Are you a true lover of words? Are you fascinated by the way language evolves and adapts to different
Etymology
Many words have
Languages are like living organisms, constantly changing to meet the
Even as technology
2 . Over the past few decades, technology has profoundly transformed the way we live and work. The digital revolution has brought about
In the realm of employment, automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping job markets. Routine tasks that were once carried out by humans are now
The education sector has not been immune to technological advancements either. Online learning platforms and digital resources have
Communication has been revolutionized by technology as well. Social media platforms enable instantaneous global
Healthcare has witnessed the integration of technology through telemedicine and remote monitoring. While these innovations improve access to medical services, they also raise questions about the
In the realm of creativity, technology has opened new avenues for artistic expression. Digital art, virtual reality experiences, and interactive storytelling have
The environment benefits from technology through innovations in renewable energy and resource management. Yet, the
In conclusion, technology’s far-reaching influence touches every aspect of our lives. Its
A.incremental | B.revolutionary | C.gradual | D.minimal |
A.profound | B.superficial | C.theoretical | D.casual |
A.substituted | B.enhanced | C.abandoned | D.detected |
A.suppressed | B.triggered | C.alleviated | D.sparked |
A.surpassed | B.preserved | C.substituted | D.revived |
A.digital | B.analytical | C.cognitive | D.interpersonal |
A.correspondence | B.connectivity | C.isolation | D.suspension |
A.solved | B.raised | C.suppressed | D.established |
A.protection | B.vulnerability | C.anticipation | D.interpretation |
A.extended | B.imposed | C.enforced | D.dissolved |
A.preservation | B.authenticity | C.distortion | D.manipulation |
A.insignificant | B.extensive | C.marginal | D.deliberate |
A.beneficial | B.detrimental | C.ambiguous | D.prevalent |
A.implications | B.consequences | C.limitations | D.requirements |
A.promising | B.potential | C.evident | D.underlying |
3 .
A.This has led to debates about whether time travel is theoretically possible. |
B.Einstein’s theories revolutionized our understanding of time and space. |
C.These considerations raise fundamental questions about the nature of time. |
D.Some cultures emphasize a cyclical view of time, while others focus on linear progression. |
E.Our ability to perceive the passage of time is central to human experience. |
F.Time’s connection to our personal memories and experiences is undeniable. |
G.Philosophers have pondered whether time itself has a direction or purpose. |
4 . Cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, have revolutionized the way we think about money and transactions. These digital assets are based on blockchain technology, a decentralized and transparent system that enables secure peer-to-peer transactions without the need for intermediaries like banks.
The potential applications of cryptocurrencies extend beyond simple transactions. Smart contracts, for instance, are self-executing contracts with terms directly written into code. They automatically execute and enforce the terms of an agreement when specific conditions are met. This technology has implications across various industries, from supply chain management to real estate.
However, the rise of cryptocurrencies has also given rise to challenges. One major concern is their volatility. The value of cryptocurrencies can fluctuate dramatically within short periods, making them risky investment options. Additionally, the pseudonymous nature of transactions has led to debates about the potential for illicit activities, such as money laundering and tax evasion.
Governments and regulatory bodies worldwide are grappling with how to classify, regulate, and tax cryptocurrencies. The decentralized nature of these digital assets challenges traditional regulatory frameworks. Some countries have embraced cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology, while others have implemented strict regulations or outright bans.
The future of cryptocurrencies is still uncertain. Proponents believe they could reshape the financial system, enabling greater financial inclusion and efficiency. Critics worry about their potential negative impacts and the need for more comprehensive regulations to protect consumers and prevent misuse.
1. How do cryptocurrencies enable secure transactions without intermediaries?A.They rely on banks to facilitate transactions. |
B.They are based on blockchain technology. |
C.They require government oversight for security. |
D.They use smart contracts for validation. |
A.A contract executed by banks for digital transactions. |
B.A contract written in human-readable language. |
C.A contract enforced by intermediaries. |
D.A self-executing contract with terms in code |
A.Their stable and predictable value. |
B.Their potential to replace traditional currency. |
C.Their susceptibility to fluctuations. |
D.Their resistance to technological advancements. |
A.Most countries have embraced cryptocurrencies without regulations. |
B.Governments have adopted uniform regulations for cryptocurrencies. |
C.Governments have struggled to regulate and classify cryptocurrencies. |
D.All countries have implemented strict bans on cryptocurrencies. |
5 . The concept of universal basic income (UBI) has gained significant attention in recent years as societies grapple with the potential impacts of automation and technological advancements on the job market. UBI is a proposed economic policy in which all citizens or residents of a country receive a regular, unconditional cash payment from the government.
Proponents of UBI argue that it could address issues such as poverty, income inequality, and job displacement caused by automation. By providing a basic income floor, individuals would have financial stability to cover their essential needs, even if traditional employment opportunities diminish. This, in turn, could foster entrepreneurship, creativity, and pursuit of education.
Critics, however, raise several concerns about the feasibility and consequences of UBI. One major concern is the potential cost of implementing such a program. Providing a universal basic income to an entire population would require significant financial resources, which could strain government budgets and lead to increased taxation. Additionally, some worry that UBI might discourage people from actively seeking employment or pursuing career advancement, as they may opt for a guaranteed income without the need for work.
Furthermore, UBI may not fully address the complexities of poverty and inequality. It could overlook the structural factors that contribute to these issues, such as lack of access to quality education and healthcare. Critics argue that a more effective approach would involve targeted social programs that address the root causes of poverty and offer assistance where it is most needed.
As the debate around UBI continues, policymakers and economists grapple with questions about its implementation, impact on work incentives, and potential to reshape social and economic dynamics.
1. What is universal basic income (UBI)?A.A cash payment for citizens during technological advancements. |
B.An unconditional cash payment for government employees. |
C.A policy where all citizens receive regular cash from the government. |
D.Financial resources for entrepreneurs and creative individuals. |
A.It could discourage education due to guaranteed income. |
B.It could increase access to quality education. |
C.It could lead to more job opportunities |
D.It could support traditional employment opportunities. |
A.Lack of access to quality education and healthcare. |
B.The potential cost and funding of the program. |
C.UBI’s impact on social and economic dynamics. |
D.UBI’s focus on entrepreneurship over traditional jobs. |
A.Providing unconditional cash payments to all citizens. |
B.Focusing solely on technological advancements. |
C.Implementing targeted social programs addressing root causes. |
D.Relying on traditional employment opportunities. |
6 . As more and more people seek to live healthier lifestyles, the popularity of organic food has grown significantly. But what exactly is “organic” food? Organic food refers to produce and other agricultural products that are grown or raised without the use of synthetic pesticides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), antibiotics, or growth hormones.
Organic farming focuses on sustainable practices that promote soil health, conserve water, and support natural ecosystems. Farmers who practice organic farming often use techniques such as crop rotation, composting, and natural pest control to maintain the health of their crops and the environment.
Consumers are drawn to organic food for various reasons. Some believe that organic food is healthier because it contains fewer synthetic chemicals. Others are concerned about the environmental impact of conventional farming methods and choose organic products to support more sustainable practices.
However, organic food does come with some drawbacks. It tends to be more expensive than conventionally produced food due to the labor-intensive nature of organic farming and the lower crop yields that can result from avoiding synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Additionally, the strict regulations that govern organic farming can make it challenging for some farmers to obtain and maintain organic certification.
Overall, the choice between organic and conventionally produced food often depends on individual priorities. While organic food offers potential health and environmental benefits, it may not always be the most practical or affordable option for everyone.
1. What does “organic” food refer to?A.Food grown with synthetic pesticides. |
B.Food produced with GMOs. |
C.Food grown without synthetic pesticides and GMOs. |
D.Food raised with antibiotics and growth hormones. |
A.Using synthetic pesticides. |
B.Employing genetic modification. |
C.Practicing crop rotation and natural pest control. |
D.Applying growth hormones. |
A.To reduce labor-intensive farming. |
B.To support conventional farming methods. |
C.To save costs on groceries. |
D.To promote healthier and more sustainable practices. |
Chinese scientists have used the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope (FAST) to discover a binary pulsar (脉冲双星) with an orbital period of only 53 minutes, the
By
The reviewer with the journal described this discovery
8 . In recent years, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have brought both excitement and concerns to various fields. One area where AI is making a profound impact is the medical field, particularly in the domain of diagnostics.
Al-powered diagnostic systems leverage deep learning algorithms to analyze medical images, such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans. These algorithms can detect subtle patterns and anomalies that might be missed by human radiologists, potentially leading to earlier and more accurate diagnoses.
However, the integration of AI in medical diagnostics raises complex ethical questions. For instance, who should be held responsible if an AI system misdiagnoses a patient’s condition? Should AI algorithms be treated as medical professionals, with legal and liability implications? These questions become even more intricate when considering that AI systems learn from vast datasets of medical information, which might contain biases or inaccuracies.
Furthermore, the adoption of AI diagnostics could impact the role of healthcare professionals. Some argue that AI could enhance doctors’ capabilities by providing them with additional insights, while others fear that it might replace human expertise, leading to job losses and a potential decrease in the quality of patient care. Despite these challenges, proponents of AI diagnostics emphasize its potential to improve healthcare accessibility, especially in underserved regions where there is a shortage of skilled medical professionals. Al-powered diagnostics could provide preliminary assessments and recommendations, helping to bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers.
1. What is the primary advantage of AI-powered diagnostic systems in the medical field?A.They provide additional insights to doctors. |
B.They replace the need for human radiologists. |
C.They analyze medical images using deep learning algorithms. |
D.They focus on detecting visible patterns in medical images. |
A.The potential for AI algorithms to replace human doctors. |
B.The reliability of AI algorithms in analyzing medical images. |
C.The legal responsibility for misdiagnoses made by AI systems. |
D.The biased data used for training AI algorithms. |
A.AI could enhance doctors’ expertise and skills. |
B.AI could lead to job losses in the medical field. |
C.AI could decrease the quality of patient care. |
D.AI could replace human doctors completely. |
A.AI diagnostics could decrease the quality of patient care. |
B.AI diagnostics could primarily serve regions with sufficient medical professionals. |
C.AI diagnostics could bridge the gap in healthcare accessibility. |
D.AI diagnostics could replace the need for skilled radiologists. |
9 . Boston Marathon runners in recent years may have seen a smiling furry face around the two-mile mark. It’s Spencer, the therapy (治疗) dog, who became known as an unofficial mascot (吉祥物) for the marathon, He’s shown up on the sidelines every year since 2015—rain or shine.
One particularly rainy marathon catapulted Spencer’s fame, In 2018, his owner, Richard Powers, decided to put a bright yellow rain coat on the dog, making him stand out even more than he usually does. Photos of Spencer, who holds a “Boston Strong” flag in his mouth, went viral, and he became an inspiration to runners and onlookers alike, During the marathon, some runners stop in their tracks to take selfies with the dog-the line sometimes growing to 20 runners long.
But in 2020, Spencer was diagnosed with a tumor (肿瘤). His owner was worried, but Spencer is a fighter. He got the care he needed and survived. In 2021, he was back on the course and it was really kind of a miracle and that really hit home to a lot of people.
Unfortunately, Spencer caught another tumor—this one cancerous—and Spencer began chemotherapy. Powers didn’t think his beloved dog would make it out to the marathon of 2022. “Miraculously, he’s still here with us and an even bigger miracle, he was strong enough to go to the marathon,” he said.
After recovering, Spencer was back to work—not just at the marathon—but as a therapy dog, alongside his companion, Penny, who is also a golden therapy dog. Powers takes his two therapy dogs around to schools, hospitals and senior living centers.
“He’s a gift to us and we’re very lucky to have him. He’s too good so we want to share him with as many people as we possibly can. He does make a difference,” Powers said.
1. Why is Spencer referred to as a mascot for Boston Marathon?A.He has a smiling furry face. | B.He appears at the event annually. |
C.He is not recognized officially. | D.He works as a therapy dog for runners. |
A.Motivation. | B.Satisfaction. | C.Fantasy. | D.Barrier. |
A.A failure in the marathon. | B.Caring for his owner. | C.Fighting against a disease. | D.Going viral. |
A.Confident, | B.Supportive. | C.Objective. | D.Negative. |
1. What is the speaker?
A.A teacher. | B.A student. | C.An editor. |
A.Communication skills. | B.Good grades. | C.Experience. |
A.To learn to write. | B.To make money. | C.To have fun. |
A.Right after the meeting. | B.Tomorrow morning. | C.Next week. |