1 . 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. |
2 . 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. |
3 . 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. |
4 . 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. |
5 . Nia fitness class
A unique combination of yoga, dance and martial arts techniques, Nia is a new form of fitness designed for people of all fitness levels to open up their body and relax.
When: Every Sunday, 2 — 4 p.m
Cost: 100 yuan for one class, 500 yuan for six
Contact: 135-2299-3724
Where: D-1F Jinxiuyuan Apartment, Xingfucun Zhonglu, Chaoyang District
The Red Detachment of Women
Part of the closing ceremony for the 11th "Meet in Beijing" Arts Festival, the China National Ballet will be performing The Red Detachment of Women, one of the most successful full-length Chinese ballets.
When: May 25,7:30 p.m
Cost: 80～1,080yuan
Contact: 6417-7845, ponypiaoen@ hotmail.com
Where: Poly Plaza,14 Dongzhimen Nandajie, Dongcheng District
Student rock
College bands Las Vegas, Strange July, Wet Sand, Poshangcun and Ganrao Diantai will take the stage at D-22 to show some of the best talent.
With many of Beijing's best underground bands getting their start at D-22, it's a place to experience new sounds, faces and performances inspired by the city's youngest talent.
When: May 27, 8:30 p.m
Cost: 20 yuan
Contact: 6265-3177
Where: D-22, 242 Chengfu Lu, Haidian District
Speed dating “on wheels”
The speed dating industry is not new in China. All speed dating is the same: small tables, pleasant environment, nervous people.
Speed dating “on wheels” is a new form of speed dating. The details: Chinese rickshaws (人力车)will drive you around the romantic places at Houhai Lake, stopping to make a change.
This traditional atmosphere will bring more romance to the old, boring speed dating.
When: June 5, 2 — 4pm
Cost: 150 yuan（rickshaws and bar included）
Where: Houhai Lake
1. If Peter wants to attend two Nia fitness classes, he is supposed to pay ________.| A．100 yuan | B．200 yuan | C．300 yuan | D．400 yuan |
| A．D-1F Jinxiuyuan Apartment | B．Houhai Lake | C．Poly Plaza | D．D-22 |
| A．Student rock. | B．Nia fitness class. |
| C．Speed dating “on wheels”. | D．The Red Detachment of Women. |
6 . The Thai capital Bangkok isn't just a big city full of skyscrapers, shopping malls, and traffic. There are many beautiful spaces providing residents with fresh air and lots of healthy outdoor activities in landscaped areas.
Benjakitti Park
The park has dedicated 'bicycle and jogging tracks around the Lake Ratchada. The water's edge is nicely framed by some pretty plant life, with colourful flowers adding to the quietness. You'll also find skate tracks, a central pavilion with fountains, and an impressive half-circle courtyard that's popular for picnics.
Opening Time: Daily from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Benjasiri Park
Benjasiri Park is the place to be for sculpture lovers, with some of the best examples of Thai sculptures around the park reflecting historical features. The centrepiece fountain hosts multimedia water dance shows 3 times daily. The park offers outdoor sports facilities rarely found at other public parks in Bangkok, including a basketball court, roller skating/skateboarding rink, tennis court, and outdoor swimming pool.
Opening Time: Daily from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Chatuchak Park
Chatuchak Park offers something for everyone at this park. Some may walk or jog along the green tracks line, while others can appreciate nature in the Thai Literature and Herb Garden. The park's northern end has many tennis courts and soccer fields. While you're there, make sure not to miss the Train Museum and Youth Traffic Garden.
Opening Time: Daily from 4:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Sanam Luang Park
Sanam Luang Park has been around since the founding of Bangkok in 1782. Take part in the kite flying festival in March in different shapes and sizes floating in the sky. On most days; you can enjoy a family picnic in the breezy late afternoon while watching an exciting game of volleyball.
Opening Time: Daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
1. Which park opens earliest every day?| A．Benjakitti Park. | B．Benjasiri Park. |
| C．Chatuchak Park. | D．Sanam Luang Park. |
| A．Colorful flowers. | B．Traditional sculptures |
| C．Soccer fields. | D．Walking tracks. |
| A．A tennis court. | B．Some skate tracks. |
| C．A volleyball court. | D．Some picnic spots. |
Singapore
Singapore Zoo allows animals to walk around in spacious environments that are similar to their natural habitats (栖息地). Kids can join in learning about the animals of Singapore Zoo in educational programs, guided tours and camps, including the Sleep with the Beasts Family Camp. wrs.com.sg
Chester Zoo
Cheshire, England
The most visited zoo in the United Kingdom, Chester Zoo asks a team of experts (专家) who do research on six key areas around the world to develop programs that hope to prevent animals from dying out. The zoo runs a number of activities, such as Sing for Songbirds, a partnership with singer/songwriter Ashley Fayth, which tries to make people notice the danger facing songbirds in Indonesia. chesterzoo.org
Wellington Zoo
Wellington, New Zealand
Wellington Zoo is green in more ways than one. The zoo works very hard to reduce (减少) waste and reuse rain water. The zoo supports conservation (保护) programs, and its animal hospital, The Nest TeKōhanga, has treated over 3,400 wildlife patients since its opening in2009. wellingtonzoo.com
San Diego Zoo
San Diego, USA
Over 3,500 endangered animals call San Diego Zoo home, but the biggest achievement of this zoo is the number of endangered animals that are sent back into the wild. The zoo's breeding (饲养) programs provide valuable information on the behavior and health of endangered species in over 45 countries. San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research also asks over 200 conservation scientists to protect some animals from dying out. zoo.sandiegozoo.org
1. Where can people camp with their family?| A．At Wellington Zoo. | B．At San Diego Zoo. |
| C．At Singapore Zoo. | D．At Chester Zoo. |
| A．wrs.com.sg. | B．chesterzoo.org. |
| C．wellingtonzoo.com. | D．zoo.sandiegozoo.org. |
| A．It has been the most popular zoo in the USA for years. |
| B．It runs an animal hospital to treat wild animals. |
| C．It has helped some animals go back to nature. |
| D．It helps American endangered animals only. |
For many guests of the capital, some of the most vivid childhood memories are associated with this museum. A variety of technical fields are presented in 65 halls-Mining, Space, Energy, and Transportation, etc. And the exposition (博览会) is the only museum project in Russia about the history of the bike. The interactive division "Technoplay" is open, where you not only can but also need touch most of the exhibits with your hands. In addition to self-experimentation, for visitors with special requests the museum's experts will show many enjoyable experiments.
Eureka, England
The Eureka educational center is a huge complex where modern science and technology are becoming clear, even to kids. The main exhibition is devoted to the human body, the laws of physics and natural things. Visitors can obtain energy or create paper with their own hands. On the area of the Eureka educational park there is a botanical garden and a collection of minerals from the rock types of Finland is presented there.
Deutsches Museum, Germany
In this museum you can see more than 100 thousand different items from windmills (风车) to medical equipment. All aspects of industrial production appear before the eyes. Several museum rooms are arranged especially for children -there are exhibits that entertain kids starting from three.
NEMO, the Netherlands
The largest Dutch research centre stands ready to share its secrets with everyone. This immersion (沉没) in the world of science and technology will not be dull. All significant information is presented in the form of exciting games. All exhibits are interactive; visitors are allowed to touch, pull and press on anything. The museum is for children from 6 to 16, as well as for their parent - it will be interesting to all.
1. What makes Polytechnic Museum unique?| A．It is specially designed for children. |
| B．Some exhibits can be touched or pulled. |
| C．It shows information of exhibits in games. |
| D．Lots of enjoyable experiments are shown. |
| A．Touch all of the exhibits. | B．Make paper with their hands. |
| C．Which entertaining movies. | D．Play exciting games. |
| A．Polytechnic Museum. | B．The Eureka educational center. |
| C．Deutsches Museum. | D．NEMO. |
9 . The most popular bus tour in London is a hop-on, hop-off tour. This means that the buses are continually driving around predefined (预先确定的) routes and visitors can use their tickets to jump on at any stop and get off at whichever stop they choose. Tickets are usually valid (有效的) for 1-2 days for the operating hours of the company you have bought your ticket from.
One of the best hop-on hop-off tours in London is Golden Tours! Golden Tours is London's leading sightseeing company. Since 1984, it has been offering a wide range of daily tours covering England's most well-known attractions.
Hop-on Hop-off Ticket Price:
Adult: ￡26
Child: ￡12 ( provides for children aged 5-12 )
Family: ￡64 ( provides for two adults and two children )
Ticket Duration: 24 or 48 hours (in winter)
Times:
Blue Route: 8:16 am-5:00 pm
Red Route: 8:16 am-5:30pm
Green Route:8:16 am-5:00pm
Purple Route:8:16 am-4:15 pm
Buses run every 10-20 minutes.
Where to Purchase Tickets
Online or at departure points Green Park, Trafalgar Square,Buckingham Palace.
Commentary (现场解说) Languages and Type:
Live commentary in English.Recorded commentary in German, French, Spanish,
Italian, Japanese, Russian and Brazilian Portuguese.
Routes:
Blue Route: Standard Route plus Belgravia and Kensington — Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral, Buckingham Palace, Harrods, V&A Museum, etc.
Red Route: Standard Route plus the Docklands
Green Route: Standard Route
Purple Route: Standard Route plus Soho and Bloomsbury
Route Durations: 1-3 hours
1. If you want to visit Buckingham Palace, you should choose .| A．Blue Route | B．Red Route |
| C．Green Route | D．Purple Route |
| A．You can hear live commentary in French. |
| B．You can take the bus to wherever you want. |
| C．You don't need to wait any time for the bus. |
| D．You have to finish your tour before 4:15 pm. |
| A．￡48. | B．￡52. |
| C．￡64. | D．￡76. |
10 . Dark Sky Parks around the World
Warrumbungle National Park
Situated in the central west slopes of New South Wales is Australia’s only dark sky park, Warrumbungle. The park has served as a dark sky park since July 2016. Its crystal-clear night skies and high altitude make it a natural, educational, and astronomical heritage site in the southern half of the earth. Tourists can use Australia’s largest optical telescope within the park boundaries to view the auroras(极光)，the Milky Way, and faint shooting stars.
Sark
Sark is a Channel Island near the coast of Normandy under the protection of the UK. It was the World’s First Dark Sky Island set up in January 2011. Its historical and cultural blend attracts over 40,000 tourists annually. With no motor vehicles and public lighting on the island, there is an exceptional view of the dark skies. A rich Milky Way is visible in the dark night skies from the shores of the island.
Pic du Midi de Bigorre
Pic du Midi de Bigorre in France was designated as a dark sky park in December 2013 making it the second largest dark sky park in the world. The park covers 3.112 square kilometers spread across the Pyrenees National Park and UNESCO’s World Heritage site, Pyrenees-Mont Perdu. The park attracts over one hundred star watchers every year. The Observatory Midi-Pyrenees, which was built in 1870, is one of the world’s highest museums at a height of 2,877 meters above sea level.
Ramon Crater/Makhtesh Ramon
Ramon Crater is a unique 1,100-square-kilometer nature reserve located in the Negev Desert in Israel. In 2017, the Ramon Crater became the first designated dark sky park in the Middle East. Its location, rough climate, and forbidding landscape that are characteristic of the Negev have largely defeated historical attempts for human settlement, making it a great place to view the night skies. Stargazers usually camp in the desert to have an uninterrupted view of the stars, planets, and the Milky Way.
1. Which park serves as a heritage site for astronomy?| A．Sark. |
| B．Pic du Midi de Bigorre. |
| C．Warrumbungle National Park. |
| D．Ramon Crater/Makhtesh Ramon. |
| A．Not a single car runs there. |
| B．It was an island belonging to Normandy. |
| C．The Milky Way can only be seen there. |
| D．Visitors like to stay on the island in groups. |
| A．High altitude. | B．The large area. |
| C．Geographical conditions. | D．Cultural features. |
