1 . Amsterdam Destination Guide

Amsterdam is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, famous for its beautiful canals, top art museum and cycling culture. Here are some of the key points to remember as you plan your trip to Amsterdam.

Peak (高峰) Season	Population	Language(s)	Currency (货币)	January Climate	July Climate
May to October	813,562	Dutch	Euro	Average high: 5.8 °C	Average high: 22.0 °C

Must-See Attractions

Most visitors begin their Amsterdam adventure in the Old Centre, which is full of traditional architecture, shopping centers, and coffee shops. Don’t miss the Dam Square and the areas around Spui and Nieuwmarkt. You’ll also want to check out Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter in the South District, which is a great place to buy souvenir gifts for family back home at the Albert Cuyp Market and having a picnic in the Vondelpark. If you have time you should try to explore the Canal Ring, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was originally built to attract wealthy home owners and is a pub for celebrity spotting and nightlife today.

Transportation

Travelers should be aware that Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is one of the busiest airports in the world. This airport is located about 15 kilometers southwest of the city center. You’d better catch a train from Schiphol to Amsterdam Central Station, which has many connecting routes (路线). It’s typically not a good idea to drive a car to the city center because traffic is crowded and parking is difficult to find. Cycling is quite popular here, and it’s easy to find cheap bike rentals around town.

1. Which month is the high tourist season?

A．July.

B．January.

C．April.

D．December.

2. Where can tourists enjoy shopping?

A．In the Vondelpark.	B．At the Canal Ring.
C．At the Dam Square.	D．At the Albert Cuyp Market.

3. What transportation is recommended traveling from Schiphol to Central Station?

A．By bike.

B．On foot.

C．By car.

D．By train.

2 . The Islands of Hawaii

☆Hawaii

The “Big Island” of Hawaii is a paradise (天堂)playground where visitors can enjoy a popular lifestyle and at the same time, witness the attraction of nature: Thousands of square miles form a wonderland, featuring breathtaking beaches, forests, snow-covered mountains and amazing active volcanoes. A visit to Volcanoes National Park, which has been described as a true wonder of the world, is a must. It is the state's biggest attraction.

Accommodations:

Seasons Resort Hualalai: from $ 205.00

Fairmont Orchid: from $108.00

Sightseeing and Experiences:

Circle Island Tour:from $48.00

☆Kauai

The beautiful landscape of Kauai has led to it being called the “Garden Isle” , but it is also referred to as the “Island of discovery”, and with good reason------a land of striking natural contrasts just waiting to be explored. Green mountains, a breathtaking coastline and white sand beaches combine to make it one of the world's most relaxing locations.

Accommodations:

Grand Hyatt Kauai: from $101.00

Sheraton Kauai Resort: from $ 79.00

☆Maui

Voted the “World's Best Island”, Maui is widely regarded as one of the most romantic destinations on earth.

It is known as the “Valley Isle” and was the ancient playground for Hawaiian royalty. The island is largely rural with a small and wonderful population and a host of attractions and nature wonders.

Accommodations:

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa: from $87.00

Sheraton Maui: from $99.00

☆Oahu

Oahu has a unique rhythm, filling the air with sweet fragrances (香气)，music and language：from lovely beaches and amazing nightlife to beautiful rainforests and quiet valleys. Adventure, history, romance, discovery------Oahu waits for you.

Accommodations:

Halekulani: from $121.00

Hilton Hawaiian Village: from $73.00

Sightseeing and Experiences:

Royal Circle Island Tour: from $34.00

Paradise Cove Lu'au: $44.00

All prices are based on per person per night.

1. What is the biggest attraction in Hawaii?

A．Garden Isle.

B．Royal Circle Island Tour.

C．Volcanoes National Park.

D．Sheraton Kauai Resort.

2. For a couple spending two nights in one of the accommodations, they have to pay at least_______.

A．$73.00

B．$146.00

C．$136.00

D．$292.00

3. The passage is mainly written to________.

A．tell differences among islands in Hawaii

B．provide a better understanding of the geography of Hawaii

C．offer accommodation services to the tourists

D．attract people to make a visit to Hawaii

4 . Whether you are crazy about cycling or not, when it comes to purchasing a bike, the choice is endless, making it tough to know what to go for. Here are the best buys on the market right now.

Boardman CX Comp

This is a cross country bike, and it’s so multi-functional that you can handle any terrain(地势) on it, making it a great choice for those wanting to try various cycling subjects. If you leave on the thick tires it comes with, it can ride on various paths and can even handle some less demanding mountain bike routes. Alternatively, put on thin, smooth tires and treat it as a road bike. It has a basket and conics with Shimano Sora gears(变速器), which are outstanding for its price.(£650, IIalfords)

Planet XRT-58 V2

Planet X is based in Yorkshire, which means you’d probably have to buy this bike without seeing it. But it’s worth it, because this is an excellent machine at a lower price. Planet X is a highly rated manufacturer and this model comes with Shimano Sora gearing.(£585, Planet X)

Specialized Allez E5

Specialized is one of the biggest and most popular brands in cycling, and this is its hugely popular primary road bike. It comes with solid components from front to back and you'll look great out on the road.(£ 75, Evans Cycles)

Boardman Road Team Carbon

If you can push your budget(预算) further still, this bike is worth the extra investment. The frame(框架) is made entirely from carbon, which is lighter, faster and more comfortable than the composition metal(复合金属) models above and gives you an all-round and more enjoyable ride. It also means that if you get really serious about cycling, you don’t have to upgrade as quickly as you would with a cheaper bike. Besides, it also comes with Shimano Sora gearing.(£800, Halfords)

1. What is special about Boardman CX Comp?

A．Its light frame.	B．Its firm tires.
C．Its various functions.	D．Its reasonable price.

2. All of the following come with Shimano Sora gears Except________.

A．Planet XRT-58 V2.	B．Specialized Allez E5.
C．Boardman CX Comp.	D．Boardman Road Team Carbon.

3. What can we learn about the bikes mentioned in the text?

A．Planet X RT-58 V2 has been sold out so far

B．Boardman CX Comp is just a mountain bike.

C．Specialized Allez E5 is designed for senior cyclists.

D．Boardman Road Team Carbon is made by a special material.

4. In which part does the text probably appear in the newspaper?

A．Travel.	B．Advertisement.
C．Health.	D．Culture.

5 . EP Portable Heater

We all know that the cost of heating our homes will continue to be a significant burden on the family budget. Now millions of people are saving on their heating bills with the EP Portable Heater. With over one million satisfied customers around the world, the new EP heats better and faster, saves more on heating bills, and runs almost silent.

The EP has no exposed heating parts that can cause a fire. The outside of EP only gets warm to the touch so that it will not burn children or pets.

The EP will not reduce oxygen in the room. With other heaters, you'll notice that you get sleepy when the heat comes on because they are burning up oxygen.

The advanced EP also heats the room evenly, wall to wall and floor to ceiling. It comfortably covers an area up to 350 square feet. Other heaters heat rooms unevenly with most of the heat concentrated to the center of the room. And they only heat an area a few feet around the heater. With the EP, the temperature will not vary in any part of the room.

The EP comes with a 3-year warranty and a 60-day, no questions asked, satisfaction guarantee. If you are not totally satisfied, return it at our expense and your money will be given back to you.

Now, we have a special offer for 10 days, during which you can enjoy a half price discount and a free delivery. If you order after that, we reserve the right to either accept or reject order requests at the discounted price.

Take action right now!

1. What is mainly discussed in paragraph 2?

A．The heat of the EP.	B．The safety of the EP.
C．The appearance of the EP.	D．The material of the EP.

2. From the passage, we can learn that the EP ________.

A．doesn't burn up oxygen	B．runs without any noise
C．makes people get sleepy	D．is unsuitable for children and pets

3. The main purpose of the passage is to ________.

A．persuade people to buy the product

B．advise people to save on heating bills

C．report the new development of portable heaters

D．compare the difference of different heater brands

6 . Do you love outdoor challenges? And there are a bunch of really awesome hiking challenges out there now that will not only inspire you to get outside more and push yourself physically- but also provide you access to an awesome community of hikers and often-times hiking groups focusing on the same challenges.

1. THE 52 HIKE CHALLENGE

The goal of the 52 Hike Challenge is to get you outside moving every week for an entire year. The difficulty and length is entirely up to you. but the point is to get out and to get moving! Register online now and the resources on their website allow you to track your journey as you complete each weekly hike and earn completion badges as you go.

2. WE HIKE TO HEAL

We Hike to Heal is a month-long women's empowerment and wellness campaign that organizes group hikes all over the world on the last Saturday of March. The organization's mission is to encourage women all over the world to tap into the healing and empowering influences within themselves and the Great Outdoors. You can join the movement for free in the link above and find free group hikes that will be happening all over the world.

3. CURE-SEARCH ULTIMATE HIKE

This event is put on by CureSearch on February 4th every year, a non-profit organization dedicated to finding a cure and a way to raise money for children s cancer. To join this event that supports an incredible cause, you attend an informational session, register and get your own online fund-raising page and raise money to support your trek for children's cancer research.

4. THE 365 MILE CHALLENGE

This challenge is great because it is so simple. The goal is to get outside every day and walk a mile. This challenge focuses on small efforts that, over time, have big results and focuses on, creating healthy habits to benefit your mind, body, and soul. To join all you have to do is register , join the Face book group, and start moving.

1. Which of the hiking challenges is specially intended for women?

A．We Hike to Heal	B．The 52 Hike Challenge.
C．Cure-search Ultimate Hike.	D．The 365 Mile Challenge.

2. What do all the challenges have in common?

A．Money-raising.	B．Badge-earning.
C．Internet-related.	D．Gender-based.

3. How many challenges could you attend if you hope to work out regularly?

A．Only one.	B．Four.
C．Three.	D．Two.

7 . In the field of educational technology, some apps might be getting too smart. There are more and more apps providing help for students.

PhotoMath

The new, seemingly magic app allows users to take pictures of a math problem, and then receive a step-by-step solution. It is now the number one free app on the App Store. A PhotoMath spokeswoman says educators have welcomed the app with positive reviews, but the software causes a lot of angry public discussion and disagreement. Why? It is because students can use it to cheat when doing their math homework.

Price: Free

iHomework

Whether you’re a high school student or a college student, there’s one thing you’ve got for sure: a lot of homework. iHomework can help you keep track of all your homework. It can help you arrange it in a particular order according to types, or based on deadlines.

Price: Free

Wolfram Alpha

Wolfram Alpha is similar to PhotoMath, but it focuses on older students studying high levels of math and doesn’t support photos. The service also produces step-by-step solutions to advanced topics, making it a popular tool for college students.

Price: $2.99

Homework Helper

Chinese Internet search company Baidu has launched (发起) an app called Homework Helper with which students can get answers to homework. Users post a picture or type their homework questions onto online forums (论坛), and those who answer the questions can win e-coins that can be used to buy devices like iPhones and laptops. The app has logged 5 million downloads, much to the concern of many parents who argue that the students spend less time thinking about challenging problems.

Price: Free

1. What is the problem of the app PhotoMath?

A．It can’t recognize pictures.

B．It doesn’t provide a step-by-step solution.

C．It encourages students to use smartphones.

D．It makes cheating at homework more likely to happen.

2. What is the big feature of Wolfram Alpha?

A．Offering services to office workers.

B．Making students organize their school work.

C．Helping deal with advanced math problems.

D．Creating chances to discuss math online.

3. What do we learn about Homework Helper?

A．It is thought highly of by teachers.

B．It is unpopular among Chinese students.

C．Many parents think it harmful to children’s study.

D．Answering questions on the app wastes students’ time.

8 . To improve a high schoolers chance of getting into a top university, the summer programs allow young students to explore fields of interest and get a taste of college life.

Telluride Association Summer Program (TASP)

TASP is a six-week program allowing high school freshman from around the world to grow their sense of interpersonal awareness and community responsibility. It's completely free, including the cost of tuition, books and even travel.

Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science (MITES)

This week-long program aimed at all US high school students can help them develop the skills necessary for future job in engineering while learning about the value and reward of acquiring advanced technical degrees. MITES is free—the only expense is the transportation to and from MIT.

Clark Scholar Program (CSP)

High school students coming from across the globe are offered the unique opportunity to gain hands-on research experience in mathematics field while working one on one with teaching staff over four intense weeks. Everything is free for chosen applicants except their meals.

JCamp

The seven-week one brings high school freshman and sophomores from various backgrounds together for participating in sessions and workshops led by notable journalists where students can get hands-on training in journalism. JCamp is free if selected-participants only need to pay for the board.

1. What can be expected of MITES?

A．It is accessible to worldwide students.	B．It lays a foundation for career prospect.
C．It makes no extra charge for transportation.	D．It awards students advanced technical degrees.

2. Which program is suitable for a UK high schooler with up to 5 spare weeks?

A．TASP.

B．MITES.

C．CSP.

D．JCamp.

3. What is the shared goal of the programs?

A．To seek for one-on-one instruction.	B．To develop a sense of social duty.
C．To get participants better prepared for college.	D．To advertise some majors of the top universities.

9 . Despite the anxiety that the first digital novel caused in 1993, publishers weren’t too concerned that e-books would one day replace printed books. However, that attitude was changed suddenly in 2007 when Amazon Kindle came onto the market, which led to e-book sales jumping up to 1,260%. Since then, e-books’ popularity has continued to rise steadily. The publishing industry seemed to have lost all possible ability to regain its position. Will printed books eventually become a thing of the past? According to Mike Shatzkin, founder and CEO of the Idea Logical Company, printed books just for reading will, in 10 years from now, be unusual. “Not so unusual that a kid will say, ‘Mommy, what’s that?’ but unusual enough that on the train you’l see one or two people reading something printed, while everyone else is reading on a tablet computer screen.” And Shatzkin believes that the demise of print is sure to happen, though such a day won’t arrive for perhaps 50 to 100 or more years.

Robert Stein, founder of The Institute for the Future of the Book, however, believes that books won’t disappear entirely, at least not anytime soon. “Print will exist, and it may have an artistic value,” he says. He predicts that the distance between writers and readers will be made less obvious by a social reading experience in which authors and consumers can digitally interact with each other to discuss any passage, sentence or line.

Should print really disappear entirely? According to Maryanne Wolf, director of the Center for Reading and Language Research at Tufts University, electronic reading can negatively affect the way the brain responds to the text, including reading comprehension and the ability to pay attention to details like the order of events. “My worry is that we’ll have a short-circuited(短路的) reading brain, excellent for gathering information but not necessarily for forming critical, analytical deep reading skills,” Wolf says. He hopes that we continue to keep a “bi-literate” society — one that values both the digital and printed words. “A full reading brain circuit is a huge contribution to the intellectual development of our species. Anything that threatens it deserves our attention.”

1. How did publishers feel about the rising e-book sales inspired by Amazon Kindle?

A．Worried.	B．Excited.
C．Curious.	D．Doubtful.

2. The underlined word “demise” in Paragraph 1 probably means _____.

A．rise	B．death
C．adjustment	D．popularity

3. According to Robert Stein, paper books will exist because of _____.

A．the artistic value

B．the digital interaction

C．the growing popularity

D．the traditional design

4. It can be concluded from the last paragraph that Wolf holds that _____.

A．e-reading will strengthen the power of our brain

B．digital books and paper books should not coexist

C．e-reading will make us more critical and thoughtful

D．we should not risk losing a full reading brain circuit

10 . International Summer Camps for Teenagers

What do you do with a teen whose summer holiday plans amount to sleep and WeChat? Try an international summer camp.

Village Camps
Salavas, Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, France
+33475881681
Best for: River fun
Suitable for: 11-17 years;￡1996 (13nights), starting 30 June or 14 July

This granddaddy of European camps (now in its 49^th year) has sites in Austria, Portugal, Switzerland and elsewhere, but few can boast(有)a location as spectacular as the Summer River Experience Camp on the banks of the Ardeche.

It's a well-run operation with rock climbing and canoe(独木舟)training ending in a two-day 30km canoe descent of the Gorge with an overnight sleep in a tent.

Camp Adventure Academy
Lethem, Germany
+4940410094900
Best for: Survival
Suitable for: 7-16 years; ￡375 for one week, June 23-August 31

Set in the beautiful Luneburger Heide National Park, Survival Camp is the ultimate(终极的)outdoor adventure.

Survivors head into the forest to learn survival techniques and face the toughest challenges from lighting fires and building shelters to crossing rivers.

At the end of the week, each participant will receive a certificate, proclaiming them a true survivor and ready to battle the most difficult of situations.

Ocean Youth Trust
Gosport, England
Best for: Seafaring
Suitable for: 12-25 years; six-night sail-￡575 person from 16 to 22 July, 29 July to 1 August or 4 to 11 August.

Not truly a camp, but this has adventure, friendship and sheer thrills in spades(大量). OYT gives sail training to hundreds of disadvantaged children each year and during the holidays, offers places to children from mainstream backgrounds too.

Youngsters learn to sail, navigate and cook on OYT's 32-metre boat Prolific, crewing the boat (with expert help) on voyages to France and the Channel Islands.

1. What’s the advantage of Village Camps?

A．Teenagers can learn some survival techniques.

B．Teenagers can experience some adventures.

C．Each participant will receive a certificate.

D．Teenagers can get canoe training.

2. Which camp is suitable for Jack’s eight-year-old son?

A．Village Camps.	B．Camp Adventure Academy.
C．Ocean Youth Trust.	D．None.

3. If you want to learn how to sail, which camp(s) can you try?

A．Ocean Youth Trust.	B．Village Camps.
C．Camp Adventure Academy.	D．Ocean Youth Trust and Village Camps.