1 . Indoor Games to Play with Family This Winter

Gather round the table with your favorite warm drinks and try some of the following indoor games with your family and friends.

Escape Rooms

Have you ever been to an escape room? Whether you have or you haven’t，the escape room fun is far from being over, with choices to order your own home escape room tools! You can even find some online free escape room choices to try out for hours of thinking and exploring and lots of fun for everyone who takes part.

Balloon Volleyball

This indoor game is great for keeping active while people are stuck indoors, and it is super fun and doesn’t make a mess. All you need to do is blow up a balloon and throw it at each other, making sure it doesn’t hit the floor，just like volleyball. This is another great game for all ages, even babies.

Pictionary

Have you got any promising artists at home? This game is a classic and fun for kids and adults of almost all ages. All you do is make teams and take some paper and pens to write proper words. You can then either use the real Pictionary cards or go the DIY route, creating your own cards. Write your own song or movie titles for great fun!

Indoor Hopscotch

Hopscotch can be made in so many different ways and doesn’t necessarily have to be played with chalk on the sidewalk. Hopscotch made with popsicle(冰棒) sticks is a great indoor kids’ activity, but it can definitely be enjoyed by the whole family. Make squares creatively from all kinds of materials, maybe even with tape on your footcloth.

1. What is special about Escape Rooms compared with the other games?

A．It takes the most energy to do.	B．It has free choices online.
C．It requires team spirit.	D．It is suitable for all ages.

2. What should you avoid doing while playing Balloon Volleyball?

A．Hitting the balloon too hard.	B．Making the house out of order.
C．Throwing the balloon at each other.	D．Dropping the balloon on the ground.

3. Which game can benefit your language skills?

A．Escape Rooms.	B．Balloon Volleyball.
C．Pictionary.	D．Indoor Hopscotch.

2 . A film, also called a movie, is a work used to communicate ideas, stories, feelings, beauty and much more through the use of moving images. This article therefore introduces some right movies or TV series which will benefit students in one way or the other.

Like Stars on Earth

This is a heart touching Indian movie that tells the story of a boy named Ishaan Awasthi. He is an 8-year-old boy with dyslexia (阅读障碍) and this greatly influences his performance in school. Ishaan has an amazing talent for art and painting, but no one would like to know him and be his friends until a new art teacher, Ram Nikumbh, arrives. He takes special interest in Ishaan and discovers Ishaan’s problem and his artistic talent.

The Social Network

It tells us the story of young Mark Zuckerberg who is an undergraduate at Harvard and also a computer genius (天才). He begins to work on an idea which grows into a globally recognized social network called Facebook. This makes Mark one of the youngest billionaires existing.

Grownish

Filled with real life situations and grown up people, this series takes us back to university-lifestyle. Grownish through four amazing seasons, teaches us how to navigate (驾驭) the university through the eyes of Zoey Johnson. Zoey is a talented fashion designer and stylist who seems to have the world all planned out for her.

King of Boys 2

If you haven’t already seen the first movie in this series, you should take two steps back so you don’t get lost in this political (政治的) forest. This movie is the type that has you sitting at the edge (边缘) of your seat from start to finish. King of Boys 2 takes us to the underworld of a truly dirty game called “politics”.

1. Why is the 8-year-old boy named Ishaan doing poorly in school?

A．He has difficulty reading.	B．His teachers dislike him.
C．He fails to make new friends.	D．He takes no interest in studies.

2. Who founded Facebook?

A．Ram Nikumbh.	B．Mark Zuckerberg.
C．Zoey Johnson.	D．Ishaan Awasthi.

3. What is King of Boys 2 about?

A．An art teacher’s story.	B．A computer genius.
C．A fashion designer’s growth.	D．A political game.

3 . The greater Rochester area is filled with opportunities to study and perform music in the summer!

Roberts Community School

Roberts Community Music School has exciting summer musical opportunities for families on the west side of Rochester. It offers two 7-week Early Childhood Classes, Piano Discoveries, and a Ukulele Choir. Lessons are available (可获得的) for piano, voice, stringed instruments, and woodwind & brass (铜管乐器).

School of Rock — Rochester

With camp choices for all ages and skill levels, School of Rock is the perfect summer activity for your child. Our summer music camps are performance-based, meaning students learn to play by performing together in a fun environment. From beginner camps to songwriting and themed camps, wed offer a wide variety of options to ensure your child has an amazing musical experience. Our goal is to prepare teens for live performances on stage.

Eastman Community Music School

The Eastman Community Music School offers different day programs and overnight music camps this summer for middle and high school students, including Adventure Music Camp for Middle Schoolers, Summer Jazz Studies for High School Students, Baroque workshops, and New Horizons Orchestra Camp. Private lessons are also available of all ages, levels, instruments or voice.

Bach to Rock Music School

Bach to Rock’s Music Camps run each week all summer long for all ages and levels! Our camps are designed for students to work with our highly experienced teachers to learn how to play their instrument of choice, develop a band, learn to play songs they love, and have the opportunity to write and create their music. Each weekly camp ends with an opportunity to record in our studio! Full or half-day camps are available. No experience is necessary.

1. Which school’s programs are designed to get students on stage performing?

A．Roberts Community School.	B．School of Rock — Rochester.
C．Eastman Community Music School.	D．Bach to Rock Music School.

2. What is special about Bach to Rock Music Camps?

A．They offer overnight camps.	B．They require related experience.
C．They offer chances to perform in a TV station.	D．They can train different kinds of musical skills.

3. What’s the purpose of the text?

A．To compare four music schools.	B．To encourage students to be music stars.
C．To introduce some music summer camps.	D．To show the music resources in Rochester.

4 . The Best Places to Camp in Olympic National Park

With more than 2.5 million visitors annually, Olympic National Park is one of the most popular parks in the US. If you’re looking for breathtaking views, these are the best places to camp inside Olympic National Park.

Campground	Brief Introduction	Cost
Deer Park	Tent-only. 14 campsites are available on a first come, first served basis from June through mid-October.	$15/night
Staircase	49 campsites. The location is open through the whole year. Some of its facilities are only available during the summer.	$24/night
Kalaloch	With its 170 campsites, Kalaloch is the largest and most popular campground in the entire park. It is recreational, vehicle-friendly.	$24/night
Dosewallips	Dosewallips features roughly 30 campsites, none of which can be reserved ahead of time. It is accessible throughout the year.	Free

Things to Know Before You Go
●Bring a B ear Canister(防熊罐): The park is filled with all kinds of wildlife that are more than willing to help themselves to your food. Bring a bear canister to keep your supplies safe.
●Firewood: Some campgrounds have firewood for sale, but visitors are allowed to collect kindling(引火物)in locations where that isn’t the case.
●Group Camping Sites: The park offers large-group camping sites in Kalaloch. The reservation may require a phone call to complete and has different pricing models. Visit the website for more information.
●Reservation Fees: All fees for the various campsites are payable by credit card only. No cash is accepted. Be sure to have a card with you if you are not making a reservation online ahead of time.
1. What do Staircase and Dosewallips have in common?

A．They charge the most.	B．They welcome tents only.
C．They are open year-round.	D．They need a reservation.

2. Which campground is suitable for campers in large groups?

A．Staircase.	B．Kalaloch.
C．Dosewallips.	D．Deer Park.

3. Which of the following is banned in the campgrounds?

A．Making a fire.	B．Feeding wild animals.
C．Paying in cash.	D．Bringing some firewood.

5 . 听下面一段独白，回答以下小题。
1. When did the science museum open?

A．In 1976.

B．In 1989.

C．In 1991.

2. What was first put into the museum?

A．The robots.

B．The DC-3 airplane.

C．The Energy Machine.

3. Where can visitors go to explore the science in the kitchen?

A．In the Laboratory.

B．In the Lecture Hall.

C．In the Materials Classroom.

4. Who can enter the museum for free?

A．Students.

B．Doctors and nurses.

C．People over 60.

6 . Top Sunny Christmas Destinations

You’re imagining what your dream Christmas will be like, walking on a perfect beach with your toes sinking into the warm, soft sand instead of wearing layers of winter clothes. If you prefer summer, now is the time to visit NH Hotels web and plan your ideal warm holiday for Christmas. Here, we’ve selected a list of some of the most attractive sunny Christmas destinations around the world.

Buenos Aires, Argentina — Sizzling Summer Celebrations

At the heart of Argentina’s summer season, Buenos Aires comes alive with Christmas festivities. As the city sizzles under the South American sun, you’ll find locals celebrating with all the passion and their talents that define their culture. Christmas Eve, known as “Nochebuena,” is the highlight, and Argentines gather with friends and family for a grand feast that often includes asado (barbecue) and traditional holiday desserts. One of the most unique aspects of a Buenos Aires Christmas is the lively street celebrations, with fireworks lighting the night sky and tango dancers rushing to the streets.

Sydney, Australia — Beachfront Bliss

Down under, Christmas falls in the middle of summer, making Sydney an ideal destination for sun-seekers. The city is famous for its dazzling Christmas lights displays, including the iconic lighting of the Christmas tree in Martin Place. Bondi Beach is a popular spot for beachgoers, where you can spend Christmas Day enjoying the sun, surf, and a picnic on the sand.

Bali, Indonesia — Tropical Paradise

Bali, with its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage, offers a unique tropical Christmas experience. While Christmas isn’t a traditional Balinese holiday, many resorts and restaurants embrace the festive season with special events, dinners, and decorations. You can enjoy a beachfront Christmas dinner, explore ancient temples, or simply relax under the sun.

Cancún, Mexico — Mexican Christmas Magic

Cancún, on the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, is a hotspot for those seeking a festive Christmas. The holiday season here is marked by exciting Mexican traditions. Cancún’s amazing beaches and crystal-clear waters provide the perfect backdrop for a tropical Christmas celebration.

1. What’s special about a Buenos Aires Christmas?

A．A grand feast is provided for visitors.	B．Lively celebrations are held in the streets.
C．The locals celebrate Christmas with passion.	D．Families get together to enjoy traditional food.

2. If you’re interested in local cultural heritage, which destination will you most probably explore?

A．Buenos Aires, Argentina.

B．Sydney, Australia.

C．Bali, Indonesia.

D．Cancún, Mexico.

3. Where is the text most probably taken from?

A．A web page.

B．An encyclopedia.

C．A travel journal.

D．A geography textbook.

7 . A series of trains between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day add extra fun, especially for families. Here are four holiday trips to celebrate the season. All aboard!

Cascade Canyon Winter Train

This memorable five-hour steam (蒸汽) train ride takes passengers through the snowy ops of the Rockies and remote wilderness of San Juan National Forest. Enjoy a fireside lunch or a hike along the picture-like Animus River during your hour-long stop.

Aurora Winter Train

This seasonal train heads north from Anchorage to Denali, America’s highest mountain. You can stop after three hours at Talkeetna to ski down the mountain or continue on for another nine hours to Fairbanks for some breathtaking northern lights viewing. Trains leave every Saturday morning, with return trips every Sunday.

Amtrak California Zephyr

Long-distance train trippers love the Zephyr in any season, but winter adds the attraction of pretty snow outside the window as you go over the Rockies. Departing daily all winter from both Chicago and San Francisco, the 51-hour journey offers hotel-level service in a bedroom with a private bathroom and shower. Or, break up the trip with stops to sleep and ski in Denver or Salt Lake City.

The Polar Express

The Polar Express, a Caldecott Medal-winning children’s book and Tom Hanks’ movie, is re-created in 40 Polar Express rides in 24 states, putting more than a million annual passengers in train seats. The story is read and performed by onboard actors, while Santa and dancing chefs who serve hot chocolate and treats add to the fun on the way to the “North Pole”. Most of the rides will take you to scenic places like the Grand Canyon, Mount Rainier, and the Catskills.

1. How long does Cascade Canyon Winter Train stop at the Animus River?

A．One hour.

B．Three hours.

C．Five hours.

D．Nine hours.

2. Which train runs between Anchorage and Fairbanks?

A．The Polar Express.

B．Amtrak California Zephyr.

C．Aurora Winter Train.

D．Cascade Canyon Winter Train.

3. What can passengers do in the Polar Express rides?

A．Enjoy a fireside lunch.

B．See live performances.

C．Cook meals with Santa.

D．Watch Tom Hanks’ movies.

8 . Best Hotels Along the California Coast

Crystal Cove Beach Cottages

These 1938 beachfront rooms occupy a part of Newport Beach’s Crystal Cove State Park. At the beginning, developed as a movie set, these attractive houses, now repainted in lively beach style, aim to remain the original look with Murphy beds.

Advance booking is required, as the rooms sell out the moment they are available (可获得的).

www.crystalcove.org.

Montage Laguna Beach

Standing guard over 30 beachfront acres, Montage Laguna Beach transports you to that pleasant house with marble baths, comfortable bedding and ocean views.

Three swimming pools, including one just for kids and another relaxation space, four onsite restaurants and a kids club are just a small part of the outstanding service offered by this hotel.

www.montagehotels.com.

Terranea

Just south of Los Angeles, atop the Palo Verdes Peninsula, Terranea offers ocean-view guest rooms along with heated baths and rain showers.

Families love the huge swimming pool, the water slide, the kids program, the nightly bonfire (篝火) and the selection of kid-friendly restaurants. The young appreciate the dirt road that snakes away into the distance.

www.terranea.com.

El Capitan Canyon

Just north of Santa Barbara in a coastal corner, El Capitan Canyon promotes a life lived outdoors, with some extra comfort.

Guests stay in heated tents (帐篷) decorated in the Native American style with raised beds, and private outdoor picnic tables. Guests can also access a swimming pool, and taste dinners at the award-winning restaurant.

www.elcapitancanyon.com.

1. What are you required to do to go for your holiday at Crystal Cove Beach Cottages?

A．Bring a quality tent.	B．Book a room in advance.
C．Get a membership card.	D．Prepare food for a picnic.

2. What can Montage Laguna Beach offer?

A．A room with Murphy beds.	B．An original movie set.
C．A special pool for children.	D．An outdoor picnic table.

3. Which website can you visit to learn about the Native American decoration?

A．www.crystalcove.org.	B．www.terranea.com.
C．www.montagehotels.com.	D．www.elcapitancanyon.com.

9 . Four of the Best Ski Resorts (胜地) For the Holidays

Kitzbuhel, Austria

It’s known for the most prized but frightening downhill on the ski racing calendar. By day, you can enjoy 230 kilometers of runs over the Kitzbuhel Alps, and drop into numerous mountain huts to fill up on hearty Tyrolean classics such as dumplings and cheese spatzle.

Holidays hotel: The Tennerhof is a good place for you to stay.

Griesenauweg 26, 6370 Kitzbuhel, Austria; +43 535663181

Courmayeur, Italy

The historic town at the foot of Mont Blanc is a foodie (美食家) heaven with beautiful huts and mountain restaurants across its 41 kilometers of ski runs.

The atmospheric center around the Viale Monte Bianco is a mix of cozy cafes and designer shops, and is a perfect place to wander.

Holidays hotel: The Hotel Chalet Svizzero is a great option in a good location. Perfect for couples.

Strada Statale 26, 11, 11013 Courmayeur, Italy; +39 016584817

Val Thorens, France

A four-time winner of the “World’s Best Ski Resort” award, it combines high-class hospitality (好客) with more skiing than most can handle, at a starting altitude of 2,300 meters, stretching through the famous resorts of Les Menuires, Meribel and Courchevel.

Holidays hotel: The five-star Hotel Pashmina is a wonderful choice.

Place du Slalom, 73440, Val Thorens; +33 479000999

Wengen, Switzerland

Wengen, reached by rack railway, shares a ski area with Grindelwald — not the dark wizard from Harry Potter but the scenic village at the foot of the Eiger’s infamous North Face.

Just across the valley is the old village of Murren, home to Piz Gloria on the Schilthorn (2,971 meters), where the cable car station and revolving restaurant are familiar to James Bond fans as baddie Blofeld’s mountain-top hideaway in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.

Holidays hotel: The Maya Caprice is your best choice.

Schonegg 1333D, 3823 Wengen; +41 338560606

1. Which hotel is suitable for a couple skiing in Italy?

A．The Tennerhof.	B．The Hotel Chalet Svizzero.
C．Hotel Pashmina.	D．The Maya Caprice.

2. Which ski resort has won the “World’s Best Ski Resort” award four times?

A．Kitzbuhel.

B．Courmayeur.

C．Val Thorens.

D．Wengen.

3. Which hotel number will a James Bond fan call if he skis in Switzerland?

A．+43 535663181	B．+39 016584817
C．+33 479000999	D．+41 338560606

10 . Group Visits and Tours

The Museum of Fine Arts Houston(MFAH) welcomes groups to experience the Museum’s collections and exhibitions. Discounts (折扣) for self-guided group visits and expert-guide d group tours are there for those who book 10 or more tickets.

From the great art collections of the Museum of Fine Arts Houston—with objects crossing the world and human creative history—to the ever-changing schedule of thematic exhibitions, the Museum offers a lot of tour topics to suit your interests. Visit as a self-guided group, and you and your guests can explore at your own pace. For a deeper exploration into the galleries, request (要求) an expert-guided tour.

Policy

The Museum offers tours and packages to groups of 10 or more for the Museum’s collections and selected exhibitions. Membership benefits and free individual admission may not be used at the same time with school or group visits. Tours led by guides who don’t work in the Museum are not allowed; please contact groupsales@mfah.org in advance of your visit for all tour requests.

Reservations

For price information, contact groupsales@mfah.org or 713-639-7878. To make a reservation (预定) request, complete the group visit request form. At least one-week advance notice is needed for self-guided visits and two weeks for expert-guided tours. Reservations are confirmed with an order number and decided by advance payment.

Looking for school tours? Find information here or email schooltours@mfah.org with your questions.

Main address: 1001 Bissonnet, Houston, Texas 77005

MFAH Information Line: 713-639-7300

1. How can you get discounted tickets for the Museum?

A．By visiting it with an expert.	B．By buying at least ten tickets.
C．By booking tickets in advance.	D．By paying a visit with your family.

2. Who will fail to visit the Museum?

A．Groups led by a guide they bring.	B．Children without their parents’ company.
C．Those coming with a clear visit plan.	D．Visitors without membership.

3. What should you do if you want to have a self-guided visit?

A．Call 713-639-7878.	B．Buy the ticket two weeks ahead.
C．Visit schooltours@mfah.org.	D．Pay for your ticket in advance.