1 . The Ultimate Guide to STEM Competitions & Events
STEM competitions allow individuals or student teams to solve a specific challenge or problem through science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. The followings are different events at this time.
Congressional App ChallengeWhat: Students must code and build an app by themselves. The apps are judged in district-wide competitions.
Who: High school students.
When: From June 15 to November 1, 2023.
Where: Online.
Prize: Winners receive a free trip to display their work in the Capitol Building.
Regeneron Science Talent Search
What: Entrants must conduct an original independent research project. Besides application letters, recommendation letters and transcripts(成绩单) are also needed.
Who: Any student in their senior year of high school.
When: From June 1 to November 8, 2023.
Where: Selected finalists will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington D. C. for in-depth judging.
Prize: Over $2 million in awards are given; first-place prize is $ 250,000.
THINK Challenges
What: This competition is for high school students who are in the early stages of an original research project, rather than being fully completed.
Who: High school students.
When: 2023 registration is closed; 2024 details are to be decided and will likely open in November 2023.
Where: Online.
Prize: Selected finalists are invited to a 4-day all-expenses-paid trip to MIT’s campus to meet professors in their field of research! $1000 will be given.
Source America Design Challenge
What: Student teams are to use STEM concepts to create a totally new product that empowers people with disabilities.
Who: High school and collegiate-level students.
When: Registration for Design Challenge 2022 is still live!
Where: The finals take place in Washington D. C.
Prize: Grand prize is $ 8,000 per team and $ 6,000 to the affiliated school.
1. In the STEM competitions, participants can ________.
| A．design an app based on judges’ choices | B．create an invention to help the disabled |
| C．present a fully completed research project | D．get recommendation letters from professors |
| A．THINK Challenges | B．Congressional App Challenge |
| C．Regeneron Science Talent Search | D．Source America Design Challenge |
| A．They must be available for an outing trip. | B．They must register 2023 competitions. |
| C．They must be high school seniors. | D．They must submit original works. |
2 . If you would like to volunteer abroad, you’ve come to the right place. Here are a variety of volunteering opportunities, including medical, sports, and wildlife conservation in Africa, which can help gain hands-on international work experience and learn things you’ll never get out of a textbook.
Medical and Healthcare Projects
If you’re a medical student hoping to gain some valuable experience, we have suitable placements for you. We have projects, which can really use the skills of qualified volunteers, such as doctors, nurses, dentists and a whole range of professions. If you are unskilled, but have an interest and would like to assist in this field then you can also help in many project areas.
Sports Coaching Projects
Our sports volunteer projects involve children of different ages and abilities, or sometimes adults as well. Therefore, anyone with sports coaching skills will be put to very good use, trying to bring on the African sports stars of the future. You’ll be able to help organize sporting activities, teach new sports to the children, coach them in their sports sessions and even play football against the local team-don’t expect to win!
Wildlife and Conservation Projects
Wildlife conservation volunteering in Africa can be hard work at times as you have to deal with the human-wildlife conflicts and ensure local communities benefit from conservation. However, there are some major positives, generally based in some of the most amazing natural areas. They get you behind the scenes of places that tourists will often pay large amounts of money to visit on holiday. If you have relevant conservation experience or qualifications, or as part of your studies, then please get in touch.
1. In Wildlife and Conservation Projects, you will ______.| A．pay for the holiday visits |
| B．organize community activities |
| C．provide medical services |
| D．handle the human-wildlife conflicts |
| A．Professional trainings. |
| B．Qualification promotion. |
| C．Work experience. |
| D．Historical adventures. |
| A．describe life in Africa |
| B．share traveling memories |
| C．introduce volunteering projects |
| D．explain the importance of working abroad |
3 . Explore your world—Mirthy
Online events to help you discover, learn and connect
Who is Mirthy?
Mirthy is one of the most popular websites for online events and already loved and trusted by more than 45,000 people. It was designed to create an inclusive community where people can learn, share, and connect with others through a variety of events that are active, sociable, and uplifting. It’s all about fulfilment and wellbeing.
There are some online events each month to try, from craft workshops (手工工坊) to fitness sessions. For example, according to our event calendar, this week you can attend gardening classes and singing lessons. So whether you have a desire to get fitter or to pick up a new skill—signing up for classes and events with Mirthy could be just what you have been looking for.
How does it work?
Sign up via the online registration form at Mirthy.com. Then you can take a look through the calendar of upcoming events and see what takes your fancy.
Once you register for an event, you will then receive a link on email ready for you to join the live event. If your plans change and you can’t make it, you will receive a link for a 7-day replay that you can watch at a time that is convenient for you!
Best of all, it’s completely FREE to join!
Join Mirthy for free today, and you can enjoy any 4 events every month, for free! If you’re up for more, then you can either select and book additional events on a pay-as-you-go basis, normally for £2.99 each, or you can upgrade to the Premium membership giving you full free access to all events for only £4.99 per month.
If you choose to go for the Premium membership, there’s no contract. You simply upgrade your membership and you can cancel anytime.
1. Mirthy is intended to_________.| A．improve people’s fitness | B．organize sociable events |
| C．provide craft workshops | D．create an online community |
| A．Make art crafts. | B．Talk about fitness experience. |
| C．Learn songs. | D．Study wild plants and animals. |
| A．People can sign up for the events online. |
| B．The events can be watched again at any time. |
| C．People can upgrade their membership for free. |
| D．No more than 4 events are offered each month. |
| A．To share a lifestyle. |
| B．To recommend a website. |
| C．To introduce online events. |
| D．To explain a registration process. |
4 . Connie’s
191 Fanhua Road, near Luxi Road
Open 9.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. weekdays, 9.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m. weekends
For a new hairstyle to suit your new lifestyle, come to Connie’s! Choose the one that is right for you. Get free advice from our experts.
What sort of hairstyle is best for me?
Is your face round, square, long or heart-shaped? Short hair with curls will make the round face look longer. Longer styles suit square faces. Single-length hair to your shoulders will add width to a slim face.
How can I keep my hair healthy?
Keep yourself healthy. Eat a balanced diet and get plenty of exercise. You will shine and so will your hair. In addition, look after your hair. City air is dirty and polluted, so it is wise for you to shampoo (洗发) your hair often. Here are some for the things you need to know.
1. You can have a haircut in Connie’s at ________.
| A．8.00 a.m. on Monday | B．7.00 p.m. on Saturday |
| C．7.00 p.m. on Thursday | D．8.00 a.m. on Sunday |
| A．a round face | B．a long face | C．a heart-shaped face | D．a slim face |
| A．eating a balanced diet | B．seldom shampooing your hair |
| C．regularly cutting your hair | D．using a hairdryer close to your hair |
| A．advertise for Connie’s |
| B．guide the use of a shampoo |
| C．introduce the service in Connie’s |
| D．present the steps of effective hair care |
5 . A poem competition has been started for pupils aged 4 to 18 around UK. It invites young people to focus on (关注) the “many ways we are connected to the universe”. The competition is part of a national celebration of creativity in the UK.
The winning entries (参赛作品) will be presented in a projection show, which will visit some places around the UK from March to May 2023. This outdoor show will include entries from the competition and run for a week in each place. Winners will also receive other prizes, including books and chocolate, plus continued development.
The rules are as follows:
The competition is free to enter. If you are aged 4-12, your parent will need to allow for you to enter.
Your entry must be original (原创的). Your work is accepted only if this will be its first appearance anywhere in the world.
Poems must be written in English or Welsh and not be longer than 20 lines. You are free to write in any style or form.
You may enter either online through the website or by post to the Poetry Society, 22 Betterton Street, London. All online entries must be received by 23:59 GMT on 19 December 2022. All poems entered by post must be post-dated on or before 19 December 2022.
If you would like to enter online, please continue through the online system on this website. Email AboutUs@poetrysociety. Org if you have any problem.
1. The competition centers on ________.| A．National celebration | B．Outdoor show around the UK |
| C．Young people’s talents | D．Connectivity to the universe |
| A．A free tour around the UK. | B．A chance to present their works. |
| C．Books, chocolate and prize money. | D．Membership of the Poetry Society. |
| A．Poems can be written in any language. |
| B．The show will last a month in each place. |
| C．All poems entered by post must be posted by 19 Dec. 2022. |
| D．People need to pay to enter the competition. |
| A．must write poems no more than 20 lines | B．may enter their published poems |
| C．should be aged 4-12 | D．can email entries |
6 . Holiday is coming! Are you ready for a hit in the cinema? Here comes an introduction to some films. Hope you can find your favorites.
| Wild China If you are planning to visit China’s natural wonders, then this is for you. Made by the BBC and CCTV, Wild China takes you on a journey through some of China’s most wonderful scenery, from the Yuanyang Rice Terraces in Yunnan to the wind-swept Mongolian grassland. It also focuses on the relationship between the Chinese people and the wildlife that lives in these areas. Time: February 1st~ 14th, 2023  |
| Soul Surfer Have you ever met difficulties in your life? See how Bethany Hamilton deals with them! Starred by Anna Sophia Robb, Soul Surfer is the inspiring true story of teen surfer Bethany Hamilton, who lost her arm to a shark. She courageously overcame all difficulties to become a champion again through her strong will and faith. Time: January 1st~ 31st, 2023  |
| Skyscraper Each girl wants a daddy like the Stone, tough and warm. This time, in the action film Skyscraper, Dwayne Johnson plays a dad like this. Will Sawyer, FBI Hostage Rescue Team (人质援救队) leader, must save his family inside a burning building when it is suddenly set on fire. Time: January 19th~29th, 2023  |
| Uncle Drew Kyrie Irving, Shaq O’neal, Chris Webber, Reggie Miller, Nate Robinson. How can these famous NBA players play against each other in one game? This winter, they will! In Uncle Drew, a former basketball player gets his old teammates to compete with him in Street Basketball in New York. It is sure to brighten your holiday. Time: January 26th~ February 6th, 2023  |
| A．Uncle Drew. | B．Skyscraper. | C．Wild China. | D．Soul Surfer. |
| A．February 2nd, 2023 | B．January 20th, 2023 |
| C．January 31st, 2023 | D．February 4th, 2023 |
| A．Basketball fans. | B．Risk takers. |
| C．Surfing lovers. | D．Holiday makers. |
| A．give advice on filming | B．inspire teenagers |
| C．choose actors | D．introduce films |
At Beaver Creek, The Extraordinary Awaits You  Beaver Creek is a great place to experience the beauty of the snow, with programs for everyone—from children, teens, and women-only lessons to small groups and private-guided experiences. First Track, from Beaver Creek Reserve, lets you be the first on the mountain, with an adventure that begins at 7:30 a.m. when you are met by ski professionals and taken on a private, guided tour — before the mountain is open to the public. Once you have skied, you are treated to a delicious breakfast at Allie’s Cabin. If you are looking for a higher level of comfort there is the White Carpet Club, from Beaver Creek Reserve. Located in the heart of Beaver Creek Village, it maximizes (最大化) your time on the mountain. At the club, there are private lockers and boot dryers, along with preferred self-parking and a slope-side ski waiter. A receptionist can help with lift tickets, pass purchases, dinner reservations (预定), and activity recommendations. Of course, there is more to explore during the winter in Beaver Creek as well. There is ice skating, snowshoeing, shopping, and spas — you name it, Beaver Creek has it. It is the perfect place to take advantage of the snow and be in the moment, in the mountains, together.
|
| A．a tasty lunch | B．an ice skating show |
| C．an early visit | D．a free skiing lesson |
| A．Trainers. | B．Service. |
| C．Guided tours. | D．Mountain views. |
| A．attract visitors | B．introduce training courses |
| C．share experience | D．compare different programs |
8 . AQUILA Children’s Magazine is the most intelligent read for curious kids. Full of enthusiastic articles and challenging puzzles, every issue covers science, history and general knowledge. AQUILA is a quality production, beautifully illustrated with contemporary artwork throughout.
Intelligent reading for 8-12-year-olds
Cool science and challenging projects
Inspires self-motivated learning
Exciting new topics every issue
AQUILA is created and owned by an independent UK company. It has 28 pages, printed on high-quality paper and there are no advertisements or posters. Instead it is full of well-written articles, thought-provoking (令人深思的) ideas and great contemporary artwork. Each monthly issue is centred around a new topic.
AQUILA works as a superb learning extension to current primary (or KS2 and KS3) curriculum (课程), but it is much more than that! Entertaining and always surprising, AQUILA is recommended because it widens children’s interest and understanding, rather than encouraging them to concentrate only on their favourite subjects. It gives children a well-rounded understanding of the world, in all its complexity.
The concepts in AQUILA can be challenging, requiring good comprehension and reading skills. Eight years is usually a good age to start. Some gentle interest from an adult is often helpful at the start.
In 2021 AQUILA will have been in publication for 29 years, but it has never appeared in newsstands or shops. We are subscription only.
AQUILA Subscription
UK：12 Months￡55－4 Months￡30
Europe：12 Months￡60－4 Months￡35
World：12 Months￡70－4 Months￡35
Birthdays
Select the Birthday option, write a gift message and choose the birthday month. We will dispatch to arrive at the start of the month you have entered. The package posts in a blue envelope marked “Open on your birthday”.
1. What is special about AQUILA?| A．It is available in shops. | B．It is for kids of all ages. |
| C．It prints readers’ artwork. | D．It has no advertisements. |
| A．Articles on modern art. | B．Family reading materials. |
| C．Knowledge beyond school subjects. | D．Ideas on improving reading skills. |
| A．Foreign language learners. |
| B．Children with learning difficulties. |
| C．Parent-child reading lovers. |
| D．Curious kids with good comprehension. |
9 . Don’t you think robots are a part of your life? In factories, robots put together everything from toys to cars. Some homes have robots that sweep floors or mow the lawn(剪草坪). And more robots are soon to come.
 | Like a Human Robots don’t expect any thanks for all the work they do for us. After all, they don’t have feelings. But that may be changing with Nexi, a robot created by scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Nexi can move its face to show anger, happiness, or sadness. It can also raise its eyebrows to show surprise. |
 | 24 How would you like a robot to help clean up your toys, or one that plays hide-and-seek with you? Nao can be programmed to do both those activities, and more. A two- foot-tall robot, Nao was designed by a company in France to be a helper and companion. It can talk, walk and even remember faces, voices, and places. Also, it can be programmed to assist with daily tasks, such as checking e-mails. |
 | Robots at Work Need a lift out of bed? RIBA, short for “Robot for Interactive Body Assistance”, will lend its helpful arms! Some patients at hospitals and nursing homes have a hard time getting in and out of bed. RIBA can gently lift a patient out of bed and help him or her into a wheelchair. The robot can safely pick up and carry people weighing 135 pounds. |
 | Water Bots Robots that work in water—and look like familiar sea creatures—are making news lately. One of them is a robotic fish. Researchers built the robo-fish to swim in water to detect pollution. There’s even a robotic penguin called the AP, which uses flippers(鱼鳍) to paddle and can move in all directions. |
Experts predict that by 2025 we could have robots in every household! You might be living or working with one of them every day!
1. By moving its face, Nexi might show its _________.| A．feelings | B．power | C．interest | D．opinions |
| A．Nexi. | B．AP. | C．Nao. | D．RIBA. |
| A．discovering fish | B．picking up rubbish |
| C．studying sea creatures | D．finding out pollution |
| A．Household Helpers | B．Programme Designers |
| C．Hotel Cleaners | D．Game Players |
EcoCentral
This website is all about looking after the Earth. There are facts about different animals, as well as information about forests, deserts and oceans. You can upload your own videos onto the site for everyone to see.
TeenPress
This is one of the best sites on the web for teenagers who love writing. You can share your work with others, and there are message boards where you can chat about things that are important to you.
ChannelTwenty
On this site you can watch a daily news program and search for information about big news stories. There are also videos on different subjects, articles about famous bands, games and competitions.
Inside-the-cover
Finding out about your favorite writers is easy on this site. There are lots of interesting articles and information about the latest books. You can read blogs by well-known writers and post questions to them. And you are likely to get replies from them.
Tune-in
There are millions of songs on this website for you to download or listen to online. You can save your favorite songs in your own list. If you’re in a band, you can record your music and upload it. The website is large, but the menus are easy to use.
ScienceZone
There’s lots of information on this site about maths, chemistry and biology. You can visit some of the world’s most famous museums, or watch wildlife via webcams. There are also some very cool games, such as Save the Planet.
1. TeenPress is a website for teenagers who _____.| A．enjoy writing | B．care about the Earth |
| C．like watching the news | D．are interested in music |
| A．take writing classes | B．listen to songs |
| C．learn about the latest books | D．watch news programs |
| A．EcoCentral. | B．ChannelTwenty. |
| C．Tune-in. | D．ScienceZone. |
| A．introduce websites to teenagers |
| B．teach teenagers to design(设计) websites |
| C．encourage teenagers to create websites |
| D．compare(比较) different websites for teenagers |
