1 . A new study by the Zoological Society of London has found that nearly one in five of the world’s 10,000 species of reptiles (爬行动物) are threatened with extinction. The study, which has been printed in the journal Biological Conservation, was carried out by more than 200 experts who assessed the risk of extinction of 1,500 reptiles selected at random from around the globe.
The primary author of the paper, Monika Bohm, explained to the Zoological Society:” Reptiles are often associated with extreme habitats and tough environmental conditions, so it is easy to assume that they will be fine in our changing world. “However, that’s far from the truth:” Many species are very high specialized in terms of habitat use and the climatic conditions they require for day to day functioning, “Bohm said.” This makes them particularly sensitive to environmental changes. “The paper highlights three critically endangered species in its research, including the jungle runner lizard Ameiva vittata, which has only ever been spotted in the Cochabamba region of the Bolivian jungle—an area under threat from the growth of agriculture and logging. The two most recent searches for the species have been unsuccessful. Meanwhile in Haiti, six of the nine species of Anolis lizard in the country risk extinction due to increasing deforestation (毁林).
Also at risk are freshwater turtles, with 50% of all species at risk of extinction from hunting; turtle parts are in high demand as ingredients in traditional medicine. According to the study 30% of freshwater reptile species are also in danger of completely disappearing.
Reptiles have a long evolutionary history: snakes, lizards, crocodiles and tuataras first appeared on earth around 300 million years ago. They are an important part of many ecosystems. ”This is a very important step towards assessing the conservation status of reptiles globally, “Philip Bowles from the IUCN Species Survival Commission said in response to the study.” Tackling the identified habitat loss is key conservation priorities in order to transfer declines in these reptiles.”
1. How many species of reptiles are endangered?| A．1,000. | B．1,500. | C．2,000. | D．5,000. |
| A．Environmental changes cause species variation. |
| B．More trees are being cut down in the Bolivian jungle. |
| C．Reptiles can easily adapt to extreme habitats and climate. |
| D．Species extinction results from tough environment conditions. |
| A．Because local people hunt them for fun. | B．Because their parts have medical value. |
| C．Because they struggle to survive in the wild. | D．Because they can be cooking ingredients. |
| A．To reduce habitat destruction. | B．To increase the harvest of forest trees. |
| C．To assess the current conditions of reptiles. | D．To further the study on the evolutionary history. |
2 . Phuket FantaSea
Located on Kamala Beach, just 9km from Patong, Phuket FantaSea offers a one-of-a-kind experience of culture and fun that no visitor to Phuket should miss. Phuket FantaSea is Phuket’s most popular nighttime attraction that can be visited all year around, rain or shine.
Coach/van transfer and rental service, facilities for seminars, corporate meetings, theme parties and exhibitions are also available.
Reservation Hotline: 076 385 111
Reservation Email: ticket@phuketfantasea.fun
Reservation website: www.phuketfantasea.fun
The Golden Kinnaree Buffet Restaurant
Begin your journey of magic with the world’s grandest buffet! In the mystical Himmaphan forest setting, visitors can enjoy a fantastic feast of Royal Thai dishes and International delicacies, prepared by some of Thailand’s finest chefs. (Buffet time: 17:30-21:00)
Designated Halal zone is provided in this restaurant.
Vegetarian Buffet line is also available.
Jungle Adventure
Take a magical adventure into an ancient kingdom of primitive Tiger Jungle where you can catch a glimpse of the gentle, magnificent creatures that live in Kingdom of Kamala. Tiger Jungle Adventure is a Theatrical Safari, an original concept that takes you on a journey through a theatrical environment of 12 mythical scenes inspired by timeless legends, starring many local animals. It is absolutely a feast for eyes and ears.
Operating time: 17:30-21:00
Animal exhibits are subject to change or closure without notice.
Similan (Entertainment Center)
Come join in the fun and games with our friendly sea creatures at Phuket FantaSea’s one-of-a-kind undersea entertainment center and shopping attraction -- Similan Entertainment Center. Fun-lovers of all ages are invited to test their skills with exciting games specifically designed to celebrate the splendid beauty of sea creatures in the Similan Island!
1. What can we do in Phuket FantaSea?| A．Have a brunch. | B．Go diving. |
| C．Go hunting for tigers. | D．Enjoy an animal show. |
| A．Patong. | B．Jungle Adventure. |
| C．Similan (Entertainment Center). | D．The Golden Kinnaree Buffet Restaurant. |
| A．To inform. | B．To advertise. | C．To contrast. | D．To explain. |
3 . If your work involves a lot of work in front of a computer screen, you’ll likely experience digital eyestrain(损伤).
Change your workstation slightly
Your overall workstation can cause eye strain in many ways. Make sure you’re always sitting at least an arm’s length away from the screen. And keep your screen four to five inches below eye level. What you’re sitting in is also extremely important for your position.
Adjust lighting
Your computer screen should be the brightest object in the room, so adjust your settings accordingly. You can look into softer lighting options and use blinds if the lighting in your office is too bright.
Follow the 20-20-20 rule
Do whatever you can to make your screen easier to read-whether that’s increasing the text size, switching the contrast levels or changing the colour temperature(avoiding blue light tones as much as possible, which are linked to more eye strain problems). Play around with all the settings until you find what works best for you.
| A．Adjust your settings |
| B．Be sure to clean your screen regularly |
| C．Switch the screen into eye protection mode |
| D．In fact, looking at a screen is unavoidable for most |
| E．So be certain the chair offers enough support for your lower back |
| F．Take steps immediately to help to ease the discomfort of your eyes |
| G．One simple way to reduce your eye strain is looking away from the screen |
4 . Potala Palace Travel Guide
Travel Tips● The travel route is set strictly.
● The visiting time is limited in 1 hour.
● Watch your steps due to the high altitude.
● Bring along an overcoat as it is a bit cold in the hall.
Notice● Oxygen bag is prohibited to be taken into the Palace.
● Smoking is prohibited and cigarettes are not allowed to be brought into the Palace
● Smartphones can be carried with you into the Palace, but please do not take photos.
● Liquid is not allowed, including mineral water, which can be purchased at the hill top.
Ticket Purchase ProcedureVisitors are required to apply for free reservation tickets with identity documents, such as ID cards and passports one day in advance.
The visiting date and exact time, number of visitors and ID document numbers are printed on the reservation tickets. Those visitors who have reservation tickets should make their tickets canceled if they can’t visit the Palace for personal reasons. Otherwise, they will be forbidden to apply again within a week because their names are added to the blacklist.
On the following day, visitors should have their reservation tickets and ID documents checked and walk to the ticket office in front of the White Palace to buy the entrance tickets. Then they can start their tour after another security check.
How to get to Potala Palace● Take bus 13 to Yaowangshan Bus Stop.
● Take bus 8 or 17 to Baita Bus Stop.
● Take bus 2, 16 or 26 to Lazhong Bus Stop.
● Take airport shuttle to Minhangju Bus Stop.
1. What can be brought into Potala Palace?| A．Cigarettes. | B．Mineral water. | C．Smartphones. | D．Oxygen bags. |
| A．He has to apply seven days later. |
| B．He will pay a heavy fine online. |
| C．He has to cancel his reservation ticket. |
| D．He will take another security check. |
| A．3. | B．4. | C．6. | D．7. |
5 . Four Hotels That Will Make Your Life Easier
Marriott Detroit AirportIt’s such an ideal option for business travelers in a hurry. Here is the basic idea: You download the iPhone or Android app. The night before, you can “check-in” virtually. When you arrive you get a message that the room is ready and your key, which is already tied to your reservation, is waiting for you at the desk.
Yotel New YorkThe self-service kiosks (一体机) at this high-tech New York hotel are open 24x7 and work just like the ones you’d see at an airport. There are just five-steps to register and obtain your room card. There’s even a luggage robot. You tap in the number of bags you’re carrying, then wait for a robot arm to swing down and store your luggage in a locker.
Hyatt Regency MinneapolisBusiness travelers like the fast kiosk check-in works. Like the Yotel, the kiosk asks you to put in your credit card. The whole process takes about three minutes. When travelers leave, they can be equally impressed with the fast check-out. You never have to wait in line.
Radisson LaCrosseThe Radisson is trying to make the kiosk process even faster, you use a mobile app to register and then receive a password by email or text. When you get to the kiosk, you can scan the password to get your key without any other steps required. It’s incredibly fast.
1. Which hotel has the self-service luggage locker?| A．Marriott Detroit Airport. | B．Yotel New York. |
| C．Hyatt Regency Minneapolis. | D．Radisson LaCrosse. |
| A．They provide key-free service. |
| B．They both have the fastest check-in process. |
| C．Travelers need to check in with a credit card. |
| D．Travelers can check in with their mobile phones. |
| A．To assess the service of the hotels. | B．To criticize the service of the hotels. |
| C．To recommend hotels with fast service. | D．To help customers check in and check out. |
6 . Cantonese opera(粤剧) is one of the major Chinese opera categories. It is a traditional Chinese art form that originated in southern China’s Cantonese culture, and involves music, singing, martial arts, acrobatics and acting. Today it is not only very popular in Guangdong, Guangxi, Hong Kong and Macao, but also performed all around the world.
Cantonese opera was originally called Nanxi(Southern opera) in the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty, and this beautiful art form has pleased audiences for hundreds of years. By absorbing the folk melodies and tunes of Guangdong, and mixing many different opera styles that were popular at the time, Cantonese opera developed during the 16th century. With the unique combination of these different influences, Nanxi was developed into Cantonese opera.
Cantonese opera is a wonderful mix of storytelling, music and fighting. The performances are often based on well-known traditional stories or events from Chinese history. The colourful sets serve as the background for these performances and actors appear on stage with similarly colourful face paint. Fights are a common and important part of many shows with actors performing difficult and exciting martial arts movements.
In the beginning, Cantonese opera costumes reflected the clothing style of the Ming Dynasty. Later, as Peking opera became increasingly popular, it was strongly influenced by Peking opera costumes. Costumes were made of cloth and later some accessories(配饰)were added. Different roles require different costumes. For example, an actor playing the Xiaosheng, a very gentle role, wears a costume with long sleeves; while the Xiaowu, an acting role, demands a costume with short sleeves so as to act easily.
Many well-known operas are still performed today, such as The Purple Hairpin and Rejunenation of the Red Plum Flower, which originated in the Yuan Dynasty. Other Cantonese operas are adapted from western movies or novels. Generally, Cantonese opera performers have to master four skills: singing, acting movement, delivery of speeches, and martial gymnastic skills.
Because of its long tradition and its importance in the development of Chinese arts and culture, Cantonese opera was included on the UNESCO intangible cultural heritage list in 2009.
1. Which of the following is NOT the factor in Cantonese opera’s development?| A．Tunes of Guangdong. | B．Different opera styles. |
| C．A variety of dialects. | D．Folk melodies. |
| A．They were originally a reflection of clothing style of Yuan Dynasty. |
| B．They look more beautiful when they are made with more accessories. |
| C．They were designed based on Peking opera costumes. |
| D．Performers choose different costumes according to the roles they play. |
| A．Its exciting movements and difficult performances. |
| B．Its popularity and development. |
| C．Its colorful sets and face paint. |
| D．Its history and influence. |
| A．To prove that Cantonese opera is the most popular opera. |
| B．To inform the readers of the development of Cantonese opera. |
| C．To share the author’s experience of seeing a well-known Cantonese opera. |
| D．To make a comparison between Cantonese opera and Peking opera. |
7 . REMARKABLE BOOKS TO ENJOY AGAIN AND AGAIN
The Second Coming
By Roué Hupsel
www. authorhouse. com
Hardback | Paperback | E-book $27. 99 | $16. 95 | $3. 99
The son of an American scholar must begin an almost impossible battle against unknown, threatening powers that attack humanity in the core. In author Roué Hupsel’s The Second Coming, you will experience a fascinating tale that will take you into great adventures. This is a journey full of strange and terrifying events.
The Bobbsey Twins at School
By Laura Lee Hope
www. authorhouse. com
Paperback | Audio-book $ 17. 81 | $ 3. 99
The Bobbsey Twins at School tells stories about two pairs of twins, from which readers learn about a life with a twin and a life full of childhood innocence. Full of warmth and humor, the stories are wonderful and easy for children to read.
A Stroke Of Genius
By Sandy Simon
www. xlibris. com
Paperback | E-book $ 19. 99 | $ 9. 99
Starting with a disaster and leading readers through paths of paralysis and pain up to a good measure of healing, Sandy Simon’s A Stroke Of Genius is an insightful book that provides new insight into the nature of human condition.
Through the Trials Just Believe
By Nitza Hollinger
www. xlibris. com
Hardback | Paperback | E-book $ 24. 99 | $ 15. 99 | $ 3. 99
Through the Trials Just Beliere is a truly inspiring and immersive read that shows readers that when faced with trials, one must he well-grounded in what drives him or her to continue the fight to live and overcome what may seem as an unsurpassable trial. In this touching read, the author Nitza Hollinger inspires and encourages the readers to face life’s challenges with confidence and the determination to succeed.
1. If you’re interested in adventures, you would like to choose ______.| A．The Second Coming |
| B．The Bobbsey Twins at School |
| C．A Stroke Of Genius |
| D．Through the Trials Just Believe |
| A．It is a children’s book. |
| B．It can be bought on www. authorhouse. com. |
| C．The price of its E-book edition is $9.99. |
| D．It inspires readers to be confident when facing difficulties. |
| A．Hardback & Paperback. | B．Paperback & E-book. |
| C．Paperback & Audio-book. | D．Hardback & E-book. |
8 . Volunteering for teens is an educational, mind-opening and life-enriching travel experience. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported thousands of high school students to volunteer in Africa, Asia, South America, Central America, North America, Europe, the Caribbean and the Pacific. There’s no need to wait till you’re 18 to volunteer abroad! International Volunteer HQ specializes in offering safe and affordable volunteer opportunities for high school students and teens in more than 17 destinations around the globe.
How to volunteer as a teenager overseas:
Applying to volunteer as a teenager is simple! Once you have decided where to volunteer and which project you would like to join, you can apply online. It’s free, only takes a few minutes and there is no commitment needed at this stage. Our team of Volunteer Travel Specialists will then guide you through the next steps to secure your spot and start preparing for your trip.
There are a number of ways you can volunteer with IVHQ depending on your age:
Under 16: You’re able to volunteer as part of a group (for example, a group of students from your high school, with your family or friends) on certain IVHQ programs. You must have parental/guardian permit and be accompanied on the program by a designated guardian over the age of 18. Contact us to find out more.
16 & 17 years old: You can join one of our teen volunteer abroad programs independently with parental permit and two satisfactory character references. You can choose from volunteer projects in more than 17 destinations and will receive 24/7 support from the local team, but not full time supervision.
1. Who are the volunteering project designed for?| A．Adults. | B．Children. | C．Teenagers | D．Students. |
| A．Through the Internet. | B．By mail. | C．In person. | D．Through calls. |
| A．A grade certificate. | B．Permit from parents. |
| C．A school guarantee. | D．Character references. |
9 . Are you looking for something fun and exciting to do with your family this spring break? There are various family-friendly events and activities in Houston to choose from that will make your spring break memorable.
Spend the day out on the Blessington Farm
510 Chisolm Trail Wallis, TX 77485
(832)444-8717
It offers a variety of activities for all ages, from hayrides and petting zoos to the Farm Funland. You can even pick berries right from the farm! There are playgrounds and a particular play area with farm-themed activities for the younger ones. And if you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, there are also barrel train rides.
Head to the Main Street Theater
3400 Main Street
Houston, TX 77002
(832)667-1400
It is proud to present the family-friendly musical, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! This spring break. Based on the popular children’s book by Mo Willems, this musical is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Follow the adventures of the Pigeon as he attempts to drive the bus and learns important lessons about responsibility and friendship along the way.
Spring Break Celebration at the Children’s Museum
1500 Binz Street
Houston, TX 77004
(713)522-1138
From the “Power of Children” exhibit, which explores the lives of inspiring children from around the world, to the “Kidtropolis” exhibit, which allows kids to explore a pretend city, it offers a wide variety of activities. Kids can also explore the “Invention Convention” exhibit, where they can create their inventions and learn about the scientific process. And for art lovers, the “Art Academy” exhibit is a great place to explore different mediums and create masterpieces.
Explore the Houston Z00
6200 Hermann Park Drive Houston, TX 77030
(713)533-6500
From educational talks to animal encounters, there’s something for everyone. Plus, you can take a walk through the zoo’s beautiful gardens and explore the habitats of some of the world’s most fascinating creatures. The Houston Zoo also offers special events, such as live music, food trucks, and more.
1. What can families do at the Main Street Theater?| A．Watch a popular musical. |
| B．Read a popular children’s book. |
| C．Drive a bus with a pigeon. |
| D．Build friendship with other families. |
| A．The Blessington Farm. | B．The Main Street Theater. |
| C．The Children’s Museum. | D．The Houston Zoo. |
| A．To broaden children’s horizons. |
| B．To recommend events to families. |
| C．To stress the importance of spring break. |
| D．To encourage parents to accompany kids. |
10 . Some are attracted to museums by the art and the culture — but if that isn’t enough, there is always the novelty!
Cupnoodles Museum
The Cupnoodles Museum in Yokohama, Japan, offers a treat: exhibits can be not only admired, but eaten. Visitors can work in the museum’s noodle workshop, refining creations with their favourite ingredients. While doing so, one can also learn the history of the noodle, one of Japan’s most popular foods.
Tenement Museum
At New York’s Tenement Museum, visitors can gain an insight into what life was like for immigrants and the working class in the city from the 1860s through to the 1980s. The museum opened in 1992 and offers guided tours of two tenement buildings with recreated rooms, where costumed “residents” enact the daily lives of the city’s newcomers and workers over the period —leaps and bounds from the money makers of Wall Street.
Cancún Underwater Museum
As the name suggests, it is underwater. More than 500 sculptures anchored in the ocean off Mexico are meant to illustrate the interaction effect of art and nature. Visitors can either admire the works through a glass-bottom boat or take a scuba diving tour.
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
With great attention to detail, New Zealand built the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, which exhibits original aircraft from the First and Second World Wars. Some belong to film director Sir Peter Jackson, who helped create the set designs with his team. Anyone interested in the pioneers of aviation should pay a visit to the museum in Blenheim.
1. What is special about the Cupnoodles Museum?| A．Geographical position. |
| B．Refining exhibits. |
| C．Hands-on activities. |
| D．The history of the museum. |
| A．Cupnoodles Museum. |
| B．Tenement Museum. |
| C．Cancún Underwater Museum. |
| D．Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. |
| A．To define different museums. |
| B．To introduce distinctive museums. |
| C．To clarify the way of visiting museums. |
| D．To display the history of museums. |
