1 . Animal and plant species are disappearing at frightening rates. The problem has led to efforts to “rewild” places where such life existed before human development, pollution and climate change forced it out. The American city of Detroit is an example of how human actions can increase rewilding, which generally means helping natural systems in damaged locations, removing dams or building tunnels to reconnect animal pathways cut by roads.
Detroit’s population reached a high of 1.8 million in the 1950s. Then the population began dropping. By 2000, there were fewer than one million people living in the city. Thousands of houses and other buildings were left empty over the years. Some structures were destroyed, leaving empty areas that plants and animals regained as habitats. Nonprofit groups have also planted trees and community gardens in these areas. Anti-pollution laws and government-supported cleanups made nearby rivers better for fish and native plants.
Now, Detroit is home to 300 bird species and is a busy visiting place for ducks and others during migration. Unlike most big cities, its population is decreasing but its streets and buildings remain in place. And there are many kinds of habitats, including large lakes, rivers and human neighborhoods. Detroit’s parklands are so quiet that people don’t even know they’re in the city.
“It used to be that you had to go to some remote location to get exposure to nature,” said JohnHartig, a professor of University of Windsor. “Now that’s not the case. Like it or not, rewilding will occur. The question is how we can prepare communities and environments to embrace the presence of more and more wildlife. After all, many city people have lost their tolerance to live with wildlife. To really make a difference in dealing with the biodiversity crisis, you’re going to have to have people on board.”
1. What does the author want to tell us by the example of Detroit?A.It’s government-supported efforts that really matter. |
B.Humans’ efforts can make a difference in rewilding. |
C.Humans are to blame for the worsening environment. |
D.It’s hard for humans and wildlife to live in harmony. |
A.The city was overpopulated. | B.More community gardens disappeared. |
C.Many buildings were abandoned. | D.The environment was badly damaged. |
A.It is a big city crowded with tourists and bird species. |
B.Tourists don’t show any interest in its quiet surroundings. |
C.It’s become a center for those who study animals and plants. |
D.It’s turned into a place where people can get close to nature. |
A.Accept. | B.Delay. | C.Imagine. | D.Supervise. |
2 . I had a great dream when I was in my twenties. I wanted to travel around Africa with my
It sounded
On other vacations, when I was on my tour way to Cancun. I was just a
This time, I promised to myself that I would be a
A.pet | B.parents | C.friend | D.backpack |
A.looked at | B.checked out | C.arrived in | D.took on |
A.happy | B.worried | C.sure | D.excited |
A.choices | B.tips | C.chances | D.plans |
A.teacher | B.player | C.actor | D.student |
A.simple | B.perfect | C.foolish | D.boring |
A.fetching | B.commenting | C.managing | D.observing |
A.big | B.new | C.interesting | D.old |
A.dreams | B.experience | C.tasks | D.practice |
A.tourist | B.alien | C.minister | D.sponsor |
A.watches | B.mountains | C.sights | D.pictures |
A.welcome | B.change | C.respect | D.hurt |
A.real | B.hopeful | C.lovely | D.healthy |
A.successfully | B.suddenly | C.politely | D.hurriedly |
A.warned | B.frightened | C.satisfied | D.understood |
3 . Yunnan offers exciting experiences of unique customs. If you are already planning to visit Yunnan, see our festival tours.
The Torch (火把) Festival
Date: July /August (days 24 to 26 of the sixth lunar month)
Location: Lijiang
It is a traditional festival among the Yi, Naxi, and Bai minority (少数民族) groups. According to the ancient rule of the Naxi people, the Torch Festival should last three days, and every family should light a big torch in front of their doors for the three days.
Recommended Tour: 3-Day Ancient Lijiang Tour
The Water Splashing (泼酒) Festival
Date: April 13 to 15
Location: Xishuangbanna
It is the most important festival observed by the Dai people of Xishuangbanna in southen Yunnan. It involves splashing water, lantern floating and other joyful activities.
Recommended tour: 6-Day Xishaungbanna Tour
The Horse Race Festival
Date: May/June (5th of the fifth lunar month)
Location: Shangri-la
Falling on the same date as the Dragon Boat Festival, it is the biggest gathering of Tibetans in Yunnan and usually lasts about 3 days. During the celebrations, traditional performances and competitions like horse racing and wrestling (摔跤) will beheld.
Recommended tour: 8-Day Yunnan Tour of the Nu River and Tengchong
The Third Month Fair of the Bai Group
Date: April /May(days 15 to 21 of the third lunar month)
Location: Dali
It is one of the most important festivals celebrated by the Bai people in Dali in western Yunnan. During the March Fair, the streets of Dali Ancient Town are packed with people selling amazing minority items.
Recommended tour: 6-Day Yunnan Minorities Tour
1. What do the Torch Festival and the Water Splashing Festival have in common?A.The date. | B.The location. |
C.The lasting time | D.The celebratory events. |
A.The Torch Festival. | B.The Water Splashing Festival. |
C.The Horse Race Festival. | D.The Third Month Fair of the Bai Group. |
A.A business research. | B.A newspaper report. |
C.An educational magazine. | D.An advertising leaflet. |
4 . World’s Best Places to Visit
With a world full of fascinating destinations, choosing the perfect vacation spot can present a challenge. Use these recommendations to craft your travel list.
South Island
New Zealand’s South Is landfills with impressive landscapes at every turn, from dramatic mountains to grand channels. Here, you can admire the mountains of Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from hiking trails or a boat on Milford Sound. Besides, journey to the University of Canterbury’s Mount John Observatory to stare up at the starry skies at night.
Paris
The magnetic City of Light draws visitors from around the globe who come to see iconic attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe. But what travelers really fall in love with are the city’s old-fashioned cafes, dynamic markets, and trendy shopping districts. Get lost wandering along the charming cobblestone streets, or relax on the banks of the Seine for hours.
Maui
Whether you’re driving along the Road to Hana, enjoying a bird’s-eye view of Maui’s long coastline from a helicopter, diving with sea turtles or simply relaxing on white or black sand beaches, you’ll find that this Hawaiian island is unlike any other tropical (热带的) destination. You should also attend a feast for local culture and a taste of Hawaiian specialties like poi, poke and mahimahi.
Bora Bora
Here, you’ll find charming beaches, thick jungles and luxurious resorts. The island’s extinct volcano, Mount Otemanu, makes for a great photo opportunity or challenging hike, and the friendly Bora Bora local scan help you catch the island’s best sights. To relax, head to Matira Beach for clear water and soft whites and. Although a trip to Bora Bora is very expensive, most travelers say it’s worth every penny.
1. Which place will be preferred by astronomy fans?A.Paris. | B.Maui. | C.Bora Bora. | D.South Island. |
A.Enjoy local food. | B.Drive along the coastline. |
C.Go hiking around the island. | D.Walk through shopping districts. |
A.Most of its locals serve as guides. | B.It is a beach with fantastic scenery. |
C.There are hiking trails in the jungles. | D.It is appealing despite the costly trip. |