1 . HANGZHOU—Wearing a backpack and earphones, Peter Zhang set off from his office during rush hour, accompanied by his favourite podcast. Podcasts (播客) have become a life companion for the 27-year-old white-collar worker in Beijing. “When I’m commuting (通勤) or waiting, the podcast fill the boring blanks.” he said.
According to a report by market research company eMarketer, there were 86 million podcast listeners in China last year, second only to the United States. In eastern China’s Zhejiang province, Zhao Fanyu prepared dinner for herself while listening to a podcast. “Listening to podcasts gives me some companionship when I’m doing chores or cooking.” she said. After getting her master’s degree, Zhao found a job in Jiaxing as a grassroots civil servant. She listens to podcasts for more than an hour a day and usually listens to discussions about current events and hot topics. She says podcasts are becoming a spiritual home for young people living alone in big cities. Young urbanites like Zhao living in China’s first-and-second-tier cities are the main audience for podcasts. They care about current affairs and personal feelings, and they listen to serious discussions as well as those about games and entertainment.
Based on the statistics from podcast search engine Listen-Notes, there were more than 40,000 Chinese podcasts at the end of last year, up from more than 10,000 in April 2020. Dong Chenyu, a lecture at Renmin University of China’s School of Journalism and Communication, said sound sometimes has advantages over video. He said the COVID-19 pandemic has made people spend more time at home, but prolonged screen time has affected their eyes, making podcasts a welcome relief.
Podcasts are also gradually becoming more valuable commercially. Shu Yulong, CEO of podcast app Xiaoyuzhoufm, said podcasts are now gradually being taken seriously by players in the media market. “In 2021, traditional paper media started to enter the podcast market, opening podcast accounts on Xiaoyuzhoufm, and recording audio content for podcast platform distribution.” Shu said.
Market researcher eMarketer predicts the number of podcast listeners in China will reach 102 million this year, and that more than 10 percent of the Chinese population will be podcast listeners by 2024.
1. Why does the passage mention Peter Zhang and Zhao Fanyu?A.To introduce the topic of the passage. | B.To show the popularity of podcasts. |
C.To emphasize the importance of podcasts. | D.To support the author’s opinion. |
A.The World Today | B.Weather Forecast |
C.The Traffic Report | D.Chinese Eight Cuisine |
A.Indifferent. | B.Mixed. | C.Negative. | D.Positive. |
A.In a contract. | B.In a journal. | C.In a newspaper. | D.In a brochure. |
2 . Old and unrestored theatres are all around us and yet so unnoticed. Recently, a new photobook has unveiled their often overlooked beauty.
Proctor’s Theatre, Troy, New York
Originally opened as Proctor’s Fourth Street Theatre in 1914, it hosted famous comedians such as Jack Benny and Bob Hope. From 1929, it was successively taken over, renamed as Proctor’s Troy Theatre and switched to screening films. In the 1960s, it began playing second-run films before closing in 1977. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) in 1979. In 2010, the theatre was repaired but is currently not being used today.
Proctor’s Theatre, Newark, New Jersey
Although available outdoors from street sellers. food was banned in theatres to display respectability. In the late 1920s, however, the operators in Proctor’s Theatre in Newark began to set up stands to improve the economic situation during the Great Depression. Popcorn and Coke would become a significant part of the theatre’s income.
Metropolitan Opera House, Philadelphia
The theatre was originally opened as the Philadelphia Opera House in 1908. In the 1920s, it was renamed as the Metropolitan Opera House, showing silent films in addition to hosting various opera companies. In the 1940s, it became a sports arena. In 1954, it was turned into a church. In the late 1990s, the building was purchased by Mark Hatcher. The church and the developer came to an agreement on a repair for a music venue that was completed and reopened in 2018.
RKO Keith’s Flushing Theatre, New York
Originally opened in 1928, RKO Keith’s Flushing Theatre was designed by Thomas Lamb. In 1982, it was listed on the NRHP. In 1986, the theatre was bought and closed by its new owner who planned to build a shopping centre on the site, intentionally damaging the hall. In 2019, despite the preservation efforts, the hall was knocked down to make way for a residential tower block.
1. Which one is the oldest among the four theatres?A.Proctor’s Theatre, Troy, New York | B.Proctor’s Theatre, Newark, New Jersey |
C.Metropolitan Opera House, Philadelphia | D.RKO Keith’s Flushing Theatre, New York |
A.All of them are out of use now. |
B.All of them are admired in 21st century. |
C.All of them are ignored by most of people today. |
D.All of them haven’t been repaired since they were set up. |
A.To rank the old and unrestored theatres. |
B.To encourage people to protect the old theatres. |
C.To show the development of American theatres. |
D.To provide information on overlooked old theatres. |
You will learn some basic techniques using soft pencils.These different types of paper are provided.
Just bring yourself and a willingness to “have a go”. This is a start-up day so people who have already attended courses should not apply.
Time: 1:00p.m.~3:00p.m.
Focus on Landscapes
This course is designed for students who are familiar with painting in watercolours (水彩), but are having difficulty with some techniques. We will discuss choice of materials, colour mixing and other areas that maybe raised.
The day will start with a demonstration, followed by a chance to paint outdoors. After a light lunch cooked in the studio, there will be a further practice session.
Time: 9:30a.m.~3:00p.m.
Find Your Voice
You may feel you can᾿t sing or you may be a good singer who wants to develop singing skills. You will be shown how to sing correctly and how to project your voice. You may attend this course more than once and each time you will have a wonderful experience. Everyone can sing and it᾿s great fun.
Time: 2:00p.m.~5:00p.m.
The Music Takeaway
Get some friends, family or co-workers together for your own music course in a place of your choice, which could be your front room, basement or workplace. We send two guitar teachers to lead a oneday course for you in the style of music you prefer, such as rock, country, funk or blues.
Time: 2:30p.m.~9:00p.m.
1. What’s the purpose of Focus on Landscapes?
A.Paint outdoors. |
B.Discuss the painting materials. |
C.Teach how to start watercolour-painting. |
D.Improve the students’ painting techniques. |
A.Drawing for Fun. |
B.Find Your Voice |
C.Focus on Landscapes. |
D.The Music Takeaway. |
A.The Music Takeaway. | B.Drawing for Fun. |
C.Find Your Voice. | D.Focus on Landscapes. |
4 . We are delighted to welcome fans back to our Waterbury Factory-Ben Jerry’s very first manufacturing site!
Hours
Open 11:00 am.-6:00 pm., Tuesday-Saturday; Closed Sunday/Monday.
Tickets
Tickets are required for admission inside the public portion of our facility for the Factory Experience. Factory Experience schedules are published weekly with bookings available no more than 7 days in advance.
Tour information
Admission includes a 30-minute guided tour with view of manufacturing floor, ice cream sample, photo opportunities and retail items. The tour ends in our Flavor Room with a tasting of one of our new flavors. Additional ice cream can be purchased before or after outside from the Scoop Shop. No re-entry. As we are a food manufacturing facility, there is no glass or pets with the exception of service animals allowed inside. Large bags are not permitted inside the factory.
Scoop Shop
No ticket is required to visit our Scoop Shop in addition to our Ticket Sales Gift Kiosk, playground area, restrooms, and Flavor Graveyard.
lce Cream Cakes
lce cream cakes serve 1-36 people and are available for walk-up window purchase or road side pick-up: call the shop to order at 802-337-1214 or https//www.benjerry.com/ waterbury/cakes.
Drop-off Catering Parties
We can work with you to create a drop-off catered event offering your favorite flavors, a variety of toppings and, if desired, freshly baked cookies and brownies. To inquire, call 802-222-1665 or online.
1. What can tourists do when visiting the factory?A.Visit the factory as they please. |
B.Return to the factory after leaving. |
C.Buy ice cream in the Flavor Room. |
D.Take a guide dog with them if necessary. |
A.Flavor Graveyard. | B.Flavor Room. |
C.Ticket Sales Gift Kiosk. | D.Scoop Shop. |
A.To recommend a tourist spot. |
B.To introduce an ice cream factory. |
C.To explain how ice cream is made. |
D.To advertise a drop-off catered event. |
A famous printing company, now well established in the UK and in the Far East, wishes to set up a manufacturing base in Europe. An experienced manager, responsible to the Production Director, is required to assist in setting up the department and will then take charge of the day-to-day work.
The successful applicant will have had experience of modern methods and machines especially in the printing, multicolour work and finishing processes. He / She will have had at least three years’ experience in cost-effective management. A good working knowledge of English is essential.
We offer excellent pay and prospects, with 4 weeks’ holiday a year plus public holidays, a company car, and a company pension scheme(养老金制度).
Interviews will be arranged in the nearest city to the applicant’s home.
Write, with CV, to the Personnel Manager, Box 32507, Daily News, Kemsworth Street, Comston. United Kingdom SG186 37AH.
ASSISTANT PRINT PRODUCTION MANAGER
An internationally recognized printing company is seeking to set up a manufacturing plant in Europe.
We are appointing an assistant (male or female) to our Print Production Manager.
The job-holder will carry out duties involving the buying of paper and of finishing equipment, will liaise (联络) with the supervisors of the various production lines, and will assist the Production Manager.
At least three years’ experience on one or more lines as well as supervisory experience is needed.
A working knowledge of English is required to communicate with colleagues in the UK.
We offer excellent pay, prospects, holidays, pension scheme, sick pay, etc.
Write to the Manager, Box 3526. Broad Street, Northby, Millshire BK 57PX.
1. What do the two printing companies have in common?A.They are well-known all over the world |
B.They offer excellent pay and sick pay |
C.They require at least three years’ experience |
D.They prefer to hire a man manager |
A.write to Box 3526 to get more information about this job |
B.get the result on TV |
C.be interviewed in a city |
D.get in touch with the Personnel Manager by telephone |
A.The companies want to do business in Europe and the Far East. |
B.Applicants should write to the company first. |
C.The companies haven’t got telephones to save money. |
D.Cars are necessary for the successful applicants. |
6 . Flash Cards: Sight Words Cards — March 1, 2018
by Scholastic Teacher Resources (Author), Scholastic (Author)
4.8 out of 5 stars—14,851 ratings
#1 Best Seller in Test Flash Cards
See all formats and editions
Cards
Used $1.99 New $4.99
Reading books is a kind of enjoyment. Reading books is a good habit. We bring you different kinds of books. You can carry this book where ever you want. It is easy to carry. It can be an ideal gift to yourself and to your loved ones.
Reading age: 4-8 years
Grade level: Preschool-3
Publisher: Scholastic Teaching Resources (Teaching Strategies)
Harry Potter Paperback Box Set (Books 1-7 ) Paperback (平装本) — Box set, July 1, 2009
by J. K. Rowling (Author), Mary GrandPre (Illustrator)
4.9 out of 5 stars—75,927 ratings
#1 Best Seller in Children’s Fantasy & Magic Books
See all formats and editions
Kindle $62.99 (Read with Our Free App)
Hardcover $49.95
Paperback $34.95
Audio CD $234.98
Now for the first time ever, J.K. Rowling’s seven bestselling Harry otter books are available in a wonderful paperback boxed set! The Harry Potter series has been regarded as the best of all time by Stephen King. And most recently, The New York Times called Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows the “fastest selling book in history”. This is the best Harry Potter collection for Harry Potter fans of all ages!
Reading age: 8 years and up
Grade level: 4-6
Publisher: Arthur A. Levine Books
I Love You to the Moon — Illustrated, March 3, 2015
by Amelia Hepworth (Author), Tim Warnes (Illustrator)
4.9 out of 5 stars—49,375 ratings
#1 Best Seller in Children’s Emotions Books
See all formats and editions
Board book: from $1.50
Show a child just how strong your love is every minute of the day! Features a “To” and “From” personalization page, making this sweet offering an ideal gift for baby showers, birthdays, and new parents.
Reading age: 2-5 years
Publisher: Tiger Tales
1. Flash Cards are intended for kids aged ________.A.8 and up | B.4-8 | C.2-5 | D.1-3 |
A.$26.99. | B.$49.95. | C.$34.95. | D.$234.98. |
A.They are sweet series. | B.They are ideal gifts for new parents. |
C.They are excellent enough. | D.They are the best collections for all ages. |
A.Tim Warnes. | B.Amelia Hepworth. | C.Mary PrandPre. | D.Tiger Tales. |
7 . Spanish Dancing
Spanish dancing is fun and easy to learn. Come and learn this wonderful dance from Spain. Place: John Smith’s Date: July 1 — 31 Price: ¥60 Time: 7:30 pm — 9:30 pm Tel: 301-2768 |
Live Pop Music
Enjoy the music from Jay Chou, the famous pop singer. Place: The music hall Date: July 20 — 22 Price: ¥200 — ¥250 Time: 8:00 pm — 10:00 pm |
Shows — Daqian Museum
Daqian Museum has over 1000 pieces on display here. Come and see the whole of Chinese history! Place: Daqian Museum Date: July 1-August 31 Price: ¥50 (half for students) Tel: 271-1399 Time: Monday to Friday; 8:30 am — 5:30 pm Weekends: 9:00 am — 8:00pm |
A.271-1399 | B.488-6888 | C.231-2899 | D.301-2768 |
A.9:00 pm on July 23 | B.8:00 pm on July 20 |
C.7:30 pm every day | D.9:30 pm on July 1 |
A.American Jazz | B.pop songs |
C.the whole of Chinese history | D.Spanish dancing |
A.Daqian Museum | B.the music hall |
C.John Smith’s | D.the meeting hall |
A.¥70. | B.¥100. | C.¥125. | D.¥200. |
8 . Among many celebrated U.S. places for very cool sunsets, here are notable favorites.
California Dreamin’
While you are visiting California Dreamin’, El Matador’s eye-catching nightfall is a worthy way to lead you into deep thought. It is about the sands of time. Pack a basket of delicious food for a late-in-the-day picnic overlooking the Pacific Ocean, via the Pacific Coast Highway. The sunset is a sweet dessert.
Grand Canyon, Arizona
The 1,218,375-acre Grand Canyon National Park is wonderful. The canyon itself stretches 277 miles. Its wildlife is also so abundant. You can go to the South Rim of the canyon (大峡谷), which offers the best sunset advantages. Sometimes, you can see deer running and eagles flying with the sunset standing as the background. An unforgettable thrill: Grand Canyon Floor Landing Helicopter Sunset Tour by Canyon Tours.
Florida Serenity
Called the River of Grass, Everglades National Park — South Florida’s amazing 1.5-million-acre wetland reserve — is quilted with coastal trees and grass. An especially chosen sunset-watching site is near Mrazek Pond, approximately three miles north of the Flamingo Visitor Center. This is a birder’s (观鸟者) dream place, too, home to more than 360 species.
Hawaii Aloha
Haleakala Crater in Hawaii Aloha, a vast dormant (休眠期的) volcano 10,023 feet above sea level, is famous for its sunrises — so that dawn sun-seekers climb the volcano in the middle of the night to make the long drive up a winding road to the summit. But Haleakala’s sunsets are just as amazing. Since fewer people arrive late in the day, a more personal sunset participation is possible. Consider a private or group sunset hike to appreciate the Pacific Ocean. It is worthwhile.
1. What can visitors do in Grand Canyon?A.Visit the wetland reserve. | B.Have an unforgettable picnic. |
C.Appreciate the sunset by tour bus. | D.See eagles flying over the canyon. |
A.Hawaii Aloha. | B.Florida Serenity. |
C.California Dreamin’. | D.Grand Canyon, Arizona. |
A.They both supply a sweet dessert. |
B.They both allow a more personal sunset hike. |
C.They both offer the views of the Pacific Ocean. |
D.They both have wonderful sunsets and sunrises. |
9 . You can either travel or read, but either your body or your soul must be on the way. The popular saying has inspired many people to read or go sightseeing. Here are four books that you can take on your trip.
1. On the Road, 1957, by Jack Kerouac
The book is a popular spiritual guidebook about youth. The main character in the book drives across the US continent with several young people and finally reaches Mexico. After the exhausting and exciting trip, the characters in the book begin to realize the meaning of life.
2. Life Is Elsewhere, 1975, by Milan Kundera
Jean-Jacques Rousseau once said, "Man is born free, and everywhere he is in chains." The book describes a young artist's romantic but miserable life, about how he reads, dreams and has a relationship during his trip to Central Europe. The book invites you to deeply reflects on your current life and to honor the Czech-born writer Kundera.
3. My Name Is Red, 1998, by Orhan Pamuk
The book, a masterpiece of the Nobel Prize winner for Literature Orhan Pamuk, has been translated into more than 50 languages and published around the world. It tells a story of a young man, who was away from home for 12 years, coming back to his hometown in Istanbul. What embraces him is not only love, but a series of murder cases as well.
4. The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, 2013, by Rachel Joyce
The novel tells a story of a 60-year-old man who lived a boring and unhappy life, until one day, he received his old friend's letter who got cancer. In deep shock and sorrow, he went out to send his reply letter. 627 miles in 87 days, he walked depending on one belief that “his friend can survive as long as he walks”.
1. Whose book can make you rethink your own life?A.Jack Kerouac. | B.Milan Kundera. | C.Orhan Pamuk. | D.Rachel Joyce. |
A.On the Road. | B.Life Is Elsewhere. |
C.My Name Is Red. | D.The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry. |
A.He walked to keep healthy. | B.He was in deep shock and sorrow. |
C.He expected his friend to live longer. | D.He lived a very boring and unhappy life. |
10 . Many workers have had no choice but to adapt to working from home in recent months since offices shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic (新冠疫情). And the noisy situation and endless housework may result in a terrible emotion. A new option is waiting for you. That is WFH: work from a hotel.
Hotel Figuero
A special program titled Work Perks aims to reposition some of 94-year-old Hotel Figuero’s 268 rooms as day-use offices.
According to Managing Director Connie Wang, the set-up launched in June and is a great opportunity to get out of their houses with high-speed Wi-Fi, unlimited printing privileges and free parking. The 350-square-foot rooms sell for $ 129 per day, with an option to extend to an overnight stay for an additional $ 20.
The Wythe
A boutique hotel in Brooklyn. The hotel recently announced a partnership with co-working office space company Industrious through which it is recycling 13 second-story guest rooms to serve as offices for up to four people.
Each of the rooms has a small outdoor platform, and dogs are welcome. Pricing starts at $ 200 and goes up to $ 275, depending on how many people use the space.
HotelsByDay
Yannis Moati founded HotelsByDay back in 2015. That company has grown to include more than 1,500 hotels, and has seen a significant increase in the number of inquiries for day-use bookings lately.
Moati said the current situation will force hotels to upgrade themselves to stay alive, and he predicted that offering rooms for day-use only is one of the directions they will go.
1. How much does a room cost for a 24-hour stay in Hotel Figuero?A.$ 129. | B.$ 149. | C.$ 200. | D.$ 275. |
A.It allows pets in. |
B.It has the best perfect location. |
C.It provides workers with larger rooms. |
D.It charges money cheaper than other hotels. |
A.He started a program titled Work Perks. |
B.He has upgraded at least 1,500 rooms. |
C.He usually predicts everything correctly. |
D.He is optimistic about the WFH trend. |