2 . Be a Junior Ranger (护林员) and Visit Grand Canyon National Park

“Explore. Learn. Protect.” The motto is recited by the junior rangers, all of whom take an oath (宣誓) to protect Grand Canyon National Park, and continue to learn about its nature and history, have fun journeying within, and tell others about their adventures. Here are some great programs to train juniors with nature conservation awareness.

Guided Rim Walk     10 am (1 Hour) Daily — Meet at Verkamp’s Visitor Center

Learn about the natural world on an-hour walk on a paved pathway along the canyon. Topics vary and may include: animals and plants adapting to changing seasons, man’s impact on nature, how nature inspires writers and poets, or local geology.

Ranger’s Choice     12: 30pm (30 Minutes) Daily — Meet at Grand Canyon Visitor Center

Join us for a surprise program. Topics change daily. Come curious, leave inspired! Some of our recent Ranger talks have featured programs about: Geology, Wildlife, History, Grand Canyon’s Trails, and Astronomy, to name a few.

Geology Talk       2: 30 pm (30 Minutes) Weekly — Meet at Yavapai Geology Museum

Learn how Grand Canyon originated in this short introductory talk. Why is it so deep, wide, and grand? Why does it exist only here and nowhere else in the world? Consider walking from the start of Trail of Time following the program.

FAQs:

Do I need a permit to hike into Grand Canyon?

Permits are not required for day hikes, but you must obtain a backcountry permit if you plan on camping overnight.

Does it cost anything to enter Grand Canyon?

Yes, entrance fees to the park is $35 per private vehicle, $30 per motorcycle, $20 per hiker or cyclist. There are no refunds due to the elements.

1. What is the aim of the programs according to the text?

A．To enrich hikers’ experience.	B．To develop spirit of adventure.
C．To train juniors to protect nature.	D．To put school subjects into practice.

2. What does a junior ranger need to do for the program of Guided Rim Walk?

A．Join in it once a week.	B．Pay the entrance fee $20.
C．Learn about nature poetry.	D．Apply for a backcountry permit.

3. Where should junior rangers meet to explore the origin of Grand Canyon?

A．At the Trail of Time.	B．At Verkamp’s Visitor Center.
C．At Yavapai Geology Museum.	D．At Grand Canyon Visitor Center.

3 . Hummingbirds have long held a deep attraction among the public, whether being observed flying at amazing speed around bird feeders or admired as symbols of love and peace. On a practical level, hummingbirds eat hundreds of flying insects each day, and provide pollination (授粉) for reproduction of flowers and plants.

However, this important bird species is dropping in number worldwide. Holly Ernest, a University of Wyoming researcher, tried to find out the reasons as well as possible ways to protect hummingbirds in the future.

Hummingbirds are a group of birds with the second-highest number of species worldwide, ranking only behind flycatchers. Most species are found in South America and Central America. Now 191 hummingbird species are put on the red list of threatened species for falling population trends and 71 other hummingbird species with “unknown” trends as of July 2023, according to Ernest’s paper. Two Caribbean hummingbird species are listed as extinct, and other species likely are never identified to written science before their extinction, the paper says.

Despite several hummingbird species seen at feeders in North America during the summer, a wide range of threats has caused many hummingbird populations to drop, including climate change, wildfires, habitat pollution and loss.

“Climate change affects them in a number of ways that we know about and probably many more that we don’t,” Ernest says. “One example is a mismatch of migration (迁徙) timing with plant flowering that hummingbirds depend on. Some hummingbird species are generalists in that they get nectar (花蜜) from all flowers, but many are specialists, even to one or a few species of flowering plants. If those plants disappear, so do the hummingbirds. Air, land and water pollution is a problem in many ways, including the intersecting threat of large wildfires.”

However, there are some methods that can be useful in leading the best direction for the future protection of hummingbirds, the paper says.

1. Why do people admire hummingbirds according to the text?

A．They carry good wishes.	B．They can be raised easily.
C．They move in a funny way.	D．They draw flying insects.

2. What does paragraph 3 mainly tell us about hummingbirds?

A．Their migration journey.	B．Their rising population.
C．Their main food source.	D．Their tough situation.

3. Which of the following are key to hummingbirds’ survival?

A．Hilly lands.	B．Flowering plants.
C．Dead leaves.	D．High temperatures.

4. What might the author continue talking about?

A．Approaches to finding directions.	B．Tips on where to watch hummingbirds.
C．Possible ways to save hummingbirds.	D．The purpose of the study led by Ernest.

4 . Europe’s historic islands offer travelers insights into the past.

Malta

Though English is still widely spoken as one of Malta’s official languages — set during 150 years of British rule, which also left behind left-hand driving — calls for revival saw Maltese become the official language again in 1934. There’s hardly a time of year when the Maltese aren’t celebrating something, but modern history lovers should head out for 21 September, which marks Malta’s Independence Day. The island nation’s sovereignty (主权) was hard-fought for and finally won in 1964.

Crete, Greece

The Minoans — a Cretan people widely credited as Europe’s first recorded civilisation — are believed to have brought olive oil production to Europe around 4,500 years ago. See for yourself on a cookery experience with Minoan Tastes, where you’ll wolf down the food inspired by old recipes. If you’re hungry for more history, head for the Olive Tree Museum in Vouves, which dives into the history of the industry.

Sardinia, Italy

The Giants of Mont’e Prama — 15 large sandstone heads said to be 3,000 years old — were unearthed in 1974 by two farmers who worked in the field. Their age connects them to the island’s mysterious (神秘的) Nuragic civilisation. See the figures at Cagliari’s National Archaeological Museum. Within the same museum lie other important finds, which help to paint a picture of the civilisation’s livelihoods.

Isle of Skye, Scotland

It’d be a surprise that a lyre said to be about 4,000 years old was found on Scotland’s Isle of Skye in 2012. The discovery tugged (拨动) on the heartstrings of islanders whose past has been underpinned by a love of traditional folk music, often featuring stringed instruments. The islanders host many live music events every year. See a variety of acts at Skye Live, the island’s annual music festival with hours of traditional Scottish songs.

1. When did Malta become independent?

A．In 1814.

B．In 1934.

C．In 1964.

D．In 1974.

2. Who discovered the ancient stone figures in Sardinia?

A．Painters.	B．Local farmers.
C．Tourists.	D．Museum workers.

3. Which might attract music lovers?

A．Isle of Skye.

B．Sardinia.

C．Crete.

D．Malta.

6 . 听下面一段独白，回答以下小题。
1. How long is the lecture about ants?

A．30 minutes.

B．45 minutes.

C．60 minutes.

2. Where is the documentary The Secret Life of Birds on show?

A．In Theater A.

B．In Theater B.

C．In Theater C.

3. What will the listeners do at 2:30 p.m.?

A．Gather in the Exhibition Room.

B．Visit the Insect House.

C．See a film.

4. Who will host the event Encouraging Garden Wildlife?

A．David Crocker.

B．Monica Chaddha.

C．The speaker.

7 . 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。

A pair of scissors, a piece of paper, and a pair of dexterous (灵巧的) hands. That’s     1     is needed to create delicate works of paper-cuttings.

    2    (originate) in the Southern and Northern Dynasties, this ancient form of art has not only survived through generations but has also become     3     important part of Chinese culture. It is often associated with the     4     (celebrate) of the Spring Festival, where complex patterns of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals     5     (create) to bring good luck and fortune for the new year.

The art of paper-cuttings goes beyond mere craftsmanship. It is a form of expression deeply     6    (root) in Chinese history and tradition. Artists, without the need for any drawn draft, use their imagination to create     7    (variety) patterns and images with scissors and burins. Animals, flowers, mythological and historical figures are meticulously (细致地) cut and carved, each carrying its own symbolism and meanings.

Today, paper-cuttings continue to decorate Chinese homes,     8    (especial) during the Spring Festival. The windows and walls come alive with vibrant patterns and scenes of family reunions and temple fairs. It serves     9     a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that the Chinese people cherish     10     pass down from one generation to another.

8 . It’s time to put your worries aside and pack your bags for some of the top most relaxing places for holidays for 2024.

Kos

Relaxing holidays in Kos are all about blending soft sand beaches, sparkling water, lush green interiors, and history hunting. The coast is perfect for long leisurely walks on the beach, sunbathing in the Greek sunshine, and wallowing in the warm water. History buffs are in for a treat with some of the best historic architecture in Greece. Kos is home to abundant Roman ruins and a 15th-century castle that is ideal for an afternoon of exploring.

Lanzarote

The vast untouched landscape has made Lanzarote one of the most popular holiday destinations because it is truly somewhere you can relax in peace, with nothing but soft sandy beaches and the ideal water for first-time ocean swimmers. Family holidays to Lanzarote are as accommodating as parents could wish for, offering a host of fantastic family-friendly fun for all ages.

Corfu

As the greenest of the Greek islands, you’re in for a treat with over two million olive trees, rolling green hills, and pine forests that blanket the island in emerald beauty. Finding the perfect mix of history hunting, nature exploration, and relaxation is all within reach on a luxury Corfu holiday. The old towns, harbours, and traditional hostels will have you relax and enjoy the best of the Greek islands in no time.

Rovinj

For a cultural holiday filled with exquisite architecture, national parks with untouched natural wonders, and long stretches of coastline, look no further than holidays in Rovinj. Located in the north of Croatia, Rovinj offers some of the best opportunities to explore the unique and moving culture. The town is home to narrow cobbled streets overlooking the ocean, with shops, galleries, and restaurants dotted throughout, bringing you the best of Croatia.

1. What can visitors do at Kos?

A．Visit art galleries.	B．Enjoy family-friendly fun.
C．Walk in national parks.	D．Admire historic architecture.

2. Which of the following is most suitable for parents with children?

A．Kos.	B．Lanzarote.
C．Corfu.	D．Rovinj.

3. What do the four destinations have in common?

A．They all have sea view.

B．They all have old castles.

C．They all belong to the same country.

D．They all have untouched landscape.

10 . 听下面一段较长对话，回答以下小题。
1. What mainly made the man hesitate to visit the White House?

A．Lack of interest.

B．The tight security.

C．The historical atmosphere.

2. How did the woman get the tour information?

A．From the website.

B．From the local paper.

C．From the travel guide.

3. Where are the speakers probably now?

A．In the White House.

B．In a dining hall.

C．At an airport.

4. What is the man like?

A．Serious.

B．Humorous.

C．Careful.