1 . As Christmas Eve approached, I found myself in New York City, far from my family and friends in Taiwan. I was feeling homesick and lonely, but my Jewish friend, Rachel, who, like me, doesn’t get connected with Christmas due to any religious things, invited me to join her for a dinner in a Chinese restaurant. She explained that it was a tradition for many Jewish people to celebrate this holiday by eating Chinese food on Christmas Eve.
We went to Jing Fong, a fancy restaurant in Chinatown. The place was packed with people, and the atmosphere was lively and festive. We ordered a variety of dishes. Everything was delicious, and I felt grateful to be sharing this experience with Rachel. As we ate, we talked about our families and our cultures. We laughed and joked, and for a moment, I forgot about my homesickness.
A moment later, a group of carolers (唱圣诞歌的人) came into the restaurant, singing Christmas songs. At first, I was puzzled. Why were they singing in a Chinese restaurant? But then I realized that this was part of the magic of New York City. People from all different cultures and backgrounds could come together and celebrate the holidays in their own way. Rachel and I joined in the singing, and soon the whole restaurant was filled with music. It was a beautiful moment, and I felt blessed to be part of it.
What a night! I learned that even when you’re far from home, you can still find joy and connection with others. Rachel and I may come from different cultures, but we shared amazing food, joyful music, and most importantly heartfelt company. And that’s exactly what all the holidays are all about.
1. Why did Rachel invite the author to join her for dinner?| A．To show respect to God |
| B．To celebrate Christmas in the Jewish way |
| C．To share stories about their families |
| D．To forget about their homesickness |
| A．Fearful | B．Joyful |
| C．Disappointed | D．Confused |
| A．By focusing on religious traditions |
| B．By celebrating with family and friends |
| C．By enjoying a variety of festive dishes |
| D．By embracing diverse ways of celebration |
| A．A personal blog | B．A commercial promotion brochure |
| C．A travel guide of New York | D．An academic article |
2 . English people don’t care about what they eat, but they care about the place where they eat.
| A．So the good restaurants are quiet. |
| B．A good restaurant is usually big and clean. |
| C．The poor go to small ones or fast-food restaurants. |
| D．In summer, English people like eating outside. |
| E．Rich families usually have a nice dinning room. |
| F．There are a lot of foreign rest. |
| G．In winter, people in England like to stay at home enjoying delicious food. |
3 . Wang Xiaojun is twelve years old. He lives in the country in Hunan. Today is his birthday. His parents prepare a nice dinner for him, but the boy says, “I won’t have the dinner, today is over, and my parents are going to Shenzhen tomorrow. I don’t want to let them go.”
Wang Xiaojun has the birthday with his parents for the first time in the past three years. Three years ago, his parents went to Shenzhen to work. They stayed and worked there for three years. Tomorrow they have to go back to Shenzhen. Wang is not the only stay-at-home child. In the country of China, there are many children staying at home without their parents. Stay-at -home children have a lot of problems. Most of them stay with their grandparents. Some of them don’t study well because their parents can’t help them with their study. The Chinese government (政府) now is trying to solve their problems.
1. When was Wang Xiaojun born?| A．In 2010. | B．In 2011. | C．In 2012. | D．In 2013. |
| A．there isn’t a birthday cake | B．the food isn’t delicious |
| C．his parents are going to Shenzhen tomorrow | D．he doesn’t like the dinner |
| A．爱家儿童 | B．顽皮儿童 | C．留守儿童 | D．离家儿童 |
| A．don’t study well | B．don’t like to stay with parents |
| C．don’t love their parents | D．don’t have dinner with their parents |
| A．There are a lot of children like Wang Xiaojun in China. |
| B．The Chinese government is trying to solve these problems. |
| C．Wang Xiaojun’s parents go to Shenzhen to make money. |
| D．Stay-at-home children don’t have any problems. |
4 . I often cycle (骑自行车) around Australia and plan to cycle the Nullarbor to raise money for Multiple Sclerosis (MS, 多发性硬化症). I have MS myself, but cycling is a pain-free activity for me. I feel quite relaxed after cycling. But a not-so-kind person stole all of my bikes when I was travelling.
Since this happened, the human kindness I have been shown makes me feel very surprised. A kind lady bought a mountain bike for me to continue riding. A gentleman donated (捐赠) another bike to me to continue training on roads. It was almost impossible to find a bike in my size, because the bike I had before was very short. And it required an extra-small frame (框架). I was quite lucky. My hometown got behind me to raise some money. With this money, I have bought a bike that is just the right size for me.
So far people have offered me places to stay, welcomed me into their warm homes. They made sure I have enough water when riding so long. They also put money in my hands in the street to help me reach my goal. The stolen bikes turned into an interview with ABC Radio and papers in Tasmania.
My point is that there are so many good and kind-hearted people out there. My experience is that people are mainly kind and beautiful. I could never doubt (怀疑) the fact that the world holds more good and kind people than unkind people. That, in itself, is hope! I’m happy that I will cycle on the road again soon, and do my best to give back kindness.
1. The passage is probably a ________.| A．travelling note | B．volunteer poster | C．fiction | D．science survey |
| A．Many people followed him. | B．A gentleman caught up with him. |
| C．His hometown supported him. | D．Other friends fell behind him. |
a. Some kind people bought bikes for him.
b. He’ll try to give back kindness.
c. All of his bikes were stolen.
d. Radio and papers interviewed him.
e. Some people served him well.
| A．b-d-a-c-e | B．c-d-a-e-b | C．a-e-d-b-c | D．c-a-e-d-b |
| A．To encourage us to be born with kindness. |
| B．To tell us how to take care of our things during the trip. |
| C．To show us kind people are more than unkind people in the world. |
| D．To teach us to be happy. |
| A．relaxed-happy-sad-excited | B．relaxed-surprised-lucky-happy |
| C．thirsty-nervous-excited-afraid | D．surprised-sorry-excited-upset |
5 . Here are some interesting places for you to enjoy yourself while you are staying in Beijing.
Here is the timetable of science activities in the Children’s Palace
Timetable | ||
Monday (4 weeks) 19:00 — 21:30 Space and Man Dr. Thomas West. Would you like to know more about the outer space? | Tuesday (5 weeks) 18:30—20:30 Photography Mr. Brown from Italy. Learn to take good pictures, please bring your own camera. | Wednesday ( 12 weeks) 18:30 — 21:00 Computer Science Prof. Harry Morison from Oxford University. Learn how to use Windows 2000. |
Thursday (4 weeks) 19:00 — 21:00 Modern Medicine Prof Lucy Green. Would you like to know medical advances? | Saturday ( 16 weeks) 14:00 — 17:00 Technical English Prof. Rose Beet. Do you want to learn the technical words and articles? | Sunday (2 weeks) 8:30 — 11:30 Exhibition of Personal Inventions You can see many inventions by the students; you may also bring your own inventions. |
| A．China | B．Italy | C．America | D．England |
| A．4 weeks | B．16 weeks | C．5 weeks | D．12 weeks |
| A．Sunday | B．Saturday | C．Thursday | D．Wednesday |
6 . In 2050, one in four people will be over 60 in the Asia-Pacific region. Are countries there prepared to fully address the needs of older persons so that they age with dignity?
In the past, senior citizens might have been supported by their families and communities. Yet times are changing.
More than ever, there is an urgent need for policy reform in addressing population aging. This must be driven by a shift in mindset to turn the challenges into a demographic opportunity.
It is noteworthy that, in the Asia-Pacific, with more than half of the older population being women, it is crucial to adopt a life-cycle approach to population aging, grounded in gender equality and human rights. Investing in each stage of life determines the path of a woman’s life course. When a girl has access to quality education, it helps her make informed decisions about life-changing matters.
While there is no single comprehensive policy that can address population aging, we need to take action now.
| A．Couples are having fewer babies. |
| B．Pensions are increasing, pressuring governments further. |
| C．We must rethink population aging, celebrating it as the victory of development. |
| D．Migration and urbanization have shifted traditional support systems for the elderly. |
| E．The decisions she makes paves the way towards a healthier and wealthier silver age. |
| F．We must invest in better policies that focus on the needs of people at every age of their life. |
| G．Life-long gender discrimination leaves women even more disadvantaged in an aging society. |
7 . Hong Kong is one of the most expensive cities in the world, with its lavish food and giant shopping malls. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy the city without stretching your wallet. With good planning, you can enjoy many things in Hong Kong for free.
1. Go gallery hopping and marvel at beautiful artworks
Hong Kong is home to plenty of independent art galleries that exhibit works from various artists around the world. While galleries are spread across the city, we argue that the best place to go gallery hopping is around Central and Sheung Wan.
2. Get up-close with nature at one of the scenic hiking trails
It’s easy to visualize images of Hong Kong’s breathtaking skyline when thinking of the city. But Hong Kong is also filled with thick greenery, mountains, and amazing natural landscapes. So, go hiking at any of the scenic trails the city has. For hiking beginners, the Peak trail is among the easiest and in the end, you’ll be treated to epic views of Victoria Harbour. Also perfect for newbies but a little more into nature is Dragon’s Back.
3. Step back in time at the traditional villages
Due to urbanization, Hong Kong’s traditional villages have been in massive decline throughout the years. With those still standing today, it serves as a time machine to showcase Hong Kong’s past. Among the best-preserved villages is Tsang Tai Uk. The original brick, timber, and granite materials are still well-maintained within the walls.
1. Who may find the Peak trail most fascinating?| A．Science fans. | B．Outdoor enthusiasts. |
| C．Water sports lovers. | D．Gallery goers. |
| A．Central and Sheung Wan | B．The Peak trail |
| C．Tsang Tai Uk | D．Dragon’s Back |
| A．Travelers lacking experience | B．Travelers into lavish city life |
| C．Travelers seeking local cuisine | D．Travelers on a tight budget |
8 . America’s youth is turning its back on tobacco. According to a study recently published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cigarette smoking among US high school students is at an all-time low. One in 5 US high school students in 2016 reported using a tobacco product within the past 30 days, an improvement from 1 in 4 students just one year before.
“These findings show the importance of continuing to implement the evidence-based strategies that we now work to reduce all forms of tobacco product use, including e-cigarettes, among our nation’s youth,” says Brian King, of the CDC’s Office on Smoking and Health and senior author of the study.
And it’s not just tobacco: Drug use among US teens is down across the board. The National Institute on Drug Abuse has published annual reports on US teens’ drug use since 1996, and the 2016 survey shows the lowest rates of illegal drug and alcohol use. Marijuana (大麻) use remained “mostly steady”. “It is encouraging to see more young people making healthy choices not to use illegal substances,” says former National Drug Control Policy Director Michael Botticelli.
All individual forms of tobacco such as cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, and smoke-less tobacco saw declines in usage in 2016. Experts are especially encouraged by the decline in cigarettes, the most popular tobacco product among teens. In 2016, 11.3 percent of high school students reported using e-cigarettes, down from 16 percent in 2015.
Dr. King says adaptation is key to the decline of e-cigarettes. “We have over a half-century of science telling students about the harmful effects of tobacco use and what works best to prevent it,” says King. “E-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product among our nation’s youth, and it’s critical that our proven strategies are modernized to keep pace with the changing tobacco product landscape.”
1. What does the underlined word “implement” in Paragraph 2 mean?| A．Delay. | B．Perform. | C．Schedule. | D．Control. |
| A．US teens’ drug use has decreased. |
| B．There are many forms of tobacco. |
| C．E-cigarettes are popular among US teens. |
| D．The strategies are put forward by experts. |
| A．Disapproving. | B．Suspicious. | C．Favorable. | D．Ambiguous. |
| A．US teen tobacco use declines. | B．High percent of teen tobacco use. |
| C．The harmful effects of tobacco use. | D．The strategies to reduce tabasco use. |
9 . One of the most memorable volunteering moments for me was when I received a call from another volunteer who works for the Metropolitan Police.
“Loraine, I’ve found a pair of false teeth in the back of my car... What do I do?”
“Well, give them back. I assume they aren’t yours? Who did you take home after the tea party?”
“Er, Peggy, Joan and Alan...”
“Well, there’s your answer.”
“What do you mean? What should I do?”
“Well, you’re the detective!”
I’m 62 now and always planned to volunteer with older people when I retired. I knew there was such a big gap in the care and support this generation receives and I found the thought heartbreaking – no one should have to feel lonely and stuck at home.
Since I started volunteering three years ago, my team of volunteers have set up seven groups in our town. We host tea parties for those aged 75 and older who live on their own and regularly provide support, friendship and companionship for the most isolated (孤独的) older people in the community.
Working with my older neighbors is rewarding. To hear their stories and the hardships they have overcome is inspiring. I feel like I’m making a positive difference to the lives of older people by sharing my time with them, helping them stay active and social and making clear to them that they are valued by our community.
As an area coordinator (协调人), I also help recruit and manage volunteers, without whom none of the work would be possible. So many go above and beyond what’s asked, giving their time, energy and kindness, just because they care. I’ve found so much enthusiasm from people wanting to make the lives of our older neighbors better, and they are a constant source of inspiration for me.
I’ve met so many amazing people from all walks of life. It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done and it’s enriched my life so much. I will keep focusing on reducing loneliness and isolation among the elderly and helping older people enjoy their twilight years the way that they deserve.
1. Why does the author mention the call in the first few paragraphs?| A．To introduce a volunteer she works with. | B．To explain why she started volunteering. |
| C．To show that she enjoys her volunteer work. | D．To describe a problem that older people often face. |
| A．It is meaningful. | B．It gives her confidence. |
| C．It is challenging. | D．It reduces her loneliness. |
| A．Their people skills. | B．Their creativity. | C．Their optimism. | D．Their passion. |
| A．Helping a neighbor out. | B．Making lives less lonely. |
| C．Embracing retirement. | D．Setting up a close-knit team. |
10 . In Florida’s Everglades, few species are more closely tied to the habitat’s health than an endangered bird, the snail kite. The Everglade snail kite is a raptor (猛禽), similar to a hawk, that eats just one thing: snails, a species that relies almost entirely on a resource usually abundant in the freshwater marshes (沼泽).
Over the last century, as much of the Everglades dried up, droughts contributed to the snail kite’s decline, and by 2007, there were fewer than 800 remaining. But the kite has bounced back recently thanks to an exotic (外来的) snail. It’s a rare case of an invasive species having a positive impact.
Robert Fletcher, a University of Florida professor who directs a snail kite monitoring program, said the invasive species was first spotted in 2004. Within a few years, it had expanded through much of the Everglades. “And it was around that time,” he said, “that we started to see snail kite number increase.”
No one’s sure about how the exotic snails were introduced into the Everglades. They’re related to Florida’s apple snails and are commonly used in home aquariums. The invader, the island apple snail, is larger than its Florida cousin. It lays eggs in the thousands in pink clusters visible on the stalks of many of the marsh plants.
Efforts to restore Florida’s Everglades have helped the snail kite and restored native vegetation. It’s been in the works for more than 30 years with a cost of more than $20 billion. But progress is increasing gradually, albeit hard to measure. In the meantime, scientists say the invasive snail may have helped pull Florida’s endangered snail kite back from the threat of extinction.
But Fletcher is concerned about the potential impact the species will have on the Everglades over the long term. He said, “What we should be thinking about is how we restore native snails to get those benefits rather than relying on this non-native species that can have damaging impacts on the ecosystem.” The invasive snails may already have caused losses to some native marsh plants, which indicates that trouble may come very soon.
1. What does the underlined phrase “bounced back” in paragraph 2 probably mean?| A．Jumped. | B．Moved. | C．Recovered. | D．Returned. |
| A．The loss of habitat. | B．The lack of food due to droughts. |
| C．The increasing number of hawks. | D．The introduction of an invasive species. |
| A．Their eggs are hard to spot. |
| B．Aquariums are an ideal habitat for them. |
| C．They are smaller than native apple snails. |
| D．They quickly increased in population around the Everglades. |
| A．Restoring the native ecosystem is costly and time-consuming. |
| B．The invasive snails pose little threat to the local ecosystem. |
| C．The benefits of the invasive snails outweigh the harms. |
| D．Human efforts apparently have proven to be effective. |
