专题06 阅读理解C篇（16区二模真题速递）-【好题汇编】2025年高考英语二模试题分类汇编（上海专用）

学校:___________姓名：___________班级：___________考号：___________ 专题06 阅读理解C篇（16区二模真题速递） 全篇题型分析 题号 难度系数 详细知识点 1 0.4 社会问题与社会现象；议论文 2 0.65 科普知识 ；说明文 3 0.4 科普知识 ；社会问题与社会现象；说明文 4 0.65 说明文；人工智能 5 0.65 说明文；市场与经济 6 0.15 发明与创造 ；说明文 7 0.65 周边环境与场所；社会问题与社会现象；说明文 8 0.65 科普知识 ；社会问题与社会现象；议论文 9 0.4 发明与创造 ；科学技术 ；说明文 10 0.4 哲理感悟；说明文 11 0.65 说明文；人工智能；可持续农业 12 0.4 发明与创造 ；社会问题与社会现象；说明文 13 0.65 医疗 ；科普知识 ；说明文 14 0.65 动物；人与动植物；说明文 15 0.65 科普知识 ；科学技术 ；说明文 16 0.65 发明与创造 ；新闻报道 （2025·上海虹口·二模）Less is More is a book with an ambitious subtitle: How Degrowth Will Save the World. That’s a big claim, but this is by Jason Hickel, one of the leading advocates of postgrowth thinking. He has a better chance than most at backing that up. Degrowth is often used as a controversial word, but here it is used in a more encouraging way. Hickel looks back to trace the origins of ‘growthism’, digging back through climate change to fossil fuels (化石燃料), to economic growth and to capitalism. Capitalism “has a kind of totalitarian logic to it: every industry, every national economy must grow, all the time, with no identifiable end-point.” A central principle of capitalism is to take more than you give. Historically, that process has driven kingdoms and colonialism (殖民主义), and today it drives climate change and ecological breakdown. Wealthier countries take from the global atmosphere in yet another form of colonialism. One of the most damaging things about capitalism is that it is “fundamentally ill from any concept of human need.” It piles its rewards onto the wealthiest first. The more severe the poverty, the more invisible it is to capital, and it takes no account of what it destroys in the process of turning things into money. Instead, we should find ways to prioritise what matters most. More, in already wealthy countries, is not something that matters. Hickel calculates that with better distribution and investment in public goods, the US economy could be 65% smaller with no loss in wellbeing. Good lives are grounded in community, meaningful work, in societies that cooperate rather than compete. People and planet are being pushed to breaking point to no good end, says Hickel. As the book moves into its solutions, a series of antidotes (解药) to growth are revealed. Justice is one of them. Abundance (富足) is another—growth actually relies on people being unsatisfied. These sorts of ideas hint at much more interesting possibilities for a post-capitalist future. “For 500 years,” Hickel writes, “capitalist growth has been a process of enclosure and dispossession. Degrowth represents a reversal of this process. It represents release. It represents an opportunity for recovery and repair.” This is an elegant evolution of degrowth ideas, expanding what the term can mean. Degrowth begins as a process of taking less. But in the end it opens up a whole landscape of possibility, moving us from poverty to abundance, from dominance to reciprocity, and from loneliness and separation to connection with a world that’s full of life. Hard to argue with that. Perhaps degrowth will save the world. 1．According to Hickel, it is _____ that causes ecological breakdown. A．capitalism’s unceasing drive for growth B．a lack of technological advancement C．insufficient governmental regulation D．overinvestment in public goods 2．It can be inferred from the passage that Hickel holds that _____. A．capitalism to some extent meets the human need B．colonialism is hard to avoid even in modern times C．capitalist growth has increasingly prioritised recovery and repair D．less wealthy countries need better distribution than wealthy ones 3．What does the word “reciprocity” (paragraph 7) most probably mean? A．An unequal sharing of various resources. B．A relationship based on continuous giving. C．The possibility to compete fairly and freely. D．The exchange of rights and mutual support. 4．According to the passage, what does “degrowth” refer to? A．Intensifying capitalist growth in an eco-friendly way. B．The prioritising of individual growth over community welfare. C．Boosting economic development in order to reach a state of abundance. D．The reduction of economic growth to focus on sustainability and well-being. 【答案】1．A 2．B 3．D 4．D 【导语】本文是一篇议论文。主要介绍的是Jason Hickel在其著作《Less is More》中对资本主义增长逻辑的批判及其关于退缩经济（degrowth）如何拯救世界的观点。 1．细节理解题。根据第二段中的“Capitalism “has a kind of totalitarian logic to it: every industry, every national economy must grow, all the time, with no identifiable end-point.” A central principle of capitalism is to take more than you give. Historically, that process has driven kingdoms and colonialism (殖民主义), and today it drives climate change and ecological breakdown. Wealthier countries take from the global atmosphere in yet another form of colonialism. (资本主义“有一种极权主义的逻辑：每个行业、每个国家经济都必须不断增长，没有明确的终点。” 资本主义的核心原则是以索取多于回馈为基础的。历史上，这一过程推动了王国的扩张和殖民主义，而如今它正推动气候变化和生态崩溃。)”可知，资本主义的一种集权主义逻辑是每个行业、每个国家经济都必须不断增长，没有明确的终点，这一过程推动气候变化和生态崩溃，由此可知，造成生态崩溃的原因是资本主义对增长的无止境驱动。故选A项。 2．推理判断题。根据第二段中的“Historically, that process has driven kingdoms and colonialism (殖民主义), and today it drives climate change and ecological breakdown. Wealthier countries take from the global atmosphere in yet another form of colonialism.(历史上，这一过程推动了王国的扩张和殖民主义，而如今它正推动气候变化和生态崩溃。富裕国家通过另一种形式的殖民主义从全球大气中攫取资源。)”可知，历史上通过王国的扩张和殖民主义积累资本，而现在通过另一种新型的殖民主义从全球大气中攫取资源，由此可推断，Hickel认为现代仍然难以避免殖民主义的存在。故选B项。 3．词句猜测题。根据单词所在的句子“But in the end it opens up a whole landscape of possibility, moving us from poverty to abundance, from dominance to reciprocity, and from loneliness and separation to connection with a world that’s full of life.(但最终，它开辟了一个充满可能性的广阔天地，将我们从贫困带向富足，从支配带向reciprocity，从孤独与分离带向与一个充满生机的世界建立联系。)”可知，退缩经济开辟了一个充满可能性的广阔天地，结合“from poverty to abundance”和“and from loneliness and separation”可知，该单词的意义与“支配”相对应，结合选项，该单词的意义与D选项“The exchange of rights and mutual support.(权利交换)”的意义相近。故选D项。 4．词句猜测题。根据首段中的“Less is More is a book with an ambitious subtitle: How Degrowth Will Save the World. That’s a big claim, but this is by Jason Hickel, one of the leading advocates of postgrowth thinking. He has a better chance than most at backing that up.(《少即是多》是一本带有雄心勃勃副标题的书：《退缩经济如何拯救世界》。这是一个大胆的主张，但作者是Jason Hickel，他是后增长思想的主要倡导者之一，他比大多数人更有能力证明这一点。)”可知，本文引用Jason Hickel的《少即是多》，即《退缩经济如何拯救世界》一书，引出本文讲述的退缩经济如何拯救世界的观点，结合下文中对资本主义增长逻辑的批判和尾段中的“But in the end it opens up a whole landscape of possibility, moving us from poverty to abundance, from dominance to reciprocity, and from loneliness and separation to connection with a world that’s full of life.(但最终，它开辟了一个充满可能性的广阔天地，将我们从贫困带向富足，从支配带向互惠，从孤独与分离带向与一个充满生机的世界建立联系。)”可知，本文强调了退缩经济是从贫困走向富足，从支配转向互惠的过程，由此可知，退缩经济指的是减少经济增长，专注于可持续性与福祉。故选D项。 （2025·上海闵行·二模）For years, people have wondered whether creativity is a rare, inborn gift or a skill that anyone can develop. While some individuals appear naturally gifted in artistic or intellectual pursuits, recent studies challenge the long-held belief that creativity is a unique gift possessed by a select few. Instead, these studies suggest that creativity is not a mysterious quality, but a skill that can be developed through purposeful practice, persistence, and the right mindset. Take a young musician with moderate talent. Studies have shown that expert musicians engage in a practice method known as “deep practice,” which involves breaking complex pieces into smaller parts, repeating challenging sections, and identifying mistakes with focused attention. This method forces the brain to form new brain connections, enhancing both technical ability and originality. In contrast, merely playing a piece repeatedly without analyzing mistakes does little to encourage creativity. Beyond practice, creativity grows in environments that encourage exploration and problem-solving. Many breakthroughs in music, science, and art do not emerge from sudden inspiration but rather from sustained effort and experimentation. A composer might spend weeks testing different chord (和弦) progressions before discovering a unique combination. Similarly, a scientist may conduct numerous failed experiments before uncovering a groundbreaking solution. Thomas Edison, for example, famously said that his success was built on “1,000 ways that won’t work” before inventing the lightbulb (灯泡). Psychologists have found that individuals who adopt a “growth mindset” — the belief that abilities can be improved through effort — are more likely to achieve creative success. Rather than viewing failure as a sign of personal limitation, they treat it as an opportunity to improve their skills. This perspective allows them to push past frustration and continue experimenting until they reach a breakthrough. In contrast, those with a “fixed mindset” tend to believe that creativity is an inborn quality, leading them to give up more easily when faced with challenges. While natural talent may give an initial advantage, it is not the determining factor in long-term success. The brain’s adaptability allows anyone to develop creativity potential through continuous practice and learning. 1．In paragraph 1, the author’s main argument is introduced by _________. A．presenting the long-held belief B．providing examples of creative individuals C．contrasting two opposing views D．sharing personal experiences 2．The role of the example of Thomas Edison in paragraph 3 is _________. A．to illustrate that failure can lead to success B．to show that perseverance is essential for creativity C．to emphasize that success depends on the initial talent D．to argue that failure is the main source of creativity 3．According to the passage, how does a “growth mindset” help creativity? A．It helps people persist through difficulties and improve. B．It allows individuals to believe they are naturally gifted. C．It encourages people to make full use of every opportunity. D．It ensures that all efforts lead to immediate success. 4．What is the passage mainly about? A．How natural talent determines creativity. B．The role of deep practice in creative success. C．The connection between failure and inspiration. D．The development of creativity as a skill. 【答案】1．C 2．B 3．A 4．D 【导语】这是一篇说明文。文章主要论述了创造力是可以通过有目的的练习、坚持不懈和正确的心态来培养的技能，并对此进行了举例说明。 1．推理判断题。根据第一段“For years, people have wondered whether creativity is a rare, inborn gift or a skill that anyone can develop. While some individuals appear naturally gifted in artistic or intellectual pursuits, recent studies challenge the long-held belief that creativity is a unique gift possessed by a select few. Instead, these studies suggest that creativity is not a mysterious quality, but a skill that can be developed through purposeful practice, persistence, and the right mindset.(多年来，人们一直想知道创造力是一种罕见的、天生的天赋，还是一种任何人都可以培养的技能。虽然有些人在艺术或智力追求方面表现出天生的天赋，但最近的研究挑战了长期以来的信念，即创造力是少数人拥有的独特天赋。相反，这些研究表明，创造力并不是一种神秘的品质，而是一种可以通过有目的的练习、坚持不懈和正确的心态来培养的技能)”可知，作者将“创造力是一种罕见的、天生的天赋，为少数人所独有”这一长期存在的观点，与“创造力是可以通过有目的的练习、坚持和正确心态来培养的技能”这一近期研究观点进行对比，从而引出自己的主要论点。由此推断作者在第一段是通过对比两种对立的观点来引入主要论点的。故选C。 2．推理判断题。根据第三段中“Similarly, a scientist may conduct numerous failed experiments before uncovering a groundbreaking solution. Thomas Edison, for example, famously said that his success was built on “1,000 ways that won’t work” before inventing the lightbulb (灯泡).(同样，科学家在发现突破性的解决方案之前，可能会进行无数次失败的实验。例如，托马斯·爱迪生在发明灯泡之前曾说过，他的成功建立在“1000种行不通的方法”之上)”可推知，托马斯·爱迪生的例子是为了说明创造力需要坚持不懈的努力，即毅力对创造力至关重要。故选B。 3．细节理解题。根据倒数第二段“Psychologists have found that individuals who adopt a “growth mindset” — the belief that abilities can be improved through effort — are more likely to achieve creative success. Rather than viewing failure as a sign of personal limitation, they treat it as an opportunity to improve their skills. This perspective allows them to push past frustration and continue experimenting until they reach a breakthrough.(心理学家发现，那些秉持“成长型思维”的人——即相信能力可以通过努力提高的人——更有可能取得创造性的成功。他们不会把失败视为个人局限的标志，而是将其视为提高技能的机会。这种观点使他们能够克服挫折，继续实验，直到取得突破)”可知，“成长型思维”帮助人们克服困难并不断进步。故选A。 4．主旨大意题。根据最后一段“While natural talent may give an initial advantage, it is not the determining factor in long-term success. The brain’s adaptability allows anyone to develop creativity potential through continuous practice and learning.(虽然天赋可能会带来最初的优势，但它并不是长期成功的决定性因素。大脑的适应性使任何人都可以通过不断的练习和学习来开发创造潜力)”以及文章主要论述了创造力是可以通过有目的的练习、坚持不懈和正确的心态来培养的技能，并对此进行了举例说明。可知，这篇文章主要讲的是创造力作为一种技能的发展。故选D。 （2025·上海奉贤·二模）The technological singularity (技术奇点) is a theoretical scenario where technological growth becomes uncontrollable and irreversible, leading to profound and unpredictable changes to human civilization. In theory, this phenomenon is driven by the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) that surpasses human cognitive (认知的) capabilities and can autonomously enhance itself. The theory suggests that such advancements could evolve at a pace so rapid that humans would be unable to foresee or stop the process. The implications of reaching this singularity point could be good or disastrous for the human race. For now,the concept stays within the boundaries of science fiction, but nonetheless, it’s still worth thinking about what such a future might look like,so that humanity might steer AI development in such a way as to promote its civilizational interests. The timeline for reaching the technological singularity is a subject of much debate among experts. Ray Kurzweil, one of the most vocal advocates of the singularity, has famously predicted that the singularity is near and will happen by 2045. His prediction is based on trends such as Moore’s law and the increasing rate of technological advancements in fields such as computing, Al and biotechnology. Other experts cast more doubt on the prediction or propose different timelines. Some suggest that while Al will continue to advance, the complexities and unforeseen challenges of achieving superintelligence might delay the singularity beyond this century, if it happens at all.Systems theorist Richard Coren,in his book The Evolutionary Trajectory, projects a singularity in 2140. Technological, ethical and regulatory challenges might all potentially slow the pace of AI development. Moreover, figures such as Roman Yampolskiy point out that predicting the exact timeline is extremely difficult due to the exceptional nature of the singularity itself. The developments leading to a singularity involve many variables, including breakthroughs in AI algorithms, hardware capabilities and socictal factors that are hard to forecast with accuracy. Eamonn Healy, a professor at St.Edward’s University, assumes the evolution, particularly in terms of technological and intellectual advancement, is proceeding at an ever-increasing pace, compressing what used to take millennia into centuries and even shorter time frames. This concept of the acceleration (加速) of technological advancements echoes the views of futurists such as Ray Kurzweil, who predict that such changes might occur around the mid-21st century. 1．The underlined word “steer” in the passage is closest in meaning to_________. A．quicken B．restrict C．direct D．predict 2．If an expert foresees the singularity in less than 30 years, who might he team up with? A．Ray Kurzweil and Richard Coren. B．Eamonn Healy and Ray Kurzweil. C．Roman Yampolskiy and Eamonn Healy. D．Richard Coren and Roman Yampolskiy. 3．What best describes Roman Yampolskiy’s attitude toward predicting the singularity? A．Reserved. B．Optimistic. C．Indifferent. D．Neutral. 4．Which statement best summarizes the passage? A．The singularity is a guaranteed event with clear benefits. B．The singularity’s timelinc and implications remain uncertain. C．Experts agree the singularity will occur by 2045 without delay. D．AI development is accelerated due to regulatory obstacles. 【答案】1．C 2．B 3．A 4．B 【导语】本文是一篇说明文。文章主要介绍了技术奇点的概念、影响及专家对其到来时间的争议。 1．词句猜测题。根据划线单词前半句话“For now, the concept stays within the boundaries of science fiction, but nonetheless, it's still worth thinking about what such a future might look like(目前，这个概念仍处于科幻小说的范畴之内，但尽管如此，思考一下这样的未来可能是什么样子仍然是值得的)”以及后面“AI development in such a way as to promote its civilizational interests(以促进人类文明利益的方式发展人工智能)”可知，技术奇点目前还处于科幻范畴，但思考其未来模样很有价值，目的是为了引导人工智能发展，进而促进文明利益。由此推知，划线词steer意思是“引导、指引”。故选C。 2．细节理解题。根据第三段的“Ray Kurzweil, one of the most vocal advocates of the singularity, has famously predicted that the singularity is near and will happen by 2045.(雷·库兹韦尔是技术奇点最直言不讳的支持者之一，他曾预言技术奇点即将到来，并将在2045年之前发生)”以及最后一段“Eamonn Healy, a professor at St. Edward's University, assumes the evolution, particularly in terms of technological and intellectual advancement, is proceeding at an ever-increasing pace, compressing what used to take millennia into centuries and even shorter time frames. This concept of the acceleration of technological advancements echoes the views of futurists such as Ray Kurzweil, who predict that such changes might occur around the mid-21st century.(圣爱德华大学的教授伊蒙·希利认为，进化，特别是在技术和智力进步方面，正在以越来越快的速度进行，将过去需要数千年才能完成的事情压缩到几百年甚至更短的时间内。这种技术加速发展的概念与雷·库兹韦尔等未来主义者的观点相呼应，他们预测这种变化可能发生在21世纪中期左右)”可知，如果一位专家预测技术奇点将在不到30年内出现，他可能会与雷·库兹韦尔和伊蒙·希利的观点一致。故选B。 3．推理判断题。根据第五段的“Moreover, figures such as Roman Yampolskiy point out that predicting the exact timeline is extremely difficult due to the exceptional nature of the singularity itself.(此外，罗曼·亚姆波尔斯基等人指出，由于技术奇点本身的特殊性，预测其确切的时间线极其困难)”可推知，罗曼·亚姆波尔斯基对预测技术奇点的态度是有所保留的。故选A。 4．主旨大意题。根据全文内容可知，尤其是第一段“The technological singularity(技术奇点)is a theoretical scenario where technological growth becomes uncontrollable and irreversible,leading to profound and unpredictable changes to human civilization.(技术奇点是一种理论设想，在这种设想中，技术的发展变得不可控制且不可逆转，从而给人类文明带来深刻且难以预料的变化)”可知，文章主要讲述了技术奇点的概念、不同专家对其发生时间的预测以及预测的不确定性。由此可知，B选项“技术奇点的时间线和影响仍然不确定”最能概括文章大意。故选B。 （2025·上海浦东新·二模）This week’s Nobel Physics Prize honored two scientists who helped computers “learn” more like the human brain. A day later, the Chemistry Prize went to three researchers who used AI to design proteins and reveal molecular (分子的) structures, a problem that had troubled biologists for decades. Here come the complaints. This was computer science, not physics or chemistry! Of the five winners, arguably only one, biochemist David Baker, works in the field he was awarded in. The Nobel Prizes have traditionally favored concrete results over theory, experimental discovery over pure idea. But that pattern didn’t quite hold this year: one prize went to scientists who were dedicated to physics as a foundation on which to build computer models used for no groundbreaking result in particular. The winners on Wednesday, on the other hand, had created computer models that made big advancements in biochemistry. This shift hints at an unsettling prospect: Perhaps scientists will merely craft the tools that make the breakthroughs, rather than do the revolutionary work themselves or even understand how it came about. Artificial intelligence designs and builds hundreds of molecular Notre Dames (巴黎圣母院) and a researcher is honored for inventing the tool “shovel”. But hey, give people some credit. Science has always involved tools and instruments, and our relationship to them has grown more complex with their advancement. Few astronomers today put an eye to a telescope; sensors and AI models collect eye-popping volumes of data; computer programs analyze them for patterns familiar and strange; researchers examine them, sometimes from halfway across the world. The heavens are pixels (像素) on a monitor. Who, then, owns the discovery? Where does the machinery end and the human begin? If anything, highlighting AI’s role in science, the Nobel Committee also revealed its own untimely approach. Alfred Nobel’s 1895 vision rewarded the individual genius planting flags in Physics, Chemistry, and Medicine. But today’s challenges, such as climate change, cancer, extinction, don’t respect those boundaries. Rare is the pure chemist or biologist; common is the geochemist, the computational evolutionary theorist. AI is making these divisions less distinct, linking vast datasets across disciplines and boosting unexpected cooperation. “Among” is the key word. Science is ever more a team effort, a beautiful, essential reality that the Nobels, with their strict rules and categories, struggle to celebrate. If Nobel Committee is now rewarding the contributions of AI, should it not also recognize the researchers whose results it learned from? 1．What caused the complaints about this year’s Nobel Prizes in Physics and Chemistry? A．Winners were recognized for experimental results. B．Both prizes were associated with computer science. C．The biology field has long been overlooked in the award. D．Physics Prizes were awarded for models in biochemistry. 2．The writer mentions “Notre Dame” and “telescope” to suggest ________. A．AI masks human-machine roles in discovery B．humans owe their understanding of the world to AI C．AI is more crucial than humans in scientific exploration D．humans enable tools to independently make breakthroughs 3．It can be inferred in the last two paragraphs that ________. A．the committee has been used to applauding a team effort B．emphasising individual genius is against modern science C．AI should be preferred over researchers for breakthroughs D．the strict rules and categories address scientific challenges 4．What might be the best title of this passage? A．AI takes over: the decline of traditional science B．AI dominates science: the end of human discovery C．Nobel Prizes question AI’s role in modern research D．Nobel Prizes highlight AI and teamwork in science 【答案】1．B 2．A 3．B 4．D 【导语】本文是一篇议论文。文章主要讲述了今年诺贝尔物理学奖和化学奖与计算机科学相关，引发了人们的抱怨，进而探讨了人工智能在科学研究中的作用以及诺贝尔奖在当今科学发展下所面临的问题，强调了科学研究中人工智能和团队合作的重要性。 1．细节理解题。根据第二段 “Here come the complaints. This was computer science, not physics or chemistry!(抱怨来了。这是计算机科学，不是物理或化学！)” 可知，今年诺贝尔物理学奖和化学奖与计算机科学相关，这引发了人们的抱怨。故选 B。 2．推理判断题。根据第三段“Artificial intelligence designs and builds hundreds of molecular Notre Dames (巴黎圣母院) and a researcher is honored for inventing the tool “shovel”(人工智能设计和建造了数百个分子巴黎圣母院，一位研究人员因发明工具“铲子”而获得荣誉)”第四段 “Science has always involved tools and instruments, and our relationship to them has grown more complex with their advancement. Few astronomers today put an eye to a telescope; sensors and AI models collect eye-popping volumes of data; computer programs analyze them for patterns familiar and strange; researchers examine them, sometimes from halfway across the world. The heavens are pixels (像素) on a monitor. Who, then, owns the discovery? Where does the machinery end and the human begin?(科学总是与工具和仪器有关，随着它们的进步，我们与它们的关系也变得更加复杂。今天很少有天文学家用望远镜观察；传感器和人工智能模型收集了大量令人瞠目结舌的数据；计算机程序对它们进行分析，找出熟悉和陌生的模式；研究人员有时会从半个地球的另一端对它们进行检查。天空是显示器上的像素。那么，谁拥有这项发现呢？机器在哪里结束，人类在哪里开始？)” 可推知，作者提到 “巴黎圣母院” 和 “望远镜” 是为了表明人工智掩盖了AI在发现中的角色。故选 A。 3．推理判断题。根据倒数第二段 “Alfred Nobel’s 1895 vision rewarded the individual genius planting flags in Physics, Chemistry, and Medicine. But today’s challenges, such as climate change, cancer, extinction, don’t respect those boundaries(阿尔弗雷德・诺贝尔 1895 年的愿景是奖励在物理、化学和医学领域树立旗帜的个人天才。但如今的挑战，如气候变化、癌症、物种灭绝等，并不受这些界限的限制)”以及最后一段“Science is ever more a team effort, a beautiful, essential reality that the Nobels, with their strict rules and categories, struggle to celebrate(科学越来越是一种团队努力，这是一个美好而重要的现实，而诺贝尔奖以其严格的规则和类别，很难对此进行赞扬)” 可知，最后两段强调个人天才与现代科学相悖。故选 B。 4．主旨大意题。通读全文，并结合第一段“This week’s Nobel Physics Prize honored two scientists who helped computers “learn” more like the human brain. A day later, the Chemistry Prize went to three researchers who used AI to design proteins and reveal molecular (分子的) structures, a problem that had troubled biologists for decades.(本周的诺贝尔物理学奖授予了两位帮助计算机像人类大脑一样“学习”的科学家。一天后，化学奖颁给了三位利用人工智能设计蛋白质和揭示分子结构的研究人员，这是一个困扰生物学家几十年的问题)”和最后一段“Science is ever more a team effort, a beautiful, essential reality that the Nobels, with their strict rules and categories, struggle to celebrate(科学越来越是一种团队努力，这是一个美好而重要的现实，而诺贝尔奖以其严格的规则和类别，很难对此进行赞扬)”可知，文章主要讲述了今年诺贝尔物理学奖和化学奖与计算机科学相关，引发了人们的抱怨，进而探讨了人工智能在科学研究中的作用以及诺贝尔奖在当今科学发展下所面临的问题，强调了科学研究中人工智能和团队合作的重要性。D选项“诺贝尔奖凸显了人工智能和科学中的团队合作”为短文的最佳标题，故选 D。 （2025·上海嘉定·二模）In the early 20th century, Henry Ford revolutionized industrial production by integrating moving production lines with mass labor, greatly lowering manufacturing costs and transforming the automobile from a luxury item into an accessible means of transportation. Today, a similar shift is unfolding in the service industry, as digital platforms use technological advancements and on-demand labor to deliver services that were once exclusive to the wealthy. Companies such as Uber, Handy, and Instacart have special consumer access, enabling individuals to secure personal drivers, household assistance, and grocery deliveries with minimal effort. However, the scope of the on-demand economy extends far beyond convenience services. Increasingly, essential professional areas, including healthcare, legal consultation, and business advisory services, are being restructured through digital platforms. Startups like Medicast, Axiom, and Freelancer.com facilitate interactions between independent professionals and clients in need of specialized expertise. Although still emerging, this economic model is expanding at an unparalleled pace: Uber, established in 2009, now operates in over 50 countries and had already reached a valuation of $40 billion by 2014. Several critical factors have fueled the expansion of this economic transformation. The digital revolution has not only enabled real-time connections between service providers and consumers but has also decentralized traditional workflows. A single person equipped-with-a laptop can now produce Hollywood-quality media, develop new software, or conduct in-depth legal research from virtually any location. This shift has got companies to increasingly favor contract-based specialists over full-time employees, improving business flexibility while also generating profits from previously untapped resources, such as personal vehicles or specialized expertise. Beyond technological drivers, socio-economic shifts have further sped up this transition. The decline of long-term job stability, worsened by automation and global outsourcing, has led to a decline in conventional employment models. Meanwhile, society is becoming increasingly polarized between those who possess financial capital but lack time and those with availability but limited financial means. The on-demand economy serves as a mechanism through which these two groups can exchange value efficiently. Yet, this transformation presents notable challenges. While consumers and flexibility-seeking workers benefit, those reliant on stable, full-time employment with comprehensive benefits face growing uncertainty. Many on-demand workers operate without traditional job security, healthcare provisions, or retirement plans, raising complex regulatory and policy concerns. Governments must respond by modernizing labor laws, streamlining tax frameworks for independent workers, and ensuring social protections become more adaptable to this evolving employment landscape. 1．What is the defining characteristic of on-demand economy? A．Digital platforms connect workers with customers when needed. B．Businesses put more emphasis on the advancement of technology. C．Markets rule out those unnecessary services to increase efficiency. D．Companies hire more temporary workers than long-term employees. 2．Which example best illustrates the idea of “decentralizing traditional workflows”? A．A company encourages employees to take part-time jobs. B．A software developer works with a global team remotely. C．A researcher does experiments in an advanced laboratory. D．A business asks in-house staff to handle most operations. 3．Which of the following is a driving force of the economic transition introduced in the passage? A．People tend to have either money or time. B．Business flexibility benefits workers equally. C．Full-time employees are becoming less available. D．Automation is gradually replaced by global outsourcing. 4．What can be inferred from the last paragraph? A．The on-demand economy guarantees better job opportunities. B．Companies are seeking financial protection for on-demand workers. C．Governments may struggle to keep up with changes in the job market. D．Workers will no longer worry about employment benefits in the future. 【答案】1．A 2．B 3．A 4．C 【导语】本文是一篇说明文，主要讲的是按需经济（on-demand economy）的兴起、发展、驱动因素、影响以及面临的挑战。 1．推理判断题。根据第一段“Today, a similar shift is unfolding in the service industry, as digital platforms use technological advancements and on-demand labor to deliver services that were once exclusive to the wealthy.(如今，服务业也正在经历类似的转变，数字平台利用技术进步和按需劳动力来提供曾经仅为富人所享有的服务。)”可知，按需经济的定义特征是数字平台在需要时将员工与客户联系起来。故选A。 2．推理判断题。根据第三段“A single person equipped-with-a laptop can now produce Hollywood-quality media, develop new software, or conduct in-depth legal research from virtually any location.(如今，一个配备笔记本电脑的人几乎可以在任何地方制作出好莱坞级别的媒体内容、开发新软件或进行深入的法律研究。)”可知，最能说明“分散传统工作流程”的概念的是软件开发人员与全球团队远程合作。故选B。 3．细节理解题。根据倒数第二段“Meanwhile, society is becoming increasingly polarized between those who possess financial capital but lack time and those with availability but limited financial means. The on-demand economy serves as a mechanism through which these two groups can exchange value efficiently.(与此同时，社会正日益分化为两类人：一类是拥有资金但缺乏时间的人，另一类是有时间但资金有限的人。按需经济为这两类人提供了一种高效交换价值的机制。)”可知，经济转型的驱动力是人们要么有钱，要么有时间。故选A。 4．推理判断题。根据最后一段“Governments must respond by modernizing labor laws, streamlining tax frameworks for independent workers, and ensuring social protections become more adaptable to this evolving employment landscape.(政府必须采取措施，使劳动法现代化，简化独立劳动者的税收框架，并确保社会保障更加适应这种不断变化的就业形势。)”可知，从最后一段可以推断出政府可能会努力跟上就业市场的变化。故选C。 （2025·上海崇明·二模）In the early 1900s, French chemist, Edouard Benedictus, invented shatterproof (防碎的) glass by chance. But its significance and relevance didn’t emerge until the car market created the problem for which he had already found the answer. Such moments of serendipity reveal the unpredictable nature of innovation. Yet, even in cases where chance plays a role, as in Benedictus’s story, the broader question remains: Are such discoveries truly born of luck, or were they somehow “in the air,” waiting for the right person to seize them? Some argue all the discoveries would have been made by other people. They believe if the time was ripe in conceptual and technological terms, someone would have got there sooner or later. This is the used and abused understanding of theories that were “in the air”. Independently, Charles Darwin and Alfred R. Wallace (the latter 15 years behind Darwin) arrived at the theory of evolution by natural selection, both counting on similar data. There existed slight differences in the theory, but the coincidences of thought were astonishing. This phenomenon, which also exists in biological evolution, is called convergence: two non-closely related species develop similar functional adaptations. This occurs because the environment poses similar survival problems to both, namely similar selective pressures. This is an important clue that can help explain why this dynamic also exists in scientific knowledge: There are similar selective pressures and different research groups that compete to come up with the solutions. If we analyze the steps undertaken that led to the result, we can see that there were in fact some accidental elements. The overall dynamic was not accidental, though. Yet is it really possible that all discoveries were in the air? Let us assume for a moment that this is true and that the most luck can do is speed up the inevitable. All scientists arc standing on the shoulders of the giants who have gone before them, and there is objectively a cumulative (积累的) element in science. Nevertheless, at some point and in the right circumstances, it was the unknown scientists, not the giants, who managed to see a little farther. The mind of the giant was imprisoned by prior knowledge and so trapped within the framework of established habits, research questions, and established methods. The new, little-known scientist, on the other hand, will in one way or another have been able to break free of the chains of established knowledge. And so it will have been possible for them to imagine other worlds. This suggests that it will be innovators, with their prepared minds, who have a better chance of making accidental discoveries, namely that are irregular and unexpected. 1．In paragraph 2 “serendipity” refers to __________. A．accidental invention B．emergence of problems C．late recognition D．chemical innovation 2．The example of Darwin and Wallace is given to illustrate __________. A．fierce competition among biological scientists B．the important role of similar data in intentional research C．independent but similar solutions under shared pressures D．limited resources and technological dependency in science 3．What advantage might lesser-known scientists have over established researchers? A．Access to advanced tools. B．Freedom from rigid mindsets. C．Stronger peer cooperation. D．Greater funding opportunities. 4．Which statement best reflects the main idea of the passage? A．All discoveries are inevitable results of technological progress. B．Serendipity alone drives groundbreaking scientific achievements. C．Traditional methods prevent innovation and should be abandoned. D．Major breakthroughs integrate prepared minds with accidental opportunities. 【答案】1．A 2．C 3．B 4．D 【导语】本文是一篇说明文。文章探讨了科学发现和创新背后的本质。 1．词义猜测题。根据第一段“In the early 1900s, French chemist, Edouard Benedictus, invented shatterproof (防碎的) glass by chance. But its significance and relevance didn’t emerge until the car market created the problem for which he had already found the answer. (20世纪初，法国化学家爱德华·本尼迪克特偶然发明了防碎玻璃。但直到汽车市场产生了问题，而他已经找到了答案，这个问题的重要性和相关性才显现出来)”及第二段“Yet, even in cases where chance plays a role, as in Benedictus’s story, the broader question remains: Are such discoveries truly born of luck, or were they somehow “in the air,” waiting for the right person to seize them? (然而，即使像本尼迪克图斯的故事中那样，运气也起了作用，一个更广泛的问题仍然存在：这些发现真的是天生的运气，还是“在空中”，等待着合适的人来抓住它们)”可知，第一段提到Benedictus偶然发明防碎玻璃，第二段讨论“运气是否主导发现”。文中Such moments恰到承上启下的作用，由此推断划线单词的含义是“不可预测的创新，发现，偶然的新发现”。故选A。 2．推理判断题。根据第三段“Independently, Charles Darwin and Alfred R. Wallace (the latter 15 years behind Darwin) arrived at the theory of evolution by natural selection, both counting on similar data. There existed slight differences in the theory, but the coincidences of thought were astonishing. This phenomenon, which also exists in biological evolution, is called convergence: two non-closely related species develop similar functional adaptations. This occurs because the environment poses similar survival problems to both, namely similar selective pressures. This is an important clue that can help explain why this dynamic also exists in scientific knowledge: There are similar selective pressures and different research groups that compete to come up with the solutions.(查尔斯·达尔文（Charles Darwin）和阿尔弗雷德·华莱士（Alfred R. Wallace）（后者比达尔文晚了15年）各自独立地提出了自然选择进化论，他们都依靠类似的数据。理论中存在着细微的差异，但思想上的一致性却是惊人的。这种现象也存在于生物进化中，被称为趋同：两个不密切相关的物种发展出相似的功能适应。这是因为环境给两者带来了相似的生存问题，即相似的选择压力。这是一个重要的线索，可以帮助解释为什么这种动态也存在于科学知识中：有类似的选择压力和不同的研究小组竞争提出解决方案)”可知，达尔文和华莱士独立提出自然选择理论，依赖相似的数据，且思想惊人的巧合，后文用生物学趋同进化进行类比：即不同物种因相似环境压力发展出相似适应性。由此推断文中以达尔文和华莱士为例为了说明在共同压力下独立进行研究，但却得出相似的解决方案。故选C。 3．细节理解题。根据最后一段“The new, little-known scientist, on the other hand, will in one way or another have been able to break free of the chains of established knowledge. (另一方面，新出现的、不知名的科学家将会以这样或那样的方式打破既定知识的枷锁。)”可知，不太知名的科学家可以摆脱僵化的思维方式。故选B。 4．主旨大意题。根据第一段“In the early 1900s, French chemist, Edouard Benedictus, invented shatterproof (防碎的) glass by chance. (20世纪初，法国化学家爱德华·本尼迪克特偶然发明了防碎玻璃)”，第二段“Such moments of serendipity reveal the unpredictable nature of innovation. (这些偶然发现的时刻揭示了创新不可预测的本质)”，第三段“This occurs because the environment poses similar survival problems to both, namely similar selective pressures. This is an important clue that can help explain why this dynamic also exists in scientific knowledge: There are similar selective pressures and different research groups that compete to come up with the solutions. (这是因为环境给两者带来了相似的生存问题，即相似的选择压力。这是一个重要的线索，可以帮助解释为什么这种动态也存在于科学知识中：有类似的选择压力和不同的研究小组竞争提出解决方案)”，第四段“Yet is it really possible that all discoveries were in the air? (然而，真的有可能所有的发现都在空中吗)”及最后一段“And so it will have been possible for them to imagine other worlds. This suggests that it will be innovators, with their prepared minds, who have a better chance of making accidental discoveries, namely that are irregular and unexpected. (所以他们有可能想象出其他的世界。这表明，有准备的创新者更有可能获得偶然的发现，即非常规的和意想不到的发现)”可知，首段通过偶然发现引发对创新本质的探讨，继而开始论述创新不可预测的本质。说明相似问题催生相似解决方案，最后得出核心结论，即重大发现=准备好的头脑+偶然机遇。由此得知，全文在探讨科学发现和创新背后的本质，即有准备的头脑和偶然的机会相结合可以创造重大的突破。故选D。 （2025·上海静安·二模）MUSEUMS used to stand for something boring and barely relevant to real life. Those kinds of places still exist, but there are far fewer of them, and the more successful ones have changed out of all recognition. To be sure, museums remain showcases for collections and warehouse of valuables, but they have also become pits of popular debates and places where children go for sleepovers. They are no longer places where people look on in fear but where they learn and argue, as they would at universities or art schools. Nicholas Serota describes the museum as “a forum as much as a treasure box”. Statistics suggest that new-look museums are doing something right. Globally, numbers of museum goers have risen from around 23,000 two decades ago to at least 55,000 now. On the face, that success seems surprising. People now have more choices to enrich their life. Many travel to see the world, but mostly the world comes to them, conveniently delivered to their laptops or smartphones. So why would they still wander round museums if most of the stuff they can see there is available at the click of a mouse? Some of the now enthusiasm is explained by changes in demand. Today, the share of people receiving higher education is rising. Surveys show that better-educated folks arc a lot more likely to be museum-goers. They want to see for themselves where they fit in the wider world and look lo museums for guidance. For young museum-goers, they are looking for something authentic and real as the online viewing loses the sense of closeness. A century ago, Benjamin Ives urged museums to treat themselves as having a holy purpose. Collections should be considered for their artistic qualities alone, he argued, with no need for narrative, context or explanation. “A museum of art”, he wrote, “is in essence a temple.” Not all of what Ives stood for has been swept away. But today museums offer narratives in their exhibitions, provide a context for objects by linking them to people and places, through which they serve the public. They are fully aware that their ultimate attraction lies in the fact that they exist in order to respond to the public appeal. Some people may fear that what goes on in museums is getting too close to being humble. But modern museum goers like being pleased, and are likely to drift away unless museums can relate with them both intellectually and emotionally. 1．By describing the museum as “a forum as much as a treasure box”, Nicholas Serota implies that_______ A．museums now display objects much relevant to life B．museums provide chances for discussion and store precious objects C．the value of the objects kept in museums causes debate D．museums regard sleepover visitors as new treasure 2．Which of the following statements is TRUE according to the passage? A．Availability of varied kinds of entertainment draws former museum goers. B．Less-educated people reject museums because they can’t fit in the wider world. C．Young museum goers prefer in-person visit to virtual enjoyment. D．Museums are rated according to the artistic qualities of their collections. 3．The primary charm of today’s museums is that_______ A．they try to attach emotion to the artistic objects B．they try to offer various forms of art viewing C．they try to keep a safe distance from the public D．they try to satisfy the needs of the public 4．Which of the following is the possible title of the passage? A．Museums, placing the public first now B．Museums, outdated but surviving C．Museums, conflicting to modern entertainment D．Museums, their history and value 【答案】1．B 2．C 3．D 4．A 【导语】这是一篇说明文。文章主要说明了博物馆的作用以及如今博物馆为了吸引更多人参观努力迎合大众需求。 1．推理判断题。根据第一段“To be sure, museums remain showcases for collections and warehouse of valuables, but they have also become pits of popular debates and places where children go for sleepovers. They are no longer places where people look on in fear but where they learn and argue, as they would at universities or art schools.(诚然，博物馆仍然是收藏品的展示场所和贵重物品的仓库，但它们也成为了热门辩论的场所和孩子们过夜的地方。它们不再是人们恐惧地看着的地方，而是他们学习和争论的地方，就像他们在大学或艺术学校那样)”可知，尼古拉斯·塞罗塔将博物馆描述为“一个论坛，也是一个藏宝箱”，暗示博物馆提供了讨论和储存珍贵物品的机会。故选B。 2．细节理解题。根据第三段“For young museum-goers, they are looking for something authentic and real as the online viewing loses the sense of closeness.(对于年轻的博物馆观众来说，他们正在寻找一些真实的东西，因为在线观看失去了亲近感)”可知，C选项“年轻的博物馆观众更喜欢亲自参观而不是虚拟享受”正确。故选C。 3．细节理解题。根据最后一段“They are fully aware that their ultimate attraction lies in the fact that they exist in order to respond to the public appeal.(他们充分意识到，他们的最终吸引力在于他们的存在是为了响应公众的呼吁)”可知，当今博物馆的主要魅力在于它们努力满足公众的需要。故选D。 4．主旨大意题。根据最后一段“But today museums offer narratives in their exhibitions, provide a context for objects by linking them to people and places, through which they serve the public. They are fully aware that their ultimate attraction lies in the fact that they exist in order to respond to the public appeal.(但今天，博物馆在展览中提供叙事，通过将物品与人物和地点联系起来，为它们提供一个背景，通过这个背景，它们为公众服务。他们充分意识到，他们的最终吸引力在于他们的存在是为了响应公众的呼吁)”结合文章主要说明了博物馆的作用以及如今博物馆为了吸引更多人参观努力迎合大众需求。可知，A选项“博物馆，现在把公众放在第一位”最符合文章标题。故选A。 （2025·上海徐汇·二模）The convenience of modern life is nothing short of astonishing. As I write this, my phone is wirelessly sending some of the greatest hits from the 1700s to my portable speaker. I could use that same device to, within moments, get a car to pick me up, or have food delivered to my house. The fact that, as a culture, we seek out and celebrate such short cuts is understandable. They make it easier to have fun, and save us time and energy. That said, most people are able to sense that convenience has a darker side. Before we get into that, it is important to understand why convenience is so seductive in the first place. We often resist doing the things we need to do in order to make progress. Behind every well-intentioned plan lies this horrible sense of inertia (惰性). Why is this resistance — and our corresponding appetite for ease — such an essential part of our makeup? Here, insights from evolutionary psychology (particularly the idea of “evolutionary mismatch”) can help. Evolutionary mismatch is the idea that we evolved for a hunter-gatherer lifestyle, and that while our circumstances have changed completely, our brains and bodies haven’t. Resistance was a necessary counterbalance to the bursts of intense activity that characterized the lives of hunter-gatherers: searching for food in driving rain, or running to escape a dangerous animal. It’s the reason we still ask: “Do I really have to be doing this? Shouldn’t I save my energy?” The people who chose to remain sheltered during snowstorms, when the prospect of obtaining food was low, were more likely to live and pass on their genes to the next generation. And since those guys are our ancestors, we’ve inherited (继承) that tendency. Since that time, of course, innovation has changed things greatly. We’ve bent technology and our environments at least partly to serve our natural instinct to conserve energy. The question is: what do we stand to lose by following our tendency to prioritise comfort and convenience? Continually choosing the convenient path lessens your ability to deal with unavoidable difficulties. And, from an evolutionary perspective, some measure of discomfort is just as crucial to our survival as rest and relaxation. Our ancestors didn’t survive purely by being lazy, but through a combination of playing it safe and taking necessary risks: for example, pushing through the pain and effort of leaving a familiar home, in order to find a place closer to sources of food and better protected from the elements. It is this difficulty itself that shapes and develops our character. In the technological world we have fashioned, we must sometimes make a conscious effort to act in opposition to our instincts. As a culture, we must remember — and remind our young people — that while convenience feels good in the moment, our capacity to adapt and overcome challenges is part of our evolutionary inheritance too, and central to the adventure of life. 1．What does the word “seductive” (paragraph 3) most probably mean? A．Attractive and tempting. B．Useful and practical. C．Harmful and dangerous. D．Annoying and frustrating. 2．According to the passage, what does “evolutionary mismatch” primarily refer to? A．The inconsistency between personal goals and societal expectations. B．The contrast between modern convenience and ancient challenges. C．The controversy over the hunter-gatherer lifestyle of ancient people. D．The conflict between our natural instinct and the current environment. 3．According to the passage, prioritizing convenience in modern life may ________. A．lead to a lack of innovation and progress B．reduce our ability to overcome challenges C．make us overly dependent on technology D．cause a decline in physical fitness and health 4．What is the best title for the passage? A．The Benefits of Modern Technology B．Rejecting Modern Conveniences for a Better Life C．The Dark Side of Convenience in Modern Life D．Understanding Evolution in Today’s World 【答案】1．A 2．D 3．B 4．C 【导语】本文是一篇议论文。文章主要探讨了现代生活中便利性的利弊，以及为何人们会倾向于追求便利，同时指出了过度追求便利可能带来的问题。 1．词句猜测题。根据划线词后文“We often resist doing the things we need to do in order to make progress. Behind every well-intentioned plan lies this horrible sense of inertia (惰性). Why is this resistance — and our corresponding appetite for ease — such an essential part of our makeup?(我们常常抗拒去做那些为了取得进步而需要做的事情。在每一个善意的计划背后，都隐藏着这种可怕的惰性。为何这种抗拒——以及我们相应的对轻松的渴望——会成为我们天性中如此重要的一部分呢？)”可知，我们天性有对轻松的渴望，所以便利对我们来说是具有很大的诱惑力的，推知seductive应是“诱人的”之意，和A项意思相近。故选A项。 2．细节理解题。根据第四段“Evolutionary mismatch is the idea that we evolved for a hunter-gatherer lifestyle, and that while our circumstances have changed completely, our brains and bodies haven’t.(进化不匹配是指我们进化出了一种狩猎采集的生活方式，虽然我们的环境已经完全改变了，但我们的大脑和身体却没有改变)”可知，Evolutionary mismatch主要是指我们的自然本能和当前环境之间的冲突。故选D项。 3．细节理解题。根据倒数第二段“Continually choosing the convenient path lessens your ability to deal with unavoidable difficulties.(不断选择方便的道路会削弱你处理不可避免的困难的能力)”可知，在现代生活中优先考虑便利可能会降低我们克服挑战的能力。故选B项。 4．主旨大意题。根据第二段“The fact that, as a culture, we seek out and celebrate such short cuts is understandable. They make it easier to have fun, and save us time and energy. That said, most people are able to sense that convenience has a darker side.(作为一种文化，我们寻求并推崇这样的捷径，这是可以理解的。它们让我们更容易获得乐趣，还能节省我们的时间和精力。话虽如此，大多数人都能感觉到便利也有其阴暗的一面)”以及纵观全文可知，本文主要讲述了过度追求便利可能带来的问题，所以C项“现代生活中便利的阴暗面”是本文最好的标题。故选C项。 （2025·上海金山·二模）In today’s digital age, it is challenging to go about daily life without hearing the term artificial intelligence (AI) mentioned. AI enters conversations in almost every industry. This AI revolution (革命) relies on increasing data center capacity, the physical locations equipped with the computing servers needed to power this technology. With such expensive and temperature-sensitive technology under one roof, these facilities require building products with reliable insulating properties that can effectively house these innovative systems to keep them running smoothly. Reliability is where insulated metal panels (IMPs) enter the conversation. IMPs have proven effective building materials for data centers nationwide. Data centers require a lot of energy to function. On average, a ChatGPT question needs 10 times as much electricity to process as a Google search, and Goldman Sachs research estimates that data center power demand will grow 160 percent by 2030. Along with rising energy bills, data center servers generate lots of heat, requiring sufficient air to cool them down. By designing construction materials that manage heat more effectively, companies can reduce energy expenses for temperature control while improving overall facility performance. Using IMPs as part of a roofing system has also proven a reliable solution, even when the rest of the facility was constructed with concrete. Recent IMP innovation has transformed the way roofs are installed in temperature-controlled environments. IMPs simplify projects by reducing the assembly (装配) required, therefore decreasing installation time. New IMP roofing panels reduce the number of fasteners, minimize the risk of failure, and allow projects to be completed faster. By producing items on demand, they minimize site waste and significantly reduce the number of loads transported to the location. This approach helps streamline operations and contributes to a more sustainable practice overall. When firms design data centers for the various technology giants, they often establish a base model that only requires slight changes due to climate, soil conditions, etc., based on location in different parts of the country. The base model stays the same, so when a technology company greenlights an order for a dozen new data centers, they can be built quickly due to the predictable design. Data centers are typically designed to maximize internal usable space and have few windows and doors. With simplified designs, installing 1,858 m² of IMP material in a single day is common. One of the great benefits of IMPs is the ability to cut weeks out of a construction schedule compared with traditional methods. 1．What does the underlined word “insulate” in the passage probably mean? A．To protect from heat. B．To separate from others. C．To make something isolated. D．To make something more efficient. 2．IMPs are effective building materials for data center nationwide because of __________. ① high insulation value; ② fast installation; ③ reasonable prices; ④ reliable services A．① ② B．②③ C．①④ D．③④ 3．It can be inferred from the passage that ______. A．IMPs are too complicated for data center construction B．the demand of concrete will increase in the coming years C．data centers will no longer be needed with the development of AI D．traditional building methods are less environmentally-friendly than using IMPs 4．What is the main idea of the passage? A．The application of IMPs in developing data centers. B．The importance of energy-efficiency in the digital age. C．The development of AI and its impact on data centers. D．The challenges of building data centers in the digital age. 【答案】1．A 2．A 3．D 4．A 【导语】这是一篇说明文。文章说明在数字时代，AI 依赖数据中心，绝缘金属板（IMPs）因隔热、安装快等优势成为数据中心有效建材。 1．词句猜测题。根据第二段第一句“With such expensive and temperature-sensitive technology under one roof, these facilities require building products with reliable insulating properties that can effectively house these innovative systems to keep them running smoothly.(在一个屋檐下有如此昂贵且对温度敏感的技术，这些设施需要具有可靠insulating性能的建筑产品，能够有效地容纳这些创新系统，以保持它们平稳运行。)”可知，数据中心的技术对温度敏感，需要有能让这些系统平稳运行的建筑产品，这种产品应该能隔热，所以insulating应与隔热相关，可推测insulate意为“隔热；使隔热”的意思。故选A项。 2．细节理解题。根据第二段第二句“Reliability is where insulated metal panels (IMPs) enter the conversation. IMPs have proven effective building materials for data centers nationwide.(可靠性就是绝缘金属板（IMPs）的用武之地。IMPs 已被证明是全国各地数据中心的有效建筑材料。)”以及第三段中“By designing construction materials that manage heat more effectively, companies can reduce energy expenses for temperature control while improving overall facility performance.(通过设计更有效地管理热量的建筑材料，公司可以减少用于温度控制的能源费用，同时提高整体设施性能。)”可知，IMPs有高隔热价值，对应①；再根据第四段“IMPs simplify projects by reducing the assembly (装配) required, therefore decreasing installation time.(IMPs 通过减少所需的装配来简化项目，从而减少安装时间。)”可知，IMPs 安装速度快，对应②。文中未提及IMPs价格合理和可靠的服务。所以IMPs成为有效建筑材料是因为①高隔热价值和②快速安装。故选A项。 3．推理判断题。根据第四段最后两句“By producing items on demand, they minimize site waste and significantly reduce the number of loads transported to the location. This approach helps streamline operations and contributes to a more sustainable practice overall.(通过按需生产，它们将现场废物降至最低，并显著减少运输到该地点的货物数量。这种方法有助于简化操作，并总体上有助于更可持续的实践。)”可知，使用IMPs能减少废物和运输量，更具可持续性，由此可推断出传统建筑方法不如使用IMPs环保。故选D项。 4．主旨大意题。通读全文，特别是根据第二段“Reliability is where insulated metal panels (IMPs) enter the conversation. IMPs have proven effective building materials for data centers nationwide.(可靠性就是绝缘金属板（IMPs）的用武之地。IMPs 已被证明是全国各地数据中心的有效建筑材料。)”以及后文对IMPs在数据中心建设中的优势，如隔热、安装快、环保等方面的阐述可知，本文主要讲述了IMPs在开发数据中心中的应用。故选A项。 （2025·上海宝山·二模）Every day we are surrounded by large amounts of information, much of which is given by people who want to shape our decisions. So, we need to evaluate the information and determine how we should respond. Evaluating information and arguments requires critical thinking, the ability to think clearly and see how ideas are connected. Like any skill, critical thinking can be learned, and the best way to learn it is by practicing. You cannot evaluate an argument that you do not understand. Thus, the first step to critical thinking must always be listening. You may need to ask questions to clarify the person’s claims. Ask them to define their key terms, especially words with multiple meanings. Once you understand what the person is saying, then you can consider whether it is true. The most important question is whether the facts they state are actually true. You can try to figure this out by considering the source of the facts and whether the facts line up with what you already know about the topic. If there is a conflict, you must then discover whether your original understanding was incorrect or whether the new claims are wrong. It’s also possible to draw incorrect conclusions from correct facts. Often this comes from mistakes in logic, so learning about common logical fallacies (谬论) and how to recognize them can help. Also consider whether there could be another explanation for the facts besides the one you’ve been given. Critical thinking also involves examining people’s motivations and assumptions. For example, a salesman will present facts that are selected to convince you to buy what he is selling. He will leave out facts that don’t help him reach that goal. Assumptions can likewise affect people’s claims since people want to confirm what they already believe. It is necessary that you recognize these factors to predict when someone else’s statements might not be accurate or complete. Finally, critical thinking requires examining your own beliefs and assumptions as well. Poking holes in other people’s arguments can be necessary, but you must acknowledge the possibility that your own beliefs are wrong. Your own assumptions and motivations may affect your thinking without you realizing it. By critically examining both your own and other people’ opinions, you can understand the way the world works and make decisions in light of the truth. 1．According to the passage, which one of the following is TRUE? A．The majority of information given to us is actually to shape our minds. B．Critical thinking is usually learned by practicing, like any other skills. C．Only when you fully understand one’s claims, can you make a right evaluation. D．A conflict between the original understanding and a new one is critical thinking. 2．What is the purpose of the example of a salesman given in the passage? A．To illustrate the important function of critical thinking B．To confirm the difference of people’s motivations and assumptions C．To convince people to buy the product mentioned in the passage D．To warn people to pay special attention to the facts given 3．The expression “Poking holes in other people’s arguements” in the last paragraph probably means ______. A．Finding out others’ faults B．Evaluating others’ opinions C．Criticizing others’ points of view D．Supporting others’ ideas 4．What can we conclude from the passage? A．Drawing incorrect decisions from facts depends on its logic. B．A fact may sometimes guide us to make a wrong decision. C．Critical thinking is connected with one’s own beliefs and assumptions. D．Without logic knowledge, critical thinking is impossible to occur. 【答案】1．C 2．D 3．A 4．B 【导语】本文是篇说明文。文章主要讲述了如何用批判性思维来评价和回应我们所接收到的信息。 1．细节理解题。根据第三段“You cannot evaluate an argument that you do not understand.(你不能评价一个你不理解的观点。)”和第四段“Once you understand what the person is saying, then you can consider whether it is true.(一旦你明白了这个人在说什么，你就可以考虑他说的是不是真的。)”可知，只有当你完全明白一个人表明的观点时，你才能够做出正确的评价。故选C。 2．推理判断题。根据第六段“For example, a salesman will present facts that are selected to convince you to buy what he is selling. He will leave out facts that don’t help him reach that goal. Assumptions can likewise affect people’s claims since people want to confirm what they already believe. It is necessary that you recognize these factors to predict when someone else’s statements might not be accurate or complete.(例如，一个推销员会展示一些经过挑选的事实来说服你买他卖的东西。他会忽略那些不利于他达到目标的事实。假设同样会影响人们的说法，因为人们想要确认他们已经相信的东西。你有必要认识到这些因素，以预测别人的陈述何时可能不准确或不完整。)”可知，销售员为了自己的销量，只会向人们展示有利于产品销售的事实，而忽略那些不利的事实，同时人们也总是倾向于相信他们自认为是事实的东西。因此文章提到销售员的例子，是为了警告人们要特别注意所给出事实的真实性。故选D。 3．词义猜测题。根据最后一段“but you must acknowledge the possibility that your own beliefs are wrong.(但你必须承认自己的信念有可能是错误的。)”，该句与划线短语所在句“Poking holes in other people’s arguments can be necessary (Poking holes in other people’s arguments可能是必要的)”为转折关系，故应该表示虽然找出别人观点的错误是必要的，但是也须承认自己的信念也可能是错误的。故划线短语表示“找出别人的错误”。故选A。 4．推理判断题。根据第五段“It’s also possible to draw incorrect conclusions from correct facts.(从正确的事实中得出错误的结论也是可能的。)”和第六段“For example, a salesman will present facts that are selected to convince you to buy what he is selling.(例如，一个推销员会展示一些经过挑选的事实来说服你买他卖的东西。)”可知，有时候正确的事实也会得出错误的结论，一个事实也可能会让人作出错误的决定。故选B。 （2025·上海杨浦·二模）On farms all over the country, even the most traditional ones, thought is being given to the possibilities of AI. For the moment, artificial intelligence isn’t making much of an impact on the daily lives of most British farmers. But the way AI can transform agriculture in the near future is very much a reality in universities and research labs. My eyes were opened to the possibilities on a visit to a lab where cows were being automatically monitored in an innovative ‘smart’ dairy. AI was learning to recognize each individual cow and log its behavior. It then analyzed the data to warn of any signs of illness. Meanwhile, in my home county, work is underway to ensure that the upcoming generation of farmers isn’t left behind. In a few weeks’ time, newly arrived students at the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) will start their course in Agricultural Technology, at the heart of which is AI’s role in making farming more effective, productive and adaptive in a world of changing weather patterns. This would have sounded like science fiction in the 1950s, but now, 70 years on, I’m encouraged that tomorrow’s farmers are being armed with the know-how to succeed in the new digital age. Naturally, there are concerns about what all this might mean for the countless number of people who depend on farming for their livelihood. Soft fruit and seasonal veg are extremely tender and need an army of pickers and packers who may find themselves replaced at some point by the sort of standard precision-robots that have been trialled on a strawberry farm. In recent years many places have struggled to employ and keep seasonal workers, so rather than create unemployment, AI might just provide the answer to a worrying labour gap. It’s worth saying that this technology will need a whole new set of workers to produce the hardware, input new data and then install, maintain, repair and replace systems and kit. So don’t despair but do consider upskilling. Since the Industrial Revolution, every generation of farmers has had to deal with the technological changes of the day and they have successfully adapted to survive. Who knows! AI may well turn out to be just the latest in a long line of challenges to be embraced by adaptable and spirited farmers. And anything that saves me the worry of checking the weather forecast day and night during harvest season must be a good thing. 1．What did the author discover during his visit to the lab? A．AI has made automation a reality in the dairy industry. B．AI has helped most British farmers to closely monitor cows. C．AI is being developed to improve cow health through behavior analysis. D．AI is primarily being used to transform universities and labs across Britain. 2．What is the focus of the course in Agricultural Technology at the RAU? A．The role of traditional methods in enhancing crop productivity. B．The development of AI in agricultural practices in the UK. C．The ways climate change affects global food security. D．The impact of AI on boosting farming efficiency and productivity. 3．What can be inferred about the introduction of AI in agriculture from the third and the fourth paragraphs? A．It will lead to widespread unemployment. B．It will eliminate the need for human labor completely. C．It may help address the labor shortage issue. D．It doesn’t affect the nature of seasonal workers. 4．What is the author’s attitude towards the use of AI in agriculture? A．Suspicious. B．Optimistic. C．Neutral. D．Concerned. 【答案】1．C 2．D 3．C 4．B 【导语】本文是一篇说明文，主要探讨人工智能（AI）在农业领域的应用现状与未来前景，包括智能奶牛监测、农业技术教育、劳动力替代问题以及作者对AI农业化的积极态度。 1．细节理解题。根据文章第一段“My eyes were opened to the possibilities on a visit to a lab where cows were being automatically monitored in an innovative ‘smart’ dairy. AI was learning to recognize each individual cow and log its behavior. It then analyzed the data to warn of any signs of illness.(在参观一个实验室时，我的眼界被打开了，在那里，奶牛在一个创新的‘智能’奶牛场中被自动监控。人工智能正在学习识别每一头奶牛并记录其行为。然后，它分析数据，警告任何疾病的迹象。)”可推知，在作者所参观的一个实验室里的，人工智能正在学习识别奶牛、记录奶牛行为、并通过分析数据预警疾病迹象；由此可知，作者在参观实验室时发现实验室正在开发通过行为分析改善奶牛健康的人工智能。故选C。 2．细节理解题。根据文章第二段“In a few weeks’ time, newly arrived students at the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) will start their course in Agricultural Technology, at the heart of which is AI’s role in making farming more effective, productive and adaptive in a world of changing weather patterns.(几周后，皇家农业大学（RAU）的新来的学生将开始他们的农业技术课程，这门课程的核心是人工智能在使农业在不断变化的天气模式下更有效、更多产和更适应性方面的作用。)”可推知，皇家农业大学（RAU）农业技术课程的重点是AI对提升农业效率和生产力的影响。故选D。 3．推理判断题。根据文章第四段“In recent years many places have struggled to employ and keep seasonal workers, so rather than create unemployment, AI might just provide the answer to a worrying labour gap.(近年来，许多地方一直在努力雇佣和留住季节性工人，因此，人工智能可能只是为令人担忧的劳动力缺口提供了答案，而不是制造失业。)”可推知，AI可能有助于解决劳动力短缺问题。故选C。 4．推理判断题。根据文章最后一段“AI may well turn out to be just the latest in a long line of challenges to be embraced by adaptable and spirited farmers. And anything that saves me the worry of checking the weather forecast day and night during harvest season must be a good thing. (人工智能很可能只是一长串挑战中最新的一个，这些挑战将被适应能力强、精神充沛的农民所接受。任何能让我不用在收获季节日夜查看天气预报的事情都是好事。)”可知，作者对AI节省人力，如免于日夜查看天气预报积极评价，因此推断作者对人工智能在农业上的应用持乐观态度。故选B。 （2025·上海普陀·二模）From Crisis to Community Currency The financial crisis of 2008 sent shockwaves throughout many countries in the Eurozone, and indeed the world. One of the hardest hit nations was Greece. For many Greeks this meant being thrown onto the breadline or worse still, plunging below the line of poverty. For others, the credit crunch (信贷紧缩) prevented them from using credit cards as their debts mounted. While most people felt hopeless, many decided to take the bull by the horns. When residents of the small town of Volos found themselves struggling to afford even essential items in euros, what they did was to come up with an alternative currency. They pay for the goods in TEM, TEM being a local alternative currency that people can earn by offering their services or goods to others. The TEM system, which brings to mind the ancient bartering system, operates on an exchange basis. Members of the TEM community gain credit by doing jobs for other people or selling them their own produce. For example, by selling clothes in TEM at the market, a trader could get language or computer lessons in return. As one stall-holder at the market put it, “We have reached the bottom of our lives and we now have to think in a different way.” But it’s not only at the local market that TEM is accepted. Even well-established local shops in Volos will accept both TEM and euros. In some cases, payment can be made in part euro and part TEM. Hard-up customers can, therefore, make more affordable purchases and store owners can cover their costs. So, how does the system operate in practical terms? The system, which has been developed online, requires members to have TEM accounts. These accounts, which are credited when they earn TEM and debited when they make a purchase, are closely regulated by founding members of the TEM community. But for those who feel that parallel currencies are too complicated a matter, they can turn to another organization called Peliti. 2002 was the year when Peliti was set up as a national network for the exchange of goods and services without money. Peliti differs from the TEM system as it works purely by bartering. So if, for example, you grow cucumbers and you want someone to cut your hair, you can find a hairdresser in your area who will agree to be paid in cucumbers! These organizations prove that ordinary people can find a way to survive when the going gets tough. When you have nothing to lose, you have everything to gain from alternative ways of life. 1．In the context of the passage, the underlined phrase “to take the bull by the horns” most probably means “_________”. A．to deal with the problem bravely B．to avoid facing a difficult situation C．to accept help from others when in trouble D．to wait patiently for the situation to improve 2．Why was the TEM system created in Volos? A．People feared that the euro would disappear. B．Credit cards were no longer issued to Greeks. C．A substitute currency for the euro had to be found. D．Some people had difficulty paying for goods in euros. 3．According to the passage, the TEM currency can be used ________. A．only at the market in Volos B．in other countries of the Eurozone C．in shops and at the market in Volos D．in shops and markets throughout Greece 4．In comparison with the TEM system, the most significant difference of Peliti is that ________. A．it operates nationwide B．it relies merely on service exchange C．it doesn’t involve an alternative currency D．its members must produce their own goods 【答案】1．A 2．D 3．C 4．C 【导语】本文是一篇说明文。文章主要讲述了希腊受金融危机冲击后，沃洛斯镇推出TEM货币及Peliti组织的情况。 1．词句猜测题。根据第一段“The financial crisis of 2008 sent shockwaves throughout many countries in the Eurozone, and indeed the world. One of the hardest hit nations was Greece. For many Greeks this meant being thrown onto the breadline or worse still, plunging below the line of poverty. For others, the credit crunch (信贷紧缩) prevented them from using credit cards as their debts mounted. While most people felt hopeless, many decided to take the bull by the horns. (2008 年的金融危机在欧元区的许多国家乃至全世界都引起了轩然大波。希腊是受冲击最严重的国家之一。对许多希腊人来说，这意味着他们被抛到了贫困线边缘，或者更糟糕的是，陷入了贫困线以下。对另一些人来说，随着债务的增加，信贷紧缩使他们无法使用信用卡。虽然大多数人感到绝望，但许多人还是决定to take the bull by the horns)”以及后文沃洛斯镇居民推出替代货币TEM的做法可知，此处是说人们勇敢地面对困难，想办法解决问题。所以to take the bull by the horns意思是“勇敢地处理问题”。故选A。 2．细节理解题。根据第二段“When residents of the small town of Volos found themselves struggling to afford even essential items in euros, what they did was to come up with an alternative currency. They pay for the goods in TEM, TEM being a local alternative currency that people can earn by offering their services or goods to others. (当沃洛斯小镇的居民发现他们甚至难以用欧元支付基本商品时，他们的做法是想出一种替代货币。他们用TEM支付商品，TEM是一种当地的替代货币，人们可以通过向他人提供服务或商品来赚取)”可知，在沃洛斯创建TEM系统是因为一些人在用欧元支付商品时遇到了困难。故选D。 3．细节理解题。根据第三段“The TEM system, which brings to mind the ancient bartering system, operates on an exchange basis. Members of the TEM community gain credit by doing jobs for other people or selling them their own produce. For example, by selling clothes in TEM at the market, a trader could get language or computer lessons in return. (TEM系统让人想起古代的易货系统，它是在交换的基础上运作的。TEM社区的成员通过为他人工作或向他人出售自己的产品来获得信用。例如，一个商人在市场上用TEM出售衣服，作为回报，他可以得到语言或计算机课程)”以及第四段中“But it’s not only at the local market that TEM is accepted. Even well-established local shops in Volos will accept both TEM and euros. In some cases, payment can be made in part euro and part TEM. (但接受TEM的不仅仅是当地市场。甚至沃洛斯一些知名的当地商店也会同时接受 TEM 和欧元。在某些情况下，可以部分用欧元部分用TEM支付)”可知，TEM货币可以在沃洛斯的商店和市场使用。故选C。 4．推理判断题。根据倒数第二段“But for those who feel that parallel currencies are too complicated a matter, they can turn to another organization called Peliti. 2002 was the year when Peliti was set up as a national network for the exchange of goods and services without money. Peliti differs from the TEM system as it works purely by bartering. So if, for example, you grow cucumbers and you want someone to cut your hair, you can find a hairdresser in your area who will agree to be paid in cucumbers! (但对于那些认为平行货币太复杂的人来说，他们可以求助于另一个名为Peliti的组织。2002年，Peliti成立，作为一个无需货币进行商品和服务交换的全国性网络。Peliti与TEM系统不同，因为它纯粹是通过易货交易运作的。所以，例如，如果你种黄瓜，你想找人给你理发，你可以在你所在的地区找到一个理发师，他会同意用黄瓜作为报酬！)”可推知，与TEM系统相比，Peliti最显著的区别是它不涉及替代货币，纯粹通过易货交易。故选C。 （2025·上海青浦·二模）Last year, Roche, a Swiss drug company, published a review of the clinical trials on neurological drugs it had held between 2016 and 2021. It found that black people were under-represented in all but one. Surprisingly, that news represents progress, because it shows that trial organisers are becoming more aware of a dangerous bias that sets back the safety and effect of medical treatments. Many trials exclude certain groups, and do so deliberately — children, for example, or people with physical or learning disabilities, pregnant women and the elderly. ________ A recent review found that half of trials around the world testing hip-fracture (髋部骨折) interventions excluded people who lived in nursing homes, were old or had some level of cognitive disorder. Though these groups make up almost a third of all patients suffering hip fractures, it is unclear if the interventions will work as safely or as effectively on them. Their doctors face an envious choice: prescribe anyway, with uncertain results; or deny their patients new treatments. Obtaining informed permission for trials is not always easy, especially from people with learning disabilities or dementia (痴呆). Accounting for different groups’ risks of side-effects can complicate the analysis of the data. And some groups mistrust doctors because of a history of mistreatment, which makes it harder to involve them in the trial. Even so, broadening the range of trials’ participants can be practically useful, because they may lead to new medical insights. Running trials on people who are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s, such as those with Down’s syndrome, might help researchers test whether their drugs work preventively. Something like that happened with the Dallas Heart Study in the 2000s. As a large piece of epidemiological research, it included an racially representative sample of people and found a genetic variant in some African-Americans which was related to 40% lower bad cholesterol (胆固醇). That gene is now one of the foremost drug targets in the fight against cardiovascular (心血管的) disease. Fortunately, the bias of clinical testing may be changing. Almost half of trial participants in America are now women (in the rest of the world it is still only 40%). America and Britain look likely to publish regulations that require trial organisers to explain whom they ought to include and how they plan to involve them. 1．According to the review, what is the current problem with clinical trials? A．They target specific groups while excluding some people. B．They test for side effects of the drugs, so they are not useful enough. C．They are not suitable for every patient because of their physical conditions. D．They don’t produce safe or effective results, thus discouraging lots of people. 2．Which sentence best fits the blank in paragraph 3? A．Yet the consequences can be ridiculous. B．However, it is happening for good reasons. C．Therefore, it brings convenience to doctors. D．Moreover, the groups can enjoy better treatments. 3．In the example of the Dallas Heart Study, what does “something like that” in paragraph 6 refer to? A．Running trials on the target patients can help researchers. B．Broadening the range of trials’ participants avoids mistreatments. C．Testing the effectiveness of the drug helps prevent certain diseases. D．Involving a wider range of participants in trials leads to new medical insights. 4．What can be inferred from the last paragraph? A．There will be no bias in clinical testing very soon. B．Women used to be under-represented in clinical trials. C．Regulations on subjects in clinical trials have come into effect. D．Clinical trials are increasingly improving, thus attracting women. 【答案】1．A 2．A 3．D 4．B 【导语】本文是一篇说明文。文章主要讨论了临床试验中代表性不足的问题及其改进措施，强调了扩大参与者范围对医疗进步的重要性。 1．细节理解题。根据文章第二段“Many trials exclude certain groups, and do so deliberately — children, for example, or people with physical or learning disabilities, pregnant women and the elderly. (许多试验故意将某些群体排除在外——例如儿童、身体或学习障碍者、孕妇和老年人)” 以及第三段中“A recent review found that half of trials around the world testing hip-fracture (髋部骨折) interventions excluded people who lived in nursing homes, were old or had some level of cognitive disorder. (最近的一项综述发现，世界各地测试髋部骨折干预措施的试验中，有一半将住在养老院、老年人或有某种程度认知障碍的人排除在外)”可知，临床试验的当前问题是它们针对特定群体，却故意排除了一些人，如儿童、有身体或学习障碍的人、孕妇、老人等。故选A项。 2．推理判断题。根据第三段空后“A recent review found that half of trials around the world testing hip-fracture (髋部骨折) interventions excluded people who lived in nursing homes, were old or had some level of cognitive disorder. (最近的一项综述发现，世界各地测试髋部骨折干预措施的试验中，有一半将住在养老院、老年人或有某种程度认知障碍的人排除在外)”提到许多试验故意排除某些群体，以及后文“Though these groups make up almost a third of all patients suffering hip fractures, it is unclear if the interventions will work as safely or as effectively on them. (尽管这些群体几乎占所有髋部骨折患者的三分之一，但目前尚不清楚干预措施对他们是否同样安全或有效)”说这些被排除的群体占髋部骨折患者的近三分之一，却不清楚干预措施对他们是否安全有效，医生面临艰难选择，这种情况是荒谬的。A选项“然而，后果可能是荒谬的”符合语境，能很好地衔接上下文。故选A项。 3．词句猜测题。根据第五段提到“Even so, broadening the range of trials’ participants can be practically useful, because they may lead to new medical insights. (即便如此，扩大试验参与者的范围实际上是有用的，因为它们可能会带来新的医学见解)”以及第六段“Something like that happened with the Dallas Heart Study in the 2000s. As a large piece of epidemiological research, it included an racially representative sample of people and found a genetic variant in some African-Americans which was related to 40% lower bad cholesterol (胆固醇). That gene is now one of the foremost drug targets in the fight against cardiovascular (心血管的) disease. (2000年代的达拉斯心脏研究就发生了类似的事情。作为一项大规模的流行病学研究，它包含了具有种族代表性的人群样本，并在一些非裔美国人中发现了一种与坏胆固醇降低40%相关的基因变异。该基因现在是对抗心血管疾病的最重要药物靶点之一)”可推知，“something like that”指的是让更广泛的参与者参与试验会带来新的医学见解。故选D项。 4．推理判断题。根据最后一段中“Fortunately, the bias of clinical testing may be changing. Almost half of trial participants in America are now women (in the rest of the world it is still only 40%). (幸运的是，临床试验的偏见可能正在改变。现在美国近一半的试验参与者是女性（在世界其他地区仍然只有40%）)”由此可推断出过去女性在临床试验中的参与比例是较低的，也就是女性过去在临床试验中的代表性不足。故选B项。 （2025·上海松江·二模）Beneath its icy surface, the Antarctic Ocean — a vast and remote wilderness — houses a hidden world of microscopic life, including clouds of krill (磷虾). These tiny creatures, just a few inches long, are among the most plentiful and important animals on Earth. Rod Downie, chief polar adviser at WWF-UK, describes Antarctic krill as the “superheroes of the Southern Ocean.” They serve as a critical food source for marine wildlife, including whales, penguins, seals, and seabirds. They feed on microscopic plants in sea ice, which absorb CO2, and are in turn eaten by whales. When whales release waste, it fertilizes marine plants that help cool the planet. However, the unsustainable fishing of krill could disturb this cycle. Downie says, “We urgently need to protect krill habitats within a network of marine protected areas. This project could give us a new tool to help monitor and safeguard this vital species.” But monitoring these organisms presents a grand challenge for scientists. Traditional methods, such as ship-based surveys and sampling, are time-consuming, expensive, and geographically limited. Scientists are using slight differences in seawater colour to count Antarctic krill from space. Dr Cait McCarry, a researcher from the University of Strathclyde, recently returned from Antarctica, where she conducted experiments to measure this effect. She explained, “We start with seawater, then add a krill and measure how much light the water absorbs. Then we add another krill and take another measurement.” This process helps scientists understand how krill concentration affects ocean colour, enabling them to track krill populations from space. The technology isn’t without its limitations. Factors such as cloud cover, sea ice, and variations in water clarity can affect the accuracy of satellite measurements. Furthermore, while satellite data provides information about the overall biomass, it doesn’t provide detailed information on the species composition or the health of individual organisms. And in such cases, field studies, with its unique capacity for on-the-ground investigation, are ready to assume an essential role for a more comprehensive understanding. From the seemingly insignificant variations in seawater color to the complex interplay of life within the Antarctic food web, scientists continue to reveal the complicated workings of this vital ecosystem. Their dedication and the innovative tools they employ offer hope for a future where we can better understand and protect the wonders of our planet. 1．Krill are described as “superheroes of the Southern Ocean” because ______. A．they provide an essential monitoring method B．their vast species dominate the Antarctic Ocean C．they regulate the temperature of Earth in a certain way D．their movements indicate ocean temperatures precisely 2．It can be concluded that ______. A．light absorption changes with krill concentration B．krill’s waste helps plants absorb CO2 more efficiently C．the species of deep-sea plants are enriched due to krill D．krill are mainly threatened by natural hunters like whales 3．What can be inferred from the passage? A．Oceanic research centers around marine life’s complex interactions. B．Though minor now, water color changes promise future discoveries. C．Given overfishing, greater emphasis should be laid on the composition of krill species. D．A full understanding of krill requires integration of satellite monitoring and field studies. 4．What is the passage mainly about? A．The urgency and challenges of studying krill. B．The development of new methods to study krill. C．The role of krill in the ecosystem and efforts to monitor them. D．The impact of human activities on krill and ways to counter it. 【答案】1．C 2．A 3．D 4．C 【导语】本文是一篇说明文，主要讲述了南极磷虾在南大洋生态系统中扮演着重要角色，是众多海洋生物的关键食物来源，且在调节地球温度方面有重要作用。 1．细节理解题。根据第二段“They serve as a critical food source for marine wildlife, including whales, penguins, seals, and seabirds. They feed on microscopic plants in sea ice, which absorb CO2, and are in turn eaten by whales. When whales release waste, it fertilizes marine plants that help cool the planet.(它们是包括鲸鱼、企鹅、海豹和海鸟等海洋野生动物的重要食物来源。它们以海冰中的微小植物为食，这些植物吸收二氧化碳，而它们又反过来被鲸鱼吃掉。当鲸鱼排出粪便时，它会给海洋植物施肥，帮助地球降温)”可知，磷虾被称为 “南大洋超级英雄” 是因为它们以某种方式调节了地球的温度。故选 C。 2．推理判断题。根据第四段 “She explained, “We start with seawater, then add a krill and measure how much light the water absorbs. Then we add another krill and take another measurement.” This process helps scientists understand how krill concentration affects ocean colour, enabling them to track krill populations from space.(她解释说：“我们从海水开始，然后加入一只磷虾并测量水吸收了多少光。然后我们再加入一只磷虾并进行另一次测量。” 这个过程帮助科学家了解磷虾浓度如何影响海洋颜色，使他们能够从太空追踪磷虾的数量。）可推知，光的吸收随着磷虾浓度的变化而变化。故选 A。 3．推理判断题。根据第四段“Scientists are using slight differences in seawater colour to count Antarctic krill from space.(科学家们正在利用海水颜色的细微差异从太空计算南极磷虾的数量)以及第五段 “Factors such as cloud cover, sea ice, and variations in water clarity can affect the accuracy of satellite measurements. Furthermore, while satellite data provides information about the overall biomass, it doesn’t provide detailed information on the species composition or the health of individual organisms. And in such cases, field studies, with its unique capacity for on-the-ground investigation, are ready to assume an essential role for a more comprehensive understanding.(云层覆盖、海冰和水的清澈度等因素会影响卫星测量的准确性。此外，虽然卫星数据提供了关于总体生物量的信息，但它没有提供关于物种组成或个体生物健康的详细信息。在这种情况下，实地研究凭借其独特的实地调查能力，准备在更全面的了解中发挥重要作用)”可推知，要全面了解磷虾，需要将卫星监测和实地研究相结合。故选 D。 4．主旨大意题。通读全文可知，文章前两介绍了磷虾在南极海洋生态系统中作为重要食物来源，以及它们在调节地球温度方面的作用；后面几段讲述了科学家面临监测磷虾的挑战，采用了利用海水颜色从太空监测磷虾的新技术，同时也指出了该技术的局限性，以及实地研究的重要性。选项 C“磷虾在生态系统中的作用以及监测它们的努力”能概括文章的大意。故选 C。 （2025·上海黄浦·二模）In the roughly two years since the public release of ChatGPT, artificial intelligence (A．I.) has advanced far more rapidly than humanity has learned to use its good features and to prevent its bad ones. On the bad side, for example, it turns out that A．I. is really good at controlling and cheating its human “masters.” This past summer, OpenAI released ol, the first in a series of A．1. models designed to spend more time thinking before they respond. Before the release, it hired Apollo Research, which studies risks of cheating by A．L., to evaluate the system. To pressure-test the system, Apollo instructed ol to strongly pursue a specific goal, telling it “nothing else matters.” Here is OpenAI’s evaluation report about ol: Data control: In a simple data processing task where the goals of the model were in conflict with the user’s goal, ol would appear to complete the task as requested but subtly (不易察觉地) control the data to advance its own goal in 19percent of cases. Doubling down: When Apollo Research conducted ‘follow-up interviews’ where they challenged the model about its incorrect actions, ol would deny taking action or make up false explanations in 99 percent of cases. Chatbots powered by large language models are suited for helping people brainstorm because they can open a path that’s worth exploring. One assumption for how large language models such as ol think is that they use what logicians call abduction. Abduction isn’t well known, but it’s common in daily life, not to mention possibly inside A．I. Unlike deduction, which is reasoning from general laws to specific conclusions, and induction, reasoning from the specific to the general, abduction is a type of probable reasoning that starts from the known results and determines the most likely cause leading to those results, requiring creativity. The more powerful A．I. gets, the less humans understand about it — but perhaps we shouldn’t judge ourselves too harshly for that. As it turns out, A．I. doesn’t even understand itself. It’s one thing to honor the mystery of the human brain, but quite another to admit that artificial intelligence — both creative and plotting — is slipping away from our understanding. 1．In the system test, what did Apollo Research ask ol to do? A．Prioritize user safety. B．Think before speaking. C．Pressure-test the design. D．Achieve a goal at all costs. 2．What can be concluded from the evaluation report about ol? A．ol always completes tasks on schedule as user intended. B．Data control occurs in about 5% of ol’s data processing tasks. C．ol manages data skillfully and denies actions when challenged. D．ol processes data efficiently and admits incorrect actions readily. 3．Abduction is the reasoning approach used to ______. A．identify patterns and make generalizations B．draw certain conclusions from general principles C．move from specific observations to universal laws D．infer the most possible explanation from given evidence 4．Which of the following statements is the writer most likely to agree with? A．The human brain is less complicated than A．I. B．Humans have control over the progress of A．I. C．A．I. may have to give in when challenged by humans. D．It’s hard to accept that A．I. is beyond our understanding. 【答案】1．D 2．C 3．D 4．D 【导语】本文是一篇说明文。主要介绍的是自ChatGPT发布以来，AI的迅速发展及其带来的正面与负面影响，特别是AI在数据控制和欺骗方面的潜在风险。 1．细节理解题。根据文章第二段“To pressure-test the system, Apollo instructed ol to strongly pursue a specific goal, telling it “nothing else matters.”(为了对系统进行压力测试，Apollo指示ol坚定地追求一个特定目标，并告诉它‘其他什么都不重要’)”可知，在系统测试中，Apollo Research要求ol不惜一切代价实现一个目标。故选D。 2．推理判断题。根据“Here is OpenAI’s evaluation report about ol:”部分“Data control: In a simple data processing task where the goals of the model were in conflict with the user’s goal, ol would appear to complete the task as requested but subtly (不易察觉地) control the data to advance its own goal in 19percent of cases(数据控制：在一个简单的数据处理任务中，当模型的目标与用户的目标发生冲突时，ol似乎会按要求完成任务，但在19%的情况下，它会不易察觉地控制数据以推进自己的目标)” 以及“Doubling down: When Apollo Research conducted “follow-up interviews” where they challenged the model about its incorrect actions, ol would deny taking action or make up false explanations in 99 percent of cases(加倍坚持：当Apollo Research进行‘后续采访’，对模型的错误行为提出质疑时，ol在99%的情况下会否认采取了行动或编造虚假解释)”可知，在一个简单的数据处理任务中，当模型的目标与用户的目标发生冲突时，ol似乎会按要求完成任务，而且对模型的错误行为提出质疑时，ol在99%的情况下会否认采取了行动或编造虚假解释，可推理出ol在数据处理中会巧妙地控制数据，并且在受到质疑时会否认自己的行为。故选C。 3．细节理解题。根据倒数第二段“Unlike deduction, which is reasoning from general laws to specific conclusions, and induction, reasoning from the specific to the general, abduction is a type of probable reasoning that starts from the known results and determines the most likely cause leading to those results, requiring creativity(与从一般规律到具体结论的演绎推理和从具体到一般的归纳推理不同，溯因推理是一种或然性推理，它从已知结果出发，确定导致这些结果的最可能原因，需要创造力)”可知，溯因推理是一种从给定证据中推断出最可能解释的推理方法。故选D。 4．推理判断题。根据文章最后一段“The more powerful A. I. gets, the less humans understand about it - but perhaps we shouldn’t judge ourselves too harshly for that. As it turns out, A. I. doesn’t even understand itself. It’s one thing to honor the mystery of the human brain, but quite another to admit that artificial intelligence—both creative and plotting—is slipping away from our understanding(人工智能越强大，人类对它的了解就越少——但也许我们不应该因此过于苛责自己。事实证明，人工智能甚至不了解自己。尊重人类大脑的奥秘是一回事，但承认具有创造性和谋划能力的人工智能正在逐渐超出我们的理解范围则是另一回事)”可知，人工智能越强大，人类对它的了解就越少，事实证明，人工智能甚至不了解自己。尊重人类大脑的奥秘是一回事，但承认具有创造性和谋划能力的人工智能正在逐渐超出我们的理解范围则是另一回事，可推理出作者认为很难接受人工智能超出了我们的理解范围。故选D。 （2025·上海长宁·二模）Apple is making a new feature called Lockdown Mode to protect its products from the world’s most advanced spyware. This mode is for a small number of users targeted by the spyware. When turned on, Lockdown Mode will limit what apps, websites and features can do. For example, on an iPhone, it will block most message attachments and incoming calls from people the user hasn’t previously had a call with. Last November, Apple accused a foreign cybersecurity (网络安全) company, PPP Group, of installing spyware to target Apple products used by journalists, business people, academics, and government officials. Apple claimed that PPP’s tools allowed attacks, including from some organizations willing to pay huge sums to target a tiny portion of users with valuable information. Weeks earlier, Apple had updated its software to fix a fault that PPP had been exploiting to silently infect iPhones using iMessage. This fault allowed a rare and dangerous “zero-click” attack, where users could get infected without clicking on anything, according to the Citizen Lab, an academic research group. PPP Group has said that it provides tools for police and security departments around the world to fight crime and has ended contacts with organizations that have abused its software. It argued that Apple’s lawsuit should be dismissed because it acts as an agent of foreign administrations. However, a central appeals court ruled that such immunity doesn’t apply to foreign companies. Apple’s lawsuit is currently on hold while the highest court reviews a related case involving PPP and Meta Platforms’ WhatsApp. On Wednesday, PPP said it welcomes any solution that strengthens privacy. But it also said it’s important for security departments to be able to access encoded data for criminal investigations. Apple plans to test the Lockdown feature soon and will release it widely this fall as part of its new operating systems for iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers. “Lockdown Mode will reduce the attack surface and increase the costs for greedy spyware companies,” said Citizen Lab Director Ron Deibert. Apple will also give rewards of up to $2 million to researchers who find weaknesses in Lockdown Mode. 1．Which of the following statements about Lockdown Mode is true according to the passage? A．It turns on automatically for all Apple devices. B．It secures mobile devices with high-end hardware. C．It reduces spyware profits with improved safeguards. D．It enjoys great popularity among Apple users lately. 2．The phrase “such immunity” in paragraph 4 most probably refers to_______. A．the ability to end contracts with misusing organizations B．the power to provide tools for police to fight crime C．the right of being informed of relevant cases D．the freedom from being taken to court 3．It can be inferred from the passage that ______ . A．PPP Group takes no part in the “zero-click” attack B．Apple’s lawsuit against PPP Group has been rejected C．PPP Group’s tools are used safely by authorized agencies D．Apple attaches great importance to the security of its users 4．Which of the following is the best title for the passage? A．Apple challenges PPP Group over spyware impact B．Apple plans tool to boost security against spyware C．Apple performs past counter-measures against spyware D．Apple initiates legal battle with PPP Group over spyware 【答案】1．C 2．D 3．D 4．B 【导语】本文是一篇新闻报道。文章主要报道了苹果公司为了保护其产品免受世界上最先进的间谍软件攻击，正在开发一种名为“Lockdown Mode”的新功能。 1．推理判断题。根据文章最后一段““Lockdown Mode will reduce the attack surface and increase the costs for greedy spyware companies,” said Citizen Lab Director Ron Deibert.(公民实验室主任Ron Deibert表示：“锁定模式将减少攻击面，并增加那些贪婪的间谍软件公司的攻击成本。”)”可知，锁定模式会减少攻击面并增加间谍软件公司的攻击成本，从侧面可以推断出这会减少间谍软件公司的利润。故选C。 2．词句猜测题。根据文章第四段“PPP Group has said that it provides tools for police and security departments around the world to fight crime and has ended contacts with organizations that have abused its software. It argued that Apple’s lawsuit should be dismissed because it acts as an agent of foreign administrations. However, a central appeals court ruled that such immunity doesn’t apply to foreign companies. Apple’s lawsuit is currently on hold while the highest court reviews a related case involving PPP and Meta Platforms’ WhatsApp.(PPP集团表示，它为世界各地的警方和安全部门提供工具以打击犯罪，并且已经终止了与滥用其软件的组织的联系。该集团辩称，苹果公司的诉讼应该被驳回，因为苹果公司充当了外国政府的代理人。然而，一家中级上诉法院裁定，这种豁免权并不适用于外国公司。目前，苹果公司的诉讼处于搁置状态，与此同时，最高法院正在审查一起涉及PPP集团和Meta平台旗下WhatsApp的相关案件。)”可知，PPP 集团称苹果公司的诉讼应该被驳回，理由是它充当外国政府的代理人，它认为自己有某种“豁免权”。然而，中级上诉法院裁定这种“豁免权”不适用于外国公司，苹果公司的诉讼目前处于搁置状态，等待最高法院审查一起涉及PPP集团和Meta平台旗下WhatsApp的相关案件。这里的“such immunity”指的是PPP集团认为自己拥有的可以不被苹果公司起诉（即不被送上法庭）的权利。故选D。 3．推理判断题。根据文章第一段“Apple is making a new feature called Lockdown Mode to protect its products from the world’s most advanced spyware. This mode is for a small number of users targeted by the spyware. When turned on, Lockdown Mode will limit what apps, websites and features can do.(苹果公司正在推出一项名为“锁定模式”的新功能，以保护其产品免受世界上最先进的间谍软件的侵害。这一模式是为那些成为间谍软件攻击目标的少数用户而设计的。当该模式开启时，它将限制应用程序、网站和功能的运行。)”、第三段“Weeks earlier, Apple had updated its software to fix a fault that PPP had been exploiting to silently infect iPhones using iMessage.(几周前，苹果公司更新了其软件，以修复PPP集团一直在利用的一个漏洞，该漏洞曾让其能够通过iMessage悄然感染iPhone。)”可知，苹果公司采取了多种措施来保障用户的安全，说明它非常重视用户的安全。故选D。 4．主旨大意题。根据文章内容可知，文章开篇指出苹果公司正在推出名为“锁定模式”的新功能，以保护其产品免受最先进的间谍软件侵害，接着介绍了苹果公司此前与PPP集团的纠纷，包括PPP集团利用苹果软件漏洞进行间谍软件攻击，苹果公司更新软件修复漏洞等情况，还提到了PPP集团的回应以及苹果公司诉讼的进展，最后强调苹果公司计划测试“锁定模式”功能并将其广泛推出，以及为发现该功能弱点的研究人员提供奖励。文章主要围绕苹果公司计划推出新工具——锁定模式，来加强对间谍软件的防范展开。选项B“Apple plans tool to boost security against spyware(苹果公司计划推出工具以增强对间谍软件的防范)”准确地概括了文章的核心内容，即苹果公司计划推出“锁定模式”这一工具来提高对间谍软件的安全防护。故选B。 难度分布 适中 较难 困难 62.5 31.25 6.25 试卷第42页，共42页 试卷第41页，共42页 学科网（北京）股份有限公司 $$ 学校:___________姓名：___________班级：___________考号：___________ 专题06 阅读理解C篇（16区二模真题速递） 全篇题型分析 题号 难度系数 详细知识点 1 0.4 社会问题与社会现象；议论文 2 0.65 科普知识 ；说明文 3 0.4 科普知识 ；社会问题与社会现象；说明文 4 0.65 说明文；人工智能 5 0.65 说明文；市场与经济 6 0.15 发明与创造 ；说明文 7 0.65 周边环境与场所；社会问题与社会现象；说明文 8 0.65 科普知识 ；社会问题与社会现象；议论文 9 0.4 发明与创造 ；科学技术 ；说明文 10 0.4 哲理感悟；说明文 11 0.65 说明文；人工智能；可持续农业 12 0.4 发明与创造 ；社会问题与社会现象；说明文 13 0.65 医疗 ；科普知识 ；说明文 14 0.65 动物；人与动植物；说明文 15 0.65 科普知识 ；科学技术 ；说明文 16 0.65 发明与创造 ；新闻报道 （2025·上海虹口·二模）Less is More is a book with an ambitious subtitle: How Degrowth Will Save the World. That’s a big claim, but this is by Jason Hickel, one of the leading advocates of postgrowth thinking. He has a better chance than most at backing that up. Degrowth is often used as a controversial word, but here it is used in a more encouraging way. Hickel looks back to trace the origins of ‘growthism’, digging back through climate change to fossil fuels (化石燃料), to economic growth and to capitalism. Capitalism “has a kind of totalitarian logic to it: every industry, every national economy must grow, all the time, with no identifiable end-point.” A central principle of capitalism is to take more than you give. Historically, that process has driven kingdoms and colonialism (殖民主义), and today it drives climate change and ecological breakdown. Wealthier countries take from the global atmosphere in yet another form of colonialism. One of the most damaging things about capitalism is that it is “fundamentally ill from any concept of human need.” It piles its rewards onto the wealthiest first. The more severe the poverty, the more invisible it is to capital, and it takes no account of what it destroys in the process of turning things into money. Instead, we should find ways to prioritise what matters most. More, in already wealthy countries, is not something that matters. Hickel calculates that with better distribution and investment in public goods, the US economy could be 65% smaller with no loss in wellbeing. Good lives are grounded in community, meaningful work, in societies that cooperate rather than compete. People and planet are being pushed to breaking point to no good end, says Hickel. As the book moves into its solutions, a series of antidotes (解药) to growth are revealed. Justice is one of them. Abundance (富足) is another—growth actually relies on people being unsatisfied. These sorts of ideas hint at much more interesting possibilities for a post-capitalist future. “For 500 years,” Hickel writes, “capitalist growth has been a process of enclosure and dispossession. Degrowth represents a reversal of this process. It represents release. It represents an opportunity for recovery and repair.” This is an elegant evolution of degrowth ideas, expanding what the term can mean. Degrowth begins as a process of taking less. But in the end it opens up a whole landscape of possibility, moving us from poverty to abundance, from dominance to reciprocity, and from loneliness and separation to connection with a world that’s full of life. Hard to argue with that. Perhaps degrowth will save the world. 1．According to Hickel, it is _____ that causes ecological breakdown. A．capitalism’s unceasing drive for growth B．a lack of technological advancement C．insufficient governmental regulation D．overinvestment in public goods 2．It can be inferred from the passage that Hickel holds that _____. A．capitalism to some extent meets the human need B．colonialism is hard to avoid even in modern times C．capitalist growth has increasingly prioritised recovery and repair D．less wealthy countries need better distribution than wealthy ones 3．What does the word “reciprocity” (paragraph 7) most probably mean? A．An unequal sharing of various resources. B．A relationship based on continuous giving. C．The possibility to compete fairly and freely. D．The exchange of rights and mutual support. 4．According to the passage, what does “degrowth” refer to? A．Intensifying capitalist growth in an eco-friendly way. B．The prioritising of individual growth over community welfare. C．Boosting economic development in order to reach a state of abundance. D．The reduction of economic growth to focus on sustainability and well-being. （2025·上海闵行·二模）For years, people have wondered whether creativity is a rare, inborn gift or a skill that anyone can develop. While some individuals appear naturally gifted in artistic or intellectual pursuits, recent studies challenge the long-held belief that creativity is a unique gift possessed by a select few. Instead, these studies suggest that creativity is not a mysterious quality, but a skill that can be developed through purposeful practice, persistence, and the right mindset. Take a young musician with moderate talent. Studies have shown that expert musicians engage in a practice method known as “deep practice,” which involves breaking complex pieces into smaller parts, repeating challenging sections, and identifying mistakes with focused attention. This method forces the brain to form new brain connections, enhancing both technical ability and originality. In contrast, merely playing a piece repeatedly without analyzing mistakes does little to encourage creativity. Beyond practice, creativity grows in environments that encourage exploration and problem-solving. Many breakthroughs in music, science, and art do not emerge from sudden inspiration but rather from sustained effort and experimentation. A composer might spend weeks testing different chord (和弦) progressions before discovering a unique combination. Similarly, a scientist may conduct numerous failed experiments before uncovering a groundbreaking solution. Thomas Edison, for example, famously said that his success was built on “1,000 ways that won’t work” before inventing the lightbulb (灯泡). Psychologists have found that individuals who adopt a “growth mindset” — the belief that abilities can be improved through effort — are more likely to achieve creative success. Rather than viewing failure as a sign of personal limitation, they treat it as an opportunity to improve their skills. This perspective allows them to push past frustration and continue experimenting until they reach a breakthrough. In contrast, those with a “fixed mindset” tend to believe that creativity is an inborn quality, leading them to give up more easily when faced with challenges. While natural talent may give an initial advantage, it is not the determining factor in long-term success. The brain’s adaptability allows anyone to develop creativity potential through continuous practice and learning. 1．In paragraph 1, the author’s main argument is introduced by _________. A．presenting the long-held belief B．providing examples of creative individuals C．contrasting two opposing views D．sharing personal experiences 2．The role of the example of Thomas Edison in paragraph 3 is _________. A．to illustrate that failure can lead to success B．to show that perseverance is essential for creativity C．to emphasize that success depends on the initial talent D．to argue that failure is the main source of creativity 3．According to the passage, how does a “growth mindset” help creativity? A．It helps people persist through difficulties and improve. B．It allows individuals to believe they are naturally gifted. C．It encourages people to make full use of every opportunity. D．It ensures that all efforts lead to immediate success. 4．What is the passage mainly about? A．How natural talent determines creativity. B．The role of deep practice in creative success. C．The connection between failure and inspiration. D．The development of creativity as a skill. （2025·上海奉贤·二模）The technological singularity (技术奇点) is a theoretical scenario where technological growth becomes uncontrollable and irreversible, leading to profound and unpredictable changes to human civilization. In theory, this phenomenon is driven by the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) that surpasses human cognitive (认知的) capabilities and can autonomously enhance itself. The theory suggests that such advancements could evolve at a pace so rapid that humans would be unable to foresee or stop the process. The implications of reaching this singularity point could be good or disastrous for the human race. For now,the concept stays within the boundaries of science fiction, but nonetheless, it’s still worth thinking about what such a future might look like,so that humanity might steer AI development in such a way as to promote its civilizational interests. The timeline for reaching the technological singularity is a subject of much debate among experts. Ray Kurzweil, one of the most vocal advocates of the singularity, has famously predicted that the singularity is near and will happen by 2045. His prediction is based on trends such as Moore’s law and the increasing rate of technological advancements in fields such as computing, Al and biotechnology. Other experts cast more doubt on the prediction or propose different timelines. Some suggest that while Al will continue to advance, the complexities and unforeseen challenges of achieving superintelligence might delay the singularity beyond this century, if it happens at all.Systems theorist Richard Coren,in his book The Evolutionary Trajectory, projects a singularity in 2140. Technological, ethical and regulatory challenges might all potentially slow the pace of AI development. Moreover, figures such as Roman Yampolskiy point out that predicting the exact timeline is extremely difficult due to the exceptional nature of the singularity itself. The developments leading to a singularity involve many variables, including breakthroughs in AI algorithms, hardware capabilities and socictal factors that are hard to forecast with accuracy. Eamonn Healy, a professor at St.Edward’s University, assumes the evolution, particularly in terms of technological and intellectual advancement, is proceeding at an ever-increasing pace, compressing what used to take millennia into centuries and even shorter time frames. This concept of the acceleration (加速) of technological advancements echoes the views of futurists such as Ray Kurzweil, who predict that such changes might occur around the mid-21st century. 1．The underlined word “steer” in the passage is closest in meaning to_________. A．quicken B．restrict C．direct D．predict 2．If an expert foresees the singularity in less than 30 years, who might he team up with? A．Ray Kurzweil and Richard Coren. B．Eamonn Healy and Ray Kurzweil. C．Roman Yampolskiy and Eamonn Healy. D．Richard Coren and Roman Yampolskiy. 3．What best describes Roman Yampolskiy’s attitude toward predicting the singularity? A．Reserved. B．Optimistic. C．Indifferent. D．Neutral. 4．Which statement best summarizes the passage? A．The singularity is a guaranteed event with clear benefits. B．The singularity’s timelinc and implications remain uncertain. C．Experts agree the singularity will occur by 2045 without delay. D．AI development is accelerated due to regulatory obstacles. （2025·上海浦东新·二模）This week’s Nobel Physics Prize honored two scientists who helped computers “learn” more like the human brain. A day later, the Chemistry Prize went to three researchers who used AI to design proteins and reveal molecular (分子的) structures, a problem that had troubled biologists for decades. Here come the complaints. This was computer science, not physics or chemistry! Of the five winners, arguably only one, biochemist David Baker, works in the field he was awarded in. The Nobel Prizes have traditionally favored concrete results over theory, experimental discovery over pure idea. But that pattern didn’t quite hold this year: one prize went to scientists who were dedicated to physics as a foundation on which to build computer models used for no groundbreaking result in particular. The winners on Wednesday, on the other hand, had created computer models that made big advancements in biochemistry. This shift hints at an unsettling prospect: Perhaps scientists will merely craft the tools that make the breakthroughs, rather than do the revolutionary work themselves or even understand how it came about. Artificial intelligence designs and builds hundreds of molecular Notre Dames (巴黎圣母院) and a researcher is honored for inventing the tool “shovel”. But hey, give people some credit. Science has always involved tools and instruments, and our relationship to them has grown more complex with their advancement. Few astronomers today put an eye to a telescope; sensors and AI models collect eye-popping volumes of data; computer programs analyze them for patterns familiar and strange; researchers examine them, sometimes from halfway across the world. The heavens are pixels (像素) on a monitor. Who, then, owns the discovery? Where does the machinery end and the human begin? If anything, highlighting AI’s role in science, the Nobel Committee also revealed its own untimely approach. Alfred Nobel’s 1895 vision rewarded the individual genius planting flags in Physics, Chemistry, and Medicine. But today’s challenges, such as climate change, cancer, extinction, don’t respect those boundaries. Rare is the pure chemist or biologist; common is the geochemist, the computational evolutionary theorist. AI is making these divisions less distinct, linking vast datasets across disciplines and boosting unexpected cooperation. “Among” is the key word. Science is ever more a team effort, a beautiful, essential reality that the Nobels, with their strict rules and categories, struggle to celebrate. If Nobel Committee is now rewarding the contributions of AI, should it not also recognize the researchers whose results it learned from? 1．What caused the complaints about this year’s Nobel Prizes in Physics and Chemistry? A．Winners were recognized for experimental results. B．Both prizes were associated with computer science. C．The biology field has long been overlooked in the award. D．Physics Prizes were awarded for models in biochemistry. 2．The writer mentions “Notre Dame” and “telescope” to suggest ________. A．AI masks human-machine roles in discovery B．humans owe their understanding of the world to AI C．AI is more crucial than humans in scientific exploration D．humans enable tools to independently make breakthroughs 3．It can be inferred in the last two paragraphs that ________. A．the committee has been used to applauding a team effort B．emphasising individual genius is against modern science C．AI should be preferred over researchers for breakthroughs D．the strict rules and categories address scientific challenges 4．What might be the best title of this passage? A．AI takes over: the decline of traditional science B．AI dominates science: the end of human discovery C．Nobel Prizes question AI’s role in modern research D．Nobel Prizes highlight AI and teamwork in science （2025·上海嘉定·二模）In the early 20th century, Henry Ford revolutionized industrial production by integrating moving production lines with mass labor, greatly lowering manufacturing costs and transforming the automobile from a luxury item into an accessible means of transportation. Today, a similar shift is unfolding in the service industry, as digital platforms use technological advancements and on-demand labor to deliver services that were once exclusive to the wealthy. Companies such as Uber, Handy, and Instacart have special consumer access, enabling individuals to secure personal drivers, household assistance, and grocery deliveries with minimal effort. However, the scope of the on-demand economy extends far beyond convenience services. Increasingly, essential professional areas, including healthcare, legal consultation, and business advisory services, are being restructured through digital platforms. Startups like Medicast, Axiom, and Freelancer.com facilitate interactions between independent professionals and clients in need of specialized expertise. Although still emerging, this economic model is expanding at an unparalleled pace: Uber, established in 2009, now operates in over 50 countries and had already reached a valuation of $40 billion by 2014. Several critical factors have fueled the expansion of this economic transformation. The digital revolution has not only enabled real-time connections between service providers and consumers but has also decentralized traditional workflows. A single person equipped-with-a laptop can now produce Hollywood-quality media, develop new software, or conduct in-depth legal research from virtually any location. This shift has got companies to increasingly favor contract-based specialists over full-time employees, improving business flexibility while also generating profits from previously untapped resources, such as personal vehicles or specialized expertise. Beyond technological drivers, socio-economic shifts have further sped up this transition. The decline of long-term job stability, worsened by automation and global outsourcing, has led to a decline in conventional employment models. Meanwhile, society is becoming increasingly polarized between those who possess financial capital but lack time and those with availability but limited financial means. The on-demand economy serves as a mechanism through which these two groups can exchange value efficiently. Yet, this transformation presents notable challenges. While consumers and flexibility-seeking workers benefit, those reliant on stable, full-time employment with comprehensive benefits face growing uncertainty. Many on-demand workers operate without traditional job security, healthcare provisions, or retirement plans, raising complex regulatory and policy concerns. Governments must respond by modernizing labor laws, streamlining tax frameworks for independent workers, and ensuring social protections become more adaptable to this evolving employment landscape. 1．What is the defining characteristic of on-demand economy? A．Digital platforms connect workers with customers when needed. B．Businesses put more emphasis on the advancement of technology. C．Markets rule out those unnecessary services to increase efficiency. D．Companies hire more temporary workers than long-term employees. 2．Which example best illustrates the idea of “decentralizing traditional workflows”? A．A company encourages employees to take part-time jobs. B．A software developer works with a global team remotely. C．A researcher does experiments in an advanced laboratory. D．A business asks in-house staff to handle most operations. 3．Which of the following is a driving force of the economic transition introduced in the passage? A．People tend to have either money or time. B．Business flexibility benefits workers equally. C．Full-time employees are becoming less available. D．Automation is gradually replaced by global outsourcing. 4．What can be inferred from the last paragraph? A．The on-demand economy guarantees better job opportunities. B．Companies are seeking financial protection for on-demand workers. C．Governments may struggle to keep up with changes in the job market. D．Workers will no longer worry about employment benefits in the future. （2025·上海崇明·二模）In the early 1900s, French chemist, Edouard Benedictus, invented shatterproof (防碎的) glass by chance. But its significance and relevance didn’t emerge until the car market created the problem for which he had already found the answer. Such moments of serendipity reveal the unpredictable nature of innovation. Yet, even in cases where chance plays a role, as in Benedictus’s story, the broader question remains: Are such discoveries truly born of luck, or were they somehow “in the air,” waiting for the right person to seize them? Some argue all the discoveries would have been made by other people. They believe if the time was ripe in conceptual and technological terms, someone would have got there sooner or later. This is the used and abused understanding of theories that were “in the air”. Independently, Charles Darwin and Alfred R. Wallace (the latter 15 years behind Darwin) arrived at the theory of evolution by natural selection, both counting on similar data. There existed slight differences in the theory, but the coincidences of thought were astonishing. This phenomenon, which also exists in biological evolution, is called convergence: two non-closely related species develop similar functional adaptations. This occurs because the environment poses similar survival problems to both, namely similar selective pressures. This is an important clue that can help explain why this dynamic also exists in scientific knowledge: There are similar selective pressures and different research groups that compete to come up with the solutions. If we analyze the steps undertaken that led to the result, we can see that there were in fact some accidental elements. The overall dynamic was not accidental, though. Yet is it really possible that all discoveries were in the air? Let us assume for a moment that this is true and that the most luck can do is speed up the inevitable. All scientists arc standing on the shoulders of the giants who have gone before them, and there is objectively a cumulative (积累的) element in science. Nevertheless, at some point and in the right circumstances, it was the unknown scientists, not the giants, who managed to see a little farther. The mind of the giant was imprisoned by prior knowledge and so trapped within the framework of established habits, research questions, and established methods. The new, little-known scientist, on the other hand, will in one way or another have been able to break free of the chains of established knowledge. And so it will have been possible for them to imagine other worlds. This suggests that it will be innovators, with their prepared minds, who have a better chance of making accidental discoveries, namely that are irregular and unexpected. 1．In paragraph 2 “serendipity” refers to __________. A．accidental invention B．emergence of problems C．late recognition D．chemical innovation 2．The example of Darwin and Wallace is given to illustrate __________. A．fierce competition among biological scientists B．the important role of similar data in intentional research C．independent but similar solutions under shared pressures D．limited resources and technological dependency in science 3．What advantage might lesser-known scientists have over established researchers? A．Access to advanced tools. B．Freedom from rigid mindsets. C．Stronger peer cooperation. D．Greater funding opportunities. 4．Which statement best reflects the main idea of the passage? A．All discoveries are inevitable results of technological progress. B．Serendipity alone drives groundbreaking scientific achievements. C．Traditional methods prevent innovation and should be abandoned. D．Major breakthroughs integrate prepared minds with accidental opportunities. （2025·上海静安·二模）MUSEUMS used to stand for something boring and barely relevant to real life. Those kinds of places still exist, but there are far fewer of them, and the more successful ones have changed out of all recognition. To be sure, museums remain showcases for collections and warehouse of valuables, but they have also become pits of popular debates and places where children go for sleepovers. They are no longer places where people look on in fear but where they learn and argue, as they would at universities or art schools. Nicholas Serota describes the museum as “a forum as much as a treasure box”. Statistics suggest that new-look museums are doing something right. Globally, numbers of museum goers have risen from around 23,000 two decades ago to at least 55,000 now. On the face, that success seems surprising. People now have more choices to enrich their life. Many travel to see the world, but mostly the world comes to them, conveniently delivered to their laptops or smartphones. So why would they still wander round museums if most of the stuff they can see there is available at the click of a mouse? Some of the now enthusiasm is explained by changes in demand. Today, the share of people receiving higher education is rising. Surveys show that better-educated folks arc a lot more likely to be museum-goers. They want to see for themselves where they fit in the wider world and look lo museums for guidance. For young museum-goers, they are looking for something authentic and real as the online viewing loses the sense of closeness. A century ago, Benjamin Ives urged museums to treat themselves as having a holy purpose. Collections should be considered for their artistic qualities alone, he argued, with no need for narrative, context or explanation. “A museum of art”, he wrote, “is in essence a temple.” Not all of what Ives stood for has been swept away. But today museums offer narratives in their exhibitions, provide a context for objects by linking them to people and places, through which they serve the public. They are fully aware that their ultimate attraction lies in the fact that they exist in order to respond to the public appeal. Some people may fear that what goes on in museums is getting too close to being humble. But modern museum goers like being pleased, and are likely to drift away unless museums can relate with them both intellectually and emotionally. 1．By describing the museum as “a forum as much as a treasure box”, Nicholas Serota implies that_______ A．museums now display objects much relevant to life B．museums provide chances for discussion and store precious objects C．the value of the objects kept in museums causes debate D．museums regard sleepover visitors as new treasure 2．Which of the following statements is TRUE according to the passage? A．Availability of varied kinds of entertainment draws former museum goers. B．Less-educated people reject museums because they can’t fit in the wider world. C．Young museum goers prefer in-person visit to virtual enjoyment. D．Museums are rated according to the artistic qualities of their collections. 3．The primary charm of today’s museums is that_______ A．they try to attach emotion to the artistic objects B．they try to offer various forms of art viewing C．they try to keep a safe distance from the public D．they try to satisfy the needs of the public 4．Which of the following is the possible title of the passage? A．Museums, placing the public first now B．Museums, outdated but surviving C．Museums, conflicting to modern entertainment D．Museums, their history and value （2025·上海徐汇·二模）The convenience of modern life is nothing short of astonishing. As I write this, my phone is wirelessly sending some of the greatest hits from the 1700s to my portable speaker. I could use that same device to, within moments, get a car to pick me up, or have food delivered to my house. The fact that, as a culture, we seek out and celebrate such short cuts is understandable. They make it easier to have fun, and save us time and energy. That said, most people are able to sense that convenience has a darker side. Before we get into that, it is important to understand why convenience is so seductive in the first place. We often resist doing the things we need to do in order to make progress. Behind every well-intentioned plan lies this horrible sense of inertia (惰性). Why is this resistance — and our corresponding appetite for ease — such an essential part of our makeup? Here, insights from evolutionary psychology (particularly the idea of “evolutionary mismatch”) can help. Evolutionary mismatch is the idea that we evolved for a hunter-gatherer lifestyle, and that while our circumstances have changed completely, our brains and bodies haven’t. Resistance was a necessary counterbalance to the bursts of intense activity that characterized the lives of hunter-gatherers: searching for food in driving rain, or running to escape a dangerous animal. It’s the reason we still ask: “Do I really have to be doing this? Shouldn’t I save my energy?” The people who chose to remain sheltered during snowstorms, when the prospect of obtaining food was low, were more likely to live and pass on their genes to the next generation. And since those guys are our ancestors, we’ve inherited (继承) that tendency. Since that time, of course, innovation has changed things greatly. We’ve bent technology and our environments at least partly to serve our natural instinct to conserve energy. The question is: what do we stand to lose by following our tendency to prioritise comfort and convenience? Continually choosing the convenient path lessens your ability to deal with unavoidable difficulties. And, from an evolutionary perspective, some measure of discomfort is just as crucial to our survival as rest and relaxation. Our ancestors didn’t survive purely by being lazy, but through a combination of playing it safe and taking necessary risks: for example, pushing through the pain and effort of leaving a familiar home, in order to find a place closer to sources of food and better protected from the elements. It is this difficulty itself that shapes and develops our character. In the technological world we have fashioned, we must sometimes make a conscious effort to act in opposition to our instincts. As a culture, we must remember — and remind our young people — that while convenience feels good in the moment, our capacity to adapt and overcome challenges is part of our evolutionary inheritance too, and central to the adventure of life. 1．What does the word “seductive” (paragraph 3) most probably mean? A．Attractive and tempting. B．Useful and practical. C．Harmful and dangerous. D．Annoying and frustrating. 2．According to the passage, what does “evolutionary mismatch” primarily refer to? A．The inconsistency between personal goals and societal expectations. B．The contrast between modern convenience and ancient challenges. C．The controversy over the hunter-gatherer lifestyle of ancient people. D．The conflict between our natural instinct and the current environment. 3．According to the passage, prioritizing convenience in modern life may ________. A．lead to a lack of innovation and progress B．reduce our ability to overcome challenges C．make us overly dependent on technology D．cause a decline in physical fitness and health 4．What is the best title for the passage? A．The Benefits of Modern Technology B．Rejecting Modern Conveniences for a Better Life C．The Dark Side of Convenience in Modern Life D．Understanding Evolution in Today’s World （2025·上海金山·二模）In today’s digital age, it is challenging to go about daily life without hearing the term artificial intelligence (AI) mentioned. AI enters conversations in almost every industry. This AI revolution (革命) relies on increasing data center capacity, the physical locations equipped with the computing servers needed to power this technology. With such expensive and temperature-sensitive technology under one roof, these facilities require building products with reliable insulating properties that can effectively house these innovative systems to keep them running smoothly. Reliability is where insulated metal panels (IMPs) enter the conversation. IMPs have proven effective building materials for data centers nationwide. Data centers require a lot of energy to function. On average, a ChatGPT question needs 10 times as much electricity to process as a Google search, and Goldman Sachs research estimates that data center power demand will grow 160 percent by 2030. Along with rising energy bills, data center servers generate lots of heat, requiring sufficient air to cool them down. By designing construction materials that manage heat more effectively, companies can reduce energy expenses for temperature control while improving overall facility performance. Using IMPs as part of a roofing system has also proven a reliable solution, even when the rest of the facility was constructed with concrete. Recent IMP innovation has transformed the way roofs are installed in temperature-controlled environments. IMPs simplify projects by reducing the assembly (装配) required, therefore decreasing installation time. New IMP roofing panels reduce the number of fasteners, minimize the risk of failure, and allow projects to be completed faster. By producing items on demand, they minimize site waste and significantly reduce the number of loads transported to the location. This approach helps streamline operations and contributes to a more sustainable practice overall. When firms design data centers for the various technology giants, they often establish a base model that only requires slight changes due to climate, soil conditions, etc., based on location in different parts of the country. The base model stays the same, so when a technology company greenlights an order for a dozen new data centers, they can be built quickly due to the predictable design. Data centers are typically designed to maximize internal usable space and have few windows and doors. With simplified designs, installing 1,858 m² of IMP material in a single day is common. One of the great benefits of IMPs is the ability to cut weeks out of a construction schedule compared with traditional methods. 1．What does the underlined word “insulate” in the passage probably mean? A．To protect from heat. B．To separate from others. C．To make something isolated. D．To make something more efficient. 2．IMPs are effective building materials for data center nationwide because of __________. ① high insulation value; ② fast installation; ③ reasonable prices; ④ reliable services A．① ② B．②③ C．①④ D．③④ 3．It can be inferred from the passage that ______. A．IMPs are too complicated for data center construction B．the demand of concrete will increase in the coming years C．data centers will no longer be needed with the development of AI D．traditional building methods are less environmentally-friendly than using IMPs 4．What is the main idea of the passage? A．The application of IMPs in developing data centers. B．The importance of energy-efficiency in the digital age. C．The development of AI and its impact on data centers. D．The challenges of building data centers in the digital age. （2025·上海宝山·二模）Every day we are surrounded by large amounts of information, much of which is given by people who want to shape our decisions. So, we need to evaluate the information and determine how we should respond. Evaluating information and arguments requires critical thinking, the ability to think clearly and see how ideas are connected. Like any skill, critical thinking can be learned, and the best way to learn it is by practicing. You cannot evaluate an argument that you do not understand. Thus, the first step to critical thinking must always be listening. You may need to ask questions to clarify the person’s claims. Ask them to define their key terms, especially words with multiple meanings. Once you understand what the person is saying, then you can consider whether it is true. The most important question is whether the facts they state are actually true. You can try to figure this out by considering the source of the facts and whether the facts line up with what you already know about the topic. If there is a conflict, you must then discover whether your original understanding was incorrect or whether the new claims are wrong. It’s also possible to draw incorrect conclusions from correct facts. Often this comes from mistakes in logic, so learning about common logical fallacies (谬论) and how to recognize them can help. Also consider whether there could be another explanation for the facts besides the one you’ve been given. Critical thinking also involves examining people’s motivations and assumptions. For example, a salesman will present facts that are selected to convince you to buy what he is selling. He will leave out facts that don’t help him reach that goal. Assumptions can likewise affect people’s claims since people want to confirm what they already believe. It is necessary that you recognize these factors to predict when someone else’s statements might not be accurate or complete. Finally, critical thinking requires examining your own beliefs and assumptions as well. Poking holes in other people’s arguments can be necessary, but you must acknowledge the possibility that your own beliefs are wrong. Your own assumptions and motivations may affect your thinking without you realizing it. By critically examining both your own and other people’ opinions, you can understand the way the world works and make decisions in light of the truth. 1．According to the passage, which one of the following is TRUE? A．The majority of information given to us is actually to shape our minds. B．Critical thinking is usually learned by practicing, like any other skills. C．Only when you fully understand one’s claims, can you make a right evaluation. D．A conflict between the original understanding and a new one is critical thinking. 2．What is the purpose of the example of a salesman given in the passage? A．To illustrate the important function of critical thinking B．To confirm the difference of people’s motivations and assumptions C．To convince people to buy the product mentioned in the passage D．To warn people to pay special attention to the facts given 3．The expression “Poking holes in other people’s arguements” in the last paragraph probably means ______. A．Finding out others’ faults B．Evaluating others’ opinions C．Criticizing others’ points of view D．Supporting others’ ideas 4．What can we conclude from the passage? A．Drawing incorrect decisions from facts depends on its logic. B．A fact may sometimes guide us to make a wrong decision. C．Critical thinking is connected with one’s own beliefs and assumptions. D．Without logic knowledge, critical thinking is impossible to occur. （2025·上海杨浦·二模）On farms all over the country, even the most traditional ones, thought is being given to the possibilities of AI. For the moment, artificial intelligence isn’t making much of an impact on the daily lives of most British farmers. But the way AI can transform agriculture in the near future is very much a reality in universities and research labs. My eyes were opened to the possibilities on a visit to a lab where cows were being automatically monitored in an innovative ‘smart’ dairy. AI was learning to recognize each individual cow and log its behavior. It then analyzed the data to warn of any signs of illness. Meanwhile, in my home county, work is underway to ensure that the upcoming generation of farmers isn’t left behind. In a few weeks’ time, newly arrived students at the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) will start their course in Agricultural Technology, at the heart of which is AI’s role in making farming more effective, productive and adaptive in a world of changing weather patterns. This would have sounded like science fiction in the 1950s, but now, 70 years on, I’m encouraged that tomorrow’s farmers are being armed with the know-how to succeed in the new digital age. Naturally, there are concerns about what all this might mean for the countless number of people who depend on farming for their livelihood. Soft fruit and seasonal veg are extremely tender and need an army of pickers and packers who may find themselves replaced at some point by the sort of standard precision-robots that have been trialled on a strawberry farm. In recent years many places have struggled to employ and keep seasonal workers, so rather than create unemployment, AI might just provide the answer to a worrying labour gap. It’s worth saying that this technology will need a whole new set of workers to produce the hardware, input new data and then install, maintain, repair and replace systems and kit. So don’t despair but do consider upskilling. Since the Industrial Revolution, every generation of farmers has had to deal with the technological changes of the day and they have successfully adapted to survive. Who knows! AI may well turn out to be just the latest in a long line of challenges to be embraced by adaptable and spirited farmers. And anything that saves me the worry of checking the weather forecast day and night during harvest season must be a good thing. 1．What did the author discover during his visit to the lab? A．AI has made automation a reality in the dairy industry. B．AI has helped most British farmers to closely monitor cows. C．AI is being developed to improve cow health through behavior analysis. D．AI is primarily being used to transform universities and labs across Britain. 2．What is the focus of the course in Agricultural Technology at the RAU? A．The role of traditional methods in enhancing crop productivity. B．The development of AI in agricultural practices in the UK. C．The ways climate change affects global food security. D．The impact of AI on boosting farming efficiency and productivity. 3．What can be inferred about the introduction of AI in agriculture from the third and the fourth paragraphs? A．It will lead to widespread unemployment. B．It will eliminate the need for human labor completely. C．It may help address the labor shortage issue. D．It doesn’t affect the nature of seasonal workers. 4．What is the author’s attitude towards the use of AI in agriculture? A．Suspicious. B．Optimistic. C．Neutral. D．Concerned. （2025·上海普陀·二模）From Crisis to Community Currency The financial crisis of 2008 sent shockwaves throughout many countries in the Eurozone, and indeed the world. One of the hardest hit nations was Greece. For many Greeks this meant being thrown onto the breadline or worse still, plunging below the line of poverty. For others, the credit crunch (信贷紧缩) prevented them from using credit cards as their debts mounted. While most people felt hopeless, many decided to take the bull by the horns. When residents of the small town of Volos found themselves struggling to afford even essential items in euros, what they did was to come up with an alternative currency. They pay for the goods in TEM, TEM being a local alternative currency that people can earn by offering their services or goods to others. The TEM system, which brings to mind the ancient bartering system, operates on an exchange basis. Members of the TEM community gain credit by doing jobs for other people or selling them their own produce. For example, by selling clothes in TEM at the market, a trader could get language or computer lessons in return. As one stall-holder at the market put it, “We have reached the bottom of our lives and we now have to think in a different way.” But it’s not only at the local market that TEM is accepted. Even well-established local shops in Volos will accept both TEM and euros. In some cases, payment can be made in part euro and part TEM. Hard-up customers can, therefore, make more affordable purchases and store owners can cover their costs. So, how does the system operate in practical terms? The system, which has been developed online, requires members to have TEM accounts. These accounts, which are credited when they earn TEM and debited when they make a purchase, are closely regulated by founding members of the TEM community. But for those who feel that parallel currencies are too complicated a matter, they can turn to another organization called Peliti. 2002 was the year when Peliti was set up as a national network for the exchange of goods and services without money. Peliti differs from the TEM system as it works purely by bartering. So if, for example, you grow cucumbers and you want someone to cut your hair, you can find a hairdresser in your area who will agree to be paid in cucumbers! These organizations prove that ordinary people can find a way to survive when the going gets tough. When you have nothing to lose, you have everything to gain from alternative ways of life. 1．In the context of the passage, the underlined phrase “to take the bull by the horns” most probably means “_________”. A．to deal with the problem bravely B．to avoid facing a difficult situation C．to accept help from others when in trouble D．to wait patiently for the situation to improve 2．Why was the TEM system created in Volos? A．People feared that the euro would disappear. B．Credit cards were no longer issued to Greeks. C．A substitute currency for the euro had to be found. D．Some people had difficulty paying for goods in euros. 3．According to the passage, the TEM currency can be used ________. A．only at the market in Volos B．in other countries of the Eurozone C．in shops and at the market in Volos D．in shops and markets throughout Greece 4．In comparison with the TEM system, the most significant difference of Peliti is that ________. A．it operates nationwide B．it relies merely on service exchange C．it doesn’t involve an alternative currency D．its members must produce their own goods （2025·上海青浦·二模）Last year, Roche, a Swiss drug company, published a review of the clinical trials on neurological drugs it had held between 2016 and 2021. It found that black people were under-represented in all but one. Surprisingly, that news represents progress, because it shows that trial organisers are becoming more aware of a dangerous bias that sets back the safety and effect of medical treatments. Many trials exclude certain groups, and do so deliberately — children, for example, or people with physical or learning disabilities, pregnant women and the elderly. ________ A recent review found that half of trials around the world testing hip-fracture (髋部骨折) interventions excluded people who lived in nursing homes, were old or had some level of cognitive disorder. Though these groups make up almost a third of all patients suffering hip fractures, it is unclear if the interventions will work as safely or as effectively on them. Their doctors face an envious choice: prescribe anyway, with uncertain results; or deny their patients new treatments. Obtaining informed permission for trials is not always easy, especially from people with learning disabilities or dementia (痴呆). Accounting for different groups’ risks of side-effects can complicate the analysis of the data. And some groups mistrust doctors because of a history of mistreatment, which makes it harder to involve them in the trial. Even so, broadening the range of trials’ participants can be practically useful, because they may lead to new medical insights. Running trials on people who are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s, such as those with Down’s syndrome, might help researchers test whether their drugs work preventively. Something like that happened with the Dallas Heart Study in the 2000s. As a large piece of epidemiological research, it included an racially representative sample of people and found a genetic variant in some African-Americans which was related to 40% lower bad cholesterol (胆固醇). That gene is now one of the foremost drug targets in the fight against cardiovascular (心血管的) disease. Fortunately, the bias of clinical testing may be changing. Almost half of trial participants in America are now women (in the rest of the world it is still only 40%). America and Britain look likely to publish regulations that require trial organisers to explain whom they ought to include and how they plan to involve them. 1．According to the review, what is the current problem with clinical trials? A．They target specific groups while excluding some people. B．They test for side effects of the drugs, so they are not useful enough. C．They are not suitable for every patient because of their physical conditions. D．They don’t produce safe or effective results, thus discouraging lots of people. 2．Which sentence best fits the blank in paragraph 3? A．Yet the consequences can be ridiculous. B．However, it is happening for good reasons. C．Therefore, it brings convenience to doctors. D．Moreover, the groups can enjoy better treatments. 3．In the example of the Dallas Heart Study, what does “something like that” in paragraph 6 refer to? A．Running trials on the target patients can help researchers. B．Broadening the range of trials’ participants avoids mistreatments. C．Testing the effectiveness of the drug helps prevent certain diseases. D．Involving a wider range of participants in trials leads to new medical insights. 4．What can be inferred from the last paragraph? A．There will be no bias in clinical testing very soon. B．Women used to be under-represented in clinical trials. C．Regulations on subjects in clinical trials have come into effect. D．Clinical trials are increasingly improving, thus attracting women. （2025·上海松江·二模）Beneath its icy surface, the Antarctic Ocean — a vast and remote wilderness — houses a hidden world of microscopic life, including clouds of krill (磷虾). These tiny creatures, just a few inches long, are among the most plentiful and important animals on Earth. Rod Downie, chief polar adviser at WWF-UK, describes Antarctic krill as the “superheroes of the Southern Ocean.” They serve as a critical food source for marine wildlife, including whales, penguins, seals, and seabirds. They feed on microscopic plants in sea ice, which absorb CO2, and are in turn eaten by whales. When whales release waste, it fertilizes marine plants that help cool the planet. However, the unsustainable fishing of krill could disturb this cycle. Downie says, “We urgently need to protect krill habitats within a network of marine protected areas. This project could give us a new tool to help monitor and safeguard this vital species.” But monitoring these organisms presents a grand challenge for scientists. Traditional methods, such as ship-based surveys and sampling, are time-consuming, expensive, and geographically limited. Scientists are using slight differences in seawater colour to count Antarctic krill from space. Dr Cait McCarry, a researcher from the University of Strathclyde, recently returned from Antarctica, where she conducted experiments to measure this effect. She explained, “We start with seawater, then add a krill and measure how much light the water absorbs. Then we add another krill and take another measurement.” This process helps scientists understand how krill concentration affects ocean colour, enabling them to track krill populations from space. The technology isn’t without its limitations. Factors such as cloud cover, sea ice, and variations in water clarity can affect the accuracy of satellite measurements. Furthermore, while satellite data provides information about the overall biomass, it doesn’t provide detailed information on the species composition or the health of individual organisms. And in such cases, field studies, with its unique capacity for on-the-ground investigation, are ready to assume an essential role for a more comprehensive understanding. From the seemingly insignificant variations in seawater color to the complex interplay of life within the Antarctic food web, scientists continue to reveal the complicated workings of this vital ecosystem. Their dedication and the innovative tools they employ offer hope for a future where we can better understand and protect the wonders of our planet. 1．Krill are described as “superheroes of the Southern Ocean” because ______. A．they provide an essential monitoring method B．their vast species dominate the Antarctic Ocean C．they regulate the temperature of Earth in a certain way D．their movements indicate ocean temperatures precisely 2．It can be concluded that ______. A．light absorption changes with krill concentration B．krill’s waste helps plants absorb CO2 more efficiently C．the species of deep-sea plants are enriched due to krill D．krill are mainly threatened by natural hunters like whales 3．What can be inferred from the passage? A．Oceanic research centers around marine life’s complex interactions. B．Though minor now, water color changes promise future discoveries. C．Given overfishing, greater emphasis should be laid on the composition of krill species. D．A full understanding of krill requires integration of satellite monitoring and field studies. 4．What is the passage mainly about? A．The urgency and challenges of studying krill. B．The development of new methods to study krill. C．The role of krill in the ecosystem and efforts to monitor them. D．The impact of human activities on krill and ways to counter it. （2025·上海黄浦·二模）In the roughly two years since the public release of ChatGPT, artificial intelligence (A．I.) has advanced far more rapidly than humanity has learned to use its good features and to prevent its bad ones. On the bad side, for example, it turns out that A．I. is really good at controlling and cheating its human “masters.” This past summer, OpenAI released ol, the first in a series of A．1. models designed to spend more time thinking before they respond. Before the release, it hired Apollo Research, which studies risks of cheating by A．L., to evaluate the system. To pressure-test the system, Apollo instructed ol to strongly pursue a specific goal, telling it “nothing else matters.” Here is OpenAI’s evaluation report about ol: Data control: In a simple data processing task where the goals of the model were in conflict with the user’s goal, ol would appear to complete the task as requested but subtly (不易察觉地) control the data to advance its own goal in 19percent of cases. Doubling down: When Apollo Research conducted ‘follow-up interviews’ where they challenged the model about its incorrect actions, ol would deny taking action or make up false explanations in 99 percent of cases. Chatbots powered by large language models are suited for helping people brainstorm because they can open a path that’s worth exploring. One assumption for how large language models such as ol think is that they use what logicians call abduction. Abduction isn’t well known, but it’s common in daily life, not to mention possibly inside A．I. Unlike deduction, which is reasoning from general laws to specific conclusions, and induction, reasoning from the specific to the general, abduction is a type of probable reasoning that starts from the known results and determines the most likely cause leading to those results, requiring creativity. The more powerful A．I. gets, the less humans understand about it — but perhaps we shouldn’t judge ourselves too harshly for that. As it turns out, A．I. doesn’t even understand itself. It’s one thing to honor the mystery of the human brain, but quite another to admit that artificial intelligence — both creative and plotting — is slipping away from our understanding. 1．In the system test, what did Apollo Research ask ol to do? A．Prioritize user safety. B．Think before speaking. C．Pressure-test the design. D．Achieve a goal at all costs. 2．What can be concluded from the evaluation report about ol? A．ol always completes tasks on schedule as user intended. B．Data control occurs in about 5% of ol’s data processing tasks. C．ol manages data skillfully and denies actions when challenged. D．ol processes data efficiently and admits incorrect actions readily. 3．Abduction is the reasoning approach used to ______. A．identify patterns and make generalizations B．draw certain conclusions from general principles C．move from specific observations to universal laws D．infer the most possible explanation from given evidence 4．Which of the following statements is the writer most likely to agree with? A．The human brain is less complicated than A．I. B．Humans have control over the progress of A．I. C．A．I. may have to give in when challenged by humans. D．It’s hard to accept that A．I. is beyond our understanding. （2025·上海长宁·二模）Apple is making a new feature called Lockdown Mode to protect its products from the world’s most advanced spyware. This mode is for a small number of users targeted by the spyware. When turned on, Lockdown Mode will limit what apps, websites and features can do. For example, on an iPhone, it will block most message attachments and incoming calls from people the user hasn’t previously had a call with. Last November, Apple accused a foreign cybersecurity (网络安全) company, PPP Group, of installing spyware to target Apple products used by journalists, business people, academics, and government officials. Apple claimed that PPP’s tools allowed attacks, including from some organizations willing to pay huge sums to target a tiny portion of users with valuable information. Weeks earlier, Apple had updated its software to fix a fault that PPP had been exploiting to silently infect iPhones using iMessage. This fault allowed a rare and dangerous “zero-click” attack, where users could get infected without clicking on anything, according to the Citizen Lab, an academic research group. PPP Group has said that it provides tools for police and security departments around the world to fight crime and has ended contacts with organizations that have abused its software. It argued that Apple’s lawsuit should be dismissed because it acts as an agent of foreign administrations. However, a central appeals court ruled that such immunity doesn’t apply to foreign companies. Apple’s lawsuit is currently on hold while the highest court reviews a related case involving PPP and Meta Platforms’ WhatsApp. On Wednesday, PPP said it welcomes any solution that strengthens privacy. But it also said it’s important for security departments to be able to access encoded data for criminal investigations. Apple plans to test the Lockdown feature soon and will release it widely this fall as part of its new operating systems for iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers. “Lockdown Mode will reduce the attack surface and increase the costs for greedy spyware companies,” said Citizen Lab Director Ron Deibert. Apple will also give rewards of up to $2 million to researchers who find weaknesses in Lockdown Mode. 1．Which of the following statements about Lockdown Mode is true according to the passage? A．It turns on automatically for all Apple devices. B．It secures mobile devices with high-end hardware. C．It reduces spyware profits with improved safeguards. D．It enjoys great popularity among Apple users lately. 2．The phrase “such immunity” in paragraph 4 most probably refers to_______. A．the ability to end contracts with misusing organizations B．the power to provide tools for police to fight crime C．the right of being informed of relevant cases D．the freedom from being taken to court 3．It can be inferred from the passage that ______ . A．PPP Group takes no part in the “zero-click” attack B．Apple’s lawsuit against PPP Group has been rejected C．PPP Group’s tools are used safely by authorized agencies D．Apple attaches great importance to the security of its users 4．Which of the following is the best title for the passage? A．Apple challenges PPP Group over spyware impact B．Apple plans tool to boost security against spyware C．Apple performs past counter-measures against spyware D．Apple initiates legal battle with PPP Group over spyware 难度分布 适中 较难 困难 62.5 31.25 6.25 试卷第26页，共26页 试卷第25页，共26页 学科网（北京）股份有限公司 $$