1 . It’s a classic story: A kid is forced to learn an instrument from a young age, they play it throughout their childhood, and they develop a bittersweet relationship with it. Is the constant battle between the love for the music and the hate for the constant challenge worth the fight? For me, it was.

I started playing the piano when I was four-that was 15 years ago! This was huge commitment, so there must have been something worth holding on to, right?

The easy guess is that I was purely in love with music and piano. Although that’s the sweeter tale, it’s a bit more complicated. I struggled a lot with piano. Family and peers were, at least in my own head, constantly placed beside me in competition. I felt pressure to be the best in order to prove something to others-and more devastatingly (破坏性地) to prove something to myself. The seed of my musical interest was grown in the sunlight of competition and doubt. Hate sprouted (滋生) when my self-criticism hit too hard.

It’s difficult to learn to love something that didn’t originate from love. For a while, piano was more of an annoyance than a hobby. But somehow, love grew. It was deeply buried. But it was there, and by high school,it was strong enough that when I was truly on the verge of quitting any kind of formal training. I found the strength to hold on tighter, and dig further. I switched teachers, and got incredibly lucky with one who helped me tunnel into what I loved. I learned pieces for myself, I composed for myself, and I found confidence not because I got “good enough,” but because I learned that anything I had was good enough.

The love and hate I’ve had for the piano were both planted and grown. If you too have learned to hate something, remember that with commitment, it can be uprooted, and love can make a home in its place. There is always time. There is always room.

1. What does the author want to show by telling a classic story?

A．The benefits of music.

B．Kids’ struggle in learning instruments.

C．Kids’ bittersweet childhood.

D．The popularity of learning instruments.

2. What can we know about the author’s experience of playing the piano?

A．She finally quit formal training.

B．She never treated it as her hobby.

C．She was in pure love with music and piano.

D．She once experienced great pressure from herself.

3. What helped the author find confidence?

A．Her attitude.	B．Her training.
C．Her compromise.	D．Her achievement.

4. What message is mainly delivered in the passage?

A．Practice makes perfect.

B．Love is a thing that grows.

C．Content is better than riches.

D．Chance favors the prepared mind.

2 . I got the opportunity to pursue an unmatchable educational vision at Stanford University. I was flooded with feelings of relief and excitement. It was a miracle that the American Dream had exposed its colors in my favor.

Upon arrival at the campus, ambition burned within me. I imagined becoming President of the Student Union, a member of Cardinal Calypso, and so on. I wanted Stanford to be a place for me to really learn about the vast world.

I was extremely occupied beyond the classroom. As an active member of nearly twelve VSOs (Voluntary Service Overseas), I could hardly focus on my study. Ultimately, my academic journey at Stanford was characterized by a lack of consistency (连贯性). The letter informing me of my academic suspension (停学) did not come as a surprise.I knew I would have to face consequences.

Fortunately, Infomineo, a research organization, offered me the opportunity to complete a six-month internship (实习) . This experience has done wonders for me, giving me insight into who I am, what I want to do, where I want to be, and how I can get there. I should have known that the freshman year is about testing out courses and extra-curriculars, and that each decision should end up helping me in the future.

Most significantly, I’ve learned big changes are born of little consistencies. This is what I will carry for the rest of my life, especially at Stanford University. Consistently attending professors’ classes or routinely setting aside time to review notes outside the classroom. This is where I stand now, and ready to tackle Stanford again. This time, with clearer sight of how to accomplish my goals, I feel that I have detected and revealed a new power within me.

1. How did the author feel when arriving at Stanford?

A．Excited and nervous.

B．Grateful and curious.

C．Ambitious and hopeful.

D．Relieved and puzzled.

2. What happened to the author at Stanford?

A．He was rejected by the Student Union.

B．He failed to meet academic requirements.

C．He was burdened with heavy schoolwork.

D．He managed to establish voluntary groups.

3. Which of the following best describes the author’s internship experience?

A．Demanding.

B．Beneficial.

C．Fruitless.

D．Risky.

4. What lesson has the author learnt?

A．Dreams work wonders.

B．Changes promote progress.

C．Consistencies make the difference.

D．Opportunities favor the prepared mind.

3 . Silence is important for learning. I got it from my fourteen-month-old daughter Arielle.

One day, she sat on the floor with an old baby doll. Without buttons, it could neither _________ nor play music. The whole room was silent. Then Arielle began to explore the baby doll. When her hand touched a tiny _________, she used one finger to trace (勾画) its shape. Then she _________ one of her own ears and then both ears. She kept tracing the doll’s ear and her own a few more times until, _________, she turned her attention elsewhere.

At that moment I discovered how human _________ took place. Something stimulated (刺激) Arielle’s _________: Is her body like her doll’s? With no outside stimulation, she satisfied her curiosity by comparing the doll’s body and herself. _________, for many kids, experiences like Arielle’s are less and less frequent _________ children are surrounded by those so-called _________ toys which can talk and move at the push of a button. This __________ them to push buttons repeatedly without thinking and may rob (剥夺) children of opportunities to problem-solve.

Like adults, children need times that are __________ to experience the difference between just reacting to outside stimulation and __________ their own ideas by exploring the world.

Indeed, the toys most likely to encourage creative play are not those that make __________ or have lots of unnecessary’ functions. __________, they are simple, quiet and can be used in lots of different ways. So next time, when __________ what to buy your child, make a wise choice.

1.

A．smile

B．stand

C．talk

D．sleep

2.

A．nose

B．mouth

C．ear

D．foot

3.

A．covered

B．felt

C．hurt

D．drew

4.

A．discouraged

B．interested

C．confused

D．satisfied

5.

A．aging

B．communication

C．learning

D．experiment

6.

A．imagination

B．curiosity

C．creativity

D．determination

7.

A．Briefly

B．Sadly

C．Hopefully

D．Traditionally

8.

A．unless

B．while

C．since

D．until

9.

A．safe

B．pretty

C．healthy

D．smart

10.

A．required

B．forbade

C．advised

D．caused

11.

A．hard

B．quiet

C．extra

D．fresh

12.

A．developing

B．changing

C．expressing

D．appreciating

13.

A．noise

B．profits

C．progress

D．records

14.

A．However

B．Instead

C．Therefore

D．Besides

15.

A．asking

B．studying

C．deciding

D．suggesting

4 . Staying alone can be both a challenging and rewarding experience. It offers a unique opportunity for self-reflection, personal growth, and independence. When we are alone, we can connect with our inner selves and discover our strengths and weaknesses.

In the quietness of being alone, we can escape the noise and distractions of the outside world. It allows us to slow down, be present, and appreciate the simple moments in life.     1     For example, we can read a book, listen to music, or pursue a hobby. Without the pressures of social interactions, we can focus on our own thoughts and feelings, gaining a deeper understanding of ourselves.

Being alone also encourages independence and problem-solving skills.     2     It teaches us adaptability as we go through challenges and uncertainties. We become more self-dependent and capable of handling various situations on our own.

    3     Taking time away from the constant demands of others allows us to focus on our own needs and refuel our energy reserves. It’s important to recognize that taking time for ourselves is not selfish, but rather a necessary part of self-care. By recharging our batteries, we ultimately become more productive and fulfilled in our personal and professional lives.

    4     While staying alone can be beneficial, humans are social beings by nature. We desire companionship, support, and shared experiences. It is important to reach out to loved ones, build meaningful relationships, and engage in social activities that bring us happiness and fulfillment.

In conclusion, staying alone can be a trans formative experience.     5     Embracing the state of being alone can lead to personal growth, inner peace, and a deeper understanding of ourselves. So, let us not fear being alone but embrace it as an opportunity for self-reflection and self-empowerment.

A．Being alone can increase your sense of connection to other people.

B．In fact, there are many disadvantages to being alone.

C．We can take the time to engage in activities that bring us joy.

D．When there is no one else around to rely on, we learn to make decisions independently.

E．It enables self-entertainment, independence, and refreshment in our own company.

F．However, it is essential to strike a balance between staying alone and social connection.

G．Moreover, staying alone allows us to recharge and refresh.

5 . Kindness when travelling comes in so many forms. However, the story that happened in Greece has touched me the most.

I arrived late in Thessaloniki after my flight from the Czech Republic was delayed over three hours. Luckily, my Airbnb hostess still picked me up from the airport and made the 40-minute drive to her place. We got there around 11 pm!

As Greece was the starting point for the Middle East and the last place in my plan that used Euros as currency(货币), I ran low on cash. So I made a decision that I wouldn’t be spending any money on dinner that night. Instead, I would choose a cheap breakfast the next day. Upon hearing this, the mother of the lady hugged me tightly, said something in Greek, laughed, and left. I thought this was a goodnight hug and I prepared to go to bed.

A little bit later the older lady returned, with her daughter and a big plate of cheese, boiled eggs, and salad. She wouldn’t allow me to go to bed without a late-night dinner. I was totally surprised by this kind act towards a stranger. The meal was delicious, and although I tried to offer the ladies money as a thank you for their kindness, they refused. All the worries of the day disappeared and I went to bed smiling and with a full belly.

I loved everything Thessaloniki offered in the way of history, culture, and natural beauty. Despite the ongoing economic difficulties, this friendly Greek family fed a hungry stranger and really made my time in the northern part of Greece.

1. Why did the author decide not to have dinner that night?

A．He had limited cash.	B．He was not hungry.
C．He disliked Greek food.	D．He arrived too late.

2. Which of the following best describes the older lady?

A．Kind but demanding.	B．Considerate and generous.
C．Warm-hearted but impatient.	D．Outgoing and humorous.

3. What impressed the author most in Thessaloniki?

A．The free pick-up.	B．The late-night dinner.
C．The Greek culture.	D．The confusing language.

4. What is the purpose of the text?

A．To offer advice on travelling abroad.

B．To introduce a friendly Greek family.

C．To recommend a destination in Greece.

D．To share a touching travel experience.

6 . Sinking onto the sofa in my living room on a Friday evening, I was emotionally worn out from a busy workweek and eager to find a temporary _________. Nearby, my 3-year-old son was playing with a toy train, so _________ in the play that he didn’t even notice me.

Then I made a surprising _________. Though exhausted, I was flooded with a sense of deep satisfaction. I felt extremely _________ watching him swing his body to ride the train through imaginary hills and valleys. His loud “choo-choo” sounded like a comforting tune. I dared not make the slightest sound or motion that would _________ this joyful moment.

Upon reflection, I _________ something: No amount of money or success could _________ this experience. Professional milestones such as earning a medical degree paled in comparison to the _________ I was feeling now. It will not contribute to my professional achievements. Nor will it _________ me any praise from colleagues. But it has __________ my life in a significant way. I did not have to work for it. All I had to do was __________ and be present, like my son who was focused on his train game and __________ showing me how to be in the here and now.

Our daily lives are hidden with countless __________ to find satisfaction. It may be the sound of birds on a sunny morning or __________ a few minutes of silence at the end of a busy day. The key is to __________ the moment and take it in.

1.

A．reward

B．duty

C．satisfaction

D．solution

2.

A．talented

B．absorbed

C．restricted

D．stressed

3.

A．announcement

B．victory

C．decision

D．discovery

4.

A．delighted

B．pressed

C．frustrated

D．astonished

5.

A．disturb

B．capture

C．extend

D．avoid

6.

A．remembered

B．realized

C．repeated

D．requested

7.

A．describe

B．enrich

C．equal

D．promote

8.

A．kindness

B．generosity

C．energy

D．joy

9.

A．buy

B．cost

C．earn

D．hand

10.

A．attracted

B．affected

C．risked

D．ruined

11.

A．slow down

B．calm down

C．catch on

D．move on

12.

A．undoubtedly

B．unknowingly

C．unnecessarily

D．unconditionally

13.

A．presents

B．arrangements

C．opportunities

D．instructions

14.

A．filling

B．breaking

C．noticing

D．enjoying

15.

A．seize

B．share

C．define

D．choose

7 . 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。

The idea of helping people comes naturally to most of us. If we see a blind person getting off     1     bus, we watch to make sure that he is in no danger of     2     (fall).     3    , there are many people who have nobody near to see their need for help even when the need is known. The old, the handicapped (disabled), and the homeless — these are the people for     4     help may not come, because nobody sees. Organizations exist which try to make sure that someone sees when help     5     (need) and does something about it. Volunteers give up a little of their spare time     6     (lend) a hand.

If you wish to take part in this worthwhile activity, think of the people most in need of help and the ways in which help can be given. Old people cannot always redecorate     7     (they) homes. Household repairs, cleaning, preparing food or taking care of the garden may all prove difficult. Elderly people with failing eyesight are     8     (delight) if a friend comes in to read or to write letters for them.

People confined to wheelchairs cannot go out     9     somebody takes them. Blind children may love swimming but they need a sighted     10     (swim) to go with them.

What do you do if you want to help?

8 . Do you have any idea how rewarding it is to spread homemade butter on bread? Most of my generation may not know but ask my kids—they think they’re truly _________ the life.

I feel like we took a step “backward” when we bought a cow. How _________ it is to buy milk and butter off the shelf in the store. But I enjoy the _________ back. It adds so much simplicity to our lives. My children will _________ with many memories of a sweet milk cow, fresh butter and bread, and family _________.

Adding a milk cow to our home wasn’t a _________ decision. I knew it would take time and_________, but I haven’t regretted it. My children also haven’t _________ the extra work. We’ve all found so much _________ in this attempt.

My oldest child is __________making butter. It’s something she’s wanted to do with raw milk for years. The kids all take turns churning the milk in the bottle. __________ it’s fully butter, the kids are so __________ to pull the churn off the bottle and glimpse inside. They’ve had even more fun making their own little butters.

Not everyone’s picture of a __________ life is the same. How you raise your kids influences what the next generation will __________ and what type of work ethic (职业道德) they’ll have. Don’t be afraid to take a step back with your family to a __________ life.

1.

A．escaping

B．rebuilding

C．living

D．celebrating

2.

A．cheap

B．convenient

C．advanced

D．wonderful

3.

A．step

B．life

C．memory

D．generation

4.

A．fit in

B．hold on

C．grow up

D．settle down

5.

A．history

B．togetherness

C．acceptance

D．commitment

6.

A．tough

B．firm

C．crucial

D．light

7.

A．effort

B．trouble

C．practice

D．confidence

8.

A．put off

B．given up

C．returned to

D．complained about

9.

A．butter

B．joy

C．power

D．skill

10.

A．longing for

B．living on

C．setting about

D．keeping up

11.

A．Unless

B．Though

C．Once

D．Until

12.

A．relieved

B．shocked

C．exhausted

D．excited

13.

A．rewarding

B．peaceful

C．normal

D．harmonious

14.

A．regret

B．appreciate

C．suspect

D．envy

15.

A．healthier

B．quieter

C．richer

D．simpler

9 . Dalton Shaffer, an employee at Steve’s Pizza in Battle Creek, Michigan, was _______ late one night recently when he picked up an unlikely call from more than 200 miles away.

On the other side of the _______ were Julie and Rich of Indianapolis, who lived in Battle Creek more than 20 years ago and, in their opinion, _______ hadn’t found pizza as good as Steve’s. The pair had _______ a trip back to their favorite pizza spot, but had to cancel it due to Rich’s ongoing battle with cancer.

On Saturday night, Julie decided to give Steve’s Pizza a call _______ they don’t take delivery orders, and _______ not three-and-a-half hours away. That’s when Dalton _______ the phone. He didn’t think twice about what the right thing to do was. He just _______ what their favorite pizza was and got in his car, beginning his long, tough journey at close to midnight.

On Sunday, at 2:30 a.m., Dalton _______ into their driveway, left the car running and delivered two extra special pizzas to the ________ pair. He wished them all the best, and ________ to help in any way he could.

“Dalton brought us so much ________-and the best pizza in the world-at a really ________ time. I’m sure he is a sweet guy to many others besides us.”Julie wrote in her post.“It was incredible that a ________ would do that for us. He drove about 450 miles round trip ________ working all day!

1.

A．driving

B．sleeping

C．studying

D．working

2.

A．line

B．restaurant

C．town

D．window

3.

A．even

B．still

C．thus

D．again

4.

A．recalled

B．taken

C．planned

D．missed

5.

A．as though

B．only if

C．even though

D．now that

6.

A．actually

B．certainly

C．generally

D．merely

7.

A．discovered

B．touched

C．answered

D．dropped

8.

A．spotted

B．decided

C．perceived

D．asked

9.

A．rolled

B．ran

C．walked

D．swung

10.

A．calm

B．amazed

C．confident

D．worried

11.

A．agreed

B．begged

C．remembered

D．offered

12.

A．inspiration

B．pleasure

C．security

D．freedom

13.

A．difficult

B．awkward

C．suitable

D．precious

14.

A．servant

B．celebrity

C．stranger

D．rescuer

15.

A．except

B．from

C．by

D．after

10 . In the spring of 2013, my wife and I opened Literati Bookstore in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Opening a community-minded independent bookstore was a dream we’d shared. We were in our late twenties, pursuing adream.

When opening day arrived, we unlocked the door and held our breath. One by one, people walked inside, paged through new books, and discussed favourite authors. The bookstore came alive.

That morning, I had set out a typewriter on our lower level for anyone to use. It was a community-building experiment: What if people could walk into a bookstore and type anything they wanted?

The first typewriter I ever fell in love with was my grandfather’s -a 1930s Smith Corona. My memory of him is limited to impressions: visits to his Florida apartment, beach picnics, and a fascinating black typewriter on his writing desk. One year, long after he passed, Grandma gave me his Smith Corona for Christmas. At the time, I was a struggling writer. Seeing his old typewriter again stirred something in me. His typewriter made writing fun again. And for the first time since his death, I felt connected to him, to a past I never really knew.

The typewriter I set out on opening day was a light blue Olivetti Lettera 32. I inserted a clean piece of paper and let it be: the world’s smallest publishing house, waiting for an author. One of the notes I found that first day was: Thank you for being here. I didn’t see the typer’s identity, so it appeared as though the typewriter itself was thanking me. Soon, more notes accumulated. Typewriting had become part of our bookstore’s identity.

Customers and friends began encouraging me to turn these notes into a book. At first, I was hesitant. But then I read through the piles of messy, typewritten pages again. Some made me tear up; many made me laugh out loud. They shouldn’t be locked inside my filing cabinet at home. Inside our store, surrounded by books that have been labored over by authors, editors, and marketers, there’s a way for people to publish directly into the world in permanent ink spelling errors and all.

1. Why did the author set out a typewriter in the bookstore?

A．To honour his grandfather.

B．To provide convenience to customers.

C．To offer people a way to express themselves.

D．To respond to community residents’ requirement.

2. How did the author feel when he got Smith Corona as a gift?

A．Curious.

B．Amused.

C．Surprised.

D．Inspired.

3. What can we infer from the last two paragraphs?

A．There was a publishing house in the bookstore.

B．The bookstore was famous for its unique typewriter.

C．The typewritten notes were full of spelling errors.

D．The author would publish a book consisting of those notes.

4. What message does the text intend to convey in this passage?

A．Nothing is impossible to a willing heart.

B．Everyone can be a writer of his own life.

C．It only takes a typewriter to be an author.

D．Books are the ever-burning lamps of accumulated wisdom.