1 . Hua Sheng and Lu Sheng, a retired Tibetan couple, have become trailblazers（开拓者）of grape growing and wine-making in their old ages.

Lu Sheng learned grape planting and winemaking from her grandmother’s sister. Since they retired, the couple have moved to Lhasa from the village of Yakhadi. Though the fact that the region’s capital, which is 3,600 meters above sea level, is considered unfit for growing grapes, Lu Sheng and Hua Sheng began an ambitious project in 2015, planting grapes in Tsalna, a town in the suburb of Lhasa.

They received support from the local government, which is committed to developing business and the economy. The couple’s project provides jobs for rural residents, and, as a result, the government has considered the project part of its poverty relief program.

“Lhasa is an ideal place for planting French grape varieties that are resistant to cold, drought and disease, and adaptable to high-altitude and open-air planting," Lu Sheng said.

“Thanks to the plateau’s sunshine and organic planting, our grapes grow very well here in Lhasa. The grapes are a bit sour and sweet, and they have a high anthocyanin（花青素）content,” she said. Anthocyanins, which are in grape cells and contribute rich color to wine, are water-soluble（水溶性的）.

In 2018, Hua Sheng and Lu Sheng expanded their project, planting on nearly 6.67 hectares. In order to familiarize Tibetan farmers with grape planting and winemaking, they taught the skills to local villagers.

“We have successfully taught the local farmers how to grow grapes and make wine over the three years. They now have a new source of income besides traditional farrming and herding,” Hua Sheng said.

Yudron, a resident of Nam, said she was grateful to the grape planting project in her village, which has contributed to her income and quality of life." After working in the vineyards for years, now we know how to make wine. We drink both barley and grape wine now. We love grape wine more, though, as it is healthier.

1. What did the couple do after their retirement?

A．They grew grapes and made wine in Lhasa.

B．They made friends with a French expert.

C．They moved to another city from Lhasa.

D．They learned grape planting from Hua Sheng’ S grandmother.

2. Why was the couple’s project thought of as a poverty relief program?

A．They donated grapes to local schools.

B．They provided free wine for villagers.

C．They employed local residents as workers.

D．They expanded the project with the local government.

3. Which is the function of anthocyanins?

A．They make grapes more delicious.

B．They can accelerate the growth of grapes.

C．They make grapes宣bit sour and sweet.

D．They provide rich color’s for wine.

4. For/the project conducted by the couple, Yudron is ________ .

A．appreciative

B．cautious

C．indifferent

D．hesitate

2 . During the 1930s, the Great War broke out. A 25-year-old American soldier, probably never thought that his life would change forever when he volunteered to go to France.

One night while the American unit was returning to the base after a bloody fight, Suleyman stumbled into the ground and noticed a bit of movement from the bush. Being stuck between two choices either its enemy or an animal, Suleyman found a five-year-old girl from the bushes shivering with cold and utmost fear. Due to the atrocity of the war, the girl was abandoned by her family and the whole village was killed.

During the war, it was impossible to find the child’s family so Suleyman took this little French girl under his wings and gave her an American name Flora which means like the flower. Soon, Flora became the apple of the eye of everyone living in the army camp.

For one and a half years, Flora and Suleyman became inseparable; however, every fairy tale comes to an end. When the war ended, Suleyman was sent back to USA, while Flora was put in an orphanage, the Normandy School, which was founded by the American government for orphaned French children to have an education.

For years, Suleyman always thought about Flora. When the French National Olympic Team was playing in the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles in 1984, Suleyman gazed through the audience on TV, hoping to catch a glimpse of Flora, but he never could.

At the age of 85, Suleyman attended the 60th anniversary reception of the Great War where Suleyman shared his story with American and French officials. After hearing his story, a French journalist started to investigate the story, and all government files were read in detail. The moment the journalist helped dial the number, in tears, Flora said Suleyman was her hero, and everything came flooding back to her.

1. What does the underlined word “atrocity” in Paragraph 2 probably mean?

A．Cruelty.

B．Challenge.

C．Range.

D．Stress.

2. Why did Suleyman watch 1984 Summer Olympics?

A．Because Flora might be in the French team.

B．Because Suleyman was greatly interested in sports.

C．Because Flora might be watching the event.

D．Because Suleyman wanted to travel to Los Angeles.

3. What can we learn from the passage?

A．Flora and Suleyman became attached to each other.

B．Flora was sent to an orphanage called Normandy.

C．Suleyman found some animals in the bush.

D．Suleyman would never see Flora again.

4. Which can serve as the best possible title for the text?

A．A Tough Flower in the War	B．The Influence of the War
C．The Lost and Found Love	D．The Apple of the Father's Eye

3 . China’s first Universal Studios theme park opened this month in Beijing. Made up of seven themed lands filled with 37 rides, it is the world’s fifth Universal Studios theme park. It has many of the popular attractions found at its counterparts in Singapore, Osaka, Los Angeles and Orlando. But there are some Universal firsts as well, including the Kung Fu Panda Land of Awesomeness.

The park has many attractions and restaurants designed to reflect the country’s cultural heritage. Guests who have been to the other Universal parks and want to experience something fresh will be most excited about the Kung Fu Panda Land of Awesomeness. Attractions here include Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp, the Carousel of Kung Fu Heroes and the Kung Fu Panda Journey of the Dragon Warrior. And yes, it does feature a Mr. Ping’s Noodle House, modeled after the movie version, among the dining options.

Among the most popular attractions are the scream-inducing Decepticoaster inside the Transformers area, and all the Harry Potter rides. The Jurassic World Adventure and the Minions simulator rides also attract long lines.

Visitors to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter can experience the globally popular Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride inside the towering Hogwarts Castle, as well as the Flight of the Hippogriff. Transformers Metrobase is where guests will experience the impressive outdoor Decepticoaster, while the Minion Land and Jurassic World Isla Nubar have plenty for the little ones.

1. What special experience will guests attain in the Kung Fu Panda Land?

A．Chinese culture.	B．Thrilling rides.
C．Delicate western desserts.	D．The noodles cooked by real Mr. Ping.

2. Which of the following attractions has more rides for kids?

A．Mr. Ping’s Noodle House.	B．Jurassic World Isla Nubar.
C．Transformers Metrobase.	D．The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

3. What’s the purpose of writing the passage?

A．To make a contrast with other theme parks.	B．To persuade tourists to visit the theme park.
C．To enhance the reputation of the theme park.	D．To present a brief introduction of the theme park.

4. Which column is this passage taken from?

A．Lifestyle.

B．Entertainment.

C．Culture.

D．Society.

4 . It was a February afternoon in a Brooklyn classroom. Sixteen-year-old Taylor Engler came face to face with a cow. But it was all in her head. She was transported by a virtual reality (VR) headphone. It took the Berkeley Carroll School junior and eight other classmates to a northern New York farm. The farm was 250 miles away. For students, the technology means field trips are no longer kept within the length of a bus ride.

It's unknown how many classrooms have or will use the technology, but experts say few classrooms do or will do. Headphones that require a user's phone can cost as little as $20 or $30, but systems and software for classes run into thousands of dollars. The problem of not having good software is disappearing as more companies enter the market. But the rules for use haven't kept abreast of the development of the technology. In New York, for example, virtual reality lab experiments are not included in the state's hands-on lab time requirements.

Experts say science classes are where virtual reality holds promise for classrooms. “The biggest problem, I think, is going to be how closely it mimics the real world." That's according to David Evans, the director of the National Science Teachers Union. However, he said, “The ability to do dangerous things and to run many, many more cases in a virtual space as opposed to the real physical space stands for a huge learning chance.”

Lamb taught chemistry and he agreed. “Too often in schools, when you do experiments in labs, you mix these together, you mix those together and you get this result. And if you don't get that result, you have done something wrong. But we don't have enough resources for you to redo it, “he said. “In virtual reality, all I do is hit reset on the computer. I don't have to actually use chemicals.”

1. What was Taylor Engler doing?

A．Riding a bus.

B．Giving a lesson.

C．Designing a farm.

D．Experiencing VR.

2. What does the underlined part “kept abreast of" in Paragraph 2 mean?

A．Led to.

B．Focused on.

C．Caught up with.

D．Broken away from.

3. What did Lamb think of the use of VR in the classroom?

A．Helpful.

B．Troublesome.

C．Interesting.

D．Challenging.

4. What is the purpose of the text?

A．To point out the importance of practice.	B．To introduce the use of VR in teaching.
C．To give information about modern schools.	D．To show the appearance of VR technology.

5 . With holiday greenery, colorful lights, and outdoor fun like ice skating, winter can be a magical season. Whether looking forward to skiing or snowboarding or hoping to escape to warmer climates, you can have a good choice among the top East Coast winter destinations we recommend here.

Stowe, Vermont

Head to the town, known as the Ski Capital of the East, for skiing and other winter activities. You can also choose a car ride to the peak before dining on typical American foods. Take a break and enjoy sweet treats or beer produced here. Need a souvenir? Stop into Stowe Maple Products for it.

Kennebunkport, Maine

It is perfect for a romantic or adventure-packed weekend trip. In December, the town hosts an 11-day Christmas Pre-celebration, complete with a fantastic holiday tree. You can visit the Portland Museum of Art.

Miami, Florida

Looking for an urban beach trip? Head to Miami, where the weather is warm and the city offers everything from sandy beaches, eye-popping architecture to the national park. You can hike or walk through mangroves (红树林) to spot local wildlife like seals and dolphins.

Lake Placid, NY

Host of the 1931 and 1980 Winter Olympics, this classical village is still a center for winter sports. There are photographs and medals from the city’s games. Enjoy dinner with a view of the lake at the Top of the Park, which serves small plates as well as main dishes.

After making your choice, please click here to fill in the form and we’ll offer you the best plan for your dreamy holiday.

1. Which destination shows a festival atmosphere in December?

A．Stowe, Vermont.	B．Kennebunkport, Maine.
C．Miami, Florida.	D．Lake Placid, NY.

2. Who will be most probably attracted to visit Miami?

A．Nature lovers.	B．Driving enthusiasts,
C．Skiers.	D．Athletes.

3. What is the special feature of Lake Placid, NY?

A．Its classical village.	B．Its dinners with various dishes.
C．Its good view of the lake.	D．Its fame for hosting world games.

6 . Beatrice De Lavalette developed a passion for horse-riding when she turned 3. However, in the spring of 2016, 17-year- old De Lavalette was waiting for a flight when she got hit by a bombing at Brussels airport. Along with serious burns, De Lavalette lost both legs below the knee. Yet she said if it weren’t for the event, she wouldn’t be the person to join in the Paralympic Games（残奥会） in Tokyo.

Getting back in the saddle（马鞍） was no easy work because of her injuries. However, five months after the bombing, thanks to her courage, determination-and further treatment and training---that’s exactly where she was. “I had no muscle, I was just skin and bones, so being back on the saddle with no sense of balance was really uncomfortable. But with time, I was able to build up the muscle and work on my balance,” she said.

Unsurprisingly, De Lavalette was depressed as she tried to come to make peace with her injuries. She got lots of help and encouragement from her family, friends and the doctors, but she still couldn’t pick herself up. She cried a lot in the hospital until an unexpected visitor, her beloved horse, DeeDee, turned things around for her. “DeeDee saved my life,” Beatrice said. Adjusting to her disabled body was, in many ways, like having to learn to ride all over again. And the Paralympics offered a perfect chance to show her hard-earned skills. “I can’t change what happened, but I can still achieve my dream. As I have said many times, I was in the wrong place at the wrong time. What else is there to say? There are no ‘What ifs’. I have a new life in front of me,” Beatrice said, “What’s important is that I’m alive and I feel that I will do something great with my life. ” We’d say that she already has.

1. What happened to Beatrice when she was 17?

A．She learned to ride.

B．She ran into an air crash.

C．She got injured in a bombing.

D．She participated in the Paralympics.

2. What played a key role in helping Beatrice back to riding?

A．Parents’ love.	B．Doctors’ care.	C．DeeDee’s company.
D．Friends’ encouragement.

3. What was Beatrice’s difficulty in training?

A．Lack of friendship.

B．Loss of balance.

C．Great physical pains.

D．Continuous depression.

4. What can we learn from Beatrice’s words in the last paragraph?

A．Time is a good heal.

B．Hard work pays off.

C．Attitude makes a difference.

D．Failure is the mother of success.

7 . Whether you want to impress a new teacher, or just chat with a new acquaintance, knowing how to start a conversation can help you feel more comfortable and confident.

    1    . To take an example, when you go into a room full of strangers, most people there are just like you in their hopes and fears. So when you approach someone to start a conversation, you’re helping him, because he wants someone to talk to as much as you do.     2    , you can acknowledge and accept them, which will be to your advantage.

No matter what the situation is, you can find something positive to say. Comment on the weather, the food, or the event itself. Saying something as simple as you hope your conversation partner has a good time also is a good way to get a conversation rolling. People tend to respond better to a positive subject rather than a negative one. Staying positive also helps put others at ease.     3    .

It can be difficult to try to talk to someone when it feels that you have little in common. In these situations, getting the other person to talk about his or her own interests, work, or expertise can be a useful way.     4    , so expressing a genuine interest in the things that other people enjoy can be excellent fuel for a great conversation.

Learning how to start a conversation is an important skill that can help you build social connections. It can be difficult initially, particularly if you struggle with shyness or social anxiety.     5    . The more often you start to interact with others, the stronger your conversational skills will become.

A．If you put the skills into practice

B．Instead of pushing your fears away

C．Everyone feels some level of fear in social situations

D．Eye contact will make your partner feel embarrassed

E．Try to think of every interaction as a practice session

F．People often enjoy talking about things they are passionate about

G．People will be more interested in continuing a conversation with you

8 . Like many couples, Sheila and David Hoffman enjoy travelling. Since 2000, they’ve often visited relatives in Australia and enjoyed holidays in many European countries including France, Germany, Italy, and Greece. And they’ve toured around America, but they haven’t once stayed in a hotel. The Hoffmans are part of a growing number of people who use their home as a way to have inexpensive holidays. So far, they’ve swapped their three-bedroom London home with people who want to stay there for anything from a week to two months.

In a home swap, you offer your house as a place to stay and anyone who’s interested gets in touch. If your dates and requirements fit, then you make a deal to exchange houses for an agreed time. The exchange can involve more than just a place to stay — some homeowners also exchange cars and others will arrange for a friend or neighbour to be on call in case of emergencies. Some exchangers will even organise restaurant bookings and trips.

Home swaps have existed in Britain on an organised basis for decades but they really took off with the arrival of the Internet. Previously, the process was long and drawn-out, involving letter exchange and expensive international calls to complete arrangements. Now, it can all be done with a few clicks. Most home-exchangers register (注册) with a specialist home-exchange company that deals with the organisation.

More people are using their homes as a way to enjoy holidays at home as well as abroad. Most of them choose to follow the trend because they are interested in how natives lead their lives. When you live in a typical home rather than a hotel, it’s almost like an exchange of lifestyles. It’s also a cheap way to travel making sure you won’t run short of money on your journey.

1. Where do Sheila and David Hoffman live?

A．In Australia.

B．In the US.

C．In the UK.

D．In France.

2. Which word can be used to describe some homeowners mentioned in Paragraph 2?

A．Smart.

B．Strict.

C．Humorous.

D．Thoughtful.

3. What can we know about the home-exchange process in the past?

A．It caused many problems.	B．It saved a lot of time.
C．It was well-organised.	D．It was complicated.

4. What is the main reason for more people swapping their homes?

A．They hope to experience life as the locals.

B．They are not used to staying in hotels.

C．They do not want to leave their houses unused.

D．They need to earn money from exchanging their homes.

9 . When you're feeling low or even a little depressed, what do you want to do? The answer for most of us is not very much. Our natural response to a bad mood is to rest with our comfort of choice and hibernate (蛰伏) a bit.

But according to new science, the best way to fight off the depression is to force yourself to get out there and do something new. You might have to drag yourself off the sofa, but this research shows you'll be happier for the effort.

For the study, the research followed the daily movements of 122 study subjects, using the location-tracking features of their phones for three to four months. They also sent subjects regular text messages asking them to report on their mood.

The scientists discovered the more people visited new and different locations, the happier they felt both that day and the next. Variety and novelty seem to lift our mood. “We also find that if we feel better today, we're likely to move around and have more novel experiences and have more experiential diversity the following day," study coauthor and NYU psychology professor Catherine Hartley said.

"These results suggest a reciprocal link between the novel and diverse experiences we have during our daily exploration of our physical environments and our subjective sense of well-being." Hartley commented.

This isn't the first time science has linked new experiences with positive brain benefits. Previous studies have shown that new and challenging experiences light up learning centers in the brain. Just as experience has probably taught you, you learn a lot faster when you get outside your comfort zone. If you've been stuck at home a lot lately, it's no shock that you feel lazy. Your brain is missing out on the novelty and exploration it desires. The good news is, if you can force yourself to do something new, you'll feel you can grow smarter.

1. According to new science, what should we do to lift our spirits?

A．Explore the outside world	B．Have a complete rest
C．Choose to enjoy our hobbies	D．Stay in the comfort zone

2. How did the researchers conduct the study?

A．By phoning the subjects.

B．By analyzing the subjects' locations.

C．By referring to previous relevant studies.

D．By tracking the subjects' movements and moods.

3. “A reciprocal link" in Paragraph 5 means a link that proves ________.

A．strong but temporary	B．weak and indirect
C．beneficial to each other	D．suitable for each other

4. What does the last paragraph mainly talk about?

A．Novelty improves learning effectiveness.

B．It's harmful to get stuck at home too long.

C．Your brain desires novelty and exploration.

D．Exploration is linked with positive emotions.

10 . Future football stars

Football academies were set up by leading football clubs so their coaches could run trials to discover and train talented boys from as young as eight as potential players for their first team.

This means that in Britain there are at least 9,000 boys at any one time attending academies after school who think they are going to be a famous footballer.     1     One eight-year-old was selected for Chelsea Academy and he went from being top of his class at school to being the boy who was messing around at the back. His mother asked him why he wasn’t trying hard at school any more. His reply was that he was going to be a footballer and be rich, so he didn’t need to. In the end, he only lasted a year in the academy.     2     And he wasn’t so discouraged that he never played football again.

    3     Any sport where only a few can get to the top has many talented failures. These people are very good and do their best but finally it will not pay off because they are just not outstanding enough. In football, this effect is big because the number of players chosen by academies is so huge.     4    

This doesn’t put off all the boys who are spotted by the big football clubs and are desperate to join the academies.     5     They get to play as much football as possible. The skills become part of them, as they are with professional players, so they are automatic and the boys don’t have to think about them when they’re on the football field.

A．Unfortunately, for most this isn’t the case.

B．The benefits are still there for them of course.

C．All the big football clubs have a football academy.

D．But, luckily for him, he was still young enough to get over it.

E．But football is not alone when it comes to this kind of thing.

F．Most of these won’t get into a team and most won’t become professionals.

G．And footballers are much more likely to get injured when they play games.