1 . Uplifting words

When you see your friends or loved ones feeling down or being met with some setbacks at school or work, you might want to offer them a pep talk. A pep talk is usually a brief, intense and emotional talk designed to influence or encourage an audience.     1     Just saying what you think the other person wants to hear might not be enough. It requires an understanding of what your audience needs — whether it is simply cheering them up or motivating them to change.

The column offers the following steps towards an effective pep talk.

● Step one is to listen.

Don’t jump right in and insist: “you will be fine.” Show your friend that you understand how they feel and empathize.    2    

● Express care and support.

Show your friend that you believe in them.    3     Talk about their strengths based on your knowledge about them. Saying things like: “you are a very resilient person.” “you are outgoing and friendly.” “You bounce back well.” Avoid general sentences like “you can overcome your fears” or “Time heals”.

● Talk about hope.

You can’t guarantee success.    4     But you can remind the person that he or she has been through a tough time before and gotten through it.

● Be there.

Make sure they know that you will be there for them, follow up with them after the pep talk.

●     5    

Don’t argue if the person disagrees with what you are saying or tells you: “you don’t understand; this time is different.” Tell them: “I’m Sorry, you are having such a hard time.” Then back off.

A．Know when to stop.

B．Be sincere and specific.

C．Carefully choose your words.

D．But giving a good pep talk isn’t easy.

E．Some problems might be out of anyone’s control.

F．Tell them they have what it takes to get through this hard time.

G．Repeat the person’s concerns so he or she feels that they have been heard.

2 . How to Fall Back in Love with Reading

Do you remember the last time you spent time reading books for pleasure? In the age of digital distractions, it is easy to struggle to find the time and headspace to get lost in literature.     1    . The following tips will help you fall in love with reading again.

    2    . Whether it’s a thriller, romance, or even an on-fiction book about your favorite hobby, make sure you choose something that will hold your attention from beginning to end. If you’re unsure where to start, ask your friends or family for recommendations, checkout online reviews, or browse through your local bookstore or library.

Set aside time for reading books. Whether it’s 20 minutes before bedtime or an hour on your lunch break, carving out sometime in your schedule will make it easier to sit down and read. And if you find that you don’t have much free time, try listening to audiobooks.     3    .

Keep a reading journal. In your journal, you can write down your thoughts about what you’re reading or graffiti pictures inspired by the book.     4    . This is a great way to engage with what you’re reading on a deeper level and a fun way to document your reading journey.

Make reading a social activity. Whether you start a book club with your friends or join an online reading group, being able to discuss what you’re reading with others can make the experience more enjoyable.     5    .

A．Find a book that interests you.

B．Create a positive reading routine.

C．But that doesn’t mean reading books is a thing of the past!

D．By this way, you can easily fit reading into your busy lifestyle.

E．Plus, it’s a great way to get recommendations for what to read next!

F．The others in your book club may come from different backgrounds.

G．It doesn’t have to be very involved, just a couple of sentences to jog your memory.

3 . Our old, artificial Christmas tree was in rough shape by the time we retired it. At least a decade had passed since my wife and I bought the tree, a medium-size fake tree with built-in lights, at a Target in Brooklyn and carried it on the subway to our tiny apartment. Over the years, we dragged that tree from apartment, jammed it onto a moving truck to Los Angeles and later packed the weathered box onto another moving truck, this time to Chicago and our current home. By the end, layers of duct tape (强力胶布) held the box together, the wear and tear of a decade of delivering holiday cheer.

Our little tree looked run down, but it was the only tree our family ever knew. It stands proud and glowing in the background of photos of me and my pregnant wife during our last Christmas in Brooklyn without children. Our oldest was born a month later during a January snowstorm. The tree shows up again in the next year’s photos, this time surrounded by holiday gifts for a boy about to turn 1. Then it appears in photos of our son and his 1-month-old brother, this time with California palm trees just outside the door. And in more recent photos, our tree lights up windows overlooking shining Chicago snow. This year, after much debate, we decided to retire our dear old tree, with its bent branches and the lights that had burned out years ago. Rather than feel depressed, we used the moment to launch a new family tradition: our first real Christmas tree.

So here’s a toast to all your family’s traditions—the old and the new. I hope you enjoy this issue, which we have filled with stories of seasonal joy and holiday cheer. Happy holidays!

1. Where is the author’s present home?

A．In Chicago.

B．In Brooklyn.

C．In California.

D．In Los Angeles.

2. Why did the author keep the old tree for so long?

A．His budget was tight.	B．He was attached to it.
C．It was in good condition.	D．It was environmentally-friendly.

3. Who is probably the author?

A．An editor.

B．A salesman.

C．A delivery man.

D．A home designer.

4. What can we learn from the story?

A．The finest diamond must be cut.

B．Out with the old, in with the new.

C．Old friends and old wine are best.

D．All things in their being are good for something.

4 . International Day of Education

24 January

Education is a human right, a public good and a public responsibility. The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed (宣布) 24 January as International Day of Education, in celebration of the role of education for peace and development. Today, 250 million children and youth are out of school, and 763 million adults are illiterate (文盲的). Their right to education is being violated (侵犯) and it is unacceptable. It’s time to transform education.

International Day of Clean Energy

26 January

The International Day of Clean Energy on 26 January was declared by the General Assembly as a call to raise awareness and mobilize action for a just and inclusive transition (过渡) to clean energy for the benefit of people and the planet. 26 January is also the founding date of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), a global intergovernmental agency established in 2009 to support countries in their energy transitions.

World Health Day

7 April

It is celebrated annually and each year draws attention to a specific health topic of concern to people all over the world. The date of 7 April marks the anniversary of the founding of WHO in 1948.

The theme for World Health Day 2024 is “My health, my right”, which was chosen to champion the right of everyone, everywhere to have access to quality health services, education and information, as well as safe drinking water, clean air, good nutrition, quality housing, decent working and environmental conditions.

World Environment Day

5 June

World Environment Day, held annually on 5 June, brings together millions of people from across the globe, engaging them in the effort to protect and restore the Earth. People from more than 150 countries participate in this United Nations international day, which celebrates environmental action and the power of governments, businesses and individuals to create a more sustainable world. The event has been led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) since its start in 1973.

1. On what day is the event about world energy marked?

A．24 January.

B．26 January.

C．7 April.

D．5 June.

2. Which of the following event began in 1973?

A．International Day of Education.

B．International Day of Clean Energy.

C．World Health Day.

D．World Environment Day.

3. What do the four events have in common?

A．They have a common goal.	B．They have a long history.
C．They’re international events.	D．They benefit world environment.

5 . 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.

6 . 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.

7 . 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.

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 . 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.

10 . 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.