1 . My Favourite Books
Jo Usmar is a writer for Cosmopolitan and co-author of the This Book Will series(系列) of lifestyle books. Here she picks her top reads.
Matilda
Roald Dahl
I once wrote a paper on the influence of fairy tales on Roald Dahl’s writing and it gave me a new appreciation for his strange and delightful words. Matilda’s battles with her cruel parents and the bossy headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, are equally funny and frightening, but they’re also aspirational.
After Dark
Haruki Murakami
It’s about two sisters—Eri, a model who either won’t or can’t stop sleeping, and Mari, a young student. In trying to connect to her sister, Mari starts changing her life and discovers a world of diverse “night people” who are hiding secrets.
Gone Girl
Gillian Fynn
There was a bit of me that didn’t want to love this when everyone else on the planet did, but the horror story is brilliant. There’s tension and anxiety from the beginning as Nick and Amy battle for your trust. It’s a real whodunit and the frustration when you realise what’s going on is horribly enjoyable.
The Stand
Stephen King
This is an excellent fantasy novel from one of the best storytellers around. After a serious flu outbreak wipes out 99.4% of the world’s population, a battle unfolds between good and evil among those left. Randall Flagg is one of the scariest characters ever.
1. Who does “I” refer to in the text?A.Stephen King. | B.Gillian Flynn. |
C.Jo Usmar. | D.Roald Dahl. |
A.Cosmopolitan. | B.Matilda. |
C.After Dark. | D.The Stand. |
A.A folk tale. | B.A biography. |
C.A love story. | D.A horror story. |
2 . Washington, D.C. Bicycle Tours
Cherry Blossom Bike Tour in Washington, D.C.
Duration: 3 hours
This small group bike tour is a fantastic way to see a world-famous cherry trees with beautiful flowers of Washington, D.C. Your guide will provide a history lesson about the trees and the famous monuments where they blossom. Reserve your spot before availability — the cherry blossoms—disappear!
Washington Capital Monuments Bicycle Tour
Duration: 3 hours (4 miles)
Join a guided bike tour and view some of the most popular monuments in Washington, D.C. Explore the monuments and memorials on the National Mall as your guide shares unique facts and history at each stop. Guided tour includes bike, helmet, cookies and bottled water.
Capital City Bike Tour In Washington, D.C.
Duration: 3 hours
Morning or Afternoon, this bike tour is the perfect tour for D. C. newcomers and locals looking to experience Washington, D.C. in a healthy way with minimum effort. Knowledgeable guides will entertain you with the most, interesting stories about Presidents, Congress, memorials, and parks. Comfortable bikes and a smooth tour route(路线) make cycling between the sites fun and relaxing.
Washington Capital Sites at Night Bicycle Tour
Duration: 3 hours (7miles)
Join a small group bike tour for an evening of exploration in the heart of Washington, D.C. Get up close to the monuments and memorials as you bike the sites of Capitol Hill and the National Mall. Frequent stops are made for photo taking as your guide offers unique facts and history. Tour includes bike, helmet, and bottled water. All riders are equipped with reflective vests and safety lights.
1. Which tour do you need to book in advance?A.Cherry Blossom Bike Tour in Washington, D.C. |
B.Washington Capital Monuments Bicycle Tour. |
C.Capital City Bike Tour in Washington. |
D.Washington Capital Sites at Night Bicycle Tour. |
A.Meet famous people. | B.Go to a national park. |
C.Visit well-known museums. | D.Enjoy interesting stories. |
A.City maps. | B.Cameras. |
C.Meals. | D.Safety lights. |
3 . 你受学生会委托为校宣传栏“英语天地”写一则通知,请大家观看一部英语短片Growing Together,内容包括:
(1)短片内容:学校的发展;
(2)放映时间、地点;
(3)欢迎对短片提出意见。
注意:
(1)词数100左右;
(2)可以适当增加细节,以使行文连贯。
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4 . Thanks For Giving 4 Miler
Thurs. November 23, 2023
The EventSign up today for the 2023 Thanks For Giving 4 Miler and Kids Dash that will take place this Thanksgiving in New Albany! Come out and join us for a fun kick off to Thanksgiving Day festivities! As always, 100% of our net proceeds go to help those in need.
All are welcome, including competitive runners, joggers, and walkers wanting to enjoy time with friends and loved ones. Registration ends on November 22, 2023.
The FeeThere is no official race fee. You can give as much or as little as you want. However-a $40 minimum donation is required to get our soft T-shirt. Our goal is to feed as many families in Central Ohio as we can. You can help by running our race, spreading the word, or making a donation. You may bring any donation you want, from a can of soup to cash. Let’s make a difference.
Event Day Timeline6:30 am: Race day check-in begins.
8:00 am: Opening ceremony (仪式) begins!
8:15 am: Kids Dash begins!
8:30 am: The Thanks For Giving 4 Miler kicks off!
AwardsThe top three overall male and female finishers will receive a gift certificate. The top three male and female finishers in each of the following age groups will receive a pumpkin (南瓜) pie: 14 and under, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70 and above. Every participant of the kids race receives a finisher’s medal!
SafetyFor safety, please no bicycles, skateboards, inline skates, or participation with pets.
1. What is Thanks For Giving 4 Miler and Kids Run?A.A marathon race. | B.A charity event. |
C.A kid-targeted activity. | D.A holiday get-together. |
A.A soft T-shirt. | B.A pumpkin pie. |
C.A gift certificate. | D.A finisher’s medal. |
A.Bringing a donation. |
B.Reaching a certain age. |
C.Registering in advance. |
D.Wearing safety equipment. |
5 . Four Best Hikes in the World
There's nothing like getting out and getting some fresh air on a hike. No matter whether your idea of a hike is a leisure walk or climbing the highest mountain on Earth, we've got you covered. Below are four best hikes in the world.
Torres del Paine W Circuit
Location (位置): Patagonia. Chile
Distance: 37 + miles
Time: 5~6 days
Best time to go: October to January
The W Circuit is one of the most recommended hikes you'll find. Not only will you appreciate the diverse landscapes and striking granite pillars (花岗岩柱子), but you'll probably meet some new friends along the way.
Grand Canyon Rim - to - Rim Hike
Location: Arizona, the United States
Distance: 48 miles
Time: 1~3 days
Best time to go: May to June, September to October
There's no better way to experience one of the greatest wonders in the world. Located in one of the USA's most beautiful parks, the views are absolutely appealing. Just make sure you're prepared for the challenge.
Trek to Petra
Location: Jordan
Distance: 47 miles
Time: 5~ 6 days
Best time to go: October to April
Take the road less traveled through the Kingdom of Jordan and experience one of the seven wonders of the world. Hike through canyons, gorges and ridges, and see tombs and temples along the way all while avoiding crowds of tourists.
Yosemite Grand Traverse
Location: California, the United States
Distance: 60 miles
Time: 6~7 days
Best time to go: July to September
Known for some of the best hiking in the world, Yosemite National Park is famous for its views and huge sequoia (红杉) trees. Praised by National Geographic, the Yosemite Grand Traverse will take you through waterfalls and green mountaintops.
1. Which of the following is the best time for the hike in Patagonia, Chile?A.April | B.May | C.August | D.December |
A.Jordan | B.Patagonia, Chile |
C.Arizona, the United States | D.California, the United States |
A.Plant sequoia trees | B.Appreciate waterfalls | C.Visit local temples | D.Climb granite pillars |
6 . 2023 Hot List: The Best New Restaurants in the World
Place des Fêtes — New York CityThis famous wine bar provides a spot with a rare sweet and warm atmosphere. For date night, go to the bar with views of the open kitchen, or fill up the large table in the back with a group and taste the entire 20-item menu. Either way, do not miss the famous mushroom soup.
Le Doyenné — Saint-Vrain, FranceAustralian chefs James Henry and Shaun Kelly transformed the former stables (马厩) of a 19th-century private estate into a working farm, restaurant, and guesthouse driven by the principles of regenerative agriculture. More than one hundred varieties of fruits, vegetables, and herbs make their way into Henry’s cooking after being carefully nurtured by Kelly.
Mi Compa Chava — Mexico CitySeafood is a hangover cure in Mexico, and almost everyone eating here is devoted to fixing last night’s damage from drunkenness and getting a head start on creating today’s. On the sidewalk, crowds of locals and tourists alike line up for fisherman Salvador Orozco’s creative takes on Sinaloa and Baja seafood. Anything from the raw half of the menu is a sure bet, though cooked dishes like fish can help fill out a meal.
Vilas — BangkokCan a dish inspired by a Spanish recipe using Japanese ingredients still be considered Thai? For Chef Prin Polsuk, one of Bangkok’s most famous Thai chefs, it most certainly can. At his latest restaurant, a small dining room at the base of Bangkok’s landmark King Power Mahanakhon Tower, he draws inspiration from King Chulalongkorn’s 1897 journey around Europe and the foreign ingredients (原料) and cooking techniques he added to the royal cookbooks.
1. What does the author highly recommend at Place des Fêtes?A.Red wine. | B.Fried fish. | C.Baja seafood. | D.Mushroom soup. |
A.Place des Fêtes. | B.Le Doyenné. | C.Mi Compa Chava. | D.Vilas. |
A.To compare the origins of some restaurants. | B.To state the similarities of some restaurants. |
C.To recommend some foods of some restaurants. | D.To introduce the features of some restaurants. |
A.From his phone. | B.From newspapers. | C.From TV news stations. |
8 . Prague is one of Europe's most magical cities with its postcard views. To experience the best of Prague, we've put together a walking guide to help you explore the city. Choosing this self-guided tour means that you can do it at your own pace.
Vrtba Garden
One of Prague's most beautiful and precious gardens. The garden dates back to 1720 with its old school Italian baroque style. This is one of Prague's lesser known attractions so you may not find many tourists around, but it's well worth the visit and a great way to start your walking tour of Prague.
Address: Kamelitsksá, 373/25, 118 00 Praha 1-Malá Strana, Czechia
Saint Nicholas Church
The most famous church in Prague is the Saint Nicholas Church. Three generations of great architects took around 100 years to build this magnificent church. The church remains active to this day, so why not go and have a close look at the church?
Address: Malostranské nám., 118 00 Praha I-Malá Strana, Czechia
Prague Castle
Situated on a hill on the left bank of river Vitava, the Prague Castle is roughly the size of seven football fields, which is the largest ancient castle in the world, so there's a lot to see. The Prague Castle has been rebuilt many times through the centuries, so it is an obvious mix of architectural styles.
Address: 119 08 Prague 1, Czechia
Lennon Wall
The wall is not just a memorial for John Lennon and his ideas for peace. It speaks highly of freedom of speech and is a form of non-violent rebellion of Czech youth who fought against authorities during 1980.
Address: Velkopřevorské náměstí, 100 00 Praha 1, Czechia
1. What is the advantage of the self-guided tour?A.It offers tourists a visit to Prague for free. |
B.It provides a guide to help with the tour. |
C.There is no need for tourists to rush. |
D.There are many beautiful postcards on sale. |
A.It is the oldest garden in Prague. |
B.It has already attracted most tourists. |
C.It is a good choice to begin your tour. |
D.It is the only one in Italian baroque style. |
A.You should allow more time to explore the site. |
B.You should have a good time playing football. |
C.You should research the history of the Castle. |
D.You should be careful when crossing the river Vitava. |
9 . Great Places to Enjoy Books
Sinan Books,ChinaSinan Books offers a space for learning and thinking to the general public living in the city. Its door has red decoration, showing Sinan Books’ attitude of openness, and its reading space is beautifully decorated with yellow lights. The color green sets off the exhibition spaces. Spaces on the fourth floor are decorated with black and white colors to encourage readers to face themselves.
Paju Book City,South KoreaAs the name suggests, it’s a city of books. The bookstores make lots of book lovers come here. In particular, the yearly Booksori book festival attracts nearly one million visitors. At the festival, the organizers present Paju Book Awards to the great Asian writers, editors, and designers. Besides, you can give your old books in return for those books you want to read in these bookstores. The most popular bookstore is Bomulseom, which carries a quality selection (挑选) of Korean, English, and Japanese books, as well as magazines and albums.
Bonjinsha,JapanBonjinsha is a bookstore dedicated to (致力于) the teaching and learning of the Japanese language. The store in Tokyo has a wide variety of teaching materials for all levels, from beginners to advanced learners. If you are studying or living in Japan and need to improve your Japanese language skills, then Bonjinsha will be a good place to start. Not only is Bonjinsha an established bookstore, but it’s also a famous publishing house in Japan.
College Street,IndiaAlthough it is only 0.9 km long, there is a range of bookstores and publishers right on the street. Perhaps the most well-known bookstores in this neighborhood are Dasgupta & Co., the first bookstore on College Street founded in 1886 with a large number of rare books, and the Bani Library, a family-run business for five generations housing all kinds of textbooks related to all things academic.
1. What is unique about Sinan Books?A.It’s more popular with teenagers. |
B.It uses colors to create a better reading atmosphere. |
C.It often introduces the latest good books to readers. |
D.It often holds colorful reading festivals. |
A.communicate with some famous writers |
B.visit many bookstores with particular themes |
C.get a special discount on books in Korean |
D.exchange used books in the bookstores |
A.Both have a small space. | B.Both encourage guests to buy used books. |
C.Both have a long history. | D.Both offer rare books at affordable prices. |
10 . Bristol Old Vic
When the Theatre Royal (now Bristol Old Vic) was built, electricity hadn’t been discovered. For over 250 years the people who have owned, worked inside and visited the theatre have kept records about their activity. These are kept safe at the University of Bristol Theatre Collection, and you’ll discover a range of documents which record the history of the theatre, from its foundation in 1764 up until the present day. Here are some of them.
BEGINNING
In 1764 businessmen Alexander Edgar and Thomas Symons suggested building a new theatre between Baldwin Street and the back of Coopers’ Hall in King Street. The estimated cost was f2, 000 to be split among 40 subscribers, but the building work cost more than expected. Owning shares allowed them to influence decisions about the theatre.
SILVER TICKET
Each of the original Bristol Old Vic shareholders was given a silver ticket that promised sight of any performance held at the theatre. As the holders were clever businessmen, they insisted that the silver tickets could be loaned or traded. This enabled them to make some extra money but made it extremely difficult for the theatre managers to keep track of who was allowed to see shows for free.
250TH BIRTHDAY
In May 2016, the theatre celebrated its 250th birthday! As the oldest continuously-working theatre in the English-speaking world, it deserved a proper party, so Bristol-based Limbic Cinema was hired to create a film of the theatre’s historical highlights which was projected (放映) onto the theatre itself.
1. Where can you find the three mentioned documents?A.At Baldwin Street. |
B.At Coopers’ Hall in King Street. |
C.At Bristol-based Limbic Cinema. |
D.At the University of Bristol Theatre Collection. |
A.By creating a film about its history. |
B.By building Bristol-based Limbic Cinema. |
C.By releasing silver ticket in memory of the birthday. |
D.By making a film projected in theatres across England. |
A.To compare the theatre and others. |
B.To change people’s view on Bristol Old Vic. |
C.To introduce some information of Bristol Old Vic. |
D.To recommend a movie related to the theatre. |