1 . Mobile phones and iPads are now wonderful tools for learning and teaching English. With the help of the thousands of education and language apps available online, students can make effective use of them to learn in an interactive environment. Given below is a list of some of the best apps for learning and teaching English.
Grammar Up
Grammar is the heart of any language and, thus, the Grammar Up app is one of the most highly recommended apps for English learners. This app is specifically designed for people who want to improve their grammar, vocabulary and word selection. It consists of more than 1,800 multiple－choice questions grouped under twenty different grammar categories.
iFPoems
iFPoems is a fantastic app for poetry lovers. This app consists of a great collection of poems from famous poets around the world. It also allows users to save their favorites along with recording their own readings of the poems.
iBooks
iBooks is a complete book library for the iPad users. It includes the iBookstore and allows users to download and read books. The app features a beautiful bookshelf, on which you can browse various books or even add notes to your favorite paragraphs in the book. You can also create your own texts and upload them into the app.
SpeakingPal
Recommended as one of the best apps for English educators and learners, SpeakingPal allows you to record your speech and compare it with a native English speaker. This amazing app combines video with automatic speech recognition software that tests your English speaking skills. You just have to speak with a video character and get immediate response on how well you speak English.
1. What do these apps have in common?| A．They can be found online. |
| B．They are free of charge. |
| C．They improve users’ grammar. |
| D．They’re designed by teachers. |
| A．Download books for free. |
| B．Write notes on it with pens. |
| C．Save notes and texts. |
| D．Create a bookstore. |
| A．It offers video call service. |
| B．It evaluates users’ speech. |
| C．It offers talks with a native speaker. |
| D．It includes English speaking contests. |
2 . Movies not to miss
In 2018, to which was just said goodbye, we’ve seen some good films such as Black Panther, Crazy Rich Asians and A Star Is Born. And there are more exciting movies in the works for 2019.
Spider-man: Far From Home, July 5, US
Tom Holland, the lead actor of 2017’s Spider-Man: Homecoming, returns to play Peter Parker, a high school student who gains superpowers after being bitten by a spider. When we see him again in theaters, Spider-Man will have a new red-and-black suit. The movie will take the famous wall-crawler on a global adventure outside of the US. According to Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, Spider-Man will try a return to his“normal”self; he will try to find his old powers on his new journey.
Directed By: Jon Watts
Runtime: 100 minutes
Studio: Columbia Pictures
The Lion King, July 19, US
This is a brand-new version of the classic children’s film. The story of wide-eyed young lion Simba still remains in hearts of world audiences even after 25 years. In this re-telling, Simba again begins the difficult journey to become the King of the Pride Lands, a vast Africa grassland. The favorite part of the story for many has always been the friendship between Simba Timon and Pumbaa, The last two sacrifice all they have to help Simba to his throne (王座). How will the new movie re-imagine their famous relationship?
Directed By: Jon Favreau
Runtime: 98 minutes
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Hobbs and Shaw, August 2, US
To most people the Fast and Furious series is all about crazy drivers racing in sports cars. But in its spin-off (外传), called Hobbs and Shaw, humor is added to the action-packed thrills. The new film will hit US theaters on August 2. Famous English action movie actor Jason Statham will star alongside Dwayne Johnson, “The Rock”, as Deckard Shaw and Luke Hobbs respectively, as in their previous appearances in Fast and Furious films.
Directed By: David Leitch
Runtime: 120 minutes
Studio: Universal Pictures
Arctic, September 1, US
In the movie Arctic, a man trapped in the Arctic is finally about to receive his long awaited rescue. However, after a tragic accident, his opportunity is lost. He must then decide whether to remain in the relative safety of his camp or to try his best to save himself.
Directed By: Joe Penna
Runtime: 95 minutes
Studio: Bleecker Street
1. Which movie was directed by Jon Watts?| A．Arctic. | B．The Lion King. |
| C．Hobbs and Shaw. | D．Spider-man, Far From Home. |
| A．It lasts 120 minutes. | B．It was shot in the Arctic. |
| C．suitable for children. | D．It has two famous action movie stars. |
| A．On July 5. | B．On August 2. | C．On July 19. | D．On September 1. |
3 . Music
Opera at Music Hall: 1243 Elm Street. The season runs June through August, with additional performances in March and September. The Opera honors Enjoy the Arts membership discounts. Phone: 241-2742.
http://www.cityopera.com
Chamber Orchestra: The Orchestra plays at Memorial Hall at 106 Elm Street, which offers several concerts from March through June. Call 723-1182 for more information.
http://www.chamberorch.com.
Symphony Orchestra: At Music Hall and Riverbend. For ticket sales, call 381-3300. Regular season runs September through May at Music Hall in summer at Riverbend.
http://www.symphony.org/honie.asp.
College Conservatory of Music (CCM): Performances are on the main campus of the university, usually at Patricia Cobbett Theater. CCM organizes a variety of events, including performances by the well-known LaSalle Quarter, CMM’s Philharmonic Orchestra, and various groups of musicians presenting Baroque through modern music. Students with ID cards can attend the events for free. A free schedule of events for each term is available by calling the box office at 556-4183.
http://www.ccm. uc.edu/events/calendar.
Riverbend Music Theater: 6295 Kellogg Avenue. Large outdoor theater with the closest seats under cover (price difference). Big name shows all summer long! Phone: 232-6220.
http://www.riverbendmusic.com
1. When can you go to a concert by Chamber Orchestra?| A．February. | B．August. |
| C．May. | D．November. |
| A．Music Hall. | B．Memorial Hall. |
| C．Patricia Cobbett Theater. | D．Riverbend Music Theater. |
| A．It has seats in the open air. | B．It gives shows all year round. |
| C．It offers membership discounts. | D．It presents famous musical works. |
4 . If you have a bad habit of losing things, a new device that can be connected to any item that you might lose may be the way to solve your problem. The Tile, a small square linked up to your iPhone or iPad via Bluetooth, lets you see how close you are to the missing item, within a 50-to 150-foot range. If the item goes out of your phone's 150-foot range, it can still be detected on other smart phones with the same app.
When you log into the app on your phone, it shows you, with green bars that increase or decrease, how far away you are from the Tile. You can also program it to make a sound when you get close to the Tile. And you can link up your phone with up to ten Tiles. And if your lost item — a dog, for example, or a stolen bike — goes out of your own phone's 150-foot Bluetooth range, you can set it as a "lost item". If any of the phones with the Tile app comes within the range of your lost item, a message will be sent to your own phone, reminding you of its position. The Tile app also has the function to remember where it last saw your Tile, so that you can easily find where you left it.
Since the Tiles use Bluetooth rather than GPS, they never run out of battery or need to be charged, and they last for one year before needing to be replaced.
1. The Tile app can help you _________.| A．find your missing items | B．use your phone more wisely |
| C．save your phone's battery power | D．connect something to your phone |
| A．The Tile needs to be charged after a year of use. |
| B．One smart phone can only be linked up to one Tile. |
| C．The Tile cannot work when linked up to a phone without Bluetooth. |
| D．A missing item can't be found if it goes out of the needed range. |
| A．What the Tile app is. | B．How the Tile app works. |
| C．The advantages of the Tile app. | D．Why the Tile app was invented. |
| A．A science fiction novel. | B．An advertisement. |
| C．A personal diary. | D．A news report. |
5 . Let us suppose it is now about A.D. 2060. Let’s make believe it is about 45 years from now. Of course, things have changed and life is very different.
Voyages to the moon are being made every day. It is as easy to take a holiday on the moon today as it was for the people in 1960 to take a holiday in Europe. At a number of scenic spots on the moon, many hotels have been built. The hotels are airconditioned, naturally. In order that everyone can enjoy the beautiful scenery on the moon, every room has at least one picture window. Everything imaginable is provided for entertainment of young and old.
What are people eating now？People are still eating food. They haven’t yet started to take on heir (继承) supply of energy directly as electrical current or as nuclear power. They may some day. But many foods now come in pill form, and the food that goes into the pill continues to come mainly from green plants.
Since there are several times as many people in the world today as there were a hundred years ago, most of our planet’s surface has to be filled. The deserts are irrigated with water and crops are no longer destroyed by pests. The harvest is always good.
Farming, of course, is very highly developed. Very few people have to work on the farm. It is possible to run the farm by just pushing a few buttons now and then.
People are now largely vegetarians (素食者). You see, as the number of people increases, the number of animal decreases. Therefore, people have to be vegetarians and we are healthier both in our bodies and in our minds, and we know the causes and cure of disease and pain, and it is possible to get rid of diseases. No one has to be ill any more.
Such would be our life in 2060.
1. When was the passage written?| A．In about A. D. 2060. | B．In about 1960. |
| C．In about 2014. | D．In about 2015. |
| A．Many other animals. |
| B．Many tourists. |
| C．Many plants. |
| D．A sea. |
| A．Biscuits in pill form. | B．Foods in pill form. |
| C．Foods in liquid form. | D．Foods in gas form. |
6 . Name-calling, teasing, pushing and fighting-whether you have gone through it or not, it is quite definite that these are the things that turn up in your mind when you hear the word "bullying". However, many of us know little about the serious, lasting harms bullying could cause.
If you've watched 13 Reasons Why, you'll understand the impacts that bullying can have. The second season of the popular US teenage drama was released on May 18. It tells the story of Hannah Baker, a high school student who takes her own life after she's picked on by fellow students, while others stand by and do nothing to help her.
One of the important messages audiences could get from the show is to treat people with kindness and respect. "It teaches us that every single thing we say and do has an impact on others, "news platform Odyssey concluded.
Some may think 13 Reasons Why exaggerates（夸大）the seriousness of school bullying, but according to the US National Center for Educational Statistics, more than 20 percent of US students were bullied in 2016, and only 36% of this group reported it.
NBA player Gerald Green opened up about being called "alien hands" during his teenage years due to his big hands. "Being bullied was embarrassing, " he said. "I still remember shying away from crowds and walking around with my hands in my pockets to evade the attention from my peers. "To get away with the teasing, he found his motivation by playing basketball and making a career out of it. But not everyone is so lucky to discover a release.
According to statistics released by the US government, if someone prevents a bully, there's a 57% chance that the bullying will stop within 10 seconds. So if you ever witness bullying, consider stepping up and supporting the victim. As US actor Brandon Flynn, who stars in 13 Reasons Why, said, "Just because you're not the one getting bullied, it doesn't mean it's not your problem. "
1. What is the purpose of the last paragraph？| A．To add more statistics. |
| B．To call on eyewitnesses to take action. |
| C．To introduce a new topic of the discussion. |
| D．To give people advice about dealing with bullying. |
| A．Bullying isn't a serious problem in many schools. |
| B．School bullying can't cause too much pain. |
| C．Only a few people are concerned about bullying. |
| D．Many people who're bullied choose not to seek help. |
| A．Attract. | B．Focus. | C．Avoid. | D．Keep. |
| A．It overstates school bullying. |
| B．It was first shown on May 18. |
| C．It is mainly about school bullying. |
| D．It shows few people can report bullying. |
7 . The Best and Worst Things to Buy in March
Frozen food
Grocery store ads aren't the only places to find deals on freezer-section treats. To take advantage of the deepest discounts, combine coupons (优惠券) from sponsoring brands, such as Dole, Green Giant and Tyson Foods, with grocery store sales. Plus, look for printable savings on Coupons. com and EasyHoreMeals.com. Brands participating in National Frozen Food Month will offer more than 180, 000 coupons that make frozen food among the best things to buy in March.
Boxed chocolates
If you desire to give a gift to a friend in March, consider chocolate. Two minor holidays in March provide the perfect excuse: National Chocolate Caramel Day on March 19 and National Chocolate-Covered Raisin Day on March 24. You can discover chocolate deals online as well as in stores. Head to sites like RetailMeNot.com to find discount coupons for boxed chocolate savings of 10 percent or more.
New cars
With the latest car models filling dealers' lots, you'll have a hard time finding discounted models from the year before. Car dealerships are less motivated to offer steep discounts from March through May. Instead, plan to buy your car during the fall or winter. You should also research the auto you want at TrueCar before heading for the dealership. The site offers information on how much the previous buyers paid for the vehicles you want.
Spring clothing
When warm weather makes you want to head outdoors, resist the urge to do so wearing the latest fashions. You won't find March deals on swimsuits, Easter dresses or other spring items. To find discounts on clothes of this spring, hold off until Memorial Day weekend. You can also look for online and in-store savings at Amazon, Macy's, Saks Fifth Avenue and other retailers.
1. Which things offer discounts in March?| A．Frozen food and new cars | B．Boxed chocolates and new cars. |
| C．Frozen food and boxed chocolates. | D．Boxed chocolates and spring clothing. |
| A．Register on a site in advance. | B．Get discounts from car dealers. |
| C．Consult some previous buyers. | D．Make purchases at the right time. |
| A．A journal | B．A guidebook | C．A catalogue | D．An advertisement |
8 . HEARST CASTL, CA
Hearst Castle is open for tours daily, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Tour A -- The Grand Rooms
View the ground floor rooms of La Casa Grande where Mr. Hearst’s guests met their host and were entertained during their stay. See the Assembly Room, where guests met for cocktails, the Refectory, where meals were served, the Morning Room, Billiard Theater. Your knowledgeable guide will bring this big house to life sharing stories about Mr. Hearst, his many guests, and the art collection it contains.
Prices: Adults: $25.00; Children: $12.00.
Tour B – The Upstairs Suites (套房)
This tour features rooms on the upper floors of Casa Grande. Travel through guest suites on your way to the Library where Mr. Hearst housed a collection of 2,000-year-old Greek pots.
Visit Mr. Hearst’s private third floor suite including his bedroom and private study where he held business meetings. Learn about the genius of architect Julia Morgan and the way she put Mr. Hearst’s art collection into the design.
Prices: Adults: $20.00; Children: $10.00.
Tour C – Evening Tour
This tour allows visitors to experience the Castle at night as a visitor to the Castle in the 1930s might have. It features highlights from the experience, Upper Floors of Casa Grande, and Garden tours.
Evening tours are offered on most Fridays and Saturdays during March – May & October – December.
Prices: Adults: $36.00; Children: $18.00.
Tour D – Accessible Holiday Twilight
This tour is wheelchair accessible. Visitors who have difficulty climbing stairs, or who cannot stand or walk for extended period, may also benefit from this tour. Accessible transportation is provided from the Visitor Center to all areas of the Holiday at Hearst Castle tour. Call 866-712-2286 for additional information.
Prices: Adults: $30.00; Children: $18.00.
1. Which place can you take your child to visit if you have not much available money?| A．The Morning Room. | B．The Upstairs Suites. |
| C．The Grand Rooms. | D．The Billiard Room. |
| A．A Saturday in July. | B．A Saturday in April. |
| C．A Friday in January. | D．A Friday in September. |
| A．Tour A. | B．Tour B. |
| C．Tour C. | D．Tour D. |
9 . Jumping Clay
Grades: K-2
Time: 3:25 pm — 4:25 pm Tuesday Jan 16, 23, 30 Feb 6, 3, 27 (No class 2/20)
Explore the Arctic and Antarctic in this creative hands-on workshop! Each student will create their own 3-D Polar display including the landscape and animals such as polar bears, penguins and whales while learning about basic shapes and color mixing. Jumping Clay is an air-drying polymer clay that is 100% safe and non-toxic and completely mess free! Beginners welcome! All materials included. Cost: $90
Vacation Destination
The ERfC Vacation Destination Center is located at Enfield Street school,1318 Enfeild Street. Vacation Destination is open from 7:00 am — 6:00 pm on the following days this school year:
December 26-29, 2020
February 20, 2021
April 9-13, 2021
June 25-29, 2021
A variety of theme-based activities are provided throughout the day and include enrichment and recreational activities such as sewing, sports & games, arts & crafts and science activities. Daily fee: $ 45
ERfC Counselors in Trainning Team for High School Students
Students in grades 9-12 who are looking to develop leadership skills are encouraged to join the ERfC CIT Team. High school students will gain experience working with children in different age groups, discover new strengths, and learn team-building skills. Training is provided and summer opportunities will be available. Contact Melissa Shea atmshea@erfc.us.
Tonight in Thompsonville
Located at St. Patrick’s Hall, 64 Pearl Street, Enfield Join us for a free family dinner and a variety of family fun activities. In addition to a family dinner, evenings include hands-on educational activities designed for parents and children to enjoy together. Community providers attend to share information about health, nutrition, physical activity,education, and other services such as SNAP, Care 4 Kids, early childhood programs and out-of-school time activities.
1. What is the main purpose of Jumping Clay?| A．To guide children to protect wild animals. |
| B．To teach children to use clay materials properly. |
| C．To encourage children to improve their creativity. |
| D．To help children learn about the Arctic and Antarctic. |
| A．December 30, 2020. | B．February 22, 2021. |
| C．April 12, 2021. | D．June 24, 2021. |
| A．Jumping Clay. | B．Vacation Destination. |
| C．ERfC CIT Team. | D．Tonight in Thompsonville. |
10 . Best musicals and shows in London’s West End
Thriller-Live
See Thriller-Live, a musical in memory of Michael Jackson and the J acksons. The show joined London’s West End after three UK tours and popularity across Europe. Celebrate the career of the King of Pop during non-stop hits at this top London theatre show.
Prices from £32.72
The Phantom of the Opera
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s famous musical, The Phantom of the Opera, tells the tale of a shadowy character who attempts to make Christina the leading lady of the Paris Opera. With a fantastic plot and breathtaking scene, this long- running show is one of the must-see musicals in London.
Prices: from £30.75
The Book of Mormon
This comedy musical follows the plight of a pair of teenage Mormon missionaries sent to convert a village in a dangerous part of Uganda. The brainchild of South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, The Book of Mormon has won nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
Prices: from £24.60
Matilda The Musical
Be wowed by the Royal Shakespeare Company’s multi-award-winning production of Matilda The Musical. Roald Dahl’s celebrated story bursts into life in this West End musical by Dennis Kelly and Tim Minchin. Children and adults alike will be delighted by the little girl with an extraordinary imagination.
Prices: from £24.00
1. What is The Phantom of the Opera special for?
| A．Its attractive story. | B．Its beautiful songs. |
| C．Its excellent costumes. | D．Its experienced actors. |
| A．Thriller-Live | B．Matilda The Musical |
| C．The Book of Mormon | D．The Phantom of the Opera |
| A．Evaluate musicals. | B．Criticize musicals. |
| C．Analyze musicals. | D．Advertise musicals. |
