1 . One day when I was 15 years old, I was making food in the kitchen. My brother came in. He placed his beef next to my thick one and said, “Courtney, your beef is bigger than mine. You don’t need to eat; you’re too fat.” Then he walked out laughing. From then on, I was unwilling to wear shorts until I was 30 years old. For the next 15 years, I spent summer after summer roasting in long pants.
But then I met Ragen Chastain. I couldn’t believe that this almost 300-pound woman who, like myself, was so energetic and happy in her own skin. I listened as she shared her own journey to recovery and self-love. She talked about how amazing our bodies are, simply because of the things they do every day — like breathing, pumping blood to every cell and walking.
Walking! I suddenly realized how foolish I’d been for so long. There are people who are born without legs, or who lack properly working legs, or who lose their legs, and I’d been hiding my perfectly strong, healthy and beautiful legs in shame. The next day, I bought three pairs of shorts and a sundress and spent the entire summer letting my legs see the sun and feel the breeze.
The next time anyone comments on your body in a negative way, look them straight in the eye, smile and say, “If what you see bothers you so much, feel free to practice the ancient art of looking somewhere else.” That’s Ragen’s own creation, but I don’t think she’ll mind if you use it.
1. What can we know about the author when she was a teenager?A.She was fat. | B.She disliked beef. |
C.Her parents loved her more. | D.Her brother always helped her. |
A.Honest. | B.Clever. | C.Positive. | D.Responsible. |
A.The shorts were on sale. | B.She was inspired by Ragen Chastain. |
C.The shorts were suitable for the weather. | D.She wanted to give them to Ragen Chastain. |
A.Dress whatever we want and ignore others’ judgement. |
B.There are many people who are as fat as us in the world. |
C.Love ourselves and don’t care about others’ negative opinions. |
D.Eat as you like and there’s no need to care about our bodies. |
Some kids play sports, some love attending parties and others are computer masters. Me? I have the spelling bee (拼词比赛).
The bee is my World Cup. I trained every day as soon as I returned home after school, the dictionary pages dancing softly in the light wind. I built up my muscle (once I spelled it m-u-s-u-1-e… so embarrassing!) carrying around my friend Oxford dictionary. I laughed in the face of difficult words in the spelling test. For example, “Serendipitous”. Please. That was so fourth grade.
As soon as I opened my eyes on Friday morning, I felt the hairs on my arm stood up. I looked at my alarm clock—it was only 6:27. I usually woke up at 7:01, which meant I had an extra thirty-four minutes to study before going to school to attend today’s spelling bee contest. My stomach felt like it was filled with a flock of flamingos (火烈鸟) dancing a fandango (f-a-n-d-a-n-g-o-h, I spelled wrongly a month ago). To calm down, I reminded myself that I was one of the best spellers in my class. Even though I was not ambitious enough to want to go to the National Spelling Bee—I just wanted to win the bee at our school. I could beat my arch-enemy (死敌), Nathan.
Nathan thought he was a better speller than me, but he didn’t even study words. He just read tons of huge science and math books. I could say safely that Nathan and I had nothing in common except being good spellers, but since he was a good speller without even trying, it didn’t count. I bet if you gave Nathan a literature word like “denouement” (it took me FOREVER to remember that one), he’d be out on the first round.
注意:1. 续写词数应为150个左右;2. 请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
I went downstairs, only to find Dad was already up, reading a newspaper.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Finally came the contest.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Tianshui in Northwest China’s Gansu Province is sweeping social media with
This narrow province runs
Recently, many malatang restaurants
This food craze (狂热) has
4 . In a small town surrounded by the mountains, there lived a man named Samuel. He spent his days alone, tending to his garden and
Despite his lonely nature, Samuel couldn’t ignore the cries for help from the streets, so he went out bravely,
He found an elderly couple huddled (缩成一团) in their cold, dark home,
As morning came, the storm stopped.
Weeks passed, and rumors (谣言) got around about the
But the
A.involving | B.avoiding | C.minding | D.appreciating |
A.in relief | B.in sight | C.in difficulty | D.in place |
A.determining | B.hesitating | C.bothering | D.agreeing |
A.managing | B.whispering | C.struggling | D.demanding |
A.finding | B.seeking | C.inspiring | D.ensuring |
A.seated | B.lost | C.stuck | D.engaged |
A.foundation | B.knowledge | C.opinion | D.aspect |
A.guided | B.caused | C.designed | D.undertook |
A.Hopeful | B.Concerned | C.Grateful | D.Curious |
A.gathered | B.danced | C.proceeded | D.calmed |
A.light-hearted | B.mysterious | C.quick-minded | D.awesome |
A.guidance | B.hope | C.heart | D.help |
A.fighter | B.god | C.superman | D.hero |
A.story | B.truth | C.promise | D.news |
A.belonging | B.humor | C.touch | D.beauty |
5 . Emotions (情感) are an essential part of how we experience our world. We humans can express emotions by telling others how we feel—but what about animals? Since animals cannot tell us how they feel, how can we know whether they experience emotions? Researchers have only started to find out truth about this in the past few decades.
The most easily noticeable reaction of an animal to an event is how it changes its behaviour. Humans often change facial expressions and gestures depending on whether we experience a pleasant event or not. If you look at your friends’ faces, you can often very quickly tell if they are happy, fearful, or angry. Animals show these characteristic facial expressions as well! So-called grimace scales (表情量表) for horses, pigs, sheep, rats, and cats have already been developed. For example, changes in ear position, the amount of visible eye white, and tension in the chewing muscles can indicate different levels of pain or fear in animals.
Another example of animal behaviour that is linked to emotions involves vocalisations (发声), such as grunts, bleats, and moos, which can indicate stress in many species. We know this is true for humans too: imagine you are singing a song in front of many people; your voice might get shaky if you are nervous or experiencing stage fright. Researchers have found that the vocalisations of pigs, goats, and cows also change and get less harmonious when these animals are under stress. For example, when they are separated from the group, they produce the sound that indicates negative emotions
The evidence of emotions in animals might encourage us to rethink the environments in which we keep the animals that are under our care—on farms, in zoos, or in our houses. If we can better understand how animals interact and react to their environments, we can ultimately improve these environments, and thus improve human-animal relationships. It must be our ethical goal to decrease the negative emotions these animals experience, as well as to increase their experience of positive emotions.
1. What is the text mainly about?A.The behavioural habits of animals. |
B.The emotional lives of animals. |
C.A study of human-animal relationships. |
D.Ways to improve emotional intelligence of animals. |
A.To make out how animals truly feel. |
B.To determine whether animals are hungry. |
C.To develop animals’ ability to show emotions. |
D.To measure different levels of happiness in animals |
A.Vocalisations are a clear sign of animals’ loneliness. |
B.Vocalisations are unique and natural in animals. |
C.Humans can get benefits from the vocalisations. |
D.Animals’ stress can be shown through the vocalisations. |
A.It makes the ties between humans and animals better. |
B.It helps animals adapt to new environments quickly. |
C.It decreases the positive emotions that animals experience. |
D.It improves the interaction between animals and their environments. |
6 . Zhangye Danxia Landform, also known as Zhangye Danxia Geological Park or Rainbow Mountains, is a fantastic geological wonder located in the province of Gansu, China. It is world-famous for its unique and vibrant rock formations, which display a magnificent range of colors, looking like a vivid palette (调色板) of a painter’s masterpiece.
This extraordinary landscape stretches across an area of approximately 510 square kilometers and is part of the larger Zhangye National Geopark. The Danxia Landform is characterized by its towering cliffs, deep valleys, and steep, multicolored rock formations, which have been shaped by millions of years of geological processes.
The distinct coloring of the rocks is the result of various mineral deposits (沉淀物) that have been exposed through erosion over time. Layers of different colored sandstone and minerals, such as iron and trace minerals, create an amazing visual display of intense reds, oranges, yellows, greens, and blues. The interplay of light and shadows on these majestic formations adds to their surreal beauty, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Zhangye Danxia Landform has gained global recognition and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its awe-inspiring beauty attracts tourists, photographers, and nature enthusiasts from around the world, who come to witness this geological phenomenon and immerse themselves in the wonderful natural surroundings. Beyond its scenic charm, the landform also holds significant scientific value. Geologists and researchers are drawn to the site to study its unique geological formations and solve the mysteries of its creation. It serves as a living laboratory, providing valuable insights into the Earth’s geological history and the forces that shape our planet.
Zhangye Danxia Landform stands as a piece of evidence of the remarkable beauty and diversity found in nature. Its vibrant colors, dramatic landscapes, and geological significance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a profound connection with the natural world and a fascinating visual experience.
1. What has caused the formation of Zhangye Danxia Landform?A.The wisdom of the natives. | B.The supernatural forces. |
C.The ecological uniqueness. | D.The geological changes. |
A.Difference. | B.Interaction. | C.Comparison. | D.Separation. |
A.It enjoys widespread recognition only in China. |
B.It plays a key role in tourism and scientific research. |
C.Its multicolored rocks are the products of extreme weather. |
D.It is a must-see destination for its old and fascinating stories. |
A.To call on people to protect Zhangye Danxia Landform. |
B.To give tips on how to appreciate Zhangye Danxia Landform. |
C.To introduce the beauty and wonder of Zhangye Danxia Landform. |
D.To clear up long-held misunderstandings of Zhangye Danxia Landform. |
1.比赛的目的;
2.比赛情况;
3.你的感想。
注意:
1.写作词数应为80左右;
2.请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
Dear Lucy,
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Yours,
Li Hua
Jackson Merle was exhausted (筋疲力尽的) . He had been knocking on door after door,looking for work, but no one would even listen to what he had to say. No one wanted to talk to him. He stood in front of the biggest house in the block. This was his last chance for the day.Every homeowner on the street had run Jackson off,without even listening to him,but maybe this one would be different? Jackson rang the doorbell. Within minutes a pretty young woman opened the door.
“Good morning,” she said cheerfully,“What can I do for you?”Jackson was heartened by her sunny smile and friendly attitude. “Good morning,” he said, “I’m a handyman (杂务工) , and I'm here to offer you and your family my services.” “What kind of work do you do?”she asked. Jackson answered,“I do some woodwork, painting and cabinet making. I fix small appliances and do some gardening, and my rates are very reasonable.” “Come on in,” the woman smiled, “I have a table with a wobbly (摇摆的) leg that needs fixing,and maybe you can paint my guest room?” Jackson couldn't believe his ears. He walked into the woman’s beautiful house,toolbox in hand.
First, he fixed the table, while the woman who introduced herself as Ruth-sat watching him work and chatting to him. Then he looked at the guest room. Ruth gave him money to buy paint so he could paint the guest room the next day. She also paid him twice what he’d asked for the table. Jackson said,“You've given me too much money!” Ruth told him firmly, “My daddy always told me to pay a fair price for a job well done, and that's what I'm doing!”
Over the next few weeks,Ruth’s neighbors were surprised to see the elderly man coming in and out of her house with his toolbox in hand. Somehow Ruth always found something that had Jackson coming back.
注意:1.续写词数应为150左右;
2.请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
One afternoon, Jolene, Ruth’s neighbor, decided to find out what was going on.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Jolene was moved by Ruth’s kindness and thoughtfulness.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________9 . Art is a way of using the human imagination to show expressive ideas or feelings. Now meet four types of the art to know it better.
A colorful expression from brushes
Artists use brushes and paints to create drawings on a big surface. And they can tell stories and make people feel different emotions. It is easy to find some well-known paintings in museums.
An important moment frozen in time
This is the art of taking photos or filming something with a camera. Photographers will capture (捕获) moments and create wonderful photos. And the photos are about some key moments to help people see the world from different views.
Performance art is a special art form.
A click of a mouse showing a world of beauty
Digital art is like painting and drawing, but using a computer or a software instead of a canvas or a paper.
A.A sound and visual art live on the stage |
B.A dance performance with classical music |
C.They are usually found in newspapers, magazines and on social media |
D.Digital art can be used for everything like movies and website design |
E.Artists use their bodies and voices to encourage people’s deep thinking in it |
F.Ludwig van Beethoven also became one of the most recorded musicians in history |
G.For example, Mona Lisa’s mysterious smile has become a famous image in the world |
10 . Discover Xiamen’s Four Must-Visit Attractions
Join us on a fascinating trip through Xiamen’s beauty and culture as we visit four famous places like Gulangyu Island and Nanputuo Temple, each showcasing the city’s rich history andscenic charm.
Gulangyu Island: A Romantic Escape
Discover the charming beauty of Gulangyu Island.The island is famous for its unique buildings and romantic atmosphere. Take a leisurely (悠闲的)walk along the narrow streets,feel the refreshing ocean breeze,and immerse yourself in the island’s rich culture.
Hulishan Fortress: Historic Sentinel by the Sea
Hulishan Fortress is a historic marvel in Xiamen. It offers a glimpse into the city’s military past. The fortress has impressive architecture (建筑风格)and a strategic location by the sea.This makes it an attractive site for visitors to explore. It has a rich history and cultural significance.Both locals and tourists cherish it for its unique charm and heritage.
Island Ring Road: Scenic Coastal Drive
Experience the coastal beauty of Xiamen on the Island Ring Road. Whether on foot,bicycle,or by car,enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and cityscape. Discover parks,sculptures,and beautiful gardens along this picturesque route.
Jimei School Village: Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
Explore Jimei School Village and witness the integration of traditional Chinese and modern architectural styles.This combination of tradition and innovation provides a glimpse into the development of education and culture in this unique village setting.
Each destination promises a unique experience, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
1. Which place is known for its romantic atmosphere and unique buildings?A.Hulishan Fortress. | B.Island Ring Road. |
C.Gulangyu Island. | D.Jimei School Village. |
A.Its military history and location by the sea. |
B.Its traditional and modern architecture. |
C.Its romantic atmosphere. |
D.Its education and culture. |
A.European-inspired architecture. |
B.Only modern architectural styles. |
C.Only traditional Chinese architecture. |
D.A mixture of traditional and modern architecture. |