1 . International Day of Education

24 January

Education is a human right, a public good and a public responsibility. The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed (宣布) 24 January as International Day of Education, in celebration of the role of education for peace and development. Today, 250 million children and youth are out of school, and 763 million adults are illiterate (文盲的). Their right to education is being violated (侵犯) and it is unacceptable. It’s time to transform education.

International Day of Clean Energy

26 January

The International Day of Clean Energy on 26 January was declared by the General Assembly as a call to raise awareness and mobilize action for a just and inclusive transition (过渡) to clean energy for the benefit of people and the planet. 26 January is also the founding date of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), a global intergovernmental agency established in 2009 to support countries in their energy transitions.

World Health Day

7 April

It is celebrated annually and each year draws attention to a specific health topic of concern to people all over the world. The date of 7 April marks the anniversary of the founding of WHO in 1948.

The theme for World Health Day 2024 is “My health, my right”, which was chosen to champion the right of everyone, everywhere to have access to quality health services, education and information, as well as safe drinking water, clean air, good nutrition, quality housing, decent working and environmental conditions.

World Environment Day

5 June

World Environment Day, held annually on 5 June, brings together millions of people from across the globe, engaging them in the effort to protect and restore the Earth. People from more than 150 countries participate in this United Nations international day, which celebrates environmental action and the power of governments, businesses and individuals to create a more sustainable world. The event has been led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) since its start in 1973.

1. On what day is the event about world energy marked?

A．24 January.

B．26 January.

C．7 April.

D．5 June.

2. Which of the following event began in 1973?

A．International Day of Education.

B．International Day of Clean Energy.

C．World Health Day.

D．World Environment Day.

3. What do the four events have in common?

A．They have a common goal.	B．They have a long history.
C．They’re international events.	D．They benefit world environment.

2 . La Royale Maison de Savoie

Alexandre Dumas, author of several popular novels, was pressed to write La Royale Maison de Savoie for money in 1854. It was so rushed that neither the National Library of France nor the Alexandre Dumas Museum had any knowledge of it. In 1998, two historians discovered it in an Italian antique bookstore. Since then, it has been published again in France.

Profile of a Young Fiancée

The art piece has created quite a storm in the art world since its discovery. At first, it was thought to be a piece of a late 19th century German artist. In 1998, it was sold to a private collector. Over the next 10 years, some experts, including Nicholas Turner, closely examined the work and determined it was probably drawn by Leonardo da Vinci around 1485.

War Thoughts at Home

This 35-line poem by Robert Frost remained unknown to all but his friend Frederic Melcher until 2006-88 years after it was written. Melcher donated the poet’s letters and books to the University of Virginia. And Robert Stilling, a graduate student, came across the poem inside a copy of Frost’s 1914 book North of Boston.

Trio in E Flat Major

Ludwig van Beethoven composed this untitled work in 1792, then rearranged it about eight years later. Only partly completed, the project was abandoned and subsequently lost for over 100 years. German musicologist Willy Hess published the handwritten manuscript (手稿) in a scholarly review in 1920, gaining little attention. The first known performance of the 12-minute piece was on March 1, 2009.

1. Who is probably the creator of Profile of a Young Fiancée?

A．A German artist.	B．A private collector.
C．Nicholas Turner.	D．Leonardo da Vinci.

2. Which artwork was created most recently?

A．La Royale Maison de Savoie.	B．Profile of a Young Fiancée.
C．War Thoughts at Home.	D．Trio in E Flat Major.

3. What do the four artworks have in common?

A．They are the same art form.	B．They were created in the same country.
C．They used to be unknown for a period.	D．They are the most famous pieces of the creators.

3 . Read Smart: Tween Book Club
● $80 for 4 classes
●1 class per week, 50 minutes, 3-8 learners per class
Class Experience

As a professional author, I love talking about books with students, and I especially love urging them to dig deep and think about books beyond a simple “I liked it” or “I didn’t like it”. This class seeks to engage students in meaningful discussions about books while also touching on literary devices like symbolism, foreshadowing, tone and voice. The books selected for this course are modern reads that are less likely to strike students as “required reading”. There is so much to be learned from reading outside our “comfort zone”.

Students need to independently purchase or borrow the selected book, and should have read approximately 1/4 before our first meeting.

Arrangement

January: The Stolen Prince of Cloudburst by Jaclyn Moriarty

February: Lily and Dunkin by Donna Gephart

March: Echo Mountain by Lauren Wolk

April: The Last Cuentista by Donna Barba Higuera

May: The Language of Seabirds by Will Taylor

June: The Blackthorn Key by Kevin Sands

July: A Night Divided by Jennifer A. Nielsen

August: The Van Gogh Deception by Deron R. Hicks

September: Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie by Jordan Sonnenblick

October: Ghost by Jason Reynolds

November: Winterhouse by Ben Guterson

December: My Jasper June by Laurel Snyder

Guidance

●To ensure an engaging and social experience, students are required to have microphones and videos for the entirety of this class.

●Students are asked not to use filters or virtual backgrounds.

●Students will be asked to introduce themselves by sharing their name and a favorite book.

●The Zoom text chat is set to “host only”, meaning students can chat with me, but not to one another or the entire classroom.

1. What is stressed during the class?

A．Monthly reading.	B．Retelling the content.
C．Interactive reading.	D．Having face-to-face discussions.

2. What are students required to do before the first class?

A．Have a talk with the teacher.

B．Download the selected book.

C．Read about a quarter of the selected book.

D．Introduce the main idea of the selected book.

3. What is forbidden in class?

A．Using microphones.	B．Sharing a favorite book.
C．Chatting with the teacher.	D．Presenting virtual backgrounds.

4 . If you want to learn more about traditional Chinese culture, try these awesome offerings at the following places in Chinatown Singapore during the Five Foot way Festival 2024, which will last from 9 to 17 March, 2024.

Chinatown Visitor Centre

Start an exciting journey with us to explore the fascinating traditional Chinese weddings and modern adaptations. Here you will also have the chance to try traditional Cantonese wedding cakes. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to deepen your understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture!

Time: 16 March.11:00 — 12:30

Ticket: $15.00

Xin Sheng Poets Society

The masters and students from Xin Sheng Poets Society’s calligraphy group are presenting a calligraphy workshop. Sign up now to experience the beauty of their written Chinese characters and take home your own work.

Time: 10 March, 14:00 — 16:00

Ticket: $18.00

Ping Sheh Open House

Come and join our workshop to explore the costumes and make-ups of Sheng, Dan, Jing, and Chou — the basic roles of Peking Opera. Understanding the designs and their symbolic meanings is crucial for appreciating the Peking Opera performances.

During our interactive session, you’ll learn the basic skills of Peking Opera — singing and acting. Get ready to enjoy a truly unique experience!

Time: 10 March, 14:00 — 16:00

Ticket: $20.00

Theatre Circle Teahouse

Prepare to dive into Cantonese Opera through our professional workshops. To enhance your experience, we will wrap up the evening with a Cantonese Opera performance led by a very famous actress, Ms Hu Gui Xin.

Time: 15 March.14: 00 — 15: 00

Ticket: $32.00

1. When will the Five Footway Festival start?

A．On 9 March.

B．On 10 March.

C．On 16 March.

D．On 17 March.

2. How much should each visitor pay for the Chinese-character-writing activity?

A．$15.00.

B．$18.00.

C．$20.00.

D．$32.00.

3. What can visitors do at the last two places?

A．Try some famous Chinese teas.	B．Watch Peking Opera performances.
C．Study basic poem-writing skills.	D．Learn about traditional Chinese operas.

5 . Upcoming Events in California

PAW Patrol

The heroic PAW Patrol dogs need your help in Adventure Bay! Based on the hit preschool series PAW Patrol, this interactive exhibit gives visitors an opportunity to run rescue missions and work together to overcome challenges. The hands-on exhibit is a fun way for the whole family to learn bravery and heroism with exciting stories.

Dates: January 28～May 14
Location: Discovery Cube Los Angeles
Cost: $10
Maya: the Exhibition

The exhibition features over 250 authentic artifacts (真品) highlighting the ancient Maya civilization. Through priceless artifacts and hands-on exhibits, visitors can discover how the ancient Maya built and sustained complex cities in the heart of the rainforest.

Dates: January 15～March 2
Location: California Science Center
Cost: $7
Centennial Farm Discovery Days

Centennial Farm Discovery Days is an unguided tour program and open to all grade levels and ages. During a discovery day, “farmers” are stationed around the farm available to answer questions and provide information. There are also opportunities for children to pet a chick, plant a seed and see a milking demonstration.

Dates: June 1～November 8
Location: Centennial Farm
Cost: $50
It’s Magic!

It’s Magic! features an all-new cast of award-winning performers from around the globe, ready to leave audiences speechless with excellent stage tricks, comedy and variety acts. “It’s the best magic show in town!” cheers the Los Angeles Times.

Date: May 21
Location: Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts
Cost: $75
1. Which event helps people understand courage?

A．PAW Patrol.	B．It’s Magic!
C．Maya: the Exhibition.	D．Centennial Farm Discovery Days.

2. Where should you go if you’re interested in ancient civilization?

A．Centennial Farm.	B．California Science Center.
C．Discovery Cube Los Angeles.	D．Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.

3. What can people do in the most expensive event?

A．Watch a great magic show.	B．See a milking demonstration.
C．Learn some farming methods.	D．Carry out fun rescue missions.

6 . Best Apps to Practice Language Skills

Babbel

Babbel is a popular online language-learning platform that offers courses in 14 different languages. Babbel’s courses are designed to teach users practical, everyday language skills that can be used in real-life situations. The platform uses interactive lessons that cover topics such as vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and cultural insights to help learners build their language skills. Babbel’s courses are available on desktop and mobile devices, making it easy for users to learn on the go. Babel operates on the subscription based model, which costs $19.99 per month.

Memrise

Memrise use a variety of interactive techniques, including spaced repetition, audio and visual cues, to help learners remember new words and phases more effectively. Memrise’s courses also prioritize practical, everyday language skills over academic language. Additionally, Memrise offers a community feature where users can interact with other learners and native speakers to practice their language skills. A monthly subscription to Memrise will cost $12.99.

Busuu

Busuu offers comprehensive courses in 13 different languages, all of which feature audio recordings of native pronunciations. The lessons are organized into topics. And what’s more, each course even comes with a separate travel course for those who need to quickly get the basics before a trip abroad. Uniquely, Busuu also allows users to engage native speakers in their learning process. However, to access most of the features and course materials, users have to invest $11.99 a month.

Drops

Drops uses engaging visuals and game-like exercises to help learners remember new words and phrases more effectively. The platform offers short, bite-sized lessons that last only a few minutes. This makes it easy for users to fit language learning into their busy schedules. According to Drops, its online courses contain over 20,000 beautiful illustrations and 3,300+ words covering 180+ topics. A subscription to Drops will cut you back by $12 per month.

1. How much will a user pay for a 10-month subscription to Memrise?

A．$119.9.

B．$120.

C．$129.9.

D．$199.9.

2. Which app is suitable for users who will travel abroad very soon?

A．Drops.

B．Busuu.

C．Babbel.

D．Memrise.

3. What sets Drops apart from the other apps?

A．Its community feature.

B．Its personalized learning plans.

C．Its vast library of learning materials.

D．Its fascinating game like learning experience.

7 . Four Best Science Books

A Short History of Nearly Everything

Price: $15.95

Author: Bill Bryson

Release date: February 4, 2003

REASONS TO BUY

+Explains a variety of scientific topics in a vivid and comprehensive way

+No science knowledge required

Thing Explainer

Price: $19.84

Author: Randall Munroe

Release date: November 24, 2015

REASONS TO BUY

+Explains complex concepts using illustrations and only the most common words in the English language

+Entertaining and easy to understand

+A few of the topics(e. g. the periodic table)also include detailed fold-out diagrams

Ask an Astronaut

Price: $9.19

Author: Tim Peake

Release date: October 19, 2017

REASONS TO BUY

+Entertaining Q&A format makes it easy to quickly find answers

+Suitable for both children and adults

+Accompanying graphics (图形) illustrate some of the more complex ideas

Brief Answers to the Big Questions

Price: $13.76

Author: Stephen Hawking

Release date: January 1, 2020

REASONS TO BUY

+Does not require prior physics knowledge-there is only one equation in the entire book

+Complex ideas communicated in a simple and understandable language

+Great introduction to the thoughts of Stephen Hawking

1. Which book was published the earliest?

A．Thing Explainer.	B．Ask an Astronaut.
C．Brief Answers to the Big Questions.	D．A Short History of Nearly Everything.

2. What do Thing Explainer and Ask an Astronaut have in common?

A．They are priced the same.	B．They include illustrations.
C．They are hard to understand.	D．They employ a Q&A format.

3. Who wrote Brief Answers to the Big Questions?

A．Tim Peake.	B．Bill Bryson.
C．Stephen Hawking.	D．Randall Munroe.

9 . The best science books inspire a sense of wonder and make you amazed at the incredible world we live in. Here are four of them to feed your imagination.

A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson

How did it all begin? And how did we get here? Combining history and science, the book offers a comprehensive yet entertaining answer to these questions. Bill Bryson takes the reader on an impressive journey through the greatest scientific discoveries in history. It explains scientific topics in a vivid way, but it’s quite a long read.

Thing Explainer by Randall Munroe

How do helicopters work? Or cells? Randall Munroe explains how things work using illustrations and only the most common 1,000 words in English. It will shift your approach to explanation. So, next time explain how something works rather than merely call it by its name. However, additionally providing more technical terms might have enhanced the understanding and learning experience.

Ask an Astronaut by Tim Peake

What does it feel like to fly into space? How do you prepare for it? Astronaut Tim Peake answers all the questions you never knew about going into space. The book gives insights into the cutting-edge science, as well as the day-to-day life on board of the International Space Station. Its question and answer format makes it easy to quickly find answers, but it can become less appealing due to the lack of descriptive language.

Deep Time by Riley Black

Want to know the story of our planet? Riley Black takes us on a journey, in the order of time, through the geological (地质的) events that have shaped our planet. The fascinating high-quality images are supported by easily digestible explanations of key historical moments. It also expands on key concepts in geology, astronomy and biology. Yet, measuring the size of some objects on the photos is difficult due to the lack of a scale bar (比例尺).

1. Which book is organized in the format of question and answer?

A．A Short History of Nearly Everything.	B．Thing Explainer.
C．Ask an Astronaut.	D．Deep Time.

2. What’s a shortcoming of Thing Explainer?

A．It is rather too long.	B．It is written in plain language.
C．It lacks technical terms.	D．It fails to include clear images.

3. What do A Short History of Nearly Everything and Deep Time have in common?

A．They combine science and history.	B．They feature vivid illustrations.
C．They introduce astronauts’ daily life.	D．They entertain readers of all ages.

10 . As the second largest city of the Republic of Korea, Busan draws global attention. Here are some routes for visitors to have fun.

The First Route

Start off at the Haeundae Beach, where you can take a walk, sip a coffee, or try local fishcakes before heading up to BUSAN X the SKY. This observatory occupies the top floors of the city’s highest structure, where you’l1 be attracted by the wonderful urban views. You can also visit the old Haedong Yonggunsa Temple along the route.

The Second Route

With its popular Songdo Cable Car moving quickly over the water to a park, this route offers amazing views of the city’s traditional core. It’s just a quick taxi to the Yeongdo Island, home to some of Busan’s oldest neighborhoods, including the Huinnyeoul Culture Village. Overlooking the water, the whole picture that you can see is arguably the most romantic scene.

The Third Route

As a port city, you should head to the old harbor district of Nampo-dong to find its real charm. This is where you’ll find the Jagalchi Market, the open-air seafood market that’s not only a strong wave to the senses but also the city’s living and beating heart. Walk along its gathering as you see fresh seafood from the sea, along with the vendors (摊贩) who sell it all.

The Fourth Route

Shinsegae Centum City is not far from the Gwangalli Beach, a crowded area of sand,cafes, and eateries looking out across the water to the Gwangan Bridge. There will be a cool drone (无人机) show on Saturday in the evening of a hot summer and a fireworks festival in November. For a unique experience, book a sunset stand up paddle boarding (SUP) trip to the bridge back with professional surfers.

1. What do the first two routes have in common?

A．They both have cool drone shows.

B．They both have thrilling water parks.

C．They both have historical attractions.

D．They both have popular coffee stores.

2. What makes the third route special?

A．Its SUP trip above the water.	B．Its open and wide view.
C．Its scenic walking hotspot.	D．Its impressive market.

3. Which route provides the flying object show?

A．The Fourth Route.	B．The Second Route.
C．The Third Route.	D．The First Route.