1 . Metro (地铁) Pocket Guide
Metrorail (地铁)
Each passenger needs a farecard to enter and go out. Up to two children under age five may travel free with a paying customer.
Farecard machines are in every station, Bring small bills because there are no change machines in the station and farecard machines only provide up to $5 in change.
Get one day of unlimited Metrorail rides with a One Day Pass. Buy it from a farecard machine in Metro stations. Use it after 9: 30 a. m. until closing on weekdays, and all day on weekends and holidays.
Hours of Service
Open: 5 a.m. Mon-Fri 7 a.m. Sat-Sun.
Closed: midnight Sun-Thur 3a.m. Fri.-Sat. nights
Last train time varies. To avoid missing the last train, please check the last train time posted in the stations.
Metrobus
When paying with exact change, the fare is $ 1.35. When paying with a smart CARD the fare is $1.25.
Fares for senior /disabled customers
Senior citizens 65 and older and disabled customers may ride for half the regular fare. On Metrorail and Motorbus, use a senior/disabled farecard or Smart card. For more information about buying senior/disabled farecards, Smart cards and passes, please visit MetroOpenDoors.com or call202-637-7000 and 202-637-8000.
Senior citizens and disabled customers can get free guide on how to use proper Motorbus and Metrorail services by calling 202-962-1100
Travel tips
Avoid riding during weekday rush periods — before 9:30 a.m. and between 4 and 6 p.m.
If you lose something on a bus or train or in a station, please call Lost & Found at 202-962-1195.
1. What should you know about farecard machines?A.They start selling tickets at 9:30 a. m. | B.They make change for no more than $5. |
C.They offer special service to the elderly. | D.They are connected to change machines. |
A.At midnight. | B.At 7 p.m. | C.At 5 a.m. | D.At 3 a.m. |
A.202-673-7000 | B.202-962-1100 | C.202-962-1195 | D.202-673-8000 |
2 . Road trip
Motorhome delivery offers great family holidays. For just $1 a day, you can hire a fullyequipped motorhome, which delivers you to a specific destination within some days and kilometers. You then hire another one to get home or take a bus or train. Your only other expense will be fuel and about $20 a day for parking fees. To learn more, visit apollocamper.com.
Plan ahead
For a comfortable break, flexibility with times, dates and places helps lower the cost. Find a few hotels you like, ask about their vacant rooms, then wait a few weeks and call again. If they still have rooms, you’re at an advantage to ask for a better price. Lots of lastminute deals are online. Watif (watif.com.au) has deals on hotels that have dropped their prices so low. You don’t know where you’re staying until it’s booked, but anywhere with four or five stars has to be fairly good.
Back to nature
Wild camping appeals to nature lovers and costs nothing. This is forbidden on beaches and parks in most urban areas, but you can turn up in more distant areas as long as nobody owns the land. You’ll need to take everything with you and may need to shop on eBay (ebay.com.au). If you’re a camping beginner, be aware of safety measures and get your questions answered on the Internet.
Swap meet
How about a home swap? For a $250 yearly joining cost, you can stay in someone’s home in an international place of your choice while they or someone else stays in yours. Find out more at familylink.com.au.
1. Where can you get the information about motorhomes?A.apollocamper.com. | B.watif.com.au. |
C.ebay.com.au. | D.familylink.com.au. |
A.Choosing hotels with four or five stars. |
B.Bargaining prices through the Internet. |
C.Waiting for some time before booking. |
D.Deciding on rooms as early as possible. |
A.Keep in touch with eBay. | B.Watch out for possible dangers. |
C.Stay away from noman’sland. | D.Take only what you need. |
3 . From cottages surrounded by impressive gardens to days spent exploring sandy beaches and deep woods filled with wildlife, in My Family and Other Animals, English writer Gerald Durrell provided a vivid account of his family’s time on the Greek island of Corfu in the 1930s.
Come for the arresting descriptions of Corfu landscapes and stay for Durrell’s laugh-out-loud tales of his unusual family. This book, Durrell wrote humorously in the introduction, “was intended to be a nostalgic(怀旧的)account of natural history, but in the first few pages, I made the mistake of introducing my family.”
Durrell, later known for his zoo keeping and the preservation of wildlife, was just a child during his family’s five-year stay in Corfu. He is 10-year-old Gerry in the book—curious, passionate about animals and a detailed storyteller of his strange family: his imaginative elder brother Larry with his literary ambitions, lovestruck sister Margo, sporty brother Leslie and his ever-calm, loving mother.
Durrell’s attention to detail is what makes the book so winning, with every sight, sound and smell of the island brought to life. One minute you’ll be laughing as Larry’s clever literary friends walk down to the daffodil-yellow cottage, the next you’ll be catching your breath as Durrell describes swimming at night in the Ionian Sea: “Lying on my back in the silky water, staring at the sky, only moving my hands and feet slightly, I was looking at the Milky Way stretching like a silk scarf across the sky and wondering how many stars it contained.”
My Family and Other Animals is quite difficult to classify, being one part travel, one part autobiography, one part natural history, and one part comedy, with a thread of descriptive language running throughout that sometimes raises it nearly to poetry.
As a real delight to read, it’s the perfect literary escapism for any adult or older teenager who is currently walking down a tough road in life.
1. Which word best describes Durrell’s life in Corfu?A.Diverse. | B.Busy. | C.Risky. | D.Tough. |
A.I just introduced my family by mistake. | B.I shouldn’t have introduced my family. |
C.I gave false information about my family. | D.I couldn’t help introducing my family. |
A.Durrell’s rich imagination. | B.Some interesting plots of the book. |
C.The book’s writing feature. | D.Some vivid descriptions of the island. |
A.To share an experience. | B.To introduce a writing style. |
C.To recommend a book. | D.To describe an unusual place. |
4 . Some China Podcasts (播客) to Listen to
Whether you’re an old-timer or a newcomer to China, there’s always more to learn about this awesome country. To help in your never-ending thirst for knowledge, we’ve rounded up some most entertaining China-focused podcasts that hit on everything from history to business.
Tech Buzz China by Pandaily
Tech Buzz China by Pandaily is a technology podcast about China’s innovations. Its co-hosted by Rui Ma and Ying Lu, who are both seasoned China-watchers with years of experience working in the technology space in the country. They share and discuss the most important tech news from China every week.
The China History Podcast
Started in 2010, Laszlo Montgomery presents topics that cover 5, 000 years of Chinese history and culture. The show has a lot of unknown and interesting history lessons that help provide more color as to why China is the way it is. Topics like the history of Tang poetry, or the Hokkien people are analyzed and explored.
China Untold
The China Untold podcast is a program that aims to introduce listeners to lesser-known stories from the Middle Kingdom. From urban tales and extinct religions to China’s role in the exploration of space, this podcast hosted by Matt Bossons, is your essential guide to the unusual and wonderful aspects of the world’s most highly populated nation.
The Wasai Show
The Wasai Show is hosted by Ne to Trevino from Mexico and Alice He who is a local Chinese. In each episode, stories are collected from listeners about a topic and shared in a funny way by both comedians. The first half of the show is presented in English, followed by a Chinese section.
1. Who are the podcasts intended for?A.Foreigners in China. | B.Chinese historians. |
C.Technology enthusiasts. | D.Podcast hosts in China. |
A.Tech Buzz China by Pan daily | B.The China History Podcast |
C.China Untold | D.The Wasai Show |
A.It is a talk show about local Chinese life. |
B.It has a single host discussing various topics. |
C.It features two hosts sharing stories from listeners. |
D.It includes interviews with experts on Chinese culture. |
5 . It goes without saying that sitting at a desk for a majority of the day will hurt our health. But don’t worry because there is a solution! After spending much time investigating the different offers when it comes to exercise equipment suitable for the office, I’d like to reveal some of my top recommendations.
☆ Stability Cushion These cushions are excellent to relieve back pain and shoulder aches, stabilize joints and strengthen muscles. Pros & ConsSmall and lightweight .Works well for lower back and posture · Inflating isn’t easy for some | ☆ Under-desk Elliptical Keeping your feet in motion while seated can go a long way to keep you happier, reduce stress, and increase your productivity Pros & ConsEasy to carry like a briefcase Whisper quiet and easy to use ·The rubber around the metal bar can wear out over time |
☆ Fitness Tracker What gets measured gets managed, and one great way to keep track of your fitness data is a fitness tracker. A fitness tracker records your energy levels, steps, distance, hourly activity and more Pros & Cons·Very comfortable to wear ·Lots of apps can be operated together ·Various customized options ·Sometimes there are connectivity issues | ☆ Balance Ball Chair Sitting on a balance ball leads to increased energy and productivity. In that way, it’s perfect for completing tasks at home or in the office. This chair promotes micro-movements, core strength, and stimulation Pros & Cons·Straightforward to build ·A great solution if you experience back pain ·Needs to be reinflated often |
A.Fitness trainers. | B.Recovering patients. |
C.Office workers. | D.Furniture designers. |
A.Stability Cushion and Fitness Tracker. |
B.Stability Cushion and Balance Ball Chair. |
C.Under-desk Elliptical and Fitness Tracker. |
D.Under-desk Elliptical and Balance Ball Chair. |
A.It wears out easily over time. | B.It may fail to get linked at times. |
C.It offers few personalized choices. | D.It doesn’t allow the use of other apps. |
6 . 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. |
7 . Watercolor Painting Classes
The following is something related to watercolor painting classes for people online.
What is the Watercolor Academy
The Watercolor Academy is much more than just a painting course. Here, you will also become a member of a unique art community where you can exhibit your artworks, get professional opinions on your creative progress, have your art questions answered, and communicate with your academy visitors.
Contents
Learn how to paint watercolors in our fun and practical art classes taught by professional artists in London. Our lively, fun Watercolor Painting Courses are designed to debunk (揭穿) the myth that painting with watercolors and inks is difficult—through our tutors’ lively instruction and encouragement, students will lose their depression and create lively artwork.
Schedule
Classes meet once a week on their scheduled day. Review our schedule to find out when course terms start and end, and please see the registration page for class days and times. We believe that with time, encouragement and the proper instruction, anyone can learn to draw and paint exceptionally well. Our school has served the Minneapolis & St. Paul community for over 25 years as artists and teachers.
Fees
The price for a group of 2 to 5 people is $ 100 per person. For 6 or more participants, the cost is $60 per person. The price for a private class starts at $ 200 for an individual. If you choose the private class, you will be able to select the painting of your choice and schedule the day and time that works well for you and the instructor. Call 970-429-2777 to book a private watercolor class.
1. What can students do in the Watercolor Academy?A.Give a lecture on painting. | B.Present their own good works. |
C.Set up a unique art community. | D.Learn to give professional opinions. |
A.To show watercolor painting is fun. | B.To make students professional artists. |
C.To make students more lively. | D.To make watercolor painting easy for its students. |
A.It can last for many hours. | B.The class is given by famous artists. |
C.The students can schedule their class time. | D.It requires students to work well. |
8 . Nowadays social media influencers have powerful influence. The concept of an influencer —a person who inspires or guides the actions of others—has been around for centuries. Before social media, influencers were famous persons or politicians far away from our lives.
In an age when anyone can be an influencer, content creators use their content on social media to influence others around the world.
Because of this, young people can see themselves represented more directly online through influencers. This can be important for the development of an adolescent’s identity.
A.They can have role models who are like them and reachable. |
B.It’s possible that young people use their social networking platforms. |
C.On the contrary, that kind of work and people behind it should be celebrated. |
D.Some have even become key opinion leaders, holding great cultural influence. |
E.The rise of influencers comes as young people spend more time online than before. |
F.However, the influence and power of today’s social media influencers is more noticeable. |
G.Though some influencers’ actions affect the youth’s attitude to life, many can be positive. |
9 . Of the many safety measures that Disney Parks had to set up to operate during the Covid-19 pandemic, requiring guests to keep a six-foot distance from the costumed characters must have been one of the hardest.
For kids or kids at heart, running into the waiting arms of Mickey Mouse and other beloved characters had been such a fascinating and essential part of the experience, which makes hanging back terribly tough.
But finally, hugs are back on the horizon at US Disney sites.
As early as April 18, “Disney will start reintroducing traditional character greetings at Disneyland in California and Walt Disney World Resorts, as well as aboard Disney Cruise Line and at Aulani Resort in Hawaii,” according to a new post on the official Disney Parks blog. Getting autographs, shooting photos close up and sharing a laugh face-to-face with characters such as Mulan, Goofy, and Donald Duck will all be back on the table.
“During the past two years, we’ve taken a very gradual, intentional approach to health and safety protocols,” wrote Shawn Slater, senior communications manager for Disney Live Entertainment, in the blog. “Recent trends and guidance have provided opportunities for us to bring back some of our most beloved magic, like character greetings and dining experiences. While not all locations will be available immediately, we anticipate reopening in stages throughout the spring and early summer.”
It’s not just character interactions that will be returning later this spring. At Disneyland in California, guests can look forward to the return of several nighttime spectaculars, including fireworks and Main Street Parade.
However, Disney still isn’t 100% back in some ways. Take face masks, for instance. Disney asks that visitors who are not fully vaccinated (接种疫苗) continue wearing face masks in all indoor locations. You can click here for their latest safety updates.
1. What makes it hard for Disney Parks to operate during the Covid-19 pandemic?A.They have to require their fascinating characters to be costumed. |
B.They have to ban visitors from getting close to beloved characters. |
C.They have to ask guests to keep a six-foot distance from each other. |
D.They have to make kids or kids at heart wait to meet Micky Mouse. |
A.Taking pictures next to Donald Duck. |
B.Having face-to-face conversations with Mulan. |
C.Dining on the table with Goofy. |
D.Watching performances given by characters. |
A.A magazine. | B.A website. |
C.A textbook. | D.A novel. |
A.Disney takes safety measures for guests to keep a distance from characters. |
B.Traditional character greetings will be back at all Disney Parks worldwide. |
C.Disney asks visitors who are not fully vaccinated to wear face masks. |
D.Character hugs and other interactions will return soon at US Disney sites. |
10 . The Enrollment of International Students of Xi’an University of Science and Technology (XUST)
Application Procedure
1. Log in to the website (gjjl.xust.edu.cn) to download and fill in the Application Form for International Students;
2. Provide digital photocopies or scans of valid (有效的) regular passport.
Charge List
1. Registration fee ( not refunded) : ¥200 per person (under 3 months), ¥400 per person (over 3 months)
2. Tuition and other charges
Item | Program | Fee (RMB) | Notes |
Tuition (学费) | International Cultural Exchange Program | 6,500 per half year 13,000 per year | Less than half a year, tuition will be charged by month |
Bachelor Degree Program | 16,000 (Science) | ||
14,000 (Liberal Art) | |||
Master Degree Program | 20,000 (Science) | ||
18,000 (Liberal Art) | |||
Ph. D Degree Program | 30,000 | ||
Accommodation | Single Room | 5,000-6,000 | |
Double Room | 2,500-3,000 | ||
Insurance | 800 | One year collected money | |
Medical examination | 415 | Collected money | |
Visa | 400 | ¥800 if over a year |
Medical Insurance
According to the regulations issued by the Chinese Ministry of Education, all international students are required to purchase the Comprehensive Insurance & Protection scheme for Foreigners Staying in China on the registration day. Students who do not have valid medical insurance will not be allowed to register.
Medical insurance fee: ¥800 per person per year
Contact Information
Room B202, Admission Division, International Exchange and Cooperation Office, Xi’ an University of Science and Technology, 58 Yanta Road, Xi’ an, Shaanxi, 710054, China.
Tel: + 86-29-85583033
Fax: + 86-29-85583719
E-mail: luc@xust.edu.cn
Website: www.xust.edu.cn
1. How can an applicant get the Application Form according to the text?A.Call at + 86-29-85583033. | B.Fax to + 86-29-85583719. |
C.Visit gjjl.xust.edu.cn. | D.Come to Room B202, XUST. |
A.Master Degree Program for Science. | B.Bachelor Degree Program for Science. |
C.Master Degree Program for Liberal Art. | D.Bachelor Degree Program for Liberal Art. |
A.Tuition. | B.Insurance. | C.Accommodation. | D.Medical examination. |