1 . Four Top Ski Resorts (度假胜地) in Norway
Skeikampen
Skeikampen has been attracting cross-country skiers since 1895, although the resort’s first ski lift was built in 1959. While the 21 downhill slopes (斜坡) are mostly for beginners and middle-level skiers, there is a 3, 000-square-metre kids’ are a with two magic-carpet lifts and two barbecue sites to warm up around, If you love cross-country skiing, then Skeikampen is the spot for you. Plus, it’s the setting for the play Peer Gynt by famous Norwegian playwright, Henrik Ibsen.
Geilo
As one of the country’s oldest ski resorts, Geilo is a great destination for families, Geilo has 37 slopes that range from beginner to black diamond (the toughest on the mountain). It stretches across a valley with views over two national parks. Geilo is constantly investing more money into this ski resort. Last year, they improved the snow park, upgraded the kids’ area and added new lifts.
Hafjell
Back in 1994, Norway successfully hosted the Winter Olympics in nearby Lillehammer. Many of the downhill ski races were held on the slopes of Hafjell. It’s now the third largest ski resort in Norway. Not only does it offer 47 kilometres of ski slopes and several parks, it also has something called SkiMovie, a slope that’s equipped with automatic timing and filming equipment to document your highlights.
Norefjell
Just one and a half hours’ drive from the capital city of Oslo, Norefj ell hosted the alpine skiing events at the 1952 Winter Olympics. With Northern Europe’s largest vertical descent (垂直下落) of 1, 010m, you may get lucky and enjoy the heights (when you are above the clouds) over the valley. Alongside a busy ski school, there are 6 restaurants, 30 slopes and 14 lifts.
1. What can you do at Skeikampen?| A．Ski with Henrik Ibsen. | B．Participate in a play. |
| C．Enjoy cross-country skiing. | D．Eat delicious food for free. |
| A．It is lack of funds. | B．It is the oldest ski resort in the country. |
| C．It stretches across two national parks. | D．It provides slopes for skiers of all levels. |
| A．They can record your highlights. |
| B．They hosted the Olympic skiing events. |
| C．They have schools to teach beginners. |
| D．They are located near the capital city. |
| A．A movie. | B．A soap opera. | C．A sports program. |
3 . ABOUT SMART
SMART runs both study tours for groups in England throughout the year and a holiday English course for foreign students during the summer in the centre of London. Our courses combine English language learning with cultural studies in different centres around England. Our students have plenty of holiday fun, make new friends and learn a lot of English!
The holiday course
We provide lessons and afternoon activities to help you speak, write, listen and read in English, as well as understand the English people and their culture. We will help you learn through topics which are interesting to you.
The school
The Elite School is in central London, just 5 minutes from Paddington Station and 10 minutes from Hyde Park. It has 15 classrooms including an IT room, a science lab, a music room, and an art room as well as a large cafeteria.
Travelling time from Heathrow Airport: 45 minutes
Trips
There are three trips every week. You can have fun either in London or outside London. In London we visit places such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and the Tate Modern. Outside London we visit places such us Oxford, Cambridge and Brighton.
Terms
Age: 11-17
Minimum stay: 2 weeks
Maximum number of students in class: 15
Cost￡550 per week, including:
— registration fee (C60)
— tuition package: 15 hours of English; 1 half day of creative arts; 1 full-day trip on Saturday; all course materials; 1 half day of sport; 2 “Discover London” tours; lunch; welcome pack
— host family accommodation
1. Which of the following is provided by the holiday course?| A．A culture-based language study. | B．Free access to 15 classrooms. |
| C．Pick-up service from the airport. | D．Learning experiences in famous colleges. |
| A．￡550. | B．￡610. | C．￡1100. | D．￡1160. |
| A．A tour guide. | B．An advertisement. |
| C．A journal entry. | D．A study report. |
4 . Dozens of scientists are ready to delight, provoke, and shed light on global scientific issues. Hosted by different columns on New Scientist, they’re here to engage with latest discoveries. Read on for what New Scientist has offered this week.
NS Live
Why do we need more women in science? Physicist Athene Donald will be at New Scientist Live on & January to explore the disadvantages that women in science face. Her talk will erase myths (传言) about “gendered” brains and what attributes are needed to become a successful scientist. Now, more than ever, there is a moral and business case for greater diversity in research, she says.
Weekender
From black holes to Big Bang, explore the space in this getaway featuring talks from some of the brightest minds in astrophysics. Visit the Lovell Telescope at the Jodrell Bank UNESCO World Heritage Site. Plus, go stargazing with New Scientist features editor Abigail Beall. This weekender runs from 19 January to 1 February and costs £959.
Essential Guide
What drives the ageing process? What can science tell us about the stages of life? And how can we use the latest research to live healthily into old age? This Essential Guide offers some fresh insight. Available to download on the website or to purchase in print from our shop.
Newsletter — Wild Wild Life
In an act of companionship, an African bird called the greater honey guide may get a badger to help it break into a beehive so the two can share the honey. Michael Marshall finds that there are many surprising truths in his reports, which lie behind the fables (寓言), though these animals’ behavior seems unusual in real life.
1. What’s the purpose of NS Live?| A．To set moral and commercial rules for the study. |
| B．To encourage more women to devote to science. |
| C．To demonstrate the vital elements to be a scientist. |
| D．To reveal the existence of gender differences. |
| A．NS Live. | B．Weekender. | C．Essential Guide. | D．Newsletter — Wild Wild Life. |
| A．It exists indeed in wild world. | B．It happens only in the fables. |
| C．It is widely accepted by humans. | D．It reveals the truth behind the lie. |
5 . We The Curious
Formerly known as At-Bristol, this harbourside science museum relaunched in 2017 as We The Curious to better reflect its mission to get kids to ask questions and engage in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics(STEM subjects) in creative ways.
Best things about it
My kids don’t shy away from telling me if they think a museum is boring but here they were too busy rushing from one hands-on exhibit to the next to have any such complaint. They dressed up as bees to catch pollen(花粉) made cheese, watched ice form, weighed human brains and stretched out strips of DNA to compare the genetic sequence (基因序列) of a monkey and an armadillo.
Value for money?
Given that the science museums in London, Manchester and Newcastle are free, it does jar(不一致) having to pay£14.50 for adults and £9.50 for kids(aged 3—15) to get in. Kids under 3 are free. I did have to push them out the door at the end of the day. Weeks on, they still refer back to things they learnt there.
Getting there
We The Curious is near the National Cycle Network(routes 3,4, and 33). The museum has lots of bicycle parking. Alternatively, it’s a 10-minute walk from Bristol Temple Meads railway station or a five-minute taxi ride or 17-minute ferry ride. If driving, follow the We The Curious brown signs and park at the Millennium Square car park for free.
Opening hours
Monday to Friday 10 a. m.-5 p. m., 10 a. m.-6 p. m. at weekends and Bristol school holidays; closed 24—26 December.
1. What highlights We The Curious?| A．Expensive exhibits. | B．Free tickets. |
| C．Educational and fun activities. | D．A cheerful atmosphere. |
| A．£ 24. | B．£ 33.5. | C．£ 38.5. | D．£ 48. |
| A．It charges parking fees. | B．It opens all year round. |
| C．It is conveniently located. | D．It is unattractive to adults. |
“Persist.” — Viet Thanh Nguyen
“Success is no accident.” — Chris Bohjalian
“Keep writing and it’ll get easier.” — Lisa Jewell
“Be patient with yourself.” — Min Jin Lee
These are words of advice taken from our interviews with award-winning and bestselling authors. Notice, though, not a single mention of their status, prizes, or advances—in other words, their success. And while status, literary awards, and money can be indicators of a successful writer, one must actually sit down and write for any of those things to happen. That’s what all of these pieces of advice have in common: putting words on the page.
In this issue, you’ll find articles to help you succeed, no matter your goals. If it’s to figure out whether that mess of a novel you’ve got sitting in a drawer can be rescued or if you need to move on, Andromeda Romano’s article will offer questions to ask yourself. Michael La Ronn’s essay will give you an example of how an unexpected opportunity might be just the push you need. Or, if you’ve had trouble finding an agent, Ryan Van Cleave’s collection of tips and advice from 22 literary agents on every aspect of the business might change your luck. Matty Dalrymple shares ways to reach more readers and build a community with them.
Wish you success and happy new year!
1. The advice mentioned at the beginning highlights the importance of ______.| A．a big dream | B．constant practice | C．earning money | D．achieving success |
| A．Matty Dalrympl. | B．Michael La Ronn. |
| C．Ryan Van Cleave. | D．Andromeda Romano. |
| A．Writers. | B．Businessmen. | C．Booksellers. | D．Literary agents. |
7 . Youth Week WA 2024
Youth Week WA (YWWA) 2024 will n from 5 to 12 April and aims to:
·provide young people aged 12-25 years with opportunities o express ideas and exhibit their talents and contributions;
·give the community the opportunity to listen to young people and celebrate the positive contributions they have made to the community;
·raise community awareness on issues of concern to young people.
YWWA 2024 Ambassadors (大使)
The Ambassadors are volunteers who participate on the YWWA 2024 team by:
·being a part of, and providing support and guidance to the members of the Young People’s Planning Committee;
·helping develop creative ways to involve more young people in YWWA;
·having input into events and strategies for YWWA;
·attending events during YWWA;
·being a public spokesperson for YWWA.
Meet your 2024 Youth Ambassadors!
☆ Fatima Merchant aged 19 is a member of the Amnesty International Australia Youth Advisory Group, UN Youth Australia and is a facilitator at the WA Debating League.
☆ Nathida Chalermsuk aged 22 is studying at Curtin University where she launched a new initiative Youth United, a program which facilitates cross-cultural understanding amongst young people in Australia and calls for more wildlife protection.
☆ Samuel Thomas aged 19 established Sam’s Spares, a nonprofit that saves unwanted e-waste from landfill.
☆ Izabella Brandis aged 18 held workshops for young people in the community where they were invited to come along and create artworks that advocate the ecological sustainability.
1. What is one of the goals of YWWA 2024?| A．To give financial assistance to young people. |
| B．To promote academic achievements among young people. |
| C．To raise community awareness about young people’s contributions. |
| D．To provide opportunities for teenagers to show their special talents. |
| A．Organize more events and activities. |
| B．Get more young people engaged in YWWA.. |
| C．Provide guidance to people in the community. |
| D．Assess the Young People’s Planning Committee. |
| A．Samuel Thomas and Nathida Chalermsuk. | B．Fatima Merchant and Izabella Brandis. |
| C．Fatima Merchant and Nathida Chalermsuck. | D．Samuel Thomas and Izabella Brandis. |
8 . There is so much great family-friendly art to experience, and you are sure to find a new show or exhibition or festival that you won’t want to miss.
Moisture Festival
With roots in 19th-century English music halls, Moisture Festival’s programs present acts showcasing comedy and live music. Shows are designed to be family-friendly. Shows beginning at 7:30 pm are suitable for all ages. To get the full experience, families can attend a tea party in Broadway Performance Hall.
$45 for adults, $32 for children.
Broadway Performance Hall, Seattle
The Jungle Book
With one-hour runtime, this International Ballet Theatre production is a perfect introduction for younger children to the art form of ballet. Based on the book by Kipling and filled with animal characters created by other kids, “The Jungle Book” is specifically designed to inspire children to see the beauty in dance without adopting any outdated ideas.
$45 per person, $33 for children younger than 12.
Meydenbauer Theatre, Bellevue
Harold and Purple Crayon
The Pacific Northwest Ballet’s (PNB) premiere (首演) of this an-hour-long, narrated production features PNB School students. It is the perfect introduction to ballet for the very young, as Harold draws and dances through a landscape full of wonder and energy. Although the performance is for kids, parents will enjoy the music of Andrew Bird and the dance of Robyn Mineko Williams.
$15-$67.
McCaw Hall, Seattle
Seattle International Dance Festival
The Seattle International Dance Festival Winter Mini Festival presents two weekends of contemporary dance performances, with different works each weekend. Hosted by the local Khambatta Dance Company, the festival will also feature new works from Newport Contemporary Ballet of Rhode Island and Olympia Ballet Theatre. It’s a program so eclectic (兼收并蓄的) that everyone will find something to love.
$25 single tickets, $18 for students.
Erickson Theater, Seattle
1. Which festival presents live music?| A．Moisture Festival. | B．The Jungle Book. |
| C．Harold and Purple Crayon. | D．Seattle International Dance Festival. |
| A．Being about famous books. |
| B．Showing the most original ideas. |
| C．Lasting the same duration of time. |
| D．Allowing visitors to perform ballet. |
| A．It is mainly fit for young people. | B．Its contents are rather humorous. |
| C．It teaches people to learn ballet. | D．It will present some latest works. |
9 . Overseas Learning Programs for Students
The Somerset Yew Wah Classroom, UK, offers a distinctive English language and life education program tailored for Grade 6, Grade 8, and Grade 10 students. Established in 2006, the Somerset English learning and cultural center provides students with an authentic English environment experience. Located in a traditional English village in Somerset, Sibley’s Barn and the Knowle Hall campus offer students a unique setting for learning. The Knowle Hall campus, a newly renovated Victorian-era country house built on 15 acres of land in beautiful open parkland, was established in 2016. This program enhances students' self-confidence, independence, teamwork, and leadership skills, ultimately continuing to benefit them upon their return to China.
World Classroom
The World Classroom program is an extension of the project-based learning approach at the core of the Yew Wah educational model. It allows students to explore major cultures worldwide, including European, African, Middle Eastern, Pacific, and Anglo-American cultures. This immersive experience broadens students' perspectives, promotes critical thinking, and fosters an appreciation for diverse viewpoints, preparing them to thrive in an increasingly globalized world.
Experiencing China
The Experiencing China program offers secondary students the opportunity to delve into Chinese history and culture by visiting various regions of the country. This residential program not only deepens students' understanding of their own culture but also exposes them to firsthand cross-cultural experiences. Through these experiences, students develop critical thinking skills and cultivate an appreciation for different cultures, ultimately shaping them into global citizens with a commitment to serving their communities and society.
Trips and Excursions
Trips and excursions are integral to the students' learning journey, providing opportunities to expand their horizons, enrich their experiences, and strengthen their communication and problem-solving skills. The Hong Kong Hike, a traditional annual outdoor activity, challenges students to rely on teamwork and personal determination to overcome obstacles and reach their destination. Parents have noted significant positive changes in their children after participating in such activities, including increased maturity, independence, and responsibility.
1. What is the primary focus of the Somerset Yew Wah Classroom program?| A．Cultural exchange. | B．Science education. |
| C．Language immersion. | D．Historical studies. |
| A．To promote local culture. | B．To explore diverse cultures worldwide. |
| C．To focus on project-based learning. | D．To develop leadership skills. |
| A．By providing opportunities for language learning. |
| B．By enhancing teamwork and problem-solving skills. |
| C．By emphasizing academic achievement. |
| D．By offering cultural exchange experiences. |
10 . Here are some newly-opened museums around the world we’re most excited about.
Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education and Innovation, the US
Get to understand scientific discoveries old and new at this architecturally amazing addition to the American Museum of Natural History in New York. Covering an area of 230,000 square feet, the museum copies a series of interlinking caves and will hold more than four million specimens(样本), offering an accessible take on subjects like the interconnectedness of life on Earth.
Istanbul Modern, Turkey
Turkey’s first contemporary art museum moves to a new home in the Karakoy district, opening in a building designed by architect Renzo Piano. The museum will showcase painting, photography and sculpture by both Turkish and international artists across five floors and will also house a cinema and library.
Young V&A, the UK
London’s much-loved Museum of Childhood closed in 2020, but its revamp(翻新) and reopening as part of the V&A Museum in early July has been hugely anticipated. Still located in East London, the properly renamed Young V&A offers colorful, appealing spaces and interactive exhibits that explore play, design and imagination for children and young people.
Fotografiska Berlin, Germany
The news that Stockholm-based photography museum Fotografiska’s latest global outpost would open in the German capital was great for fans of cutting-edge visual art. Set in the former Kunsthaus Tacheles cultural center, Fotografiska Berlin will host work from scene-leading photographers and rising talents, along with a packed calendar of cultural events.
1. What does Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education and Innovation feature?| A．A number of species. | B．A network of caves. |
| C．Architectural displays. | D．Historical collections. |
| A．Art theme. | B．Reading sections. |
| C．Cultural events. | D．Change of location. |
| A．The US. | B．Turkey. | C．The UK. | D．Germany. |
