Passage 1
A mini guide to micro-learning
Rather than mindless scrolling, why not treat yourself to some mindful learning instead
1. Pick a topic or subject that you want to learn.
This could be anything from a new language, to practical activities like how to draw, or knitting, or simply a subject you'd like to discover more about - such as astronomy, mythology, or a sport. ①______ The choice is yours and should be based on your interests and curiosity.
2. Define your goal.
Create some motivation by focusing on what you want to achieve, complete, or gain by fulfilling this learning. Knowing what you're working towards can help keep you on track when it's tempting to fall back into old habits. ②______ For example, if you're learning a language, your goal might be to be able to have a simple conversation with a native speaker within a month.
3. Decide your method of learning.
Consider how you best retain information, or what would be most engaging for you. If you want to learn on the go, you might want a podcast you can dip in and out of at convenient times. Like rewards or tracking progress Perhaps there's an app for you, such as Duolingo for learning languages, Visual learner Search for YouTube videos on your subject matter, or a TikTok series. Or, if you want to get away from screens, you could carry a book with you for opportunity moments. ③______ It's all about finding what suits you best.
4. Create the habit.
You might want to schedule in time each day to devote to this specifically, popping it in your calendar with a reminder notification - particularly helpful for practical activities. Or perhaps it's about habit-stacking and deciding to pair your learning with going for a walk, doing the washing up, or cooking dinner. Alternatively, it could be consciously swapping scrolling time for learning, implementing time restrictions on certain apps, or when you get the impulse to pick up your phone, using that as a prompt to learn. ④______ Consistency is key to making micro-learning effective.
5. Reflect on your progress.
What works best for you This could be a tracker to see your commitment, regular check-ins, progress pictures or recordings, or self-reflection upon reaching your goal. When you take note of the progress you're making, you might just surprise and inspire yourself further. ⑤______ It can also help you adjust your methods if needed.
A. This way, you'll have a clear direction.
B. There are various options available.
C. This will make the learning process more enjoyable.
D. This helps you stay focused and motivated.
E. This can be a great way to start your micro-learning journey.
F. This allows you to make the most of your spare time.
G. This ensures that you keep moving forward in your learning.
答案：
E
A
B
G
D
解析：
第一段讲选择要学习的主题或科目，E 选项 “这可以是开始你的微学习之旅的好方法”，承接上文提到的选择内容，说明这是开始微学习的方式，符合语境。
第二段说定义目标，A 选项 “这样，你就会有一个清晰的方向”，解释了定义目标的作用，即提供清晰方向，与后文举例相呼应。
第三段讲决定学习方法，B 选项 “有各种各样的选择可供使用”，概括了该段提到的多种学习方法，符合段落主旨。
第四段说养成习惯，G 选项 “这确保你在学习中不断前进”，说明了养成习惯对学习的重要性，即推动学习前进，符合文意。
第五段讲反思进步，D 选项 “这有助于你保持专注和动力”，进一步说明了反思进步的好处，与段落内容相关。
C 选项 “这会使学习过程更愉快” 在各段中均无直接对应内容；F 选项 “这让你能充分利用你的业余时间” 与各段主旨联系不紧密，均为干扰项。
Passage 2
6 tips for settling into a new job when working remotely
From dealing with virtual meetings to setting boundaries, here's how you can make a new remote job work for you.
1. GET TO KNOW YOUR COLLEAGUES
Not sitting beside your colleagues can feel like a barrier when starting a new job, but there are still ways to connect remotely. "Attend any online training or other meetings that your team holds, even if they are optional," says coach Anita Gohil-Thorp. "This will not only help you to get to know others, but it will also help you build trust and your own reputation. Trust, and let the team get to know you." ①______ You may well find you click with certain colleagues. Ask about meeting up, whether at a Zoom chat or in-person coffee where you can. Take up the offer of any social events or in-person sessions too to help make connections.
2. COMMUNICATE WITH CONFIDENCE
"Eye contact is still relevant," says confidence coach Gemma Holmes. "I always encourage my clients to talk into their webcam as if the camera is the eyes of their audience." This can help you appear more confident to your colleagues as if you're talking straight to them and can help with building a connection and instilling a sense of confidence." That said, it's best not to stare down the lens constantly, as this can feel uncomfortable or unnatural. ②______ To boost your confidence outside of meetings, Anita suggests using affirmations such as "I am competent in my new role," "I excel at this task," and "I choose to move outside my comfort zone for career growth."
3. UNDERSTAND YOUR ROLE
One of the challenges of starting a new job is learning exactly what your day-to-day will look like. "To be clear about your role and responsibilities, talk to your line manager regularly so they are aware of your capacity and whether you're fulfilling tasks that support the development you want in relation to the job you applied for," says Anita. Asking what your priorities should be can help you both get on the same page. ③______ Read through the job description thoroughly to understand what's expected of you. Anita emphasizes the importance of boundaries to ensure you don't work longer hours or beyond your job description too often.
4. UNDERSTAND YOUR WORKPLACE
Working remotely can mean it takes a little longer to understand your workplace and how people operate. ④______ Observe how communication flows, what tools and platforms are used, and the general work culture. This will help you adapt and integrate more smoothly.
5. SET BOUNDARIES
It's easy to blur the lines between work and personal life when working from home. Set specific working hours and stick to them. Let your family or housemates know when you're working and need to be undisturbed. ⑤______ Also, create a dedicated workspace if possible, even if it's just a corner of a room, to help you mentally separate work and leisure.
A. This can make a big difference in how you feel and perform.
B. There are various ways to achieve this.
C. This helps you establish a good working relationship.
D. This way, you can avoid misunderstandings and confusion.
E. This allows you to get a better sense of the work environment.
F. This can enhance your communication skills in virtual settings.
G. This will give you a clear understanding of your tasks and goals.
答案：
C
B
G
E
A
解析：
第一段讲了解同事，C 选项 “这有助于你建立良好的工作关系”，承接上文提到的参加会议等了解同事的方式，说明其对建立关系的作用，符合语境。
第二段说自信沟通，B 选项 “有多种方法可以做到这一点”，引出后文提到的在会议外提升自信的方法，如使用肯定语等，起到过渡作用。
第三段讲了解自己的角色，G 选项 “这会让你清楚地了解你的任务和目标”，解释了与上级沟通及阅读职位描述的作用，即明确任务和目标，符合段落主旨。
第四段讲了解工作场所，E 选项 “这让你能更好地了解工作环境”，说明了观察工作场所的目的，与段落内容相关。
第五段讲设置边界，A 选项 “这会对你的感受和表现产生很大影响”，进一步说明了设置边界的重要性，即对自身的影响，符合文意。
D 选项 “这样，你可以避免误解和困惑” 在各段中均无直接对应内容；F 选项 “这可以增强你在虚拟环境中的沟通技巧” 与各段主旨联系不紧密，均为干扰项。
Passage 3
Empath shielding techniques
While empaths are highly compassionate people, there are times when this sensitivity to others' emotions can become too much. In those overwhelming moments, here are four techniques to try.
USING CRYSTALS
They may not be for everyone, but crystals are believed by some to be able to absorb energy, so keeping one close could be a way to syphon off negative energy accumulated through the day. Some recommended ones include clear quartz, citrine, and amethyst. But bear in mind that crystals need to be cleansed too, which could be done through leaving them on a windowsill in moonlight while you sleep. ①______ However, it's important to note that the effectiveness of crystals in this way is not scientifically proven.
VISUALISING
This can be a helpful option, requiring nothing more than your own thoughts. Visualising is about imagining various scenarios to guide your subconscious to an end goal, and lead to relaxation or reduced stress. In this instance, as an empath, you may want to envision a protective bubble around yourself if someone is venting to you, so that you're present, but their negativity is bouncing off rather than connecting with you. It can take time to practise to feel more natural and reap the benefits, but it's well worth the effort. ②______ With regular practice, you'll find it easier to create and maintain this mental shield.
RELAXING
One of the most effective methods to counter the emotional weight you might be carrying, or the secondhand stress, can be to allow yourself the time and space to decompress and relax. This can be through whatever means appeals to you most, so listen to your body. Do you need alone-time with a good book Do you want creativity and mindfulness by baking or crafting something Do you want distraction and laughter with a comedy show ③______ The key is to find what truly relaxes you and makes you feel at ease.
GROUNDING
Reconnecting with yourself through nature can be a great way of re-centring, and reducing feelings of overwhelm. Take a break outside in the fresh air, and, if you can, allow your bare feet to connect with the grass or earth. Pay attention to how it feels, what you can hear, and the scents in the air. Be in the moment. ④______ This connection with nature can help you feel more grounded and less affected by external emotions.
A. This simple act can bring a sense of calm and peace.
B. There are different ways to relax and unwind.
C. This technique may seem a bit strange to some.
D. This practice can strengthen your ability to shield.
E. This natural connection can have a powerful impact.
F. This method requires patience and persistence.
G. This can be a controversial topic among people.
答案：
C
F
B
E
解析：
第一段讲使用水晶，C 选项 “这种技巧对一些人来说可能有点奇怪”，承接上文提到的水晶能吸收能量，同时引出下文关于其效果未被科学证实，符合语境。
第二段说可视化，F 选项 “这种方法需要耐心和坚持”，承接上文提到的需要练习才能更自然并获得益处，说明该方法的特点，符合文意。
第三段讲放松，B 选项 “有不同的放松和减压方式”，概括了后文提到的各种放松途径，如看书、烘焙、看喜剧等，符合段落主旨。
第四段讲接地气，E 选项 “这种与自然的联系可以产生强大的影响”，说明了与自然接触的作用，即让人更接地气、少受外界情绪影响，与段落内容相关。
A 选项 “这个简单的行为可以带来平静和安宁的感觉” 在各段中均无直接对应内容；G 选项 “这可能是人们之间有争议的话题” 与各段主旨联系不紧密，均为干扰项。乌鲁木齐市 2024-2025学年 高二上学期期末考试
英语试卷
总分120分 考试时间120分钟
第一部分：阅读（共两节，满分50分）
（一）阅读理解（共37.5分）
Officials at Northland Pines School District are working with a tech company called Spooky Action on a program to allow students to use the Internet through drones (无人机).
About 10 percent of Northland Pines students don’t have any Internet access at home, and as many as 40 percent have poor connection speeds which hardly meet the demands of home learning. District leaders have tried for more than ten years to close that gap, but there are no easy solutions. “We’re a district of about 500 square miles and getting Internet connect ion for every family is a challenge,” says Harlan Leusink, the director of technology for the district.
The program will use drones that are connected to a power source on the ground and that can stay in the air for weeks and even months. The drones will serve as flying cell towers. However, the purpose of designing drones had nothing to do with the education but it was related to disasters. “A hurricane comes in and blows down all your cell towers; it’s pretty easy to put up a flying cell tower,” Rahul Tiwari, Spooky Action’s CEO, says. “It’s not necessary to replace a cell tower. The idea is to quickly meet the Internet needs of a community without having to build a million cell towers everywhere.”
While the drones can stay in the air for more than a month, that’s not usually necessary when they provide the Internet for students. Tiwari says the drones will be active during peak (高峰) class and homework times and won’t be flying overnight.
Leusink says his district is looking at the drone service as a proof-of-concept for where and how they need to set up more permanent (永久的) devices (设备). If a drone in a certain area gives students good coverage in that area, he says the next step will be for the district to look for more permanent land-based solutions.
1．What problems does Northland Pines School District have
A．It has poor Internet access and connection.
B．Internet access at home is impossible there.
C．It has difficulty developing its transport services.
D．Students there pay little attention to online learning.
2．Why were Spooky Action’s drones designed at first
A．To offer daily supplies after disasters.
B．To replace cell towers in remote areas.
C．To improve the national educational standards.
D．To provide the Internet service during disasters.
3．What can we infer from what Rahul Tiwari says about drones
A．They have closed the teaching gap.
B．They cannot meet students’ needs.
C．They don’t need to work all the time.
D．They will fly close to local cell towers.
4．What step will be taken for the district
A．Developing new-type drones.
B．Further testing the drone services.
C．Offering more wireless hotspots.
D．Building permanent equipment properly.
These are four famous tourist attractions around the world.The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City in Beijing ,China, was completed in 1420 during the early Ming Dynasty. It is the largest ancient palatial(宫殿似的)building in the world and it’s open to tourists to allow them to have a look at ancient Chinese architecture.Niagara Falls State Park
When you arrive at Niagara Falls State Park, you’ll explore the Cave of the Winds to have an up-close look at the falls.The Cave of the Winds is a self-guided tour, which means you can spend as much time as you would like. There is no need to make a reservation(预订).The Cave of the Winds closes during winter, so make sure it’s open before visiting. The Little Mermaid
The Little Mermaid is a statue(雕像) in Copenhagen, Denmark. It sits on a rock in the harbor(海港). It came from a performance of a ballet based on the fairy story The Little Mermaid by Hans Christian Andersen. It was shown to the public on 23 August, 1913. And there are many tourists taking photos with the Little Mermaid every year. The Taj Mahal
As one of the Seven Wonders of the World,the Taj Mahal is the jewel of India. It is considered as the finest example of Mughal architecture, a mix of Indian, Persian and Islamic styles.
5．What can you do when visiting the Little Mermaid
A．Listen to a fairy story. B．Attend a performance.
C．Take a picture with the statue. D．Meet Hans Christian Andersen.
6．Which place will you choose if you are interested in India’s historic buildings
A．The Taj Mahal. B．The Cave of the Winds.
C．Niagara Falls State Park. D．The Little Mermaid.
7．What should you do before visiting the Cave of the Winds
A．Book in advance. B．Find a tour guide.
C．Learn about its history. D．Check the opening time
Five Family Films to Enjoy with Your Family
Lost Horizon
In Frank Capra’s Lost Horizon, the passengers on a plane attacked after the take-off in China are thrown together against their will only to be deposited in Shangri-La. During their stay there, they realize that a family gathering should be about forming connections and taking time to consider one’s place in the family, in the community and even in the world.
The Human Comedy
Maybe as the finest film about the US home front during World War Ⅱ, The Human Comedy is a portrait of a family dealing with life after the oldest son is drafted into military service(兵役). Mickey Rooney plays the younger son missing his older brother but trying to get on with his life in high school.
Miracle on 34th Street
The Christmas classic was released in 1947, but it essentially set the stage for the 1950s. It’s about the birth of the post-war consumer culture, and how affection for family and friends can be best expressed by the act of spending money.
Mary Poppins
Sometimes a family needs to make a change but the Banks family is definitely in a rut(一成不变). George seems to care more about his banking job than his wife and children. He needs to learn that sometimes all he needs is a laugh for a laugh’s sake, tuppence(两便士)to feed the birds and the time to fly a kite. In the end, his change is as powerful as Ebenezer Scrooge’s.
Star Wars: Episode Ⅳ-A New Hope
Star Wars is about what happens after you make the choice to leave home for good. Of course, for Luke Skywalker, the choice to “take the first step into a larger world” is made for him when his family is killed. But his process of going out into the universe and discovering himself also involves gathering a new family.
8．Who of the following acted in one of the above films
A．Mickey Rooney B．Frank Capra C．Luke Skywalker D．Ebenezer Scrooge
9．Which film attracts people loving Christmas most
A．Last Horizon B．Mary Poppins C．Miracle on 34th Street D．Star Wars: Episode Ⅳ-A New Hope
10．The text is written to ________.
A．advertise some new films B．interest foreign film lovers
C．present some film standards D．recommend some films
Want to join the Three Sixty Journalism team
We provide several opportunities for teens to explore journalism (新闻业), improve their writing and communication skills, and connect with other teens and professionals.
Intermediate (中级的) Journalism Camp
A two-week camp in June at the University of St. Thomas. Fifteen to eighteen teens live in the college dorms and work with other Minnesota teens and professional journalist advisers to produce a news article, a personal essay, photos and videos. This camp is designed for students completing 9th through 12th grade who have some journalism experience, want to build their skills and report issues that matter to them.
Introduction to Journalism Camp
A four-week camp in July at the University of St. Thomas. Fifteen to eighteen teens meet from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm to learn the basics of journalism, including interviewing, writing in journalistic style and photojournalism. In the newsroom, students will produce written and video reports. This camp is designed for those completing 8th through 11th grade who have no previous experience and like asking questions and telling stories.
Sports Reporting Camp
New in 2011, a five-day sports reporting camp in August at the University of St. Thomas. Fifteen to eighteen teens meet from Monday through Friday, to work with the best sports journalists. Students will learn how being a journalist differs from being a fan; see how today’s sports reporters use video, online and social media; interview players and coaches and write a sports story. This camp is designed for those completing 8th through 12th grade who have no previous experience and enjoy writing and sports.
News Team
An 8- to 10-week after-school class. It’s held twice a year in the Fall and Spring terms and meets at the University of St. Thomas. Six to twelve teens produce one news story while learning the basics of journalism, including interviewing, talking to everyone comfortably, writing briefly, spotting a good story and more. It is designed for students in 9th through 11th grade who want to check out what journalism is all about.
11．Who would most probably be admitted to the Introduction to Journalism Camp
A．Linda, in 11th grade, having some journalism experience.
B．Marx, in 10th grade, having enough time in August.
C．Tom, in 12th grade, good at making up stories.
D．Nick, in 8th grade, eager to learn interviewing.
12．Students in the Sports Reporting Camp can ________.
A．work with Minnesota teens
B．meet with sports journalists
C．live in the college dorms
D．play games with coaches
13．What do we know about News Team
A．It teaches how to use videos.
B．It is a newly-founded team.
C．It is held twice a year.
D．It lasts four weeks.
14．What do the four activities have in common
A．They are held in the same place.
B．They accept the same number of teens.
C．They all take place in the summer vacation.
D．They all allow teens to take part after school.
15．For whom is the passage most probably written
A．Professional journalists.
B．Camp organizers.
C．Journalism lovers.
D．Sports lovers.
（二）七选五（共12.5分）
In the words of Tali Sharot, author of the book The Influential Mind: What the Brain Reveals About Our Power to Change Others, it is not difficult to influence others.
16 Research suggests that people don’t always act to avoid negative consequences. In one study, participants viewed pictures and had to act (press a button) or not act (not press a button) when a certain one appeared. The correct response would earn them a reward or save them from a loss. Ultimately, participants performed better when they had to act to earn a reward and not act to avoid a loss.
17 While negative emotions and images encourage inaction, research also suggests that positive ones tend to inspire people to act. So you might try talking about your fancy gym or a fun fitness activity to get your family members to exercise.
When we’re communicating negative information, listeners will be particularly influenced when stressed. 18 if you’re a doctor trying to communicate disease risk to a stressed patient. People also have a tendency to ignore negative information, which can make them feel bad. 19 In that case, it might be better to wait until people are more relaxed or to frame things in a positive way.
Another effective way to influence people is to give them control. If you’re a parent, you may have discovered that kids are much more receptive to your suggestions if you let them pick between healthy snacks or after-dinner chores. They’re anticipating a good result that they’ll get to select for themselves. 20
So influencing others isn’t that challenging.
A．That might be of help
B．What should you do instead
C．Is this in line with common sense
D．So communicating bad news may be tricky
E．How does the brain respond to attempts at influence
F．Then would-be influencers have more and more access to us
G．Giving away control, even a little or just the perception of it helps
第二部分：语言运用（共两节，满分30分）
（一）完形填空（共15分）
In my early memories of Papa, I was sitting at the table listening to him talking about his challenges as an Italian immigrant (移民). Back then, I couldn’t have known his pain as he struggled to 21 his place in this new land. But this year my depression took me deeper into the past, and a new picture of my father 22 .
“We arrived in Toronto on Thanksgiving Day, 1956. We left Italy to give you three girls more 23 for a better life,” he said. But we’d had a 24 start. “The apartment your aunt had booked for us came to nothing at the last minute. It went to someone without children, 25 the five of us moved into your aunt’s living room.” He took a deep breath and continued, “I went out to 26 the neighborhood and didn’t get back until dark.”
He remembered being 27 at the door by a rush of bodies huddling (挤在一起) around him, kissing and hugging him. “And then I saw your mother’s face. Her face was as 28 as a sheet. And the baby was crying. Nine months old. What did I expect I 29 that the house owner would come knocking on the door.”
Dad 30 to the end of his story: “What more can I say I went looking for a job. I found one.” Armed with a small 31 vocabulary and a strong willpower, he’d walked for miles in a city he didn’t know, stopping at every hair salon for a chance to show his skills as a 32 . That’s what he’d been doing all day. Proving himself. 33 his family.
Forty years after Dad’s first Thanksgiving in Toronto, he sat at the table and asked if I thought he’d provided well for his family. I answered yes. His eyes 34 . Mine did, too. We sat together 35 , letting love and thankfulness fill the space between us.
21．A．find B．recognize C．hide D．exchange
22．A．went off B．passed out C．came about D．wore away
23．A．pains B．opportunities C．challenges D．adventures
24．A．pleasing B．smooth C．dandy D．struggling
25．A．for B．or C．so D．but
26．A．explore B．comfort C．visit D．introduce
27．A．shown B．refused C．guided D．greeted
28．A．pretty B．clean C．white D．neat
29．A．observed B．worried C．determined D．desired
30．A．jumped B．flew C．responded D．slid
31．A．Indian B．Italian C．German D．English
32．A．teller B．hairstylist C．fire fighter D．cook
33．A．Missing B．Controlling C．Raising D．Ignoring
34．A．watered B．closed C．narrowed D．opened
35．A．anxiously B．lively C．seriously D．quietly
（二）用单词的适当形式完成短文（共15分）
阅读下面材料，在空白处填入适当的内容(1个单词)或括号内单词的正确形式。
China’s tea culture can be traced as far back to before 2000 BC． The Shennong Emperor discovered tea when a leaf fell into boiled water he was drinking, beginning a tradition that still 36 (exist) nowadays.
During the Tang dynasty(618-907) in China, the culture of tea underwent a remarkable development. When Emperor Lu Yu 37 (author) the highly regarded Classic of Tea (茶经), he set off on a journey that would play a critical role in establishing tea’s cultural 38 (significant) in China. Lu Yu, a monk who later earned fame 39 the’Sage of Tea’ (茶圣), had an enormous impact on the spread of tea drinking and linked 40 to Buddhist ideas, including the harmony and mysteries of the universe. The Classic of Tea is the oldest 41 (know) guide to tea drinking and culture. It covers all aspects of tea culture, from growing to harvesting, producing as well as techniques for farmers and craftsmen 42 (produce) the finest teas.
Throughout the Tang dynasty, 43 culture of tea drinking spread quickly among scholars. Inspired by Lu Yu’s ideas, they added medicinal qualities to tea, praised for 44 (sharpen) the mind. At the same time, wine was falling out of favour for their alcoholic properties, paving a path for tea to spread throughout society 45 to be used in religious occasions and offerings.
第三部分：写作（共两节，满分40分）
（一）作文（共15分）
46．假定你是李华，你的交换生好友Allen因事不在。请就你校健康知识讲座的有关事宜给他写份留言条，内容包括：
1. 时间改为下周三下午；
2. 原定于下周三下午参观农场的活动暂时取消，时间待定；
3. 请他准备发言稿，话题为健康生活方式的重要性。
注意：写作词数应为80左右。
（二）读后续写（共25分）
47．阅读下面材料，根据其内容和所给段落开头语续写两段，使之构成一篇完整的短文。
My teacher held up a piece of broken glass and asked, “Who broke this window ” Thirty boys tried to think about not only what they had done, but also what our teacher might have found out. She seldom became angry, but she was this time.
“Oh,” I thought. I was the one who broke the window. It was caused by a naughty throw of a baseball. If I admitted guilt, I would be in a lot of trouble. How would I be able to pay for a big window like that I didn’t even get an allowance (零花钱). “My father is going to have a temper,” I thought. I didn’t want to raise my hand, but some force much stronger than I was pulled it skyward. I told the truth, “I did it.” Then I was silent. It was hard enough saying what I had.
My teacher went to one of our bookshelves and took down a book on bird field guide. She then began walking towards my desk. I had never seen my teacher to strike a student, but I feared she was going to start with me.
注意：
1. 续写词数应为150左右；
2. 请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
I was so afraid that I closed my eyes tightly.
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I was very moved.
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答案：
题号 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
答案 A D C D C A D A C D
题号 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
答案 D B C A C E B A D G
题号 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
答案 A C B D C A D C B A
题号 31 32 33 34 35
答案 D B C A D
36．exists 37．authored 38．significance 39．as 40．it 41．known 42．to produce 43．the 44．sharpening 45．and
46．Dear Allen,
I'd like to inform you of the changes to our knowledge lecture.
Some foreign guests coming for an exchange activity, the lecture time has been changed to next Wednesday afternoon. Besides, the visit to the farm next Wednesday afternoon will be cancelled and the new time is yet to be determined. As scheduled, a student will be invited to make a speech at the lecture. I know that you have some wonderful ideas about how to keep healthy, so you're expected to make a speech then. Do remember the theme is the importance of healthy lifestyles. We believe that we can benefit much from your speech.
Please call me when you return.
Yours,
Li Hua
47． I was so afraid that I closed my eyes tightly. I almost couldn't breathe, waiting for the punishment to come. To my surprise, my teacher did not hit me. Instead, she placed the book in front of me and said, “This book is worth about the same as the window you broke. You will work off your debt by writing a report on five different birds found in your neighborhood. You will include their names, habitats, and behaviors.”
I was very moved. The teacher’s face was kind and understanding. She gave me a pen and a notebook, and I started the report right away. I did my best, and after a week, I handed in my completed work. She told me that I had a wonderful talent for observation, and she also forgave me for breaking the window, and said that I had learned a valuable lesson. I was very moved by my teacher’s kindness and wisdom, and I knew that I had a lot to learn from her.Passage 1
A mini guide to micro-learning
Rather than mindless scrolling, why not treat yourself to some mindful learning instead
1. Pick a topic or subject that you want to learn.
This could be anything from a new language, to practical activities like how to draw, or knitting, or simply a subject you'd like to discover more about - such as astronomy, mythology, or a sport. ①______ The choice is yours and should be based on your interests and curiosity.
2. Define your goal.
Create some motivation by focusing on what you want to achieve, complete, or gain by fulfilling this learning. Knowing what you're working towards can help keep you on track when it's tempting to fall back into old habits. ②______ For example, if you're learning a language, your goal might be to be able to have a simple conversation with a native speaker within a month.
3. Decide your method of learning.
Consider how you best retain information, or what would be most engaging for you. If you want to learn on the go, you might want a podcast you can dip in and out of at convenient times. Like rewards or tracking progress Perhaps there's an app for you, such as Duolingo for learning languages, Visual learner Search for YouTube videos on your subject matter, or a TikTok series. Or, if you want to get away from screens, you could carry a book with you for opportunity moments. ③______ It's all about finding what suits you best.
4. Create the habit.
You might want to schedule in time each day to devote to this specifically, popping it in your calendar with a reminder notification - particularly helpful for practical activities. Or perhaps it's about habit-stacking and deciding to pair your learning with going for a walk, doing the washing up, or cooking dinner. Alternatively, it could be consciously swapping scrolling time for learning, implementing time restrictions on certain apps, or when you get the impulse to pick up your phone, using that as a prompt to learn. ④______ Consistency is key to making micro-learning effective.
5. Reflect on your progress.
What works best for you This could be a tracker to see your commitment, regular check-ins, progress pictures or recordings, or self-reflection upon reaching your goal. When you take note of the progress you're making, you might just surprise and inspire yourself further. ⑤______ It can also help you adjust your methods if needed.
A. This way, you'll have a clear direction.
B. There are various options available.
C. This will make the learning process more enjoyable.
D. This helps you stay focused and motivated.
E. This can be a great way to start your micro-learning journey.
F. This allows you to make the most of your spare time.
G. This ensures that you keep moving forward in your learning.
Passage 2
6 tips for settling into a new job when working remotely
From dealing with virtual meetings to setting boundaries, here's how you can make a new remote job work for you.
1. GET TO KNOW YOUR COLLEAGUES
Not sitting beside your colleagues can feel like a barrier when starting a new job, but there are still ways to connect remotely. "Attend any online training or other meetings that your team holds, even if they are optional," says coach Anita Gohil-Thorp. "This will not only help you to get to know others, but it will also help you build trust and your own reputation. Trust, and let the team get to know you." ①______ You may well find you click with certain colleagues. Ask about meeting up, whether at a Zoom chat or in-person coffee where you can. Take up the offer of any social events or in-person sessions too to help make connections.
2. COMMUNICATE WITH CONFIDENCE
"Eye contact is still relevant," says confidence coach Gemma Holmes. "I always encourage my clients to talk into their webcam as if the camera is the eyes of their audience." This can help you appear more confident to your colleagues as if you're talking straight to them and can help with building a connection and instilling a sense of confidence." That said, it's best not to stare down the lens constantly, as this can feel uncomfortable or unnatural. ②______ To boost your confidence outside of meetings, Anita suggests using affirmations such as "I am competent in my new role," "I excel at this task," and "I choose to move outside my comfort zone for career growth."
3. UNDERSTAND YOUR ROLE
One of the challenges of starting a new job is learning exactly what your day-to-day will look like. "To be clear about your role and responsibilities, talk to your line manager regularly so they are aware of your capacity and whether you're fulfilling tasks that support the development you want in relation to the job you applied for," says Anita. Asking what your priorities should be can help you both get on the same page. ③______ Read through the job description thoroughly to understand what's expected of you. Anita emphasizes the importance of boundaries to ensure you don't work longer hours or beyond your job description too often.
4. UNDERSTAND YOUR WORKPLACE
Working remotely can mean it takes a little longer to understand your workplace and how people operate. ④______ Observe how communication flows, what tools and platforms are used, and the general work culture. This will help you adapt and integrate more smoothly.
5. SET BOUNDARIES
It's easy to blur the lines between work and personal life when working from home. Set specific working hours and stick to them. Let your family or housemates know when you're working and need to be undisturbed. ⑤______ Also, create a dedicated workspace if possible, even if it's just a corner of a room, to help you mentally separate work and leisure.
A. This can make a big difference in how you feel and perform.
B. There are various ways to achieve this.
C. This helps you establish a good working relationship.
D. This way, you can avoid misunderstandings and confusion.
E. This allows you to get a better sense of the work environment.
F. This can enhance your communication skills in virtual settings.
G. This will give you a clear understanding of your tasks and goals.
Passage 3
Empath shielding techniques
While empaths are highly compassionate people, there are times when this sensitivity to others' emotions can become too much. In those overwhelming moments, here are four techniques to try.
USING CRYSTALS
They may not be for everyone, but crystals are believed by some to be able to absorb energy, so keeping one close could be a way to syphon off negative energy accumulated through the day. Some recommended ones include clear quartz, citrine, and amethyst. But bear in mind that crystals need to be cleansed too, which could be done through leaving them on a windowsill in moonlight while you sleep. ①______ However, it's important to note that the effectiveness of crystals in this way is not scientifically proven.
VISUALISING
This can be a helpful option, requiring nothing more than your own thoughts. Visualising is about imagining various scenarios to guide your subconscious to an end goal, and lead to relaxation or reduced stress. In this instance, as an empath, you may want to envision a protective bubble around yourself if someone is venting to you, so that you're present, but their negativity is bouncing off rather than connecting with you. It can take time to practise to feel more natural and reap the benefits, but it's well worth the effort. ②______ With regular practice, you'll find it easier to create and maintain this mental shield.
RELAXING
One of the most effective methods to counter the emotional weight you might be carrying, or the secondhand stress, can be to allow yourself the time and space to decompress and relax. This can be through whatever means appeals to you most, so listen to your body. Do you need alone-time with a good book Do you want creativity and mindfulness by baking or crafting something Do you want distraction and laughter with a comedy show ③______ The key is to find what truly relaxes you and makes you feel at ease.
GROUNDING
Reconnecting with yourself through nature can be a great way of re-centring, and reducing feelings of overwhelm. Take a break outside in the fresh air, and, if you can, allow your bare feet to connect with the grass or earth. Pay attention to how it feels, what you can hear, and the scents in the air. Be in the moment. ④______ This connection with nature can help you feel more grounded and less affected by external emotions.
A. This simple act can bring a sense of calm and peace.
B. There are different ways to relax and unwind.
C. This technique may seem a bit strange to some.
D. This practice can strengthen your ability to shield.
E. This natural connection can have a powerful impact.
F. This method requires patience and persistence.
G. This can be a controversial topic among people.
