1 . The Sydney Opera House has become, with the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney’s best-known landmark and international symbol.
The base for the building was started in 1959 — years before the designs were finished. It took four years to design by Danish architect Jorn Utzon and by 1962 the designs were finalized and construction began. In total, it took 14 years to build and was officially opened on the 20th of October 1973 by Queen Elizabeth II.
The Sydney Opera House is a fascinating building and heart of the city’s cultural scene. It opened with a concert hall, an opera theatre, a drama theatre and a recital (音乐演奏会) hall, as well as restaurants and bars. A fifth theatre was added within the structure in 1998.
The Sydney Opera House cost some $160 million to build and was paid for by the public who bought $10 tickets in a series of lotteries with a first prize of $1million.
More information about the Sydney Opera House:
Conducts 3,000 events each year
Provides guided tours to 200,000 people each year
Has an annual audience of 2 million for its performances
includes 1,000 rooms
Is 185 metres long and 120 metres wide
Has 2.194 pre-cast concrete sections as its roof
Has roof sections weighing up to 15 tons
Has roof sections held together by 350 kms of tensioned steel cable
Has over 1 million tiles on the roof
Uses 6,225 square metres of glass and 645 kilometres of electric cable
1. When were the designs of the Sydney Opera House started?| A．In1960. | B．In1962. | C．In1958. | D．In1973. |
| A．a drama theatre | B．an opera theatre |
| C．a concert hall | D．a reception hall |
| A．The Sydney Opera House has an audience of 2 million per year for its performances. |
| B．There are about 3,000 events held in the Sydney Opera House each year. |
| C．The Sydney Opera House is made up of more than 1,000 rooms. |
| D．The roof of the Sydney Opera House is made of concrete and steel. |
2 . Britain is arguably the great walking nation. About two-thirds of us already head out to stretch our legs once a week. The following festivals offer a wealth of organized walks, but walkers should register in advance.
Prestatyn and Clwydian Range festival
Visitors to Wales tend to move west, to either the well-worn tracks of Snowdonia or the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. There are 25 walks packed into the three days, with various options available, including a half-mile Roman-themed adventure, an eight-mile walk exploring the life of 18th-century Welsh naturalist and travel writer Thomas Pennant and a 21-mile Offa’s Dyke challenge. All walks are free.
Denbighshire, Wales, 19-21 May
Otley walking festival
This local festival has grown from humble origins in 2000 into a busy schedule of 50 short-distance walks and events celebrating the lives and landscapes of Wharfedale in West Yorkshire. One might enjoy the Five Pubs Walk, Walking With Wine, Four More Pubs or Lost Pubs of Otley. All walks are free, though there is sometimes a small charge for transport.
Otley, West Yorkshire, 24 June-3 July
Dartmoor offroading walking festival
Dartmoor delights (使高兴) walkers because, while tracks are there to be followed, the lack of wire and other barriers, and the relatively small number of farm buildings on the higher ground, create a sensation of freedom. The six free wheelchair walks, starting daily at 11am, explore Dartmoor’s industrial history, bronze age valuables and Victorian railway builders.
Devon, 27 August-2 September
Gower walking festival
With more superb walking options inside a single landscape than perhaps anywhere else, the Gower peninsula (半岛) sometimes feels as if it’s all coast. The further information for this nine-day festival, celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Wales Coast Path (WCP), has yet to be finalized. Half of the walks offered during the festival will be on the coastal path, £10 adults, over-sixes £6.
Glamorgan, 2-10 September
1. Which festival is friendly to the disabled?| A．Prestatyn and Clwydian Range festival. | B．Otley walking festival. |
| C．Dartmoor offroading walking festival. | D．Gower walking festival. |
| A．It has the most superb walking options. | B．Half of the walks last for a whole week. |
| C．It’s aimed to advocate coastal protection. | D．The final details remain to be confirmed. |
| A．They are offered free of charge. | B．They require prior registeration. |
| C．They take advantage of the coast. | D．They are physically demanding. |
3 . Due to its status as the longest-running capital in ancient China, Xi’an has had a deep impact on the life and culture of the country. If you are planning a tour of Xi’an, you’ll want to hit all the following highlights.
Terracotta Army
Discovered near Lintong, Xi’an, the army of Terracotta Warriors was constructed by China’s First Emperor Qinshihuang of the Qin Dynasty. It is a collection of thousands of life-size terracotta soldiers, horses and chariots in battle formation, showing the emperor’s armies in full splendor.
Xi’an City Wall
Xi’an City Wall was built in the 14th century by Zhu Yuanzhang, the first Emperor of the Ming Dynasty as a military defense system. Now it is one of the oldest and best-preserved Chinese city walls. The wall is now a landmark, dividing the city into inner and outer areas. When you take a walk or cycle on the massive wall, you can enjoy a good view of the city, the moat and the watchtowers.
Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda was built in the Tang Dynasty for the study of Buddhist scriptures. One of the main functions of the pagoda was to store sutras and figurines brought to China from India by the famous monk and traveler Xuan Zang, who stayed here for 19 years translating Buddhist scriptures.
Shaanxi History Museum
The Shaanxi History Museum is home to over 370,000 precious relics unearthed in Shaanxi over the years. Its collections range from bronze wares to pottery figures, gold and silverwares and mural paintings from the Tang Dynasty tombs. Among its precious collections, 18 pieces have been listed as national treasures.
1. What will you see when you visit Terracotta Army?| A．Terracotta soldiers and horses. | B．Books translated by Xuan Zang. |
| C．A good view of Xi’an. | D．Terracotta pots for plants. |
| A．Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. | B．Shaanxi History Museum. |
| C．Terracotta Army. | D．Xi’an City Wall. |
| A．A travel guidebook. | B．A science magazine. | C．A research paper. | D．A news report. |
4 . Te Papa Tongarewa
Te Papa Tongarewa is the museum of art, science, and the natural history of New Zealand. The name translates to “our container of treasured things and people that spring from mother earth here in New Zealand”.
Te Papa is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm, except on Christmas Day. Admission is free for everyone, but charges apply to certain exhibitions and events.
·Guided tours
Introducing Te Papa Tour will give you a great opportunity to understand the various views and cultures you will meet throughout New Zealand.
Te Papa@Twilight Tour is an excellent choice to avoid the crowds and discover Te Papa’s highlights as the sun begins to set. You can discuss our diverse natural environment, and the continued growth of Maori culture with a private guide.
Take a journey with Maori Experience Kinaki Tour, to discover how first peoples of the land have formed unique foods provided by the natural world. The tour will conclude with a shared kai, traditionally-inspired food tasting.
·Plan an education visit
If you are an educator, choose from our range of education programmes. Each can be adapted to your needs. Both in-person and virtual visits are accessible.
We recommend booking at least two weeks ahead of time.
During the visit, we require you to bring adults to supervise (管理) students closely as you are responsible for their safety.
Food and drinks(except bottled water)are not allowed in exhibition areas. Schools are welcome to eat lunch in the outdoor courtyard. You may also choose to buy lunches from our café and are welcome to use cafe space to eat.
1. According to the passage, Te Papa Tongarewa ______.| A．shows local collections | B．is full of worldwide treasures |
| C．hosts all the events for free | D．is open the whole year round |
| A．Introducing Te Papa Tour. | B．Te Papa@Twilight Tour. |
| C．An education programme. | D．Maori Experience Kinaki Tour. |
| A．booking a week ahead is required | B．the museum ensures students’ safely |
| C．eating in exhibition areas is accepted | D．the museum supports personalized service |
5 . Many people enjoy spending their vacations swimming, lying in the sun and staying at luxurious hotels.
“I’m a successful lawyer from San Francisco,” says Gavin Murphy. “
Camping out does have its disadvantages, however.
Park rangers (护林员) recommend that visitors watch out for snakes, whose bites can be poisonous. They stress the fact that it is necessary that food be kept packed away, so that an unexpected bear doesn’t pay an unwelcome visit to some surprised guests.
| A．If it rains, there is not much to do. |
| B．Camping is not really my cup of tea. |
| C．But every once in a while I like to get back to nature. |
| D．Some of the visitors have no experience being in the country. |
| E．Yet, nature lovers continue to visit national parks year after year. |
| F．But there are countless others who prefer a different kind of holiday. |
| G．Visitors to national parks have a wide variety of activities to choose from. |
In the southern part of France, away from the charm of Paris and the scenic Riviera, lies Toulouse, often referred to as “La Ville Rose” or “The Pink City.” Its nickname comes from the unique terra-cotta bricks used in many of its, buildings, giving the city a distinctive style.
Historically, Toulouse traces its roots back to the ancient times. It was originally established by the Celts in the 4th century BC and later became a significant Roman settlement. The city’s strategic position near the Germane River made it a well-known trading center in ancient Europe. By the Middle Ages, Toulouse had become a major center of trade due to its dye industry. This trade brought immense wealth to the region, and the city’s grand houses and public buildings from this era reflect is opulence (繁华).
However, Toulouse was not just a center for trade. Its history is marked with intellectual pursuits. By the 13th century, Université de Toulouse was established, making it one of the oldest universities in the world. The institution attracted scholars from various parts of Europe.
In modern times, Toulouse is famous for its aerospace industry. Home to Airbus, one of the world’s largest commercial aircraft manufacturers, the city is a center point in global aviation. This modern achievement connects with Toulouse’s rich history, showcasing a combination of the old and the new.
One of the most significant landmarks in Toulouse is the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, an architectural marvel from the Romanesque period. The church stands as a testament to the city’s religious significance during the medieval (中世纪的) times. Another notable part is the Capitole de Toulouse, which houses the city hall and a grand opera building. Its facade, made with the characteristic pink bricks, showcases the essence (本质) of Toulouse.
Despite its historical significance and achievements, Toulouse often remains overshadowed by other French cities. Yet, those who went to this southern gem find themselves fond of its rich history, vibrant culture, and the warmth of its inhabitants.
Visiting Toulouse offers an opportunity to step back in time while remaining firmly grounded in the present. It’s a city that embraces is past, cherishes its traditions, yet looks forward with optimism. In the European cities, Toulouse shines as a wonderful, yet irreplaceable one.
1. Why is Toulouse called “La Ville Rose” or “The Pink City?”2. What are the reasons for Toulouse to become a center of trade in the history?
3. Please decide which part is false in the following statement, then underline it and explain why.
Basilica of Saint-Sernin stands as a testament to the city’s intellectual significance during medieval time.
4. In your opinion, which city in China is like Toulouse, which cherishes its traditions, yet looks forward with optimism? Why?
City walk, a unique way to experience urban culture and lifestyle, is
8 . Amish Country is one of Ohio’s most beautiful places. In addition to good food and shopping, you can also learn about Amish history and experience their culture through Amish home tours and buggy rides.
a buggy ride
Amish Heartland Tours
If you would like to learn about Amish life and culture while enjoying a tour of the beauty of Amish country, Amish Heartland Tours can make it happen, offering buggy rides, custom bus tours, and special “Backroad” experiences with meals in the homes of the Amish people. You will learn about the day-to-day life of the Amish from experienced tour guides and the local people themselves.
Tours last between 1 to 3 hours depending on your choice of destination and activities.
Yoder’s Amish Home
If you or your school group would like to learn more about the life of the Amish, a trip to Yoder’s Amish Home might be perfect for you. With guided tours of the house, property, and so on, you’ll learn about the history and lifestyle of the Amish up close.
Pet the animals in the old barn, learn a little German and meet their Amish teacher in their one-room schoolhouse, take a ride in a real Amish buggy, and enjoy a sweet treat from their bakery! Tours are led by local guides and last about 40 minutes.
Troyer’s Amish Tours
Experience the Amish Country with a personalized, and custom touch. Troyer’s Amish Tours offers several tours including 2 and 3-hour experiences, dinner in Amish homes, as well as special events. All of the tours are tailor-made with advance notice.
For the most memorable experience, use their online contact forms to plan your visit in advance.
Amish Heritage Tours
Amish Heritage Tours offers seasonally themed tours including many of the best things to do in Amish Country, with one to multi-day experiences including pick-up from your hotel, dinner, shopping, area theatre, and museums.
Plan your visit online in advance. Their website offers sample itineraries for each tour to make your stay rewarding and unforgettable.
1. Which tour is intended for school children?| A．Amish Heartland Tours. | B．Yoder’s Amish Home. |
| C．Troyer’s Amish Tours. | D．Amish Heritage Tours. |
| A．It presents seasonally themed tours. | B．It features real Amish buggy rides. |
| C．It provides a museum experience. | D．It meets individualized needs. |
| A．To promote tours. | B．To introduce travel services. |
| C．To highlight a lifestyle. | D．To celebrate the local culture. |
Gather together a couple of good friends and take a leisurely walk through the streets—this is
When you visit London, one of the first things you will see is Big Ben, the famous clock
