1 . A series of trains between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day add extra fun, especially for families. Here are four holiday trips to celebrate the season. All aboard!
Cascade Canyon Winter Train
This memorable five-hour steam (蒸汽) train ride takes passengers through the snowy ops of the Rockies and remote wilderness of San Juan National Forest. Enjoy a fireside lunch or a hike along the picture-like Animus River during your hour-long stop.
Aurora Winter Train
This seasonal train heads north from Anchorage to Denali, America’s highest mountain. You can stop after three hours at Talkeetna to ski down the mountain or continue on for another nine hours to Fairbanks for some breathtaking northern lights viewing. Trains leave every Saturday morning, with return trips every Sunday.
Amtrak California Zephyr
Long-distance train trippers love the Zephyr in any season, but winter adds the attraction of pretty snow outside the window as you go over the Rockies. Departing daily all winter from both Chicago and San Francisco, the 51-hour journey offers hotel-level service in a bedroom with a private bathroom and shower. Or, break up the trip with stops to sleep and ski in Denver or Salt Lake City.
The Polar Express
The Polar Express, a Caldecott Medal-winning children’s book and Tom Hanks’ movie, is re-created in 40 Polar Express rides in 24 states, putting more than a million annual passengers in train seats. The story is read and performed by onboard actors, while Santa and dancing chefs who serve hot chocolate and treats add to the fun on the way to the “North Pole”. Most of the rides will take you to scenic places like the Grand Canyon, Mount Rainier, and the Catskills.
1. How long does Cascade Canyon Winter Train stop at the Animus River?| A．One hour. |
| B．Three hours. |
| C．Five hours. |
| D．Nine hours. |
| A．The Polar Express. |
| B．Amtrak California Zephyr. |
| C．Aurora Winter Train. |
| D．Cascade Canyon Winter Train. |
| A．Enjoy a fireside lunch. |
| B．See live performances. |
| C．Cook meals with Santa. |
| D．Watch Tom Hanks’ movies. |
2 . 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. |
3 . Walk and dance on the ceilings, sit in a bathroom with an upside-down toilet, grab a chair in the home office, and traverse the entry way, sitting-room, bedroom, kitchen and more. Come on down, upside-down, to House Down Under, Australia’s first inverted house photo experience!
This hugely successful, unique and exciting attraction is back just in time for the school holidays at Rouse Hill Town Centre in Western Sydney. It is a must-see, family-friendly, fun experience with a range of installations and activities inside a completely inverted house.
Visitors can spend as much time as they like inside the house, so they can take their time perfecting poses and taking as many photos as they like. House Down Under staff are always on hand in the house,offering advice, tips on best photo ops and to snap pictures of the whole group.
House Down Under is open from 1 April and opening hours can be found at the end of this article or on the official website. The building is located between the Metro and the Town Centre at Market Square, Rouse Hill Town Centre and you won't be able to miss it.
Rouse Hill Town Centre is also a great place for families with a variety of entertainment and food options, so make it a day out and enjoy everything on offer.
Entry tickets to House Down Under are $27 for an adult; $19 for a child;$23 for a concession (优惠), with family passes ranging from $52-$74 for a family of four. For further information on House Down Under, visit the website, www. house downunder.com.au.OPEN DAILY-Weekdays 9 am to 6 pm; Weekends 10 am to 6 pm.
1. What is special about House Down Under?| A．It is conveniently located. |
| B．All staff are properly trained. |
| C．All things are upside-down in it. |
| D．It supplies flexible food options. |
| A．Take pictures at will. |
| B．Enjoy a shopping trip. |
| C．Have a family party. |
| D．Visit its occupants. |
| A．$23. | B．$27. | C．$52. | D．$74. |
4 . 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. |
5 . It’s time to share the winners of this year’s Invent It Challenge! Here are our four winners of the first round!
Glo Zone (Ages 5-7 Individual Winner)
Kabir from California came up with this cool invention after a not-so-fun experience. He was hit by four adults on a ski trip! To make skiing and snowboarding safe for nighttime (especially for smaller kids)， he created Glo Zone，a fun glowing(发光的)rainbow umbrella that is attached to skiers’ helmets.
ProTech Helmet (Ages 11-13 Individual Winner)
Pooja from New Jersey has created a light, safe helmet designed for playing frisbee (飞盘)!She came up with the idea after getting hit right under the eye at a frisbee competition and realizing she could get blinded if it were any higher. The ProTech Helmet has a lining(衬里) made of a new technology called Spin.
Ace Attachment (Ages 8-10 Team Winner)
Levi and Albert from New York dealt with helping people with disabilities enjoy sports. The Ace Attachment makes it easier for wheelchair users to play golf. Unlike similar inventions, the Ace Attachment is easily adjustable.
Skate Shoes “DOOD” (Ages 14+ Individual Winner)
It’s the worst when you ruin your favorite pair of shoes! Fortunately, Rommel from Mexico has come up with new skate shoes. These shoes have exchangeable parts that allow pieces of the shoes to be replaced with new ones when broken instead of getting rid of the whole pair.
Cast your vote!
Which of these fantastic inventions will you choose to win the Cricket Choice Award? While they are all outstanding, only one can win the popular vote! Cast your vote here by May 16!
1. What do Kabir’s and Pooja’s inventions have in common?| A．They are new-type helmets. |
| B．They are targeted at the same sport. |
| C．They are designed for teenagers of the same age group. |
| D．They are inspired by the inventors’ experience of getting hit. |
| A．It is disability-friendly. |
| B．It features replaceable parts. |
| C．It involves a new technology called Spin. |
| D．It enables wheelchair users to enjoy sports. |
| A．A short story about young inventors. | B．An introduction to a competition. |
| C．An award voting invitation. | D．A winner announcement. |
6 . Influential Art
| Sheila Metzner: From Life Jan. 20, 2024-Feb. 25, 2024 This exhibition celebrates the artistic skill of the internationally respected American photographer Sheila Metzner. Her unique style integrates aspects of Pictorialism andModernism to create an aesthetic (美感),which not only stands out in the history of photography but also becomes very closely associated with the best of 1980’s fashion,beauty and decorative arts trends. | William Blake: Visionary Jan. 17, 2024-Feb. 24, 2024 A remarkable printmaker, painter, and poet, William Blake (1757-1827) developed a very wildly unconventional world view. By combining his poetry and images on the page through unique drawing techniques, Blake created some of British art’s most striking and lasting imagery. This major international loan exhibition explores the artist-poet’s imaginative world through his most celebrated works. |
| Alfredo Boulton: Looking at Venezuela (1928-1978) Daily, through Jan.16, 2024 Alfredo Boulton was one of the most important intellectuals of the 20th century inLatin America and an influential photographer of the modern period. Through his large collection of works, Boulton generated a new cultural definition of Venezuela. This exhibition explores Boulton’s wonderful photography, his relationships with modern artists and his influence on the formalization of art history in his country. | Eugèn e Atget: Highlights from the Mary & Dan Solomon Collection Daily, through Jan. 25, 2024 Around the turn of the 20th century,photographer Eugène Atget broke new artistic ground. Walking at dawn with his heavy camera, he photographed the soul of Paris and its surrounding areas by focusing on its old alleyways, shop fronts, architectural details,staircases and street sellers. This focused exhibition features highlights from the artist’s work, which continues to influence quite a few photographers today. |
1. What did Sheila Metzner and Alfredo Boulton have in common?
| A．They shaped artistic expression. |
| B．T hey explored cultural diversity. |
| C．They photographed American life. |
| D．They focused on modern photography. |
| A．French fashions. | B．Natural landscapes. |
| C．Architectural designs. | D．Urban street scenes. |
| A．William Blake: Visionary. |
| B．S heila M etzner:F rom L ife. |
| C．A lfredo B oulton:L ooking at Venezuela(1928–1978). |
| D．E ugène A tget: H ighlights from the Mary & Dan Solomon Collection. |
7 . Science Books for Kids of All Ages
To help you choose the perfect education al books for your child, we’ve created this handpicked list of the best science books for kids. The titles featured here spark curiosity, encourage leaning, and are lots of fun, too.
About Time: A First Look at Time and Clocks
Author: Bruce Koscielniak; Price: US $8.55
Long ago people used the sun, the moon, and the water to tell time. Soon after we began using our knowledge about the natural world to build clocks and to create calendars made up of months and years. Centuries later, we have clocks and calendars all around us. This book tells the amazing story of how it all happened!
Animalium: Welcome to the Museum
Author: Katie Scott;Price: US $8.99
This book opens the doors of the natural history museum for your child all year round! It features 200 full-color specimens accompanied by lively, informative text and more. Discover the animal kingdom inglorious detail with unique illustrations that combine science and art.
Bang!: How We Came to Be
Author: Michael Rubino; Price: US $16.00
“Bang! And that was it, the beginning of everything.” So begins this beautifully illustrated story of evolution. This book conveys not only the facts but also the excitement of the scientific explanation of our world, from the origin of the universe to the present reality of our planet.
Bedtime Math: The Truth Comes Out
Author: Laura Overdeck; Price: US $10.99
This book makes learning about math as fun as dessert after dinner! It combines math and cool facts for one fun and wild adventure. Now kids can discover the science behind all their favorite things: marshmallows, soda, ice cream, and more. With over 100 math problems on a variety of topics, kids will find math isn’t just fun — it can be found everywhere!
1. What can kids learn in the book About Time?| A．The tough life of ancestors. | B．The origin of the sun and the moon. |
| C．The old ways to measure time. | D．The wildlife in the natural world. |
| A．They are children’s novels. | B．They are popular for cheap price. |
| C．They are collected in the museum. | D．They are illustrated stories for kids. |
| A．Bang. | B．Bedtime Math. | C．Animalium. | D．About Time. |
| Heather’s Clothing Shop Good news! Men’s business suits, jackets, shirts, sportswear and ties are 50% OFF. This week only! On the corner of First Street and Second Street. Opening hours: 8:00 a.m.~7:00 p.m. every day | Fashion Shop Come and see what we have on sale for ladies. Fashionable blouses and hats are 60% OFF. Ladies’ spring dresses, coats, trousers and shoes are 20% OFF. On Fifth Street. Opening hours: 9:00 a.m.~ 8:00 p.m. except Tuesday | Happy Times There are all kinds of clothes in our store. Welcome! Everything is 40% OFF. Only this weekend! On Center Street. Opening hours: 10:00 a.m.~9:00 p.m. every day |
| A．Three. | B．Four. | C．Five. | D．Six. |
| A．$12 | B．$48 | C．$60 | D．$24 |
| A．Heather’s Clothing Shop | B．Fashion Shop |
| C．Happy Times | D．any of the three shops |
| A．Happy Times’ address. | B．Fashion Shop. |
| C．Ladies’ clothes in Fashion Shop. | D．Heather’s Clothing Shop’s telephone number. |
| A．a news report | B．a shopping poster |
| C．a fashion show | D．a story |
9 . There are so many fun events happening in the City Beautiful. Enjoy the sunshine at a market, try an art class or explore the foodie scene. You’ll find an ongoing events section for even more ideas.
Harbor Nights Primavera
Time: Friday, April 7 6:30 pm—9:30 pm
Price: $69—$99
Place: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando
A lively event on the Harbor Piazza featuring wines, chef-inspired food stations and a live band. It’s a truly authentic Italian evening set beside a picturesque harbor that’s perfect for a date night or a fun night out with friends.
2023 DIS CON
Time: Saturday, April 15—Sunday, April 16
Price: $55 and up
Place: Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
A one-of-a-kind expo celebrating Disney, Marvel, Pixar, theme parks, and music. On April 17, join a private after-hours party at EPCOT. All proceeds（收入）benefit Give Kids The World Village.
Open House: OneBeat
Time: Friday, April 28 7:30 pm
Price: Tickets starting at $5 donations
Place: Timucua Arts Foundation Orlando
OneBeat brings musicians（ages 19—35）from around the world to a region of the USA for one month each spring and fall to jointly write, produce, and perform original music, and develop strategies for arts-based social engagement. Feel free to bring a bottle of wine.
Annual Charity Cornhole Tournament
Time: Sunday, May 14 11:00 am
Place: Ace Cafe Orlando
Single elimination bracket（淘汰等级）style cornhole tournament at Ace Café in Orlando, FL featuring a $200 cash prize for the first place team and a prize to be determined for the second place. All proceeds will be used exclusively（专门地）to support families in need. The entry fee is a minimum donation of $50 per team.
1. What can you enjoy at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel on April 7?| A．Free wines. | B．Live music. | C．Big discounts. | D．Food delivery. |
| A．It encourages donations. | B．It offers prizes to the winners. |
| C．It’s designed for the musicians. | D．It creates new music for its audiences. |
| A．2023 DIS CON. | B．Cornhole Tournament. |
| C．Open House: OneBeat. | D．Harbor Nights Primavera. |
10 . Things to Do in Lake Tahoe, CA
You cannot visit Lake Tahoe without actually getting out on the water. With so many amazing things to do in the area, there is no shortage of fun. The alpine (高山的) area is renowned for its countless opportunities for adventure, and it is home to some of the best beach and ski opportunities as well as a large amount of beautiful scenery. Whether you visit during the summer or the winter, there is definitely something for everyone.
Around The Lake Tahoe Tour
You will be aboard a luxury shuttle bus with incredible views of Squaw Valley and more with a tour guide who will entertain you with interesting facts about the area while you stop periodically at picturesque sites.
Available 22 days between Jun. 1 &Oct. 26
Lake Tahoe Hot Air Ballooning
See the beautiful views of the alpine area with a balloon flight to take you to the skies on a one-of-a-kind experience. See sights such as Yosemite, Emerald Bay, and sparkling waters as you fly above for panoramic views.
Available 156 days between May 13 & Oct. 15
Tahoe Sport Fishing Ski Run Marina
Amazing fun out on Lake Tahoe awaits with one of these exciting Tahoe Sport Fishing charters. With this trip, you can test your angling skills on rainbow trout, salmon, and more!
Available 253 days between Apr. 27 &Dec. 31
Hellman-Ehrman Mansion
The Hellman-Ehrman Mansion the third best selling attraction in Lake Tahoe, California, it is a good experience for all ages. You will get to see many sights including the Ice House, the children’s house, the dressing room and the pump house.
Available 90 days between May 30 & Sep. 30
1. What do we know about Lake Tahoe?| A．You can’t get out on the water in Lake Tahoe. |
| B．It’s famous for its water adventures. |
| C．The best season to visit Lake Tahoe is summer. |
| D．It is a place surrounded by water. |
| A．Stop periodically at scenic spots. |
| B．Drive to enjoy the scenery of Squaw Valley. |
| C．Overlook the beautiful views of the alpine area. |
| D．Learn some interesting facts about the guide. |
| A．Around The Lake Tahoe Tour. |
| B．Lake Tahoe Hot Air Ballooning. |
| C．Tahoe Sport Fishing Ski Run Marina. |
| D．Hellman-Ehrman Mansion. |
