内容正文:
阅读理解A
Welcome to Italy’s stunning beaches
Sorrento Coast
The Sorrento Coast is where dramatic cliffs meet the clear blue waters of the Tyrrenian Sea. Picturesque towns like Positano and Sorrento sit on the cliff sides, offering a breathtaking backdrop to your beach holiday. Days can be spent relaxing on pebble beaches like Marina Grande, enjoying fresh seafood at waterside restaurants, or exploring hidden coves(小海湾) accessible only by boat.
1. What can visitors do while staying at the Sorrento Coast?
A. Soak up the warm Sicilian sun. B. Engage in exciting water sports.
C. Dine on local seafood with a sea view.
D. Relax on a long stretch of golden sand.
✓
Brucoli, Sicily
Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, has a diverse coastline with hidden coves and dramatic landscapes. Brucoli, a small village on the eastern coast, offers peace with its quiet beaches and crystal-clear waters. Spiaggia diMarina di Brucoli, a crescent-shaped beach with soft sand, is ideal for relaxation and soaking up the Sicilian sunshine.
Olbia area, Sardinia
The Olbia area on the northeastern coast offers a diverse selection of beaches, from the lively Spiaggia Lido diPitolongu with its water sports facilities to the quiet Cala Brandinchi, with its fine white sand and waters of perfect visibility.
2. What do Brucoli and the Olbia area have in common?
A. They both have large water parks that cater to families.
B. They both offer a wide variety of beaches, from lively to quiet.
C. They are both characterized by exceptionally transparent sea water.
D. They are both famous for their crescent-shaped beaches with soft sand.
✓
Lido di Jesolo
For a family-friendly beach holiday, Lido di Jesolo ticks all the boxes. This lively resort town has a long stretch of golden sand with shallow waters, perfect for building sandcastles and playing in the waves. It offers plenty of activities, from amusement parks like Gardaland to water parks and mini golf courses, ensuring endless entertainment for the little ones.
3. Which beach is the best choice for families with young children?
A. Sorrento Coast. B. Brucoli, Sicily.
C. Olbia area, Sardinia. D. Lido di Jesolo.
✓
阅读理解B
Does math leave you anxious? If so, don’t worry. Ben Orlin is here to help. This US-based teacher wants to reduce the anxiety math triggers. (第一段)
He believes that many people who struggle with math simply weren’t taught it correctly. In many classrooms, teachers present math as a memory exercise. But to Orlin, math really is a system of communication. It’s a way to share ideas. And it all starts with assigning numbers to the world. (第二段)
In his 2024 book Math for English Majors, Orlin builds on Galileo’s idea of math as a universal language, but he takes it further. He suggests we treat math not as a “foreign” language, but as an everyday tool to interpret the world. (第三段)
4. Which of the following best describes Ben Orlin according to the text?
A. Cautious and theoretical. B. Loyal and patriotic.
C. Innovative and intellectual. D. Ambitious and conservative.
✓
Orlin suggests considering numbers as nouns and explains that some mathematical features correspond to verbs and even grammar. What in math corresponds to verbs? Verbs typically signify action. Could operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and so on, stand in for verbs? Stretch your imagination. And operations are not just a set of instructions, he suggests, but also a grammatical structure for math. Consider the plus sign in “2 + 3”. More than just a symbol, it can function as a conjunction (the “and” in “2 and 3”) or a preposition (the “with” in “2 with 3”). (第四段)
Negative numbers can be likened to a linguistic(语言的)trick, Orlin argues. Consider phrases like “300 feet below sea level” from a mathematical perspective. The altitude could be represented as “-300 feet”. The minus symbol could be mapped to prepositions, such as “below”, “before”, “backward” and “down”. Similarly, the plus symbol could be mapped to their opposites—“above”, “after”, “forward” and “up”. To make negative numbers more accessible, Orlin suggests that educators connect them to concrete concepts like debt. That’s a term often associated with negative dollars. (第五段)
5. According to Ben Orlin’s logic, which of the following statements is correct?
A.“×” can be accurately described as “divided into”.
B. “+” can be expressed by the concept of “belonging to”.
C. “+” is best understood through the lens of “exceeding”.
D. “-” can be effectively represented by the idea of “eliminating”.
✓
8
Negative numbers can be likened to a linguistic(语言的)trick, Orlin argues. Consider phrases like “300 feet below sea level” from a mathematical perspective. The altitude could be represented as “-300 feet”. The minus symbol could be mapped to prepositions, such as “below”, “before”, “backward” and “down”. Similarly, the plus symbol could be mapped to their opposites—“above”, “after”, “forward” and “up”. To make negative numbers more accessible, Orlin suggests that educators connect them to concrete concepts like debt. That’s a term often associated with negative dollars. (第五段)
6. How does Ben Orlin make mathematics more accessible to learners?
A. By presenting it as a foreign language.
B. By using language-related comparisons.
C. By simplifying formulas and calculations.
D. By treating it as a universal numbering system.
✓
9
It’s still early days to determine whether math could indeed serve as a universal language. Moreover, for TomCrawford, a math professor at the University of Oxford, it’s hardly the only way to help kids appreciate math. “But to me, any idea aimed at presenting math differently and making it more accessible is an excellent idea,” Crawford says.
7. What does Ben Orlin’s approach show?
A. Knowledge is power. B. Practice makes perfect.
C. A different angle makes all the difference.
D. Where there’s a will, there’s a way.
✓
阅读理解C
New research led by Brian Meier, a professor of psychology, provides compelling evidence of humans’ deep-seated preference for products labeled as “natural”, demonstrating how this bias significantly influences real-world decision-making even when potential risks are involved. (第一段)
Prior studies have shown that the bias extends across various fields. However, many of them relied on self-reported preferences in hypothetical scenarios(假设情景), leaving a gap in our understanding of how the bias influences actual behavior. Therefore, Brian and his colleagues conducted three experiments to test participants’ choices and performances in different contexts. (第二段)
8. How did Brian Meier’s research differ from earlier studies on naturalness bias?
A. It explored completely new fields.
B. It repeated experiments for accuracy.
C. It tested people in real-life situations.
D. It focused more on data comparison.
✓
The first experiment involved 174 college students who were led to believe they were testing a strength-enhancing drink described as either natural or synthetic(合成的). When asked to choose between the two options before repeating a grip strength test, an overwhelming 84% selected the natural-labeled drink, despite both being identical water samples. (第三段)
9. What can be inferred from the three experiments mentioned in the passage?
A. Risks lower the preference.
B. The bias depends on product type.
C. The synthetic option tasted better.
D. The bias works despite no real difference.
✓
In the second experiment, 98 students were offered chocolate described as containing either natural or synthetic cocoa, with researchers introducing an element of risk by mentioning potential stomach discomfort. Remarkably, 84% still chose the natural option, maintaining their preference even when facing possible adverse effects. (第四段)
The third experiment extended the research beyond laboratory settings, approaching 200 passers-by on a street. Participants evaluated stickers described as using natural or synthetic ink, then selected one to keep. Results showed 66% preferred natural-labeled stickers, which they also rated as higher quality and more appealing than their synthetic counterparts. (第五段)
9. What can be inferred from the three experiments mentioned in the passage?
A. Risks lower the preference.
B. The bias depends on product type.
C. The synthetic option tasted better.
D. The bias works despite no real difference.
✓
10. What might be a direction of future research according to the research team?
A. Behavioral bias. B. Consumer behavior.
C. Product labeling strategies. D. Hidden psychological mechanisms.
“The vast majority of subjects exhibited a clear behavioral preference that was influenced solely by the ‘natural’ label across all three experimental contexts,” Meier stated. The research, which spanned diverse settings and product categories, yielded remarkably consistent results, strongly confirming the profound impact of naturalness branding on consumer decision-making.
Based on these convincing findings, Meier and her research team have outlined several promising avenues for further investigation. Their future work aims to delve deeper into the underlying cognitive and emotional mechanisms of this “naturalness bias”, unlocking its potential applications in strategic marketing and the formulation of public policy. (最后一段)
✓
11. What might be the best title for the passage?
A. The Power of “Natural”: How labels Shape Our Decisions
B. The Risks of Natural Products: A Psychological Analysis
C. Natural VS Synthetic: Consumer choices in Everyday Life
D. Beyond the Label: New Research in Consumer Psychology
✓
阅读理解D
A recent review of numerous studies reveals that childhood exposure to chemicals in common plastic household items poses significant and lasting health risks, extending well into adulthood. Published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health, the findings highlight particular concern for three classes of chemicals: Phthalates(making plastic flexible), bisphenols (providing rigidity), and PFAS(resisting heat and water). (第一段)
The research, which analyzed data from thousands of pregnant mothers, fetuses, and children, links these chemicals to a range of long-term health issues. These include heart disease, obesity, infertility, and asthma. Experts explain that these substances can derange hormone function and trigger body-wide inflammation. Furthermore, early-life exposure is associated with neuro developmental problems like autism and ADHD, as well as IQ loss. (第二段)
✓
12. The underlined word “derange” in the paragraph 2 most probably means _____.
A. disturb B. regulate C. ignore D. fulfill
13. According to the passage, which is NOT the measure to reduce plastic exposure?
A. Making policies to limit nonessential plastics.
B. Launching campaigns to recycle plastic bottles.
C. Avoiding microwaving and dish washing plastic.
D. Replacing plastic containers with glass or stainless steel.
These chemicals are widespread, found in food packaging, cosmetics, and even paper receipts. As plastics are used, heated, or washed, microplastics and nanoparticles are released and become ingested. (第三段)
The review also suggests practical solutions. Parents can reduce exposure by switching to glass or stainless-steel containers and avoiding microwaving or dish washing plastic. Healthcare providers are encouraged to guide families toward safer choices. (第四段)
✓
At a policy level, researchers call for stricter regulations, especially for nonessential plastics. This urgency is supported by the ongoing negotiations for the UN Global Plastics Treaty, which aims to establish legally binding limits on plastic production. According to Trasande, the findings in the article support the urgent need for a strong agreement to help protect not only the environment but human health as well. (第五段)
14. What is Dr. Trasande’s attitude towards plastics regulation?
A. Objective. B. Supportive. C. Ambiguous. D. Dismissive.
✓
He notes that while the economic value of the plastics industry is commonly raised as a barrier to carrying out regulations, the resulting health care costs from exposure are enormous, with his research estimates reaching roughly $250 billion per year in the United States alone.
However, the researchers clarify that their findings do not challenge the essential, life-saving uses of plastic in medical settings, such as in ventilators for premature infants or neutralizers for asthmatic children. The concern lies primarily with unnecessary use outside of healthcare. (最后一段)
15. What is the main purpose of the passage?
A. To call for a total ban on plastic production.
B. To stress the essential role of plastics in medicine.
C. To reveal risks of plastic exposure and urge actions.
D. To assess the economic cost of plastic-related diseases.
✓
七选五
A. Thus, a balanced approach is needed early on.
B. For instance, many communities offer evening classes for adults.
C. Instead, it equips us with the wisdom to construct a fulfilling life.
D. Not many of us can confidently nod our heads to these questions.
E. Consequently, the central role in bridging this gap must fall to our schools.
F. By integrating practical skills, schools can teach a more complete set of life values.
G. Yet practical skills such as cooking and housekeeping are essential in the real world.
Are you able to cook a healthy meal? Are you able to manage your money well? Are you able to sew on a button? __16__This highlights a significant gap in modern education, which heavily prioritizes academic achievement and strict testing, often at the expense of practical life skills.
D
A. Thus, a balanced approach is needed early on.
B. For instance, many communities offer evening classes for adults.
C. Instead, it equips us with the wisdom to construct a fulfilling life.
D. Not many of us can confidently nod our heads to these questions.
E. Consequently, the central role in bridging this gap must fall to our schools.
F. By integrating practical skills, schools can teach a more complete set of life values.
G. Yet practical skills such as cooking and housekeeping are essential in the real world.
Schools have done well in preparing us to be academic achievers in school, but may not have prepared us well enough in developing life skills. __17__For those without these basic skills, the pandemic lockdown was a rude shock. With restaurants closed and home services stopped, it would have been satisfying to cook a meal or fix a light bulb. It’s a shame that schools produce scholarly individuals who are unprepared for simple home tasks.
G
A. Thus, a balanced approach is needed early on.
B. For instance, many communities offer evening classes for adults.
C. Instead, it equips us with the wisdom to construct a fulfilling life.
D. Not many of us can confidently nod our heads to these questions.
E. Consequently, the central role in bridging this gap must fall to our schools.
F. By integrating practical skills, schools can teach a more complete set of life values.
G. Yet practical skills such as cooking and housekeeping are essential in the real world.
___18___ For example, financial management fosters responsibility and caution, while lessons on investment teach wealth growth. Equipped with this literacy, students can better discuss financial goals with parents, and budgeting knowledge can steer them away from overspending. Thus, in our complex world, schools must teach beyond academic subjects.
F
A. Thus, a balanced approach is needed early on.
B. For instance, many communities offer evening classes for adults.
C. Instead, it equips us with the wisdom to construct a fulfilling life.
D. Not many of us can confidently nod our heads to these questions.
E. Consequently, the central role in bridging this gap must fall to our schools.
F. By integrating practical skills, schools can teach a more complete set of life values.
G. Yet practical skills such as cooking and housekeeping are essential in the real world.
After all, all the responsibility cannot be transferred to the home. The argument for parents teaching practical life skills overlooks modern realities. Many working parents lack the time, and some may not possess the proficiency themselves. ___19___.
Sandra Carey, a writer, puts it appropriately: “Never mistake knowledge for wisdom. One helps you make a living; the other helps you make a life.” School is not simply a place to pass knowledge and prepare us for a career. ___20___
E
C
完形填空
I was thirty-four the first time I saw the real Santa. He drove a big, charcoal-colored___21___through Georgia’s August heat— no reindeer, no beard, just___22___grace.
21. A. truck B. sleigh C. tractor D. carriage
22. A. embarrassing B. unstoppable C. dazzling D. unexpected
√
√
My husband had lost his job in July. We were cutting back on expenses, trying to__23__the financial storm. Interviews came slowly; in July, __24__stung deeply. We were fearing that he wouldn’t find anything before everything__25__. To lift our spirits, we drove to McDonald’s one heavy afternoon for a quick drive-through run. As we pulled up to the takeout window, the__26__said, “The car ahead paid for you.” People do this all the time—and it’s always a lovely gesture. But what happened that year wasn’t just a common pay-it-forward__27__. It was something more. When we__28__to pay for the next car, she__29__her head. “That man paid for everyone behind you too.”
23. A. witness B. weather C. overwhelm D. experience
24. A. approvals B. applications C. rewards D. rejections
25. A. falling apart B. melting awayC. coming out D. picking up
26. A. accountant B. waitress C. driver D. cashier
27. A. deal B. chain C. matter D. event
28. A. refused B. offered C. afforded D. managed
29. A. nodded B. ducked C. shook D. hung
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
We watched his truck__30__, his hand waving cheerfully from the window—a gesture that__31__the Santa in the poem “Twas the Night Before Christmas, __32__all a good night.
He couldn’t have known how much we needed that sign—a__33__that kindness still existed, that we’d be okay. Soon after, my husband found a job. We now perform__34__acts of kindness whenever we see the opportunity, remembering the man who taught us that Santa doesn’t need a sleigh—just a__35__heart.
30. A. break down B. break up C. pull away D. pull up
31. A. included B. read C. reflected D. echoed
32. A. making B. wishing C. singing D. sending
33. A. reminder B. phenomenon C. Supplement D. guideline
34. A. normal B. deliberate C. random D. magnificent
35. A. courageous B. determined C. willing D. impressive
√
√
√
√
√
√
语法填空
Throughout the ages, Chinese women have different ways to make them look more beautiful. Compared with the modern, ancient women had____36____(few) kinds of makeup. But they still had their own set of “secret weapons”.
____37____(believe) to have originated during the Spring and Autumn Period, facial powder was one of the most basic forms of makeup. In order to make their skin look white, ancient people directly applied highly toxic lead powder to the face. Rouge, powder used____38____(color) the lips or cheeks, can date back to the Shang dynasty. Lipstick is another popular beauty enhancement product since the pre-Qin dynasty, ____39____color in ancient China was mostly red to make women look more youthful and energetic.
36. fewer37. Believed38. to color 39. whose
Chinese women have always paid great attention to their eyebrows as they believe that this facial feature___40___(link) to their fate. The beauty-loving women first used burnt willow branches___41___eyebrow pens. Later, they grinded Dai(黛), a kind of mineral with a dark blue color, into powder and then added water to mix. There were dozens of popular eyebrow shapes during the Tang dynasty. The arched and thin eyebrow, ___42___(resemble) a willow leaf, was trendy then as it was regarded as___43___symbol of elegance.
The aesthetic standards of ancient people were different from ___44___of us now, and modern popular makeup is also different from traditional Chinese makeup, but the unchangeable___45___(pursue) of beauty has been around for thousands of years.
40. is linked41. as42. resembling43. a44. those45. pursuit
应用文写作
46. 当前,“盲盒消费”在青年群体中广为流行。请你围绕“What’s Hidden Inside the Blind Box?”这一话题写一篇发言稿,在英语课上分享。内容包括:(1)陈述现象;(2)发表看法。注意:(1)写作词数应为80左右;(2)可适当增加细节,以使行文连贯。
What’s Hidden Inside the Blind Box?
Hello, everyone! Blind box consumption has become very popular among young people nowadays. They are eager to buy blind boxes, not knowing what is hidden inside.
In my opinion, blind box consumption can bring excitement and surprise. However, we should also be rational and not overindulge. After all, the things hidden inside the blind box may not always meet our expectations. Moreover, we should pay attention to the quality and price of the blind boxes to avoid being cheated.
That’s all. Thank you!
续写
This time, Mira wasn’t asking the AI to polish her essays. Instead, she typed a question that had been pressing on her heart for weeks: “Why won’t Grandma eat properly?”
It was early January. After finishing her exams Mira had returned to her hometown to spend some quiet days with her grandmother. The old woman had once been a legend — she’d worked as a tailor, made dresses for half the village and saved enough to open her own shop.
Time had taken its toll. Now her eyesight had dimmed, her fingers trembled, but she was still that legendary woman who lived on her own terms. Whenever someone ladled (用勺子舀) soup into her bowl, she would push it away, murmuring, “I don’t need it. Save it for yourselves.” Every meal played out the same way. It broke Mira’s heart.
Actually, the family was doing well. There was plenty of food, plenty of love. So why did eating — a simple, everyday act — seem like a burden to her?
She tried reasoning with her, but the more she talked, the more Grandma resisted. Until one day, in a moment of frustration, she blurted out, “Grandma, you make me so sad when you act like this.” The old woman froze, then sighed. “I’m over seventy. I won’t be around much longer. It doesn’t matter how I eat.”
The words cut deep. Mira thought about taking her to a psychologist (心理医生) but knew she’d refuse. So she turned to an old companion, the AI.
The response came quickly. Grandma was refusing food because she felt like she no longer had a place in the family. The AI offered suggestions: Help her feel secure and needed.
注意:
(1)续写词数应为 150 左右;
(2)请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
With AI’s assistance, Mira began her plan. __________________
As meals became less of a battle, Mira decided to relight the sparkle in grandmother’s eyes______
With AI’s assistance, Mira began her plan. First, she worked with AI to create customized recipes for Grandma, accounting for her age-related digestive issues and past preferences to make nutritious, easy-to-swallow dishes. Meanwhile, following AI’s suggestion to make Grandma feel valued, the family started to shower her with more attention — sitting with her at meals, chatting warmly, expressing appreciation and encouraging her to eat. As days passed, Grandma began to sense the genuine care and importance the family placed on her. Gradually, the once-stubborn resistance to food faded away.
As meals became less of a battle, Mira decided to relight the sparkle in grandmother’s eyes. “It’s time to make her feel needed,” Mira thought, appealing to Grandma’s pride as the village’s best tailor and asking her to make a special outfit for a school event. Grandma’s eyes lit up immediately, a spark of the old force she once had returning. Mira and Grandma spent hours crafting together — Grandma patiently guiding her through measuring, cutting, and sewing, sharing stories of her tailor days. This interaction restored Grandma’s self-worth, strengthened their bond, and gave her a new lease on life. Her appetite improved with renewed energy from skill recognition, leaving Mira amazed at AI’s role as an outstanding virtual psychologist.
$
Z20+名校联盟2026届高三第二次联考英语试题卷
阅读理解
A
Welcome to Italy’s stunning beaches
Sorrento Coast
The Sorrento Coast is where dramatic cliffs meet the clear blue waters of the Tyrrenian Sea. Picturesque towns like Positano and Sorrento sit on the cliff sides, offering a breathtaking backdrop to your beach holiday. Days can be spent relaxing on pebble beaches like Marina Grande, enjoying fresh seafood at waterside restaurants, or exploring hidden coves(小海湾)accessible only by boat.
Brucoli, Sicily
Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, has a diverse coastline with hidden coves and dramatic landscapes. Brucoli, a small village on the eastern coast, offers peace with its quiet beaches and crystal-clear waters. Spiaggia diMarina di Brucoli, a crescent-shaped beach with soft sand, is ideal for relaxation and soaking up the Sicilian sunshine.
Olbia area, Sardinia
The Olbia area on the northeastern coast offers a diverse selection of beaches, from the lively Spiaggia Lido diPitolongu with its water sports facilities to the quiet Cala Brandinchi, with its fine white sand and waters of perfect visibility.
Lido di Jesolo
For a family-friendly beach holiday, Lido di Jesolo ticks all the boxes. This lively resort town has a long stretch of golden sand with shallow waters, perfect for building sandcastles and playing in the waves. It offers plenty of activities, from amusement parks like Gardaland to water parks and mini golf courses, ensuring endless entertainment for the little ones.
1. What can visitors do while staying at the Sorrento Coast?
A. Soak up the warm Sicilian sun. B. Engage in exciting water sports.
C. Dine on local seafood with a sea view. D. Relax on a long stretch of golden sand.
2. What do Brucoli and the Olbia area have in common?
A. They both have large water parks that cater to families. B. They both offer a wide variety of beaches, from lively to quiet.
C. They are both characterized by exceptionally transparent sea water.
D. They are both famous for their crescent-shaped beaches with soft sand.
3. Which beach is the best choice for families with young children?
A. Sorrento Coast. B. Brucoli, Sicily. C. Olbia area, Sardinia. D. Lido di Jesolo.
B
Does math leave you anxious? If so, don’t worry. Ben Orlin is here to help. This US-based teacher wants to reduce the anxiety math triggers.
He believes that many people who struggle with math simply weren’t taught it correctly. In many classrooms, teachers present math as a memory exercise. But to Orlin, math really is a system of communication. It’s a way to share ideas. And it all starts with assigning numbers to the world.
In his 2024 book Math for English Majors, Orlin builds on Galileo’s idea of math as a universal language, but he takes it further. He suggests we treat math not as a “foreign” language, but as an everyday tool to interpret the world.
Orlin suggests considering numbers as nouns and explains that some mathematical features correspond to verbs and even grammar. What in math corresponds to verbs? Verbs typically signify action. Could operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and so on, stand in for verbs? Stretch your imagination. And operations are not just a set of instructions, he suggests, but also a grammatical structure for math. Consider the plus sign in “2 + 3”. More than just a symbol, it can function as a conjunction (the “and” in “2 and 3”) or a preposition (the “with” in “2 with 3”).
Negative numbers can be likened to a linguistic (语言的) trick, Orlin argues. Consider phrases like “300 feet below sea level” from a mathematical perspective. The altitude could be represented as “-300 feet”. The minus symbol could be mapped to prepositions, such as “below”, “before”, “backward” and “down”. Similarly, the plus symbol could be mapped to their opposites — “above”, “after”, “forward” and “up”. To make negative numbers more accessible, Orlin suggests that educators connect them to concrete concepts like debt. That’s a term often associated with negative dollars.
It’s still early days to determine whether math could indeed serve as a universal language. Moreover, for TomCrawford, a math professor at the University of Oxford, it’s hardly the only way to help kids appreciate math. “But to me, any idea aimed at presenting math differently and making it more accessible is an excellent idea,” Crawford says.
4. Which of the following best describes Ben Orlin according to the text?
A. Cautious and theoretical. B. Loyal and patriotic. C. Innovative and intellectual. D. Ambitious and conservative.
5. According to Ben Orlin’s logic, which of the following statements is correct?
A. “×” can be accurately described as “divided into”. B. “+” can be expressed by the concept of “belonging to”.
C. “+” is best understood through the lens of “exceeding”. D. “-” can be effectively represented by the idea of “eliminating”.
6. How does Ben Orlin make mathematics more accessible to learners?
A. By presenting it as a foreign language. B. By using language-related comparisons.
C. By simplifying formulas and calculations. D. By treating it as a universal numbering system.
7. What does Ben Orlin’s approach show?
A. Knowledge is power. B. Practice makes perfect.
C. A different angle makes all the difference. D. Where there’s a will, there’s a way.
C
New research led by Brian Meier, a professor of psychology, provides compelling evidence of humans’ deep-seated preference for products labeled as “natural”, demonstrating how this bias significantly influences real-world decision-making even when potential risks are involved.
Prior studies have shown that the bias extends across various fields. However, many of them relied on self-reported preferences in hypothetical scenarios(假设情景), leaving a gap in our understanding of how the bias influences actual behavior. Therefore, Brian and his colleagues conducted three experiments to test participants’ choices and performances in different contexts.
The first experiment involved 174 college students who were led to believe they were testing a strength-enhancing drink described as either natural or synthetic(合成的). When asked to choose between the two options before repeating a grip strength test, an overwhelming 84% selected the natural-labeled drink, despite both being identical water samples.
In the second experiment, 98 students were offered chocolate described as containing either natural or synthetic cocoa, with researchers introducing an element of risk by mentioning potential stomach discomfort. Remarkably, 84% still chose the natural option, maintaining their preference even when facing possible adverse effects.
The third experiment extended the research beyond laboratory settings, approaching 200 passers-by on a street. Participants evaluated stickers described as using natural or synthetic ink, then selected one to keep. Results showed 66% preferred natural-labeled stickers, which they also rated as higher quality and more appealing than their synthetic counterparts.
“The vast majority of subjects exhibited a clear behavioral preference that was influenced solely by the ‘natural’ label across all three experimental contexts,” Meier stated. The research, which spanned diverse settings and product categories, yielded remarkably consistent results, strongly confirming the profound impact of naturalness branding on consumer decision-making.
Based on these convincing findings, Meier and her research team have outlined several promising avenues for further investigation. Their future work aims to delve deeper into the underlying cognitive and emotional mechanisms of this “naturalness bias”, unlocking its potential applications in strategic marketing and the formulation of public policy.
8. How did Brian Meier’s research differ from earlier studies on naturalness bias?
A. It explored completely new fields. B. It repeated experiments for accuracy.
C. It tested people in real-life situations. D. It focused more on data comparison.
9. What can be inferred from the three experiments mentioned in the passage?
A. Risks lower the preference. B. The bias depends on product type.
C. The synthetic option tasted better. D. The bias works despite no real difference.
10. What might be a direction of future research according to the research team?
A. Behavioral bias. B. Consumer behavior. C. Product labeling strategies. D. Hidden psychological mechanisms.
11. What might be the best title for the passage?
A. The Power of “Natural”: How labels Shape Our Decisions B. The Risks of Natural Products: A Psychological Analysis
C. Natural VS Synthetic: Consumer choices in Everyday Life D. Beyond the Label: New Research in Consumer Psychology
D
A recent review of numerous studies reveals that childhood exposure to chemicals in common plastic household items poses significant and lasting health risks, extending well into adulthood. Published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health, the findings highlight particular concern for three classes of chemicals: Phthalates (making plastic flexible), bisphenols (providing rigidity), and PFAS (resisting heat and water).
The research, which analyzed data from thousands of pregnant mothers, fetuses, and children, links these chemicals to a range of long-term health issues. These include heart disease, obesity, infertility, and asthma. Experts explain that these substances can derange hormone function and trigger body-wide inflammation. Furthermore, early-life exposure is associated with neuro developmental problems like autism and ADHD, as well as IQ loss.
These chemicals are widespread, found in food packaging, cosmetics, and even paper receipts. As plastics are used, heated, or washed, microplastics and nanoparticles are released and become ingested.
The review also suggests practical solutions. Parents can reduce exposure by switching to glass or stainless-steel containers and avoiding microwaving or dish washing plastic. Healthcare providers are encouraged to guide families toward safer choices.
At a policy level, researchers call for stricter regulations, especially for nonessential plastics. This urgency is supported by the ongoing negotiations for the UN Global Plastics Treaty, which aims to establish legally binding limits on plastic production. According to Trasande, the findings in the article support the urgent need for a strong agreement to help protect not only the environment but human health as well.
He notes that while the economic value of the plastics industry is commonly raised as a barrier to carrying out regulations, the resulting health care costs from exposure are enormous, with his research estimates reaching roughly $250 billion per year in the United States alone.
However, the researchers clarify that their findings do not challenge the essential, life-saving uses of plastic in medical settings, such as in ventilators for premature infants or neutralizers for asthmatic children. The concern lies primarily with unnecessary use outside of healthcare.
12. The underlined word “derange” in the paragraph 2 most probably means ________.
A. disturb B. regulate C. ignore D. fulfill
13. According to the passage, which is NOT the measure to reduce plastic exposure?
A. Making policies to limit nonessential plastics. B. Launching campaigns to recycle plastic bottles.
C. Avoiding microwaving and dish washing plastic. D. Replacing plastic containers with glass or stainless steel.
14. What is Dr. Trasande’s attitude towards plastics regulation?
A. Objective. B. Supportive. C. Ambiguous. D. Dismissive.
15. What is the main purpose of the passage?
A. To call for a total ban on plastic production. B. To stress the essential role of plastics in medicine.
C. To reveal risks of plastic exposure and urge actions. D. To assess the economic cost of plastic-related diseases.
七选五
Are you able to cook a healthy meal? Are you able to manage your money well? Are you able to sew on a button? ___16___ This highlights a significant gap in modern education, which heavily prioritizes academic achievement and strict testing, often at the expense of practical life skills.
Schools have done well in preparing us to be academic achievers in school, but may not have prepared us well enough in developing life skills. ___17___ For those without these basic skills, the pandemic lockdown was a rude shock. With restaurants closed and home services stopped, it would have been satisfying to cook a meal or fix a light bulb. It’s a shame that schools produce scholarly individuals who are unprepared for simple home tasks.
___18___ For example, financial management fosters responsibility and caution, while lessons on investment teach wealth growth. Equipped with this literacy, students can better discuss financial goals with parents, and budgeting knowledge can steer them away from overspending. Thus, in our complex world, schools must teach beyond academic subjects.
After all, all the responsibility cannot be transferred to the home. The argument for parents teaching practical life skills overlooks modern realities. Many working parents lack the time, and some may not possess the proficiency themselves. ___19___.
Sandra Carey, a writer, puts it appropriately: “Never mistake knowledge for wisdom. One helps you make a living; the other helps you make a life.” School is not simply a place to pass knowledge and prepare us for a career. ___20___
A. Thus, a balanced approach is needed early on. B. For instance, many communities offer evening classes for adults.
C. Instead, it equips us with the wisdom to construct a fulfilling life.
D. Not many of us can confidently nod our heads to these questions.
E. Consequently, the central role in bridging this gap must fall to our schools.
F. By integrating practical skills, schools can teach a more complete set of life values.
G. Yet practical skills such as cooking and housekeeping are essential in the real world.
完形填空
I was thirty-four the first time I saw the real Santa. He drove a big, charcoal-colored___21___through Georgia’s August heat — no reindeer, no beard, just___22___grace.
My husband had lost his job in July. We were cutting back on expenses, trying to___23___the financial storm. Interviews came slowly; in July, ___24___stung deeply. We were fearing that he wouldn’t find anything before everything___25___. To lift our spirits, we drove to McDonald’s one heavy afternoon for a quick drive-through run. As we pulled up to the takeout window, the___26___said, “The car ahead paid for you.” People do this all the time—and it’s always a lovely gesture. But what happened that year wasn’t just a common pay-it-forward____27____. It was something more. When we___28___to pay for the next car, she___29___her head. “That man paid for everyone behind you too.”
We watched his truck___30___, his hand waving cheerfully from the window — a gesture that___31___the Santa in the poem “Twas the Night Before Christmas, ___32___all a good night
He couldn’t have known how much we needed that sign—a___33___that kindness still existed, that we’d be okay. Soon after, my husband found a job. We now perform___34___acts of kindness whenever we see the opportunity, remembering the man who taught us that Santa doesn’t need a sleigh—just a___35___heart.
21. A. truck B. sleigh C. tractor D. carriage
22. A. embarrassing B. unstoppable C. dazzling D. unexpected
23. A. witness B. weather C. overwhelm D. experience
24. A. approvals B. applications C. rewards D. rejections
25. A. falling apart B. melting away C. coming out D. picking up
26. A. accountant B. waitress C. driver D. cashier
27. A. deal B. chain C. matter D. event
28. A. refused B. offered C. afforded D. managed
29. A. nodded B. ducked C. shook D. hung
30. A. break down B. break up C. pull away D. pull up
31. A. included B. read C. reflected D. echoed
32. A. making B. wishing C. singing D. sending
33. A. reminder B. phenomenon C. supplement D. guideline
34. A. normal B. deliberate C. random D. magnificent
35. A. courageous B. determined C. willing D. impressive
语法填空
Throughout the ages, Chinese women have different ways to make them look more beautiful. Compared with the modern, ancient women had ____36____ (few) kinds of makeup. But they still had their own set of “secret weapons”.
____37____ (believe) to have originated during the Spring and Autumn Period, facial powder was one of the most basic forms of makeup. In order to make their skin look white, ancient people directly applied highly toxic lead powder to the face. Rouge, powder used ____38____ (color) the lips or cheeks, can date back to the Shang dynasty. Lipstick is another popular beauty enhancement product since the pre-Qin dynasty, ____39____ color in ancient China was mostly red to make women look more youthful and energetic.
Chinese women have always paid great attention to their eyebrows as they believe that this facial feature ____40____ (link) to their fate. The beauty-loving women first used burnt willow branches ____41____ eyebrow pens. Later, they grinded Dai (黛), a kind of mineral with a dark blue color, into powder and then added water to mix. There were dozens of popular eyebrow shapes during the Tang dynasty. The arched and thin eyebrow, ____42____ (resemble) a willow leaf, was trendy then as it was regarded as ____43____ symbol of elegance.
The aesthetic standards of ancient people were different from ____44____ of us now, and modern popular makeup is also different from traditional Chinese makeup, but the unchangeable ____45____ (pursue) of beauty has been around for thousands of years.
第四部分写作(共两节,满分 40 分)
第一节(满分 15 分)
46. 当前,“盲盒消费”在青年群体中广为流行。请你围绕“What’s Hidden Inside the Blind Box?”这一话题写一篇发言稿,在英语课上分享。内容包括:(1)陈述现象;(2)发表看法。注意:(1)写作词数应为80左右;(2)可适当增加细节,以使行文连贯。
第二节(满分 25 分)
47. 阅读下面材料, 根据其内容和所给段落开头语续写两段, 使之构成一篇完整的短文。
This time, Mira wasn’t asking the AI to polish her essays. Instead, she typed a question that had been pressing on her heart for weeks: “Why won’t Grandma eat properly?”
It was early January. After finishing her exams Mira had returned to her hometown to spend some quiet days with her grandmother. The old woman had once been a legend — she’d worked as a tailor (裁缝), made dresses for half the village and saved enough to open her own shop.
Time had taken its toll. Now her eyesight had dimmed, her fingers trembled, but she was still that legendary woman who lived on her own terms. Whenever someone ladled (用勺子舀) soup into her bowl, she would push it away, murmuring, “I don’t need it. Save it for yourselves.” Every meal played out the same way. It broke Mira’s heart.
Actually, the family was doing well. There was plenty of food, plenty of love. So why did eating — a simple, everyday act — seem like a burden to her?
She tried reasoning with her, but the more she talked, the more Grandma resisted. Until one day, in a moment of frustration, she blurted out, “Grandma, you make me so sad when you act like this.” The old woman froze, then sighed. “I’m over seventy. I won’t be around much longer. It doesn’t matter how I eat.”
The words cut deep. Mira thought about taking her to a psychologist (心理医生) but knew she’d refuse. So she turned to an old companion, the AI.
The response came quickly. Grandma was refusing food because she felt like she no longer had a place in the family. The AI offered suggestions: Help her feel secure and needed.
注意: (1)续写词数应为 150 左右; (2)请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
Paragraph 1: With AI’s assistance, Mira began her plan. __________________________________________________________
Paragraph 2: As meals became less of a battle, Mira decided to relight the sparkle in grandmother’s eyes____________________
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