1 . Self-image is a mental blueprint or picture of ourselves - our own conception of the sort of person we are. Self-image is built up from our own beliefs about ourselves, the beliefs formed from our past experiences, successes, failures, relationships, etc.
Once a belief about ourselves is programmed into our minds, we act upon it as if it were true. Our positive beliefs are developed when we do something successfully or are recognized by people around us. Our negative beliefs are also developed when we give in to negative ideas. When we fail in something, some of us conclude that we are unsuccessful, unwanted, condemned, etc.
Thus, self-image is the key element in determining whether our internal guidance system functions for success or for failure. It sets the limits of our accomplishments, It determines what we can and cannot do. Self-image creates your character and your personality as well.
You may think the concept of self-image being an internal guidance system was got from the thought of a trained psychologist. In reality, the idea came from Maxwell Maltz, a plastic surgeon who was more interested in helping people by giving them emotional facelifts, rather than just physical ones.
“Expand the self-image and you expand the ‘area of the possible’,” said Dr Maltz.
Maltz determined that the human brain and nervous system function as a kind of goal-seeking device similar to that used to guide airplanes on automatic pilot. Maltz’s idea is simple: each one of us is capable of taking control of our self-image and programming our automatic guidance system for success. According to Maltz, all behavior is defined by the self-image and no real behavioral change can take place unless the self-image is changed.
1. According the passage, our self-image is build up from the following except__________.| A．experiences | B．successes | C．hope | D．failures |
| A．The formation of self-image. | B．The function of self-image. |
| C．The definition of self-image. | D．The advantages of self-image. |
| A．A doctor. | B．A chemist. | C．A psychologist. | D．An environmentalist. |
| A．It is used to guide airplanes. |
| B．It has an effect on our behavior. |
| C．It can be controlled by our nervous system. |
| D．It can serve as a goal-setting device. |
2 . See if you can understand these words that have won an award for the funniest joke at a UK arts and culture festival: “I’m not a fan of the new pound coin, but then again, I hate all change.”
Did you get it? The UK started to use new one pound coins that year, so the joke contains a pun (一语双关) on the word “change”.
Britain is known for its dry sense of humour, so this is a classic British joke where you have to think about it to understand it.
When a British person tells a joke, they’ll probably say it without a laugh, or even a smile, and it’ll probably be said when you least expect it.
Americans, on the other hand, enjoy being more straightforward. In a country filled with people from so many backgrounds, jokes in the US tend to be about cultural, racial and gender differences. In the US, humour can be a way to help people overcome their differences.
A great example of this comes from an American comedian, Chris Rock, who once said, “You know the world is going crazy when the best rapper is a white guy, the best golfer is a black guy, the tallest guy in the NBA is Chinese.” His words prove a point about stereotypes. After all, when it comes to humour, the best jokes are the ones where we can laugh at ourselves.
1. Why is the joke in the first paragraph funny?| A．It has won an award at a UK arts and culture festival. |
| B．It uses a pun on the word “change” |
| C．You have to think about it first. |
| D．It is a classic British joke. |
| A．They may tell a joke about gender differences. |
| B．They may tell a joke about their new coins. |
| C．They may tell a joke showing a dry sense of humour. |
| D．They may tell a joke when you least expect it. |
| A．Good rappers are usually white. |
| B．White people are good at playing golf. |
| C．Chinese people are taller than Americans. |
| D．Humour can help overcome cultural differences. |
| A．The British don’t like all change. |
| B．It is not difficult for us to understand a classic British joke. |
| C．American humour helps people overcome their differences. |
| D．Americans never laugh at themselves. |
3 . How to Travel with Your Friends Without Hating Them
The only thing better than a vacation with friends is a well-planned vacation with friends.
Not sure how to plan a trip with friends?
Choose friends you get along well with. You’ll be spending a lot of time with your travel companions, so think of people who have similar general travel habits and are flexible and relaxed.
Decide on a date. Ask your friends when they can take time off from school or work.
Discuss a budget early on. Ask your friends to be open about how much you’re each willing to pay for the trip between travel, accommodation, food and entertainment costs.
Pick a destination wisely. A key step in planning a fun trip with friends is picking the perfect destination. Big cities are an excellent pick, as there will likely be activities to suit everyone’s interests.
| A．Make your reservations for flights and accommodations. |
| B．All trips are meant for adventure, relaxation, and enjoyment. |
| C．Who you choose to travel with can, make or break your holiday. |
| D．Decide in advance how you will share expenses with your travel mate. |
| E．With careful preparation, your group will stay energized through the whole trip. |
| F．Narrow down preferences to a date and duration that works for the most people. |
| G．However, if you’re hoping to see nature, you may need to travel to more remote locations. |
4 . David Willard has been checking the grounds of Chicago’s lakefront exhibition center for dead birds for 40 years. One morning this year he found something horrible; Hundreds of dead songbirds, so thick they looked like a carpet. Nearly 1,000 songbirds died during the night after crashing into the center’s windows. According to bird experts, the result was caused by a combination of migration conditions, rain, and the exhibition hall's low lights and walls with windows.
Birds don’t see clear glass and don’t understand it’s a deadly barrier. When they see plants or bushes through windows, they head for them, killing themselves in the process. Birds that migrate at night, like sparrows, rely on the stars to navigate. Bright lights from buildings both attract and confuse them, leading to window strikes or birds flying around the lights until they die from tiredness—a phenomenon known as deadly light attraction.
But even in the best of circumstances, spring and fall are dangerous times for migrating birds. When they migrate over major cities, the risks increase. Hundreds or thousands of dead birds may appear on city streets after a wave of migrants has passed through. In all, about 100 million to 1 billion birds die each year in North America from crashing buildings.
The good news is that people can greatly reduce the danger with some simple methods. Window strikes are easily preventable, said Anna Pidgeon, an expert at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Architects can design windows with markings in the glass that birds can easily recognize, she said. People can paint their windows as well.
1. What caused songbirds to die according to Paragraph 1?| A．Bad migration conditions. | B．Human behaviors. |
| C．Crashing into plants. | D．A combination of external factors. |
| A．Birds dying due to being attracted by strong lights. |
| B．Birds getting attracted to bright lights and then getting lost. |
| C．Birds getting attracted to lights and then attacking each other. |
| D．Birds flying around the dim lights until they die from exhaustion. |
| A．Puzzled and unbiased. | B．Negative and suspicious. |
| C．Approving and supportive. | D．Compromising and critical. |
| A．To promote the use of dim lights in buildings. |
| B．To inform readers about bird migration patterns. |
| C．To explain the dangers birds face during migration. |
| D．To discuss the work of David Willard at the exhibition center. |
5 . Officials of Detroit, Michigan, have equipped apiece of road with new technology designed to charge electric vehicles (EVs) on the path. The roadway is meant to serve as a demonstration project for the technology, which could be expanded to larger road systems.
The system uses a series of copper wires placed underneath the road. These wires have the ability to send electricity through a magnetic field to charge an EV’s battery. Charging can happen while the car is driving or sitting above the equipment. Elect re on says the electric road system is safe for people and animals walking over it and does not harm drivers.
The technology was created by Electreon, a developer of wireless charging solutions for EVs. Stefan Tongur, Electreon’s vice president of business development, told The Associated Press EVs require special equipment to receive the wireless signal. “The technology is smart,” Tongur said, and “knows who you are...”
The electrified road stretches about one half-kilometer. It will be used to test and improve the technology in preparation for wider releases. Tongur said the project aims to “demonstrate how wireless charging unlocks widespread EV adoption, addressing limited range, grid (电网) limitations, and battery size and costs.” He looks forward to a future in which, in his words, “EVs are the norm, not the exception.”
Michigan’s Department of Transportation (DOT) signed a five-year agreement with Electreon to develop the roadway charging system. Offcial shave said they plan to build another electrified stretch of road in another part of the city. Michigan transportation officials say the wireless-charging roadway project has helped position the state and city of Detroit as national leaders in EV technology. “In Michigan, we want to stay ahead of the curve,” Michigan DOT Director Bradley C. Wieferich told the AP.
1. What is the new technology intended to do?| A．Provide power for EVs. | B．Demonstrate a project. |
| C．Expand road systems. | D．Improve EVs’ batteries. |
| A．People and animals may get an electric shock near it. |
| B．EVs are charged through contact with its copper wires. |
| C．It charges EVs only if they stay still on the equipment. |
| D．A special device is needed to pick up its wireless signals. |
| A．Develop more smoothly. | B．Make progress in the industry. |
| C．Take the lead in the field. | D．Achieve a goal ahead of time. |
| A．Skeptical. | B．Tolerant. | C．Favorable. | D．Objective. |
6 . How to Change Limiting Beliefs
Have you ever felt trapped by thoughts like “I’m not good enough” or “I can’t achieve that”?
1. Know your limiting beliefs
We’re often not even conscious of our limiting beliefs.
2. Collect the evidence
Once you’ve discovered what your limiting beliefs are, start collecting evidence that disproves the limiting beliefs. If you think about this properly, you’ll find that there is a lot of evidence out there.
3.
Repetitive thoughts form our beliefs and so it’s essential to start making your internal dialogue positive, rather than negative. Over time this will become automatic, and you will start to form healthier beliefs about yourself.
4. Take action
Taking action is the single most important tool when it comes to making any sort of change in your life. Knowledge, without action, is worthless. Taking action to change your life is a choice.
| A．There’s no quick fix |
| B．There is no substitute for taking action |
| C．Trade your limiting belief for an empowering statement |
| D．You’ve just been unconsciously ignoring it your whole life |
| E．For each limiting belief you have, turn it into a positive affirmation |
| F．These are known as limiting beliefs, stunting (阻碍) our potential |
| G．Because we believe them to be a reality, we don’t recognize them for what they are |
7 . Qinghuaci ware is one of the most well-known cultural products in China, with items made in Jingdezhen, Jiangxi province, considered the best in quality.
Cai Wenjuan’s parents and grandparents made qinghuaci here. Cai’s childhood memories are connected to ceramics, which led her to find her passion in painting as a girl. Even after graduating from Jingdezhen Ceramic University in 2006, she didn’t think about inheriting the family craft and became a saleswoman at a ceramic studio in Beijing back then.
After two years of selling ceramics, Cai was captivated by the blue-and-white ware. She quit her job and returned to her hometown in late 2008, starting a two-year learning experience of painting blue-and-white porcelain items. In 2012, Cai established her own ceramics-making company and two years later, she built the ceramics-themed brand China Story.
Pushing the boundaries of the age-old practice, Cai puts blue-and-white patterns, inspired by Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) porcelain, on daily objects such as phone cases, umbrellas, pillows and so on. So far, more than 1,000 kinds of cultural products have been sold by her company. “The charm and story behind the blue-and-white china can be told through the way the young generation feels connected,” Cai says, adding that china can be stylish.
As a provincial-level inheritor of the blue-and-white china-painting, she devotes herself to passing on the craft by combining the ancient charm with modern aesthetics. On video-sharing platform Douyin, Cai has posted more than 60 clips to popularize the craft and the culture behind it. “One day, I hope there are traditional Chinese elements everywhere in daily life,” Cai says. Like Cai, more young artists are considering a career in china-related businesses in Jingdezhen, with the local government rolling out supportive measures for a variety of startups in the field.
1. What caused Cai Wenjuan to be fond of painting?| A．Her gift. | B．Her curiosity. |
| C．Her being tired of selling goods. | D．Her childhood experience. |
| A．shocked | B．attracted | C．embarrassed | D．challenged |
| A．Considerate. | B．Creative. | C．Strict. | D．Generous. |
| A．It needs checking. | B．It needs culture. |
| C．It has a bright future. | D．It has a limited platform. |
8 . No matter what your holiday wish is, you’ll find a home here in the Charleston area.
The Spectator Hotel — Holiday Cheers with Spectator Spirit
Toast to the good life at The Spectator Hotel, a favorite place during the holidays. All things are festive and bright this season. Enjoy a holiday cocktail carefully made by our award-winning mixologist (调酒师), a nightly $10 credit (积分) to The Bar, and a his & hers set from Brackish — one Gatsby bow tie and one pair of Delores Stud Earrings.
The Restoration Hotel — Spread Cheer Christmas Tree Package
The Spread Holiday Cheer Package includes a decorated tree in room along with a souvenir, Charleston book and holiday cookies. Dreidels, menorahs, and other items are available upon request.
Wild Dunes Resort — Sleigh (滑雪橇) the Holidays
Sleigh the holiday season with a getaway to Wild Dunes Resort! Make your Charleston holiday memorable with our exclusive offer (独家优惠), a fantastic getaway to Charleston’s island resort and receive the following inclusions: accommodations for two nights, two seasonal welcome cocktails at Coastal Provisions, Oyster Catcher, or Sippin’ Santa (only available in December), and $50 resort credit.
The Tides at Folly Beach — Light Up the Holidays
Unwrap the gift of pure holiday magic with our Light Up the Holidays package. Embrace the spirit of the season as you experience the charming Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park, a beloved annual tradition. Sip and enjoy the delights of the holidays with two insulated tumblers (水杯) perfect for enjoying steaming hot chocolate on cold nights. Our thoughtful package also includes a souvenir and a sweet treat, filling your getaway with memories to cherish.
1. What is served in both The Spectator Hotel and Wild Dunes Resort?| A．Earrings. | B．Cookies. | C．Cocktails. | D．Chocolate. |
| A．The Spectator Hotel. | B．The Restoration Hotel. |
| C．Wild Dunes Resort. | D．The Tides at Folly Beach. |
| A．Yearly. | B．Weekly. | C．Monthly | D．Daily. |
| A．A storybook. | B．A travel guide. |
| C．A health magazine. | D．A sports website. |
Welcome to Park Plaza Nottingham. Our number one priority will always be the safety and wellbeing of our guests and team.
Go digital!
Our online check-in and check-out are fast and easy. Use your smartphone as your digital key and head straight to your room, message us with any requests 24/7, and order food online with the comfort of your room. Check your stay with our contactless services — simply scan the OR code (二维码) at the bottom of the letter or visit qr.pphe.com/n.
Housekeeping Service.
For your comfort and safety and to reduce contact points, guests staying for more than one night will only have their rooms cleaned every three days. We have placed extra facilities (设施) in your room for your convenience. If you wish to have your room cleaned more often or require towels, please do let us know.
Food &Drinks.
Buffet breakfast is available in Chino Latino. Served from 6:30 a. m. until 10:30 a. m. Monday to Friday and 7:00 a.m. until 11:00 a. m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Chino Latino Restaurant is open Thursday — Saturday from 3:00 p. m. until late.
Chino Latino Bar is open Sunday — Wednesday from 3:00 p. m. until 10. 30 p. m. and Thursday — Saturday from 3:00 p. m. until late.
Gym.
The onsite Gym is located on the 1lth floor. In order to get the gym facilities, you will need to collect a key from the reception desk (前台). Please note that the maximum capacity of our gym is two people at any given time.
If you wish to speak to us, we are available 24/7. Please message us using the QR code below or dial the reception on your in-room phone.
Best regards,
Park Plaza Nottingham
1. What does “Go digital!” refer to in Paragraph 2?
| A．The hotel sells smartphones. | B．All the keys can be ordered. |
| C．Various things can be done online. | D．Guests can have comfortable rooms. |
| A．The room will be cleaned every two days. |
| B．The room will not be cleaned during the stay. |
| C．The hotel will offer extra contact points. |
| D．The hotel will send you to the 11th floor. |
| A．6:00 a. m. | B．10:00 a. m. | C．10:40 a. m. | D．11:00 a. m. |
| A．In the shop. | B．In the office. | C．In the hospital. | D．In the hotel. |
10 . ALL CHINA TOURS
From the former Imperial capital of Beijing to the cosmopolitan(世界性的)streets of Shanghai, to the brilliant Yangtze, touring in China has so much to offer and so many sights and sites to enjoy.
China Tibet Discovery Tour
The 13 days China Tibet tour is a pleasant journey full of discovery, cultural experience and sightseeing. Your discovery starts from the great cities Beijing and Xi’an with profound(深远的)history and culture and extends to the mysterious Tibet plateau for the dramatic landscape and minority culture; stops one day at Chengdu for the universal-loved giant pandas.
China Highlights Tour
Take the kids to China when they are out of school! This specific-designed 13 days China tour is based on the interest of the families especially the children’s. From the amazing Great Wall, you will head to the biking tours on the ancient city wall, look at the magical terra cotta army; then cycle through the countryside of Yangshuo and learn Chinese painting, finally with excitement in Disneyland Hong Kong before flying home. All the fun and educational activities will give the kids life-time memory.
Guizhou Miao and Dong Tribes Adventure Tour
8 days Miao and Dong tribes adventure tour showcases Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture(自治州)-the Southeast Guizhou. It is the top choices for travelers who are interested in ethnic minority’s culture. Spend several days with local people to see their original life style, embroidery(刺绣)dress and shiny silver accessory(配饰).
Hangzhou Tour
This 5-day tour will full y embrace Hangzhou which is now in the spotlight as the main host of the 19th Asian Games. It is one of the seven ancient capitals of China. The Hangzhou government also offers free public bikes for tourists to travel around the West Lake. The parks around the lake are all free to visit. You can see The Xixi Wetland Park, Leifeng Pagoda, etc. And there’s a lot to be discovered!
1. Which tour is family friendly?| A．China Tibet Discovery Tour |
| B．China Highlights Tour |
| C．Guizhou Miao and Dong Tribes Adventure Tour |
| D．Hangzhou Tour |
| A．Educational activities will teach kids embroidery. |
| B．Home-stay hotel offer chances to experience the original lives. |
| C．The week-long tour can take travelers close to nature. |
| D．Tourists can enjoy national costume in Guizhou. |
| A．Free bike rentals. | B．Discounted tickets. |
| C．Convenient location. | D．Paid tourist guides. |
