1 . How Do Smartphones Affect Our Sleep

       Smart phones can be addictive and may lead to problematic use. This is even more true for teenagers. Smartphone addiction can also negatively affect students’ performance in school. Many studies have also shown the prolonged screen time is bad for our sleep. But is it different if you are actually addicted to your phone? Is that more of a problem for sleep than just spending time on your screen?
       We asked 1043 UK students aged between 18 to 30 to complete two questionnaires. The first one was about the students’ smartphone use, which includes questions like whether they miss planned work due to smartphone use to see whether they are addicted. The second questionnaire assessed the quality of students’ sleep. We then analyzed the data to find if there is an association between smartphone addiction and some factors like age, ethnicity, or gender.
       Around 39% of the students showed several signs of smartphone addiction. It was more prevalent among students under 21. Prolonged use was strongly linked to addiction. About 54% of the students who used their smartphones for more than 5 hours a day suffered from addiction. Only 20% of those who used them for under 2 hours a day were addicted.
       Smartphone use before bed is also an important factor. The addiction levels were high among students who used their phones less than 30 minutes before bedtime and low among those who stopped using their phones more than one hour before time.
       According to our study, smartphone addiction is also related to using it in late hours. For example, if you use your phone after 1 am, you are three times as likely to have an addiction. So the amount of time spent on your phone is not enough to suggest addiction. But combining that with the latest time you use your phone can be a good indicator.
       Our study also shows that smartphone addiction could be harming people’s sleep. And this is not just because of screen time. People could suffer from addiction and poor sleep even when they used their phones for under 2 hours a day. But use in the late hours or right before bedtime tended to harm the students’ sleep.
       If you have a smartphone, it could have a bad impact on your health. Students need to take special actions to prevent it from damaging their health before it’s too late.
1. What does the word “prevalent” probably mean?

A．accepted

B．common

C．controlled

D．understood

2. According to the study, what is a good indicator for smartphone addiction?

A．Age of smartphone users.	B．How long smartphones are used per day.
C．Latest time on phone.	D．Time and duration of using smartphones.

3. What do we know about the result of the study?

A．Using smartphones right before bedtime harms sleep quality.

B．54% of the participants use their phones more than 5 hours a day.

C．39% of the participants aged under 21 are addicted to smartphones.

D．Using smartphones less than 2 hours a day keeps you away from addiction.

4. Based on the study, what action may a student take to prevent the addiction to smartphones?

A．Stop playing games on the phone.

B．Watch relaxing videos before bed.

C．Stop using phones 30 minutes before sleep.

D．Take a break every 2 hours on his phone.

2 . Chasing Dreams

When I was a little girl, I had always dreamt of becoming a famous pianist. The melodies that flowed _________ the keys spoke to me in a language that words could never capture. However, my family couldn’t afford a piano, and my dream _________ distant and unreachable.

But passion, as they say, finds its way. One day, while passing by a charity shop, I found an old keyboard on sale. It was nowhere close to a real piano, but it was a _________. Using my savings, I bought it and hence started a journey that was filled with ups and downs.

Every day after school, I would practice for hours, trying to perfect each note and each melody. My fingers would often _________ from the strain (软组织拉伤), but the joy of creating music was unparalleled. Mrs. Peters, my school music teacher, noticed my passion and offered free lessons _________ weekends. Under her guidance, my skills flourished.

As years passed, I started participating in local competitions. Not all were victories, but each one was a learning _________. The challenges were many, but with every setback, my resolve only grew stronger.

One day, a letter arrived. It was an invitation to an interview for the National Symphony Orchestra (国家交响乐团), a chance to _________ with the best in the country. The preparations were tiring and boring. Every evening was consumed by endless rehearsals and critiques, pushing me to my limits.

The day of the audition finally came. As I walked onto the stage, the weight of my journey _________ on my shoulders. But as I began to play, all fears disappeared. The music, as always, transported me to another world.

A week later, I received the news: I was selected. My dream, once distant and unreachable, had _________ fruits. My journey taught me that it isn’t the destination but the journey itself that shapes us. Every struggle, every hurdle was a steppingstone to my dream.

Now, as I play on grand stages, I often look back. Not in regret, but in gratitude. Gratitude for every challenge, every setback, for they shaped my __________ and made me who I am today.

1.

A．between

B．over

C．through

D．beneath

2.

A．sounded

B．seemed

C．felt

D．echoed

3.

A．mistake

B．start

C．fake

D．end

4.

A．hurt

B．break

C．dance

D．shake

5.

A．on

B．in

C．during

D．under

6.

A．opportunity

B．misery

C．story

D．experience

7.

A．compete

B．argue

C．discuss

D．socialize

8.

A．danced

B．swayed

C．rested

D．disappeared

9.

A．born

B．become

C．given

D．lost

10.

A．fears

B．successes

C．path

D．mistakes

3 . 在未给提示词的空白处仅填写1个适当的单词，在给出提示词的空白处用括号内所给词的正确形式填空。

“Help, help!” I shouted, swimming towards the boat in desperation. I     1     (sink)! I couldn’t breathe! “Help!” My mouth filled with water; I struggled     2     being drawn deeper, deeper down. Suddenly I felt myself quickly     3     (draw) up to the surface of the sea; and I heard these words: “If master would be so good as to hold onto my shoulder, master would swim with much greater ease.” I grabbed my faithful Conseil’s arm with one hand.

4 . 在未给提示词的空白处仅填写1个适当的单词，在给出提示词的空白处用括号内所给词的正确形式填空。

Centuries later, the Great Flu Epidemic of 1918, also called the Spanish Flu,     1     (strike) near the end of World War I. Families     2     had only just got through the war now had to bury their loved ones who had died of the disease. As a result of the war, more people were travelling and moving perhaps than ever before in history and this caused the epidemic to spread worldwide. Having killed up to 50 million people in 18 months, the Spanish Flu is believed to have been the    3     (severe) epidemic in history. More people died of the flu than died in the war. Initially, many people believed that such epidemics no longer posed a threat until very recently     4     SARS became a cause for concern.

5 . Walt Disney: A Legacy of Dreams

The name “Disney” evokes a rush of images: from the enchanted kingdom of Disneyland to the heartwarming tales of Bambi and Simba. For almost a century, Disney, initiated by Walt Disney himself, has been synonymous with storytelling, imagination, and dreams-come-true. But what’s the journey behind this global empire of happiness?

Founded in 1923 by Walt and Roy O. Disney, the company started as a small animation studio in the back of a real estate office in Los Angeles.     1     The creation of the beloved Mickey Mouse in 1928 marked the beginning of Disney’s ascent to fame. This iconic character not only helped the company regain its footing after a business setback but also paved the way for the world of animation as we know it.

Disney’s first full-length animated feature film, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, premiered in 1937.     2     Its success proved that storytelling combined with animation had the power to touch the hearts of audiences worldwide, setting the foundation for a series of masterpieces that followed.

Disneyland, opened in 1955, was Walt’s most ambitious venture (经营项目).     3     Termed as “The Happiest Place on Earth”, this theme park was built upon a narrative, each attraction telling its own story, making it a pioneering effort in the world of amusement parks. It wasn’t just about rides, but an experience of stories coming to life.

With Walt’s death in 1966, there were doubts about the future of the company.     4     Today, Disney is not just about animation or theme parks. With its acquisition of entities like Marvel and Lucasfilm, it’s a major player in global entertainment.

Walt Disney once said, “All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.”     5     Disney remains a testament to the power of dreams, imagination, and pursuit, lighting up lives across generations and geographies.

A．The transformation from a humble beginning to a global business came with both achievements and challenges.

B．Each turn in the park promises a leap into fantasy, ensuring the magic is felt at every corner.

C．This venture greatly changed the landscape of cinematic history.

D．Though faced with initial skepticism, the park became an instant success.

E．Over the decades, it has redefined entertainment, proving that stories have no boundaries.

F．However, despite initial uncertainties in leadership and direction, the enterprise continued to grow.

G．It’s a universe of stories, where every character, every song, and every ride have a heart and soul.

6 . Lucia was a bright-eyed girl of 12, born in a tiny village which is far less crowded than big cities. The village, even though filled with love, had no room for the world of arts. Lucia, however, possessed a passion for acting. While children played in fields, Lucia practiced lines from old plays she found in the attic. She visualized herself on grand stages, under bright lights. But for a girl from a distant village, this dream seemed more like a fantasy.

When Lucia heard about a national acting competition in the city, her heart raced with excitement. But she faced two big challenges: convincing her closed-minded parents and preparing for a competition with city-bred competitors.

Her parents, although loving, believed that the city was no place for their daughter. Lucia’s pleas seemed to fall on deaf ears until she decided to perform a touching scene for them. Tears flowed, not just from Lucia’s eyes but from her parents’ too. Witnessing her raw talent, they gave her their blessing.

Training was no easy feat. With no acting schools or instructors, Lucia had to be able to solve all the problems by herself. She practiced day and night, watching old films, and seeking feedback from village elders. Her dedication made a difference; she was molding herself into an acting wonder.

The day of the competition arrived. The city’s hall was filled with well-dressed participants and audiences. Lucia, in her modest clothes, felt like a fish out of water. Yet, when her turn came, the stage was her world. She performed so beautifully that she made the audience completely amazed. She showed the emotions so vividly; it touched souls.

When the results were announced, the underdog from a tiny village had finally won. The city, which seemed so vast, echoed with applause for Lucia.

She returned to her village not just as Lucia but as a symbol of hope and dreams. Her journey, from a quiet village girl to a national acting champion, was not just a proof of her talent but a shining example of passion and determination.

1. Why did Lucia’s parents disapprove of her going to the city at the beginning?

A．Because they thought acting was not a tiring career for her.

B．Because they thought it was costly and they could afford it.

C．Because they thought Lucia’s too young to go there by herself.

D．Because they thought the city was so big that it was beyond their reach.

2. How did Lucia persuade her parents?

A．By playing a part of a play.

B．By asking them repeatedly.

C．By seeking help from the elders.

D．By molding herself into a wonder.

3. How did Lucia feel on the day of the competition before her performance?

A．Upset yet passionate.

B．Relaxed and uncaring.

C．Nervous and uneasy.

D．Determined yet overconfident.

4. What can we learn from this story?

A．Cities are wonders.

B．Talent always finds a way.

C．Always listen to your parents.

D．Determination is the key to success.

7 . The Evolution of Multimedia Technologies

In the late 20th century, a revolution began with the development of various communication tools, producing what we now know as multimedia. This mixture of text, audio, graphics, and video into one medium has transformed the way information is transferred and received, greatly changing several industries.

In the field of education, multimedia platforms have become a must in classrooms. Traditional classrooms, with chalk and blackboard, have transformed into dynamic spaces with interactive whiteboards. Students, no longer passive listeners, are now actively interacting with the content, making a deeper understanding of subjects. Multimedia has allowed for the creation of e-learning platforms, ensuring that no student is left behind, even in remote parts of the world.

The entertainment industry too has seen a big change. Gone are the days when families would gather around a single television set. Due to the popularity of multimedia devices, people have a large amount of content to choose from. Streaming platforms have challenged traditional media systems, providing viewers with a personalized viewing experience.

Moreover, multimedia has proved to be a boon for the business world. Companies employ multimedia presentations to show ideas, products, and visions, ensuring that their message stands out. Virtual tours, 3D product modeling, and interactive customer service have made user experience better, leading to increased brand loyalty (品牌忠诚度).

The field of healthcare has also been significantly impacted. With multimedia, doctors can now visualize complex medical procedures and share them with patients, making sure a better understanding from the patients. Medical students benefit from 3D models, making learning more interactive and precise.

However, multimedia can sometimes result in information overload, causing cognitive tiredness. Additionally, the cost of setting up multimedia systems can be high, leading to a digital divide where only the rich people can afford the latest technology.

Another concern is the invasion of privacy. With smartphones turning into multimedia platforms, every click, swipe, and download can be tracked, leading to questions about data security. The wide use of multimedia, while beneficial, requires a stronger framework for data protection and user rights.

In conclusion, the rise of multimedia technologies is a testament to human creativity. While it offers many opportunities, it’s essential to address the related challenges to ensure a harmonious digital future, respecting the rights and limits of its users.

1. How does the author strengthen his arguments about multimedia’ effects on different sectors?

A．By telling stories.

B．By presenting data.

C．By raising examples.

D．By quoting from experts.

2. What can we learn from the passage?

A．Multimedia has so many drawbacks we need to keep away from it for now.

B．Multimedia has many benefits, however, it’s important to consider the challenges.

C．Multimedia benefits classroom teaching, but it also distracts students from the subjects.

D．Multimedia focuses mainly on combining audio and video and needs further development.

3. What would be a suitable title for this passage?

A．Multimedia: Yes or No?

B．The Wonders of Virtual Reality

C．The History of Communication Tools

D．The Digital Divide: A Growing Concern

8 . 阅读下面短文，根据题目要求用英语回答问题。请在答题卡指定区域作答。

The Power and Problems of Eco-Tourism

Eco-tourism gained its popularity over the past two decades. At its core, eco-tourism promotes sustainable travel practices that benefit local communities and protect the environment. However, like any significant trend, it is vital to analyze its impact and understand both its merits (好处) and potential shortcomings.

Eco-tourism emerged as a response to the damaging effects of mass tourism. Coastal towns were being transformed into commercial centers, but the luxury resorts rarely invested back into the community. Over time, ecosystems suffered, local cultures were overshadowed, and the very essence of these destinations was at risk. On the other hand, eco-tourism focuses on smaller groups, environmental education, and local engagement.

One of the primary merits of eco-tourism is its emphasis on environmental conservation. It helps protect endangered species and reforest areas affected by deforestation. Take the mountain gorillas of Rwanda for instance, tourism income has played a crucial role in their conservation efforts, bringing them back from the edge of extinction.

Furthermore, eco-tourism often ensures that local communities benefit economically. Instead of leaving profits to international corporations, the income often stays within the community. Local artisans, guides, and service providers receive a more significant piece of the pie, ensuring that tourism acts as a tool for socio-economic growth.

Yet, eco-tourism is not without its problems. The term “eco-tourism” is sometimes misused or overused. Some businesses might claim themselves as “eco-friendly” purely as a marketing strategy, without truly making sustainable practices.

In conclusion, eco-tourism represents a significant change towards more sustainable travel, placing emphasis on the environment and local communities. However, as with any major movement, it’s essential to approach it with a critical eye. By doing so, we can ensure that our passion for travelling doesn’t come at the cost of our planet or its inhabitants, but rather enriches both the traveler and the destination.

1. How has eco-tourism impacted the mountain gorillas of Rwanda?
____________________________________________________________________________________________
2. What are the merits of eco-tourism?
____________________________________________________________________________________________
3. Please decide which part is false in the following statement, then underline it and explain why.
Eco-tourism places emphasis on the environment and local communities, ensuring that our passion for travelling comes at the cost of our planet and its inhabitants.
____________________________________________________________________________________________
4. Do you believe eco-tourism is a sustainable way to promote tourism without causing harm? Why or why not?   (In about 40 words)
____________________________________________________________________________________________

9 . 阅读下列短文，根据短文内容填空。在未给提示词的空白处仅填写1个适当的单词，在给出提示词的空白处用括号内所给词的正确形式填空。     
       Linguistics is a study that gives you insight into one of the most interesting     1     (aspect) of human knowledge and behavior, including sounds, words, sentences, and meaning. It can also involve looking at    2    languages change over time and why the changes happened. Many linguists do field work,     3     (collect) evidence to help them gain insight into a specific language or languages in general.

10 . 阅读下列短文，根据短文内容填空。在未给提示词的空白处仅填写1个适当的单词，在给出提示词的空白处用括号内所给词的正确形式填空。     
       We humans are Homo sapiens that     1     (probable) first evolved (进化) in Africa 315,000 years ago.     2     we and the apes (猿人) are somehow related is accepted by biologists everywhere. Yet the exact nature of our evolutionary relationships     3     (be) the subject of debate since Darwin published his book On the Origin of Species,     4     he never claimed, as other Victorian naturalists insisted he had, that “man evolved from apes”.