1 . Futurologists are making a lot of predictions about our future life and they are predicting how we will travel, work and live in the future. By 2049, some futurologists foresee that some “talking” buildings will appear in our life.
By the middle of the century, it’s believed that buildings will be able to “talk” to people through various sensors when the heating needs to be turned on. As a result, there will be no switches. Instead, a lot of networks will appear, which can be compared to a human nervous system. In the future, buildings will be made from concrete plastics and shape-changing materials. All of them can heal themselves at that time. As architects are racing to develop the world’s tallest buildings, there will be a need for new kinds of elevators, through which vehicles could even travel into the buildings. German engineers have already started working on such technology called Multi.
By mid-century, scientists believe that buildings will be miles tall. Some of them may be very large and they can function as small cities. By comparison, at present, the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, measures 829.8 metres high. As the future building can rise through the clouds, their windows will be replaced by virtual screens. In this way, people can choose any view as they like.
A London Spaceport is also likely to come into being by 2049 as the space industry develops very quickly. There is a huge cost advantage in going to space from a base as high as possible, so a spaceport is very likely to be over 10 km and even as much as 30 km, using carbon-based materials.
1. How will the heating system be controlled in the future?| A．Through the net. | B．Through mobiles. |
| C．Through sensors. | D．Through switches. |
| A．They can recover by themselves. |
| B．They can seek help automatically. |
| C．They can transport people to space. |
| D．They can protect people against harm. |
| A．Seeing the beautiful scenery. |
| B．Allowing vehicles to enter buildings. |
| C．Connecting the earth with space. |
| D．Making it possible to build high buildings. |
| A．Be the Best Buildings with Carbon-based Materials |
| B．The Higher the Building, the Better |
| C．Smart Buildings in the Future |
| D．More Functions, Less Cost |
2 . Last week I took a journey deep into space, to the end of the solar system, and was pulled into a black hole. Then I took a trip to Brazil and experienced surviving an airplane crash in the jungle. After that, I joined some divers and went to the bottom of the ocean to see strange blind creatures that have never seen sunlight. For a break, I took part in some car racing and then skied down some of the most difficult mountains in the world. I ended my travels by meeting face to face with a dinosaur, the terrible T-Rex, and survived the experience!
I did all this in one great day at Futuroscope. Opened in 1987, Futuroscope is one of the largest space-age parks in the world. This science and technology-based theme park in France uses the most advanced technology. Its 3-D cinemas and giant movie screens provide brand new experiences of the earth and beyond. Visitors can get close to parts of the world they have never experienced, going to the bottom of the ocean, flying through the jungle or visiting the edges of the solar system. The amazing, up-to-date information together with many opportunities for hands-on learning makes the world come to life in a completely new way for visitors. Learning centers throughout the park let visitors try their own scientific experiments, as well as learn more about space travel, the undersea world and much more.
I bought tickets for myself and my friends at the park’s entrance, but tickets are also available online. Futuroscope is not only for individuals, but is also the perfect mix of fun and learning for class outings. Classes or other large groups that let Futuroscope know their plans in advance can get the group admission rate. For anyone coming from out of town, Futuroscope has many excellent hotels nearby, most of which provide a shuttle service to the park. If driving, Futuroscope is within easy reach of the freeway. Plan your trip well before starting, since Futuroscope has so many shows, activities and great souvenir shops that it is difficult to see them all. Come ready to walk a lot—be sure to wear some comfortable sneakers or other walking shoes!
1. At Futuroscope, the author ________.| A．got caught by a dangerous dinosaur |
| B．got severely hurt in an airplane crash |
| C．skied down some difficult mountains |
| D．saw strange blind creatures in a jungle |
| A．A school built in 1987 in France. |
| B．A stadium for people to do exercise. |
| C．A science and technology-based theme park. |
| D．A museum with 3-D cinemas and giant movie screens. |
| A．Blind creatures. | B．Visitors. | C．Scientists. | D．Dinosaurs. |
| A．By buying tickets online. |
| B．By paying extra money. |
| C．By getting familiar with the ticket seller. |
| D．By letting Futuroscope know their plans ahead of time. |
3 . We’re seeing travelers’ interest slowly increasing. Below are some of the trending experiences across Canada that are taking safety preventive measures or are good for avoiding crowds.
Jasper SkyTram (缆车)
Take your visit to Jasper National Park to new heights with this ride aboard the area’s famous Jasper SkyTram. Fly above the park, watching wildlife down below, as you gently climb towards the upper station located at 7,425 feet (2,263 m) above sea level. This family friendly ride on the Jasper SkyTram is the perfect experience for guests of all ages. Ride on the longest and highest guided aerial tramway in Canada.
1 Hour Bow River Ride
Set up for a journey through the celebrated landscape of Banff National Park on this guided horseback riding adventure. This horse themed journey includes a guide, use of a horse, and all necessary equipment. You can have a horseback ride through Banff National Park, where you can see natural hot springs. The guide will tell you the history of the national park.
Maligne Lake Cruise (乘船游览)
This fully narrated cruise takes you along Maligne Lake, the largest glacially fed lake in the Canadian Rockies, part of the UNESCO-listed Jasper National Park. Visit Spirit Island, accessible only by boat, and admire views of grand Granite Peaks, vibrant blue water, and ancient forests. Keep your camera close and your senses alert as you scan the area for the eagles, bears, and deer that call this area home.
Vancouver Seaplane Tour
Fly above the scenic city of Vancouver, enjoying a bird’s eye view of its picturesque harbor and nearby mountain peaks, on this 20-minute, small-group seaplane flight. Hop aboard your seaplane as you leave the tourist crowds in downtown Vancouver behind, as you glide above the city’s beautiful skyline and take in an aerial view of its Olympic facilities.
1. What can visitors do at Jasper National Park?| A．Take a bath in hot spring. |
| B．Take in an aerial view of its Olympic facilities. |
| C．Watch wildlife at a high altitude with their family. |
| D．Experience the longest aerial tramway in the world. |
| A．Jasper SkyTram. | B．1 Hour Bow River Ride. |
| C．Maligne Lake Cruise. | D．Vancouver Seaplane Tour. |
| A．By air. | B．On foot. | C．By bus. | D．By water. |
4 . Cape May is a nature lover’s paradise (天堂)! While visiting it, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy four free nature-inspired attractions.
Sunset Beach
You’ll find Sunset Beach a short drive from the downtown area. You can sit on the beach and watch the boats go by or sunbathe. You can shop in one of three gift shops or play golf. It’s also a great beach if you want to go hunting for those famous Cape May Diamonds!
Audubon’s Nature Center
You can go into the center to learn about the sea life. There is plenty of fish in aquariums (水族馆) on the second floor, a small play area for kids on the first floor and a nice gift shop. You can climb the steps in the tower to get some beautiful views of Cape May Harbor.
The Nature Reserve South Meadows
Do you want an easy-to-walk path that leads out to the beach and goes around the other side of the nature reserve? As you walk along the path, you’ll see various sea birds, snakes, rabbits and squirrels. Halfway, you’ll find a wooden platform you can go up on to get some scenic views of the area.
National Wildlife Refuge (庇护所)
The refuge is a short drive from downtown Cape May. It has a marked walking path that leads from the parking lot, through some sand hills and out to the beach along the Atlantic Ocean. During certain times of the year, you can see nesting birds and other wildlife that live in the area.
1. What can you do on Sunset Beach?| A．Play golf and basketball. | B．Enjoy the beauty of sunrise. |
| C．Observe many rare creatures. | D．Purchase gifts for your family. |
| A．Sunset Beach. | B．Audubon’s Nature Center. |
| C．The Nature Reserve South Meadows. | D．National Wildlife Refuge. |
| A．They are free of charge. | B．They are designed for kids. |
| C．They are for bird watchers. | D．They are in the city center. |
5 . “You can either travel or read, but either your body or soul must be on the way.”The popular saying has inspired many people to read or go sightseeing. As the summer holiday is here, are you planning a trip to relax after working so hard for a half year?
Traveling, just like reading, is a refreshing journey, and a temporary retreat (逃避) from the busy world. Here are 4 books we recommend that you take on your trip.
Destination: Central Europe
Recommended book: Life is Elsewhere, 1969, by Milan Kundera
Jean-Jacques Rousseau once said, “Man is born free, and everywhere he is in chains.” The book describes a young artist’s romantic but miserable life, about how he reads, dreams and has a relationship.
Experience the artist’s passionate life in the book during a trip to Central Europe. The book invites you to deeply reflect on your current life.
Destination: Kenya, Africa
Recommended book: West with the Night, 1942, by Beryl Markham
This book is about a direct, stylish and engrossing story of a marvelous life well-lived. Markham described her childhood in Kenya and her experiences as a bush pilot in the 1930s—evoking (描述出) the landscape, people, and wildlife in rich detail.
Destination: Provence
Recommended book: A Year in Provence, 1989, by Peter Mayle
Provence, well-known for its lavender(薰衣草), is not only a tourist attraction, but more a symbol of a lifestyle. The book doesn’t teach you how to deal with the hardships in life, but to avoid them happily. With a cup of wine and a rocking chair, time flows slowly here. The author and his wife are living a reclusive(隐居的) life here. When you make a trip following the author’s footsteps, you may encounter him in Provence.
Destination: Istanbul, Turkey
Recommended book: My name Is Red, 1998, by Orhan Pamuk
The book, featuring a peak masterpiece of the Nobel Prize winner in Literature, Orhan Pamuk, has been translated into more than 50 languages and published around the world.
It tells a story of a young man, who has been away from home for 12 years, coming back to his hometown in Istanbul. What embraces him is not only love, but a series of murder cases as well. The book inspires people to have a deeper thinking on life.
1. If you want to explore Central Europe, whose book would you like to take on your trip?| A．Milan Kundera’s. | B．Beryl Markham’s |
| C．Peter Mayle’s | D．Orhan Pamuk’s |
| A．Lotus | B．Lavender |
| C．Mayle’s wife | D．Mayle’s book |
| A．Life Is Elsewhere | B．West with the Night |
| C．A Year in Provence | D．My Name Is Red |
6 . Do you want to see majestic lions roaring, rare rhinos running and colorful birds flying? You’ll find this incredible display of nature in the Kenya Lake System in the Great Rift Valley.
First stop
Fly into Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. This great city is known for its fashion markets and beautiful art. And be sure to pick up some rich Kenyan coffee while you’re there! Then head for the countryside.
Plan your trip
The largest of the three lakes in the system, Lake Nakuru, is less than 175 kilometers from Nairobi. But Lakes Bogoria and Elementaita are equally worth a visit. You can stay at one of several choices of luxurious cabins in the valley. And if you sign up for a trip, be sure to put flamingos, the white and pink birds, at the top of your list.
Paradise
The Kenya Lake System is shallow and alkaline (碱性的). That means it supports vegetation such as green algae, a food source for many waterfowl. Hundreds of species of birds flourish here, using this area as a major breeding and nesting ground. Water buffalo, leopards, monkeys and the endangered Rothschild giraffe also make this area their home.
Other sights
Wildlife isn’t the only natural wonder in the Great Rift Valley. The valley marks a place where the earth is divided far below the surface. This rock separation below ground leads to noticeable features above ground. Walking around Lake Bogoria especially, you will see steam rising from hot springs.
Other activities include golfing, horseback riding and hiking. The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down, either. The river valley is far from city lights, so many visitors gaze at the stars shining above.
If you are ready for a wildlife experience, don’t hesitate!
1. Where can you buy fashionable gifts in Kenya?| A．Nairobi. | B．Lake Nakuru. | C．Lake Bogoria. | D．Lake Elementaita. |
| A．Living in a cabin. | B．Seeing flamingos. |
| C．Visiting hot springs. | D．Gazing at shining stars. |
| A．It has countless lakes worth visiting. | B．It’s an ideal place for wildlife to live. |
| C．Its water is unsuitable for plant growth. | D．It’s famous for rich culture and history. |
7 . According to 'a study, being exposed to a 360-degree video of nature can provide emotional wellbeing benefits for people who cannot access the outdoors. So let’s check out some ideas of free virtual trips you can take right now!
Take a tour in Central Park, New York
As one of the world's biggest attractions, Central Park is a part of natural beauty located in the very heart of Manhattan. With this tour offered by youvisit. com, you’ll be able to see the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, the Belvedere Castle and “walk” through the park's scenic meadows. If you’re in the mood for greenery, this tour will definitely suit you.
Explore the wonders of Japan
Take a tour across this beautiful country with a 360-degree VR movie from the Japan National Tourism Organization: you’ll be able to explore tradition, modernity and nature all at once, and enjoy the mixture of fascinating cultural sites and the most appealing natural spots.
Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon, Arizona
Are you up to witnessing one of the most magnificent views in the world?No wonder the Grand Canyon in Arizona is considered one of the world's treasures. The virtual tour, provided by the National Park Service U.S. lets you discover ancient places within the canyon and explore archaeological excavations (考古挖掘) in an interactive way.
Climb Everest for an unforgettable adventure
Experience what it feels like to climb the world's tallest mountain with Everest VR: Journey to the top of the world, a docu series especially made for Virtual Reality headsets. Have you ever imagined experiencing an Himalayan avalanche or a rock-climbing fall? Or just admiring the sunset from the top of the mountain's unique perspective? This journey will take you to places you never thought possible.
1. Which of the following is the best choice for green plant lovers?| A．Japan. | B．Everest. |
| C．Central Park. | D．The Grand Canyon. |
| A．The virtual tour. | B．The magnificent views. |
| C．The interactive viewing way. | D．The 360-degree video of nature. |
| A．Free admission. | B．Scenic meadows. |
| C．Cultural sites. | D．Rock-climbing falls. |
8 . The London Eye which is 450 feet in height above the Thames River is the world’s biggest spinning structure. It is one hundred feet taller than Big Ben and weighs 1,600 tons. It was built to celebrate the year 2000. Maybe building such a big spinning structure suggested that people longed for bigger and better things in the future.
In London Eye,there are 32 capsules (舱)．Each of the capsules can hold up to 25 people. And they’re air conditioned in summer,heated in winter. From these capsules the visitors can see the most beautiful views of London.
It was difficult to assemble (安装) and put a wheel of this size. And it required new technology and a lot of imagination. The parts of London Eye were sent up the Thames River，and the wheel was assembled on temporary (暂时的) platforms on the river. Lifting it into an upright position was a major challenge. It took a week to winch (吊) it up to its final position.
Now the London Eye is regarded as a monument to new millennium. And many visitors from all over the world come to visit it.
1. How tall is Big Ben?| A．450 feet | B．350 feet | C．550 feet | D．250 feet |
| A．To set a new record |
| B．To celebrate the Queen’s birthday |
| C．To celebrate the coming of 2000 |
| D．To beat the first observation wheel in Chicago |
| A．pick up | B．grow up | C．made up | D．lifted up |
| A．it took great trouble for people to build the London Eye |
| B．the London Eye has been changed into a monument |
| C．the latest technology was used to assemble the London Eye |
| D．imagination is very important to build the London Eye |
9 . New England Fall Leaf Rail Travels
Fall colors and fantastic destinations throughout the East Coast and beyond come to life on fall leaf train tours. New England Fall Leaf Rail Travels through a backdrop of gold rust and dark red are the best way to experience nature's greatest event as scenic trains take travelers to some of the United States' leading destinations for leaves. Admire the changing colors as you travel aboard heritage and Amtrak train lines and enjoy an up-close look at the scenery with coach tours and beautiful passenger liners. Select from a variety of fall leaf trips that highlight colorful destinations through sightseeing tours and attractive trips. Dip yourself in the fat-beauty of the Midwest in places like Northern Michigan, where guests enjoy the sights of Mackinac Island and Sleeping Bear Dunes, and Door County, famous for its spectacular Lake Michigan scenery and the endless wide countryside.
Travelers can go to the striking Smoky Mountains, stopping in beloved cities in both Tennessee and North Carolina. There are also packages that highlight New England in the fall, and these journeys include well-known regional destinations. The rail travels include guided tours in cities like Boston or scenic bus touts along byways. Some of the nation's most Picturesque heritage railways are also found in New England, for example, the Conway Scenic Railway in New Hampshire, which travels through the colorful peaks of the White Mountains
Charge:
Single price: $1,400 per person for 6 days
Group（more than one person）price: $1,200 per person for 6 days
Accommodation and airline tickets are included.
1. Which of the following are the highlights of the rail travels?| A．The oldest villages. | B．The latest trains. | C．Colourful leaves. | D．Traditional cultures. |
| A．Tour guides in Boston. | B．Free pictures of New England |
| C．A walk in the White Mountains | D．A hands-on climb to the top of the mountain. |
| A．$1,200. | B．$1,400. | C．$2,400 | D．$2,800. |
10 . There are many famous lakes in China. The following are some of them.
West Lake, Hangzhou
West Lake is a gift of nature. Located in the west part of Hangzhou and surrounded (围绕) by green hills, this lake is famous for beautiful scenery, a lot of historical sites and native products. In addition, West Lake can always be seen in paintings.
Kanas Lake, Xinjiang
Kanas Lake is one of the deepest lakes in China. It is home to about 800 kinds of plants and more than 100 kinds of birds. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and thick forest, the lake takes on different colors in different seasons. Kanas Lake is also a mysterious (神秘的) place, and it’s said that large creatures have been seen in it.
Erhai Lake, Yunnan
Located in the northwest part of Dali City, Yunnan Province, Erhai Lake is a plateau (高原) lake. As the lake has a shape of an ear, it gets the name Erhai. Called “the pearl on plat-eau” for its beautiful scenery, it is also one of the most attractive places in Yunnan.
Yamdrok Lake, Tibet
Surrounded by beautiful snow-capped mountains, this lake is fed by many small streams.
With an area of 675 square kilometers, this lake has large lakeside grassland, which serves as highland pastures (牧场). There are lots of fish living in the lake, which are caught by local people. From April to October, fish caught in this lake are sold at the market in Lhasa.
1. Which lake is preferred by painters according to the text?| A．Yamdrok Lake. | B．Kanas Lake. | C．Erhai Lake. | D．West Lake. |
| A．They are fed by many small rivers. |
| B．They can serve as highland pastures. |
| C．They are surrounded by snow-capped mountains. |
| D．They are famous for a lot of strange animals. |
| A．It looks like an ear. | B．It is very beautiful. |
| C．It is a plateau lake. | D．It has many stories. |
