2026届上海市徐汇区高三上学期英语一模英语试卷

2025年第一期徐汇区学习能力诊断卷 高三英语 　听力+听说 2025.4 I. Listening Comprehension Section A Directions: In Section A, you will hear ten short conversations between two speakers. At the end of each conversation, a question will be asked about what was said. The conversations and the questions will be spoken only once. After you hear a conversation and the question about it, read the four possible answers on your paper, and decide which one is the best answer to the question you have heard. 1. M: This soup is a bit bland. Could you pass the salt, please? W: Sure. Here you are. The pepper is right here too if you'd like. Q: Where does this conversation most likely take place? (D) A. In a grocery store. B. In a library. C. In an office. D. In a restaurant. 2. W: Do you know if the meeting this afternoon starts at 2:00 or 2:30? M: I believe it was pushed back to 2:30. You should double-check the email. Q: What does the man advise the woman to do? (B) A. Arrive at the meeting at 2:00. B. Confirm the time in the email. C. Send an email about the meeting time. D. Wait for him at 2:30. 3. M: I'm so sorry, I completely forgot about our lunch date. W: Don't worry about it. I know you've been busy with your new project. Q: What is the woman's attitude towards the man? (C) A. Angry. B. Disappointed. C. Understanding. D. Surprised. 4. W: The printer in the office is out of paper again. Could you please refill it? M: I’d love to help, but I’m in the middle of a video conference that I can’t pause. Q: What does the man imply? (B) A. He will refill the paper after his meeting. B. He is unable to help at the moment. C. He doesn't know how to fix the printer. D. He thinks the woman should do it herself. 5. W: Should we take the main highway or the scenic route along the coast? M: Let's take the coast. I don't mind if it takes a bit longer. The view will be worth it. Q: What does the man prefer? (A) A. A longer but more pleasant drive. B. The quickest way to their destination. C. Avoiding the traffic on the highway. D. Stopping to see the view later. 6. M: Is there any more of that lemon cake left from last night? W: I'm afraid your brother finished the last piece this morning. Q: What does the woman mean? (C) A. She will bake another lemon cake soon. B. The man's brother saved him a piece. C. There is no more cake left for the man. D. The cake was not very good. 7. W: I can't believe we have to start all over. This is so frustrating. M: I know, but look on the bright side. Our first attempt taught us what not to do. Q: What does the man suggest? (B) A. They should give up on the project. B. They have learned from their mistake. C. The first attempt was a total failure. D. Starting over is a waste of time. 8. M: Do you want to share a taxi to the airport? It might be cheaper. W: Actually, I've already decided to take the subway. It's more reliable at this time of day. Q: Why is the woman taking the subway? (D) A. It is more comfortable than a taxi. B. It is the only option available to her. C. She wants to save money. D. She thinks it's more dependable. 9. W: The instructions for assembling this bookshelf are so confusing. I can't figure out step three. M: Here, let me have a look. I'm usually pretty good at this sort of thing. Q: What will the man probably do next? (A) A. Try to help the woman with the instructions. B. Assemble the bookshelf by himself. C. Look for a different set of instructions. D. Suggest they skip step three. 10. M: I heard you're moving to a new apartment next month. W: Yes, it's closer to my office, so my morning commute will be cut in half. Q: What is the main advantage of the woman's new apartment? (C) A. It has a much larger living room. B. The rent is cheaper than her current place. C. It reduces her travel time to work. D. It is located in a quieter neighborhood. Section B Directions: In Section B, you will hear one longer conversation and two short passages. After each conversation or passage, you will be asked several questions. The conversation and the passages will be read twice, but the questions will be spoken only once. When you hear a question, read the four possible answers on your paper and decide which one would be the best answer to the question you have heard. Questions 11 through 13 are based on the following passage. In an innovative approach to education, Finland has decided to make handwriting instruction optional in its national curriculum, placing greater emphasis on keyboard skills instead. This change reflects the country's focus on preparing students for the digital age while maintaining its reputation for educational excellence. The new policy, implemented in recent years, doesn't completely eliminate handwriting but gives schools and students the choice between focusing on cursive writing or developing digital communication skills. Finnish educators argue that typing is more relevant to modern communication needs and workplace requirements. While this change has received support from many educators and technology advocates, some critics worry that it might affect children's fine motor skills development and their ability to read historical documents. Despite these concerns, Finland's educational system continues to rank among the world's best, and other countries are watching this experiment closely to see if they might follow similar paths in their own educational reforms. 11. What is the significant change in Finland's education policy? A. Making handwriting instruction optional. B. Eliminating all traditional writing tools. C. Focusing only on coding skills. D. Removing technology from classrooms. 12. What reason do Finnish educators give for this change? A. Handwriting is too difficult for most students. B. Typing is more relevant to modern needs. C. It saves money on textbooks and materials. D. Students weren't learning handwriting properly. 13. What is the main idea of the passage? A. Finland's shift from handwriting to keyboard skills. B. The history of handwriting instruction in Europe. C. The development of educational technology. D. Comparison of different countries' education systems. 答案：A B A Questions 14 through 16 are based on the following passage. Norway is actively fighting back against the spread of false information online. The country is using the Code of Practice on Disinformation, an industry standard that obligates major tech platforms like Google, Meta, and TikTok to limit disinformation and report on their efforts. The Norwegian Media Authority, which monitors these reports, has created a public dashboard to track key indicators. For example, the data shows that TikTok reported removing over 90 million fake accounts in a single six-month period. However, reports from 2024 indicate a significant decrease in actions taken against disinformation, such as the removal of fake accounts and the labeling of content with fact-checks. The Authority's assessment found that while platforms are improving at reporting on content moderation, their reports are often weak on addressing risks from their own recommender systems and algorithms that can amplify false information. It was also noted that Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, needs to improve its reporting quality, as it is the only platform not providing specific data for Norway and the European Economic Area, making comparisons difficult. 14. What is the purpose of the Code of Practice on Disinformation mentioned in the passage? A. To teach people how to identify fake news online. B. To require tech platforms to limit and report on disinformation. C. To encourage social media companies to create new fact-checking tools. D. To track the number of people who believe in disinformation. 15. What did the 2024 reports reveal according to the Norwegian Media Authority? A. The number of fake accounts removed by platforms has increased. B. Actions taken by platforms to combat disinformation have decreased. C. Fact-checking has become more popular among social media users. D. All platforms are now reporting their data accurately. 16. What specific problem was identified with Meta's reporting? A. It does not include data for the region where Norway is located. B. It refuses to remove any fake accounts on its platforms. C. It uses a different definition of disinformation than the government. D. It does not have a system to label fact-checked content. 答案：B B A Questions 17 through 20 are based on the following conversation. W: Hello, International Student Office. How may I help you? M: Hi, I'm a new international student from China. I saw your notice about the campus guide program and I'm very interested in applying. W: Welcome to our university! We're indeed looking for student guides to help new international students adapt to campus life during orientation week. M: That sounds meaningful. What would be my main responsibilities? W: Mainly showing new students around campus, introducing them to important facilities like the library and student center, and answering their basic questions about university life. M: I think I'd be good at that since I've just gone through the same experience myself. I'm especially interested because I want to improve my communication skills and make more friends from different countries. W: That's perfect. The position requires about 10 hours per week during the first month of semester. It's a volunteer position, but we provide certificates for outstanding guides. M: That works for me. I have most of my classes in the morning, so I'm free in the afternoons. W: Great! Could you fill out an application form and bring it to our office by this Friday? M: Sure, I'll do that. Thank you for the information. 17. Where did the man see information about the campus guide program? A. From the International Student Office notice. B. From a university newspaper. C. From another student. D. From an online advertisement. 18. What is the man's main motivation for applying? A. To earn money for his expenses. B. To improve communication skills and make friends. C. To get academic credits. D. To practice his teaching skills. 19. What is the time commitment for this position? A. 5 hours per week. B. 10 hours per week during the first month. C. Full-time during orientation week. D. Evenings only. 20. What does the woman ask the man to do by Friday? A. Attend a training session. B. Submit an application form. C. Meet current campus guides. D. Prepare a presentation. 答案：A B B B 听说测试 I. Speaking Section A Directions: Read aloud the following sentences. For each sentence, you will have thirty seconds to prepare and fifteen seconds to read. 1. Effective communication is a key skill for success in both personal and professional life. 2. Learning a second language can open up new opportunities and enhance cognitive abilities. Section B Directions: Read aloud the following passage. You will have one minute to prepare and thirty seconds to read. Maintaining a positive attitude is crucial for overcoming obstacles and achieving happiness. Life is full of unexpected changes and difficulties, but our response to them shapes our experience. When we choose to focus on solutions rather than problems, we open the door to new possibilities. A positive mind not only helps us to cope with challenges but also attracts support and cooperation from others. Therefore, let us make a conscious effort to cultivate optimism and gratitude in our daily lives, no matter what circumstances we face. Section C Directions: Ask two questions about each situation given below. At least one special question should be asked about each situation. Questions 1～2: The local community center is offering free fitness classes. Ask your neighbor about it. Questions 3～4: It's said that a new subway line is under construction near your school. You feel interested and ask your classmate about it. 【参考答案】 1. What types of fitness classes are they offering? / Do you need to register in advance to join? 2. What are the main stations this new line will connect? / Do you know when the construction is expected to be finished? Section D Directions: You will have one minute to prepare and another minute to talk about the following pictures in at least 5 sentences. Begin your talk with the sentence given: One day, Xiao Ming was late for school... 【参考答案】 One day, Xiao Ming was late for school. He ran all the way to the school gate, completely out of breath, only to find it locked shut! He panicked. He didn't want a teacher to catch him and get that late mark, so he had this brilliant idea to climb over the gate. He actually made it to the top, but just as he was about to climb down, he lost his balance and took a nasty fall, right onto the ground. A teacher spotted him and rushed him straight to the hospital. He ended up with a broken ankle. What a painful lesson it was! II. Listening and speaking Section A Directions: In Section A, you will hear four sentences. Make quick responses to the sentences you have heard. 1. Could you possibly help me move this table? It's a bit heavy. Of course, no problem. Let's lift it together. / Sure, where would you like to move it? 2. I'm going to the cafeteria. Do you want me to bring you back anything? Yes, please. A cup of coffee would be great, thank you! / No, I'm good. Thanks for asking. 3. I can't connect my laptop to the Wi-Fi in this hotel. You might need to get the password from the front desk. / Try turning your Wi-Fi off and on again. That sometimes works. 4. My favorite band is coming to town next month! That's awesome! Are you planning to get tickets? / Really? I love them too! We should go together. Section B Directions: In Section B, you will hear a short passage. The passage will be read twice. After you hear the passage, answer the first question with the information you hear and the second in your own opinion with at least 3 sentences. For the first question, you will have 30 seconds to prepare and 30 seconds to talk. For the second question, you will have one minute to prepare and another minute to talk. Questions: 1. According to the passage, what are the key factors that have contributed to the popularity of short-form video platforms? 2. What is your opinion on short-form video content? Do you think it is a positive or negative development for society and individuals? Provide reasons and examples to support your viewpoint. 【听力文字】 In the past decade, short-form video platforms have exploded in popularity, fundamentally changing how we consume information and entertain ourselves. From TikTok and Instagram Reels to YouTube Shorts, these platforms are filled with videos that are typically less than one minute long. But what has driven this massive cultural shift? Several key factors explain their widespread appeal. First, advancements in smartphone technology and high-speed mobile data have made it incredibly easy to watch and create videos anywhere, at any time. Second, the content itself is designed for our modern, fast-paced lifestyles. It provides quick bursts of entertainment or information, perfectly suited to filling short breaks in our day, like waiting for a bus or standing in a line. Finally, the powerful algorithms used by these platforms analyze our viewing habits to create a personalized feed, constantly showing us new content that we are likely to enjoy, which keeps us scrolling for much longer than we intended. However, this phenomenon is not without its critics. Many educators and psychologists express concern about its impact, particularly on young people. They argue that the constant, rapid stimulation can shorten attention spans and make it harder for individuals to focus on longer tasks, such as reading a book or sitting through a lecture. Furthermore, while these platforms can be a source of creativity and connection, they can also lead to excessive screen time and the promotion of unrealistic lifestyles. Ultimately, the impact of short-form video content depends greatly on how consciously and moderately we choose to use it. (Word count: 258) 【参考答案】 1. According to the passage, what are the key factors that have contributed to the popularity of short-form video platforms? The key factors are the advancements in smartphone technology and high-speed mobile data, the content's design which suits fast-paced modern lifestyles, and the powerful, personalized algorithms used by the platforms. 2. What is your opinion on short-form video content? Do you think it is a positive or negative development for society and individuals? Provide reasons and examples to support your viewpoint. (Positive Opinion) I believe short-form video content is largely a positive development. Firstly, it has democratized creativity, allowing ordinary people to share their talents, ideas, and humor with a global audience. For example, many unknown artists and chefs have gained fame through platforms like TikTok. Secondly, it can be a valuable source of quick information and skills. You can learn a life hack, a new word in a foreign language, or a summary of a complex news event in just 60 seconds. Finally, it provides accessible entertainment and a sense of community for people who might feel isolated, helping them connect with others who share their interests. (Negative Opinion) I lean towards the view that short-form video content is more harmful than beneficial. Primarily, it is designed to be addictive, which can lead to significant procrastination and a loss of productivity, as people find themselves scrolling for hours without realizing it. Secondly, the constant stream of fast-paced clips can rewire the brain, reducing our ability to maintain focus on longer, more demanding tasks like studying or reading. This is particularly damaging for children and teenagers. Moreover, the curated and often unrealistic content can harm mental health by fostering social comparison and feelings of inadequacy when users compare their everyday lives to the highlights presented online. 学科网（北京）股份有限公司 $ 2025学年第一学期徐汇区学习能力诊断卷 高三英语 　试卷 （考试时间105分钟 满分115分） 2025.12 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. By the mid-21st century, the term "nose job" had been completely redefined. No longer referring to simple cosmetic surgery, it now described a radical procedure to augment the human sense of smell, 1 (grant) individuals olfactory (嗅觉) powers equivalent to a bloodhound's. This was achieved by boosting the number of olfactory receptors in the nasal cavity (鼻腔) from the human standard of 6 million to over 100 million. The procedure itself was intensely complex. It involved temporarily removing the nose, scraping its internal tissue, and refilling it with a transplant of the patient's own programmed stem cells. These cells 2 (design) to differentiate into vast numbers of new olfactory cells. When the nose was reattached, neural stem cells grew, forging (建立) new connections to the brain's olfactory bulb. 3 （accommodate）this new hardware, most patients accepted a slightly larger, more bulbous nose, 4 a minority even opted for a "wet" nose modification to enhance scent trapping, much like a dog's. The post-operative period was a critical and challenging transition. New "supersniffers" were initially isolated in scent-free clean rooms, as their new ability was overwhelmingly powerful. They 5 detect human stress levels, menstrual cycles, remnants of past meals, and even the health of plants. Patients were gradually exposed to richer olfactory stimuli, and their brains, aided by drugs that increased neural plasticity, 6 （learn）to rewire themselves to interpret this flood of new sensory data. The reasons for 7 （undergo）the augmentation were as varied as the scents it revealed. Many sought it for professional advancement. Chefs created more exquisite dishes, detectives could assess the precise timeline of a crime scene, and diplomats could detect lies and hidden emotions in negotiations with uncanny accuracy. Ecologists could literally sniff out the health of an ecosystem, sensing soil conditions and plant vitality, 8 revolutionized restoration efforts. In healthcare, the benefits were profound. Caregivers and doctors could understand a patient's physical and mental state 9 unprecedented clarity, and augmented individuals played a crucial role in early disease detection, identifying conditions like cancer or Parkinson's through subtle scent markers. While some used their new ability for trivial or canine-like greetings, most applied it thoughtfully. In an age increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence, this augmentation was seen as a profoundly human enhancement. It opened a door to a richer, 10 (deeply) felt experience of the world—a sensory realm of emotion and connection that remained inaccessible to machines, making those who underwent it feel more truly alive. Section B Directions: Fill in each blank with a proper word chosen from the box. Each word can be used only once. Note that there is one word more than you need. A. typically B. inevitable C. transmission D. circulating E. identified F. symptoms G. hospitable H. landscape I. unusually J. emerged K. signals The emergence of the deadly Usutu virus in the UK, which is devastating blackbird populations, serves as a stark warning that mosquito-borne diseases are gaining a foothold in the country, a trend significantly driven by a warming climate. This development not only threatens wildlife but also 11 a growing potential risk to human health. Originating in South Africa in 1959, the Usutu virus has become widespread across Europe and was first 12 in the UK in 2020. Its impact has been severe, with blackbird numbers in hotspots like London dropping by over 40% since 2018. As ornithologist (鸟类学家) Hugh Hanmer notes, this dramatic decline was directly correlated with the virus's arrival. While Usutu itself poses a relatively low risk to people — 13 causing only mild, flu-like symptoms — its establishment in the UK is a significant milestone. It marks the first time a mosquito-borne virus capable of jumping from animals to humans has 14 within the country's local animal populations. This makes it a crucial case study for virologists (病毒学家), providing a template for how other, more dangerous viruses might spread. The primary concern is West Nile virus, a close relative of Usutu. Both viruses share the same 15 method, environmental requirements, and hosts. The same mosquito species that carry Usutu can transmit West Nile, and the same birds act as reservoirs for both. This parallel is alarming because West Nile is far more dangerous to humans. While only about 20% of infected people show 16 , these can include severe fever, headache, and vomiting, and in rare cases, the infection can be fatal. There is no human vaccine. Climate change is the key accelerator in this story. Warmer summer temperatures have facilitated the northward spread of West Nile through Europe. The Netherlands offers a worrying precedent: Usutu was detected there in 2016, and West Nile virus followed just four years later. UK officials fear a similar pattern, as studies confirm the nation's climate is becoming increasingly 17 to these viruses. In response, the UK's Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) launched a tracking program in 2023 to monitor Usutu and other viruses in wild birds. This surveillance (监视) infrastructure is vital, aiming to detect viruses 18 in animals before they spill over into the human population. Experts like Reina Sikkema in Rotterdam believe a UK detection of West Nile is now almost 19 . While cooler climates may currently keep it in check, rising temperatures, particularly warmer nights, could create the perfect conditions for it to flare up in the coming years, changing the public health 20 of northern Europe. II. 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. Before Yuri Gagarin and that first generation of astronauts breached Earth's atmosphere to start a new era in space, nobody really knew just how humans would fare, either mentally or physically, in low Earth orbit. In those early days, data was collected from probes and a selection of 21 , but until that pioneering generation flew, no one could say how astronauts would react. The medical profession is still researching the 22 of space on the body today, both when in space and the after-effects upon returning to Earth. Of all the medical 23 facing life in space, the most fundamental remains the effects of weightlessness. John Glenn, the first American to orbit the Earth said that he "found weightlessness to be extremely 24 ". Ironically for Glenn, it wasn't until an incident two years after returning from space that a more in-depth level of medical inspection was triggered. When Glenn 25 a head injury after a fall in a hotel bathroom, the dizzy spells he was suffering highlighted inner-ear issues he'd sustained while in space. 26 , they raised further questions about his health and how weightlessness had affected it, such as the strain placed on cardiovascular (心血管的) and circulatory systems. - Since the 1960s, studies conducted on those who've spent time in space have revealed a whole range of medical 27 . One paper revealed that on missions lasting six months or longer, an astronaut will experience bone density loss that is 28 to several decades of ageing. 29 this is one of the reasons why crews on the International Space Station need to exercise for two hours every day. Research has also confirmed changes to vision, a compromised immune system, digestive issues and elevated long-term cancer risks. 30 space flight could also lead to cognitive decline, plus the onset of depression and anxiety. However, while Glenn's bathroom fall 31 sparked a series of rigorous investigations from ground-based doctors, tracking the health effects of space has moved to the environment that causes them: space itself, and the spacecraft and orbiting platforms where longer-term research can be carried out. In the intervening years, there have been thousands of medical research projects on human health in space. For example, in 1989 two physicians on board Space Shuttle Atlantis (STS-34) 32 to establish a link between cranial (颅内的) pressure and motion sickness. In 1995, Mir Principal Expedition 18 saw a joint US-Russian medical research project to investigate the effects of weightlessness. And in 2023, members of Expedition 70 on board the International Space Station 33 how weightlessness impacts the neck, shoulders and leg veins. However, regardless of what space has thrown at us then and now, the driving force to overcome any 34 medical problem remains unshaken: our existence as a species beyond the day when Earth's time is finally done, depends upon it. It's one thing to assemble the hardware to propel humankind to Mars and 35 beyond the Red Planet; the state of our health when we arrive is another. 21. A. humans B. animals C. insects D. birds 22. A. effects B. causes C. lives D. secretes 23. A. achievements B. challenges C. anticipations D. temptations 24. A. unpleasant B. ridiculous C. impressive D. enjoyable 25. A. created B. made C. obtained D. sustained 26. A. Finally B. Unusually C. Soon D. Later 27. A. achievements B. treatments C. concerns D. experiments 28. A. necessary B. awkward C. equivalent D. reluctant 29. A. Measuring B. Combatting C. Implying D. Discouraging 30. A. Prolonged B. Exploited C. Triggered D. simulated 31. A. unintentionally B. uncommonly C. unfortunately D. unnecessarily 32. A. applied B. declined C. bothered D. sought 33. A. inquired B. responded C. monitored D. assembled 34. A. illegal B. financial C. potential D. preventive 35. A. immediately B. particularly C. occasionally D. possibly 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) Ostriches versus emus: what's the difference? Ostriches and emus have much in common. They are both absolutely enormous. At 2.5m tall and weighing 130kg, ostriches are the biggest of all living birds, and emus are close runners up. Besides, both are incapable of flight, with wings that serve only as balancing aids while running. The differences are perhaps not as obvious as you might expect, considering they've been evolving independently for about 50 million years. Certainly, their plumage (羽毛) is different. Male ostriches are black-white-and-pink birds, while the slightly smaller females are more uniformly brown. Male and female emus are more similar, with shaggy, brown plumage that hangs like a grass-skirt, and a sweep of blue skin on the neck. Should you ever need to identify them from a footprint, an ostrich has two toes on each foot, while an emu has three. And an ostrich's egg is creamy in colour, while an emu's is green. (Ostriches lay the biggest eggs of any living bird, though, relative to body size, they are the smallest.) The reproductive lives of both are rather unusual. Among ostriches, many females will lay eggs in a single nest that is tended by a resident pair. And emus avoid sex-role conventions – it's the females that do the courting (求偶) and the males that do the bulk of the parenting. Ostriches and emus live on different continents (Africa and Australia, respectively). They are, however, closely related. Both are members of a group called the ratites (鸵鸟目), which also includes other large, flightless (and funny) species, such as the rheas of South America and the cassowaries of New Guinea, but also the kiwis of New Zealand, which are much smaller, but no more capable of flight (and no less comical). New Zealand was also once home to the extinct moas, which were only slightly smaller than the elephant birds of Madagascar (also extinct), the biggest birds that have ever lived, at well over 3m tall. Then there are the tinamous of the Americas. On the face of it, these grouse-like birds look nothing like ratites, and yet skeletal and genetic similarities suggest they are the closest living relatives of the moas. Intriguingly, tinamous can fly, which suggests that the other ratites became flightless only after they all went their separate ways. 36. Which of the following is a key physical difference between an ostrich and an emu that could be used for identification? A. The density of their feathering. B. The structure of their wings. C. The number of toes on their feet. D. Their overall height and weight. 37. What can be inferred from the passage about the ability to fly within the ratite group? A. All ratites, including kiwis, have completely lost the ability to fly. B. The tinamous suggest that the common ancestors of ratites could likely fly. C. Moas and elephant birds became extinct because they could not fly. D. Emus and ostriches are the only ratites that use their wings for balancing. 38. Based on the overall passage, what is the author's main purpose in comparing ostriches and emus? A. To argue that they are more different than they are similar. B. To explain the uniqueness of the group of flightless birds. C. To provide a simple guide for telling the two species apart. D. To detail the evolutionary history that led to their flightlessness. (B) As early as 2,700 years ago, a herdswoman who lived in the arid (干旱的) stretches of northwest China was buried in a coat made of animal hides (动物皮), woolen pants, and leather boots. Dressed to ride, she was also buried with her leather saddle (马鞍). Found in the Yanghai cemetery (墓地) near Turpan and dated to between 700 and 400 b.c., this saddle, the oldest yet found, challenges assumptions about who was using such gear, and for what purpose. The find was "a surprise," according to Patrick Wertmann of the University of Zurich, lead author of a study of the saddle, published in Archaeological Research in Asia. Saddle finds are rare, as their organic components often decay. Other kinds of horse gear, such as bridles and bits, are more commonly found, but they do not necessarily indicate saddle usage. Until the Yanghai find, the oldest known saddles belonged to the Pazyryk culture, centered on the Altay area of Kazakhstan and Russia to the north of Yanghai and Turpan. Although the Pazyryk saddles have been indirectly dated to the fifth century b.c., Wertmann considers that the Pazyryk culture had pioneered saddle use centuries earlier. "Horse riding was probably introduced to northwest China from the Pazyryk region, and it's possible that saddles also arrived that way," he told History. However, until such earlier specimens are found (or the fifth-century b.c. saddles are redated and found to be older), the Yanghai saddle is considered to be the world's oldest yet recovered. Preserved by the region's arid climate, the Yanghai saddle offers rich insights into early horse-riding technology and the society that created it. Its two wing-shaped hides, filled with a mixture of straw, deer hair, and camel hair, were sewn together along the outer edges and separated by a section without stuffing (known as the gullet), which eased the pressure on the horse's spine. The emergence of such designs reveals "the increasing care about the comfort and safety of the rider, and the health of the horse," said Wertmann. Greater comfort made it possible to travel longer distances, increasing interaction with different people. "Unlike the younger finds from the elite Scythian burials, this early saddle was made from inexpensive materials and used by a common woman," Wertmann's study notes. "Yet it is testimony to the same mastery of craftsmanship." When people began to ride horses and when they began to use saddles are much debated topics. One study suggests horseback riding originated in what is today Romania, Bulgaria, and Hungary around3000 b.c. In the centuries before the saddle emerged, horse riders rode bareback or sat on mats or blankets. The Yanghai saddle also shakes assumptions that horse-riding saddles were used solely by men for military purposes. "The discovery of this saddle inside the tomb of a woman suggests that women participated in the everyday activities of mounted pastoralists, which included herding and traveling," said Wertmann. 39. According to the passage, the owner of the world's oldest known saddle was most likely a ________. A. male warrior from the Pazyryk culture B. female herdsman from northwest China C. Scythian noblewoman D. horse-riding pioneer from Kazakhstan 40. What is the main significance of the Yanghai saddle discovery as emphasized in the passage? A. It proves that horseback riding originated in China. B. It reveals the high cost and elite status of its owner. C. It challenges previous assumptions about saddle users and purposes. D. It demonstrates the superior preservation techniques of the Yanghai people. 41. The underlined word "wing-shaped" in the description of the saddle (paragraph 7) most likely refers to the hides being ________. A. shaped like wings to help the horse run faster B. sewn together without any stuffing in the middle C. filled with a mixture of different animal hairs D. shaped to curve upwards on either side of the horse's spine 42. Which of the following statements is TRUE according to the passage? A. The Yanghai saddle is made of expensive materials, indicating the high status of its owner. B. The Pazyryk saddles are now confirmed to be older than the Yanghai saddle. C. The design of the Yanghai saddle shows consideration for the horse's well-being. D. Before this discovery, it was assumed that saddles were first used by women for herding. (C) Tapping out a message with a finger or two on a smartphone is catching up to the speed of typing on a traditional keyboard. Two-thumbed mobile typists generated an average of about 38 words per minute, according to what researchers describe as the largest experiment to date on mobile typing. That's still a quarter less than the 51.56 word-per-minute average in physical keyboard users, but the gap isn't as big as expected, researchers said, adding that they were "amazed" by the results. Mobile typists who use auto-correct are faster than those who use word-prediction tools, according to a study that looked at 37,000 volunteers tested by researchers at Finland's Aalto University, the University of Cambridge and ETH Zürich. Earlier devices such as the BlackBerry promoted typing on miniature keyboards, too. Now, most smartphone users type on their devices with one or both thumbs. Some also type with a single index finger. As the smartphone has claimed a bigger and bigger portion of our communications, many educators and researchers have posed questions about the longer-term effects the move to typing on a digital keyboard may have — particularly on younger generations. The better-than-expected results surprised researchers, because typing on a smartphone “is a type of motor skill that people learn on their own with no formal training, which is very unlike typing on physical keyboards,” study co-author Antti Oulasvirta said in a news release. In fact, 10-to-19-year-olds type about 10 wpm faster than people in their 40s do, regardless of whether the keyboard was on a smartphone or a computer. The best typists could do more than 80 wpm. The study's authors predict that the typing gap may close at some point as the population becomes less skilled with physical keyboards and as mobile typing technology improves. Still, there are some trade-offs when it comes to typing on a smartphone. Those participating in the study left more errors uncorrected, something that also resulted in less backspacing. "A possible explanation is the higher interaction cost of correcting mistakes on mobile devices and the limited text editing methods," according to the researchers. The researchers collected the typing data from thousands of individuals using an online typing test. The test asked participants to transcribe a series of sentences, and recorded their keystrokes, errors, speed and other metrics. It also asked them to self-report their demographic (人口统计学的) data, as well as information about how they type and the sort of keyboard they used to complete the test. Smartphones may have some of the ergonomic (人体工学的) risks associated with their more traditional counterparts, professors say. Smartphone usage can lead to neck, shoulder and grip issues, said Bradley Chase, an associate professor of industrial and systems engineering at the University of San Diego. “The concerns aren't fewer, just different” than those with traditional keyboards, Chase said. 43. Which of the following is true about the speed of mobile typing? A. It is equivalent to the speed of typing on a keyboard. B. It is much faster than typing on a keyboard. C. It is a little slower than typing on a keyboard. D. It is much faster than researchers can imagine. 44. It can be learned from Paragraph 6 that . A. people have never formally learned how to type on smartphones B. the youth type slower than the middle-aged mainly on a computer C. mobile typing will totally replace physical keyboard typing D. the gap between typing on phone and typing with keyboards may close 45. Which is the possible reason that people tend to leave typing errors uncorrected? A. Heavy workload. B. Erroneous editing methods. C. Higher interaction cost. D. Inconvenient operation method. 46. What can be inferred from the passage about the future of typing? A. Physical keyboards will definitely become obsolete within a few years. B. The speed gap between mobile and physical keyboard typing might disappear. C. Ergonomic risks associated with smartphones are expected to be completely eliminated. D. Auto-correct technology will be replaced by word-prediction tools. Section C Directions: Read the passage carefully. Fill in each blank with a proper sentence given in the box. Each sentence can be used only once. Note that there are two more sentences than you need. A. Unlike the vast wildernesses of the American model, British national parks are a unique tapestry of the wild and the cultivated. B. Nevertheless, these landscapes are now forever interwoven with British culture. C. The very concept of a 'national park' was imported from the United States, where the establishment of Yellowstone in 1872 created a template for the world. D. This very complexity inevitably sparks passionate debate about their purpose and management. E. The post-war period also saw a revolution in agricultural technology, with the widespread adoption of tractors fundamentally changing the face of British farming. F. His great vision was for beautiful landscapes to be strictly preserved for the nation. Amid the turmoil of the Second World War, a visionary group assembled with a uniquely optimistic mission: to plan for the preservation of Britain’s natural landscapes after the conflict. A key figure among them was John Dower, an architect and civil servant from Ilkley. (47) ____________________ He advocated for public access for open-air enjoyment, alongside safeguards for wildlife, farming, and historic buildings. Tragically, Dower died from tuberculosis in 1947 at the age of 47, just four years before his dream was realized with the establishment of Britain's first national park in the Peak District in 1951. Eighty years on, Dower’s legacy is profound. There are now 15 national parks across Great Britain, covering roughly 10% of its land surface, with potentially three more in development across England, Scotland, and Wales. (48) ____________________ They are living, working landscapes that are both empty and bustling, home to isolated farmsteads and thriving communities. This complex mix of private ownership, public interest, and natural beauty means park authorities must act as both planning officers and wardens of nature. (49) ____________________ Questions persist about balancing the needs of visitors and locals: Is it right for quarrying to scar areas of natural beauty? Should the excesses of rural tourism be reined in before they degrade the landscape? How can affordable housing be provided in areas where park designation inflates property prices? Despite these ongoing and legitimate challenges, the national parks are a cherished part of the national heritage. The process of adding new ones, whether in the Chilterns, Galloway, or north-east Wales, is slow, but their cultural value is undeniable. Although recent government grants offer some relief, charities warn that real-term funding has fallen significantly. (50) ____________________ They stand as a lasting testament to John Dower’s campaigning belief that they are "for all who come to refresh their minds and spirit and exercise their bodies in a peaceful setting of natural beauty." III．Summary Writing Directions: Read the following passage. Summarize the main idea and the main point(s) of the passage in no more than 60 words. Use your own words as far as possible. 51. What’s the best way to fell a tree? Felling a tree is naturally dangerous, and without proper chainsaw training, hiring a professional tree surgeon is essential. While the underlying principles are straightforward, the risks are high. The optimal time for felling is winter, when trees are inactive. For deciduous (落叶的) trees, the absence of leaves is critical, as dense leaves can act like a sail in the wind, making the tree's fall direction unpredictable. Always call a professional if power lines, buildings, or unusual trunk shapes are involved. Preparation is vital. Ensure your chainsaw is sharp, fueled, and oiled. Select a clear, open direction for the tree to fall, ensuring people and pets are a safe distance away. Remember that trees are often much larger than they appear, so accurately judge their height and width. Crucially, plan and clear a swift escape route away from the intended fall path. The cutting process involves two main stages. First, create a directional notch (切口) on the side facing the fall direction. About 60cm from the ground, make a 70-degree downward cut into one-third of the trunk’s diameter. Then, make a horizontal cut to meet the first, removing the wedge of wood. Next, move to the opposite side to make the felling cut. Saw horizontally, just above the notch's base. Once a third of the way through, pause to drive in felling wedges (楔子). These prevent the saw from binding and guide the tree to fall correctly. Continue cutting until only a tenth of the trunk remains, forming a "hinge." Remove the saw. If a loud crack signals the tree is falling, walk calmly along your escape route—never run with a chainsaw. If it remains standing, carefully tap the wedges further. Should any complications arise, retreat to a safe distance and immediately call for professional assistance. IV. Translation Directions: Translate the following sentences into English, using the words given in the brackets. 52. 应该鼓励孩子们多参与户外活动。(encourage) 53. 随着人工智能的发展，许多传统行业正面临着巨大的挑战。(With…) 54. 随着新学期的开始，学生们需要快速调整心态，以适应更加紧张和繁重的学习任务。(adjust to) 55. 这位年轻企业家凭借其独特的视野和卓越的领导力所取得的惊人成就，远远超出了包括他家人在内的所有人的预期。(exceed) V. Guided Writing Directions: Write an English composition in 120-150 words according to the instructions given below. 56. 有位著名心理学家曾说：定义我们的不是想法，而是行动。(What defines us is not our thoughts, but our actions.) 请回顾你面临某个艰难抉择的时刻，写一篇个人叙事短文，阐述你在那一刻的行动（而非意图）如何深化了你对自我的认知，内容须包括： (1) 谈谈你对这句话的理解； (2) 描述你曾经面临的某个艰难抉择的时刻； (3) 阐述那一刻的行动如何深化你对自我的认知。 徐汇区高三英语　本卷共10页　第 10 页 学科网（北京）股份有限公司 $ Key： I. Grammar and vocabulary Section A 1. granting 2. were designed 3. To accommodate 4. while 5. could 6. learned 7. undergoing 8. which 9. with 10. more deeply Section B 11 - 15 KEAJC 16 - 20 FGDBH II. Reading comprehension Section A 21-25 BABAD 26-30 DCCBA 31-35 ADCCD Section B 36-38 CBB 39-42 BCDC 43-46 CDCB Section C 47-50 FADB III Summary 51. Tree felling is dangerous; hire a professional without training. Fell in winter when trees are leafless. First, assess surroundings and plan an escape route. Cut a directional notch, then make a felling cut from the opposite side, using wedges to guide the fall. Leave a hinge of wood. If the tree cracks, retreat calmly. For any complications, call a professional. IV. Translation 52. We should encourage children to participate in more outdoor activities. 53. With the development of artificial intelligence, many traditional industries are facing significant challenges. 54. With the start of the new semester, students need to quickly adjust their mindset to adapt to more intense and demanding academic tasks. 55. The remarkable achievements made by this young entrepreneur, thanks to his unique vision and exceptional leadership, far exceeded everyone's expectations, including his family. V. Guided writing 略 学科网（北京）股份有限公司 $