1 . A huge, 12-pointed star has been fixed on top of one of the towers of Antoni Gaudí’s famous Sagrada Familia church in Barcelona. This means the construction work, begun 139 years ago, nears completion. It is scheduled to be completely finished in 2026 — marking 100 years since the architect’s death.

When Gaudí died in 1926, less than a quarter of the exterior was complete. Since then construction has been stopped every now and then for various reasons from Spanish civil wars to funding problems. Though in 2005 the church was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the construction work was claimed to be illegal in 2016, and regained its building permit in 2019.

Born in 1852, Gaudí grew up fascinated by geometry and the natural wonders of the countryside. After studying architecture in school, he eventually formed his own style. In his opinion, form and function were inseparable: Beauty should be part of structure, which rules the natural world. “Nothing is art,” he concluded, “if it does not come from nature.” On his graduation ceremony, his director said the words that became famous later: “I do not know if we have awarded this degree to a madman or to a genius; only time will tell.”

Time has obviously given the answer. In fact, Gaudí’s work over the years has permanently influenced Barcelona architecture like none other before or after. The city is considered the best outdoor modernist Museum of Europe mostly because of Gaudí.

On the 10th of June 1926, Gaudí was knocked down by a tram (有轨电车) while he was doing his usual evening walk. He lost consciousness, and nobody recognized that this disheveled (蓬乱的) old man was the famous architect until he was taken to the hospital. He was buried two days later in the unfinished Sagrada Familia, following a funeral attended by thousands of people: most of the citizens of Barcelona came out to bid a final-farewell to the most universal architect that the city had ever known.

1. What is the first paragraph mainly about?

A．A 12-pointed star was set on a Gaudí’s church.

B．Barcelona is well known for Gaudí’s architecture.

C．Gaudí’s famous church will be finished at last.

D．The 100h anniversary of Gaudí’s death will come.

2. Why did the construction of the church last over a century?

A．It was to memorize Gaudí.	B．It suffered frequent delays.
C．It was a World Heritage Site.	D．It didn’t get its building permit.

3. What did Gaudí’s director really want to say on his graduation ceremony?

A．His style was too special in his time.	B．He was not qualified for the degree.
C．His attitude to others was crazy.	D．He was too talented to be taught.

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

A．Sagrada Familia — Gaudí’s Unfinished Work

B．Barcelona — a City of Antoni Gaudí

C．Antoni Gaudí — a Genius Architect

D．Gaudí’s Architecture — the Beauty of Nature

2 . In today’s fast-paced world, comfort and relaxation are keys to a happy daily life. People want to have their tasks finished as quickly and as efficiently as possible. We all search for convenience.     1    . Here are the top Smart Home trends to follow this year. With these all by your side, you can transform your living.

Improved home security, safety, and privacy

    2    . Security firms are now offering some very next-level security systems that safeguard homes and protect privacy. Artificial Intelligence biometric authentication, robust protection against cyber-attacks, advanced cameras, and alarm systems are some examples of Smart Home solutions.

Voice-assistant smart technology

Voice-assistant innovative technology helps users do a lot like turning on music, computers, TVs and other devices inside their homes!     3    . An example of such technology is Amazon Alexa, which can assist you in better everyday living!

    4    

You can also use Smart Home technology to help you with everyday household chores! You can stay in bed in your pyjamas while your AI vacuum cleaner does all the work for you!

Smart healthcare technology

    5    . These can significantly help in case of emergencies. 5G technology is also coming up, allowing devices to function without any wires or connections. All of that can help in certain situations when a quick reaction is necessary.

A．Smart home cleaning

B．Smart touchless technology

C．We all want our homes to look nice and bright

D．That’s why more and more people are interested in Smart Home

E．These are always the most important things for every homeowner

F．It also helps in making a cosy atmosphere by adjusting temperature and lighting

G．Smart devices allow fast communication with medical professionals over the internet

3 . The idea of a “15-minute city,” in which residents can all reach work and leisure facilities within a quarter-hour walk of their homes, has gained significant popularity among urban planners during the Covid-19 pandemic. Now, a group of architects are planning an even more ambitious neighborhood in South Korea’s capital, Seoul: a 10-minute city.

Named “Project H1,” the development is set to transform an old industrial site into an interconnected “smart” city. Combining eight residential buildings with co-working offices and study spaces, the 125-acre district is also set to house entertainment venues, fitness centers,swimming pools and even hydroponic urban farms.

Designed by Dutch architecture firm UN Studio and backed by Hyundai Development Company , the neighborhood will also be completely car-free. A press release for the project claimed that “all the conveniences of the city” will be within a 10-minute walk of people’s homes. The architects also said that clean energy will be generated on site,while systems to capture and store rain are being designed to reduce water use.

A spokesperson for UN Studio Moreno said, “The emergence of Covid-19 exposed the weakness of cities and the need for a radical re-thinking,where fresh measures need to be taken to ensure that urban residents are able to cope and continue with their basic activities, including cultural ones, to ensure that cities remain both resilient and livable in the short and long terms.”

1. What is the purpose of “Project H1”?

A．To balance people’s life and jobs.

B．To create a harmonious community.

C．To link old buildings with modern offices.

D．To establish an interconnected smart city.

2. What can be inferred about the “10-minute city”?

A．It will be an energy-saving community.

B．It will provide cars freely for citizens.

C．It will look like a green garden in nature.

D．It will be more convenient than the 15-minute city.

3. What is Moreno’ attitude toward the concept of “smart cities”?

A．Doubtful.

B．Favorable.

C．Neutral.

D．Indifferent.

4. Which of the following can be the best title for the text?

A．Ideas Put Forward for “15-minute city”.

B．Weaknesses of Cities Exposed during Covid-19.

C．Plans Unveiled for High-tech “10-minute city” in Seoul.

D．Conveniences of Smart Cities Brought to Residents.

4 . The Thai capital Bangkok isn't just a big city full of skyscrapers, shopping malls, and traffic. There are many beautiful spaces providing residents with fresh air and lots of healthy outdoor activities in landscaped areas.

Benjakitti Park

The park has dedicated 'bicycle and jogging tracks around the Lake Ratchada. The water's edge is nicely framed by some pretty plant life, with colourful flowers adding to the quietness. You'll also find skate tracks, a central pavilion with fountains, and an impressive half-circle courtyard that's popular for picnics.

Opening Time: Daily from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Benjasiri Park

Benjasiri Park is the place to be for sculpture lovers, with some of the best examples of Thai sculptures around the park reflecting historical features. The centrepiece fountain hosts multimedia water dance shows 3 times daily. The park offers outdoor sports facilities rarely found at other public parks in Bangkok, including a basketball court, roller skating/skateboarding rink, tennis court, and outdoor swimming pool.

Opening Time: Daily from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Chatuchak Park

Chatuchak Park offers something for everyone at this park. Some may walk or jog along the green tracks line, while others can appreciate nature in the Thai Literature and Herb Garden. The park's northern end has many tennis courts and soccer fields. While you're there, make sure not to miss the Train Museum and Youth Traffic Garden.

Opening Time: Daily from 4:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Sanam Luang Park

Sanam Luang Park has been around since the founding of Bangkok in 1782. Take part in the kite flying festival in March in different shapes and sizes floating in the sky. On most days; you can enjoy a family picnic in the breezy late afternoon while watching an exciting game of volleyball.

Opening Time: Daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

1. Which park opens earliest every day?

A．Benjakitti Park.	B．Benjasiri Park.
C．Chatuchak Park.	D．Sanam Luang Park.

2. What is special in Benjasiri Park compared with the other three parks?

A．Colorful flowers.	B．Traditional sculptures
C．Soccer fields.	D．Walking tracks.

3. What do Benjakitti Park and Sanam Luang Park both have?

A．A tennis court.	B．Some skate tracks.
C．A volleyball court.	D．Some picnic spots.

5 . ART GALLERY GUIDES

Martin Lawrence Galleries

Distinguished as the largest contemporary collection in New York, the gallery contains works by Rembrandt, Picasso, Chagall, Keith Haring, Sam Francis, Takashi Murakami and others. Located in a two-floor space in the heart of SoHo, this gallery provides a great fine art buying experience for all ages.

Location: 457 West Broadway, New York, NY, telephone: 212-995-8865.

Email:soho@martinlawrence.com

BertaArt Studio Gallery

BertaArt Studio Gallery is the working studio and exhibition space for International award-winning artist Clara Berta. Her highly abstract paintings have been shown in the United States and collected worldwide.

Location: 816 South Main Street, Los Angeles, CA 90014, telephone: 818-692-0465.

Website:https://bertaart.com

Bill Lowe Gallery

For over three decades, Bill Lowe Gallery has served as a gate to global visual culture for art enthusiasts around the world. Our unique juxtaposition (并列) of style is expressed in exhibitions with great visual drama. This has earned the gallery recognition as a place for the cross-cultural point of beauty and meaning.

Location: 764 Miami Circle, NE, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA 30324, telephone: 404-352-8114.

Website: https://lowegallery.com

Baterbys Art Auction Gallery

Our art collection features limited pieces by 20th Century Masters like Picasso, Chagall, Modigliani, Matisse and Degas among others. We offer specialized services such as art renting and fine art home delivery.

Located: Orlando, FL, telephone: 888-682-9995.

Website: www.Baterbys.com

1. Where should visitors go if they want to buy artworks?

A．New York.	B．Los Angeles.
C．Atlanta.	D．Orlando.

2. What can visitors do at Bill Lowe Gallery?

A．See visual culture.	B．Meet famous artists.
C．Enjoy Clara Berta’s works.	D．Learn the history of Miami.

3. What is special about Baterbys Art Auction Gallery?

A．It has works by Picasso.	B．It is the oldest gallery.
C．It is an awarding-winning gallery.	D．It provides art rental service.

6 . City Books

About us

Covering over two floors, City Books has a large range of carefully chosen books, including a great number of books of local interest.

Founded and run by Paul and Inge Sweetman, the shop is on Western Road, in the Brunswick area of Brighton and Hove, right in the centre of the city.

In a competition held in Brighton and Hove, City Books was voted by locals “The Best Shop in Brunswick”. The shop has also been shortlisted twice for the national “Independent Bookshop of the Year Award”.

Events

Our literary (文学的)events provide an opportunity to listen to some great authors. During these relaxed evenings you will have the chance to put questions to the guest and buy signed first editions (版本)at reduced prices.

Ordering

We are happy to order almost any book in print if it is not already available in our shop. You can place orders by telephone, post, email or in person at the bookshop. We can usually make sure books are delivered within 1-3 business days. We will hold the order for you to pick up at the store.

Opening hours
9:30 am to 6:00 pm Monday to Saturday
11:00 am to 4:30 pm on Sunday
Contact us
City Books
23 Western Road
Hove BN3 1AF
01273 725306
info@city-books. co. uk
Twitter@CityBooksinHove
1. What do we know about City Books?

A．It lies in a quiet street	B．It is a small bookshop.
C．It is popular with the locals.	D．It is run by the city government.

2. What can people do during literary events?

A．Join a reading group.	B．Get free signed books.
C．Communicate with authors.	D．Enter a literary competition.

3. People can get their ordered books_______.

A．by post	B．in person
C．in less than three days	D．during the daytime any day

7 . Shopping in Paris, France

Every visitor to Paris goes shopping. Street markets, elegant passages, beautiful department stores, bookstalls along the Seine, fine museum shops―Paris is the perfect place for shoppers.

Covered Passages

You can combine shopping and sightseeing by visiting some of the beautiful covered passages of Paris. These 19th-century glass-roofed arcades (商场) were wildly popular for a while. Today about 20 remain, offering a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as interesting architecture and design.

Markets

Paris is best known for its wonderful markets. Open air markets, covered markets and market streets all offer fresh delicious food. They’re great fun and worth visiting, even if you’re not planning on cooking.

Flower Market

The Marche aux Fleurs (Flower Market) is just upstairs from the Cite station. Come any day of the week to enjoy the flowers, whether you buy or not. On Sunday, the flower market becomes a pet market.

Designer Shops

All of the great French fashion houses have shops in Paris, of course, and the great department stores sell all sorts of good French stuff. If you want to see a street full of top design, stroll down Avenue Montaigne.

Flea Market

For a real shopping adventure, take the Metro to Porte de Clignancourt station on Saturday, Sunday, or Monday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm for an adventure in the vast Marche aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, also known as the Clignancourt Flea Market, with several thousand stalls, shops, and vendors selling everything from used blue jeans to paintings and furniture.

Museum Shops

Most of Paris’ great museums have museum shops selling art, books and souvenirs of high quality at very reasonable prices.

1. What can the visitors learn about when visiting covered passages?

A．The history of life.

B．The style of buildings.

C．The benefit of travelling.

D．The development of cities.

2. When should you go to Flower Market to buy a cat?

A．On Monday.

B．On Friday.

C．On Saturday.

D．On Sunday.

3. As a more adventurous visitor, you will go to ________.

A．Designer Shops

B．Flea Market

C．Covered Passages

D．Museum Shops

8 . Rome can be pricey for travelers, which is why many choose to stay in a hostel (旅社). The hostels in Rome offer a bed in a dorm room for around $25 a night, and for that, you’ll often get to stay in a central location (位置) with security and comfort.

Yellow Hostel

If I had to make just one recommendation for where to stay in Rome, it would be Yellow Hostel. It’s one of the best-rated hostels in the city, and for good reason. It’s affordable, and it’s got a fun atmosphere without being too noisy. As an added bonus, it’s close to the main train station.

Hostel Alessandro Palace

If you love social hostels, this is the best hostel for you in Rome. Hostel Alessandro Palace is fun. Staff members hold plenty of bar events for guests like free shots, bar crawls and karaoke. There’s also an area on the rooftop for hanging out with other travelers during the summer.

Youth Station Hostel

If you’re looking for cleanliness and a modern hostel, look no further than Youth Station. It offers beautiful furnishings and beds. There are plenty of other benefits, too; it doesn’t charge city tax; it has both air conditioning and a heater for the rooms; it also has free Wi-Fi in every room.

Hotel and Hostel Des Artistes

Hotel and Hostel Des Artistes is located just a 10-minute walk from the central city station and it’s close to all of the city’s main attractions. The staff is friendly and helpful, providing you with a map of the city when you arrive, and offering advice if you require some. However, you need to pay 2 euros a day for Wi-Fi.

1. What is probably the major concern of travelers who choose to stay in a hostel?

A．Comfort.	B．Security.
C．Price.	D．Location.

2. Which hotel best suits people who enjoy an active social life?

A．Yellow Hostel.	B．Hostel Alessandro Palace.
C．Youth Station Hostel.	D．Hotel and Hostel Des Artistes.

3. What is the disadvantage of Hotel and Hostel Des Artistes?

A．It gets noisy at night.	B．Its staff is too talkative.
C．It charges for Wi-Fi.	D．It’s inconveniently located.

9 . The Biggest Stadiums in the World

People have been pouring into stadiums since the days of ancient Greece. In around 80 A.D., the Romans built the Colosseum, which remains the world’s best known stadium and continues to inform contemporary design. Rome’s Colosseum was 157 feet tall and had 80 entrances, seating 50,000 people. However, that was small fry compared with the city’s Circus Maximus, which accommodated around 250,000 people.

These days, safety regulations-not to mention the modern sports fan’s desire for a good view and comfortable seat — tend to keep stadium capacities (容量) slightly lower. Even soccer fans tend to have a seat each; gone are the days of thousands standing to watch the match.

For the biggest stadiums in the world, we have used data supplied by the World Atlas list so far, which ranks them by their stated permanent capacity, as well as updated information from official stadium websites.

All these stadiums are still functional, still open and still hosting the biggest events in world sport.

·Rungrado 1st of May Stadium, Pyongyang D.P.R. Korea. Capacity: 150,000. Opened: May 1,1989.

·Michigan Stadium, Ann Arbor, Michigan, U. S. Capacity: 107,601. Opened: October 1, 1927.

·Beaver Stadium, State College, Pennsylvania, U. S. Capacity: 106,572. Opened: September 17, 1960.

·Ohio Stadium, Columbus, Ohio, U. S. Capacity: 104,944. Opened: October 7,1922.

·Kyle Field, College Station, Texas, U. S. Capacity: 102,512. Opened: September 24, 1927.

1. How many people could the Circus Maximus hold?

A．104,944.

B．107,601.

C．About 150,000.

D．About 250,000.

2. Of the following stadiums, which is the oldest?

A．Michigan Stadium.

B．Beaver Stadium.

C．Ohio Stadium.

D．Kyle Field.

3. What do the listed stadiums have in common?

A．They host big games.	B．They have become tourist attractions.
C．They were built by Americans.	D．They are favored by architects.

10 . Do you know the Eiffel Tower when you see a picture of it? Of course you do! So do a lot of other people. In fact, I believe more people recognize the Eiffel Tower than any other famous structure in the whole world. That long, long capital A is easy to remember.

The Eiffel Tower is the famous symbol of the city of Paris. It also stands for France just as the Statue of Liberty stands for the United States.

The Eiffel Tower was not very well liked at first, even though the design had been chosen out of seven hundred designs. A contest had been held to find a design for a tower to be built in Paris by 1889.That year would be one hundred years after the war known as the French Revolution. The French Revolution marked the time when the French people broke away from the rule of kings. It was a very important thing to all Frenchmen, and they wanted a special tower to be built to mark the 100 years.

When his design was chosen, Eiffel was fifty-four, rich, and well known for his fine work. He had already designed dams, churches, railroad stations, bridges, harbors and, of course, the framework of the Statue of Liberty. But it was the Eiffel Tower that made him really famous. At first, the French hated the tower. When it was begun in 1887, people called it ugly and useless. They also said that it couldn’t be built safely, and that it would fall down. As the tower gets close to her nineties, she is still in great shape. And the French people have changed their minds. Now they are very proud of their Eiffel Tower. They even think she is beautiful!

1. The writer believes that the Eiffel Tower is ________ than any other famous structure in the world.

A．taller

B．older

C．better designed

D．better known

2. The French Revolution was important to the French because ________.

A．it gave France a new queen

B．it got rid of a bad king

C．it ended the rule of kings

D．they built the Eiffel Tower 100 years later

3. The Eiffel Tower is easy to remember because of its ________.

A．shape

B．color

C．size

D．history

4. What does this passage mainly tell us?

A．Eiffel designed many different kinds of things.

B．The reasons why many people know the Eiffel Tower.

C．Some opinions that the Eiffel Tower should not be built then.

D．Some interesting facts about the Eiffel Tower.