四川省成都市树德中学2024-2025学年高一下学期期末考试 英语试卷(含答案,含听力原文无音频)

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名称 四川省成都市树德中学2024-2025学年高一下学期期末考试 英语试卷(含答案,含听力原文无音频)
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树德中学高2024级高一下期期末测试英语试题
考试时间:120 分钟 总分:150 分第一部分:听力(共两节,满分30分)
第一节(共5小题;每小题1.5分,满分7.5分)
听下面5段对话,每段对话后有一个小题。从题中所给的A、B、C三个选项中选出最佳选项,并标在试卷的相应位置。听完每段对话后,你都有10秒钟的时间来回答有关小题和阅读下一小题。每段对话仅读一遍。
How does the woman feel about the man’s words
Convinced. B. Annoyed. C. Surprised.
Where are the speakers
In a registration office. B. In a bar. C. In the street.
What does the man like about the painting
The natural shadows. B. The real-life scene. C. The vivid colors.
What is the man doing
Helping a beginner.
Training his muscles.
Selling a machine.
What are the speakers mainly talking about
Where to have dinner.
When to meet a neighbor.
What to expect for the evening.
第二节(共 15 小题;每小题 1. 5 分,满分 22. 5 分)
听下面 5 段对话或独白。每段对话或独白后有几个小题,从题中所给的 A、B、C 三个选项中选出最佳选项。听每段对话或独白前,你将有时间阅读各个小题,每小题 5 秒钟;听
完后,各小题将给出 5 秒钟的作答时间。每段对话或独白读两遍。
听下面一段对话,回答第 6, 7 题。
Why does the woman want to ask for leave
To get married. B. To vacation overseas. C. To attend a wedding.
When might the conversation take place
In July. B. In August. C. In September.
听下面一段对话,回答第 8 至 10 题。
What is Mike probably doing now
Having a bath. B. Taking a call. C. Frying some eggs.
What happened to the woman that morning
She failed to start her car.
She got trapped in a flood.
She encountered a water leak.
What do we know about the speakers’ working place
It’s in bad condition.
It’s short of parking space.
It’s in a convenient position.
听下面一段对话,回答第 11 至 13 题。
How will the man and his wife travel to Marrakech
By bus. B. By plane. C. By train.
What is the highlight of the trip according to the woman
Hotel accommodation. B. Room service. C. Quality food.
What may attract the man most
Affordable costs. B. Various activities. C. Natural views.
听下面一段对话,回答第 14 至 17 题。
What will Jake do this afternoon
Make some snacks. B. Take a dance class. C. Practice soccer.
How is Mel’s life right now
Tiring. B. Exciting. C. Boring.
What can we know about Amy
She is good at cooking.
She is fond of exercising.
She is responsible for teaching.
What’s the probable relationship between Mel and Dan
Relatives. B. Neighbors. C. A couple.
听下面一段独白,回答第 18 至 20 题。
What kind of person is Buckminster Fuller
Open-minded. B. Farsighted. C. High-spirited.
What can we learn about Buckminster’s structure
It reduces construction time.
It has a unique square shape.
It makes full use of resources.
What is the speaker
A university lecturer. B. A house designer. C. A program host.
第二部分 阅读(共两节,满分 50分)
第一节(共15小题;每小题2.5 分,满分37.5分)
阅读下列短文,从每题所给的A 、B 、C 、D 四个选项中选出最佳选项。
A
The British Museum Gallery Art Session
National curriculum links
Art & Design About this session
Gallery Art sessions take place in one or more of the Museum’s galleries. Your students explore a theme chosen by you and are led by an artist-educator. The sessions reflect the diversity of world cultures through the British Museum’s collections.
Format: gallery workshop, Q&A, practical art-based activities, discussion Capacity: 15 per group(max 30 students per day, split into 2 groups) Duration: 90 minutes Price: Free
In detail
The session begins with an introduction to the Museum and its collections.
The artist-educator will lead students through an exploration of the theme in several galleries.
It concludes with a meeting which highlights the questions to ask when examining museum objects, the skills of recording information gathered in a museum and a summary of the key themes of the session.
Before your visit
The purpose of the Museum visit, for example, collecting material for a particular project or examining objects from a particular culture or period, should be made clear before arrival and students should know the expected outcomes of the visit.
After your visit
Your session and museum visit should be recorded, e.g. using digital cameras, notes and drawings so that further in-depth research can be done.
Find out more
A selection of galleries below may be visited during the session.
Room 25: Africa ●Room 26: North America ●Room 27: Asia
Who is the text intended for
A. Teachers. B. Parents. C. Students. D. Artists.
Which of the following is required of students before the art session
Pay the tickets in groups. B. Plan the outcome with others.
C. Record the visit with notes. D. Know the purpose of the visit.
What can students do during the art session
Draw the collections. B. Choose some themes.
C. Visit various galleries. D. Introduce the Museum.
B
It was the final race of the season, the 800 meters, and my legs felt like lead. The hot sun beat down on the track, and the roar of the crowd seemed distant. I had trained hard all summer, but now, facing my toughest competitor, Sarah Chen, doubt crept in. She always seemed to have an extra burst of speed at the end.
The starting gun fired. We surged forward, a pack of brightly colored jerseys. The first lap felt surprisingly smooth, but as we rounded the curve into the second lap, the familiar burn started in my lungs. Sarah pulled slightly ahead. “ Just keep her in sight, ” I told myself, remembering Coach’s words: “ Run your own race.”
With 200 meters to go, the gap between Sarah and me widened. My legs screamed to slow down, and negative thoughts flooded my mind: “You can't catch her. Second place is okay. ” I glanced at the stands and saw my teammates waving wildly, their faces full of encouragement. Then, Coach’s voice cut through the noise: “Kick NOW, Mia! Everything you’ve got!”
Something clicked. It wasn’t just about winning against Sarah anymore; it was about pushing myself to my absolute limit, about honoring all those hours of practice. I dug deep, deeper than I ever had before. My arms pumped harder, my stride lengthened, and I focused solely on the finish line ribbon. The pain was intense, but it was pushed aside by sheer determination.
The last few meters were a blur. I threw myself forward. As I crossed the line, breathless and wobbly, I had no idea who had won. Then I heard the announcement: “First place... Mia Johnson!” A wave of disbelief and pure joy washed over me. Sarah finished a split-second later, offering a tired but genuine smile and a handshake. “Great kick,”she said, breathing heavily. That moment of mutual respect meant almost as much as the medal.
That race taught me more than just how to run faster. It taught me that your biggest competitor is often yourself–the voice that says you can’t. And that finding the strength to silence that voice, even for just the final stretch, can lead to achievements you never thought possible.
How did Mia feel at the beginning of the race
Confident and energetic. B. Focused solely on beating Sarah.
C. Excited by the crowd's noise. D. Doubtful and physically heavy.
When the coach shouts “”Kick NOW, Mia”, the word “kick” most probably means .
to ignore pain and continue moving
to strike the ground with one’s foot
to suddenly increase running speed
to focus on proper running form
What is the symbolic meaning of Sarah offering Mia a handshake after the race
It reflects the universal sportsmanship spirit.
It helps to cover Sarah’s disappointment in losing the race.
It highlights Mia’s physical superiority.
It indicates Sarah’s pity for Mia’s effort.
What does Mia realize is the most important thing she learned from the race
Winning against a strong competitor is the ultimate goal.
Following Coach’s instructions is crucial for success.
Her biggest challenge is overcoming her own self-doubt.
Physical pain is temporary, but medals last forever.
C
Birders get nervous when they see landscapes covered in wind turbines( 涡轮机). When the wind gets going, their blades(叶片) can turn around at well over 200km per hour. It is easy to imagine careless birds getting cut into pieces and wind turbines do indeed kill at least some birds. But a new analysis of American data suggests the numbers are negligible, and have little impact on bird populations.
Erik Katovich, an economist at the University of Geneva, made use of the Christmas Bird Count, a citizen-science project run by the National Audubon Society. Volunteers count birds they spot over Christmas, and the society gathers the numbers. He assumed, reasonably, that if wind turbines harmed bird populations, the numbers seen in the Christmas Bird Count would drop in places where new turbines had been bining bird population and species maps with the locations and construction dates of all wind turbines, he found building turbines had no noticeable effect on bird populations.
Instead of limiting his analysis to wind power alone, he also examined oil-and-gas extraction(开采), which has boomed in America over the past couple of paring bird populations to the locations of new gas wells revealed an average 15% drop in bird numbers when new wells were drilled, probably due to a combination of noise, air pollution and the disturbance of rivers and ponds that many birds rely upon. When drilling happened in migration centers, feeding grounds or breeding locations, bird numbers instead dropped by 25%.
Wind power, in other words, not only produces far less planet-heating carbon dioxide and methane than do fossil fuels. It appears to be significantly less damaging to wildlife, too. Yet that is not the impression you would get from reading the news. Dr Katovich found 173 stories in major American news media reporting the supposed negative effects that wind turbines had on birds in 2020, compared with only 46 stories discussing the effects of oil-and-gas wells.
What does the underlined word “negligible” in paragraph 1 mean
A. Insignificant. B. Inaccurate. C. Inconsistent. D. Indefinite.
What is Dr Katovich’s conclusion based on
Previous studies. B. Relevant data.
C. Reasonable prediction. D. Experiment results.
What message does paragraph 3 mainly try to convey
Oil-and-gas extraction has expanded in America.
Birds are heavily dependent on rivers and ponds.
Many factors lead to the decline of bird populations.
Well drilling poses a serious threat to birds’ survival.
Which of the following may Dr Katovich agree with
Wind turbines could share the sky with wildlife.
More evidence is needed to confirm the finding.
Wind power will be substituted for fossil fuels.
Wind turbines deserve wider media coverage.
D
Many economists predict 2025 will be the time shoppers tighten their belts. That doesn’t mean people will stop spending, according to retail ( 零售) analysts. But it will change what they choose to buy. With a slowing job market, global consumers are likely to move away from more high-priced purchases and focus instead on smaller, less expensive treats.
The economic uncertainty means that consumers are becoming more discriminating about their purchases, says Ethan Chermofsky, senior vice president of marketing at intelligence platform Placer. ai. “There are the things we decide are necessary, and then there’s another category of things that aren’t necessary but that we consider affordable luxuries.” he says. This desire for these “affordable luxuries” is common in difficult economic times. Some economists refer to the phenomenon as the “lipstick index”: a small economic increase led by budget-minded consumers seeking out relatively affordable splurges ( 挥 霍 ), like small cosmetics (化妆品).
Analysts at Deloitte say consumers will spend on little luxuries like specialty coffees and
snacks as well. Additionally, stressed-out shoppers are prioritizing small splurge purchases for wellness and personal care.
As retailers see shoppers turning to little luxuries, they’re offering more and more of them. Target, for example, has staked a flag in what they refer to as “affordable joy”, which includes a selection of self-care and cosmetic products, along with wellness-centric beauty products. Beyond diversifying their offerings, stores are also bringing in luxury-feeling products at lower price points to appeal to more consumers.
Ethan says not every shopper will shift their spending to little luxuries,but even those
who are still longing for the “must-haves” of social media will also look to get a deal. They want the feeling of purchasing lower-priced affordable treats. To get these goods, shoppers are likely to tap into the resale market for designer items at a more reasonable price. They want things that make them feel good about themselves and they want to do it without breaking the bank.
What can affordable luxuries be
Inexpensive daily necessities. B. High-end products.
C. Reasonably-priced designer items. D. High-priced purchases.
What is paragraph 4 mainly about
The strategies retailers use. B. The joy businesses offer.
C. The competition stores face. D. The products consumers buy.
What do most shoppers seek according to Ethan
Social-media deals. B. World-famous brands.
C. Second-hand bargains. D. Budget-friendly pleasures.
Which of the following is the best title for the text
Lipstick Index: Where Does It Lead Us
Must-have Treats: A Future Spending Trend
Affordable Joy: Will We Fall Into The Trap
Little Luxuries: A Driving Force Behind Consumption
第二节(共5 小题;每小题2.5 分,满分12.5 分)
阅读下面短文,从短文后的选项中选出可以填入空白处的最佳选项。选项中有两项为多余选项。
Temptation ( 诱惑) is part of life. It is commonplace to find yourself in situations—for instance, choosing between a delicious dessert versus sticking to a diet, or playing video games instead of studying. 36 . Successfully resisting ( 抵制) temptations is probably something you aim for.
Unsurprisingly, research shows that people with greater self-control experience benefits such as success at school and work and greater satisfaction in their relationships. But there’s growing evidence that self-control can also come with various downsides.
37 Imagine someone who always wakes up early, never allows for any distractions from their work, and sticks to a strict diet. You might view them as ambitious, because of their determination and discipline. However, for those same reasons, you might also view this person as mechanical, uninteresting, uptight or even cold. In fact, that’s what we’ve found in our research.
The hidden costs of high self-control also extend beyond the social area to affect a person’s emotional life. For instance, consider the experience of regret. Research has shown that, when people reflect on their more distant past, they tend to regret having too much self-control rather than not having enough. 38 .
Even the positive beliefs that people hold about those who have high self-control, such as that they will perform better on group projects, can have negative effects. 39 . That will lead them to feel more burdened by the dependence that others have on them. This increased exhaustion and sense of burden can reduce levels of satisfaction within those relationships.
Self-control is something nearly all of us try to be better at. But it’s also important to recognize that there can also be some costs to having limitless willpower. 40 . By working to address the unfavorable outcomes related to high self-control, while continuing to pursue the favorable ones, we may each eventually find a healthy balance.
Self-disciplined people are less likely to forgive others.
People with higher self-control tend to enjoy better health in life.
We can all benefit from understanding both sides of this research literature.
Some of the costs of high self-control are social and reputational (有关声誉的).
These ideas can create heightened expectations for the high self-control person.
So enacting this self-control may actually lead you to feel less satisfaction down the road.
During these times, you likely hope to make the ‘right’ decision that drives you towards your long-term goals.
第三部分 语言运用(共两节,满分30 分)
第一节(共 15 小题;每小题1 分,满分15 分)
阅读下面短文,从每题所给的A 、B 、C 、D 四个选项中选出最佳选项。
Tom and his friends had always been fascinated by the old deserted mine( 矿井) on the outskirts of town. One sunny afternoon, driven by 41 they decided to explore it. 42 did they know that this adventure would become a terrifying wrestle for survival.
As they entered the mine, the air grew cold and damp. The only light came from their flashlights, casting long, creepy shadows on the 43 walls. The wooden beams supporting the mine shaft looked weak and rotted, but the boys were too excited to 44 the danger.
Suddenly, a loud rumble echoed through the mine. Everyone 45 in their tracks. Rocks began to crash down from the ceiling, and the ground shook violently. "It's a cave-in!" Tom shouted. 46 spread through the group as they tried to find a way out. But the 47 was blocked by a pile of fallen rocks.
With their hearts 48 , they ran deeper into the mine, hoping to find another way out. However, the further they went, the more 49 they became. Their flashlights revealed nothing but endless, dark tunnels. To make matters worse, one of the boys strained his ankle during the chaos, 50 them down significantly. Tom tried to stay positive, "We just need to keep looking. There has to be a way out." However, 51 was clear in everyone's eyes.
All of a sudden,Tom noticed a 52 glimmer of light at the end of a narrow tunnel. With newfound hope, they 53 themselves towards it. As they got closer, they realized it was a small opening leading to the surface.
Their adventure in the mine had been a nightmare, but it taught them a valuable lesson about the 54 of nature and the importance of being prepared. From then on, they would think twice before 55 into the unknown.
第二节(共10 小题;每小题1.5 分,满分15 分)
阅读下面短文,在空白处填入 1 个适当的单词或括号内单词的正确形式。
Tianjin's Clay Figurine Zhang, known for its lively crafted sculptures, stands as a beloved traditional folk art with a rich history. The art form has evolved and gained global 56 (recognize), showing lively imagery and a rich color that win people's hearts.
The origin of “Niren Zhang”, or Clay Figurine Zhang, 57 (date) back to 180 years ago. 58 (found) by Zhang Mingshan, this traditional folk art has developed and reached new heights, rising to fame in Chinese folk handicraft history. The artistic process of Clay Figurine Zhang involves 59 unique combination of sculpting and painting. The initial focus lies in sculpting the dynamic form of the subject. The following painting process draws inspiration from traditional Chinese brushwork, bringing the sculptures 60 life with light and color.
Clay Figurine Zhang, 61 (feature) a diverse range of themes, mirrors the everyday existence of the common people and also reimagines classic artistic works, 62 makes it well received and greatly cherished by the public. The sculptures not only exhibit visual similarities, but also display the spirit of the characters, achieving a 63 (harmony) balance between form and essence. Clay Figurine Zhang belongs to the category of indoor display sculptures, characterized by a medium size, 64 (typical) around 40 centimeters in height. Also known as “Jiashang Diaosu”, or shelf sculptures, these artworks find their place on desks or shelves, serving as both decorative pieces and a form of artistic expression.
In short, the legacy of Clay Figurine Zhang in Tianjin embodies a profound cultural heritage 65 it will continue to attract audiences with its dynamic sculptures and vivid colors, preserving the essence of Chinese craftsmanship and storytelling in a visually amazing manner.
第四部分 写作 (共两节, 满分40分)
第一节 (满分20分)
假定你是李华,上周你校举办了中国传统艺术活动周,请你为校英语社报就该活动周写一篇英语报道,内容如下:
活动目的;
活动内容;
你的感想。
注意:(1)词数100左右;(2)可适当增加细节,以使行文连贯。
Chinese Traditional Arts Week
第二节 读后续写(满分20分)
阅读下列材料,根据其内容和所给段落开头语续写一段,使之构成一篇完整的短文。
My dog, Molly, ran after me as I walked to my car that fall morning. I had had her only a couple of weeks,but we had become nearly inseparable. I’d gone through heart surgery a few months back. I figured taking care of a dog would keep me active. So I went to the local animal-rescue center. The little dog shaking slightly in a cage caught my eye right away. I could tell she longed to be picked up and hugged.
I went to talk to the shelter worker. "She just came in," the woman told me. “Her name is Molly.” The worker opened Molly's cage and let me pick her up. I stroked her silky fur and she stopped shaking. I filled out the paperwork and took Molly home.
That fall morning last year I decided to take Molly with me for shopping. I opened the door. “Come on, Molly. Let's go.”She jumped into the car and settled down on the passenger seat. I got behind the wheel and started the car.
We live in a remote area up in the hills outside San Rafael,California. You have to drive up the mountain in low gear(低速挡) to get to our driveway,which is barely wide enough for one car and ends at a steep valley.
I twisted around and backed up slowly. Just then,a flash of sunlight blinded me. I put my hand up to shield my eyes. “Oh,no! The edge!” I shouted. The car slipped in the soft soil,and rolled. I fell inside the car as it turned over down the valley. The car rolled faster. Four, five, six rolls until I heard a horrible crunch. We landed upside down. I looked over to find Molly. She was still in the passenger seat and, thankfully, she was okay.
“Sorry,girl ,"I gasped. Something was wrong with my left leg. I grabbed my cell phone but just as I had feared,I couldn't get a signal. Now what There was a hole in the driver's side rear window. It was small, but just maybe...
I gently put Molly's body through the hole. “Go, Molly, find help,’ I urged, my voice weak. She looked back at me for a moment, as if to assure me she understood, then disappeared into the thick bushes. I was left alone in the overturned car, the pain in my leg intensifying. The valley was quiet, and I could only hear the faint sound of water trickling nearby. Time seemed to stand still as I waited, praying for Molly to succeed. After what seemed for ages, I heard a voice.
注意:
续写词数应为80字左右;
请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
The voice was from Robin, my neighbor.
树德中学高2024级高一下期期末测试英语试题参考答案
听力: 1-5 BCCAA 6-10 CABCA 11-15BABCA 16-20 ACBCC
阅读理解: 21-23ADC 24-27 DCAC 28-31ABDA 32-35CADD
七选五: 36-40 GDFEC
完型填空:41-45 ACCDA 46-50 BABDA 51-55 BCBDC
语法填空:
56. recognition 57. dates 58. Founded 59. a 60. to
61. featuring 62. which 63. harmonious 64. typically 65. and/ so
书面表达:
One possible version
Chinese Traditional Arts Week
Last week, our school launched a Chinese Traditional Arts Week, aiming to enrich students’ campus life and deepen their appreciation of art.
During the week, diverse activities sparked students’ active participation. Students showcased their talents in calligraphy and painting competitions ,producing lots of excellent works. Besides, teachers hosted some workshops on seal-cutting and paper-cutting ,which inspired numerous students to have a try. Undoubtedly, these activities provided a fantastic stage for self-expression.
From my perspective, the Art Activity Week not only relieved our academic pressure but also broadened our understanding of art. I’m looking forward to more events like this!
读后续写版本一
The voice was from Robin, my neighbor. “I heard Molly’s desperate barks and knew something was wrong,” he explained breathlessly, his hands trembling as he helped me out of the wrecked car. Molly pressed herself against my side, her tail wagging weakly, as if reassuring me that everything was all right. In the ambulance, the medical workers marveled at Molly ’ s intelligence. “She’s truly a hero,” one of them said, patting Molly’s head. After I recovered, Molly and I continued our happy life. From then on, I became more cautious when driving, and I cherished every moment with my brave and loyal friend even more.
版本二
The voice was from Robin, my neighbor. “Molly wouldn’t leave my doorstep until I followed,” he said, his eyes wide with disbelief. As he carefully lifted me onto a makeshift stretcher, Molly stayed close, whining softly. At the hospital, doctors worked quickly on my broken leg. Meanwhile, Robin recalled how Molly had scratched at his door and led him straight to the accident site. Grateful tears filled my eyes. From that day forward, Molly became not just a pet, but a life - saving companion I’d always cherish.
版本三
The voice was from Robin, my neighbor. “ Molly led me here! ” he shouted, his voice echoing through the valley. Soon, his worried face appeared at the broken window. With his help, I was carefully pulled out of the car. Molly jumped around us, barking joyfully. On the way to the hospital, Robin told me Molly had rushed to his house and barked continuously until he followed her. Thanks to my brave dog, I got timely treatment. From then on, our bond grew even stronger.
听力原文:
M: Oh, it’s finally over. Next time I’m picking the film.
W: Yes, you should have picked. I really can’t understand you. You always complain about everything.
W: License and registration, please. Have you drunk tonight, sir M: I had one or two glasses of juice, but nothing else.
W: Step out of your car, please.
W: Look at the way the light is used in this painting.
M: I prefer the colors. They’re so vivid and make me feel the scene is alive. W: Yeah, but the shadows are what make it real to me.
M: Hello, you look a little lost. Are you new here
W: Yeah, I just started my training today and I’m not sure where to begin.
M: Follow me. This machine here will exercise your leg muscle and you can use it like this.
M: I’m thinking of checking out a restaurant in the neighborhood this evening. Do you have any suggestions
W: I know this really nice Italian place. The food is tasty and the decoration is beautiful. I’d recommend giving it a try.
M: Alright, I’ll pick you up at 6:00.
W: Mr. Johnson, do you have a second I need to talk to you. M: Sure, Sophie, what can I do for you
W: Well, I know I’ve used up all my vacation days this year, but my sister is getting married, and the wedding is overseas, so…
M: You want to take some time off, right W: Yes, sir.
M: What dates are you planning for taking your leave I’ll need at least two months’ notice so that I can plan for your absence.
W: I’m planning on taking my leave from September 15th until the 30th. Would you be okay with that
M: Well, I guess so.
W: The air conditioning is not working! We need to phone the repairman before we start to fry in here!
M: Mike is handling it. I think he is also getting the repairman to fix the bathroom toilet that keeps getting blocked.
W: That would be convenient. He might as well ask the repairman to fix the lights. They keep flashing all the time. It’s really annoying!
M: Yeah, you are right. This office is falling apart! The other day the pipes outside cracked and that was why the parking lot was flooded.
W: I know! I was in ankle-deep water trying to get to my car that morning! The repairman definitely has his work cut out for him.
W: Hello, sir. How can I help you
M: I would like to plan a trip for me and my wife.
W: We have a couple of options such as the beaches, the deserts or the countryside. M: I think something in the countryside would be nice.
W: Perfect! This package includes round-trip flights to Marrakech. Our staff will pick you up on your arrival and provide you with fine wine and finger foods.
M: Sounds good! How about the hotel we will be staying at
W: That is the best part. Your hotel is actually an old castle that has been restored and redecorated. You will enjoy a comfortable and private time there.
M: Wow! This sounds like something my wife would really enjoy! Anything we can do there
W: Of course! The castle provides a horseback ride along the country road. You can also go fishing in the nearby lake or visit the local farm.
M: I want to book this trip. I don’t care what it costs!
M: Hey, Mel! Are you up for some tennis today
W: Sorry, I can’t! I have to go to work, pick up Jake and Maddie from school, and make them an afternoon snack, then take Jake to soccer practice and Maddie to dance class.
M: Maybe you should hire a babysitter to help you out!
W: I know, but it’s hard to find the right person. You have to consider her previous work experience, the responsibilities you give her, and how she interacts with the kids. I would love to have someone to help me out, though.
M: I think you should definitely consider it! I can refer you to this great babysitter, Amy. She used to work for my neighbors. She’s very responsible, a great cook, and great with kids.
W: Oh, that’s great. Can you give me her number I’ll talk it over with Dan and give her a call tomorrow. Maybe this way I won’t be so occupied every day, and Dan and I might even get to go on a date once in a while.

Have you ever heard of a man named Buckminster Fuller He was a scientist, an inventor, and also a great architect. What made Buckminster so special was his concern for the planet and humans. When you have a shortage of resources, he said, you get war. Thus, he claimed that to solve humans’ major problems, we have to anticipate what will become problems as resources reduce.
He was especially interested in developing more efficient housing; that is, a new way of constructing buildings so that they provide more housing space with the use of fewer resources. One solution he came up with in the late 1940s was a structure shaped like a piece of the globe, which amazed the world and brought him international reputation. That’s it for today’s Daily Takeaway. Tomorrow we’ll introduce one of the most influential lecturers in Oxford University.
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