1 . Artificial intelligence has become a part of our lives, transforming the way we live, work, and interact. We are currently witnessing the dawn of a new era, the Age of AI, where the potential for innovation and development seems limitless. In this age, AI has the power to build a digital world characterized by exchange, mutual learning, and inclusiveness.

One of the key features of the Age of AI is the seamless (无缝的) exchange of information and ideas. AI systems are capable of processing vast amounts of data, analyzing patterns, and generating valuable insights. This ability to exchange information rapidly and effortlessly has the potential to revolutionize various industries, such as healthcare, finance, and education.

In the field of healthcare, AI-powered systems can help doctors and researchers share, exchange and analyze data at record speeds. AI can identify data patterns in minutes or even seconds that would take a doctor or researcher weeks or even months.

Similarly, in the financial sector, AI algorithms (算法) can analyze market data, identify trends, and make informed investment decisions. The exchange of financial insights and strategies facilitated by AI can empower individuals and businesses to make smarter financial choices and create a more inclusive economy.

Professors and teachers across the world are now coming to grasp the AI, revolution and what it means for them and their students. How many students will save time and energy by having AI write their essays and assignments rather than writing them themselves? Will we see AI tools being used in the same way as the quotation system we currently use for essay writing?

Like any new technology, there is a certain amount of fear and a lot of questions to be answered on the use, exchange, advantages and disadvantages of AI. But one thing seems clear: By offering access to information and services, AI can help create a more equitable (公平合理的) and a more inclusive society.

1. Which is correct about AI according to the passage?

A．AI can assist doctors in operations.

B．AI can create a more inclusive economy.

C．AI will take the place of quotation system.

D．AI will help build a just and diverse world.

2. What does the underlined word in Paragraph 4 mean?

A．Enable.

B．Ensure.

C．Assign.

D．Arrange.

3. What is mainly discussed in Paragraph 6?

A．Questions related to AI.

B．Access to information and services.

C．The inclusiveness of AI.

D．Ways to get information and services.

4. Which can best describe the structure of the passage?

A．

B．

C．

D．

2 . 阅读下面短文，在空白处填入1个适当的单词或括号内单词的正确形式。

For Chinese communities in Australia, Mid-Autumn Festival celebration is     1     important part of their life.

Wayne Wong, as one of the new     2     (arrive) from China, is proud of his Chinese heritage. While     3     (get) used to the life in Australia, Wong and his wife still maintain their Chinese culture and heritage. Mid-Autumn Festival and Lunar New Year are as important to them in Australia as they     4     (be) in China, and will continue to be so. This year, their modest home were decorated with pink cherry blossoms,     5     Wong said could bring good luck.     6     many Australians of Chinese descent, he celebrated Mid-Autumn Festival by having dinner with friends and eating mooncakes.

For Chinese Australians, Mid-Autumn Festival keeps them     7     (connect) to their heritage and culture, said Mark Wang, CEO of the Museum of Chinese Australian History in Melbourne. His     8     (mother) ancestors arrived in Australia from China in the 1830s, just before the Gold Rush which saw thousands of Chinese     9     (make) the journey to the gold fields in eastern Australia in the 1850s and 1860s.

“    10     you are a first-generation immigrant or Australian born Chinese, it is important to keep that traditional festival, our cultural connection,” Wang said.

3 . Many people have reserved banquet halls in hotels and big restaurants during the eight-day Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday to hold wedding ceremonies or family get-togethers with special and exquisite dishes to serve the guests.

    1     While people in the West tend to believe “You are what you eat”, the Chinese people believe “To the people, food is heaven.” Few cultures are as food-oriented as the Chinese. For the Chinese people, food has a meaning far beyond its importance as fuel for life.

In Chinese culture, serving expensive and rare dishes is a way of showing respect for the guests.     2     This, however, results in waste of food at banquets (宴会). At wedding ceremonies and family reunions during holidays, food waste is even more common. So what are the reasons for food waste on such a massive scale?

First, many people are not fully aware of the importance of not wasting food. In most cases, at banquets, particularly at wedding banquets if the dishes are not expensive or excess food is not ordered for the guests, the couples’ families fear “losing face”.     3    

Second, some restaurants tend to encourage diners to order more expensive dishes by setting a minimum consumption amount for re serving banquet halls, while consumers who believe that luxury is a way of life, especially to boast of in front of friends, turn a blind eye to food waste regulations and advice from restaurant staff.     4    

    5     A recently released guideline was to solve food waste problem, promote a more sustainable approach to food consumption and encourage responsible practices in the restaurant industry.

A．That mindset is bound to lead us to seeing waste as a normal practice.

B．They are also reluctant to pack leftovers for fear of being seen as. mean.

C．“Excess is equal to excellence.” This concept is the root of waste in China.

D．Food plays one of the most important roles on special occasions for the Chinese people.

E．The tradition in its first place was not meant to show off wealth or cause any waste.

F．Hence, it is common for hosts to order or prepare more dishes than their guests can possibly eat.

G．Fortunately, the government, the industry and society are working together to reduce food waste.

4 . The most advanced Apple Watch models will be back on sale this week after a federal appeals court (联邦上诉法院) temporary blocked a sweeping import ban on the devices amid a dispute (抗辩) with the administration.

Why did Apple Watch get banned?

The Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 were banned after California health tech companies, Masimo and Cercacor Laboratories, accused Apple of infringing on (侵犯) its patent for a blood-oxygen tracking technology. Masimo’s 2021 complaint led to the Oct. 26 International Trade Commission order.

Apple filed two lawsuits against Masimo last year accusing the company of infringing patents with its own smartwatch.

Why did the administration sustain the ban?

Ambassador Katherine Tai declined to turn around the ITC decision on Tuesday after finding that Apple infringed Masimo’s and Cercacor’s patents “after careful consultations”, according to a release by the Office of the United States Trade Representative.

When will the Apple Watch models be back on sale?

The Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 were made available at U. S. stores on Wednesday and can be purchased online starting at 3 pm on Thursday, according to the tech company.

The return follows the administration announcement on Tuesday that it would sustain the U. S. International Trade Commission order banning the sale of the two smart watches.

“Apple’s teams have worked tirelessly over many years to develop technology that empowers users with industry-leading health, wellness and safety features and we are pleased the U. S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has stayed the exclusion order (禁止令) while it considers our request to stay the order suspending our full appeal,” Apple’s statement added.

“We are thrilled to return the full Apple Watch lineup to customers in time for the new year,” Apple said in a statement on Wednesday.

1. Which department declared the ban?

A．The administration.

B．The U. S. International Trade Commission.

C．The United States Trade Representative.

D．The U. S. Court of Appeals.

2. Why can the two Apple products return to the market?

A．Because Apple proved its innocence.

B．Because the two companies reached an agreement.

C．Because federal court paused the ban for later dispute.

D．Because the administration decided to lift the ban.

3. Which can we infer from the passage?

A．It remains to be seen whether Apple can permanently sell the two products.

B．Masimo is the main competitor of Apple in blood-oxygen tracking technology.

C．Ambassador Katherine Tai suggested his support for Apple in the official release.

D．Apple’s team were very delighted about the decision of the U. S. Court of Appeals.

4. What is the passage mainly about?

A．The dispute between Apple and ITC.

B．The debate on Apple’s accusation.

C．The lawsuit between Apple and Masimo.

D．The return of Apple Watch models.

5 . As Pakistan and China are marking 2023 as a Year of Tourism, Pakistan’s breathtaking natural beauty, diverse cultural heritage and historical landmarks are all set to catch the attention of tourists.

Balochistan: Nature’s Bounty Unveiled

Stretching across vast expanses, Balochistan is Pakistan’s largest province, boasting not only abundant mineral resources but unique natural beauty. Its mountain ranges, mines and extensive coastal belt, which is home to the prosperous Gwadar Port, attract adventurers.

Punjab: A Tapestry of History and Heritage

In the heart of Pakistan lies Punjab province, a land of green agricultural fields, intricate (交错的) river networks, ancient forts and charming Mughal-era gardens. Over two millennia (千年) ago, the Gandhara Buddhist civilization thrived in northern Pakistan, with Taxil a serving as its primary center of learning.

Sindh: A Tapestry of History and Culture

Sindh, in Pakistan’s southern region, weaves together a tale of history and natural beauty. It is home to the ancient city of Mohenjo-Daro, a relic of the Indus Valley Civilization, along with the modern city of Karachi and its picturesque coastline.

Northern Pakistan: Nature’s Masterpiece

Spread over 72,496 square kilometers, Pakistan’s northern regions are a masterpiece of nature. Among towering peaks, including numerous summits over 8,000 meters, peaceful valleys like Gilgit, Hunza and Skardu offer a brief escape.

As Pakistan invites the world to explore its diverse and fascinating landscapes, it also extends a warm invitation to discovery the history, spirituality and natural wonders that define this remarkable nation.

1. As a Buddhist, your favorite destination in Pakistan might be __________.

A．Balochistan

B．Punjab

C．Sindh

D．Gilgit

2. What do the four parts have in common?

A．Natural beauty.	B．Historical origin.
C．Cultural relics.	D．Diverse resources.

3. The passage serves as a(n) __________.

A．guidance

B．introduction

C．commercial

D．notice

6 . For years, experts in climate science and ecology have presented the agricultural practices of the ancient Maya as primary examples of what not to do. “There’s an explanation that describes the Maya as people who devoted themselves to unchecked (不加约束的) agricultural development,” said Andrew Scherer, a professor at Brown University, “The explanation goes: The population grew too large, the agriculture expanded, and then everything fell apart.”

But a new study, led by Scherer, suggests that that explanation doesn’t tell the full story.

Using a remote sensing technology, the team surveyed an area in the western Maya lowlands. The results revealed extensive systems of complex irrigation (灌溉) and terracing (阶梯状坡地), but no huge population increases to match. The findings indicated that between 350 and 900 AD, some Maya kingdoms were living comfortably, with no proven food insecurity.

When the team set about the survey, their primary motivation was to learn more about the infrastructure (基础设施) of regions that are unknown, owing to the thick forest that has long hidden ancient communities from view. Therefore, the team chose to survey three Maya sites: Piedras Negras, La Mar and SakTz’i’.

The survey revealed signs of what the researchers call “agricultural intensification”—the adjustment of land to increase the volume of crop productivity. Agricultural intensification methods in these Maya kingdoms included building terraces and creating water management systems, suggesting that these kingdoms were not only prepared for population growth but also likely harvested much more food than they could consume every year.

Scherer said he hopes the study provides researchers with a different view of the ancient Maya. And perhaps it even offers inspiration to the modern-day agricultural field where people are looking for sustainable ways to grow food for an ever-growing global population.

1. What does the author intend to show in the first paragraph?

A．Agricultural achievements of the ancient Maya.

B．A long-standing theory about the downfall of Maya.

C．Ecological impacts of Mayan agricultural practices.

D．A conflict between city expansion and population growth.

2. What did the researchers discover through their study?

A．The rapid development of big towns.

B．The struggles of some Maya kingdoms.

C．The sufficient supply of food in the society.

D．The population explosion between 350 and 900 AD.

3. What can be inferred about the three study subjects?

A．They have been rarely researched before.

B．They had relatively advanced city planning.

C．They had well-known ancient communities.

D．They were once abandoned by their citizens.

4. What conclusion about the ancient Maya will the team draw?

A．They dealt well with natural risks.

B．They faced severe water shortages.

C．They actually practiced sustainable farming.

D．They struggled to control population growth.

7 . Whether you’re hiking through Yellowstone or camping in the Ozarks, choosing the best backpacking stove (炉子) to take with you can make a big difference. Read on for some of our top picks.

Fire Maple Star X2 Cooking System

Based on hundreds of reviews, hikers say they’re impressed by this gas-powered stove’s easy setup. The Star X2 also features Heat Exchange Technology, which the company says provides superior wind-resistance in different weather environments, helping to reduce overall boil time.

Buy it now on Amazon
Soto Amicus

Weighing just 2.9 ounces, the Soto Amicus is well known for its light weight and attractive appearance. Multiple Amazon reviewers praise this backpacking stove’s easy setup and four integrated pot stabilizers, which create a stable base for cooking in the wilderness.

Buy it now on Amazon or REI
Solo Stove Titan

The Solo Titan burns twigs, pine cones, leaves, and any other biofuels you may find out in nature, offering a safe and natural alternative to burning gas. The Titan is considered mid-size, ideal for cooking for several people.

Buy it now at SoloStove
Soto Windmaster 4Flex

Backpackers love its convenient built-in igniter (点火器), powerful heat output, and four-pronged (四管的) pot stabilizer, which provides a more stable platform for cooking than three-pronged stoves.

Buy it now at REI
1. Which stove suits you best if you want a quick meal?

A．Soto Amicus.	B．Sol o Stove Titan.
C．Soto Windmaster 4Flex.	D．Fire Maple Star X2 Cooking System.

2. What feature do Soto Amicus and Soto Windmaster 4Flex have in common?

A．Wind resistance.	B．Attractive appearance.
C．Easy setup.	D．Relative stability.

3. What is the text?

A．An adventure travel report.	B．An outdoor travel guide.
C．An advertisement for facilities.	D．A cookbook for easy meals.

8 . How to charge an electric vehicle (EV) is one of the biggest concerns people have when working out whether going electric is right for them.

It is true that sometimes gaining access to reliable charging can seem a bit tricky.     1    

First, download an app with a comprehensive map of the public charging points showing their locations, how powerful they are, and whether they’re working. All this is vital information because, even if you have public charging points nearby, you will need alternatives in case they’re in use.    2    

A growing number of property owners are renting out their charging points and drive ways to other local EV drivers when they’re not using them.    3     Thus, your car gets charged, the owners make money, and emissions are reduced.

    4       For example, when your car is running out of juice, you’d just pull up to a battery-change station from your car brand and sit in the car while a fully charged unit is changed in. The Chinese EV brand Nio does this, but isn’t available in the UK as yet.

For now, if charging access remains difficult for you, it’s still possible to go electric-in part.    5     Many hybrid (混合) cars are now good for 50 miles of electric running before you need to use the engine. So, if most of your driving is local, you might only need to find a charger once or twice a week, while you have the backup of a fuel engine for long journeys.

A．But it may be easier than you think.

B．It actually worked out much cheaper.

C．There are also other innovative ways to get your EV going.

D．A plug-in EV combines a petrol engine with a smaller battery.

E．A “fast” charger usually takes eight hours to fully charge an EV.

F．So you need to get a good feel for where your nearest points are.

G．You can find a map of homeowners whose charging points are available.

9 . 阅读下面短文，在空白处填入1个适当的单词或括号内单词的正确形式。

Wearing Hanfu and sitting in front of a Chinese zither (筝), Peng Jingxuan, a young Chinese student, moves her fingers gently along the strings on a street in Paris, France.

Peng has shared more than 200     1     (origin) videos online, with the most popular one featuring the theme song of the movie A Chinese Ghost Story viewed over 16.61 million times. “I love how she’s representing her culture in a     2     (set) where people are not familiar with it. You can tell she’s proud of her background and her music,” one of her fans commented.

Chinese zither (筝), or guzheng, is an ancient musical instrument with 21-26 strings and a length of 1.63 meters. Peng     3     (fall) in love with it when young and has been practicing it for years. Hardly finding Chinese instruments     4     (play) on the streets in Paris, she took along her guzheng     5     began her street performances to sharpen her skills. The more she performed, the more she felt a greater sense of responsibility     6     (spread) Chinese music and culture.

Considering her audience’s     7     (unfamiliar) with Chinese songs, Peng made adaptations, for     8     she received positive responses. She also performed Western pop songs that local people could relate     9    , entertaining them with beautiful melodies in a     10     (refresh) style.

10 . 阅读下面短文，在空白处填入1个适当的单词或括号内单词的正确形式。

The Yinxu Museum opens in Anyang, Henan province, to display the brilliance of the 3,000-year-old Shang civilization.

Nearly 4,000 unearthed cultural relics are displayed in the museum. More than three quarters of these have never been     1     (public) exhibited before. The 23 vehicles unearthed from Yinxu are the     2     (highlight) in the new galleries. Also on display     3     (be) Shang relics collected from across the rest of present-day China.

The Yinxu Ruins,     4     (list) as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006, hosted a later period Shang capital city. The site also produced rich findings of 3,300-year-old bones,     5     (reveal) the oldest-known established writing system of Chinese characters,     6     are extraordinary and serve as a vital link in the development of the Chinese nation.

Many key breakthroughs     7     (make) in recent years at the Yinxu site and its surrounding areas. For example,     8     urban road system and the remains of an artificial lake in the royal temple area were found.

These discoveries further displayed a grand picture of a capital city     9     carried forward the project of tracking the origins of the Chinese civilization. Through the exhibits, the public can comprehensively understand the achievements made by the Shang Dynasty in terms     10     politics, economy, agriculture, military affairs, among others.