1 . Young Artists to Watch This Year

Tafy LaPlanche

New York-based Afro-Latina artist Tafy LaPlanche first discovered her love for portraits (肖像) at 13 when she was hospitalized and drew people who passed by her room. Since then, LaPlanche has explored narratives (叙事) in her portraits, setting women up against bright backgrounds, and adding fruit to create a unique story in every painting.

Yan Xinyue

Thirty-year-old Chinese artist Yan Xinyue is one of the artists to watch at this year’s Frieze New York. Xinyue’s work looks at how everyday life is impacted by rapid urban development through her imaginative paintings. Constantly touching the line between fantasy and reality, Xinyue’s work explores society and the individual.

Narumi Nekpenekpen

The Nigcrian-Japanese artist’s layered (分层的) approach to sculpture caught the eyes of collectors during Art Basel Miami Beach design week. The deeply emotional pieces painted throughout her residency at Versailles have a “Sanrio” quality, which makes them seem both distant and friendly.

Emma McIntyre

Also featured at this year’s Frieze New York is New Zealand-born, Los Angeles-based artist Emma McIntyre. The self-aware abstract (抽象的) painter is sure to turn heads with her presentations of memory, weather, and the environment. McIntyre’s colorful style makes the viewer feel like they’re slipping into a different dimension and makes it difficult to turn away.

1. What element does Tafy LaPlanche often use in her paintings?

A．Fruit.

B．Sanrio.

C．Hospitals.

D．Weather.

2. Who explores the impact of rapid urban development in her work?

A．Tafy LaPlanche.	B．Yan Xinyue.
C．Narumi Nekpenekpen.	D．Emma McIntyre.

3. What is a distinctive feature of Emma McIntyre’s art?

A．Exploration of narratives.	B．Layered approach to sculpture.
C．Bright backgrounds in self-portraits.	D．Self-awareness in abstract paintings.

2 . Until she was ten years old. Debby Tewa lived with her grandmother in a three-room stone house in a remote area of the Hopi Reservation in Arizona. Like other families around them, Debby and her grandmother never had running water or a telephone, or electrical power. “I didn’t crave electricity then,” Debby recalls. “Because I didn’t know that I didn’t have it.”

Debby was in fourth grade and living with her parents off the reservation when she first had electricity at home. “I liked being able to study at night and watch TV,” she remembers. She started thinking about how she could help bring electricity to places like her grandmother’s community.

After graduating from Sherman Indian High School in California, Debby returned to the Hopi Reservation, where she took a job helping other young people find summer work. Debby’s big opportunity came when The Hopi Foundation, created by Hopi people to improve life on the reservation, started an organization called Native Sun. The idea was to bring energy to remote Hopi communities in a way that would fit in with their traditional way of life. Solar energy seemed like a perfect solution.

To spread the word about solar energy, The Hopi Foundation recruited (招募) several members who could speak the Hopi language. One of them was Debby Tewa. Part of Debby’s job was to teach people about solar energy. She set up demonstration solar power systems in three villages. In the next few years, Debby installed (安装) more than 300 solar panels on Hopi houses, and people started calling her “Solar Debby.”

For people like Debby’s aunt and her aunt’s 90-year-old neighbor, who had never had electricity before, solar power has made a life-changing difference. They no longer have to use a kerosene (煤油) lamp. But best of all, they know that they have control over their own clectricity. “When you get your own solar clectrical system, it’s yours.” Debby explains. “You’re not dependent on a power company. With solar energy, we can be independent.”

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

A．Find out.

B．Long for.

C．Stand up for.

D．Make use of.

2. What can we learn about Debby from the first two paragraphs?

A．She could take others’ hardships into consideration.

B．She was grateful for her childhood.

C．She demonstrated intelligence early in life.

D．She complained about a lack of life conveniences.

3. What was the purpose of Native Sun?

A．To keep Hopi traditions alive.	B．To beautify Hopi communities.
C．To provide the Hopi with electricity.	D．To offer job opportunities to the Hopi.

4. What does Debby’s explanation about solar power intend to show?

A．Its target populations.	B．Its possible applications.
C．Its operations by the Hopi.	D．Its significance to the Hopi.

3 . Researchers find the benefits of free time depend on our beliefs about it. A new Rutgers-led study finds that contentment depends, at least in part, on believing that leisure activities are not a waste of time.

According to the study, thinking of leisure as wasteful prevents us from enjoying our leisure pursuits — especially purely pleasure activities such as hanging out with friends, watching TV and just relaxing. More goal-driven leisure activities, like exercise and meditation (冥想), tend to feel productive and so are still enjoyed whether or not people see value in their leisure.

In one part of the study, the researchers asked 302 people to recall what they did for Halloween, how much they enjoyed the holiday and their attitudes toward leisure in general. Those who believed leisure was wasteful enjoyed their Halloween less, especially when they engaged in activities like going to a party compared to other activities that might be fun but might also fulfill (履行) responsibilities, like trick or treating with their kids.

In another part of the study, participants read news articles meant to convince the reader that leisure is wasteful, unproductive or productive. Next they watched the “Best Funny Cat Videos 2019”and were asked how much they enjoyed it. Those who believed that leisure was wasteful or unproductive didn’t enjoy watching the video s as much as those who thought leisure time was productive and important.

The results show that those who do not enjoy pleasure-driven activities are more depressed, anxious and stressed. The findings suggest happiness may be driven not only by whether people engage in leisure, but whether they find value in what they are doing.

“Attitudes can be difficult to change, so it may not be possible to shift beliefs about leisure overnight,” said lead author Gabriela Tonietto. “For those who think of leisure as wasteful, focusing on the productive ways that individual leisure activities can serve their long-term goals can help.”

1. Which statement illustrates the participants enjoying their Halloweenless?

A．They are enthusiastic party-goers.	B．They enjoy relaxing with their family.
C．They consider trick or treating boring.	D．They put much value on responsibilities.

2. Why were the participants asked to read the news articles?

A．To shape their attitude to leisure.	B．To inform them of the cat videos.
C．To measure their happiness level.	D．To examine their productivity.

3. What aspect of leisure is worth attention according to Tonietto?

A．Its accessibility.	B．its various types.
C．Its potential contributions.	D．Its flexibility.

4. What is the best title for the text?

A．Pursuing Happiness Intentionally Might Backfire

B．Happiness Comes from Real Satisfaction of Life

C．Believing Leisure Is Wasteful Reduces Happiness

D．More Leisure Doesn’t Necessarily Bring Contentment

4 . 阅读下面材料，在空白处填入1个恰当的单词或者括号内单词的正确形式。（原创）

Mamianqun, also known as “Horse-faced Skirt”, is     1     kind of traditional Chinese dress. Actually, the name “Mamianqun” has nothing to do with the animal. There is a theory that the “skirt doors” of Mamianqun     2     (close) look like “Ma Mian”, a kind of structure used for defense on the ancient city walls, so the skirt got the name “Mamianqun”. But this is still a question to be verified.

Mamianqun, dating back     3     the Song Dynasty, had become the most typical style for women by the Ming and Qing dynasties. It became prominent due to     4     (it) use by nobility and the rich as a status symbol. The style of Mamianqun     5     (go) through a series of changes since it emerged. However, the “Ma Mian” structure has always been deeply rooted.

Silk, the most revered (受尊敬的) fabric in ancient China, was the     6     (prefer) material for making a Mamianqun, particularly for the upper class of society. Mamianqun has numerous pleats (褶) on either side,     7     (create) uniquely beautiful and graceful waves when walking. The most attractive aspect is the elegant patterns on the skirt     8     represent people’s beautiful aspirations in Chinese clothing culture, such as the Depiction of Birds Adoring the Phoenix and Prosperity and Blooming Flowers.

Mamianqun, with deep historical roots, has transitioned into modern fashion, where it serves as a bridge between the past     9     present. Nowadays, Mamianqun is gaining increasing     10     (popular) among both Chinese and foreigners.

5 . Internet addiction is a common problem that can be just as damaging as any other form of addiction.     1    

Charge devices in another room at night to prevent bedtime browsing. Bedtime browsing can interfere with your sleep due to the blue light your smart phone emits, so stopping bedtime browsing may help you to sleep better. If you often browse the internet on your phone while lying in bed, prevent yourself from doing this by charging your phone in another room of the house.     2    

Remove social media apps from your phone. If you find yourself picking up your phone and going on the internet every time you get a notification, delete the social media apps on your phone.     3     This may help to prevent you from accessing these apps on and off all day.

    4     Exercising, writing, and doing crossword puzzles are all better alternatives to mindlessly browsing the internet. If you want to reduce the time on the internet but aren’t sure what to do with the extra time, identify some meaningful activities that you enjoy and pick one to do instead when you’re feeling the urge to go online.

Reach out to friends and family to build more in-person connections. If you’re longing for social interaction, call up a friend and make plans to do something fun, or arrange a family dinner or game night.     5     look into a special interest group that you can join. Attend in-person meetings to connect with other people sharing your interests, and you can make new friends and distract yourself from the internet.

A．Use relaxation techniques to reduce stress.

B．Replace internet use with a healthy activity.

C．If you don’t have friends or family who you can turn to,

D．When you feel bored and want to do something to kill time,

E．Make it a rule that you can only check them on your computer.

F．If you rely too much on the internet, the following strategies may help you.

G．In this case, read a book or use a relaxation technique to help you wind down.

6 . On the bustling streets of Sydney, Australia, Dong Min, a young Chinese woman, dressed in elegant Chinese traditional clothing — hanfu, gracefully holds a dizi, the bamboo flute of China, fascinating passersby with the melodies of traditional Chinese music.

Dong Min, a talented musician was born in 1990. Seeing a female performer playing the bamboo flute on TV fired her interest in this Chinese traditional instrument at the age of 8. Soon her interest blossomed into talent. At the age of 10, winning a provincial-level Chinese musical instrument competition earned her one of only four spots for further studies in Beijing. After graduating from Minzu University of China with a major in Chinese bamboo flute in 2015, she enrolled at the University of New South Wales in Australia to study cultural leadership where she initiated street performances, featuring Chinese traditional instruments. One year later, she formed a band and founded the Sydney Meya Institute of Chinese Music to teach various Chinese traditional instruments to more people.

Apart from street performances and her institution, Dong also offers online dizi lessons to a global audience and organizes online exchange concerts for her students worldwide. “Our students range from 4-year-olds to 80-year-olds, reflecting the timeless appeal of Chinese music across generations,” Dong said.

Her effort paid off eventually. Her performances grew in popularity. Many audiences traveled all the way from cities like Melbourne and Brisbane to Sydney just to attend her performances.” Many music schools now offer courses on Chinese instruments. I hope to create a platform for music enthusiasts to connect and cultivate friendships through their shared love for music. Thus, we can not only raise awareness of Chinese traditional music in Australia but also share the richness of Chinese culture through music with the international audience.” Dong Min said.

1. Which of the following is true?

A．Dong Min founded the institution at 26.

B．Dong Min taught dizi through street performances.

C．Dong Min majored in Chinese bamboo flute in Australia.

D．Dong Min wished to gain popularity through her performances.

2. How is paragraph 2 mainly developed?

A．By analyzing reasons.	B．By providing examples.
C．By making comparisons.	D．By following time order.

3. Which of the following can best describe Dong Min?

A．Brave and humorous.	B．Gifted and passionate.
C．Creative and stubborn.	D．Patient and experienced.

4. Which of the following is the best title for the text?

A．Chinese Traditional Music: From China to Australia.

B．Bamboo Flute: Chinese Instrument Shared in Australia.

C．Dong Min: A Culture Messenger Bridging Cultures through Music.

D．Dong Min: A Talented Chinese Girl Spreading Chinese Instruments.

7 . On 17 September 2023, Senior 1 student Charlie Robson was enjoying his dinner at the stand when there came a sudden scream from the boy next to his table, who accidentally swallowed the plastic wrapper stuck to the bottom of his food.

Seeing him unable to cough it up, the boy’s mother was immediately filled with fear as she stood there, patting his son’s back anxiously. “Somebody help! My son is going to choke with the wrapper in his throat.”

Charlie noticed that the boy’s face had turned complete purple. He knew he must take action immediately. Otherwise, the boy’s life was in great danger. Charlie quickly ran behind the boy and started doing the Heimlich maneuver (海姆立克急救法) whose theory is to push air through the airway to force whatever is in there out. Minutes later, the plastic wrapper was eventually forced out and the boy began to breathe again.

Seeing the boy was safe, Charlie rushed to the school without knowing his act of kindness went viral after someone in the scene posted the video on Tik Tok. Charlie’s father said, “I’m so proud of my son. He is a brave boy with great responsibility. He didn’t tell me what had happened until I saw the video on Tik Tok.”

Plus, the boy’s mother wrote to the headmaster, saying “The student who saved my son’s life the other day is really a hero. We’re so grateful that he stepped in to help when my son was faced with such a dangerous situation. Thanks so much for educating such well-rounded students with good moral virtues.” In response to the letter, Jimmy Mehwish, the headmaster of the school, said, “At the very beginning of the semester, Charlie has set a great example for all the students. His kindness really sets a tone for everyone else.”

1. How did the boy’s mother feel after he ate the plastic wrapper?

A．Concerned.

B．Scared.

C．Upset.

D．Embarrassed.

2. What does the underlined phrase “went viral” in paragraph 4 mean?

A．Be attacked by viruses on social media.

B．Be sold to make a profit on social media.

C．Became familiar with fans on social media.

D．Spread quickly and widely on social media.

3. What do we know about Charlie?

A．He is afraid of his father.

B．He is a brave boy of few words.

C．He dislikes the attention from Tik Tok.

D．He thought little about his act of kindness.

4. What can we infer from Jimmy’s words?

A．Charlie is a well-rounded student.

B．The boy’s mother is grateful to Charlie.

C．Other students should learn from Charlie.

D．Charlie is responsible for the boy’s safety.

8 . Summer vacation approaching, want your kids to explore something meaningful rather than being glued to the screens? Bring your kids to the Sarek National Theme Garden which combines a fascinating hike with an amazing opportunity to learn some knowledge about the unique carvings.

The garden, founded in 1979, is famous for its blossoms and the exhibition of rock carvings. Every year, countless visitors come to enjoy the spectacular blossoms, view the unique exhibition and participate in various educational activities.

Now let’s start the journey with admiring the beauty of the local blossoms, ranging from lotuses to Begonia flowers along the paths. Meanwhile, you can enjoy the unique exhibition, featuring a wide range of rock carvings by experienced craftsmen with professionals introducing them in detail.

Rules:

Don’t pick the flowers or shake the trees while enjoying the blossoms.

Pets are not allowed except guided dogs to serve people with disabilities.

Don’t touch the carvings with your hands except the particular ones.

Opening hours:

Tuesday — Sunday: 9 am-5 pm.

Prices:

Adult: ¥75 (a 10% discount before June 16, 2024)

Child (6-18): ¥35

Child under 6: Free

All visitors including children under 6 need tickets to enter the garden. Tickets are available at the Visitors Service Center. Also you can book tickets in advance online.

1. For whom the passage is intended?

A．Parents.

B．Children.

C．Guides.

D．Professionals.

2. How much should a couple with their 7-year-old twins pay if they buy tickets on July 15, 2024?

A．¥135.

B．¥185.

C．¥205.

D．¥220.

3. What do we know about the garden?

A．It opens on weekdays.

B．It offers educational activities.

C．It has a history of over half a century.

D．Children under 6 can enter the garden without a ticket.

9 . 阅读下面短文，在空白处填入1个适当的单词或使用括号内单词的正确形式填空。

Homegrown nature documentary “Snow Leopards and Friends” is the first Chinese factual film about snow leopards (雪豹).

It     1     (document) how three herdsmen (牧民) photographers from Xizang, who may be the people     2     (close) to snow leopards in the world, track the trail (踪迹) of snow leopards and finally become protectors of the species.     3     addition to being about snow leopards, the film also explores a new way of coexistence between human beings and wild animals. The documentary     4     (screen) during the 25th Shanghai International Film Festival, which kicked off on June 9, and won great praise.

It took director Xi Zhinong and the photographers six years     5     (shoot) the film on the snow-covered highland,     6     the severe environment is tough not only for snow leopards, but also for other species like brown bears and antelopes.

Many of the movie’s viewers were touched by the power and     7     (strong) of life shown in the film. The documentary presents the most primitive forces of nature through its visual wonders and     8     (act) creatures. It also caused viewers to reflect on wildlife and conservation of nature.     9     movie viewer said that the film is also a course on     10     (respect) life and nature and everyone needs to learn this lesson.

10 . The Martin County High School boys’ basketball team was in the final quarter of a nail-biter of a game at a regional tournament in Pikeville, Ky., when live music ______ started playing for them.

They knew it wasn’t their school’s ______ 23-member band —which was unable to ______ the game because of a bus driver shortage. The music was coming from the nearly 100-member band of a rival (对手的) school, Pike County Central High School. The score was ______ in the tough game when the music filled the air.

Jason Johnson, Pike Central Band director, said some audience members and cheerleaders started encouraging his band to ______ the playing field and perform for Martin County Cardinals. “I was ______, well, what should I do?” Johnson recalled. The score was 64-64.

The band members, though, seemed ______ to replace Martin County’s band. “It was the students who really stepped up and ______, “said Johnson, who ultimately ______ his concerns and decided, “Let’s just do it.”

As they started their first song, the Cardinals’ ______ skyrocketed (飞涨，猛涨). “We just wanted to ______ them in a time when they needed encouragement most.” said one band member.

______ the Cardinals secured a ______ in overtime. Players said the ______ from the band helped them come out on top. Now, the team is ______ for the state tournament, marking the school’s first time competing at that level in 40 years.

1.

A．suddenly

B．again

C．still

D．secretly

2.

A．top

B．strange

C．small

D．original

3.

A．attend

B．play

C．organize

D．win

4.

A．made

B．tied

C．recorded

D．improved

5.

A．lead

B．enter

C．level

D．clean

6.

A．conducting

B．asking

C．thinking

D．performing

7.

A．grateful

B．eager

C．hesitant

D．curious

8.

A．cried out

B．walked away

C．got along

D．banded together

9.

A．ignored

B．voiced

C．refused

D．felt

10.

A．pressure

B．imagination

C．energy

D．control

11.

A．suggest

B．teach

C．replace

D．uplift

12.

A．For the worse

B．In the end

C．By the way

D．On the contrary

13.

A．favor

B．victory

C．balance

D．bonus

14.

A．honor

B．technique

C．duty

D．spirit

15.

A．heading

B．cheering

C．traveling

D．looking