Unit 5 Learning from nature
Ⅰ.阅读理解(每题2.5分,共27.5分)
A
Each fall,millions of butterflies across the U.S. and Canada fly up to about 4,830 kilometres to southwestern Mexico.Travellers can see the butterflies overwintering on the Western Monarch Trail,a road trip-friendly conservation initiative that links over a dozen stops along the route.
Helping the butterflies
Organisers created educational panels in English and Spanish explaining the butterflies’ annual travelling and their trouble.The signs also outline ways travellers can help the butterflies recover,such as by supporting chemical-free farms and planting native nectar (花蜜) gardens.
Why butterflies fly to the California coast
Many stops on the trail,including Pismo State Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove and Andrew Molera State Park,are overwintering sites where,from October to February,travellers can see thousands of butterflies gathering in forests in areas with mild temperatures,dappled (斑驳的) sunlight,high dampness,and little to no wind.
Other sites,like the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden and Avila Valley Barn,grow flowers that provide sugary,high-calorie food for the butterflies to eat.Butterflies settling here demonstrate how vital nectar plants are to their survival.
How to explore the Western Monarch Trail
The butterflies’ behaviour varies at different times of day and depends on the weather.In the mornings,while temperatures are still cool,step out of the cabin (木屋) in the Fernwood Resort where you stay overnight,and you’ll find many butterflies hanging together on the branches and trunks of trees at the overwintering sites.As the day starts to heat up—typically by late morning or early afternoon—you’ll be amazed at the phenomenon “sunburst”—the butterflies start flying around in search of nearby nectar.Keep your eyes skyward.Don’t grab your camera.Just be in the moment.
( )1.What’s the Western Monarch Trail initiative aimed at
[A] Providing a travel route.
[B] Encountering butterflies.
[C] Promoting organic farming.
[D] Advocating species conservation.
( )2.What do we know about Andrew Molera State Park
[A] It holds many nectar gardens.
[B] It’s pleasant throughout winter.
[C] It has sufficient food for butterflies.
[D] It’s home to butterflies all year around.
( )3.What is guaranteed for the travellers along the Western Monarch Trail
[A] Signs to guide the route.
[B] Cameras for recording videos.
[C] Ready shelters to stay overnight.
[D] Experiences of watching “sunburst” at dawn.
B
Scientists have shown how plants can protect themselves against genetic (基因的) damage caused by environmental stresses.The growing tips of plant roots and shoots have an in-built mechanism (机制) that spells cell death if DNA damage is detected,avoiding passing on faulty DNA.
Plants have small populations of stem cells (干细胞) at the tips of their roots and shoots,
which enable them to continuously grow and produce new tissues throughout their lifetime.
These stem cells serve as ancestors for plant tissues and organs.However,any genetic faults present in the stem cells will continue to exist and be passed on permanently throughout the plant’s life,which could last thousands of years.
Given the critical role of stem cells and their exposure to potentially dangerous environments at the growing tips of roots and shoots,safeguards are necessary to prevent stem cell faults from becoming fixed.Researchers Nick Fulcher and Robert Sablowski,funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council,aimed to uncover these protective mechanisms.Through experiments involving X-rays and chemicals,they discovered that stem cells were more sensitive to DNA damage compared to other cells.
When DNA damage occurs,the cells have the capacity to detect it and cause programmed cell death,preventing the propagation of the damaged genetic code to the rest of the plant tissues.This process has similarities to the safeguard mechanism found in animal cells,which has been broadly studied due to its relevance in preventing cancer.
The identification of a similar protective system in plants is of great interest in the field of plant development.It also helps scientists develop plants that can better handle environmental stresses.So knowledge of how plants deal with these stresses is of fundamental significance to agricultural science’s response to climate change.
( )4.What is the function of the in-built mechanism in plants
[A] To produce more roots and shoots.
[B] To increase the overall lifetime of the plant.
[C] To enhance plant growth and nutrient intake.
[D]To stop genetic faults in stem cells from being passed on.
( )5.What can we know about stem cells in plants according to the text
[A] They are relatively abundant in quantity.
[B] They are resistant to environmental stresses.
[C] They make quick response to DNA damage.
[D] They have the ability to repair damaged DNA.
( )6.What does the underlined word “propagation” in Paragraph 4 mean
[A] Spread. [B] Change.
[C] Existence. [D] Self-repair.
( )7.What does the last paragraph focus on
[A] The way of dealing with climate change on Earth.
[B] The significance of identifying the protective system in plants.
[C] The method of ensuring plant survival under environmental stresses.
[D] The urgency of developing plants that can handle environmental stresses.
C
One of the most common questions I get from concerned gardeners is how to deal with climbing plants,like ivy.The thinking behind this is that climbers are a dragon brickwork and can cause structural damage to buildings.But when you actually look at it from a scientific point of view,very few of these conclusions are based on any evidence.
A 2020 study of a range of climbing plants on model brick buildings found that the shade cast by the plants’ leaves cooled the surface of the buildings in the summer by as much as 5.7℃,reducing the wide swings between day and night temperatures—a key driver of surface structural damage.It also lowered summer temperatures inside the buildings by up to 7.2℃,and was even expected to reduce heating bills by as much as 20 percent in the winter.Despite concerns that plants’ moisture (水分) can against brickwork,leading to damp issues,the same trial showed ivy didn’t significantly raise moisture levels—rather,it helped stabilise them,
minimising changes that could damage the buildings surfaces.
It is worth bearing in mind that these results were from model buildings with new brickwork.What about well-used buildings Well,another study,this one from 2011,found that in five historical buildings,bare walls experienced average maximum temperatures 36 percent higher and minimum temperatures 15 percent lower compared with those coated in leaves.
The researchers concluded that the living protection provided by those climbing plants would “reduce the likelihood of frost and salt damage to the building materials,thus contributing to their conservation”.They also found that the leaves’ ability to trap pollution could reduce the damage to historical walls.
Imagine if there was a new material that could cool cities and cut energy bills,all while looking beautiful.Did I mention it was also self-cleaning and carbon negative The truth is that we have had this amazing material all along,but rather than appreciating it,we have spent huge amounts of time worrying about how to tear it down.
( )8.What are gardeners commonly concerned about
[A] Poor quality of brickwork.
[B] Weeds competing for space.
[C] Damage caused by construction.
[D] Potential dangers of climbing plants.
( )9.What do climbing plants mainly serve as according to the 2020 study
[A] A temperature adjuster.
[B] A moisture tester.
[C] A pollution monitor.
[D] An air purifier.
( )10.What is Paragraph 3 mainly about
[A] Possible doubts about the findings.
[B] Analysis of the experimental data.
[C] Supporting evidence for the findings.
[D] Explanation for the research process.
( )11.What is the author’s attitude towards climbing plants
[A] Unclear.
[B] Dismissive.
[C] Appreciative.
[D] Tolerant.
Ⅱ.完形填空(每题1分,共15分)
When the economic crisis hit,Bruno and Marilena lost their jobs in Florence.It was then that they decided to return to their hometown in Tuscany.There,they 1 their lives by making the best use of their available 2 to establish an eco-friendly homestay (民宿).
This turned their 3 life into a fairy tale.They grew their own organic foods,adopted rainwater collection systems,and practised natural farming to embrace 4 .
Guests at their homestay are treated like extended family,sharing home-cooked meals together and 5 stories of their travels. 6 about Bruno and Marilena’s enthusiasm for guests quickly spread.The homestay was 7 with a boost in popularity as more people started to seek a(n) 8 from busy city life.In a fast-paced world where surface-level interactions are common,Bruno and Marilena have created a space where 9 connections thrive.
10 the welcoming environment they’ve created,living in the Italian countryside has allowed them to embrace a relaxing pace of life.They rise with the Sun to 11 their fields,
retire under a blanket of stars at night,and 12 seasonal harvests for the long winter.
Though the work could be tiring at times,they discovered 13 in their sustainable interaction with nature.
Through commitment to community and sustainability values,Bruno and Marilena have not only found their inner 14 but also built a successful business that ensures their 15 stability and continued country life for years to come.
( )1.[A] appreciated [B] evaluated
[C] transformed [D] deserted
( )2.[A] resources [B] reservation
[C] information [D] equipment
( )3.[A] rural [B] urban
[C] cultural [D] private
( )4.[A] self-assessment [B] self-sufficiency
[C] self-discipline [D] self-awareness
( )5.[A] adapting [B] exchanging
[C] publishing [D] creating
( )6.[A] Legend [B] Word
[C] Intelligence [D] Prediction
( )7.[A] observed [B] booked
[C] traded [D] conserved
( )8.[A] escape [B] solution
[C] opportunity [D] challenge
( )9.[A] temporary [B] permanent
[C] meaningful [D] complicated
( )10.[A] Despite [B] Without
[C] Against [D] Beyond
( )11.[A] care for [B] fight with
[C] take over [D] set down
( )12.[A] donate [B] monitor
[C] preserve [D] taste
( )13.[A] hardship [B] pressure
[C] fulfillment [D] maintenance
( )14.[A] struggle [B] loneliness
[C] achievement [D] peace
( )15.[A] environmental [B] emotional
[C] communicative [D] economic
Unit 5 Learning from nature
Ⅰ.阅读理解(每题2.5分,共27.5分)
A
Each fall,millions of butterflies across the U.S. and Canada fly up to about 4,830 kilometres to southwestern Mexico.Travellers can see the butterflies overwintering on the Western Monarch Trail,a road trip-friendly conservation initiative that links over a dozen stops along the route.
Helping the butterflies
Organisers created educational panels in English and Spanish explaining the butterflies’ annual travelling and their trouble.The signs also outline ways travellers can help the butterflies recover,such as by supporting chemical-free farms and planting native nectar (花蜜) gardens.
Why butterflies fly to the California coast
Many stops on the trail,including Pismo State Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove and Andrew Molera State Park,are overwintering sites where,from October to February,travellers can see thousands of butterflies gathering in forests in areas with mild temperatures,dappled (斑驳的) sunlight,high dampness,and little to no wind.
Other sites,like the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden and Avila Valley Barn,grow flowers that provide sugary,high-calorie food for the butterflies to eat.Butterflies settling here demonstrate how vital nectar plants are to their survival.
How to explore the Western Monarch Trail
The butterflies’ behaviour varies at different times of day and depends on the weather.In the mornings,while temperatures are still cool,step out of the cabin (木屋) in the Fernwood Resort where you stay overnight,and you’ll find many butterflies hanging together on the branches and trunks of trees at the overwintering sites.As the day starts to heat up—typically by late morning or early afternoon—you’ll be amazed at the phenomenon “sunburst”—the butterflies start flying around in search of nearby nectar.Keep your eyes skyward.Don’t grab your camera.Just be in the moment.
[语篇导读] 本文是应用文。文章介绍了西部帝王蝶的迁徙路径及人们为保护帝王蝶采取的措施。
( )1.What’s the Western Monarch Trail initiative aimed at
[A] Providing a travel route.
[B] Encountering butterflies.
[C] Promoting organic farming.
[D] Advocating species conservation.
【答案】 D
【解析】 细节理解题。根据第一段第二句可知,Western Monarch Trail是一条适合沿途观看越冬蝴蝶的公路旅行路线。由此可知,Western Monarch Trail 旨在倡导物种保护。故选D。
( )2.What do we know about Andrew Molera State Park
[A] It holds many nectar gardens.
[B] It’s pleasant throughout winter.
[C] It has sufficient food for butterflies.
[D] It’s home to butterflies all year around.
【答案】 B
【解析】 细节理解题。根据Why butterflies fly to the California coast部分中的“Many stops on the...and little to no wind.”可知,Andrew Molera State Park 的冬天很舒适。故选B。
( )3.What is guaranteed for the travellers along the Western Monarch Trail
[A] Signs to guide the route.
[B] Cameras for recording videos.
[C] Ready shelters to stay overnight.
[D] Experiences of watching “sunburst” at dawn.
【答案】 C
【解析】 细节理解题。根据最后一段中的“In the mornings...where you stay overnight...”可知,Western Monarch Trail为旅行者提供过夜的住处。故选C。
B
Scientists have shown how plants can protect themselves against genetic (基因的) damage caused by environmental stresses.The growing tips of plant roots and shoots have an in-built mechanism (机制) that spells cell death if DNA damage is detected,avoiding passing on faulty DNA.
Plants have small populations of stem cells (干细胞) at the tips of their roots and shoots,
which enable them to continuously grow and produce new tissues throughout their lifetime.
These stem cells serve as ancestors for plant tissues and organs.However,any genetic faults present in the stem cells will continue to exist and be passed on permanently throughout the plant’s life,which could last thousands of years.
Given the critical role of stem cells and their exposure to potentially dangerous environments at the growing tips of roots and shoots,safeguards are necessary to prevent stem cell faults from becoming fixed.Researchers Nick Fulcher and Robert Sablowski,funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council,aimed to uncover these protective mechanisms.Through experiments involving X-rays and chemicals,they discovered that stem cells were more sensitive to DNA damage compared to other cells.
When DNA damage occurs,the cells have the capacity to detect it and cause programmed cell death,preventing the propagation of the damaged genetic code to the rest of the plant tissues.This process has similarities to the safeguard mechanism found in animal cells,which has been broadly studied due to its relevance in preventing cancer.
The identification of a similar protective system in plants is of great interest in the field of plant development.It also helps scientists develop plants that can better handle environmental stresses.So knowledge of how plants deal with these stresses is of fundamental significance to agricultural science’s response to climate change.
[语篇导读] 本文是说明文。文章介绍了植物自我保护的内置机制。
( )4.What is the function of the in-built mechanism in plants
[A] To produce more roots and shoots.
[B] To increase the overall lifetime of the plant.
[C] To enhance plant growth and nutrient intake.
[D]To stop genetic faults in stem cells from being passed on.
【答案】 D
【解析】 细节理解题。根据第一段第二句可知,植物根和芽的生长尖端有一个内置机制,如果 DNA 破坏被察觉,这种机制就会导致细胞死亡,这样就避免了有缺陷的基因传递下去。故选D。
( )5.What can we know about stem cells in plants according to the text
[A] They are relatively abundant in quantity.
[B] They are resistant to environmental stresses.
[C] They make quick response to DNA damage.
[D] They have the ability to repair damaged DNA.
【答案】 C
【解析】 推理判断题。根据第三段中的“Through experiments involving...compared to other cells.”可知,和其他细胞相比,干细胞对DNA破坏更敏感。故选C。
( )6.What does the underlined word “propagation” in Paragraph 4 mean
[A] Spread. [B] Change.
[C] Existence. [D] Self-repair.
【答案】 A
【解析】 猜测词义题。根据画线词前面的“When DNA damage occurs...and cause programmed cell death...”可推测,此处是说阻止了被破坏的遗传密码传播到植物组织的其他部分,画线词的词义与spread相近。故选A。
( )7.What does the last paragraph focus on
[A] The way of dealing with climate change on Earth.
[B] The significance of identifying the protective system in plants.
[C] The method of ensuring plant survival under environmental stresses.
[D] The urgency of developing plants that can handle environmental stresses.
【答案】 B
【解析】 段落大意题。根据最后一段内容可知,植物中类似保护系统的识别在植物发育领域具有重要意义,这也有助于科学家研发更能应对环境压力的植物,因此关于植物如何应对这些压力的相关知识对农业科学来说至关重要。故本段主要说明了“识别植物的保护系统的重要性”。故选B。
C
One of the most common questions I get from concerned gardeners is how to deal with climbing plants,like ivy.The thinking behind this is that climbers are a dragon brickwork and can cause structural damage to buildings.But when you actually look at it from a scientific point of view,very few of these conclusions are based on any evidence.
A 2020 study of a range of climbing plants on model brick buildings found that the shade cast by the plants’ leaves cooled the surface of the buildings in the summer by as much as 5.7℃,reducing the wide swings between day and night temperatures—a key driver of surface structural damage.It also lowered summer temperatures inside the buildings by up to 7.2℃,and was even expected to reduce heating bills by as much as 20 percent in the winter.Despite concerns that plants’ moisture (水分) can against brickwork,leading to damp issues,the same trial showed ivy didn’t significantly raise moisture levels—rather,it helped stabilise them,
minimising changes that could damage the buildings surfaces.
It is worth bearing in mind that these results were from model buildings with new brickwork.What about well-used buildings Well,another study,this one from 2011,found that in five historical buildings,bare walls experienced average maximum temperatures 36 percent higher and minimum temperatures 15 percent lower compared with those coated in leaves.
The researchers concluded that the living protection provided by those climbing plants would “reduce the likelihood of frost and salt damage to the building materials,thus contributing to their conservation”.They also found that the leaves’ ability to trap pollution could reduce the damage to historical walls.
Imagine if there was a new material that could cool cities and cut energy bills,all while looking beautiful.Did I mention it was also self-cleaning and carbon negative The truth is that we have had this amazing material all along,but rather than appreciating it,we have spent huge amounts of time worrying about how to tear it down.
[语篇导读] 本文是说明文。文章介绍了有研究发现攀缘植物对建筑物有多方面的益处。
( )8.What are gardeners commonly concerned about
[A] Poor quality of brickwork.
[B] Weeds competing for space.
[C] Damage caused by construction.
[D] Potential dangers of climbing plants.
【答案】 D
【解析】 细节理解题。根据第一段中的“One of the most...damage to buildings.”可知,园丁们通常担心的是攀缘植物的潜在危险。故选D。
( )9.What do climbing plants mainly serve as according to the 2020 study
[A] A temperature adjuster.
[B] A moisture tester.
[C] A pollution monitor.
[D] An air purifier.
【答案】 A
【解析】 细节理解题。根据第二段中的“A 2020 study of...20 percent in the winter.”可知,2020年的一项研究发现攀缘植物的叶子形成的阴影可以在夏天降低建筑物表面的温度,减少昼夜温差。因此,攀缘植物主要作为温度调节器。故选A。
( )10.What is Paragraph 3 mainly about
[A] Possible doubts about the findings.
[B] Analysis of the experimental data.
[C] Supporting evidence for the findings.
[D] Explanation for the research process.
【答案】 C
【解析】 段落大意题。根据第三段的内容可知,第三段提到了2011年的一项研究,是为了支持第二段中的发现。因此,第三段主要提供了对发现的支持性证据。故选C。
( )11.What is the author’s attitude towards climbing plants
[A] Unclear.
[B] Dismissive.
[C] Appreciative.
[D] Tolerant.
【答案】 C
【解析】 推理判断题。根据最后一段的内容可推断出,作者对攀缘植物持赞赏的态度。故选C。
Ⅱ.完形填空(每题1分,共15分)
When the economic crisis hit,Bruno and Marilena lost their jobs in Florence.It was then that they decided to return to their hometown in Tuscany.There,they 1 their lives by making the best use of their available 2 to establish an eco-friendly homestay (民宿).
This turned their 3 life into a fairy tale.They grew their own organic foods,adopted rainwater collection systems,and practised natural farming to embrace 4 .
Guests at their homestay are treated like extended family,sharing home-cooked meals together and 5 stories of their travels. 6 about Bruno and Marilena’s enthusiasm for guests quickly spread.The homestay was 7 with a boost in popularity as more people started to seek a(n) 8 from busy city life.In a fast-paced world where surface-level interactions are common,Bruno and Marilena have created a space where 9 connections thrive.
10 the welcoming environment they’ve created,living in the Italian countryside has allowed them to embrace a relaxing pace of life.They rise with the Sun to 11 their fields,
retire under a blanket of stars at night,and 12 seasonal harvests for the long winter.
Though the work could be tiring at times,they discovered 13 in their sustainable interaction with nature.
Through commitment to community and sustainability values,Bruno and Marilena have not only found their inner 14 but also built a successful business that ensures their 15 stability and continued country life for years to come.
[语篇导读] 本文是记叙文。文章讲述了布鲁诺和玛丽莱娜回乡村创建了民宿,并受到越来越多的人欢迎的故事。
( )1.[A] appreciated [B] evaluated
[C] transformed [D] deserted
【答案】 C
【解析】 此处指他们通过充分利用现有资源建立了一个生态友好的民宿,改变了(transformed)他们的生活。故选C。
( )2.[A] resources [B] reservation
[C] information [D] equipment
【答案】 A
【解析】 根据下文中的“They grew their own...and practised natural farming...”可知,他们是利用当地现有的各种资源(resources)来创业的。故选A。
( )3.[A] rural [B] urban
[C] cultural [D] private
【答案】 A
【解析】 此处指他们的乡村(rural)生活变成了童话。故选A。
( )4.[A] self-assessment [B] self-sufficiency
[C] self-discipline [D] self-awareness
【答案】 B
【解析】 此处指他们种植自己的有机食品,采用雨水收集系统,并实行自然农业,以实现自给自足(self-sufficiency)。故选B。
( )5.[A] adapting [B] exchanging
[C] publishing [D] creating
【答案】 B
【解析】 根据本句描述的语境可知,他们在这里一边分享美食一边交流(exchanging)旅行中的故事。故选B。
( )6.[A] Legend [B] Word
[C] Intelligence [D] Prediction
【答案】 B
【解析】 此处是说布鲁诺和玛丽莱娜对待客人很热情的消息(Word)很快就传开了。
故选B。
( )7.[A] observed [B] booked
[C] traded [D] conserved
【答案】 B
【解析】 此处指随着越来越多的人开始寻求逃离繁忙的城市生活,预订(booked)这家民宿的人也越来越多。故选B。
( )8.[A] escape [B] solution
[C] opportunity [D] challenge
【答案】 A
【解析】 根据生活常识可知,此处描述人们开始寻求逃离(escape)繁忙的城市生活,去乡村过宁静的生活。故选A。
( )9.[A] temporary [B] permanent
[C] meaningful [D] complicated
【答案】 C
【解析】 此处是说在这个表面互动普遍存在的快节奏世界中,他们创造了一个有意义的(meaningful)、让人们建立联系的空间。故选C。
( )10.[A] Despite [B] Without
[C] Against [D] Beyond
【答案】 D
【解析】 此处指除了(Beyond)他们创造的温馨环境外,生活在意大利乡村还让他们能够享受轻松的生活节奏。故选D。
( )11.[A] care for [B] fight with
[C] take over [D] set down
【答案】 A
【解析】 此处指日出而作,即在太阳升起的时候,他们要去照料(care for)田地里种植的作物。故选A。
( )12.[A] donate [B] monitor
[C] preserve [D] taste
【答案】 C
【解析】 根据生活常识可知,此处表达他们要为漫长的冬天保存(preserve)季节性的收成,因为冬季田地里不能生长作物。故选C。
( )13.[A] hardship [B] pressure
[C] fulfillment [D] maintenance
【答案】 C
【解析】 此处指虽然这项工作有时会很累,但他们在与自然的可持续互动中获得了满足感(fulfillment)。故选C。
( )14.[A] struggle [B] loneliness
[C] achievement [D] peace
【答案】 D
【解析】 此处是说布鲁诺和玛丽莱娜不仅找到了内心的平静(peace),而且还建立了一个成功的企业,确保他们的经济稳定。故选D。
( )15.[A] environmental [B] emotional
[C] communicative [D] economic
【答案】 D
【解析】 根据文章的描述可知,他们建立了一个成功的企业,有了稳定的收入,即确保了经济(economic)稳定。故选D。
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Unit 5 Learning from nature
题组训练
(限时35分钟 总分42.5分)
Ⅰ.阅读理解(每题2.5分,共27.5分)
A
Each fall,millions of butterflies across the U.S. and Canada fly up to about 4,830 kilometres to southwestern Mexico.Travellers can see the butterflies overwintering on the Western Monarch Trail,a road trip-friendly conservation initiative that links over a dozen stops along the route.
Helping the butterflies
Organisers created educational panels in English and Spanish explaining the butterflies’ annual travelling and their trouble.The signs also outline ways travellers can help the butterflies recover,such as by supporting chemical-free farms and planting native nectar (花蜜) gardens.
Why butterflies fly to the California coast
Many stops on the trail,including Pismo State Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove and Andrew Molera State Park,are overwintering sites where,from October to February,travellers can see thousands of butterflies gathering in forests in areas with mild temperatures,dappled (斑驳的) sunlight,high dampness,and little to no wind.
Other sites,like the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden and Avila Valley Barn,grow flowers that provide sugary,high-calorie food for the butterflies to eat.Butterflies settling here demonstrate how vital nectar plants are to their survival.
How to explore the Western Monarch Trail
The butterflies’ behaviour varies at different times of day and depends on the weather.In the mornings,while temperatures are still cool,step out of the cabin (木屋) in the Fernwood Resort where you stay overnight,and you’ll find many butterflies hanging together on the branches and trunks of trees at the overwintering sites.As the day starts to heat up—typically by late morning or early afternoon—you’ll be amazed at the phenomenon “sunburst”—the butterflies start flying around in search of nearby nectar.Keep your eyes skyward.Don’t grab your camera.Just be in the moment.
[语篇导读] 本文是应用文。文章介绍了西部帝王蝶的迁徙路径及人们为保护帝王蝶采取的措施。
( )1.What’s the Western Monarch Trail initiative aimed at
[A] Providing a travel route.
[B] Encountering butterflies.
[C] Promoting organic farming.
[D] Advocating species conservation.
D
【解析】 细节理解题。根据第一段第二句可知,Western Monarch Trail是一条适合沿途观看越冬蝴蝶的公路旅行路线。由此可知,Western Monarch Trail 旨在倡导物种保护。故选D。
( )2.What do we know about Andrew Molera State Park
[A] It holds many nectar gardens.
[B] It’s pleasant throughout winter.
[C] It has sufficient food for butterflies.
[D] It’s home to butterflies all year around.
B
【解析】 细节理解题。根据Why butterflies fly to the California coast部分中的“Many stops on the...and little to no wind.”可知,Andrew Molera State Park 的冬天很舒适。故选B。
( )3.What is guaranteed for the travellers along the Western Monarch Trail
[A] Signs to guide the route.
[B] Cameras for recording videos.
[C] Ready shelters to stay overnight.
[D] Experiences of watching “sunburst” at dawn.
C
【解析】 细节理解题。根据最后一段中的“In the mornings...where you stay overnight...”可知,Western Monarch Trail为旅行者提供过夜的住处。故选C。
B
Scientists have shown how plants can protect themselves against genetic (基因的) damage caused by environmental stresses.The growing tips of plant roots and shoots have an in-built mechanism (机制) that spells cell death if DNA damage is detected,avoiding passing on faulty DNA.
Plants have small populations of stem cells (干细胞) at the tips of their roots and shoots,which enable them to continuously grow and produce new tissues throughout their lifetime.These stem cells serve as ancestors for plant tissues and organs.However,any genetic faults present in the stem cells will continue to exist and be passed on permanently throughout the plant’s life,
which could last thousands of years.
Given the critical role of stem cells and their exposure to potentially dangerous environments at the growing tips of roots and shoots,safeguards are necessary to prevent stem cell faults from becoming fixed.Researchers Nick Fulcher and Robert Sablowski,funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council,aimed to uncover these protective mechanisms.
Through experiments involving X-rays and chemicals,they discovered that stem cells were more sensitive to DNA damage compared to other cells.
When DNA damage occurs,the cells have the capacity to detect it and cause programmed cell death,preventing the propagation of the damaged genetic code to the rest of the plant tissues.This process has similarities to the safeguard mechanism found in animal cells,which has been broadly studied due to its relevance in preventing cancer.
The identification of a similar protective system in plants is of great interest in the field of plant development.It also helps scientists develop plants that can better handle environmental stresses.So knowledge of how plants deal with these stresses is of fundamental significance to agricultural science’s response to climate change.
[语篇导读] 本文是说明文。文章介绍了植物自我保护的内置机制。
( )4.What is the function of the in-built mechanism in plants
[A] To produce more roots and shoots.
[B] To increase the overall lifetime of the plant.
[C] To enhance plant growth and nutrient intake.
[D]To stop genetic faults in stem cells from being passed on.
D
【解析】 细节理解题。根据第一段第二句可知,植物根和芽的生长尖端有一个内置机制,如果 DNA 破坏被察觉,这种机制就会导致细胞死亡,这样就避免了有缺陷的基因传递下去。故选D。
( )5.What can we know about stem cells in plants according to the text
[A] They are relatively abundant in quantity.
[B] They are resistant to environmental stresses.
[C] They make quick response to DNA damage.
[D] They have the ability to repair damaged DNA.
C
【解析】 推理判断题。根据第三段中的“Through experiments involving...
compared to other cells.”可知,和其他细胞相比,干细胞对DNA破坏更敏感。故选C。
( )6.What does the underlined word “propagation” in Paragraph 4 mean
[A] Spread. [B] Change.
[C] Existence. [D] Self-repair.
A
【解析】 猜测词义题。根据画线词前面的“When DNA damage occurs...
and cause programmed cell death...”可推测,此处是说阻止了被破坏的遗传密码传播到植物组织的其他部分,画线词的词义与spread相近。故选A。
( )7.What does the last paragraph focus on
[A] The way of dealing with climate change on Earth.
[B] The significance of identifying the protective system in plants.
[C] The method of ensuring plant survival under environmental stresses.
[D] The urgency of developing plants that can handle environmental stresses.
B
【解析】 段落大意题。根据最后一段内容可知,植物中类似保护系统的识别在植物发育领域具有重要意义,这也有助于科学家研发更能应对环境压力的植物,因此关于植物如何应对这些压力的相关知识对农业科学来说至关重要。故本段主要说明了“识别植物的保护系统的重要性”。故选B。
C
One of the most common questions I get from concerned gardeners is how to deal with climbing plants,like ivy.The thinking behind this is that climbers are a dragon brickwork and can cause structural damage to buildings.But when you actually look at it from a scientific point of view,very few of these conclusions are based on any evidence.
A 2020 study of a range of climbing plants on model brick buildings found that the shade cast by the plants’ leaves cooled the surface of the buildings in the summer by as much as 5.7℃,reducing the wide swings between day and night temperatures—a key driver of surface structural damage.It also lowered summer temperatures inside the buildings by up to 7.2℃,and was even expected to reduce heating bills by as much as 20 percent in the winter.Despite concerns that plants’ moisture (水分) can against brickwork,leading to damp issues,the same trial showed ivy didn’t significantly raise moisture levels—rather,it helped stabilise them,minimising changes that could damage the buildings surfaces.
It is worth bearing in mind that these results were from model buildings with new brickwork.What about well-used buildings Well,another study,this one from 2011,found that in five historical buildings,bare walls experienced average maximum temperatures 36 percent higher and minimum temperatures 15 percent lower compared with those coated in leaves.
The researchers concluded that the living protection provided by those climbing plants would “reduce the likelihood of frost and salt damage to the building materials,thus contributing to their conservation”.They also found that the leaves’ ability to trap pollution could reduce the damage to historical walls.
Imagine if there was a new material that could cool cities and cut energy bills,all while looking beautiful.Did I mention it was also self-cleaning and carbon negative The truth is that we have had this amazing material all along,but rather than appreciating it,we have spent huge amounts of time worrying about how to tear it down.
[语篇导读] 本文是说明文。文章介绍了有研究发现攀缘植物对建筑物有多方面的益处。
( )8.What are gardeners commonly concerned about
[A] Poor quality of brickwork.
[B] Weeds competing for space.
[C] Damage caused by construction.
[D] Potential dangers of climbing plants.
D
【解析】 细节理解题。根据第一段中的“One of the most...damage to buildings.”可知,园丁们通常担心的是攀缘植物的潜在危险。故选D。
( )9.What do climbing plants mainly serve as according to the 2020 study
[A] A temperature adjuster.
[B] A moisture tester.
[C] A pollution monitor.
[D] An air purifier.
A
【解析】 细节理解题。根据第二段中的“A 2020 study of...20 percent in the winter.”可知,2020年的一项研究发现攀缘植物的叶子形成的阴影可以在夏天降低建筑物表面的温度,减少昼夜温差。因此,攀缘植物主要作为温度调节器。故选A。
( )10.What is Paragraph 3 mainly about
[A] Possible doubts about the findings.
[B] Analysis of the experimental data.
[C] Supporting evidence for the findings.
[D] Explanation for the research process.
C
【解析】 段落大意题。根据第三段的内容可知,第三段提到了2011年的一项研究,是为了支持第二段中的发现。因此,第三段主要提供了对发现的支持性证据。故选C。
( )11.What is the author’s attitude towards climbing plants
[A] Unclear.
[B] Dismissive.
[C] Appreciative.
[D] Tolerant.
C
【解析】 推理判断题。根据最后一段的内容可推断出,作者对攀缘植物持赞赏的态度。故选C。
Ⅱ.完形填空(每题1分,共15分)
When the economic crisis hit,Bruno and Marilena lost their jobs in Florence.It was then that they decided to return to their hometown in Tuscany.
There,they 1 their lives by making the best use of their available 2 to establish an eco-friendly homestay (民宿).This turned their 3 life into a fairy tale.They grew their own organic foods,adopted rainwater collection systems,and practised natural farming to embrace 4 .
Guests at their homestay are treated like extended family,sharing home-cooked meals together and 5 stories of their travels. 6 about Bruno and Marilena’s enthusiasm for guests quickly spread.The homestay was 7 with a boost in popularity as more people started to seek a(n)
8 from busy city life.In a fast-paced world where surface-level interactions are common,Bruno and Marilena have created a space where
9 connections thrive.
10 the welcoming environment they’ve created,living in the Italian countryside has allowed them to embrace a relaxing pace of life.They rise with the Sun to 11 their fields,retire under a blanket of stars at night,and
12 seasonal harvests for the long winter.Though the work could be tiring at times,they discovered 13 in their sustainable interaction with nature.
Through commitment to community and sustainability values,Bruno and Marilena have not only found their inner 14 but also built a successful business that ensures their 15 stability and continued country life for years to come.
[语篇导读] 本文是记叙文。文章讲述了布鲁诺和玛丽莱娜回乡村创建了民宿,并受到越来越多的人欢迎的故事。
( )1.[A] appreciated [B] evaluated
[C] transformed [D] deserted
C
【解析】 此处指他们通过充分利用现有资源建立了一个生态友好的民宿,改变了(transformed)他们的生活。故选C。
( )2.[A] resources [B] reservation
[C] information [D] equipment
A
【解析】 根据下文中的“They grew their own...and practised natural farming...”可知,他们是利用当地现有的各种资源(resources)来创业的。
故选A。
( )3.[A] rural [B] urban
[C] cultural [D] private
A
【解析】 此处指他们的乡村(rural)生活变成了童话。故选A。
( )4.[A] self-assessment [B] self-sufficiency
[C] self-discipline [D] self-awareness
B
【解析】 此处指他们种植自己的有机食品,采用雨水收集系统,并实行自然农业,以实现自给自足(self-sufficiency)。故选B。
( )5.[A] adapting [B] exchanging
[C] publishing [D] creating
B
【解析】 根据本句描述的语境可知,他们在这里一边分享美食一边交流(exchanging)旅行中的故事。故选B。
( )6.[A] Legend [B] Word
[C] Intelligence [D] Prediction
B
【解析】 此处是说布鲁诺和玛丽莱娜对待客人很热情的消息(Word)很快就传开了。故选B。
( )7.[A] observed [B] booked
[C] traded [D] conserved
B
【解析】 此处指随着越来越多的人开始寻求逃离繁忙的城市生活,预订(booked)这家民宿的人也越来越多。故选B。
( )8.[A] escape [B] solution
[C] opportunity [D] challenge
A
【解析】 根据生活常识可知,此处描述人们开始寻求逃离(escape)繁忙的城市生活,去乡村过宁静的生活。故选A。
( )9.[A] temporary [B] permanent
[C] meaningful [D] complicated
C
【解析】 此处是说在这个表面互动普遍存在的快节奏世界中,他们创造了一个有意义的(meaningful)、让人们建立联系的空间。故选C。
( )10.[A] Despite [B] Without
[C] Against [D] Beyond
D
【解析】 此处指除了(Beyond)他们创造的温馨环境外,生活在意大利乡村还让他们能够享受轻松的生活节奏。故选D。
( )11.[A] care for [B] fight with
[C] take over [D] set down
A
【解析】 此处指日出而作,即在太阳升起的时候,他们要去照料(care for)田地里种植的作物。故选A。
( )12.[A] donate [B] monitor
[C] preserve [D] taste
C
【解析】 根据生活常识可知,此处表达他们要为漫长的冬天保存(preserve)季节性的收成,因为冬季田地里不能生长作物。故选C。
( )13.[A] hardship [B] pressure
[C] fulfillment [D] maintenance
C
【解析】 此处指虽然这项工作有时会很累,但他们在与自然的可持续互动中获得了满足感(fulfillment)。故选C。
( )14.[A] struggle [B] loneliness
[C] achievement [D] peace
D
【解析】 此处是说布鲁诺和玛丽莱娜不仅找到了内心的平静(peace),而且还建立了一个成功的企业,确保他们的经济稳定。故选D。
( )15.[A] environmental [B] emotional
[C] communicative [D] economic
D
【解析】 根据文章的描述可知,他们建立了一个成功的企业,有了稳定的收入,即确保了经济(economic)稳定。故选D。
