中小学教育资源及组卷应用平台
【期末汇编】核心考点专项训练:阅读理解-2024-2025学年高一英语下学期人教版(2019)必修第二册
How AI Helps Basketball Teams Play SmarterArtificial intelligence (AI) is changing how basketball teams train and play. A top NBA team once used AI to create a special defense strategy that helped them win a champonship. Though no one will say which team did it, experts agree AI made a big difference.
Since 2013, special cameras in every NBA arena track players' movements. These cameras show not just where players run, but even how their elbows and knees move. This helps coaches study moves like "high - quality defensive blocks" — when defenders quickly block shooters. Teams use this data to practice better plans.
In the 2010s, teams like Houston, Golden State, and Oklahoma City started using AI first. Now, Oklahoma City leads the league by forcing other teams to make mistakes while avoiding mistakes themselves. AI helps teams pick the best player combinations and find winning strategies. While AI can't turn weak teams into champions, it can help good teams win a few more games.
The data has also changed how basketball is played. Games are faster, and players shoot more three - pointers than ever — double the attempts from 15 years ago. Some players think this makes games less creative, but they admit winning requires following what works.
The NBA is testing AI for referees (裁判), too. Soon, cameras might instantly decide who touched a ball last when it goes out of bounds, reducing mistakes. They're also creating thaumaturgic fan experiences, like video-game-style broadcasts where cartoon players copy real actions.
Though teams keep their AI methods secret, experts say basketball will keep changing with technology. As one analyst said, "The next step is turning all this data into simple tips players can use." From smarter defenses to faster games, AI is making basketball more exciting for everyone!
1.What is the primary role of AI in basketball training
A.Develop effective game plans.
B.Design new training equipment.
C.Analyze fan behavior for promotions.
D.Monitor players' health during games.
2.Why do players stick to proven strategies
A.To show creativity. B.To increase game speed.
C.To reduce personal mistakes. D.To secure victories in matches.
3.What does the underlined word "thaumaturgic" in paragraph 5 mean
A.Simple. B.Exciting. C.Boring. D.Lifelike.
4.What do teams hide about their AI usage
A.Where to set special cameras. B.Game schedule arrangements.
C.Specific technical approaches. D.What experts and analysts said.
The government of the Marshall Islands has protected a huge area of ocean around two remote atolls (偏远环礁). This measure is intended to protect important marine (海洋的) and bird life. The government says this is their first marine protected area (MPA), but it won't be their last.
The new MPA sets aside 48,000 square kilometers of ocean where no fishing is allowed. That's larger than the area of Denmark or the Netherlands. The protected area surrounds two remote atolls: Bikar Atoll and Bokak Atoll. No one lives on the two atolls, which are far away from the rest of the Marshall Islands, so the oceans around them are in excellent shape.
In 2023, scientists from National Geographic' s Pristine Seas project worked with experts in the Marshall Islands to study the area that's now protected. The group made 452 dives and spent over 640 hours underwater. Enric Sala, who started the Pristine Seas project, calls the area a "time machine" and says that the coral reefs (珊瑚礁) around the atolls are so healthy that diving there is "like diving in the ocean of 1.000 years ago".
The underwater life near the atolls includes different kinds of fish and many deepsea sharks. The researchers say that there may even be marine life there that scientists have never seen before. Moreover, the area contains the largest nesting (筑巢) site for green turtles in the Marshall Islands. It hosts more seabirds than any other place in the country.
The government of the Marshall Islands believes protecting sea life in this large area will also help marine life outside the protected area. And that will help local fishermen and others who depend on the sea. "Our future depends on protecting our ocean." says Glen Joseph, who leads the group responsible for protecting the waters of the Marshall Islands.
5.What can be inferred from paragraph 1
A.The MPA is too huge to be protected effectively.
B.The government aims at protecting distant atolls.
C.The marine life of the Marshall Islands has been damaged.
D.The government has a long-term strategy for marine protection.
6.What does the description of the area as a "time machine" suggest
A.The marine life there is ancient.
B.The area is in need of protection.
C.The coral reefs there are in good condition.
D.The atolls have changed a lot over the years.
7.What is the author's purpose in writing the fourth paragraph
A.To show the necessity of establishing the MPA.
B.To prove the area is home to unique marine species.
C.To draw scientists' attention to the Marshall Islands.
D.To explain the importance of marine life to this area.
8.What does the government of the Marshall Islands agree with
A.The ocean's health is related to the human livelihoods.
B.The economy of the Marshall Islands depends on sea life.
C.Marine protection requires the efforts of the whole society.
D.Local fishermen should be responsible for marine protection.
Cocoa School of Journalism (新闻学) and Creative Arts will open on Monday, and aims to inspire and train children of all ages, who are interested in news journalism,making audio shows and story writing.
The school is being launched by Serlina Boyd, creator of Cocoa Girl — the UK's first Black girl magazine — who believes it's time to "shake up" the British media industry.
"Our school will not only teach children the basics of journalism, but also provide support for those with special educational needs," she said. "Join us in shaping the future of journalism and storytelling."
Boyd said the school — based in Beckenham, south London — will also have an adult storytelling centre for parents and caregivers.
Boyd told The Voice, the journalism school will be open to children from all backgrounds and free Caribbean and African food will be available to those who attend.
The special center will also offer art design, fashion styling and music classes for teenagers, including adult evening classes and more.
She said, "We want to teach children about writing and journalism and the power of words. During the Easter holidays, we are doing two - hour classes for children. We are going to talk about writing and journalism. We are also helping them to write their own short stories that they send in to our Bloomsbury competition."
"We are going to continue that throughout the summer." she added.
Boyd said she hopes to nurture the next generation of reporters and creatives and wants adults to also take up a new hobby and join in the fun.
Boyd said, "I hope the school will encourage children and adults to use their voice because it is a gift."
9.Who started the school
A.A famous London chef.
B.A music school director.
C.A Beckenham primary teacher.
D.A magazine pioneer for Black girls.
10.What is the school's philosophy on language and communication
A.Teaching the basics of journalism is central
B.Competitions demand expert writing styles.
C.The power of words requires technical terms.
D.Sharing original ideas through words is valued most.
11.What does Boyd want adults to experience
A.Full-time childcare services. B.Strict professional training.
C.Relaxed creative exploration. D.Advanced journalism courses.
12.What's the text mainly about
A.Career training for media professionals.
B.Creative development in children and adults.
C.Holiday music workshops in a London suburb.
D.A school combining free meals with cultural projects.
Do you really care a lot about eco volunteering or climate change Want to support environmental volunteer abroad projects or get conservation (环保) volunteer opportunities around the world
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Our projects are available year - round. Conservation volunteer work is varied and dependent on the type of environmental project you choose. From tree planting volunteer programs to climate action projects, you could be collecting data on endangered species, planting trees, learning about sustainable farming techniques, growing organic food, developing green urban spaces, protecting threatened rainforests and much more.
On our conservation volunteering abroad projects, you'll be working closely with local organizations and community members to support practical methods of protecting our natural environment.
Our programs have been carefully selected to give you the chance to be part of the solution. Our conservation volunteers help important environmental projects go beyond sustainability by protecting lands, ecosystems and wildlife around the world, with the aim of leaving every place better than we found it.
Looking for the best environmental conservation programs abroad for 2025 or 2026 Check out our blog!
13.What personality is most important for volunteers in the programs
A.Skills in advanced technology.
B.Eagerness for outdoor adventures.
C.The ability to work in office settings.
D.A good knowledge of several languages.
14.What type of data might volunteers collect during their work
A.Green urban space usage rates.
B.Sustainable farming techniques.
C.Population changes of rare animals.
D.Records concerned with planting trees.
15.What is the main goal of the volunteer efforts
A.To make forests bigger by means of tree planting.
B.To promote environmental education in local schools.
C.To reduce harmful gases by organizing climate activities.
D.To improve the environmental condition of visited regions.
In Denmark, bicycling is one of the primary forms of transportation. In sunshine, rain and snow, you will see cyclists on their way to work, to the grocery store, or to social events. The bike is a Dane's best friend.
Danish cycling culture is as old as the bicycle itself. Bikes were first introduced to the country in the 1880s, and during the 1920s and 1930s, the bicycle became a widespread symbol of equality and freedom. People of all social classes began biking side by side — in the cities on their way to work and in the countryside on their days off.
The increased economy development of the late 1950s saw some Danes replacing bikes with motorcycles and automobiles. Just like their colleagues around the world, Danish urban planners believed the future belonged to cars, trucks, and ever-wider highways. In the early 1970s, however, the Mideast oil crisis terminated that development. "Car Free Sundays" were introduced in Copenhagen, and movements demanding Copenhagen to become car-free took place. Over time, concerns about air pollution, climate change, and the need for people to get enough exercise have helped bicycles make a big comeback. Denmark's heavy taxes on petrol and automobiles are a factor, too.
Today, cycling is an inseparable part of Danish culture. Newcomers who do not know how to cycle are encouraged to learn as soon as they arrive. Danish children usually learn to bike before they begin school at the age of six — and often much earlier. In school, children learn about traffic rules, road safety, and the importance of wearing a helmet as well as good cycling habits. Another choice for families with children is the cargo bike — a sort of oversized tricycle with a large wooden box on the front. It's estimated that a quarter of all Copenhagen families with two or more children own one of these cargo bikes for transporting kids, groceries, and other necessities. Danish cargo bikes have also won design awards and become a Danish export success.
Commuting by bike is the fastest, easiest and most environmentally friendly way to get around the cities of Denmark. And the numbers speak for themselves: Residents who cycle in Copenhagen request 1.1 million fewer sick days. Cyclists reduce CO2 emissions by 20,000 tonnes a year on average.
16.What led to the popularity of bicycles in Denmark during the 1920s and 1930s
A.The convenience of the bike. B.The development of the economy.
C.The idea that the bike symbolizes. D.The construction of wide highways.
17.What does the underlined word "terminated" mean in the 3rd paragraph
A.Improved. B.Permitted. C.Ended. D.restarted.
18.What do we know about cargo bikes from the 4th paragraph
A.They are owned by about 25% families.
B.They are designed for practical use.
C.They are the national symbol of Denmark.
D.They are unpopular among local residents.
19.Why does the author mention the data in the last paragraph
A.To prove the effectiveness of cycling.
B.To compare cycling with driving.
C.To show the popularity of cycling.
D.To conclude the financial benefits of cycling.
Beethoven is undoubtedly one of the greatest musicians. He completed 722 musical works. Unfortunately, the master died while still working on his Tenth Symphony (交响曲). Now, a team of musicians and scientists have used artificial intelligence (AI) to complete the artist's final composition.
Dr. Matthias first came up with the idea to complete the composition in 2019. He thought it was an appropriate way to celebrate Beethoven's 250th birthday in December 2020. He began by enlisting an international team of music experts to help him with the giant task. They included the music composer Walter and Dr. Ahmed, the creator of an innovative AI technology for the art market.
Ahmed and his colleagues started the process by familiarizing the AI software initially with a broad range of classical music, and then, narrowed it down to just Beethoven's work. Meanwhile, Walter and his group tried to interpret the rough drafts and the handful of notes that detailed Beethoven's plans for the Tenth Symphony.
The team then began the slow and careful task of feeding the AI software musical notes from the unfinished composition. To stay true to Beethoven's original composition, Ahmed's team sent Walter hundreds of AI-generated musical note variations every evening. Walter would listen to them and then select the one that he thought was closest to what the artist would have written. The AI team would add the music and rerun the software to generate the next suggestions. And piece by piece, the team was able to complete Beethoven's Tenth Symphony!
The composition was first released on October 9, 2021. Not surprisingly, it caused some controversy (争议). Critics believe technology should not be used to replicate the human creative process. Ahmed and his team agree with their opinions and say their AI software is not out to replace humans — it is just a tool to help artists to express themselves in new ways.
20.What is the purpose of the writer in writing paragraph 1
A.To voice his greatest respect for Beethoven.
B.To compare traditional music and AI music.
C.To present the team's hard work.
D.To introduce an innovative method to create music.
21.Which can be used to best describe the team's work
A.Inspiring B.Steady C.Challenging D.Boring
22.What does the underlined word "replicate" in the last paragraph mean
A.question B.copy C.direct D.speed
23.Which of the following can be the best title for the text
A.Beethoven's Tenth Symphony Is Eventually Staged
B.AI Helps Complete Beethoven's Unfinished Symphony
C.A Team of Experts Completed an Impossible Mission
D.A Controversial Way Successfully Interprets Beethoven's Music
John Koh is one who finds joy in learning.
He graduated with a diploma (毕业文凭) in accounting in his youth, but after a decade in the industry, he decided to make a change. He took an undergraduate course in social work at the age of 33. He graduated in 2010 and went on to do a Master's degree in social work in 2014.
His most recent educational attempt, which he took on last year, is a Master's degree in gerontology.
Gerontology is the scientific study of old age, the process of aging, and the particular problems of old people. As the population in the United States continues to age, earning a degree in gerontology could be a good investment in one's future. "It became more in demand in 2017," he described. "I'd always been interested in it, but what motivated me to take on the Master's program was when my wife started studying again. Watching her enjoy her studies gave me the desire to go back to studies too." As an adult learner, John said, "When I started to study social work, I really enjoyed it because I already had work experience, plus I had been serving in the Dialect Service looking after the elderly. Whatever I was taught in school, I applied it to my work; whatever I learned at work, I related back to my studies. Work experience really benefits the learning." John also noticed that his grades were a lot better when he was doing his Master's degree, compared to his undergraduate studies.
As a passionate lifelong learner, John Koh believes communication with family members is another important thing. "Support is very important," said John. "I told my daughter that Papa was studying and that on certain days I would have to focus on my tasks. It's actually a good example for the next generation — that's why my daughter likes to read too!"
24.What did finally encourage John to study gerontology
A.His work experience of social work.
B.His wife's taking pleasure in her studies.
C.The demand to support his large family.
D.The great future of gerontology research.
25.What did John think of his studies as an adult learner
A.Difficult. B.Stressful. C.Enjoyable. D.Special.
26.Why does John's daughter enjoy reading
A.It is influenced by her father. B.She is required by her teacher.
C.It is her duty to read every day. D.She gets rewards from her father.
27.Which might be the most suitable title for the text
A.What Is Gerontology B.A Story of Lifelong Learning
C.The Aging Problem in the US D.Benefits of Lifelong Learning
Italy: A Land of Charming DestinationsItaly, rich in history and culture, offers amazing views. Our special package ensures an unforgettable visit.
Rome: The Timeless City
Rome, Italy's capital, has a 2, 500-year-long history. Ancient ruins like the Colosseum and Roman Forum stand beside medieval (中世纪) churches and Renaissance palaces. This blend of different-era architectures gives Rome its unique charm. Ancient aqueducts show Roman engineering skills.
Florence: The Birthplace of the Renaissance (文艺复兴)
Florence was the heart of the Renaissance. It houses famous art galleries such as the Uffizi Gallery, where masterpieces by da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli are on display. The Duomo, with its Brunelleschi-designed dome, is a Gothic wonder. The city's narrow streets have charming cafes and shops selling handmade goods.
The Amalfi Coast: A wonderland by the Sea
The Amalfi Coast in southern Italy is known for its natural beauty. Steep and rough cliffs,clear blue waters, and colorful towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello create an amazing scene. There are beautiful beaches, some reachable only by boat. The local food, with fresh seafood and produce, is delicious.
Venice: The City of Canals
Venice, built on a lake, is a network of canals. The Grand Canal, lined with palaces, is the main route. Gondola rides are popular. St. Mark's Square, with its basilica and bell tower, is the city's heart. Venice is also famous for art, music, and the Venice Carnival.
Our package includes round-trip flights, accommodation, and guided tours. Don't miss exploring Italy's wonders.
28.What makes Rome special
A.It has the most beautiful beaches.
B.It has the most famous art galleries.
C.It is the birthplace of the Renaissance.
D.It combines ancient and medieval architectures.
29.Which place is famous as the center of the Renaissance
A.Rome. B.Venice.
C.Florence. D.The Amalfi Coast.
30.Where is this text likely from
A.A news report. B.A travel brochure.
C.A history textbook. D.A science fiction novel.
Las Vegas city in Nevada is built in a desert. The city may be known to the world for its partying. But officials have found that there are 21 square kilometers of useless grass. The grass is never laid on, played on or even stepped on. The grass is only there to look nice.
Now, the city is asking the Nevada state legislature (立法机构) to ban useless grass. It is trying to become the first place in America to ban that kind of grass often seen between streets, in housing developments and in office parks.
Useless grass nearly makes up 40% of all the grass in Las Vegas and it needs lots of water to survive. Grass needs four times more water than dry climate plants. By tearing out the grass, the city could reduce yearly water usage by 15%.
In 2003, the Southern Nevada Water Authority banned developers from planting grass in front of new homes. It also offered homeowners $30 for each square meter of grass they tear out. But fewer people are now using the program. Water usage has increased here by 9% since 2019. And last year, Las Vegas set a record of 240 days without major rainfall. The Colorado River provides much of Nevada's drinking water. The river could lose more water as climate change affects it.
Water officials in other dry cities said water usage needs to be reduced. But they fear the reaction to reforms like the ones in Las Vegas if their communities do not accept them. Cynthia Campbell is the water resources adviser for the city of Phoenix in Arizona. "The city restrictions (限制) may get too hard for some residents (居民). They'll say that is the point of no return for them," Campbell said. "For some people, it's a pool. For some people, it's grass."
31.Why does Las Vegas city try to ban useless grass
A.To protect the local people. B.To beautify the city.
C.To reduce water usage. D.To reduce waste.
32.What program was carried out in Las Vegas in 2003
A.Allowing planting grass before new houses.
B.Awarding those who reduced water usage.
C.Praising those who signed on the program.
D.Encouraging the residents to tear out grass.
33.What does Campbell mean in the last paragraph
A.Many residents won't follow the ban.
B.Reaction to the reform will vary personally.
C.Water officials should consider many factors.
D.Other measures should be taken to protect water.
34.Which of the following could be the best title for the text
A.Las Vegas Plans to Ban Useless Grass
B.A Method Is Adopted to Save Las Vegas
C.Choices between Beauty and Practice
D.Grass Is Important but Useless in Las Vegas
Urban green spaces, such as parks, gardens, and tree-lined streets, have long been recognized for their aesthetic (审美的) and environmental benefits. However, recent research highlights their significant impact on mental health, particularly in densely (密集地) populated cities. A study conducted by researchers at the University of Cambridge analyzed data from over 10,000 urban residents across 15 cities worldwide, revealing a strong correlation between access to green spaces and improved mental well-being.
The study found that individuals living within 500 meters of a green space reported lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression compared to those without such access. Researchers attribute (归因于) this to several factors. First, green spaces provide opportunities for physical activity, such as walking, jogging, or cycling, which are known to reduce stress hormones and boost mood. Second, exposure to nature has a calming effect on the brain, reducing mental fatigue (精神疲劳) and improving concentration. Third, green spaces foster social interactions, creating a sense of community and belonging that can alleviate feelings of loneliness.
Interestingly, the study also revealed that the quality of green spaces matters more than their size. Well-maintained parks with diverse vegetation, seating areas, and recreational facilities had a greater positive impact than larger but poorly maintained areas. This suggests that urban planners should prioritize the design and upkeep of green spaces to maximize their mental health benefits.
Despite these findings, the study also identified challenges. In many cities, green spaces are unevenly distributed, with wealthier neighborhoods having better access than low-income areas. This inequality highlights the need for policies that ensure equitable (公平合理的) access to green spaces for all residents.
The researchers recommend several strategies to address these issues. These include increasing investment in urban green infrastructure, integrating green spaces into urban planning, and promoting community involvement in maintaining local parks. By prioritizing green spaces, cities can not only enhance mental health but also address broader environmental challenges, such as air pollution and climate change.
35.What did the study find about individuals living near green spaces
A.They had higher levels of stress. B.They preferred indoor activities.
C.They were less physically active. D.They enhanced mental health.
36.What does the underlined word "alleviate" mean in paragraph 2
A.Reduce. B.Increase. C.Ignore. D.Create.
37.How is the text mainly developed
A.By narrating personal experiences.
B.By criticizing urban planning policies.
C.By comparing different types of green spaces.
D.By presenting research findings and their effects.
38.What is the best title for the text
A.Designing Effective Urban Green Spaces
B.The Multifaceted Benefits of Urban Green Spaces
C.Green Spaces: A Key to Enhancing Mental Health
D.Strategies for Equitable Access to Urban Nature
答案解析部分
【答案】1.A
2.D
3.B
4.C
【答案】5.D
6.C
7.A
8.A
【答案】9.D
10.D
11.C
12.B
【答案】13.B
14.C
15.D
【答案】16.C
17.C
18.B
19.D
【答案】20.D
21.C
22.B
23.B
【答案】24.B
25.C
26.A
27.B
【答案】28.D
29.C
30.B
【答案】31.C
32.D
33.B
34.A
【答案】35.D
36.A
37.D
38.C
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