专题05 阅读理解（说明文）
Passage 1
（2026·天津·一模）In the animal kingdom, counting skills are known to help grab bigger meals or find safety
in group sizes. But clownfish may have uncovered another “value” in numbers: identification.
Despite their cute appearance, clownfish are territorial and aggressive. When they spot a member of their own
species moving towards their place, they attack, biting and throwing out unwelcome visitors. There are 28 different
species of clownfish, however. So how do they actually tell friends from enemies?
Depending on the species, clownfish can have anywhere from zero to three white stripes. Previous research
suggested the fish pay close attention to these markings. In a 2022 study, scientists found clownfish display more
aggressive behavior (e.g., running after or biting others) toward fish with vertical stripes compared with those with
horizontal stripes.
This time around, ecologist Hayashi and colleagues assumed the fish could actually count those stripes. They
placed 50 young, lab-raised common clownfish — which display the typical orange pattern like “Nemo” (a clownfish
with three stripes from the film Finding Nemo) — into individual water tanks. Then, the researchers added other
clownfish species, which had white stripes ranging from 0 to 3 and were protected inside a see-through case, in the
original clownfish’s territory and filmed their reaction. The “native” fish couldn’t run after or bite the newcomers,
but they could still rush them and stare them down. And that’s what happened when the newcomers wore the same
number of stripes as the resident clownfish.
They found that the native clownfish were the hardest on members of their own species with three white
stripes. Those fish were run after and bitten 10 times more than those without stripes. Attacks on those fish were two
times more frequent than on single-striped ones, and 1.3 times more frequent than on double-striped ones. It turned
out that the researchers’ assumption had solid evidence.
Even so, biologist Rhodes questions whether the animals are really counting or just noticing more white
coloration on the attacked fish. “Maybe researchers could further clarify clownfish’s calculating capacity,” adds
Rhodes. “An experiment that goes beyond stripes could help. Could these fish learn, for example, to prefer two
squares to three squares?”
1．What new use of counting skills have clownfish demonstrated?
A．Building up a large group.
B．Making out potential threats.
C．Finding reliable food sources.
D．Measuring the size of their territory.
2．What did the 2022 study about clownfish focus on?
A．The way they defend their territory.
B．The diversity of their stripe patterns.
C．The impact of their aggression on other species.
D．The role of stripe patterns in their behavioral reaction.
3．How was the new study conducted?
A．By observing clownfish in their natural habitat.
B．By analyzing films themed with clownfish.
C．By comparing behaviors of clownfish.
D．By referring to previous research data.
4．Which of the following is a Nemo-like clownfish most likely to attack?
A．A three-striped fish.
B．A double-striped fish.
C．A fish with one stripe.
D．A fish without stripes.
5．What is the author’s purpose in mentioning Rhodes in the last paragraph?
A．To point out the significance of the study.
B．To lead to an alternative viewpoint on the study.
C．To show appreciation of clownfish’s learning ability.
D．To support the researchers’ findings about clownfish.
Passage 2
（2026·天津滨海新区·一模）Whether we are sitting down or standing up, still or moving, body posture
(姿势) influences our mood. Several studies have shown this link between physical posture and mood. Others have
shown a relationship between our mood and our cognitive (认知的) performance, including memory, reasoning,
learning, and the speed of reaction and processing of information.
So a logical question arises. Can body posture influence our cognitive performance?
Previously, a New Zealand team (University of Auckland) carried out an experiment on posture when we walk,
especially in the street. The team had found a very clear influence of our posture on our mood and confidence. It
appears that walking with a hunched back, bowed head and motionless (静止的) arms has a negative influence on
our mental state.
Indeed, the researchers found that the simple act of straightening up, standing up straight, with your head held
high, and gazing forward gives us a serious boost of confidence. Not only does our spontaneous (自发的) posture
have a psychological effect, but by correcting it, it is possible to bring about improvement in the long term.
In this other study, this time carried out by an Austrian team (Friedrich Alexander University in Erlangen-
Nuremberg), researchers observed the same phenomenon, this time in a sitting position. Young adults were invited
to participate in tests presented as intended to assess their ability to concentrate. In fact, the researchers had them sit
in different postures — from upright to very slumped (耸拉着的) — in order to note their influences on mood and
cognition.
A first observation indicates that “sitting upright” is associated with a better overall mood. It is also found to
have a positive influence on the speed of processing information and completing tasks, although the test pass rate
does not vary significantly with posture.
Finally, and surprisingly enough, blood pressure is a little more favorable in an upright position. To further
complete the list of benefits of sitting upright, we will add that it is widely recommended for protecting the back in
case of work that requires sitting for a long time.
6．Why does the writer mention the studies at the beginning?
A．To introduce what cognitive performance is.
B．To emphasize the importance of body posture.
C．To prove the results of those studies are wrong.
D．To raise a new question to be studied and solved.
7．The underlined word “hunched” in Paragraph 3 means ______.
A．straightened
B．bent
C．loose
D．solid
8．The first study indicates that ______.
A．posture influences our mental state
B．straightening up has a negative effect
C．gazing upward builds up confidence
D．walking posture is especially important
9．What did the Austrian study focus on?
A．Proving the long-term benefits of good posture.
B．Assessing concentration levels in young adults.
C．The psychological effects of sitting in different postures.
D．Noting the effects of different sitting positions on mood and cognition.
10．What can we learn about sitting upright?
A．It increases blood pressure.
B．It requires sitting for a long time.
C．It has mental and physical benefits.
D．It helps improve the test pass rate.
Passage 3
（2026·天津河东·一模）The 2026 CCTV Spring Festival Gala featured a breathtaking performance that
seamlessly blended traditional Chinese martial arts with cutting-edge technology: a carefully designed martial arts
routine performed by humanoid robots. This was not merely entertainment for the audience; it was a powerful
declaration of China’s rapid and impressive advancements in the fields of robotics and artificial intelligence.
Compared to their debut just a year earlier, the 2026 robots demonstrated astonishing progress in every aspect.
Gone were the stiff, awkward and hesitant movements of the past. Dozens of Unitree’s G1 humanoid robots perfectly
carried out complex and skillful actions, including high-speed flips, synchronized (同步的) nunchaku swings, and
even the delicate, unsteady steps of “Drunken Fist.” They maintained stable balance, performed flawless formations,
and interacted safely with young human martial artists, a breakthrough that reflected huge leaps in both stability and
dynamic motion control.
Behind the striking performance lies a convergence of advanced technologies that together make such precise
movements possible. Powered by highly developed AI control systems and equipped with LiDAR (激光雷达) sensors,
the robots can map the 3D stage environment in real time, enabling them to recognize their positions accurately and
adjust their movements instantly to stay perfectly synchronized. Their flexible jumps and flips rely on powerful
actuators (执行器) and massive professional training data, proving that machines can now attain a level of athleticism
once considered unique to humans.
The meaning of the display goes far beyond artistic effect. As a milestone in intelligent manufacturing, the
show underlines China’s growing competitiveness in the global humanoid robot industry. While Chinese companies
take a major share of the world market, the gala performance more importantly shows the nation’s strong ability to
combine AI technology with a complete supply chain. It suggests a future where robots, having mastered the precision
of kung fu, will undertake complex tasks in industry and daily life, turning technological strength into practical social
value.
11．What was the most significant improvement in the 2026 robot performance compared to the previous year?
A．The robots performed hesitant movements on a larger stage.
B．The robots moved more smoothly and performed complex actions.
C．The robots were controlled by young human performers.
D．The robots could speak and interact with the martial audience.
12．The underlined word “convergence” in Paragraph 3 most probably means _________.
A．combination
B．competition
C．conflict
D．creativity
13．How did the robots maintain perfect synchronization during the performance?
A．They followed fixed routes without any adjustment.
B．They were remotely controlled by engineers behind the stage.
C．They used sensors to map the stage and adjust movements in real time.
D．They responded to voice commands from human performers.
14．What can be inferred from the last paragraph?
A．The performance was meant to show robots are better than humans at martial arts.
B．China has led the world in all fields of intelligent manufacturing.
C．Human performers will gradually disappear from traditional cultural galas.
D．The performance stood for China’s progress in AI and manufacturing integration.
15．According to the passage, what future role are these robots expected to play?
A．Replacing all human workers in factories.
B．Performing only in entertainment shows.
C．Taking on complex tasks in industry and daily life.
D．Competing in international martial arts competitions.
Passage 4
（2026· 天津河东· 一模）Personal growth is often mistakenly regarded as a smooth upward path of
achievements. Yet psychological research and real-life experiences confirm a different truth: resilience — the ability
to adapt and develop amid difficulties — is the unseen force driving deep and lasting growth. In an era of rapid
changes and unexpected challenges, developing resilience is not just a survival skill but a key part of self- development,
turning setbacks into stepping stones.
The link between difficulties and growth lies in the positive psychological changes after tough life events.
Studies show that those who deal with hardships rather than avoid them gain greater self- awareness, deeper
understanding of others, and a stronger sense of purpose. For example, people who survive health problems with
resilience often adjust their thinking, regaining confidence in their own abilities and valuing life more. This growth
does not come automatically; it comes from facing difficulties on purpose, strengthening mental strength just as
exercise builds muscle.
Resilience also plays an important role in life changes. Young people entering the workplace face setbacks such as
rejected plans or disagreements that cause self-doubt, but resilient people see these as learning chances. They
analyze their mistakes, ask for advice, and develop skills to make progress. Similarly, people traveling alone
improve resilience by dealing with unfamiliar environments on their own, trusting their decisions and adapting to
difficulties. Some people argue that focusing on resilience puts pressure on people to ignore pain, but resilience
means recognizing suffering without being controlled by it. It is a skill that can be developed, not an inborn quality.
Simple methods such as changing negative thoughts, building support groups, and practicing thanksgiving can
strengthen it over time.
In a society that values quick solutions, we must realize that true growth is built on resilience. Difficulties are
an essential part of growth, not a detour. Developing resilience helps us face challenges bravely, adapt smoothly, and
become stronger. It remains the most reliable companion on the path to meaningful personal growth.
16．What is the common misunderstanding about personal growth according to the passage?
A．It requires great efforts to achieve.
B．It is a smooth process full of achievements.
C．It has a close connection with difficulties.
D．It can only be gained through work experience.
17．Which of the following is NOT a benefit of dealing with hardships actively?
A．Gaining a better understanding of oneself.
B．Developing a stronger sense of purpose.
C．Avoiding all the pain in life.
D．Learning to value life more.
18．What can we infer from the passage about resilience?
A．It can be improved through certain methods. B．It is a skill that only a few people can have.
C．It has nothing to do with life changes.
D．It makes people ignore their sufferings.
19．What does the author think of difficulties in personal growth?
A．They are unnecessary obstacles to avoid. B．They are key parts of true personal growth.
C．They make people lose confidence easily.
D．They can only be solved with quick solutions.
20．What is the main idea of the passage?
A．The ways to deal with life’s difficulties.
B．The importance of quick solutions in modern society.
C．Resilience is the key driver of personal growth.
D．Different opinions on the role of resilience.
Passage 5
（2026·天津滨海新区·一模）Waking up just one hour earlier could reduce a person’s risk of major depression
by 23%, suggests a sweeping new genetic study. Previous observational studies have shown that night owls are twice
as likely to suffer from depression as early risers, regardless of how long they sleep. In 2018, senior author Celine
Vetter, assistant professor of integrative physiology at CU Boulder, published a long-term study of 32,000 nurses
showing that “early risers” were up to 27% less likely to develop depression over the course of four years.
To get a clearer sense of whether shifting sleep time earlier is truly protective, and how much shift is required,
lead author Lyas Daglas, M. D．, turned to data from the DNA testing company and ten used a method called
“Mendelian randomization” to decipher (破译) cause and effect.
More than 340 common genetic variants, including variants in the so-called “clock gene” PER2, are known to
influence a person’s internal clock, and genes collectively explain 12-42% of our sleep time preference. The researchers
assessed deidentified genetic data on these variants from up to 850,000 individuals, including data from 85,000 who
had worn wearable sleep trackers for 7 days and 250,000 who had filled out sleep-preference questionnaires. In the
largest of these samples, about a third of surveyed people self-identified as early risers, 9% were night owls and the
rest were in the middle.
With this information in hand, the researchers turned to a different sample which included genetic information
along with anonymized (匿名的) medical and prescription records and surveys about diagnosis of major depressive
disorder. Using new statistical techniques, they asked: do those with genetic variants which predispose them to be
early risers also have a lower risk of depression? The answer is a firm yes. Each-one-hour earlier sleep midpoint
(halfway between bedtime and wake time) corresponded with a 23% lower risk of major depressive disorder. This
suggests that if someone who normally goes to bed at 1 a.m. goes to bed at midnight instead and sleeps the same
duration, they could cut their risk by 23%; if they go to bed at 11 p.m. they could cut it by about 40%.
21．What does the first paragraph mainly talk about?
A．The significant role of gene action in depression.
B．A new observational study about causes of depression.
C．The close relationship between depression and sleep time.
D．Whether early risers are less likely to suffer from depression.
22．How did Lyas Daghlas decipher cause and effect?
A．By exploring the influence of genes on depression.
B．By analyzing samples of surveyed people’s self-identification.
C．By tracking individuals diagnosed with depressive disorder.
D．By proving the decisive role sleep time plays in genetic variants.
23．What is Lyas Daghals’s research mainly based on?
A．Medical treatment records of early risers.
B．The genetic research and data about DNA
C．A comprehensive analysis of different samples.
D．250,000 people’s self-identification and questionnaires.
24．How do you understand the underlined part in the last paragraph?
A．Make them more likely to rise early.
B．Change early risers’ habits.
C．Force them to change their chronotype
D．Lead them to shift sleep time
25．Which can be the suitable title for this text?
A．Risk of Depression Decreases When Sleeping Time Increases
B．Genes Have More Impact on Depression than Sleep Time Does
C．A New Research Suggests Early Risers Carry Clock Gene called PER2
D．Moving Sleep Time An Hour Earlier Could Cut Depression Risk by 23%
Passage 6
（2026·天津滨海新区·一模）It’s good to be smart. After all, intelligent people earn more money, accumulate
more wealth, and even live longer. But there’s another side to the story. The brightest people and strongest leaders
sometimes make errors others don’t, especially in situations that require common sense.
Travis Bradberry, president at Talent Smart, explained in his post Why Smart People Act So Stupid that
“Rational thinking and intelligence don’t tend to go hand in hand. Intelligent people are more prone to silly mistakes
because of blind spots in how they use logic. These blind spots exist because smart people tend to be overconfident
in their reasoning abilities.” They are so used to being right and having quick answers that they don’t even realise
when they’re making a mess by answering without thinking things through.
A lifetime of praise leads smart people to develop too much faith in their intelligence and abilities. They
often fail to recognise when they need help, and when they do recognise it, they tend to believe that no one else is
capable of providing it.
“It’s hard for anyone to graciously accept the fact that they’re wrong. It’s even harder for smart people
because they grow so used to being right all the time that it becomes a part of their identity,” Bradberry wrote. “For
smart people, being wrong can feel like a personal attack, and being right, a necessity.”
Smart people also have a hard time accepting feedback. They tend to undervalue the opinions of others,
which means they have trouble believing that anyone is qualified to give them useful feedback. Not only does this
tendency hinder their growth and performance, it can lead to harmful relationships, both personally and
professionally.
Smart people develop overachieving personalities because things come so easily to them. They simply don’t
understand how hard some people have to work to accomplish the same things, and because of that, they push people
too hard. They set the bar too high, and when people take too long or don’t get things quite right, they assume it’s
due to a lack of effort. So they push even harder.
26．What do we learn from the passage about the brightest people?
A．They can make silly mistakes in straightforward situations.
B．They usually turn a blind eye to their own weaknesses.
C．They are admired by people around them.
D．They can differ in their personalities.
27．What accounts for the existence of intelligent people’s logical blind spots?
A．Their irrational way of thinking.
B．Too much faith in their ability to think.
C．Their ignorance of behavioural science. D．Too much concern about their work.
28．How do smart people react when they are found to be wrong?
A．They shift the blame to others.
B．They graciously accept the facts.
C．They may feel shocked.
D．They may get offended.
29．What may happen to smart people who find it difficult to accept suggestions?
A．They may suffer in their professional and private life.
B．They may lose faith in their administrative abilities.
C．They may commit more errors than ever before.
D．They may experience a lot of emotional stress.
30．What is said about those working with or under overachieving people?
A．They put a lot of effort into their work
B．They set higher goals for themselves.
C．They are under increasing pressure.
D．They take less time to get things done.
Passage 7
（2026·天津·一模）A new study has found that breathing does more than just move air in and out of your
lungs — it could even be used to identify who you are. Scientists at Israel’s Weizmann Institute of Science discovered
that each person has a distinct breathing pattern, known as a nasal (鼻的) breathing “fingerprint” a unique pattern
that reveals clues about a person’s physical and mental health. Notably, brain scientist Timna Soroka shared, “We
were able to identify differences between less depressed and non-depressed individuals.”
The researchers originally set out to better understand how our sense of smell works. In humans, the brain
processes smell during inhalation (吸入), and this close connection between the brain and breathing led the team to
wonder: could our breathing patterns reflect the way our brains are wired — and be unique to each of us? To explore
this question, they developed a lightweight, wearable device that tracks nasal airflow continuously for 24 hours.
The study, published in the journal Current Biology, tested 100 healthy young adults as they went about their
regular routines — running, studying, resting, and more. The results showed breathing patterns can identify individuals
with 96. 8 percent accuracy. “I thought it would be really hard to identify someone because everyone is doing different
things,” said Soroka. “But it turns out their breathing patterns were remarkably distinct!”
Beyond individual identification, the study also found clear links between breathing patterns and body mass
index (BMI), sleep-wake cycles, and mental health traits such as anxiety and depression. For example, people who
scored higher on anxiety tests tended to have shorter inhalation periods. Importantly, the researchers noted that they
only know there is an association between breathing and mood, but they don’t know the cause-and-effect direction
— whether feeling anxious changes breathing, or a certain breathing pattern causes anxiety. If the latter is true,
changing how we breathe could potentially improve mood.
However, the current device has drawbacks: it uses soft tubes under the nose that can be uncomfortable to
wear and may slip during sleep, and it doesn’t track mouth breathing. The team is working on improving the device
and further exploring the breathing-mood connection to unlock more practical applications.
31．Why is breathing “fingerprint” mentioned?
A．To explain how the brain processes smell.
B．To introduce a newly-invented tracking device.
C．To show a link between breathing and depression.
D．To stress the uniqueness of personal breathing pattern.
32．What does the underlined word in paragraph 2 mean?
A．Connected.
B．Powered.
C．Controlled.
D．Trained.
33．What can we infer about the relationship between breathing and mood?
A．Changes in breath cure anxiety.
B．Their exact relationship remains unclear.
C．Anxiety always causes abnormal breathing.
D．Breathing is responsible for negative mood.
34．What is a limitation of the current wearable device?
A．It cannot track nasal airflow for 24 hours straight.
B．It is too heavy to be worn during daily activities.
C．It fails to monitor breathing through the mouth.
D．It can only be used to test healthy young adults.
35．What is the main finding of this research?
A．Our fingerprints tell a lot about our health.
B．Breathing patterns link to identity and health.
C．A groundbreaking device reveals mental health.
D．Anxiety levels link to shorter inhalation periods.
Passage 8
（2026·天津·一模）Reflection is a quiet yet powerful habit that has accompanied human growth throughout
history. When we think of reflection, perhaps the first image that comes to mind is someone sitting alone after a long
day, replaying conversations, decisions or experiences in their mind, trying to make sense of what happened and what
it meant.
However, reflection does not only take place in moments of solitude (独处). It can occur while we are walking
home from school, writing in a journal, or even discussing a mistake with a friend. Whatever form it takes, reflection
usually involves two essential elements: looking back on an experience and thinking carefully about its meaning.
Rather than simply remembering what happened, we try to understand why it happened and what we can learn from it.
Unlike what some people assume, reflection is not a waste of time. It is, in fact, a powerful tool for learning
and personal development. Long before modern psychology emphasized self-awareness, thoughtful individuals had
already realized that growth depends not only on action, but also on thoughtful review. By reflecting on our successes
and failures, we gain insight into our strengths and weaknesses.
Reflection supports learning because it helps organize experience into understanding. Research suggests that
when learners pause to think about what they have studied, they remember the material more clearly and apply it
more effectively. Simply moving from one task to another without reflection often leads to superficial ( 表面的)
learning.
Above all, reflection has a transformative power. It allows us to see ourselves and the world from a slightly
different angle. Instead of reacting automatically to events, we begin to respond thoughtfully. Through reflection, we
may challenge our own assumptions, adjust our attitudes, and make wiser choices in the future.
This ability to step back and reconsider our experiences plays an important role in building empathy as well.
When we reflect on our own feelings, we become more aware of the feelings of others. By understanding our
reactions, we are better prepared to understand theirs. In this way, reflection not only deepens self-knowledge, but
also strengthens our connection with the people around us.
36．What is the first image that may come to mind when thinking of reflection?
A．A teacher correcting homework.
B．A person thinking quietly about past events.
C．A group discussion in class.
D．A psychologist giving advice.
37．What are the two essential elements of reflection mentioned in Paragraph 2?
A．Action and imagination.
B．Memory and emotion.
C．Looking back and thinking deeply.
D．Discussion and correction.
38．Why is reflection considered helpful for learning?
A．It replaces action with careful thinking.
B．It helps learners remember and apply knowledge better.
C．It makes learning more interesting.
D．It shortens study time and saves energy.
39．According to the passage, what may happen if people act without reflection?
A．They may understand others better.
B．They may learn more efficiently.
C．They may develop stronger self-awareness.
D．They may gain a shallow understanding.
40．What is the best title for the passage?
A．The Habit of Looking back.
B．The Role of Experience.
C．The Power of Reflection.
D．The Meaning of Growth.
Passage 9
（2026·天津·一模）The Olympic Games represent the peak of athletic achievement. Modern athletes benefit
from excellent coaching, good nutrition and recovery strategies. Yet, some are turning to unique methods to improve
themselves.
One such technique is called EEG neurofeedback (脑电波神经反馈), which involves placing small sensors
on the head to record and display brainwaves in real time. It helps athletes recognize and produce brainwave patterns
that enhance focus and relaxation, or achieve a personalized best state for their skills. When the technique displays
what is happening in the brain in real time, people can easily experiment by bringing different thoughts or images to
their minds. Then they’ll immediately see how the brain signals change. It is through this process that they can learn to
recognize different brain states and apply psychological strategies to help them take control.
In a study, researchers asked 40 adult volunteers to cycle until extreme tiredness on an exercise bike after
performing just 12 minutes of neurofeedback. 13 people were asked to produce a brainwave pattern that would be
conducive to endurance (耐力) exercise. The other 13 were asked to produce a brainwave pattern which wouldn’t
improve performance. The remaining 14 participants had to watch a neurofeedback recording without controlling
their brainwaves. The results were striking. The group that had been asked to produce the positive brainwave rode
for 30% longer than the others.
Later, researchers invited the 26 participants from the first two groups back to the lab. They received the
opposite neurofeedback treatment from the first experiment before they repeated the cycling test. The participants
rode for an average of 11% longer on the day they received the positive neurofeedback treatment. Despite these
results, researchers decided to repeat the study with a larger sample and with more highly-trained cyclists to better
understand the role of this technique in other sports.
Scientists are now trying to use the research findings to make a difference elsewhere. The research regards
neurofeedback as a potential means to help with the recovery or management of diseases of the nervous system. So,
while Olympic medals are valued, if neurofeedback research could eventually lead to effective treatments beyond
sports, that may well be the biggest prize of all.
41．What is the new technique EEG neurofeedback used for in sports?
A．Helping build a nutritional strategy.
B．Monitoring athletes’ physical strength.
C．Training voluntary brain control in athletes.
D．Predicting athletes’ best performance limits.
42．What does the underlined word “conducive” in paragraph 3 possibly mean?
A．Identical.
B．Resistant.
C．Harmless.
D．Beneficial.
43．Why were 26 participants invited back to the lab?
A．To test the study methods.
B．To provide high-level training.
C．To further confirm the study results.
D．To expand the groups of the subjects.
44．What might be the researchers’ attitude towards the technique’s wide use in sports?
A．Cautious.
B．Concerned.
C．Positive.
D．Tolerant.
45．What does the author intend to stress about neurofeedback research in the last paragraph?
A．Its limitations outside of sports.
B．Its potential to fight certain diseases.
C．Its influence on athletic performance.
D．Its role in competitive sports like the Olympics.
Passage 10
（2026·天津滨海新区·一模）For thousands of years, donkeys have been critical for driving human
civilizations forward. They’ve helped pull wheeled vehicles, carry travelers and move goods across the world. But
where and when these animals first became closely connected with humans has been a mystery. Now, researchers
have used genomes of over 200 donkeys to trace their domestication back to a single event around 7,000 years ago
in East Africa — about 3,000 years before humans tamed horses. The team published their findings in the journal
Science this month.
“Through their DNA, the animals are telling their history themselves,” co-author Samantha Brooks, an equine
researcher at the University of Florida, says in a statement. “We usually only get the human’s side of history through
written accounts, but of course written history does not always record exactly how something happened. Looking at
these DNA sequences, we get biological evidence to the environment these animals lived in and the experiences they
survived.”
The researchers examined 207 genomes from modern donkeys living in 31 countries across the globe. They
also looked at genomes from 15 wild equids (马科动物) and 31 earlier donkeys that lived between about 4,000 and
100 years ago. The team reconstructed the animals’ evolutionary tree and used computer models to pinpoint the
domestication event, when herders (牧人) in Kenya and the Horn of Africa tamed wild donkeys. They then traced
how the animals spread across the rest of the continent into Europe and Asia about 2,500 years later.
Though it’s still unclear why the original domestication happened, Science News’ Freda Kreier reports that the
event coincided with the Sahara growing larger and drier. “Donkeys are champions when it comes to carrying stuff
and are good at going at Sahara deserts,” co-author Ludovic Orlando, an evolutionary biologist at Paul Sabatier
University in France, tells the publication. Prehistoric humans may have enlisted donkeys’ help in navigating the
expanding Sahara.
Researchers say these findings could help put donkeys in the spotlight. The animals could benefit from more
research: Currently, there are no published genomes from donkeys located south of the Equator in Africa. But
understanding where the animals were first domesticated could guide archaeologists to a narrower region to search
for insights about the original tamed donkeys.
Not only does understanding the equines’ genetic makeup help reveal their contribution to human history, but
it also might improve their management in the future, as climate change alters the planet’s environment, write the
authors.
46．What can be learned about donkeys from Paragraph 1?
A．They seemed mysterious to human ancestors.
B．They underwent multiple domestication events.
C．They were tamed at an earlier time than horses.
D．They were vividly described by ancient travelers.
47．What message is conveyed in Brooks’ statement?
A．The earliest habitats of donkeys are hardly traceable.
B．It is increasingly easy to read donkeys’ DNA sequences.
C．Written accounts contain vital clues for donkey research.
D．Genetic analysis offers insight into the history of donkeys.
48．In their study, the researchers investigate how donkeys ________.
A．spread widely in the world
B．survived with the help of herders
C．developed certain behavioral traits
D．adapted to the changing environment
49．As to why the original domestication of donkeys happened, Orlando ________.
A．challenges conventional ideas
B．provides a possible explanation
C．calls for evidence from the Sahara
D．holds a different view from Kreier
50．The authors think that their research could help with ________.
A．greater protection of wildlife
B．better management of donkeys
C．recovering early types of donkeys
D．raising awareness of climate change
Passage 1
（2026·天津·一模）The search for life elsewhere in the universe is one of the most exciting aspects of modern
science. Given its importance, significant resources are devoted to the young science of astrobiology (天体生物学)
, ranging from rovers (探测器) on Mars to observations of planets moving around other stars.
The goal of this science would be the actual discovery of alien (外星的) life. Such a discovery would likely
have profound scientific and philosophical implications. But for all we know, extraterrestrial life may not even exist.
Fortunately, even if alien life is never discovered, simply searching for it will bring valuable benefits to society. Why
is this the case?
First, astrobiology is fundamentally multidisciplinary (多学科) . The search for alien life requires a grasp of
astronomy, biology, geology, and planetary science at a minimum. University courses in astrobiology need to cover
elements of all these different subjects. By forcing multiple scientific disciplines to interact, astrobiology is stimulating
a partial reunification of the sciences. It is helping to move 21st-century science away from the extreme specialization
of today.
It is also important to recognize that astrobiology is an incredibly open-ended field, searching for life in the
universe takes us from extreme environments on Earth to the plains of Mars. Whether or not life is discovered in any
of these environments, this search will continue. The range of entirely new environments opened to investigation will
be essentially non-restricted. Therefore, it has the potential to be a never-ending source of scientific and intellectual
stimulation.
Beyond the more narrowly intellectual benefits of astrobiology are a range of wider societal benefits. These
arise from the kinds of perspectives that the study of astrobiology naturally promotes.
It is simply not possible to consider searching for life on Mars without moving away from the Earth-centric
perspectives that dominate the social and political lives of most people today. Indeed, it is only by sending spacecraft
out to explore the solar system that we can obtain images of our own planet that show it in its true cosmic setting.
Today, our planet is faced with global challenges that can only be met by increased international cooperation. At such
a time, the growth of a unifying perspective is potentially of enormous importance.
“The most dangerous worldview is the one of those who have not viewed the world,” said the German naturalist
Alexander von Humboldt. I think that there is an important implication in this perspective. Humanity is an intelligent
technological species that now dominates the only known inhabited planet in the universe. It has a responsibility to
develop international social institutions appropriate to managing the situation in which we find ourselves.
51．What is the primary impact of astrobiology on 21st-century science?
A．It prioritizes biological research over astronomical observations.
B．It limits students’ training to a single core subject for deeper expertise.
C．It forms integration of scientific disciplines to reduce overspecialization.
D．It shifts focus from planetary exploration to laboratory-based experiments.
52．Which statement about the open-ended nature of astrobiology is supported?
A．The search will cease once a single new environment is found.
B．It offers limitless novel environments for scientific exploration.
C．Discovering life is the core criterion for the value of the field.
D．Its investigations are restricted to Mars-like environments.
53．How does astrobiology contribute to addressing global challenges?
A．By promoting a shared viewpoint to urge international cooperation.
B．By replacing political negotiations with scientific decision-making.
C．By motivating resource conservation from the Earth-centric perspective.
D．By providing advanced technology to monitor climate change directly.
54．Why does the author quote Alexander von Humboldt’s words?
A．To criticize the narrow worldview of those without world travel experience.
B．To emphasize the necessity of viewing Earth from a global perspective.
C．To argue that technological dominance alone defines human intelligence.
D．To suggest that naturalists are better equipped to address global challenges.
55．What does the author argue for in writing the passage?
A．The history and development of astrobiology as a science
B．The challenges of international cooperation in scientific research
C．The importance of space exploration for technological advances
D．The potential benefits and significance of the search for alien life
Passage 2
（2026·天津·一模）Exploring the vast area where psychology and physiology meet, recent studies are
continually casting light on an interesting phenomenon: the impact of our mental states on physical health. The
concept of a mind-body connection, often viewed with disbelief, is now gaining support through scientific inquiry.
For instance, happiness has been found to have a protective effect against common illnesses. This revelation came
from a 2003 study where over 300 participants, exposed to a cold virus, exhibited fewer symptoms if they had a
generally positive outlook on life. These individuals weren’t just happier; they were healthier.
This link between our psychological state and physical well-being extends beyond temporary illness. Focusing
on the longevity of optimists, research led by Dr. Laura Kubzansky of Harvard has revealed that an optimistic outlook
is associated with a lower ‘allostatic load’ — the wear and tear on the body from long-term stress. This reduced
burden is thought to contribute to longer lifespans, with the most optimistic among us living significantly longer
lives.
Another striking area where the mind’s influence is visible is in the function and length of telomeres (端粒)
— protective caps at the ends of our chromosomes (染色体) . Dr. Elizabeth Blackburn’s pioneering work has shown
that individuals under long-term stress have shorter telomeres, which can lead to earlier cellular aging. On the other
hand, positive mental attitudes and practices like meditation appear to preserve telomere length, suggesting that our
mental practices can influence the very aging process of our cells.
The implications of these findings are broad and significant, particularly in medical treatment and recovery.
The placebo (安慰剂) effect, once a mere footnote in clinical trials, is now a central focus in understanding how
belief and expectation can bring about real physical changes. From reducing pain to improving surgery outcomes,
placebos have demonstrated that our belief in a treatment’s effectiveness can appear as real healing in the body.
Recent experiments have explored this by administering ‘open-label’ placebos — placebos given with clear
statement that they contain no active ingredients — to patients. Remarkably, these placebos can still lead to
improvements in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, challenging our perception about the nature of healing.
As we look to the future, the developing field of psychoneuroimmunology (心理神经免疫学) is sure to offer
even more insights into how our mental landscape affects our physical health. The implications of this could be
transformative, as we begin to integrate psychological wellness into our standard healthcare practices. The ultimate
question that emerges is not whether our minds influence our health — that much is clear — but how we can use this
power most effectively for a healthier society.
56．What did the 2003 study reveal about the mind- body connection in the passage?
A．Belief in traditional treatment produces reliable physical improvements.
B．Optimism is related to reduced physical pressure and shorter lifespan.
C．The mind- body connection is now supported by scientific research.
D．Positive outlook could prevent participants from catching cold.
57．What can be inferred from Dr. Elizabeth Blackburn’s research on telomeres?
A．Shortened telomeres are the primary cause of all chronic diseases.
B．Positive mental practices may slow down the biological aging of cells.
C．Stress has no measurable impact on the structure of human chromosomes.
D．Telomere length is mainly determined by genetic factor instead of lifestyle.
58．Paragraph 5 serves to __________ in the context.
A．highlight the invisible effects of open- label placebos on patients.
B．provide an example challenging traditional view of placebos.
C．explain the chemical mechanism behind the placebo effect.
D．summarize the historical development of placebo research.
59．What is implied to integrate psychological wellness into standard healthcare?
A．Permanent focus on the placebo effect to reduce healthcare costs.
B．Future research into all mental states other than optimism and stress.
C．Further research into how to maximize the mind’s power over health.
D．Traditional medical treatments to be replaced with mental health cures.
60．Which title best captures the central theme of the passage?
A．The Placebo Effect: A Closer Look at Belief-Driven Healing
B．Optimism vs. Pessimism: A Decade-Long Study on Longevity
C．The Mind-Body Bond: How Mental States Shape Physical Health
D．Telomeres and Aging: The Hidden Link to Psychological Wellbeing
Passage 3
（2026·天津南开·一模）
Have you ever wished there were more hours in a day? Interestingly, NASA scientists noted that the world’s
largest hydroelectric dam — China’s Three Gorges Dam has slightly extended the length of an Earth day by slowing
down the planet’s rotation. While the change is relatively small, the basic physics behind it reveals that large- scale
human engineering can influence the fundamental planetary processes.
To grasp how a dam can change Earth’s rotation, we can start with a simple experiment: sit on a rotating chair,
spin with your arms enclosed to your body and then stretch your arms out. You will slow down. This change in
spinning speed is your angular velocity (角速度) decreasing. Why? Because stretching your arms increases your
body’s moment of inertia (惯性), a property that depends on both mass and how that mass is distributed relative to
the axis of rotation. A key principle here is the conservation of angular momentum (角动量). For an isolated rotating
system like Earth, angular momentum remains constant. Therefore, if the moment of inertia increases, the angular
velocity must decrease to compensate.
This is precisely what happens with a massive dam. By holding vast amounts of water at a higher height, the
dam redistributes the Earth’s mass farther from its rotational axis — much like extending your arms on the spinning
chair. This increases the planet’s moment of inertia and, consequently, slows down its rotation. The effect is more
obvious if the dam is built at a lower latitude, near the equator, where the distance to Earth’s axis is greater.
The crucial question is how much the change is. Calculations using the mass of water held back by the Three
Gorges Dam, its latitude, and Earth’s radius allow scientists to estimate the increase in the moment of inertia (ΔI) and
the corresponding change in angular velocity (Δω). The result is a day lengthened by about approximately 5.3
microseconds (5.3 × 10-6 seconds). Although this is too brief for any human perception, it provides a measurable
confirmation that human activities can indeed change global geophysical patterns.
This phenomenon brings up interesting, though theoretical, possibilities. If a single dam can produce a
measurable change, could other massive projects —such as constructing numerous skyscrapers or even organized
global population movements — further affect the Earth’s rotation? While the extra time would still be unnoticeable in
daily life, the principle demonstrates the profound interconnectedness between human engineering and planetary
mechanics, showing that our largest constructions can influence right down to the fundamental rhythm of our
world.
61．How does the author illustrate the change in Paragraph 2?
A．By presenting the research results of NASA scientists directly.
B．By introducing a practical method to observe Earth’s rotation.
C．By explaining the physical principle in a daily phenomenon.
D．By defining three key factors affecting the moment of inertia.
62．If a similar structure were built at the North Pole, its effect would be ________.
A．much greater than at the equator
B．smaller than that near the equator
C．identical to the Three Gorges Dam’s
D．impossible for scientists to measure
63．Why does the author mention “skyscrapers and population movements” in the last paragraph?
A．To warn city designers against building more skyscrapers.
B．To prove that these projects have greater effects than dams.
C．To suggest organizing population movements scientifically.
D．To show the potential of human activities to influence Earth.
64．What can we infer from the fact that the day is lengthened by 5.3microseconds?
A．Human beings can feel the obvious change in daily life.
B．The change has caused serious problems in other aspects.
C．Human activities can indeed affect global physical patterns.
D．The Three Gorges Dam has changed Earth’s radius slightly.
65．What is the structure of the passage?
A．Introduction — Principle — Data Support — Extension
B．Problem — Cause Analysis — Solution — Evaluation
C．Comparison — Contrast — Conclusion — Application
D．Example — Classification — Summary — Prediction
