Unit 2 课时跟踪检测(4) 重点题型强化练（word练习）-【新课程学案】新教材2023-2024学年高中英语选择性必修第四册（人教版2019）

UNIT 2 课时跟踪检测（四） 重点题型强化练 Ⅰ.阅读理解 A message stick was a form of ancient and often non-verbal communication that originated in Australia, particularly among Aboriginal people. It consisted of a wooden stick inscribed (刻) with designs and symbols. These objects were relayed by couriers (信使) between various regions and tribes and thus functioned as a means of cross-cultural communication. In modern times, a message stick might still be used for communication purposes, or it might serve as an Aboriginal cultural symbol containing important and significant designs. “Aboriginal” is a term that refers to people who are believed to be the first known in habitants of a region and in this case, it is used to describe several subgroups of native Australians. Each group might have its own unique customs and languages. They were often divided by tribes, so these groups needed a means to communicate. Message sticks were first devised for this purpose. The stick itself was often made of the wood of native Australian trees such as black wattles. Messages were placed on the sticks using a variety of methods, including carving, painting or burning symbols into the wood. The markings usually consisted of wordless symbols that had to be translated by the courier. This messenger was thus usually a physically fit younger man who had the mental sharpness to properly convey message details. Message sticks functioned as a sort of neutral territory between tribes. Couriers were granted safe passage and safe harbor, even if they came from an enemy land. Sometimes, the method of delivery consisted of a single courier carrying a message stick from tribe to tribe. Other methods included one tribe began a passing process amongst tribes, with each tribe using its own courier to convey the message to the next tribe. This object also has survived as part of Australian cultural celebrations. Some schools, for example, design and transport message sticks as a means of learning about the past. In addit