1 . Landscape architect Kotchakorn Voraakhom has designed a new green roof on the Rangsit Campus of Thammasat University, about 25 miles north of central Bangkok, Thailand. Her imaginative work challenges the common thinking that urbanization has a negative impact on the planet, whether flooding, excess (过度的) energy use, disrupted (扰乱) biodiversity or the heat island effect.
The 236, 806-square-foot structure, which opened in December 2019, includes a flood water management system and Asia’s largest rooftop organic farm. It combines modern landscape architecture with traditional agricultural knowledge, creating a green and friendly environment.
The green roof, containing an H-shaped landscape, looks like a futuristic hill with a brick building beneath it. The hill features a complex pattern of zigzagging terraces (之字形梯田) of planted beds, leading all the way down to the bottom. When rainwater hits the roof, it flows down the zigzags while being absorbed by the soil in the beds, The excess water is directed into four storage ponds — with a capacity of up to 3 million gallons. The process slows down the flow speed of rainwater runoff compared to a normal concrete rooftop. This keeps the area from flooding during heavy rains.
The roof’s terraces are filled with organically grown crops, including a drought tolerant variety of rice, many local vegetables and herbs. The farm can supply the canteens on campus with a large amount of rice, herbs and vegetables a year. The food waste is composted (把……制成堆肥) to fertilize the farm, and water from the storage ponds is used to water plants, creating an entirely localized and circular system.
The farm serves as an outdoor classroom and a source of local jobs, too. Farmers offer workshops on sustainable agriculture and nutrition as part of the university’s sustainability curriculum. “Students and community members are invited to participate in seasonal seeding, harvesting, and so on,” says Voraakhom. “The urban farm is training a new generation of organic farmers with real-world skills. It also promotes a sense of community.”
1. What can we say about Voraakhom’s work?A.It’s short-lived. | B.It’s creative. |
C.It’s demanding. | D.It’s time-consuming. |
A.To store more water. |
B.To plant diverse vegetables. |
C.To slow the speed of water flow. |
D.To make it look more attractive than other buildings. |
A.It uses food as fertilizer. | B.It benefits the environment. |
C.It improves students’ lifestyle. | D.It produces vegetables and fruits. |
A.Students can learn hands-on knowledge on the farm. |
B.Farmers working on the farm can become professors. |
C.The farm prevents government from offering people jobs. |
D.The farm harms the relationship between university and community. |
2 . Longmen Grottoes
As one of the three most notable Buddhist sculptures in China, the Longmen Grottoes have approximately 1,400 caves with over 100,000 statues. The grottoes were first dug and carved during the Northern Wei Dynasty. Representing the high point of Chinese stone-carving, the Longmen Grottoes are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Opening hours: 8:00 a, m. — 5:00 p. m.(Feb. 1st to Mar. 31st); 7:30 a. m. — 5:30 p. m.(Apr. 1st to Oct. 7th)
Entry: 100 yuan/adult 30% off each teen
White Horse Temple
Originally established under Emperor Ming during the Eastern Han Dynasty, White Horse Temple is the first officially-built temple in China after the introduction of Buddhism. As the cradle of Chinese Buddhism, it holds a vast collection of Buddhist statues and classic sutras. The temple is also famous for interior architecture inspired by the Buddhist styles of Thailand, India and Burma.
Opening hours: 7:30 a. m. — 7:00 p. m.
Entry: 50 yuan/person
Millennium City Park
The Millennium City Park in Kaifeng is a large-scale historical and cultural theme park which copies scenes from the famous ancient painting Along the River During the Qingming Festival. Visitors can watch folklore performances like those of the Song Dynasty and see reconstructions of grand imperial halls and gardens.
Opening hours: 8:30 a. m. — 6:00 p. m.(winter); 8:30 a. m. — 10:00 p.m.
Entry: 120 yuan/person(Mar. 1st to Nov. 30th); 90 yuan/person(Dec. 1st to Feb. 28/29th)
Kaifeng Prefecture
Kaifeng Prefecture was once the country’s political, economic and cultural center as well as one of the most booming cities in the world during the Northern Song Dynasty. Today, the rebuilt Kaifeng Prefecture is a scenic area built according to the architectural standards of the Song Dynasty. Visitors can read historical documents and watch performances.
Opening hours: 7:30 a. m. — 5:30 p. m.(winter); 7:00 a. m. — 7:00 p. m.
Entry: 60 yuan/person
1. How much will a parent with two teens have to pay to visit Longmen Grottoes?A.100 yuan. | B.160 yuan. | C.240 yuan. | D.340 yuan. |
A.Longmen Grottoes. | B.White Horse Temple. |
C.Millennium City Park. | D.Kaifeng Prefecture. |
A.They are tours about Chinese civilization. | B.Visitors can see ancient paintings. |
C.They can be visited all year round. | D.The United Nations speak highly of them. |
3 . Here are four unique national parks in the US that will make you feel like you’re on another planet.
White Sands National Park, New Mexico
This national park in New Mexico is home to the largest area of gypsum sand dunes (沙丘) , making it a truly otherworldly destination in our own backyard. The sand may look like snow, but it can definitely get hot out there. Bring water and a sled (雪橇) , because it’s a popular place for sledding.
Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, Colorado
From some angles, you would think you’re in the middle of the Sahara while walking through the Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve in Colorado. But if you simply find a place with a good view, you can spot the beautiful Rocky Mountain. Occasionally, the nearby Medano Creek will overflow and create a sort of natural “water slide” that makes this usually dry area extra fun. The park is home to wetlands, lakes, and forests, in addition to sand dunes.
Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
Even though it’s one of the least-visited national parks in the country, it’s definitely one of the best national parks in Florida. Located about 70 miles from Key West, this park is made up of several islands that feature blue waters, white-sand beaches, colorful marine life, and one of the largest 19th-century forts (城堡) in the US. The only way for anyone to access the park is by boat or seaplane, but the trip is well worth it.
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
If you’re looking for interesting red and pink rocks, you can’t miss this national park, which is known for its fascinating rock, as well as its gorgeous starry (布满星星的) skies at night.
1. What can you do in the White Sands National Park?A.See pink rocks. | B.Sled on the sand. |
C.Swim in blue waters. | D.Climb high mountains. |
A.White Sands National Park. | B.Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve. |
C.Dry Tortugas National Park. | D.Bryce Canyon National Park. |
A.In a science magazine. | B.In a biology textbook. |
C.In a travel brochure. | D.In a historical novel. |
4 . Some Arrangements for the Beijing Tour
Day 1Any visit to Beijing is incomplete without a hike on the Great Wall. However, it is thousands of miles long and the Beijing section is only a small part of the Great Wall. The first choice is Badaling, but we recommend Juyong Pass, which is less crowded but no less impressive. Depending on your health and preference, you can climb very steep steps or have a walk on the relatively flat areas. There are many locations for great photo opportunities,
Day 2Start at the Temple of Heaven, where emperors used to hold ceremonies to pray. Stop at the Echo Wall and discover the wonder of voices bouncing (弹跳) back and forth. Pass through the guard-protected Golden Water Bridge, and go to visit the Palace Museum.
Day 3You can pay a visit to Capital Museum where the exhibits have more surprises. Take a walk along Wangfujing Street, a modern shopping street. The walking is much less intensive and the budgeted time much more flexible. You may want to finish the day off by catching a performance of Peking Opera and National Centre for the Performing Arts is an ideal place to go.
Day 4The Summer Palace in a northwestern suburb of the city is a beautiful place. A short taxi ride north will take you to Qianmen Street. This retail centre was renovated (翻新) for the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics. Here are some of the oldest businesses of the city, including the famous Peking Duck.
1. Which day covers a visit to the Great wall?A.Day 1. | B.Day 2. | C.Day 3. | D.Day 4. |
A.To Capital Museum. |
B.Ta the Summer Palace. |
C.To the Palace Museum. |
D.To National Centre for the Performing Arts. |
A.Buy a taxi. | B.Go shopping. |
C.Renovate the street. | D.Cook Peking Duck. |
During the peak summer travel season this year, many popular tourist destinations in China have experienced large crowds, making it challenging for tourists
In ancient China, a tradition of night tours, entertainment and dinners thrived (繁荣). When night fell, people would participate in
To meet people’s
6 . Waynesville, North Carolina Travel Guide
About 25 miles southwest of Asheville, Waynesville is the perfect western Carolina mountain town with real charm. So why not visit it?
Best Things to Do in Waynesville
●Make the short drive to Waterrock Knob, where you’ll find one of the best trails and views in Western North Carolina.At 5,820 feet, it's the highest visitor center along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
●Go to Cataloochee Valley to see the elk(麋鹿).The valley is filled with wildlife and wildflowers.
●Visit Haywood's Farmers Market, filled with local products from produce to cheese to crafts. Fill up your bag with fresh fruit and sweet treats for a picnic around Lake Junaluska.
●Explore the Frog Level District located on Richland Creck,which features one- and two-story brick and frame buildings from the early 1900s.
Best Time to Visit
Fall is the most popular time for Waynesville tourism. The bright oranges, yellows, and reds of the fall leaves draw crowds from near and far-so you can expect the cost to mirror the demand. Spring, however, is the best time to visit Waynesville if you want to enjoy pleasant weather, and various fairs and festivals.
Where to Stay in Waynesville
You’ll feel at home instantly you pull up to The Yellow House on Plott Creek Road. Built in the Late 1800s, the hotel sits on five rolling acres of land, surrounded by walking paths, two ponds and a stream. There’re ten rooms and suites and each has its own private bath, fireplace and sitting area.
How to Get There
Ashevile Regional Airport is the closest airport. If you’re flying into the area, you’ll need your own transportation to travel around Waynesville. Downtown Waynesville is walkable but exploring further out into the Blue Ridge Mountains requires a car.
1. Where will you most probably have a chance to admire ancient buildings?A.Waterrock Knob. | B.Cataloochee Valley. |
C.Frog Level District. | D.Haywood’s Farmers Market. |
A.The competitive cost. | B.The local cultures, |
C.The agreeable weather. | D.The natural beauty. |
A.Rent a car. | B.Feed some wildlife. |
C.Hike on foot. | D.Grow fresh fruits. |
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8 . Paris is the capital of the European nation of France. It is also one of the most beautiful and most famous cities in the world.
Paris is called the City of Light. It is also an international fashion center. What women are wearing in Paris will be worn by women all over the world. Paris is also a famous world center of education. Foe example, it is where the headquarters of UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
The Seine River divides the city into two parts. Thirty –two bridges cross this beautiful river. The oldest and perhaps most well-known is the Point Neuf, which was built in the sixteenth century. The Sorbonne, a famous university, stands on the left bank of the river. There are many other famous places in Paris, such as the famous museum, the Louvre, as well as the Notre Dame. However, the most famous building in this city is Eiffel Tower.
Paris is named after a group of people called the Parisii. They built a small village on an island in the middle of the Seine River about two thousand years ago. This island, called the lle de la Cite, is where Notre Dame lies. Today around eight million people live in the Paris area.
1. This article mainly tells us about ________.A.the buildings in Paris | B.the general situations of Paris |
C.the center of the world | D.the famous buildings along the Seine River |
A.tall buildings | B.research center | C.important areas | D.main office |
A.the clothes worn by women in Paris are liked by women all over the world |
B.women in Paris sell their clothes all over the world |
C.women from all over the world go to Paris and wear their own clothes |
D.women from all over the world like to go to Paris to buy clothes |
A.UNESCO | B.the Pont Neuf | C.Eiffel Tower | D.Notre Dame |
9 . 4 Most walkable cities in Europe
Seville, SpainSeville in Spain takes the top spot as Europe’s most walkable city, offering the shortest walking route between the top four tourist attractions.Visitors can explore the impressive Plaza de Espana public square, before wandering over to the UNESCO-listed palace of Real Alcazar and Seville Cathedral. After that, it’s only a short trip on foot to visit the beautiful Barrio Santa Cruz neighbourhood.
Venice, ItalyVenice is well-known as a heaven for pedestrians (行人), so it’s no surprise it ranks as the second best location for walkable city breaks. There are endless alleyways to explore, as well as plenty of beautiful bridges over the crisscrossing canals that the city is famous for. Just under half an hour of walking here will take you on a tour of the impressive Grand Canal, Doge’s Palace, St Mark’s Square, Basilica and bell tower, all in only 1.3 miles.
Porto, PortugalNestled along Portugal’s picturesque coast, Porto comes in third with its top attractions all covered by a 30-minute walking route. Meander along the Dom Luís I Bridge over the Douro River, head to the Clérigos Church Bell Tower and enjoy a riverfront walking place along the Cais da Ribeira. The Stock Exchange Palace is also just a short walk away.
Florence, ItalyFlorence, Italy, secures its place as the fourth most walkable city in Europe thanks to its stunning attractions that can be seamlessly explored on foot. A 1.6 mile route covers the awe-inspiring Piazzale Michelangelo; the famous Uffizi Gallery; the Piazza del Duomo where you will be amazed at the magnificent Florence Cathedral; and the Galleria dell’Accademia, home to Michelangelo’s masterpiece, the statue of David.
1. How long is probably the walking route in Seville?A.1.1 miles. | B.1.3 meters. | C.1.6 meters. | D.1.8 meters. |
A.Seville. | B.Venice. | C.Porto. | D.Florence. |
A.To compare the four cities. |
B.To show the benefits of walking. |
C.To stress the importance of traveling. |
D.To attract visitors to walk in these cities. |
10 . Brad Ryan, 38, is taking his 89-year-old grandma Joy Ryan on a tour of all 61 US national parks.
The idea for the
As for Grandma Joy, she was ready for that
After that first trip, Brad
“Grandma helped me to slow down. She would
“I just hope everyone gets some
A.meeting | B.trip | C.story | D.task |
A.agreed | B.understood | C.doubted | D.regretted |
A.skills | B.prizes | C.experiences | D.standards |
A.asked | B.failed | C.decided | D.promised |
A.go | B.talk | C.work | D.wait |
A.job | B.call | C.result | D.order |
A.strange | B.far | C.cold | D.little |
A.suggested | B.guessed | C.explained | D.proved |
A.nice | B.proper | C.dangerous | D.difficult |
A.avoided | B.practiced | C.finished | D.continued |
A.accept | B.imagine | C.notice | D.change |
A.great | B.same | C.new | D.wild |
A.forgetting | B.sparing | C.enjoying | D.describing |
A.training | B.encouragement | C.attention | D.knowledge |
A.keep | B.need | C.realize | D.do |