1 . Priscilla Ouchida’s “energy efficient” house turned out to be a horrible dream. When she and her engineer husband married a few years ago, they built a $100,000 three-bedroom home in California. Tightly sealed to prevent air leaks, the house was equipped with small double-paned windows and several other energy-saving features. Problems began as soon as the couple moved in, however. Priscilla’s eyes burned. Her throat was constantly dry. She suffered from headaches and could hardly sleep. It was as though she had suddenly developed a strange illness.

Experts finally traced the cause of her illness. The level of formaldehyde gas in her kitchen was twice the maximum allowed by federal standards for chemical workers. The source of the gas? Her new kitchen cabinets and wall-to-wall carpeting.

The Ouchidas are victims of indoor air pollution, which is not given sufficient attention partly because of the nation’s drive to save energy. The problem itself isn’t new. “The indoor environment was dirty long before energy conservation came along,” says Moschandreas, a pollution scientist at Geomet Technologies in Maryland. “Energy conservation has tended to accentuate the situation in some cases.”

The problem appears to be more troublesome in newly constructed homes rather than old ones. Back in the days when energy was cheap, home builders didn’t worry much about unsealed cracks. Because of such leaks, the air in an average home was replaced by fresh outdoor air about once an hour. As a result, the pollutants generated in most households seldom built up to dangerous levels.

1. It can be learned from the passage that the Ouchidas’ house ________.

A．is well worth the money spent on its construction

B．is almost faultless from the point of energy conservation

C．failed to meet energy conservation standards

D．was designed and constructed in a scientific way

2. What made the Ouchidas’ new house a horrible dream?

A．Poor quality of the air inside.	B．Poor quality of the construction.
C．Gas leakage in the kitchen.	D．The newly painted walls.

3. The word “accentuate” (Para. 3) most probably means “________”.

A．relieve

B．accelerate

C．worsen

D．improve

4. Why were cracks in old houses not a big concern?

A．Because indoor cleanliness was not emphasized.

B．Because energy used to be inexpensive.

C．Because environmental protection was given top priority.

D．Because they were technically unavoidable.

5. This passage is most probably taken from an article entitled ________.

A．Energy Conservation	B．House Building Crisis
C．Air Pollution Indoors	D．Traps in Building Construction

2 . A special place to stay can make a holiday — but also break the bank. We have picked new affordable places across Europe for €150 a room a night or less.

Scourie Hotel
Doubles from €129
Opened October 2015

This hotel has been adored by fishing fans for generations. When the Campbell family bought it six years ago, they updated it with gentle, stylish furnishings. There’s a string of spectacular beaches to discover, including the Scourie Bay with golden sand.

Ho36 Hotel
Doubles from €109
Opened December 2017

This hotel offers the rarest of things — ski accommodation that is both affordable and stylish. Guests can ski or snowboard from the front door. There are two lively bars with live music and regular DJ nights, a restaurant serving hearty Alpine meals and film nights.

Conscious Hotel
Doubles from €120
Opened April 2016

This fourth hotel by Dutch sustainable brand Conscious is the first powered entirely by wind. The restaurant is fully organic and the bedrooms are simple with contemporary elements. The hotel overlooks the Westerpark, one of Amsterdam’s biggest green spaces.

Dock Hotel
Doubles from €150
Opened May 2014

This large hotel on the Baltic coast is made from shipping containers. The industrial theme continues inside,with concrete walls, exposed pipes, and more containers. The hotel is 12 minutes’ walk from the beach.

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

A．Scourie Hotel.

B．Ho36 Hotel.

C．Conscious Hotel.

D．Dock Hotel.

2. What is special about Conscious Hotel?

A．It is old-fashioned.

B．It has the longest history.

C．It is environment-friendly.

D．It offers the biggest green space.

3. What can the guests of Scourie Hotel and Dock Hotel do?

A．Update the furniture.

B．Walk on the beach.

C．Appreciate architecture.

D．Visit industrial fairs.

3 . Libraries are the temple for book lovers, the main source of knowledge and wisdom. Here are the biggest libraries in the world.

The Library of Congress

The Library of Congress in the US is the biggest library in the world, whose collections are from all around the world. The library has a collection of 32 million cataloged books. It receives 22,000 copies per day from the publication produced in the US. Some of the major works stored in the library are Rough Draft of the Declaration of Independence, the world’s most famous architectural designs and so on.

The British Library

The British Library is the national library of the United Kingdom. It is the second biggest library in the world. It holds 150 million items from different countries. It receives 8,000 copies per day from the publication produced in the United Kingdom and Ireland. Its collection includes 14 million books. Every year over 3 million items are added to the library. The major highlights of the library collection are Diamond Sutra and Alice’s Adventures under Ground.

Library and Archives (档案馆) Canada (LAC)

Canada has the third biggest library in the world. The library holds 20 million books, 24 million photographs and a lot of digital works. Its collection includes The Proclamation of the Canadian Constitution Act, the British North America Act and many more precious works.

The New York Public Library (NYPL)

It is the fourth largest library in the world. It is the public library having 87 branches. The library has a collection of 53 million items. It also has four research libraries which are open to the general public. You can ask and discover about anything on the official website of NYPL.

1. Which of the following works is stored in the Library of Congress?

A．The British North America Act.

B．Alice’s Adventures under Ground.

C．Rough Draft of the Declaration of Independence.

D．The Proclamation of the Canadian Constitution Act.

2. How many new items does the British Library receive every year?

A．About 22,000.	B．More than 8,000.
C．About 14 million.	D．More than 3 million.

3. Which library owns an official website where you can search for all information?

A．Library and Archives Canada.	B．The Library of Congress.
C．The New York Public Library.	D．The British Library.

4 . Some libraries use unique architecture to encourage visitors to explore the racks and settle down with a new book, or use flowing libraries to bring books to hard-to-reach populations.

Kansas City Library (Kansas City, Missouri)

Along the south wall of this parking garage’s exterior, visitors are treated to what looks like a huge shelf of books. The building originally served as a bank, which is readily apparent when the library has screenings in its Vault Theater, inside an actual 1925 bank vault.

Stuttgart City Library (Stuttgart, Germany)

Opened in 2011, this nine-story public library designed by Eun Young Yi is characterized by its impressive white-on-white color scheme, its bold cubic shape and its cavernous interior. This cultural center for the city, designed to feel open and full of light, can be entered from any of its four sides, and readers can borrow artwork as well as books.

The Camel Library Service (North Eastern Province, Kenya)

To fight with low literacy rates in the desert of Kenya, the government created a roaming library composed of nine camels to bring books to villages. The library travels four days a week serving the region’s migratory people. Currently the service focuses on children, but with more funding they plan to increase their reach both in distance and the titles they carry.

Macquarie University Library (Sydney, Australia)

A stunning combination of cutting edge and sustainable, this building was made from recycled materials, features a green roof, and was designed to imitate the look of a eucalyptus tree. It is also state of the art, using robot cranes to bring requested books to the front desk.

1. What is the feature of Kansas City Library?

A．It used to be a bank.	B．It has only a book shelf.
C．It served as a park lot.	D．It makes use of robot cranes.

2. Which of the following provides books for migratory people?

A．Kansas City Library.	B．Stuttgart City Library.
C．The Camel Library Service.	D．Macquarie University Library.

3. What’s the purpose of the libraries?

A．To sell the artwork in libraries.	B．To urge people to read books.
C．To show the art of architecture.	D．To keep people staying in the libraries.

5 . Hotels

Holme Lacy Hotel · Three Nights · Half Board

From Only £191 Per Person · FREE bottle of wine in your room

This Grade I Listed Georgian Manor House has breathtaking grounds and history galore.

● Wonderful amusement every night of your stay

● Kick off the day with a swim in our indoor heated swimming pool

● Treat yourself and relax with a treatment in the Salon Spa

Lakeside Village · Three Nights · Half Board

From Only £188 Per Person · NEW break for 2022

This charming coastal village is a hive of activity, with a bustling courtyard and plenty besides.

● Prepare to take a first class virtual journey around the world with Warner. Food, live amusement and more themed around each fabulous destination on each night of your stay

● Set in 32 acres of gardens and grounds, with stunning coastal views

● Start your day with a few lengths in our indoor swimming pool

Bembridge Hotel · Three Nights · Half Board

From Only £176 Per Person · FREE boat offer to the Isle of Wight

● Enjoy a stay at this perfect seaside setting with amazing views of the Solent and spectacular coastal walks

● Relax with a warm drink and enjoy the stunning views

● Take a walk through our 23 acres of grounds and gardens

● Visit the local attractions including Osborne House and The Needles

Cricket Hotel · Two Nights · Half Board

From Only £127 Per Person · FREE bottle of wine in your room

Enjoy a two night pre-Christmas escape at this wonderful country house set in the rolling Somerset countryside.

● Wonderful live music and shows every night

● Located in 160 acres of Grade II Listed landscaped parkland

● Start your day with a dip in our heated indoor pool or sauna

1. What can visitors enjoy in both Holme Lacy Hotel and Lakeside Village?

A．Swimming indoors.	B．Delicious food.
C．Coastal views.	D．Free wine.

2. What is special about Bembridge Hotel?

A．It has wonderful live music.	B．It is famous for its gardens.
C．It offers visitors boats for free.	D．It is in the peaceful countryside.

3. Which hotel should you choose if you want to spend less money?

A．Lakeside Village.	B．Bembridge Hotel.
C．Holme Lacy Hotel.	D．Cricket Hotel.

6 . 阅读下面短文，在空白处填入1个适当的单词或括号内单词的正确形式。

I was studying English literature in Italy, and I had to study in an English-speaking country for one year as part of the course. I     1     (offer) a chance to go to Boston University and I took it.

As soon as I saw Boston, I fell in love with it. I live in a small city, and I’ve always wanted to live in a big city. Boston was exactly     2     I needed for my first-time-away-from-home. Boston is     3     (definite) a big city but not big enough     4     (make) you feel overwhelmed. The weather is also great and you get to enjoy all four     5     (season) in true New England style.

I stayed with a family.     6     (They) house was on Commonwealth Avenue,     7     is one of the busiest streets in Boston. It was great to be there as Boston University is spread out along Commonwealth Avenue. The only bad thing is that it’s a bit busy. One of my friends had to wear a cast for months after     8     (hit) by a car trying to cross Commonwealth Avenue — Boston is famous for its horrible drivers.

Boston is a great place to live as a college student. There are lots of universities in Boston. College students make up twenty percent of Boston’s population. This adds     9     the energy of the city, making it a(n)     10     (attract) place to live and study.

7 . We look forward to welcoming you to The Metropolitan Museum of Art! The following events are open to exploration.

Member Morning Hours

Every Thursday, 9 am-10 am

Every Thursday morning, just before the Museum opens to the public, Members are invited to experience the newest exhibitions at the Met without the crowds. Members are also invited to bring guest (s). Timed Tickets are not required for entry.

Storytime at the Met— Back to School

Every Tuesday, 10: 30 am-11 am

Read, listen, sing, and have fun with Storytime! Join us every Tuesday for picture-book readings connected to objects in The Met collection. This month’s theme is Back to School. Recommended for families with children ages 18 months to 6 years.

Free; Museum admission is not required. Note: Space is limited; first come, first served.

Art History Study Group -Text and Image in Ancient Egypt

Wednesday, September 7, 2022,5 pm-5: 30 pm

Expand your knowledge of art history through virtual introductions to core themes and close examination of Met objects with Museum experts. In this session, join us for an in-depth discussion about the relationship between text and image in ancient Egypt.

Fee: $40. Please note: This live event takes place on Zoom. Space is limited; advance registration is required. Registration closes Tuesday, September 6, 2022, or when registration is full.

Discoveries -Color !

Sunday, September 11, 2022,11 pm-12:30 pm

For kids with learning and developmental disabilities and those on the autism spectrum. Join us for an in-person workshop to talk about and make art!

Free, though reservations are required. Space is limited.

1. Which event is held online?

A．Member Morning Hours.

B．Storytime at the Met.

C．Art History Study Group.

D．Discoveries —Color.

2. What advantage do Members of the Met have?

A．They can be allowed entry at any time.

B．They can help organize the newest exhibitions.

C．They can attend events without advance registration.

D．They can bring guests to the museum before it opens.

3. What can kids do if they attend Storytime at the Met?

A．Admire exhibits.

B．Read picture books.

C．Make themed art objects.

D．Learn about art history.

8 . Four Most Beautiful Subways in the World

City Hall Station, New York

Country: the USA

Opened: 1904

Unlike the other subway stations, this one hasn’t been in use since 1945. However, it can be admired by those going aboard the trains that run on the IRT Lexington Avenue Line. Opened on October 27, 1904, this station was designed to represent the flagship of the new subway. Thanks to the specific shape and colors, the station remains the only one of its kind and very impressive—so impressive that it’s often chosen as a movie set.

Toledo Station, Naples

Country: Italy

Opened: 2012

The subway station which is considered the most beautiful in the world stands in Italy. The new design of the Toledo Station in Naples features colorful pictures from a full range of shades of blue. During the construction of the station, it brought to light several archaeological (考古的)finds dating back to the end of the 15th to early 16th century as well as Roman buildings dating back to the 2nd century.

Champ-de-Mars Station, Montreal

Country: Canada

Opened: 1966

Champ-de-Mars is a station on the Orange Line of the Montreal Subway, Canada. It features colorful glass windows made by the artist Marcelle Ferron. Some of the works featured in this station are also considered to be the artist’s most famous ones.

Komsomolskaya, Mosca

Country: Russia

Opened: 1952

Standing in Komsomolskaya Square and the crossroads of three different subway lines, this station is very busy and beautiful. Its place and inside design make it a perfect representation of Russian culture.

1. What can be known about City Hall Station?

A．It represents the new culture.	B．It is the oldest subway in the world.
C．It has appeared in some movies.	D．It can transport the most passengers.

2. Which country owns the most beautiful subway station in the world according to the text?

A．The USA.

B．Italy.

C．Canada.

D．Russia.

3. Which subway station has been in use for the longest time?

A．City Hall Station, New York.	B．Toledo Station, Naples.
C．Champ-de-Mars Station, Montreal.	D．Komsomolskaya, Mosca.

9 . People like to celebrate when they move into a new home. Maybe it’ s the first flat someone has owned, a couple’ s first home since getting married or maybe a growing family has moved to a bigger house. For whatever reason, the home is new. It represents a change and an exciting new beginning, with walls to paint, rooms to decorate and neighbors to meet. And what better way to meet people than to throw a party?

Parties to celebrate moving into a new home are called “house-warming” or “flat-warming” parties. If you think about it, they are appropriate names because an empty house with no people or furniture in it is a cold shell of a place. A house full of people, on the other hand, often requires some open windows or air conditioning to keep from getting too hot.

So what are house-warming parties like? Usually, the hosts invite their new neighbors as well as their friends. They usually provide some food and drinks and guests usually bring house-warming gifts. The gift might be something for the house，like a plant, or something for the guests to share, like a bottle of wine. There may be a dress code or theme. For example, if it is a “Hat Party”, people will wear unusual or funny hats. This helps break the ice by making people laugh. This makes it easier to meet new people and creates a fun and cheerful atmosphere.

There’ s an old saying that home is where the heart is. When people throw a house-warming party,they’ re opening their hearts as well as their homes to the people around them. So if you’ re ever invited by new neighbors to a house-warming, go! Then invite them to your home another time. Your home might already be warm, but new friends are the surest way to warm your heart.

1. People hold a house-warming party to celebrate ______.

A．finding a new job	B．having a new baby
C．getting married	D．moving into a new home

2. Why is the name “house-warming” appropriate according to the writer?

A．It’s the opposite of a house-cooling party.

B．A house or flat with people in it seems to be lively.

C．When people drink wine at these parties they get very warm.

D．At these parties there is always a fire that people sit around to warm themselves.

3. What does the underlined phrase “break the ice” mean in a social situation?

A．It means to get conversation flowing(流畅).

B．It means to make a hole in the ice through which to fish.

C．It means conversation is very difficult because people don’ t know each other.

D．It means the atmosphere at a house-warming party is very cold and unfriendly.

4. Why does the writer suggest that you invite people to your home?

A．It can show your politeness to your neighbors.

B．Everyone should have a house-warming.

C．Making new friends will make you happy.

D．Inviting them will warm up your cold house.

10 . Look for cheap student accommodation in London? Why not start your search via our website, sign up for a free account and book it today?

Arch View House

Located next to the Wembley Stadium, it is home to 687 students. It has a range of private and shared studios, which come with their own kitchen, bathroom and living facilities. Away from your room, you’ll have access to public areas where you can relax. A fully equipped gym is available for you to use in your spare time. Prices start from £160 per week.

The Cube Ealing

It is a student accommodation located in Zone 3. It is only a 3 minute walk from the University of West London and a 25-minute tube ride to the city center as well as the University of Westminster. Prices start from £150 per week.

Sunlight Apartments

With Sunlight Apartment’s perfect location, it’s not just studying that’s convenient to enjoy shops and restaurants in London. It is a small and friendly community situated in the heart of Bethnal Green, which is a desirable location for students looking to live on the surrounding districts of Brick Lane and Whitechapel. Prices start from £110 per week.

Helen Graham House

Located in the center of Bloomsbury, it is perfect for students on a tight budget (预算) but want to be at the heart of the city. An eight minute walk to Birbeck and seven minutes from University of Law London, it’s not only the wonderful west of the city on your doorstep. Prices start from £130 per week.

1. What may Arch View House attract students most?

A．Its quiet surroundings.	B．Its convenient facilities.
C．Its public transportation.	D．Its friendly community.

2. What’s the monthly rent of the nearest apartment to University of West London?

A．£150.

B．£160.

C．£480.

D．£600.

3. Which apartment suits a student enjoying life at the heart of London?

A．Helen Graham House.	B．Arch View House.
C．The Cube Ealing.	D．Sunlight Apartments.