1 . When architects Anne Lacaton and Jean-Philippe Vassal were invited to redesign a small, triangular plaza in a residential district in Bordeaux, France in the mid-1990s, they decided that the best design would be no design at all. After studying the site and interviewing its residents, the architects informed the city that the best plan would be to leave the park alone. “Embellishment (装饰) has no place here,” they wrote in their project statement. “There was no need to rebuild,” they noted. “Quality, charm, and life already exist.”
The pair runs a firm named Lacaton & Vassal. Most of their built projects lie in locations around France, within a train ride of their Paris studio. They are as focused on preserving existing buildings as they are on building. In the words of London-based architect Dieter Kleiner, their work is almost anti-architecture. Now their anti-architecture is receiving institutional attention: In March 2021, Lacaton and Vassal were awarded the Pritzker Architecture Prize. The jury (评判委员会) noted their “democratic spirit” as well as “a commitment to a restorative architecture that is at once technological, innovative and ecologically responsive”.
In 2017, when tasked with the redesign of some 1960s apartment blocks in Bordeaux, Lacaton and Vassal chose not to tear down the structures. Instead, they upgraded the existing 530 units with garden terraces (露台) that expanded the size of the dwellings and increased access to fresh air and sunlight — all without asking a single tenant (居住者) to move out while the work was done. They used materials common to greenhouse construction, such as silver solar curtains, which allowed them to create cost-effective indoor and outdoor spaces that could be adjusted according to the weather: admitting light and air on pleasant days, or blocking the sun when summer heat is at its peak.
For the architects, this is part of their motto: “Never demolish, never remove or replace, always add, transform and reuse!” The selection of Lacaton and Vassal by the Pritzker jury marks a socially minded turn for the prize, which — with a few exceptions — has generally awarded form-making above everything else.
1. What can we learn about Lacaton and Vassal from the text?| A．Their projects are mostly located in Paris. |
| B．They are devoted to maintaining old buildings. |
| C．They started an architecture firm in the mid-1990s. |
| D．Their architecture style is similar to Dieter Kleiner’s. |
| A．They built a solar-powered greenhouse for the tenants. |
| B．They adopted a cost-effective way to create adjustable spaces. |
| C．They pulled down part of the structures and added garden terraces. |
| D．They expanded the size of the apartments by building more rooms. |
| A．They use quality materials. |
| B．They are upgraded in a sustainable way. |
| C．They usually involve little embellishment. |
| D．They are made to be modern by using new technologies. |
| A．It promotes the idea of innovation. |
| B．It shows the trend of future architecture. |
| C．It signals an important shift in architectural values. |
| D．It proves the importance of the form of architecture. |
2 . Sometimes the best family vacations are those spur-of-the-moment trips that require just a little bit of planning and a short drive in the car. These last-minute ideas will get you out of the city and into the fun.
Boston to Fitchburg, Mass.
TIME IN CAR: 1 HOUR
Drive northwest out of Boston to this city with a small-town feel. The nearby Leominster State Forest has plenty of options for exploring the outdoors. Then head indoors and cool down as you browse the artwork at downtown Fitchburg Art Museum.
Pit stop: Historic Concord, Mass., is the perfect place to stop for lunch and visit the Orchard House.
Dallas to Grapevine, Texas
TIME IN CAR: 30 MINUTES
Kids will love the Grapevine Vintage Railroad in this historic town. Climb aboard trains pulled by an 1896 steam locomotive (蒸汽机车) or a 1953 diesel engine (柴油机车) for a short ride to and from the Fort Worth Stockyards.
Pit stop: Not so much a pit stop as a side trip, the 5.2-acre Nash Farm in Grapevine gives visitors a quick look at life in 19th-century Texas.
Philadelphia to the Pocono Mountains
TIME IN CAR: 2 HOURS
Make a break from the City of Brotherly Love and head for the hills. Miles of trails are perfect for hiking and biking, and sandy lakeside beaches are a great place to relax. After a day spent out in the sun, use the evening to explore the region’s charming rural towns.
Pit stop: Stop at the Crossing Premium Outlets in Tannersville, Pa., and browse more than 100 stores for take-home gifts.
Washington to Williamsburg, Va.
TIME IN CAR: 3 HOURS
Pack up the family and head southeast to see Revolutionary War history come to life at Colonial Williamsburg and Yorktown Victory Center, England’s first permanent colony at Jamestown. The kids will be amazed at the way people used to make everyday items such as shoes and baskets – and they might just learn something, too.
Pit stop: Go to Bowling Green, Va., an “All-American City” with historic ties. Old Victorian and colonial homes line the streets.
1. What does the underlined word “spur-of-the-moment” in Paragraph mean?| A．Newly-planned. | B．Well-prepared. |
| C．Carefully-made. | D．Long-expected. |
| A．3 hours | B．2 hours |
| C．1 hour | D．30 minutes |
| A．The Pocono Mountains have sandy beaches only for kids to explore. |
| B．A simple meal at downtown Fitchburg Art Museum can be wonderful. |
| C．A visit to Scotland’s first permanent colony at Jamestown provides new experiences. |
| D．Historic trains are a fun way to introduce kids to the way the world worked before cars. |
3 . Some best places to go in Shanghai
The Bund
1.3 miles to city center
Type: Free, Neighborhood/Area，Sightseeing
Time to spend: 1 to 2 hours
Shanghai’s picturesque waterfront, known as “the Bund,” is where you’ll find those classic skyline photo opportunities. With the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, the Shanghai World Financial Center and other skyscrapers standing across the Huangpu River, the view stuns. And behind you, attractive European-style buildings housing restaurants and shops line the waterfront boulevard, affording plenty of activities.
Shanghai Museum
0.2 miles to city center
Type: Museums, Free, Sightseeing
Time to spend: 2 hours to half day
Located on the People’s Square near Nanjing Road, the Shanghai Museum is hard to miss thanks to its distinct architecture and remarkable size. And you really shouldn’t skip this historical gem. Frequently called one of the best museums in China, this expansive museum houses a diverse collection of artifacts that chart the nation’s history. Highlights include ornate calligraphy, beautiful jade carvings, thousand-year-old bronze works and traditional Chinese garb.
Zhujiajiao
26.3 miles to city center
Type: Free, Neighborhood/Area
Time to spend: half day to full day
This ancient water town, the Venice of Shanghai, saw its heyday during the Ming Dynasty, when its success as a commercial hub resulted in the construction of its picturesque waterways. The area remains composed of numerous canals with bridges connecting visitors to scores of charming narrow streets. Expect to find tiny cafes down back alleys, friendly boatmen offering rides and hole-in-the-wall shops selling souvenirs.
Nanjing Road
0.9 miles to city center
Type: Free, Neighborhood/Area, Shopping
Time to spend: 2 hours to half day
Whether or not you have money to bum, consider visiting Nanjing Road to witness the hustle and bustle of Chinese commerce. The Shanghai equivalent of New York’s Fifth Avenue, Nanjing Road stretches six miles total and boasts retailers from all over the world in addition to local shops and department stores. In the daylight, you’ll admire the graceful architecture of the surrounding buildings. At night, you’ll be surprised at the beautiful logos and brand names that line the avenue.
1. Which places is the farthest from city center?| A．The Bund. | B．Shanghai Museum. | C．Zhujiajiao. | D．Nanjing Road. |
| A．See the Venice in Shanghai. | B．Enjoy skyscrapers. |
| C．Collect diverse collection of artifacts. | D．Spend money in shopping. |
| A．Waterways. | B．Two hours’ trip. | C．Bridges. | D．Commerce. |
4 . Bridges are one of the best constructional inventions. You may be surprised to see that some old bridges are still standing and used by tourists. Some of the more modern bridges, on the other hand, reach breathtaking heights and are not for the faint of heart (胆小鬼).
The Bridge of Immortals (China)
The Bridge of Immortals connects the Huangshan mountain ranges in southern Anhui Province of eastern China. The bridge is terrifying to cross but the views are definitely rewarding and the photographs are pretty special too. The drop below is pretty dramatic and if you decide to cross, we only have a piece of advice to offer you crazy adventurers... Don’t look down!
Hussaini Hanging Bridge (Pakistan)
Hussaini Hanging Bridge is considered to be the most dangerous bridge in the world. This rope bridge is poorly maintained and shakes wildly when you walk across it. If you take a wrong step, you’ll end up flying into the Hunza River below.
Langkawi Sky Bridge (Malaysia)
This curious looking bridge in Malaysia is 400 feet above the ground and has been closed several times for maintenance purposes. Its reopening was delayed several times but it is now open for use, although not many people actually want to cross. There was a rumor (传闻) claiming that the bridge can potentially collapse.
Seven Mile Bridge (Florida)
The Seven Mile Bridge can be found in the Florida Keys and connects the Middle Keys to Little Duck Key in the Lower Keys. When it was constructed, it was one of the longest bridges in the world. It won 8 awards and one of these was the Exceptional Award for Cost Savings Innovation from the Federal Highway Administration.
1. Which of the following bridges is most welcomed by photographers?| A．The Bridge of Immortals. | B．Hussaini Hanging Bridge. |
| C．Langkawi Sky Bridge. | D．Seven Mile Bridge. |
| A．It’s made of rope. | B．It’s above the river. |
| C．It is in poor condition. | D．The drop below is dramatic. |
| A．It once had a lot of honors. | B．It reaches breathtaking height. |
| C．It cost a big sum of money to built. | D．It was the longest bridge in the world. |
1. Where should the visitors’ dogs stay?
| A．In the farmhouse. | B．In the car park. | C．In the animal center. |
| A．A theater. | B．A schoolhouse. | C．A swimming pool. |
| A．Gardening. | B．Harvesting. | C．Basket- making. |
6 . For many travelers these days, finding a way to make travel more meaningful has become a top priority. They are increasingly pursuing journeys that include time to volunteer, work on a conservation project, protect endangered animals or to do other activities that allow for giving back while exploring a new part of the world. Here are some opportunities that combine travel with doing good deeds.
The Azores
The trips offer the opportunity to work on carefully selected projects alongside famous scientists while also enjoying encounters with some of the world’s most fascinating sea creatures in water. It allows participants to join a research team in the Azores that s studying the animals to support future conservation of the species. Advanced diving experience is required.
Red Sea, Egypt
Combining an opportunity for world-class diving with being part of an important research effort conducted by Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association. The seven-night trip includes learning how to gather water data with state -of- the -art scientific equipment and conducting onboard and underwater experiments.
Australia
Explore Queensland, Australia, while also supporting a registered charity that rescues farm animals from abuse, neglect, and situations where they’re in danger. Participants help with daily cleaning of barns (牲口圈) and cages. feeding, health checks, light repair, monitoring animals’ movements, and intensive care of ill, old and baby animals. The experience includes free accommodations with Wi Fi and a swimming pool.
Romania
Work with bears at Romania’s largest bear sanctuary (庇护所), a place that was created as a heaven for bears that have been abused. Located in the Carpathian Mountains, the sanctuary needs volunteers to help with preparing food, monitoring animal well-being and leading conservation tours. The sanctuary is home to 84 bears, with 20 more due to be rescued.
1. What do the first two trips have in common?| A．Both involve underwater activities. |
| B．Both provide free accommodations. |
| C．Both require advanced diving experience. |
| D．Both teach how to use scientific equipment. |
| A．The Azores. | B．Red Sea. | C．Australia. | D．Romania. |
| A．They have no food. | B．They are badly treated. |
| C．They should be monitored. | D．They need to live in mountains. |
7 . Salt Lake City — Yellowstone National Park 4 DAYS
Tour Itinerary (The following schedule is for reference only.)
D1 Hometown — Salt Lake City
Take a pleasant flight to Salt Lake City today, the largest City in US Midwest. Our friendly guides look forward to welcoming you at baggage claim and help arrange a shuttle ride to your hotel.
Stay: Fairfield Inn by Marriott Salt Lake City Layton
D2 Jackson — Grand Teton — Yellowstone National Park
Begin our Journey this morning and enjoy the beautiful scenery of US Mid-West along the way. Arrive in Jackson, a famous cowboy town as well as a world’s renowned vacation destination at noon. Be sure to visit the Elk Antler Arches Square located in the center of Jackson! Travel to Grand Teton National Park in the afternoon, where we see this natural wonder’s amazing view. Next drive to World’s first National Park — Yellowstone! Sightsee beautiful Yellowstone Lake along with all the amazing geothermal features! Spend the night in Big Sky Montana, you may discover more wildlife!
Stay: The Lodge at the Big Sky or White Buffalo West Yellowstone
D3 Yellowstone National Park
Enjoy a full-day adventure in Yellowstone today! First of its kind, Yellowstone is home to world’s largest super volcano and over 10,000 geothermal features. Here you can find everything you expect to see in a National Park! Snow covered mountains, waterfalls, lakes, rivers, canyons, meadows, herds of buffalos, elks… and the most amazing geothermal features in the world! Geysers, hot springs, fumaroles and mud pots are the wonders that make Yellowstone truly unique. Spend the night in Big Sky Montana.
Stay: The Lodge at the Big Sky
D4 Yellowstone – Bear World - Salt Lake City
We continue to explore Yellowstone National Park this morning. Peaceful forests, steaming rivers and streams, colorful thermal phenomena... wonders come one after another! Drive to Bear World in the afternoon, home to several dozen Native Rocky Mountain animals. Arrive in Salt Lake City in the evening.
1. Where do the guides meet the tourists?| A．The baggage claim. | B．The hotel. | C．Fairfield Inn. | D．Big sky. |
| A．It is a famous cowboy town. |
| B．The world’s largest volcano lies there. |
| C．Elk Antler Arches Square is in its center. |
| D．It is home to Native Rocky Mountain animals. |
| A．To introduce Salt Lake City. |
| B．To advertise a travel agency. |
| C．To provide information about a journey. |
| D．To arouse the awareness of protecting environment. |
1. When was the museum’s construction started?
| A．In 1958. | B．In 1962. | C．In 1973. |
| A．6,000 square meters. | B．30,000 square meters. | C．60,000 square meters. |
| A．In the east hall. | B．In the west hall. | C．In the round hall. |
| A．On Sunday. | B．On Tuesday. | C．On Monday. |
9 . Dozens of sea turtles swim past as I dive. Suddenly a diver cuts me off. Then another. “Hey!” I think. “Watch where you’re going!” Then I realize: These aren’t divers. They are sea lions! The creatures blow bubbles at me and the group of 11 kids I’m on vocations with, hitting us slightly on our backs. To not bother them much, we tear ourselves away from the wonderland.
We take this trip to the Galapagos Islands, a group of tropical islands crossing the equator. Our hotel is a boat called the Eclipse that has a pool. Humans aren’t allowed to live on most of the islands. The only way people can experience the magic of this place and meet animals on all the islands is by “panga”. “Our small motorboat is more important than the Eclipse. It’s very safe,” says a local guide, Fielsch. Lack of human threat makes the animals friendly. “They don’t know enough to be scared of humans.” Our group experience that firsthand. When we return after our diving adventure, we find sea lions lying next to our backpacks! Walking along the sand, we see more wildlife: seals, red crabs, orcas.
The following morning, we reach Fernandina Island, known for its volcano. Flightless birds called cormorants build nests on the rocks. Nearby are Galapagos penguins. Averaging about 19 inches in height, they’re the second smallest species of penguin in the world. “The Galapagos are so curious,” says 12-year-old Harry. “You’ve got penguins living far from the frozen South Pole, and birds that don’t fly!”
As we ride back, six penguins stand like soldiers, seeming to say goodbye. It’s our last day; none of us wants to leave this place. We know this trip has been a milestone for us. A marked shift in our attitudes towards the natural world is underway. “The Galapagos Islands seem to break the world’s rules,” says Harry. “More than ever, I’m interested in saving the environment. These animals truly need our care,” his sister Hannah adds.
1. How does the author find the diving experience?| A．Attractive. | B．Disturbing. |
| C．Dangerous. | D．Valuable. |
| A．To protect people from danger. |
| B．To provide a shelter for local people. |
| C．To guide people in seeing the animals. |
| D．To transport people to each of the islands. |
| A．They are not able to fly. |
| B．They remain hidden from view. |
| C．They live in a tropical climate. |
| D．They’re the smallest of their kind. |
| A．It expands their knowledge of the world. |
| B．It changes the way they think about nature. |
| C．It inspires them to protect the environment. |
| D．It enables them to interact with various wildlife. |
10 . Myrtle Beach, offers plenty of great activities to help guests feel welcome. Enjoy your stay by booking your activities through Vacations Made Easy.
Ripley’s Aquarium
For those who are interested in marine life, this is an awesome place to visit. Guests will be able to view the animals that live in the water. From sea turtles to sharks, Ripley’s Aquarium is educational, fun, and something you definitely do not want to miss out on during your vacation!
Wildlife Preserve
Wildlife preserve offers up some amazing conservation efforts and the ability to embark upon a safari-style tour. See and learn about beautiful creatures such as lions, tigers, bears, and more! There are so many unique animals to see.
Dolphin Sightseeing Tour
Enjoy a seaside adventure unlike any other the next time you visit. Guests are guaranteed to see beautiful wild animals and dolphins in their natural habitats. Get out on the water and experience some of the best views and create memories during your visit.
Pirates Voyage
Watch in awe as two crews of pirates battle it out for hidden treasure through fun performances and more! Pirates Voyage features some of the best theatrics in the area with a huge indoor lake, talented actors, and an unforgettable time. Plus, guests can also cos-play as pirates.
An exciting time in Myrtle Beach awaits! To get more information, you can contact us through www.vacationsmadeeasy.com.
1. Which activity is designed for visitors who are interested in sea creatures?| A．Ripley’s Aquarium. | B．Wildlife Preserve. |
| C．Safari-style Tour. | D．Pirates Voyage. |
| A．They will act as pirates. | B．They will battle with two pirates. |
| C．They will find the hidden treasure. | D．They will write a play about pirates. |
| A．Visitors can enjoy marine creatures. | B．They both offer water activities. |
| C．They belong to safari-style tour. | D．They can see beautiful wild animals. |
