1 . Walking Festivals in Britain
The Isle of Wight Walking Festival
The Isle of Wight Walking Festival has almost 70 walks to choose from,ranging from Nature’s Table, a guided short walk and talk around a nature reserve, exploring food sources for wildlife, to a three-day trip to the island. The most important event is a fund-raising walk for the island’s hospice (临终安养院) the coast-to-coast Mountbatten Walk the Wight.
Time:7-15 May
Website:www.isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk
The Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival
This new festival is a successor (接替者) to the Lincolnshire Wolds Walking Festival. There are coast , countryside, and town walks, themed walks covering wildlife and literature, and full moon walks. The non-walking activities range from mountain biking to well-being classes. Child-friendly options include deer watching and beach workshops.
Time:30 April to 5 June
Website: www.woldsoutdoorfestival.com
The Alton Walking Festival
This festival is now in its 11th year and has a program of 113 walks throughout May. For children, there are short buggy strolls (马车散步) and ghost walks. What are aimed firmly at adults are well-being walks, short trips to vineyards (葡萄园) and the 20-mile journey.
Time :1-31 May
Website : www.alton.gov.uk
The Herefordshire Walking Festival
The annual Kington Walks Spring Weekend features 14 walks in and around the historic Herefordshire drovers’ town, including a pub walk, a dawn bird-watching walk and a tour of Hergest Croft Gardens to see the spring blooms. It’s a good warm-up for the Herefordshire Walking Festival,which celebrated its 20th anniversary last year. It includes a themed walk and several challenging hikes.
Time :18-26 June
Website :www.herefordshirewalkingfestival.co.uk
1. Which of the following websites will people wanting to walk for charity visit ?| A．www.alton.gov.uk. |
| B．www.woldsoutdoorfestival.com |
| C．www.isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk. |
| D．www.herefordshirewalkingfestival.co.uk. |
| A．They provide fun activities for children. |
| B．They include non-walking activities. |
| C．They have a long history. |
| D．They last for two months. |
| A．See birds and flowers. |
| B．Go on guided hikes. |
| C．Tour around the vineyards. |
| D．Gain knowledge about literature. |
2 . Qing ming Festival, or Tomb-Sweeping Day, is a traditional festival where Chinese pay respects to their ancestors and the dead. People in different regions of the country consume different foods on the day according to local customs. From green rice balls and omelets (煎蛋饼) to fried dough twists and pancakes, here are some traditional foods people eat on the special day.
Qingtuan, or green rice balls, are widely consumed in China’s Jiangnan area — the region south of the Yangtze River — around Qingming Festival. The seasonal delicious food is usually made from glutinous rice (糯米) mixed with pounded mugwort — an eatable wild herb thought to prevent toxic insect bites.
In both northern and southern China, it is an age-old tradition to eat sanzi, or fried dough twists, on Tomb-Sweeping Day. However, the sanzi in North and South China are different from each other in terms of size and material. Northern people prefer larger ones made from wheat, while people in the South enjoy smaller ones made from rice.
Thin pancakes are a popular food for people in Xiamen in Southeast China’s Fujian province on Tomb-Sweeping Day. To make it tastier, they usually add dried seaweed, omelet, vegetables and chili sauce to the pancakes.
In Qingdao in East China’s Shandong province, people eat spring onion and omelet on the day. They believe the special combination makes eyes brighter. In ancient times, pupils often sent eggs to their teachers to show respect on the day.
In many places in Southeast China’s Fujian province, people thought eating steamed rice with leaf mustard (芥菜) on Tomb-Sweeping Day could help prevent scabies and other skin diseases for the whole year.
The steamed bun is named after Jie Zitui, a famous hermit of the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476BC). People in Shanxi province have a tradition of eating the bun on Tomb-Sweeping Day. Colorful dough animals and flowers are frequent decorations, while eggs and jujubes (红枣) are added inside to increase sweetness.
1. What’s special about sanzi?| A．People in South China prefer sanzi made from wheat. |
| B．People in North China prefer smaller size of sanzi |
| C．It is only accessible on Tomb-Sweeping Day. |
| D．The sanzi varies in different places. |
| A．To help improve eyesight | B．To show respect to ancestors |
| C．To exchange eggs with teachers | D．To make the omelet tastier |
| A．Colorful flowers | B．Dough animals | C．Dough eggs | D．Jujubes |
| A．They are both made from glutinous rice. | B．They are believed to be beneficial to health. |
| C．They are both popular around China. | D．They have the same eatable herbs in them. |
3 . The 24 solar terms (节气) are part of the traditional Chinese calendar. The Chinese people divided a year into 24 parts based on the sun’s position.
Solar terms were instructions for agricultural production and people’s daily lives. They mark things like seasons, temperature, precipitation (降水), growth of the crops and weather conditions.
Most of the solar terms have rich social and cultural meanings.
The culture reflects the Chinese people’s respect for nature and tradition, their unique understanding of the universe, their wisdom to live in harmony with nature. It is the youth of China who can best help carry on this significant part of our culture.
| A．Each part is called a solar term. |
| B．Many farmers still rely on the solar terms to work in the fields. |
| C．The sun’s positions bring about many things related to human life. |
| D．For instance, during the “Start of Winter”, people eat dumplings. |
| E．Their creativity and consciousness can bring new life to ancient culture. |
| F．Their wisdom for life and nature made the solar terms system popular today. |
| G．This has long been a central element of life in China, and we must protect it. |
4 . A small accident led to profound changes in the life of Yang Li, an artisan (手艺人), who is from the Miao ethnic group. In 201l, Yang, from Tongren city in Guizhou province, created leaf vein (脉络) embroidery (刺绣) three months after a leaf cut her hand.
The work is a perfect combination of traditional embroidery patterns and the natural textures (纹理) of the leaves. It has a unique aesthetic appeal of traditional embroidery matched with the characteristics of contemporary craftsmanship.
As a native Miao woman with an inborn love of embroidery, Yang opened a folk culture products shop with her sister in 2011. “People are becoming less familiar with traditional handicrafts, and I want to contribute all I can to change this situation,” Yang says. At first, the small shop did not earn a significant income as there were many similar products on the market. She gradually realized that it was important to establish her own brand and launch products with distinct features.
That’s when she was inspired by the cut. In July 2011, Yang accidentally cut her hand on a thorny leaf when she was hiking in Fanjing Mountain. A bold idea came into her head: “There are leaf-vein bookmarks and leaf-vein paintings. Why has nobody created leaf-vein embroider yet?”
Obviously, the reason behind this is that embroidering on leaves requires delicate skills that few possess. The biggest technical challenge Yang faced was improving the flexibility of the leaves and making them as soft as cloth. On Oct 16, a day she will never forget, Yang finally created a shiny, thin and unbreakable piece of leaf vein. Her idea of leaf-vein embroidery came to completion after hundreds of experiments.
Two years later, Yang opened an embroidery processing factory and offered jobs to more than 500 laid-off female workers, rural women and people with disabilities. “I will keep doing the leaf vein embroidery for the rest of my life because it is meaningful,” she says.
1. What do we know about Yang Li’s folk culture products shop?| A．It was inspired by a cut by a leaf in her hand. |
| B．It was a failure before she began to sell similar products. |
| C．It was intended to preserve traditional Chinese handicrafts. |
| D．It perfectly combined traditional Chinese books and drawings. |
| A．Finding cloth with vein-like texture. |
| B．Creating a new embroidery pattern. |
| C．Changing leaves into unbreakable cloth. |
| D．Softening up leaves for better flexibility. |
| A．Ambitious and innovative. | B．Caring and patient. |
| C．Persistent and demanding. | D．Humorous and optimistic. |
| A．An embroidery skill. | B．A promising career. |
| C．A cultural shop. | D．An admirable artisan. |
5 . Why Experiencing a New Culture Is Good for You
Often the best way to really explore a new place and culture is by spending abundant time there. A quick vacation may give you a glimpse (瞥) into your destination.
Dealing with culture shock
Culture shock is a response to your new surroundings when abroad that can leave you confused, anxious and feeling lonely. It generally includes frustration at how even the simplest things can be different in the new culture. The thing is though, culture shock can be seen as a problem but also as an opportunity.
Perhaps the most obvious lesson learned with travel is the importance of language. Even just learning the basics of the local language can make getting about and making new friends easier. Trying to overcome the language barrier also teaches you about non-verbal communication. Since you can’t rely on what is being said, you learn to adapt, to people’s tone and body language. This makes you a better communicator.
Finding inspiration
Meeting new people
Meeting people and making friends while overseas is both a necessity and one of the most enjoyable aspects of the experience.
| A．Learning language skills |
| B．Developing body language |
| C．So you’re less likely to further experience a new culture |
| D．Travelling to new cultures is a great way to expand your social circle |
| E．Experiencing the local culture can expose you to local art, cuisine, architecture, etc. |
| F．Only by adjusting to and accepting new surroundings can you understand and appreciate it |
| G．But experiences like student or work exchange programs allow you to immerse(沉浸) in a new culture |
6 . Every year on June 21st, World Music Day is commemorated in over 120 countries, including its birthplace of France, to honor both amateur and professional musicians. Citizens of a city or country are permitted and encouraged to perform music outside in their neighborhoods, public areas, and parks on Music Day. Free concerts are also held, where musicians perform for the joy of it rather than for a fee.
In the 1970s, American musician Joel Cohen, who was then working for a French radio station, came up with the idea of having musicians perform on the evening of June 21 to celebrate the start of summer. It was finally accepted by France’s Ministry of Culture in 1982. The day started in France and has since extended to countries such as Belgium, the United Kingdom and others. It’s the ideal time to learn a new instrument or listen to songs they wouldn’t ordinarily include on their playlist. Every type of musician can celebrate World Music Day with friends, family, and even strangers, whether they are young, elderly, new, or seasoned professionals. The purpose is to promote music.
It makes no difference how good you are at making music; everyone can do it. This day can be used by even the most tone-deaf folks to sing their hearts out and appreciate the beauty and power of music. Music is not only a great way to express yourself, but it may also be beneficial to your health. A song might bring back a joyful memory or make you feel energized when you listen to it.
1. Where did the World Music Day begin?| A．France. | B．American. | C．Belgium. | D．China. |
| A．For reputation. | B．For entertainment. | C．For experience. | D．For occupation. |
| A．Those who are not expert in music are not welcome. |
| B．Joel Cohen put forward the idea of performing music for free. |
| C．The purpose of it is to instruct tone-deaf people in music. |
| D．You can listen to some songs not included on the playlist. |
| A．Challenging. | B．Critical. | C．Positive. | D．Sceptical. |
7 . New Zealand’s amazing scenic beauty plays host to some amazing music, food, and cultural festivals throughout the year. Below are some best festivals in New Zealand to add to your wish list.
Wellington on a PlateWhen: 20th—21st November, 2022
Where: Wellington
Entry Fee: Free of charge
Wellington on a Plate is an impressive food festival in New Zealand which is not limited to just one place. Wellington’s restaurants, venues (会场), and even car parks become hosts to this wild celebration. Hamburgers are a popular food choice in Wellington. Besides them, creative cocktails, wines, and over 100 exciting events also wait for you.
Rhythm & AlpsWhen: 29th December, 2022
Where: Robrosa Station, Wanaka, South Island
Entry Fee: INR 5,000—34,000
Are you crazy about mountains and music? Rhythm & Alps is a festival that you can plan a road trip to. It is one of the camping festivals in New Zealand that could bring together world-class bands, DJs and festival-goers to welcome the coming year.
Rhythm and VinesWhen: 28th—31st December, 2022
Where: Waiohika Estate, Gisborne
Entry Fee: INR 20,500—34,000
Gisborne is the first city in the world to see the New Year, as it is on New Zealand’s East Cape. A 3-day-long international music festival, Rhythm and Vines, is held there to welcome the first sunrise of the New Year.
Victorian FeteWhen: 21st November, 2022
Where: Victorian Precinct, Oamaru
Entry Fee: INR 700
Victorian Fete is a good occasion during which festival-goers take a step back in time to the Victorian era. Festival-goers show up in Victorian full dress during the celebration. Have yours pare time enjoying tasty food, wine, beer, and world-class whisky at one of the exciting New Zealand traditional festivals.
1. What is special about Wellington on a Plate?| A．It’s known for its road trips. | B．It’s held at various locations. |
| C．It’s an excellent music festival. | D．It’s free to members only. |
| A．They offer amazing ways to celebrate the New Year. |
| B．They’re good choices for camping enthusiasts. |
| C．They come in the first few days of the year. |
| D．They require the same fee for admission. |
| A．Wellington on a Plate. | B．Rhythm & Alps. |
| C．Rhythm and Vines. | D．Victorian Fete. |
8 . I came to Russia to study in the winter of 2021. My university is located in Moscow, the capital of Russia, which is a city with a long history.
The second I stepped out of the airport, I immediately felt how cold it was outside.
The first challenge was the language barrier After leaning Russian in China, I realized that my skills were nowhere near enough. I was not fluent in Russian, sometimes causing misunderstandings.
The artistic atmosphere in Russia is very strong, however.
In a nutshell, living abroad means overcoming all kinds of difficulties. The experience will always leave a colorful shade in our lives. Just as the old saying in Chinese goes, “it is better to travel ten thousand miles than to read ten thousand books.”
| A．Take a look at the outside world while you are young! |
| B．Obviously, the freezing climate does not agree with me. |
| C．The cultural differences were also hard to deal with at first. |
| D．I can visit many of the attractions that I used to see in my textbooks. |
| E．And the buildings surrounding me looked so different from the ones in China. |
| F．Staring from early November each year, the snow season in Moscow is very long. |
| G．Thanks to the abundant activities I get to explore what I've learned in practical contexts. |
9 . The peony has gained extraordinary support in an online vote to be chosen as China’s national flower. The final result of the poll, initiated by the China Flower Association, will be unveiled on Friday.
The five days of voting began on Monday, and an official from the association revealed that the peony has collected more than 90 percent of the votes to date among 10 options.
“We are stepping into the new era and the country is witnessing social prosperity,” the official said. “People also have better living conditions. It is time to have an official national flower that can represent our state image and the nation’s spirit.”
According to the association, China’s national flower should meet four standards: It should originate in China and have a long history in many regions; it should be beautiful in shape and color, to represent the Chinese culture and personality; it should have a profound historical culture and be widely known to the public; and it should be extensively used in many fields with a competitive ecological and economic value that could benefit the public.
“The peony was the national flower in the Tang Dynasty (618-907). Apart from ornamental (观赏的) value, it also has been used as a food and a traditional Chinese herb, for which it has strong economic value,” Dong said. “It is widely known by Chinese people. Even my 10-year-old son and his classmates in primary school have voted for it.”
By Wednesday afternoon, nearly 600,000 people had joined in the discussion on WeChat, with about 470,000 agreeing that the national flower should be only one certain flower.
Among several colors being considered, the red peony has gained the greatest support from the public with nearly 30,000 votes on Sina Weibo, followed by white and yellow.
Many netizens said they didn’t realize that China has no national flower. In fact, many people said they had already accepted the peony as the national flower years before they saw the vote.
1. What is most probably this article?| A．An introduction to a flower. | B．A news report about a vote. |
| C．An ad for a flower. | D．A public notice of a vote. |
| A．The procedure. | B．The standard. | C．The reason. | D．The result. |
| A．negative | B．supportive | C．unclear | D．intolerant |
| A．Peony leads national flower voting. |
| B．New era calls for new national flower. |
| C．Peony changes national flower standards. |
| D．Peony represents nation’s image and spirit. |
10 . The following properties which the World Heritage Committee has decided to include on the List of World Heritage are in danger according to Article 11 (4) of the Convention (公约).
Virunga National Park (Democratic Republic of the Congo)
Virunga National Park, covering an area of 790,000 ha., includes an outstanding diversity of habitats, ranging from swamps and steppes (沼泽和平原) to the snowfields. Mountain gorillas are also found in the park.
Cultural Landscape and Archaeological Remains of the Bamiyan Valley (Afghanistan)
The cultural landscape and archaeological remains of the Bamiyan Valley stand for the artistic and religious developments which from the 1st to the 13th centuries characterized ancient Bakhtria. The area contains a number of Buddhist monastic ensembles (佛教寺院), as well as strong buildings from the Islamic period.
Okapi Wildlife Reserve (Democratic Republic of the Congo)
The Okapi Wildlife Reserve occupies about one-fifth of the Ituri forest in the northeast of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The reserve contains threatened species of primates and birds surviving in the wild. It also has some amazing scenery, including waterfalls on the Ituri and Epulu rivers. The reserve is inhabited by traditional nomadic pygmy Mbuti and Efe hunters.
Historic Center of Vienna (Austria)
Vienna developed from early Celtic and Roman settlements into a Medieval and Baroque city, the capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It played an important role as a leading European music center, from the great age of Viennese Classicism through the early part of the 20th century.
1. Which of the following world heritage sites is located in Afghanistan?| A．Virunga National Park. | B．Historic Centre of Vienna. |
| C．Okapi Wildlife Reserve. | D．Cultural Landscape and Archaeological Remains of the Bamiyan Valley. |
| A．It’s closely related to Buddhism. | B．It has some fascinating natural scenery. |
| C．It has an outstanding variety of habitats. | D．It plays an important role as a leading music center. |
| A．They are all in danger. | B．They are open to the public. |
| C．They are inhabited by local people. | D．They are to be removed from the World Heritage List. |
