1 . Do you know Ikaria? It’s a beautiful island in Greece, which is named after Icarus, a young man in Greek mythology (神话) who flew too close to the sun and finally fell into the sea.

This island may look like any of the other Greek islands, but there is an important difference. People on Ikaria generally live on average ten years longer than those in the rest of Europe. According to studies, Ikarians have much lower rates of cancer and heart disease. They remain physically active and well into their nineties. Ikaria is one of the five so-called “Blue Zones”. It’s a name given to the five regions in the world where people live longer.

Scientists have expected to find out Ikarians’ secret to living longer over the last several years. One discovery is that Ikarians have a healthy diet, preferring simple and natural food. Besides, the midday rest here has been proven to improve the function of the heart. And Ikarians’ relaxing lifestyle and strong family and social ties also benefit their long life.

1. What’s the Chinese meaning of the underlined phrase in paragraph 1?

A．因……而出名

B．名字叫做……

C．以……命名

D．起源于……

2. What makes Ikaria different from other islands in Greece?

A．Natural beauty.	B．The longer life of Ikarians.
C．A historic story.	D．Its different location.

3. What does the writer want to tell us in the last paragraph?

A．The importance of living a healthy lifestyle.

B．The importance of family and society.

C．The research of some scientists.

D．The reasons for living longer.

2 . How writing has helped my life

Writing has and is changing my life and these are some of the ways it has greatly helped me over the years.

My writing got better.

Writing did make me become a better writer.     1     It’s almost impossible to keep doing something over and over again without getting better at it, so when I say writing has improved my writing skills, it would be foolish to disagree.

I feel much more confident with words.

Writing helped me build a good relationship with the English language. Before, I had to check and recheck every word I wanted to use in an article to be sure I was using it correctly.     2     And I’m proud to say that I can use words effectively without having to run to a dictionary every second.

My imagination and speed grew.

The more I wrote, the more my imagination grew so that everything around me started becoming an inspiration for an article.     3     I also went from someone who struggled to come up with a 450-word essay, to someone who could put together a 1,000-word essay in less than 30 minutes.

    4    

Just the act of putting down some words and creating a work of pure imagination gives me inner joy and peace. Whenever I feel down, I write.

Finally ...

Writing is a skill that anyone could acquire if they put hard work into it. So next time you’re lonely or just bubbling with anxiety, try writing.     5     Just pour out your heart on your paper or screen.

A．My mental health has improved.

B．Writing helps me recover memories.

C．Now, that weight is off my shoulders.

D．We all know the saying “Practice makes perfect.”

E．I’ll never stop developing this beloved craft.

F．Don’t worry about being perfect because no one is.

G．I can look at a pencil and come up with a 500-word essay about it

3 . In 2024, the number of people fancying digital nomadism (游牧) has continued to rise. Here are the best places in the world for you to be a digital nomad.

San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

San Juan del Sur in Nicaragua is a good destination when it comes to digital nomads in search of a place that integrates work and leisure. With connectivity and Internet speeds ideal for most remote tasks and a warm and sunny climate that starts in December, it’s a great choice for those who enjoy being outside. The town also offers a supportive community as well as plenty of co-working spaces and cafes.

Queenstown, New Zealand

As well as plenty of activities surrounded by stunning scenery, Queenstown offers high-speed Internet access and lots of co-working spaces. The weather in December is also perfect for exploring the landscapes via the likes of bungee jumping, hiking and even skiing. Plus, there’s a huge focus on local produce in Queenstown which makes the culinary (食物的) experience just as memorable.

Pokhara, Nepal

Pokhara, an engaging choice for those in search of peace and natural beauty, is cool and dry in December, which means it has the perfect condition for working outdoors and exploring the Himalayan landscapes. There’s a growing community of digital nomads too — thanks to reliable Internet connections and an affordable way of life.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

This Mexican coastal resort is a favorite with holidaymakers and digital nomads for its beaches, culture and affordable lifestyle. There’s a prosperous community of digital nomads in Playa del Carmen, fostered by numerous networking events, co-working spaces, and social gatherings. There’s also a great Internet connection! December is dry in Mexico which makes it an ideal time for beach activities. Plus, the diverse and lively nightlife is likely to only add to Playa del Carmen’s appeal.

1. Which of the following might be preferred by adventure seekers?

A．San Juan del Sur.	B．Queenstown.
C．Pokhara.	D．Playa del Carmen.

2. What could distinguish Playa del Carmen from other resorts?

A．Various seaside activities.	B．Distinctive local food.
C．Breathtaking landscapes.	D．Numerous co-working spaces.

3. What do these four resorts have in common?

A．They suit remote workers well.

B．They enjoy warm climate in December.

C．They guarantee visitors colorful nightlife.

D．They provide strong community support.

4 . While most states have laws that prohibit relocating wild pigs, the practice still happens, and is one of the main factors contributing to the recent increase in pig numbers across the United States. “That’s why we did the study. All these pigs are being moved around and we really have no idea what’s happening with them,” said James Beasley, senior author of a new study.

Researchers made the study at the Savannah River Site outside Aiken, South Carolina. Because the area covers more than 310 square miles, Beasley said the researchers could move pigs to new locations within the area and still feel confident they were in an unfamiliar place. South Carolina law prohibits moving wild pigs unless they remain in the same area.

After catching a pig and fitting it with a GPS tracker, the researchers moved it to another location, usually at least 10 miles away, and tracked its movements over several months. The trackers showed the pigs were able to cover a lot of ground within a short time. Over a seven-day period, on average, the wild pigs would make sweeping paths across the landscape, seldom returning to their original drop-off point and often finally ending up several miles away.

The researchers also found that not long after being released, the wild pigs hooked up with other pigs in the area—sometimes joining an existing social group of pigs and other times creating new groups of relocated individuals.

In one example, two pigs from the same group were released more than a mile apart. “They started moving in different directions. Then, one seemed to cross the path of the other one and found that pig,” Beasley said. “They have this really extraordinary social bond.” More study is needed to understand how these social bonds form, but it’s clear that wild pigs are willing to accept unrelated individuals within their social group.

Infamous for the damage they cause to crops and landscapes, the research shows the potential for problems when wild pigs are relocated and the potential risks of them spreading diseases such as African swine fever when they are moved around the landscape. Beasley said, “This type of information is important to developing management plans for responding to new introductions of pig populations.”

1. Why did the researchers carry out the study on wild pigs?

A．To study their sudden population increase.	B．To improve their survival after relocations.
C．To manage their daily activities.	D．To understand their movement behavior.

2. What did the trackers find out about the wild pigs?

A．They came back to their familiar places.	B．They explored the new area a lot.
C．They stayed near their release locations.	D．They moved in the same direction.

3. What does the example tell us about the wild pigs?

A．They were very lonely.	B．They were very curious.
C．They were very sociable.	D．They were very competitive.

4. What is Beasley’s attitude to relocating wild pigs?

A．Concerned.

B．Indifferent.

C．Uncertain.

D．Supportive.

5 . How to cancel plans at the last minute

Make a phone call

If you’re canceling at the last minute, consider giving the person you’re trying to contact a call rather than a text. “I know a call can be scary because sometimes you don’t know exactly what to say,” says friendship expert Danielle Jackson. “    1    , which can make a cancelation easier to accept,” she adds.

Apologize upfront

    2    . Apologizing demonstrates that you respect the other person’s time and energy and understand that your cancelation may affect them. Jackson also suggests acknowledging your original commitment and how you came to the decision to cancel.

    3    .

Lies, even small ones, can damage a friendship more than simply starting with the truth. If you really feel like you have to stretch the truth, keep it general rather than inventing a story by saying something like, “I’m so sorry this is last-minute, but I’m unfortunately not going to be able to make it,” Jackson advises.

Expect and accept disappointment

Your friend may have been really looking forward to your time together. This may have been the only plan he has all the week, or the one that he has prepared for a long time.     4    . This is a normal reaction. But remember, a heartfelt apology can go a long way!

Offer to reschedule first

Once you’ve explained yourself, try to find an alternative time to reschedule.     5    . Jackson thinks that it’s now your job to do all the planning and find a solution that works for both of you.

A．Before canceling plans, assess the situation

B．Remember to start with the words “I’m sorry”

C．Either way, be prepared for a bit of a letdown

D．No lying even though you have no real excuse

E．Don’t wait and let the other person launch a new plan

F．It’s also important not to over explain when canceling plans

G．However, that’ll give the person a chance to hear your tone and sincerity

6 . Generations of parents have told their children to practice their musical instruments. They have good reason for it: learning an instrument is not only associated with better educational attainment but also cognition (认知) and even intelligence scores in children. But does this musicality translate to better cognition (thinking) later in life?

A recent study showed that musical people had better memory and executive (决策的) function than those with less or no musicality. This makes sense as continued engagement in cognitively stimulating activities, such as playing an instrument, should result in continued brain health benefits.

Singing is a very popular musical activity as it allows joining musical groups, such as choirs. But does singing provide the same cognitive benefit as playing an instrument? According to the study, singing can result in better executive function but not memory, suggesting that playing an instrument has additional brain health benefits. However, when singing is done in choirs, there is good evidence that being engaged in social activity is good for our brain health.

Many people might remember the famous “Mozart Effect”, which was based on a 1993 study showing that when students were played Mozart, they scored higher on intelligence tests. Sadly, the current study found having played the recorder for three years at primary school might not have that big an impact on our cognitive performance. So, passively listening to music doesn’t seem to provide any cognitive benefits.

Playing an instrument or singing seems to have benefits to our brain health in aging, according to the study. What is yet to be established is whether this would also help prevent future cognitive decline or dementia. Still, considering the overall cognitive and social benefits of learning an instrument or singing in a choir, it might be worth engaging in such cognitive stimulation as we age. Our parents would be proud of us.

1. Why do parents intend their kids to play an instrument?

A．They suppose it can broaden the kids’ horizons.

B．They design the kids to be musicians in the future.

C．They expect to equip the kids with critical thinking.

D．They think it can improve the kids’ study and thinking.

2. Where could singing differ from playing an instrument?

A．It has better memories.	B．It has social benefits.
C．It requires more energy.	D．It shapes brain development.

3. What is the author’s purpose of mentioning Mozart Effect?

A．To show cognition relies on active engagement.

B．To display the real role that music plays in study.

C．To list similarities between music and study.

D．To demonstrate how to play a recorder properly.

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

A．Why Do People Prefer Singing?	B．What Musicals Can Do for You
C．How Music Boosts Your Brain	D．Where Shall We Find Musicality?

7 . Bridport Prize

The Peggy Chapman-Andrews First Novel Award

The Novel Award is open to writers aged 16 and over living in Britain and Ireland and British writers living overseas.

IMPORTANT: All entries are judged anonymously(匿名地). Please do not include your personal information in the document or the file name, otherwise it will be disqualified.

General

Entries can be on any subject in any style or form.

Entries must be submitted online or by post. No email submissions.

Entries must be in English.

Do not add cover or title pages.

Do not send illustrated work.

Entries can be withdrawn by logging into your submittable account. Entry fees will not be refunded.

Deadline

The deadline date for entries is 12 midnight (UK time) on 30 July 2023.

Length

8,000 words maximum, 5,000 minimum taken from the opening chapter.

Fees

£24 per novel. There is no limit to the number of novel submissions.

Format

Entries must be typed in Arial 12 pt black font, double-spaced with numbered pages and the novel’s title on every page. Save as a Microsoft Word document(. doc or. docx) or PDF file with the novel title as the file name. Please do not include your name in the file name as this will lead to disqualification. The maximum allowed file size is 2MB. Include the word count for the submission on the top right first page.

Results & Awards

A prize-giving event will be held at Bridport Arts Centre, Dorset for the winner, runner-up and three Highly Commended winners on 22 October 2023. Full results and the Judges’ Report will be published on the website that afternoon.

If you want to learn more about the Novel Award, please contact kate@bridportprize.org.uk.

1. Which of the following will result in disqualification?

A．Writing a novel of 6,000 words.	B．Resubmitting your entry by post.
C．Including illustrations in your entry.	D．Forgetting to add the cover page of your entry.

2. What should you do to meet the format requirements?

A．Name your file with your name.

B．Ensure your file size is 2MB at most.

C．Add the word count to every page of your entry.

D．Include the title of your entry on the top right first page.

3. What do we know about the Novel Award?

A．It charges £24 per competitor.

B．It demands a specific subject.

C．Its winners will be awarded prizes on the website.

D．Its Judges’ Report will be available on 22 October 2023.

8 . While many high-achieving students will spend their summers volunteering, working part-time jobs, or interning (实习), another great opportunity available to high schoolers is summer programs.

Experiences in Architecture
Dates: July 7 — 11
Location: University of Chicago

This workshop is perfect for high school students in architecture and design. In order to prepare them for a career in architecture, the two-week program promises to provide the study of the discipline at the college level while introducing them to life on a college campus.

Immersion (沉浸) into ASL
Dates: June 15 — 22 (overnight); June 24 — 29 (day camp)
Location: Gallaudet University

This program is designed for students who are either beginning or intermediate (中级的) signers and want to become more fluent. Participants will work with advanced ASL (American Sign Language) instructors and their assistants who are similarly deaf or hard of hearing, learn about deaf culture and history, and explore the nation’s capital. Students may participate in a residential or day camp program.

Conway School of Nursing
Dates: July 15 — 19
Location: George Washington University

This one-week program hopes to introduce students to careers in nursing. Taught by the nursing teachers and aided by upper-class nursing students, participants will learn about the moral values guiding the work.

High School Drama Institute
Dates: July 8 — 26
Location: Columbia University

Though this intensive three-week program is super-selective and a limited number of students are chosen to participate, it is a perfect fit for students with a passion for the performing arts. Participants develop acting skills focusing on voice, movement, and gesture, strengthen their dancing and singing skills, and learn what it takes to prepare for college auditions (试演).

1. What will Experiences in Architecture offer to participants?

A．Interning positions.	B．Pre-college courses.
C．A career in design.	D．On-campus tours.

2. Who might help with Immersion into ASL?

A．Experienced teacher assistants.	B．Residential ASL programmers.
C．Staff members with hearing problems.	D．Starters and Intermediate ASL learners.

3. Which of the following might be hard to attend?

A．Experiences in Architecture.	B．Immersion into ASL.
C．Conway School of Nursing.	D．High School Drama Institute.

9 . You can study a wide range of topics in an art and design school, from history to sculpting, theater to fashion. Due to the variety, learners remain interested, and a challenging curriculum encourages them to think outside the box. The top art schools in Hong Kong are listed below.

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (HK PolyU)

The school benefits from its location as a link between the East and the West, enabling its students to improve their creative skills while also gaining a distinctively global cultural awareness. Practical skills are thought to be a crucial component of the problem-solving process, which students must practise through practical workshop activities. The workshop facilities give students the chance to become familiar with the techniques needed for perfect making.

The University of Hong Kong (UHK)

Study subjects that interest you and select from a large range of beginner arts courses to learn about new themes. You have the freedom to create a course of study that is ideal for you thanks to the program’s adaptable curriculum and inviting dual (双的) degree choices. You will choose your own combination of courses during your first year from a wide range of basic arts and humanities courses.

The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)

The Faculty (系) of Arts at CUHK has always been essential to the university’s commitment to combining Chinese with Western traditions, with bilingual teaching, and with cutting-edge interdisciplinary (跨学科的) research.

Vocational Training Council (VTC)

The multidisciplinary program here exposes students to a wide range of modern visual arts mediums and actively involves them in the larger cultural sectors. And the program promotes a dynamic climate where interdisciplinary arts projects grow via cooperation and creativity within the arts sector. Graduates are also encouraged to pursue careers as professional artists.

1. Which school can you choose to learn to make things?

A．The Hong Kong Polytechnic University.	B．The University of Hong Kong.
C．The Chinese University of Hong Kong.	D．Vocational Training Council.

2. What can students do at the University of Hong Kong?

A．Obtain a global cultural awareness.	B．Choose courses suitable for them.
C．Perform cutting-edge interdisciplinary research.	D．Pursue careers as professional artists.

3. What do the four schools have in common?

A．They all carry out bilingual teaching.

B．They all offer interdisciplinary courses.

C．They all aim to develop innovative talents.

D．They all provide a dynamic learning atmosphere for students.

10 . This is the last Christmas that Faye and Matthew have spent in their house, which has already been sold. Faye and Matthew Gooding and their five young sons appear to have perfect lives. For the couple themselves, however, this “materially perfect world” was lacking in something—so now they are giving up all their possessions to travel around the world with their children. Most of their belongings have been given to their neighbors. Faye said, “It is a relief to get rid of so many possessions. Thankfully, our parents understand and support us.”

“I hesitated for a while because some friends think Faye and I are mad to give up so much. When we told the older boys, they were so excited that they were going to have so much time as a family. It made me realize the amount of toys or material possessions can’t replace time spent with our children. They’ve had to give away so many toys, bikes and books. My wife Faye was so determined to keep to our plan,” said Matthew.

They will leave this month and plan to start their travels in Sweden where they have friends. Faye said, “My older boys plot where we go next but we hope to see Europe and over two years travel as far as Japan, America, Bali and Thailand. We don’t plan to hire any tour guides. We just depend on a compass and local people to move in the right direction.”

Faye, who posts on Instagram as a mother of five boys, added, “It is a risk because we are giving up so much. I, however, even plan to quit my job after the travel. We can’t wait to spend more time with our sons without the stresses of everyday routines. We don’t know what will happen, but we do know if we didn’t do this we would always regret it.”

1. How will Faye and Matthew cover the travel costs?

A．By selling their house.	B．By doing part-time jobs.
C．By asking parents for help.	D．By borrowing from neighbors.

2. What is Faye’s attitude towards traveling around the world?

A．Worried

B．Excited

C．Uncertain

D．Firm

3. Who will decide where the family will travel?

A．Faye

B．Matthew

C．The children

D．The tour guide

4. From which is the text probably taken?

A．A travel guidebook

B．A life journal

C．A paper

D．A diary