1 . 假如你是李华，2024年哈尔滨国际冰雪节(Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival)组委会面向全国高中生招募志愿者，你希望成为志愿者，请向组委会写一封申请信，内容如下：
1. 个人特长(英语能力，性格等)；
2. 对志愿者工作的理解；
3. 希望获准。注意：词数80左右。
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

2 . Perform Stand-up Comedy

Stand-up is a type of comedy in which someone performs a series of jokes in front of a live audience. You can create a stand-up comedy act to perform for family and friends or at a school or community talent show.     1     Here are some tips to help you get started.

Write your material.

To begin writing jokes, start brainstorming topics. Many comedians talk about their personal experiences or make humorous observations about popular topics like sports or movies.     2     For example, your friends would probably understand your funny observations about middle school, but your family may not. When you have an idea for a joke, approach it like writing a short essay. It should have a beginning that attracts the listener, followed by a middle that sets up characters or provides information people need to know to understand the joke.

Pull everything together.

Once you have several jokes written, you can add them to a stand-up routine, called a “set”. A set can be anywhere from a few minutes to more than an hour, but for beginners it’s best to keep it short.     3     Between jokes, include transitions to help link one story to the next. You should conclude with a strong “closer”, one last joke that will leave your audience laughing.

    4    

Once you’ve created your set, it’s time to practice. You can perform in front of a mirror or record yourself and play it back. This will help you see how long your set is and where you might make change. Next, perform in front of a friend or family member who can help you see what people laugh at the most or tell you if any of your jokes are confusing.     5    

When you’re ready to perform, remember to take a few deep breaths. Then relax, be yourself, and have fun!

A．Plan a performance

B．Perfect your routine

C．Take notes and make changes as necessary.

D．Open your set with a joke that will get your audience laughing.

E．It can easily meet with a favourable response from the audience.

F．Think about who your audience will be and what will be relatable to them.

G．Once you feel comfortable with your stand-up material, it’s time to perform!

3 . Time is one of the most valuable commodities we have. It is a non-renewable resource that,once lost, cannot be regained.    1    But how we choose to spend it can make or break our lives.

We frequently run out of time in today’s fast-paced world. We have deadlines, appointments and responsibilities to meet within a certain time.    2    We may believe that we have all the time in the world, but before we know it, the day is over, the week is over and another year has passed.

The proverb “time and tide wait for none” reminds us that time is a limited resource that we must make the most of.     3    We should prioritize our tasks, set goals and work towards achieving them. We should avoid procrastination (拖延) and make every moment count.

    4    We live in a world where social media, emails and notifications take most of our attention. It is so easy to get sucked into endlessly watching videos or looking at posts. However,if we allow these distractions to take over, we risk wasting valuable time that could be spent on more productive activities.

“Time and tide wait for none” also reminds us that time is valuable and should not be squandered (挥霍). We should treasure every moment and make the most of it. We should spend time with our loved ones, pursue our passions and do things that make us happy.     5    

The proverb serves as a powerful reminder of the value of time management. Time is a finite resource that must be used wisely. So, let us all strive to maximise our time and live our lives to the fullest.

A．We all have the same amount of time in a day.

B．Life is too short to waste time on things that don’t matter.

C．Distractions are one of the most difficult challenges we face.

D．It encourages us to be mindful of our time and to use it wisely.

E．It’s all too easy to let time slip away while browsing our news feeds.

F．It illustrates the idea that time is fleeting and it doesn’t wait for anyone.

G．With so much to do, it’s easy to lose track of time and allow it to pass by you.

4 . How to Ease AI Anxiety

Rapid advances in generative artificial intelligence(AI) have brought big challenges and it’s logical for humans to feel anxious about it.     1    . The following can prove it and ease your anxiety.

Remember context is key

Keeping in mind that the present moment is far from the first time people have feared the rise of an unfamiliar technology. “Computer anxiety” and “technostress” date back decades. Before that, there was uncontrollable worry over industrial automation.     2    . But many of the worst sci-fi predictions did not come true.

Address the problem together

Rather than sticking your head in the sand, gain new skills to prepare for a career change or learning about ongoing efforts to regulate AI. Meanwhile, confronting anxiety over AI might begin with coming up with collective solutions and finding community.     3    .

Switch your attention

Another way to feel better about AI is to avoid too much attention to it.     4    . Taking breaks from technology to reconnect with nature or loved ones in the physical world is critical for mental health. Stepping away from tech can also provide a reminder of all the ways that humans are distinct from AI.

    5    

The current technology is not truly producing new things but rather imitating or following what people can do. AI may be able to answer questions and solve problems, but it lacks the power to convey emotions, empathy and create original content. Therefore, unbiased judgment and certainty about your own skills can help with uneasiness.

A．Focus on what you can control

B．Remind yourself of its limitations

C．More attention should be attached to AI

D．Getting involved in it is crucial to seeking security

E．There is more to life than just programs and screens

F．But humans aren’t yet headed for a complete replacement

G．Past advances did lead to big social and economic changes

5 . The stands were always filled with family members to support their favorite players. I attended each of my son’s games. His father worked nights for years, and missed out on most of his games. My son Jorden knew if his dad could, he would be there sitting right beside me.

When Jorden was younger, some family members would occasionally come to watch. But gradually they stopped showing up. Never once did Jorden lead me to believe that this bothered him, but apparently it did. It wasn’t until when he was asked to give a speech at his baseball event that he made it very clear not only to me but a room filled with over 150 people just how important it is to have extra fans in the stands.

His speech was anything but like I thought it would be. It wasn’t short and bittersweet. It wasn’t his quick thank you to his coaches and teammates. He poured his heart out, saying he seldom had grandparents, aunts or uncles coming to support him. He was grateful that his teammates’ family members showed up to support not just their own loved ones but the entire team of boys. Clearly Jorden desired more than just me. Never did I ever think my son would be hurting inside as he looked out to the bleachers to see only me at each and every game.

As he struggled to get each word out through tears, I promised I would attend as many events of the children around as I possibly could. There was no way I could allow another child to feel what my son was feeling. This small simple gesture would mean so much to any child. Neither Jorden nor I was upset with those who never attended his games. Jorden just wanted someone else besides me to witness his craft in action. I understand all of our lives become complicated and that everyone is busy with their own children and jobs that may not allow them as much free time as they’d like.

1. What do we know about Jorden’s father?

A．He had long been misunderstood by Jorden.

B．He had few chances to attend Jorden’s games.

C．He managed to be with Jorden in every game.

D．He had made excuses to miss Jorden’s games.

2. What was Jorden’s speech about?

A．His ambition to win the championship.

B．His gratitude to his mother and coaches.

C．His complaint about his family members.

D．His desire for support from more people.

3. What does the author think of Jorden’s speech?

A．Depressing.

B．Complicated.

C．Astonishing.

D．Absurd.

4. How did the author respond to Jorden’s speech?

A．She tried to be actively involved in children’s games.

B．She promised not to miss out on games of every child.

C．She offered to invite many relatives to Jorden’s games.

D．She decided to lead Jorden to trust his family members.

6 . Fortunately, the days of being spread on thick baby oil and lying in the sun to get your skin yellowish-brown—or more likely burnt—are long over. Many sunscreens work by filtering (滤) the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays to keep them from reaching skin cells and causing the DNA damage that can lead to wrinkles and skin cancer. But in recent years, the safety of some of those filtering chemical ingredients, particularly oxybenzone (氧苯酮), has been in question.

A 2019 study published in JAMA found evidence that oxybenzone is absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to concerns about whether it might affect functions of our body. Oxybenzone has also been detected in breast milk for newborn babies. Because of concerns about higher intake in children, doctors from the American Academy of Pediatrics advise against sunscreen, with oxybenzone for kids.

The Environmental Working Group, an activist organization that monitors chemical safety, has called for a ban, but the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers sunscreens with oxybenzone safe. “It’s uncertain,” says Deborah S. Sarnoff, president of the U.S. Skin Cancer Foundation. “Just because you’re absorbing the chemical doesn’t mean it’s dangerous.” Further study is required.

But oxybenzone is a risk to coral reefs. Hawaii and the U.S. Virgin Islands have banned the sale of sunscreens with oxybenzone. In a 2022 study published in Science, researchers found that some certain sea plants, when exposed to sunlight, turn oxybenzone into energy or something needed in a way that damages and kills corals.

Some companies have been trying to stop using oxybenzone gradually in stages, and many big brands offer oxybenzone-free options. For anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding, or simply looking to avoid these chemical filters, Dr. Sarnoff recommends mineral sunscreens, which contain mostly physical barriers.

1. What is the advantage of sunscreen?

A．It gets your skin yellowish-brown.

B．It stops wrinkles and skin cancer.

C．It is easy to spread on our skin.

D．It keeps UV rays from harming you.

2. Doctors advise against sunscreen with oxybenzone for kids because _______.

A．They know oxybenzone can affect their bloodstream.

B．They have detected oxybenzone in newborn babies.

C．They don’t want kids to absorb more oxybenzone.

D．They have confirmed oxybenzone hurts their body functions.

3. What can we learn from the last three paragraphs?

A．Some organizations have already banned the use of oxybenzone.

B．More research is needed to prove the danger of oxybenzone.

C．Coral reefs in Hawaii were damaged or killed by sunscreens.

D．The U.S. FDA suggests using mineral sunscreens.

4. What’s the text mainly about?

A．Questions on safe use of oxybenzone raised by doctors.

B．Discussion on safety of oxybenzone between organizations.

C．Effects of sunscreens on humans and plants in recent studies.

D．The latest findings about sunscreens with oxybenzone.

7 . If you hate being cold but don’t want to raise your heating bill, then keep reading. Swedish engineer Mr. Oscar Karlsson has provided the perfect solution—a super heater called Hotix Pro.

What makes it so special?

This invention makes it more efficient for people worldwide to heat their homes at low cost. However, what’s really special about Hotix Pro is that it’s been made with the average consumers in mind. One of the amazing features it has is the programmable timer tailored to suit your needs. Also, the remote controller makes it super easy to stay cozy and adjust the temperature.

What do you love about Hotix Pro?

Quick Heating Speed: Little time is needed to warm up the room as long as you plug it in.

Portable (便携式的) & Lightweight: Easily carried from room to room.

Overheat Protection: Built with you and your family’s safety in mind.

Super Quiet: You won’t even hear it when it’s on, but you will definitely FEEL the difference.

How do you get a Hotix Pro?

You can order a Hotix Pro from the supplier’s website. It costs $126 originally but now is on special offer. Order now and you can get a 50% discount (only $52 each when you buy two).

5 Star Reviews★★★★★

This amazing little heater is perfect! It is small but works effectively to heat the room, saving on the precious fuel. This little heater has a timer and a fan with some safety features for customers’ peace of mind. Moreover, I’m a light sleeper extremely sensitive to noise, but with a Hotix Pro, I have perfect sleep at night.

—Sarah

1. What is the most special feature of Hotix Pro?

A．If uses much less energy.	B．It has a customer-centered design.
C．It operates in a lower noise level.	D．It heats a whole room quickly.

2. How much should one pay to buy two Hotix Pros at a time now?

A．$252.

B．$115.

C．$126.

D．$104.

3. Why does the author refer to Sarah’s review?

A．To show Hotix Pro’s high performance.	B．To prove Hotix Pro’s popularity.
C．To explain the design of Hotix Pro.	D．To convey Sarah’s amazement.

8 . I was only eleven years old but I’d been the best runner, high jumper and long jumper in my school since kindergarten! But the one hundred meter race was the most _________competition for me. Nothing boosted my ego more than my schoolmates_________ me as I sprinted across the finish line.

But the_________news crushed my spirit -- a knee injury meant I might never compete again. It hit me like a knockout punch that left my ears ringing in_________.

The next day I was_________inside, while the other kids were outside running. Mr. Lewis encouraged me to_________my energy into the town poetry contest. Determined to find comfort in this new endeavor, I diligently crafted poems each day,_________ their rhyme and rhythm. But the sadness of being_________from track and field was overwhelming.

One day writing in the classroom, I caught Mr. Lewis_________scolding the boys in the next classroom who were exhausted and desiring to quit. “I’m__________of you boys! At this moment there’s a girl in the next classroom dreaming about competing in track and field! She’d do anything to take your__________, but because of a bad knee, she can’t! You should be embarrassed! You should be happy you can run every day without__________!”

For the first time, I felt__________and appreciated. Mr. Lewis understood how much I’d lost because of the injury. From that day forward, I created my__________with a strong belief that I would win the contest, for me and for Mr. Lewis!

That year, my small town__________my triumph as I claimed first prize. I owed my success to Mr. Lewis, his support fueling my inner fire.

1.

A．challenging

B．frustrating

C．promising

D．rewarding

2.

A．cheering for

B．relying on

C．believing in

D．cooperating with

3.

A．hopeful

B．sorrowful

C．harmful

D．powerful

4.

A．awe

B．disbelief

C．annoyance

D．confusion

5.

A．inspired

B．tended

C．stuck

D．monitored

6.

A．rush

B．store

C．divide

D．channel

7.

A．breaking

B．emphasizing

C．perfecting

D．mastering

8.

A．saved

B．released

C．sheltered

D．excluded

9.

A．severely

B．constantly

C．proudly

D．patiently

10.

A．confident

B．ashamed

C．guilty

D．tolerant

11.

A．side

B．time

C．advice

D．place

12.

A．expectation

B．pain

C．warning

D．delay

13.

A．valued

B．ignored

C．disrespected

D．applauded

14.

A．diaries

B．models

C．works

D．outlines

15.

A．witnessed

B．supported

C．secured

D．recalled

9 . If someone asked whether you like the arts, you’d probably say you do—at least in theory. According to a survey, more than two-thirds of U.S. adults say the arts “lift me up beyond everyday experiences.” However, only 30 percent attended a concert of any type in 2017; 23 percent went to an art museum. Fewer than half actively created art of any kind.

The mismatch can boil down to the fact that we are weighed down by our day-to-day responsibilities, leaving our schedule packed. Maybe you like to play a little background music while you work or do the chores, but even before the pandemic, most of us rarely, if ever, saw a live performance, let alone visited a gallery or watched a play.

Too often, we let the dull reality of life get in the way of the arts. But this is a mistake. The arts are the opposite of an escape from reality; they might just be the most realistic glimpse we ever get into the nature and meaning of life. If you make time for consuming and producing art—the same way you make time for work and exercise and family commitments—I assure you that you’ll find your life getting fuller and happier. Think of a time when you heard a piece of music and wanted to cry. Or maybe your dizziness as you emerged from a narrow side street in an unfamiliar city and found yourself in a beautiful town square as if in a fantasy. They probably stimulated a sudden awakening, much like the shock from a lungful of pure oxygen after breathing in smoggy air.

If you are among the people who feel that art is pure pleasure to experience and participate in, you might see it as a luxury item, while a preferable attitude is to treat art less like a distracting pleasure, and more like exercise or sleep, a necessity. Then draw up a schedule of your art exposure journey, and gradually weave art into your everyday life.

1. What prevents people from enjoying the arts?

A．Shortage of time.	B．Avoidance of duty.
C．Lack of interest.	D．Art space inaccessibility.

2. What can we learn about the role of art according to the passage?

A．It explores mysteries of life.	B．It sparks emotional responses.
C．It enhances physical well-being.	D．It offers a getaway from daily life.

3. What will be talked about next in the passage?

A．Ways to integrate art into routine.	B．Barriers to combine art and life.
C．Forms of distracting pleasures.	D．Benefits of engaging with art.

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

A．Art Journey: Refreshing Soul

B．Art Pursuit: Transforming Dull into Full

C．Embracing Art: From Luxury to Necessity

D．Connecting with Art: From Reality to Fantasy

10 . One summer night, a boy felt himself lifted from bed by his father. Dazed with sleep, he saw stars flashing across the heavens. “What is it?” the child whispered. “Shooting stars. They come every year in August.” Decades have passed, but I remember that night still, because I was the fortunate boy whose father believed a new experience was more important than an unbroken night’s sleep.

Some parents like my father have the gift of opening doors for their children. This art of adding dimensions to a child brings the reward: the marvelous moment when the spark bursts into a flame that will burn brightly on its own one day. At a Golf Association tournament, a ten-year-old girl played creditably. “How long have you been interested in golf?” someone asked. “I got it for my ninth birthday,” she said.“ Your father gave you a set of clubs?” “No,” she said, “he gave me golf.”

I have a friend, a psychiatrist, who says there are two types of people: those who think of life as a privilege and those who think of it as a problem. The first type is enthusiastic and energetic. The other type is suspicious and self-centered. And he adds, “Tell me about your childhood and I can tell you which type you are likely to be.”

The real purpose, then, of trying to open doors for children is to build eager and outgoing attitudes, which is the most valuable legacy we can pass on to the next generation. But why don’t we work harder at it? Probably because sometimes we don’t have the awareness or the selflessness or the energy. And yet, for those of us who care what becomes of our children, the challenge is always there but the opportunities also come repeatedly. Many years have passed since that night. And next year, when August comes with its shooting stars, my son will be seven.

1. Why does the author mention the girl in Paragraph 2?

A．To show parental impact on children’s passion.

B．To suggest hobbies always start from the small.

C．To highlight the importance of diverse experiences.

D．To prove true passion usually arises from the reward.

2. What do the underlined words “adding dimensions to” in Paragraph 2 mean?

A．Setting an example for.	B．Broadening the horizons of.
C．Providing attentive care for.	D．Narrowing the possibilities of.

3. What will the author’s psychiatrist friend agree with?

A．Stability in upbringing builds confidence.

B．Parenting styles requires professional guidance.

C．Childhood experience determines adult happiness.

D．One’s personality is related to childhood experiences.

4. What can we infer from the last paragraph?

A．The author is always addicted to shooting stars.

B．It is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to motivate kids.

C．The author will go to see shooting stars with his son.

D．It is impossible to unlock kids’ potential without eagerness.