1 . Ice climbing is an active winter sport that combines excitement, technique and determination. If you love this sport, here are some of the world’s best places that you shouldn’t miss.
◇Ouray, Colorado, US
Known as the “Switzerland of the US”, Ouray offers climbers easy access to more than 200 named climbs, with free entrance to the park. The ice park also offers guide and instructional services for beginners. Ouray usually hosts the biggest ice festival in North America every January.
◇Shuangqiaogou, Sichuan, China
China has a lot of ice walls, which are located in different mountains in the northern and western parts of the country. Among them, Sichuan Province’s Shuangqiaogou, or Twinbridge Trench, in Mount Siguniang has some of the finest such spots. The ice season in the area usually starts mid-December and runs through late March. Climbers can enjoy various ice formations along with a clean, quiet environment.
◇Valdez, Alaska, US
Alaska’s breathtaking Valdez region has been attracting world-class climbers to the region for decades. Each year, thrill-seekers gather there to follow classic routes such as Sheep Creek and Solomon Gulch, while others explore the area by themselves, hoping to find the next classic site on their own adventures. Other winter sports activities such as glacier hiking and snowcat skiing, skiing and sled trips can also be found there.
1. When will the biggest ice festival in North America be held next year?A.January. | B.February. | C.March. | D.mid-December. |
A.2.5 months. | B.3 months. | C.3.5 months. | D.4 months. |
A.Shuangqiaogou. | B.Valdez. | C.Ouray. | D.Pyeongchang. |
2 . Top Festivals In Europe
Carnival of VeniceDates: 12 Feb, 2023—1 Mar, 2023
The Carnival of Venice, which began in 1979 as an effort to revive the culture of this city, is one of the best festivals featuring masks. Each year, almost 3,000,000 people attend this 20-day-long biggest festivals in Europe. There is a water parade, a grand ball with old and modern music, and a popularity contest for best mask design.
Glastonbury FestivalDates: 22 Jun, 2023—26 Jun, 2023
Of all the famous European music festivals, the Glastonbury Festival has a special place. Held in Somerset, England, since the 1970s, the festival is a major part of the British culture. Major pop act performers are invited to perform and headline. The festival sees as much as 175,000 people in attendance and is the world’s largest greenfield festival.
TomorrowlandDates: 22—24Jul, 2023 & 29—31Jul, 2023
For the music lovers, Tomorrowland is one of the largest electronic music festivals which takes place in Belgium. The festival is hosted at the town of Boom, Belgium. First organized in 2005, this festival has become an annual tradition which is visited by people from far and wide.
Sziget FestivalDates: 10—15 Aug, 2023
The Sziget Festival is one of the best cultural festivals in Europe. Started in 1993 and hosted in an island of Budapest, this festival gives an amazing holiday, with around 400,000 fans from around 70 countries. The festival features the non-stop party and amazing live concerts.
1. What can people do in the Carnival of Venice?A.Swim in the river. | B.Design different masks. |
C.Attend music contests. | D.Watch pop performances. |
A.Tomorrowland. | B.Sziget Festival. |
C.Carnival of Venice. | D.Glastonbury Festival. |
A.They each have a parade. | B.They take place in summer. |
C.They are British festivals. | D.They are related to music. |
3 . The masked shrew is one of the smallest mammals(哺乳动物) in North America, only a few inches long. However, it recently made a giant jump. Over the past few decades, the tiny shrew has migrated more than 4,000 feet on both sides of the Rocky Mountains. And it’s not the only one.
Studies in other parts of the world have suggested that mountain animals are climbing higher. Lead study author Christy McCain, an ecologist at the University of Colorado Boulder, and her co-authors Sarah King and Tim Szewezyk wanted to show it is true in the Rockies.
The new study looked at 47 different species of small mammals in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. First, the researchers studied the small mammal samples (样本) collected in Colorado over the last few decades and built a database on where these mammals were typically found and how high up. Next, they conducted a series of field surveys in the Colorado Rockies, counting small mammals and recording where each species is found today. They then calculated how much each mammal population has moved over the last few decades.
They found that 26 of the 47 species studied had moved upward over time. Masked shrews were among the species with the largest jumps, climbing a total of about 4,500 feet. McCain noted that species with the largest upward jumps tend to share some important characteristics. Most of them are animals specifically adapted to cold weather. 11 of the 47 mammal species actually shifted downward. McCain noted they may be less sensitive to mountain warming. Six species do not appear to have changed at all. And four species have completely disappeared from the mountains in the period between the 1980s and now.
“This is the first indication,” McCain said, “that large animal communities are responding to climate change.” The findings are consistent with the conclusions of other studies around the world — that mountain ecosystems are sensitive to climate change and wildlife in these places is already responding to the pressure, both of which can urge humans to change the current situation.
1. Why did Christy McCain and her team do the study?A.To collect data of mountain animals. | B.To urge humans to change the situation. |
C.To prove the previous conclusions. | D.To assess the effects of climate change. |
A.Many species have disappeared. | B.None have shifted downward. |
C.Those going higher are sensitive to cold. | D.Many are affected by climate change. |
A.A wake-up call. | B.A climate reminder. |
C.A pressure response. | D.A situation changer. |
A.Mountain mammals climb higher to beat the heat. |
B.Cold-adapted species suffer a lot in the Rockies. |
C.Climate change is making the Rockies unlivable. |
D.Small mammals are vital to mountain ecosystems. |
4 . Famous actor Josh Duhamel leads a group of youngsters in a two-mile charity beach run. He may be an attractive movie star, but there’s more to Josh Duhamel than a pretty face. The 40-year-old actor led a youth charity fun run for the third year running on Sunday, in aid of the Red Cross giving a hand to countries and places suffering natural disasters.
Josh sported the charity’s T-shirt and black baseball cap with black jogging bottoms as he joined a group of youngsters in the two-mile effort on Santa Monica Beach. Josh was clearly enjoying himself today, sprinting (冲刺) across the finish line raising both arms in a victory salute.
In March last year and January of 2010, Josh led thousands of runners and raised over $200,000 for both Japanese and Haitian earthquake relief efforts. And donations collected at this year’s Youth Run will go towards the American Red Cross PrepareSoCal campaign which helps Southern Californians get ready for disasters.
“I do the youth run because I feel that younger people may not be able to donate a lot of money but that doesn’t mean that they can’t contribute and make a difference,” Josh told the Red Cross website. “Bringing students of L. A. together for these events not only raises a lot of money, but also raises the spirits of those affected by any disaster and helps everyone young and old.”
Duhamel had won the title of Male Model of the Year in an International Modeling and Talent Association competition in 1997. Duhamel began his acting career as an extra in the music videos for Donna Summer’s song, “I Will Go With You” in 1998.
Later that year, he won the role of Leo Pres on the ABC soap opera “All My Children”. He then began appearing in films, and his acting in the film “Transformers” as well as its sequels (续集) was so successful that he became a pop film star.
1. Why did Josh Duhamel lead the beach run?A.He raised money for people suffering from diseases. |
B.He found more young volunteers especially teenagers. |
C.He built up a fame of having the spirit of entertainment. |
D.He helped the Red Cross raise money for places suffering from disasters. |
A.He felt it the best way to kill time especially on weekends. |
B.He felt it the best way to get to know the world. |
C.He thought it the best chance to make himself famous. |
D.He found it enjoyable and exciting to be a member. |
A.persuade more young people to keep the earth green |
B.inspire those affected by disasters and give them a hand |
C.make the young realize the influence of famous people |
D.raise as much money as possible to help the old and young |
A.The importance of the youth run started by the Red Cross. |
B.The methods to join in the youth run led by Josh Duhamel. |
C.The experiences and achievements of Josh Duhamel. |
D.The reason why Josh Duhamel leads the youth run. |
5 . Fantastic Fall Festivals You Won’t Want to Miss
Seymour Apple FestivalAdmission to the Seymour Apple Festival is free and so is the entertainment! More than 15,000 people from all over the region come out to take part in the activities, ranging from drawings, vendor booths, food, apple contests, bike decorating contests, and more.
Marionville Apple FestivalThe popular Marionville Apple Festival is home to countless activities and events. The carnival, pony rides, and games will keep the kids busy, while adults will enjoy watching the pie-eating contest and browsing dozens of craft vendor booths.
Humansville Fall FestivalThe Humansville Fall Festival may be hosted by a small town, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking big fun. Perfect for all ages, this fall festival is celebrating its 70th year and will provide three full days of fun. This year’s festival will feature live music from fantastic local musicians, which will definitely make it different from the ones in other years. You’ll also find fun carnival rides, talented artisans selling their goods, and an amazing parade to wrap up the event on Saturday.
Southside Fall FestivalThe Southside Fall Festival is perfect for family celebrations, with an alcohol-free environment and free admission. Enjoy a colorful parade and float contest, delicious food vendors, live music, karaoke, and more.
Fall Into Arts FestivalMake sure to bring the kids along for this festival that celebrates all things creative. The Fall Into Arts Festival features a host of kid-friendly activities like a lego build, sand art, bubble stations, chalk the sidewalk, a jump house, and more. Parents will have plenty to do as well, with an excellent variety of artists, festival food, a mini film festival, and much more.
1. Which festivals are free of charge?A.Seymour Apple Festival and Southside Fall Festival. |
B.Southside Fall Festival and Fall Into Arts Festival. |
C.Humansville Fall Festival and Fall Into Arts Festival. |
D.Seymour Apple Festival and Marionville Apple Festival. |
A.Fun activities on Saturday. |
B.The duration of the festival, |
C.The area of the hosting town. |
D.Musicians’ live performance. |
A.families with kids | B.modern artists |
C.visitors of all ages | D.Movie lovers |
Located in the north-east of Italy, Venice is
Venice
But only time will tell if this project is the right
The Leshan Giant Buddha is a statue of Maitreya(弥勒) in sitting posture
The construction of the statue began in the year 713 in the Tang Dynasty,
8 . One Saturday afternoon in a small town, Emma came out of a shoe shop with some new shoes. They were
It was a
“Help! Help!” Emma cried. But nobody came. Emma
At the hospital a doctor looked at Emma’s head and back and told her to stay in hospital for a few days. Emma thanked the
Later, a policeman
After two days, in a morning a policeman came to the hospital with Emma’s new shoes and an empty bag. “A little girl
A.nice | B.suitable | C.cheap | D.expensive |
A.pleased | B.bored | C.patient | D.angry |
A.drive | B.walk | C.run | D.miss |
A.busy | B.noisy | C.quiet | D.safe |
A.Suddenly | B.Luckily | C.Finally | D.Happily |
A.eyes | B.nose | C.legs | D.head |
A.sat down | B.turned around | C.fell down | D.gave up |
A.quickly | B.slowly | C.easily | D.proudly |
A.kind | B.strict | C.strange | D.funny |
A.school | B.station | C.hospital | D.shop |
A.nurse | B.policeman | C.girl | D.doctor |
A.saw | B.reached | C.left | D.remembered |
A.closed | B.bought | C.borrowed | D.opened |
A.made | B.enjoyed | C.took | D.drew |
A.dropped | B.lost | C.carried | D.found |
9 . Prihardinni, from the Indonesian city of Surabaya, is amazed at how traditional Chinese medicine (TCM中医) has continued to develop since she began studying it a year ago.
When Prihardinni was 10 years old, she suffered from serious headaches. So, her mother took her to see a TCM doctor near their home. The doctor checked her pulse, examined her face and tongue, and wrote down a prescription(处方). After several weeks of drinking Chinese medicine, she didn’t have headaches any more.
“His medical skills were like magic,” Prihardinni recalled. The experience of being cured by TCM impressed her and it encouraged her to choose TCM study. Now, she is a freshman at the Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, which has thousands of years of history and widespread international popularity.
“TCM is becoming more and more popular worldwide and has become an important cultural symbol(象征) for China,” said Zhao Zhongting, a professor at the Gansu University of Chinese Medicine. “Many foreign students face difficulties in fully understanding the meaning and function of TCM medical terms because of cultural and language barriers,” Zhao said, adding that in order to help them, the university offers various training courses for freshmen, including chemistry, language study and Chinese medicine culture. Activities between local and international students, lectures and study tours are also provided to help students better understand the courses.
“More people in my country are becoming interested in TCM. Many social media(媒体) are sharing their experiences with Chinese medicine,” Prihardinni said, adding that she plans to return to her hometown after graduation and open a TCM clinic(诊所). “I want to tell my parents and friends that Chinese medicine is also a good and believable choice.”
1. Why did Prihardinni choose TCM study?A.She is very interested in TCM. | B.TCM is a magical medical science. |
C.She was forced by her mother. | D.TCM made her get well from illness. |
A.Too many courses. | B.Chinese medicine cultures. |
C.Difficult medical terms. | D.Cultural and language barriers. |
A.Learning TCM has become a fashion. |
B.TCM will be accepted by more foreigners. |
C.Pribardinni plans to be a TCM doctor in China. |
D.Many people want to share their learning experiences. |
A.TCM Has Become More and More Important. |
B.TCM Is a Well-accepted Course in Universities. |
C.TCM Becomes Popular among Foreign Students. |
D.TCM Is Hard for Foreign Students to Understand. |
10 . Growing up with movies such as “High School Musical” and “Grease”, which presented the ideal(理想的)high school friendships, we sometimes expect a perfect relationship. Indeed, some high school friendships can be real and simple; while still some high school students will meet a friend who causes trouble. With failed friendships come lessons and experiences learned for the future. You will know the influence after you leave high school.
“I was always worried about what my friends thought about me. Sometimes my friends would make fun of what I wore or what I would do. I always tried to get along well with them, but I realized how happy I was once I stopped contacting them after high school,” said Elisha, Class of 2020.
Most teens have not realized the big question when dealing with high school problems. In five years, will this still matter? It is hard looking at the big picture when the problems are in front of you, which is understandable. However, most teens need a moment to reflect (反思) and question if the problem matters in a long time.
Briana, a high school teacher, said, “Now, I am in contact with two high school friends. I think the friendship experiences I had in high school shaped who I am because I learned to be open minded and befriend all kinds of people. I learned to see people for who they are, not what they wear or who they play with. I learned most of all how to be a good friend.”
High school is a small part of your life, but it has a huge influence on who you will become and where you will go. Friendships and relationships help shape who you are, whether they are good or bad. Lessons are brought, and lessons are learned.
1. Why did the author mention the two movies in the first paragraph?A.To introduce the topic of the passage. |
B.To explain what a high school friendship is. |
C.To recommend these two movies to readers. |
D.To attract readers’ attention to these two movies. |
A.They made her unhappy. | B.They cared about her behavior. |
C.They got along well with her. | D.They were always worried about her. |
A.She learned to play with her friends. |
B.She learned to make different friends. |
C.She learned to shape her friends’ minds. |
D.She learned to wear just like her friends. |
A.Failed friendships made teens worried. |
B.Good friendships greatly influenced teens. |
C.High school friendships help to shape teens. |
D.Friendships are difficult for teens to deal with, |