1 . For many, Labor Day weekend signals the end of summer and an opportunity to host a socially-distanced barbecue (an outdoor meal). But this national holiday—celebrated every year in the United States and Canada on the first Monday in September—has revolutionary (革命性的) origins.
By the late 19th century, the Industrial Revolution had made working life miserable for people around the world. In many places, workers toiled for at least 12 hours a day six days a week in mines, factories, railroads, and mills. This holiday actually originated in the US on May 1, 1866, in what came to be known as the Haymarket Riot, workers flooded Chicago streets to demand an eight-hour workday.
It would take another conflict in the American Midwest to make Labor Day a national holiday. On May 11, 1894, workers at the Pullman Palace Car Company, a railroad car manufacturer near Chicago, went on strike to protest their low wages and 16-hour workdays. In August 1893, James Kyle introduced federal legislation (立法) to make Labor Day a public holiday, but for ten months the legislation was put on hold. To quiet the strikers and their supporters, the Senate quickly passed the bill on June 22. The bill passed the House four days later and President Grover Cleveland signed it into law on June 28, 1894.
The holiday is more information May Day labor celebrations. Many observers relax at home or head to outdoor recreational activities, such as boating, barbecues, and camping. It may also be marked with fireworks shows and other events. Labor Day has also become associated with retail sales, as many shop owners try to take advantage of the customers’ day off. It is one of the largest sales events of the year. meaning retail employees actually have to work more on this day. Parades are the most common model of celebration, which often feature processions of labor groups.
1. What do we know about the workers in the late 19th century?| A．They were paid well. | B．They had long workdays. |
| C．They often had a barbecue. | D．Their contributions were recognized. |
| A．Put off. | B．Introduced. | C．Got through. | D．Protected. |
| A．On May 1, 1886. | B．On August 22, 1893. | C．On May 11, 1894. | D．On June 28, 1894. |
| A．The origins of Labor Day. | B．The labor groups achievements. |
| C．The ways to celebrate Labor Day. | D．The official activities on Labor Day. |
2 . One thing that sets humans apart from other members of the animal kingdom is our tendency to develop customs and traditions. Here are some astonishing customs from around the world.
An odd custom associated with the United States is its complicated tipping culture. Unlike many other countries that don’t tip at all or that only tip in small amounts when the food is particularly good, tipping is actually mandatory at most restaurants in the US. To put it another way, customers have a duty to leave between 10-20 percent of the bill in tips. Wait staff rely on these tips for a living because legal wages for waiters are low. Furthermore, there are rules for tipping bartenders, delivery people and other service personnel. While some criticize this practice as irrational, there’s no doubt that tipping culture in the US gives an incentive for waiters and waitresses to provide better service.
Some countries find the act of pointing with the index finger to be rude. While members of most cultures would probably agree that pointing fingers, both literally and figuratively, isn’t exactly the nicest thing in the world, in countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, this gesture can be seen as incredibly offensive. Instead, it is customary to gesture towards things with the thumb as this is seen as a more polite option. In many countries in Africa, pointing is reserved for inanimate objects only, not people.
Most societies around the world have rules about table manners. For western cultures, noisily consuming food is considered rude. In Japan, however, making slurping(啧啧响的)sounds while eating has an entirely different meaning. This might have something to do with the fact that in western countries, noodles are properly consumed by twirling(缠绕)them on a spoon before putting them in the mouth. Meanwhile, the Japanese simply slurp up their noodles without contorting them first, an act that is naturally noisier than the former. Making slurping sounds when eating noodles in Japan is a way of indicating that you’re rely enjoying them. Some scientists even argue slurping invites air into the mouth and actually enhances the noodles’ flavor.
1. What does the underlined word “mandatory” in paragraph2 probably mean?| A．Required by tradition. | B．Highly spoken of. |
| C．Changeable over time. | D．Popular among people. |
| A．It is totally unreasonable. | B．It must follow a fixed standard. |
| C．It can improve the quality of service. | D．It should only target waiters and waitresses. |
| A．Skipping tipping in the USA. | B．Twirling noodles on a spoon in Africa. |
| C．Pointing with the index finger in Indonesia. | D．Making sounds while eating noodles in Japan. |
| A．A research paper. | B．A travel brochure. |
| C．An online advertisement. | D．A popular magazine. |
3 . Different countries celebrate Christmas in different ways. We asked some of our friends to explain what happens in their countries. This is what they told us:
France
In France, Christmas is always called Noël. Everyone has a Christmas tree, sometimes decorated in the old way with red ribbons and real white wax candles. Fir trees in the garden are often decorated too with lights on all night.
Father Christmas is called Père Noël. The Christmas meal is an important family gathering with good meat and the best wine. Few people send Christmas cards. More people send New Year cards to wish everyone good luck and joy for the New Year. These days Christmas lunch is a starter of foie gras (a strong tasting pate made from goose liver) followed by lunch of seafood — usually including lobsters and oysters.
New Zealand
Christmas starts for us with gifts under the tree, to be opened on Christmas morning. Then it’s onto a Christmas lunch either at home or at one’s parents place. Turkey or chicken with all the trimmings (佐料) is eaten. Then comes tea time. It is a BBQ for friends and family to get together, and have a few beers or wines with the meal!
Russia
In the days of the Soviet Union, Christmas was not celebrated very much. New Year was the important time — when “Father Frost” brought presents to children. With the fall of Communism, Christmas can be openly celebrated either on December 25th; or more often on January 7th. This unusual date is because the Russian Orthodox church uses the old “Julian” calendar for religious celebration days. Special Christmas food includes cakes, pies and “meat dumplings”.
Sweden
The most important day is Christmas Eve. A special Christmas meal is eaten on Christmas Eve — ham (pork), herring fish, and brown beans — and this is the time when families give presents to each other. Many people attend a church meeting early on Christmas Day.
1. Why do people in France send New Year cards?| A．To tell their friends the New Year is coming. |
| B．To ask for some special presents. |
| C．To invite their friends to family gathering. |
| D．To send their friends best wishes and happiness for the New Year. |
| A．A special meal is prepared. |
| B．Everyone has a Christmas tree. |
| C．Parents give gifts to their children. |
| D．People attend a church gathering. |
| A．France. | B．New Zealand. | C．Sweden. | D．Russia. |
4 . 24 Solar Terms: 5 things about Major Snow
Major Snow, the 21st solar term of the year, which falls on Dec 7 this year. During Major Snow, the snow becomes heavy and begins to accumulate on the ground. The temperature drops significantly. Here are 5 things you should know about Major Snow.
Snowy winter
The snow in North China may last a whole day, breaking tree branches and blocking the road. In the south, snowflakes fall and the world turns white. A proverb about the snow says, "A timely snow promises a good harvest".
The red plum blossoms (梅花) in contrast with the white snowy world is a feast for the eyes and have inspired many great poems. The plum blossom, which originated in China, is respected in Chinese culture for its bravery against severe winters.
Eating lamb
Lamb is a favorite food for Chinese people during Major Snow.
Making sausages
During Major Snow, people in southern China make sausages, an important part of preparation for the Spring Festival.
Preventing respiratory (呼吸道的) illness
During this period, Chinese people watch for outbreaks of respiratory illness, which can be prevented by wearing a warm scarf to protect the neck and properly drinking water.
| A．Writing poems about snow |
| B．Appreciating plum blossoms |
| C．But you should not drink too much water at a time |
| D．Drink as much water as you can whenever possible |
| E．The best meat for this delicacy comes from the bottom of the pig |
| F．As the snow covers the ground, the low winter temperature kills pests |
| G．It promotes blood circulation and provides protection against the cold |
5 . The ancient Babylonians （巴比伦人）are thought to have been the first people to set New Year's resolutions. They made promises to gods that they would return any objects they had borrowed from others. If they did this, then it was said that gods would protect them in the year ahead. Since then, resolutions have changed from promises to gods to promises to ourselves and others. That could be starting a new hobby, trying to be healthier or learning a new language. Given the difficulties that any people have in keeping their New Years resolutions, though, should people wait a little longer before deciding what they'll be? Is January the right time to set New Years resolutions?
Yes — it gets the year off to a good start. They're called New Year's resolutions, not Half-Year resolutions. The whole point of setting New Year's resolutions is that it's done at the start of the year.Waiting longer just defeats the purpose of it. New Year's resolutions are a fun tradition to discuss with family and friends. You won't be able to talk about it in the same way if you're all setting them at different times. Besides, the more you put it off, the less likely it is that you'll ever decide on what your resolutions are going to be. You can always set new ones, or change your goals, but it's important to start off with something. By the time you've decided on some resolutions, you'll have less time to do them — which only increases your chances of failure.
No — January isn't the right time. January is a cold and dark month. Why would you want to start something new then? During the winter months, most people just want to stay nice and warm indoors, rather than try something new. People should make resolutions to lead happier, healthier lives whenever they want, not just on 1 January. Waiting longer means that you'll have more time to plan and will have a better idea of what you want to do in the year ahead. This will result in better resolutions, which have a stronger chance of success. One study found that by 6 January, one in five people had failed to stick to their resolutions. By not rushing into it, you're less likely to get discouraged and give up if you haven't succeeded right away.
Now that you've read a bit more about it, tell us what you think by voting in our poll at theweekjunior. co. uk/polls.
1. What can we learn from Paragraph 1?| A．Babylonians returned to gods what they had borrowed from them. |
| B．Babylonians assumed that they would be permanently protected by gods. |
| C．Resolutions have been shifted into commitments to people rather than gods. |
| D．Setting New Year's resolutions in January is better than in any other months |
| A．succeed easily | B．end up with nothing |
| C．doubt the fun tradition | D．reach your ultimate aims |
| A．Happier, healthier lives | B．More time to make plans |
| C．Losing heart and quitting | D．Failure to make decisions |
| A．To call for donations | B．To build up a tradition |
| C．To introduce a practice | D．To stimulate discussions |
6 . Thanksgiving is always on a Thursday. The day after it has been known as Black Friday.
Black Friday is a great time to go shopping.
Now people all over the country take part in Black Friday events.
| A．It is even spreading to other parts of the world. |
| B．However, there are problems. |
| C．It is the start of the holiday shopping season, |
| D．Some people leave, disappointed. |
| E．The situation makes people worried. |
| F．So where does the name Black Friday come from? |
| G．Some Black Friday events have been crazy. |
7 . Many people have close relationships with their cousins and form bonds that last a lifetime. National Cousins Day can be a great opportunity to spend time with some of your favorite people in the family.
What is National Cousins Day?
National Cousins Day is an annual holiday that takes place on July 24. It encourages people to spend time with and appreciate their cousins.
The origin of National Cousins Day is a bit of a mystery. It's unclear how and when the holiday officially started. Nevertheless, cousins have been an important part of the American family for generations. In the past, the bonds between cousins were explored in TV shows and movies in a lighthearted and funny way. And now, from family reunions to summer cookouts, cousins are given the chance to bond with one another.
How to Celebrate National Cousins Day
| A．History of National Cousins Day |
| B．Even if we are close to our cousins |
| C．In this article, we'll do a deep dive into it |
| D．In this way, your bonds with cousins will be strengthened |
| E．If you're looking for some inspiration or ideas, don't worry |
| F．While you see cousins a lot at family events when you're young |
| G．Planning a game or organizing a competition is also a good choice |
8 . Hotels that go all out for Christmas
Willard InterContinental: Washington
In the United States capital, the Willard InterContinental will host free performances through December 23. Holiday afternoon tea — with finger sandwiches and pastries — will be served every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through December 26 ($79 per person or $89 with a glass of champagne).
Room rates in December start around $325.
Claridge’s: London
Guests at Claridge’s will be treated to horse-drawn carriage rides. Three-night Christmas packages feature those festive events, plus Christmas lunch, Champagne, a visit from Father Christmas, stockings for all and a full English breakfast each day. Festive afternoon tea, served through January 3, is about $126 for an adult and $66 for one child.
A two-night holiday season package starts at about $1,425.
The Breakers: Palm Beach, Florida
The Breakers Palm Beach carries its lavish traditions right through the holiday season. The oceanfront Italian resort dazzles with sparkling lights, and holiday tea is available at HMF on select days in late December for $115 per person. Nearly every room has already been snapped up this December, but holiday tea and meals make for a festive taste of the striking hotel.
Rates start at $599 per night in December.
Ritz: Paris
The Ritz Paris is putting on exactly what you’d expect from the elegant property. The hotel is celebrating a Swiss Christmas this year in homage to founder César Ritz’ roots with a gold and blue theme accented with paper edelweiss flowers. Christmas Tea is available at Bar Vendome and Salon Proust, starting at about $77 per person.
December room rates start at around $1,700 a night.
1. At which hotel can people enjoy finger sandwiches?| A．Willard InterContinental: Washington | B．Claridge’s: London |
| C．The Breakers: Palm Beach, Florida | D．Ritz: Paris |
| A．$192. | B．$378. | C．$345. | D．$318. |
| A．They are all hotels in Europe. |
| B．They all offer season package. |
| C．All the hotels will provide festive tea. |
| D．All the hotels will host free performances. |
9 . Relics are artifacts(人工制品) from ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Mayans. On many occasions, archaeologists discover relics containing text written in ancient languages. These items could be ancient books and scrolls(卷轴) or they could simply be vases and coins with writing on them. Interpreting these texts can be difficult, particularly if the language is a previously undiscovered one, and the texts may additionally be hard to read if they are incomplete or if sections have worn away. Another complication is that interpreting them must be done without the reader introducing any bias (偏见) based upon modern language and culture.
Lost languages are among the numerous barriers archaeologists must break through to interpret texts on relics. One solution is to employ a key, such as the Rosetta Stone, which was discovered in Egypt in 1799. It contains an ancient Egyptian decree(法令) written in three languages, one of which is in Egyptian hieroglyphics(象形文字), an unknown language at the time of its discovery; however, another language on it is ancient Greek, which scholars understood. By comparing the text, scholars made great leaps(跃进) in interpreting hieroglyphics. Unfortunately, other ancient languages, such as Minoan Linear A, have not been figured out primarily because no key that can assist translation efforts has been discovered yet.
The Rosetta Stone was mostly unscathed, but its missing parts increased the difficulty of interpreting its text, something which frequently happens with relics. The passage of time may result in carvings, paintings, drawings, and textual inscriptions(题字) getting worn away. For example, the Tel Dan Stone, a stone with ancient Hebrew inscriptions that was found in Israel in 1993, is broken in places, and large pieces of text are missing. The result is a long-standing controversy over the precise interpretation of the writing on it.
How modern scholars view texts is another barrier to interpreting them since translators have their own personal biases. Researchers must therefore keep the historical and cultural context of the period when the text was written in mind. This can be difficult when little is known of the people who wrote the text and when or why they wrote it .
1. What do we know about the Rosetta Stone?| A．It has ancient Greek law on it. |
| B．It was discovered in Israel in 1993. |
| C．It was employed to interpret hieroglyphics. |
| D．It consists of three unknown ancient languages. |
| A．To tell the key to it has been discovered. |
| B．To show it still remains a mystery for scholars. |
| C．To prove it originated form ancient Egypt. |
| D．To confirm what scholars have achieved. |
| A．untouched | B．unexplained | C．undamaged | D．undiscovered |
| A．Searching for lost languages. |
| B．Interpreting texts on ancient relics. |
| C．Discovering ancient Hebrew inscriptions. |
| D．Removing barriers to language exploring. |
10 . The world that we live in is beautiful because it’s made up of people from a diverse set of backgrounds and cultures.
During this time, our multicultural world is embraced and celebrated for all of the variety and joy it brings. Can you imagine a world where everyone looks the same, has the exact same hobbies and interests, and even eats the same thing for breakfast, lunch and dinner?
To put it simply, our diversity and inclusiveness (包容性)are our biggest strengths. We’ll all profit from a more diverse, inclusive society, understanding, accommodating, even celebrating our differences, while pulling together for the common good. As such, Global Diversity Awareness Month is a great chance for us to learn more about the beliefs, values and customs of other cultures.
There is no doubt that diversity and inclusiveness make our world a better place.
| A．There are many ways we can celebrate diversity. |
| B．How can we make the world a better place to live in? |
| C．What can possibly be a better way to celebrate that diversity? |
| D．Respect for world diversity is the key to bridging the differences. |
| E．It’s our unique differences that make the world so wonderful and interesting. |
| F．What’s important is that we reach out to other people and appreciate those differences. |
| G．In this way, we can open our mind to new ideas and ways of thinking to better our society. |
