精品解析：上海市嘉定一中等四校2024-2025学年高二下学期期中联考英语试题

2024学年第二学期 高二年级 期中考试 英语试题 I. Grammar and Vocabulary Section A Directions: After reading the passage below, fill in the blanks to make the passage coherent and grammatically correct. For the blanks with a given word, fill in each blank with the proper form of the given word; for the other blanks, use one word that best fits each blank. Shop Smart During Store Closing Sales When a major store like Toys R Us goes out of business, it’s easy to assume that everything on the shelves is being sold at a huge discount. “Store Closing” signs make shoppers feel pressured to act fast, encouraging them ____1____ (rush) in and grab what they can. But in reality, liquidation sales often require careful attention if you want to find real value. Liquidation sales, which are special sales held when a store is going out of business, ____2____ (design) to sell off all items quickly — but that doesn’t necessarily mean the prices are the lowest. Many liquidation events begin ____3____ not-so-big discounts, usually around 20%, and the reductions deepen as time goes on. By then, however, the most desirable items may already be gone. That’s ____4____ experts recommend comparing prices at other stores or online before making a purchase. Shoppers should also be careful when using gift cards. Once a store files for bankruptcy (破产), it may stop ____5____ (honor) gift cards without warning. This happened when Borders shut down in 2011 — many customers were left holding worthless cards. ____6____ (use) in a timely manner, a gift card from a closing store can still hold its full value. Another important point: check every item thoroughly. In most cases, liquidation purchases are final sale, meaning you can’t return anything ____7____ it’s damaged. Electronics, in particular, ____8____ be tested or inspected before buying. Be mindful of marketing tricks too. Phrases like “Everything Must Go!” or “Best Prices Ever!” often ____9____ (create) pressure. Instead of buying on impulse (冲动), take a moment to ask yourself whether the item is really worth it. In short store closures can offer great deals — but only to shoppers ____10____ do their homework, stay alert, and shop smart. Section B Directions: Complete the following passage by using the words in the box. Each word can only be used once. Note that there is one word more than you need. A. actions B. choosing C. exercising D. grounded E. intentional F. modest G. passengers H. predictive I. separating J. thoughts K. weighing Free Will Under the Scanner One night, while lying awake, I found myself turning over different ways to begin an essay. I imagined sentence after sentence, ____11____ how each might flow into the next. All the while, neurons (神经元) were quietly firing in my brain. That neural activity helps explain why I had those ____12____ — but does it also mean I had no choice in the matter? Some scientists believe so. A number of influential studies suggest that our brains launch ____13____ before we are aware of making a decision. In the 1980s, Benjamin Libet found that electrical signals in the brain — so-called readiness potentials — appear before people report choosing to move. More recent studies have found similar results, sometimes detecting ____14____ brain activity several seconds in advance. These findings have led some researchers to conclude that free will doesn’t exist — that the brain not the mind, determines what we do. Neuroscientist John-Dylan Haynes, for instance, has argued that our decisions are “predetermined,” and that the brain is “making the decision before the person.” Philosopher and biologist Jerry Coyne goes further, claiming that none of our choices result from ____15____ reflection at all. But do these experiments really show that we are mere ____16____, watching decisions unfold from the backseat? Not quite. The tasks involved in these studies, like ____17____ between two buttons, are simple. They do not reflect the kind of thoughtful planning we engage in every day. Moreover, the power of early brain signals is ____18____ at best. In many cases, it’s only slightly more accurate than a coin flip (抛硬币). Other research shows that conscious (有意识的) thought does matter. Forming specific intentions, reflecting on goals, and ____19____ self-control can significantly influence our actions. These processes, though _____20_____ in the brain, are central to what we understand as free will. III. Reading Comprehension Section A Directions: For each blank in the following passage there are four words or phrases marked A, B, C and D. Fill in each blank with the word or phrase that best fits the context. In its best days, a visit to the London Trocadero was the highlight of many tourist trips to Britain. Opened in 1896, it was one of the grandest restaurants in the world. After a long decline it ____21____ in 1965. Yet soon the Trocadero will be on the London tourist-map once again: a 583-room hotel has come back. It is a(n) ____22____ of the hotel boom currently under way in London. The number of hotel rooms has risen from 129,000 in 2013 to 149,000 today. Last year occupancy rates reached their highest in a decade and average prices were higher than ever. The hotels’ boom is ____23____, given the competition from sharing-economy websites and apps that allow people to rent out their spare rooms to travellers. Airbnb, the biggest such service, has ____24____ hotel revenues (收入) in some American cities by as much as 10%. By comparison, the impact of room-booking apps has been ____25____ in London. Only 0.5% of Londoners advertise their ____26____ on Airbnb, compared with 2.4% of Parisians. One reason is that there is a ____27____ of reasonably priced residential stock near London’s main tourist attractions, which are occupied by offices and mansions. And according to a recent report by Citi, a bank, the growth of Airbnb listings in London and other big European cities is already ____28____, meaning that Londoners’ spare rooms are unlikely to be able to handle much more demand. Hotels have also benefited from a change in the ____29____ of visitors coming to Britain. While the strong pound has persuaded many tourists to go to cheaper destinations, business travellers cannot avoid London so easily. So although tourist spending didn’t witness a(n) ____30____ in 2015, businessfolk rose by 7% in Britain compared with the previous year. Unlike holidaymakers who are willing to book a room in a stranger’s home on Airbnb to save a few pounds, most businesspeople are travelling on expense accounts and ____31____ to spend. Meanwhile their employers, with a duty to ensure safety, remain ____32____ booking spare rooms, which they fear conceal slippery stairs, faulty electrics and other hazards. This ____33____ hoteliers nicely. But not all of them. Business travellers may not yet be switching to Airbnb, but they are ____34____ their costs. More than half the new rooms built in London this year will be operated by budget brands. Even the once-luxurious Trocadero cannot ____35____ that trend. Having made its name a century ago selling nine-course meals to the upper classes, in 2017 it re-opened — but as a budget hotel. 21. A. evolved B. reopened C. boasted D. closed 22. A. advantage B. symbol C. origin D. criticism 23. A. sustainable B. nationwide C. surprising D. short-lived 24. A. forced down B. added up C. come from D. resulted in 25. A. explored B. promoted C. suspected D. limited 26. A. products B. discoveries C. tendencies D. properties 27. A. shortage B. possibility C. threat D. collection 28. A. beginning B. remaining C. slowing D. repeating 29. A. age B. gender C. type D. analysis 30. A. similarity B. increase C. difference D. decrease 31. A. happy B. reluctant C. careful D. sorry 32. A. certain of B. careful about C. expert at D. busy in 33. A. suits B. warns C. defines D. guides 34. A. looking up to B. cutting down on C. making up for D. settling down to 35. A. follow B. confirm C. explain D. escape Section B Directions: Read the following three passages. Each passage is followed by several questions or unfinished statements. For each of them there are four choices marked A, B, C and D. Choose the one that fits best according to the information given in the passage you have just read. (A) Once a dominant presence on the Great Plains, the American bison (美洲野牛) was nearly driven to extinction by the end of the 19th century. Tens of millions once moved freely across North America, but uncontrolled hunting, habitat loss, and westward expansion reduced their numbers to just a few hundred by the late 1800s. A turning point came in the early 20th century, thanks to efforts by conservationists and institutions like the Bronx Zoo. In 1907, the zoo played a crucial role in one of the first major bison reintroduction programs. It shipped 15 bison to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. This initiative continued in 1913, when 14 more bison were sent to Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota. These early transfers laid the foundation for today’s population of free-ranging bison. Currently, approximately 20,000 bison live in managed conservation areas, many of them are related to those original Bronx Zoo animals. These bison are carefully monitored to ensure genetic diversity and protect the species from the threats that nearly wiped them out more than a century ago. In recognition of the bison’s cultural and ecological importance, the U. S. officially declared November 1 as National Bison Day. The bison was also declared the national mammal (哺乳动物) of the United States, symbolizing strength, toughness and the success of wildlife conservation efforts. Despite their size — adult bison can weigh over a ton and reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour — these animals are still vulnerable. Conservationists continue to work on restoring larger, free-ranging bison in more areas, with a long-term goal of creating self-sustaining populations that play a natural role in grassland ecosystems. The story of the American bison is one of near loss and remarkable recovery — a reminder that, with joint effort and respect for nature, it is possible to reverse even the most dramatic declines. 36. What happened in the early 20th century that was seen as a turning point? A. The bison population reached its lowest point. B. The U. S. government banned all hunting of bison. C. Bison were hunted more heavily across North America. D. The Bronx Zoo began sending bison to protected areas. 37. The word “vulnerable” (paragraph 5) can be best replaced by “______”. A. in power B. at risk C. under control D. by surprise 38. Why did the U. S. officially declare November 1 as National Bison Day? A. To mark the founding of the Bronx Zoo. B. To honor the bison’s role in culture and nature. C. To raise awareness about the bison’s past declines. D. To promote the conversation of other large mammals. 39. Which of the following is the best title for this passage? A The Return of the Bison B. The Life of Bison in the Wild C. How the Bronx Zoo Became Famous D. The Rise and Fall of the Great Plains (B) Colleague Council Meeting 3rd Oct 20 Chairperson: Jane Simmons Minutes Secretary: Liz Bateman 1 Welcome Jane Simmons welcomed all colleagues to the meeting. She explained the aim of the Colleague Council—issues which are of concern to staff members can be raised and discussed by the group, and then addressed to Personnel Manager, Penny Kacelnik, in the second half of the meeting. Meetings will be held four times a year. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES 2 Lifting of International call barring The council asked if it would be possible to have the phone system changed so that international calls can be made. All phones in Sales & Marketing will be modified in November to allow for international calls. Anyone else who needs to call overseas should contact Asif Din in IT. 3 Recycling of paper The council enquired if the correct route for raising recycling issues was through John Evans, Office Services Manager. Penny agreed that this was the correct route. She also added that she would welcome everyone looking at the paper they use and cutting down if possible. Individuals are reminded that they can also make a difference by turning lights and monitors etc. off. 4 Healthy snack options in snack machines The council requested that a healthy range of snacks be available from the snack machine. Penny reminded everyone that the canteen offers healthy lunch-time options. She will discuss the contents of the machine with the leasers (租赁方) when the lease comes up for renewal next month. Feedback to be given at Jan meeting. 5 Removal of study grants The council expressed regret that study grants for non-professional courses were no longer available. People should be encouraged to take language courses, for example, given our growing international market. Penny explained that Management felt this money could be better used on paying for courses which would lead to professional qualifications, such as Accountancy, Credit Control. She also suggested that in-house language courses could be taught by members of staff. Next Meeting: Will be January, precise date to be confirmed Attendees: Louisa Barlow, Gary Brown, Natalie Cole, Orla Doyle, Tariq Ali, Penny Kacelnik (Personnel Officer) 40. The word “Minutes” is closest in meaning to “________”. A. unexpected emergencies B. the duration of a meeting C. written records of a meeting D. suggestions from employees 41. What proposal did the Colleague Council put forward? A Holding the Colleague Council Meeting four times a year. B. Allowing the employees to make international calls. C. Dealing with documents on the computer instead of on paper. D. Asking the canteen to provide more healthy lunch options. 42. What suggestion did Penny Kacelnik give to those who want to take language courses? A. Shifting to a course leading to professional qualifications. B. Applying to the Personnel Office for a special grant. C. Turning to a colleague who speaks that language. D. Referring to the growing international market. (C) Astronomy is unique among the sciences as it relies on distant observations. Unlike geologists or biologists, astronomers cannot physically study their subjects. Instead, they use telescopes and computer simulations (模拟) to explore the cosmos. One such effort is the EAGLE (Evolution and Assembly of Galaxies and their Environments) project, created by researchers at Durham and Leiden Universities. This advanced simulation models a universe over 300 million light-years wide, containing thousands of galaxies (星系) , including ones similar to the Milky Way. To build EAGLE, scientists traced the history of the Universe back before the formation of galaxies and stars. Three key forces influenced the Universe’s evolution: dark matter, normal matter, and dark energy. Dark matter provided an invisible framework for galaxies to form, while dark energy counteracted this by driving the Universe’s expansion. Previous simulations struggled to accurately reproduce galaxy formation, often generating overly massive galaxies. By improving their models and using updated data, the EAGLE team created a more realistic representation of the evolution of the Universe. Developing the simulation took years. Researchers translated complex processes into a complicated computer program, which ran on the DiRAC-II supercomputer for over six weeks. The results were remarkable — EAGLE-generated galaxies was very similar to real ones. According to Professor Richard Bower, an astronomer involved in the project, many people cannot distinguish between actual astronomical images and those produced by EAGLE. A major advantage of EAGLE is its ability to track galaxies over time. By rewinding the simulation, scientists have solved mysteries like the disappearance of small red galaxies observed in the early Universe. EAGLE revealed that many of these galaxies mixed with larger ones, explaining their absence in later observations. The simulation also casts light on why larger galaxies form fewer stars: their black holes grow quickly, consuming surrounding gas and preventing star formation. The team now aims to simulate the future of the Universe. This is challenging due to dark energy’s increasing influence, which speeds up the expansion of the universe. However, advancements in computing may allow researchers to expand EAGLE’s scale, providing deeper insights into galactic evolution. 43. What does the word “counteract” (paragraph 2) most likely mean? A. Measured. B. Enhanced. C. Balanced. D. Opposed. 44. What can be inferred about the advantages of EAGLE from the passage? A. It offers insights into the past galactic events. B. It doesn’t take much effort from astronomers. C. It doesn’t need to rely on advancements in computing. D. It helps explain why dark energy expands the universe. 45. Why is Professor Richard Bower cited in the passage? A. To introduce the universities involved in the EAGLE project. B. To emphasize the scientific accuracy of the EAGLE simulation. C. To highlight the challenges of running supercomputer programs. D To explain the role of dark matter and dark energy in galaxy formation. 46. What is the main idea of the passage? A. The EAGLE project proves observational astronomy is accurate. B. The EAGLE project highlights the difficulties astronomers face. C. The EAGLE project models galaxy formation and evolution. D. The EAGLE project successfully represents the Milky Way. Section C Directions: Complete the following passage by using the sentences given below. Each sentence can be used only once. Note that there are two more sentences than you need. Bad Dreams Are Good What are dreams for? There are a handful of theories. Sigmund Freud famously claimed that they reveal hidden truths and wishes. More recent studies suggest dreams might help us deal with strong feelings, improve our memories, understand random brain signals, or prepare us for danger. Despite being largely unsupported by evidence, Freud’s view maintains a strong following around the world. Researchers found in a study that students in the U.S., South Korea, and India were much more likely to say that dreams reveal hidden truths than to support better-substantiated theories. ____47____ In the same study, respondents said that dreaming about a plane crash would cause them more anxiety than an official warning about a terrorist attack. ____48____ The majority of dreams occur during REM sleep cycles, of which the average person has four or five a night. Anxiety is quite common: A study of Canadian university students found the most common dream topics to be school, falling, being chased, and arriving too late for something. ____49____ A 1958 study determined that compared with Japanese people, Americans dreamed more about being locked up, losing a loved one, finding money, being inappropriately dressed, or encountering a mad person. Japanese people were more likely to dream about school, trying repeatedly to do something, being paralyzed (麻痹的) with fear, or “wild, violent beasts.” If human dreams sound terrible, bear in mind that even negative ones can have positive effects. In a study of students taking a French medical-school entrance exam, 60 percent of the dreams they had beforehand involved a problem with the exam, such as being late or leaving an answer blank. ____50____ So the next time you dream about an education-related experience in which you are both falling and being chased, don’t worry: It’s probably totally meaningless. Then again, your brain might be practicing so you’ll be ready if such an event ever comes to pass. A. For all the commonalities dreams exhibit, they differ across cultures. B. Relatedly, people put great stock in their dreams. C. The dreamiest member of the animal kingdom logs up to eight hours of REM sleep a day. D. Even if dreams can’t foretell the future, they seem to expose our shared fascinations. E. Others argue that dreams have no evolutionary function at all. F. But those who reported dreams about the exam, even bad ones, did better on it than those who didn’t. Ⅳ. Summary Writing 51. Directions: Read the following passage. Summarize in no more than 60 words the main idea and the main point(s) of the passage. Use your own words as far as possible. The Power of Humor Humor is the heartbeat of online communication, bringing people together through laughter and shared experiences. Whether it’s a witty meme, a cleverly edited video, or a joke about the chaos of daily life, humor adds a spark to conversations and makes interactions more enjoyable. From the mundane to the unexpected, it turns ordinary moments into something worth sharing. One of the most entertaining ways humor thrives online is through storytelling. People take everyday situations and add a twist to make them both funny and relatable. Imagine waiting so long for your food that you start picturing the chef planting cabbage seeds in the kitchen—it’s these playful twists on reality that make humor so engaging. By injecting creativity into the ordinary, jokes become more than just funny words. They become shared experiences that keep conversations lively. Another way humor spreads is through wordplay. A well-crafted pun or a clever twist on a familiar phrase can instantly brighten someone’s day. These spontaneous jokes add energy to conversations, making interactions not just memorable but also more dynamic. A perfectly timed joke can even ease the tension in a serious discussion, reminding everyone that a little laughter goes a long way. Beyond entertainment, humor serves as a coping mechanism, helping people handle stress and uncertainty. In difficult moments, a lighthearted remark can offer comfort, making tough topics easier to discuss. Laughter has a way of breaking down barriers, bringing people together through a shared sense of relief. It’s a reminder that even in life’s challenges, there’s room for joy. In the digital world, humor does more than entertain—it builds bridges, promotes understanding, and adds a little brightness to everyday life. Whether through storytelling, wordplay, or a simple joke that lifts someone’s spirits, humor remains a driving force in human connection, making the world feel just a bit closer and a lot more fun. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Ⅴ. Translation Directions: Translate the following sentences into English, using the words given in the brackets. 52. 机器人服务员轻柔地将热气腾腾的咖啡端到参观者手中。(serve) (汉译英) ____________________________________________________________________________________ 53. 短春未必是定局，每年的春季长短各有不同。(as) (汉译英) ____________________________________________________________________________________ 54. 这样一张大约20厘米见方的小小折页纸上，要容纳整个城市的地铁网络信息，的确有些勉强。(a challenge) (汉译英) ____________________________________________________________________________________ 55. 不少企业表示，面对未来科技的挑战，具备过硬专业技能和解决实际工程问题能力的大学毕业生，是“香饽饽”。(demand) (汉译英) ____________________________________________________________________________________ Ⅵ. Guided Writing 56. Directions: Write an English composition in 120-150 words according to the instructions given below in Chinese. 假设你是明启中学高二学生李明，你校英语报正在举行征文比赛，主题为“The change that I expect AI to bring about”，写一篇文章参赛，内容须包括： (1)你最期待AI会带来的变化； (2)你期待这一变化的理由。 ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 第1页/共1页 学科网（北京）股份有限公司 $ 2024学年第二学期 高二年级 期中考试 英语试题 I. Grammar and Vocabulary Section A Directions: After reading the passage below, fill in the blanks to make the passage coherent and grammatically correct. For the blanks with a given word, fill in each blank with the proper form of the given word; for the other blanks, use one word that best fits each blank. Shop Smart During Store Closing Sales When a major store like Toys R Us goes out of business, it’s easy to assume that everything on the shelves is being sold at a huge discount. “Store Closing” signs make shoppers feel pressured to act fast, encouraging them ____1____ (rush) in and grab what they can. But in reality, liquidation sales often require careful attention if you want to find real value. Liquidation sales, which are special sales held when a store is going out of business, ____2____ (design) to sell off all items quickly — but that doesn’t necessarily mean the prices are the lowest. Many liquidation events begin ____3____ not-so-big discounts, usually around 20%, and the reductions deepen as time goes on. By then, however, the most desirable items may already be gone. That’s ____4____ experts recommend comparing prices at other stores or online before making a purchase. Shoppers should also be careful when using gift cards. Once a store files for bankruptcy (破产), it may stop ____5____ (honor) gift cards without warning. This happened when Borders shut down in 2011 — many customers were left holding worthless cards. ____6____ (use) in a timely manner, a gift card from a closing store can still hold its full value. Another important point: check every item thoroughly. In most cases, liquidation purchases are final sale, meaning you can’t return anything ____7____ it’s damaged. Electronics, in particular, ____8____ be tested or inspected before buying. Be mindful of marketing tricks too. Phrases like “Everything Must Go!” or “Best Prices Ever!” often ____9____ (create) pressure. Instead of buying on impulse (冲动), take a moment to ask yourself whether the item is really worth it. In short, store closures can offer great deals — but only to shoppers ____10____ do their homework, stay alert, and shop smart. 【答案】1. to rush 2. are designed 3. with 4. why 5. honoring 6. Used 7. even if 8. should 9. create 10. who 【解析】 【导语】本文是一篇说明文。文章主要介绍了商店清仓甩卖时的购物技巧。 【1题详解】 考查非谓语动词。句意：“商店清仓”的招牌让购物者感到有压力要迅速行动，鼓励他们冲进去抢购所能抢到的东西。encourage sb. to do sth.是固定用法，意为“鼓励某人做某事”，此处用不定式作宾语补足语。故填to rush。 【2题详解】 考查时态语态和主谓一致。句意：清仓甩卖是商店停业时举行的特殊销售活动，旨在迅速售罄所有商品，但这并不一定意味着价格是最低的。design (设计)是谓语动词，与主语Liquidation sales之间是被动关系，描述客观事实用一般现在时，主语是复数，谓语动词用复数形式；综上，谓语动词用一般现在时被动语态，复数形式；be designed to do“被设计用于……；目的是……”。故填are designed。 【3题详解】 考查介词。句意：许多清仓活动开始时折扣并不大，通常在20%左右，随着时间的推移折扣会加深。begin with是固定短语，意为“以……开始”，符合语境。故填with。 【4题详解】 考查表语从句。句意：这就是为什么专家建议在购买之前比较其他商店或网上的价格。“That’s _____ experts recommend...”是表语从句，结合句意，表示“这就是为什么……”，用连接副词why引导该从句，并在从句中作原因状语。故填why。 【5题详解】 考查非谓语动词。句意：一旦商店申请破产，它可能会在没有警告的情况下停止兑现礼品卡。stop doing sth.是固定用法，意为“停止做某事”，此处表示停止兑现礼品卡。故填honoring。 【6题详解】 考查非谓语动词。句意：如果能及时使用，一家即将关闭的商店的礼品卡仍然可以保持其全部价值。“(use) in a timely manner”作条件状语，use (使用)是非谓语动词，与其逻辑主语a gift card之间是被动关系，用过去分词表被动；句首单词首字母大写。故填Used。 【7题详解】 考查连词。句意：在大多数情况下，清仓购买是最终销售，这意味着即使商品有损坏，你不能退货。根据“you can’t return anything”和“it’s damaged”可知，前后是让步关系，用连词even if (即使)引导让步状语从句，意为“即使商品有损坏”，与前文中“final sale”语意一致。故填even if。 【8题详解】 考查情态动词。句意：特别是电子产品，在购买前应该进行测试或检查。根据语境可知，此处表示建议，用情态动词should (应该)，符合语境。故填should。 【9题详解】 考查时态和主谓一致。句意：像“全部清仓！”或“史上最低价！”这样的短语常常会造成压力。create (造成)是谓语动词，描述客观事实用一般现在时，主语是复数名词Phrases，谓语动词用复数形式。故填create。 【10题详解】 考查定语从句。句意：简而言之，商店清仓可以提供很好的交易，但只针对那些做好功课、保持警惕并明智购物的购物者。“_____ do their homework, stay alert, and shop smart”为限制性定语从句，修饰先行词shoppers，指人，关系词将其代入定语从句中作主语，应使用关系代词who引导该从句。故填who。 Section B Directions: Complete the following passage by using the words in the box. Each word can only be used once. Note that there is one word more than you need. A. actions B. choosing C. exercising D. grounded E. intentional F. modest G. passengers H. predictive I. separating J. thoughts K. weighing Free Will Under the Scanner One night, while lying awake, I found myself turning over different ways to begin an essay. I imagined sentence after sentence, ____11____ how each might flow into the next. All the while, neurons (神经元) were quietly firing in my brain. That neural activity helps explain why I had those ____12____ — but does it also mean I had no choice in the matter? Some scientists believe so. A number of influential studies suggest that our brains launch ____13____ before we are aware of making a decision. In the 1980s, Benjamin Libet found that electrical signals in the brain — so-called readiness potentials — appear before people report choosing to move. More recent studies have found similar results, sometimes detecting ____14____ brain activity several seconds in advance. These findings have led some researchers to conclude that free will doesn’t exist — that the brain, not the mind, determines what we do. Neuroscientist John-Dylan Haynes, for instance, has argued that our decisions are “predetermined,” and that the brain is “making the decision before the person.” Philosopher and biologist Jerry Coyne goes further, claiming that none of our choices result from ____15____ reflection at all. But do these experiments really show that we are mere ____16____, watching decisions unfold from the backseat? Not quite. The tasks involved in these studies, like ____17____ between two buttons, are simple. They do not reflect the kind of thoughtful planning we engage in every day. Moreover, the power of early brain signals is ____18____ at best. In many cases, it’s only slightly more accurate than a coin flip (抛硬币). Other research shows that conscious (有意识的) thought does matter. Forming specific intentions, reflecting on goals, and ____19____ self-control can significantly influence our actions. These processes, though _____20_____ in the brain, are central to what we understand as free will. 【答案】11. K 12. J 13. A 14. H 15. E 16. G 17. B 18. F 19. C 20. D 【解析】 【导语】本文是一篇说明文。文章通过神经科学实验与哲学观点探讨自由意志是否存在，指出尽管大脑活动可能提前触发简单决策，但复杂意图和自控力仍支持人类拥有自由意志。 【11题详解】 考查非谓语动词。句意：我想象一句接一句，权衡每句如何衔接。句子已有谓语，空处作状语，结合“how each might flow into the next”可推知，K项weighing“权衡”符合题意，表示“权衡每句如何衔接”。故选K。 【12题详解】 考查名词。句意：这种神经活动解释了我为何会产生那些想法——但这是否意味着我别无选择？空处作had的宾语，结合上文“I imagined sentence after sentence”可推知，J项thoughts“想法”符合题意，表示“我为何会产生那些想法”。故选J。 【13题详解】 考查名词。句意：多项重要研究表明，大脑会在我们意识到决策前启动行动。空处作launch的宾语，结合下文“electrical signals in the brain — so-called readiness potentials — appear”可推知，A项actions“行动”符合题意，表示“启动行动”。故选A。 【14题详解】 考查形容词。句意：更近期的研究甚至检测到提前数秒的预测性脑活动。空处作修饰brain activity的定语，结合“detecting”和“in advance”可推知，H项predictive“预测性的”符合题意，表示“检测到提前数秒的预测性脑活动”。故选H。 【15题详解】 考查形容词。句意：哲学家和生物学家杰里·科因更进一步，声称我们的任何选择都不是来自有意识的反思。空处作修饰reflection的定语，结合上文“our decisions are “predetermined,” and that the brain is “making the decision before the person.””可推知，E项intentional“有意识的”符合题意，表示“哲学家和生物学家杰里·科因更进一步，声称我们的任何选择都不是来自有意识的反思”。故选E。 【16题详解】 考查名词。句意：但这些实验真能证明我们只是乘客，旁观决策从后座自行展开吗？空处作表语，结合“watching decisions unfold from the backseat”可推知，G项passengers“乘客”符合题意，表示“我们只是乘客”。故选G。 17题详解】 考查非谓语动词。句意：这些研究中涉及的类似选择按钮的任务过于简单。空处作like的宾语，结合“between two buttons”可推知，B项choosing“选择”符合题意，表示“选择按钮”。故选B。 【18题详解】 考查形容词。句意：此外，早期脑信号的预测力是十分有限的。空处作表语，结合下文“In many cases, it’s only slightly more accurate than a coin flip (抛硬币).”可推知，F项modest“不太大的，有限的”符合题意，表示“早期脑信号的预测力是十分有限的”。故选F。 【19题详解】 考查非谓语动词。句意：制定明确意图、反思目标、行使自控力，都能显著影响行为。空处和前面的动名词短语并列，作主语，结合“self-control”可推知，C项exercising“行使”符合题意，表示“行使自控力”。故选C。 【20题详解】 考查非谓语动词。句意：这些过程虽根植于大脑，却是我们所理解自由意志的核心。空处和though构成让步状语从句的省略形式，结合“in the brain”可推知，D项grounded“以……为基础，基于”符合题意，表示“根植于大脑”。故选D。 III. Reading Comprehension Section A Directions: For each blank in the following passage there are four words or phrases marked A, B, C and D. Fill in each blank with the word or phrase that best fits the context. In its best days, a visit to the London Trocadero was the highlight of many tourist trips to Britain. Opened in 1896, it was one of the grandest restaurants in the world. After a long decline it ____21____ in 1965. Yet soon the Trocadero will be on the London tourist-map once again: a 583-room hotel has come back. It is a(n) ____22____ of the hotel boom currently under way in London. The number of hotel rooms has risen from 129,000 in 2013 to 149,000 today. Last year occupancy rates reached their highest in a decade and average prices were higher than ever. The hotels’ boom is ____23____, given the competition from sharing-economy websites and apps that allow people to rent out their spare rooms to travellers. Airbnb, the biggest such service, has ____24____ hotel revenues (收入) in some American cities by as much as 10%. By comparison, the impact of room-booking apps has been ____25____ in London. Only 0.5% of Londoners advertise their ____26____ on Airbnb, compared with 2.4% of Parisians. One reason is that there is a ____27____ of reasonably priced residential stock near London’s main tourist attractions, which are occupied by offices and mansions. And according to a recent report by Citi, a bank, the growth of Airbnb listings in London and other big European cities is already ____28____, meaning that Londoners’ spare rooms are unlikely to be able to handle much more demand. Hotels have also benefited from a change in the ____29____ of visitors coming to Britain. While the strong pound has persuaded many tourists to go to cheaper destinations, business travellers cannot avoid London so easily. So although tourist spending didn’t witness a(n) ____30____ in 2015, businessfolk rose by 7% in Britain compared with the previous year. Unlike holidaymakers who are willing to book a room in a stranger’s home on Airbnb to save a few pounds, most businesspeople are travelling on expense accounts and ____31____ to spend. Meanwhile their employers, with a duty to ensure safety, remain ____32____ booking spare rooms, which they fear conceal slippery stairs, faulty electrics and other hazards. This ____33____ hoteliers nicely. But not all of them. Business travellers may not yet be switching to Airbnb, but they are ____34____ their costs. More than half the new rooms built in London this year will be operated by budget brands. Even the once-luxurious Trocadero cannot ____35____ that trend. Having made its name a century ago selling nine-course meals to the upper classes, in 2017 it re-opened — but as a budget hotel. 21. A. evolved B. reopened C. boasted D. closed 22. A. advantage B. symbol C. origin D. criticism 23. A. sustainable B. nationwide C. surprising D. short-lived 24. A. forced down B. added up C. come from D. resulted in 25. A. explored B. promoted C. suspected D. limited 26. A. products B. discoveries C. tendencies D. properties 27. A. shortage B. possibility C. threat D. collection 28. A. beginning B. remaining C. slowing D. repeating 29. A. age B. gender C. type D. analysis 30. A. similarity B. increase C. difference D. decrease 31. A. happy B. reluctant C. careful D. sorry 32. A. certain of B. careful about C. expert at D. busy in 33. A. suits B. warns C. defines D. guides 34. A. looking up to B. cutting down on C. making up for D. settling down to 35. A. follow B. confirm C. explain D. escape 【答案】21. D 22. B 23. C 24. A 25. D 26. D 27. A 28. C 29. C 30. B 31. A 32. B 33. A 34. B 35. D 【解析】 【导语】本文一篇说明文。文章介绍了伦敦酒店业正处于繁荣状态，尽管面临共享经济竞争，但受游客类型变化等因素影响，同时商务旅客成本控制促使经济型酒店兴起。 【21题详解】 考查动词词义辨析。句意：在经历了长时间的衰落之后，它于1965年关闭。A. evolved进化；B. reopened重新开放；C. boasted吹嘘；D. closed关闭。根据前文“After a long decline”以及后文“Yet soon the Trocadero will be on the London tourist map once again: a 583 room hotel has come back.”可知，在衰落之后应该是先关闭了，后来才又重新回归。故选D项。 【22题详解】 考查名词词义辨析。句意：这是目前伦敦酒店业繁荣的一个象征。A. advantage优势；B. symbol象征；C. origin起源；D. criticism批评。前文“Yet soon the Trocadero will be on the London tourist map once again: a 583 room hotel has come back.”提到特罗卡德罗酒店重新开业，结合后文“the hotel boom currently under way in London” 可推知，特罗卡德罗酒店重新开业这一事件体现了伦敦酒店业的繁荣，是酒店业繁荣的一个象征。故选B项。 【23题详解】 考查形容词词义辨析。句意：考虑到来自共享经济网站和应用程序的竞争，这些应用程序允许人们将闲置房间出租给旅行者，酒店业的繁荣令人惊讶。A. sustainable可持续的；B. nationwide全国范围的；C. surprising令人惊讶的；D. short-lived短暂的。根据后文“given the competition from sharing economy websites and apps that allow people to rent out their spare rooms to travellers”可知，因为有共享经济模式的竞争，酒店业还能繁荣，这是让人惊讶的事情。故选C项。 【24题详解】 考查动词短语辨析。句意：最大的此类服务Airbnb，在一些美国城市已经使酒店收入下降了多达10%。A. forced down迫使下降；B. added up加起来；C. come from来自；D. resulted in导致。根据前文“the competition from sharing-economy websites and apps that allow people to rent out their spare rooms to travellers”和“Airbnb, the biggest such service”可推知，共享经济对酒店业有竞争影响，所以提供此类服务的Airbnb使得酒店收入下降。故选A项。 【25题详解】 考查动词词义辨析。句意：相比之下，房间预订应用程序在伦敦的影响有限。A. explored探索；B. promoted促进；C. suspected怀疑；D. limited限制，有限。后文提到“Only 0.5% of Londoners advertise their ____ on Airbnb, compared with 2.4% of Parisians.”，说明Airbnb在伦敦的影响力不如在巴黎，即其影响是有限的。故选D项。 【26题详解】 考查名词词义辨析。句意：只有0.5%的伦敦人在Airbnb上出租他们的房产，而巴黎人的这一比例为2.4%。A. products产品；B. discoveries发现；C. tendencies趋势；D. properties房产。根据前文“sharing economy websites and apps that allow people to rent out their spare rooms to travellers”可知，这里指的是伦敦人在Airbnb上出租他们的房产。故选D项。 【27题详解】 考查名词词义辨析。句意：原因之一是伦敦主要旅游景点附近缺乏价格合理的住宅房源，这些地方被办公室和豪宅占据。A. shortage短缺；B. possibility可能性；C. threat威胁；D. collection收集。根据后文“which are occupied by offices and mansions”可知，旅游景点附近被办公室和豪宅占据，所以缺乏适合出租的住宅，也就是存在短缺的情况。故选A项。 【28题详解】 考查动词词义辨析。句意：根据花旗银行最近的一份报告，Airbnb在伦敦和其他欧洲大城市的房源增长已经放缓，这意味着伦敦人的闲置房间不太可能满足更多的需求。A. beginning开始；B. remaining保持；C. slowing减慢；D. repeating重复。根据后文“meaning that Londoners’ spare rooms are unlikely to be able to handle much more demand”可知，Airbnb房源增长放缓了，才导致不能满足更多需求。故选C项。 【29题详解】 考查名词词义辨析。句意：酒店也受益于来英国游客类型的变化。A. age年龄；B. gender性别；C. type类型；D. analysis分析。后文提到“While the strong pound has persuaded many tourists to go to cheaper destinations, business travellers cannot avoid London so easily.”，说明游客类型有变化，从普通游客和商务旅客的不同选择可以体现出来。故选C项。 【30题详解】 考查名词词义辨析。句意：所以尽管2015年游客消费没有增加，但英国商务旅客的消费比上一年增长了7%。A. similarity相似性；B. increase增加；C. difference差异；D. decrease减少。根据前文“While the strong pound has persuaded many tourists to go to cheaper destinations, business travellers cannot avoid London so easily.”可知，伦敦游客减少，商务旅客增多，游客消费没有增加。故选B项。 【31题详解】 考查形容词词义辨析。句意：与愿意在Airbnb上预订陌生人家里的房间以节省几英镑的度假者不同，大多数商务人士是公费出差，乐意消费。A. happy乐意的；B. reluctant不情愿的；C. careful小心的；D. sorry抱歉的。根据前文“Unlike holidaymakers who are willing to book a room in a stranger’s home on Airbnb to save a few pounds”和“travelling on expense accounts”可知，商务人士是公费出差，所以乐意消费。故选A项。 【32题详解】 考查形容词短语辨析。句意：与此同时，他们的雇主有责任确保安全，仍然对预订闲置房间持谨慎态度，他们担心这些房间隐藏着滑楼梯、有故障的电器和其他危险。A. certain of确定；B. careful about对……谨慎；C. expert at擅长；D. busy in忙于。根据前文“with a duty to ensure safety”以及后文“which they fear conceal slippery stairs, faulty electrics and other hazards”可知，因为安全原因，商务人士的雇主对预订闲置房间很谨慎。故选B项。 【33题详解】 考查动词词义辨析。句意：这正合酒店经营者心意。A. suits适合，合(某人)心意；B. warns警告；C. defines定义；D. guides引导。因为前文提到商务旅客乐意住酒店且雇主对闲置房间预订谨慎，使得酒店有更多的生意，所以这种情况正合酒店经营者心意。故选A项。 【34题详解】 考查动词短语辨析。句意：商务旅客可能还没有转向Airbnb，但他们正在削减成本。A. looking up to尊敬；B. cutting down on削减；C. making up for弥补；D. settling down to开始认真做。根据后文“More than half the new rooms built in London this year will be operated by budget brands.”可知，商务旅客在削减成本，所以推动了经济型酒店的发展。故选B项。 【35题详解】 考查动词词义辨析。句意：即使曾经豪华的特罗卡德罗酒店也无法逃脱这一趋势。A. follow跟随；B. confirm确认；C. explain解释；D. escape逃脱。前文提到商务旅客削减成本，经济型酒店兴起，结合下文“in 2017 it re-opened — but as a budget hotel.”可知，特罗卡德罗酒店也受到影响，无法逃脱经济型酒店趋势。故选D项。 Section B Directions: Read the following three passages. Each passage is followed by several questions or unfinished statements. For each of them there are four choices marked A, B, C and D. Choose the one that fits best according to the information given in the passage you have just read. (A) Once a dominant presence on the Great Plains, the American bison (美洲野牛) was nearly driven to extinction by the end of the 19th century. Tens of millions once moved freely across North America, but uncontrolled hunting, habitat loss, and westward expansion reduced their numbers to just a few hundred by the late 1800s. A turning point came in the early 20th century, thanks to efforts by conservationists and institutions like the Bronx Zoo. In 1907, the zoo played a crucial role in one of the first major bison reintroduction programs. It shipped 15 bison to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. This initiative continued in 1913, when 14 more bison were sent to Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota. These early transfers laid the foundation for today’s population of free-ranging bison. Currently, approximately 20,000 bison live in managed conservation areas, many of them are related to those original Bronx Zoo animals. These bison are carefully monitored to ensure genetic diversity and protect the species from the threats that nearly wiped them out more than a century ago. In recognition of the bison’s cultural and ecological importance, the U. S. officially declared November 1 as National Bison Day. The bison was also declared the national mammal (哺乳动物) of the United States, symbolizing strength, toughness and the success of wildlife conservation efforts. Despite their size — adult bison can weigh over a ton and reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour — these animals are still vulnerable. Conservationists continue to work on restoring larger, free-ranging bison in more areas, with a long-term goal of creating self-sustaining populations that play a natural role in grassland ecosystems. The story of the American bison is one of near loss and remarkable recovery — a reminder that, with joint effort and respect for nature, it is possible to reverse even the most dramatic declines. 36. What happened in the early 20th century that was seen as a turning point? A. The bison population reached its lowest point. B. The U. S. government banned all hunting of bison. C. Bison were hunted more heavily across North America. D. The Bronx Zoo began sending bison to protected areas. 37. The word “vulnerable” (paragraph 5) can be best replaced by “______”. A. in power B. at risk C. under control D. by surprise 38. Why did the U. S. officially declare November 1 as National Bison Day? A. To mark the founding of the Bronx Zoo. B. To honor the bison’s role in culture and nature. C. To raise awareness about the bison’s past declines. D. To promote the conversation of other large mammals. 39. Which of the following is the best title for this passage? A. The Return of the Bison B. The Life of Bison in the Wild C. How the Bronx Zoo Became Famous D. The Rise and Fall of the Great Plains 【答案】36 D 37. B 38. B 39. A 【解析】 【导语】本文是一篇说明文。主要介绍的是美洲野牛从濒临灭绝到逐步恢复的过程，以及相关保护措施和其在美国文化与生态系统中的重要性。 【36题详解】 细节理解题。根据第二段中的“A turning point came in the early 20th century, thanks to efforts by conservationists and institutions like the Bronx Zoo. In 1907, the zoo played a crucial role in one of the first major bison reintroduction programs. (20世纪初，由于保护主义者和布朗克斯动物园等机构的努力，情况出现了转机。1907年，该动物园在首批重要的美洲野牛重新引入计划中发挥了关键作用。)”可知，早期的转折点是布朗克斯动物园开始将美洲野牛送往保护区。故选D项。 【37题详解】 词句猜测题。根据第五段“Despite their size — adult bison can weigh over a ton and reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour — these animals are still vulnerable. Conservationists continue to work on restoring larger, free-ranging bison in more areas, with a long-term goal of creating self-sustaining populations that play a natural role in grassland ecosystems. (尽管它们体型庞大 —— 成年野牛体重可达一吨以上，奔跑速度可达每小时 35 英里 —— 但这些动物仍然 vulnerable。保护主义者继续致力于在更多地区恢复更大规模的自由放养野牛，长期目标是建立能够在草原生态系统中发挥自然作用的自给自足的种群。)”可知，尽管野牛有一些优势，但仍然需要保护主义者努力去恢复它们的数量，所以它们仍然处于危险之中，由此可知，划线单词的意思与“处于危险中”意义相近。故选 B。 【38题详解】 细节理解题。根据第四段中的“In recognition of the bison’s cultural and ecological importance, the U. S. officially declared November 1 as National Bison Day. The bison was also declared the national mammal (哺乳动物) of the United States, symbolizing strength, toughness and the success of wildlife conservation efforts. (为了认可野牛在文化和生态方面的重要性，美国正式宣布 11 月 1 日为国家野牛日。野牛也被宣布为美国的国家哺乳动物，象征着力量、坚韧以及野生动物保护工作的成功。)”可知，为了认可野牛在文化和生态方面的重要性，美国正式宣布11月1日为国家野牛日，由此可知，建立国家野牛日是为了表彰野牛在文化和自然方面的作用。故选B。 【39题详解】 主旨大意题。根据首段中的“Tens of millions once moved freely across North America, but uncontrolled hunting, habitat loss, and westward expansion reduced their numbers to just a few hundred by the late 1800s. (数千万头美洲野牛曾经自由地穿梭于整个北美大陆，但到了19世纪末，由于不受控制的捕猎、栖息地的丧失以及向西扩张的人类活动，它们的数量锐减至仅剩数百头。)”以及第二段中的“A turning point came in the early 20th century, thanks to efforts by conservationists and institutions like the Bronx Zoo. (20世纪初，由于保护主义者和布朗克斯动物园等机构的努力，情况迎来了一个转折点。)”可知，文章讲述了美洲野牛曾经濒临灭绝，经过保护主义者和相关机构的努力，数量有所恢复，结合尾段中的“The story of the American bison is one of near loss and remarkable recovery — a reminder that, with joint effort and respect for nature, it is possible to reverse even the most dramatic declines. (美洲野牛的故事是一个关于几近灭绝又显著恢复的故事 —— 它提醒我们，只要齐心协力并尊重自然，即便是最急剧的数量减少趋势也是可以逆转的。)”可知，本文主要讲述的是美洲野牛从濒临灭绝到逐步恢复的过程，所以题目“野牛的回归”可以概括本文的主题，最适合本文的标题。故选A项。 (B) Colleague Council Meeting 3rd Oct 20 Chairperson: Jane Simmons Minutes Secretary: Liz Bateman 1 Welcome Jane Simmons welcomed all colleagues to the meeting. She explained the aim of the Colleague Council—issues which are of concern to staff members can be raised and discussed by the group, and then addressed to Personnel Manager, Penny Kacelnik, in the second half of the meeting. Meetings will be held four times a year. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES 2 Lifting of International call barring The council asked if it would be possible to have the phone system changed so that international calls can be made. All phones in Sales & Marketing will be modified in November to allow for international calls Anyone else who needs to call overseas should contact Asif Din in IT. 3 Recycling of paper The council enquired if the correct route for raising recycling issues was through John Evans, Office Services Manager. Penny agreed that this was the correct route. She also added that she would welcome everyone looking at the paper they use and cutting down if possible. Individuals are reminded that they can also make a difference by turning lights and monitors etc. off. 4 Healthy snack options in snack machines The council requested that a healthy range of snacks be available from the snack machine. Penny reminded everyone that the canteen offers healthy lunch-time options. She will discuss the contents of the machine with the leasers (租赁方) when the lease comes up for renewal next month. Feedback to be given at Jan meeting. 5 Removal of study grants The council expressed regret that study grants for non-professional courses were no longer available. People should be encouraged to take language courses, for example, given our growing international market. Penny explained that Management felt this money could be better used on paying for courses which would lead to professional qualifications, such as Accountancy, Credit Control. She also suggested that in-house language courses could be taught by members of staff. Next Meeting: Will be January, precise date to be confirmed Attendees: Louisa Barlow, Gary Brown, Natalie Cole, Orla Doyle, Tariq Ali, Penny Kacelnik (Personnel Officer) 40. The word “Minutes” is closest in meaning to “________”. A. unexpected emergencies B. the duration of a meeting C. written records of a meeting D. suggestions from employees 41. What proposal did the Colleague Council put forward? A. Holding the Colleague Council Meeting four times a year. B. Allowing the employees to make international calls. C. Dealing with documents on the computer instead of on paper. D. Asking the canteen to provide more healthy lunch options. 42. What suggestion did Penny Kacelnik give to those who want to take language courses? A. Shifting to a course leading to professional qualifications. B. Applying to the Personnel Office for a special grant. C. Turning to a colleague who speaks that language. D. Referring to the growing international market. 【答案】40. C 41. B 42. C 【解析】 【导语】本文是应用文。文章主要讲述员工委员会会议的相关内容。 【40题详解】 词句猜测题。根据1 Welcome部分“She explained the aim of the Colleague Council—issues which are of concern to staff members can be raised and discussed by the group, and then addressed to Personnel Manager, Penny Kacelnik, in the second half of the meeting.”(她解释了员工委员会的目的，员工关心的问题可以由小组提出和讨论，然后在会议后半段向人事经理Penny Kacelnik提出。)和“MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES”(会议记录中的事项都来源于MINUTES) 可知，MINUTES是指在会议上被提出和讨论的员工关心的问题，一般情况下，会议上这些问题会由秘书记录，所以MINUTES的意思应该是“会议上的书面记录”，和C选项意思一致。故选C。 【41题详解】 细节理解题。根据2 Lifting of International call barring部分“The council asked if it would be possible to have the phone system changed so that international calls can be made.”(委员会询问是否可以改变电话系统，以便拨打国际电话。)可知，委员会上提出要让员工们能够拨打国际电话。故选B。 【42题详解】 细节理解题。根据5 Removal of study grants部分“She also suggested that in-house language courses could be taught by members of staff.”(她还建议，内部语言课程可以由工作人员教授。)可知，Penny Kacelnik建议，想学习语言课程的人员可以向会说这种语言的工作人员学习。故选C。 (C) Astronomy is unique among the sciences as it relies on distant observations. Unlike geologists or biologists, astronomers cannot physically study their subjects. Instead, they use telescopes and computer simulations (模拟) to explore the cosmos. One such effort is the EAGLE (Evolution and Assembly of Galaxies and their Environments) project, created by researchers at Durham and Leiden Universities. This advanced simulation models a universe over 300 million light-years wide, containing thousands of galaxies (星系) , including ones similar to the Milky Way. To build EAGLE, scientists traced the history of the Universe back before the formation of galaxies and stars. Three key forces influenced the Universe’s evolution: dark matter, normal matter, and dark energy. Dark matter provided an invisible framework for galaxies to form, while dark energy counteracted this by driving the Universe’s expansion. Previous simulations struggled to accurately reproduce galaxy formation, often generating overly massive galaxies. By improving their models and using updated data, the EAGLE team created a more realistic representation of the evolution of the Universe. Developing the simulation took years. Researchers translated complex processes into a complicated computer program, which ran on the DiRAC-II supercomputer for over six weeks. The results were remarkable — EAGLE-generated galaxies was very similar to real ones. According to Professor Richard Bower, an astronomer involved in the project, many people cannot distinguish between actual astronomical images and those produced by EAGLE. A major advantage of EAGLE is its ability to track galaxies over time. By rewinding the simulation, scientists have solved mysteries like the disappearance of small red galaxies observed in the early Universe. EAGLE revealed that many of these galaxies mixed with larger ones, explaining their absence in later observations. The simulation also casts light on why larger galaxies form fewer stars: their black holes grow quickly, consuming surrounding gas and preventing star formation. The team now aims to simulate the future of the Universe. This is challenging due to dark energy’s increasing influence, which speeds up the expansion of the universe. However, advancements in computing may allow researchers to expand EAGLE’s scale, providing deeper insights into galactic evolution. 43. What does the word “counteract” (paragraph 2) most likely mean? A. Measured. B. Enhanced. C. Balanced. D. Opposed. 44. What can be inferred about the advantages of EAGLE from the passage? A. It offers insights into the past galactic events. B. It doesn’t take much effort from astronomers. C. It doesn’t need to rely on advancements in computing. D. It helps explain why dark energy expands the universe. 45. Why is Professor Richard Bower cited in the passage? A. To introduce the universities involved in the EAGLE project. B. To emphasize the scientific accuracy of the EAGLE simulation. C. To highlight the challenges of running supercomputer programs. D. To explain the role of dark matter and dark energy in galaxy formation. 46. What is the main idea of the passage? A. The EAGLE project proves observational astronomy is accurate. B. The EAGLE project highlights the difficulties astronomers face. C. The EAGLE project models galaxy formation and evolution. D. The EAGLE project successfully represents the Milky Way. 【答案】43. D 44. A 45. B 46. C 【解析】 【导语】本文是一篇说明文。文章介绍了EAGLE项目，它模拟了宇宙中星系的形成和演化，解决了一些天文学谜团，团队还打算模拟宇宙未来。 【43题详解】 词句猜测题。根据第二段中“Dark matter provided an invisible framework for galaxies to form, while dark energy counteracted this by driving the Universe’s expansion. (暗物质为星系的形成提供了一个无形的框架，而暗能量通过推动宇宙膨胀来counteracted这一点)”可知，暗物质促使星系形成，而暗能量推动宇宙膨胀，这二者作用相反。所以“counteract”意思是“对抗、相反”，与“Opposed”同义。故选D项。 【44题详解】 推理判断题。根据第四段中“By rewinding the simulation, scientists have solved mysteries like the disappearance of small red galaxies observed in the early Universe. EAGLE revealed that many of these galaxies mixed with larger ones, explaining their absence in later observations. (通过倒回模拟，科学家们解开了早期宇宙中观测到的小红星系消失等谜团。EAGLE揭示，许多这样的星系与更大的星系融合了，这就解释了它们在后来的观测中为何消失)”可知，EAGLE项目的优势是能够帮助科学家了解过去星系发生的事件。故选A项。 【45题详解】 推理判断题。根据第三段中“The results were remarkable — EAGLE generated galaxies was very similar to real ones. According to Professor Richard Bower, an astronomer involved in the project, many people cannot distinguish between actual astronomical images and those produced by EAGLE. (结果非常显著——EAGLE生成的星系与真实的星系非常相似。据参与该项目的天文学家理查德·鲍尔教授说，许多人无法区分实际的天文图像和EAGLE生成的图像)”可知，引用理查德·鲍尔教授的话是为了强调EAGLE模拟的科学准确性。故选B项。 【46题详解】 主旨大意题。通读全文，结合第一段中“One such effort is the EAGLE (Evolution and Assembly of GaLaxies and their Environments) project, created by researchers at Durham and Leiden Universities. This advanced simulation models a universe over 300 million light years wide, containing thousands of galaxies (星系), including ones similar to the Milky Way. (达勒姆大学和莱顿大学的研究人员开展了一项名为EAGLE(星系及其环境的演化与组装)的项目。这种先进的模拟对一个超过3亿光年宽的宇宙进行建模，其中包含数千个星系，包括与银河系相似的星系。)”以及后文对EAGLE项目模拟星系形成和演化过程的介绍可知，本文主要介绍了EAGLE项目对星系形成和演化的模拟。故选C项。 Section C Directions: Complete the following passage by using the sentences given below. Each sentence can be used only once. Note that there are two more sentences than you need. Bad Dreams Are Good What are dreams for? There are a handful of theories. Sigmund Freud famously claimed that they reveal hidden truths and wishes. More recent studies suggest dreams might help us deal with strong feelings, improve our memories, understand random brain signals, or prepare us for danger. Despite being largely unsupported by evidence, Freud’s view maintains a strong following around the world. Researchers found in a study that students in the U.S., South Korea, and India were much more likely to say that dreams reveal hidden truths than to support better-substantiated theories. ____47____ In the same study, respondents said that dreaming about a plane crash would cause them more anxiety than an official warning about a terrorist attack. ____48____ The majority of dreams occur during REM sleep cycles, of which the average person has four or five a night. Anxiety is quite common: A study of Canadian university students found the most common dream topics to be school, falling, being chased, and arriving too late for something. ____49____ A 1958 study determined that compared with Japanese people, Americans dreamed more about being locked up, losing a loved one, finding money, being inappropriately dressed, or encountering a mad person. Japanese people were more likely to dream about school, trying repeatedly to do something, being paralyzed (麻痹的) with fear, or “wild, violent beasts.” If human dreams sound terrible, bear in mind that even negative ones can have positive effects. In a study of students taking a French medical-school entrance exam, 60 percent of the dreams they had beforehand involved a problem with the exam, such as being late or leaving an answer blank. ____50____ So the next time you dream about an education-related experience in which you are both falling and being chased, don’t worry: It’s probably totally meaningless. Then again, your brain might be practicing so you’ll be ready if such an event ever comes to pass. A. For all the commonalities dreams exhibit, they differ across cultures. B. Relatedly, people put great stock in their dreams. C. The dreamiest member of the animal kingdom logs up to eight hours of REM sleep a day. D. Even if dreams can’t foretell the future, they seem to expose our shared fascinations. E. Others argue that dreams have no evolutionary function at all. F. But those who reported dreams about the exam, even bad ones, did better on it than those who didn’t. 【答案】47. B 48. D 49. A 50. F 【解析】 【导语】本文是一篇说明文，主要讲述了关于梦境目的的不同理论观点以及相关研究。 【47题详解】 空前“Researchers found in a study that students in the U.S., South Korea, and India were much more likely to say that dreams reveal hidden truths than to support better-substantiated theories.(研究人员在一项研究中发现，美国、韩国和印度的学生更有可能说梦揭示了隐藏的真相，而不是支持更有根据的理论。)”说明了研究发现梦揭示了隐藏的真相，空格处应该说明人们相信梦境的重要性，B选项“Relatedly, people put great stock in their dreams.(与此相关的是，人们对自己的梦想寄予厚望。)”说明了人们对自己的梦寄予厚望，承接上文，符合语境，故选B。 【48题详解】 空后“The majority of dreams occur during REM sleep cycles, of which the average person has four or five a night. Anxiety is quite common: A study of Canadian university students found the most common dream topics to be school, falling, being chased, and arriving too late for something.(大多数梦发生在快速眼动睡眠周期，一般人每晚会做4到5个这样的梦。焦虑是很常见的：一项对加拿大大学生的研究发现，最常见的梦的主题是学校、摔倒、被追赶和迟到。)”说明了人们通常梦见的主题，这反映了人们共同的着迷的事情，D选项“Even if dreams can’t foretell the future, they seem to expose our shared fascinations.(即使梦不能预知未来，但它们似乎揭示了我们共同的痴迷。)”说明了梦揭示了人们共同的着迷的事情，引起下文，符合语境，故选D。 【49题详解】 空后“A 1958 study determined that compared with Japanese people, Americans dreamed more about being locked up, losing a loved one, finding money, being inappropriately dressed, or encountering a mad person. Japanese people were more likely to dream about school, trying repeatedly to do something, being paralyzed (麻痹的) with fear, or “wild, violent beasts.”(1958年的一项研究表明，与日本人相比，美国人更多梦见被关起来、失去亲人、找到钱、穿着不得体或遇到疯子。日本人更有可能梦见学校、反复尝试做某事、因恐惧而瘫痪或“凶猛的野兽”。)”说明了不同的国家的人梦的内容不一样，A选项“For all the commonalities dreams exhibit, they differ across cultures.(尽管梦表现出所有的共性，但它们在不同的文化中是不同的。)”说明了梦在不同的文化中是不同的，引起下文，符合语境，故选A。 【50题详解】 空前“In a study of students taking a French medical-school entrance exam, 60 percent of the dreams they had beforehand involved a problem with the exam, such as being late or leaving an answer blank.(在一项针对参加法国医学院入学考试的学生的研究中，60%的学生在考试前做的梦都涉及考试中的问题，比如迟到或没答题。)”说明了学生在考试前做的梦跟考试有关，空格处也应该和考试有关，F选项“But those who reported dreams about the exam, even bad ones, did better on it than those who didn’t.(但是那些梦见考试的人，即使是糟糕的梦，也比没有梦到的人考得好。)”和考试以及梦有关，承接上文，符合语境，故选F。 Ⅳ. Summary Writing 51. Directions: Read the following passage. Summarize in no more than 60 words the main idea and the main point(s) of the passage. Use your own words as far as possible. The Power of Humor Humor is the heartbeat of online communication, bringing people together through laughter and shared experiences. Whether it’s a witty meme, a cleverly edited video, or a joke about the chaos of daily life, humor adds a spark to conversations and makes interactions more enjoyable. From the mundane to the unexpected, it turns ordinary moments into something worth sharing. One of the most entertaining ways humor thrives online is through storytelling. People take everyday situations and add a twist to make them both funny and relatable. Imagine waiting so long for your food that you start picturing the chef planting cabbage seeds in the kitchen—it’s these playful twists on reality that make humor so engaging. By injecting creativity into the ordinary, jokes become more than just funny words. They become shared experiences that keep conversations lively. Another way humor spreads is through wordplay. A well-crafted pun or a clever twist on a familiar phrase can instantly brighten someone’s day. These spontaneous jokes add energy to conversations, making interactions not just memorable but also more dynamic. A perfectly timed joke can even ease the tension in a serious discussion, reminding everyone that a little laughter goes a long way. Beyond entertainment, humor serves as a coping mechanism, helping people handle stress and uncertainty. In difficult moments, a lighthearted remark can offer comfort, making tough topics easier to discuss. Laughter has a way of breaking down barriers, bringing people together through a shared sense of relief. It’s a reminder that even in life’s challenges, there’s room for joy. In the digital world, humor does more than entertain—it builds bridges, promotes understanding, and adds a little brightness to everyday life. Whether through storytelling, wordplay, or a simple joke that lifts someone’s spirits, humor remains a driving force in human connection, making the world feel just a bit closer and a lot more fun. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 【答案】Humor is essential in online communication, enhancing interactions through storytelling and wordplay. Playful twists on reality and clever puns create relatable and dynamic conversations. Beyond entertainment, humor acts as a coping mechanism, easing stress and fostering connections during challenging times. It breaks down barriers, promotes understanding, and brings joy, making the world feel closer and more enjoyable. 【解析】 【导语】本文是一篇说明文。文章介绍说，幽默在网络交流中至关重要，通过故事讲述和文字游戏增强了互动性。对现实的有趣扭曲和巧妙的双关语创造了相关且充满活力的对话。除了娱乐，幽默还是一种应对机制，能在困难时期缓解压力，促进人际关系。它能打破障碍，促进理解，带来欢乐，让世界感觉更亲近、更有趣。 【详解】1.要点摘录 ①Humor is the heartbeat of online communication, bringing people together through laughter and shared experiences. ②One of the most entertaining ways humor thrives online is through storytelling. People take everyday situations and add a twist to make them both funny and relatable. ③Another way humor spreads is through wordplay. A well-crafted pun or a clever twist on a familiar phrase can instantly brighten someone’s day. ④Beyond entertainment, humor serves as a coping mechanism, helping people handle stress and uncertainty. ⑤It’s a reminder that even in life’s challenges, there’s room for joy. ⑥In the digital world, humor does more than entertain—it builds bridges, promotes understanding, and adds a little brightness to everyday life. 2.缜密构思 将第①点作为总起句，将第②、③点整合为幽默在网络交流中增强互动性的方式，将第④、⑤点整合为幽默作为应对机制的作用，将第⑥点作为总结句。 3.遣词造句 Humor is essential in online communication, enhancing interactions through storytelling and wordplay. Playful twists on reality and clever puns create relatable and dynamic conversations. Beyond entertainment, humor acts as a coping mechanism, easing stress and fostering connections during challenging times. It breaks down barriers, promotes understanding, and brings joy, making the world feel closer and more enjoyable. 【点睛】[高分句型1] Humor is essential in online communication, enhancing interactions through storytelling and wordplay.（使用现在分词短语作状语） [高分句型2] Beyond entertainment, humor acts as a coping mechanism, easing stress and fostering connections during challenging times. （使用现在分词短语作状语） Ⅴ. Translation Directions: Translate the following sentences into English, using the words given in the brackets. 52. 机器人服务员轻柔地将热气腾腾的咖啡端到参观者手中。(serve) (汉译英) ____________________________________________________________________________________ 【答案】The robotic waiter gently served the steaming hot coffee to the visitors. 【解析】 【详解】考查动词短语、名词、形容词和副词。句子在描述过去发生的事情，时态应用一般过去时；主语“机器人服务员”可用名词短语the robotic waiter，状语“轻柔地”可用副词gently，“将……端到某人手中”可用动词短语serve sth. to sb.，“热气腾腾的咖啡”可用名词短语the steaming hot coffee，“参观者”可用名词the visitors。故可译为：The robotic waiter gently served the steaming hot coffee to the visitors. 53. 短春未必是定局，每年的春季长短各有不同。(as) (汉译英) ____________________________________________________________________________________ 【答案】A short spring is not necessarily the case, as the length of the season varies each year. 【解析】 【详解】考查时态和从句。陈述客观事实，为一般现在时。“未必是定局”可译为be not necessarily the case（固定表达，表示“未必如此”）。“短春”为“A short spring”。“每年的春季长短各有不同”处理成as引导的原因状语从句，“春季长短”为“the length of the season”，作主语；“各有不同”为“vary”作谓语；“每年”为“each year”作状语。故翻译为：A short spring is not necessarily the case, as the length of the season varies each year. 54. 这样一张大约20厘米见方的小小折页纸上，要容纳整个城市的地铁网络信息，的确有些勉强。(a challenge) (汉译英) ____________________________________________________________________________________ 【答案】It is indeed a challenge to fit the information of the entire city’s subway network onto such a small folding paper that is approximately 20 centimeters square. 【解析】 【详解】考查形式主语和定语从句。根据句意，该句描述的是一个客观事实，使用一般现在时。表示“……有些勉强”可以理解为“是一项挑战”，翻译成英语为it is a challenge，其中it为形式主语，位于句首，首字母需大写，真正的主语是后面的不定式；表示“容纳整个城市的地铁网络信息”为“to fit the information of the entire city’s subway network”，作真正主语；表示“在一张小小折页纸上”为地点状语，翻译为“onto such a small folding paper that is approximately 20 centimeters square”，表示“大约20厘米见方的”为定语从句修饰先行词“a small folding paper”，先行词在从句中作主语，所以可以使用关系代词that引导，可翻译为“that is approximately 20 centimeters square”，表示“的确”为副词“indeed”用于加强语气。故翻译为It is indeed a challenge to fit the information of the entire city’s subway network onto such a small folding paper that is approximately 20 centimeters square. 55. 不少企业表示，面对未来科技的挑战，具备过硬专业技能和解决实际工程问题能力的大学毕业生，是“香饽饽”。(demand) (汉译英) ____________________________________________________________________________________ 【答案】Many enterprises state that college graduates with excellent professional skills and the ability to solve practical engineering problems are in great demand facing the challenges of future technology. 【解析】 【详解】考查名词、形容词、动词、宾语从句和非谓语动词。主语“不少企业”用many enterprises；“表示”作谓语，用动词state，描述现在的客观情况用一般现在时态；“面对未来科技的挑战，具备过硬专业技能和解决实际工程问题能力的大学毕业生，是‘香饽饽’”是宾语从句，用连词that引导，从句主语“大学毕业生”用名词college graduates，“具备过硬专业技能和解决实际工程问题能力的”修饰主语，用介词短语with excellent professional skills and the ability to solve practical engineering problems作后置定语，谓语“是”用系动词be，描述现在的客观情况用一般现在时态are，表语“‘香饽饽’”理解为“供不应求”，用介词短语in great demand作表语，“面对未来科技的挑战”作伴随状语，用现在分词短语facing the challenges of future technology表示，与其逻辑主语college graduates之间是主动关系。综上，全句译为：Many enterprises state that college graduates with excellent professional skills and the ability to solve practical engineering problems are in great demand facing the challenges of future technology. Ⅵ. Guided Writing 56. Directions: Write an English composition in 120-150 words according to the instructions given below in Chinese. 假设你是明启中学高二学生李明，你校英语报正在举行征文比赛，主题为“The change that I expect AI to bring about”，写一篇文章参赛，内容须包括： (1)你最期待AI会带来的变化； (2)你期待这一变化的理由。 ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 【答案】The Change That I Expect AI to Bring About As a senior high school student, I’m highly interested in the potential of AI. The change that I most expect AI to bring about is in the field of education. I hope AI can provide personalized learning experiences for every student. In traditional classrooms, teachers have to teach a large group of students with different learning paces and styles. However, AI can analyze students’ learning data, such as their strengths, weaknesses, and learning speeds. Then it can customize study plans and materials for each individual. The reason for my expectation is that personalized learning can greatly improve learning efficiency. Students can focus more on the areas where they need improvement, and they won’t waste time on things they already know well. Moreover, it can also increase students’ enthusiasm for learning as they are more likely to achieve better results with a more suitable learning method. In this way, AI can help every student reach their full potential in education. 【解析】 【导语】本篇书面表达属于征文类作文。要求考生以高二学生李明的身份，围绕“The change that I expect AI to bring about”这一主题进行写作，需包含最期待 AI 带来的变化以及期待这一变化的理由。 【详解】1. 词汇积累 希望：hope → wish 提供：provide → offer 然而：however → nevertheless 提高：improve → enhance 2. 句式拓展 简单句变复合句 原句：However, AI can analyze students’ learning data, such as their strengths, weaknesses, and learning speeds. 拓展句：However, AI, which has powerful computing capabilities, can analyze students’ learning data, such as their strengths, weaknesses, and learning speeds. 【点睛】[高分句型1] The change that I most expect AI to bring about is in the field of education. (运用了关系代词that引导限制性定语从句) [高分句型2] The reason for my expectation is that personalized learning can greatly improve learning efficiency.(运用了连词that引导表语从句) [高分句型3] Moreover, it can also increase students’ enthusiasm for learning as they are more likely to achieve better results with a more suitable learning method. (运用了从属连词as引导原因状语从句) 第1页/共1页 学科网（北京）股份有限公司 $