1 . Last Friday, Britain’s Prince William announced the winners of this year’s Earthshot Prize. The prize is meant to encourage new ideas and rapid action to help protect the planet. Below are parts of this year’s prize-winning projects in each category.
Protect and Restore Nature
Kheyti won the prize for protecting and restoring nature with its “Greenhouse-in-a-box” idea. Kheyti is already working with 1, 000 farmers across India, which is one of the most climate-affected countries in the world. The company says the greenhouses allow farmers to use 90% less water and produce seven times as much food. Kheyti hopes to get its greenhouses to 50,000 farmers by 2027.
Clean Our Air
Charlot Magayi won the prize for cleaning the air. Ms. Magayi developed a stove (炉子) that uses a fuel that’s cheaper and pollutes far less than charcoal stoves. Currently, over 200,000 of her Clean Stoves are being used in Kenya.
Build a Waste-Free World
A London-based company called Notpla(for “Not Plastic”)won the prize for building a waste-free world. They’ve created a plastic substitute(替代品)from plants found in the ocean. Unlike most plastic, their products break down naturally with no microplastics. Notpla believes their products can help end the plastic pollution that’s filling landfills and polluting oceans.
Fix Our Climate
The Earthshot Prize for working toward fixing our climate went to a company called 44.01 from Oman. 44.01 has come up with a way to turn polluting carbon dioxide(CO2)into a rock called peridotite. Once the CO2 has been turned into rock, it can no longer be released into the atmosphere again. The method that 44.01 uses is fast, cheap and permanent.
1. What is the aim of the Earthshot Prize?| A．To offer practical advice on global warming. |
| B．To find solutions to the environmental problems. |
| C．To develop a strategic partnership with all parties. |
| D．To encourage literary creations of the British people. |
| A．In India. | B．In Kenya. | C．In the UK. | D．In Oman. |
| A．They want to build a waste-free world. |
| B．Their projects are directly good for farmers. |
| C．Their achievements benefit the air cleaning. |
| D．They use plants from the ocean in their products. |
The old bridge had stood for generations, connecting the two villages across the roaring river. Over time, its weathered timbers and worn stones had become a symbol of resilience, unity, and shared history. People crossed the bridge for daily activities, their footsteps echoing stories of the past. However, with modernization, plans for a new, sleek bridge were introduced to accommodate the increasing traffic and faster-paced lifestyles.
Despite the convenience the new bridge would bring, the villagers faced a dilemma. They couldn’t bear the thought of parting with the old bridge, the embodiment of their heritage. After passionate discussions, they decided to preserve the old bridge as a monument of cultural significance. The new bridge would serve as a testament to progress while the old bridge would stand as a tribute to history.
Years later, tourists from around the world marveled at the harmonious coexistence of tradition and modernity in the village. The old bridge, though retired from active use, continued to bridge the gap between generations, reminding everyone of the importance of honoring the past while embracing the future.
写作要求：1. 以约30词概括短文的主要内容；
2, 然后以约120词就“保护文化遗产”的主题发表你的看法, 并包括以下要点：
文化遗产的重要性；
如何保护和传承文化遗产；
你的实际行动或倡议。
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3 . Over the past few decades, technology has profoundly transformed the way we live and work. The digital revolution has brought about
In the realm of employment, automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping job markets. Routine tasks that were once carried out by humans are now
The education sector has not been immune to technological advancements either. Online learning platforms and digital resources have
Communication has been revolutionized by technology as well. Social media platforms enable instantaneous global
Healthcare has witnessed the integration of technology through telemedicine and remote monitoring. While these innovations improve access to medical services, they also raise questions about the
In the realm of creativity, technology has opened new avenues for artistic expression. Digital art, virtual reality experiences, and interactive storytelling have
The environment benefits from technology through innovations in renewable energy and resource management. Yet, the
In conclusion, technology’s far-reaching influence touches every aspect of our lives. Its
| A．incremental | B．revolutionary | C．gradual | D．minimal |
| A．profound | B．superficial | C．theoretical | D．casual |
| A．substituted | B．enhanced | C．abandoned | D．detected |
| A．suppressed | B．triggered | C．alleviated | D．sparked |
| A．surpassed | B．preserved | C．substituted | D．revived |
| A．digital | B．analytical | C．cognitive | D．interpersonal |
| A．correspondence | B．connectivity | C．isolation | D．suspension |
| A．solved | B．raised | C．suppressed | D．established |
| A．protection | B．vulnerability | C．anticipation | D．interpretation |
| A．extended | B．imposed | C．enforced | D．dissolved |
| A．preservation | B．authenticity | C．distortion | D．manipulation |
| A．insignificant | B．extensive | C．marginal | D．deliberate |
| A．beneficial | B．detrimental | C．ambiguous | D．prevalent |
| A．implications | B．consequences | C．limitations | D．requirements |
| A．promising | B．potential | C．evident | D．underlying |
4 .
| A．This has led to debates about whether time travel is theoretically possible. |
| B．Einstein’s theories revolutionized our understanding of time and space. |
| C．These considerations raise fundamental questions about the nature of time. |
| D．Some cultures emphasize a cyclical view of time, while others focus on linear progression. |
| E．Our ability to perceive the passage of time is central to human experience. |
| F．Time’s connection to our personal memories and experiences is undeniable. |
| G．Philosophers have pondered whether time itself has a direction or purpose. |
5 . Cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, have revolutionized the way we think about money and transactions. These digital assets are based on blockchain technology, a decentralized and transparent system that enables secure peer-to-peer transactions without the need for intermediaries like banks.
The potential applications of cryptocurrencies extend beyond simple transactions. Smart contracts, for instance, are self-executing contracts with terms directly written into code. They automatically execute and enforce the terms of an agreement when specific conditions are met. This technology has implications across various industries, from supply chain management to real estate.
However, the rise of cryptocurrencies has also given rise to challenges. One major concern is their volatility. The value of cryptocurrencies can fluctuate dramatically within short periods, making them risky investment options. Additionally, the pseudonymous nature of transactions has led to debates about the potential for illicit activities, such as money laundering and tax evasion.
Governments and regulatory bodies worldwide are grappling with how to classify, regulate, and tax cryptocurrencies. The decentralized nature of these digital assets challenges traditional regulatory frameworks. Some countries have embraced cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology, while others have implemented strict regulations or outright bans.
The future of cryptocurrencies is still uncertain. Proponents believe they could reshape the financial system, enabling greater financial inclusion and efficiency. Critics worry about their potential negative impacts and the need for more comprehensive regulations to protect consumers and prevent misuse.
1. How do cryptocurrencies enable secure transactions without intermediaries?| A．They rely on banks to facilitate transactions. |
| B．They are based on blockchain technology. |
| C．They require government oversight for security. |
| D．They use smart contracts for validation. |
| A．A contract executed by banks for digital transactions. |
| B．A contract written in human-readable language. |
| C．A contract enforced by intermediaries. |
| D．A self-executing contract with terms in code |
| A．Their stable and predictable value. |
| B．Their potential to replace traditional currency. |
| C．Their susceptibility to fluctuations. |
| D．Their resistance to technological advancements. |
| A．Most countries have embraced cryptocurrencies without regulations. |
| B．Governments have adopted uniform regulations for cryptocurrencies. |
| C．Governments have struggled to regulate and classify cryptocurrencies. |
| D．All countries have implemented strict bans on cryptocurrencies. |
6 . The concept of universal basic income (UBI) has gained significant attention in recent years as societies grapple with the potential impacts of automation and technological advancements on the job market. UBI is a proposed economic policy in which all citizens or residents of a country receive a regular, unconditional cash payment from the government.
Proponents of UBI argue that it could address issues such as poverty, income inequality, and job displacement caused by automation. By providing a basic income floor, individuals would have financial stability to cover their essential needs, even if traditional employment opportunities diminish. This, in turn, could foster entrepreneurship, creativity, and pursuit of education.
Critics, however, raise several concerns about the feasibility and consequences of UBI. One major concern is the potential cost of implementing such a program. Providing a universal basic income to an entire population would require significant financial resources, which could strain government budgets and lead to increased taxation. Additionally, some worry that UBI might discourage people from actively seeking employment or pursuing career advancement, as they may opt for a guaranteed income without the need for work.
Furthermore, UBI may not fully address the complexities of poverty and inequality. It could overlook the structural factors that contribute to these issues, such as lack of access to quality education and healthcare. Critics argue that a more effective approach would involve targeted social programs that address the root causes of poverty and offer assistance where it is most needed.
As the debate around UBI continues, policymakers and economists grapple with questions about its implementation, impact on work incentives, and potential to reshape social and economic dynamics.
1. What is universal basic income (UBI)?| A．A cash payment for citizens during technological advancements. |
| B．An unconditional cash payment for government employees. |
| C．A policy where all citizens receive regular cash from the government. |
| D．Financial resources for entrepreneurs and creative individuals. |
| A．It could discourage education due to guaranteed income. |
| B．It could increase access to quality education. |
| C．It could lead to more job opportunities |
| D．It could support traditional employment opportunities. |
| A．Lack of access to quality education and healthcare. |
| B．The potential cost and funding of the program. |
| C．UBI’s impact on social and economic dynamics. |
| D．UBI’s focus on entrepreneurship over traditional jobs. |
| A．Providing unconditional cash payments to all citizens. |
| B．Focusing solely on technological advancements. |
| C．Implementing targeted social programs addressing root causes. |
| D．Relying on traditional employment opportunities. |
7 . As more and more people seek to live healthier lifestyles, the popularity of organic food has grown significantly. But what exactly is “organic” food? Organic food refers to produce and other agricultural products that are grown or raised without the use of synthetic pesticides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), antibiotics, or growth hormones.
Organic farming focuses on sustainable practices that promote soil health, conserve water, and support natural ecosystems. Farmers who practice organic farming often use techniques such as crop rotation, composting, and natural pest control to maintain the health of their crops and the environment.
Consumers are drawn to organic food for various reasons. Some believe that organic food is healthier because it contains fewer synthetic chemicals. Others are concerned about the environmental impact of conventional farming methods and choose organic products to support more sustainable practices.
However, organic food does come with some drawbacks. It tends to be more expensive than conventionally produced food due to the labor-intensive nature of organic farming and the lower crop yields that can result from avoiding synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Additionally, the strict regulations that govern organic farming can make it challenging for some farmers to obtain and maintain organic certification.
Overall, the choice between organic and conventionally produced food often depends on individual priorities. While organic food offers potential health and environmental benefits, it may not always be the most practical or affordable option for everyone.
1. What does “organic” food refer to?| A．Food grown with synthetic pesticides. |
| B．Food produced with GMOs. |
| C．Food grown without synthetic pesticides and GMOs. |
| D．Food raised with antibiotics and growth hormones. |
| A．Using synthetic pesticides. |
| B．Employing genetic modification. |
| C．Practicing crop rotation and natural pest control. |
| D．Applying growth hormones. |
| A．To reduce labor-intensive farming. |
| B．To support conventional farming methods. |
| C．To save costs on groceries. |
| D．To promote healthier and more sustainable practices. |
8 . In recent years, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have brought both excitement and concerns to various fields. One area where AI is making a profound impact is the medical field, particularly in the domain of diagnostics.
Al-powered diagnostic systems leverage deep learning algorithms to analyze medical images, such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans. These algorithms can detect subtle patterns and anomalies that might be missed by human radiologists, potentially leading to earlier and more accurate diagnoses.
However, the integration of AI in medical diagnostics raises complex ethical questions. For instance, who should be held responsible if an AI system misdiagnoses a patient’s condition? Should AI algorithms be treated as medical professionals, with legal and liability implications? These questions become even more intricate when considering that AI systems learn from vast datasets of medical information, which might contain biases or inaccuracies.
Furthermore, the adoption of AI diagnostics could impact the role of healthcare professionals. Some argue that AI could enhance doctors’ capabilities by providing them with additional insights, while others fear that it might replace human expertise, leading to job losses and a potential decrease in the quality of patient care. Despite these challenges, proponents of AI diagnostics emphasize its potential to improve healthcare accessibility, especially in underserved regions where there is a shortage of skilled medical professionals. Al-powered diagnostics could provide preliminary assessments and recommendations, helping to bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers.
1. What is the primary advantage of AI-powered diagnostic systems in the medical field?| A．They provide additional insights to doctors. |
| B．They replace the need for human radiologists. |
| C．They analyze medical images using deep learning algorithms. |
| D．They focus on detecting visible patterns in medical images. |
| A．The potential for AI algorithms to replace human doctors. |
| B．The reliability of AI algorithms in analyzing medical images. |
| C．The legal responsibility for misdiagnoses made by AI systems. |
| D．The biased data used for training AI algorithms. |
| A．AI could enhance doctors’ expertise and skills. |
| B．AI could lead to job losses in the medical field. |
| C．AI could decrease the quality of patient care. |
| D．AI could replace human doctors completely. |
| A．AI diagnostics could decrease the quality of patient care. |
| B．AI diagnostics could primarily serve regions with sufficient medical professionals. |
| C．AI diagnostics could bridge the gap in healthcare accessibility. |
| D．AI diagnostics could replace the need for skilled radiologists. |
1. What is the conversation mainly about?
| A．Moving to a new community. |
| B．Welcoming friends in a few days. |
| C．Sending an email to their friends. |
| A．When the speakers got married. |
| B．When Lily was holding her wedding. |
| C．When Lily was having a birthday party. |
| A．Clean his yard. | B．Have a barbecue. | C．Do some shopping. |
10 . I can’t miss the little old lady with her kerchief (方头巾) on her head, a black umbrella blowing all over. I can tell she is freezing. She is standing at a bus stop, and I’m driving by, late for my early morning shift. I decide to stop and offer her a ride.
Of course, she declines, but when I ask again and insist, finally, she gets in the car. I take her to her destination, and by the time she gets out of my car, she is smiling and thanks me.
I was late for work that day, but I was so glad that I stopped. That was 40 years ago, and the beginning of a new habit, one that continues when I’m out driving in bad weather.
If there’s someone at a bus stop, especially if it’s an elderly person waiting at off hours and in bad weather, I will pull over and ask if they need a ride.
Once, a young doctor jumped in. She had finished a long shift and had been waiting and waiting at the bus stop. She had no hesitation and, for the first time, I was able to help someone who performs miracles (奇迹) on a daily basis. That felt good.
But the best part of my ride offers is the conversation. I do tend to ask a lot of questions: where are you from, where are you going, family, background, pets and whatever else comes to mind. Surprisingly, everyone wants to chat. We are usually laughing by the time the ride is over. “What a shame!” I often think when they hop out, as the stories were just getting started.
Now as retirement approaches, I believe I have found my calling. I will be happy to join a community driving program to take people to one appointment or another — or perhaps just to the coffee shop to sit and listen for an hour.
As the years pass, perhaps I will be the one standing at the bus stop. Perhaps there will be somebody who rolls down a window and offers me a seat for a little ride. I will continue to take that leap of faith in the kindness of strangers.
1. What are the first three paragraphs mainly about?| A．How the author started offering rides. |
| B．The value of the author’s actions. |
| C．An old lady who impressed the author. |
| D．An accident that happened 40 years ago. |
| A．Helping people who contribute to society. |
| B．People accepting her offer without hesitation. |
| C．Chatting with her passengers. |
| D．Making friends with her passengers. |
| A．Become a taxi driver after retirement. |
| B．Continue driving people to their destinations. |
| C．Wait to be offered a ride at a bus stop. |
| D．Share her stories with more people. |
| A．Elderly people need more care and support. |
| B．It is important to find a purpose in life. |
| C．Offering rides to strangers involves risks. |
| D．Always believe in the goodness in people. |
