3 . Homemade Milk Tea: Crafting Your Own Perfect Blend

Making your own milk tea at home can be a rewarding experience. It’s all about personal preference, and a little creativity goes a long way. Whether you’re a traditionalist or like to experiment with flavors, the process is a positive step in discovering your taste preferences.     1     Now, let’s start brewing your ideal cup of milk tea.

Begin with a list of ingredients that appeal to you.     2     Are you a fan of classic black tea or do you prefer green tea as the base? How about the milk: whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative? And what about the sweetener: honey, sugar, or agave syrup? Choose the elements that make you excited to brew your own concoction.

Next, consider the “Flavor Additions” you’d like to incorporate.     3     This is where you can get creative. Perhaps you want to add a hint of vanilla, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a touch of lavender. It might be the time when you tried a unique blend that became your signature, or when you experimented with a new flavor that turned out to be a delightful surprise.

You could ask for input from friends or family members to expand your flavor profile.     4     They might have suggestions for ingredients you haven’t considered, or they might enjoy trying your creations. This collaborative process can lead to new discoveries and shared enjoyment. In fact, don’t wait until you’ve perfected your recipe to share it—this is a great way to connect with others and enjoy the process.

It’s a common belief that most of us find joy in customizing our drinks rather than sticking to the standard options. The thing is, it’s true.     5     We’re all unique, and personalizing your milk tea is a fun way to express that individuality. Remember, there’s no wrong way to make your own milk tea; it’s all about finding what tastes best to you.

A．A little experimentation with flavors can be fun.

B．Now list all the ingredients you think will taste great together.

C．They might even like to suggest new flavor combinations.

D．It’s just as important to enjoy the process of creation.

E．It doesn’t mean you can’t adjust the recipe later on.

F．Whatever the combination, no matter how unusual it might seem, give it a try.

G．Whatever the outcome, remember that your first try is just a starting point.

4 . China successfully launched the Chang’e-6 spacecraft on Friday. A Long March-5rocket lifted it off from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in Hainan. This was a huge success and a remarkable achievement for China’s space exploration program. The launch not only shows China’s advanced technological abilities but also makes scientists and space lovers around the world excited.

Collecting samples from the far side of the moon is a new thing for humanity. We have very little knowledge about this mysterious side. If the Chang’e-6 mission is successful, it will give scientists important and direct facts to know more about the far side’s environment, geological features, and material make-up. This will be an important step forward in our exploration of the moon and the universe as a whole.

The Chang’e-6 spacecraft has an orbiter, a lander, an ascender (上升器), and a returner. When it reaches the moon, it will land carefully on the far side. Within 48 hours after landing, a robot arm will carefully collect rocks and soil from the lunar surface. Also, a drill will go into the ground to take samples from deeper layers. At the same time, a series of complex scientific tests and analyses will be done to get valuable data.

The far side of the moon is very different from the side we can see. The Apollo basin in the South PoleAitken Basin is chosen as the landing and sampling place for the Chang’e-6 mission. This area is thought to have precious clues about the moon’s formation and development, giving possible ideas about the early history of our celestial (天体) neighbor.

This mission has many technical difficulties and needs the latest technologies. It also gets help from international cooperation, showing the spirit of working together in the global search for space exploration. The exploration of the far side of the moon may provide valuable scientific data and open up new possibilities for future space activities, such as setting up long- term lunar bases and using lunar resources.

The success of the Chang’e-6 mission has the possibility to make more international cooperation in space exploration. It shows China’s strong wish to add to the growth of global knowledge about the universe and encourages other countries to work together to find out the secrets of the universe.

1. What is the main purpose of the Chang’e-6 mission?

A．To build a base on the far side of the moon.

B．To study how the moon moves around.

C．To collect and bring back samples from the far side of the moon.

D．To look for water on the moon.

2. Which of the following is true about the far side of the moon?

A．It’s different from the side we can see.	B．It’s the same as the side we can see.
C．We know a lot about it.	D．It has no rocks or soil.

3. What might the exploration of the far side of the moon lead to?

A．No change in the future.	B．New chances for space activities.
C．Fewer friends for China in space.	D．No new technologies.

4. What could be a suitable title for this passage?

A．“The Mystery of the Moon”

B．“The Far Side of the Moon: Unknown Territory”

C．“Space Exploration and Challenges”

D．“China’s Chang’e-6 Mission: Unveiling the Secrets of the Moon’s Far Side”

5 . One sunny afternoon in the park, I witnessed a remarkable scene. An elderly gentleman was standing by the side of a path, looking confused and lost. Just at that moment, a kind-hearted young girl approached him. She asked him gently what was wrong and listened patiently as he struggled to explain.

Without hesitation, the girl took his hand and slowly guided him along the path, chatting with him to ease his anxiety. They walked together until they reached the place the old man was supposed to be. The old man smiled with thankfulness and relief.

After helping the old man, the girl didn’t just leave. She spent some more time with him, sharing some interesting stories and making him laugh. The old man’s eyes sparkled with joy, and it was clear that this interaction had brightened his day. The girl’s kindness seemed to have an effect, as other people in the park also noticed and were inspired by her actions.

I continued to observe as the girl then decided to stay with the old man for a while longer. They sat on a bench together, and the girl began to tell him about her own life, her dreams, and her adventures. The old man listened attentively, nodding and smiling from time to time. It was a beautiful sight to behold, this unlikely pair sharing such a genuine and heartwarming connection.

This encounter made me reflect on the importance of kindness in our society. In a world that can often seem cold and hurried, acts like the girl’s are like the tower of light, showing us the way to a more empathetic (同情的) and caring existence. It also made me think about how we all have the potential to make a difference in someone else’s life, no matter how small the act may be.

Now, whenever I recall this scene, it warms my heart and reminds me to be more willing to offer a helping hand, to spread kindness wherever I go, and to believe in the goodness that lies within each of us.

1. What did the girl do for the old man?

A．She gave him a warm and comforting hug to make him feel better.

B．She took his hand and guided him along the path to help him find the place he was supposed to be.

C．She asked to take a photo with him to capture the moment.

D．She went to a nearby store and bought him a refreshing drink.

2. How did the old man feel in the end?

A．He felt extremely grateful and had a big smile on his face because he was happy.

B．He was still hungry and sad as no one really cared about his needs.

C．He felt fearful and angry because the girl was too pushy.

D．He felt cold and tired as the walk was too long.

3. What can we infer about the author’s attitude?

A．Doubtful.

B．Disapproving.

C．Negative.

D．Admiring.

4. Where is this passage most likely from?

A．A detailed and informative travel guide filled with places to visit.

B．A complex and educational science textbook with various theories.

C．A personal blog where the author shares personal experiences and thoughts.

D．A trendy and fashionable magazine featuring the latest styles and trends.

6 . China’s tea culture is an ancient and profound (意义深远的) cultural heritage that has been passed down and developed for thousands of years. It weaves an complicated and fascinating pattern within Chinese society.

Tea growing in China is an art form in itself. The tea-growing areas, with their special climates and lands, produce teas of exceptional quality. From the misty mountains of Fujian to the green landscapes of Yunnan, different areas offer a rich variety of tea types.

The process of making tea is careful and detailed. It involves exact measurements of water temperature, the right amount of tea leaves, and a certain steeping time to get the fullest flavor and smell. This care for details shows the Chinese people’s search for excellence in all parts of life.

Tea is not merely a beverage; it is a thing that helps social relations. It brings people together, whether in family get-togethers, friendly meetings, or business talks. The act of sharing a cup of tea is a sign of kindness and connection. And the many tea-houses all over the country offer places for people to relax, talk, and enjoy the peace that tea gives. Moreover, tea ceremonies are an important part of Chinese culture. These ceremonies are complex and formal, showing the grace and elegance of Chinese traditions. They involve exact movements and a deep respect for the tea and the process.

In addition to its social and cultural importance, tea in China is also known for its possible health benefits. It is thought to have anti-oxidant (抗氧化的) features and is linked to various good effects on physical health.

As China keeps moving forward and modernizing, its tea culture is still strongly fixed, a proof of its historical and cultural importance. It keeps attracting both the Chinese people and those from around the world, inviting them to explore and enjoy the beauty and depth of this great cultural phenomenon.

1. What is the main reason for the rich variety of tea types in China?

A．Different processing methods.	B．Different people’s preferences.
C．Different regions’ climates and lands.	D．Different times of harvest.

2. What does the word “beverages” mean in the passage?

A．A type of food that is sweet and usually served as dessert.

B．A tool or equipment used for cooking.

C．A kind of medicine that helps to cure diseases.

D．Something that people drink, such as water, juice, or coffee.

3. What is the main feature of tea ceremonies in China?

A．Simple and casual.	B．Complicated and formal.
C．Fast-paced and efficient.	D．Loud and lively.

4. Why is tea culture still firmly rooted in China?

A．Because of its long history.	B．Because it is profitable.
C．Because it is easy to maintain.	D．Because the government promotes it.

8 . As a child of a Chinese mother and a British father, young Lily had always been fascinated by the rich tapestry of her dual heritage. However, it wasn’t until her first visit to China that she truly began to appreciate the depth of Chinese culture. One particular experience stood out: her first encounter with the art of Chinese tea.

Lily had grown up with the aroma of tea wafting through her home, a legacy of her mother’s Chinese roots. Yet, it was in the ancient teahouses of Hangzhou that she discovered the soul of Chinese tea culture. There, amidst the gentle rustle of bamboo and the soft murmur of conversation, she observed the ritualistic preparation of tea, a process as natural as the flow of the streams she had once explored in the English countryside.

Her mother, a connoisseur of Chinese teas, introduced Lily to the subtleties of tasting. Why do certain leaves unfurl to reveal hidden flavors? Which infusions can evoke the essence of a mountain mist or a summer breeze? With each sip, Lily felt a connection to her ancestral home, a bond that transcended language and tradition.

The journey of tea from leaf to cup became a metaphor for Lily’s own journey of self-discovery. She decided to embark on a quest to understand the art of tea, to learn how the Chinese have cultivated and cherished this ancient beverage for centuries. She would later refer to this pursuit as her “cultural eco-journey.”

The task Lily set for herself was to immerse herself in the tea culture, to experience firsthand the process from tea picking to brewing. First, she visited the lush tea gardens of Longjing, where she learned about the meticulous care required for each leaf. Then she traveled to the workshops where artisans crafted the tea, each step a testament to the harmony between human skill and natural bounty.

She was captivated by the results. The tea she tasted was not just a drink; it was a story, a history, and a tradition that had been passed down through generations. Within moments, the flavors unfolded on her palate, a testament to the purity and wisdom of Chinese tea culture.

Over time, Lily has delved deeper into the world of tea. She has explored the tea ceremonies of various regions, each with its unique customs and significance. She also discovered the therapeutic properties of tea, how it has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to promote health and well-being.

“Cultural immersion” is what Lily calls her approach to understanding her heritage. “The world is a treasure trove of experiences for the curious,” she says. “You immerse yourself in new cultures and observe the traditions. Then you let these new insights shape your own understanding of the world.”

1. What can we learn about Lily from the first two paragraphs?

A．She was curious about her dual heritage.

B．She preferred the British lifestyle.

C．She had a deep interest in tea.

D．She longed to visit China.

2. Why did Lily visit the tea gardens and workshops?

A．To learn about the tea-making process.

B．To find the perfect cup of tea.

C．To understand the cultural significance of tea.

D．To test her knowledge of Chinese tea.

3. What is the author’s purpose in mentioning Longjing?

A．To review Lily’s cultural journey.

B．To show an application of Lily’s interest in tea.

C．To compare different tea regions in China.

D．To dispel doubts about the quality of Chinese tea.

4. What is the basis for Lily’s cultural exploration?

A．The desire to connect with her Chinese roots.

B．The belief in the therapeutic properties of tea.

C．The fascination with the art of tea preparation.

D．The curiosity about the cultural significance of tea.

9 . The film “Catch the Doll” is a poignant and thought-provoking work that, on the surface, delivers the signature humor of the Happy Twist team, but underneath, it presents a cruel allegory that resonates deeply with the audience. Here are my impressions of the movie, articulated in English:

“Catch the Doll” is a masterful blend of comedy and tragedy, a film that starts with laughter but ends with a profound reflection on life's ironies. The movie, starring the iconic duo Shen Teng and Ma Li, is akin to a sugar-coated shell that initially offers the sweet taste of humor but gradually reveals the bitter pill of social satire and a probing examination of human nature.

The film’s narrative is a stark portrayal of the extreme pressures and expectations placed on children by their parents. Shen Teng's character, Ma Chenggang, a wealthy businessman, and his wife, Chunlan, played by Ma Li, are the epitome of parents who are willing to go to any lengths, even to the point of deception and manipulation, to ensure their son’s success. Their approach to parenting is chilling, turning the concept of a nurturing home into a prison of expectations and control.

The movie cleverly uses exaggeration to highlight the absurdity of such an extreme parenting style. Ma Chenggang’s belief in the necessity of hardship for his son's growth is a twisted interpretation of the saying, “Heaven will confer a great responsibility on a person, it will first exercise his mind with suffering, and his sinews and bones with toil.”

“Catch the Doll” also invites us to consider the broader implications of such behavior. It raises questions about the value of individual freedom and the right of children to have their own dreams and aspirations, rather than being mere tools to fulfill parental ambitions. The film serves as a mirror, reflecting the often-overlooked issues of excessive expectations, out-of-control education, and the disregard for personal value in modern society.

In the end, “Catch the Doll” is not just a comedy; it’s a social commentary that provokes deep thought and self-reflection. It’s a film that, despite its humorous facade, leaves a lasting impact, urging viewers to question the nature of love, control, and the true meaning of success. The movie’s ending, which is both happy and tinged with regret, encapsulates the complex emotions that it stirs within us, reminding us that often, we spend our lives trying to heal the wounds of our childhood.

1. What is the central theme of the film “Catch the Doll”?

A．The importance of parental guidance in children's success.

B．The balance between humor and social issues in filmmaking.

C．The paradoxical nature of extreme parenting and its impact on children.

D．The journey of a child's pursuit of happiness and success.

2. In the film, the character Ma Chenggang’s parenting style is depicted as:

A．Encouraging and supportive of his son’s personal aspirations.

B．Strict but ultimately beneficial for his son’s character development.

C．Excessive and potentially damaging to his son’s well-being.

D．Indifferent and neglectful of his son’s emotional needs.

3. The film "Catch the Doll" uses the character of Ma Chenggang to:

A．Critique the societal pressure on children to succeed academically.

B．Advocate for a more lenient approach to parenting.

C．Illustrate the potential consequences of extreme parental control.

D．Demonstrate the effectiveness of traditional parenting methods.

4. The author’s tone in discussing the film “Catch the Doll” can be best described as:

A．Critical and disapproving of the depicted parenting methods.

B．Neutral, simply presenting the film’s narrative without bias.

C．Admiring and appreciative of the film’s social commentary.

D．Skeptical, questioning the effectiveness of the film’s message.

10 . The Essence of Cantonese Morning Tea: A Journey Through Guangzhou's Tea Houses

Welcome to Guangzhou, the heart of the Cantonese culinary world. Experience the city's vibrant culture through the lens of its traditional morning tea, a ritual that is as much about the community as it is about the cuisine. Savor the flavors of Guangzhou as you indulge in the leisurely pace of a morning spent in one of its renowned tea houses.

Why Guangzhou's Tea Houses

Guangzhou's tea houses have been an integral part of the city's social fabric for centuries. They are not just places to enjoy tea but also to savor the art of dim sum, a Cantonese culinary tradition that offers a variety of small, delicate dishes. With a rich history and a commitment to preserving the essence of Cantonese culture, these tea houses provide an authentic experience that is both economical and deeply rooted in tradition.

Selection of Dim Sum

Just as MacBike offers a wide variety of bicycles, Guangzhou's tea houses present a diverse array of dim sum options, each with its unique flavors and textures. From the steamed delicacies such as har gow (shrimp dumplings) to the fried treasures like spring rolls, and the sweet endings with desserts like mango pudding, there is something to delight every palate.

Prices

While the prices for dim sum can vary, a typical cost for a memorable morning tea experience might include:

A selection of steamed dim sum: ¥30.00

A selection of fried dim sum: ¥25.00

A pot of premium tea: ¥15.00

Each additional pot of tea or round of dim sum is typically charged at a reasonable rate, ensuring that the experience remains accessible to all.

Cultural Experience Tours

For those seeking a deeper understanding of Guangzhou's culinary heritage, cultural experience tours are available. These tours, lasting approximately 2.5 hours, take you through the bustling markets, historic tea houses, and even to the kitchens where master chefs demonstrate the art of dim sum making. The tour begins at the iconic Shamian Island, rich with colonial architecture and a starting point that sets the tone for a journey through Guangzhou's past and present. Tickets can be purchased at participating tea houses or reserved in advance online.

1. What is a distinctive feature of Guangzhou's tea houses?

A．They offer discounts for children.

B．They provide a wide array of dim sum options.

C．They organize complimentary cultural tours.

D．They have a historical presence of over 2,500 years.

2. How much would you estimate for a two-day exploration of Guangzhou's tea houses, including dim sum and tea?

A．¥60.00

B．¥90.00

C．¥120.00

D．¥150.00

3. Where does the cultural experience tour of Guangzhou's culinary heritage typically start?

A．At a historic tea house.	B．At the bustling markets.
C．At the Shamian Island.	D．At the chef's kitchen.