1 . I’m a hiker — “born to hike”. It does my heart and soul good to take a pack and head out on a trail (小路), especially when I’m alone and can let my mind wander where it will.
Hiking keeps your brain sharper than many other forms of exercise. As a professional writer, although I am busy with my work, I often spare some time to hike.
Hiking can increase our creativity. I’m sure I’m not alone in finding that walks in nature let my mind wander freely in creative directions.
Hiking helps strengthen a positive relationship with the natural world. Besides being good for us, hiking may also help the world around us. After all, if we stick to walking and covering longer distances, we could use cars less and reduce our carbon footprint.
So, grab a water bottle, a backpack... and head out on the trail.You won’t be sorry you did.
| A．Hiking helps to keep you calm and happy |
| B．Beyond that, hiking benefits our planet indirectly |
| C．Following are the benefits you can get from hiking |
| D．In fact, I’ve written many of my songs while hiking on a trail |
| E．It’s easy for me to come up with creative ideas while sitting alone |
| F．It not just makes me feel good, but also helps me keep the brain in top shape |
| G．This all goes to show that hiking maybe one of the best ways to move your body |
2 . It was summer, and my dad wanted to treat me to a vacation like never before. He decided to take me on a trip to the Wild West.
We took a plane to Albuquerque, a big city in the state of New Mexico. We reached Albuquerque in the late afternoon. Uncle Paul, my dad’s friend, picked us up from the airport and drove us up to his farm in Pecos.
His wife Tina cooked us a delicious dinner and we got to know his sons Ryan and Kyle. My dad and I spent the night in the guestroom of the farm house listening to the frogs and water rolling down the river nearby. Very early in the morning, Uncle Paul woke us up to have breakfast. "The day starts at dawn on my farm," he said. After breakfast, I went to help Aunt Tina feed the chickens, while my dad went with Uncle Paul to take the sheep out to graze(吃草). I was impressed to see my dad and Uncle Paul riding horses. They looked really cool.
In the afternoon, I asked Uncle Paul if I could take a horse ride, and he said yes, as long as my dad went with me. I wasn’t going to take a horse ride by myself anyway. So, my dad and I put on our new cowboy hats, got on our horses, and headed slowly towards the mountains. "Don’t be late for supper," Uncle Paul cried, "and keep to the track so that you don’t get lost!" "OK! " my dad cried back. After a while Uncle Paul and his farm house were out of sight. It was so peaceful and quiet and the colors of the brown rocks, the deep green pine trees, and the late afternoon sun mixed to create a magic scene. It looked like a beautiful woven(编织的) blanket spread out upon the ground just for us.
Suddenly a little rabbit jumped out in front of my horse.
注意：
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Paragraph 1: Suddenly a little rabbit jumped out in front of my horse. ____________
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Paragraph 2: We had no idea where we were and it was getting dark. _____________
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3 . I wanted the pleasure of being in Africa again. Feeling that the place was so large that it contained many untold tales and some hope and comedy and sweetness too, I aimed to reinsert myself in the bundy, as we used to call the bush, and to wander around. There I had lived and worked, happily, almost forty years ago, in the heart of the greenest continent.
In those old undramatic days of my school teaching in the bundu, folks lived their lives on bush paths at the end of unpaved roads of red clay, in villages of grass-roofed huts. They had a new national flag, they had just gotten the vote, some had bikes, many talked about buying their first pair of shoes. They were hopeful, and, so was I, a schoolteacher living near a settlement of mud-huts among trees and fields—children shouting at play; and women bent double—most with infants on their backs—hoeing(锄地) the corn beans; and the men sitting in the shade.
The Swahili word safari means “journey”, it has nothing to do with animals, someone “on safari” is just away and unobtainable and out of touch. Out of touch in Africa was where I wanted to be. The wish to disappear sends many travellers away. If you are thoroughly sick of being kept waiting at home or at work, travel is perfect: let other people wait for a change. Travel is a sort of revenge(报复) for having been put on hold, or having to leave messages on answering machines, not knowing your party’s extension, being kept waiting all your working life. But also being kept waiting is the human condition.
Travel in the African bush can also be a sort of revenge on mobile phones and email, on telephones and the daily paper, on the aspects of globalization that allow anyone who chooses to get their hands on you. I desired to be unobtainable. I was going to Africa for the best of reasons—in a spirit of discovery—simply to disappear, to light out, with a suggestion of I dare you to try to find me.
Home had become a routine, and routine made time pass quickly. I was a sitting duck in this predictable routine: people knew when to call me, they knew when I would be at my desk. I was in such regular touch that it was like having a job, a mode of life I hated. I was sick of being called up and asked for favors, hit up for money. You stick around too long and people begin to impose their own deadlines on you.
1. What did the writer expect from his journey?| A．To have a variety of enjoyable experiences. | B．To see how Africa had changed. |
| C．To see impressive scenery. | D．To meet some old friend. |
| A．Little was likely to change. | B．Things were likely to improve. |
| C．Women would do most of the work. | D．People’s expectations were too limited. |
| A．He wanted a change of activity. | B．He wanted people to be unable to contact him. |
| C．His health was suffering from staying at home. | D．He had been waiting to return to Africa for long. |
| A．he was boring | B．he was easy to find |
| C．he is fond of ducks | D．he was always lending money |
4 . Hello everyone! Meet my new friend Marco.He says Ciao! This means hello in his language. Marco traveled with me this month. When he showed me his country on the map, I was attracted by its shape. It looks like a high-heeled boot(高跟靴) in the Mediterranean Sea that’s kicking a strange-shaped ball. Can you find the name of this ball on the world map?
Marco told me that he loves cars and that his country is well-known for super-fast cars like Ferrari,Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo, and Maserati. Isn’t it cool? The people also love soccer here.They call it “Calcio.” He told me that they have won four World Cups. The most recent win was in 2006! When he shared this with me, he was very excited and full of pride.
We visited the country’s capital and I was amazed to find that it was more than 2500 years old! We walked around and soon it was time for dinner. Marco told me that people there eat pasta (意大利面食) at least once a day. The different sauces and toppings(酱汁和佐料)mean they never get bored of it. Also, they love including seasonal vegetables in their dinners. I couldn’t wait to enjoy the pizza and pasta with different toppings and sauces. The cappuccino and focaccia bread also made me happy. It’s no wonder that the world has adopted (采用) so much of their food! The people in this country celebrate many holidays and enjoy eating big meals with their family. The festive atmosphere (节日氛围) makes everyone happy.
I was lucky to travel to this country in March and enjoy the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, or La fiera del Libro per Ragazzi. It is held for four days every year. We also visited the Colosseum, Panthon, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa, which was really wonderful!Before I said goodbye to Marco, I made a promise to visit again. Can you guess the name of this country?
1. What did the author mention to describe Marco’s country in the first paragraph?| A．Its shape. | B．Its population. | C．Its industries. | D．Its national sport. |
| A．Sad. | B．Proud. | C．Worried. | D．Thankful. |
| A．It is mixed with a lot of foreign food. | B．It has spread around the world. |
| C．It makes Marco feel bored. | D．It is very simple. |
| A．To show a friendship. | B．To celebrate a festival. |
| C．To introduce a country. | D．To explain a cultural difference. |
5 . China now has 53sites included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Let's have a look at four of them, which may give you some advice on your next travel plan.
Huangshan Mountain
Huangshan, known as “the loveliest mountain of China”, lies in the south of Anhui Province in eastern China. The scenic area covers 154 square kilometers, and is famous for its peaks, rocks, pines, clouds and springs. It also has a rich cultural heritage.
Longmen Grottoes
The Longmen Grottoes(石窟) lies in the south of Luoyang city, Henan Province. It includes the largest collection of Chinese art of the late Northern Wei and Tang dynasties, and show the achievements of Chinese stone carving(雕刻).
Gulangyu Island
Located on the entry of the Jiulong River, the island was occupied by at least a dozen countries, including Great Britain, France and Japan. With such a harmonious mixture of Western music and Eastern culture, Gulangyu is naturally referred to as the “island of music”. It is famous for its outstanding musicians and musical instruments.
Ancient villages in southern Anhui
Lying in southern Anhui, Xidi and Hongcun have a high historical and artistic value in architecture. The villages show the architectural features of the Huizhou-styled living houses in the period of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Xidi and Hongcun were added onto the list on November 30,2000.
1. In which place can you admire the western music according to the writing?| A．Huangshan Mountain | B．Gulangyu Island |
| C．Longmen Grottoes | D．Ancient villages in southern Anhui |
| A．A couple who want to see natural scenery. |
| B．A college student who loves the history of Tang and carving. |
| C．A professor who plans to admire the Huizhou-styled architecture. |
| D．A family who’d like to experience the mixture of Chinese and Western cultures. |
| A．A travel guidebook | B．A history textbook |
| C．A scientific fiction | D．An entertainment magazine |
6 . 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. |
7 . Teenagers who travel around the world alone have been making headlines quite often. A young person alone in a dangerous situation attracts attention and supporters. Young sailors also attract various views. For example, Jessica Watson was asked by the government to call off her solo trip across the ocean, yet the Prime Minister (总理) called her “a hero for young Australians” when she returned. It seems views are poles apart on the ability and independence of young people.
Some experts tell us that teenage brains are likely to make wrong judgments. But such ideas often do not apply to specific individuals (个体) . Between the ages of 14 and 18, teenagers differ greatly in their abilities. The amount of independence that each is allowed should be determined not simply by their ages but by discussion with the related, responsible adults. Some teens are certainly inexperienced and make childish mistakes, but the ones who attempt dangerous journeys normally do so by winning the confidence of hard-headed and experienced adult supporters.
But it’s also wrong to think that any 16-year-old can make a hit as Jessica Watson. Watson calls herself “a common girl who had a dream”. Her purpose is to encourage teenagers but this idea can have the opposite effect of making them feel not good enough because great achievements are beyond them. Should all teens have such wild dreams? Actually, individuals face different conditions that limit their dreams.
Teenagers who travel around the world alone should not be judged by preconceived (先入为主的) views about young people. Nor should young “common” teenagers feel pressure to long for extraordinary personal goals. In fact, I believe the example of solo sailing overstresses what an individual can do. The teenage years are when most of us “common” people learn that we can achieve great things in cooperation with others.
1. Why is Jessica Watson mentioned in the first paragraph?| A．To set a heroic example for teenagers. |
| B．To point out the public’s interest in young people. |
| C．To introduce different opinions on teenagers’ adventures. |
| D．To show the Prime Minister disagreed with the government. |
| A．Different journeys. | B．Brain development. |
| C．Communication with adults. | D．Confidence in themselves. |
| A．She likes dangerous journeys. | B．Teenagers can make success. |
| C．She can accept she is common. | D．Teenagers should go travelling. |
| A．Doubtful. | B．Supportive. | C．Uncaring. | D．Uncertain. |
Siheyuan is a special type of building found in China that represents the country’s rich traditions. These buildings
Siheyuan has
The main entrance of a Siheyuan
Beyond its physical form, Siheyuan represents the Chinese
| A．10 hours. | B．9 hours. | C．13 hours. |
10 . The Leshan Giant Buddha is a statue of Maitreya (弥勒佛) in sitting posture. The Buddha is located in Sichuan Province, facing Minjiang, Qingyi and Dadu rivers. In December, 1996, the Buddha was included by UNESCO on the list of the World Heritage List.
Facing the river，the Buddha has symmetrical (对称的) posture and looks which have been beautifully captured in its solemn (庄严的) stillness. The statue was begun in the year 713 in the Tang Dynasty, and finished in the year 803. The Buddha is 71 meters high. And its 8-meter-long instep (脚背) is big enough for one hundred people to sit on and the 28-meter-wide shoulder is large enough to be a basketball playground.
It was a monk called Hai Tong who initiated the project. His concern was for the safety of the ordinary people who earned their living around the joint of the three rivers. Tempestuous and wild waters brought out numerous boat accidents and the simple people put the disaster down to the presence of a water spirit. So Hai Tong decided to carve a giant statue beside the river thinking that the Buddha would bring the water spirit under control. Besides, the fallen stones dropped during the carving would reduce the water force there.
After 20 years’ begging from door to door, he finally collected enough money for the plan. When some local government officials tried to get this amount of money, Hai Tong said that they could get his eyeballs but not the money raised for the Buddha. After he dug out his eyeballs, these officials ran away in fear. The project was half done when long-suffering Hai Tong passed away, and two of his disciples (门徒) continued the work. After a total of 90 years’ hard work, the project was eventually accomplished.
Having such a long history, the Buddha was nearly destroyed by the erosion (侵蚀) of wind and rain. And with its worldwide fame, the renovation of the Buddha has received extensive attention both at home and abroad. Then in 1963 the Chinese government began the repairing work under the instructions of experts from UNESCO. And at present, the maintenance work is still in progress.
1. What was Hai Tong’s purpose to build the statue?| A．To gain fame. |
| B．To spread Buddhism. |
| C．To respect the water spirit. |
| D．To protect local people. |
| A．By begging for money. |
| B．By working on the river. |
| C．By asking the government. |
| D．By building businesses. |
| A．Generous. | B．Social. |
| C．Devoted. | D．Cruel. |
| A．Innovation. | B．Art and culture. |
| C．Policy watch. | D．Forum trends. |
