1 . Where to Buy Art Online
Buying a piece of art is easier than ever. Now, art is at the tip of your fingers thanks to the internet. Here are platforms available for all prices and tastes.
ARTFINDER
ArtFinder focuses on selling original and limited edition artwork from independent artists around the world. With 5,700 five-star review son TrustPilot, ArtFinder is a reliable source for affordable art. Buyers like the simple purchasing process and appreciate the accurate representation of the artwork on the website. If you aren't satisfied with what you receive, the platform has a 14-day return policy.
FINE ART AMERICA
Fine Art America is the world's largest online art marketplace. It is home to hundreds of thousands of artists, photographers and global brands. You can also search thematic collections by high-level brands like Rolling Stone, so it's a good choice if you are looking for a print of a famous photograph. If you aren't satisfied with what you receive, the platform has a 30-day return policy.
ARTSY
If you are looking for a high-end gallery experience from home, check out Artsy. This highly respected platform has over 2 million pieces of art available. Artsy aims to make collecting art easy and allows art lovers to buy artwork and even sell pieces from their collections. Once you've purchased or made an offer, all sales are final.
SAATCHI ART
If you want to purchase from emerging and mid-career independent artists, Saatchi Art is a great option. Saatchi has original pieces and art prints ranging from under $500 to over $10,000. With over60,000 international artists on the platform, there is plenty to choose from. Saatchi has a 14-day return policy for original artwork.
1. What does ARTFINDER focus on?A.Print of a famous photograph. | B.Pieces from personal collections. |
C.Original pieces and art prints. | D.Original and limited edition artwork. |
A.ARTFINDER. | B.FINE ART AMERICA. | C.ARTSY. | D.SAATCHI ART. |
A.To educate. | B.To introduce. | C.To confirm. | D.To propose. |
2 . The advertising industry started with the fundamental purpose of promoting and selling goods to people who might need them. Advertising agencies would create a basic type of advertisement known as a commercial advertisement. Such advertisements have gone through a process of change over the years along with social, economic and technological developments.
Classic advertisements used to give information about finding certain products. It was likely to be the name of a company, part of which might include the name of the place from which the product originated. For example, it could be “Shanghai Sewing Machines”, or “Tsing Tao Beer Corporation”. From the name you would know what the company sells, where they are located, and the name of the product.
Advertising agencies used to create this kind of advertising and it could be very effective. But then they realized that it might not be suitable for a marketplace where products and services are in direct competition with each other. Particularly now, in modern times, advertisements need to attract and hold the attention of the public. For this reason, it’s now normal to see advertisements that consist of pictures or words from experts to show people how good the product is. Others try to create advertisements that people simply enjoy looking at. As present-day advertisers often have large budgets, huge amounts of money are spent on applying modern design techniques to make these advertisements as visually attractive as possible. However, even this is often not enough to be noticed in a modern city.
Because of the boost in advertising, people are used to seeing a high standard of visual design. Modern advertisements need something else to separate them from their competitors. To stand out in a world of competitive advertising, they must combine the highest standard of design with creative ways to make people believe that they “must have the product”. For example, some advertisements may suggest that buying a car can make you free. That is, they use the concept of freedom to sell the car. Other common ideas include happiness, wealth and success. In fact, in the world of advertisements, such content is as old as advertising itself.
For many of today’s advertisers, repeating old ideas is not a successful approach. Ideas that would work in the past genuinely are not as effective now. They realize that it does not matter how attractive the idea linked with the product is—most people know and anticipate that the main purpose of the advertisement is to make customers buy the product. Instead, these advertisers look for other ways to make people notice their products. The top advertisers of today believe that using humour as well as new and unusual ideas to surprise people is important. Their aim is to create something that has never been seen before and that people find interesting. By doing this, they hope to make people forget that someone is trying to sell them something!
However, not all advertising is about selling products and services for a profit. Some advertisements nowadays aim to make a contribution to society and welfare. For example, there are public advertisements, which encourage citizens to participate in improving their neighbourhood, protecting the environment, and helping other people. Over the last decade, the government has sponsored advertisements to educate the public on fighting AIDS, saving water, helping the poor, giving up smoking, etc. These advertisements have helped to increase public knowledge about topics that used to be ignored by most people, and this has made our society a better place for everyone.
1. what is the passage mainly about?A.Different types of advertisements. | B.Different attitudes towards advertisements. |
C.The development of advertisements. | D.All of the above. |
A.It gives information about a product. | B.It includes the name of a company. |
C.It includes the name of the place. | D.It attracts the attention to the public. |
A.consist of pictures or words from experts. |
B.create advertisements that people simply enjoy looking at. |
C.combine the highest standard of design with creative ways. |
D.make people forget the selling purpose of advertisements. |
A.not all advertising is about selling products and services for a profit. |
B.Some advertisements aim to make a contribution to society and welfare. |
C.the government has sponsored advertisements to educate the public . |
D.Advertisements can help to make our society a better place for everyone. |
3 . Palacio Principe Real—the Best Hotel in Lisbon
Location
Right in the heart of one of Lisbon’s loveliest districts, where faded palaces mix with buzzing restaurants and concept stores overlook palm-filled parks. Lisbon airport is a 20-minute drive away.
Service and Facilities
Whether you want to ride a horse along a beach at sunset or taste wines, all can be organised. There is a small spa with two treatment rooms offering massages(按摩) and facials, yoga in the mornings and a heated swimming pool in the garden.
Rooms
Some have showers; others have freestanding bathtubs. Some are simply decorated, and others are luxurious(奢华的). But all have a view over the wonderful gardens. Beds are covered with soft cottons, and bathrooms in local limestone(石灰岩) come with heated floors. There are coffee machines, scented candles to light up your bath time and free mini bars with health shots and, what always seems to be missing from hotels, fresh milk for your morning coffee.
Food and Drink
There are well done, simple food drawing on the best ingredients that Portugal has, from the smoked hams to the local cheeses and the freshest catch of the day from the market. Breakfast is à la carte with options such as avocado toast and poached eggs. The Duck Bar, so called after the hotel logo of an Indian runner duck, serves a wide range of Portuguese wines.
Value for Money
Doubles in low season from £457, including breakfast. Doubles in high season from £573, including breakfast. Free Wi-Fi.
Access for guests with disabilities?
There is one room that is suitable for wheelchair users, which makes Palácio Principe Real stand out.
Family-Friendly?
No children under 14.
1. What can guests do when staying at Palácio Principe Real?A.Do yoga. | B.Ride a bike. |
C.Make wine. | D.Learn gardening. |
A.All of them are not the same. | B.Some need more decorations. |
C.They may be noisy at night. | D.They have limestone floors. |
A.Wi-Fi is free of charge in low season. | B.People of different ages are welcome. |
C.Prices are the same all the year round. | D.It is accessible to guests with disabilities. |
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Rental Home
Fenced in with large private quiet yard. Hundred-year-old trees to relax under. I have maintained the 1865 feel and not really changed the lay out much, just modernized her to make her comfortable and yet keep her historic. Fully furnished (配备家具的). Central air-conditioning and Heat. In walking distance to all major attractions, 1/2 block from Duval Street yet private and quiet.
House Rules
Pets are not permitted here. We do not allow guests under the age of 25. If children are accompanied by adults, please note that the house is not childproof. We love our cigars here in Key West and provide ash trays (烟灰缸) outside for this purpose. So PLEASE, no smoking indoors.
Getting Around
Key West has just started an extremely good service which is just 1.5 blocks from Seaside Place. It is called the Loop (环线) Bus. It stops at United and Duval, so you would go out of the house and go right to Duval Street and the bus can be caught there. When you get on the bus, ask for a route map.
Cancellation Policy
100% refund within 24 hours after booking (provided the stay is at least 60 days away).
No refund available once booking is confirmed.
1. What do we know about the Mermaids House?A.It keeps its old style. | B.It can be accessed easily. |
C.It offers a formal atmosphere. | D.It has the most modern conveniences. |
A.Adults under 25. | B.No children. |
C.Large pets forbidden. | D.Indoor smoking prohibited. |
A.To advertise. | B.To inform. |
C.To comment. | D.To entertain. |
5 . The Junction Campground
The Junction Campground is a great spot for river-based camping along one of Australia’s best-known rivers, near Grafton. Paddling the beautiful Nymboida River is a great way to explore the rainforest-lined riverbanks and rocky cliffs of Nymboi-Binderay National Park.
Craigmhor Mountain Retreat
Set in 1, 000 acres of wilderness, Craigmhor is a perfect base for bush walking, mountain biking, fishing, and bird watching. Within easy driving distance of Sydney, Craigmhor is the ideal location for overseas visitors or urban people to experience the Australian bush.
The Stone Cottage
Said to be Albury’s oldest house, the Stone Cottage warmly welcomes visitors with its exposed stone walls and an open fireplace. Set well back from the street in a spacious enclosed garden (ideal for pets), the two-bedroom self-contained house is perfect for small families and couples.
Located behind the main home, the Stone Cottage’s Kitchen Cottage turns on the charm as much as the larger house. Private from the main house, the one-bedroom self-contained cottage has a veranda (游廊) which looks out over an established herb garden, ideal for couples.
Instead of asking guests to wake at a certain time for a prepared breakfast, guests of both cottages receive a selection of breakfast cuisines as they like, allowing sleep-ins and lazy mornings.
Pets are welcome.
Country Barn Retreat
Situated in a peaceful location and perfect for short stays, Elaine and John offer this amnazing self-contained two-bedroom Country Barn Retreat, overlooking rural views and surounded by lovely gardens.
Sleeping up to four adults in this comfortable cottage where you can relax by the cosy wood fire in winter.
Fully equipped kitchen. Lounge and dining area with air-conditioning and fans to keep it cool in summer. Pet friendly, however, you would need to make arrangements with Elaine or John first.
1. Where will you go if you’re a bird lover?A.The Stone Cottage. |
B.Craigmhor Mountain Retreat. |
C.The Junction Campground. |
D.Country Barn Retreat. |
A.It lacks an open fireplace. |
B.It’s building a herb garden. |
C.It has three bedrooms in all. |
D.It provides a well-prepared breakfast. |
A.Pets are allowed. |
B.Fires are forbidden. |
C.Both have a veranda. |
D.Both are near rivers. |
6 . Full-time Puppy Raiser
What Is a Full-time Puppy Raiser?
Full-time Puppy Raisers are devoted volunteers who take our Service Dogs in Training into their homes and look after them for 12 to 16 months, working on critical socialization and basic obedience (顺从).
As a Full-time Puppy Raiser:
·You attend regular training sessions with a NEADS trainer.
·You care for the NEADS dog 24/7.
·You practice training and socialization exercises, as well as daily exercise.
·You receive a “Service Dog in Training” vest for the puppy to wear, as well as all food, care, and medications for the duration of the dog’s training, at no cost.
·You are financially responsible for a box, chew toys, dog bowls, appropriate training treats, and a long leash line.
Who Makes a Good Full-time Puppy Raiser?
The ideal candidate is just about anyone who is able to devote the time, energy, and love necessary to successfully socialize and train a NEADS Service Dog in Training. We are looking for young families, couples, retirees, and individuals.
Are You Ready?
Before you apply to become a Full-time Puppy Raiser for one of our puppies, it’s helpful to understand what we need from you. If you can answer “yes” to these questions, then please consider applying!
·Are you physically able to manage a young and energetic dog?
·Are you able to attend weekly training sessions with NEADS trainers?
·Are you available to socialize a puppy every day under NEADS guidelines?
·Are you prepared to handle the puppy and teach them in the home?
Steps to Becoming a Full-time Puppy Raiser
·Submit an online application.
·Schedule a home visit with NEADS staff.
·Receive the NEADS Service Dog in Training.
1. What can a full-time puppy raiser get for free?A.Dog food. | B.Chew toys. |
C.A dog bowl. | D.A sports vest. |
A.A busy mother. | B.A blind man. |
C.A retired couple. | D.A little kid. |
A.Offer a training plan. | B.Apply online first. |
C.Prove your love for dogs. | D.Have previous experience. |
7 . Picnic Shelter Reservations
Vancouver Parks and Recreation maintains four covered picnic shelters that are available for reservation at the following parks:
●Fisher Basin Community Park
●Leroy Haagen Memorial Park
●Marine Community Park
●Marshall Community Park
Picnic shelters are available to reserve between May 1 and September 30 each year. Reservations are for the entire day with a reservation fee of $100. When not reserved, shelters are available for free. Reserve a picnic shelter by calling 360-487-7100.
Shelter Reservation Cancellation Policy
If canceled one month or more before the rental date, 100% of the fee will be refunded. If canceled 1-4 weeks before the rental date, 75% of the fee will be refunded. No refunds will be granted if the reservation is canceled less than one week prior to the rental date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a way to find out if an event is already scheduled at a park?
Yes. Contact Marshall Community Center at 360-487-7100 to find out about events taking place in our parks.
Q: What facilities are included with a picnic shelter reservation?
Reservations include use of all picnic tables located within the shelter and electricity (there is no electricity at Marine Park). Playground facilities and restrooms will be shared with the public.
Park Use Permits
Depending on the type of event you’re hosting, you will need to get a Park Use Permit from Vancouver Parks and Recreation. A Park Use Permit gives you permission to bring special items and equipment into the park.
1. According to the passage, Vancouver picnic shelters ________.A.don’t allow visitors to host events |
B.are available to reserve all year round |
C.can be used for free when not reserved |
D.don’t offer picnic tables or electricity |
A.$100. | B.$75. | C.$25. | D.0. |
A.A book review. | B.A news report. |
C.A science journal. | D.A travel brochure. |
8 . British Museum
Located in Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG, the British Museum houses a vast collection of world art and artifacts and is free to all visitors. The British Museums surprising collection spans over two million years of human history and culture, and it has more than 7 million objects, so it would probably take a week to see everything.
Over 6 million visitors every year experience the collection, including world-famous objects such as the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies.
Admission (入场费) and opening times
Free, open daily from 10:00 to 17:30.
Open until 20:30 on Fridays,except Good Friday.
Closed on 24, 25 and 26 December and 1 January.
Large luggage (行李), suitcases and cabin baggage
For everyone’s safety, all bags, packages and personal items may be searched before entry. Wheeled cases and large items of luggage are not allowed on British Museum for safety and security reasons. Storage for luggage is available at major rail stations, including Euston, Kings Cross and Charring Cross.
Membership
Membership allows you to discover two million years of human history with free unlimited entry to special exhibitions.
Individual (个人) membership: $74
Under 26 membership: $54
Young friends (ages 8—15):$25
Shops
The Museum has four shops where you can buy books, souvenirs, and family gifts.
1. When can you visit the British Museum?A.At 9:00 Friday. | B.On Christmas Day. |
C.At 12:00 Monday. | D.On Good Friday. |
A.At some crossings. | B.At major train stations. |
C.In the hall of the Museum. | D.At the entrance to the Museum. |
A.79. | B.99. | C.128. | D.148. |
9 . Some interesting places in Barcelona
Barcelona is now Europe’s sixth most visited city. If you’ve never visited it before, a plan to go there is worth making because there’s so much to see. The following will definitely leave a deep impression on the first-timers in Barcelona.
Grab a fresh snack at La Boqueria Market
Barcelona’s biggest market is found right in the middle of the famous La Rambla. Its central location means that it’s always packed with people, so prepare to push your way through the stands! The selection and quality of ingredients are excellent. Grab a milk shake and get lost in the crowds.
Look down on the city from the majestic Park Guell
The mosaic-covered buildings of Park Guell have come to be the postcard photo of Barcelona! The park itself is remarkably beautiful and has one of the best views of the whole city. The best way to reach Park Guell from the city centre is to take Bus 24 from Placa Catalunya. Some areas of the park are free, while the best pats require you to buy a ticket.
Appreciate 4,000 original Picassos at the Picasso Museum
The Picasso Museum in Barcelona showcases one of the most extensive Picasso collections in the world, with a particular highlight on much of his early work. Picasso spent his adolescent years in Barcelona, and it is the place where he developed his artistic training. The Museum is located in the heart of the Old Town, in the very streets where the young Picasso lived his Barcelona life.
Take a tour of historic Camp Nou
The second biggest association football stadium in the world is home to one of the most historic clubs of all time. A tour at Camp Nou includes access to the Camp Nou Museum where you will be able to see 22 Liga and 4 Champions League trophies in the same room. Explore an area solely dedicated to Barcelona’s hero, Leo Messi.
1. What can you do at La Boqueria Market?A.Buy souvenirs for friends. | B.Enjoy freshly-made food. |
C.Meet the footballer, Messi. | D.Buy postcards in the market. |
A.Those who like beautiful scenery. | B.Those who like western paintings. |
C.Those who are interested in football. | D.Those eager to taste delicious food. |
A.To advertise for a grand park. | B.To attract more visitors to Barcelona. |
C.To introduce a famous artist Picasso. | D.To praise delicious snacks in Barcelona. |
10 . If you are currently learning English, 1 highly recommend you check out the apps below.
Quizlet
When learning English, you probably have to memorize a lot of words. If you want to grow your vocabulary as fast as possible, a flashcard app like Quizlet is a great shortcut. With Quizlet, you can create a set of flashcards with new English words you are trying to learn, and practice typing them out until you know them by heart. It's a simple concept, but it's highly effective.
Spotify
Spotify is not a language learning app. But chances are that you already use it or a similar app for listening to music or podcasts(播客), and one of the effective ways to study is combining something you already use into your existing habits. If Spotify is already on your phone, you can subscribe to some podcasts for English learners or download playlists of songs for learning English, or make your own.
Beelinguapp
Beelinguapp makes reading in English as convenient as possible. It shows you a text in your own language with the English translation side-by-side. Texts are short enough so that you can really dig into every word. They cover topics from fairytales, to science, to current news articles. There's even a "karaoke" feature where you can read along to audio, which helps you match up the English pronunciation with the English spellings.
Tandem
Tandem is a language exchange app which connects learners from all over the world. It can help you find a native English speaker who is trying to learn your native language, so you can swap language skills. If you only have five minutes to spare, you can simply exchange messages with a native English speaker. If you have more time, you can have a longer, digital language exchange" by sharing voice notes, or using video chat. It's a great way to test your English skills out with real people.
1. What is Spotify intended to help people do?A.Develop a good habit. | B.Listen to music or podcasts. |
C.Learn a foreign language. | D.Memorize words with flashcards. |
A.Learners can use their native language as a reference. |
B.It's convenient for learners to translate voice notes. |
C.It provides learners a chance to tell their own stories. |
D.Learners can sing English songs along to the music. |
A.Quizlet. | B.Spotify. | C.Beelinguapp. | D.Tandem. |