内容正文:
2024-2025学年高一英语单元阅读提升(通用版)
主题05 人与自然:环境保护
主题语境解读
环境保护作为当今社会的重要议题,也经常出现在高中英语阅读材料中。这类主题的阅读材料通常旨在提高学生对环境问题的认识,并引导他们思考如何采取行动来保护环境。高中英语阅读中环境保护主题常包括如下方面:(1)全球变暖与气候变化:阅读材料可能介绍全球变暖的现象、原因(如温室气体排放)以及其对地球生态系统的影响(如海平面上升、极端天气事件增多)。(2)污染问题:包括空气污染、水污染和土壤污染等,阅读材料可能探讨污染物的来源、对环境和人类健康的影响以及减少污染的方法。(3)可持续发展:强调在满足当前人类需求的同时不损害未来世代满足其需求的能力。阅读材料可能介绍可持续发展的原则、实践案例以及个人和社会层面的行动建议。(4)生物多样性保护:关注地球上生物种类的多样性和生态系统的复杂性。阅读材料可能讨论生物多样性丧失的原因、后果以及保护生物多样性的重要性。(5)环保行动与倡议:介绍个人、社区和政府可以采取的环保行动,以及环保组织和倡议在推动环境保护方面的作用。高中英语阅读中的环境保护主题不仅要求学生理解相关知识和信息,还鼓励他们思考如何将这些知识应用于实际生活中,以推动环境保护事业的发展。
相关词句积累
阅读中常见的20个主题举例
1.Preserve Natural Habitats (保护自然栖息地)
Efforts to preserve natural habitats are essential for the survival of various species and the maintenance of ecological balance.(保护自然栖息地的努力对于各种物种的生存和生态平衡的维护至关重要。)
2.Conserve Natural Resources (保护自然资源)
It is crucial to conserve natural resources like water and minerals to ensure sustainable development for future generations.(保护水和矿产等自然资源对于确保子孙后代的可持续发展至关重要。)
3.Promote Sustainable Development (推动可持续发展)
Promoting sustainable development is a global responsibility, balancing economic growth with environmental conservation for a better future.(推动可持续发展是全球责任,平衡经济增长与环境保护,为更美好的未来铺平道路。)
4.Reduce Carbon Emissions (减少碳排放)
Reducing carbon emissions is imperative to combat climate change and create a healthier atmosphere for all living beings.(减少碳排放对于应对气候变化、为所有生物创造更健康的大气环境至关重要。)
5.Combat Climate Change (应对气候变化)
Combating climate change requires global cooperation and immediate actions to mitigate its adverse effects on our planet.(应对气候变化需要全球合作和立即行动,以减缓其对我们星球的不利影响。)
6.Encourage Recycling (鼓励回收)
Encouraging recycling helps reduce waste and conserve resources, promoting a sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.(鼓励回收有助于减少废物,保护资源,促进可持续、环保的生活方式。)
7.Promote Green Technologies (推动绿色技术)
Promoting green technologies is essential for reducing environmental impact, fostering innovation, and ensuring a cleaner future.(推动绿色技术对于减少环境影响、促进创新、确保更清洁的未来至关重要。)
8.Protect Biodiversity (保护生物多样性)
Protecting biodiversity preserves the intricate web of life, ensuring the survival of various species and maintaining ecological stability.(保护生物多样性保护了生命的复杂网络,确保了各种物种的生存,维持了生态稳定。)
9.Conserve Energy (节约能源)
Conserving energy at home and in industries is a collective effort, reducing our carbon footprint and promoting a greener environment.(在家庭和工业中节约能源是一种集体努力,减少我们的碳足迹,促进更绿色的环境。)
10.Implement Renewable Energy Sources (采用可再生能源)
Implementing renewable energy sources like solar and wind power reduces reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to a more sustainable energy future.(采用太阳能和风能等可再生能源减少了对化石燃料的依赖,为更可持续的能源未来作出贡献。)
11.Raise Environmental Awareness (提高环境意识)
Raising environmental awareness is essential to inspire action, encouraging individuals and communities to protect and preserve our natural world.(提高环境意识对于激发行动至关重要,鼓励个人和社区保护和维护我们的自然世界。)
12.Reduce Pollution Levels (降低污染水平)
Reducing pollution levels in our air, water, and soil is crucial for public health and the well-being of all living organisms.(降低空气、水域和土壤中的污染水平对于公共健康和所有生物的幸福至关重要。)
13.Preserve Endangered Species (保护濒危物种)
Preserving endangered species is vital to maintain biodiversity, as each species plays a unique role in the ecosystem.(保护濒危物种对于维持生物多样性至关重要,因为每个物种在生态系统中发挥着独特的角色。)
14.Restore Degraded Ecosystems (恢复受损生态系统)
Restoring degraded ecosystems through reforestation and habitat restoration efforts is essential to revitalize natural habitats and protect wildlife.(通过植树造林和栖息地恢复等努力来恢复受损的生态系统对于复兴自然栖息地和保护野生动植物至关重要。)
15.Enforce Environmental Regulations (执行环境法规)
Enforcing environmental regulations ensures that industries and individuals follow eco-friendly practices, reducing their impact on the environment.(执行环境法规确保工业和个人遵循环保实践,减少对环境的影响。)
16.Promote Eco-friendly Practices (推广环保实践)
Promoting eco-friendly practices such as using reusable products and reducing plastic waste is essential for a cleaner and greener planet.(推广环保实践,比如使用可重复利用的产品和减少塑料废物,对于一个更清洁、更绿色的星球至关重要。)
17.Encourage Water Conservation (鼓励节约用水)
Encouraging water conservation through awareness campaigns and efficient usage helps preserve this precious resource for future generations.(通过意识提升和高效使用,鼓励节约用水有助于为子孙后代保留这一宝贵资源。)
18.Promote Environmental Education (推动环境教育)
Promoting environmental education in schools and communities cultivates a generation that understands and values our natural world, ensuring its protection.(在学校和社区推广环境教育,培养出了解和珍惜我们自然世界的一代,确保其受到保护。)
19.Support Wildlife Conservation Efforts (支持野生动物保护工作)
Supporting wildlife conservation efforts through donations and volunteering contributes to the protection of endangered species and their habitats.(通过捐款和志愿活动支持野生动物保护工作有助于保护濒危物种及其栖息地。)
20.Develop Green Infrastructure (发展绿色基础设施)
Developing green infrastructure, such as eco-friendly buildings and sustainable transportation, is key to creating environmentally friendly cities.(发展绿色基础设施,比如环保建筑和可持续交通,是创建环保城市的关键。)
时文拓展阅读
In the face of mounting environmental challenges, the question "What is the importance of environmental protection?" becomes increasingly pertinent. The answer lies not only in the preservation of our planet's natural beauty and biodiversity, but also in the safeguarding of human health and well-being.
Environmental protection is crucial for mitigating the impacts of climate change, which pose significant threats to global food security, water resources, and human habitation. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable practices, we can work towards ensuring a more stable and resilient planet for future generations.
Moreover, environmental protection plays a pivotal role in conserving biodiversity. The loss of species and ecosystems can disrupt the delicate balance of nature, leading to unforeseen consequences such as the decline of pollinators and the spread of diseases. Preserving biodiversity is essential for maintaining the ecological services that support life on Earth.
The health of our environment is also intimately linked to human health. Pollution, contaminated water sources, and degraded air quality can all contribute to a range of health issues, from respiratory problems to chronic diseases. By prioritizing environmental protection, we are also prioritizing the health and longevity of our societies.
In conclusion, the importance of environmental protection cannot be understated. It is a multifaceted issue that touches on the very survival and prosperity of our planet and its inhabitants. As we continue to grapple with the complexities of environmental challenges, the question becomes not just "What is the importance of environmental protection?" but "How can we effectively ensure it for the benefit of all?"
【参考译文】
面对日益严峻的环境挑战,“环境保护的重要性是什么?”这个问题变得越来越重要。答案不仅在于保护我们星球的自然美景和生物多样性,还在于保护人类健康和福祉。
环境保护对于减轻气候变化的影响至关重要,气候变化对全球粮食安全、水资源和人类居住构成重大威胁。通过减少温室气体排放和促进可持续做法,我们可以努力确保为子孙后代创造一个更稳定、更有弹性的地球。
此外,环境保护在保护生物多样性方面发挥着关键作用。物种和生态系统的丧失会破坏自然的微妙平衡,导致传粉昆虫减少和疾病传播等不可预见的后果。保护生物多样性对于维持支持地球上生命的生态服务至关重要。
我们环境的健康也与人类健康密切相关。污染、水源污染和空气质量下降都会导致一系列健康问题,从呼吸系统问题到慢性疾病。通过优先考虑环境保护,我们也在优先考虑我们社会的健康和长寿。
总之,环境保护的重要性不容低估。这是一个涉及我们星球及其居民生存和繁荣的多方面问题。随着我们继续应对环境挑战的复杂性,问题不仅仅是“环境保护的重要性是什么?”,而是“我们如何有效地确保它造福于所有人?”
【参考词汇】
in the face of面对
preservation of保存…
natural beauty天然美
climate change气候变化
food security粮食安全
water resources水资源源
greenhouse gas温室气体
future generations子孙后代
balance of nature自然平衡;生态平衡
综合实战演练
1
Taiwan was once known as “Garbage Island”. Now it is a word leader which recycles more than half of its waste in business that brings in over $2 billion a year.
In 1993, Taiwan was filled with garbage. There was almost no recycling. Two thirds of its landfills were full. Around 20% of the island’s garbage was dumped (丢弃). The rest was either buried in a landfill, or burned, leaving the island in an unpleasant and unhealthy situation.
In 1998, the government took action. Their plan affected companies that made products or brought them into Taiwan. These companies were required to take care of their own waste, or to pay the government to do it. The government used the money it collected to improve recycling in the area. Taiwan gave away as much as $6 billion a year to help recycling companies.
Ordinary people had apart, too. The government created a plan called Pay As You Throw. People were required to separate their waste into two groups-garbage, and things that are recyclable or reusable. Recycling is free, but people have to buy special blue bags to throw things away. People quickly began to recycle more.
The government also made it easy for people to deal with their waste. Yellow garbage trucks come around often. To let people know they’re coming, they play music. People can also track (追踪) the garbage trucks by using a smartphone app.
1.Recycling garbage can bring Taiwan ________ a year.
A.$1 billion B.$2 billion C.$4 billion D.$6 billion
2.In Taiwan, ________ of the garbage was buried or burned in 1993.
A.56% B.66% C.70% D.80%
3.If a company makes lots of garbage, the government will ________.
A.ask the company to leave Taiwan B.ask the company to build landfills
C.ask the company to pay for the garbage D.ask the company to sell it out
4.People can track the garbage truck by ________.
A.using blue bags B.playing music C.using a phone app D.separating the waste
5.From the passage, we may know that ________.
A.people are smart in Taiwan B.garbage makes Taiwan rich
C.Taiwan needs more landfills D.recycling works well in Taiwan
【解析】这是一篇说明文。短文介绍了台湾的垃圾回收情况以及采取的措施。
1.细节理解题。根据第一段“Now it is a word leader which recycles more than half of its waste in business that brings in over $2 billion a year.”(现在它是世界上的领导者,回收了一半以上的废物,每年带来超过20亿美元的收入。)可知,台湾每年通过垃圾回收带来超过20亿美元的收入。故选B。
2.细节理解题。根据文章第二段“Around 20% of the island's garbage was dumped (丢弃). The rest was either buried in a landfill, or burned”(岛上大约20%的垃圾被倾倒。其余的要么被埋在垃圾填埋场,要么被焚烧)可知,1993年台湾的垃圾有80%被填埋或焚烧。故选D。
3.细节理解题。根据文章第三段“These companies were required to take care of their own waste, or to pay the government to do it.”(这些公司被要求处理自己的废物,或者付钱给政府。)可知,如果公司产生大量垃圾,政府会要求公司支付处理垃圾的费用。故选C。
4.细节理解题。根据文章最后一段“People can also track (追踪) the garbage trucks by using a smartphone app.”(人们还可以通过使用智能手机应用程序来跟踪垃圾车。)可知,人们可以通过手机应用程序追踪垃圾车。故选C。
5.推理判断题。根据第一段“Taiwan was once known as “Garbage Island”. Now it is a word leader which recycles more than half of its waste in business that brings in over $2 billion a year.”(台湾曾被称为“垃圾岛”。现在它是世界上的领导者,回收了一半以上的废物,每年带来超过20亿美元的收入。)可知,台湾的垃圾回收工作进行得很好,取得了显著成效。故选D。
2
Tiny trash factories
Not all waste has to go to waste. Most of the world’s 2.22 billion tons of annual trash ends up in landfills or open dump. Veena Sahajwalla, a materials scientist and engineer at the University of New South walks, has created a solution to our massive trash problem: waste microfactories. These little trash processors house a series of machines that recycle waste and transform it into new materials with thermal technology. The new all-in-one approach could leave our current recycling processes in the dust.
Sahajwalla launched the world’s first waste microfactory targeting electronic waste in 2018. A second one began recycling plastics in 2019. Now, her lab group is working with university and industry partners to commercialize their patented Microfactoric technology. She says the small scale of the machines will make it easier for them to one day operate on renewable energy, unlike most large manufacturing plants. The approach will also allow cities to recycle waste into new products on location. With a micro-factory, gone are the days of needing separate facilities to collect and store materials, extract elements and produce new products.
Traditionally, recycling plants break down materials for re us c in similar products. It is like melting down plastic to make more plastic things. Her invention evolved this idea by taking materials from an old product and creating something different. “The kids don’t look like the parents,” she says.
For example, the microfactories can break down old smart phoned and computer monitors and extract silica and carbon, and then combine them into silicon car bide nanowires. This generates a common ceramic material with many industrial uses. Sahajwalla refers to this process as “the fourth R,” adding “ ” to the common phrase “reduce, reuse, recycle.”
In 2019, just 17.4 percent of e-waste was recycled, so the new ability offers a crucial new development in the challenge recycling complex electronic devices. “We can do so much more with materials,” says Sahajwala.” Traditional recycling has not worked for every recycling challenge.” She and her team are already working to install the next waste microfactory in the Australian town of Cootamundra by early 2021, with the goal of expanding around the country over the next few years.
1.Which of the following is the feature of the waste microfactory?
A.It can restore the waste to their original forms.
B.It is cleaner than the traditional recycling plant.
C.Waste can be recycled where they are dump at.
D.There is only one machine in the waste microfactory.
2.According to the passage, what are the scientists working on presently?
A.Establishing the first waste microfactory.
B.Expanding the variety of waste it can recycle.
C.Trying to make a profit from microfactory technology.
D.Developing renewable energy to operate microfactories.
3.Which of the following words is most suitable to fill in the blank in paragraph 4?
A.recall B.reform C.release D.reverse
4.Which of the following statement is true, according to the message?
A.Traditional recycling is actually useful for only a small part of waste recycling.
B.Microfactories make it possible for scientists to create various things with wastes,
C.Microfactories can directly make waste electronic device into household utensils.
D.By now, Australia is the first country in the world that has realized the popularization of waste microfactofies.
【解析】这是一篇说明文。文章主要介绍了一种垃圾微型工厂,可以解决大量垃圾问题,介绍了这一机器的优点和其开发者Veena Sahajwalla对其的看法。
1.细节理解题。根据第二段中“The approach will also allow cities to recycle waste into new products on location. (该方法还将允许城市就地回收垃圾,制成新产品)”可知,垃圾微型工厂的特点是可以在垃圾倾倒的地方进行回收。故选C。
2.细节理解题。根据第二段中“Now, her lab group is working with university and industry partners to commercialize their patented Microfactoric technology.(现在,她的实验室小组正在与大学和工业界的合作伙伴合作,将他们的专利微工厂技术商业化)”可知,科学家们目前在试图从微型工厂技术中获利。故选C。
3.推理判断题。根据倒数第二段“For example, the microfactories can break down old smart phoned and computer monitors and extract silica and carbon, and then combine them into silicon car bide nanowires. This generates a common ceramic material with many industrial uses.(例如,微型工厂可以分解旧的智能电话和电脑显示器,提取二氧化硅和碳,然后将它们组合成硅汽车电池纳米线。这就产生了一种具有许多工业用途的普通陶瓷材料)”可推知,Sahajwalla将这个过程称为“第四个R”,在“减少、再利用、回收”的基础上再加上“再形成”。reform“重整,改革”最符合。故选B。
4.细节理解题。根据最后一段中“In 2019, just 17.4 percent of e-waste was recycled, so the new ability offers a crucial new development in the challenge recycling complex electronic devices. (2019年,只有17.4%的电子垃圾被回收,因此这项新能力为回收复杂电子设备的挑战提供了一个至关重要的新进展)”以及“Traditional recycling has not worked for every recycling challenge.(传统的回收并不是对每一个回收挑战都有效)”可知,A选项“传统回收实际上只对垃圾回收的一小部分有用”正确。故选A。
3
Seth Magle is an urban ecologist in Chicago. In 2021, he started building a network of fellow urban animal lovers from around the world. They’re working to collect information so that it can be compared in different cities.
With the goal of trying to create more wildlife inclusive cities, the network helps reduce human wildlife conflict and increase human wildlife coexistence in the massively urbanizing areas.
In Chicago, Magle and his team have been watching their city’s wildlife for about 10 years. All together, they have over 100 camera traps set up across different types of urban environments from the downtown Loop and city parks to nature preserves and suburb golf courses.
During times of recent extreme heat, we do definitely see animals reduce movement and just stay where they are. It’s probably energetically difficult to move around when it’s so hot. Although this works for a short term in high temperature, it’s not ideal over a longer period because it means less time to search for food or a new mate.
As Magle and his network of urban researchers look toward the future and climate change, they predict bigger shifts. Temperatures everywhere are projected to warm, so wildlife in urban settings and beyond will likely have to shift their normal regions a bit further north to where it feels more comfortable and to what they’re already used to. We don’t have armadillos in Chicago, but we have them in the southern part of the state. And they seem to be migrating north.
Only time will tell how our urban wildlife reacts to these longer-term shifts in temperature.
For now, it sounds like urban animals — so long as they’re healthy — are totally capable of handling a few days of extreme heat here and there.
1.What is the aim of the network?
A.To observe wildlife in different cities. B.To compare animals’ living conditions.
C.To collect information of urban animals. D.To help human and wildlife coexist.
2.What’s the main idea of paragraph 3?
A.The tracks of wildlife activities. B.The movement of urban animals.
C.The way of watching city animals. D.The different types of urbanization.
3.In what way do animals escape extreme heat?
A.Keeping still. B.Moving constantly.
C.Shifting to the north. D.Looking for food everywhere.
4.What is the text probably taken from?
A.A market report. B.A science magazine.
C.A biological textbook. D.A social research report.
【解析】这是一篇说明文。文章主要介绍了芝加哥的一位城市生态学家Seth Magle建立了一个由来自世界各地的城市动物爱好者组成的网络。他们正在努力收集信息,以便在不同的城市进行比较。文章说明了这一网络的目的以及运作方式。
1.细节理解题。根据第二段“With the goal of trying to create more wildlife inclusive cities, the network helps reduce human wildlife conflict and increase human wildlife coexistence in the massively urbanizing areas.(该网络的目标是努力创造更多野生动物包容的城市,帮助减少人类与野生动物的冲突,增加大规模城市化地区人类与野生动物的共存)”可知,这个网络的目的是帮助人类和野生动物共存。故选D。
2.主旨大意题。根据第三段“In Chicago, Magle and his team have been watching their city’s wildlife for about 10 years. All together, they have over 100 camera traps set up across different types of urban environments from the downtown Loop and city parks to nature preserves and suburb golf courses.(在芝加哥,Magle和他的团队已经观察他们城市的野生动物大约10年了。他们总共在不同类型的城市环境中设置了100多个相机陷阱,从市中心的Loop和城市公园到自然保护区和郊区高尔夫球场)”可知,第三段的主旨是观察城市动物的方式。故选C。
3.细节理解题。根据第四段“During times of recent extreme heat, we do definitely see animals reduce movement and just stay where they are. It’s probably energetically difficult to move around when it’s so hot.(在最近的极端高温时期,我们确实看到动物减少了活动,只是呆在原地。在这么热的天气里移动可能会有能量上的困难)”可知,动物通过保持静止来躲避酷热。故选A。
4.推理判断题。根据第一段“Seth Magle is an urban ecologist in Chicago. In 2021, he started building a network of fellow urban animal lovers from around the world. They’re working to collect information so that it can be compared in different cities.(Seth Magle是芝加哥的一位城市生态学家。2021年,他开始建立一个由来自世界各地的城市动物爱好者组成的网络。他们正在努力收集信息,以便在不同的城市进行比较)”结合文章说明了这一网络的目的以及运作方式。可推知,文章选自一本科学杂志。故选B。
4
Latin America’s first renewable fuel-powered, trash-trapping wheel is cleaning one of Panama’s dirtiest rivers. A local environmental group led the effort.
The wheel is powered by water and sun energy. It pulls waste out of the Juan Diaz River. Most of the waste comes from the capital area of Panama City, where about 2 million people live. Thousands of kilograms of rubbish flow down the river into the ocean each year.
Robert Getman is the leader of the project. “Cleaning beaches is good,” he said, “but it is more effective and cheaper to trap rubbish in rivers because when it reaches the ocean, the environmental and economic cost becomes too high.”
The environmental group Marea Verde created the wheel, which is named Wanda Diaz, in late September. By the middle of October, Wanda had gathered 28. 6 cubic meters of plastic bottles from the water.
The Juan Diaz River is one of the most polluted in Panama. Waste systems in the area are poor, and land development is not well supervised. The river also passes through Panama City, one of Central America’s largest cities.
Over five years, Marea Verde projects have slowed the spread of rubbish along Panama’s rivers and coastline. Earlier, the group introduced its “Barrier or Trash”technology, a floating device. It caught more than 100 metric tons of waste in the Matias Hernandez River between 2019 and 2020.
“We want to raise awareness that we can prevent the death of this very important river,”said Marea Verde member Sandy Watemberg. She expressed her hope that the wheel will help. But she also pointed to the need for those who use single-use plastics to rethink their behavior. “The most important thing is to achieve a change in habits,” she said.
1.What makes the wheel the first of its kind?
A.Its size. B.Its power. C.Its shape. D.Its color.
2.Which statement matches Robert Getman’s opinion?
A.We’d better remove rubbish before it enters the sea.
B.We should clean beaches so as not to pollute the sea.
C.It’s cheap for humans to clean up the ocean.
D.It’s better to leave waste in the sea than in the river.
3.What does the underlined word “supervised” in paragraph 5 probably mean?
A.Supposed. B.Protected. C.Accepted. D.Controlled.
4.What did Sandy Watemberg call on people to do?
A.Support the project. B.Use single-use plastics more.
C.Change their habits. D.Realize the danger the river is in.
【解析】这是一篇说明文。主要说明了拉丁美洲首个以可再生燃料为动力的垃圾收集轮正在清理巴拿马一条最脏的河流。当地的一个环保组织领导了这项工作。
1.细节理解题。根据第一段中“Latin America’s first renewable fuel-powered, trash-trapping wheel is cleaning one of Panama’s dirtiest rivers.(拉丁美洲首个以可再生燃料为动力的垃圾收集轮正在清理巴拿马一条最脏的河流)”可知,供能系统让这个轮子成为同类中的第一个。故选B。
2.细节理解题。根据“Robert Getman is the leader of the project. “Cleaning beaches is good,” he said, “but it is more effective and cheaper to trap rubbish in rivers because when it reaches the ocean, the environmental and economic cost becomes too high.”(Robert Getman是该项目的负责人。“清理海滩很好,”他说,“但把垃圾困在河里更有效、更便宜,因为当垃圾流入海洋时,环境和经济成本太高了。”)”可知,Robert Getman认为我们最好在垃圾进入海洋之前把它清除掉。故选A。
3.词句猜测题。根据画线词上文“The Juan Diaz River is one of the most polluted in Panama. Waste systems in the area are poor, and land development is not well”可知,胡安迪亚兹河是巴拿马污染最严重的河流之一。该地区的废物处理系统很差,由此可知,其土地开发也没有得到很好的保护。故画线词意思是“保护”。故选B。
4.细节理解题。根据最后一段“But she also pointed to the need for those who use single-use plastics to rethink their behavior. “The most important thing is to achieve a change in habits,” she said.(“但她也指出,那些使用一次性塑料的人需要重新思考他们的行为。“最重要的是要改变习惯,”她说。)”可知,Sandy Watemberg号召人们改变他们的习惯。故选C。
5
Wind energy provided 7% of the total electricity in the United States in 2019. Since 2008, the number of coal-fired power plants has declined, as the use of renewable energy and natural gas has increased. Wind energy is an excellent way to reduce carbon emissions, but what will happen when the wind turbine blades wear out? Is there a waste management issue?
The design life of wind turbines is about 20 to 25 years. The longest wind turbine blade to date is 350 feet. Although certain parts of wind turbines can be relatively easily recycled, others are not designed for recycling. Many spent turbine blades are piling up in landfills. However, researchers from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) are making progress in this area.
They developed a blade out of thermoplastic resin that is low-cost, lightweight, and seems to be recyclable. If the new blade also proves to be strong, this will be a game changer for the offshore and onshore wind industry. Lower costs also could help improve wind energy efficiency, reducing the use of fossil fuels. A lightweight blade is easier to transport and uses less fuel. It also seems easier to recycle and uses less energy in the production process. “With the traditional material, it’s almost like when you fry an egg. It’s finished and you can’t undo that,” said Derek Berry, a senior engineer at NREL. “But with a thermoplastic resin system, you can make a blade out of it. You heat it to a certain temperature, and it melts back down. You can get the liquid resin back and reuse that.”
Although the research looks promising, progress will be slow. Most wind farms being constructed today will stop working in a few decades. The benefits of recyclable blades are still decades away at least. The associated environmental impact has largely been a blind spot for the industry. Hopefully, recent progress will help make wind power even greener.
1.What is the disadvantage of the current wind turbine blade?
A.Its high cost. B.Its limited use.
C.Its negative impact on the environment. D.Its inefficiency in producing electricity.
2.What do Derek’s words mainly show?
A.Why thermoplastic resin is strong. B.How thermoplastic resin is recycled.
C.The widespread of thermoplastic resin. D.The production process of thermoplastic resin.
3.What is the author’s attitude to the future of wind energy?
A.Pessimistic. B.Careless. C.Doubtful. D.Optimistic.
4.What is the text mainly about?
A.A new way to develop turbine blades. B.A fresh approach to using wind power.
C.An unknown renewable energy source. D.The way to tear down old turbine blades.
【解析】本文是说明文。风力发电对环境有益,但目前许多风力涡轮叶片使用完后都被填埋了,对环境造成了一定危害。为了解决这一难题,研究人员研究出了制作环保叶片的方法。
1.细节理解题。根据第二段中“Many spent turbine blades are piling up in landfills.(许多废弃的涡轮机叶片堆积在垃圾填埋场)”可知,对环境的负面影响是现在涡轮叶片的一个弊端。故选C。
2.细节理解题。根据第三段中“But with a thermoplastic resin system, you can make a blade out of it. You heat it to a certain temperature, and it melts back down. You can get the liquid resin back and reuse that.(但是用热塑性树脂系统,你可以用它做一个刀片。你把它加热到一定的温度,它就会融化。你可以把液体树脂拿回来再用)”可知,Derek的话主要说明了热塑性树脂如何回收。故选B。
3.推理判断题。根据最后一段中“Hopefully, recent progress will help make wind power even greener.(希望最近的进展将有助于使风力发电更加环保)”可推知,作者对风能的未来持乐观态度。故选D。
4.主旨大意题。根据第二段“The design life of wind turbines is about 20 to 25 years. The longest wind turbine blade to date is 350 feet. Although certain parts of wind turbines can be relatively easily recycled, others are not designed for recycling. Many spent turbine blades are piling up in landfills. However, researchers from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) are making progress in this area.(风力涡轮机的设计寿命约为20 ~ 25年。迄今为止最长的风力涡轮机叶片是350英尺。虽然风力涡轮机的某些部分相对容易回收,但其他部分不是为回收而设计的。许多废弃的涡轮机叶片堆积在垃圾填埋场。然而,来自国家可再生能源实验室的研究人员正在这一领域取得进展)”结合文章首先介绍了美国的风力能源使用情况,接着向读者抛出了两个问题:风力涡轮叶片磨损后如何处理?是否存在垃圾处理问题?本文主要介绍制作环保的涡轮机叶片的方法,旨在解决目前的难题。即文章主要讲的是发展涡轮叶片的新途径。故选A。
6
If we’re going to restart a world shut down bya pandemic(流行病),we have to think creatively.For some Australian diving tour operators, that means taking biologists to the Great Barrier Reef instead of traditional customers.
Those teams are using a special method to plant coral pieces in the areas of the reef that have been most damaged byclimate change.In allfive tour companies have signed up for the Coral Nurture Program,a partnership between tourism and science.
“It is the first time on the Great Barrier Reef that tourism operators have worked alongside researchers and the first time that a coral clip(夹子)has been used to attach the coral to the reef”says Scott Garden,CEO of Passions of Paradise.
Coral reefs are considered the medicine cabinets(储藏柜)of the 21st century.Coral reef plants and animals are important sources of new medicines which are developed to treat cancer, arthritis, human bacterial infections,Alzheimer’s diseaseheart disease,viruses,and other diseases.Reefs also fuel economies, as many tourists are drawn in more than100 countries.But the sensitivity of the coral may also be its drawback. Everything from ship traffic to overfishing to climate change has a destructive influence on the world’s reef systems.About 50% of the Great Barrier Reef has already been lost,with experts predicting the rest could disappear within the next 30 years.
New Zealand’s Green Party wants to pour $1 billion into “green jobs”that would not only kick- start the economy,but also save the environment.And although the Australian effort may not seem as great as its neighbor’s countrywide plan, its influence could run deep.According to Karryon,an Australian travel news site, the tour operator Passions of Paradise has already grown 1,000 pieces of coral on the Hastings Reef, a horseshoe-shaped nursery on the Great Barrier Reef.
1.What are some Australian tour operators doing?
A.They are building a man-made diving site.
B.They are sending biologists to repair damaged coral reefs.
C.They are sending divers Barrier Reef.
D.They are asking biologists to provide environmental education for tourists.
2.What does Scott Garden say about the method of the Coral Nurture Program?
A.It is a brand-new way. B.It is difficult to operate.
C.It needs more time to test. D.It will attract more tourists.
3.Which of the following can replace the underlined word “drawback” in Paragraph 4?
A.Nature
B.Big fortune.
C.Disadvantage.
D.Golden opportunity.
4.What does the last paragraph show?
A.Saving coral reefs is a waste of money.
B.Coral reefs are being damaged due to climate change.
C.Some countries and organizations are making efforts to protect coral reefs.
D.The decrease of coral reefs has a great influence on the global economy.
【解析】这是一篇说明文。介绍了澳大利亚一些旅游运营商正在与生物学家合作,在大堡礁最严重受气候变化破坏的地区种植珊瑚片,以帮助重启因疫情关闭的世界,保护珊瑚礁的生态系统和推动经济发展。
1.细节理解题。根据第一段“For some Australian diving tour operators, that means taking biologists to the Great Barrier Reef instead of traditional customers.(对于一些澳大利亚潜水旅游运营商来说,这意味着要带生物学家去大堡礁,而不是传统的客户。)”和第二段“Those teams are using a special method to plant coral pieces in the areas of the reef that have been most damaged byclimate change.(这些团队正在使用一种特殊的方法在珊瑚礁受气候变化破坏最严重的地区种植珊瑚片。总共有五家旅游公司报名参加了珊瑚培育计划,这是旅游业和科学界的合作伙伴关系。)”可知,澳大利亚潜水旅游运营商带来生物学家种植珊瑚片。故选B。
2.细节理解题。根据第三段“It is the first time on the Great Barrier Reef that tourism operators have worked alongside researchers and the first time that a coral clip has been used to attach the coral to the reef.(这是大堡礁上第一次有旅游运营商与研究人员合作,也是第一次使用珊瑚夹将珊瑚固定在大堡礁上。)”可知,珊瑚夹将珊瑚固定在大堡礁上的这个方法是第一次使用,所以是一种新方法。故选A。
3.词句猜测题。根据第四段“ Everything from ship traffic to overfishing to climate change has a destructive influence on the world’s reef systems.About 50% of the Great Barrier Reef has already been lost,with experts predicting the rest could disappear within the next 30 years.(从船舶运输到过度捕捞再到气候变化,一切都对世界珊瑚礁系统产生了破坏性影响。大约50%的大堡礁已经消失,专家预测其余的可能在未来30年内消失。)”可知这两句话是对前一句话的drawback进行解释补充,但珊瑚的敏感性也可能是它的缺点。故选C。
4.推理判断题。根据“New Zealand’s Green Party wants to pour $1 billion into “green jobs”that would not only kick- start the economy,but also save the environment.And although the Australian effort may not seem as great as its neighbor’s countrywide plan, its influence could run deep.According to Karryon,an Australian travel news site, the tour operator Passions of Paradise has already grown 1,000 pieces of coral on the Hastings Reef, a horseshoe-shaped nursery on the Great Barrier Reef.新西兰绿党希望向“绿色工作”投入10亿美元,这不仅能启动经济,还能拯救环境。尽管澳大利亚的努力似乎不如邻国的全国计划那么大,但其影响力可能会很深。据澳大利亚旅游新闻网站Karryon报道,旅游运营商已经在大堡礁上的马蹄形苗圃黑斯廷斯礁种植了1000块珊瑚。)”可知,本段是在介绍新西兰绿党,澳大利亚,旅游运营商在大堡礁的保护所作出的努力。故选C。
7
The world is getting greener, according to a new study published in Nature this week.
Chi Chen, lead author of the study, and his colleagues have been mining data collected by an orbiting NASA camera that monitors green vegetation on Earth’s surface, day by day. Even more interesting: They are able to show the exact causes of increasing or decreasing leaf cover in particular areas.
In some cold places, increase in leaf cover apparently resulted from global warming. Since the climate is becoming more and more temperate and the growing season is getting longer and longer, the plants are growing bigger and leafier there.
“One large area of Brazil lost vegetation. I personally checked the data, and that’s because of lack of rain,” Chen said.
The most striking changes, though, were the result of human decisions in China and India. Both countries have been getting a lot greener.
The greening of India, Chen says, comes from a huge expansion of irrigated agriculture. “Instead of having just crops when it’s raining, they also have a whole six months of cropping and greenness when it’s not raining,” he says. “This version of greening isn’t really so great for the environment, though. The irrigation drains groundwater, vegetation is wiped away at harvest time and the extra chemicals farmers use produce greenhouse gases.”
In China, though, about half of the new leaf cover that Chen detected appears to be the result of a massive reforestation effort. It’s a government-supported attempt to prevent disastrous dust storms that resulted from earlier deforestation. “They are really doing a good job,” Chen says. “They have a large and comprehensive tree planting program. Those trees will stay in place, capturing (捕捉) dust and also CO2, the greenhouse gas. They’ll store it in wood, roots and soil, doing their part to slow global warming.”
1.Which of the following best explains the underlined word “temperate” in paragraph 3?
A.Warm. B.Wet.
C.Cold D.Dry.
2.What has led to the decrease of leaf cover in the Brazilian area?
A.Tree cutting. B.Dry weather.
C.Seasonal harvest. D.Desertification.
3.How does Chi Chen probably feel about the greening in India?
A.Excited. B.Puzzled.
C.Worried. D.Annoyed.
4.What is the last paragraph mainly about?
A.The benefits of tree planting. B.The harm of global warming.
C.The costs of greening in China. D.The cause of greening in China.
【解析】本文是一篇说明文。文章主要介绍了Chi Chen利用在轨卫星的地面监控数据分析全球绿地面积变化。
1.词句猜测题。根据画线词前“In some cold places, increase in leaf cover apparently resulted from global warming(在一些寒冷的地方,植被覆盖的增加明显是由全球变暖引起的)”及后面的“and the growing season is getting longer and longer, the plants are growing bigger and leafier there(生长季节变得越来越长,那里的植物长得越来越大,叶子也越来越多)”可知,植物长得越来越大,叶子也越来越多是因为气候变暖,因此画线词temperate意为“暖和的”,即Warm,故选A。
2.细节理解题。根据第四段“I personally checked the data, and that’s because of lack of rain(我亲自检查了数据,那是因为缺雨)”可知,巴西地区树叶覆盖的减少是因为天气干燥。故选B。
3.推理判断题。根据第六段“This version of greening isn’t really so great for the environment, though. The irrigation drains groundwater, vegetation is wiped away at harvest time and the extra chemicals farmers use produce greenhouse gases.(不过,这种版本的绿化对环境并不是很好。灌溉会排干地下水,收获季节的植被会消失,农民使用的额外化学物质会产生温室气体)”可知,过度耕种会对环境造成负面影响。由此推知,Chi Chen对印度的过度耕作所造成的绿地面积增加感到担心。故选C。
4.主旨大意题。根据最后一段的“In China, though, about half of the new leaf cover that Chen detected appears to be the result of a massive reforestation effort. It’s a government-supported attempt to prevent disastrous dust storms that resulted from earlier deforestation.(然而,在中国,陈检测到的大约一半的新植被似乎是大规模植树造林的结果。这是一项政府支持的尝试,旨在防止早期森林砍伐导致的灾难性沙尘暴)”可知,最后一段主要讲的是中国的绿化事业,故选D。
8
The government of Singapore has created a highly developed system that turns wastewater into drinking water. The system involves a network of tunnels and high-technology treatment centers.
Reused wastewater can now meet 40 percent of Singapore’s water demand. The country’s water agency says it expects to meet 55 percent of Singapore’s water demand by the year 2060.
Most of the water is used for microchip manufacturing centers and cooling systems in buildings. But some of it is added to the country’s drinking water supplies. The system helps reduce ocean pollution, as only a small amount of the treated water is sent into the sea.
Singapore has few natural water sources. The island nation has long had to depend mostly on supplies from neighboring Malaysia. Low Pei Chin, chief engineer of the water reclamation department of the Public Utilities Board, told reporters with Independent, “Singapore lacks natural resources, and it is limited in space, which is why we are always looking for ways to explore water sources and stretch our water supply.”
The Changi Water Reclamation Plant on Singapore’s eastern coast is the main part of the country’s recycling system. Parts of the water treatment center are underground. Wastewater enters the center through a 48-kilometer tunnel that is linked to sewers(下水道). The center contains a large system of steel pipes, tubes, tanks, cleaning systems and other machinery. It can treat up to 900 million liters of wastewater a day.
Waste that arrives at the plant goes through a cleaning process before powerful pumps send it flowing to areas above ground for more treatment. There, the treated water receives additional cleaning. Bacteria and viruses are removed through highly developed cleaning processes.
Singapore is also in the process of expanding its recycling system. The country will add another underground tunnel and a major water treatment center to serve the western half of the island. Officials expect work on the center to be completed by 2025. By the time the expansion is finished, Singapore will have spent about $7.4 billion on its water treatment systems.
1.What can we know about the treated water?
A.Most of it is sent into the sea.
B.It can only be used by factories.
C.Some of it is used as drinking water.
D.It can meet the whole country’s water demand.
2.Why has Singapore always relied on its neighbour for most of its water supply?
A.It has a friendly neighbor.
B.It is short of water resources.
C.Its people dislike using recycled water.
D.Its water consumption is particularly high.
3.What’s the sixth paragraph mainly about?
A.The history of a water treatment center.
B.The reasons for cleaning wastewater.
C.Introduction to groundwater networks.
D.The process of recycling the wastewater.
4.What is the best title for the text?
A.Singapore Turns Wastewater into Drinking Water
B.Singapore Builds a Strong Water-saving Culture
C.What Are Singapore’s Water Success and Lessons?
D.How Singapore Is Putting a Stop to Water Running out?
【解析】本文是一篇新闻报道。文章主要报道了新加坡政府如何创建一个高度发达的系统来将废水转化为饮用水,并详细描述了该系统的运作方式、效果以及未来计划。
1.细节理解题。根据文章第三段“Most of the water is used for microchip manufacturing centers and cooling systems in buildings. But some of it is added to the country’s drinking water supplies.(这些水大部分用于微芯片制造中心和建筑物的冷却系统。但其中一些被添加到该国的饮用水供应中。)”可知,废水被处理之后有一部分被用作了饮用水。故选C。
2.细节理解题。根据文章第四段“Singapore has few natural water sources. The island nation has long had to depend mostly on supplies from neighboring Malaysia.(新加坡自然资源匮乏。这个岛国长期以来主要依赖邻国马来西亚的供应。)”可知,新加坡自然水资源匮乏,所以一直以来大部分用水依赖邻国马来西亚。故选B。
3.主旨大意题。根据文章第六段“Waste that arrives at the plant goes through a cleaning process before powerful pumps send it flowing to areas above ground for more treatment. There, the treated water receives additional cleaning. Bacteria and viruses are removed through highly developed cleaning processes. (到达工厂的废物在经过清洁过程后,再由功率强大的泵将其输送到地面以上区域进行更多处理。在那里,处理过的水会进行额外的清洁。通过高度发达的清洁工艺去除细菌和病毒。)”可知,本段主要介绍了废水在回收厂的一系列复杂的处理过程。故选D。
4.主旨大意题。根据文章第一段“The government of Singapore has created a highly developed system that turns wastewater into drinking water. The system involves a network of tunnels and high-technology treatment centers.(新加坡政府建立了一个高度发达的系统,可以将废水转化为饮用水。该系统包括隧道网络和高科技治疗中心。)”以及全文内容可知,文章主要介绍了新加坡如何将废水转化为饮用水的过程,包括系统的构建、处理水的用途以及这个系统对新加坡水资源管理的重要性。故“Singapore Turns Wastewater into Drinking Water(新加坡将废水转化为饮用水)”是文章最佳标题。故选A。
(
段落大意题的解答技巧
段落大意题主要考查段落的主要意思,是对一个段落的基本内容的简缩和概括。概括、总结、归纳段落大意就是用准确的、简练的语言把一个段落的主要意思明确而完整地表达出来。
做题时要特别注意“首尾兼顾”,即所问段落的首句和尾句。一是因为它们往往体现主旨要义,二是因为利用这些信息可以迅速提炼段落结构框架,在框架下的主旨判断,其准确性更高。
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9
A little more than a year ago, Karen Jenner was at a nearby beach on the Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia when she started picking up escape hatches from lobster traps.
“It started as a fun thing, collecting one item,” Jenner tells. “In only a few beach visits, I had collected over 500 of the hatches, and they were becoming harder to find. So I started collecting a few other things and gradually got to where I am now, collecting almost anything that I can remove from the beach.”
In just over a year, Jenner has pulled home more than 2.4 tons of mostly plastic trash (垃圾). Jenner posts photos of everything she collects on her Nova Scotia Beach Garbage Awareness Facebook page to draw attention to the trash problem. “I think the most important part of what I do is taking photos and posting them to my Facebook page,” she says. “The visual (视觉的) statements that the photos give cannot be challenged, nor can the numbers. It is real data.”
Jenner typically goes on her trips alone. “I have a son with special needs and this is ‘own’ time for me, a time to relax and just enjoy the quiet of being on the beach,” she says. “Many people have asked to tag along but I do not host beach cleanups. Many people have commented that they have been noticing trash on the beach and have started picking it up. How cool that is!”
“It is often very discouraging because no matter how much you clean up, there will always be more to do. I joke that it is a fool’s job!” she says. “I have often thought that, that’s it, I am finished and that it is nothing more than a waste of my time. Yet a few days later, I am off again! I keep doing it because whatever I remove from the shoreline will not ever be a danger again for marine life (海洋生物). As far as making a difference to the problem of plastic in the ocean, it is not even a drop in the bucket.”
1.Why did Jenner begin to collect trash on the beach?
A.For money. B.On purpose.
C.On duty. D.For pleasure.
2.What does Jenner expect people to realize from her posts?
A.The serious trash problem. B.The valuable finds on the beach.
C.The really challenging data. D.The pleasure of visiting the beach.
3.Why does Jenner often go to the beach alone?
A.To keep away from her hard work. B.To relax after looking after her disabled son.
C.To pick up trash for herself. D.To prepare beach cleanups in advance.
4.What does Jenner think of her collecting rubbish from the beach?
A.It is just a drop in the bucket. B.It is a waste of her time.
C.It is worth keeping on. D.It is really a fool’s job.
【解析】本文是一篇记叙文。文章介绍Jenner在海滩上捡垃圾,希望能够引起人们对垃圾问题的关注,她会一直做下去。
1.细节理解题。根据文章第二段““It started as a fun thing, collecting one item,” Jenner tells.”(Jenner说,“一开始,收集一件物品是一件有趣的事情。”)可知,Jenner最开始捡垃圾是为了乐趣。故选D。
2.细节理解题。根据文章第三段“Jenner posts photos of everything she collects on her Nova Scotia Beach Garbage Awareness Facebook page to draw attention to the trash problem.”(Jenner在她的新斯科舍海滩垃圾意识Facebook页面上发布她收集的所有东西的照片,以引起人们对垃圾问题的注意。)可知,Jenner希望人们从她的帖子中意识到严重的垃圾问题,故选A。
3.推理判断题。根据文章第四段“‘I have a son with special needs and this is ‘own’ time for me, a time to relax and just enjoy the quiet of being on the beach, ’”( 我有一个有特殊需要的儿子,这对我来说是‘休息’的时候,是放松的时候,只是享受海滩上的宁静。)可知,在照顾了残疾的儿子后,Jenner经常独自去海滩放松。故选B。
4.推理判断题。根据文章第五段“I keep doing it because whatever I remove from the shoreline will not ever be a danger again for marine life ”(我一直这样做,因为无论我从海岸移走什么,都不会再对海洋生物构成危险。)可知,Jenner认为她在海滩上收集垃圾有助于保护海洋动物,是值得继续的。故选C。
10
Songs of Disappearance is a 24-minute album of endangered birdcalls recorded by Australia’s best wildlife sound recordist, David Stewart. It sold over 2,000 copies and shows the love of Australians who want to help their native species — with all proceeds (收益) going to conservation of our feathered friends.
Its genesis came when Stephen Garnett, a conservation professor at Charles Darwin University, finished the2020 Action Plan for Australian Birds, a set of recommendations that found 1 in 6 native species are threatened with extinction. He had a conversation with his Ph.D.student Anthony Albrecht, a classical cellist (大提琴手) and one-half of a two-person multimedia company called the Bowerbird Collective.
Albrecht asked his advisor if there was anything Bowerbird Collective could do to make people aware of the action plan. That was when they discussed the idea of an album. “I knew it was an ambitious thing to suggest and — I don’t know — Stephen’s a little bit crazy like me, and he said, let's do this,” Albrecht tells NPR. The other half of Bowerbird, the violinist Simone Slattery, arranged a musical collage (拼贴) of all 53 birds on the record, while the remaining tracks are each bird’s individual songs recorded by Stewart.
“We did it! Thanks to your incredible support we reached Number 3 in the ARIA charts, ahead of Taylor Swift, ABBA, Mariah Carey and Michael Buble,” the organizers wrote on their website, noting the Christmas-time bump given to the latter.
All proceeds of the album were donated to BirdLife Australia, which helped in production.
Some of the singing comes from birds that are Critically-Endangered, and one bird, the Night Parrot, wasn’t even known to science until 2013. “The golden bowerbird sounds like a death ray from some cheesy 70s sci-fi series,” says Sean Dooley, the national public affairs manager at BirdLife Australia.
1.What does the underlined word “genesis” in paragraph 2 probably mean?
A.Conversation. B.Change. C.Record. D.Beginning
2.Who is good at playing the violin?
A.David Stewart. B.Anthony Albrecht. C.Simone Slattery. D.Sean Dooley.
3.Why did the organizers mention Taylor Swift in paragraph 4?
A.To state the popularity of the album.
B.To compare different musical styles.
C.To stress the influence of the album.
D.To show Taylor Swift’s love for the album.
4.What was the money from album sales used to do?
A.To record a new album.
B.To preserve endangered birds.
C.To donate to charity organizations.
D.To expand the multimedia company.
【解析】这是一篇说明文。文章介绍了澳大利亚野生动物录音师录制的《濒危鸟类之歌》专辑在音乐排行榜上高居第三位,这张专辑的收益捐赠给了澳大利亚鸟类生活组织,用于保护濒临灭绝的鸟类。
1.词句猜测题。划线词句后文第三段中“Albrecht asked his advisor if there was anything Bowerbird Collective could do to make people aware of the action plan. That was when they discussed the idea of an album. (Albrecht问他的顾问,园丁鸟集团是否可以做些什么来让人们了解这个行动计划。就在那时,他们讨论了出专辑的想法)”说明在那时他们开始了这个计划,从而推知划线词句“Its genesis came when Stephen Garnett, a conservation professor at Charles Darwin University, finished the2020 Action Plan for Australian Birds, a set of recommendations that found 1 in 6 native species are threatened with extinction.(当查尔斯达尔文大学的环保教授Stephen Garnett 完成了《2020年澳大利亚鸟类行动计划》时,它的genesis到来了,该计划提出的一系列建议发现,每6种本土鸟类中就有1种面临灭绝的威胁)”其中划线词汇应为“开始,开端”的意思,选项D“开端”与之意义最为接近。故选D项。
2.细节理解题。根据第三段中“The other half of Bowerbird, the violinist Simone Slattery, arranged a musical collage (拼贴) of all 53 birds on the record, while the remaining tracks are each bird’s individual songs recorded by Stewart.(Bowerbird的另一半,小提琴家Simone Slattery,将唱片中所有53只鸟的音乐拼贴在一起,而剩下的曲子则是Stewart为每只鸟单独录制的歌曲)”可知,Simone Slattery擅长拉小提琴。故选C项。
3.推理判断题。根据第四段中“We did it! Thanks to your incredible support we reached Number 3 in the ARIA charts, ahead of Taylor Swift, ABBA, Mariah Carey and Michael Buble.(我们做到了!感谢你们不可思议的支持,我们在ARIA排行榜上排名第三,超过了Taylor Swift、ABBA、Mariah Carey和Michael Buble)”可知,提到Taylor Swift等是为了说明专辑的受欢迎程度。故选A项。
4.细节理解题。根据第一段中“It sold over 2,000 copies and shows the love of Australians who want to help their native species — with all proceeds (收益) going to conservation of our feathered friends. (它售出了2000多张,展示了澳大利亚人的爱心,他们希望用所有收益帮助他们的本土物种保护我们的羽毛朋友)”和第五段中“All proceeds of the album were donated to BirdLife Australia, which helped in production. (这张专辑的所有收益都捐赠给了澳大利亚鸟类生活组织,该组织帮助制作了这张专辑)”可知,这张专辑销售的收入是用来保护濒危鸟类。故选B项。
思维素养提升
Task 1
假定你是李华,你喜爱的一个英文网站正在进行“The Low-carbon Lifestyle Around Me”为话题的论坛活动。请你用英语写一篇短文放在论坛上,内容包括:
1. 你对低碳生活的理解;
2. 你和家人是如何做的。
注意:
1. 写作词数应为80左右;
2. 请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
The Low-carbon Lifestyle Around Me
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
【参考答案】
The Low-carbon Lifestyle Around Me
“Low-carbon lifestyle ” is a concept aiming to lower the carbon dioxide emission in living as much as possible. At present, this lifestyle is being accepted in my family.
My father used to drive his car to and from work, but things were different in the last spring Festival, during which he had enough time to experience the low-carbon lifestyle. We visited our relatives and friends by bicycle during the festival, which is good to our health and for the environment. Besides, I remember to turn off the light when I leave my room. I often use things that can be recycled. For example, I use both sides of the paper.
I think it’s our duty to live a low-carbon life. Let’s put it into action as soon as possible.
【解析】本篇书面表达属于应用文。要求考生就喜爱的一个英文网站正在进行的论坛活动写一篇短文放在论坛上。
1.词汇积累
目的是做:aiming to do→with the purpose of doing
目前:at present→currently
拜访:visit→pay a visit to
此外:besides→what’s more
2.句式拓展
简单句变复合句
原句:“Low-carbon lifestyle” is a concept aiming to lower the carbon dioxide emission in living as much as possible.
拓展句:“Low-carbon lifestyle” is a concept which aims to lower the carbon dioxide emission in living as much as possible.
【高分句型1】My father used to drive his car to and from work, but things were different in the last spring Festival, during which he had enough time to experience the low-carbon lifestyle.(运用了during which引导的非限制性定语从句)
【高分句型2】Besides, I remember to turn off the light when I leave my room.(运用了when引导的时间状语从句)
Task 2
阅读下面材料,根据其内容和所给段落开头语续写两段,使之构成一篇完整的短文。
I’m Tia, a passionate teenage girl, living next door to the corner of 71st Street. It’s my corner. Most folks find there’s nothing there, just an empty lot. But to me, it’s like a wide-open treasure box. Stepping into it, I feel like leaping into a sea of green. The tall grass, probably just weeds, with butterflies gathering around, smells clean and fresh, and I wonder why I’m the only one who’s thankful for this place.
One evening, Mama said, “Tia, the city wants to turn that comer of yours into a parking lot.” I stopped in my tracks. “No! They can’t do that!”
“Tia, you have to make them see what you see. Make some noise about it. No one ever got any place by sitting back and staying quiet.” That night, I lay awake thinking for a long time. “I’ve got to do something.”
Early the next morning I dragged a chair down to the corner with a big cardboard on which I’d painted “No Parking Lot! Save Our Nature” in large letters. I sat down and waited. Most people passed by, paying no attention to me. My friend Tanya asked me what I was doing, and I told her. Then came Mrs. DiRisio, a beauty shop owner, who angrily waved her hand at my sign, saying. “My customers need a place to park. You go home, little girl.” But I didn’t move. Then I noticed a woman down the street taking pictures of my corner. She walked over to me, smiling, “I’m Sara Bennett. Can I talk to you?” I nodded. I knew I needed to make some noise. I started talking, and Ms. Bennett scribbled on a notepad. “A walking path would be nice, maybe a vegetable garden. And a bench, so people could sit down and listen to the birds singing.” I was surprised at myself, at how many ideas I’d got for this corner.
The next morning, my brother burst into my room with a morning paper. “Fighting for Nature on the Corner of 71st” was the title of the article, and along with it was a picture of me!
After breakfast my brother, Mama and I dragged our chairs and signs back to the corner.
注意:
1. 续写词数应为150左右;
2. 请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
Paragraph 1: To my amazement, I saw some familiar figures coming towards us.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Paragraph 2: A year later, the sign on the corner made it official.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
【参考答案】
To my amazement, I saw some familiar figures coming towards us. My friend Tanya and her family, each carrying a chair, joined us! “Tia, You’ve got some good ideas for this corner. We need a little nature around here.” More and more neighbors showed up, waving signs and making noise, including Mrs. DiRisio. Mom inspired me to make a speech to the city call. I did so days later. “If this is the last little bit of nature in our neighborhood,” I spoke, ”doesn’t it make sense to try and save it? ” Everyone applauded at the end of my speech.
A year later, the sign on the corner has made it official. Now we’ve got a walking path that curves and winds its way through the 71st Street Nature Preserve. We’ve got a stone bench and plans for a vegetable garden. School groups come here to collect leaves and study the insects and birds. Folks come here to walk, run or just sit, talking, laughing and listening to birds singing. My corner isn’t just mine anymore, but I’m more than happy to share it.
【解析】本文以人物为线索展开,讲述了71号街道的拐角可以让蒂亚感受到自然的美,但是有人想要将这个街角改造成停车场。在妈妈的建议下,蒂亚采取行动,在大纸板写明自己的观点,放在街角处。内内特女士给蒂亚拍了照片,并对这个街角的设计进行了设想。第二天早上,蒂亚的照片出现在报纸上,早餐后,蒂亚和家人将椅子和大纸板拖回街角。
1.段落续写:
①由第一段首句内容“令我惊讶的是,我看到一些熟悉的身影向我们走来。”可知,第一段可描写越来越多的邻居出现,发声自己需要自然,蒂亚发表演讲,尝试拯救自然,得到了大家的掌声。
②由第二段首句内容“一年后,街角的标志正式生效。”可知,第二段可描写街角的具体样子,人们可以在这里享受自然。
2.续写线索:邻居加入——蒂亚发表演讲——得到掌声——街角标志生效——街角的样子——人们在街角享受自然
3.词汇激活
行为类
①出现:show up/appear
②激励:inspire/encourage/motivate
③鼓掌:applaud/clap one’s hands
情绪类
①笑:laugh/beam/grin
②开心的:happy/pleased/glad
【高分句型1】“If this is the last little bit of nature in our neighborhood,” I spoke, ”doesn’t it make sense to try and save it? ”(运用了if引导条件状语从句)
【高分句型2】Now we’ve got a walking path that curves and winds its way through the 71st Street Nature Preserve.(运用了that引导限制性定语从句)
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6
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学科网(北京)股份有限公司
学科网(北京)股份有限公司
$$
2024-2025学年高一英语单元阅读提升(通用版)
主题05 人与自然:环境保护
主题语境解读
环境保护作为当今社会的重要议题,也经常出现在高中英语阅读材料中。这类主题的阅读材料通常旨在提高学生对环境问题的认识,并引导他们思考如何采取行动来保护环境。高中英语阅读中环境保护主题常包括如下方面:(1)全球变暖与气候变化:阅读材料可能介绍全球变暖的现象、原因(如温室气体排放)以及其对地球生态系统的影响(如海平面上升、极端天气事件增多)。(2)污染问题:包括空气污染、水污染和土壤污染等,阅读材料可能探讨污染物的来源、对环境和人类健康的影响以及减少污染的方法。(3)可持续发展:强调在满足当前人类需求的同时不损害未来世代满足其需求的能力。阅读材料可能介绍可持续发展的原则、实践案例以及个人和社会层面的行动建议。(4)生物多样性保护:关注地球上生物种类的多样性和生态系统的复杂性。阅读材料可能讨论生物多样性丧失的原因、后果以及保护生物多样性的重要性。(5)环保行动与倡议:介绍个人、社区和政府可以采取的环保行动,以及环保组织和倡议在推动环境保护方面的作用。高中英语阅读中的环境保护主题不仅要求学生理解相关知识和信息,还鼓励他们思考如何将这些知识应用于实际生活中,以推动环境保护事业的发展。
相关词句积累
阅读中常见的20个主题举例
1.Preserve Natural Habitats (保护自然栖息地)
Efforts to preserve natural habitats are essential for the survival of various species and the maintenance of ecological balance.(保护自然栖息地的努力对于各种物种的生存和生态平衡的维护至关重要。)
2.Conserve Natural Resources (保护自然资源)
It is crucial to conserve natural resources like water and minerals to ensure sustainable development for future generations.(保护水和矿产等自然资源对于确保子孙后代的可持续发展至关重要。)
3.Promote Sustainable Development (推动可持续发展)
Promoting sustainable development is a global responsibility, balancing economic growth with environmental conservation for a better future.(推动可持续发展是全球责任,平衡经济增长与环境保护,为更美好的未来铺平道路。)
4.Reduce Carbon Emissions (减少碳排放)
Reducing carbon emissions is imperative to combat climate change and create a healthier atmosphere for all living beings.(减少碳排放对于应对气候变化、为所有生物创造更健康的大气环境至关重要。)
5.Combat Climate Change (应对气候变化)
Combating climate change requires global cooperation and immediate actions to mitigate its adverse effects on our planet.(应对气候变化需要全球合作和立即行动,以减缓其对我们星球的不利影响。)
6.Encourage Recycling (鼓励回收)
Encouraging recycling helps reduce waste and conserve resources, promoting a sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.(鼓励回收有助于减少废物,保护资源,促进可持续、环保的生活方式。)
7.Promote Green Technologies (推动绿色技术)
Promoting green technologies is essential for reducing environmental impact, fostering innovation, and ensuring a cleaner future.(推动绿色技术对于减少环境影响、促进创新、确保更清洁的未来至关重要。)
8.Protect Biodiversity (保护生物多样性)
Protecting biodiversity preserves the intricate web of life, ensuring the survival of various species and maintaining ecological stability.(保护生物多样性保护了生命的复杂网络,确保了各种物种的生存,维持了生态稳定。)
9.Conserve Energy (节约能源)
Conserving energy at home and in industries is a collective effort, reducing our carbon footprint and promoting a greener environment.(在家庭和工业中节约能源是一种集体努力,减少我们的碳足迹,促进更绿色的环境。)
10.Implement Renewable Energy Sources (采用可再生能源)
Implementing renewable energy sources like solar and wind power reduces reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to a more sustainable energy future.(采用太阳能和风能等可再生能源减少了对化石燃料的依赖,为更可持续的能源未来作出贡献。)
11.Raise Environmental Awareness (提高环境意识)
Raising environmental awareness is essential to inspire action, encouraging individuals and communities to protect and preserve our natural world.(提高环境意识对于激发行动至关重要,鼓励个人和社区保护和维护我们的自然世界。)
12.Reduce Pollution Levels (降低污染水平)
Reducing pollution levels in our air, water, and soil is crucial for public health and the well-being of all living organisms.(降低空气、水域和土壤中的污染水平对于公共健康和所有生物的幸福至关重要。)
13.Preserve Endangered Species (保护濒危物种)
Preserving endangered species is vital to maintain biodiversity, as each species plays a unique role in the ecosystem.(保护濒危物种对于维持生物多样性至关重要,因为每个物种在生态系统中发挥着独特的角色。)
14.Restore Degraded Ecosystems (恢复受损生态系统)
Restoring degraded ecosystems through reforestation and habitat restoration efforts is essential to revitalize natural habitats and protect wildlife.(通过植树造林和栖息地恢复等努力来恢复受损的生态系统对于复兴自然栖息地和保护野生动植物至关重要。)
15.Enforce Environmental Regulations (执行环境法规)
Enforcing environmental regulations ensures that industries and individuals follow eco-friendly practices, reducing their impact on the environment.(执行环境法规确保工业和个人遵循环保实践,减少对环境的影响。)
16.Promote Eco-friendly Practices (推广环保实践)
Promoting eco-friendly practices such as using reusable products and reducing plastic waste is essential for a cleaner and greener planet.(推广环保实践,比如使用可重复利用的产品和减少塑料废物,对于一个更清洁、更绿色的星球至关重要。)
17.Encourage Water Conservation (鼓励节约用水)
Encouraging water conservation through awareness campaigns and efficient usage helps preserve this precious resource for future generations.(通过意识提升和高效使用,鼓励节约用水有助于为子孙后代保留这一宝贵资源。)
18.Promote Environmental Education (推动环境教育)
Promoting environmental education in schools and communities cultivates a generation that understands and values our natural world, ensuring its protection.(在学校和社区推广环境教育,培养出了解和珍惜我们自然世界的一代,确保其受到保护。)
19.Support Wildlife Conservation Efforts (支持野生动物保护工作)
Supporting wildlife conservation efforts through donations and volunteering contributes to the protection of endangered species and their habitats.(通过捐款和志愿活动支持野生动物保护工作有助于保护濒危物种及其栖息地。)
20.Develop Green Infrastructure (发展绿色基础设施)
Developing green infrastructure, such as eco-friendly buildings and sustainable transportation, is key to creating environmentally friendly cities.(发展绿色基础设施,比如环保建筑和可持续交通,是创建环保城市的关键。)
时文拓展阅读
In the face of mounting environmental challenges, the question "What is the importance of environmental protection?" becomes increasingly pertinent. The answer lies not only in the preservation of our planet's natural beauty and biodiversity, but also in the safeguarding of human health and well-being.
Environmental protection is crucial for mitigating the impacts of climate change, which pose significant threats to global food security, water resources, and human habitation. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable practices, we can work towards ensuring a more stable and resilient planet for future generations.
Moreover, environmental protection plays a pivotal role in conserving biodiversity. The loss of species and ecosystems can disrupt the delicate balance of nature, leading to unforeseen consequences such as the decline of pollinators and the spread of diseases. Preserving biodiversity is essential for maintaining the ecological services that support life on Earth.
The health of our environment is also intimately linked to human health. Pollution, contaminated water sources, and degraded air quality can all contribute to a range of health issues, from respiratory problems to chronic diseases. By prioritizing environmental protection, we are also prioritizing the health and longevity of our societies.
In conclusion, the importance of environmental protection cannot be understated. It is a multifaceted issue that touches on the very survival and prosperity of our planet and its inhabitants. As we continue to grapple with the complexities of environmental challenges, the question becomes not just "What is the importance of environmental protection?" but "How can we effectively ensure it for the benefit of all?"
【参考译文】
面对日益严峻的环境挑战,“环境保护的重要性是什么?”这个问题变得越来越重要。答案不仅在于保护我们星球的自然美景和生物多样性,还在于保护人类健康和福祉。
环境保护对于减轻气候变化的影响至关重要,气候变化对全球粮食安全、水资源和人类居住构成重大威胁。通过减少温室气体排放和促进可持续做法,我们可以努力确保为子孙后代创造一个更稳定、更有弹性的地球。
此外,环境保护在保护生物多样性方面发挥着关键作用。物种和生态系统的丧失会破坏自然的微妙平衡,导致传粉昆虫减少和疾病传播等不可预见的后果。保护生物多样性对于维持支持地球上生命的生态服务至关重要。
我们环境的健康也与人类健康密切相关。污染、水源污染和空气质量下降都会导致一系列健康问题,从呼吸系统问题到慢性疾病。通过优先考虑环境保护,我们也在优先考虑我们社会的健康和长寿。
总之,环境保护的重要性不容低估。这是一个涉及我们星球及其居民生存和繁荣的多方面问题。随着我们继续应对环境挑战的复杂性,问题不仅仅是“环境保护的重要性是什么?”,而是“我们如何有效地确保它造福于所有人?”
【参考词汇】
in the face of面对
preservation of保存…
natural beauty天然美
climate change气候变化
food security粮食安全
water resources水资源源
greenhouse gas温室气体
future generations子孙后代
balance of nature自然平衡;生态平衡
综合实战演练
1
Taiwan was once known as “Garbage Island”. Now it is a word leader which recycles more than half of its waste in business that brings in over $2 billion a year.
In 1993, Taiwan was filled with garbage. There was almost no recycling. Two thirds of its landfills were full. Around 20% of the island’s garbage was dumped (丢弃). The rest was either buried in a landfill, or burned, leaving the island in an unpleasant and unhealthy situation.
In 1998, the government took action. Their plan affected companies that made products or brought them into Taiwan. These companies were required to take care of their own waste, or to pay the government to do it. The government used the money it collected to improve recycling in the area. Taiwan gave away as much as $6 billion a year to help recycling companies.
Ordinary people had apart, too. The government created a plan called Pay As You Throw. People were required to separate their waste into two groups-garbage, and things that are recyclable or reusable. Recycling is free, but people have to buy special blue bags to throw things away. People quickly began to recycle more.
The government also made it easy for people to deal with their waste. Yellow garbage trucks come around often. To let people know they’re coming, they play music. People can also track (追踪) the garbage trucks by using a smartphone app.
1.Recycling garbage can bring Taiwan ________ a year.
A.$1 billion B.$2 billion C.$4 billion D.$6 billion
2.In Taiwan, ________ of the garbage was buried or burned in 1993.
A.56% B.66% C.70% D.80%
3.If a company makes lots of garbage, the government will ________.
A.ask the company to leave Taiwan B.ask the company to build landfills
C.ask the company to pay for the garbage D.ask the company to sell it out
4.People can track the garbage truck by ________.
A.using blue bags B.playing music C.using a phone app D.separating the waste
5.From the passage, we may know that ________.
A.people are smart in Taiwan B.garbage makes Taiwan rich
C.Taiwan needs more landfills D.recycling works well in Taiwan
2
Tiny trash factories
Not all waste has to go to waste. Most of the world’s 2.22 billion tons of annual trash ends up in landfills or open dump. Veena Sahajwalla, a materials scientist and engineer at the University of New South walks, has created a solution to our massive trash problem: waste microfactories. These little trash processors house a series of machines that recycle waste and transform it into new materials with thermal technology. The new all-in-one approach could leave our current recycling processes in the dust.
Sahajwalla launched the world’s first waste microfactory targeting electronic waste in 2018. A second one began recycling plastics in 2019. Now, her lab group is working with university and industry partners to commercialize their patented Microfactoric technology. She says the small scale of the machines will make it easier for them to one day operate on renewable energy, unlike most large manufacturing plants. The approach will also allow cities to recycle waste into new products on location. With a micro-factory, gone are the days of needing separate facilities to collect and store materials, extract elements and produce new products.
Traditionally, recycling plants break down materials for re us c in similar products. It is like melting down plastic to make more plastic things. Her invention evolved this idea by taking materials from an old product and creating something different. “The kids don’t look like the parents,” she says.
For example, the microfactories can break down old smart phoned and computer monitors and extract silica and carbon, and then combine them into silicon car bide nanowires. This generates a common ceramic material with many industrial uses. Sahajwalla refers to this process as “the fourth R,” adding “ ” to the common phrase “reduce, reuse, recycle.”
In 2019, just 17.4 percent of e-waste was recycled, so the new ability offers a crucial new development in the challenge recycling complex electronic devices. “We can do so much more with materials,” says Sahajwala.” Traditional recycling has not worked for every recycling challenge.” She and her team are already working to install the next waste microfactory in the Australian town of Cootamundra by early 2021, with the goal of expanding around the country over the next few years.
1.Which of the following is the feature of the waste microfactory?
A.It can restore the waste to their original forms.
B.It is cleaner than the traditional recycling plant.
C.Waste can be recycled where they are dump at.
D.There is only one machine in the waste microfactory.
2.According to the passage, what are the scientists working on presently?
A.Establishing the first waste microfactory.
B.Expanding the variety of waste it can recycle.
C.Trying to make a profit from microfactory technology.
D.Developing renewable energy to operate microfactories.
3.Which of the following words is most suitable to fill in the blank in paragraph 4?
A.recall B.reform C.release D.reverse
4.Which of the following statement is true, according to the message?
A.Traditional recycling is actually useful for only a small part of waste recycling.
B.Microfactories make it possible for scientists to create various things with wastes,
C.Microfactories can directly make waste electronic device into household utensils.
D.By now, Australia is the first country in the world that has realized the popularization of waste microfactofies.
3
Seth Magle is an urban ecologist in Chicago. In 2021, he started building a network of fellow urban animal lovers from around the world. They’re working to collect information so that it can be compared in different cities.
With the goal of trying to create more wildlife inclusive cities, the network helps reduce human wildlife conflict and increase human wildlife coexistence in the massively urbanizing areas.
In Chicago, Magle and his team have been watching their city’s wildlife for about 10 years. All together, they have over 100 camera traps set up across different types of urban environments from the downtown Loop and city parks to nature preserves and suburb golf courses.
During times of recent extreme heat, we do definitely see animals reduce movement and just stay where they are. It’s probably energetically difficult to move around when it’s so hot. Although this works for a short term in high temperature, it’s not ideal over a longer period because it means less time to search for food or a new mate.
As Magle and his network of urban researchers look toward the future and climate change, they predict bigger shifts. Temperatures everywhere are projected to warm, so wildlife in urban settings and beyond will likely have to shift their normal regions a bit further north to where it feels more comfortable and to what they’re already used to. We don’t have armadillos in Chicago, but we have them in the southern part of the state. And they seem to be migrating north.
Only time will tell how our urban wildlife reacts to these longer-term shifts in temperature.
For now, it sounds like urban animals — so long as they’re healthy — are totally capable of handling a few days of extreme heat here and there.
1.What is the aim of the network?
A.To observe wildlife in different cities. B.To compare animals’ living conditions.
C.To collect information of urban animals. D.To help human and wildlife coexist.
2.What’s the main idea of paragraph 3?
A.The tracks of wildlife activities. B.The movement of urban animals.
C.The way of watching city animals. D.The different types of urbanization.
3.In what way do animals escape extreme heat?
A.Keeping still. B.Moving constantly.
C.Shifting to the north. D.Looking for food everywhere.
4.What is the text probably taken from?
A.A market report. B.A science magazine.
C.A biological textbook. D.A social research report.
4
Latin America’s first renewable fuel-powered, trash-trapping wheel is cleaning one of Panama’s dirtiest rivers. A local environmental group led the effort.
The wheel is powered by water and sun energy. It pulls waste out of the Juan Diaz River. Most of the waste comes from the capital area of Panama City, where about 2 million people live. Thousands of kilograms of rubbish flow down the river into the ocean each year.
Robert Getman is the leader of the project. “Cleaning beaches is good,” he said, “but it is more effective and cheaper to trap rubbish in rivers because when it reaches the ocean, the environmental and economic cost becomes too high.”
The environmental group Marea Verde created the wheel, which is named Wanda Diaz, in late September. By the middle of October, Wanda had gathered 28. 6 cubic meters of plastic bottles from the water.
The Juan Diaz River is one of the most polluted in Panama. Waste systems in the area are poor, and land development is not well supervised. The river also passes through Panama City, one of Central America’s largest cities.
Over five years, Marea Verde projects have slowed the spread of rubbish along Panama’s rivers and coastline. Earlier, the group introduced its “Barrier or Trash”technology, a floating device. It caught more than 100 metric tons of waste in the Matias Hernandez River between 2019 and 2020.
“We want to raise awareness that we can prevent the death of this very important river,”said Marea Verde member Sandy Watemberg. She expressed her hope that the wheel will help. But she also pointed to the need for those who use single-use plastics to rethink their behavior. “The most important thing is to achieve a change in habits,” she said.
1.What makes the wheel the first of its kind?
A.Its size. B.Its power. C.Its shape. D.Its color.
2.Which statement matches Robert Getman’s opinion?
A.We’d better remove rubbish before it enters the sea.
B.We should clean beaches so as not to pollute the sea.
C.It’s cheap for humans to clean up the ocean.
D.It’s better to leave waste in the sea than in the river.
3.What does the underlined word “supervised” in paragraph 5 probably mean?
A.Supposed. B.Protected. C.Accepted. D.Controlled.
4.What did Sandy Watemberg call on people to do?
A.Support the project. B.Use single-use plastics more.
C.Change their habits. D.Realize the danger the river is in.
5
Wind energy provided 7% of the total electricity in the United States in 2019. Since 2008, the number of coal-fired power plants has declined, as the use of renewable energy and natural gas has increased. Wind energy is an excellent way to reduce carbon emissions, but what will happen when the wind turbine blades wear out? Is there a waste management issue?
The design life of wind turbines is about 20 to 25 years. The longest wind turbine blade to date is 350 feet. Although certain parts of wind turbines can be relatively easily recycled, others are not designed for recycling. Many spent turbine blades are piling up in landfills. However, researchers from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) are making progress in this area.
They developed a blade out of thermoplastic resin that is low-cost, lightweight, and seems to be recyclable. If the new blade also proves to be strong, this will be a game changer for the offshore and onshore wind industry. Lower costs also could help improve wind energy efficiency, reducing the use of fossil fuels. A lightweight blade is easier to transport and uses less fuel. It also seems easier to recycle and uses less energy in the production process. “With the traditional material, it’s almost like when you fry an egg. It’s finished and you can’t undo that,” said Derek Berry, a senior engineer at NREL. “But with a thermoplastic resin system, you can make a blade out of it. You heat it to a certain temperature, and it melts back down. You can get the liquid resin back and reuse that.”
Although the research looks promising, progress will be slow. Most wind farms being constructed today will stop working in a few decades. The benefits of recyclable blades are still decades away at least. The associated environmental impact has largely been a blind spot for the industry. Hopefully, recent progress will help make wind power even greener.
1.What is the disadvantage of the current wind turbine blade?
A.Its high cost. B.Its limited use.
C.Its negative impact on the environment. D.Its inefficiency in producing electricity.
2.What do Derek’s words mainly show?
A.Why thermoplastic resin is strong. B.How thermoplastic resin is recycled.
C.The widespread of thermoplastic resin. D.The production process of thermoplastic resin.
3.What is the author’s attitude to the future of wind energy?
A.Pessimistic. B.Careless. C.Doubtful. D.Optimistic.
4.What is the text mainly about?
A.A new way to develop turbine blades. B.A fresh approach to using wind power.
C.An unknown renewable energy source. D.The way to tear down old turbine blades.
6
If we’re going to restart a world shut down bya pandemic(流行病),we have to think creatively.For some Australian diving tour operators, that means taking biologists to the Great Barrier Reef instead of traditional customers.
Those teams are using a special method to plant coral pieces in the areas of the reef that have been most damaged byclimate change.In allfive tour companies have signed up for the Coral Nurture Program,a partnership between tourism and science.
“It is the first time on the Great Barrier Reef that tourism operators have worked alongside researchers and the first time that a coral clip(夹子)has been used to attach the coral to the reef”says Scott Garden,CEO of Passions of Paradise.
Coral reefs are considered the medicine cabinets(储藏柜)of the 21st century.Coral reef plants and animals are important sources of new medicines which are developed to treat cancer, arthritis, human bacterial infections,Alzheimer’s diseaseheart disease,viruses,and other diseases.Reefs also fuel economies, as many tourists are drawn in more than100 countries.But the sensitivity of the coral may also be its drawback. Everything from ship traffic to overfishing to climate change has a destructive influence on the world’s reef systems.About 50% of the Great Barrier Reef has already been lost,with experts predicting the rest could disappear within the next 30 years.
New Zealand’s Green Party wants to pour $1 billion into “green jobs”that would not only kick- start the economy,but also save the environment.And although the Australian effort may not seem as great as its neighbor’s countrywide plan, its influence could run deep.According to Karryon,an Australian travel news site, the tour operator Passions of Paradise has already grown 1,000 pieces of coral on the Hastings Reef, a horseshoe-shaped nursery on the Great Barrier Reef.
1.What are some Australian tour operators doing?
A.They are building a man-made diving site.
B.They are sending biologists to repair damaged coral reefs.
C.They are sending divers Barrier Reef.
D.They are asking biologists to provide environmental education for tourists.
2.What does Scott Garden say about the method of the Coral Nurture Program?
A.It is a brand-new way. B.It is difficult to operate.
C.It needs more time to test. D.It will attract more tourists.
3.Which of the following can replace the underlined word “drawback” in Paragraph 4?
A.Nature
B.Big fortune.
C.Disadvantage.
D.Golden opportunity.
4.What does the last paragraph show?
A.Saving coral reefs is a waste of money.
B.Coral reefs are being damaged due to climate change.
C.Some countries and organizations are making efforts to protect coral reefs.
D.The decrease of coral reefs has a great influence on the global economy.
7
The world is getting greener, according to a new study published in Nature this week.
Chi Chen, lead author of the study, and his colleagues have been mining data collected by an orbiting NASA camera that monitors green vegetation on Earth’s surface, day by day. Even more interesting: They are able to show the exact causes of increasing or decreasing leaf cover in particular areas.
In some cold places, increase in leaf cover apparently resulted from global warming. Since the climate is becoming more and more temperate and the growing season is getting longer and longer, the plants are growing bigger and leafier there.
“One large area of Brazil lost vegetation. I personally checked the data, and that’s because of lack of rain,” Chen said.
The most striking changes, though, were the result of human decisions in China and India. Both countries have been getting a lot greener.
The greening of India, Chen says, comes from a huge expansion of irrigated agriculture. “Instead of having just crops when it’s raining, they also have a whole six months of cropping and greenness when it’s not raining,” he says. “This version of greening isn’t really so great for the environment, though. The irrigation drains groundwater, vegetation is wiped away at harvest time and the extra chemicals farmers use produce greenhouse gases.”
In China, though, about half of the new leaf cover that Chen detected appears to be the result of a massive reforestation effort. It’s a government-supported attempt to prevent disastrous dust storms that resulted from earlier deforestation. “They are really doing a good job,” Chen says. “They have a large and comprehensive tree planting program. Those trees will stay in place, capturing (捕捉) dust and also CO2, the greenhouse gas. They’ll store it in wood, roots and soil, doing their part to slow global warming.”
1.Which of the following best explains the underlined word “temperate” in paragraph 3?
A.Warm. B.Wet.
C.Cold D.Dry.
2.What has led to the decrease of leaf cover in the Brazilian area?
A.Tree cutting. B.Dry weather.
C.Seasonal harvest. D.Desertification.
3.How does Chi Chen probably feel about the greening in India?
A.Excited. B.Puzzled.
C.Worried. D.Annoyed.
4.What is the last paragraph mainly about?
A.The benefits of tree planting. B.The harm of global warming.
C.The costs of greening in China. D.The cause of greening in China.
8
The government of Singapore has created a highly developed system that turns wastewater into drinking water. The system involves a network of tunnels and high-technology treatment centers.
Reused wastewater can now meet 40 percent of Singapore’s water demand. The country’s water agency says it expects to meet 55 percent of Singapore’s water demand by the year 2060.
Most of the water is used for microchip manufacturing centers and cooling systems in buildings. But some of it is added to the country’s drinking water supplies. The system helps reduce ocean pollution, as only a small amount of the treated water is sent into the sea.
Singapore has few natural water sources. The island nation has long had to depend mostly on supplies from neighboring Malaysia. Low Pei Chin, chief engineer of the water reclamation department of the Public Utilities Board, told reporters with Independent, “Singapore lacks natural resources, and it is limited in space, which is why we are always looking for ways to explore water sources and stretch our water supply.”
The Changi Water Reclamation Plant on Singapore’s eastern coast is the main part of the country’s recycling system. Parts of the water treatment center are underground. Wastewater enters the center through a 48-kilometer tunnel that is linked to sewers(下水道). The center contains a large system of steel pipes, tubes, tanks, cleaning systems and other machinery. It can treat up to 900 million liters of wastewater a day.
Waste that arrives at the plant goes through a cleaning process before powerful pumps send it flowing to areas above ground for more treatment. There, the treated water receives additional cleaning. Bacteria and viruses are removed through highly developed cleaning processes.
Singapore is also in the process of expanding its recycling system. The country will add another underground tunnel and a major water treatment center to serve the western half of the island. Officials expect work on the center to be completed by 2025. By the time the expansion is finished, Singapore will have spent about $7.4 billion on its water treatment systems.
1.What can we know about the treated water?
A.Most of it is sent into the sea.
B.It can only be used by factories.
C.Some of it is used as drinking water.
D.It can meet the whole country’s water demand.
2.Why has Singapore always relied on its neighbour for most of its water supply?
A.It has a friendly neighbor.
B.It is short of water resources.
C.Its people dislike using recycled water.
D.Its water consumption is particularly high.
3.What’s the sixth paragraph mainly about?
A.The history of a water treatment center.
B.The reasons for cleaning wastewater.
C.Introduction to groundwater networks.
D.The process of recycling the wastewater.
4.What is the best title for the text?
A.Singapore Turns Wastewater into Drinking Water
B.Singapore Builds a Strong Water-saving Culture
C.What Are Singapore’s Water Success and Lessons?
D.How Singapore Is Putting a Stop to Water Running out?
(
段落大意题的解答技巧
段落大意题主要考查段落的主要意思,是对一个段落的基本内容的简缩和概括。概括、总结、归纳段落大意就是用准确的、简练的语言把一个段落的主要意思明确而完整地表达出来。
做题时要特别注意“首尾兼顾”,即所问段落的首句和尾句。一是因为它们往往体现主旨要义,二是因为利用这些信息可以迅速提炼段落结构框架,在框架下的主旨判断,其准确性更高。
)
9
A little more than a year ago, Karen Jenner was at a nearby beach on the Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia when she started picking up escape hatches from lobster traps.
“It started as a fun thing, collecting one item,” Jenner tells. “In only a few beach visits, I had collected over 500 of the hatches, and they were becoming harder to find. So I started collecting a few other things and gradually got to where I am now, collecting almost anything that I can remove from the beach.”
In just over a year, Jenner has pulled home more than 2.4 tons of mostly plastic trash (垃圾). Jenner posts photos of everything she collects on her Nova Scotia Beach Garbage Awareness Facebook page to draw attention to the trash problem. “I think the most important part of what I do is taking photos and posting them to my Facebook page,” she says. “The visual (视觉的) statements that the photos give cannot be challenged, nor can the numbers. It is real data.”
Jenner typically goes on her trips alone. “I have a son with special needs and this is ‘own’ time for me, a time to relax and just enjoy the quiet of being on the beach,” she says. “Many people have asked to tag along but I do not host beach cleanups. Many people have commented that they have been noticing trash on the beach and have started picking it up. How cool that is!”
“It is often very discouraging because no matter how much you clean up, there will always be more to do. I joke that it is a fool’s job!” she says. “I have often thought that, that’s it, I am finished and that it is nothing more than a waste of my time. Yet a few days later, I am off again! I keep doing it because whatever I remove from the shoreline will not ever be a danger again for marine life (海洋生物). As far as making a difference to the problem of plastic in the ocean, it is not even a drop in the bucket.”
1.Why did Jenner begin to collect trash on the beach?
A.For money. B.On purpose.
C.On duty. D.For pleasure.
2.What does Jenner expect people to realize from her posts?
A.The serious trash problem. B.The valuable finds on the beach.
C.The really challenging data. D.The pleasure of visiting the beach.
3.Why does Jenner often go to the beach alone?
A.To keep away from her hard work. B.To relax after looking after her disabled son.
C.To pick up trash for herself. D.To prepare beach cleanups in advance.
4.What does Jenner think of her collecting rubbish from the beach?
A.It is just a drop in the bucket. B.It is a waste of her time.
C.It is worth keeping on. D.It is really a fool’s job.
10
Songs of Disappearance is a 24-minute album of endangered birdcalls recorded by Australia’s best wildlife sound recordist, David Stewart. It sold over 2,000 copies and shows the love of Australians who want to help their native species — with all proceeds (收益) going to conservation of our feathered friends.
Its genesis came when Stephen Garnett, a conservation professor at Charles Darwin University, finished the2020 Action Plan for Australian Birds, a set of recommendations that found 1 in 6 native species are threatened with extinction. He had a conversation with his Ph.D.student Anthony Albrecht, a classical cellist (大提琴手) and one-half of a two-person multimedia company called the Bowerbird Collective.
Albrecht asked his advisor if there was anything Bowerbird Collective could do to make people aware of the action plan. That was when they discussed the idea of an album. “I knew it was an ambitious thing to suggest and — I don’t know — Stephen’s a little bit crazy like me, and he said, let's do this,” Albrecht tells NPR. The other half of Bowerbird, the violinist Simone Slattery, arranged a musical collage (拼贴) of all 53 birds on the record, while the remaining tracks are each bird’s individual songs recorded by Stewart.
“We did it! Thanks to your incredible support we reached Number 3 in the ARIA charts, ahead of Taylor Swift, ABBA, Mariah Carey and Michael Buble,” the organizers wrote on their website, noting the Christmas-time bump given to the latter.
All proceeds of the album were donated to BirdLife Australia, which helped in production.
Some of the singing comes from birds that are Critically-Endangered, and one bird, the Night Parrot, wasn’t even known to science until 2013. “The golden bowerbird sounds like a death ray from some cheesy 70s sci-fi series,” says Sean Dooley, the national public affairs manager at BirdLife Australia.
1.What does the underlined word “genesis” in paragraph 2 probably mean?
A.Conversation. B.Change. C.Record. D.Beginning
2.Who is good at playing the violin?
A.David Stewart. B.Anthony Albrecht. C.Simone Slattery. D.Sean Dooley.
3.Why did the organizers mention Taylor Swift in paragraph 4?
A.To state the popularity of the album.
B.To compare different musical styles.
C.To stress the influence of the album.
D.To show Taylor Swift’s love for the album.
4.What was the money from album sales used to do?
A.To record a new album.
B.To preserve endangered birds.
C.To donate to charity organizations.
D.To expand the multimedia company.
思维素养提升
Task 1
假定你是李华,你喜爱的一个英文网站正在进行“The Low-carbon Lifestyle Around Me”为话题的论坛活动。请你用英语写一篇短文放在论坛上,内容包括:
1. 你对低碳生活的理解;
2. 你和家人是如何做的。
注意:
1. 写作词数应为80左右;
2. 请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
The Low-carbon Lifestyle Around Me
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Task 2
阅读下面材料,根据其内容和所给段落开头语续写两段,使之构成一篇完整的短文。
I’m Tia, a passionate teenage girl, living next door to the corner of 71st Street. It’s my corner. Most folks find there’s nothing there, just an empty lot. But to me, it’s like a wide-open treasure box. Stepping into it, I feel like leaping into a sea of green. The tall grass, probably just weeds, with butterflies gathering around, smells clean and fresh, and I wonder why I’m the only one who’s thankful for this place.
One evening, Mama said, “Tia, the city wants to turn that comer of yours into a parking lot.” I stopped in my tracks. “No! They can’t do that!”
“Tia, you have to make them see what you see. Make some noise about it. No one ever got any place by sitting back and staying quiet.” That night, I lay awake thinking for a long time. “I’ve got to do something.”
Early the next morning I dragged a chair down to the corner with a big cardboard on which I’d painted “No Parking Lot! Save Our Nature” in large letters. I sat down and waited. Most people passed by, paying no attention to me. My friend Tanya asked me what I was doing, and I told her. Then came Mrs. DiRisio, a beauty shop owner, who angrily waved her hand at my sign, saying. “My customers need a place to park. You go home, little girl.” But I didn’t move. Then I noticed a woman down the street taking pictures of my corner. She walked over to me, smiling, “I’m Sara Bennett. Can I talk to you?” I nodded. I knew I needed to make some noise. I started talking, and Ms. Bennett scribbled on a notepad. “A walking path would be nice, maybe a vegetable garden. And a bench, so people could sit down and listen to the birds singing.” I was surprised at myself, at how many ideas I’d got for this corner.
The next morning, my brother burst into my room with a morning paper. “Fighting for Nature on the Corner of 71st” was the title of the article, and along with it was a picture of me!
After breakfast my brother, Mama and I dragged our chairs and signs back to the corner.
注意:
1. 续写词数应为150左右;
2. 请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
Paragraph 1: To my amazement, I saw some familiar figures coming towards us.
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Paragraph 2: A year later, the sign on the corner made it official.
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