1 . “What do you mean by this phrase? It’s incorrect and adds nothing to the sentence. Omit (省略).” Professor Jones’s critical feedback on my paper hurt me when I first read it. I scanned his comments for a “Good job!” or “I love this idea,” but they were nowhere to be found.

Everyone likes warmth and encouragement, but purely positive affirmations (肯定) don’t communicate what can be improved. Research conducted on Character Lab Research Network finds that direct, useful feedback requiring students to revise their own work is more effective. For Professor Jones, this looked like a note at the end of another paper: “I’m sure things will improve as the term and year wear on.” However, feedback that does the work for a student—correcting a misspelled word, rewriting a sentence—can signal a teacher’s low expectations.

When kids see comments that suggest what needs to be changed, they come to realize they can do things on their own and become more independent learners. As a bonus, this kind of feedback lets students know that their teacher believes in them.

As for me, I was benedictory for Professor Jones’s pointed criticism which let me know that he took me seriously. He was expecting me to do better, and the detailed comments scrawled (潦草地写) on every page gave me the tools to improve. Teachers can add affirmations to their feedback as long as it’s not the only thing they’re doing.

Don’t confuse warmth with promoting a growth mindset. Being nice isn’t the same as showing someone you believe they can improve. So give detailed feedback that sets young people up to take charge of their own learning. For example, instead of rewriting a sentence, say: “This is a run-on sentence. Try reading it out loud and add punctuation in places where you naturally take a breath.” Ask worth-exploring questions that inspire students to think about their approach, then let them revise on their own. When it comes to writing, the easiest path isn’t always the best one.

1. How did the author initially feel about Professor Jones’s feedback?

A．Happy and motivated.	B．Upset and disappointed.
C．Indifferent and unconcerned.	D．Confident and encouraged.

2. What is the key aspect of effective feedback mentioned in the article?

A．It should be brief and to the point.	B．It should be warm and encouraging.
C．It should be written at the end of the paper.	D．It should be up to students to fix their own work.

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

A．Responsible.

B．Generous.

C．Regretful.

D．Grateful.

4. What should teachers do when checking student’s paper according to the text?

A．Give students general praise.	B．Rewrite sentences for students.
C．Provide students critical support.	D．Show students corrected assignments.

2 . The award-winning documentary “Feeding Tomorrow” explores the American food system’s shortcomings and the urgent need for change. Directed by Oliver and Simon English, the film dives deep into the complex web of issues surrounding food, climate change, and agriculture, leaving viewers with a clear realization of the challenges ahead.

At its core, “Feeding Tomorrow” raises fundamental questions about humanity’s relationship with the planet and the consequences of our consumption patterns. As the global population reaches up to 10 billion, the film shows the serious reality that our current methods of food production are unsustainable. With agriculture already occupying half of the habitable land and consuming 70% of freshwater resources, the harm on the environment is reaching critical levels.

The documentary reveals the interconnectedness of food, climate, and health, weaving together narratives from diverse voices in the fields of farming, health, and education. Through the stories of innovators like Mark Shepard, Clare Fox, and Lisa McDowell, “Feeding Tomorrow” highlights the urgent need for systemic change.

One of the central themes of the documentary is the importance of regenerative farming practices. By promoting biodiversity and topsoil growth, regenerative agriculture offers a promising path towards sustainability. The film emphasizes the need to transition from conventional, monoculture (单一) farming to more overall approaches.

Moreover, “Feeding Tomorrow” shows the significance of adopting plant-forward diets and reducing meat consumption. With animal agriculture being a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation (恶化), the documentary advocates for a shift towards more sustainable dietary habits.

Ultimately, “Feeding Tomorrow” serves as a cry for collective action and social change. It challenges viewers to reevaluate their relationship with food and embrace sustainable practices that benefit both people and the planet. The documentary reminds us that the power to shape a better future lies in our hands. In the words of Mark Shepard, “What are you going to eat for dinner tonight? Start asking the questions.”

1. What do we know about our current food production methods?

A．They are suitable to feed the increasing population.

B．They are inefficient and harmful to the environment.

C．They are too focused on producing large quantities of food.

D．They are all outdated and need to be replaced with new ones.

2. Why does “Feeding Tomorrow” tell some innovators’ stories?

A．To praise their achievements.	B．To indicate different opinions.
C．To stress the necessity of change.	D．To give examples of farming methods.

3. What does the documentary appeal people to do in paragraph 4?

A．Keep the balance of nature.	B．Take up sustainable practices.
C．Prioritize economic interests.	D．Invest in agricultural innovations.

4. What is the main purpose of the text?

A．To briefly introduce an award-winning film.	B．To explore American agriculture’s issues.
C．To present new food production methods.	D．To show the impact of climate on agriculture.

3 . Popular Countries to Visit in 2024

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is a country that travelers all over the world always talk about, not only because it is a friendly country, but also because it is one of Africa’s safest places. In Zimbabwe, you can visit many tourist attractions. For example, Big Five-filled national parks, forested mountains and the Victoria Falls. Here you can see African lions, African elephants, African buffaloes, African leopards, and rhinoceroses, which are called the big five animals.

Jordan

If you have a taste for adventure (冒险), you will certainly love Jordan, because there is a 650-km-long path in Jordan and you can have a 36-day hike here. There are several other places for people to visit, for example, the Rift Valley is the best place that attracts travelers fond of adventure to challenge. Besides, the Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth, which can leave a deep impression on people.

Indonesia

From Sumatra to Papua, more than 17,000 islands make Indonesia a multicultural (多元文化的) country. On these islands, there are many kinds of tasty food, which could offer tourists good feelings and experiences. Thanks to heavy investment (投资) in new air, land and sea connections by the government, people from 169 countries can enter Indonesia with free visas (签证) . It has never been easier to explore this warm country.

Belarus

Belarus becomes more and more popular because of the relaxed visa requirements. There are lots of art exhibitions, cafes and local parties in Belarus. In its beautiful old towns, people can go to the fashionable bars and join the happy summer street parties. Minsk, the capital of Belarus, has been chosen as the host city for many global events and meetings. 2024 European Games is on the list.

1. Where will you go if you are interested in African animals?

A．Zimbabwe.

B．Jordan.

C．Indonesia.

D．Belarus.

2. In Jordan which is the biggest attraction for travelers who love adventure?

A．The 650-km-long path.	B．The 36-day hike.
C．The Rift Valley.	D．The Dead Sea.

3. What can we learn from the passage about Indonesia?

A．Indonesia is one of the safest places in the world.

B．Many foreigners can visit Indonesia with free visas.

C．Indonesia is famous for its tasty food.

D．More than 17, 000 cities form the warm country.

4. Why does Belarus’ popularity increase?

A．Because the visa requirements have been less strict.

B．Because there are lots of art exhibitions, cafes and local parties.

C．Because people can get 30-day free visas.

D．Because people can join the happy summer street parties.

5. Which country’s capital has become a center of global activities?

A．Zimbabwe.

B．Jordan.

C．Indonesia.

D．Belarus.

4 . Employers are flooded with job applications on a daily basis. A recent study found that employers spend an average of six seconds reading a cover letter (求职信) before they make the initial decision on whether a candidate fits the job or not. Here's how to make sure yours gets the attention it deserves.

Add your cover letter keywords.     1     Underline keywords in the job advertisement describing the skills, training and experience that are required, and this will help you find important keywords that let you know what kind of employee the company is hoping to find. Use these same keywords throughout your cover letter.

    2     Each version of your cover letter should talk about how your skills will benefit the particular organization that you want to work for. You want to target the organization’s needs — not your own. Demonstrate how you could help them achieve their goals.     3    

Show you “get” them. Your cover letter should demonstrate that you have done some research into what the organization’s pain points are.     4     This can help your cover letter take the right tone. If you’re applying for an administrative position, be sure to mention your time-management skills; if you’re an IT professional, include your expert knowledge and skills in improving efficiency. Always ask yourself: How can I help this company?

Proofread (校对). Don’t assume spell check will catch every mistake.     5     Slowly review your cover letter to make sure everything reads properly. Having someone else read your cover letter is a good idea.

A．Actually, it won’t.

B．Adapt for the company.

C．Highlight your past achievements.

D．Address your cover letter to the proper person.

E．This helps you to tailor your cover letter to the role.

F．Remember that you’re selling yourself, but the employer has to want to buy.

G．It’s important to present yourself as a solution to a hiring manager’s problem.

5 . Cannes, a coastal city in France, is famous for hosting the Cannes Film Festival every year. It’s also a beautiful place to visit any time of the year. Here are 4 things to do in Cannes.

Stroll (漫步) along the famous La Croisette

Enjoy a stroll down La Croisette — a famous 2-mile waterfront road. It’s the place where the Cannes Film Festival takes place. Take a seat for people-watching or enjoy the beautiful scenery. Discover recreational (娱乐的) places for kids or go to summer music concerts at a low price.

Explore the historic Le Suquet

Lose yourself in the attractive streets of Le Suquet, the historic old town of Cannes. An impressive 5th century theater will take your breath away. Visit the World Explorations Museum, and enjoy wonderful views from the tower. Walk through narrow streets and discover cafes and wine bars.

Take a tour of Cannes with a screenwriter

You can set foot on a small-group tour, led by a screenwriter and historical researcher. Get fully immersed (沉浸) in the city’s rich film history, and see how it transforms itself into an international film center. Remember to book your tour on the Internet in advance.

Leave for Sainte-Marguerite

Take a ship to Sainte-Marguerite, the largest of the Lerins Islands just off the coast of Cannes. Enjoy walks on coastal paths, or relax on the beaches, which are perfect for swimming and picnics. Enjoy local seafood, or go deep into the island’s past with a visit to the 7th century Fort Royal.

1. What can we know about La Croisette?

A．It holds free summer concerts.

B．It offers play areas for children.

C．It becomes well known for top-class service.

D．It allows visitors to take photos with film stars.

2. Which tour can help tourists understand the film development in Cannes?

A．Stroll along the famous La Croisette.	B．Explore the historic Le Suquet.
C．Take a tour of Cannes with a screenwriter.	D．Leave for Sainte-Marguerite.

3. How can tourists reach Sainte-Marguerite?

A．By water.

B．By car.

C．On foot.

D．By air.

6 . Working in an industry that’s constantly evolving is no small feat for musicians. Giving fans a memorable show is crucial, and some artists are looking to virtual reality to do just that. Travis Scott for example, partnered with Fortnite to bring his virtual-reality concert. Astronomical, to a global audience. The event drew in 12 million viewers. But interest in VR concerts came earlier. In 2019, the entertainment-technology company Wave launched a multichannel virtual platform for live concerts through various digital means: video games, live streaming channels, social networks, and more. Wave has since teamed up with the likes of The Weekend, Justin Bieber, and John Legend.

The appeal of such immersive concerts, by placing the audience in a digital world that stimulates both sight and sound to create an experience that makes one feel like they are truly part of the event, lies heavily in their experimental mature. Artists can try new ways to connect with listeners in digital environments. For fans skirting painful concert-ticket prices avoiding large crowds at venues, and experiencing their favorite musicians in an alternate world are convincing benefits.

VR has its downside. Only about 13% of households in the US own a VR headset so the technology isn’t common. In a survey, 67% of respondents who didn’t own a VR headset said its price tag kept them from purchasing one. Some people who paid a pretty penny have returned the headset because they simply didn’t know how to set it up or didn’t think the image quality was worth the cost. Discomfort is another issue: long-term use of a headset could cause discomfort in the neck and eyes, and according to the Food and Drug Administration, motion sickness is the most commonly reported negative side effect of VR. There’s also the possibility of VR separating users too far from reality, which could rewire their brains if they don’t moderate headset use. However, looking ahead. Amy Dorsey, the managing director of Dorsey Pictures, said that developments in advanced digital reality would pave the way for the next version of entertainment.

1. Which artist cooperated with Fortnite to deliver a virtual-reality concert?

A．Justin Bieber.	B．Wave.
C．Travis Scott.	D．Astronomical.

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

A．Cost-effective.	B．Environmentally friendly.
C．Quick and efficient.	D．Engaging and surrounding.

3. Which could be a potential drawback of VR concerts as suggested by the text?

A．VR concerts could cause a decrease in video image quality.

B．They may prevent people from attending live concerts altogether.

C．Long-time standing with VR headsets may lead to motion disability.

D．The high cost of VR headsets could limit accessibility for some fans.

4. What will the text discuss next?

A．The historical development of VR technology.

B．Future directions and innovations in VR.

C．Present market trends in VR headset sales.

D．Comparisons between VR and traditional concerts.

7 . While conquering the world’s swimming pools in the late 1990s and the 2000s. Amanda Beard had already included breathing exercises in her training. Several years after the end of her athletic career, she discovered walking meditation. Today the seven-time US Olympic medalist practices walking meditation in nature, around the house, or while walking the dog. It’s a daily practice with the focused mindfulness of meditation that contributes positively to every aspect of her life, she says.

You don’t need equipment or a designated space to start. The idea of a walking meditation is to pay attention to the way your body feels, noticing things like the sky, trees, tuning into all of your senses. This means you can meditate “on the go” in the countryside, in the city, in your backyard, and virtually anywhere. A simple, 10-minute walking meditation for beginners requires that you just start at ease. Consider what you hear, smell and see. Think about how your feet touch the ground. Fully focus on these feelings.

A report in Health Promotion Perspectives also found that walking meditation can improve your balance, adjust your heart rate, boost your mental focus, and help you battle anxiety and depression. “The benefits of meditation are many,” says Dr. Schramm, a board-certified family physician and meditation teacher. “When we do this over and over again, we train the brain to focus on only one thing at a time and this increases both our blood flow and actual neuronal (神经元) changes within our brains.”

“The magic of meditation is to be able to help you connect with yourself; meditation shouldn’t feel a certain way,” says Tara Stiles, a yoga and wellness expert. It’s a common mistake in meditation: People fear a wandering mind. “A wandering mind is completely normal,” Stiles says. “Even experienced meditators aren’t sitting there never having a thought, but when they have the thought they choose to guide themselves back to their breath instead of getting frustrated.

1. What is walking meditation?

A．Plain walking.	B．Mindful walking.
C．A competitive sport.	D．Deep thought while stationary.

2. Which of the following is recommended to a beginner starting walking meditation?

A．A familiar environment.	B．A 10-minute walking time.
C．A relaxed but observant state.	D．A piece of special equipment.

3. What is the brain’s reaction to walking meditation according to Dr. Schramm?

A．Enhancing the blood flow.	B．Undergoing balance training.
C．Having more active thoughts.	D．Decreasing neuronal changes.

4. What is Tara Stiles’ attitude towards distractions?

A．Carefree.	B．Frustrated.
C．Concerned.	D．Positive.

8 . Bing, also known as a Chinese pancake, is a traditional Chinese recipe, similar to pancakes. It is commonly made of dough (面团).     1    , be prepared to learn how to make these yummy recipes!

Step 1: Combine the ingredients

Combine the ingredients for the dough (flour, salt, and cooking oil). Knead (揉) the dough until it has a soft consistency that isn’t too wet. During this time, you can adjust the consistency, for example, by adding more oil or flour.     2    .

Step 2: Separate the dough

Separate the do ugh into different pieces, the size that you want.     3    , don’t separate it too much, and vice versa. You can use a rolling pin to help with making a circle. Chinese Pancake is commonly made in a circle shape, but can be any shape you want!

Step 3: Add spring onions

Add spring onions to the dough.     4     and sprinkle them on the bing. This gives the flavor for the cong you bing. The name “cong” in cong you bing actually refers to the spring onions. These can also be called scallions. green onions, and onions. You can also knead the dough again to mix the onion in.

Step 4: Fry both sides

Fry both sides of the pancake on low-medium heat until the sides are golden brown. It takes 3-5 minutes per side. Remember to take it out before the sides get dark brown. Fry for a short time if you want a soft pancake, and fry it for a longer time to make it crispier.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy!

    5    , but can be served in formal meals as well.

A．Divide it into ten equal pieces

B．Cut the onions into tiny pieces

C．It can be eaten as a casual food

D．Make sure you have enough dough

E．If this is already mouthwatering to you

F．If you want to make the pancake bigger

G．Heat up the pan while still working on the dough

9 . As a big country, China’s economic and political influence is felt around the world. And its influence in education and culture has been growing too. The Confucius Institute offering free language classes has gained increasing popularity in both Hungary and Serbia. By offering opportunities to learn Chinese language and traditional arts, Confucius Institutes bring Chinese culture closer to interested learners serving as bridges between nations.

During my childhood, I held an unspoken fascination for Asian culture a passion cultivated through watching dramas such as the Monkey King. At the time, the idea of studying this captivating region didn’t occupy my mind. My turning point came when the desire to challenge myself led me to choose China for further education. It was a decision—not only for academic growth, but also to experience the responsibility of looking after myself. Taking the road that is less traveled means less company, less comfort. But it also means forging a life with an entirely different perspective I am seeking.

Undertaking Chinese language training presented a remarkable opportunity for many reasons. I firmly believe that acquiring proficiency in the language of the culture is not merely useful, but is also an effective means to truly understand that culture. The combination of learning the language in a classroom setting and applying it in everyday life offers an enriching experience. I participated in the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations held by my local Confucius Institute, such as trying my hand at Chinese crafts providing me with a first-hand experience of the culture.

If given another chance, I would explore even deeper into the rich cultural tapestry that surrounds me. Exploring renowned landmarks like the oriental Pearl Tower previously unvisited, felt like embarking on a new journey of discovery. I can say that along this path, I am gradually learning that valuable lessons unfold step by step.

1. What is the main function of the Confucius Institute in global cultural exchanges?

A．Offering language courses with a very small fee.

B．Fostering international understanding of Chinese culture.

C．Promoting Chinese tourism and business opportunities abroad.

D．Serving as a platform for economic cooperation between countries.

2. What makes the author decide on further education in China?

A．The TV drama the Monkey King.

B．The Asian cultural fascination.

C．The desire for whole-person growth.

D．The dream to study in a foreign place.

3. Why does the author share her experience with Mid-Autumn Festival?

A．To highlight the challenges of living abroad.

B．To encourage others to participate in local festivals.

C．To criticize the traditional classroom language learning.

D．To emphasize interactive learning in cultural understanding.

4. Which is the most suitable title for the text?

A．The Path Less Traveled

B．Language as a Bridge to Culture

C．Guide to Studying Abroad in China

D．Embracing Art: Beyond the Classroom

10 . The fact that gender diversity is something that companies constantly desire highlights the problem in itself. Actually, there are several professional industries where the female to male ratio (比例) is still nowhere close to equal. Across industries, the workforce gender balance is still highly skewed (偏向……的), even in domains which do not conventionally involve laborious work. The tech industry is a case in point, with the workforce imbalance definitely being one of the most prominent on the list.

Diversity and inclusion need to go hand in hand, and women around the world are increasingly assuming important positions and taking core decisions in the tech sector. These women are driving technological change and innovation which impact the industry at large.

Gender diversity, like diversity in general, is important for varied perspectives and thought processes in a company. These perspectives are what help shape advancements and new ideas in technology and overall operations for the success of the business. This is especially true for technologies such as AI. The effects of personal biases on AI can tilt (使……倾斜) the results and, thus, they require a number of inputs and caution on the team’s part, to be able to produce accurate solutions based on diverse and inclusive data.

According to a 2017 report on Higher Education by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India, women were at or near parity (对等) among undergraduate degrees in science IT and computer. Most women equal men when it comes to skills, but face discrimination in other areas, thus creating a gap and reducing the will to continue at the company.

According to reports, biased treatment within the workplace is the most frequently cited reason for leaving, followed by poor management. There is still scope for a shift in attitudes at workplaces, which is a major obstacle when it comes to retaining women employees. In order to retain this talent and hi re more talent like this, governments, NGOs and leaders from tech organizations need to come together to help close the gender gap further by providing more flexible work options and decision-making opportunities for women.

More and more women across the world are interested in pursuing tech careers or maintaining their existing ones. There is a need to encourage them to take up roles in AI and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) with opportunities that are both fair and equal. Given the computer-driven nature of AI, there is a need for women from diverse backgrounds to balance out the conventionally male-dominated profession to give an accurate representation. Thus, an inclusive and diverse workforce, combined with better HR policies will retain and draw in more women. This, in turn, will help the entire tech industry to develop a more comprehensive, empathetic (感同身受的) way of operations, which will undoubtedly influence the future socio-cultural thread driven by products and services developed by them.

1. From the first paragraph we know that ________.

A．gender balance problem remains to be solved

B．laborious work demands more gender balance

C．not all industries have gender balance problem

D．gender balance problem has been more serious

2. Women employees are reported to leave their jobs mainly because of ________.

A．unsatisfying income	B．unfair treatment
C．competitive workplace	D．poor management

3. Which of the following can help to retain and attract more women?

A．Encouraging women to take up all kinds of roles.

B．Treating women employees more kindly than to men employees.

C．Offering women diverse work choices and decision-making opportunities.

D．Providing a tolerant working environment combined with favorable welfare.

4. What is the purpose of writing this passage?

A．To appeal to women to protect their proper rights

B．To present the fact of gender bias in the tech industry

C．To call for more women representation in the tech industry

D．To teach the tech industry how to get rid of gender bias