专题十八　态度意图及语篇结构--2026天津版高考英语第二轮专题强化练（含答案与解析）

中小学教育资源及组卷应用平台
2026天津版高考英语第二轮专题
专题十八　态度意图及语篇结构
五年高考
天津卷专练
Passage 1(2023天津第一次,B) 主题 良好的人际关系
One freezing morning last February, I walked through Ontario Place. Trees were frosted sculptures. Large chunks of ice floated in the lake. Then I saw a group of people in bathing suits bouncing up and down in the water. They held hands, shouting and yelling into the sky. They looked and sounded so free.
I've always found cold water thrilling. The shock of it is like pressing a switch. It seems to reset my body and soul.
And last winter, I definitely needed a reset. I woke up most mornings with a dull, grey feeling as I forced myself out of bed to start the day. I needed something to cheer myself up, but I didn't know what, until that day.
The ice warriors(勇士) emerged from the lake, their skin steaming. Trembling, they were yet laughing and hugging each other. I called out:“You guys are awesome!”One woman waved back, “Come and join us! We're here every Monday morning.”
The night before my first dip(游泳), I was excited and nervous. Cold water was one thing, but this icy lake was a whole other level. Should I back out Eventually, I got up in the dark and drove to the meeting spot.
After some wild warmup, I charged into the lake along with others. We yelled into the sky. Teeth chattering, heart rates slowing, fingers and toes going numb(麻木), we stayed there for somewhere between two and five minutes. Knowing it was my first time, people cheered me on. It felt amazing. I was stupid with cold, but I couldn't remember the last time I'd felt so happy.
Now I go dipping almost every day, and I've come to long for that moment when the cold becomes a second skin and my internal voice goes silent. Apart from the thrill of those first heart-stopping dives, which, ironically, saved me from going under, what has drawn me is this community of generous, open-hearted souls.
We laughed together, often, but from the stories we've shared about ourselves, I know I'm not the only one who faces life's challenges. Holding hands in the freezing lake, we looked out for each other last winter and will do so through this one.
It won't fix everything in our lives—but for some reason, it helps. At the end of each session I return home feeling stronger, lighter, more able to carry on. As another winter sets in, I'm more than ready to embrace the cold again.
1. When the author saw the people in the lake, her feeling can be best described as 　　　. 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　
A. nervous　　　B. amazed　　　C. frightened　　　D. calm
2. Why did the author think of joining the swimmers
A. To expand her social circle.　　　B. To lift her spirits again.
C. To adapt to the cold weather.　　　D. To prepare for a new career.
3. What can be learnt about the author's first dipping
A. She hesitated a bit before going.　　　B. She suffered from a heart problem.
C. She stayed in cold water too long.　　　D. She regretted not doing enough warmup.
4. What change has cold water swimming brought about in the author
A. She is more intelligent.　　　B. She gets more competitive.
C. She becomes a better storyteller.　　　D. She regains her inner peace.
5. What message does the author most likely want to convey
A. Severe cold builds up character.　　　B. Group wisdom brightens our life.
C. Tackling the odds together cures.　　　D. Doing sports promotes friendship.
Passage 2(2022天津第二次,C) 主题 认识自我
Is it true that our brain alone is responsible for human cognition(认知) What about our body Is it possible for thoughts and behavior to originate from somewhere other than our brain Psychologists who study Embodied Cognition(EC) ask similar questions. The EC theory suggests our body is also responsible for thinking or problem-solving. More precisely, the mind shapes the body and the body shapes the mind in equal measure.
If you think about it for a moment, it makes total sense. When you smell something good or hear amusing sounds, certain emotions are awakened. Think about how newborns use their senses to understand the world around them. They don't have emotions so much as needs—they don't feel sad, they're just hungry and need food. Even unborn babies can feel their mothers' heartbeats and this has a calming effect. In the real world, they cry when they're cold and then get hugged. That way, they start to associate being warm with being loved.
Understandably, theorists have been arguing for years and still disagree on whether the brain is the nerve centre that operates the rest of the body. Older Western philosophers and mainstream language researchers believe this is fact, while EC theorises that the brain and body are working together as an organic supercomputer, processing everything and forming your reactions.
Further studies have backed up the mind-body interaction. In one experiment, test subjects(实验对象) were asked to judge people after being handed a hot or a cold drink. They all made warm evaluations when their fingertips perceived warmth rather than coolness. And it works the other way too: in another study, subjects' fingertip temperatures were measured after being included in or “rejected” from a group task. Those who were included felt physically warmer.
For further proof, we can look at the metaphors(比喻说法) that we use without even thinking. A kind and sympathetic person is frequently referred to as one with a soft heart and someone who is very strong and calm in difficult situations is often described as solid as a rock. And this kind of metaphorical use is common across languages.
Now that you have the knowledge of mind-body interaction, why not use it If you're having a bad day, a warm cup of tea will give you a flash of pleasure. If you know you're physically cold, warm up before making any interpersonal decisions.
1. According to the author, the significance of the EC theory lies in 　　　.
A. facilitating our understanding of the origin of psychology
B. revealing the major role of the mind in human cognition
C. offering a clearer picture of the shape of human brain
D. bringing us closer to the truth in human cognition
2. Where does the newborns' understanding of their surroundings start from
A. Their personal looks.　　　B. Their mental needs.
C. Their inner emotions.　　　D. Their physical feelings.
3. The experiments mentioned in Paragraph 4 further prove 　　　.
A. environment impacts how we judge others　　　
B. how body temperature is related to health
C. the mind and the body influence each other　　　
D. how humans interact with their surroundings
4. What does the author intend to prove by citing the metaphors in Paragraph 5
A. Human speech is alive with metaphors.
B. Human senses have effects on thinking.
C. Human language is shaped by visual images.
D. Human emotions are often compared to natural materials.
5. What is the author's purpose in writing the last paragraph
A. To share with the reader ways to release their emotions.
B. To guide the reader onto the path to career success.
C. To encourage the reader to put EC into practice.
D. To deepen the reader's understanding of EC.
Passage 3(2021天津第二次,C) 主题 科技发展
In the fictional worlds of film and TV, artificial intelligence (AI) has been described as so advanced that it is indistinguishable from humans. But what if we're actually getting closer to a world where AI is capable of thinking and feeling
Tech company UneeQ is heading for its “digital humans”, which appear lifelike on the screen not only in terms of language, but also because of facial movements: raised eyebrows, a smile, even a nod. They look close to a human, but not quite.
What lies beneath UneeQ's digital humans Their 3D faces are modeled on actual human features. Speech recognition enables them to understand what a person is saying, and natural language processing is used to work out a response. Meanwhile, another AI company, Soul Machines, is taking a more biological approach, with a “digital brain” that imitates aspects of the human brain to adjust the emotions “felt” and “expressed” by its “digital people”.
Shiwali Mohan, an AI scientist at the Palo Research Center, is skeptical of these digital beings.“They're humanlike in their looks and the way they sound, but that in itself is not being human,” she says. “Human qualities also involve how you think, how you approach problems, and how you break them down; and that takes a lot of algorithmic (算法) design. Designing for human-level intelligence is a different attempt than designing images that behave like humans.” She then continues,“If something looks like a human, we have high expectations of them, but they might behave differently in ways that humans just instinctively (直觉地) know how other humans react.”
Yet the demand is there, with UneeQ seeing high adoption of its digital employees across the financial, health care, and commercial sectors (行业). “Unless these sectors make their business models much more efficient digitally, they might be left behind,” says Chetan Dube, UneeQ's CEO.
Some other companies are taking their digital beings a step further, enabling organizations and individuals to create digital humans themselves using free-access platforms they provide. “The biggest motivation for such platforms is to popularize AI,” Dube says.
Mohan is cautious about this approach, yet she supports the purpose behind these digital beings and is optimistic about where they're headed. “As we develop more advanced AI technology, we would then have to use new ways of communicating with that technology,” she says. “Hopefully, all of that is designed to support humans in their goals.”
1. According to Para. 2,in what respect(s) do UneeQ's “digital humans” resemble human beings 　　　　　　　　　　 　　　　　　　　　　 　　　　　　　　　　
A. In the way they move around.　　　B. In the way they act and react.
C. In observation and analysis.　　　D. In speech and facial expressions.
2. Soul Machines' “digital brain” is a technological breakthrough because it 　　　.
A. learns to make proper emotional responses　　　
B. tends to imitate human beings' tone vividly
C. recognizes the speech sounds it receives　　　
D. processes the natural language it hears
3. In Mohan's opinion, what human quality is lacking in digital beings
A. Calculating brain.　　　B. Language skills.
C. Instinctive judgements.　　　D. Problem-solving ability.
4. What makes many sectors employ digital humans
A. The fear of falling behind in efficiency.　　　
B. The urgency to promote e-commerce.
C. The wish to spread digital technology.　　　
D. The need to upgrade the health care system.
5. What does Mohan think of the future of digital beings
A. It's well planned.　　　B. It's promising.　　　C. It's uncertain.　　　D. It's quite hopeless.
Passage 4(2021天津第一次,B) 主题 积极的生活态度
　　About five weeks ago, I noticed the skin of our pet lizard (蜥蜴) was growing dusty. It worried me. I reported the strange surface on the skin of the lizard to my husband and children the next morning. Seconds later, our lizard emerged from its tank with its old skin flowing behind it.
　　I didn't think about it much until a morning last week when I knocked my favorite teapot off the table. It burst into hundreds of pieces. As I swept up the mess, I wondered why we had been breaking so many things over the months.
　　The destruction started three months ago. It was my husband's birthday. He had just lost his job. The uncertainty was starting to wear on us, so I wanted to do something special.
　　“Let's make a cake for Dad!” I cried.
　　My kids screamed with joy. We baked, iced and sprinkled for most of the day. Candles on the cake! Balloons on the walls! Flowers on the table!
　　Two hours before my husband came back home from another job interview, my daughter climbed up to grab a glass vase from a high shelf. It fell and crashed beside the cake. Tiny pieces of glass were everywhere. She sobbed loudly as I threw the cake away. My husband had banana pudding for his birthday.
　　Three days ago, the light in our living room suddenly went out. After several frustrating hours of unsuccessful attempts to fix it, my husband suggested watching the Michael Jordan documentary (纪录片) series The Last Dance.
　　The poignancy (辛酸) of Jordan retiring from his beloved basketball to play baseball and what had pushed him to make such a tough decision took me by surprise. As I watched him take off his basketball uniform and replace it with a baseball uniform, I saw him leaving behind the layer that no longer served him, just as our lizard had. Neither of them chose the moment that had transformed them. But they had to live with who they were after everything was different. Just like us. I realized that we have to learn to leave the past behind.
　　Humans do not shed skin (蜕皮) as easily as other animals. The beginning of change is upsetting. The process is tiring. Damage changes us before we are ready. I see our lizard, raw and nearly new.
　　Jordan said that no matter how it ends, it starts with hope. With our tender, hopeful skin, that is where we begin.
1. What can we learn about the pet lizard from Paragraph 1
A. Its tank grew dirty.　　　B. Its old skin came off.
C. It got a skin disease.　　　D. It went missing.
2. Why did the author's husband have banana pudding for his birthday
A. The birthday cake was ruined.　　　B. The author made good puddings.
C. Pudding was his favorite dessert.　　　D. They couldn't afford a birthday cake.
3. Why does the author mention The Last Dance in the passage
A. To prove a theory.　　　B. To define a concept.
C. To develop the theme.　　　D. To provide the background.
4. The underlined part “leaving behind the layer” in Paragraph 8 can be understood as 　　　.
A. letting go of the past　　　B. looking for a new job
C. getting rid of a bad habit　　　D. giving up an opportunity
5. What does the author most likely want to tell us
A. Love of family helps us survive great hardships.
B. It's not the end of the world if we break things.
C. We should move on no matter what happens.
D. Past experiences should be treasured.
Passage 5 (2020天津第二次,D) 主题 完善自我
After years of observing human nature, I have decided that two qualities make the difference between men of great achievement and men of average performance, curiosity and discontent. I have never known an outstanding man who lacked either. And I have never known an average man who had both. The two belong together.
Together, these deep human urges(驱策力) count for much more than ambition. Galileo was not merely ambitious when he dropped objects of varying weights from the Leaning Tower at Pisa and timed their fall to the ground. Like Galileo, all the great names in history were curious and asked in discontent, “Why Why Why ”
Fortunately, curiosity and discontent don't have to be learned. We are born with them and need only recapture them.
“The great man,” said Mencius(孟子), “is he who does not lose his child's heart.” Yet most of us do lose it. We stop asking questions. We stop challenging custom. We just follow the crowd. And the crowd desires only the calm and restful average. It encourages us to occupy our own little corner, to avoid foolish leaps into the dark, to be satisfied.
Most of us meet new people, and new ideas, with hesitation. But once having met and liked them, we think how terrible it would have been, had we missed the chance. We will probably have to force ourselves to waken our curiosity and discontent and keep them awake.
How should you start Modestly, so as not to become discouraged. I think of one friend who couldn't arrange flowers to satisfy herself. She was curious about how the experts did it. Now she is one of the experts, writing books on flower arrangement.
One way to begin is to answer your own excuses. You haven't any special ability Most people don't; there are only a few geniuses. You haven't any time That's good, because it's always the people with no time who get things done. Harriet Stowe, mother of six, wrote parts of Uncle Tom's Cabin while cooking. You're too old Remember that Thomas Costain was 57 when he published his first novel, and that Grandma Moses showed her first pictures when she was 78.
However you start, remember there is no better time to start than right now, for you'll never be more alive than you are at this moment.
1. In writing Paragraph 1, the author aims to 　　　.
A. propose a definition　　B. make a comparison　　
C. reach a conclusion　　 D. present an argument
2. What does the example of Galileo tell us
A. Trial and error leads to the finding of truth.
B. Scientists tend to be curious and ambitious.
C. Creativity results from challenging authority.
D. Greatness comes from a lasting desire to explore.
3. What can you do to recapture curiosity and discontent
A. Observe the unknown around you.　　　B. Develop a questioning mind.
C. Lead a life of adventure.　　　D. Follow the fashion.
4. What can we learn from Paragraphs 6 and 7
A. Gaining success helps you become an expert.
B. The genius tends to get things done creatively.
C. Lack of talent and time is no reason for taking no action.
D. You should remain modest when approaching perfection.
5. What could be the best title for the passage
A. Curious Minds Never Feel Contented　　　B. Reflections on Human Nature
C. The Keys to Achievement　　　D. Never Too Late to Learn
其他卷加练
Passage 1(2025全国一,D) 主题 人与环境
Microplastics have become a common source of pollution across the Earth—they have settled in the deep sea and on the Himalayas, stuck inside volcanic rocks, filled the stomachs of seabirds and even fallen in fresh Antarctic snow. They are even appearing inside humans.
Now, new research suggests that a simple, cheap measure may significantly reduce the level of microplastics in water from your tap(水龙头): boiling and filtering(过滤) it. In a study published Wednesday in Environmental Science & Technology Letters, researchers from China found that boiling tap water for just five minutes—then filtering it after it cools—could remove at least 80 percent of its microplastics.
Crucially, this process relies on the water containing enough calcium carbonate(碳酸钙) to trap the plastics. In the study, boiling hard water containing 300 milligrams of calcium carbonate led to an almost 90 percent drop in plastics. But in samples with less than 60 milligrams of calcium carbonate, boiling reduced the level of plastics by just 25 percent. Additionally, the research didn't include all types of plastics. The team focused only on three common types—polystyrene, polyethylene and polypropylene—and they didn't study other chemicals previously found in water such as vinyl chloride.
Still, the findings show a potential path forward for reducing microplastic exposure—a task that's becoming increasingly difficult. Even bottled water, scientists found earlier this year, contains 10 to 1,000 times more microplastics than originally thought.
Scientists are still trying to determine how harmful microplastics are—but what they do know has raised concerns. The new study suggests boiling tap water could be a tool to limit intake. “The way they demonstrated how microplastics were trapped through the boiling process was nice,” Caroline Gauchotte-Lindsay, an environmental engineer at the University of Glasgow in Scotland who was not involved in the research, tells New Scientist. “We should be looking into upgrading drinking water treatment plants so they remove microplastics.”
1. How does the author present the issue in the first paragraph
A. By quoting an expert.　　　B. By defining a concept.
C. By giving examples.　　　D. By providing statistics.
2. What determines the effectiveness of trapping microplastics in water
A. The hardness of water.　　　B. The length of cooling time.
C. The frequency of filtering.　　　D. The type of plastic in water.
3. What does the author try to illustrate by mentioning bottled water in paragraph 4
A. The importance of plastic recycling.　　　B. The severity of the microplastic problem.
C. The danger in overusing pure water.　　　D. The difficulty in treating polluted water.
4. What is Gauchotte-Lindsay's suggestion about
A. Choice of new research methods.　　　B. Possible direction for further study.
C. Need to involve more researchers.　　　D. Potential application of the findings.
Passage 2(2024新课标Ⅱ,D) 主题 社会热点问题
Given the astonishing potential of AI to transform our lives, we all need to take action to deal with our AI-powered future, and this is where AI by Design: A Plan for Living with Artificial Intelligence comes in. This absorbing new book by Catriona Campbell is a practical roadmap addressing the challenges posed by the forthcoming AI revolution(变革).
In the wrong hands, such a book could prove as complicated to process as the computer code(代码) that powers AI but, thankfully, Campbell has more than two decades' professional experience translating the heady into the understandable. She writes from the practical angle of a business person rather than as an academic, making for a guide which is highly accessible and informative and which, by the close, will make you feel almost as smart as AI.
As we soon come to learn from AI by Design, AI is already super-smart and will become more capable, moving from the current generation of “narrow-AI” to Artificial General Intelligence. From there, Campbell says, will come Artificial Dominant Intelligence. This is why Campbell has set out to raise awareness of AI and its future now—several decades before these developments are expected to take place. She says it is essential that we keep control of artificial intelligence, or risk being sidelined and perhaps even worse.
Campbell's point is to wake up those responsible for AI—the technology companies and world leaders—so they are on the same page as all the experts currently developing it. She explains we are at a “tipping point” in history and must act now to prevent an extinction-level event for humanity. We need to consider how we want our future with AI to pan out. Such structured thinking, followed by global regulation, will enable us to achieve greatness rather than our downfall.
AI will affect us all, and if you only read one book on the subject, this is it.
1. What does the phrase “In the wrong hands” in paragraph 2 probably mean 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　
A. If read by someone poorly educated. 　　　B. If reviewed by someone ill-intentioned.
C. If written by someone less competent. 　　　D. If translated by someone unacademic.
2. What is a feature of AI by Design according to the text
A. It is packed with complex codes.　　　B. It adopts a down-to-earth writing style.
C. It provides step-by-step instructions.　　　D. It is intended for AI professionals.
3. What does Campbell urge people to do regarding AI development
A. Observe existing regulations on it.　　　
B. Reconsider expert opinions about it.
C. Make joint efforts to keep it under control.　　　
D. Learn from prior experience to slow it down.
4. What is the author's purpose in writing the text
A. To recommend a book on AI.　　　B. To give a brief account of AI history.
C. To clarify the definition of AI.　　　D. To honor an outstanding AI expert.
三年模拟
考点基础练
Passage 1(2025天津南开中学开学考,B) 主题 认识自我、丰富自我、完善自我
Weeks before, Mrs. Spica had assigned an essay about what we would like to be when we grew up. The paper had to be based on an interview with someone of that profession. As she explained the project, I was thinking about my future. I dreamed of being a teacher, a psychologist, or a mailman. “Anthony,” Mrs. Spica said, interrupting my daydreams, “I already got someone for you to interview.” She handed me a piece of paper. “He will give you insight into what it means to be a writer.” I was confused by what had occurred.
I remembered when I was a kid, I began a lifelong love affair with books. Each week, I would come home with a book different from the one in the library. I would soon begin to write my own. I was shy and introverted, and I never showed anyone my work. So, when Mrs. Spica asked us to write a short story based on a book that we recently read, I was nervous. My writings were personal. Now, I had to expose my works to others, and my creations would be judged and graded. I felt uneasy.
However, I pushed through my discomfort and wrote a story. I was unsure if I was any good, but I got an A+ with a note saying “Have you ever thought about being a writer You have so much potential.” In general, I am poor at receiving feedback. If it is negative, I end up feeling discouraged. If it is positive, I dismiss the comments as incorrect. So when Mrs. Spica told me all those encouraging words, I could not compute. Then, when the dream job assignment rolled around, she put her encouraging words into action. Somehow, she found a way for me to connect with one of my favorite authors. All I had to do was call him at the appointed time.
I felt my heartbeat quicken as I heard the voice on the other line. We spent the next hour talking about the author's inspiration for his books, my deep appreciation and tips for improving my writing, but I remember nothing in details. What I do remember is to continue writing.
1. What was the essay assigned by Mrs. Spica about
A. A famous person's life.　　　B. Skills of writing stories.
C. An interview with a writer.　　　D. The student's dream job.
2. Anthony felt worried when asked to write a story, because 　　　.
A. he would not expect his works to be evaluated or known by others
B. he didn't have much potential to write any good works
C. he could not finish his teacher's difficult assignment on time
D. he just wanted to read as many books as possible but not to write
3. How did Anthony feel after getting the feedback from Mrs. Spica
A. Uncertain.　　　B. Proud.　　　C. Confident.　　　D. Unconcerned.
4. How did the conversation with his favorite author affect Anthony
A. He noted down detailed tips to improve his writing.
B. He realized the importance of reading more books.
C. He decided to continue writing despite his doubts.
D. He became interested in interviewing more people.
5. What is the main message Anthony conveys about his experience with writing
A. Patience awakes passion.　　　B. Challenge motivates ambition.
C. Encouragement brings confidence.　　　D. Communication promotes understanding.
Passage 2(2025天津十二区重点学校联考二,B) 主题 正确的人生态度
　　A few years ago, we bought a model Lego (乐高) set of the Taj Mahal (泰姬陵) for my dad's birthday, hoping to combine his love for architecture with family time as our lives grew busier.
　　Each evening, my dad and I gathered around the large dining table to plan our line of attack. We faced thousands of tiny white pieces, each packaged with accuracy in numbered plastic bags, accompanied by a thick instruction booklet.
　　The evenings passed quickly, and the building rose before our eyes. We could see our efforts coming to fruition, and as we turned to the tedious (乏味的) task of ordering the colored tiles (地砖) on the building's floor, our conversation also took a turn.
　　We were struck by the similarities—and differences—between Lego blocks and life.
　　We were amazed by how complex the model was and its instruction booklet. We realized the booklet itself was a work of art, beautiful, but also surprisingly detailed and clear. It provided us with the comfort of certainty. We knew if we followed all the instructions, we would end up with a model that looked exactly like the picture on the box. If we made a mistake, all we had to do was retrace our steps, flip back the pages and start again.
　　Life, however, does not fit together so neatly and rarely provides us with such clear instructions. We talked over our respective lives, decisions made, and actions and choices never taken. Dad reflected on a life well lived, and I, in my mid-thirties, on the uncertain path that lay ahead.
　　Here, we were the expert architects doing the assembling (组装), but out in the world, we were the ones being assembled. We think we're in control, but our choices are shaped by forces beyond our control. In the face of uncertainty, we have to continue, trusting both in the process and the end result.
　　Sometimes, on the days I return home, I go to the spare room to look at the completed Lego model, which brings forth a sense of happiness and comfort. It reminds me that life is built slowly, with mistakes, an element of uncertainty and no instruction book. It shows that consideration, warmth and faith will result in a life well lived. Like the now dusty replica (复制品), life itself is not about what we materially create or leave behind, but rather how we live it.
1. Why did the author buy the Lego Taj Mahal set
A. To explore architectural designs. 　　　B. To release pressure from busy work.
C. To celebrate the father's birthday. 　　　D. To teach children about history.
2. Which of the following best describes the author's experience building the Lego set
A. Simple and tedious. 　　　B. Creative and enjoyable.
C. Complex and rewarding. 　　　D. Challenging and frustrating.
3. What life lesson does the author draw from assembling the Lego model
A. Mistakes in life can always be corrected timely.
B. Life's uncertainties make it much more exciting.
C. Life requires careful planning as well as adjustment.
D. Life's uncontrollable nature should be embraced.
4. What does the completed Lego model symbolize for the author
A. The pleasure of family bonding. 　　　B. The journey of living one's life.
C. The value of hard work in life. 　　　D. The achievement of life goals.
5. What is the author's purpose of writing the passage
A. To compare assembling Lego blocks to handling life.
B. To describe the process of building a Lego model.
C. To reflect on the importance of family interaction.
D. To discuss the challenges of following instructions.
Passage 3(2025天津河西质量调查一,C) 主题 科技发展
Brain-computer interfaces(BCIs)(脑机接口) are no longer just a concept from science-fiction novels. They are rapidly evolving technologies that establish a direct communication pathway between the human brain and external devices. By detecting and interpreting the electrical signals generated by the brain, BCIs hold the potential to revolutionize various aspects of our lives.
At the core of BCIs is the ability to measure brain activity. Electroencephalography(EEG)(脑电图) is one of the most commonly used methods. EEG devices consist of electrodes(电极) placed on the scalp(头皮), which pick up the tiny electrical signals produced by neurons in the brain. These signals can be classified into different types, such as alpha, beta, theta, and gamma waves, each associated with specific mental states like relaxation, concentration, or sleep.
One of the most promising applications of BCIs is in the field of healthcare. For patients with severe motor disabilities,such as those suffering from spinal cord injuries or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis(ALS)(肌萎缩性脊髓侧索硬化症), BCIs offer a new way to communicate and interact with the world. By simply thinking about a movement, patients can control external devices like robotic arms or wheelchairs, restoring a degree of independence that was previously out of reach.
In the field of gaming and entertainment, BCIs are also making waves. Imagine being able to control a character in a video game just by thinking about the actions you want it to perform. This not only provides a more immersive(沉浸式的) gaming experience but also opens up new possibilities for game developers to create innovative gameplay mechanics.
However, the development and widespread adoption of BCIs are not without challenges. One major difficulty is the complexity of interpreting brain signals accurately. The human brain is an incredibly complex organ, and the electrical signals it generates can be influenced by a variety of factors, including emotions, tiredness, and individual differences. Another challenge is the issue of privacy and security. Since BCIs collect highly personal and sensitive information about a person's brain activity, protecting this data from unauthorized access becomes crucial.
Despite these challenges, researchers around the world are actively working to overcome them. New algorithms are being developed to improve the accuracy of signal interpretation, and strict security protocols(协议) are carried out to safeguard user data. As technology continues to advance, it is likely that BCIs will become more accessible, reliable, and user-friendly in the near future.
In conclusion, BCIs represent a concentration of neuroscience and technology. With their potential to transform healthcare, gaming, and many other fields, BCIs are set to play a significant role in shaping the future.
1. How do EEG devices measure brain activity in BCIs
A. By analyzing the chemical composition of neurons.
B. Through electrodes placed on the scalp to pick up electrical signals.
C. By monitoring the blood flow in the brain.
D. Through sensors implanted in the brain to detect neural impulses.
2. In which field can BCIs help patients with severe motor disabilities regain some independence
A. Healthcare.　　　B. Education.　　　C. Manufacturing.　　　D. Transportation.
3. What is one of the challenges in the development of BCIs
A. The inability to detect brain signals.
B. The high cost of manufacturing EEG devices.
C. Difficulty in accurately interpreting complex brain signals.
D. Lack of interest from the scientific community.
4. It can be inferred from the passage that in the future, BCIs will 　　　.
A. remain the technology only used in specific research labs
B. encounter even more unconquerable challenges
C. be widely used in various aspects of life after overcoming challenges
D. replace traditional input devices completely
5. What is the author's main purpose in writing this passage
A. To discuss the moral issues related to BCIs.
B. To compare different types of BCIs.
C. To persuade readers to support BCI research.
D. To introduce the concept, applications, and challenges of BCIs.
Passage 4(2025天津河北质量检测一,C) 主题 认识自我、丰富自我、完善自我
A recent study published in the journal Social Psychological and Personality Science offers new findings about why people take different types of photos. The research reveals that individuals use first-person photography—capturing a scene from their own perspective—primarily to document a physical experience. In contrast, they opt for third-person photos, such as selfies where they are visible in the frame, to convey the deeper meaning of an event and to immerse viewers in the scene. This distinction is crucial for understanding the psychology behind photo-taking.
Earlier studies on selfies primarily focused on how individuals present themselves to others, often emphasizing the role of the self-image and social media. However, this new research shifts the focus to why people capture memories, emphasizing the different goals behind their photo-taking choices. According to Zachary Niese, a psychologist at the University of Tübingen in Germany and co-author of the study, “Our findings show that people take both types of photos in different situations, depending on whether their goal is to capture the physical experience of the moment or its broader significance in their life.”
The study, which included six experiments with over 2,100 participants, found that when the goal is to capture meaning, individuals are more likely to take selfies. They also tend to find greater meaning in third-person photos than in first-person ones. This suggests that the chosen perspective can significantly affect how meaningful a photo feels to the viewer.
Interestingly, people tend to prefer their photos when the perspective aligns(使一致) with their initial purpose of taking them. Niese adds, “Although taking photos is often ridiculed in popular culture, personal photography can help individuals reconnect with past experiences and shape their self-narratives.” The researchers caution against assuming that one perspective is inherently better than the other. Instead, the most effective choice depends on the individual's goal at the moment—whether it's to capture a physical experience, like touring a museum, or the deeper meaning of an event, such as a wedding or graduation.
This study emphasizes the complex relationship between photography and personal memory, showing how our intentions shape the way we document and revisit our experiences. By recognising the different purposes of photo-taking, we can better appreciate photography's role in our lives—as both a form of self-expression and a tool for preserving memories.
1. What does the new research focus on
A. The psychology of photo-taking choices.
B. The advantages of first-person photography.
C. The cultural factors influencing photo choices.
D. The way people record their memories through photos.
2. According to Niese, why do people primarily take personal photos
A. To capture the feeling of the moment.　　　B. To boost people's self-confidence.
C. To enhance one's public image.　　　D. To document everyday life.
3. Why does the author mention “a wedding or graduation” in Paragraph 4
A. To highlight the popularity of selfies.
B. To criticize third-person photos at important events.
C. To suggest first-person photos are unsuitable for such events.
D. To explain why third-person photos convey significant moments.
4. What conclusion can be drawn from the last paragraph
A. The purpose of photo-taking shapes its value.　　　B. Photography captures physical experiences.
C. Photo-taking is mainly for self-presentation.　　　D. Photography has little effect on memory recall.
Passage 5(2025天津红桥一模,C) 主题 科技发展
Robots in the art world are nothing new. In fact, for centuries, people have built robots as art objects, beginning with automatons(自动机器)—or simple machines that perform a series of movements—in ancient China and Japan. However, what's different now is that artists and engineers are building robots that actually create art.
In the early 1970s, British-born painter Harold Cohen wrote a computer program and called it AARON. At first, AARON only made simple outlines whose color and details Cohen would later add. Fifty years later, AARON is able to paint people, landscapes and just about anything else a human could paint. So can AARON be called an artist or creative In 2010, Cohen addressed these questions. He explained, “Although I wrote the initial computer code that AARON follows, AARON can generate unlimited numbers of images.” So according to Cohen, the simple answer is yes—AARON is creative.
It's not just paintings that robots are creating, though. In 2020, a robot called Shimon released its first album on Spotify. Shimon began life as a simple robot marimba player. Over the years, however, it's learned how to jam, with other musicians, write original songs and compose lyrics. Shimon did this by analyzing huge amounts of music—roughly 50,000 rock, jazz and hip-hop songs.
It may be cool to hear a song created by a robot, but is there any other reason to build robots that can play music According to Gil Weinberg, one of Shimon's creators, because the robot is capable of doing things that a real musician might not think of, he and his team “hope and believe that these new abilities would push human cooperators to new uncharted directions that could not be achieved in human-to-human cooperation.”
While questions about robots creating art are fun to think about, there are many other ways that robots can help artists in the way they create their works. For example, advancements in 3D-printing technology will allow artists to build more complex pieces for their sculptures.
1. What was AARON able to do at first
A. Paint people and landscapes.　　　B. Prepare basic outlines for Cohen.
C. Draw pictures of itself and Cohen.　　　D. Color paintings under Cohen's instructions.
2. What might be the biggest challenge of creating songs by a robot
A. Analyzing huge amounts of music.
B. Composing lyrics.
C. Playing the guitar.
D. Developing new ability to take new uncharted directions.
3. What does the passage tell us about Shimon
A. It is both a marimba and guitar player.
B. It has created about 50,000 original songs.
C. It is expected to push humans to achieve more.
D. Its creators hope that it can outperform humans.
4. What does the author's attitude towards robots that create art
A. Positive.　　　B. Worried.　　　C. Neutral.　　　D. Doubtful.
5. What could be the best title for the passage
A. AARON and Shimon: Robots in Art
B. The Evolution of Robotics in the Real World
C. Programmed Creativity: Robots Redefining Art
D. How 3D-printing is Revolutionizing Art
Passage 6(2025天津河东一模,D) 主题 社会热点问题
There's a popular saying that if only one voice is allowed to exist, then that one voice must be a lie. This quote couldn't be more relevant now, as many businesses and platforms are using shady practices to silence negative feedback and ensure only those voices benefiting them remain. This practice is so-called “artificial review boosting”, and has been influencing objectivity in reviews ever since.
Its origin dates back to the 20th century when businesses would hand out free samples to obtain a better reputation. However, the practice rises to a new extreme with the emergence of e-commerce platforms. Many online businesses do whatever it takes to ensure high-rating scores, either through giving bonuses and rewards to customers who leave a good review or through bothering and threatening those who leave a negative one. This behavior is not only morally corrupt but also illegal, and it is absurd that many consumers feel they can't leave negative feedback out of fear that businesses will cause troubles.
It's apparent that this problem is getting out of hand, but how can we fix it Regulator intervention would certainly help. There should be a tougher crackdown on illegal practices, and e-commerce platforms should be required to protect the privacy of their users. Nevertheless, this is just a small part of the changes needed, as the rating system as a whole needs restructuring, because this system rewards dishonest sellers rather than those selling quality products, and e-commerce platforms,with their profits unaffected, turn a blind eye to its faults.
Against all odds, honest feedback has persisted and people who voice their true opinions still exist, but they are becoming rarer. There's an old saying that if you put a frog in boiling water, it will leap out, but if you cook the frog slowly in warm water, it won't notice being cooked alive. We consumers are just like frogs—it's easy for us to fight together against terrible acts robbing our freedom, but we often ignore when the same freedom is gradually taken from us. There will be no grand coup de gr ce(致命一击) that ends honest panies will just let it fade away slowly but we mustn't allow that to happen because consumers play a more important role in keeping honest feedback.
1. Why does the author quote a saying in the first paragraph
A. To define artificial review boosting.
B. To praise businesses and platforms.
C. To lead in the discussion of a social phenomenon.
D. To contrast negative feedback and positive feedback.
2. How did businesses ensure a good reputation in the 20th century
A. By giving coupons.　　　B. By rewarding customers.
C. By threatening customers.　　　D. By giving samples away.
3. Which of the following practices is mentioned as a way businesses use to boost their reviews artificially
A. Giving rewards to customers who leave positive reviews.
B. Providing quality customer service to gain a better reputation.
C. Running advertising campaigns to increase visibility.
D. Offering discounts to frequent customers.
4. Who plays the most important role in keeping honest feedback according to the passage
A. The regulator.　　　B. E-commerce platforms.
C. Sellers.　　　D. Consumers.
5. What's the author's attitude toward “artificial review boosting”
A. Supportive.　　　B. Skeptical.　　　C. Negative.　　　D. Neutral.
综合提升练
Passage 7(2025天津和平质量调查二,C) 主题 营销理念
　　“If it ain't broke, don't fix it.” Coca-Cola learned this hard lesson in 1985 when they introduced “New Coke”, a decision that nearly alienated (疏远,使敌对) its loyal customer base.
　　During the 1970s, Pepsi gained market share despite Coca-Cola remaining the world's best-selling soft drink. Pepsi's success was partly due to the “Pepsi Challenge” campaign, where blind taste tests showed many consumers preferred Pepsi's flavor. This led Coca-Cola executives to believe their soda's taste, not Pepsi's marketing, was responsible for the decline in market share. To counter this, they developed a new, sweeter formula that resembled Pepsi.
　　On April 23, 1985, Coca-Cola chairman Roberto Goizueta announced New Coke, discontinuing the company's 99-year-old classic formula. However, the decision backfired spectacularly (引人注目地). Loyal Coca-Cola fans were boiling. The company received 5,000 angry phone calls a day, and protests broke out, with people pouring New Coke into sewer drains (下水道排水口). One consumer wrote, “I don't think I'd be more upset if you were to burn the flag in our front yard.”
　　Coca-Cola executives were caught off guard by the public anger. Their decision had been backed by 190,000 blind taste tests, which indicated consumers preferred the new formula. However, they underestimated the emotional attachment people had to the original Coke. They never asked how consumers would feel if the new recipe completely replaced the old one.
　　Just 79 days later, Coca-Cola held another press conference to announce the return of the original formula, now rebranded as “Coca-Cola Classic”. Goizueta admitted, “Our boss is the consumer.” Coca-Cola Classic quickly outsold New Coke, and within a few months, it regained its position as the top-selling cola, surpassing Pepsi. Surprisingly, the company's market position improved, as consumers reaffirmed their loyalty to the original Coca-Cola brand.
　　Reflecting on the incident, Goizueta acknowledged that no amount of consumer research could capture the emotional bond people had with the original Coca-Cola. “All the time and money and skill heavily poured into consumer research on the new Coca-Cola could not measure the deep emotional attachment to original Coca-Cola felt by so many people.” Some even speculated (猜测) that the disaster had been a deliberate marketing trick. Goizueta denied this, saying, “The truth is that we're not that dumb (愚蠢的) and we're not that smart.”
　　Ultimately, Coca-Cola learned that data and taste tests cannot always replace brand loyalty, especially with a product so tied to consumer identity. New Coke's failure demonstrated the risks of trying to “fix” something that wasn't broken in the first place.
1. What was the main reason for Coca-Cola introducing New Coke in 1985
A. To respond to customer complaints about the original formula.
B. To compete with Pepsi after declining market share.
C. To create a healthier beverage option for consumers.
D. To celebrate the company's 100th anniversary.
2. How did Coca-Cola consumers initially react to the introduction of New Coke
A. They were indifferent and did not care about the change.
B. They welcomed the new formula and praised the company.
C. They were angry and expressed their anger through protests.
D. They preferred New Coke over the original one immediately.
3. What did Roberto Goizueta learn from the New Coke incident
A. They shouldn't have done so few flavor tests.
B. Product development doesn't necessarily increase market share.
C. Brand loyalty cannot be measured through tests and data.
D. Marketing tricks are effective in regaining consumer trust.
4. What was the outcome of Coca-Cola's decision of the original formula's return
A. Coca-Cola Classic quickly outsold New Coke and regained market leadership.
B. Financial losses increased as consumers rejected the original one.
C. The new Coke formula remained more popular than the Classic.
D. Pepsi became the top-selling cola brand permanently.
5. The author's main focus in writing this passage is to 　　　.
A. highlight Coca-Cola's recovery from the New Coke failure
B. criticize Coca-Cola's decision-making process
C. discuss the emotional bond consumers have with brands
D. compare and contrast Coca-Cola's and Pepsi's market strategies
Passage 8(2025天津南开“三月高考”,D) 主题 社会热点问题
It's probably not hard for many of us to come up with specific moments that felt joyful. But the question of whether we're happy overall is much more complex. It involves weighing many factors in our lives, good and bad. And in that sense, many people—especially teens and young adults—seem unhappier than ever.
Young people, especially those in the United States, just aren't as happy as they were 10 or 15 years ago. That's according to the World Happiness Report 2024, published by the University of Oxford in England. This annual report is based on surveys that ask people around the globe how satisfied they are with their lives. Participants also answer questions about their positive and negative emotions from the day before the survey. Good feelings include things like laughter, enjoyment and how interested a person was in the activities they did. Negative emotions focus on sadness, anger and worry. The researchers who compile(编写) these reports look at how different emotions affect people's life satisfaction.
The first report, released in 2012, used survey data from 2006 to 2010. With nearly two decades of data, scientists can now begin to track happiness trends for people of different ages or generations. It used to be that middle-aged adults were the least happy age group. But the 2024 report flipped(翻转) that on its head:Teens in the United States are now the unhappiest group. In 2006 to 2010, young people's reported happiness levels were about 7.3 on a scale from 0 to 10. In the most recent survey they were just 6.4. That drop put young people in the United States at a rank of 62 in terms of happiness, among 143 countries. Older Americans ranked in the top 10.
That changed in 2012. That's when happiness levels began to drop, according to data from Monitoring the Future. This long-term study follows more than 1 million U.S. teens to learn about their behaviors and emotional states as they grow into adulthood. It measures happiness on a scale from 1(unhappiest) to 3(happiest). Throughout the 2000s, high-school seniors showed average happiness levels around 2.09. But by 2016, that figure had dipped to 2.04. Eighth graders had a larger drop, from an average of about 2.06 to 1.98.
What triggered(触发) that ongoing slide in happiness levels It's likely that the drop was tied to smartphone and Internet use, reports Jean M. Twenge, a psychologist at San Diego State University in California. The problem with being online more isn't just cyberbullying or other negative online interactions. Rather, the more time teens spend online, the lonelier they feel, Twenge has found.
1. In writing Paragraph 1, the author aims to 　　　.
A. present an argument　　　B. make a comparison
C. raise a question　　　D. propose a definition
2. What can we learn from Paragraph 2
A. Young people are the unhappiest in the United States.
B. The World Happiness Report 2024 was issued by the U.S.
C. The World Happiness Report shows how satisfied people are with their lives.
D. Researchers believe that young people 10 or 15 years ago were not happy.
3. What could be inferred from Paragraph 3
A. The first report is based on nearly 20 years of survey data.
B. Young Americans now live in poor conditions.
C. Middle-aged Americans used to be the happiest age group.
D. Older people in the United States might be the happiest now.
4. What is the author's purpose in writing Paragraph 4
A. To point out when the happiness levels of American teens began to decline.
B. To provide specific data on the happiness levels of American teens.
C. To help readers understand the levels of happiness among American teenagers.
D. To share data on the happiness levels of American teenagers.
5. What conclusion can we draw from the passage
A. American teenagers are glued to their phones and the Internet.
B. Cyberbullying is a leading cause of unhappiness among American teens.
C. Negative online interactions triggered the ongoing slide in happiness levels.
D. The amount of time spent online is related to the happiness level of U.S. teens.
Passage 9(2025天津和平质量调查一,D) 主题 社会热点问题
Economists tend to be big fans of education. Alfred Marshall, writing in 1873, hoped that education would help erase the “distinction between working men and gentlemen”. Gary Becker of the University of Chicago reimagined education as an investment in “human capital” that would produce returns in the market similar to other assets.
But economics can also be severely critical of schooling. In Social Limits to Growth, a book published in 1976, Fred Hirsch pointed out that education is often “positional” in nature. What matters is not only how much you have, but whether you have more than the next person. An unhappy consequence is that one family's expenses of schooling raise the bar for everyone else. Families are drawn, often unconsciously, into educational arms races. They spend money and time on after-school tutoring or extra-curricular activities in the expectation that it will improve their child's position in the queue for advancement. But they quickly discover that everyone else is doing the same, leaving them in the same position as before. “If everyone stands on tiptoe, no one sees better,” Hirsch noted.
These arms races are often particularly intense in East Asia. The government of South Korea has tried to ease the races. For example, it imposed a 10 p.m. curfew(宵禁) on cram schools(补习学校). Inspectors would look for schools with their lights on. Will these measures work It is almost impossible to stop families hiring private tutors to teach their children in their own homes.
The arms race is notably less intense in parts of Europe. In Norway and Sweden parents show little demand for tutoring—the wealthy even less than others, according to Steve Enrich of the University of Potsdam. And overeducation is less common in Germany and other countries that sort children early into academic or vocational(职业的) schools, with little mobility between the two. For better or worse, that removes large numbers of students from the race for more academic honors.
Germany's practice of placing children on different tracks at an early age also invites an interesting thought experiment. What if college entrance tests were held earlier in a pupil's career If these exams truly test the knowledge required for university, they must be held just before university starts. But if such tests mostly serve as filters, selecting better students from worse, they need not be held so late. An earlier test would save families a year or two of costly cramming, shortening “the obstacle journey”, as Hirsch put it, without much changing the results.
1. What viewpoint is Gary Becker likely to agree with according to Paragraph 1
A. Education generates financial returns in the market.
B. Education leads to the widening of class differences.
C. Education plays a vital role in a person's growth.
D. Education promotes progress toward social equality.
2. Why do we say that one family's expenses of schooling raise the bar for everyone else
A. Because it improves standards, making others follow suit.
B. Because it sets up barriers, making it harder for others to reach the same level.
C. Because it provides a model, forcing others to spend even more.
D. Because it limits the range of educational resources, forcing others to give up.
3. Why does the author mention East Asia and parts of Europe
A. To assess educational competitiveness across regions.
B. To highlight the impact of private tutoring on education.
C. To contrast educational arms races in different areas.
D. To analyze strategies for lessening academic pressure.
4. What is the purpose of writing the article
A. To introduce economic concepts to offer insights into educational problems.
B. To discuss the economic impact on education among different countries.
C. To explore the nature and consequences of education competition.
D. To compare educational practices between East Asia and Europe.
5. What can be inferred about the author's attitude towards the overeducation issue
A. The author believes that overeducation does not greatly change the results.
B. The author believes that examinations are the cause of overeducation.
C. The author advocates that we should learn from the European countries.
D. The author suggests removing large numbers of students from the race.
Passage 10(2025天津河北质量检测二,D) 主题 完善自我
　　Ancient Greek philosopher Socrates famously declared that the unexamined life wasn't worth living for a human being, implying that we should attempt to know ourselves, to think through our actions, choices, prejudices, and attitudes. But when it comes to thinking about our own happiness and what makes our lives go well, it really does seem that this reflective attitude can ruin our chances of finding what we seek. For instance, constantly overthinking our social interactions or obsessing over minor details at work can lead to missed opportunities and increased anxiety. Perhaps, in our quest for self-improvement, we need to achieve harmony between reflection and action.
　　Perhaps it's not surprising that we are better designed for engaging in other activities than reflecting on how best to achieve our own happiness and well-being. Doing things that enhance our growth in physical, social, and intellectual areas tends to bring the reward of feeling good, and so stimulates us further to pursue those activities. Sitting around reflecting on what will make us happy is a lot less efficient than chasing the things that make us happy. If we think too much, there is an opportunity cost—time that we could have spent on a worthwhile activity has gone while we were thinking deeply about the best way to develop.
　　The philosopher David has explored the role of reflective thinking in sports, and his observations offer valuable insights. He notes that while athletes must think about the basic actions they perform, overthinking the mechanics of those actions can be counterproductive. For instance, a footballer needs to focus on kicking the ball low and hard to the left of the goalkeeper, but not on the minute movements of the legs and feet that produce the desired outcome. Overthinking often leads to a poorer performance; instead, an automatic response to the situation is required. This is because the human mind and body are designed to work in harmony when engaged in activities, and overthinking disrupts this natural flow.
　　A similar dynamic could also be operating in our lives. Individuals who start detailed programs of self-development in various dimensions, focusing on diet, habits, exercise, mental activity, work output, and so on, are like the footballer overthinking their development. Their well-intentioned self-reflection might actually prevent them from achieving a high level of fulfillment. Sometimes, it is better to engage in activities wholeheartedly rather than constantly analyzing every aspect of our lives. After all, happiness may be found more easily through action than through endless contemplation.
　　As we know, the path to fulfillment, then, may lie not in relentless self-dissection, but in the courage to act—even imperfectly—while allowing reflection to guide, not govern, our lives.
1. By citing Socrates in Paragraph 1, the author primarily intends to 　　　.
A. show the history of self-examination　　　B. compare ancient and modern views
C. criticize philosophical traditions　　　D. introduce the topic of reflection
2. What may cause an opportunity cost according to the passage
A. Spending time on worthy activities.　　　B. Focusing on efficient physical exercises.
C. Spending too much time on self-reflection.　　　D. Participating actively in social interactions.
3. Why does the author mention David's observations
A. To praise a wise philosopher.　　　B. To show overthinking effects.
C. To teach readers football skills.　　　D. To argue for reflective thinking.
4. The author believes happiness is primarily achieved by 　　　.
A. recording every life detail for analysis　　　
B. balancing action with timely reflection
C. studying happiness theories extensively　　　
D. following self-improvement checklists strictly
5. How does the author develop this passage
A. By using numbers and test results.
B. By telling stories from his own life.
C. By comparing old and new ideas about thinking.
D. By giving examples from sports and philosophy.
6. What does the passage mainly tell us
A. Thinking deeply guarantees success.
B. Philosophers misunderstand human nature.
C. Overthinking may prevent self-improvement.
D. Physical activities outweigh mental exercises.
Passage 11(2024天津河北质量检测一,C) 主题 自然科学研究成果
Every year, millions of monarch butterflies migrate 3,000 miles to Mexico from North America. “Everybody knows about the monarchs' migration,” says Andy Davis, an animal ecologist at the University of Georgia. “But one of the things that we still don't understand is how they're capable of making such tremendous flight while being such small animals with limited energy.” Amazingly, some of the monarch's continent-spanning magic may be owed to the size of its wing spot, according to a study published in PLOS One.
The question of how color influences the monarch's flight began when Mostafa Hassanalian, a professor of mechanical engineering, published a paper about how the colors on the wings of the albatross(信天翁) might help it fly for longer distances. The black on the top of the bird's wings absorbs more solar energy, creating a pocket of warm air; the white on the bottom absorbs less. Together, the opposite colors create more lift and less drag, helping the albatross to fly up more efficiently.
Motivated by Hassanalian's paper, Andy Davis contacted him and they teamed up with three other experts to investigate whether the orange, black, and white patterns on North American monarch butterflies' wings influenced their flight distance. Specifically, they explored whether these color patterns determined how far the butterflies could fly. They discovered that surviving migratory monarchs had 3% less black pigment (色素) and 3% more white pigment, a surprising contrast from the albatross. They also observed larger white spots on Eastern monarchs, which migrate farther than Western and Floridian populations, along with deeper shades of orange. The team assumed that these color patterns might offer an aerodynamic(空气动力学的) advantage, although the reason for the larger white spots remains unknown.
Should the connection between white markings and flight performance prove true, they would plan to apply it to drone technology. “If small coloration(自然色彩) effects can improve like 10% of your efficiency, that's a lot,” Hassanalian says. “Another aspect is that your drone would be able to carry more, because this coloration helps it gain extra lift.” The enhancement could also benefit other aircraft, but he points out one warning: planes fly at a much faster speed than butterflies, so coloration may not be as relevant to them.
Other butterfly scientists have reacted to their work with both enthusiasm and skepticism. “It is a totally new idea and it's quite exciting,” says Marcus Kronforst, an evolutionary biologist. “I've worked on butterfly color patterns my whole life, basically, and never, never considered this. It's never crossed my mind that it might influence how the butterflies fly.”
1. According to Andy Davis, what remains a mystery of the monarchs' migration
A. How the monarchs manage the migration.　　　
B. Why the monarchs make the migration.
C. Why the monarchs migrate to Mexico.　　　
D. How the monarchs choose the route.
2. Why are the colors on the wings of the albatross mentioned in Paragraph 2
A. To reveal the mechanism of the albatross' flight.
B. To show Hassanalian's achievements in the albatross study.
C. To indicate where Andy Davis drew his inspiration.
D. To introduce common color patterns of the albatross' wings.
3. What assumption can be drawn from Eastern monarchs' color patterns
A. They reduce orange pigment.　　　B. They limit migration distance.
C. They resemble albatross spots.　　　D. They offer extra lift for migration.
4. How did the researchers draw the conclusion
A. By conducting an exp