1 . Human beings need interpersonal connection. But, in fact, learning how to let go of that pressure to be accompanied has unique upsides. Time alone allows you to reconnect with your own intentions.     1    

Start small. Figure out what you’d be most comfortable doing, whether it’s sitting at a local restaurant for dinner, or hitting up the bar, and do that.     2    

Bring a book or a journal.     3     When feeling you’re so alone and stressed in a cafe, you have an activity to engage in. Plus, the act of reading or journaling can direct your attention and help you tackle and calm such feelings.

Set your phone aside. Looking through social media or texting instantly takes your mind out of the present moment. Even if you’re not directly interacting with people while on your phone, you’re probably interacting with their thoughts or inputs.     4     This way you can let your body down-regulate and reset.

Do an activity you love. You can sign. up for an art class or workout program or volunteer group without anyone else you know.     5     And part of the full-circle joy of doing things completely for yourself is that it also brings you opportunities to meet new people, and form new, beautiful connections.

A．They’re helpful tools for beginners.

B．Here are tips for your self-acceptance.

C．It’s vital to tear yourself away from that.

D．Independence needn’t always equal privacy.

E．Ways of enjoying your own company are as follows.

F．Even so, it may feel awkward and strange to hang out alone.

G．Focus on that one outing as your single goal, and then another.

2 . The Let’s Activity Campaign

The Let’s Activity campaign aimed at preserving rivers is coming. You will board at Castle Wharf, Nottingham, England. Offer to join us now.

Booking

Arrive 15 minutes before the schedule time to ensure we can get started in a timely manner. The sessions are designed for adults and children of all ages to enjoy a new experience. Parents or guardians should book tickets in advance to participate in the campaign.

Cost

This campaign is free for all participants who are also not paid. However, if you fail to cancel and simply don’t show up on the day, you must pay the standard £20 administration fee, chargeable for each ticket booked.

Therefore, if your circumstances do suddenly change and you are no longer able to attend, you must cancel using one of these three mechanisms:

1. The preferred method is via the ticket booking system. You can find the link on your ticket.

2. You can also click here to send an email to us, and know more about details of the date, time, venue and participants in your email message. Don’t email if within less than 48 hours of the campaign. Instead, you’d better use option 1 above or option 3 below.

3. In case of an unforeseen emergency within 48 hours of the campaign, telephone the staff member, which we hope won’t happen.

Donate to Let’s Activity

As part of our work, the Let’s Activity campaign is a waterway charity to help everyone get out, get active and make their lives better by learning to boat. You can now support the work our teams do with families, and make a donation on our website for the environmental protection.

1. What do we know about the campaign?

A．It requires reservation.	B．It is chargeable to adults.
C．It is a 15-minute parent-child experience.	D．It requires individual administrative capability.

2. Which is the best way to cancel the campaign?

A．Sending cell phone messages.	B．Telephoning the staff member.
C．Emailing within 48 hours of the campaign.	D．Using the booking system linked on the ticket.

3. What is the main purpose of the last paragraph?

A．To call for a visit to rivers.	B．To call for volunteering work.
C．To encourage a donation on the spot.	D．To encourage children to learn to boat.

3 . I’m 19 years old and studying at college. I’m a(n) _______ student on campus. That was because my father once said to me, “Education is a _______ weapon, for one can overcome all difficulties of life using knowledge from books.” Since then, I’ve always encouraged myself.

I used to dislike learning. My parents, who had no college education, always _______ me to study, but I didn’t understand their _______ for my bright future. _______, time taught me that my parents were demanding of me because they expected me to live a good life.

Once I was _______ by my relatives in front of my father because of my poor academic performance at school. They also blamed me. They disliked me as I was the only child in their eyes who showed no _______ in studies. When people started to _______ my family, considering us ignorant, I couldn’t stand it anymore.

From then on, I _______ to study hard to make my parents respected. I tried to read books, which gradually became my hobby. My curiosity for reading never ________. It grew and enriched my mind with priceless knowledge. I also completed my homework on time. I ________ leaving any work for the next day. One of my teachers said, “ ________ leads to success.” I believed in it and formed a ________ of working regularly.

In fact, my parents always help me when I need them. I also help them do housework ________. My parents are my world, and they have taught me ________ values: self-discipline and responsibility.

1.

A．self-motivated

B．warm-hearted

C．fun-loving

D．easy-going

2.

A．worthless

B．horrible

C．powerful

D．temporary

3.

A．allowed

B．troubled

C．invited

D．pushed

4.

A．pity

B．cry

C．explanation

D．protection

5.

A．However

B．Therefore

C．Otherwise

D．Moreover

6.

A．understood

B．mistaken

C．valued

D．criticized

7.

A．involvement

B．interest

C．comment

D．cooperation

8.

A．uncover

B．acknowledge

C．disrespect

D．possess

9.

A．resolved

B．happened

C．failed

D．pretended

10.

A．approached

B．multiplied

C．improved

D．stopped

11.

A．risked

B．avoided

C．kept

D．began

12.

A．Regularity

B．Integrity

C．Freedom

D．Reputation

13.

A．party

B．habit

C．record

D．version

14.

A．on board

B．on purpose

C．in return

D．in case

15.

A．religious

B．commercial

C．political

D．moral

4 . For most of us, it's pretty easy to stand up for someone else.     1    . So how do you go from being everyone else' s advocate to learning how to stand up for yourself? These steps come from 16 years of coaching my clients.

·Define your boundaries

The definition of a boundary is a line that marks the limits of an area; it's both a line of containment (keeping you in) and a line of protection (keeping others out). Boundaries are not complaints, threats or demands.     2    . They are your rules for who,what,how and why you feel comfortable being close to someone else, helping others know who you are and how to interact with you.

    3    

The next time someone asks you for a favor, consider if you can afford to say yes. What I mean by this is, think about what this “yes” will cost you in terms of finances, energy, health and time. Do you have an excess of these resources that you can give after you've already cared for yourself?

·Stop people-pleasing

People-pleasing is often motivated by fear. It's easy to fall into the habit because you tend to get praised for it. People-pleasing pleases people. But its effects over a long period of time can be disastrous.     4    

·Ask for what you want

It's not easy to figure out what you want. But the more time you spend getting clear on your own

desires, the easier it is to defend what you need. Your desires are the forces that lead you into life's unknown frontier.     5    . Stand up for them and yourself.

A．Get comfortable saying no.

B．Think twice before refusing.

C．They deserve attention, energy and respect.

D．You will not end up exhausted and depressed.

E．To break this habit, start leaning toward courage and inner strength.

F．They are guidelines that help to clearly define what needs to be protected.

G．But when the tables are turned, we often feel guilty for giving priority to our own needs.

5 . Scientists are embracing artificial intelligence (AI) — from developing “self-driving” laboratories to replacing human participants in social-science experiments with robots. Many disadvantages of AI systems have been discussed. In an article published in Nature this week, social scientists say that AI systems carry a further risk: that researchers perceive such tools as possessed of superhuman abilities when it comes to objectivity, productivity and understanding complex concepts.

Scientists planning to use AI “must evaluate these risks now”, write co-authors Lisa Messeri and Molly Crockett. The article is a warning about what could be lost if scientists embrace AI systems without thoroughly considering such risks.

Messeri and Crockett examined around 100 papers and books, published mainly over the past five years. From these,they put together a picture of the ways in which scientists see AI systems as enhancing human capabilities.

In one “vision”, which they call AI as Oracle, researchers see AI tools as able to tirelessly read and digest scientific papers. In another vision, called AI as Arbiter, systems are perceived as evaluating scientific findings more objectively than do people. In a third vision, AI as Quant, AI tools seem to perform better than the human mind in analyzing data sets.

Messeri and Crockett also predict risks that arise from these visions. One is the illusion (幻觉) of explanatory depth, in which people relying on another person-or，in this case，an algorithm (算法) — for knowledge are likely to mistake that knowledge for their own. Another risk is that research becomes skewed (偏颇的) towards studying the kinds of things that AI systems can test.

If you’re a scientist planning to use AI, you can reduce these dangers through a number of strategies.All members of the scientific community must view AI use not as unavoidable for any particular task, but rather as a choice with risks and benefits that must be carefully weighed.

1. What is a further risk that AI systems carry according to paragraph 1?

A．They perform better than humans.

B．Researchers overestimate their capabilities.

C．They are able to understand complex concepts.

D．Researchers use them in self-driving laboratories.

2. What does paragraph 4 mainly tell us about AI?

A．Its benefits in analyzing scientific data.

B．Its roles in helping doing scientific research.

C．Its strengths in digesting scientific papers.

D．Its advantages in evaluating scientific findings.

3. What is the illusion of explanatory depth?

A．Finding the accuracy in algorithmic.

B．Denying the mistake of algorithmic.

C．Accepting the complexity of algorithmic.

D．Considering algorithmic insights as personal understanding.

4. What’s the author’s attitude towards the use of AI in scientific community?

A．Cautious.	B．Approving.
C．Unclear.	D．Intolerant.

6 . Are you longing for a travel experience full of iconic attractions, which is not only immersive but also intimate? Offering attentive guides, unique experiences, and the perfect combination of exploration and friendship, small group travel is redefining the holiday experience.     1    .

●Explore uncharted but safe territories. Take a journey to breathtaking destinations that might otherwise be frightening to explore independently.     2    , ensuring you don't miss out on the essence (精髓) of each destination. It can also offer exciting exclusive experiences. With smaller coaches and personalized schedule, you'll deep into local cultures and taste authentic flavors at every turn.

●Be guided by the local guides.     3    . Small group tours are led by knowledgeable guides who not only speak the language but also offer insights into the culture, history, and hidden treasures of each region. These guides ensure your journey is enriched with authenticity and discovery.

●     4    . Whether you're travelling alone or with friends, small group travel fosters a sense of community. With groups typically including fewer than 30 people, you'll have the opportunity to form meaningful connections and create lasting memories with fellow adventurers. From shared experiences to newfound friendships, it cultivates a sense of friendship that enhances the overall holiday experience.

●Start your adventure with peace of mind. Small group tour operators take care of everything. With convenience at the forefront, you can explore outside your comfort zone, knowing that every detail has been thoughtfully arranged.     5    , offering assistance in case of emergencies and give you peace of mind through licensed and bonded services.

A．Bond with like-minded travelers

B．It is a unique experience to visit a packed place

C．Take a look below to find what you can do on the trip

D．Travel alone to find more opportunity to enjoy yourself

E．A small group tour offers access to off-the-beaten-path places

F．You can experience the true essence of a destination with their guidance

G．Besides, reputable small group travel companies ensure your protection and security

7 . 阅读下面材料，根据其内容和所给段落开头语续写两段，使之构成一篇完整的短文。

Even now, I can still recall the moment when my dream finally came true during my last year of school.

The dream of becoming a member of my school cabinet took shape when I was just seven. Those school leaders were my role models as they always gave instructions, conducted activities and represented us to give speeches on school issues. So, for the next few years, I tried so hard to make it a reality.

When I was twelve, I entered my name. I prepared my election speech and then, on the afternoon that we all gave our speeches. Everybody voted. I was hopeful and I prayed that I would win. The next morning,at the school assembly I waited anxiously for my name to be announced. I was all set to realize my dream.

One by one, the names were announced and the whole school cheered as the girls with the highest votes walked up to the stage. I closed my eyes and waited for my name to be called. The last name was read and my name wasn't among them. I was totally brokenhearted. My dream had been shattered, and I just wanted to cry my heart out.

Then the reality struck me: I hadn't had a chance to win. I wasn't well known and wasn't pretty. Girls across the school hardly knew me. I just did not have what it took to win a school election. I was so depressed because I had nurtured this dream for a long time.

As I cried in my room that evening, I suddenly decided I was going to stop seeing myself as a failure. I decided that I would stand for elections again in my final year at school-and I would win.

I recognized that my competitors had a lot of things in their favor. Their personalities were their biggest strength.However, I had good grades, and I was friendly and helpful. And my biggest strength was the faith I had in myself to be a good leader.

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。

That evening, I began my election plans a whole year in advance.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The day after the election, every minute seemed like an hour while I waited for the results.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

8 . 阅读下面短文，在空白处填入1个适当的单词或括号内单词的正确形式。

The Classic of Tea,     1     (write) by Tang Dynasty “tea saint” Lu Yu, rates     2     unique kind of tea, not made from the green leaves commonly used, as superior. The leaves were purple and shaped like bamboo shoots. They are known     3     Zisun (or “purple bamboo shoots”) and grow primarily in the mountains of Changxing county, Zhejiang province.

Zheng Funian, a national-level representative inheritor (继承人) of the Zisun tea-making technique, grew up near Guzhu Hill, the    4     (origin) site of the Tang Dynasty Imperial Tea Factory. When he was 17, his parents started to teach him how    5     (process) tea.

    6     (believe) that tea can “embody the tea maker’s soul”, he has always processed the leaves by hand, rather than by machine. Most of his fingers were hurt until he gradually     7     (master) the roasting process.

As the local government has been engaging tea experts to revive (复兴) the Zisun tea processing technique,     8     for centuries was preserved only in texts, Zheng began experimenting back in the 2000s. It took him eight years     9     he successfully produced the compressed tea.

In 2017, he     10     (make) a national-level inheritor of Zisun tea processing, and last year, Zisun tea processing techniques were inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

9 . Cecily Eklund has always adored her baby dolls, especially when she faced brain cancer surgery and MRI scans at the age of six. However, the metal components in her dolls prevented her from ________ them into the MRI machine.

To _________ this, Cecily and her mom set out on a creative journey. Using MRI-safe materials, they made a special doll, which became Cecily’s _________ during the long imaging appointments and provided her with _________ and support.

________, Cecily and her mom made more dolls, called “Blessing Babies”, for other sick kids. The dolls were _________ in that they had no facial features, so they can have any emotion. This _________ struck a chord (引起共鸣) with many and the dolls became an instant hit. Cecily decided to _________ more, donating some to children’s hospitals and selling others to fundraise.

In response to the high demand, they _________ other doll makers to work alongside them. Soon, doll makers worldwide also began _________, sending boxes of their handmade dolls to _________ the cause (事业).

Cecily’s initiatives _________. She began selling handmade puppies, ________ organizing toy collections and fundraising events for multiple charities. So far, she has raised more than $200,000.

Today Cecily calls herself a brain-cancer survivor and childhood cancer awareness fighter, but she is still ________ closely by her medical team. When asked for advice on successful fundraising, she emphasizes the importance of _________. “You don’t get poor by giving,” Cecily says. “Because you always get something back.”

1.

A．bringing

B．kicking

C．knocking

D．pushing

2.

A．escape

B．prove

C．copy

D．address

3.

A．boss

B．teacher

C．doctor

D．companion

4.

A．comfort

B．knowledge

C．wisdom

D．convenience

5.

A．Surprised

B．Inspired

C．Moved

D．Confused

6.

A．formal

B．unique

C．normal

D．casual

7.

A．color

B．shape

C．design

D．size

8.

A．receive

B．order

C．buy

D．make

9.

A．took over

B．took on

C．took up

D．took in

10.

A．purchasing

B．inspecting

C．contributing

D．promising

11.

A．challenge

B．support

C．introduce

D．control

12.

A．collapsed

B．stopped

C．sustained

D．grew

13.

A．in addition to

B．in regard to

C．in contrast to

D．in response to

14.

A．guarded

B．followed

C．matched

D．suspected

15.

A．generosity

B．intelligence

C．curiosity

D．bravery

10 . A man whose right hand was cut in an operation at the age of 20 is now able to feel the temperature of the objects he touches with his prosthetic (假体的) hand, thanks to a new device integrated in it.

The device, called MiniTouch, was developed last year. It is made by two components, an active thermal (热的) sensor which measures temperature and generates realistic signals which are then sent to the second component, a thermal stimulator (刺激器).

It was first tested as a standalone device at the prosthetic centre of the Italian Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work (INAIL) near Bologna. INAIL’ s engineers integrated the thermal sensor on the index finger (食指) of the prosthetic hand of one patient, and the thermal stimulator into the connection point that secures the robotic hand to the forearm, in such a way that it touched a point on the remaining arm that aroused thermal feelings in the person’s a prosthetic index finger-the typical feeling of still having the finger.

During eight experimental sessions over six months, the participant could identify objects with three different temperatures or made of different materials. He could also determine whether he was touching a prosthetic arm or a real arm while unable to see, and grasp and move blocks of different temperature in order to classify them from the hottest to the coldest.

“The richness and realism of the feelings provided to wearers is key to the effectiveness of a prosthetic hand in replacing a natural hand in daily activities,” says Emanuele Gruppioni, who led the clinical tests.

“As a next step we will work with a new prosthetic hand, developed in cooperation with the Italian Institute of Technology, to improve the MiniTouch integration and have a light and wearable thermal prosthetic hand,” Gruppioni concludes.

1. What’s the function of paragraph 1?

A．To present a problem.	B．To make a comparison.
C．To introduce the topic.	D．To clarify a concept.

2. What does the underlined word “it” in paragraph 3 refer to?

A．The thermal stimulator.	B．The connection point.
C．The index finger.	D．The thermal sensor.

3. What does MiniTouch enable the patient to do when tested?

A．Change the materials of the objects.	B．Integrate a thermal sensor on his real arm.
C．Feel the temperature of the objects.	D．Send thermal information to engineers.

4. What is the best title for the text?

A．A man who has a prosthetic had	B．MiniTouch that consists of two components
C．A prosthetic hand that feels the heat	D．Engineers who made a wearable prosthetic hand