1 . Seagulls are flying overhead. Not far away, a boat is making a big noise. The sounds of people talking and laughing are everywhere. The smell of popcorn is carried on the fresh and pleasant wind blowing off the lake. Duluth is a city full of sights, smells, and sounds. My family visits it often, but each time it is a new adventure.
Duluth, Minnesota, was founded in 1870. Located at the southeast corner of the St. Louis County, on Lake Superior, Duluth is the third largest city in Minnesota, with a population of 86, 918. It was named after Daniel Sieur Du Lhut, a French explorer.
Native American settlements were first found in the area by French explorers in the late 1600s. Soon after, Duluth became an important trade and shipping center for the timber (木材) industry. In 1865, iron was discovered, making Duluth a major ore (矿石) shipping point. When the St. Lawrence Seaway opened in 1959, it became one of the Great Lakes’ leading ports for exporting grain.
Tourism is very important to Duluth. People are attracted to its natural scenery, as well as the museums, zoos, and of course, the many gift shops downtown. Duluth is the home of the Great Lakes Aquarium, which is the only allfreshwater aquarium in the United States. However, the Aerial Lift Bridge is the thing that most people want to see when they visit. Standing nearly 400 feet tall, it is a spectacular feat (功绩) of engineering. The Lake Superior Maritime Museum, where you’ll find more about ore boats, the lift bridge, and other things, is just a short walk away from the bridge. If you visit Duluth in the winter, you can go to Spirit Mountain to ski or snowboard.
From bridges to museums, zoos to shops, Duluth has it all. No matter what your interests are, Duluth has something for everyone.
1. How does the author introduce the topic of the text?| A．By giving examples. |
| B．By giving a summary. |
| C．By giving a description. |
| D．By making comparisons. |
| A．The leader of Native Americans. |
| B．The founder of Duluth, Minnesota. |
| C．The person who gave a name to Duluth. |
| D．One of the first French explorers to Duluth. |
| A．It is near a famous museum. |
| B．It is a masterpiece of engineering. |
| C．People can overlook Duluth on it. |
| D．It is the highest building in Duluth. |
| A．a news report | B．a tourist guide |
| C．a history paper | D．an art show review |
2 . A famous magazine, Amusement Today, does a survey among park lovers every year both in the US and overseas, based on which, “Top 5 List of the Best Amusement Parks in the World” has come out as follows:
Disneyland, California
Disneyland is a theme park in Anaheim, California, the US. More than 515 million guests have traveled to this American landmark from around the world since the park first opened to guests on July 17, 1955. The park consists of many world-famous sections, such as Main Street, Adventure land, New Orleans Square, and so on.
Magic Kingdom, Disney World, Florida
Magic Kingdom is a theme park within the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, near Orlando opened on October 1, 1971. It is the most famous theme park in Florida. The park’s design and attractions don’t make much difference from Disneyland Park in Anaheim.
EPCOT, Disney World, Florida
EPCOT is the second theme park built at the Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Florida. The park opened on October 1, 1982, and was named EPCOT Center from 1982 to 1993. It was the largest Disney theme park in the world until 1998, when Disney’s Animal Kingdom opened.
DisneyMGM Studios, Florida
MGM’s streets are the home for some great moviethemed attractions with a history of less than 30 years. With the addition of the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and the Rock and Roller Coaster, the park is now home to Disney World’s most thrilling rides.
Universal Studios, Florida
Go behind the scenes, beyond the screen and jump right into the action of your favorite movies at Universal Studios, the number one movie and TV theme park in the world.
1. Which of the following theme parks have similar attractions?| A．Disneyland & Magic Kingdom. |
| B．Disneyland & Universal Studios. |
| C．EPCOT & DisneyMGM Studios. |
| D．Magic Kingdom & Universal Studios. |
| A．Magic Kingdom, Disney World, Florida. |
| B．DisneyMGM Studios, Florida. |
| C．EPCOT, Disney World, Florida. |
| D．Disneyland, California. |
| A．To attract tourists to these theme parks. |
| B．To increase the sales of Amusement Today. |
| C．To introduce world’s best amusement parks. |
| D．To compare attractions in different theme parks. |
BEAUTIFUL IRELAND AND ITS TRADITIONS
Ireland’s beautiful countryside has always had a great influence on its people and traditions. The country has a long history of producing great writers and poets. Its beautiful countryside excites and inspires all, offering something for each of the senses. The peaceful landscape of the “Emerald Isle” and its many green counties is a true feast for the eyes, with its rolling green hills dotted with sheep and cattle. And down by the sea, the roar of the ocean waves and cries of the seabirds make up the music of the coast. On a quiet morning in the mountains, feel the sun on your skin, and breathe in the sweet scent of fresh flowers while birds greet the new day with their morning song. With all this beauty, it is not surprising that Ireland has developed strong traditions that include music, dancing, and dining. To have a chance of experiencing this, stop by a village pub and relax with a glass of wine or a local beer. Better yet, enjoy a delicious traditional Irish Beef Stew. If you’re lucky, you might be able to enjoy some traditional music and dancing, too. And if you introduce yourself to a friendly face, you are more than likely to experience local culture and customs firsthand.
1. Why has Ireland produced many great writers and poets?| A．The people there are all good at writing. |
| B．The beautiful countryside gives them inspiration. |
| C．The modern industry makes them free from labor (劳动). |
| D．The education system there is advanced. |
| A．songs | B．dancing | C．food | D．all the above |
| A．the song of the birds | B．the roar of the ocean waves |
| C．the cries of the seabirds | D．the traditional music played everywhere |
| A．A local museum | B．A small town | C．A village pub | D．A small studio |
4 . The British Museum
Welcome to the British Museum to experience cultures across the globe, from the origin of human history to the present. The entry can be gained for free if applied on our website.
◆ Open today: 10:00-20:30
◆ Last entry: 19:30
Plan your visit
Book tickets and plan your day including exhibitions, facilities, access, food and travel. Book your free ticket to guarantee Museum entry and receive key information and updates before your visit.
Galleries
Please note that galleries in the Museum may be closed for maintaining clean or private events. All planned closures will be listed on the Visit page. Occasionally we may need to close galleries at short notice for safety reasons. We regret that in these cases we’re not always able to inform the public in advance.
Family visits
Families with children of all ages can enjoy a range of free gallery activities.
◆ Take on a Museum Mission
You can wander through selected galleries and complete five challenges. Find a variety of objects within the gallery, perform for a video using a phone or tablet, discuss an object, look closely at collection highlights, and pose for a photo shoot alongside the objects.
◆ Embark on a Museum Explorer Trail (路径)
Involving the whole family, each trail dives into interesting objects. Trails include Journey Across Japan, Africa Around the World, Ancient Greece, Ancient Egypt, Fantastic Creatures and more.
◆ Explore with a Themed Backpack
This unique experience allows visitors under 16 to explore the museum in a fun way. Jobs in Roman Britain, best for ages 7-11, sees kids match modern objects with ancient objects; Sensory Support Backpack provides resources and ideas to support young visitors aged 3–11 with additional sensory needs in a busy museum environment; Little Feet, a backpack for kids under 5 for use in any area of the museum is also worth trying.
1. How could the visitors get entry to the museum?| A．By informing the staff in advance. | B．By applying on the Internet. |
| C．By sending email s to apply for entry. | D．By buying tickets at the door. |
| A．For keeping clean. | B．For personal activities. |
| C．For security issues. | D．For controlling visiting. |
| A．Having some discussions. | B．Taking photos of objects. |
| C．Doing the object matching. | D．Wandering around galleries. |
5 . Amazing Ancient Forests Around the World
A visit to one of these long-lived woodlands is an excellent experience. Here’s where to see some of the oldest forests on Earth.
The Takayna/Tarkine Forest Australia
Tasmania’s Takayna/Tarkine Forest gives an experience of what life on Earth looked like 300 million years ago. This rainforest in Australia is home to the second oldest living tree species on the planet: the amazing 3, 000-year-old Huon pines. To explore this fantastic area blanketed with trees, waterfalls, rivers, caves, hills and moorlands, book a tour with Tarkine Trails.
The Araucaria Forest Chile
The Chilean pine tree that spans (横跨) the country’s Lake District is thought to have developed its strange paintbrush shape to defend against dinosaurs during the Jurassic period. However, the forest is most attractive set against the backdrop of surprisingly blue lakes and snowcapped volcanoes in Conguillio National Park. Por those who want to take their time, campsites are available within the park and currently taking reservations (预定) .
The Yakushima Forest Japan
This forest was considered so beautiful by Japan’s 17th-century royalty (王室) that the landscape was recreated in a garden on the mainland, and in 1993, the Yakushima Forest was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once on the Yakushima Island, there is a range of accommodation options, including the expensive Sankara Hotel &Spa (from $750/night, expedia. com ) .
The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest California
The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is home to some of the oldest living trees on Earth. The most ancient among the protected forest’s bristlecone pines— which are characterized by their unusual-looking twisted forms-is Methuselah, a tree estimated to be 4, 841 years old. Grandview Campground ($5 per night, first come first serve) is the closest to the Bristlecone Pine Forest.
1. Which forest is the home of Huon pines?| A．The Araucaria Forest. | B．The Yakushima Forest. |
| C．The Takayna/Tarkine Forest. | D．The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. |
| A．It is set against snowcapped volcanoes. | B．It was recreated by Japan’s royalty. |
| C．It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. | D．It offers beautiful scenery. |
| A．Visitors can stay in expensive hotels. |
| B．Visitors can admire the oldest living trees. |
| C．Visitors can experience the Jurassic period. |
| D．Visitors can camp while enjoying the beauty of nature |
6 . An international design competition was held in 1955 for an art center to be built. There were 233 entries received from many countries. Danish architect Jorn Utzon won the competition with his unique design of shells that looked like sails on a boat.
The construction began on March 2, 1959 and was expected to be accomplished within 4 years. However, they quickly ran into trouble. The ground was not suitable to hold the weight of the building and huge concrete foundations (混凝土地基) had to be built. Mr Utzon had also made mistakes about how many columns (柱) would be needed to support the roof, thus making the concrete shells at the risk of falling down.
Mr Utzon figured out a new way to disperse the weight of the concrete by making each shell out of a part of a perfect globe. The 14 shells look like a single piece of concrete, but they are actually built across frames (框架) of concrete to hold them in place. They weigh as much as 15 tons each. The highest roof point of the building is 67 m above sea level — the same as a 22-storey high building.
This major correction saved the project but added one decade to the building time. The building consists mainly of two main halls, a number of smaller theaters, performance halls and other additional facilities. Both main halls are housed in relatively large sail-shaped structures, and the smaller performance halls are housed at the ground floor. In particular, the grand organ (风琴) in the concert hall is one of the world’s largest organs containing over 10,000 pipes.
The Sydney Opera House is a great success in the history of architecture. It is not only a world-famous performing arts center and the landmark of Sydney, but also recognized as one of the seven wonders of the world of the 20th century. In 2007, the Sydney Opera House was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
1. What was the difficulty when building Sydney Opera House?| A．Its columns were at the risk of falling down. |
| B．There was no satisfactory appearance design. |
| C．The foundation couldn’t support its huge weight. |
| D．No suitable site could be found for construction. |
| A．Put on. | B．Spread out. | C．Cut down. | D．Look into. |
| A．4 years. | B．6 years. | C．10 years. | D．14 years. |
| A．Its position. | B．Its history. | C．Its general shape. | D．Its inner structure. |
7 . Explore Your City: Well-Loved Parks in Springfield, MA
Springfield, Massachusetts, is a city that enjoys many beautiful parks. Whether you’re looking for an apartment to rent in Springfield, homes for sale, or more parks to explore, read on to get started.
Blunt Park
Blunt Park has over 100 acres of green space and recreational (娱乐的) facilities, including a swimming pool, playgrounds, tennis courts, and athletic fields. You can also explore the park’s walking and biking paths, winding through the striking forests and breathtaking landscape. In addition, the park is home to several historic sites, including the World War Ⅱ Memorial.
Forest Park
Going to Forest Park is an impressive adventure that offers visitors a chance to explore the region’s natural beauty. The park is home to over 735 acres of green space, including a brilliant rose garden, a zoo, a golf course, and a boating lake. Explore walking and biking trails and appreciate views of the Connecticut River.
Dr. Seuss Garden
The Dr. Seuss National Garden is an attractive destination, which features a series of sculptures (雕塑) describing some of Dr. Seuss’s favourite characters, including The Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, and The Lorax. You can wander through the park and appreciate imaginative designs of the sculptures. The garden is a perfect destination for families and art lovers.
Robinson State Park
Robinson State Park is a peaceful destination that shows the natural beauty. The park has over 800 acres of green space, including forests, grasslands, and a scenic lake. It also features several fantastic recreational facilities, including picnic areas, a playground, and a beach on the lake, which make it a popular destination for families.
Click to learn more: 10 Mouth-Watering Restaurants in Springfield
1. Which is the perfect destination if you enjoy nature and history?| A．Forest Park. | B．Dr. Seuss Garden. |
| C．Blunt Park. | D．Robinson State Park. |
| A．They feature art and imagination. |
| B．They offer entertainment live shows. |
| C．They are suitable for walking and biking. |
| D．They are wonderful sites for family activities. |
| A．A travel blog. | B．A city brochure. |
| C．A history magazine. | D．A geography textbook. |
8 . I live in Xizhou in Yunnan Province, on the historic Tea Horse Road. I have to admit that when I first heard that Paul Salopek was going to walk the entire globe on his own two feet, I was blown away. I couldn’t imagine that there could be such an unusual person in the world.
Last May, I met Paul. He told me that it was his first time in China. He talked to me with great excitement about the history, migrations, and discoveries in my region of China. He spoke of the Shu-Yandu Dao (the Southern Silk Road), the travels of the 17th-century Chinese explorer Xu Xiake, the Tea Horse Road and the early 20th-century American botanist Joseph Rock. He also talked of Xuanzang. Paul considered many of them heroes and in a sense Chinese pioneers of slow journalism.
I decided to accompany Paul on his walk toward Yunnan. On September 28, 2021, we set out. Our days were simple: walk, eat, sleep, and repeat. We woke up at sunrise, set off in high spirits, and rested at sunset, dragging ourselves into exhausted sleep.
We met many people on the road. Some were curious, surrounding us and watching us; some gave us directions; some invited us into their home to take a rest; some spoke of the charm of their hometown. We met many beautiful souls, simple souls and warm souls. We were walking with our minds.
Together, we were impressed by the biodiversity of the Gaoligong Mountains. As I walked on ancient paths through mountains, I seemed to hear the antique voices of past travelers urging me to be careful on the road.
Looking back on the more than 200 miles I walked with Paul, I came to a realization. Walking for its own sake, while healthy and admirable, is only a small part of the benefit of moving with our feet. A deeper reward is rediscovering the world around us, shortening the distance between each other, and sharing each other’s cultures.
1. How did the writer first respond to Paul’s travel plan?| A．Scared. | B．Puzzled. |
| C．Disappointed. | D．Surprised. |
| A．He was a western journalist. | B．He had a knowledge of China. |
| C．He came to China several times. | D．He was Joseph Rock’s acquaintance. |
| A．They honored the ancestors. | B．They set off in high spirits. |
| C．They satisfied the locals’ curiosity. | D．They built bonds with people. |
| A．To share and reflect on a journey. | B．To suggest a new way of travel. |
| C．To advocate protection of biodiversity. | D．To introduce and promote Chinese culture. |
9 . Whether you’re after a quiet beach holiday or an adventure-packed trip, with over 700 islands and 30 territories, the Caribbean offers many choices. Here we will provide practical tips to help you plan your dream Caribbean vacation.
Choosing the Best Time to Visit
Generally speaking, the Caribbean has a tropical climate with hot and humid weather year-round. Hurricanes are common during the summer months, so it’s advised to avoid travel during this season if possible. The best time to visit typically starts in November and runs through April. Be sure to check local weather forecasts before your trip.
Experiencing the Local Culture
The Caribbean is home to a variety of cultures. The local culture is a key part of the Caribbean experience, so make sure to soak up as much as you can. Visit museums and historical sites to get a deeper understanding of the local heritage, or explore local festivals for a display of music, dance, and art. Moreover, the people of the Caribbean are well known for their friendliness, so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation.
Planning Your Activities
Whether you’re into diving, hiking, shopping, or simply lying on the beach, you will be able to pick between endless activities. Besides, you can try your hand at deep-sea fishing, horseback riding, or even bungee jumping. If you’re looking for something more laid back, take a guided tour of the island’s botanical gardens or explorer its national parks. Whatever you decide to do, be sure to review safety guidelines and pack all the necessary equipment before your adventure.
In conclusion, the Caribbean offers a diverse travel experience that caters to different preferences and budgets. With careful planning and a bit of research, you can plan a vacation that is truly unforgettable. So don’t wait — start planning your dream Caribbean trip today!
1. Which month is the best time to visit the Caribbean?| A．July. | B．December. | C．August. | D．June. |
| A．Visitors can experience different cultures and activities. |
| B．Visitors can have the opportunity to play local music. |
| C．Visitors have to be concerned about the safety of accommodation. |
| D．Deep-sea fishing is not allowed for the reason of ocean protection. |
| A．A fashion magazine. | B．A shopping guide. |
| C．A geography textbook. | D．A travel brochure. |
10 . A new study in the journal of Tourism Analysis shows frequent travelers are happier with their lives than people who don’t travel at all.
Chun-Chu Chen, an assistant professor at Washington State University, conducted a survey to find out why some individuals travel more frequently than others and whether or not travel and tourism experiences have a lasting effect on happiness and wellness.
The results of his analysis show individuals who pay more attention to tourism-related information and frequently discuss their travel plans with friends are more likely to go on regular vacations than those who aren’t constantly thinking about their next trip. Additionally, participants in the survey who reported regularly traveling at least 75 miles away from home also reported being about 7% happier when asked about their overall well-being than those who reported traveling very rarely or not at all.
“While things like work, family life and friends play a bigger role in overall reports of well-being. The accumulation (积累) of travel experiences’ does appear to have a small yet noticeable effect on self-reported life satisfaction,” Chen said.
Participants in the study were asked about the importance of travel in their lives, how much time they spent looking into and planning future vacations, and how many trips they went on over a year. They were also asked about their life satisfaction. Out of the 500 survey participants, a little over half reported going on more than four pleasurable trips a year. Only 7% of respondents did not take any vacations.
As travel restrictions (限制) due to COVID-19 pandemic begin to relax in the future, the research could have important effects on both tourists and the tourism industry. Based on the results of the study, Chen said travel companies, resorts and even airlines, could launch social media campaigns, such as creating signs about the scientific benefits of vacation, to spark people’s interest in discussing their opinions about travel.
1. What is the benefit of frequent travelling according to the study?| A．Getting more tourism information. | B．Making more friends. |
| C．Bettering tourism industry. | D．Improving one’s well-being. |
| A．Why the professor carried out the study. |
| B．How the participants felt about the survey. |
| C．What the participants were interviewed about. |
| D．What the participants panned to do in the future. |
| A．Tourism industry should improve their service. |
| B．The results of the study will benefit tourism industry. |
| C．COVID-19 pandemic will be more serious in the future. |
| D．People will live a happier life after COVID-19 pandemic. |
| A．Travel more and be happier | B．Make good use of travelling |
| C．Prepare for the tourism development | D．Make travel plans with friends |
