1 . It is claimed that, on average, one in five of school-aged children in Britain have a first language other than English. These languages are often labelled as “community languages” with some of them identified as the “languages for the future” in terms of supply and demand. For instance, the top five “languages for the future” are Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, French, Arabic and German. Yet, numerous reports point out, support for the community languages in the UK education system, from early years to further and higher education, is seriously lacking.

Part of the problem is the labelling. Languages that are part of the school and university curriculum are usually called “modern languages”. The classification of which language is a modern language for schools, and which is a community language seems somewhat unreasonable and largely a result of the history of language teaching in this country. It is also connected to Britain’s relationship with and attitudes towards the rest of the world. Languages of immigrants from outside Europe are community languages, whereas those from within Europe are modern languages.

It is high time to critically reflect whether it is still necessary and useful to categorize languages. The language curriculum for schools and universities should be broadened to include community languages. We must not forget that many of the so-called community languages in Britain are major national and international languages. We need to have a global perspective on languages. The inclusion of community languages in the education system can also have the added benefits of strengthening community ties by valuing the languages of minority groups.

In the meantime, a word of caution is needed as for the identification of languages “languages for the future”. It is usually done based on the roles specific languages play in the UK’s future prosperity, security and influence in the world. While that maybe an admirable objective, it could potentially lead to a rank of usefulness among different languages, with some being regarded as more useful, and therefore will receive more institutional support than others. However, a Global Britain needs to invest in upgrading and expanding its multilingual capacity. A person who knows more than one language can get more benefits in their future life. And that should begin by showing respect for the multilingual talents in different communities.

1. What can we learn about community languages in Britain?

A．They don’t obtain sufficient support.

B．They don’t have distinctive elements.

C．They are recognized based on preference.

D．They are emphasized in higher education.

2. Which of the following languages can be labelled as a “modern language”?

A．Korean.

B．Arabic.

C．Mandarin Chinese.

D．Danish.

3. What can be inferred from the last paragraph?

A．A Global Britain needs the identification of languages.

B．The UK’s future prosperity relies on “languages for the future”.

C．Confirming the usefulness of different languages deserves a try.

D．Multilingual capacity will likely contribute to one’s future life.

4. What’s the author’s attitude towards the classification of languages in Britain?

A．Disapproving.

B．Indifferent.

C．Tolerant.

D．Favorable.

2 . In a heartwarming rescue operation off the coast of Houston-Galveston, a U.S. CoastGuard team discovered an unexpected passenger during a routine inspection of shipping containers. The team, led by Petty Officer 2nd Class McMahon, were astonished when they heard barking and scratching coming from one of the containers.

As they cautiously opened the container, they were greeted by the sight of a small, furry face — a dog trapped inside the dark space. The dog seemed remarkably calm and happy to be liberated from her limited quarters.

“As soon as we opened it, we could see the little dog’s face poking out,” McMahon said. “She just seemed happy more than anything, to be out of that dark space and in the arms of people that were going to take care of her.”

Further investigation by Coast Guard officials revealed that Connie had been trapped in the container for at least eight days, deprived of food and water. The container, filled with deserted vehicles intended for overseas sales, had likely originated from a junkyard.

“So based on that, they think that the dog most likely was in a junkyard, in a car. And that how she accidentally got put in the container,” Chief Petty Officer Corinne Zilnicki said.

Grateful for being in the right place at the right time, McMahon expressed the urgency of the situation. “It would take at least another week to get to where she was going and two weeks without food or water. I don’t think she would have made it,” he said.

Forever Changed Animal Rescue has taken her in, diligently working to nurse her back to health and prepare her for adoption.

1. What does the underlined word “liberated” in paragraph 2 mean?

A．Chained.

B．Released.

C．Protected.

D．Inspected.

2. Where did Connie probably stay before being loaded on a ship?

A．At a deserted parking lot.	B．Off the local coast.
C．In an unusable vehicle.	D．In a limited container.

3. What might happen to Connie in the future?

A．Being sold overseas.	B．Starving to death.
C．Living with a family.	D．Being trapped in a junkyard.

4. What can be a suitable title for the text?

A．An Unexpected Passenger	B．A Touching Rescue
C．An Abandoned Dog	D．A Remarkable Team

3 . A new study by Park, the UCLA economist, shows that the relationship between heat and human behavior extends well beyond violence.

Park’s research involved students in New York City sitting for standardized subject-specific high school exams at the temperatures varying from 15℃ to almost 37℃. Then, the research team looked at scores for almost 1 million students and about 4.5 million exams from 1999 to 2011.The analysis of the scores confirmed that students who take the exam on an approximately 32℃ day are 10 percent less likely to pass a given subject than if they had taken that exam on a 24℃ day.

Park and colleagues also looked at how hot temperatures might affect students’ performance across the country. This time, they zoomed in on the PSAT, a standardized exam administered to high schoolers in October that measures college readiness and provides a pathway to scholarships. They evaluated 21 million scores from nearly 10 million students who took the exam at least twice from 1998 to 2012.That way, the researchers could compare how students performed relative to themselves. The team also related exam scores with daily temperature data from around 3, 000weather stations across the country, as well as information about each student’s access to air conditioning. They found students in schools without air conditioning scored lower than would have been expected.

That sort of performance decline doesn’t just happen in academic settings; it extends to the workforce too. Tewari, whole d another team, observed workers from roughly one to nine years, depending on the industry. They discovered when temperatures climbed beyond 35℃, average daily production in the weaving factory dropped by about 2 percent and in the garment sewing factory by as much as 8 percent, compared with days under 30℃.

Based on Tewari’s discovery, the Park’s team scaled up to industries across America. By observing workers in different factories and analyzing national survey data, they found that productivity started dropping when average daily maximum temperatures rose above 20℃.The researchers’ calculations suggest that average annual output will decrease by 2.1 percent if average daily temperatures warm by 1℃ overcurrent conditions; annual gross domestic product, or the value of goods and services produced in a single year, would drop by 3 percent

1. What are the Park’s research findings mainly based on?

A．Data analysis.

B．In-depth interviews.

C．Case study.

D．Literature review.

2. What did Park’s team do when focusing on the PSAT?

A．They evaluated how hard students prepared for the PSAT.

B．They provided a pathway for 10 million students to scholarships.

C．They considered the factor of students’ access to air conditioning.

D．They compared the performances of students across the world.

3. Why does the author mention Tewari’s research?

A．To conduct a comparative experiment.

B．To give more theoretical foundation.

C．To argue against the existing research.

D．To further support the study findings.

4. What does the text mainly talk about?

A．The impact of heal on students’ exam scores.

B．The effect of temperature on human behavior.

C．The influence of heat on a declining workforce.

D．The link between heat and industry production.

4 . Composting At Home

Any gardener can benefit from adding nutrients and organic matter to the soil to help plants grow strongly and vigorously.     1    . Check out these simple steps to starting your own compost pile.

●Combine green and brown materials

    2    . This forms the “green layer” that provides plenty of carbon for the microorganisms to breakdown. Anytime you do yard chores, collect dried plant materials like fallen leaves wood shavings, grass and plant clippings and dump them into the compost bin. This forms the “brown layer”, which provides lots of the nitrogen necessary for the composting process.

●Water your compost pile

Usually rainfall is enough to keep it damp, but in a dry summer you might have to spray it with water. Don’t add too much water or the microorganisms in your compost pile will become waterlogged and be drowned.     3    

●    4    

Air is vital to the composting process, so it’s important to mix the ingredients in together, and never press them flat. You should turn the pile periodically with a garden fork and keep it damp. This step provides oxygen, and the dampness assures the survival of the microorganisms, which need moisture to live.

●Feed your garden with compost

When the compost pile no longer gives off heat and becomes dry, brown, and crumbly, it’s fully cooked and ready to feed to the garden. Add about 4 to 6 inches of compost to your flower beds and a thick layer to the top of pots at the beginning of each planting season.

Composting at home is easy and environmentally friendly.     5    . With some kitchen scraps, yard debris, and some patience, you’ll have the most beautiful garden in the neighbourhood.

A．Stir your compost pile regularly

B．Harvest your finished compost

C．Plus, it’s a treat for your garden

D．If this happens, your pile will breakdown instead of compost

E．Almost anything you chop in the kitchen can go in the compost bin

F．One of the most popular and beneficial substances to add is compost

G．Once your pile is setup, maintaining it takes just a few minutes each week

5 . If you want to help kids get creative and use their imaginations, a family trip to one of the best kids’ museums in Sydney will do the trick!

Powerhouse Museum

The Powerhouse Museum is the perfect place for inquisitive kids to have a hands-on, interactive experience. This kids’ museum in Sydney boasts a unique and diverse collection of objects that spans history, science, technology, and programs designed to engage children and young people. Plus, it’s FREE.

Sydney Tramway Museum

The Sydney Tramway Museum stands as a cherished homage to the city’s iconic tram network. From the elegant wooden carriages of the early 20th century to the sleek and modern designs of later years, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through the evolution of tram transport. There, you’ll have a chance to ride on one of the historic trams during your visit!

Newcastle Museum

The Newcastle Museum provides a fascinating insight into the region’s history, culture, and industry. Engage with interactive displays, learn about the city’s coal mining heritage, and discover exhibitions that highlight the diverse stories of its people. It has an exciting calendar of events that change regularly and include free exhibitions and kids’ activities.

Questacon, Canberra

Generations of Australians is r have enjoyed the delights of this fascinating science and technology museum, which opened in 1988. Highlights include feeling the force of an earthquake, seeing lightning illuminate the room and peeking inside a beehive. Younger kids will enjoy Mini Q—a custom-built play space for children up to six years old.

1. Which museum offers the rail ride experience?

A．Questacon, Canberra.	B．Powerhouse Museum.
C．Newcastle Museum.	D．Sydney Tramway Museum.

2. What do Powerhouse Museum and Newcastle Museum have in common?

A．They set activity calendars for visitors.	B．They help explore how the locals live.
C．They offer some interactive fun.	D．They give visitors an insight into mining.

3. What can visitors do at Questacon, Canberra?

A．Learn the cultural heritage.	B．Experience natural phenomena
C．Enjoy fascinating collections.	D．Engage in some space games.

7 . Four Females Of Empowerment And Success

Given that the world has largely operated as a male-dominated society for most of human history, it comes as no surprise that women have faced lots of obstacles to succeed. But fortunately, times are changing. These four women overcame incredibly difficult barriers that enabled them to leave an everlasting mark.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf: The First Female Head of State in Africa

When Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was elected president of Liberia in 2006, she made history by becoming the first female head of an African nation. Throughout her 12 years as president, she did a lot to help rebuild civil war-torn Liberia's economy and infrastructure, and was even the 2011 winner of the Nobel Peace Prize.

Benazir Bhutto: The First Female Prime Minister of Pakistan

Although Pakistan is a country where men traditionally hold power, this didn’t stop the voters from electing Benazir Bhutto as their prime minister, a first in the Muslim world. Among her contributions were championing women’s rights and improving social conditions for those struggling the most.

Jessica Cox: The World’s First Armless Pilot

The fact that Jessica Cox was born without arms didn’t stop her from achieving things that most people with arms are incapable of doing: namely, learning to fly an airplane. She did this by using her feet, which was how she performed other everyday tasks such as driving and typing! In becoming the world’s first licensed pilot without arms, she served as a powerful advocate for people with physical disabilities.

Katherine Johnson: The Mathematical Space Genius

Thanks to the 2016 film Hidden Figures, countless people are now familiar with Katherine Johnson’s amazing story. An employee at NASA who played an important role in the first moon landing, Johnson’s mathematical talents earned her the nickname "the human computer".

1. What did Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Benazir Bhutto have in common?

A．Winning a Nobel Prize.	B．Urging the equality of women rights.
C．Being the first female political heads.	D．Contributing to the economic recovery.

2. How was Jessica Cox different from other females?

A．She devoted herself to space exploration.	B．She struggled to gain access to education.
C．She was the first female to fly an airplane.	D．She inspired people with physical disabilities.

3. Who rose to fame through a film?

A．Katherine Johnson.	B．Benazir Bhutto.
C．Jessica Cox.	D．Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.

8 . By experiencing the sensations of the reality around us, we create a subjective understanding of what reality is. Language came into being with the development of mankind. It requires the use of more than one of the basic five human senses, which shows that language is a complex process that brings huge power along with it. This power is so strong that it can demonstrate that language can influence the way we think. Language can be an amazing tool for change, both positive and negative.   

Language can completely change our perception of time. The changed perception of time isn’t the only way language affects how we think. Our sense of self is also significantly changed, especially if a person is bilingual (双语的). Depending on which language a person who is bilingual is using, his sense of self changes. The differences may even become so great as to change his personalities.

Word teaching plays an important part in education, so to expand language is to expand the ability to think. We can see this in children, whose thinking develops hand in hand with language. It helps a great deal to increase their “word power” by learning new words in order to develop new ideas and new ways of thinking.        

The increase in “word power” extends to those who lack the sense of hearing, thanks to the modern invention of sign language. Since the beginning, sign language has allowed deaf people to become fully literate. Whether we are deaf or not, language transforms experience and connects us to the past as well as the future. Be mindful of how important language is to our perception of reality and all its various aspects, and we can empower ourselves beyond our present limitations and expand our awareness.

1. What is the relationship between language and senses?

A．Opposite.

B．Correlative.

C．Independent.

D．Competitive.

2. What does paragraph 2 highlight about language?

A．Its role.	B．Its formation.
C．Its changes.	D．Its differences.

3. How can children’s thinking ability be developed according to the text?

A．By enlarging their vocabulary.

B．By learning about their limitations.

C．By changing their ways of speaking.

D．By transforming their past experiences.

4. Which of the following is the best title for the text?

A．Why Does Language Connect Us Closely?

B．When Should We Achieve Language Skills?

C．How Does Language Influence Our Thoughts?

D．What Should We Do to Learn Language Well?

9 . Vertical (垂直的) farming involves using vertically piled layers and other innovative resources to help your crops grow.     1     You get to grow your plants while using the small space at home. Below are some benefits of vertical farming for small house owners.

Reduce water usage. Watering a vertical garden is easy, simple, and uses less water. If your plants are grown in a traditional way, you’ll need lots of water to keep up with your plants’ growth.     2    

Save space. As a small, house owner, space is a big concern. However, vertical farming ensures that you can create a garden in your home and fully enjoy the experience.     3     So, if you aim to save space in your home and still have a garden, vertical farming is perfect.

    4     Vertical farming is mainly done indoors and entirely depends on you to provide the best conditions. With commitment, you can continuously ensure consistent food production despite the seasons.

Cut down on chemicals and pesticides. Vertical gardens will not require you to invest in pesticides and chemical fertilizers to keep your plants alive. In addition, insects will not have easy access to your plants since you’ll be gardening in a controlled environment.     5    

A．Increase food production.

B．Produce food consistently.

C．Having a garden means you need to work with the space available.

D．It comes in handy without causing any inconvenience to your living arrangements.

E．However, if you invest in vertical farming, your water usage will dramatically drop.

F．So the food grown is organic and safe for consumption making it an excellent choice.

G．It enables you to take full advantage of walls and spaces that would otherwise stay useless.

10 . A team of physicists at the University of Edinburgh, working with an infection and immunity specialist, has, via experimentation, validated a theory to explain why paint dries at the same rate regardless of humidity (湿度) levels.     

Generally, paint should dry faster on an outdoor fence on a dry day than when it is humid because evaporation (蒸发) occurs faster when the air around a liquid source is drier. But evidence suggests this is not the case for paint and some other liquids. Chemist Salmon and his colleagues developed a theory to explain why. They suggested it is because large molecules in the liquid are pulled to the surface during evaporation, forming a “polarization layer” that prevents evaporation, and by extension, drying. In this new effort, the research team worked to test this theory.

The researchers drilled five holes into a short cylinder (圆柱体) and inserted glass tubes in a horizontal position — each was then sealed in place. They then added a quantity of PVA, a kind of chemical substance, into the cylinder, which they placed on a scale. They poured a thin layer of oil on top of the liquid to prevent surface evaporation. The final touch involved placing an air flow box over the top of the cylinder to allow for controlling humidity levels. The team then ran multiple 17-hour trials to determine evaporation rates, using the scale to measure how much liquid evaporated from the tubes at different humidity levels, ranging from 25% to 90%.

The researchers found that as expected, evaporation rates remained constant for approximately three hours. But then, rates plummeted, as was theorized by Salmon, regardless of humidity levels. The evaporation rate didn’t decrease as humidity increased during the initial three hours. However, the theory only appeared to hold for humidity levels up to 80% — at rates higher than that, evaporation did slow down, which the team suggested was likely due to some other forces.

The researchers suggested their work could have medical applications as recent research efforts have shown that respiratory droplets (呼吸道飞沫) tend to form skins similar to those seen in the experimental equipment.

1. What is Salmon’s theory aimed at proving?

A．The link between evaporation and drying time.

B．The connection between humidity and dryness.

C．The structure of the “polarization layer” on paint.

D．The impact of humidity on the drying rate of paint.

2. What is paragraph 3 mainly about?

A．The test result.	B．The post-test evaluation.
C．The research prediction.	D．The experimental process.

3. What does the underlined word “plummeted” in paragraph 4 mean?

A．Fell.

B．Kept.

C．Disappeared.

D．Accelerated.

4. How do the researchers find the study?

A．It is tentative.	B．It is effortless.
C．It is promising.	D．It is controversial.