1 . The Self-Portrait Challenge
Have you ever done a self-portrait in an art lesson at school? Today, we’re challenging you to write self-portrait poems. It’s not uncommon to feel like the way people see you on the outside doesn’t quite match up with how you feel on the inside. So creating a self-portrait can be a good opportunity to address those differences and present the realest, truest version of yourself.
Your challenge is to create a self-portrait in lines, using words instead of paint. Read on for some more inspiration.
Writing Tips● Have a go at writing a list of metaphors exploring your physical appearance, starting from your head and working your way down towards your feet.
● Instead of representing yourself directly, take on another character, such as a fictional character, a historical figure, or even a different version of yourself.
● Play around with personification, by taking on the voice of a physical object in your poem. Think about what a self-portrait from the point of view of a mirror, or a bowl of your favourite food would look like?
How to enter
This challenge is for writers aged up to 25 based anywhere in the world. The deadline is 23:59 GMT, 17 March 2024. You can send a poem, or poems, written down, or as video or audio files. We are using Submittable to accept submissions to this challenge. You will need to make a free Submittable account to submit in this way. Using Submittable helps our team to administrate and process entries more quickly. Selected poets will be published on Young Poets Network.
1. What does the Self-portrait Challenge encourage participants to do?| A．Explore true selves. | B．Convey positive emotions. |
| C．Illustrate personal profiles. | D．Compare different personalities. |
| A．Using simple language. | B．Presenting yourself directly. |
| C．Taking a different point of view. | D．Focusing on physical appearance. |
| A．A writing tool. | B．A search engine. |
| C．An email account. | D．An online platform. |
2 . Strawberry U-Pick at the Boyd Farm
Strawberry U-Pick Season is starting! For now, we are open Monday to Friday from 10 a. m. to 3: 30 p. m. and every weekend from 9 a. m. to 5: 30 p. m. !
Not only do we have our u-pick strawberry fields, we also have fresh produce, prepicked strawberries, snacks and other farm goodies for you to buy. We also have lots of fun activities for the family—hayride with the cows, horse ride, animals to pet and feed, swings, slide, sand pile, corn hole, corn pile and more!
AdmissionAdmission is $5/person (3 and under free)
Admission includes:
◆Access to u-pick fields
◆Access to swings, corn hole, sand pile, slide, corn pile and petting zoo
◆1 pound of free-to-take-home strawberries
Admission does not include:
◆Hayride with the cows—$5/person
◆Horse ride—$3/person
◆Animal feed—$2/cup
Important information
★Please don’t leave children unattended in strawberry fields and please don’t walk on the plant beds.
★We recommend bringing something to carry berries home to cut down on waste, but we will have plastic bags if needed.
★Usually strawberry season runs through April. This is entirely weather dependent, however.
★We recommend sunscreen / hat / water / closed-toed shoes!
★Pets are not allowed in the fields due to Food Safety regulations.
1. When is the Boyd Farm open to the public in April?
| A．9 a. m. Monday. | B．5 p. m. Tuesday. |
| C．4p. m. Friday. | D．10 a. m. Sunday. |
| A．Hayride. | B．Horse ride. |
| C．Corn pile. | D．Feeding animals. |
| A．Bringing their pets. | B．Wearing open-toed shoes. |
| C．Playing in strawberry fields. | D．Taking their own strawberry containers. |
3 . While most TV stations try to attract viewers by producing reality shows, Henan TV has become famous by promoting (推广) traditional culture through Chinese dance. Henan TV produced seven dance pieces introducing traditional culture for traditional festivals, such as “Rhapsody on the Luo River Goddess (《洛神水赋》)”, a two-minute underwater dance for the Dragon Boat Festival. “Guardian Warriors of Longmen (《龙门金刚 》)”, a dance piece supported by AR technology against the backdrop of the Longmen Grottoes(石窟).
“These pieces have gotten nearly 30 billion hits,“ said Yao Wei, director of the TV station. “It’s a huge success for Henan TV.”
On Nov 1, 2021, Yao was invited to talk about how the TV station had produced the hit dance pieces at a three-day forum (论坛) centering on the research of Chinese dance.
The pieces were popular with audiences, most of whom are members of Gen Z, (people born between 1995 and 2009), Yao said.
“It’s been over forty years since the country’s reform(改革) and opening-up and the younger generations have grown up with open minds. They love Chinese culture and are proud of it,” said Yao. “What we need to do is present Chinese culture and tradition in interesting ways for those young people.”
Yao added that Henan TV has been producing shows promoting traditional culture, such as traditional operas and kung Fu, for nearly 30 years.
“To allure younger audiences, we are also changing our shows. One of the keys is to produce them with creativity,” Yao said. “For example, the latest technology and special stage settings, like underwater scenes, have become our new ways of telling stories about traditional Chinese culture.”
Another key to successfully reaching younger audiences is using social media to promote their shows.
“Social media is being shaped and driven by young people. It’s a powerful form of communication. When they watch short videos, they easily become interested in an eye-catching video,” Yao said.
1. What can we learn about the seven dance pieces produced by Henan TV?| A．They were performed by famous stars. |
| B．They were presented in creative ways. |
| C．They were about the reform and opening-up. |
| D．They were produced by AR technology. |
| A．Interested. | B．Hopeful. | C．Puzzled. | D．Disappointed. |
| A．Greet. | B．Support. | C．Attract. | D．Interview. |
| A．To report on the features of traditional Chinese dance. |
| B．To tell the traditional stories of the seven dance pieces. |
| C．To explain how technology helps promote traditional Chinese culture. |
| D．To introduce the success of the dance series produced by Henan TV. |
4 . Robot science fiction has long been a favorite for readers. If you want to check out any of these titles for free, you can do so with Audible’s one-month free trial. Click here to download Audible’s app to try for $0.00.
I. Robot
The author of I, Robot, Isaac Asimov, is an indisputable giant within the world of robot science fiction due to his creation of the three laws of robotics. I, Robot is a landmark work of robot sci-fi which explores every facet of robots and their place in the world of humans, from their conception through to their possible replacement of humanity.
Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?
Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? is an absolute landmark work of robot science fiction and has gained even greater recognition due to being made into the classic motion picture Blade Runner. The story’s hero is tasked with hunting down sentient robots that have gone immoral.
The Night Sessions
The Night Sessions by Ken MacLeod envisions a world in which religions and those who believe in them have been pushed to the edge of society. This is also a world populated by sentient robots that sometimes help humanity but are often shunned by their very creators.
Sea of Rust
Sea of Rust is set in a future world in which humanity has been totally wiped out by an unimaginably powerful artificial intelligence system and the robots it has at its command. In this world without mankind, the two most powerful artificial intelligence systems fight for control. It is both a tight story of survival and an optimistic adventure.
1. Which book has become more popular after being made into a movie?| A．I, Robot | B．Sea of Rust |
| C．The Night Sessions | D．Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? |
| A．It is a story of human survival. |
| B．It is set in a world full of robots. |
| C．It is about a harmonious world without mankind. |
| D．It’s about robots and humans fighting for control. |
| A．A website. | B．A newspaper. |
| C．A book review. | D．A journal of literary criticism. |
5 . 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. |
6 . Many summer camps have had to cancel their programming due to COVID-19. So we have found a great selection of virtual summer camps for your children.
Happy Camper Live
Ages: 5~ 18
Cost: $499 a month .
What is special about Happy Camper Live is that there are hundreds of camp adventures and experiences to choose from to offer your children unique camp experience. Children can make fun with a world-class athlete, play volleyball with a national high school champion and learn a new art, craft or musical instrument.
Smart Robots Virtual Camp
Ages: 7 ~11
Cost: $179 for two weeks
Campers will receive a smart coding robot of choice and learning materials and apps to get them started in this camp. This camp is made as much of a social experience as possible. At the end of camp, each child will be certificated as a “junior coder”，have made penfriends for life and have new skills and knowledge to bring into their classrooms in the fall.
Written Out Loud
Ages: 8~17
Cost: $250 per week
The storytelling school Written Out Loud has transformed its program to a virtual storytelling workshop. Founded in 2018 by a Hollywood film-maker, Witten Out Loud offers classes for children aged 8 to 17 that combine a range of disciplines such as creative writing, film-making and even improving comedy.
Got Game Summer Academy
Ages: 4~12
Cost: $195 for two weeks
With a focus on reading, writing and math, Got Game will help your children stay academically on track while still having fun in an energized virtual learning environment. Children will receive personalized attention from teachers while also participating in games that center around communication on group projects and building individual skills.
1. What’s special about Happy Camper Live?| A．It offers a large number of different activities. |
| B．It’s the most expensive of the four camps. |
| C．It focuses on improving musical skills. |
| D．It was founded by a world-class athlete. |
| A．In Written Out Loud. | B．In Happy Camper Live. |
| C．In Smart Robots Virtual Camp. | D．In Got Game Summer Academy. |
| A．They enable children to learn while playing games. |
| B．They improve children’ s writing skills. |
| C．They teach children how to make films. |
| D．They are suitable for children above 12. |
7 . The Best National Parks to Visit in Winter
While most parks tend to draw families in the summer and fall, there are also ideal spots for adventurous winter trips.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
The country’s oldest and best-known national park takes on an almost otherworldly atmosphere in winter: the air filled with rolling steam, the strong colors of hot springs, the surrounding white landscapes, let alone the impressive wildlife during this time, like bison, wolves, and playful red foxes. Just book a guided hiking tour to get a ranger’s perspective on the park and local people.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
With its giant red rocks and unique trees, you’ll feel like stepping onto a foreign planet as you spend hours hiking the Panorama Loop or Maze Loop. The park is recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, featuring virtually zero light pollution and the country’s best views of a starry sky.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
A significantly lower number of visitors in winter means you can take in unblocked views of the South Rim, and get to see the rare beauty of the Grand Canyon dusted with snow. For those adventurous and daring, it is recommended to hike the Bright Angel Trail and take the chance to see the canyon’s wintertime wildlife, including mule deer, elk, and bald eagles.
Virgin Islands National Park, St. John
Surprise! Not all wintertime national park trips need to involve snow. Virgin Islands National Park is most famous for its white-sand beaches. You can also hike inland to visit old sugar plantations, or venture out to the water to swim along with sea turtles and manta rays. You will definitely enjoy a different winter here.
1. Which park will one choose if he/she is interested in stars?| A．Yellowstone National Park. | B．Joshua Tree National Park. |
| C．Grand Canyon National Park. | D．Virgin Islands National Park. |
| A．We can have a poor view of the South Rim there. | B．It lies in an area with rolling steam and hot springs. |
| C．There is a slight decline in visitor numbers in winter. | D．The Bright Angel Trail is challenging in cold weather. |
| A．Hiking. | B．Skiing. | C．Swimming. | D．Hunting. |
8 . 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. |
9 . Winners Club
You choose to be a winner!
The Winners Club is a bank account specially designed for teenagers. It has been made to help you better manage your money. The Winners Club is a transaction account where you receive a key-card so you can get to your money 24/7—that’s 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!
It’s a club with impressive features for teenagers:
No account keeping fees!
You’re no millionaire so we don’t expect you to pay large fees. In fact, there are no account keeping or transaction fees!
Excellent interest rates!
You want your money grow. The Winners Club has a good rate of interest which gets even better if you make at least two deposits without taking them out in a month.
Convenient
Teenagers are busy—we get that. You may never need to come to a bank at all. With the Winners Club you can choose to use handy tellers and to bank from home using the phone and the Internet. You can have money directly deposited into your Winners Club account. This could be your pocket money or your pay from your part-time job!
Mega magazine included
Along with your regular report, you will receive a FREE magazine full of good ideas to make even more of your money. There are also fantastic offers and competitions only for Winners Club members.
The Winners Club is a great choice for teenagers. And it is so easy to join. Simply fill in an application form. You will have to get permission from your parent or guardian(so we can organize that cool key-card) but it is easy. We can’t wait to hear from you. It’s the best way to choose to be a winner!
1. What can we learn from the Winners Club?| A．Special gifts are ready for parents. | B．The bank opens only on work days. |
| C．Services are convenient for its members. | D．Fees are necessary for the account keeping. |
| A．encourage spending | B．are free to all teenagers |
| C．are full of adventure stories | D．help to make more of your money |
| A．To set up a club. | B．To provide part-time jobs. |
| C．To organize key-cards. | D．To introduce a new banking service. |
10 . Here are the bestsellers this month.
The Story of Buildings: From the Pyramids to the Sydney Opera House and Beyond
by Patrick Dillon, author; Stephen Biesty, illustrator(插画家)
Hardcover $26.99; Paperback $14.80
We spend most of our lives in buildings. We make our homes in them. We go to school in them. But why and how did people start making buildings? How did they learn to make them stronger, bigger, and more comfortable? Patrick Dillon's stories of amazing buildings and the amazing people who made them celebrate the human creation.
What Were the Twin Towers?
by Jim O'Connor, author; Ted Hammond, illustrator
Library Binding(装帧)$20.64; Paperback $7.91
When the Twin Towers were built in 1973, they were described as an architectural(建筑学的)wonder. Offices and companies moved into the Towers—also known as the World Trade Center—and the buildings were seen as the economic center of the world. Discover the whole story of the Twin Towers—from their construction to their sad end.
Where Is Machu Picchu?
by Megan Stine, author; Who HQ, author; John O'Brien, illustrator
Library Binding $21.02; Paperback $8.91
Built in the fifteenth century and set in the mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu was deserted after the Spaniards controlled the Incan empire in the sixteenth century. It remained hidden until 1911 when Hiram Bingham uncovered the amazing buildings and shared his discovery with the world. Today, hundreds of thousands of people visit the site to climb the 3,000 stone steps and explore the towering monuments.
Castle
by David Macaulay, author
Hardcover $11.98; Paperback $15.80
What could be more perfect for an author/illustrator who has continually shown the mystique(神秘性)of architectural structures that have long attracted modern man? With typical interest and a sense of humor decorating his drawings, David Macaulay finds the step-by-step planning and construction of both castle and town.
1. Which book is written by two authors?| A．The Story of Buildings: From the Pyramids to the Sydney Opera House and Beyond. |
| B．What Were the Twin Towers? |
| C．Where Is Machu Picchu? |
| D．Castle. |
| A．$53.98. | B．$29.60. | C．$42.04. | D．$31.60. |
| A．Arts & Architecture. | B．Literature & Fiction. |
| C．Holidays & Celebrations. | D．Computers & Technology. |
