make computers large and expensive |
| A．Scientists | B．the government |
| C．schools | D．hospitals and banks |
| A．Software | B．Scientists | C．Information | D．Computers |
2 . After two years of careful consideration, Robert McCrum has reached a conclusion on his selection of the 100 greatest novels written in English. Take a look at a few in his list.
Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe (1719)
By the end of the 19th century, no book in English literary history had enjoyed more editions and translations. This world-famous novel is a complex literature that one cannot resist.
Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift (1726)
A great work that’s been repeatedly printed, Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels comes third in our list of the best novels written in English.
Clarissa by Samuel Richardson (1748)
Clarissa is a tragic heroine, pressured by her dishonorable family to marry a wealthy man she dislikes, in the book that Samuel Johnson described as “the first book in the world that shows the knowledge about the human heart.”
Tom Jones by Henry Fielding (1749)
Tom Jones is a classic English novel that gets the spirit of its age and whose characters are well-known since they have come to represent the society at that time.
Emma by Jane Austen (1816)
Jane Austen’s Emma is her most outstanding work, mixing the best parts of her early books with a deep sense of feelings.
The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket by Edgar Allan Poe (1838)
Edgar Allan Poe’s only novel—a classic adventure story with supernatural elements—has fascinated and influenced generations of writers.
1. Which English book has got the most translations before the 20th century?| A．Tom Jones | B．Gulliver’s Travels | C．Robinson Crusoe | D．Emma |
| A．The human heart. | B．Quarrels in a family. |
| C．A love story. | D．The spirits of the time. |
| A．Their classic life styles. | B．Their representation of the society. |
| C．Their typical spirits of the age. | D．Their different nationalities. |
3 . An early morning winter storm had brought several inches of snow in my small town in the mountains.Schools were canceled,roads were dangerous and all I wanted to do was to stay in bed.Still,I knew I had to get the day started so I put on warm clothes and walked outside.The snow got all over my shoes.The cold wind dried my lips and my eyes.My 47 year-old back ached in anticipation（预想）of the shoveling（铲雪）I would have to do if the snow didn't stop soon.
Yet,when I looked out on the white blanket that covered the ground,I couldn't help but smile a bit.It was so beautiful.It softened the bare trees and hid the dead grass.In the distance I could hear the sound of the snowplow on the road,the barking of a happy dog and the laughter of children playing outside,enjoying their way off from school.
The sweet music of that laughter brought back a hundred memories of winters past.I remembered catching snowflakes(雪花)on my tongue,building snowmen,making snow angles,running down hills and always losing snowball fights with first my brothers and then my own children.Standing there in that warmcoat of memories made the wind a little less cold and my back a little less sore.I turned up my head,stuck out my tongue and for the first time in years caught a snowflake on it.It tasted so fresh and clean.It tasted like youth,like joy and like love.
May you always feel young in spirit,no matter how old or achy your body may be.May you always delight in the simple joys of life.May you always share your happiness with the hearts of children.And may you always give your love,your light,your laughter and your warmth to others even on the coldest days.
1. What was the author’s first reaction when he knew it snowed heavily?| A．He was upset. | B．He was happy. |
| C．He was thankful. | D．He was moved. |
| A．my back ached because of the cold weather. |
| B．I didn't want to start my day on such a snowy day. |
| C．my back would ache upon thinking of cleaning up the snow. |
| D．the snow didn't stop and I felt too cold. |
| A．Taste and smell. | B．Sight and smell. |
| C．Smell,hearing and taste. | D．Sight,hearing and taste. |
| A．Appreciate every snowstorm you spend with your family. |
| B．Snow brings both fun and trouble. |
| C．Memories can change our opinion. |
| D．We should stay young at heart. |
4 . In our youth-obsessed culture, one would assume that your self-esteem peaks in your 20s—but that’s not the case. Researchers from the University of Bern set out to determine when the average person’s self-esteem is the highest, and the good news is that your peak comes decades later.
Researchers found that self-esteem increases throughout one’s lifetime, with a slight plateau during those awkward teen years. Our self-esteem levels then start rising again and don’t peak until well into midlife. The highest point for self-esteem level happened at age 60 when they can retire and stayed there until a slight decline in one’s 70s and 80s.
This news that our self-esteem will continue to rise or stay steady during the majority of our lives is exciting. We often hear of increased stress in the decades of midlife, but there are upsides too. “Midlife is, for many adults, a time of high stability in relationships and work. Moreover, most people further invest in their roles, which might promote their self-esteem,” researcher Dr. Orth told the journalist. “For example, people take on managerial roles at work, maintain a satisfying relationship with their spouse or partner, and help their children become responsible and independent.”
As we age and our roles tend to change, it’s natural for self-esteem to take a small hit. “Old age frequently involves loss of social roles as a result of retirement, the empty nest, and, possibly, widowhood. In addition, aging often leads to negative changes in other possible sources of self-esteem, such as socioeconomic status and health.” Dr. Orth said. However, it’s important to remember that it’s only a slight decrease. Dr. Orth believes that most people maintain a high self-esteem level even into their 90s and beyond.
1. Which of the following is the closest in meaning to “peak”?| A．Minimum. | B．Maximum. | C．Average. | D．Height. |
| A．A newly-retired person. | B．A teenage boy. |
| C．A person in his/her 80s. | D．A middle-aged person. |
| A．It is destructive. | B．It is unnatural. |
| C．It is important. | D．It is acceptable. |
| A．A travel guide. | B．A science report. |
| C．A novel. | D．A business magazine. |
5 . Because of the spread of COVID-19, many students are forced to study at home. But parents are worried about how their children can learn more efficiently. The following websites might give you a clue.
Scratch
With Scratch, you can program your own interactive stories, games, and animations — and share your creations with others in the online community. Scratch can be downloaded free of charge. Scratch is designed especially for ages 8 to 16, but is used by people of all ages. Scratch is used in more than 150 different countries and available in more than 40 languages.
Mr. Bob
Mr. Bob is a science teacher, author, maker, and presenter that knows how to share the world of science. Bob encourages parents and teachers to practice Random Acts of Science by providing instructions and videos for interactive science experiments on his website. Bob has also coauthored a very popular series of science adventure books for kids.
Oxford Owl for School
Oxford Owl for School is home to online teaching, learning and assessment resources and expert support for primary schools. Free teaching, learning and assessment resources are provided, including book recommendations, storytelling videos, activity sheets and teaching notes. With a library of free, tablet-friendly eBooks, you’ll find the perfect eBook for every pupil.
The National Geographic Society
The National Geographic Society is a global nonprofit organization to explore and protect our planet. We fund hundreds of research and conservation projects around the world each year and inspire new generations. Our yellow border serves to explore the farthest reaches of the Earth and beyond. We reach millions of people around the world, with our television networks in 172 countries and our publications available in 41 languages.
1. Which website is most suitable for science lovers?| A．Scratch. | B．Mr. Bob. |
| C．Oxford Owl for School. | D．The National Geographic Society. |
| A．It owns a library in America. | B．It offers materials for students only. |
| C．It provides online books for free. | D．It is suitable for students of all ages. |
| A．They have users worldwide. | B．They choose books for kids to read. |
| C．They are designed especially for kids. | D．They are both nonprofit organizations. |
6 . The start of the U.S. Atlantic hurricane season is just over two weeks away and forecasters are expecting particularly high activity this year. With warmer than usual conditions expected in the North Atlantic this summer, meteorologists have predicted that the season could produce eight or more hurricanes.
While forecasters cannot predict how many hurricanes — if any — will make landfall, the potential for dangerous storms to strike the southern and eastern coasts brings an additional problem for authorities already struggling with the COVID-19.
Experts say that the COVID-19 is affecting the capabilities of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other organizations involved in responding to natural disasters.
Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General Jeffrey Talley, who now leads global efforts on disaster management at IBM’s Center for the Business of Government, said that with FEMA and other authorities engaged with responding to the COVID-19, resources will be limited if a hurricane strikes.
“When we look at a disaster... I think of it in terms of how we prepare for, respond to and recover from those types of events,” Talley said. “Right now we’re in the middle of the response of COVID-19. None of us are really sure how long it’s going to last and how the response to disasters is going to be different, say, two months from now, six months from now, so on and so forth,” he said.
According to Talley, the COVID-19 could complicate the response to a hurricane by interrupting the flow of emergency supplies to areas where they are urgently needed at crucial moments.
Social distancing and stay-at-home orders will also force authorities along the south and east coast to rethink how they manage people who must leave their homes in the event of a disaster. While many states are already lifting some lockdown restrictions, social distancing will still be important for many months to come.
1. When will the first hurricane possibly arrive in US this summer?| A．In about eight days. | B．In about six months. |
| C．In about two months. | D．In more than two weeks. |
| A．More people will leave home to fight against a hurricane. |
| B．Rescue materials might not reach disaster areas sometimes. |
| C．Lockdown can greatly reduce damage and injury. |
| D．The pandemic makes it harder to predict hurricanes. |
| A．People throughout the country no longer need to stay at home. |
| B．The state governments are confident about tackling hurricanes. |
| C．Authorities along the coasts will stick to the former orders. |
| D．It is necessary to keep social distance in the coming months. |
| A．More Destructive Hurricanes to Be Expected. | B．More Difficult to Forecast Hurricanes Coming. |
| C．COVID-19 to Worsen Hurricane Response. | D．Social Distancing Needed in Coming Months. |
7 . I am proud to be a member of two cultures. Even though I am only ten years old, I have lived in two countries and in two cultures. I have lived in both Mexico and the United States.
I was born in the state of Michoacán. I was born in a small town called Quinceo. Life there was simple and peaceful. There was a small market where we would go on Sundays. There was a corral where we would go and watch rodeos. After school, my friends and I would go for a swim in a creek. My mom did not work; she stayed at home taking care of our family. Life in Quinceo was nice, but money was sometimes not enough to support us.
In 1996, the day came when my dad decided to bring us to the United States. Leaving my town was hard, but it was important that my family stay together. When I left Mexico, I had a lot of special friends and nice teachers.
When I first came to the United States, I started at a new school in Chicago. I found care and company at the school, among Hispanic people, my friends, and my teacher. She helped me all the time.
My education now is different from the one in Mexico. Here, I am studying in two languages. I feel very happy because I am able to communicate in two languages. In my case, speaking Spanish is an indication of my Mexican heritage. Speaking English is a symbol of my triumph and the struggles that I have as an immigrant in this country. Now that I have been here three years, I am proud to offer my help and support to people who need it.
I urge those who come from Mexico and other countries to learn English and to continue speaking their native language, too. It will help them reach out to others.
1. What does the writer think of Mexico?| A．She doesn’t like it because it’s poor. |
| B．She was too young to remember it. |
| C．She loves the country and is proud of it. |
| D．She wants to get rid of it so she left. |
| A．Because they were in need of more money. |
| B．Because the mother found no peace in Quinceo. |
| C．Because they wanted to experience a new culture. |
| D．Because the author could have new friends. |
| A．She wants to be a teacher and support people. |
| B．She enjoyed company of friends at the new school. |
| C．She enjoyed life in Mexico and also in the USA. |
| D．Her new school teaches in English and Mexican. |
| A．explain how the author learns English well as a teen |
| B．help people to understand American immigrants better |
| C．introduce the life in her hometown Quinceo in Mexico |
| D．persuade immigrants not to drop their mother tongue |
8 . You are with me once in a while for nearly 20 years now. You never said why you chose me. I didn’t even think I was your type. I had always thought you went for the worrier, the unadventurous. But I am an outgoing girl. Maybe you were impressed with my demanding teaching career. Your past lovers come from all walks of life. I see them yell and accuse under your pressure.
I often keep you a secret. I refuse to let my identity be swept up in yours. Besides, sometimes when people talk about you, what they are concerned is how they know you, too and the ways to be relaxed and get away from anxiety. But you and they are only casual acquaintances—the intensity (强度) is incomparable.
I am writing now because I have noticed that we are growing apart. So there are things I want to say. I know my daily exercising annoys you; you’re nowhere to be seen when I’m reading our favourite books. I’ve noticed that you’re turned off by the way I’m eating fruits and vegetables. When I take the time to chat with a stranger or a friend, you often storm off. So I’ve decided it is time to start making plans of my own, despite not knowing what yours are.
I know we will always be in touch. You’ll visit me when I least expect it. But plan on being prepared. If we do eventually split for good, you should know you have changed me for the better. Because of you, I see that life is a fragile gift to be handled with awakened care and patience. So learn to keep you at bay by getting away from stress.
In short, appreciate you for what you have brought into my life but I ask you to give me the distance I need to live the lessons you have taught.
1. The word “you” mentioned in the passage refers to ________.| A．a secret | B．a bad feeling |
| C．a teacher | D．the author’s best friend |
| A．Reading her favorite books. | B．Chatting with her friends happily. |
| C．Working out on regular basis. | D．Doing demanding work and feeling stressed. |
| A．She is grateful to “you”. | B．She has pity on “you”. |
| C．She can’t forgive “you”. | D．She regrets treating “you” badly. |
| A．A poem. | B．A guidebook. | C．A diary. | D．A biography. |
9 . Friendship is above reason, for, though you find virtues in a friend, he has been your friend before you find them. It is a gift that we offer because we must; to give it as the reward of virtue would be to set a price upon it, and those who do that have no friendship to give. If you choose your friends on the grounds that you are virtuous and want virtuous company, you are no nearer to true friendship than if you choose them for commercial reasons. Besides, who are you that you should be setting a price upon your friendship? It is enough for any man that he has the power of making friends, and he must leave it to that power to determine who his friends shall be. For, though you may choose the virtuous to be your friends, they may not choose you. It comes, like sleep, when you are not thinking about it; and you should be grateful, without any misgiving, when it comes.
So no man who knows what friendship is will give up a friend because he turns out to be disreputable. His only reason for giving up a friend is that he has stopped caring for him; and, when that happens, he should blame himself for this poverty of affection, not the friend for having proved unworthy.
We have our judgments and our punishments as part of the political mechanism that is forced upon us so that we may continue to live; but friendship is not friendship at all unless it teaches us that these are not part of our real life. It is only in the warmth of friendship that we see how cold a thing it is to judge and how stupid to take a pleasure in judging; for we recognize this warmth as a positive good, a richness in our natures, while the coldness that sets us judging is a poverty.
There are men who cannot be friends except when they are under an illusion that their friends are perfect, and when the illusion passes there is an end of their friendship. But true friendship has no illusions, for it reaches to that part of a man’s nature that is beyond his imperfections, and in doing so it takes all of them for granted. A man is your friend, not because of his superiorities (优越), but because there is something open from your nature to his, a way that is closed between you and most men.
-A. Clutton-Brock
1. What is the author’s attitude towards choosing friends on the grounds of their virtues?| A．Concerned. | B．Uncertain. | C．Disapproving. | D．Supportive. |
| A．becomes disreputable | B．shows no care for you |
| C．blames you for not caring about him | D．does something bad and hurts your feelings |
| A．The political mechanism plays an important role in our life. |
| B．Friendship teaches us to have a positive attitude towards life. |
| C．Friendship can turn us to be kind-hearted people. |
| D．We should not make a judgment about others. |
| A．he gives you the illusion of perfection | B．he accepts your imperfections |
| C．he holds an open attitude towards you | D．he and you understand each other |
10 . Shakespeare’s Birthplace and Exhibition of Shakespeare’s World
Welcome to the world-famous house where William Shakespeare was born in l564 and where he grew up. The property(房产) remained in the ownership of Shakespeare’s family until 1806. The House has welcomed visitors traveling from all over the world for over 250 years.
| OPENING TIMES: 20 Mar to 19 Oct Mon to Sat: 9:00am to 5:00pm Sun: 9:30am to 5:00pm 20 Oct to 19 Mar Mon to Sat: 9:30am to 4:00pm Sun: 10:00am to 4:00pm |
◆Enter through the Visitors’ Centre and see the highly-praised exhibition Shakespeare’s World, a lively and full introduction to the life and work of Shakespeare.
◆Stand in the rooms where Shakespeare grew up.
◆Discover examples of furniture and needlework from Shakespeare’s period.
◆Enjoy the traditional(传统的) English garden, planted with trees and flower mentioned in the poet’s works.
| ADMISSION: Adult ￡4.90 Child ￡2.20 Family ￡12.00 (2 adults + up to 3 children) |
The Birthplace is within easy walking distance of all the car parks shown on the map；nearest is Windsor Street(3 minutes’ Walk).
The House may present difficulties but the Visitors’ Centre, its exhibition Hall and the garden are accessible(可进入的) to wheelchair users.
The Shakespeare Coffee House (opposite the Birthplace)
1. How much is the admission for a family of two grown-ups and two children?| A．￡9.80. | B．￡12.00. | C．￡14.20. | D．￡16.40. |
| A．Behind the exhibition hall. |
| B．Opposite the Visitors’ Centre. |
| C．At Windsor Street. |
| D．Near the Coffee House. |
| A．the House | B．the garden |
| C．the Visitors’ Centre | D．the exhibition hall |
