1 . National Public Radio (NPR) Music’s Tiny Desk Contest is back. Artists can begin to submit an entry from this morning on Feb. 2nd. The submission will last 14 days. This isn’t just another regular year of the Contest-it’s the 10th anniversary.
The panel (小组) of judges has doubled in size compared to previous years. The panel has a group of industry experts who are eager to see what this year’s participants can share. And there’s a great team of NPR’s Music station hosts on the panel: Amelia Mason. Novena Carmel and Stas THEE Boss.
Also new this year: Not only will the 2024 winner play a Tiny Desk concert，be interviewed on All Things Considered and go on tour with NPR Music-they’ll also be paired with a tutor in the industry who will help them navigate their music journey. Our judges are determined to give this year’s winner the support they’ll need to take their music to the next level. The winner will also be featured at two festivals this summer: Celebrate Brooklyn and the Millennium Park Summer Music series in Chicago.
And for the first time this year, the Contest is introducing a fan favorite vote. Later this spring, Contest judges will share their favorite entries as part of the annual Tiny Desk-Contest Top Shelf series on YouTube — and then artists and fans will be able to vote for their favorite among those selections.
Here’s how to enter: Record a video of you playing one original song — behind a desk, upload your video to YouTube. and submit the video on our Tiny Desk Contest website.
1. What’s the deadline of the submission?| A．Feb. 21. | B．Feb. 2. | C．Feb. 16. | D．Feb. 15. |
| A．There are fewer judges in the panel. | B．Fans are able to vote in the Contest. |
| C．Judges go on tour with NPR Music. | D．Winners host festivals this summer. |
| A．To attract people to join in the Contest. | B．To remember musicians in the Contest. |
| C．To mark the anniversary of the Contest. | D．To talk about the history of the Contest |
2 . Scientists have designed ways to “read” words directly from brains. Brain implants (植入物) can translate internal speech into external signals, allowing communication from people with paralysis (瘫痪) or diseases that steal their ability to talk or type. New results from two studies, presented on November 14 provide additional evidence of the extraordinary potential that brain implants have for restoring lost communication, says Leigh Hochberg, a physician at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston.
“The new studies targeted internal speech, which requires that a person only think. Our device predicts internal speech directly, allowing the patient to just focus on saying a word inside his head and transform it into text,” says Sarah Wandelt.
Neural signals associated with words are detected by electrodes (电极) implanted in the brain. The signals can then be translated into text, which can be made an oral speech by computer programs.
Another approach presented at the meeting, led by neuroscientist Sean Metzger of the University of California, San Francisco and his colleagues, relied on spelling. The participant was a man called Pancho who hadn’t been able to speak for more than 15 years because of a disease. In this study, Pancho attempted to silently think code (代码) words, such as “alpha” for A and “echo” for E. By stringing these letters into words, he produced sentences such as “I do not want that” and “You have got to be kidding.” Each session would end when Pancho attempted to squeeze his hand thereby creating a movement-related brain signal that refused the decoding (解码).
With this system, Pancho produced about seven words per minute. That’s faster than the five words per minute his usual communication device makes, but much slower than normal speech, typically about 150 words per minute. The techniques will need to ger faster and more accurate to be useful. It’s also unclear whether the technologies will work for people with more serious speech disorders. “These are still early days,” Hochberg says.
1. Who are brain implants intended for?| A．People who do research on speaking. | B．People who are fond of talking. |
| C．People who are tired of speaking. | D．People who have difficulty in talking. |
| A．Predict internal speech directly. | B．Say a word inside their heads. |
| C．Detect wards implanted in the head. | D．Make an oral speech directly. |
| A．By pressing his hand. | B．By decoding the speech. |
| C．By stringing the letters. | D．By considering code words. |
| A．Scientists develop a device. | B．Brain implants “help” to spell. |
| C．Brain implants “read” thoughts. | D．Scientists help people to speak. |
3 . For thousands of years, humans have used names to communicate with one another. We also give names to animals, especially ones we love, such as pets. Until now there has been little evidence of animals naming one another, but a new study suggests that elephants use specific noises to identify other elephants.
A few animals, including parrots and dolphins, have been known to use sounds that are similar to names. Each dolphin invents a signature whistle that is unique to it, and other members of its species communicate with it by simulating this special call. The new study, led by Michael Pardo of Colorado State University, shows that wild African elephants use names in a way that is not just copying sounds and is much closer to the way humans use names.
For the study, the researchers recorded 625 sounds made by wild African elephants in Kenya that they called "rumbles (隆隆声)”. This is the most common type of call produced by elephants, and it can travel long distances-as far as 3. 7 miles. It takes place at a very low frequency, which means humans can't hear it.
The researchers analyzed the sounds using computers and found that certain rumbles were directed at specific elephants to get their attention They found that all the elephants in the herd used the identical call to get a particular elephant's attention -these calls were not just nicknames used by one of the elephant's friends. Also. unlike the way dolphins communicate. the rumbles were not just imitations of the elephant they were trying to communicate with.
The researchers then played back some of the recorded rumbles to the elephants. They found that elephants responded more to their own name than to other calls. coming toward it more quickly or calling back faster. Cartlin O'Connell-Rodwell, an elephant expert, said, "The study shows that elephants can still keep in touch with one another even across a large area. "She told Live Science, "The rumbles ere magical, which allow them to spread out much further and still have very close tabs（密切关注） on individuals. "
1. What does the underlined word "simulating" in paragraph 2 probably mean?| A．Copying. | B．Inventing | C．Transforming. | D．Receiving. |
| A．By making certain rumbles heard by people. |
| B．By using specific languages like people’s. |
| C．By making specific noises with a high frequency |
| D．By using names in a way closer to people’s. |
| A．It records 625 sounds from several species. |
| B．It is subjective in the analysis of sounds. |
| C．It is carried out with the help of computers. |
| D．It shows dolphins' calls travel long distances. |
| A．Elephants communicate with noses across a large area. |
| B．Rumbles are important in elephants’ communication |
| C．Elephants may be last on the way to their habitats |
| D．Rumbles enable elephants to stand nr play closer. |
4 . I used to believe that only words could catch the essence (本质) of the human soul. The literary works contained such distinct stories that they shaped the way we saw the world. Words were what composed the questions we sought to uncover and the answers to those questions themselves. Words were everything.
That belief changed.
In an ordinary math class, my teacher posed a simple question: What’s 0. 99 rounded to the nearest whole number? Easy. When rounded to the nearest whole number. 0. 99=1. Somehow, I thought even though 0. 99 is only 0. 01 away from 1, there’s still a 0. 01 difference. That means even if two things are only a little different, they are still different, so doesn't that make them completely different?
My teacher answered my question by presenting another equation (等式): 1 = 0. 9, which could also be expressed as 1=0. 999999, repeating itself without ever ending.
There was something mysterious but fascinating about the equation. The left side was unchangeable, objective: it contained a number that ended. On the right was something endless, a number repeating itself limitless times. Yet, somehow, these two opposed things were connected by an equal sign.
Lying in bed, I thought about how much the equation paralleled (使平行) our existence. The left side of the equation represents that sometimes life itself is so unchangeable and so clear. The concrete, whole number of the day when you were born and the day when you would die. But then there is that gap in between life and death. The right side means a time and space full of limitless possibilities. and endless opportunities into the open future.
So that's what life is. Objective but imaginative. Unchangeable but limitless. Life is an equation with two sides that balances itself out. Still. we can't ever truly seem to put the perfect words to it. So possibly numbers can express ideas as equally well as words can. For now, let’s leave it at that: 1=0. 999999. . . and live a life like it.
1. Which of the following can best describe “words” in paragraph 1?| A．Difficult. | B．Clear. | C．Powerful. | D．Interesting. |
| A．Valuable chances. | B．Definite facts. |
| C．Creativity imagination. | D．Social development. |
| A．They reveal the meaning of life. | B．They are reliable in expressing ideas. |
| C．They are useful in learning maths. | D．They give limited possibilities. |
| A．Why the equation exists everywhere |
| B．Which equation is important for people |
| C．How numbers can express ideas like words |
| D．When numbers can easily make up equations |
5 . Have you tried to run or walk for exercise and then given up? If you answered yes, you should try a new kind of exercise: aquatic (水中的) exercise. Aquatic exercise is like exercise on land, but you do it in a swimming pool. More and more people are trying aquatic exercise now.
Aquatic exercise feels easier than exercising on land. Why? You weigh about 90% less in the pool. It is better for your knees than running or walking. Water is about 1,000 times thicker and heavier than air. To move through the water, your body has to work four times as hard. As a result, you can burn (燃烧) more calories (卡路里).
In fact, most people say they feel more relaxed in the water. They stop thinking about the things that make them worried. They feel in control (控制) of their bodies. The cool, quiet environment makes them feel good.
But what if you are afraid (害怕) of the water? No problem! There is nothing to worry about. Aquatic exercise is safe and easy to learn. It doesn’t require (需要) any special skills. You don’t even need to know how to swim. Aquatic exercise is fit for everyone.
1. What is Paragraph 2 mainly about?| A．The advantages (优点) of aquatic exercise. |
| B．Weight change of one’s body. |
| C．Difference between land and water. |
| D．The ways to do exercise on land. |
| A．Difficult | B．Dangerous (危险的) |
| C．Relaxing. | D．Boring. |
| A．done in groups | B．fit for everyone |
| C．difficult to learn | D．done with special skills |
| A．Culture. | B．Health. | C．Nature. | D．Travel. |
6 . The fitness center offers a variety of (各种各样的) activities for members of all ages throughout the week. Activities on Monday 12 July, 2017:
Learning to swim. Classes for preschool children aged five and under start at 10 am. Classes last 30 minutes and parents must attend (参加) with their children. Don’t forget to book (预定) in advance, as places are limited, and to pack some warm clothes for using after the lesson.
Woman’s aerobics (有氧运动). Sessions last (持续) for one hour and begin at 10:45 am, led by Melissa. Come along and join us every Monday for an exhilarating (令人高兴的) hour of exercise and fun. Leave your kids at the nursery (托儿所) and take time out for yourself. Wear a track suit (运动服) or something similar.
Lunchtime yoga (午间瑜伽). Take a break at lunchtime (1:00—2:00 pm) for an hour of meditation (沉思) and yoga. Enjoy the peace and quiet of our meditation room, and relaxing sessions designed for active people with busy lives. Use your own mat (垫子) for floor (地板) work or hire (租) one from us for a small sum (金额).
Family shootaround. 10:00—5:30 pm. Family shootaround is open for members and guests to bring the family out for basketball. Half court games are only during this time. There are no full court games during family shoot around hours. All participants must sign in (签到) at the front desk and wear a wristband (腕套) during the play.
1. If you want to join in “Learning to swim”, you must__________.| A．Sign in at the front desk. | B．Wear a wristband. |
| C．Book in advance. | D．Hire a mat. |
| A．From 10:10 am to 10:40 am. | B．From 10:45 am to 11:45 am. |
| C．From 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. | D．From 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. |
| A．Lunchtime yoga. | B．Learn to swim. |
| C．Women’s aerobics. | D．Family shoot around. |
| A．Lunchtime yoga. | B．Learn to swim. |
| C．Women’s aerobics. | D．Family shootaround. |
7 . India, as a country with plenty of resorts (旅游胜地), is popular with different kinds of travelers. If you’re planning to visit the country, the followings are the places that may interest you.
Delhi
Delhi is a perfect place for those who love history, and there are plenty of attractions here to keep tourists of all interests entertained. It’s often the first city that many tourists visit on a trip around India. There are many resorts including India Gate, the Lotus Temple, Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb.
Agra
Agra is most well known for the Taj Mahal, which draws a large number of tourists to the city. Built in the 1600s, the Taj Mahal is still standing strong today and is admired by tourists as an important part of India’s heritage (遗产).
Kashmir
Kashmir is one of the most beautiful cities in India. With flower gardens, amazing water-falls, and snow-topped peaks, it’s a simply unforgettable place that tourists want to return to time and time again. Kashmir is especially popular with honeymooners and loved-up couples, because a lot of romantic trips are on sale in Kashmir.
Goa
Though Goa is small in size, it’s one of the top resorts for young tourists and those who love taking beach vacations. The golden sands and coconut palm trees are the charm (吸引力) here, and the sunrises and sunsets are so gorgeous that you’ll never forget them.
1. What do we know about Delhi from the text?| A．It is the highest city in India. |
| B．It is known for the Taj Mahal. |
| C．It is attractive to history lovers. |
| D．It is the coolest city in India. |
| A．It is the smallest place. |
| B．It is the capital city of India. |
| C．It offers many tours attracting couples. |
| D．It drives young people crazy. |
| A．Delhi. | B．Goa | C．Kashmir. | D．Agra. |
8 . How to Travel with Your Friends Without Hating Them
The only thing better than a vacation with friends is a well-planned vacation with friends.
Not sure how to plan a trip with friends?
Choose friends you get along well with. You’ll be spending a lot of time with your travel companions, so think of people who have similar general travel habits and are flexible and relaxed.
Decide on a date. Ask your friends when they can take time off from school or work.
Discuss a budget early on. Ask your friends to be open about how much you’re each willing to pay for the trip between travel, accommodation, food and entertainment costs.
Pick a destination wisely. A key step in planning a fun trip with friends is picking the perfect destination. Big cities are an excellent pick, as there will likely be activities to suit everyone’s interests.
| A．Make your reservations for flights and accommodations. |
| B．All trips are meant for adventure, relaxation, and enjoyment. |
| C．Who you choose to travel with can, make or break your holiday. |
| D．Decide in advance how you will share expenses with your travel mate. |
| E．With careful preparation, your group will stay energized through the whole trip. |
| F．Narrow down preferences to a date and duration that works for the most people. |
| G．However, if you’re hoping to see nature, you may need to travel to more remote locations. |
9 . Are you looking for the best amusement park in the world? Whether you wish to get the wonders of dreamland or want to be amazed by the craziest rides, there are numerous places that would surely give you excitement.
Gardaland
Considered to be one of the top amusement parks in the world, Gardaland is located in the Northeastern Italy and is an incredible journey for everyone. Begin a fantastic adventure with the themed water well, and the thrilling rides that include Blue Tornado, Raptor, Magic Mountain, and a lot more. While it also happens to be the fascinating one amongst the best amusement parks in the world, there is never a dull moment in this wonderland.
Universal Studios
Noted as one of the best amusement parks around the world, Universal Studios, Osaka attracts millions of visitors every year. It is popularly known as the home of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This theme park has word-class entertainment for all ages to enjoy to the fullest. Many attractions are similar to that of Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood.
Happy Valley
Happy Valley is one of the best amusement parks around the world for kids and families. It is a magical place for extreme adventure rides and carnivals. Composing of nine areas of different themes including Sunshine Beach, Shangri-la Woods and Typhoon Bay, you are sure to have a great time here.
1. What’s special about Gardaland?| A．It has the longest ride in the world. |
| B．It is an amusement park with a theme of wells. |
| C．It is the greatest amusement park in the world. |
| D．It is mainly designed for children and teenagers. |
| A．Fans of fantasy films. | B．Environmentalists. |
| C．Historians. | D．Kids who like rides. |
| A．They have amazing rides. | B．They attract people of all ages. |
| C．They are mainly designed for kids. | D．They are designed in the same style. |
10 . Toronto is a city of neighborhoods, thus wherever you are in Toronto, you’re bound to find yourself surrounded by shopping, dining and culture experiences unique to that specific area.
Toronto’s CN Tower
It’s one of the world’s tallest structures at 1, 815 feet and the glassed-in elevators offer visitors a sense of just how high that is. In the tower’s 360 Restaurant diners sit on a floor that performs a full cycle every 72 minutes, guaranteeing (确保) different views of the city with each bite of meal. Plus, if you order dishes at the restaurant, your entry to the CN Tower is free.
The Fairmont Royal York Hotel
It is one of Toronto’s oldest and most storied hotels. Since opening in 1929, it’s stood as one of the largest hotels in the British Commonwealth with 1, 600 rooms. It’s also home to more than 300, 000 bees, who live on the hotel’s rooftop and produce honey for the Fairmont Royal York’s dining facilities (设施).
The Toronto Islands
North America’s largest urban car-free community offers plenty of green space and beaches for visitors of all ages. Those looking for exercise can explore the islands by bike while checking out the breathtaking views of Toronto’s skyline; visit the rental facility near the Centre Island ferry dock.
St. Lawrence Market
Voted the world’s best food market in 2012, the St. Lawrence Market complex consists of two buildings. The north building plays host to weekly Saturday farmer’s markets, while in the south building, open every day except Sunday and Monday, meat, baked goods, jewelry... are on offer. One of Toronto’s most iconic (标志性的) breakfasts — the pea-meal bacon sandwich is considered a signature dish.
1. What makes tourists feel the wonderful dining experience at Toronto’s CN Tower?| A．Its highest altitude. | B．A floor rolling in a circle. |
| C．The glassed-in lifts. | D．Free entry to CN Tower. |
| A．It serves as a habitat for bees. | B．It provides iconic food. |
| C．It opens only on Sundays. | D．It offers story materials. |
| A．Toronto’s CN Tower. | B．The Fairmont Royal York Hotel. |
| C．The Toronto Islands. | D．St. Lawrence Market. |
