2026 届最新高考模拟三轮冲刺卷 阅读理解 七选五之
说明文专练
(1)
Gardening season is in full bloom, but keeping track of which seedling (幼苗) is which can be really tricky.
Enter DIY oven-bake clay garden markers — these little lifesavers aren’t just practical; they also add a special
charm to your greenery.
To kick off your garden marker project, you’ll need to get hands-on with some oven-bake clay. Start by
kneading (揉捏) a piece of clay in your hands for a few minutes — think of it as a mini workout for your fingers.
1 Then, place it on the baking sheet and roll it out evenly to about 1/4 inch thick.
2
You might go for a classic straight marker with a pointed end to stick directly into the soil, or perhaps
you’re feeling a bit more adventurous and want to create a round or heart shape with a hole to hang from a metal
post.
Then give your garden markers some personality! Grab your favorite rubber stamps and press them firmly into
the clay to make an impression. You can stamp the names of your plants, like “basil” or “tomatoes”, to keep things
organized. 3
Now that your garden markers are looking great, it’s time to set them in stone. Follow the instructions on the
clay package for baking. Generally, bake the markers at a low temperature (around 275°F) for about 15 minutes per
1/4 inch of thickness. 4 Then, they’ll be ready to give your garden a stylish look!
Finally, decide on the finishing touches. 5 If you’re feeling fancy, a coat of paint can be applied for a
long-lasting finish and shine. Whether you’re channeling your inner Picasso with bright colors or leaving them in
their natural state to provide an earthy feel, which is equally charming, the choice is all yours.
A. Remember to keep an eye on it.
B. Allow them to cool completely afterward.
C. Add some fun and creativity to your garden.
D. This softens the clay and makes it more workable.
E. Now comes the fun part: shaping your garden markers!
F. You may smooth rough edges with sandpaper for a polished look.
G. It’s also a good idea to go wild with fun phrases like “potato wonderland”.
(2)
In today’s fast-paced digital world, electronic waste, or e-waste, has become a significant environmental
concern. According to the Global E-waste Statistics Partnership (GESP), a record 53.6 million tonnes of e-waste
was produced globally in 2019, increasing 21% in just five years. By 2050, the volume of e-waste could top 120
million tonnes annually. 1
The improper disposal of it poses serious threats to the environment and human health because of the presence
of harmful materials such as lead and mercury.
2
It is due to their rapidly developing bodies, including their
respiratory (呼吸的), immune and central nervous systems.
Luckily, many countries are turning to tackle the e-waste challenges. They commit to specializing in
refurbishing (翻新) electronics, making them available to consumers at a lower cost. 3 By doing so, valuable
materials such as gold, silver, and copper can be extracted from electronic devices, reducing the need for mining
new resources.
Meanwhile, individuals can also contribute to e-waste disposal by being mindful of their electronic
consumption.
4
Support electronic manufacturers committed to green technologies aiming for a sustainable
cycle of production. Additionally, to ensure the safe and secure disposal of all sensitive information, prioritizing
data security in e-waste disposal is necessary.
5
Do remember to reduce the environmental impacts of electronic products and share a greener and
more sustainable future.
A. It is every small action that counts.
B. Prevention and management are needed.
C. Recycling efforts have also become a key component.
D. This includes buying quality products that last longer.
E. Children and pregnant women are especially vulnerable.
F. However, currently only 17.4% of it is recycled responsibly.
G. Only a small percentage of e-waste has been recycled globally.
(3)
Fun Ways to Support Students’ Communication Skills
Speaking and listening skills are a key aspect of every subject. Being a teacher, I find some students are
lacking in these skills.
1
. In my school district, there is active encouragement to have less “teacher talk” and
more academic interaction between students, which both honors their perspectives and increases their opportunities
to speak and listen to each other.
Encourage daily gratitude
At the start of the school day, I have a few minutes to spare when taking attendance, so, I ask a student to
suggest something specific we can be grateful for every day. Last year, I had every student share how they were
grateful, which was powerful for establishing good listening practices but too time-consuming. 2 .
Choice writing
We have at least one spare writing lesson a week and some small windows of time where I allow the students
to choose what they write about.
3
, but now, every student is enthusiastically using the time, either on solo or
team writing projects. 4
The only window in my busy day for storytelling is during my snack break. As usual, I start by telling stories
in the normal interactive way, with student volunteers called up to act out the story as it unfolds. This always
inspires students to write stories at home and become storytellers themselves.
5 , which can make them academically purposeful but also fun. The average class contains a wide range of
skills. But hopefully, with the above techniques, all of our students will find a structure to help them develop skills
that they’ll need for the rest of their lives.
A. Storytelling
B. Write stories at home
C. Therefore, this area has taken on special urgency
D. The key to increasing speaking and listening is to find proper ways
E. So, now I have the kid class president pick one or two pairs to do it
F. In conclusion, I’ve spent much time arranging a series of daily tasks
G. At first, only the most confident “writers” knew how to occupy this time
(4)
Four Ways to Give Back During the Holidays
Between your holiday parties, family responsibilities, and the pressure of finding the perfect gift, this time of
year can go by in a flash. But during the holiday season, we are often reminded of something important.
1
Below are four easy ways to do just that by helping our neighbors facing hunger.
Set up a holiday food drive.
Get your friends, family or neighborhood together and start a food drive. 2 Then in the weeks leading up
to the holidays and at holiday gatherings, encourage your neighbors and family to help make a difference by
supporting your food drive. Deliver all the collected items to the food bank to ensure your efforts have the greatest
impact.
3
Do you have a friend or family member that cares deeply for others? This year, consider donating to Feeding
America in honor of your friends and family. You will be spreading the love twice as far by giving meals to families
who are in need and giving your loved one a meaningful gift. Give a gift today.
Volunteer!
Did you know that 51% of all food programs rely entirely on volunteers?
4
But the feeling of helping
your neighbors in need during the holiday season is priceless. Get in touch with your local food bank to learn more
about volunteer opportunities.
Make a difference online.
There are lots of ways that you can help people facing hunger without leaving the comfort of your own home.
You can start an online fundraiser or add Feeding America as your charity of choice on Amazon Smile or eBay.
5
A. Give a gift that gives back.
B. It won’t cost you anything.
C. Show concern for your loved one.
D. They truly play a key role in volunteering.
E. It’s to give back, especially to those in need.
F. Your digital footprint may inspire others to join you.
G. Contact your local food bank and learn what items they need most first.
(5)
The summer following your high school graduation is supposed to be unforgettable. Rather than spending this
precious period sleeping in or gaming, why not begin on a solo adventure? 1 However, you need to take some
precautions for your first adventure as an adult.
Before hitting the road, invest time in thorough planning. Begin by answering big-picture questions: What
sights do you want to see? How much time will you spend away? What prior experience do you have with road-
tripping?
2
For example, you may need bear spray (喷雾) when hiking in National Park or a surf helmet (头
盔) if catching waves near coral reefs.
With your destination in mind, research your route carefully, taking note of factors like the road condition,
emergency supply points and alternative paths. 3 You can use your phone to plan your route with apps like All
Trails providing detailed road maps and real-time updates, ensuring you can make adjustments as you go.
While there is nothing wrong with pushing your boundaries in your late teens, knowing your limits matters,
too. Instead of jumping in at the deep end, start with smaller trips at pre-established campsites closer to home.
4
If you find a tight budget for a solo adventure, you may get the ball rolling by reaching out to organizations
like Outward Bound USA and REI Outdoor Classes, which offer programs specially designed for young
adventurers. Despite involving some group activities, you get a chance to connect with like-minded individuals.
5 This simple step ensures your safety while allowing your loved ones to share in your journey.
A. They make the adventure more challenging.
B. Modern technology makes this easier than ever.
C. Then plan the finer details with these general ideas.
D. Of course, scheduling ahead together should be prioritized.
E. It’s a perfect way to celebrate your newfound independence.
F. Most importantly, share your arrangements with family or friends.
G. This prepares you for potential challenges and provides much-needed experience.
(6)
In a world dominated by large online retailers, many people are looking for ways to support local businesses.
1 Launched five years ago, this platform has become a popular choice for readers who value community support
and the unique character of independent bookstores.
Until recently, e-book readers had no way to buy digital books from their favorite local bookstores. 2
The service allows local bookstores to sell e-books through its marketplace. With a collection of over 3 million
titles,Bookshop.org offers readers a convenient way to enjoy e-books while supporting their community and
discovering new authors.
When you shop on Bookshop.org, you can choose which bookstore to support with your purchase, ensuring
that 100% of the profit goes to that shop. If you don’t specify a store, a portion of your purchase still benefits
independent bookstores through a profit-sharing system. 3 It also fosters a sense of community among readers
and authors alike, creating a vibrant ecosystem for literature.
To get started, simply download the Bookshop.org app and create an account. Add an e-book to your Wishlist
and then click “buy now” on your desired pick. 4 If you have an existing account, you can also purchase an e-
book through Bookshop.org on a web browser. Once an e-book is downloaded to your device, it will instantly be
available to read offline. However, keep in mind that e-books can only be read via the Bookshop.org app or
website, as they do not work with other e-readers like Kindle or Nook. 5
In summary, by choosing Bookshop.org, you can enjoy reading while actively supporting your local
bookstores and standing up against big retailers like Amazon.
A. Complete the checkout, and you’re good to go.
B. In such an environment, Bookshop.org has emerged.
C. Actually, it’s easy and convenient to create an account.
D. This model helps local shops grow in a competitive market.
E. Reading them on other digital readers may require some adjustment.
F. Now, Bookshop.org is changing that by introducing an e-book platform.
G. These local bookstores are not only shops but cherished places for readers.
(7)
An apology can achieve great things for both the givers and the receivers although nobody likes to admit that
they were wrong.
An apology is crucial to our physical health. When we acknowledge that we are wrongdoers and express our
guilt to others, we will free ourselves from the uncomfortable state. This act feels like a weight on us has been
lifted.
1
Research showed that heart rate, sweat levels and facial tension decreased in victims of wrongs
even when they simply imagined receiving an apology.
Apologizing affects us not just physically, but also mentally.
2
When presented with an apology, the
victims may view us as imperfect human beings and find it easier to give forgiveness. In a powerful piece in
Psychology Today, writer Beverly Engel described how a simple “I’m sorry” from her mother, after being estranged
from each other for three years, made her relieved emotionally. But let’s be real, apologizing can be difficult.
3 We should recognize our action did hurt someone even if our intention may not have been so. Instead of
making excuses for what we did, try to bear responsibility and offer a promise to take action so that we will not
repeat the behavior in future. 4
Of course, the most effective apologies often bring a cost to our dignity, since we have to admit that we are
wrong in front of others or many people.
5
As is known, it is one of the most positive actions we can take
when we do something wrong—for ourselves, the others, and the relationship. So, go ahead, apologize a little more
often for the things worth apologizing for.
A. There are agreed-upon ways to express our apology to others.
B. It’s a way of showing the price we paid for the wronged action.
C. A good apology affects the health of those on the receiving end, too.
D. But this can often be minor compared to the benefits of a proper apology.
E. This means we should take the blame and not try to justify it or explain it away.
F. Apologize for what you did rather than what other people might have thought about it.
G. It has the ability to disarm others of their anger and to prevent further misunderstandings.
(8)
For individuals with social anxiety, entering a social gathering can feel overwhelming, as if you are under the
spotlight and might say something wrong. 1 “For some people, it might mean a racing heart and dizziness and
feeling flushed,” says Kirsten Hall-Baldwin, a licensed clinical professional counselor in Chicago. “Others might
be in a negative thought cycle, or feel like their mind is going blank or freezing.” Here, she and other experts share
tips on how to carry a conversation when you have social anxiety.
Practice in low-stakes settings
Before attending a major event, try initiating brief chats with waiters or neighbors.
2
“Smaller,
manageable social interactions don’t carry as much emotional weight,” Hall-Baldwin says. “so it’s just trying to
practice without feeling overwhelming pressure.” Over time, you’ll gain a sense of comfort and confidence as you
step into larger social settings.
Use the echo technique
Another powerful technique is to “echo” the speaker. Paraphrase what they’ve said and encourage them to
clarify. For example, if they mention they’re struggling at work, repeat back their words with a question in your
voice: “Struggling?”
3
Not only does this make them feel heard but also shifts the conversational burden
away from you, reducing pressure.
Find an anchor
When feeling anxious, find a physical anchor (锚). 4 Holding a cold drink, pressing your feet firmly into
the floor, or touching a small object can give your nervous system something to anchor to when you’re feeling
anxious. Research indicates that such physical sensations can pull you back to the present and signal safety to your
brain, thereby curbing anxiety.
5
The good news about social events is that they all eventually end — and your departure can arrive as soon as
you’d like. Informing friends beforehand of a hard leave time, or having a polite excuse to end a conversation (e.g.,
“It was really nice talking to you — I’m going to check in with Jane.”) can significantly reduce the fear of being
trapped.
A. Avoid social events politely
B. Have an exit strategy ready
C. This simple response often leads them to share more.
D. This fear can trigger various physical and emotional symptoms.
E. It ensures you can keep the dialogue flowing without needing to flee.
F. These short interactions can be a low-pressure way to build self-esteem.
G. The core principle is to engage your senses to stabilize yourself in the moment.
(9)
A trip to the supermarket has now become more than a simple shopping experience. In fact, it is now carefully
designed psychological persuasion. Shopkeepers know how to create an environment that makes customers buy
more than they planned. For example, the smell of freshly baked bread can make customers feel hungry and
unconsciously increase their desire to buy food.
1
Now researchers are investigating how the way people are influenced in their buying decisions can be
explained by swarm intelligence.
2
If a certain item seems popular, customers naturally believe it is worth
buying.
With the help of modern technology, some supermarkets now provide real-time purchasing information.As
customers walk past shelves, a small screen may tell them how many other shoppers have chosen a certain product.
3
This model, known as a “swarm move”, increases sales without offering discounts simply because it makes
customers feel confident about choosing what everyone else buys.
4 When they are at home, shoppers still tend to follow the crowd online. Websites like Amazon show
rankings, recommendations, and“most purchased” tags. Even being alone, they think they are shopping
independently, and they are still influenced by others’ choices.
All these strategies show that modern consumers are often guided by subtle psychological cues rather than
rational decision-making. 5
A. The idea behind this approach is simple.
B. Thus, it encourages them to put more food into their basket.
C. The same psychological strategies also apply to platforms online.
D. This method reassures shoppers that they are making the“right” choice.
E. People may not notice, but they are constantly being guided while shopping.
F. As a result, these items sell more quickly than cheaper, less visible products.
G. That is, how bees or any social animal, including humans, behaves in a crowd.
(10)
Severe floods are becoming more and more common around the world.
1
, but could the way that cities
are growing be making things worse? Could we design cities in a different way to reduce the risk of flooding?
As cities expand and more and more land is underneath concrete, less water is absorbed and more needs to be
channelled away by storm drains and sewage ( 污水) systems. As they become overwhelmed by the volume of
water, the risk of flash flooding increases.
2
? Chinese landscape architect Yu Kongjian certainly thinks so. In 2013, he proposed the concept of
‘sponge ( 海绵) cities’, which are designed to absorb water like a sponge, reducing the risk of sudden floods.
Natural solutions are encouraged, using riverside parks and ponds to absorb floodwater.
3
. Auckland, in New
Zealand, was named the spongiest city in one study. It has replaced the concrete culverts (涵洞) around the Oakley
creek stream with green banks and connected parks. This has reduced flooding in the nearby residential areas as
well as the number of associated pollutants which used to be washed into the sea.
What Auckland has taken is only a natural approach.
4
, In Amsterdam, the Netherlands’ capital city,
people have fixed blue-green roofs on a number of buildings. These roofs have a layer of plants on the outside, and
then layers underneath which collect and store rainwater. This water can be used by people in the building below to
water plants or clean toilets. Advanced software can even tell the roofs to release water ahead of upcoming storms
to maximize the system’s ability to absorb rainwater. 5 .
A. A system like that does actually work
B. The warming climate is leading to heavier rainfall
C. Could it be that we’ve been taking the wrong approach
D. But a much more high-tech method has already been applied
E. Approaches inspired by this have been taken by cities across the world
F. Is the natural approach sufficient when we’re faced with increased rainfall
G. It can even identify the city’s risky areas and tailor the response accordingly
(11)
When you go to the doctor, you’re probably the one answering most of the questions.
1
Here are the
questions you should ask your doctor to help you get well.
What screenings (筛查) should I get?
Exactly which health screenings you need, and when, depends on factors like age, sex, and your personal and
family medical history. At your annual physical, ask your doctor what you should prioritize in the coming year,
suggests Dr. Jessica Edwards. Screening yearly for mental-health disorders like depression is important too. 2
What vitamins and supplements might be helpful?
Some vitamins and supplements are a waste of money or harmful. But there are the ones that could actually
benefit your health.
3
Talking through your lab reports and specific concerns can help your doctor determine
what might be appropriate.
What kind of financial support is available?
4 If something isn’t covered in it, your doctor might be able to suggest some other choices. “There’s a lot
of financial support available, both from some companies and voluntary groups.” Arin says.
5
Whether you’re at the doctor because you broke a bone, or are recovering from injuries, ask when you should
start to feel better and what kind of warnings could signal the need for more care. Your doctor can tell you exactly
when you should call her office or go to the emergency department.
A. What are my treatment options?
B. However, make sure you’re asking plenty of your own.
C. Additionally, ask clearly what the probable payments are.
D. So if your doctor doesn’t bring it up, start the conversation.
E. What should I do if my symptoms worsen or don’t improve?
F. Always ask how your insurance will affect treatment expenses.
G. To know which is beneficial, ask your doctor, Edwards advises.
(12)
Exercise is important in all phases of life, but for seniors, it’s crucial to maintaining independence. Exercise
ensures that seniors can get around and continue to do the things they enjoy and helps to prevent serious health
conditions. 1
Strength exercises are among the best exercises for seniors. 2 These exercises can also improve a senior
citizen’s metabolism(新陈代谢), which can be important for the maintenance of healthy blood sugar levels and
normal weight.
Balance exercises are good for senior citizens as well because they build up muscles in the legs and strength in
the lower body. They can help a senior citizen have better stability, translating into lowered risk of serious falls.
3
4 They help improve flexibility, making it easier for an older person to remain physically active and move
around without stiffness (僵硬) and pain. Additionally, stretching exercises help senior citizens avoid muscle
related injuries, which can occur in the course of exercising as well as during daily living.
Though exercise is good for senior citizens, it is smart for seniors to speak with their doctors before starting
any new exercise program. 5 In some cases, they may also recommend avoiding certain exercises altogether.
A. For seniors, this may not be the top concern.
B. Such accidents tend to make them ill and weak.
C. Stretches are also important exercises for seniors.
D. Never exercise too much as it may have harmful effects.
E. They help to build up muscles and make the bones stronger.
F. They may suggest specific exercises and exercise frequency.
G. When it comes to choosing the best exercises for seniors, variety is key.
(13)
Learning a language is full of fulfilling steps, from the excitement of your first conversation with a fluent
speaker to the intellectual challenge of mastering grammar rules. But at some point, you need to handle an
unavoidable task. 1 Here are our top tips for absorbing new English words efficiently!
Flashcards are a great tool, especially for beginners. However, make sure to practice the words you learn in
different contexts. For example, if you learn food-related words, try reading an English recipe to see how they're
used.
2
This way, you can focus on words you've encountered in your studies, making them easier to
remember.
The saying “use it or lose it” applies perfectly to vocabulary. If you don’t use new words, you’ll forget them.
3
Ideally, practice it in conversation with an English speaker. For instance. after learning haircut-related
vocabulary, visit an English-speaking barber to test your new words.
4
Studies show that handwriting helps you remember information better than typing. The reason isn't
entirely clear, but it could be because writing requires more time and intentional movement. This simple trick can
make a big difference in remembering vocabulary.
Another trick is to note down the new words whenever you encounter them. Each word you record comes with
its own context, making it easier to remember.
5
Over time, your notebook will become a valuable resource
for expanding your vocabulary.
Over time, these small intentional efforts will build a strong foundation for fluency. With patience and
persistence, you'll find yourself confidently using new words in conversations, reading, and writing, bringing you
closer to your language goals.
A. You have to memorize a bunch of words.
B. Will typing replace handwriting one day?
C. There is no need to worry about your language learning.
D. When you learn a word, try to use it in real-life situations.
E. Start small by writing down five new words per study time.
F. You can also create your own flashcards instead of using pre-made ones.
G. Writing new words by hand may seem old-fashioned, but it's surprisingly effective.
(14)
People favor humor, as it lights up daily moments, eases awkwardness and makes every interaction warm and
enjoyable. This magic of humor doesn’t just work in daily life; it also shines in the field of science, especially
online. 1
Firstly, humor simplifies tough scientific knowledge.
2
For example, explaining AI in self-driving cars
with a funny analogy about “machines learning like clumsy toddlers” makes abstract ideas easy for non-
professional groups to understand.
3
Scientists sharing clever and humorous stories about laboratory
experiments on social media often attract more interactions than dry academic posts. Additionally, humor
humanizes scientists, as seen in popular science lectures where light-hearted jokes help audiences feel closer to
researchers.
4
The hidden risks deserve our attention. If the content itself is untrue, humor can even replace facts,
leading the audience to form wrong opinions about scientific knowledge just based on the amusing posts they see.
Overusing sarcasm or negative humor also has the opposite effect, as it will quickly make scientists lose the
public’s trust and damage their credibility.
Proper humor use requires a balance between vivid expression and professional precision. It should neither
overshadow the core scientific information nor be so shallow that it loses seriousness. 5 Scientists who master
this balance can effectively narrow the divide with the public, making science more welcoming and popular.
A. Overuse harms professionalism.
B. It also boosts audience engagement effectively.
C. It helps break the impression of scientists being cold and distant.
D. A little humor can greatly enhance scientists’ communication effect.
E. Humor in scientific communication is a double-edged sword, though.
F. It’s a helper in making complex concepts understandable to ordinary people.
G. It is believed humor needs to be used with great care in such communication.
(15)
Ask anyone how they’re feeling these days and chances are that they’ll reply with some version of
“exhausted”. We’re tired of operating amid uncertainty. We’re tired of balancing childcare with work. 1 They
direct our focus to the most readily available information to help us make decisions quickly without properly
considering all the variables.
The result is that we are wired to move toward things that make us feel good and away from things that make
us feel uncomfortable.
2
They default (默认) to what feels “normal”. Those networks are so deep in our
thinking that when we’re traveling a new and challenging path, our wheels default back to the worn-in grooves (凹
槽). So, how do we do hard things when our brains are constantly telling us to avoid effort?
3
A 2016 study found that when people are upset, they’re less likely to try to do hard things. When
they’re feeling upbeat, however, they’re more likely to take on the hard-but-essential tasks that ultimately make life
better. One way we can get ourselves in the right mindset is to do what’s called “reappraisal”, in which we create a
shift in our brains of how we perceive a task.
Moreover, we must give our brains the right amount of autonomy. When we have a choice, our brains often
want to programme something easy. 4 Put it into a work context: Do I want to experiment with a new project
management tool that might make things easier for my team next week, or do I want to stick with the same sheet
that a former employee established that none of us feel great about anyway?
5
But by understanding what’s going on in your brain, you can work toward accomplishing hard things
and manage your fears better.
A. Tackle them when we’re in a good mood.
B. Doing things like hard work can seem abnormal.
C. Our brains label effort as bad because it’s hard work.
D. We should be creative and open-minded when doing tasks.
E. This is called mindset fault, the tendency to do right things.
F. When we feel like this, our brains want to save mental energy.
G. But we can reduce the response by challenging ourselves to be innovative.
(16)
According to a 2024 attention study by King’s College London, 49% of the UK public are experiencing
“popcorn (爆米花) brain”, a mental state featuring divided attention and wandering thoughts. 1 In response to
the findings, psychologist Tina Chummun gives her top tips.
Adopt the mind map method. To manage a distracted ( 分心的) mind, write down everything, like
appointments, worries and to-dos, without organizing it initially. Once everything is on paper, group these into life
areas like work or emotional wellbeing. 2 This creates order and gives your brain permission to concentrate.
Every time you feel your thoughts wandering, give yourself three seconds — breathe in, name what you’re
feeling, and redirect your focus.
3
By doing so, you may turn down the heat when your brain is working
overtime.
Minimizing tech is also the key to getting back on track in your daily life. A full digital withdrawal is
unrealistic. 4 Then it could be followed by a five-minute screen time reward. It teaches your brain to tolerate
stillness without feeling punished.
5 At first, you may feel bored, as popcorn brain likes being ‘go go go’ to feel safe. “Go for a walk without
music, or simply stare out your window,” suggests Tina. “Sit in silence and observe your thoughts. Let your brain
breathe. It is sometimes exactly what your nervous system needs.”
So, are you ready to quiet the mental popcorn and get your focus back?
A. Allow space in your day for doing nothing.
B. So, what’s making our brains pop like popcorn?
C. Instead, go totally screen-free for 25-30 minutes.
D. Starving distractions and feeding focus is a nice idea.
E. Then ask yourself: what matters now and what can wait?
F. They feel their attention less focused and deep thinking rarer.
G. This practice enables you to slow down and manage emotions.
(17)
When it comes to humour, every culture has its own unique flavour. British humour, in particular, is a
fascinating and often puzzling phenomenon for outsiders. It’s a style of comedy that doesn’t always rely on obvious
jokes or punchlines (笑点).
1
Understanding these key characteristics can make watching a British comedy
show a much more enjoyable and less confusing experience.
2
For instance, sarcasm, which is a fundamental ingredient, often involves saying the opposite of what
one means, with a straight face that makes it tricky to detect. A British person might say, “Lovely weather we’re
having,” during a heavy downpour. The humour lies not in the words themselves, but in the shared understanding
of the irony (讽刺) between the speaker and the listener.
Another defining feature is a love for absurdity and surreal (超现实的) situations. British comedies frequently
present characters in unusual, illogical scenarios that unfold in the most unexpected ways. The audience finds itself
laughing at the ridiculousness of the dilemma.
3
You might see a comedy about a government department
solely responsible for handling lost cheese, which is played with seriousness by the actors.
Furthermore, self-mockery, the ability to laugh at oneself, is at the heart of British comedy. Unlike cultures
where confidence is celebrated, Brits often make themselves the target of the joke. They readily point out their own
flaws, failures, and social awkwardness. When a character trips over and then makes a witty remark about their
own clumsiness, it’s a classic example of this trait in action. Brits fear being seen as taking themselves too
seriously.
4
So, the next time you watch a British sitcom, don’t worry if you don’t burst out laughing
immediately. Appreciating this unique comedic style requires looking beyond the surface. 5 Once you learn to
spot the irony, absurdity, and self-mockery, you’ll unlock a rich and wonderfully strange world of comedy that is as
clever as it is entertaining.
A. The actors’ delivery is always exaggerated.
B. Instead, it thrives on irony, absurdity, and self-mockery.
C. For one thing, it is deeply rooted in irony and understatement.
D. To truly ‘get’ it, you need to tune into its distinctive frequency.
E. This form of humour can be traced back to historical class structures.
F. Laughing at oneself is considered a virtue and a form of social bonding.
G. Celebrating the unreasonable, it finds joy in the breakdown of normal logic.
(18)
Experiencing bad dreams every night can be horrifying for anybody. Bad dreams can disturb the sleep and
make a person feel stressed throughout the next day. 1
Before knowing how to get rid of bad dreams, we need to understand what can result in them. Researches have
shown that when a person is under some sort of physical or mental stress, he is more likely to get bad dreams and
disturbed sleep.
2
For instance, if you’re overworked, learn to take things slow. Don’t be ambitious to the
point that it starts affecting your health.
Besides, some trauma ( 损伤) that a person might have experienced recently or in the past which they’re
unable to get over can make the person suffer from bad dreams. Death of a very close family member is often seen
to be the reason behind recurrent nightmares. 3
Eating fatty and high-protein foods in dinner is also known to cause bad dreams in some people. 4
Taking a light dinner of soups and salad is the best, both for the health and for stopping disturbed sleep in some
cases.
Besides these, there are many other things a person can do to have a good night’s sleep. For example, your
bedroom should be the most comfortable place in the world. It’s advisable to get rid of all electronic gadgets
including television. 5 So, from now on try to be a happy and positive person.
A. Almost everyone has this experience.
B. Take proper exercises and this might help you.
C. Bad dreams occurring because of these reasons can be stopped if the diet is changed.
D. That’s why one should take steps to stop them as soon as they become an everyday occurrence.
E. In such a case, taking therapy and dealing with the trauma is the only solution to stop bad dreams.
F. In addition, if you have negative thoughts, it can have side effects on the kind of dreams you have.
G. So, to stop bad dreams, it’s necessary to find out the causes of physical and mental stress in your life.
(19)
Humans are now up against a series of new demanding issues that are leading to dramatic change to our
lifestyles: climate change, threatening infectious diseases, and increasing urbanization.
1
Hydroponic (水培
的) farming has strong potential to relieve the threats these issues pose to our agricultural system.
Growing crops in near perfect conditions using controlled environment agriculture technology is one of the
biggest benefits of hydroponic farming. Crops grown indoors and hydroponically can be grown anywhere at any
time of the year.
2
Hydroponic farming has the potential to provide fresh, local food for areas with extreme
droughts and low soil quality, such as in sub-Saharan Africa.
3
Keeping crop production in a controlled
environment enables trained scientists and advanced climate control technology to improve the inputs of water,
nutrients, and light fed to the plants. For example, sensors can measure the amount and nutrient content of the water
that each plant consumes. This gives farmers insight into the amount of unused water and nutrients by the plants at
each stage of growth. 4
5
For small, start-up farmers, entering into the hydroponic farming world can come with high costs
associated with renting the space, loans, the renovation ( 翻修) of a building or space to accommodate the
hydroponic structures, initial costs for materials, and costs of the labor and electricity to keep the farm up and
running. While these entry costs are high, hydroponic farms have the potential to turn underused buildings into
farmland to serve the community and create jobs.
A. The only condition is sufficient water resources.
B. Access to green vegetables is often limited there.
C. The exhaustion of natural resources is also a factor.
D. They are not subject to weather and soil conditions.
E. It would be great if we could grow plants without water.
F. Thus, they can adjust input quality and quantity for plants.
G. However, these advantages do not come without challenges.
(20)
Every day, we face a series of opportunities to do the right thing. Sometimes we seize(抓住) those moments;
other times, we don’t. 1 And what drives some people to take the moral high ground?
Jessie Sun interviewed 952 people about the motivations( 动机) for moral behavior and the changes they
wished to make in their lives in order to become more morally good.
When we think about morals, we often think about making “personal sacrifices(牺牲)” for the greater good. In
Sun’s study, she found that nearly half of the participants said they were most encouraged to become more moral
for themselves. 2 And fewer participants said that they most wanted to benefit friends and people in general.
Moreover, many people believe that acting more morally—for example, being more thoughtful, more open-
minded—would increase their own well-being. The more they believed that their moral change would have positive
results for themselves, the more they reported being encouraged to make that change.
3
That was the most
surprising finding in the study.
4
Interestingly, participants generally expected possible harms to themselves and others if they were
honest. You can imagine that some people regularly tell white lies to save other people’s feelings, and they believe
it would be hurtful if they were honest.
Researchers also asked people about the things they’d like to improve about themselves. If they’re extremely
shy, they usually want to become more comfortable in social situations. But if they aren’t especially honest or
thoughtful, they usually won’t improve those aspects of their lives on purpose. 5
A. How can we become more moral?
B. So, why do we make these choices?
C. Being moral just isn’t what most people consider first.
D. Being moral means different things to different people.
E. But people see some disadvantages of being moral, too.
F. In short, many people want to become more moral for their own benefits.
G. Sixteen percent said that they most wanted to become more moral for their family.
(21)
Could Viewing Art Be the Next Public Health prescription (处方药)?
In an era characterized by burnout and scrolling, a therapeutic (疗愈性的) alternative is hanging on a gallery
wall. When volunteers at London’s Courtauld Gallery stood before masterpieces, their stress and inflammation (炎
症) levels dropped compared with those of volunteers viewing reproductions. 1
That art can lift spirits is well known. 2 A study by King’s College London asked participants to look at
masterworks by 19th-century post-impressionists while wearing sensors. Half the group saw the originals in the
gallery, half viewed copies in a lab. The results were clear: going to art galleries is good for your physical health —
relieving stress and cutting heart disease risk, as well as boosting the immune system.
3
Earlier this summer, a team of Cambridge psychologists conducted a similar project to show how
appreciating artistic beauty helps escape the “mental trappings of daily life.” Besides, a Nature Magazine’s review
suggests that art can play a role in public health. And for the first time in its long history, The Lancet recently ran a
photo essay showcasing how art can enhance lives.
“When you experience an artwork, you don’t just see it, but you feel it,” the art historian Katy Hessel writes.
“The best thing we can do is take time with it.” Time, of course, is what we are lacking in today’s fast-paced world.
4 Galleries are quiet, thoughtful places. We stop scrolling and start really looking. Deeply engaging with a work
of art creates “psychological distancing” and enables us to see and take pleasure what is not ourselves.
Today we are advised to exercise and eat healthily. 5 After all, science has spoken for this.
A. But that it calms the body is novel.
B. So we should make art more accessible to all.
C. There’s growing evidence to support that opinion.
D. Galleries bring us face to face with human genius.
E. But this seems to be key to art’s therapeutic powers.
F. Will doctors soon be prescribing a visit to a local gallery?
G. Science suggests that original art is a medicine that one can view rather than swallow.
(22)
Humans start developing a sense of humour as early as six weeks old, when babies begin to laugh and smile in
response to stimuli ( 刺激物). Laughter and humour provide psychological scientists with rich resources for
studying human psychology.
Theories focusing on the evolution of laughter point to it as an important adaptation for social communication.
For example, in 1950, a U.S. sound engineer started recording his own ‘laugh tracks’. These were intended to help
people at home feel like they were in a social situation. He even recorded various types of laughter. 1
In one study, carried out in 2016 at the university of California, samples of laughter from pairs of English-
speaking students were recorded and played to listeners from 24 diverse societies.
2
On average, the results
were remarkably consistent: worldwide, people’s guesses were correct approximately 60% of the time.
Another study by researchers of Australian National University was based on the assumption that humour
might provide a pause from dull situations in the workplace. 3 The researchers first asked the students to cross
out every instance of the letter ‘e’ over two pages of text. The students then were randomly assigned to watch a
video clip. Some watched a clip of the BBC comedy Mr. Bean, and others a factual video about the management
profession.
The students then completed a task requiring persistence in which they were asked to guess the potential
performance of employees based on provided profiles, and were told that making 10 correct assessments in a row
would lead to a win. 4 Students who had watched the Mr. Bean video ended up spending significantly more
time working on the task, making twice as many predictions as the other group.
5
Again, participants who watched the humorous video spent significantly more time working on this
boring task and completed more questions correctly than students from the other group.
Traditionally, individuals are advised to avoid things such as humour that may distract them from the
accomplishment of task goals. However, humour actually helps relieve stress and facilitate social relationships. It is
not only enjoyable but more importantly, energizing.
A. Participants were asked whether the pairs were friends or strangers.
B. This ‘mental break’ might facilitate the addition of mental resources.
C. The researchers then had participants complete long multiplication questions by hand.
D. A team made up of 30 psychological scientists played these recordings to different people.
E. However, the software was programmed that it was impossible to achieve 10 correct answers.
F. Researchers have also found different types of laughter serve as codes to complex human bonds.
G. He found out a simple ‘haha’ communicates a remarkable amount of socially relevant information.
(23)
We’ve all encountered a “know-it-all” — someone who eagerly lectures on any topic, regardless of expertise,
often frustrating those who actually know better. 1
One explanation is “naive realism,” the idea that people naturally believe their view of the world reflects
objective truth. In reality, all perceptions are shaped by personal biases (偏见), memories, and emotions, creating a
unique perspective for each individual. Yet many fail to recognize this, assuming that anyone who sees things
differently is simply wrong. 2
Another potential cognitive bias at work is the “illusion (错觉) of information adequacy”. 3 For instance,
someone who sees a classmate avoiding sports might assume they’re just lazy, without considering other reasons,
such as an injury. This illusion leads some to believe they know more than they actually do.
4
Expressing opinions can be a way of establishing superiority and a sense of dominance in social
settings. There’s also the Dunning-Kruger effect, which is cognitive bias.
5
Their lack of insight prevents
them from recognizing when others have more knowledge than they do. As a result, they may confidently argue
their points, even against experts. Ultimately, a know-it-all’s behavior may come from a combination of biases and
social needs. Ironically, to become a know-it-all, one must truly know too little.
A. This tendency to voice opinions can create tension.
B. For some, this belief becomes an urge to “correct” others.
C. These individuals often feel a responsibility to educate others.
D. Some people might also be driven by a need for status or control.
E. People often feel confident in their judgments, even without enough evidence.
F. People with limited knowledge in an area tend to overestimate their knowledge.
G. But why do some people assume they know more about every subject than anyone?
(24)
As humanoid robots begin to enter warehouses and factories, a critical question arises: do we need special
safety rules for them? The answer is yes, and for several important reasons.
1
Unlike traditional industrial robots that can be stopped instantly by hitting an emergency button,
humanoids are “dynamically stable.” This means they need power to stay upright. If you cut the power, they will
likely fall over, potentially causing serious injury to nearby workers.
There is the challenge of defining what exactly needs to be regulated. How should we classify a humanoid
robot? Does it need legs? Arms? A head?
2
This approach would allow safety standards to keep pace with
technological innovation without being limited by appearance.
Communication between robots and humans presents another concern. If robots are to share space with
people, they must be able to signal their intentions clearly. For instance, a robot walking around a corner needs to
indicate its direction so that people are not surprised. 3
There is a psychological factor to consider. People naturally expect more from robots that look like human.
4 Experts recommend that safety standards include emotional safety assessments to prevent confusion or stress.
These standards help companies build trust in their products and sell them more easily in different countries,
while also giving regulators a clear guide for creating their own rules.
5
As Vicentini notes, a practical
standard must find a balance between competing interests, and “everybody equally unhappy is good enough,” since
aiming for perfect agreement is simply not realistic.
A. Humanoid robots pose unique physical risks.
B. Without clear dialogues, accidents will happen.
C. Interactions between humanoid robots can prevent accidents.
D. Many believe that physical features are essential for safety standards.
E. People may let their guard down, thinking the robots understand more than they do.
F. However, agreeing on global regulations is hard due to different concerns in the field.
G. Experts suggest dropping the term “humanoid” and focusing on a robot’s abilities instead.
(25)
Imagine climbing a mountain and getting half way up and saying to yourself, “You know what, I’m going to
climb back down and finish this later.”
1
We have projects that sit waiting to be completed. Some people start college but never graduate. We
have books that we never finish reading. 2 Many people are great at beginning things but can’t seem to finish
strong.
Not finishing what we started has been a repeated problem for us. We have to face it. 3 Whenever we
delay, or put to the side, the things that will help us accomplish our goals, we stop developing our potential.
Not finishing not only causes us to stop making progress but also we find it harder whenever we do decide to
start again. Consider this: every time I begin a new exercise program my muscles are sore (疼) for a few days. After
a few weeks of routine, the muscles get accustomed to the program and grow stronger. Thus, no more sore muscles.
Well, when I take some time off I fear starting again. 4
Strong finishers are able to focus on getting the best result from anything that they start. So how do we know
that we are a strong finisher? Along with the huge feeling of accomplishment, other people will begin to notice the
change.
5
They will have no choice but to recognize our strong finishing ability. We will be rewarded with
more trust from them.
A. The list goes on and on.
B. We should have the confidence.
C. Why don’t we have the interest any more?
D. Sounds silly, but that is what we do all of the time.
E. I know that my muscles are going to be sore again.
F. They will see we are able to climb and conquer the mountain.
G. Not being a strong finisher can limit our ability to conquer our goals.
