Volunteering has big benefits for the elderly
THE CROSSNESS PUMPING STATION is not what you’d expect of a sewage works. With its spiral staircases, colourful tiling and intricate cast- iron latticing, it is a monument to the brilliance of Victorian engineering. Built in 1865 under the direction of Joseph Bazalgette, its four giant, steam- powered pumps (Prince Consort, Victoria, Albert Edward and Alexandra) were the beating heart of a system that eradicated cholera in London and established a model for urban sanitation.Steam has not been needed to pump London’s effluent in more than a century. But on the day your correspondent visits, the Prince Consort and Victoria are humming once again. “What other country would name its shit pumps after the royal family ” asks Ray Fleming, a volunteer in a team that has lovingly restored the engines and spruced up the surrounding site over the past four decades.
The Crossness Engines Trust has a stated mission of recovering part of “Britain’s industrial heritage”. But it is also testament to the value of volunteering. To almost 100 regular volunteers, many getting on a bit, it offers purpose and community. Working there “keeps you fully occupied and gives you something to look forward to”, says Bob Tovey. On open days he and Mr Fleming don bowler hats, neckties and waistcoats to field questions about the pumps’ capacity (around 250 tonnes per minute).
If that sounds like a strange way to spend a Sunday, studies back up the idea that volunteering has big benefits for well-being (so long as people are not bored). Younger do-gooders can find it easier to move into work. But the biggest gains are found among the elderly. Those volunteers in the “advanced stages of life” exhibit “better working memory and verbal fluency”, according to one meta-analysis. Experts think the social interactions it entails can help stave off dementia.
There are two problems, however. First, those who would benefit most from volunteering—because, say, they are lonely, isolated or unhappy—are least likely to do it, says Jurgen Grotz of the Institute for Volunteering Research at the University of East Anglia.
The Crossness site, many of whose volunteers are former manual workers, is unusual; volunteering is more often the preserve of the affluent. That should not be surprising, says John Mohan of the University of Birmingham: the biggest determinant of whether people volunteer is how economically secure they feel. Stress, unpredictable shifts or simply not having a car—all these things count.
That may help explain the second problem: volunteering is in decline. A decade ago 27% of adults in England volunteered once a month. Now it is just 16%. The fall has been steepest among the young. Some culture warriors blame fecklessness. Insecure work and housing are likelier culprits.
Politicians have a long and patchy record of trying to boost volunteering. The last tilt—the “Big Society” touted by Lord Cameron when he was prime minister to offset deep cuts in public spending—went nowhere. But it was “a great idea, in principle”, according to Sir Keir Starmer, the current prime minister. A tour of Bazalgette’s masterpiece suggests that is right.XB4U4拓展阅读+课外 语篇分析+阅读单（教师版）
Volunteering has big benefits for the elderly语篇分析
分析维度 内容项
What：语篇的主题、内容、结构、逻辑关系 一、文章基本信息 文章标题：Volunteering has big benefits for the elderly作者： 文章类型：议论文主题/中心思想：文章主要探讨了志愿服务对老年人的益处，以克罗斯内斯抽水站的志愿服务为例进行阐述，同时指出志愿服务面临的两个问题（最能从志愿服务中受益的人参与度低以及志愿服务参与率下降），最后提及政治家在推动志愿服务方面的尝试和现状。
二、文本结构与内容分析 整体结构：文章分为三个部分。第一部分通过介绍Crossness Pumping Station的背景和志愿者的工作，引出志愿服务对老年人的益处；第二部分阐述志愿服务对老年人的具体益处以及相关研究支持；第三部分探讨志愿服务面临的两个问题及现状。段落分布：文章结构清晰，共分为7个自然段，第1段介绍Crossness Pumping Station的建筑特点和历史背景，引出话题。第2段描述志愿者在 Crossness Pumping Station的工作情况。第3段阐述 Crossness Engines Trust的使命，强调志愿服务对老年人的意义。第4段引用研究，说明志愿服务对老年人的益处。第5段指出第一个问题：最需要志愿服务的人最不可能参与。第6段指出第二个问题：志愿服务人数在下降，并分析原因。第7段讨论政治家对推动志愿服务的尝试及现状。逻辑关系：因果关系：文章先阐述了志愿服务对老年人的益处，这是原因，进而引出当前志愿服务面临的问题，因为一些现实因素（如经济安全感、工作和住房不稳定等）导致最需要受益的人参与度低和参与率下降。对比关系：将过去和现在成年人参与志愿服务的比例进行对比，突出志愿服务参与率下降的情况。衔接与连贯：转折词：如“However”（第五段开头）表示转折，引出志愿服务面临的第一个问题；“That may help explain”（第六段开头）表示因果关系，引出对志愿服务人数下降原因的分析。连接词：如“First”“Second”（第五、六段开头）用于列举问题，使文章结构清晰；“But”（第二段开头）表示转折，引出当天蒸汽泵再次运转的情况。指代：如“it”（第四段中）指代“volunteering”，避免重复，使文章更加简洁连贯；“That”（第七段开头）指代前文提到的“Big Society”这一尝试，起到承上启下的作用。段落功能：每个段落的功能明确：第一部分（第1-3段）引出话题，介绍背景，描述志愿服务工作场景，强调志愿服务对老年人的意义，引出文章的核心议题。第二部分（第4段）阐述志愿服务对老年人的益处，如改善记忆和语言能力等，为文章的中心论点提供有力支持。第三部分（第5-7段）探讨志愿服务面临的挑战及现状，分析社会经济方面成因，并反思过往政策并展望未来方向。
Why：语篇的深层涵义、情感态度、作者意图 三、写作意图与文化背景分析 文化背景：文章涉及英国的工业遗产文化背景，如维多利亚时代的工程杰作Crossness抽水站。作者的文化背景影响文本内容，文中对英国工业遗产的描述以及提及的英国皇室等元素都带有英国文化特色，语言使用也符合英国英语习惯。背景知识的运用：读者需了解维多利亚时代英国的工业发展和城市卫生状况，才能更好理解Crossness抽水站的重要性和历史意义。写作意图：文章的写作目的是阐述志愿服务对老年人的益处，同时探讨当前志愿服务面临的问题及可能的解决办法，核心思想是强调志愿服务的价值以及呼吁重视其现状。
四、情感态度与价值取向分析 情感态度：作者对Crossness Engines Trust的志愿者们充满赞赏，对他们恢复和维护工业遗产的工作表示肯定；对志愿服务在促进老年人福祉方面的作用持积极态度；对志愿服务的下降趋势表示担忧，对将责任归咎于年轻人“无作为”的观点不认同。价值取向：文章传达了重视工业遗产保护、鼓励志愿服务、关注老年人福祉以及强调社会公平的价值观，认为志愿服务不应只是富人的专利，社会应创造条件让更多人参与。
五、论点与文章有效性分析 论点清晰度与证据支持：论点清晰明确，即志愿服务对老年人有很大益处，同时志愿服务存在问题。证据支持充分，如引用研究表明老年人参与志愿服务在认知方面有改善，通过具体数据说明志愿服务率的下降，还引用专家观点分析志愿服务下降的原因。文章有效性与局限性：文章在阐述志愿服务的益处和问题方面有较强的说服力，逻辑清晰。但在探讨解决志愿服务下降问题上可能存在局限性，没有深入提出具体可行的解决措施。文章与现实的联系：文章观点在当今社会有体现，如老年人的孤独和健康问题、年轻人面临的工作和生活压力等，容易引发读者共鸣，尤其是对关注社会公益和老年人健康的读者。
六、逻辑关系与推理分析 显性逻辑关系：因果关系，如因为志愿服务对老年人有诸多益处（如改善认知、提供社交机会），所以强调鼓励老年人参与；对比关系，如将过去和现在的志愿服务率进行对比，说明志愿服务在下降。隐性推理与假设：隐性推理表现在文章暗示社会应承担更多责任来改善志愿服务的现状，假设如果能解决经济不稳定、工作压力等问题，志愿服务率可能会回升；未直接说出的观点是对“文化战士”指责年轻人“无作为”的不认同，推论是经济和社会因素才是影响志愿服务的主要原因。
How：语篇的文体特征、语言特点、修辞手法、结构分析 七、语言与文体特征分析 语言特点：语言风格较为正式且客观，运用了一些专业词汇如“sewage works（污水处理厂）”“urban sanitation（城市卫生）”“meta-analysis（元分析）”等，体现了一定的学术性。同时也使用了一些带有感彩的词汇，如“lovingly（满怀爱意地）”来描述志愿者对发动机的修复工作，展现出积极的情感。句式与句型分析：句式较为丰富，长短句结合。既有长句详细描述了抽水站的历史和重要性；也有短句增强了语言的表现力和趣味性。文中还使用了一些复合句，使逻辑表达更清晰。文体特征：属于信息性和议论性相结合的文体，整体较为正式。文章先介绍了Crossness抽水站的背景信息，然后阐述志愿服务的益处以及存在的问题并进行分析讨论，具有一定的学术和理性色彩。修辞手法：运用了反问的修辞手法，如“What other country would name its shit pumps after the royal family ”，增强了语言的感染力，引发读者思考。语气与态度：作者的语气较为客观、中立，在阐述志愿服务的益处和问题时都引用了相关研究、专家观点和具体数据，以理性的方式呈现信息，没有明显的主观情感化表达。
八、写作手法分析 写作技巧与表达方式：采用了以具体事例（Crossness抽水站志愿者的情况）引入主题的写作技巧，使文章更生动具体，容易引起读者兴趣。在展现志愿者的工作状态时使用了细节描写。语言简洁而有表现力，在描述志愿服务的问题和益处时，能够用简洁的语言传达关键信息。
九、个人理解与批判性思维 个人理解与反思：从文章中可以清晰地看到志愿服务对老年人确实有诸多益处，这种观点是合理且有研究支持的，可能会让读者更加重视老年人参与志愿服务的意义。对于文章中提到的志愿服务存在的问题，如参与人群的不均衡和整体参与率下降等，也能引发对社会现状的思考，可能会改变对志愿服务现状的一些看法，认识到其面临的挑战。批判性思维与反思：文章整体较为客观，但在分析志愿服务下降原因时，虽然提到了经济和社会因素，但对于其他可能的因素如社会观念变化、志愿服务组织的吸引力等方面探讨较少，存在一定的局限性。在对待作者的论证时，可以进一步思考不同地区、不同文化背景下志愿服务的差异，以及如何更全面地解决志愿服务面临的问题，避免仅依据文章中的观点片面地看待问题。同时，对于引用的专家观点和数据，也可以思考其来源的可靠性和代表性。
文章结构梳理 Article Analysis: First Impressions
1. Main IdeaThe article centers on volunteering, using the Crossness Pumping Station as a case in point. It details the station's historical significance, the value of volunteering especially for the elderly, the problems plaguing the volunteering sphere, and politicians' attempts to boost it, presenting a comprehensive view of the topic.
2. Paragraph Summaries and FunctionsPart 1 (Paragraphs 1-3)Summary: The article begins by introducing the Crossness Pumping Station, an extraordinary example of Victorian engineering built in 1865. After a century - long hiatus, some of its pumps are operational again. The Crossness Engines Trust, with a mission to reclaim part of Britain's industrial heritage, showcases the value of volunteering. Around 100 regular volunteers, many of them elderly, find purpose and community in restoring and maintaining the station, and on open days, they engage with the public about the pumps.Function: This part sets the scene, introducing the Crossness Pumping Station as a backdrop to illustrate the positive aspects of volunteering, especially its benefits for the elderly, thus laying the groundwork for further discussions on volunteering.Part 2 (Paragraph 4)Summary: Studies show that volunteering is beneficial for well-being, with the elderly reaping the most significant rewards. A meta-analysis shows that elderly volunteers have better working memory and verbal fluency, and experts believe the social interactions in volunteering can help prevent dementia.Function: It provides scientific evidence to support the advantages of volunteering, strengthening the argument about the importance of volunteering, especially for the elderly, and connecting the real-life example of Crossness to broader research findings.Part 3 (Paragraphs 5-7)Summary: Two major problems in the volunteering domain are identified. First, those who would benefit most from volunteering are least likely to participate due to economic and practical barriers. Second, volunteering is on the decline especially among the young, mainly because of insecure work and housing.Function: This part shifts the focus to the problems within the volunteering landscape, analyzing the issues in-depth and setting the stage for the subsequent discussion of political responses.
3. Key Details from Each ParagraphPart 1 (Paragraphs 1-3)Crossness Pumping Station's Victorian-era architecture and its historical role in eradicating cholera.Revival of some pumps during a visit.The Trust's mission and the number and nature of volunteers.Volunteers' activities on open days.Part 2 (Paragraph 4)Research-based evidence of the benefits of volunteering for well-being.Cognitive improvements in elderly volunteers.The role of social interactions in preventing dementia.Part 3 (Paragraphs 5-7)The profile of those least likely to volunteer and the reasons.The decline in the volunteering rate in England.The age group most affected and the likely causes of the decline.
Reading Comprehension Worksheet（教师版）
Volunteering has big benefits for the elderly
I. Understanding and Main Idea Extraction（What文章理解与主旨提取）
A. What is the main job of volunteers at Crossness Pumping Station
Answer: The main job of volunteers at Crossness Pumping Station is to restore the engines, spruce up the surrounding site and answer visitors' questions on open days.
What facilities at Crossness Pumping Station do volunteers often interact with during their work
Answer: Powered pumps, namely Prince Consort, Victoria, Albert Edward, and Alexandra.
目的： 该问题考察学生从文章中提取主旨和关键信息的能力。
阅读技能目标：
能识别文章中的特定信息。
能将信息进行整合并形成简洁的总结。
A. Create a time - line and mark at least five key time points related to London's sewage treatment and urban development on it. The construction time of Crossness Pumping Station must be included. Beside each time point, briefly describe the corresponding event. For example: [Time 1]: [Description of Event 1]→[Time 2]: [Description of Event 2 (Construction time of Crossness Pumping Station and a brief background)]……
Answer: [1850]: The initial plan for London's sewage system was proposed as the city faced severe sanitation issues, with cholera outbreaks becoming more frequent.→[1865]: Crossness Pumping Station was built under the direction of Joseph Bazalgette. This was a crucial step in London's efforts to improve sanitation, aiming to eradicate cholera by efficiently handling sewage.→[1872]: Another major sewage - related facility in London was completed, further enhancing the city's sewage treatment capabilities.→[1880]: London started a new round of urban planning, which, although not directly related to the Crossness Pumping Station's construction, was part of the city's overall development and modernization.→[1890]: London saw a significant decrease in cholera cases, largely attributed to the effective sewage treatment systems like Crossness Pumping Station.
Suppose you were a worker involved in the construction of Crossness Pumping Station in 1865. Write a short passage from the first - person perspective to describe a day during the construction process. The passage should include information related to the construction time. For example: “Today is [specific date] in 1865. We are still busy at the construction site, striving to build Crossness Pumping Station...”. The passage is required to be no less than 100 words and should reflect some characteristics of the construction work at that time.
Answer: "Today is the 15th of June in 1865. We are still busy at the construction site, striving to build Crossness Pumping Station. The sun is beating down hard, but none of us dare to slack off. I'm working on assembling the parts of one of the giant steam - powered pumps. The iron parts are heavy, and it takes a lot of effort to fit them together precisely. We know that this pump is going to be the heart of London's new sewage system. There's a sense of pride among us workers. Every day, we see the station taking shape. The spiral staircases are starting to rise, and the colorful tiling work has just begun. We hope that once this station is completed, it will bring an end to the cholera that has been plaguing our city for so long. The work is tough, but the thought of making London a healthier place keeps us going."
目的： 让学生构建起清晰的历史事件时间框架，加深对文章所涉及历史背景的理解。使学生更生动形象地感受历史事件，增强对文章内容的情感共鸣与理解。
阅读技能目标：
从文章中筛选关键时间点及对应事件进行归纳整理，提升学生对文本细节的把握能力及逻辑组织能力。
基于对文章的理解运用合理想象构建故事场景，并用准确、连贯的语言进行描述，提升学生对文本的内化能力和书面表达能力。
A. Please group the paragraphs of the article and give each group a sub - title. The sub - title should reflect the core content of that group of paragraphs.
Answer: Group 1: Paragraphs 1-3, “Introduction and Background of Volunteer - related Activities”; Group 2: Paragraph 4, “Benefits of Volunteering for the Elderly Verified by Research”; Group 3: Paragraphs 5 - 7,”Problems Plaguing Volunteer Activities”
B. Write a content abstract of no more than 150 words for the article. The abstract should cover the key information of the article, including main events, core viewpoints, etc.
Answer: The article uses Crossness Pumping Station as a backdrop to discuss volunteer activities. It first introduces the place and the presence of elderly volunteers. Research indicates volunteering significantly benefits the elderly in aspects like cognitive function. However, there are issues: those in greatest need don't participate, and the number of volunteers is declining. Overall, it underlines the importance of volunteering for the elderly and related concerns.
目的： 该问题旨在引导读者深入理解文章关于志愿者活动相关内容的整体架构与核心要点。
阅读技能目标：
提升读者的综合阅读能力，如归纳总结能力与逻辑分析能力。
提升对文章主旨的理解与把握能力。
II. Emotional and Deeper Meaning Analysis（Why情感与深层意义分析）
Why are elderly volunteers more likely to form deep connections with others compared to their non - volunteering peers
Answer: Because volunteering provides the elderly with a social platform. At Crossness Pumping Station, elderly volunteers work together to restore engines and spruce up the site. On open days, they receive visitors and answer questions together. These shared activities offer them more opportunities to communicate and interact with peers and visitors, making their social lives richer compared to non - volunteer elderly people, thus facilitating the formation of deep connections.
目的： 该问题探讨志愿服务对老年人的积极作用，帮助学生促进对文本关键信息的理解。
阅读技能目标：
锻炼因果关系分析能力。
对文本细节进行提取与归纳。
A. Complete the sentence:
"Those who need volunteering most are least likely to do it because they may be in a ______ or feel ______. "
Answer: "Those who need volunteering most are least likely to do it because they may be in a poor economic situation or feel lonely."
B. Complete the chart. Analyze the impact of each factor on the likelihood of those who need volunteering most to participate in volunteer work according to the description of the living conditions of specific groups in the passage.
Factors Impact on those who need volunteering most
Economic situation
Social interaction
Time arrangement
Understanding of volunteer service
Answer:
Factors Impact on those who need volunteering most
Economic situation People in poor economic situations are less likely to volunteer. They may be focused on making a living, can't afford transportation to volunteer sites, and lack economic security. High impact.
Social interaction Lonely and isolated people lack the motivation and confidence to engage in volunteer activities. High impact.
Time arrangement Although not explicitly mentioned as a major factor for those who need volunteering most in the passage, some people in difficult situations may have irregular work hours or be too busy dealing with their own problems. Moderate impact.
Understanding of volunteer service The passage doesn't suggest that lack of understanding of the benefits is a reason for their low participation. Low impact.
目的： 该问题考查学生对文章关键信息的提取和准确理解能力，引导学生对文章中关于志愿服务参与因素的内容进行深入分析。
阅读技能目标：
深入领会经济状况和孤独感等因素与参与志愿服务可能性之间的联系。
有条理地分析和比较不同因素，清晰阐述各因素与参与可能性之间的逻辑关系。
A. Draw a mind map about the "Big Society" concept according to the content of the article. At the center of the mind map is the "Big Society" concept, and different branches extend outward from the center, marking the content related to this concept respectively, such as the background of the concept's proposal, the implementation situation, the author's relevant evaluation sentences, etc.
Answer: (Example mind map branches)
Background of proposal: To offset deep cuts in public spending during Cameron’s tenure as prime minister. / Implementation situation: “Went nowhere,” indicating a failure in practice. /Author's relevant evaluation sentences: “But it was ‘a great idea, in principle’, according to Sir Keir Starmer, the current prime minister. A tour of Bazalgette’s masterpiece suggests that is right.”
B. What is the author's attitude towards the “Big Society” idea
Answer: Positive. Because the article mentions that “The last tilt—the ‘Big Society’ touted by Lord Cameron when he was prime minister to offset deep cuts in public spending—went nowhere. But it was ‘a great idea, in principle’, according to Sir Keir Starmer, the current prime minister. A tour of Bazalgette’s masterpiece suggests that is right.”
目的： 该问题强调对 “大社会” 概念的全面理解，并帮助学生洞察作者观点与意图。
阅读技能目标：
绘制思维导图和分析作者态度，锻炼信息提取、整合和分类能力。
梳理信息之间的逻辑关系如背景与实施情况的因果关系、作者评价与其他信息的逻辑联系等。
III. Structural Analysis and Creative Output（How结构分析与创造性输出）
1.
A. How does the author introduce the topic of volunteering for the elderly at the beginning of the passage
Answer: The author introduces the topic of volunteering for the elderly by starting with the description of the pumping station's architecture and history, then moves on to the benefits of volunteering for the elderly volunteers there, followed by the problems, and ends with politicians' attempts.
B. How does the author transition from introducing the benefits of volunteering for the elderly to discussing the existing problems
Answer: The author uses the transition sentence "There are two problems, however." to directly introduce the existing problems in volunteer activities, namely, the low participation rate among those who need it most and the overall decline in volunteer participation.
目的： 该问题鼓励学生深入剖析文章的结构与行文逻辑，提升对作者写作策略的理解。
阅读技能目标：
培养梳理逻辑线索、进行逻辑推理的能力。
增强细节关注与信息整合能力。
2. Analyze the article’s structure type and present the reasons.
Structure Type Definition
Problem-solution First, present a problem, and then propose corresponding solutions. For example, if this is the structure, point out where the problem is described and what solutions are put forward in the passage.
Introduction-advantages-problems-discussion First, introduce the topic, then elaborate on the advantages of something, next point out existing problems, and finally conduct a discussion. Explain how each part is reflected in the passage.
Comparison-contrast Compare and contrast different things or aspects. Indicate what is being compared and contrasted in the passage.
Cause-effect Show the causal relationship between events. Identify the causes and effects described in the passage.
Answer: Introduction-advantages-problems-discussion (Introduction: The article starts by presenting the general context of the elderly in society, which leads to the topic of volunteering. This sets the foundation for what is to follow; Advantages: Subsequently, it delves into multiple benefits of volunteering for the elderly, such as psychological, cognitive, and social benefits; Problems: After that, it points out issues like low participation and lack of appropriate opportunities, which are the problems existing in the current situation; Discussion: Finally, it discusses potential solutions and future prospects related to promoting volunteering among the elderly.Problems: After that, it points out issues like low participation and lack of appropriate opportunities, which are the problems existing in the current situation.)
目的： 该问题鼓励学生依据定义判断结构类型，把握文章逻辑层次。培养逻辑分析与归纳能力，要求阐述理由，梳理归纳文章各部分内容。
阅读技能目标：
培养结构把握和逻辑推理能力，识别整体结构，推断写作意图与发展方向。
提升信息提取与归纳总结能力，精准提取关键信息并概括内容逻辑。
3.
A. What if “What other country would name its shit pumps after the royal family ” is replaced with “It is unique that this country named its shit pumps after the royal family.” Compare the original text with the revised text and analyze the advantages of rhetorical question.
Answer: Advantages of the rhetorical question include: 1. Showing uniqueness: The rhetorical question forces the reader to consider the naming from a comparative perspective, making the uniqueness more prominent. In contrast, the declarative sentence simply states the fact. For example, the rhetorical question makes the reader actively think about other countries' naming practices, while the declarative sentence just presents the situation in one country. 2. Expressing a critical attitude: The rhetorical question's tone is more suggestive of criticism. The declarative sentence is neutral. The question's structure implies that the naming is not a common or proper practice. 3. Adding humor: The rhetorical question creates a humorous effect through the contrast, which the declarative sentence lacks. The shock value of pairing “shit pumps” and “royal family” in a question form is what makes it funny.
B. Write a creative short essay based on the content involved in the passage. During the writing process, students must use at least two rhetorical questions imitating the technique of “What other country would name its shit pumps after the royal family ” to highlight the characteristics of the things in the passage or express their views on certain phenomena.
Answer: (Example response)
“In the world of sewage management, Crossness Pumping Station stands out. What other pumping station would have a visitor center filled with historical artifacts about sewage It's truly unique. And what other place would celebrate the process of waste treatment with such enthusiasm The elaborate exhibitions and guided tours show a dedication that is hard to find elsewhere. These rhetorical questions highlight the station's uniqueness in the otherwise unglamorous field of sewage management. The first question emphasizes the rarity of having a visitor center with historical artifacts, while the second question points out the unusual enthusiasm for celebrating waste treatment. These rhetorical questions make the description more engaging and draw the reader's attention to the extraordinary aspects of the pumping station, enhancing the overall expressive effect of the essay.” (The first rhetorical question highlights the uniqueness of having a visitor center with historical artifacts, and the second highlights the unusual enthusiasm for celebrating waste treatment.)
目的： 该问题帮助学生理解修辞性问句在文本中的独特作用。
阅读技能目标：
批判性地分析反问与陈述句式的表达效果。
培养了创意写作能力。
IV. Critical Thinking and Application（批判性思维与实践运用）
A. The passage mentions that volunteering is in decline. What are some possible reasons for this decline based on the text, and how can these issues be addressed
Answer: Possible reasons for the decline include that those who would benefit most from volunteering, such as the lonely, isolated or unhappy, are least likely to do it. Also, the biggest determinant of whether people volunteer is how economically secure they feel, and factors like stress, unpredictable work shifts, and not having a car make it difficult for people to volunteer. To address these issues, we could create more accessible volunteering opportunities for those with economic difficulties, like providing transportation or flexible schedules. We could also launch awareness campaigns to encourage the lonely and isolated to participate.
B. Why do you think some people believe volunteering is more often the preserve of the affluent What evidence from the text supports this idea
Answer:
Some people believe volunteering is more often the preserve of the affluent because economic security is a major determinant of volunteering. As the text states, "the biggest determinant of whether people volunteer is how economically secure they feel. Stress, unpredictable shifts or simply not having a car—all these things count." This shows that those with financial stability are more likely to volunteer. The fact that the Crossness site, with many former manual workers as volunteers, is unusual also supports this idea.
目的： 该问题鼓励学生批判性思考志愿服务人数下降的原因及解决办法，分析志愿服务与经济状况的关系。
阅读技能目标：
分析文本中提出的问题并提出合理的解决策略。
从文本中提取证据支持观点。
A. Analyze the attitude of the experts mentioned in the passage towards volunteering. Use examples from the text to support your ideas.
Answer:
The experts believe that volunteering has significant benefits, especially for the elderly. For example, according to one meta - analysis, "Those volunteers in the ‘advanced stages of life’ exhibit ‘better working memory and verbal fluency’.” Experts also think that "the social interactions it entails can help stave off dementia." This shows that experts view volunteering as a positive activity with far - reaching benefits for well - being.
B. Imagine you are an expert in volunteering research. Based on the problems and benefits described in the passage, what suggestions would you give to promote volunteering
Answer:
“If I were an expert, I would suggest targeting the root causes of the decline in volunteering. For those who are less likely to volunteer due to economic reasons, we could collaborate with companies to offer incentives like paid time off for volunteering. For the lonely and isolated, we could create buddy - system programs where experienced volunteers help new ones ease into the volunteering environment. Also, we could promote the long - term benefits of volunteering, especially for health, to attract more people.”
目的： 该问题通过分析专家的态度，帮助学生深入理解文本中特定主体对志愿服务及相关理念的看法。
阅读技能目标：
通过文本中的描述分析特定主体的态度。
根据文本内容推测特定主体的建议和观点。
Write a short article or prepare to share your thoughts on how to promote volunteering in your community. Include ideas inspired by the passage and your own experiences.
Answer: (Example short article)
Volunteering is a wonderful way to give back to the community and improve well-being. To promote it in my community, I would first focus on the economic barriers. We could organize carpooling for volunteers who don't have access to transportation. For the lonely and isolated, we could start small - group volunteering projects, like community gardening, where they can build connections while working towards a common goal. Inspired by the passage, I would also emphasize the benefits of volunteering, especially for the elderly. We could invite experts to give talks about how volunteering can improve memory and social skills. From my own experience, I know that when people see the positive impact of their actions, they are more likely to continue volunteering. So, we could share success stories of volunteers in our community to inspire others.
目的： 该任务要求学生将文章中的见解与个人经验相结合，增强个人思考与写作表达能力。
阅读技能目标：
将文本中的知识与个人经验相结合。
进行自我思考，并发展写作表达能力。
V. 词块积累及应用
1. 绘制思维导图：
中心词：Volunteering
分支 1：Benefits (e.g., better working memory, verbal fluency, stave off dementia)
分支 2：Problems (e.g., decline, those who need it most are least likely to do it, more common among the affluent)
分支 3：Reasons (e.g., economic security, loneliness, stress)
分支 4：Solutions (e.g., create accessible opportunities, awareness campaigns)
A. 志愿服务益处描述相关表达
Those volunteers in the ‘advanced stages of life’ exhibit ‘better working memory and verbal fluency’.
用法：阐述志愿服务对特定人群（老年人）的积极影响
替换表达：Volunteering can improve the cognitive abilities of the elderly, such as enhancing their memory and language skills.
Experts think the social interactions it entails can help stave off dementia.
用法：说明志愿服务带来的社交互动在健康方面的益处
替换表达：The social contacts in volunteering are believed to be beneficial for preventing dementia.
B. 志愿服务问题及原因描写相关表达
Those who would benefit most from volunteering—because, say, they are lonely, isolated or unhappy—are least likely to do it.
用法：指出志愿服务存在的问题，即最能从中受益的人群参与度低，并说明可能的原因
替换表达：People who could gain the most from volunteering, like the lonely and isolated, are the least likely to participate.
Volunteering is in decline. A decade ago 27% of adults in England volunteered once a month. Now it is just 16%.
用法：描述志愿服务参与率下降的现象，通过数据对比突出问题
替换表达：The rate of volunteering has decreased. In the past, 27% of adults in England volunteered monthly, but now it's only 16%.
The biggest determinant of whether people volunteer is how economically secure they feel.
用法：解释影响人们参与志愿服务的关键因素——经济安全感
替换表达：Economic security is the main factor influencing people's decision to volunteer.
C. 对志愿服务相关理念及现象评价相关表达
The “Big Society” touted by Lord Cameron...went nowhere. But it was “a great idea, in principle”.
用法：对特定的促进志愿服务的理念（“大社会”理念）进行评价，指出其实施结果和理念本身的价值
替换表达：The “Big Society” concept proposed by Lord Cameron failed in practice, yet it had its merits in theory.
目的：通过整理文章中与志愿服务相关的表达，帮助学生形成语义网络，内化语言。
2. 迁移应用：
A. 请用以下词汇和表达介绍你对志愿服务的看法：
词汇：beneficial, decline, economic factor, social interaction
句型：Volunteering is...; The decline of volunteering is...; One of the main reasons is...; The social interactions in volunteering can...
示例句：
Volunteering is highly beneficial for people's well-being, especially for the elderly.
目标：帮助学生运用相关词汇和表达阐述对志愿服务的观点和认识。
B. 模拟对话：你和朋友讨论如何鼓励更多人参与志愿服务，你会说些什么？
句型支持：
We could create more accessible opportunities for volunteers.
We should launch awareness campaigns to promote the benefits of volunteering.
目标：鼓励学生运用关于解决志愿服务问题的表达，模拟情景对话。
C. 写一篇短文，描述你所在社区的志愿服务现状，并提出改进建议，至少使用以下表达：
词汇：benefits, problems, reasons, solutions
句型：Volunteering in my community has...; However, there are some problems, such as...; The main reasons for these problems are...; To solve these problems, we can...
示例写作框架：
开头：介绍社区志愿服务的益处（使用benefits相关表达）
中间：指出存在的问题及原因（使用problems和reasons相关表达）
结尾：提出改进建议（使用solutions相关表达）
目标：通过写作巩固对志愿服务相关表达的运用，拓展学生的输出能力。
目的： 该任务聚焦于与志愿服务相关的词汇积累和应用，帮助学生通过分支的方式理解和表达志愿服务的益处、问题、原因及解决办法，增强词汇在实际语境中的运用。
阅读技能目标：
扩展与志愿服务相关的词汇，如描述益处、问题、原因和解决办法的词汇。
将新词汇应用于语境中以增强对志愿服务相关话题的理解与表达能力。Reading Comprehension Worksheet（学生版）
Volunteering has big benefits for the elderly
I. Understanding and Main Idea Extraction（What文章理解与主旨提取）
A. What is the main job of volunteers at Crossness Pumping Station
B. What facilities at Crossness Pumping Station do volunteers often interact with during their work
A. Create a time - line and mark at least five key time points related to London's sewage treatment and urban development on it. The construction time of Crossness Pumping Station must be included. Beside each time point, briefly describe the corresponding event. For example: [Time 1]: [Description of Event 1]→[Time 2]: [Description of Event 2 (Construction time of Crossness Pumping Station and a brief background)]……
B. Suppose you were a worker involved in the construction of Crossness Pumping Station in 1865. Write a short passage from the first - person perspective to describe a day during the construction process. The passage should include information related to the construction time. For example: “Today is [specific date] in 1865. We are still busy at the construction site, striving to build Crossness Pumping Station...”. The passage is required to be no less than 100 words and should reflect some characteristics of the construction work at that time.
A. Please group the paragraphs of the article and give each group a sub - title. The sub - title should reflect the core content of that group of paragraphs.What was the writer’s experience in the first math class, and how did it impact his impression of the teacher and classmates
B. Write a content abstract of no more than 150 words for the article. The abstract should cover the key information of the article, including main events, core viewpoints, etc.
II. Emotional and Deeper Meaning Analysis（Why情感与深层意义分析）
Why are elderly volunteers more likely to form deep connections with others compared to their non - volunteering peers
A. Complete the sentence:
"Those who need volunteering most are least likely to do it because they may be in a ______ or feel ______. "
B. Complete the chart. Analyze the impact of each factor on the likelihood of those who need volunteering most to participate in volunteer work according to the description of the living conditions of specific groups in the passage.
Factors Impact on those who need volunteering most
Economic situation
Social interaction
Time arrangement
Understanding of volunteer service
3.
A. Draw a mind map about the "Big Society" concept according to the content of the article. At the center of the mind map is the "Big Society" concept, and different branches extend outward from the center, marking the content related to this concept respectively, such as the background of the concept's proposal, the implementation situation, the author's relevant evaluation sentences, etc.
B. What is the author's attitude towards the “Big Society” idea
III. Structural Analysis and Creative Output（How结构分析与创造性输出）
A. How does the author introduce the topic of volunteering for the elderly at the beginning of the passage
B. How does the author transition from introducing the benefits of volunteering for the elderly to discussing the existing problems
2. Analyze the article’s structure type and present the reasons.
Structure Type Definition
Problem-solution First, present a problem, and then propose corresponding solutions. For example, if this is the structure, point out where the problem is described and what solutions are put forward in the passage.
Introduction-advantages-problems-discussion First, introduce the topic, then elaborate on the advantages of something, next point out existing problems, and finally conduct a discussion. Explain how each part is reflected in the passage.
Comparison-contrast Compare and contrast different things or aspects. Indicate what is being compared and contrasted in the passage.
Cause-effect Show the causal relationship between events. Identify the causes and effects described in the passage.
3.
A. What if “What other country would name its shit pumps after the royal family ” is replaced with “It is unique that this country named its shit pumps after the royal family.” Compare the original text with the revised text and analyze the advantages of rhetorical question.
B. Write a creative short essay based on the content involved in the passage. During the writing process, students must use at least two rhetorical questions imitating the technique of “What other country would name its shit pumps after the royal family ” to highlight the characteristics of the things in the passage or express their views on certain phenomena.
IV. Critical Thinking and Application（批判性思维与实践运用）
A. The passage mentions that volunteering is in decline. What are some possible reasons for this decline based on the text, and how can these issues be addressed
B. Why do you think some people believe volunteering is more often the preserve of the affluent What evidence from the text supports this idea
A. Analyze the attitude of the experts mentioned in the passage towards volunteering. Use examples from the text to support your ideas.
B. Imagine you are an expert in volunteering research. Based on the problems and benefits described in the passage, what suggestions would you give to promote volunteering
Write a short article or prepare to share your thoughts on how to promote volunteering in your community. Include ideas inspired by the passage and your own experiences.
V. 词块积累及应用
1. 绘制思维导图：
中心词：Volunteering
分支 1：Benefits (e.g., better working memory, verbal fluency, stave off dementia)
分支 2：Problems (e.g., decline, those who need it most are least likely to do it, more common among the affluent)
分支 3：Reasons (e.g., economic security, loneliness, stress)
分支 4：Solutions (e.g., create accessible opportunities, awareness campaigns)
A. 志愿服务益处描述相关表达
B. 志愿服务问题及原因描写相关表达
C. 对志愿服务相关理念及现象评价相关表达
2. 迁移应用：
A. 请用以下词汇和表达介绍你对志愿服务的看法：
词汇：beneficial, decline, economic factor, social interaction
句型：Volunteering is...; The decline of volunteering is...; One of the main reasons is...; The social interactions in volunteering can...
B. 模拟对话：你和朋友讨论如何鼓励更多人参与志愿服务，你会说些什么？
C. 写一篇短文，描述你所在社区的志愿服务现状，并提出改进建议，至少使用以下表达：
词汇：benefits, problems, reasons, solutions
句型：Volunteering in my community has...; However, there are some problems, such as...; The main reasons for these problems are...; To solve these problems, we can...
