2024届高三英语二轮复习阅读理解-传统文化专题 Traditional Culture（选自China Daily）（无答案）
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| 名称 | 2024届高三英语二轮复习阅读理解-传统文化专题 Traditional Culture（选自China Daily）（无答案） |  | |
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阅读理解----传统文化专题 Traditional Culture（选自China Daily）
PASSAGE 1
关键词：Hanfu parade showcases Chinese tradition in Malta
A hanfuparade was held in Valletta, the capital of Malta, on February 17, 2024 in celebration of Chinese New Year.
Hanfu, a traditional Chinese clothing, dates back to the Qin and Han dynasties and has evolved over many dynasties like Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, etc. With the varied styles and characteristics of each dynasty, Hanfu embodies the stunning craftsmanship and aesthetics of the Han ethnicity, carrying more than 30 items of China's intangible cultural heritage.
It varies in colors like red, orange, yellow, green, and blue, each reflecting a unique mood. For instance, red is associated with festivity, orange exudes warmth, yellow is delicate and refined, green is refreshing, and blue is serene and elegant. Each color and design subtly express the wearer's temperament and lifestyle.
Hanfu is a unique blend of traditional and contemporary style, reflecting the unique culture and history of China. Making Hanfu requires precision and patience, and even the color selection must take into consideration the occasion and demographic.
Whether it's at a formal event or a casual gathering, Hanfu never fails to make a statement and to stand out as a timeless piece of clothing that embodies China's rich cultural heritage.
The parade, organized by China Cultural Centre in Malta, featured 23 volunteer models hailing from diverse cultural backgrounds coming together to showcase the splendor of traditional Chinese costumes to both local residents and visiting tourists.
Against the backdrop of Valletta's historic landmarks and adorned with festive decorations, the parade enchanted spectators with its display of ancient Chinese elegance and grace. Each model donned meticulously crafted hanfu in different styles, symbolizing the richness and diversity of China's cultural heritage. From ornate silk garments adorned with intricate embroidery to elaborate accessories, the hanfu parade encapsulated the essence of centuries-old traditions passed down through generations.
The event drew enthusiastic participation from both local residents and tourists, who marveled at the exquisite craftsmanship and cultural significance of hanfu. Many engaged with the models, eager to learn more about the history and symbolism behind each garment, further fostering cross-cultural exchange and understanding.
By incorporating the hanfu parade into its Chinese New Year celebrations, the China Cultural Centre in Malta reaffirmed its commitment to promoting cultural exchange and strengthening the bonds of friendship between Malta and China. The event served as a testament to the enduring appeal of Chinese traditions and their ability to transcend borders, uniting people from diverse backgrounds in celebration and appreciation.
1. What is the main focus of the article
A. The significance and impact of traditional Chinese clothing, Hanfu, in contemporary cultural exchange
B. The historical evolution of traditional Chinese clothing from various dynasties
C. The craftsmanship and color significance of Hanfu as a cultural symbol
D. The international promotion of China's intangible cultural heritage through festivity
Correct answer: A. The significance and impact of traditional Chinese clothing, Hanfu, in contemporary cultural exchange
2. In the parade organized by China Cultural Centre in Malta, how many volunteer models showcased the traditional Chinese costumes
A. 13
B. 23
C. 33
D. 43
Correct answer: B. 23
3. What did the 23 volunteer models in the parade symbolize
A. The essence of modern fashion trends in China
B. The richness and diversity of China's cultural heritage
C. The contemporary adaptation of traditional Chinese clothing
D. The ability of Hanfu to transcend international borders
Correct answer: B. The richness and diversity of China's cultural heritage
4. How did the spectators react to the Hanfu parade in Malta
A. They were bored and uninterested
B. They were amazed by the exquisite craftsmanship and cultural significance
C. They were critical of the color selection
D. They were unimpressed by the historical symbolism
Correct answer: B. They were amazed by the exquisite craftsmanship and cultural significance
5. What does the inclusion of the Hanfu parade in the Chinese New Year celebrations in Malta represent
A. It represents a commitment to cross-cultural exchange and understanding
B. It represents China's efforts to dominate international fashion trends
C. It represents a shift towards contemporary fashion over traditional culture
D. It represents cultural isolationism
Correct answer: A. It represents a commitment to cross-cultural exchange and understanding
PASSAGE 2
关键词：The first emperor's dancing birds
Apart from the life-size Terracotta Warriors buried in the mausoleum of Qinshihuang, the first emperor to unite China more than 2,000 years ago, bronze aquatic birds also accompanied him into the afterlife.
A show now on at the Qinshihuang Mausoleum Site Museum in Xi'an, Shaanxi province, displays 57 bronze water birds and clay figures discovered in a pit, the contents of which are said to be related to the emperor's favorite entertainments. The show is divided into three sections, which recount the discovery of the bronzes, the ancient crafts used to make them, and how they were designed and made to match their surroundings. It runs through May 5.
Everything on display was unearthed in Pit No 7, a burial pit far from the one containing the terracotta army. So far, 46 life-size water birds, including cranes, swans and wild geese, as well as 15 kneeling pottery figures, have been discovered.
"It's rare to see figures and water birds together in imperial tombs. It's also very different from what has been found in other pits and chambers at Qinshihuang's mausoleum. It's an illustration of the inner world of Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC) people," says Wang Rui, curator of the exhibition.
The kneeling pottery figures and life-size waterfowl were found arranged neatly alongside remnants of ancient musical instruments when they were unearthed in Pit No 7. According to Wang, this indicates that the figures were keepers, who trained the birds to dance to the music. Entertainment was one of the other themes of China's first emperor's underground world, in addition to military power.
The bronze birds, including swans, cranes and wild geese standing in lines, are unique and well-made. Even birds of the same species are slightly different from one another.
1. What is the primary subject of the article
A. The discovery of the real-life Terracotta Birds in the Qin Dynasty
B. The different sections of the Qinshihuang Mausoleum Site Museum in Xi'an
C. A showcase of bronze aquatic birds and clay figures discovered in the mausoleum of Emperor Qin
D. The methods used to design and make bronze water birds
Correct answer: C. A showcase of bronze aquatic birds and clay figures discovered in the mausoleum of Emperor Qin
2. Where is the exhibition of the bronze water birds and clay figures being held
A. Shaanxi province
B. Beijing
C. Xi'an
D. Hangzhou
Correct answer: C. Xi'an
3. How many different sections is the show divided into
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
Correct answer: C. 3
4. What was the apparent function of the pottery figures found with the waterfowl
A. They were used to provide music for the emperor
B. They were the trainers who utilized music to teach the birds to dance
C. They were guardians
D. They were intended to add ambiance to the mausoleum
Correct answer: B. They were the trainers who utilized music to teach the birds to dance
5. What is particularly notable about the bronze birds on display
A. They are all of the same species
B. They were made using substandard craftsmanship
C. They were discovered in a different site than the terracotta army
D. Each one is slightly different from the others, even if they belong to the same species
Correct answer: D. Each one is slightly different from the others, even if they belong to the same species
PASSAGE 3
关键词：The traditional Chinese solar calendar divides the year into 24 solar terms.
The 24 solar terms are determined by changes in the sun's position in the zodiac during the year. They were first used in China and now are followed in many other parts of the world. In China, the 24 solar terms were created thousands of years ago to guide agricultural production. They also reflect China's rich history through the seasonal festivals, special foods, cultural ceremonies, family gatherings and even healthy living tips that correspond with each solar term.
Rain Water (Chinese: 雨水) this year starts on Feb 19 and ends on Mar 4.
Rain Water signals the increase in rainfall and rise in temperature. With its arrival, lively spring-like scenery starts blossoming: the frozen river water melts, wild geese move from south to north, and trees and grass turn green again.
Here are six things you may not know about Rain Water.
Spring bamboo shoots
Rain Water is the best time of the year to consume fresh bamboo shoots. It is said one can only know the taste of spring after enjoying the bamboo shoots. The cooking of bamboo shoots in China dates back to over 2,000 years ago, according to the Book of Songs.
Water as precious as oil
According to an old Chinese saying, the rainfall in spring is as precious as oil. In northern China, the spring drought is common and the precipitation of this season accounts for only 10 to 15 percent of annual average rainfall.
Therefore, Rain Water is considered as a key period for irrigation when the day gets warmer and rainfall increases.
Return of cold spell
Extra care is needed to cope with a returning cold spell in the late spring that often happen during Rain Water period. The fast increase in air humidity due to rainfall can result in lower temperature and wet weather. It is strongly advised not to take off the thick coats too early and to keep warm, especially elderly and children.
Visit to in-laws
One of the main customs during Rain Water is husbands visiting their in-laws and giving gifts. According to the tradition, gifts are usually two cane chairs winded with four meters of red belt, which symbolizes good health and longevity. Another typical gift is a pot of cooked dish that contains pig's knuckles stewed with soya and kelp, by which the son-in-law expresses his respect and gratitude.
Finding godfather
Another old custom is to find a godfather for little kids. Rainfall brings vitality to the earth; therefore people in the past believed that this practice would give their kids healthy and safe growth.
The custom can be traced back to the health services of the past when many children's diseases could not be cured at all. Therefore, parents wanted a godfather to shower their blessings and good luck on their children. This old practice was popular in Sichuan area.
Nutritious porridge
The wet and damp weather during Rain Water period is considered harmful for people's spleen and stomach according to Chinese medical practice. Therefore, a bowl of nutritious porridge is the best choice to nourish the body.
People in Beijing often eat porridge cooked with rehmannia glutinosa libosch, a kind of Chinese herb medicine, to resist cold and wet weather and eliminate heat from the blood. It is also good for people with constipation, arthritis and headaches.
1. What is the main purpose of the traditional Chinese solar calendar
A. To guide agricultural production
B. To determine seasonal festivals
C. To reflect China's rich history
D. To provide healthy living tips
Correct answer: A. To guide agricultural production
2. When does the Rain Water period start and end
A. Jan 19 - Feb 4
B. Feb 4 - Feb 19
C. Feb 19 - Mar 4
D. Mar 4 - Mar 19
Correct answer: C. Feb 19 - Mar 4
3. What is considered the best time of the year to consume fresh bamboo shoots
A. Rain Water
B. Cold Spell
C. Visit to in-laws
D. Finding godfather
Correct answer: A. Rain Water
4. Why is Rain Water considered a key period for irrigation
A. It marks the arrival of warmer days
B. It is the time when rainfall increases
C. It is the season with the most precipitation
D. It is the period of the highest humidity
Correct answer: B. It is the time when rainfall increases
5. What is one of the main customs during Rain Water
A. Visiting in-laws
B. Finding a godfather
C. Eating nutritious porridge
D. Consuming fresh bamboo shoots
Correct answer: A. Visiting in-laws
PASSAGE 4
关键词：As Year of the Rabbit comes to a close, country welcomes in new sign of the zodiac
It is the symbol of Chinese nationality and of potent and auspicious powers. It has control over water, rainfall, hurricanes and floods. It is also the symbol of good luck. Chinese people have revered it for thousands of years.
It is the dragon.
And with the Lunar New Year approaching, the Year of the Dragon has arrived.
At the beginning of the Chinese Lunar New Year, people all around the country play with this mythical creature. They hang it in shopping centers, carry it on bamboo sticks in parades through the streets, carve its head onto boats which they race on ice and perform a dance named after it.
The dragon has lots of auspicious meanings. It is the harbinger of happiness and good fortune and has sublime connections to Chinese nationality.
Many people believe playing with a dragon brings good fortune.
Throughout the Chinese New Year, the dragon has been a recurring theme of celebration, signifying power, strength, luck, and prosperity. It is not only a symbol of the Chinese nation, but also a powerful and auspicious mythical creature.
In China, the dragon is attributed with supernatural abilities to control water, rainfall, hurricanes, and floods. It is considered to be a symbol of wealth, power, and success. Traditionally, the dragon is painted on red scrolls or hung in the main entrance of homes and businesses, signifying its auspicious protection.
With the Lunar New Year now upon us, it is once again time to celebrate the Year of the Dragon. From the beginning of the Chinese Lunar New Year, people across China celebrate with a wide array of dragon-themed activities. They start with the dragon dance, where teams of dancers dress up as dragons and dance to the rhythm of drumbeats, horns, and cymbals. The dragon dance symbolizes strength and power, as the dragon dancers use their strength and balance to move and jump in harmony with the beat. The dragon is also carried in parades, where people wave red papers decorated with dragon designs, giving it a festive atmosphere.
One of the most iconic dragon-themed activities during the Lunar New Year is the dragon boat race. This is a traditional Chinese sport where teams race colorful boats, decorated with dragons and other traditional Chinese symbols, through rivers and lakes. The dragon boat race is said to have originated from a legend where a skilled poet named Qu Yuan drowned himself in a river, and local people raced to save him by racing dragon boats with shouts of encouragement. The dragon boat race is now a symbol of unity and teamwork, as well as a reminder of the importance of protecting cultural heritage.
The dragon is also carved into sculptures and displayed in shops and on ice. People believe that hanging a dragon sculpture in their homes can bring good fortune and ward off evil spirits. The dragon head carvings are often made of jade or other precious stones and can be highly valuable. Carving the dragon's head is also considered an art form in Chinese culture, with intricate details and patterns expressing the artist's skill.
One of the most famous dragon dances is the dragon dance at the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, where teams of dragon dancers perform their art under the watchful gaze of tourists and locals alike. This dragon dance is an important part of the Temple of Heaven's New Year celebrations, with the dragon serving as a symbol of the emperor and his divine powers. The dragon dance is held at the temple every year and features hundreds of dancers, musicians, and drummers, making it a spectacle to behold.
In conclusion, the dragon is an integral part of Chinese culture and is celebrated during the Lunar New Year, the most important holiday in China. Its mythical powers, strength, and auspicious meanings are a reminder of Chinese heritage and tradition. From dragon dances to dragon boat races, dragon sculptures, and dragon-themed food and drinks, the dragon is a symbol of prosperity, wealth, and good fortune. As we celebrate the Year of the Dragon, let us embrace the power of the dragon and its rich cultural heritage.
1. What is the significance of the dragon in Chinese culture
A. It controls water and weather phenomena
B. It symbolizes good luck and fortune
C. It is a powerful mythical creature
D. All of the above
Correct answer: D. All of the above
2. How do people celebrate the Year of the Dragon during the Lunar New Year
A. By hanging dragon sculptures in their homes
B. By participating in dragon dances
C. By racing dragon boats
D. All of the above
Correct answer: D. All of the above
3. What is the Dragon Boat race
A. A sport where teams race colorful boats decorated with dragons
B. A traditional Chinese dance performed by dragon dancers
C. A ritual held at the Temple of Heaven in Beijing
D. A carving competition to create dragon sculptures
Correct answer: A. A sport where teams race colorful boats decorated with dragons
4. What is the significance of the dragon sculpture in Chinese homes
A. It brings good fortune
B. It wards off evil spirits
C. It is considered a valuable artwork
D. All of the above
Correct answer: D. All of the above
5. Why is the dragon dance performed at the Temple of Heaven in Beijing
A. To celebrate the Lunar New Year
B. To honor the emperor and his divine powers
C. To showcase the skill of the dragon dancers
D. All of the above
Correct answer: D. All of the above
PASSAGE 1
关键词：Hanfu parade showcases Chinese tradition in Malta
A hanfuparade was held in Valletta, the capital of Malta, on February 17, 2024 in celebration of Chinese New Year.
Hanfu, a traditional Chinese clothing, dates back to the Qin and Han dynasties and has evolved over many dynasties like Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, etc. With the varied styles and characteristics of each dynasty, Hanfu embodies the stunning craftsmanship and aesthetics of the Han ethnicity, carrying more than 30 items of China's intangible cultural heritage.
It varies in colors like red, orange, yellow, green, and blue, each reflecting a unique mood. For instance, red is associated with festivity, orange exudes warmth, yellow is delicate and refined, green is refreshing, and blue is serene and elegant. Each color and design subtly express the wearer's temperament and lifestyle.
Hanfu is a unique blend of traditional and contemporary style, reflecting the unique culture and history of China. Making Hanfu requires precision and patience, and even the color selection must take into consideration the occasion and demographic.
Whether it's at a formal event or a casual gathering, Hanfu never fails to make a statement and to stand out as a timeless piece of clothing that embodies China's rich cultural heritage.
The parade, organized by China Cultural Centre in Malta, featured 23 volunteer models hailing from diverse cultural backgrounds coming together to showcase the splendor of traditional Chinese costumes to both local residents and visiting tourists.
Against the backdrop of Valletta's historic landmarks and adorned with festive decorations, the parade enchanted spectators with its display of ancient Chinese elegance and grace. Each model donned meticulously crafted hanfu in different styles, symbolizing the richness and diversity of China's cultural heritage. From ornate silk garments adorned with intricate embroidery to elaborate accessories, the hanfu parade encapsulated the essence of centuries-old traditions passed down through generations.
The event drew enthusiastic participation from both local residents and tourists, who marveled at the exquisite craftsmanship and cultural significance of hanfu. Many engaged with the models, eager to learn more about the history and symbolism behind each garment, further fostering cross-cultural exchange and understanding.
By incorporating the hanfu parade into its Chinese New Year celebrations, the China Cultural Centre in Malta reaffirmed its commitment to promoting cultural exchange and strengthening the bonds of friendship between Malta and China. The event served as a testament to the enduring appeal of Chinese traditions and their ability to transcend borders, uniting people from diverse backgrounds in celebration and appreciation.
1. What is the main focus of the article
A. The significance and impact of traditional Chinese clothing, Hanfu, in contemporary cultural exchange
B. The historical evolution of traditional Chinese clothing from various dynasties
C. The craftsmanship and color significance of Hanfu as a cultural symbol
D. The international promotion of China's intangible cultural heritage through festivity
Correct answer: A. The significance and impact of traditional Chinese clothing, Hanfu, in contemporary cultural exchange
2. In the parade organized by China Cultural Centre in Malta, how many volunteer models showcased the traditional Chinese costumes
A. 13
B. 23
C. 33
D. 43
Correct answer: B. 23
3. What did the 23 volunteer models in the parade symbolize
A. The essence of modern fashion trends in China
B. The richness and diversity of China's cultural heritage
C. The contemporary adaptation of traditional Chinese clothing
D. The ability of Hanfu to transcend international borders
Correct answer: B. The richness and diversity of China's cultural heritage
4. How did the spectators react to the Hanfu parade in Malta
A. They were bored and uninterested
B. They were amazed by the exquisite craftsmanship and cultural significance
C. They were critical of the color selection
D. They were unimpressed by the historical symbolism
Correct answer: B. They were amazed by the exquisite craftsmanship and cultural significance
5. What does the inclusion of the Hanfu parade in the Chinese New Year celebrations in Malta represent
A. It represents a commitment to cross-cultural exchange and understanding
B. It represents China's efforts to dominate international fashion trends
C. It represents a shift towards contemporary fashion over traditional culture
D. It represents cultural isolationism
Correct answer: A. It represents a commitment to cross-cultural exchange and understanding
PASSAGE 2
关键词：The first emperor's dancing birds
Apart from the life-size Terracotta Warriors buried in the mausoleum of Qinshihuang, the first emperor to unite China more than 2,000 years ago, bronze aquatic birds also accompanied him into the afterlife.
A show now on at the Qinshihuang Mausoleum Site Museum in Xi'an, Shaanxi province, displays 57 bronze water birds and clay figures discovered in a pit, the contents of which are said to be related to the emperor's favorite entertainments. The show is divided into three sections, which recount the discovery of the bronzes, the ancient crafts used to make them, and how they were designed and made to match their surroundings. It runs through May 5.
Everything on display was unearthed in Pit No 7, a burial pit far from the one containing the terracotta army. So far, 46 life-size water birds, including cranes, swans and wild geese, as well as 15 kneeling pottery figures, have been discovered.
"It's rare to see figures and water birds together in imperial tombs. It's also very different from what has been found in other pits and chambers at Qinshihuang's mausoleum. It's an illustration of the inner world of Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC) people," says Wang Rui, curator of the exhibition.
The kneeling pottery figures and life-size waterfowl were found arranged neatly alongside remnants of ancient musical instruments when they were unearthed in Pit No 7. According to Wang, this indicates that the figures were keepers, who trained the birds to dance to the music. Entertainment was one of the other themes of China's first emperor's underground world, in addition to military power.
The bronze birds, including swans, cranes and wild geese standing in lines, are unique and well-made. Even birds of the same species are slightly different from one another.
1. What is the primary subject of the article
A. The discovery of the real-life Terracotta Birds in the Qin Dynasty
B. The different sections of the Qinshihuang Mausoleum Site Museum in Xi'an
C. A showcase of bronze aquatic birds and clay figures discovered in the mausoleum of Emperor Qin
D. The methods used to design and make bronze water birds
Correct answer: C. A showcase of bronze aquatic birds and clay figures discovered in the mausoleum of Emperor Qin
2. Where is the exhibition of the bronze water birds and clay figures being held
A. Shaanxi province
B. Beijing
C. Xi'an
D. Hangzhou
Correct answer: C. Xi'an
3. How many different sections is the show divided into
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
Correct answer: C. 3
4. What was the apparent function of the pottery figures found with the waterfowl
A. They were used to provide music for the emperor
B. They were the trainers who utilized music to teach the birds to dance
C. They were guardians
D. They were intended to add ambiance to the mausoleum
Correct answer: B. They were the trainers who utilized music to teach the birds to dance
5. What is particularly notable about the bronze birds on display
A. They are all of the same species
B. They were made using substandard craftsmanship
C. They were discovered in a different site than the terracotta army
D. Each one is slightly different from the others, even if they belong to the same species
Correct answer: D. Each one is slightly different from the others, even if they belong to the same species
PASSAGE 3
关键词：The traditional Chinese solar calendar divides the year into 24 solar terms.
The 24 solar terms are determined by changes in the sun's position in the zodiac during the year. They were first used in China and now are followed in many other parts of the world. In China, the 24 solar terms were created thousands of years ago to guide agricultural production. They also reflect China's rich history through the seasonal festivals, special foods, cultural ceremonies, family gatherings and even healthy living tips that correspond with each solar term.
Rain Water (Chinese: 雨水) this year starts on Feb 19 and ends on Mar 4.
Rain Water signals the increase in rainfall and rise in temperature. With its arrival, lively spring-like scenery starts blossoming: the frozen river water melts, wild geese move from south to north, and trees and grass turn green again.
Here are six things you may not know about Rain Water.
Spring bamboo shoots
Rain Water is the best time of the year to consume fresh bamboo shoots. It is said one can only know the taste of spring after enjoying the bamboo shoots. The cooking of bamboo shoots in China dates back to over 2,000 years ago, according to the Book of Songs.
Water as precious as oil
According to an old Chinese saying, the rainfall in spring is as precious as oil. In northern China, the spring drought is common and the precipitation of this season accounts for only 10 to 15 percent of annual average rainfall.
Therefore, Rain Water is considered as a key period for irrigation when the day gets warmer and rainfall increases.
Return of cold spell
Extra care is needed to cope with a returning cold spell in the late spring that often happen during Rain Water period. The fast increase in air humidity due to rainfall can result in lower temperature and wet weather. It is strongly advised not to take off the thick coats too early and to keep warm, especially elderly and children.
Visit to in-laws
One of the main customs during Rain Water is husbands visiting their in-laws and giving gifts. According to the tradition, gifts are usually two cane chairs winded with four meters of red belt, which symbolizes good health and longevity. Another typical gift is a pot of cooked dish that contains pig's knuckles stewed with soya and kelp, by which the son-in-law expresses his respect and gratitude.
Finding godfather
Another old custom is to find a godfather for little kids. Rainfall brings vitality to the earth; therefore people in the past believed that this practice would give their kids healthy and safe growth.
The custom can be traced back to the health services of the past when many children's diseases could not be cured at all. Therefore, parents wanted a godfather to shower their blessings and good luck on their children. This old practice was popular in Sichuan area.
Nutritious porridge
The wet and damp weather during Rain Water period is considered harmful for people's spleen and stomach according to Chinese medical practice. Therefore, a bowl of nutritious porridge is the best choice to nourish the body.
People in Beijing often eat porridge cooked with rehmannia glutinosa libosch, a kind of Chinese herb medicine, to resist cold and wet weather and eliminate heat from the blood. It is also good for people with constipation, arthritis and headaches.
1. What is the main purpose of the traditional Chinese solar calendar
A. To guide agricultural production
B. To determine seasonal festivals
C. To reflect China's rich history
D. To provide healthy living tips
Correct answer: A. To guide agricultural production
2. When does the Rain Water period start and end
A. Jan 19 - Feb 4
B. Feb 4 - Feb 19
C. Feb 19 - Mar 4
D. Mar 4 - Mar 19
Correct answer: C. Feb 19 - Mar 4
3. What is considered the best time of the year to consume fresh bamboo shoots
A. Rain Water
B. Cold Spell
C. Visit to in-laws
D. Finding godfather
Correct answer: A. Rain Water
4. Why is Rain Water considered a key period for irrigation
A. It marks the arrival of warmer days
B. It is the time when rainfall increases
C. It is the season with the most precipitation
D. It is the period of the highest humidity
Correct answer: B. It is the time when rainfall increases
5. What is one of the main customs during Rain Water
A. Visiting in-laws
B. Finding a godfather
C. Eating nutritious porridge
D. Consuming fresh bamboo shoots
Correct answer: A. Visiting in-laws
PASSAGE 4
关键词：As Year of the Rabbit comes to a close, country welcomes in new sign of the zodiac
It is the symbol of Chinese nationality and of potent and auspicious powers. It has control over water, rainfall, hurricanes and floods. It is also the symbol of good luck. Chinese people have revered it for thousands of years.
It is the dragon.
And with the Lunar New Year approaching, the Year of the Dragon has arrived.
At the beginning of the Chinese Lunar New Year, people all around the country play with this mythical creature. They hang it in shopping centers, carry it on bamboo sticks in parades through the streets, carve its head onto boats which they race on ice and perform a dance named after it.
The dragon has lots of auspicious meanings. It is the harbinger of happiness and good fortune and has sublime connections to Chinese nationality.
Many people believe playing with a dragon brings good fortune.
Throughout the Chinese New Year, the dragon has been a recurring theme of celebration, signifying power, strength, luck, and prosperity. It is not only a symbol of the Chinese nation, but also a powerful and auspicious mythical creature.
In China, the dragon is attributed with supernatural abilities to control water, rainfall, hurricanes, and floods. It is considered to be a symbol of wealth, power, and success. Traditionally, the dragon is painted on red scrolls or hung in the main entrance of homes and businesses, signifying its auspicious protection.
With the Lunar New Year now upon us, it is once again time to celebrate the Year of the Dragon. From the beginning of the Chinese Lunar New Year, people across China celebrate with a wide array of dragon-themed activities. They start with the dragon dance, where teams of dancers dress up as dragons and dance to the rhythm of drumbeats, horns, and cymbals. The dragon dance symbolizes strength and power, as the dragon dancers use their strength and balance to move and jump in harmony with the beat. The dragon is also carried in parades, where people wave red papers decorated with dragon designs, giving it a festive atmosphere.
One of the most iconic dragon-themed activities during the Lunar New Year is the dragon boat race. This is a traditional Chinese sport where teams race colorful boats, decorated with dragons and other traditional Chinese symbols, through rivers and lakes. The dragon boat race is said to have originated from a legend where a skilled poet named Qu Yuan drowned himself in a river, and local people raced to save him by racing dragon boats with shouts of encouragement. The dragon boat race is now a symbol of unity and teamwork, as well as a reminder of the importance of protecting cultural heritage.
The dragon is also carved into sculptures and displayed in shops and on ice. People believe that hanging a dragon sculpture in their homes can bring good fortune and ward off evil spirits. The dragon head carvings are often made of jade or other precious stones and can be highly valuable. Carving the dragon's head is also considered an art form in Chinese culture, with intricate details and patterns expressing the artist's skill.
One of the most famous dragon dances is the dragon dance at the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, where teams of dragon dancers perform their art under the watchful gaze of tourists and locals alike. This dragon dance is an important part of the Temple of Heaven's New Year celebrations, with the dragon serving as a symbol of the emperor and his divine powers. The dragon dance is held at the temple every year and features hundreds of dancers, musicians, and drummers, making it a spectacle to behold.
In conclusion, the dragon is an integral part of Chinese culture and is celebrated during the Lunar New Year, the most important holiday in China. Its mythical powers, strength, and auspicious meanings are a reminder of Chinese heritage and tradition. From dragon dances to dragon boat races, dragon sculptures, and dragon-themed food and drinks, the dragon is a symbol of prosperity, wealth, and good fortune. As we celebrate the Year of the Dragon, let us embrace the power of the dragon and its rich cultural heritage.
1. What is the significance of the dragon in Chinese culture
A. It controls water and weather phenomena
B. It symbolizes good luck and fortune
C. It is a powerful mythical creature
D. All of the above
Correct answer: D. All of the above
2. How do people celebrate the Year of the Dragon during the Lunar New Year
A. By hanging dragon sculptures in their homes
B. By participating in dragon dances
C. By racing dragon boats
D. All of the above
Correct answer: D. All of the above
3. What is the Dragon Boat race
A. A sport where teams race colorful boats decorated with dragons
B. A traditional Chinese dance performed by dragon dancers
C. A ritual held at the Temple of Heaven in Beijing
D. A carving competition to create dragon sculptures
Correct answer: A. A sport where teams race colorful boats decorated with dragons
4. What is the significance of the dragon sculpture in Chinese homes
A. It brings good fortune
B. It wards off evil spirits
C. It is considered a valuable artwork
D. All of the above
Correct answer: D. All of the above
5. Why is the dragon dance performed at the Temple of Heaven in Beijing
A. To celebrate the Lunar New Year
B. To honor the emperor and his divine powers
C. To showcase the skill of the dragon dancers
D. All of the above
Correct answer: D. All of the above