专题04 阅读理解之说明文（经典易错20题）-【好题汇编】备战2023-2024学年八年级英语下学期期中真题分类汇编（北京专用）

专题04 阅读理解之说明文（经典易错20题） A （21-22八年级下·北京通州·期中） All countries around the world have their ways to celebrate the coming year. Here are some unusual new year traditions around the world that you must know. In Canada, they have an unusual new year tradition known as the Polar Bear Swim. Peter Pantages started this event in 1920 in Vancouver when his friends jumped in the freezing waters of the English Bay. Now, it is held in many places. But why do they do that? Many participants say that it starts off their year right since the icy water clears their heads—a cleansing for the mind and soul. At midnight, people go to the streets and dance to drum beats to welcome the New Year. The London Eye stands in bright colors for the fireworks show at midnight. For hours before the clock strikes 12, people come together to watch shows. The London Eye is lit up each year for New Year’s celebrations. On New Year’s Eve in Venice, Italy, the most popular celebrations are setting off fireworks in the street and the fireworks displays are great ways to send off the old year and welcome the new one. As the clock strikes midnight, the boat parade（游行）begins. People often enjoy a glass of wine on the boat to celebrate the New Year. In Thailand, they have the January New Year’s celebration by exchanging gifts with friends and family members. Then they get together to enjoy a traditional New Year’s Eve rice cake. Thai people also celebrate Songkran, or the Thai New Year in April. The first day in Bangkok, people often have a big water fight because they believe that water washes away bad luck. So throwing water is a sign of well—wishing and respect. 1．When did Peter Pantages start Polar Bear Swim? A．In 1920. B．In 1930. C．In 1940. D．In 1902. 2．Where can people enjoy the boat parade when they celebrate the New Year? A．In Vancouver, Canada. B．In London, Britain. C．In Bangkok, Thailand. D．In Venice, Italy. 3．How do people in Thailand celebrate Thai New Year’s Day in April? A．The